Riverside Independent_3/25/2024

PG 02

MONDAY, MARCH 25- MARCH 31, 2024

Temecula to receive $39.3M federal grant for flood control in Old Town

By Staff

Federal funds totaling $39.3 million are coming to Temecula to continue a flood control project in the Old Town district, the city announced earlier this month.

“Temecula businesses and residents located along Murrieta Creek will soon have critical flood protection,” Mayor James Stewart said in a statement.

Phase 2B of the Murrieta Creek Flood Control Project recently got House and Senate approval for this fiscal year, and President Joe Biden signed the Energy and Water Development Appropriations Bill into law March 9.

“The Murrieta Creek Flood Control Project has been making progress in phases since the tragic flood of January 1993 that put parts of Old Town Temecula under water,” Stewart said. “We can now be relieved this won’t happen again thanks to US Representative Darrell Issa who advanced this important project to the Appropriations Committee with unwavering commitment throughout the years to protect businesses, landowners, and residents in our region who are vulnerable

to flooding. We are grateful to Congressman Issa who ensured this Appropriation made it to the finish line.”

Stewart led a delegation of city officials to the nation’s capital last week to lobby for continued support of this funding ahead of the appropriation receiving legislative approval.

“The City also expresses our gratitude to US Representative Ken Calvert who has been engaged since the beginning to secure funding for the phased improvements of Murrieta Creek, and to US Senator Padilla and US Senator Butler for their strong support of this project’s federal Appropriation,” Stewart said.

For more than three decades Temecula officials have worked with Riverside County Flood Control and Water Conservation District and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to finish Phases 1 and 2A through Old Town, according to the city.

Phase 2B extends through uptown Temecula between Winchester and Rancho California roads.

Officials said construction is slated to begin next

year. The project is expected to change what the flood maps look like in Temecula and protect the local economy and infrastructure from future flooding.

“We applaud our dedicated partners at Riverside County Flood Control and Army Corps of Engineers for their tireless efforts leading this project and we look forward to our ongoing collaboration,” City Manager Aaron Adams said in a statement.

Murrieta Creek is among the last high-quality, minimally disturbed riparian environments in Southern California, and the flood control project includes environmental and wetland restoration.

The project covers 7 miles with a habitat corridor that runs the entire length of the coverage area and is designed to significantly enlarge the open space corridor while providing aesthetic benefits, according to Temecula officials.

Another feature of the project is equestrian and trails for hiking and biking that connect to the recre-

ation area at the project’s “detention basin” and small parks along the length of the creek project.

“It improves water quality through the creation of an extensive natural wetlands system that can efficiently remove contaminants from stream flows destined for Camp Pendleton’s aquifer,” officials said.

To improve local water quality, the 250-acre detention basin aims to reduce the force of flood flows and capture sediment from the area’s more than 150-squaremile watershed.

The detention basin also entails creating over 160 acres of wildlife habitat, both wetland and riverine, and developing a 50-acre regional sports park, according to Temecula officials. The sports complex, which will be administered jointly by the cities of Temecula and Murrieta will include several soccer fields, baseball-softball fields, a children’s playground, comfort stations and picnic areas.

More information on the project is at temeculaca. gov/285/Murrieta-CreekFlood-Control-Project.

PG 27

VOL. 10, NO. 164

Man allegedly hired by pastor for contract murder likely in Mexico

By City News Service

A25-year-old man who allegedly tried to kill a motorist under a murder-for-hire agreement with an Inland Empire pastor may be hiding out in Mexico, according to court papers.

Jesus Abel Felix Garcia was the alleged triggerman who targeted Llmar Barajas at a Riverside intersection last October.

Garcia is charged with attempted murder, assault with a firearm and conspiracy. His specific whereabouts are unknown. There is an active warrant for his arrest.

Samuel Davalos Pasillas, 47, pastor of a Latin church in Victorville, is charged identically, with an additional allegation of solicitation of murder. Co-defendant Juan Manuel Cebreros, 55, of Long Beach is charged the same as Garcia. Pasillas and Cebreros are each being held in lieu of $1 million bail at the Robert Presley Jail in Riverside.

They pleaded not guilty during a joint arraignment Monday at the Riverside Hall of Justice and are slated to appear for a felony settlement conference on March 26.

According to an arrest warrant declaration filed by the

See Contract murder Page 28

CA congressional reps urge NASA to commit funds to Mars sample mission

By City News Service

Roughly two dozen California congressional representatives sent a letter to NASA Administrator Bill Nelson Wednesday calling on him to commit at least $650 million to an ambitious Jet Propulsion Laboratoryled mission to collect rock and soil samples from Mars and return them to Earth.

The Mars Sample Return mission has fallen victim to budget cutbacks, contributing to the layoffs of more than 500 people at JPL in Pasadena earlier this year. Earlier this month, budget committees in the House and Senate proposed directing just $300 million toward the project, a 63% drop from the previous year and only a fraction of what was requested this year.

In the letter sent to Nelson Wednesday, members of California’s congressional delegation -- including Reps. Judy Chu, D-Pasadena, Mike Garcia, R-Santa Clarita, and Adam Schiff, D-Burbank -- called the Mars Sample mission a critical program that will ensure the United States is a leader in exploration of space and Mars.

“If NASA continues to put forward insufficient funding necessitating any further reductions in staff downstream

See Mars sample mission Page 28

Explosion, blaze in building adjacent to Good Hope church injures man

Jury seated for trial of man accused of attacking motorists in Palm Springs

| Image courtesy of the city of Temecula

Jury seated for trial of man accused of attacking motorists in Palm Springs

Ajury was seated last week for the trial of a 29-year-old motorist accused in a series of unexplained attacks on fellow drivers and one bicyclist throughout Palm Springs in a single afternoon, resulting in damage and minor injuries.

Juaquin Mercer Moraga of Palm Springs was arrested in June 2022 following the alleged assault frenzy that occurred on multiple roads in the city.

Moraga is charged with three counts each of attempted murder and vandalism, along with two counts of assault with a deadly weapon and one count each of battery and driving on a suspended license.

Following three days of screening, Riverside County Superior Court Judge Charles Koosed on March 18 swore in a jury to hear evidence in the case at the Riverside Hall of Justice. The judge ordered jurors to return the following day for opening statements.

Moraga is being held in lieu of $1 million bail at the Robert Presley Jail.

According to a trial brief filed by the District Attorney’s Office, on the afternoon of June 6, 2022, the defendant allegedly engaged in a bizarre string of actions, violently targeting at least eight people, sometimes just a couple of minutes apart.

The first alleged attack occurred just after 1 p.m. in the area of North Palm Canyon Drive and Vista Chino Road, where a 68-yearold man and his 66-year-old female companion — whose identities were not disclosed — were heading out of Palm Springs to return to Newport Beach.

Moraga allegedly began tailing them, then started playing the passing game, placing his silver Lexus GS immediately in front of the man’s car, forcing him to go around, prosecutors said. During this back-and-forth, Moraga threw objects at the man’s vehicle, causing minor damage. When the victim pulled over to inspect the damage, the defendant stopped his Lexus in the same place, got out and shouted, “You’re not getting away with this!” the brief alleged.

