Feb. 28, 2020 Hews Media Group-Los Cerritos Community Newspaper eNewspaper by Hews Media Group-Los Cerritos Community Newspaper

LOS CERRITOS

Winner of Fourteen LA Press Club Awards from 2012- 2017.

Serving Cerritos and Surrounding Communities • 86,000 Homes Every Friday • February 28, 2020 • Vol 34, No. 34

‘It’s the Wild West’ Police Slammed for Use of Automatic License Plate Readers

CERRITOS HONORED FOR WEST NILE PREVENTION

BY BRIAN HEWS

Cerritos Deputies use the ALPRs on several vehicles that are part of the LAPD. BY BRIAN HEWS Automatic License Plate Readers (ALPR’s) are automated camera systems mounted on streetlight poles and patrol cars which collect and store license plate images of vehicles passing in their view and enable law enforcement to track a

See ALPRs page 14

CERRITOS WAS HONORED as a Champion for West Nile Virus Prevention by the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors. Mayor Naresh Solanki (second from the left) accepted the scroll of commendation on behalf of the City.

HAHN REP. LYNDA JOHNSON MEDDLING IN CERRITOS POLITICS

Artesia's Public Safety Expo Attended by Over One Thousand Residents BY TAMMYE MCDUFF The City of Artesia held their annual Public Safety Expo & Youth Safety Day, rain or shine, Saturday February 22nd at Artesia Park. Visitors were able to get up-close to search and rescue vehicles, SWAT trucks, as well as LA County Fire and LA County Sheriff’s Department vehicles. A Jaws-Of-Life demonstration and K-9 search display had the crowd amazed in fascination with the skill and precision in which emergency personnel responded. A low cost pet vaccination clinic and adoption were available to residents and World of Reptiles displayed Iguanas, snakes, scorpions and ‘Tango’ the 11 year old Burmese python. A petting zoo with baby goats, sheep, llamas and horses was set up for tiny tots to feed and pet. Youth who participated in the safety passport stamp collection and the bicycle safety course, were entered into a contest with the main prize being a brand new BMX bike. Other department resources such as

See ARTESIA page 6

HMG-LCCN Endorsements VICE MAYOR LUIGI VERNOLA AND ANA VALENCIA FOR NORWALK CITY COUNCIL

FACEBOOK POST one day after the Feb. 12 forum, accusing a candidate of ballot harvesting, a oft-used term used by Republicans that alleges election fraud.

Candidate Chuong Vo follows the post and slams the candidate, later admitting he did not see the incident. BY BRIAN HEWS Cerritos resident and Supervisor Hahn representative Lynda Johnson has always held herself out as a Democrat, but it is evident, even though she works for a Hahn, she is working hard to get a conservative Republican elected to the Cerritos City Council, going so far as accusing another candidate in a Facebook post of election fraud. The incident involved one Cerritos resident handing sealed ballots to a candidate at the February 12 forum, with Johnson accusing the candidate of “ballot harvesting.” The San Diego Union-Tribune wrote in 2018, “ballot harvesting is political jargon for a practice in which organized workers or volunteers collect absentee ballots from certain voters and drop them off.” It was coined by California Repub-

licans in 2016, with the term carrying a negative connotation to suggest improprieties and even election fraud. It is legal, but you wouldn't know it talking to Johnson or candidate Chuong Vo. Gov. Brown signed into law in 2016 a change to the election code that allows any person to collect mail-in ballots from voters and turn in the ballot. While critics decry it, proponents of the change say it allows more eligible citizens to participate in elections across California. Many Republicans who lost in 2016 and 2018 accused Democrats of election fraud using ballot harvesting. In her post, which was one day after the forum, Johnson used the Republican moniker writing, “BALLOT HARVESTING, Chuong Vo addressed it in his closing remarks… one candidate witnessed another candidate receiving a stack of ballots from someone in the audience, no one should give ballots to any candidate.” Vo jumped in on the post and also accused the candidate of cheating, even

See JOHNSON page 5

If you have lived in Norwalk, then you know current Vice-Mayor Luigi Vernola and the impact he has had on the City. This newspaper has been writing about Vernola’s charity and dedication to the City since 2000, and has endorsed him since the mid 2000’s, and endorses him for the March municipal election. A staunch advocate of fiscal responsibility, he has led the charge to keep a tight reign on city finances while providing the crucial services residents want and need, while also improving the infrastructure of the city. A successful business owner, he knows what entrepreneurs and fellow business owners want and has developed strategies to streamline the business processes in the city. His dedication to the safety and security of Norwalk residents has always been at the top of his list leading town hall safety meetings to answer residents questions and concerns about safety within the borders. And his philanthropic and charity endeavors are legendary. From his Santa's Sleigh Foundation that provides free toys, food and turkeys for hundreds of the less fortunate during the holidays, to his huge Rose Parade type float that he rides around in December dressed as Santa giving children Christmas toys for free, Vernola is dedicated to the city of Norwalk and the residents. Norwalk residents should reward Vernola for his efforts with four more years. Valencia has spent 18 years helping the children, teachers and staff of the Norwalk-La Mirada School District; she is the only non-incumbent candidate to currently hold office, and that’s important, there is no learning curve for Valencia. According to the other candidates, Norwalk “is at a crossroads.” OK, then wouldn’t you want somebody who’s got current experience in political adminis-

See ENDORSEMENT page 12

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February 28, 2020

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DOWNEY'S DENNIS THE MENACE PARK REOPENS BY TAMMYE MCDUFF Downey became a memorial of sorts to the troublemaking kid Dennis the Menace, after the show aired March 1951. The popularity of the program led the city of Downey to open a children’s playground in his name sake – Dennis the Menace Park. The Park was a popular location for birthday parties and family picnics and the most beloved piece of play equipment was the castle and the rocket ship slide. Dennis the Menace Park is a small pocket park located at the end of Arrington Avenue. In contrast to virtually every other park in Downey, Dennis the Menace was blocked off by a very tall chain link fence and a large iron gate that lead into the parking lot. There was very limited access to the parking lot and to pedestrian traffic. The Park did not open until 10:00 am on weekends which posed an issue for parties or family gatherings. Recent years had seen the decline of the play equipment which desperately needed to be updated. With Measure S funds the city of Downey committed to a complete refurbishing of just about every part of the Park. On February 10th the famous play park was reopened with much fanfare and although the castle is no longer there, a new and improved one stands in its place. Improvements included a brand new community building and restrooms which are ADA compliant; an all challenge fitness course that is suited to any age; rubberized surfaced in the playground; new picnic table and barbeque areas complete with food preparation stations; new benches throughout the park; new drinking fountains and water bottle filling stations and a dedicated monument sign. The Park is close to the 5 and 605 freeway ramps and a newly added pirate theme play park. Downey Mayor pro tem Claudia Marroquin- Frometa saud, “This Park is within my district and has always had a special place in my heart. I am very pleased to see so many families here today enjoying the new facilities.” She added that improvements continue to be made throughout the City thanks to Measure S funds.

DOWNEY MAYOR, Mayor pro tem and City Council at the reopening of the park, which was completely redone with Measure S funds.

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LEAL 6TH GRADER WINS ABCUSD DISTRICT SPELLING BEE CERRITOS GENERAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION IS TUESDAY, MARCH 3

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It was a contest for the ages at this year’s ABC Unified School District’s Spelling Bee. Round-after-round, the spellers faced challenging words. Spelling bee champions from each of the District’s 19 elementary schools competed. Dr. Colin Sprigg, the District’s Director of Information & Technology, read off each word to the spellers. At the end of the evening, two sixth-grade students remained - Neha Agrawal, from Leal Elementary, and Jordan Faye, from Niemes Elementary. The two went back and forth with Neha prevailing after several

rounds. “We are so proud of Neha, and all of the students who participated in both the District’s spelling bee, but also at their school’s spelling bee,” said Superintendent Dr. Mary Sieu. “This is a great reflection of the high academic standards taught at all of our elementary schools.” The 15th Annual ABCUSD Spelling Bee was held at the Brewer Theater at Cerritos High School. The event was sponsored by the ABC Education Foundation.

