 
| 12.19.07|
Who Should Be The 2007 Long Beach Person Of The Year?
On Friday, the LBPOST.com will be unveiling its PERSON OF THE YEAR for 2007...and we need your help. We are asking our readers and our columnists to submit nominations for this choice.
Over the next three days, we encourage you to submit names and the reason that your choice should be selected. The final selection will be decided by a combination of LBPOST.com editorial staff and writers.
This recognition goes to the person, who for better or worse, affected our lives in Long Beach and embodied what was important about the year. The person must be a Long Beach resident.
Please leave your suggestions in the comment section below.
The LBPOST.com's PERSON OF THE YEAR will be revealed on Friday.
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Emperor 1 Steve Of AZ said:
Empress Jackie should be! To be by yourself and to run an Empire is not easy for sure. To organinize all the events and raise the money for charities that Empress Jackie and members of the Court have done is beyond amazing!
Jennifer Gonzalez said:
Justin Rudd! He has been an active member of the Long Beach Community for many years and should be awarded "2007 Long Beach Person of the Year." This is a well deserved recognition for all he has done for the City of Long Beach and the community.
DERICK said:
EMPRESS JACKIE LACOL OF THE IMPERIAL COURT OF LONG BEACH
THE EMPRESS AND HER IMPERIAL COURT OF LONG BEACH WORK HARD TO HAVE AFFORDABLE FUNDRAISERS AND HAVE RAISED MONEY FOR THE PEDIATRIC CNCER RESEARCH FOUNDATION, THE FOOD BANK AT CHRIST CHAPEL CHURCH AND ST. MARY'S CARE PROGRAM.
Jean said:
A wonderful woman who has served us well even through her own personal illness - Senator Jenny Oropeza
Elvira said:
I would love to see you guys name a WOMAN the person of the year! How about Stephanie Loftin who ran for city council against a whole bunch of men and came in second!
The Cable Family said:
We nominate JUSTIN RUDD! No other person has single-handedly made LB such a FUN community to live in. Justin is not only instrumental in creating countless fun events in LB, but he also uses the money generated to "give-back" to the community. He has been instrumental in providing wonderful opportunities for anyone to volunteer. For a long list of reasons why Justin Rudd should be PERSON OF THE YEAR, check out what he has done at JUSTINRUDD.COM! LB is LUCKY to have him!
Kerrie Aley said:
I nominate CA Senator Allan Lowenthal who has been a visionary leader and advocate for Long Beach who has worked for years to pass legislation to reduce the harmful diesel pollution at the Long Beach port. Clean air affects not only the health of those living near the port and the 710 but our growing tourist/convention economy and downtown's revitalization as a place to work, live, shop, and as an destination entertainment center. It took real leadership as a consensus builder to change the LB Port into a “green growth” advocate.
Justin Rudd said:
for all the fun, silly and charitable events that he puts on that benefit our community
Lisa Woodruff said:
Justin Rudd should be nominated. He has done so much good for the city of Long Beach & for all living beings residing in it. He expects nothing in return. He has made so many lives better by caring & doing something about it. Mention his name & all Long Beachers know him. This world would be a better place if there were more Justin Rudds. Long Beach is blessed to have him.
Bonnie Lowenthal said:
I nominate Nancy Foster. Nancy Foster's willingness to openly discuss her mental health challenges has forever changed the public dialogue regarding mental illness. Her charitable spirit has brought joy to thousands of children in need across Long Beach.As the city's First Lady she is first on the bandwagon to raise significant funding for worthy causes.
Denise Penn said:
Assemblywoman Betty Karnette:
She loves Long Beach. She has lived her for over 50 years and has dedicated her life and career to representing her town, doing her best to keep it clean, safe, pollution-free and full of opportunity.
A math and science teacher by profession, she decided they needed a good teacher in
Sacramento,so she put away her books and ran for office.
Our teacher deserves
an "apple" as she serves her last term in the state legislature.
Even those who don't always agree with her politics - and many of you read and/or write for LB Post - know that she works hard and deserves to be thanked for her service.