The Newport Beach man feared for his and his companion’s lives and attempted to speed away, but Moraga gave chase, prosecutors said. The defendant finally stopped at Overture Drive and allegedly threw a metal pipe at the rear of the victim’s car as he headed toward Interstate 10, directed by California Highway Patrol dispatchers to drive straight to the sheriff’s Cabazon station for safety. Moraga did not continue his alleged pursuit

onto the freeway. The next round of roadway disturbances occurred between 6:40 p.m. and 6:52 p.m., according to prosecutors.

A man driving his Range Rover SUV southbound on Avenida Caballeros was passing East Tahquitz Canyon when Moraga, standing on the shoulder of the road, swung a pole “at the passenger’s side of the Range Rover, causing a dent on the rear passenger door,” according to the brief.

When the victim, whose

identity wasn’t provided, stopped and got out of his SUV to check the damage, the defendant allegedly confronted him, yelling “you’re not man enough” to use a gun, court papers stated. Moraga then allegedly accelerated toward the victim, who had to “jump out of the way” to avoid being struck, the brief said. He called 911.

Two minutes later, near Sunrise Way and Tahquitz Canyon, a man in a Jeep Gladiator encountered Moraga going northbound

on Sunrise, and when the Jeep approached, the defendant “swerved into him,” causing minor damage below the driver’s side door, according to the prosecution. The victim called police and continued toward home.

Two minutes after that, at Sunrise and Ramon Road, a man driving his convertible BMW with the top down came across Moraga stopped in the middle of Ramon in his Lexus, forcing the victim to come to a stop, at which point the defendant allegedly threw his car into reverse and backed into the BMW twice, prosecutors said.

The victim sat shocked when Moraga jumped out of his Lexus, ran back and hit him in the face, shouting, “Don’t you follow me!” according to the brief.

Roughly three minutes later, a bicyclist riding in the 1300 block of East Barristo Road, near Palm Springs High School, was going westbound when he spotted Moraga’s Lexus on the opposite side of the corridor. He told police that the sedan suddenly accelerated, crossed over the median and came directly at him, going about 60 mph.

“The bicyclist said he was required to take evasive action ... and jump out of the way to avoid being hit by the speeding vehicle,” the brief said.

The victim called police

Soldier killed in Korean War laid to rest in Riverside

Asoldier who perished during the Korean War and whose remains were finally identified following an exhaustive analysis will be laid to rest Friday in Riverside, with organizers encouraging anyone who wishes to pay tribute to him to line the way with flags along the funeral procession route.

U.S. Army Cpl. Daniel De Anda died in the winter of 1951 after he was taken prisoner with comrades following American forces’ withdrawal from Kunu-ri, North Korea, on Nov. 30, 1950, in the face of advancing communist troops.

“He was reported missing in action,” according to Garden Grove-based Honoring Our Fallen. “Based on later reports from return-

ing American POWs, (it was verified) De Anda had been captured and taken to POW Camp 5, Pyoktong, North Korea, where he died.”

“During Operation Glory, the postwar exchange of war dead, 495 sets of remains from burial grounds around POW Camp 5 were returned to United Nations Command,” the nonprofit said. “All but 38 were identified.”

The unidentified remains were interred at a burial site designated the “Unknowns” in the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific in Honolulu, Hawaii.

In 2019, a governmentsponsored exhumation, “Project Glory,” led to analyses of the Unknowns by scientists at the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency.

“The laboratory analysis

and the totality of the circumstantial evidence available established (a set of) remains as those of De Anda,” Honoring Our Fallen stated.

The remains were housed at Rose Hills Memorial Park in Whittier. However, in a formal service March 15, they were transported to Riverside National Cemetery for burial.

“We reach out to the community ... to ask your support lining the route with flags for this hero’s journey to his final resting place,” Honoring Our Fallen CEO Laura Herzog said.

The procession departed Rose Hills around noon on March 15, entering the Pomona (60) Freeway eastbound.

The motorcade traveled roughly 50 miles on the 60, passing through the City

of Industry,

as the Lexus sped away.

Two minutes later, a customer at a 76 Station on South Palm Canyon Drive, filling up his Toyota Highlander rental vehicle, was suddenly accosted by Moraga, who accused the victim of “following me,” court papers alleged. The defendant kicked a dent in a rear side panel on the SUV and sped away, prosecutors alleged.

The final alleged attack occurred at Sunny Dunes Road and Ramon. Prosecutors said a man at the wheel of a Volvo had gone out to get pizza when he spotted Moraga “standing in the middle” of South Camino Real.

As he passed the defendant’s location, Moraga jumped into his Lexus and started chasing the driver, the brief alleged. Using evasive maneuvers, the victim was able to avoid contact with Moraga, whose actions caused a separate collision.

Palm Springs police officers stopped him and took him into custody without incident moments later.

Court papers said Moraga’s attorneys intend to introduce evidence of a temporary mental disorder on the day in question.

The defendant has no documented priors in Riverside County.

and exiting on Van Buren Boulevard, where it turned westbound back into Riverside, entering the national cemetery via Harmon Street — the main entrance.

215

Additional information is

available at www.HonoringOurFallen.org.

More than 36,000 American service personnel were killed in the Korean War, according to federal data.

Juaquin Mercer Moraga. | Photo courtesy of the Palm Springs Police Department/Facebook

Diamond Bar, Pomona, Chino, Ontario, Eastvale, Jurupa Valley, Riverside and the western fringe of Moreno Valley before turning southbound onto Interstate

| Photo courtesy of Honoring Our Fallen/Facebook

Daniel De Anda. | Photo courtesy of the Defense POW/ MIA Accounting Agency

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Rosemead Reader

DBear break-ins and tensions grow in Southern California mountain community

outhernCalifornia's

Pine Mountain Club community is grappling with a difficult challenge as black bears awaken from their seasonal torpor, hungry for food and causing havoc among residents. The community in the San Emigdio Mountains, about 75 miles north of Los Angeles, has become the frontline of this escalating human-wildlife conflict. Bears with an odor detection sense several times more acute than humans have been reported to not only rummage through kitchen fridges, but also to inflict substantial property damage and leave behind defecating "calling cards."

Patrice Stimpson, patrol chief of the community, paints a grim picture of the damages incurred, totalling hundreds of thousands of dollars. Last year, a residential fire broke out as a result of a bear's unintended stove ignition. Vehicle destruction from inquisitive bears seeking food remnants has also been reported. The increase in bear interactions isn't localized to Pine Mountain Club. California's growing urban-

PBy HeyWire AI

ization, worsening wildfires and droughts have pushed bears into human-dominated areas.

Despite the risks and reported damages, opinions among Pine Mountain Club residents differ on how to address the issue, from advocacy for peaceful coexistence to calls for bear removal. A notable concern is the illegal feeding of bears, which exacerbates the problem and is hotly debated within the community. Calls

for wildlife assistance have surged to Stimpson’s office.

Amidst these challenges, James Weinstock openly talks about his affection for these creatures, feeding two local bears routinely, an act he believes harmonizes with natural coexistence and "pleases the Lord.” His views, however, clash with those of other residents and come with risks, as Weinstock recounts a dangerous personal encounter with a bear which resulted in

Historic agreement to return Redwoods land to Yurok Tribe

several scars on his arm.