The Cerritos General Municipal Election will be held on Tuesday, March 3 for three members of the City Council and one City ballot measure (Measure C). Cerritos voters have several options to cast their ballot, including: • All Cerritos registered voters should have received a Vote by Mail ballot. The ballot can be returned by mail, or dropped off at any Vote by Mail Drop-Off location or Vote Center in Los Angeles County. A 24-hour Vote by Mail Drop-Off box is located in the Cerritos Civic Center. • Voters who prefer to vote “inperson” can cast their ballots at any Vote Center in Los Angeles County now through Tuesday, March 3. • Voters can also vote “in-person” at the Office of the Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder now through Tuesday, March 3. To access a list of Vote Centers in Los Angeles County or for more information about the election, visit cerritos. us or lavote.net. Questions about the election should be directed to the Office of the City Clerk/Elections Official at (562) 9161248 or election2020@cerritos.us.

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The City of Cerritos was honored as a Champion for West Nile Virus Prevention by the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors at an awards ceremony held at the Kenneth Hahn Hall of Administration on February 11. The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health (LAC DPH) organized the Champions for West Nile Virus (WNV) Prevention challenge. The goal of the program is to reduce the local risk of WNV by partnering with Los Angeles County cities and neighborhoods to share mosquitoborne disease awareness and prevention messages with local communities. Cities participated by completing a variety of outreach activities to promote WNV prevention practices in their com-

munities. The City of Cerritos was awarded with a scroll in recognition of its efforts, which include website postings, newsletter articles and video public service announcements. Cerritos Mayor Naresh Solanki remarked: “The City of Cerritos is honored to be recognized as a Champion of West Nile Virus Prevention. I encourage Cerritos residents to visit the City’s website at cerritos.us for information about how they can help keep our community safe.” According to the LACDPH, WNV is a disease caused by the bites of infected mosquitoes. The virus survives in nature in several types of birds and is transmitted by the bites of mosquitoes that feed on infected birds. WNV spreads during warm weather months when mosquitoes are most active. While not all mosquitoes carry this

virus, the type of mosquito that spreads this virus is found throughout Los Angeles County. The LACDPH urges all residents to limit the spread of WNV by stopping mosquitoes from infesting their homes and yards, and to protect themselves and their families from mosquito bites by using repellant when outdoors. Since mosquitoes breed in standing water, residents can help stop the mosquito life cycle and WNV transmission by eliminating standing water on their property. WNV symptoms usually occur between five and 15 days, and can include fever, headache, body aches, nausea or a skin rash. One in 150 people infected with the virus will become severely ill. Severe symptoms include high fever, muscle weakness, neck stiffness, coma, paralysis and possibly death.

February 28, 2020

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SUBSEQUENT Facebook post alleging criminality by the candidate. In the part circled, Vo admitting he did not see the incident, but he spoke about the incident in his closing remarks at the forum.

JOHNSON

Continued from page 1 though it is legal for a candidate, or anyone for that matter, to take sealed ballots from others and deliver to City Hall. Worse, Vo and Johnson alleged the candidate took blank ballots- who would later fraudulently pick themselves as a candidate, and then sign the ballots. That is a felony.

The post generated several comments from residents, including accusations of criminal activity by the candidate. At the end of the forum, Vo â&#x20AC;&#x153;addressedâ&#x20AC;? the issue, once again accusing the candidate of ballot harvesting. But, shockingly, Vo would later admit in Johnsonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s day-later Facebook post that he did not see the ballots handed to the candidate. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Unfortunately I was not the one that witnessed it [the ballot harvesting]. I came about 30 seconds late.â&#x20AC;?

It is a disturbing pattern by Vo: in the 2016 City Council race, he falsely claimed local elected officials endorsed his campaign, which were taken down after an HMG-LCCN article; he also falsely claimed that HMG-LCCN refused advertising from him, which he was later forced to retract after HMG LCCN produced emails that showed he was lying.

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February 28, 2020

State Senator Bob Archuleta Selected as 2019 Legislator of the Year by CSCVC STAFF REPORT The California State Commanders Veterans Council (CSCVC) is honored to announce that Senator Bob Archuleta (D-Pico Rivera) has been selected as the recipient of the Council’s 2019 Legislator of the Year Award. The CSCVC Legislator of the Year Award is given in recognition for leadership and efforts on behalf of California’s veterans, active duty military, reserves, and the California National Guard. Senator Archuleta was presented with the award during the CSCVC’s Day at the Capitol event on February 22, 2020. Senator Archuleta has been a champion for veterans and active duty military troops in California from the moment he took office. From his time in the U.S. Army to his public sector work he has demonstrated tremendous support for the military and veterans community. On his first day in the Senate, he took the time to talk with the CSCVC legislative advocate about the current issues facing veterans and service members. The Senator made it clear, in the first Senate Veterans committee hearing that all hearings will start with acknowledging all veterans and service member in the audience.

“It is an honor for me to receive this recognition from the California State Commanders Veterans Council. I will continue to work with all veterans and active military in the state of California to represent them to the best of my ability. I will continue working with my colleagues and the governor’s office on veterans’ homelessness, as well as issues pertaining to our active military and our 22 armed force bases in California,” Senator Archuleta said. Senator Archuleta authored Senate Bill 289 in 2019; home and community-based services (HCBS); which was signed by Governor Newsom. SB 289 allows active duty service members, upon receiving orders to transfer out of state, to maintain their eligibility status or their place on the waiting list for services. This bill would also allow military personnel and their families to apply for the Medicaid HCBS waiver program when they receive notification of their pending transfer into the state. Frederick Romero, Chairman of the CSCVC, said, “When Senator Archuleta was appointed as the Chairman of Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs, we instinctively knew he would be the right person for the job. He has captivated us with his intimate knowledge, and unique ability to understand and relate to the active duty military and

AWARD: from (l-r) Seth Reeb, Veterans Advocate, Reeb Govt Relations; Hugh Crooks, Chairman, California Veterans Board; James Lubey, Legislative Chairman, California State Commanders Veterans Council; Chuck Jamison, Secretary, California State Commanders Veterans Council; State Senator Bob Archuleta; Fred Romero, Chairman, California State Commanders Veterans Council; Jim Anderson, Vice Chairman, California State Commanders Veterans Council; Richard Chacon, Director, Supplier Diversity and Community Outreach, Union Bank.

California veterans. He has also shown, through action in his first year, his desire to tackle the tough issues such as the California Veterans Homes and the Disabled Veterans Business Enterprise program.” The Senator was elected in 2018 to

the California State Senate. Archuleta is an Army veteran and was a combat paratrooper with the 82nd Airborne Division. Senator Archuleta is the current Chair of the Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs. Archuleta served as a Presidential Appointee under then-President Barack Obama as the first Mexican American to be appointed to the Board of Visitors to the United States Military Academy at West Point, which inquiries into the morale, discipline, curriculum, and other matters relating to the academy, and he was immediately elected as co-chair. He also served on the Los Angeles County Military Veteran Affairs Commission and the United States Army Advisory Board for Military Recruitment. The California State Commanders Veterans Council is a group of 20 veterans service organizations and other military service-related organizations, whose mission is to evaluate pending state legislation affecting California’s veterans, whether active, reserve, National Guard, or retired. The Council was founded in 1966 and meets regularly to coordinate legislative strategies to advance veterans issues at the state level.