Sincerely and respectfully,
Denise Penn
Ralph said:
I nominate Justin Rudd. Not the Justin Rudd that everyone knows. The “Dog Guy,” the “The Beach Cleanup Guy,” The” Guy on second street pulling Rosie in her red wagon, or The “Guy on TV.” I nominate the private Justin Rudd. The “do-gooder” that very few have the privilege of knowing. The one who believes that character is doing what’s right when nobody is looking. Justin Rudd is the Explorer, The Dreamer, and we are all the better for Discovering his generosities. Justin Rudd is the everyday man for every year.
jann gath said:
this is easy...justin rudd! for his constant giving to the city of Long Beach, two leggers, four leggers & always with a smile! he makes us all want to give back along the way. no one is more deserving!
Mitch Rouse said:
As far as I am concerned, John Morris would be a credible choice in almost any year but
if you confine yourself to the stated criteria, it would have to be Alan Lowenthal for his leadership on port related enviornmental issues
that are starting to show real results.
Priscilla Sanders said:
Our family would like to nominate Rainy and Gary Gardner. They are the unsung heroes of our community. The two senior citizens of Long Beach push daily through their physical challenges to help a friend, a neighbor, and even complete strangers in need. Rainy works EVER DAY, sometimes more than 40 hours per week, at the American Cancer Society Thrift Store in Belmont Shore and earns NOT ONE cent and comes from modest means. Not a glamorous job, as she combs through mounds of our throwaways in search of gems that might bring a little extra money to the cause. She cooks for her colleagues, who are all part time senior volunteers, makes them sing, laugh, and dance in order to keep their spirits up and active at the store. She has serious physical pain that many do not realize, but focuses on her mission to help those with greater needs to rise above. Gary is an extraordinary man. we are eternally indebted to him for the year of his life that he gave to our growing family of five in order to help us build onto our then tiny home. He hardly new us, having only met six months prior. But he said, "I like you kids; I want to help you..." Rainy and Gary gave us hope, time, and support when we needed it most. Thank you!
Carmen Perez said:
With out a doubt, my vote goes to John Morris..Smooths... (.although for me it will always be MUMS !)
If you agree with him or not on his outspoken views,and they can be many , the one thing I believe everyone one can agrees on is his total commitment to the downtown area...if fact, I would say he is the "God Father" of Pine Ave...
But most important, although he would love us to think he is a strong, gruff guy , this is a soft hearted man that has yet to meet a cause he does not support..from feeding the hungry during the holidays, to allowing his place of business for fund raisers for many worth while projects........and many times donating the food and always , always looking out for the ones that needed the most..Children! this is truly a year round Santa Clause....My vote is for John Morris.......He contributes and makes a positive difference in this wonderful city of ours!
Dora Jacildo said:
I would like to nominate Theresa Bixby, who has been my person of the year for the last three years. I have the pleasure of working for Children Today, the organization founded by Theresa Bixby and Jennifer Fitzgerald to serve young children and families experiencing homelessness in Long Beach.
In that past three years, Children Today’s staff and I have looked to her for the guidance, support, and wisdom her humanity and deep compassion provides. Theresa leads from the background, leaving us to enjoy each family’s expressions of gratitude and the greater community’s praise for a job well done.
She is an amazing woman who profoundly cares about this city and its citizens. She firmly believes that every resident is deserving of a safe and peaceful life and works towards that vision in diverse and creative ways. One day she’s meeting with potential supporters, recruiting them into service, and the next she’s moving the furniture she’s collected from friends and neighbors into the new apartment of a recently homeless family. I am amazed by her energy to do it all.
-+
She is a hero and, in my opinion, not celebrated enough for all she does, not only for children and families experiencing homelessness, but for the larger community as well. I think she is an exceptional example of the beauty and energy that Long Beach has to offer. Theresa wholly embodies what it means to be of service in the world.
Chuck Rockafeller said:
I would like to nominate Harmaony Lynn Rockafeller and Kristoff Rockafeller. They have been active in the community for several years.
Joe Kunkel said:
I believe that Long Beach should honor Empress Jackie LaCol of the Imperial Court of Long Beach. This person and their organization have been raising money for the past year to help out those with HIV/AIDs, Food Banks, Breast Cancer and the list goes on. Jackie is reigning as Empress by herself without an Emperor. My hat is off to Empress Jackie.