On the enforcement front, the California Department of Fish faces the multifaceted issue of unreported bear encounters due to misconceptions and potential impacts on tourism. The dilemma of how to manage recurring bear break-ins and safety concerns looms large for the department.

As spring unfolds, Pine Mountain Club braces itself for a bear season that shows no signs of abating.

By Suzanne Potter, Producer, Public News Service

lans to open a new gateway to Redwoods State and National Parks got a big boost Tuesday, paving the way for a key parcel of land to be returned to the Yurok Tribe.

The place is called ‘O Rew in the Yurok language, on Highway 101, about 40 miles north of Eureka, at a former lumber mill site in Orick.

Joseph James, chairman of the Yurok Tribe, said this is a model for the “landback” movement.

“We are able to share our culture, our knowledge as Indigenous people, first people, keepers of the land,” James explained. “It’s not driven by western society providing interpretation. It’s being driven by Yuroks.”

The nonprofit Save the Redwoods League bought the 125-acre property 13 years ago and has been restoring the mill site and nearby Prairie Creek alongside the tribe and the nonprofit

California Trout. The area is closed for construction now, but will reopen in 2026 as the ‘O Rew Redwoods Gateway with new trails, cultural signage and visitor facilities.

Steve Mietz, superintendent of Redwoods National and State Parks for the National Park Service, said

it is the first-ever comanagement agreement for tribally-owned land with the National Park Service and California State Parks.

“This is just a recognition of their sovereignty,” Mietz pointed out. “Their need to regain land that was taken from them years ago and

turning it back, and creating greater understanding about the original people in this area.”

In future years, the Yurok Tribe plans to build a full visitor center, including re-creating a tribal village with plank houses and a sweat lodge.

Black bear in Yosemite. | Photo by Wildlife Wanderer CC BY-NC-ND 2.0 DEED

Leaders from the Yurok Tribe and the nonprofit Save the Redwoods walk among native plants planted as part of a revegetation effort at ‘O Rew. | Photo by Evan-Marie Petit

Report: California not on track to meet 2030 climate goals

By HeyWire AI

Arecent analysis indicates a challenging path ahead for California as it struggles to meet its climate change targets. After a brief dip during the pandemic, the state's emissions rose by 3.4% in 2021, driven by economic recovery efforts. Now, California must nearly triple its efforts in reducing greenhouse gases if it aims to comply with the state law mandating a 40% reduction from 1990 levels by 2030—a target that grows more daunting and expensive with each passing year.

“As we get closer to that 2030 goal, the fact that we’re further off just means that we have to decrease faster each year," Stafford Nichols of Beacon Economics and co-author of the California Green Innovation Index, said.

The state also grapples with even steeper goals set by the Air Resources Board, pushing for a 48% reduction by the same year, a plan backed vigorously by Gov. Gavin Newsom.

David Clegern, a spokesperson for the board, in a statement to CalMatters expressed confidence in meeting these targets, including reaching carbon neutrality by 2045. Nevertheless, he acknowledges that updating climate programs and fortifying regulations is time-consuming, requiring translation into real-world actions and projects.

California has already made significant advances in cleaning up vehicle emissions, setting regulations to phase out gasoline-powered cars by 2035, and witnessing a rise in electric vehicle sales.

However, challenges surfaced in the power sector, particularly electricity generation due to the drought, leading to increased reliance on natural gas plants, which remain substantial greenhouse gas contributors.

As the state seeks to transition to zero-carbon, all-renewable energy by 2045, there is a pressing

need for action in various domains, including the cement industry, known for high emissions levels. The air board notably has stepped up efforts for industry decarbonization. Some in the industry have turned to exploring low-carbon alternatives and carbon capture technologies. Clegern pointed out that the transition is critical for California's older, more carbonintensive cement plants.

Wildfires have also been significant carbon emitters, complicating the state's environmental efforts.

Despite challenges, the California Green Innovation Index highlights the state has one of the lowest percapita emissions in the U.S. and is third in carbon efficiency, trailing New York and Massachusetts. However, as the state moves towards steeper reduction requirements, finding achievable measures becomes increasingly demanding.

Experts note that while California's past achieve-

ments are commendable, they don't guarantee future success, and the pace of change must escalate to meet looming climate goals. This sentiment is echoed by Danny Cullenward, an economist and vice chair of the Independent Emissions Market Advisory Committee, who commented to CalMatters that, unfortunately, California is currently not on track for its 2030 climate target. The stark reality places California at a pivotal juncture, prompting the need for more decisive action and innovation to fulfill its climate commitments.

State parks at the frontline of climate change: California's call to action

By HeyWire AI

Agroundbreaking report released by the California State Parks Foundation emphasizes the urgent need to address climate change effects on state parks and utilize these areas in the battle against this global crisis.

Titled "Building a ClimateResilient California State Park System: Preserving Parks for Future Generations," the report proposes legislative action focused on safeguarding the future of California's natural treasures.

“We will lose 75% of the coastline beaches by 2100. So, this is a state parks issue because state parks manage a quarter of the coastline as state beaches. Already in the big storm events that we've had the last few winters, we are

seeing a lot more coastal erosion,” said Rachel Norton, executive director of the California State Parks Foundation. Her concerns reflect rising fears as California confronts worsening wildfires, coastal erosion, and habitat loss.

The report emphasizes a series of seven definitive measures including boosting funds for strategies countering rising sea levels, wildfire resilience, and expansion of the state parks system. It also urges the incorporation of state parks into California's 30x30 initiative, aiming to conserve 30% of state lands and coastal waters by 2030.

"We are seeing the increasing effects of the climate crisis up close and personal in state parks,"

noted Claire Schlotterbeck, executive director of Hills For Everyone, stressing the adverse impacts of climate-induced disasters in Chino Hills State Park. "The recommendations outlined in this report would help us protect Chino Hills for its own innate value but also as a key component of climate resilience in California.”

This call for action is echoed by John Roney, park manager of Sugarloaf Ridge State Park. “This document is more than just a report; it’s a call to action for all Californians and for our leaders," Roney said. "It lays out a clear path to safeguard our state parks from the ravages of climate change, ensuring they remain a source of joy and inspiration for

Sand drum placed into concrete batch plant at Folsom auxiliary spillway. | Photo by U.S. Army Corps of Engineers PDM 1.0 DEED

everyone." The Nuns Fire in 2017 and the Glass Fire in 2020 damaged 98% of Sugarloaf Ridge State Park.

As the foundation presents a path forward, other organizations like Climate Resolve, Tahoe Conservancy, and Save the Redwoods League, alongside locals, heed the call, rallying behind the cause.

Castaic Lake. | Photo by The Fun Chronicles CC0 1.0 DEED

Padres pound Dodgers in opening series finale in South Korea; Yamamoto makes 1st-inning exit in MLB debut

By City News Service

Manny Machado hit a three-run home run for the San Diego Padres in the ninth inning to put an exclamation point on a 15-11 victory over the Los Angeles Dodgers Thursday at Gocheok Sky Dome in Seoul, South Korea, the second game of the season for both teams.

