Former Mayor’s Condition Improves

Former Torrance Mayor James R. Armstrong remained at Little Company of Mary Hospital this week after suffering a heart attack. His condition was upgraded Tuesday from critical to serious, hospital spokeswoman Susan Washburn said.

Armstrong, 63, had a full cardiac arrest Sunday afternoon at his Torrance home. Paramedics restored his heartbeat, and he was transported to the hospital, according to Torrance Mayor Katy Geissert, a longtime family friend.

Just nine days earlier, Armstrong was honored at the grand opening of the Torrance Cultural Arts Center, where the 503-seat theater is named for him.

Armstrong served as Torrance mayor from 1978 to 1986 after six years on the City Council. He was a longtime teacher at Torrance High School. Geissert said Armstrong’s appearance was improved when she visited him Wednesday morning. His family “is delighted with his progress,” she said.