ARTESIA

Continued from page 1 the STAR Unit, Arson/Explosives, Aero Bureau, Posse, Narcotics and the Auto Theft Divisions displayed their show cars and the CARE and Air Ambulance were available for photo opportunities. Information was provided by LA County Injury Prevention Team regarding child travel safety and car seat installation. Special presentations were made to the Policeman and Fireman of the year, receiving hand-crafted awards from the City and Certificates of Recognition from Senator Bob Archuleta. “Thanks to our law enforcement and fire for their service and to our honorees,” said Mayor Ali Taj, “and thanks to our staff for a job well done even with the rain!”

February 28, 2020

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WILLOW ELEMENTARY CHOSEN AS AVID SHOWCASE SCHOOL

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REP. ROYBAL-ALLARD ATTENDS ART SHOW IN DOWNEY

CONGRESSWOMAN Lucille Roybal-Allard (second from right) greets (left to right) Downey Unified School Board Member Martha Sodetani, teacher Liz Vega, and Downey Unified School District Director of College & Career Readiness John Harris at the Woodruff Academy art show in Downey. EDUCATORS from across the region visited Willow Elementary School to gain insight into the school's adoption of the AVID curriculum

STAFF REPORT The Advancement Via Individual Determination, or AVID, College Readiness System has been used to make the dream of college a reality for more than 2 million students since 1980. Many schools in the ABC Unified School District utilize the AVID system to prepare and encourage students to develop academic habits that will help them as they move through each level of school. By teaching and reinforcing strong academic behaviors and high-level thinking at a young age, AVID Elementary teachers create a ripple effect impacting a student at later grades. Willow Elementary School was recently selected as an AVID Showcase School for its innovative and successful approach with utilizing the AVID system. On Tuesday, January 28, 2020, educators from across Southern California visited Willow Elementary to learn more about the school’s AVID journey. Visitors toured the campus and looked-in on classes to see AVID in action. “We are so very proud of the great work going on at all of our District’s AVID schools,” said Superintendent Dr. Mary Sieu. “We are especially proud of having Willow Elementary named as an AVID Showcase School.

This is a well-deserved honor and is sure to be beneficial for all the educators and administrators who visited the campus.” Through the AVID instructional framework, elementary students take structured notes and dive deeper into answers to higher-level inquiry questions. AVID campuses demonstrate a strong college-going culture, encouraging students to begin thinking about college and career plans. At Willow, you can find college pennants and banners hanging throughout the campus, and teachers regularly speak about their own college experiences. “I am extremely proud to showcase how AVID has transformed Willow’s instructional practices and school culture. Our teachers and students have worked hard to make us an AVID Showcase school,” said Willow Elementary Principal Eveline Huh. “AVID is more than just a program, AVID is systemic in that it accelerates all of our schoolwide and district initiatives. AVID is a gamechanger that closes the achievement gap and helps make college dreams a reality for every student regardless of their background.” You can learn more about the AVID College Readiness System by visiting www.avid.org and about Willow Elementary School at www.willowes.us.

Last week, Congresswoman Lucille Roybal-Allard (CA-40) attended the Woodruff Academy art show. She commended the talented student artists who displayed their work at the show,

and thanked the organizers. Veterans from the Courage Forward organization donated their time to the event, and Luis’ Butcher Shop sold tacos to benefit the school.

LONG BEACH SYMPHONY CELEBRATES BEETHOVEN On Saturday, March 7 at 8:00 PM, in the Long Beach Terrace Theater, the Long Beach Symphony will commemorate Beethoven’s 250th birthday. In honor of this auspicious occasion, Maestro Eckart Preu chose Beethoven’s Violin Concerto in D – the only concerto he ever wrote for that instrument. Following a brief intermission, the orchestra will present Schubert’s 9th Symphony in C

Volunteers Neeeded 562-402-6769 Call after 4:30 p.m.

major, dubbed “The Great” to distinguish it from his shorter symphony in the same key. Ticketholders are invited to attend a pre-concert talk at 7:00 PM by Maestro Eckart Preu and guest soloist Stefan Jackiw or to enjoy free live music in the lobby of the hall before the concert. For more information, please visit LongBeachSymphony.org or call (562) 436-3203.

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creases significantly in people who have alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency, a rare genetic condition. While COPD develops slowly and worsens over time, its symptoms can be treated and its progression can be slowed, which is why early detection and treatment are so important. If you are noticing any issues with your breathing, talk to your health care provider about getting tested for COPD. The sooner you get a diagnosis, the sooner treatment can begin. Your provider will design a treatment plan to help address your symptoms and improve your lung function and quality of life. The key to keeping COPD at bay – or preventing it from getting worse – is to understand and recognize the signs and symptoms early and discuss them with your health care provider. The sooner this happens, the sooner you can get back to doing the things you love. Through educational efforts like the Learn More Breathe Better program (https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/breathebetter), the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute shares valuable information about the symptoms of COPD, as well as how to diagnose and treat it. With these tools, those living with COPD can effectively manage the disease, and those who have symptoms can find the support and assistance they need.

February 28, 2020

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Family Features ~ Do you get short of breath doing daily activities? Feel like you’re unable to take deep breaths? Are you constantly coughing or wheezing? If you said yes to any of these questions, you may be experiencing symptoms of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), a serious, potentially devastating lung disease also known as chronic bronchitis or emphysema. Though it’s easy to think of these symptoms as just part of “getting older’’ or as problems that come with allergies, often they are not. Nearly 16 million people in the United States are currently living with a COPD diagnosis, and millions more don’t know they have it. COPD is the fourth leading cause of death in the United States and a leading cause of disability. In people with COPD, the airways that carry air in and out of the lungs become partially blocked, which makes it increasingly difficult to breathe. If left undetected, the disease can greatly affect your quality of life and your ability to complete even ordinary daily activities. COPD often occurs in people who have a history of smoking or long-term exposure to secondhand smoke and other lung irritants, such as air pollution, chemical fumes, and dusts from the environment or workplace. The chances of getting COPD also in-

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February 28, 2020 BY ROSEMARY LEWALLEN St. Irenaeus Health Ministry presented a workshop on "Understanding Depression and Suicide" on January 27th in the Parish Hall. Speakers were psychologist, Tony Nguyen, MA, LMFT, and Deacon Jerry Pyne. Margery Arnold, from the Mental Health Ministry in the Orange County Diocese, also came and distributed valuable resource materials to help families concerned about their mental health issues and that of their loved ones. Jennifer Dagarag, RN, St. Irenaeus' Faith Community Nurse, made a powerful introduction to the workshop by showing us artwork made by her daughter of half a face. The picture was made of broken glass that was put back together to create a beautiful impression. Jennifer said that we often only show people half of ourselves and hide the rest. The picture shows that, even though the glass was broken, it could be put together to create beauty and harmony. Likewise, one out of five American adults are affected by a mental health condition during their lifetime. However, with treatment and compassion, they can lead happy, healthy and productive lives. Unfortunately, many suffer silently due to the stigma attached to mental illness and don't seek help. Tony Nguyen provided shocking statistics on mental health in the United States. For example, 1 out of 25 American adults experience serious mental health issues and 17% of youth age 6 - 17 years experience a mental health disorder; 19% of American adults have anxiety disorders per year and 7% of the population have at least one major depressive episode per year. Tony mentioned that people often respond to the depression of a loved one with unhelpful comments. Examples of these are: "Get your act together!"; "Snap out of it"; "Stop feeling sorry for yourself!" and, "Just go and do something about it!" These

To advertise call 562-407-3873 suggestions not only lack empathy and understanding, but are difficult or impossible for the person suffering depression to do. Symptoms of depression are varied. They include constant sadness, anger, guilt and hopelessness, social withdrawal, lack of energy, loss of interest, suicidal thoughts and poor self-esteem. Youth often blame themselves for a divorce, for instance, and feel that they have failed. Tony Nguyen provides therapy to many youth who are withdrawn and suffering. Tony stressed that major depression is treatable. You are not alone. Treatment options include psychotherapy, medications, exercise, brain stimulation, acupuncture, meditation and faith. Tony also recommended utilizing the services of NAMI (National Association on Mental Illness) that provide free services, such as peer-topeer groups. Deacon Jerry Pyne mentioned that St. Irenaeus has a NAMI group that meets in a classroom at St. Irenaeus School to assist families who have a member who is experiencing mental health issues. Deacon Jerry stated that you can and should ask, "Are you thinking about killing yourself?" if you think that a person is suicidal. You may save that person's life. Deacon Jerry also talked about the current Catholic Church position on suicide, which relieved many people's fears, guilt and misconceptions. The church's teaching is that a person who dies of suicide is not in their right mind at that moment, and, therefore, did not commit sin. He mentioned that if you have cancer, you receive sympathy, but if you have mental illness, you often receive no empathy and are isolated. Those who suffer from chronic depression need the full support of the church to combat the social stigma of mental illness and a lack of community social support. If you have any questions, please contact Jennifer Dagarag, RN, at (714) 8260760.

