Inductees span a century

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With his brother, Will, he launched Skudin Surf, sharing his love of surfing with young and old alike. They went on to create Surf for All, a nonprofit organization that provides surfing opportunities for children with special needs. In the aftermath of Superstorm Sandy, he organized volunteers to raise more than $100,000 to help rebuild the community. In addition, he still holds the high school record for the 200-yard freestyle and is ranked 40th in the Big Wave Tour of Surfing.

“As I watched him grow up, he turned into an example of what Long Beach is all about,” said master of ceremonies Steve Kohut. “He came back to contribute to the youth of the community.”

Sen. Reynolds was nominated by the Long Beach Public Schools 100 Year Anniversary Committee for his contribution as an early developer of the “city by the sea.” He was responsible for dredging the channel, named in his honor, and credited for his vision in developing a boardwalk, homes and hotels on what was previously just a large sandbar. But perhaps his most important contribution to the successful development of the city was the establishment of the first public school in Long Beach. “I am so delighted that we have recognized this unsung hero, who in 15 years acted on a vision that turned a sandbar into a self-governing city,” said Long Beach historian Roberta Fiore. Reynolds’ great-grandson Marc Futoran was present to accept the award on behalf of his family.

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