The Long Beach Area Council, Scouting America (formerly the Boy Scouts of America) has announced that its 2nd annual KAW High Tea Gala will take place on Sunday, November 8th, 2026, at the Lakewood Country Club, located at 3101 E Carson St, Lakewood, CA 90712. The event, scheduled from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., brings together community members, women business leaders, and Scouting supporters to honor a distinguished group of honorees whose contributions have made a lasting impact on the Long Beach area.
This year’s gala will recognize an exceptional class of honorees, including 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 recognition of these individuals underscores the gala’s role in celebrating local leadership and service, while also drawing attention to the broader mission of Scouting in the region.
Proceeds from the KAW High Tea Gala directly support Scouting programs throughout the Long Beach area, including youth leadership development, outdoor education, and scholarships for underserved youth. This funding is critical for expanding access to Scouting programs that help young people build character, learn practical skills, and engage with their communities. 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 neighborhood 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 brings outdoor adventure, leadership, and community service to youth ages 5-20 across its cities.
Tickets and sponsorship opportunities for the gala are available at www.longbeachbsa.org/kaw. The event is supported by sponsors including Coastline Environmental Solutions and A1 Best Plumbing, demonstrating local business commitment to youth development. The gala not only honors community leaders but also reinforces the importance of investing in the next generation through Scouting’s proven programs.