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UNDERSTANDING DEPRESSION AND SUICIDE WORKSHOP

TONY TOAN NGUYEN, Marriage & Family Therapist, & Jennifer Dagarag, RN, Faith Community Nurse. Photo Rosemary Lewallen.

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February 28, 2020

2020 SOFTBALL PREVIEW Gahr remains the elite team in the area while Artesia, Cerritos vie for 605 League top spot again BY LOREN KOPFF @LORENKOPFF ON TWITTER There seems to be no stopping the Gahr High softball team, not just in the San Gabriel Valley League, but the immediate area. While the Lady Gladiators are poised to win another league championship, there may be another battle for the 605 League title for the second straight season between Artesia High and Cerritos High. La Mirada High continues to be the talk of the Suburban League while Valley Christian High is seeking a better campaign than 2019.

Returning players in italics.

ARTESIA LADY PIONEERS

17-4 overall last season, 9-1 in the 605 League, tied for first place, lost to Jurupa Hills High 5-0 in the Division 4 first round playoffs Head coach: Dayna Coleman (seventh season, 55-64) Team’s record previous five seasons: 50-50 Last time missed the playoffs: 2018 Key losses: Brenda Duran, Natalie Luna, Zoey Williams (JR) Projected lineup: P-Shelby Hile (JR)/Valerie Joaquin (SR) C-Alexis Duenas (SO)/Erika RodriguezNegrete (JR) 1B-Leilani Pati (SR)/Rodriguez-Negrete 2B-Silvanna Rodriguez (FR)/Natalia Avila (SR) 3B-Charlene Fregoso (SR) SS-Joaquin LF-Miriam Estrada (SO) CF-Camryn Thompson (SR) RF-Shay Riddell (JR)/Amy Martinez (FR)/Hali Maysonet (SO) First, the Lady Pioneers had to get to a level where they could compete for the CIF-Southern Section playoffs on a regular basis. But Artesia went a step beyond that last season and claimed a share of the 605 League title. In the process, Artesia posted the school’s best record in over 22 seasons. Of the 17 victories, the Lady Pioneers scored at least 10 runs 11 times, shutout their opponents six times and yielded one run another six times. “Last season was special because it was our first season in the 605 League and we wanted to set our expectations for Artesia softball,” said Artesia head coach Dayna Coleman. “We were excited to be able to be co-champs and look forward to having an even better year.” Artesia had a good mixture of talent last season, both young and experienced, and more of the same is on the horizon for the 2020 season. Coleman says junior pitcher Shelby Hile, who went 7-3 last season, splitting time with senior Valerie Joaquin, continues to improve in the circle. She is expected to get more pitching time with Joaquin being the primary shortstop. The corner positions are solid with the experience of seniors Leilani Pati at first and Charlene Fregoso at third while senior Camryn Thompson continues to patrol the outfield with her tremendous speed. Fregoso has big shoes to fill as she replaces Brenda Duran at third base. The one area of concern in the lineup is replacing the power left behind by the graduated Duran and Natalie Luna. “No one can ever replace a Brenda Duran or a Natalie Luna,” Coleman said. “They are not only two amazing athletes who helped this program continue to reach new levels, but they are also great leaders on and off the field. We have an amazing senior class this year that will lead us this year.” The top newcomer will be freshman second baseman Silvanna Rodriguez, whom Coleman says can play any of the

other infield positions and could be a force for the next several seasons. She will take over the position left behind by Luna. New to the coaching staff is longtime Artesia Punishers travel softball coach Ed Blank, who was the head coach for Cerritos in 2008.

CERRITOS LADY DONS

13-13 overall last season, 9-1 in the 605 League, tied for first place, lost to Cypress High 12-1 in the Division 2 first round playoffs Head coach: Kim Ensey (fourth season, 51-25) Team’s record previous five seasons: 82-48-1 Last time missed the playoffs: 2008 Key losses: Elise Gibbs, Niki Ibarra Projected lineup: P-Erin Gibbs (SO)/ Jadyn Nielsen (SO)/ Azalea Herrera (JR) C-Kaitlyn Caneda (SO)/Natalya Mendiola (SO)/Leilani Pina (JR) 1B-Samiya Jones (JR)/Makayla Sur (SO) 2B-Lauren Lejano (JR)/Caneda/Catherine Quibrantar (FR) 3B-Herrera/Quibrantar SS-Nielsen/Caneda/Lejano LF-Alexa Diaz (JR)/Sarah Duarte (SR)/ Camille Lara (FR)/Quibrantar CF-Essence Gibbs (SR) RF-Diaz/Duarte/Lara/Quibrantar Despite having a relatively young team, Cerritos managed to win its third straight league title and fifth in the last six seasons. The program has been one of the best in the immediate area and always plays a tough, competitive non-league schedule, which is why the Lady Dons ended last season with a .500 record. This season, the Lady Dons will be young again, but much more experienced and will have just two returning seniors. “It is truly a blessing that we have such a positive and winning culture throughout our school,” said Cerritos head coach Kim Ensey. “The support our program receives from our athletic department and administration shows through our play and success.” Although the Lady Dons were bounced out in the first round of the playoffs at home, Ensey was still proud of the accomplishments and the journey to prepare for the postseason. She added that sometimes you draw the future CIF champions in the first round. As far as this season, sophomore Erin Gibbs will once again be the main pitcher as she was last season when she picked up all but four decisions. Sophomore shortstop Jadyn Nielsen is one of the best shortstops, not just in the area, but that the program has ever seen. Her release of the ball once it hits the glove is one to see. Junior first baseman Samiya Jones is the big hitter in the lineup and she and sophomore first baseman Makayla Sur will split time at that position as well as be the designated player. Senior center fielder Essence Gibbs is one of the top two in the league at her position. “We have been able to make some program improvements, including the reinstatement of our junior varsity program,” Ensey said. “The captains and I feel it is important for C-High softball to grow as one single team as opposed to two separate teams.” Freshman infielder Catherine Quibrantar and freshman outfielder Camille Lara are the lone ninth graders and Ensey says they will be important role players offensively and defensively. In addition, Ensey added

that junior second baseman Lauren Lejano and sophomore catcher Kaitlyn Caneda are versatile utility players who will be key to the team’s success and will be full-time starters playing multiple positions based on the needs of the team.

