L.B.
Mayor honors charitable pursuits of G-Funk
superstar
By
Lesley Nickus
Online Forty-Niner
Diversions Editor
Warren Griffin III, Warren G, is best known for his musical talent. He emerged
from the Long Beach rap scene in 1994 and took over the airwaves with a duet
with Los Angeles native Nate Dogg. “Regulators” quickly became
popular and set the stage for a successful career for Warren G.
What people may not be aware of, however, is that Warren G also helped many
residents of Long Beach by working with large companies to provide services
and products they normally couldn’t afford, according to JLM PR, Inc.,
representatives for Warren G.
For example, he has worked with Lenscrafters, Shell Oil and City Councilmember
Laura Richardson to raise money to purchase 500 pairs of eyeglasses for children
who couldn’t afford eye care.
He also sponsors the annual G Christmas shopping spree. Using a rented U-Haul
truck, he delivers toys to children at the California Recreation Center, all
of which are purchased using his personal funds.
Last week, Warren G received an award from Leonard Adams, project coordinator
of the Midnight Basketball League, for time and money donated to the league,
which provides an alternative program for students after school.
His latest project was the opening of the Willie McGinest Freedom School Monday.
This summer enrichment project was originally set up in 1964 to help African-Americans
learn to read and write in order to vote. Later, the program evolved into an
educational improvement program that focuses on reading.
Coinciding with the opening of the school, Mayor Beverly O’Neill proclaimed
Aug 1-6 “Warren G Week.” Many events are taking place this week
to honor Warren G and his charitable efforts.
Tomorrow is Warren G Day at the Queen Mary, where Long Beach residents can
tour the ship and participate in a meet and greet with Warren G. On Saturday
there will be a Warren G concert for the kids on the lawn in front of Hughes
Hanger at the Queen Mary and Sunday, Warren G will hold a benefit concert,
giving upcoming Long Beach artists the opportunity to open for him.
The benefit will be held in front of Hughes Hanger and the proceeds will go
to the Willie McGinest Freedom School. For more information on the concerts,
visit www.queenmary.com. |
