By Neena Strichart
During my adult years, I have been a member of many groups, including Daughters of the American Revolution, Friends of Long Beach Animals, Friends of Signal Hill Cultural Arts, Bixby Knolls Business Improvement Association, and GreySave (greyhound dog rescue group), as well as several others. One of my favorite organizations is Signal Hill’s Chamber of Commerce (SHCOC). It may not be as big as some of the other networking groups, but I’ll tell you— it sure is an effective way to get to know local business owners.
Those who have never attended an SHCOC monthly meeting may want to make sure they don’t miss the next one— a luncheon that takes place Thursday, August 26, from noon to 1:30pm at the Signal Hill Park Community Center, 1780 E. Hill St. At this month’s luncheon the Chamber and the City of Signal Hill will be honoring Stan Chambers and his retirement as a KTLA (channel 5) legendary newsman.
This is an amazing opportunity for us to all thank Stan for his many contributions to television newscasting and to hear him tell of his experiences first-hand. Details of the event as well as reservation information can be found on the front page of this issue.
I am especially excited about the luncheon meeting/retirement party because Stan has a special connection with the city of Signal Hill. Over 50 years ago, May 22, 1958 to be exact, the Hancock Oil Refinery fire broke out in our city and burned for 72 hours. Giving details to a mesmerized television audience during the dangerous assignment was KTLA’s own Stan Chambers. He has truly earned the right to be called an honorary city son.
Thursday won’t be my first meeting with Stan; two years ago, the city commemorated the 50th anniversary of the Hancock fire with a special event which was held May 24, 2008 (my 53rd birthday). Early in the afternoon, a private ceremony took place at the Community Center honoring the firefighters involved in extinguishing the blaze, as well as other dignitaries (like Stan). Later that afternoon the public also had a chance to view a documentary, photos and displays regarding the fire. During the festivities I had the honor of meeting distinguished newscaster Mr. Stan Chambers. During our conversation I presented him with a copy of the award-winning special section the Signal Tribune created about the fire. Well, it wasn’t award winning at that time— but the California Newspaper Publishers Association did recognize us with a nice plaque for that historic tribute edition (we came in second place in the state) during their last annual convention. Knowing I had saved at least half a box of the special editions, I was tickled to find enough to share with all those who come to Thursday’s luncheon.
Join us for what is sure to be a memorable event.