The Dodgers and Padres played the first two games of the 2024 regular season in South Korea, dubbed the Seoul Series.

Jake Cronenworth drove in four runs and had four hits for the Padres. Mookie Betts hit a home run, drove in six runs and had four hits for the Dodgers. The teams split the series with the Dodgers winning the first game, 5-2, on Wednesday.

The Padres scored five runs in the first inning off newly acquired Dodgers starter Yoshinobu Yamamoto and chased the rookie out of the game.

“I was not able to feel comfortable with my pitches,” Yamamoto said through an interpreter after the game. He added that he needs to “reset his mind” and “get ready for the next outing.”

Yamamoto gave up four hits and walked one batter in the first inning. Cronenworth delivered the big blow in the inning with a two-run triple. Ha-Seong Kim added a sacrifice fly. Luis Campusano had an RBI double and Tyler Wade had an RBI single.

“I wasn’t ready to execute pitching from the stretch,” Yamamoto said. “I know how to fix it.”

The Dodgers scored a run in the bottom of the first inning on an RBI double from Will Smith. They loaded the bases but James Outman flew out to right field to end the inning and the threat.

The Dodgers scored another run in the second inning on a sacrifice fly from Shohei Ohtani that scored Gavin Lux and cut the Padres lead, 5-2.

The Padres scored four

runs in the third inning to take a 9-2 lead. Xander Bogaerts drove in two of the runs with a single.

The Dodgers scored four runs in the bottom of the third inning to cut the Padres lead to three runs, 9-6.

Betts capped the rally with a two-run double off the top of the left field wall.

The Padres scored a run in the fifth inning on an RBI single by Cronenworth to take a 10-6 lead.

Betts hit a two-run home run in the fifth inning to cut the Padres lead to two runs, 10-8. It was the first home run of the season for Betts.

Campusano gave the Padres an 11-8 lead with an RBI double in the sixth inning. The Padres extended their lead 12-8, scoring a run in the seventh inning. Bogaerts, who led off the inning with a walk, scored on an error by Muncy at third base. Muncy committed two of the Dodgers’ three errors in the game. Smith knocked in a run with an infield single in the bottom of the seventh inning

for the Dodgers and cut the Padres’ lead to 12-9.

The Dodgers scored two runs in the eighth inning on an infield single by Betts to make it a one-run ball game, 12-11.

Michael King (1-0) earned the win pitching 3 1/3 innings in relief. He gave up three runs on four hits and struck out five. Robert Suarez recorded his first save of the season pitching 1 1/3 scoreless innings and striking out two.

Padres starter Joe Musgrove was pulled in the third inning after giving up five runs on seven hits and walking two. He struck out two in 2 2/3 innings.

Yamamoto (0-1) took the loss for the Dodgers in his major league debut.

The Dodgers will play in Southern California for the first time in 2024 on Sunday at Dodger Stadium to begin the three-game exhibition Freeway Series against the Angels. They will play their regular-season home opener March 28 against the St. Louis Cardinals.

STARTING A NEW BUSINESS?

Apple sued by US Department of Justice, California AG in antitrust case

The U.S. Department of Justice, joined by California Attorney General Rob Bonta and a coalition of more than a dozen state attorneys general filed an antitrust lawsuit against Apple Thursday, alleging anticompetitive behavior related to iPhones and smartphones.

The lawsuit alleges Apple deliberately made it more difficult for third-party apps and products to operate with the iPhone, resulting in higher prices for consumers and harm to competition in the smartphone industry.

“Apple’s anticompetitive conduct intentionally leaves consumers bearing the cost of sky-high smartphone prices at a time when smartphones are now essential to so much of our day-to-day lives. California’s economy thrives on entrepreneurship, serving as a driving force behind its innovation and growth. Consumers, innovation, and the competitive process — not Apple alone — should decide what options consumers should have,” Bonta said in a statement ahead of a planned late-morning news conference in downtown Los Angeles.

“In insulating itself from competition, Apple has caused harm to consumers and the market. This is illegal. I am proud to partner with the U.S. Department of Justice to send a clear message: We are committed to protecting consumers, holding industry accountable, and ensuring a fair and competitive market where the next generation of innovation can thrive.”

There was no immediate response from Apple.

According to the lawsuit, Apple is accused of stifling innovation, limiting consumer choice, and making switching to other smartphones — especially high-end

By City News Service

performance smartphones — unnecessarily difficult and expensive.

Apple is accused of violating the Sherman Antitrust Act by monopolizing and attempting to monopolize the smartphone apps market. The lawsuit alleges that Apple protects its monopoly by delaying, degrading, or outright blocking technologies that would bring competition by decreasing barriers to switching to another smartphone.

The lawsuit specifically alleges Apple:

-- degrades and undermines cross-platform messaging apps and rival smartphones, including introducing deliberate incompatibilities to prevent Android users from seamlessly sending messages to iPhone users;

-- makes it difficult for U.S. app developers to list “Super Apps,” which have a broad array of functions and make it easier for consumers to switch from one phone manufacturer to another

-- limits basic functionality when consumers try to use third party cross-platform smart watches with iPhones; and

-- restricts digital wallet competitors by allowing only Apple Wallet access to the iPhone’s “tap-to-pay” functionality.

Additionally, the lawsuit alleges Apple suppresses or delays apps, innovations, and technologies that would reduce switching costs or simply allow users to discover, purchase, and use their own accessories, apps and content without having to rely on Apple.

Bonta joined the Justice Department and the attorneys general of Arizona, Connecticut, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Oregon, Tennessee, Vermont, Wisconsin and the District of Columbia in filing the lawsuit.

-- blocks cloud gaming services on iPhones by historically refusing to list cloud gaming apps on the Apple App Store. Cloud gaming allows consumers to stream and play video games seamlessly across different devices independent of phone hardware;

Apple Inc.’s headquarters in Cupertino, California

Yoshinobu Yamamoto in Seoul prior to his first start as a Dodger. | Photo courtesy of the Los Angeles Dodgers/X

Report: Women close wage gap in California, but still lag behind men

Although progress has been made over the past decade, women in California still earn on average 89% of what men earn for full-time work, with higher wages for white and Asian women largely responsible for closing the gap, according to a report released Friday by Mount St. Mary’s University in Los Angeles.

The report by the university’s Center for the Advancement of Women found that the earnings gap shrank overall by five percentage points since 2013, when women earned 84% of what men earn for full-time work. But researchers found that the overall narrowing of the wage gap “is driven exclusively by wage increases for white and Asian-American women.”

“In contrast, the earnings gap has remained roughly the same for Latinas, and has widened for Black women,” according to The Report on the Status of Women and Girls in California.

More glaringly, when compared solely to the earnings of white men, the wage gap for women widened to 63%, the report found.

“Over the course of a 40-year career, the current wage gap — for full-time, year-round workers — would cost a woman in California around $300,000 in lifetime earnings compared to a man,” according to the report. “That’s significantly less than the nationwide gap of $442,760. But it still means a woman in California has to work until she is 70 years old to earn what her male counterpart will make by age 65. ...

“When we look at this lifetime earnings gap through an intersectional lens, the disparity is even more dramatic for women of color. Latinas in California, for instance, would have to work a full 50 years more than a white man to make up the nearly $2.1 million difference in median earnings.”

