Identity thieves among us
A North Long Beach resident called us here at Long Beach 9th District Councilmember Val Lerch’s office recently to let us know that she received a phone call from someone claiming to be from Medicare/MediCal who asked her personal questions about her mother.
The woman reported that the questioning made her feel uncomfortable and asked the person for the information they had on record, and if they had anything incorrect she would inform them— the person told the constituent that they do not handle these types of issues in that way.
The woman reported this incident to the MediCal/Medicare offices and they confirmed it was a scam.
Our office would like to inform your readers that this type of scam is happening and recommend that individuals should not give out personal information over the phone.
Jonda Coman
9th District Councilmember Val Lerch’s Office
Long Beach
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A Friend Indeed
The recent fires, especially the Station Fire, have impacted so many people and taxed the resources of so many organizations dealing with this disaster.
Your Greater Long Beach Chapter of the American Red Cross serving nine cities, including Signal Hill, is no exception. Over 50 volunteers and staff were deployed to assist those in need. We sent trained people to work in shelter operations, case work, health services, public affairs for the state and many, many more areas of support. Additionally, many volunteers and staff were working out of the offices in Long Beach.
Locally the Greater Long Beach Chapter has responded to five home/apartment fires since August 1 and has assisted 19 adults and 17 children to get back on their feet, by providing them with lodging and a client assistance card (CAC) to purchase clothing, food, toiletries, and bedding lost in the fire.
Obviously, funds were used to provide the needed services for those affected by the fires. We need to replenish our coffers so we can get ready for the next event, which we all know will happen (apartment fires, Avalon fires, etc.).
How can you help? Well, of course, donations to the GLBC American Red Cross would be most appreciated. But why not support those who help our communities in time of need by having some fun at the same time?
The Long Beach Chapter is holding its biggest fundraiser of the year on Monday, October 12 at SeaCliff Country Club in Huntington Beach. This private club is a special place, and the golfing and the day promise to be filled with fun and excitement.
Please give back to the group that gives so much during times of need. For more information on the golf tournament, please contact Margaret Arbini-Madonna at (562) 492-4002 or visit www.Redcrosslb.org. Please help to ensure that when you require emergency assistance, it will be there.
Phil Wendel
GLBC American Red Cross Volunteer
Long Beach
At the Tuesday, September 15 meeting of the Signal Hill City Council, Mayor Ellen Ward (right) presented the Greater Long Beach American Red Cross with a proclamation in honor of September’s being National Preparedness Month. Phil Wendel, Red Cross volunteer, (left) accepted on behalf of the organization.