I keep abreast of what the Imperial Court of Long Beach is doing each month and I am amazed at the events for charity.
MY VOTE goes to Empress Jackie LaCol
RJA said:
Mike and Arline Walter deserve to be THIS YEAR'S "person of the year" for giving $40,000 of their own money to help raise an additional $90,000 (total of $130,000) to fund Algebra I tutoring programs in four of LBUSD's largest high schools. The money will directly impact the lives of over 1,800 local students who are struggling to become proficient in the subject, which is a graduation requirement.
Mike B said:
Justin Rudd,
A humble tireless man who helps all without prejudice.
Angi Carelli said:
Rosie Rudd. Oops - Justin! Need I say more? He gives gives gives to the city, its inhabitants (young, old and furry) and asks nothing in return but a helping hand, kind smile and truck to load/unload all his gear. Not only do I nominate Justin Rudd as Long Beach Person Of The Year, I nominate the City of Long Beach to donate to his non-profits a moving van large enough to store & tote all his event necessities so he can do even more (is that possible?) You amaze me, Justin!
Clapton said:
I nominate Michael Ellis for the wonderful example he has set for the children of Long Beach, and for proving that there is still a place for drunks and criminals in public service.
Thomas Andersen said:
I would like to nominate Sean Zullo.
He is a leader among men.
KaRi from The Prime Spot said:
Skullphone, For saving lives!
Juan said:
I will nominate two:Justin Rudd and Bill Pearl. They both have given different, but honest approaches towards how to positively change the manner in which Long Beach operates.
Halcyon said:
I nominate Justin Rudd - he is a true Long Beach citizen for all he does. He understands the meaning of community - and does it all for the sake of the town!
Karun A. said:
I would nominate Mohsen Mirhosseini for person of the year. Mr. Mirhosseini is the CEO/Director of the Institute of Network Technology. Over the last couple of years there have been many vocational schools that have closed due to budget cuts. Many companies would have decided to close the school down due to lack of students but Mr. Mirhosseini has managed to keep us employed while providing services to the community of Signal Hill as well as surrounding area. Mr. Mirhosseini is not your typical boss. He really cares for his staff and the students that come to the school.
Ron Schweitzer said:
I would nominate Alan Lowenthal, for his tireless work on addressing Port pollution, for the last several years, before the issue became "popular". My son has asthma and the diesel pollution is terrible.
Marty O'Malley said:
No question...It's got to be Justin Rudd!
Andrew Silber said:
I would like to nominate Sandy Facon, a CLIA Master Cruise Counselor at Touch of Travel.
Sandy voluntarily recruits and organizes the restaurants for The Festival of Chefs each year, which benefits the Long Beach Youth Home Boosters, (established in 1984). They are a group of volunteers whose primary objective is to raise money to benefit the Long Beach Youth Home & enrich the educational, recreational and cultural programs of the residents.
Each year, the Boosters present two major fund-raising events: The Romantic Interlude, held in February to coincide with Valentine's Day, and the Festival of Chefs, during the summer, features tasty samples of specialty items from some of Greater Long Beach's (and San Pedro’s) finest eateries.
For over 36 years, ChildNet has dedicated itself to providing thousands of young people with the tools necessary to make a fresh start. ChildNet’s programs have evolved from a small home for boys to an integrated, multi-service youth and family agency, providing high-quality programs for troubled children and parents. I cannot think of any more valuable service to society.
Bob Chrisman said:
Subject: person of the year
Dr. Robert A. Nagourney, Chairman of Oncology – Long Beach Memorial Hospital
Dr. Nagourney works tirelessly to invent new methodologies’ for the treatment of cancer. He maintains his own lab at Rational Therapeutics wherein he removes cancer cells from his patients & devises the most effective oncolgic treatments to defeat that person’s particular cancer.
Ultimately, civilization will be freed from the scourge of cancer through the sacrificing efforts of scientists like Dr. Nagourney.
