Beachcomber Newspaper Long Beach, California

08/02/2026

SHARK LAB DEPLOYS DRONE SURVEILLANCE SYSTEM

California State University, Long Beach’s Shark Lab has developed a prototype semi-autonomous shark detection system that combines boat and aerial drone technology to help lifeguards monitor beaches in real time. The project aims to improve public safety, reduce monitoring costs, and provide enhanced shark surveillance before the 2028 Olympic Games.
https://beachcomber.news/content/shark-lab-deploys-drone-surveillance-system

08/02/2026

MOTORCYCLE DEALER BUILT A 2,000-PIPE ORGAN
Joe Koons transformed his Long Beach motorcycle dealership into an unlikely cultural landmark by building a massive 2,000-pipe theater organ and hosting free Saturday concerts. His showroom attracted world-class organists, music lovers and curious customers, creating one of Southern California's most distinctive entertainment venues before closing in 1989.
https://beachcomber.news/content/motorcycle-dealer-built-2000-pipe-theater-organ

08/02/2026

PROGRAM SEEKS TO PREVENT SENIOR HOMELESSNESS
Long Beach has launched a $1.8 million program providing $400–$500 monthly rental assistance to low-income seniors struggling with severe rent burdens. Serving about 150 households, it combines financial aid with case management to prevent homelessness, promote housing stability, and connect participants with long-term supportive services and community resources.
https://beachcomber.news/content/program-seeks-prevent-senior-homelessness

07/31/2026

CA BILL TO ADD "JEWISH" ETHNICITY OPTION
California Senate Bill 1387 would make California the first state to recognize Jewish identity as an ethnic category in demographic data collection. Supporters say it would improve civil rights, health research and hate-crime tracking, while opponents argue it oversimplifies Jewish identity and raises privacy concerns despite proposed safeguards.
https://beachcomber.news/content/ca-bill-add-jewish-ethnicity-option

07/31/2026

LOOKING INTO LOCAL RENTAL HOUSING
Long Beach rental housing remains strong despite affordability concerns, with moderate rent growth expected through 2026. The story examines market trends, state rent-control rules, new housing, assistance programs for older residents, neighborhood pricing, downtown development, occupancy rates, and factors shaping Long Beach's evolving rental market for tenants and property owners.
https://beachcomber.news/content/looking-local-rental-housing

07/30/2026

FOOD FINDERS TURNS SURPLUS FOOD INTO A LIFELINE
Food Finders rescues surplus, edible food that would otherwise go to waste and redistributes it to people experiencing food insecurity throughout Los Angeles and Orange counties. By partnering with businesses, nonprofits, and volunteers, the organization reduces landfill waste, supports local families, and demonstrates how food recovery benefits both communities and the environment.
https://beachcomber.news/content/food-finders-turns-surplus-food-lifeline

07/26/2026

"Long Beach uses millions from emergency reserves, braces for ‘difficult changes’ ahead" — Long Beach Post

07/18/2026

BILL COULD EXPAND DUI CONSEQUENCES
Senate Bill 907 would strengthen California's response to repeat DUI offenders by expanding murder-charge warnings under Braun's Law and increasing penalties for repeat DUI-related hit-and-run crimes. Supporters say it closes a dangerous legal loophole, while opponents argue it reduces judicial discretion and emphasizes punishment over rehabilitation.
https://beachcomber.news/content/bill-could-expand-dui-consequences

07/17/2026

SOCCER IS POPULAR WITH LOCAL RESIDENTS
Southern California’s enthusiasm for soccer has surged during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The region supports three professional clubs – LA Galaxy, LAFC and Angel City – as well as college, high school, youth and adult leagues. Record television audiences, local watch parties and packed stadiums demonstrate the sport’s expanding popularity locally.
https://beachcomber.news/content/soccer-popular-local-residents

07/17/2026