GAHR LADY GLADIATORS

22-6 overall last season, 10-0 in the San Gabriel Valley League, first place, lost to Great Oak High 12-4 in the Division 1 semifinals Head coach: Rey Sanchez (second season, 22-6) Team’s record previous five seasons: 120-27-2 Last time missed the playoffs: 2013 Key losses: Irene Dorado, Shasiel Fregoso, Jazmine Hill, Gisele Tapia Projected lineup: P-Ashley Benavides (JR)/Taylor Stephens (JR)/Skylar Sanchez (JR)/Valerie Alvarez (JR) C-Grace Rivera (JR)/Malia Luna (SR)/ Breanna Lucero (JR)/Mailani Magdaleno (JR)/Alvarez 1B-Johanna Rodriguez (SR)/Maya Cisneros (JR)/Amanda Ta’amu (SO) 2B-Mikayla Huskey (SO)/Natalie Samano (JR) 3B-Hayley Olivas (FR)/Luna/Ta’amu SS-Stephens LF-Kristalyn Romulo (JR)/Sydni Jones (SR)/Luna/Skylar Sanchez/Sophia Magcale (FR)/Hailey Sanchez (FR) CF-Romulo/Jones/Luna/Skylar Sanchez/ Magcale/Hailey Sanchez RF-Romulo/Jones/Luna/Skylar Sanchez/ Magcale/Hailey Sanchez Gahr doesn’t have to worry about finding a place on the Southern California map because the program is doing quite fine and has been for some time. The Lady Gladiators have won six straight San Gabriel Valley League titles and have had five straight seasons of at least 20 victories. Despite all that, the program has been unable to win a CIF-Southern Section divisional title and has made only one appearance in a title game. Still, this is one of the premier softball programs around, having gone to the semifinals twice in the past five seasons and the quarterfinals once in the past four seasons and three times since 2007. “The program has definitely established itself as one of the top programs in the area,” said Gahr head coach Rey Sanchez. “With that being said, it requires an approach where everyone must commit to chasing excellence day in and day out. When facing a quality program such as ours, opponents always seem to raise their level of play.” The second-year coach went on to say that they will have strong leadership from the three seniors-outfielder Sydni Jones, who can play any of the three outfield positions, first baseman Johanna Rodriguez and catcher and third baseman Malia Luna. Heading into last season, there was a big uncertainty with the pitching staff. However, junior Ashley Benavides, who went 3-2 last season, is slated to be the main starter. Junior Skylar Sanchez, who has missed the past year and a half with two separate knee surgeries, should see some time in the circle and in the outfield. “She is definitely hungry to get back to playing consistently,” Rey Sanchez said. “She will have to maintain a high-level approach in practice and in training to try to break a very talented lineup.” Junior shortstop Taylor Stephens and

outfielder Kristalyn Romulo are the best in the San Gabriel Valley League at their positions and among the best in the area. Stephens will be a valuable backup in the circle to Benavides after being absent from that position the past two years. Freshman third baseman Hayley Olivas and junior catcher and pitcher Valerie Alvarez, a transfer from Bellflower High, will make immediate impacts. “Being that we have been to the CIF finals and semifinals in the last two years, we have approached our daily work with a higher level of intensity and attention to detail,” Rey Sanchez said. “We have established an emphasis on the subtleties that commonly get overlooked in the flow of the game or from one game to the next. We stress throwing strikes, playing catch and pressuring our opponents while on offense. If we do, we know we will be in every game which gives us the opportunity to win many games.”

JOHN GLENN LADY EAGLES

3-13 overall last season, 1-9 in the 605 League, tied for fifth place Head coach: Larry Leal (second season, 3-13) Team’s record previous five seasons: 31-74 Last time made the playoffs: 1990 Key loss: Dalia Morones Projected lineup: P-Gabriela Ortega (SO) C-Zoey Williams (JR) 1B-Miranda Chaidez (SR) 2B-Veena Phanthumchinda 3B-Joanna Rivera SS-Kaylani Moncada (FR) LF-Jasmin Avalos CF-Daniela Barron RF-Sarah Casillas (JR) It figures to be another long season for John Glenn High, which has not placed higher than fifth place in the Suburban League or the 605 League in over two decades. The program has gone through 15 straight losing seasons and 19 out of the last 20 seasons. On top of that, it was a struggle just to get enough players to field a team for the 2020 season. “As a first-time high school coach, the [2019] season was tough,” said head coach Larry Leal. “A lack of commitment [and] a lack of desire to play the game from about 70 percent of the players is something I couldn’t understand. As a coach, you want all your players to be a part of a team of dedicated, committed, hard-working students and we just didn’t have that.” Maybe the biggest addition to the team comes in the coaching area where Leal brings aboard Melissa Garcia, who has played collegiate softball and knows what it takes to get to the next level. The Lady Eagles will have to replace an outstanding player in Dalia Morones, who had been the heart and soul of the team the past few seasons. Freshman Kaylani Moncada will take her spot at shortstop and Leal thinks she will fill that void very well and is a player to keep an eye on for the next four seasons. Sophomore Gabriela Ortega returns as pitcher while junior Zoey Williams, a transfer from Artesia, should complement Ortega as the team’s new catcher.

LA MIRADA LADY MATADORS

25-6-1 overall last season, 9-0 in the Suburban League, first place, lost to Roosevelt High 5-2 in the Division 2 quarterfinals Head coach: Brent Tuttle (fifth season, 88-39-2) Team’s record previous five seasons: 102-55-2 Key losses: Kayla Gutierrez, Maya

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February 28, 2020

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CERRITOS GIRLS BASKETBALL PLAYER KARI ORR SIGNS TO PLAY SOCCER AT CALIFORNIA LUTHERAN UNIVERSITY

CIF-SOUTHERN SECTION DIVISION 5AA GIRLS BASKETBALL PLAYOFFS

McKee, Young power Artesia into program’s first divisional title game in 17 years BY LOREN KOPFF @ LORENKOPFF ON TWITTER SAN BERNARDINO-Artesia High girls basketball head coach Shonyta Pouncey has been around a long time to remember how he got started in his high school coaching career at the school and where is today. And now, he has a chance to become a CIF-Southern Sectional divisional champion. Backed by dominating performances from sophomore Sydney McKee and freshman Samerika Young, the Lady Pioneers battled a stubborn San Bernardino High team on the road and pulled away in the second half, earning a 72-55 victory last Saturday night in a Division 5AA semifinal game. Artesia, the third ranked team in the division will face top-ranked San Jacinto Valley Academy Saturday morning in the divisional finals at Godinez High. It’s the first trip to the finals for Artesia since 2003 when then-head coach Scott Roczey won his second straight Division III-AA championship and third in a row for the program. Pouncey, who said he never doubted for a minute that he would be in this spot, uttered the question, ‘it’s a great year to be a Lady Pioneer, isn’t it’? following the win against the Cardinals. Pouncey then reflected on the coaching staffs of the Artesia boys’ teams he was part of in the early 2000s. “I cannot be compared to a man named Scott Roczey,” Pouncey said. “I [was] just a mere assistant that was on a great staff with coach [Scott] Pera, coach [Loren] Grover, coach Kendall [Morimoto], coach [Michael] Green, coach [Chris] Holmes, coach [Kennith] Warrior. I am just a lucky man to be…and coming from those guys, I have learned so much. It helped me.” “It’s exciting, especially because it’s my freshman year,” Young said. “I’m pretty confident we can take it all.” The Lady Pioneers improved to 25-7, the most victories the program has seen since the 2001-2002 squad went 26-6. Throughout the game, Artesia knew it was going to be in battle with the height of San Bernardino’s Elfredia Bull, who stands at 5’ 10” and Jaynae Woodson, who is 5’ 8”. But the Lady Pioneers stuck to their game plan and kept attacking, scoring 10 straight points in the first quarter to go up 14-6. By the end of the stanza, Artesia was up 20-12 and never looked back. In the first half, the at-large representatives from the 605 League who tied

with Oxford Academy for fourth place had to deal with Jaylyn Edwards and her 13 points, most coming from the free throw line as the Cardinals were doing their best to get Artesia into foul trouble. But the Lady Pioneers countered with McKee (14 points, three rebounds, two assists in the first half) and Young (10 rebounds in the first half) “The big girl; she rebounded well,” Pouncey said of Bull. “She gets every rebound. She blocks every shot; she blocked a lot of our shots. [Edmonds] is an athletic kid, a shooter and gets to the basket. They have a good, solid team and they have a great coach, and this is a great program. He’s done the same thing I’ve done with our kids.” Artesia took its first double-digit lead early in the second quarter on a free throw from sophomore Esja Shriver and would lead anywhere from four points to 10 the rest of the half. The lead would grow to as much as 13 points in the final seconds of the third quarter and got as high as 20 points with 3:35 left in the game. While San Bernardino was having more success at the free throw line, where it went 21 of 33 for the game, Young was a huge part of Artesia’s second half success, scoring 20 of her career-high 25 points in the final 16 minutes while grabbing seven more rebounds. “To be honest, the crowd kind of got me pumped because I was feeding off of them,” Young said. “And my teammates, they were pumping me up.” “Those free throws kept them in the game the whole time,” Pouncey said. “I think we could have put the game away if we weren’t in foul trouble, and we stopped letting them be on the foul line. But man, they have excellent free throw shooters and they stayed in the game with that. “That kid is a special player,” Pouncey later said of Young. “She is a staple