Respectfully submitted,
Bob Chrisman
Mark said:
I would like to nominate Empress Jackie LaCol of the Long Beach Imperial Court as person of the year. Empress Jackie is one of the hardest working people I know. She has raised thousand s of dollars for local organizations over the past year. Organizations that provide service here in our community to people in great need. She does this with such enthusiasm and decication. Her reign as Empress is one year and it is a totally volunteer, non paid basis. Even though she has a full time job to support herself she still finds time to devote the equivalent of another full time job to volunteer and give back. There is nobody I can think of that is more eligible for this honor.
Ryan Hernandez said:
Hello, My name is Ryan Hernandez, and I am a memeber of the International Court System here in Modesto, CA. The person I would like the nominate is Empress 36 of Long Beach, Jacqueline LaCol, who is a memeber of the International Court System here in Long Beach!! I have been a member of the ICS for three years, and Jackie I have known for a year, and she has been nothing but dilligent, hard-working, and best of all she is fun to be around. Jackie works very hard for her community and the charities that she is raising monies for. I believe Empress Jackie would be a wonderful candidate for this nomination due to the fact that she is always willing to do the best she can to help out anybody within the Long Beach community. I have traveled to Long Beach many times due to her commitment to her organization, and have been treated with nothing but kindness compassion, and apreciation. Every time I talk to Jackie, she is always there with a kind word of wisdom when the times are tough, but you would never know because of the way she carries herself. Please take into consideration that being a member of the ICS is 100% Volunteer, and we as members do not get paid to do this. Most of us are 501-C3 non-profit organizations that raise money for other non-profit organizations. Empress Jackie has worked tirelessly to make sure the Long Beach International Court Chapter will continue to flourish and succeed! That is why I beleive she is a wonderful candidate for this Person of the Year Award! If there are any questions, please do not hesitate to email me! Thank you and have a great day
Ryan "Lil Mijo" Hernandez
Imperial Grand Duke 34 of the Owl Empire of Stanislaus County Inc. The Second Oldest Court in the International Court System
mike said:
I'd like to nominate F. King Alexander for taking so many steps over the last 12 months to begin the process of elevating CSULB to its rightful status as a major public university, not just the country's biggest local school. From getting serious about the basketball team to the purchase of Brooks College to allow more student residency, to putting a Beach Shop on 2nd street to remind the city that CSULB is a major part of our community, he's done a great job in a small amount of time. Anyone else who saw him personally checking all the emergency stations at CSULB knows he cares about the school, and about the city, and I think he's had (and will continue to have) a major impact on the city, and its national standing.
Diane K said:
I would like to nominate our police and firefighters. I wonder how they endure the after-effects from OUR CALLS for HELP. I wonder how OUR heroes struggle with THEIR everyday witnessing of loss, grief, sadness and heartache.
Shelly said:
I agree with "Andrew" it is all about the Long Beach Resident Volunteers who ARE "The PEOPLE of the Year!" The many organizations around The LB would not survive without the MANY volunteers. The hardworking, late nights, many hours and days combined to make these fundraisers and educational events etc work! I commend every LB resident who has volunteered whether you are 5 or 105... YOU are the TRUE "People of the Year"! (BTW - Hi Scott:-)
Robert Wallace said:
I nominate Sean Zullo. Sean is Executive Director of Choices Recovery Services of Long Beach. His work with co-occuring disoder residential treatment has evolved a new outlook in the treatment of addiction as well as mental illness. Sean is a very caring, considerate and humble man who is very active in the community. Recently his work was featured in the Long Beach Telegram and several magazines. Sean's main concern is for the betterment of man-kind
Ann said:
Sean Zullo...his dedication to the community and the well being of other deserves some if not tons recognition.
Jonita said:
Kevin Wattier has been a true leader of our Water Department He is taking us into the future with a professional outlook concerning our water problems. He is a person who can be trusted to make the right decisions calling for conservation.
John G. said:
There are a bunch of people that are deserving...Mike Murchison for all the policy battles he won a lobbyist this year...Becki Ames for consolodating more power than anyone in Long Beach in such a short period of time...Rae Gabelich for her neighborhoods first attitude and independence....and Randy Gordon for leading the defeat of both the Big Box and Labor Peace ordinances...
Gus H. said:
I nominate Bill Pearl. He not only covers news but changes policy..
