By Steven Piper
Editorial Intern
Having her leg in a cast did not stop former California State Assembly member and Senator Betty Karnette from bringing her real-world legislative experience to the Wrigley Association’s June 1 meeting, where she was guest speaker and organized the mock passing of a bill as it is done in the Senate.
With microphone in hand, Karnette selected individuals to come up front and fill various roles, such as chairperson. “You, young man,” she said. “You have to be a part of this. Come up front.”
While she organized the legislators, the audience brainstormed ideas for bills; having plastic doggy bags on street corners garnered the fewest votes.
While experimenting with the different propositions, the audience role-played how a bill is passed.
People had the chance to pitch their bills, persuade others why they should pass and defend their stance.
Among other Wrigley Association news, members voted to fill seven open seats on the Wrigley Association Board of Directors. Voters turned in their ballots after all the candidates spoke.
The following incumbents will remain on the board: Chris Graeber, Gavin McKiernan, Sammy Portillo, Coleen Vandepas and Lisa Wibroe, who will function as an alternate board member.
Bethel Cope-Vega, Adriana Martinez and Raul Romo are new members elected to the board.
Long Beach Councilmember Tonia Reyes Uranga gave her District 7 update
and spoke about relevant issues, such as local billboards affecting the Wrigley neighborhood and the Middle Harbor Project, which would be an item on the City Council’s agenda the following Tuesday night. She also mentioned that the Dana Branch Library would be closed June 10 and 11.
In her “state of the association” address, Wrigley Association President Annie Greenfeld gave suggestions on what residents can do to contribute to the neighborhood. “We have a lot to do in our mission to make the neighborhood a better place,” she said. “What can you do to help? Bring friends to meetings, ask questions and tell people what you think, volunteer for a committee.”
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