Among other key findings in the report:

-- Single women are most impacted by the California cost of living. While roughly 33% of households in the state do not earn enough income to meet basic needs, that percentage rises to 80% for households led by single mothers with children under 6, compared to 28% for married couples.

-- Women make up twothirds of the lowest-paid workers in California’s workforce.

-- California has the greatest number of womenowned businesses of any state in the country. Businesses solely or equally owned by women in the state employ 2.6 million people have a combined payroll of $113 billion.

-- Among the state’s 25 highest-grossing companies, 34% of all executive team members were women.

-- While most California women work for private companies, they are overrepresented in nonprofit organizations at 63%, and in local government, 55%, and state government, 53%.

-- California women have a life expectancy of about 82 years, compared to 76 years for men.

-- Since they have less discretionary incoming, females in California are more likely to forego medical care, with 18% delaying treatment, compared to 13% for males.

The “lack of pay equity for women is a question of ethical fairness, yes. But it also impacts everything in women’s lives — our economic security, our health, our wellness, our time, our families, and our communities. Everything,” Nicole Haggard, director of the Center for the Advancement of Women, wrote in a message in the report.

“As our researchers and partners highlight in this report, there are hidden costs

of being a woman, too. And we find them in just about every area of our lives,” Haggard wrote. “From health care to beauty standards. From a lack of access to venture capital to invisible domestic labor and unbalanced carework. Partnered and single women are consistently paying more and receiving less.”

The report examined an array of financial aspects of women’s lives in the state and nationally, citing studies that determined that women across the country save less than 50% of what men save annually. It also pointed to studies showing that women in general own $80 for every $100 a man owns, and that for every $100 owned by white women, Latinas have $10 and Black women have $9.

According to the report, women also have higher incidences of mental health issues or emotional distress.

“While percentages vary — women across the board experience a greater amount of emotional distress, and the increase from 2017 (11%) to 2022 (19%) is seen among all women, of all races and ethnicities,” the report found.

Nicole Haggard, director of the Center for the Advancement of Women. | Photo courtesy of Mount St. Mary’s University

Pasadena City Notices

NOTICE OF PUBLIC MEETING

Notice is hereby given that a public meeting on an Amendment to the Schedule of Taxes, Fees and Charges for fiscal year 2025 will be held by the Pasadena City Council at the time and place listed below:

DATE: May 13, 2024

TIME: 5:30 P.M.

PLACE: City Hall, Council Chambers

100 N. Garfield Avenue, Room S-249 Pasadena, CA 91101

Please refer to the City Council agenda for instructions on how to view a live stream of the meeting. The meeting agenda will be posted at:http://ww2.cityofpasadena.net/council coucil_agenda.asp

Public Information: All interested persons may submit correspondence to correspondence@cityofpasadena.net prior to the start of the meeting. During the meeting and prior to the close of the public hearing, members of the public may provide live public comment. Please refer to the agenda when posted for instructions on how to provide live public comment.

This Amendment increases certain taxes, fees, and charges, excluding New Year’s Day revenues and Admission Tax, listed on the Schedule of Taxes, Fees, and Charges (last adopted by the City Council on May 22, 2023) by the CPI (3.3570%) for Fiscal Year 2025 beginning July 1, 2024. This includes all taxes, licenses, and a number of certain permits which are billed or assessed and collected throughout the year when due. The estimated revenue increase to the General Fund is $155,500 and $264,200 to the Non-General Funds. The existing amount or rate and the proposed amount or rate and the associated activity are listed below, after the related notice of public hearing.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Notice is hereby given that a public hearing on an Amendment to Schedule of Taxes, Fees, and Charges for fiscal year 2025 will be held by the Pasadena City Council at the time and place listed below:

DATE: May 20, 2024

TIME: 5:30 P.M.

PLACE: City Hall, Council Chambers 100 N. Garfield Avenue, Room S-249 Pasadena, CA 91101

Please refer to the City Council agenda for instructions on how to view a live stream of the meeting. The meeting agenda will be posted at: http://ww2.cityofpasadena.net/councilagendas/council_agenda.asp

Public Information: All interested persons may submit correspondence to correspondence@cityofpasadena.net prior to the start of the meeting. During the meeting and prior to the close of the public hearing, members of the public may provide live public comment. Please refer to the agenda when posted for instructions on how to provide live public comment.

This Amendment increases certain taxes, fees, and charges, excluding New Year’s Day revenues and Admission Tax, listed on the Schedule of Taxes, Fees, and Charges (last adopted by the City Council on May 22, 2023) by the CPI (3.3570%) for Fiscal Year 2025 beginning July 1, 2024. This includes all taxes, licenses, and a number of certain permits which are billed or assessed and collected throughout the year when due. The estimated revenue increase to the General Fund is $155,500 and $264,200 to the Non-General Funds. The existing amount or rate and the proposed amount or rate and the associated activity are listed as follows:

ADA: To request a disability-related modification or accommodation necessary to facilitate meeting participation, please contact the City Clerk’s Office as soon as possible at (626) 744-4124 or cityclerk@ cityofpasadena.net. Providing at least 72 hours advance notice will help ensure availability

Copies of the Schedule of Taxes, Fees and Charges, as well as supporting documentation, will be available on the City’s website https://www.cityofpasadena.net/finance/general-fund/fees-tax-schedules/. Written comments may be sent to the Finance Director, at the Department of Finance, 3rd floor, 100 N. Garfield Ave., Pasadena, CA 91101, (626) 744-4355.

Date Published: March 25,2024

Approved as to form: ____________________________________

Chief Assistant City Attorney

Publish March 25, 2024 PASADENA PRESS

Probate Notices

NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF:

GEORGE MCCLURE AKA

MAC MCCLURE AKA JUDGE MCCLURE

CASE NO. PROVA2400203

To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the WILL or estate, or both of GEORGE MCCLURE AKA MAC MCCLURE AKA JUDGE MCCLURE.

A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by CHERYL MEISTER in the Superior Court of California, County of SAN BERNARDINO.

THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that CHERYL MEISTER be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent.

THE PETITION requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority.

A HEARING on the petition will be held in this court as follows: 04/17/24 at 9:00AM in Dept. F2 located at 17780 ARROW BLVD., FONTANA, CA 92335

IF YOU OBJECT to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney.

IF YOU ARE A CREDITOR or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section

Page 11 of 11

9052 of the California Probate Code.

Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law.

YOU MAY EXAMINE the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk.

Attorney for Petitioner

DANIEL B. BURBOTT - SBN 279759 - GAUDY LAW, INC.

267 D STREET UPLAND CA 91786

Telephone (909) 982-3199

3/18, 3/21, 3/25/24 CNS-3793160# ONTARIO NEWS PRESS

NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF: ROBERT E. POSTAWKO

CASE NO. 24STPB02720

To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the WILL or estate, or both of ROB-

ERT E. POSTAWKO.

A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by EDMUND POSTAWKO in the Superior Court of California, County of LOS ANGELES.

THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that EDMUND POSTAWKO be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent.

THE PETITION requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority.