JAN WARD said:
SHE CLEANS THE STREETS AROUND HER LOVED NEIGHBORHOOD ON ANAHEIM ST. SHE HAS HELPED DEVELOPE AND EXPAND 2 NEW PARKS. HER GROUP SUPPORTS THE KIDS WITH SKATE FAIRS AND BIKE FAIRS AND HOLLOWEEN PARTIES AND CHRISTMAS DINNERS WITH SANTA. SHE SHOULD BE OUR QUEEN OF LONG BEACH.
Judy Crumpton said:
I have had the privilege and pleasure to meet and work with so many giving people in Long Beach. It is impossible for me to nominate just one! Go Long Beach!
John Boyle said:
Add my vote to the Justin Rudd column for all of the previously stated reasons.
Choices Recovery Services said:
The staff of Choices Recovery Services would like to nominate our Executive Director Sean Zullo. Sean dedicates his time and efforts into make the Long Beach Community an overall better place. Sean is very involved in the community. He believes in bettering the lives of many and does everything he can to help.
Joe Valles said:
I would like to nominate Councilperson Rae Gabelich. I commend her leadership and passion on protecting ALL NEIGHBORHOODS throughout the city of Long Beach.
Sander Roscoe Wolff said:
Antonio Pedro Ruiz, co-founder of The Creativity Network, has worked tirelessly for many years on behalf of arts, culture, and the creative community in Long Beach. From his service on the board of Arts Council for Long Beach to his advocacy on behalf of the kids at the Homeland Cultural Center, to his unifying efforts in "Re-Imagining the Arts in Long Beach" TV production, he has proven again and again that one person can, with hard work, a clear vision for what's possible, and an endless font of optimism, make a real difference.
Andrew said:
I nominate all of the "non-paid" Long Beach Volunteers that make our community a better place.
This includes the parent that spends his or her time in a Long Beach classroom,
the retired person that helps out at a local hospital, the hundreds of men and women
that serve on a nonprofit board of directors, all the people that find time to mentor a youth in
need of support and guidance...these "non-paid" Long Beach volunteers are my "People of
the Year"---to single out one person is a mistake!
Ronda Campbell said:
I would like to nominate my husband, Ronald Campbell who works with the youth of Long Beach as a Coach and mentor. My husband has worked for the City of Long Beach Park & Recreation for 8 years and it is his passion of kids that keeps a smile on his face. He creates an atmosphere for the kids and parents that only someone who is blessed by God could give. In addition to his regular job he volunteers on the weekends with children ages 8-14. His main goal is to keep kids off the streets by teaching them leadership skills, teamwork, cultural diversity and mentoring them with problems and school work. When he took on the volunteer position as a coach for NJB I know he didn't expect to have an undefeated season or be nominated to coach the All-Star team but it happened and I was so proud of him for doing what seems right for these children. Whenever there aren't enough programs for the children in his current job he will come up with more activities for the kids such as track and field, paddle tennis and Friday night lights football for the older teens. My husband should be the person of the year because he truly has a passion for the community of Long Beach and it's future, our children.
Scott Burchard said:
I nominate Pamela Seager, my wife, who, despite that identification deserves any and all consideration for person of the year for her incredible dedication to making the Rancho Los Alamitos as good as it can be for now and forever. (She works her ass off, to which I can attest!). The City of Long Beach is really lucky to have her looking after its interests.
Vic Warren said:
I happily nominate Helen Borgers. For 27 years, she has brought sunlight to us through her unflagging spirit and joyful presentation of great, straight-ahead jazz and blues at KKJZ-FM, earlier known as KLON. She has come to be known around the world as the "first lady of radio jazz" and has played an important part in the rich success of jazz in the Southland. In addition, she is Artistic Director of the Long Beach Shakespeare Company, directing the free Long Beach Shakespeare Festival, which will be celebrating its tenth year this summer, and bringing classic theatre to residents and students at Bixby Knolls' Richard Goad Theatre. Councilwoman Rae Gabelich called her the "heart of the arts" in Bixby Knolls, and the Long Beach Arts Council named her as the Long Beach Arts Professional for 2007.