See ARTESIA page 15

CERRITOS HIGH SENIOR Kari Orr (center) is surrounded by coaches, family members and friends as she signed a letter of intent to play soccer at California Lutheran University.

Since she was a little girl, Kari Orr had always loved soccer. The Cerritos High senior knew that she wanted to play collegiate soccer, and in fact said she was “dead set” on playing collegiate soccer since she was in the seventh grade. The funny thing is Orr never played one HMG-CN Sports Editor minute of high Loren Kopff school soccer but was a three-year varsity member of the basketball team. Orr’s dreams were made possible on Feb. 18 when she signed a letter of intent to play at California Lutheran University. “It was a pretty easy decision for me,” Orr said. “It had the best of both worlds, both academically and athletically. I knew I wanted to play a collegiate sport. It just so happened that soccer was the one that got chosen, and then it had all the academic stuff I wanted. It’s perfect.” Orr, who plays for Beach FC DPL 02, also looked at some of the University of California schools as well as a couple of schools in Nebraska and the University of Idaho. Orr plays center midfield, but also plays forward and sometimes you can find her on defense, depending on the game. Marcus Chinen, the head coach of the girls basketball team, remembered Orr coming up to him her freshman sea-

son and inquiring about playing another sport other than soccer so she could represent her high school. She spent one season on the frosh/soph team before Chinen promoted her to the varsity squad NEWS & her sophomore NOTES season. “Kari Orr is FROM just an overall PRESS athlete,” Chinen said. “She can ROW pick anything up. She brought a lot of excitement into the [basketball] program. She was very vocal on and off the court. She also stressed defense to the team.” Orr recently wrapped up the 20192020 basketball season scoring 90 points, including a career-high 11 points at Oxford Academy on Feb. 4. She started the majority of games she played in. Last season, Orr scored 69 points and as a sophomore, she scored 68 points. Although her passion has always been soccer, she never thought about playing for the Lady Dons, but at the same time, loved the decision she made to play basketball. “I watched my sister play and it looked like she had a great time and I love soccer,” Orr said. “But I also knew that I really loved other sports and I was like, ‘I’m in club, I’ve been playing club since I was eight, why not try something new?’ High school is

See NEWS AND NOTES page 12

Los Cerritos Community News - LosCerritosNews.net

Cerritos bans sale of electronic cigarettes STAFF REPORT The Cerritos City Council recently amended the Cerritos Municipal Code to prohibit the sale of electronic cigarettes citywide. The move is in response to health advisories recently issued by the Federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the State of California regarding deadly lung illnesses related to vaping. The City’s current law prohibits standalone establishments whose primary use is to sell or distribute electronic cigarettes or associated paraphernalia. Previous regulations did not extend to retailers – such as grocery stores, gas stations, markets and liquor stores – which sell e-cigarettes and related paraphernalia as an ancillary use. The amendment now bans the sale of electronic cigarettes citywide, both as a primary and ancillary use, and will take effect July 1, 2020.

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NEWS AND NOTES

Continued from page 11 that opportunity, it’s a blank slate, and I could learn anything. “This past season has definitely been a whirlwind,” Orr later added. “We came in as kind of an underdog; no one really thought we were going to be [league champs].” Orr wanted to thank her coaches, especially the basketball ones for supporting her and pushing her. She says they always knew soccer was going to be her number one thing, but they would still be there for her no matter what. BASEBALL The final day of action in the Newport Elks Tournament for a quartet of area teams is today with the opponents to be determined after games played this past Wednesday. Artesia High went 1-2 in pool play action in the Orange County Division and faced Estancia High this past Wednesday. The Pioneers will also host Los Amigos High on Tuesday. Also, in the O.C. Division, Valley Christian High went 1-2 in pool play action and visited Westminster High this past Wednesday. The Defenders will also host Rio Americano High on

February 28, 2020

Saturday and Savanna High on Monday. Cerritos went 2-1 in pool play action in the Costa Mesa Division and visited Segerstrom High this past Wednesday. The Dons also travel to Los Altos High on Wednesday. Gahr High picked up its first win of the season this past Monday against Temecula Valley High to conclude pool play action in the Frank Lerner Division. The Gladiators hosted Mira Costa High this past Wednesday. John Glenn High has been outscored 36-3 in three losses this season and hosted Firebaugh High on Feb. 27. The Eagles will travel to Lynwood High on Tuesday while La Mirada High is participating in the Loara Tournament, having gone 3-0 thus far, yielding three runs. The tournament wraps up on Saturday and the Matadors will also host Lakewood High on Wednesday in a doubleheader. Whitney High defeated Santa Ana Valley High 15-5 this past Tuesday in its season opener and travelled to Fairmont Prep on Feb. 27. The Wildcats will also host Firebaugh High on Monday and Tarbut V Torah High on Wednesday. SOFTBALL Artesia hosted Warren High on Feb.

27 and will be home to Norwalk High on Tuesday while Cerritos is winless through four games as it visited Kennedy High on Feb. 27. Gahr hosted Chino Hills High this past Wednesday and went to Ocean View High the next day while La Mirada dropped to 3-2 following a 5-4 loss to Downey High this past Tuesday. The Lady Matadors visit Redlands High on Saturday for a doubleheader before hosting Bishop Amat High on Monday. After that, La Mirada goes to Bullhead, Arizona for the Tournament of Champions event

ENDORSEMENT

Continued from page 1 tration at the helm of your city? Valencia’s experience and community participation, the NLMUSD is one of the larger school districts in the country, makes her well-prepared to handle the challenges of running a city as big as Norwalk. Vice-Mayor Luigi Vernola and Ana Valencia are the clear choices for Norwalk City Council, but whatever your choice is, please exercise your right and vote on March 3.

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PREVIEW

Continued from page 10 Martinez, Djhane Valido Projected lineup: P-Halyne Gonzalez (JR)/Veronica Valadez (JR)/Aleyna Urbina (SO) C-Leilani Melendez (SR) 1B-Savannah Adams (JR) 2B-Dominique Ford (JR) 3B-Josie Dipillo (JR) SS-Lauren Hutchings (JR) LF-Astrid Arevalo (SR) CF-Alexa Sams (JR) RF-Lilliana Orozco (SR) La Mirada has always had one of the strongest high school softball programs in Southern California and the 2020 season will be no different for the Lady Matadors. Head coach Brent Tuttle has another experienced squad that is led by senior catcher Leilani Melendez, a University of Utah commit, and junior first baseman Savannah Adams, who has committed to attend the University of Central Florida. Junior Alyssa Campbell will be the

designated player and Tuttle has tagged her as one of the team’s most improved players, along with junior center fielder Alexa Sams, who recently committed to the University of California, Santa Barbara. “We play one of the toughest nonleague schedules in Southern California,” Tuttle said. “We play at least four games against teams that made the CIF finals last year. We also travel to Bullhead, AZ and may see some of the best teams in the country.” Tuttle added that the team is looking for another successful season with a chance to repeat as Suburban League champions. After that, look for another deep run in the playoffs.

