The Long Beach Area Council, Scouting America, is set to hold its 2nd annual KAW High Tea Gala on Sunday, November 8, 2026, at the Lakewood Country Club. The event, which runs from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., brings together community members, women business leaders, and Scouting supporters to recognize individuals whose contributions have made a lasting impact on the Long Beach area. This year's honorees include Tina Hansen, Council Member for the City of Signal Hill; Marla Jo Fisher, Senior Writer Columnist; Linda Dilday; Caryn Desai, Artistic Director/Producer; Julissa Jose-Murray, Chief of Business Operations for the Long Beach Police Department; Dr. Terry Mendoza, Educator; Dr. Sara Pol-Lim, Educator; Susan Price, Sr. Assistant District Attorney; and Barbara Shoag, Community Volunteer/Educator.
The significance of the gala extends beyond recognition. Proceeds from the event directly support Scouting programs throughout the Long Beach area, including youth leadership development, outdoor education, and scholarships for underserved youth. These programs are designed to help young people build character, learn practical skills, and develop a sense of community responsibility. By funding scholarships, the Council ensures that financial barriers do not prevent interested youth from participating in Scouting activities.
The Long Beach Area Council serves families in Long Beach, Lakewood, Bellflower, Signal Hill, and Avalon on Catalina Island, and has been active since 1919. Through Cub Scout packs, Scouts BSA troops, Sea Scout ships, Venturing crews, and Exploring posts organized in three districts—Iron Star, New Frontier, and Neptune—the Council provides outdoor adventure, leadership training, and community service opportunities to youth ages 5 to 20. The KAW High Tea Gala thus serves as a critical fundraiser for these ongoing efforts.
Tickets and sponsorship opportunities for the gala are available at www.longbeachbsa.org/kaw. Sponsors for this year's event include Coastline Environmental Solutions and A1 Best Plumbing, both of which are supporting the Council's mission. The gala not only honors local leaders but also reinforces the importance of investing in youth development, which can have long-term benefits for the community. As the Council continues to adapt to the needs of young people, events like the KAW High Tea Gala play a vital role in sustaining its programs and expanding their reach.