Notre Dame guy said:
Patrick Henry... few do more so quietly and without fanfare for our neighborhood and city than Patrick. He's a clean it up, take good care of it and let's do something better kind of guy. He asks nothing in return. He keeps many folks connected on issues and it's never about him. LB is always first and foremost... that can only come from one who is born and bred right here! Patrick Henry for me!
Rae Gabelich said:
I would nominate John Morris for not only his commitment to our downtown, but his ability to continue to work on "the vision" for what our city can truly become. He speaks it as he sees it, it's not about being politically correct. Mr. Morris, your energy, dedication and knowledge should be commended.
Kate said:
I nominate Justin Rudd. He came into town some 10 years ago and took over the word "community." He has done an incredible number of things for LB--animals, literacy, environment--and makes volunteering fun, with no politics added.
Molly Ann said:
Kevin Wattier! What this man has does for the city now, and for the future, needs to be recognized. His insight and determination to do what's right for this entire community is undeniable.
Dennis C Smith said:
Person of the year, that is tough. Must be a Long Beach resident, great criteria—probably drops Michael Ellis off the list since his residency has been questioned. My top three from third to first:
Third is a Tie: Robert Garcia and Shaun Lumachi. They won’t pick themselves so I’ll put them at #3. They started the Long Beach Post in February and since then it has been a site thousands check daily. With the range of opinions on many issues put forth they have taken the traditional daily editorial page and put it on line with a distinct local flavor.
Second: Randy Gordon President and CEO of the Greater Long Beach Chamber of Commerce. Randy has not backed down from any fights or criticisms and has firmly put business advocacy and interests on the table for every politician. Members of the Chamber of Commerce provide jobs, benefits, places for residents to shop, get insurance, eat, buy tires and more—Randy ensures there is proper advocacy for them.
First: Justin Rudd personifies what community involvement and betterment is all about. I do not think the phrase, “what you should do…” is in Justin’s repertoire. Instead with Justin it is “what can I do?” or “what will I do?” From Haute Dogs to Beach Clean Ups to community weight loss challenges to parades and more Justin does not wait for someone to get an idea and then get it started—he just gets it started and finished. If you want to get tired go to his website (www.justinrudd.com) and click through his events and programs and where he is involved. I can think of no one in Long Beach who has given more time and energy to make this city a better place just because he can.
Justin is always welcome on the Front Porch!
Laura Jones said:
Has to be Justin Rudd. From beach cleanup to dog events to fundraising to help less privileged, Justin's positive impact on Long Beach has been DRAMATIC and far reaching.
Brian said:
Ryan Smolar for developing "Book by Authors," for creating University by the Sea and for opening everyone's eyes to the Jergins Subway. This all because he saw an opportunity to something different. City would do well to have more talented, enthusiastic people like him.
Julie Wahler said:
He's already shaking up Long Beach City Hall....go Pat !
Harbor Commissioners said:
The historic vote on port container fees was a huge benefit to Long Beach
Lee Anderson said:
I would have to nominate Long Beach’s very own Congresswoman Laura Richardson. Her rise from Long Beach City Council, CA State Assembly and now U.S. House of Representatives is very impressive. In each of these positions she has made a huge impact and brought attention and money to her district. I have seen and expect great things from her.
Linda Keiles said:
I'd go along with Kevin Wattier as well...he and his department have done so much to assure that Long Beach leads the state in water conservation efforts. An incredibly important job, well done!
Annette said:
I would also like to nominate Justin Rudd. He brings a sense of community to the city. Go Justin!
Christopher Johnson said:
I would like to nominate Kimberlee Woods, Executive Director of the Center in Long Beach. She has done an amazing job this past year and is continuing to grow and develope new programs to help out our community.
Douglas Frankenfeld said:
I nominate Kevin Wattier, General Manager of the LB Water Dept. and Long Beach resident, for his excellent work at public conservation resulting in Long Beach water users saving water beyond goals during this fatal drought season.
Nadine Essayli said:
Justin Rudd is just an amazing and humble person that does so much for Long Beach.
Tom Hennessey said:
Tom has been a great inspiration to the citizens and community of Long Beach
Brett Beck said:
I would name Justin Rudd as the person of the year. Name anyone who get out and does it more than he does. He is amazing.
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