VALLEY CHRISTIAN LADY DEFENDERS

7-11 overall last season, 1-7 in the Olympic League, tied for fourth place Head coach: Nichole McGahey (fifth season, 26-57-1) Team’s record previous five seasons: 39-71-1 Last time made the playoffs: 2018

CITY OF ARTESIA NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT the City Council of the City of Artesia will hold a Regular City Council Meeting at the Artesia Council Chambers, 18747 Clarkdale Avenue, Artesia, California at 7:00 p.m. on March 9, 2020, to conduct a Public Hearing to consider adopting the following item: AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF ARTESIA, CALIFORNIA, ADOPTING BY REFERENCE TITLE 26 OF THE LOS ANGELES COUNTY CODE, INCORPORATING AND AMENDING THE 2019 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE; TITLE 27 OF THE LOS ANGELES COUNTY CODE, INCORPORATING AND AMENDING THE 2019 CALIFORNIA ELECTRICAL CODE; TITLE 28 OF THE LOS ANGELES COUNTY CODE, INCORPORATING AND AMENDING THE 2019 CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE; TITLE 29 OF THE LOS ANGELES COUNTY CODE, INCORPORATING AND AMENDING THE 2019 CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE; TITLE 30 OF THE LOS ANGELES COUNTY CODE, INCORPORATING AND AMENDING THE 2019 CALIFORNIA RESIDENTIAL CODE; TITLE 31 OF THE LOS ANGELES COUNTY CODE, INCORPORATING AND AMENDING THE 2019 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE; TITLE 33 OF THE LOS ANGELES COUNTY CODE, INCORPORATING AND AMENDING THE 2019 CALIFORNIA EXISTING BUILDING CODE; AND THE 2019 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE; TOGETHER WITH CERTAIN AMENDMENTS, DELETIONS AND ADDITIONS, INCLUDING FINDINGS, FEES AND PENALTIES; AND AMENDING THE ARTESIA MUNICIPAL CODE

Los Cerritos Community News - LosCerritosNews.net

Key losses: Alexandria Burgess-Allen, Morgan McGahey, Kyla Nunez-O’Leary Projected lineup: P-Caitlyn Azevedo (SR) C-Quinn Livesay (JR) 1B-Angelina Pool (SR) 2B-Natalie Tonche 3B-Cjelsea Azevedo (SO) SS-Kate Van Kampen (SR) LF-Gemma Bulthuis (SR)Meghan Patterson/Itzel Ramirez/Monet Ruiz CF-Madison Morgan/Keiara Harvey (SO) RF-Gladdianne Nagao (SO)/Kennyetta Coulter/Piper Estrem Valley Christian High has alternated playoff appearances in each of the four seasons that Nichole McGahey has been the school’s head coach. This is the season the McGahey gets back to the postseason for the third time in her five seasons and the 10th in the past 12 seasons for the program. V.C. returns a lot of experience and a lot of talent to make a strong push for one of the top three positions in the Olympic League. “It’s always disappointing to have a losing season, but softball is about more than the wins and losses for us as a varsity team,” McGahey said. “We always want to see growth, team building and support as well as educational excellence. We excelled in all those areas. We come back stronger this year by having our injured players healed up and ready to go and we will continue to work hard.” She added that last season, the team learned how to keep going when an injury inflicts the team, and they learned how to stand tall under pressure. They also learned how to come around the team members

who were thrown into new positions for the first time. One of those injured players is junior catcher Quinn Livesay and will make an excellent batterymate for senior pitcher Caitlyn Azevedo. Senior shortstop Kate Van Kampen returns to her leadership role while the team also has some promising freshmen. “The coaches and I are looking forward to a great season,” McGahey said. “We are loving what we see already and have made great strides with our girls. We look forward to competing at our highest level.”

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If you challenge the City’s actions in regard to this matter in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the public hearing described in the notice, or in written correspondence delivered to the City at, or prior, to the public hearing.

PUBLISHED: February 28, 2020

Ernesto Sanchez City Clerk

Published at Los Cerritos Community Newspaper 2/28/20

Ernesto Sanchez City Clerk

Published at Los Cerritos Community Newspaper 2/28/20

Published at the Commerce Community News 2/28/20

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Los Cerritos Community News - LosCerritosNews.net To advertise call 562-407-3873 findings. others. The auditors said last week that the "Local law enforcement agencies did LAPD, along with three other CaliforALPRs not always follow practices that adnia law enforcement agencies, have not Continued from page 14 equately consider the individual's privacy “provided sufficient privacy protections” in handling and retaining the ALPR imvehicle's movements over time. for the images collected by ALPRs and ages and associated data," the audit said. The images are compared with a list shared with other agencies. "None of the agencies have an ALPR of vehicles, including stolen cars and Similar to a home burglar alarm alert usage and privacy policy that implements those used in crimes, and officers are imbeing false 95% of the time, most of the all the legally mandated — since 2016 — mediately alerted to their location. images collected by the devices are unre- requirements." Privacy has always been an issue lated to criminal cases. “Los Angeles has not developed an with the ALPR’s, which can be found on The audit found that only .001% ALPR policy, and the policies of the several Cerritos Sheriff’s vehicles that (320,000) of the 320 million images the other three agencies, Fresno, Marin, are part of contract with the LAPD. LAPD stored came from vehicles that and Sacramento are deficient in various Concerns have been raised by several were on a list of those involved in crimiways.” groups, including ACLU, which has nal investigations, the other 99.9% were The ALPR administrators at Fresno, questioned the collection and storage of not crime related. Marin, and Sacramento agreed that their data on those not suspected of crimes, State Auditor Elaine Howle said in policies did not contain one or more eleincluding associates and neighbors of a letter to Gov. Gavin Newsom and the ments required by state law. suspects. Legislature that changes were needed to The Fresno, Sacramento County and Marin County agencies share their imNow a California State Audit is creat- better safeguard the privacy of license ages with hundreds of law enforcement plate data collected by the LAPD and ing even more privacy questions with its entities throughout the country, the audit said, but they could not provide auditors with evidence that the other entities had a right or need to access the images. Policies needs to be changed quickly, Howle said a survey by her office found that 70% of all law enforcement agencies in California either operated or planned to operate an ALPR system. LAPD Chief Michel Moore said in a letter responding to the audit that his agency had "the utmost respect for individuals' privacy and currently has policies and procedures in place to safeguard personal information" but that the department was taking additional steps to address the auditor's concerns. The audit found that LAPD policy is

February 28, 2020

to retain the license plate data for at least five years. But Mohammad Tajsar, a staff attorney for the ACLU of Southern California, told the Los Angeles Times that data not involving criminal investigations should be disposed of immediately. "This audit confirms what we have long suspected: The LAPD treats its license plate reader program like it's in the Wild West," Tajsar said. "The LAPD collects an extraordinary amount of license plate hits, keeps them for far longer than most agencies across the country, doesn't delete the 99.9% of records that aren't related to a criminal investigation, and has no policy that safeguards the extremely sensitive information that its technology generates." Howle recommended that the state Department of Justice develop a model policy to protect privacy that could be adopted by local law enforcement agencies. She said the state agency should also have the power to make sure agencies complied with policies. Moore said in his written response that the LAPD provided extensive training to its employees on accessing the data and that information was only provided on a need-to-know basis. But he said other steps were being taken. He said he hoped the department would complete that work by April, and the new document will detail who can access the information and how long it can be stored. Moore also promised to perform periodic audits to make sure the information is collected and handled properly.