A HEARING on the petition will be held in this court as follows: 04/12/24 at 8:30AM in Dept. 62 located at 111

N. HILL ST., LOS ANGELES, CA 90012

IF YOU OBJECT to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney.

IF YOU ARE A CREDITOR or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code. Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law.

YOU MAY EXAMINE the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk.

Attorney for Petitioner JILL HUNT - SBN 200083

HUNT & DOBROTT 2901 W. COAST HWY., SUITE 200

NEWPORT BEACH CA 92663

Telephone (949) 270-2785

BSC 224847 3/18, 3/21, 3/25/24

CNS-3793792#

GLENDALE INDEPENDENT

NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF:

DANIEL M. HART

CASE NO. 24STPB02807

To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the WILL or estate, or both of DANIEL M. HART. A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by PETER A. HART in the Superior Court of California, County of LOS ANGELES. THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that PETER A. HART be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent.

THE PETITION requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act with limited authority. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority.

A HEARING on the petition will be held in this court as follows: 04/19/24 at 8:30AM in Dept. 99 located at 111 N. HILL ST., LOS ANGELES, CA 90012

IF YOU OBJECT to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney.

IF YOU ARE A CREDITOR or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code. Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law.

YOU MAY EXAMINE the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk.

Attorney for Petitioner E. THOMAS CHAVEZ, ESQ. - SBN 123017

LAW OFFICE OF E. THOMAS CHAVEZ

301 E COLORADO BLVD., STE. 611 PASADENA CA 91101

Telephone (626) 796-4611

3/18, 3/21, 3/25/24 CNS-3794088# GLENDALE INDEPENDENT

NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF DALLAS EUGENE RUSSELL II

Case No. 24STPB02622

To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate, or both, of DALLAS EUGENE RUSSELL II

A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by Anthony Russell in the Superior Court of California, County of LOS ANGELES.

THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that Anthony Russell be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent.

THE PETITION requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court ap-proval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority.

A HEARING on the petition will be held on April 9, 2024 at 8:30 AM in Dept. No. 29 located at 111 N. Hill St., Los Angeles, CA 90012.

IF YOU OBJECT to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney.

IF YOU ARE A CREDITOR or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal rep-resentative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined in section 58(b)

of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code.

Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law.

YOU MAY EXAMINE the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk. Attorney for petitioner:

ROBERT CLAVEL ESQ

SBN 315608

CLAVEL LAW 5857 PINE AVE

STE B

CHINO HILLS CA 91709

CN105123 RUSSELL Mar 21,25,28, 2024

ALHAMBRA PRESS

NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF:

ERANOUIE LALA SAAKIAN

CASE NO. 24STPB02912

To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the WILL or estate, or both of ERANOUIE LALA SAAKIAN.

A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by ARARAT ERIC SAAKIAN in the Superior Court of California, County of LOS ANGELES.

THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that ARARAT ERIC SAAKIAN be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent.

THE PETITION requests the decedent’s WILL and codicils, if any, be admitted to probate. The WILL and any codicils are available for examination in the file kept by the court.

THE PETITION requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority. A HEARING on the petition will be held in this court as follows: 04/15/24 at 8:30AM in Dept. 9 located at 111 N. HILL ST., LOS ANGELES, CA 90012

IF YOU OBJECT to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney.

IF YOU ARE A CREDITOR or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code. Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law.

YOU MAY EXAMINE the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk.

Attorney for Petitioner

ERIC J. GOLD - SBN 205687

LAW OFFICE OF ERIC J. GOLD, APC 23901 CALABASAS ROAD, SUITE 1074

CALABASAS CA 91302

Telephone (818) 784-1500 3/21, 3/25, 3/28/24 CNS-3794380#

GLENDALE INDEPENDENT

ESTATE OF HELENE

VERONIKA McKAIN

Case No. 24STPB00669

To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate, or both, of HELENE VERONIKA McKAIN AN AMENDED PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by Mary McKain in the Superior Court of California, County of LOS ANGELES.

THE AMENDED PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that Mary McKain be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent.

THE AMENDED PETITION requests the decedent’s lost will and codicils, if any, be admitted to probate. Copies of the lost will and any codicils are available for exam-ination in the file kept by the court.

THE AMENDED PETITION requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Ad-ministration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or con-sented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority.

A HEARING on the amended petition will be held on April 17, 2024 at 8:30 AM in Dept. No. 5 located at 111 N. Hill St., Los Angeles, CA 90012.

IF YOU OBJECT to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your ap-pearance may be in person or by your attorney.

IF YOU ARE A CREDITOR or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code.

Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowl-edgeable in California law.

YOU MAY EXAMINE the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk.

Attorney for petitioner:

KIRA S MASTELLER ESQ SBN 226054

LEWITT HACKMAN SHAPIRO MARSHALL & HARLAN 16633 VENTURA BLVD 11TH FLR ENCINO CA 91436 CN105179 MCKAIN Mar 21,25,28, 2024 GLENDALE INDEPENDENT

NOTICE OF COMPETING PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF: TERRY DANNE

CASE NO. 24STPB01848

To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the WILL or estate, or both of TERRY DANNE.

A COMPETING PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by TAMERA GURULE in the Superior Court of California, County of LOS ANGELES.

THE COMPETING PETITION FOR

PROBATE requests that TAMERA GURULE be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent.

THE COMPETING PETITION requests the decedent’s WILL and codicils, if any, be admitted to probate. The WILL and any codicils are available for examination in the file kept by the court.

THE COMPETING PETITION requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative

to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority. A HEARING on the competing petition will be held in this court as follows: 04/16/24 at 8:30AM in Dept. 11 located at 111 N. HILL ST., LOS ANGELES, CA 90012

IF YOU OBJECT to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney.

IF YOU ARE A CREDITOR or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code. Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law.

YOU MAY EXAMINE the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk.

Attorney for Petitioner

THOMAS O. HOFFMAN - SBN 100881

LAW OFFICES OF THOMAS O. HOFFMAN

302 W. SIERRA MADRE BOULEVARD SIERRA MADRE CA 91024 Telephone (626) 355-4422 3/25, 3/28, 4/1/24 CNS-3795335# PASADENA PRESS

NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF DENISE CARMEN BACKER

Case No. 24STPB03032

To all heirs, beneficiaries, cred-itors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate, or both, of DENISE CARMEN BACKER

A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by Adrian Backer in the Superior Court of California, County of LOS ANGELES.

THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that Adrian Backer be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent. THE PETITION requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administra-tion authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objec-tion to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority.

A HEARING on the petition will be held on April 18, 2024 at 8:30 AM in Dept. No. 62 located at 111 N. Hill St., Los Angeles, CA 90012.

IF YOU OBJECT to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your ap-pearance may be in person or by your attorney.

IF YOU ARE A CREDITOR or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California

Probate Code.

Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowl-edgeable in California law.

YOU MAY EXAMINE the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk.

