Star & Shield Magazine

As you can see from our cover, this issue of Star & Shield is outlining issues and the work performed by PPOA related to the COVID-19 pandemic. While PPOA continues to provide the best support and communication possible to our members, the most rumored question reported back to the Board of Directors and delegates is from members asking, “What is PPOA doing during the COVID-19 crisis?” Read More

As the U.S. Navy hospital ship Mercy departed Los Angeles on May 15 after a seven-week deployment, the fact that the ship treated just 77 patients was proof that this magnificent vessel was never needed to serve as a relief valve for our local medical facilities battling COVID-19. Read More

The previous months have been filled with fear, anxiety, frustration, anger and even relief. As you read this, my prayer is that the worst is behind us and that we have made substantial progress towards regaining our normal interactions and activities. Read More

While preparing this article for Star & Shield, very sad news arrived about the passing of Sheriff’s Security Assistant Anthony Hopkins. The 17-year LASD veteran died on May 19 following a courageous battle with cancer. Hopkins was assigned to Pasadena Courthouse and was a valued member of PPOA for his entire career. Read More

I just read that our governor plans on closing more state prisons and all juvenile facilities. Not solely due to budget, but as part of his “philosophy” in switching to education and rehabilitation. Elon Musk is pulling out of California. Rumor is, more than 25% of tech firms are thinking about moving out of state. Read More