CERRITOS LAUNCHES NEW PARKING PERMIT SYSTEM The City’s parking permit system has migrated to a web-based solution. Residents can now apply for an annual, special circumstances or temporary parking permit online. Supporting documents can also be uploaded on the web-based program. Residents can access the new park-

ing permit program from the City’s home page at cerritos.us or at safercerritos. com. Click on “Parking Permits” in the “Featured Links” section. For more information about the new parking permit system, contact the Community Safety Division at (562) 9161266.

LA PALMA 2020 SUMMER VOLUNTEEN PROGRAM

July, and some evenings. Volunteers are needed for Camp Tiny Tots Volunteens, upon the successful completion of the 100 hour program, volunteens will receive a $100 stipend. Volunteers for Club La Palma Day Camp, upon the successful completion of the 200 hour program, volunteens will receive a $200 stipend. Online applications are available February 20- March 30, 2020, and can be found by clicking here. Resume not required. If you have any questions, contact our Recreation Department at (714) 690-3350 or email them at recreation@cityoflapalma.org

La Palma is looking for volunteers (unpaid) positions to work with the summer recreation staff in the Community Services Department. The program will function as an introduction to work experience in a Recreation setting. The position requires individuals provide staff support in the planning and implementation of activities during Day Camp and other programs offered by the City as scheduled. Work Schedule may include mornings and afternoon shifts, 4th of

NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF BULK SALE AND OF INTENTION TO TRANSFER ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE (U.C.C. 6101 et seq. and B & P 24074 et seq.) Escrow No. T-016699-CK Notice is hereby given that a bulk sale of assets and a transfer of alcoholic beverage license is about to be made. The names, Social Security or Federal Tax Numbers and address of the Seller/Licensee are: SYL INC, 6905-6915 E. CARSON ST., LAKEWOOD, CA 90713 The business is known as: EDDIES JR MARKET & LIQUOR The names and addresses of the Buyer/Transferee are: A5 LIQUOR INC, 2161 PICKWICK DR., CAMARILLO, CA 93010 As listed by the Seller/Licensee, all other business names and addresses used by the Seller/Licensee within three years before the date such list was sent or delivered to the Buyer/Transferee are: NONE The assets to be sold are described in general as: FURNITURES, FIXTURES, EQUIPMENT, TRADE NAME, LEASEHOLD INTEREST & IMPROVEMENTS, GOODWILL, COVENANT NOT TO COMPETE, INVENTORY AND OFF SALE GENERAL LICENSE and are located at: 6905-6915 E. CARSON ST., LAKEWOOD, CA 90713 The kind of license to be transferred is: OFF SALE GENERAL 21-419481, now issued for the premises located at: 6905-6915 E. CARSON ST., LAKEWOOD, CA 90713 The anticipated date of the sale/transfer is MARCH 17, 2020 at the office of: TOWER ESCROW INC., 23044 CRENSHAW BLVD, TORRANCE, CA 90505 It has been agreed between the Seller/Licensee and the intended Buyer/Transferee, as required by Sec. 24073 of the Business and Professions code, that the consideration for the transfer of the business and license is to be paid only after the transfer has been approved by the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control. DATED: NOVEMBER 12, 2019 Transferor: SYL INC, A CALIFORNIA CORPORATION, Transferee: A5 LIQUOR INC, A CALIFORNIA CORPORATION LA2476430 LOS CERRITOS COMMUNITY NEWS 2/28/2020

February 28, 2020

ARTESIA

Continued from page 11 in this program and is going to be a long time coming. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m blessed, man. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all I can say.â&#x20AC;? Throughout the second half, the Cardinals tried to chip away at Artesiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lead, getting it under 10 points three times in the third quarter. Only twice in the half did the Cardinals score consecutive points, the second time coming as part of a 5-0 run late in the fourth quarter. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We werenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t protecting the basketball,â&#x20AC;? Pouncey said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We were doing some things that we shouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have been doing. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re very young and thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s just part of what weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve had to do over the season. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve managed to weather the storm and weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been blessed enough to just get through some things.â&#x20AC;? Youngâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 25 points comes off the heels of a 20-point performance against Nuview Bridge High to begin the playoffs and a 19-point performance in the quarterfinals against the Academy of Careers and Exploration. She has scored at least 10 points 23 times this season, including 17 straight games and has reached at least 20 points five times. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Coach [Pouncey] has meant a lot; heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s taught me a lot,â&#x20AC;? Young said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s opened up my mind a lot about basketball.â&#x20AC;?

To advertise call 562-407-3873 Los Cerritos Community News - LosCerritosNews.net 15 mined not make the same mistakes and â&#x20AC;&#x153;I think itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s just hard work and she never gives up no matter if she has fouls began the season with 13 straight victothat werenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t always the best calls,â&#x20AC;? ries, already one shy of being eligible for McKee said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;But she never gives up and an at-large berth. Of its 25 wins thus far, sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s always going to the ball and being Artesia has won 20 of them by more than the best she can every night.â&#x20AC;? The School of Choice-Open Enroll10 points. McKee, who added 22 points, 10 ment application window for the ABC â&#x20AC;&#x153;We work on a lot of fundamentals rebounds and five steals remembers being Unified School District will be Monday, during practice [and] all spring season in Youngâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s position as a freshmen last March 2, 2020, at midnight â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Tuesday, and fall,â&#x20AC;? McKee said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;So, I think evseason as she had to take on that leaderMarch 31, 2020, at 3:00 p.m. erybody knowing the fundamentals helps ship role last season. Now, the Lady PioParents may apply for all available move the ball quicker and faster and get neers have a formidable one-two punch school programs through the online apand along with junior Mariah Jarnet, who to the basket. plication at www.abcschoolsofchoice.com â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the best feeling,â&#x20AC;? McKee contindrained a pair of three-pointers in the and through the link on the ABC Unified ued. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It feels great because itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a collecfirst quarter, and a host of freshmen and School District homepage. tive team effort and I know that weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re just sophomores. The application process will enable â&#x20AC;&#x153;I was really the only one who could trying to win [a championship].â&#x20AC;? parents to apply online from home, the really dribble as well as I did,â&#x20AC;? McKee â&#x20AC;&#x153;She has really good looks; she can school site, or the district office. Parents remembers. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It was a lot of pressure, but pass to a lot of people,â&#x20AC;? Young said of will also be able to check the status of it helped me for this year, and I know that McKee. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We make a good duo, though. their application(s) throughout the proI have teammates I can trust.â&#x20AC;? We understand each other because we cess, print a receipt of the time and date â&#x20AC;&#x153;Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s my kid,â&#x20AC;? Pouncey said of of their application, and make multiple read each other well.â&#x20AC;? Jarnet. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been talking to the middle choices of schools for their child. San Jacinto Valley Academy is 17-1 schools about how weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re going to do this Parents will be notified of the results and has won 16 straight games. The together and that kid is my heart. She and of the lottery electronically through the Wolves are averaging 33.2 points in their me have been talking about this plan since email provided on the application. The she was in the eighth grade. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m happy to victories and their lone loss came by four website will be activated on Monday, points. Artesia and San Jacinto Valley get her there, and Seira Roberts.â&#x20AC;? March 2, 2020, at midnight â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Tuesday, Academy share a common opponent in Last season, Artesia ended a streak of March 31, 2020, at 3:00 p.m. Nuview Bridge. While the Lady Pioneers six straight seasons and nine out of the The results of the lottery will be posted last 10 in which it won less than 10 games won their meeting by 23 points to begin online Friday, May 1, 2020, at 10:00 a.m. the playoffs, San Jacinto Valley Academy by going 12-16. However, the Lady Tim Catlin, Supervisor of Child WelPioneers went winless in 10 league games defeated Nuview Bridge in South Valley fare and Attendance, is coordinating the and failed at getting into the playoffs. Ac- League play by 18 and 28 points respeceffort for the district and may be contacted cording to McKee, the team was detertively. at (562) 926-5566, Ext. 21104

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