Attorney for petitioner:

GRACE LIM-AYRES ESQ SBN 321004

THE WERNER LAW FIRM 27433 TOURNEY RD STE 200

SANTA CLARITA CA 91355

CN105440 BACKER Mar 25,28, Apr 1, 2024

MONTEREY PARK PRESS

NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF:

KENNETH ROY ABRAMS

AKA KENNETH R. ABRAMS

AKA KENNETH ABRAMS

CASE NO. 24STPB03099

To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the WILL or estate, or both of KENNETH ROY ABRAMS AKA KENNETH R. ABRAMS AKA KENNETH ABRAMS.

A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by JOSHUA ENGLE in the Superior Court of California, County of LOS ANGELES.

THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that JOSHUA ENGLE be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent.

THE PETITION requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority.

A HEARING on the petition will be held in this court as follows: 04/18/24 at 8:30AM in Dept. 67 located at 111 N. HILL ST., LOS ANGELES, CA 90012

IF YOU OBJECT to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney.

IF YOU ARE A CREDITOR or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code. Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law.

YOU MAY EXAMINE the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk.

Attorney for Petitioner

RODNEY GOULD, ESQ. - SBN 219234

LAW OFFICE OF RODNEY GOULD 14827 VENTURA BLVD., STE. 210

SHERMAN OAKS CA 91403

Telephone (818) 981-1760 BSC 224888

3/25, 3/28, 4/1/24

CNS-3796072#

BURBANK INDEPENDENT

NOTICE OF PETITION TO

ADMINISTER ESTATE OF:

VICTORIO N. SIMENTAL

CASE NO. PROVA2400233

To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in

the WILL or estate, or both of VICTORIO N. SIMENTAL.

A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by VICTOR SIMENTAL in the Superior Court of California, County of SAN BERNARDINO.

THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that VICTOR SIMENTAL be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent.

THE PETITION requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority.

A HEARING on the petition will be held in this court as follows: 04/30/24 at 9:00AM in Dept. F2 located at 17780 ARROW BLVD., FONTANA, CA 92335

IF YOU OBJECT to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney.

IF YOU ARE A CREDITOR or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code. Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law.

YOU MAY EXAMINE the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk.

Attorney for Petitioner

C. TRACY KAYSER - SBN 230022

KAYSER LAW GROUP, APC 1407 N. BATAVIA ST., SUITE 103 ORANGE CA 92867

Telephone (714) 984-2004 BSC 224887 3/25, 3/28, 4/1/24

CNS-3796077#

ONTARIO NEWS PRESS

NOTICE OF PETITION TO

ADMINISTER ESTATE OF GILBERT HERMAN PACHECO

CASE NO. 24STPB03015

To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate, or both, of: GILBERT HERMAN PACHECO

A Petition for Probate has been filed by CHRISTOPHER MCGREGOR in the Superior Court of California, County of LOS ANGELES.

The Petition for Probate requests that CHRISTOPHER MCGREGOR be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent.

The Petition requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.)

The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority. A hearing on the petition will be held in this court on APRIL 25, 2024 at 8:30 AM in Dept. 4 located at 111 NORTH HILL STREET, LOS ANGELES CA 90012.

If you object to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney. If you are a creditor or a contingent

Jury hits impasse in trial of felon who caused fatality during street race

By City News Service

AMurrieta jury deadlocked in the retrial of a convicted felon involved in a street racing crash in Rancho Mirage that killed an 81-year-old woman, prompting the judge to declare a mistrial and setting the stage Friday for a potential third murder trial.

After deliberating only a day, jurors declared themselves unable to overcome an impasse on a seconddegree murder charge against 41-year-old Wade Klinton Wheeler of Rancho Mirage.

Riverside County Superior Court Judge Stephen Gallon polled the jury, declaring the panel hopelessly deadlocked. He set a retrial status conference for May 10.

“Retrying the case is currently under consideration by our office, but a decision has not been made at this time,” District Attorney’s Office spokeswoman Amy McKenzie told City News Service.

It would be the third

murder trial for the defendant, whose case will be returned to the Larson Justice Center in Indio for all further proceedings.

The defendant remains held on $1 million bail at the Byrd Detention Center.

He was driving the car that smashed into Barbara Schmitz’s sedan, fatally injuring her and severely injuring her husband Gerald Schmitz over a decade ago.

Wheeler was convicted in 2016 of gross vehicular manslaughter, engaging in an illegal speed contest, reckless driving with great bodily injury and a sentence-enhancing allegation of inflicting bodily injury on a person over 70 years old.

The Indio jury, however, hung on the murder charge. The panel found his co-defendant, 39-year-old Scott Daniel Bahls of Palm Springs, guilty of the same counts, and also hung 10-2 in favor of convicting him of murder.

Bahls later admitted the murder count and was

sentenced to 16 years to life in state prison. But Superior Court Judge Anthony Villalobos — at his own discretion and over prosecutors’ objections — suspended the sentence and instead imposed lifetime felony probation.

On June 18, 2013, the defendants engaged in a 4-mile race that began on Date Palm Drive in Cathedral City. Witnesses reported seeing the two swerving through traffic and “communicating to each other through their windows,” according to the prosecution’s trial brief.

“Both vehicles were seen either side-by-side or within a car length apart,” the brief stated.

Gerald Schmitz was at the wheel of his and his wife’s Ford Focus, with her in the front passenger seat, and initiated a left turn onto Highway 111 from Dunes View Road in Rancho Mirage when the defendants came barreling toward him in excess of 70 mph.

The speed limit through

Explosion, blaze in building adjacent to Good Hope church injures man

By City News Service

An explosion and fire Thursday in a singlestory building adjacent to a Good Hope church seriously injured a man and caused major damage to the structure.

The blaze was reported about 10:20 a.m. Thursday at 24101 Christmas Tree Lane, near Slaughter Road, in the unincorporated community, located just north of Meadowbrook, according to the Riverside County Fire Department.

The agency said that multiple engine crews were sent to the location but were delayed after they encountered difficulties due to poor road conditions leading to the property.

Sheriff’s deputies were the first to arrive and encountered a man standing along the roadside with numerous burn injuries, described by first responders at the scene as critical.

A REACH Air ambulance was sent and retrieved the victim, whose identity was not disclosed, flying him to Arrowhead Regional Burn Center for treatment.

No one else was hurt.

Firefighters found the roughly 2,000-square-foot “kitchen building” in flames and partially collapsed, according to reports from the scene.

The fire was completely extinguished shortly after 11 a.m.

Both SoCal Edison and

the area is 45 mph. Wheeler’s BMW plowed into the Ford midway through its turn, flipping the sedan into the air, after which it rolled several times before coming to rest in front of a gas station.

Barbara Schmitz was taken to Eisenhower Medical Center, where she died two hours after the crash. Gerald Schmitz suffered a brain

hemorrhage, broken ribs and vertebra, along with fractures to the pelvis. He spent months recovering.

Wheeler broke his right leg.

“These two grown men were behaving like children,” Deputy District Attorney Dan Fox told jurors in 2016. “They didn’t want to hurt anyone. But that doesn’t mean they’re not

murderers.”

The defendants’ attorneys argued they weren’t really trying to race and that Schmitz did not take precautions before initiating his turn at the busy intersection.

Wheeler has prior convictions for armed robbery and receiving stolen property.

Contact In The Desert conference to feature 1st ‘Women Of UFOlogy’ panel

By City News Service

The 10th annual Contact In The Desert, featuring the first “Women of UFOlogy” panel, will be held in Indian Wells May 30-June 3, organizers announced Thursday.

The UFO conference will consist of more than 125 lectures, panels and workshops, and is set to be held at the Renaissance Resort and Spa, according to organizers. Experts will speak on their fields in “UFOlogy,” artificial intelligence, science, ancient civilizations, space exploration and more.

SoCal Gas Co. technicians were summoned to conduct inspections and ensure there were no ongoing electrical or natural gas hazards.

Firefighters cleared the scene shortly before 1 p.m.

The cause of the explosion was under investigation.

The “Women of UFOlogy” panel will showcase diverse perspectives, groundbreaking research and leadership of women who have navigated the unexplained on May 31, organizers said. It will feature Linda Moulton Howe, Alexis Brooks, Desiree Hurtak, Yvonne Smith, Kim Carlsberg and Katie Paige.

“From trailblazing researchers and investigators to experiencers and advocates, these renowned women represent a spectrum of expertise and lived experiences, offering invaluable insights into the multifaceted world of UFO phenomena,” conference organizers said in a statement.

“They will shed light on the challenges and triumphs faced by women in UFOlogy, as well as the profound impact of their work on shaping our understanding of the cosmos.”

Also for the first time, Contact In The Desert will include appearances by talk show hosts George Noory and George Knapp and offer single- day passes to allow more attendees.

More information is available at contactinthedesert.com.

The Byrd Detention Center in Murrieta. | Photo courtesy of the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department

Firefighters respond to the explosion in Good Hope. | Photo courtesy of the Riverside County Fire Department

| Image courtesy of Contact In The Desert

Riverside Police Department, Sam Pasillas did not like Barajas and did not want him with his daughter Yareli Pasillas.

Detectives interviewed the woman, the victim and the pastor’s son, Samuel Pasillas Jr., and “all said Sam is extremely controlling of Yareli, and they did not believe he approved of her dating Barajas,” the declaration said.

According to police, on the night of Oct. 21, Barajas was driving in the area of Grove Community Drive and Plainview Street when he stopped at the intersection. He noticed a Toyota Corolla pull alongside him, occupied by two men, and the one in the passenger seat of the sedan “fired several shots,” wounding the victim, court papers stated.

“The victim drove himself to the hospital and was treated for his injuries,”

Riverside police Officer Ryan Railsback said.

The man has since recovered.

In the ensuing investigation, detectives developed

Contract murder

leads that Pasillas allegedly had sought out and hired Garcia to perpetrate the contract killing, paying him three installments totaling $39,500, according to the declaration.

Detectives procured search warrants for Sam Pasillas’ mobile phone data, which revealed “multiple meetings with Jesus on different dates,” court papers said.

The men’s last rendezvous occurred on Oct. 25 in Paramount, according to the affidavit.

“The meeting was short,” the narrative said. “Garcia then fled the country and went to Mexico.”

Investigators detained

Sam Pasillas for questioning last week.

“During the Miranda interview of Sam, he told several lies. ... However, when presented with evidence, including cell phone records and messages, he admitted to hiring Jesus Garcia to scare Llmar Barajas,” the declaration said.

Pasillas and Cebreros were taken into custody without incident during warrant searches in Victorville and Long Beach on March 13.

None of the defendants have prior documented felony or misdemeanor convictions in Riverside County.

Mars sample mission

and unnecessary delays to the mission, it risks compromising our national leadership with respect to solar system exploration, compromising our future human missions to Mars, compromising our scientific community’s process for providing independent advice and recommendations to the federal government, and undermining the intent of Congress,” the letter states. “Therefore, we strongly urge you to submit an FY 2024 operating plan that funds MSR at no less than $650 million.”

The Mars Perseverance rover on the surface of the red planet has already gathered soil and rock samples and deposited them in specialized containers for future retrieval. The Mars Sample Return program -- in partnership with the European Space Agency -envisions a future lander that would collect the container tubes and then launch them into orbit above Mars, where they would be retrieved by a spacecraft and returned to Earth. It would mark the first time material from another planet was retrieved and

brought to Earth for scientific study.

The proposed timing of a return mission is in flux, based on the funding issues. NASA officials originally envisioned launching the return mission sometime between 2028 and 2030. Some reports have estimated that the overall cost of the mission could reach as high as $11 billion.

Officials in China are planning a similar mission, saying recently that it hopes to launch the mission in 2030, with the samples arriving back on Earth by 2031.

2 Washington state murder suspects arrested in Blythe to be extradited

By City News Service

Two murder suspects fromWashington state were arrested in Blythe and are set to be extradited, police said Tuesday.

Philip James Brewer, 32, and Christina Joel Hardy, 47, were arrested March 14 on suspicion of murder, according to the Blythe Police Department.

Officers responded at 1 a.m. that day to informa-

tion about two possible murder suspects from Washington who were reportedly in the city.

Officers subsequently stopped a vehicle in the 500 block of North Sola Avenue because it matched a description provided of the suspects’ vehicle, police said.

“A joint investigation with (California Highway Patrol) showed the two

occupants of the vehicle stopped were indeed wanted suspects for a murder which had just recently been discovered in the State of Washington,” Blythe police said in a statement.

Brewer and Hardy were detained until the Mercer Island Police Department, the original investigating agency, confirmed that arrest warrants had been

issued, according to police. Blythe detectives also obtained a local search warrant.

Hardy was booked into the Larry D. Smith Correctional Facility in Banning and Brewer into the John J. Benoit Detention Center in Indio, according to inmate records. They both remained held without bail. Extradition proceedings have been initiated.

Palm Springs Public Library hosts renovation community input meetings

By City News Service

The Palm Springs Public Library on Thursday began to host community input meetings for discussion on the library’s renovation project.

The final two meetings are set for Wednesday — one at 9 a.m. in Palm Springs Stadium and the last one at 5:30 p.m. in the Palm Springs Public Library, according to library officials.

Additionally, residents can fill out a community survey, which will be available until April 12, at palmspringslibrary.org. Paper copies of the survey were also available in English and Spanish at the library, City Hall, Demuth Community Center, Parks & Recreation Leisure Center, and at James O. Jessie Desert Highland Unity Center.

At the meetings, residents can expect a presentation about the progress of the project to date and to discuss the next steps as their input is gathered, library officials said. Bilingual staff and architects from Group 4 Architecture, Research + Planning, Inc., which is leading the library through the renovation process, will be present at several

meetings for discussion.

The first meeting got underway at 5 p.m. Thursday in the Demuth Community Center with opening remarks from Mayor Jeffrey Bernstein, according to a statement from the library. The meetings continued Friday evening at the James O. Jessie Desert Highland Unity Center and at Saturday morning at Ruth Hardy Park.

The interior of the Palm Springs Library. | Photo courtesy of Visitor7/Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)

Philip James Brewer, left, and Christina Joel Hardy. | Photos courtesy of the Blythe Police Department

| Photo courtesy of the Riverside Police Department

Concept art for multiple robots that would team up to ferry samples of rocks and soil from Mars to Earth by NASA’s Mars Perseverance rover. | Illustration courtesy of NASA/ESA/JPL-Caltech