San Gabriel Sun_5/19/2025 by Beacon Media News

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Over 134,000 LA County residents to receive medical debt relief

By City News Service

Morethan134,000

Los Angeles County residents will begin receiving notices next week by mail as part of the first wave of medical debt relief under a program launched last year, officials announced Thursday.

Residents will receive a notice from LA County and national nonprofit Undue Medical Debt, informing recipients that their medical debt has been permanently cleared. It will also offer information for individuals who need help with additional medical bills.

The total amount of debt being relieved through this first round of aid is nearly $183.6 million.

“If you get a letter in the mail from LA County and Undue Medical Debt this week — open it. We’ve eliminated medical debt for more than 134,000 residents, no strings attached,” Los Angeles County Supervisor Janice Hahn said in a statement. “This is real relief, and it’s hitting mailboxes soon.”

Supervisor Holly Mitchell added, “Medical debt should never stand between our residents and the care they need.”

In December 2024, the county launched its Medical Debt Relief Program, providing immediate financial relief by purchasing and eliminating medical debt for

qualifying residents.

The Board of Supervisors previously approved an initial $5 million for the program, which aims to retire $500 million in medical debt for low-income residents. County officials plan to eliminate up to $2 billion with contributions from philanthropic partners, hospitals and health plans.

Undue Medical Debt acquires debt in bulk for a fraction of their face value from providers such as hospitals and health systems along with collection agencies, according to county officials. So, on average a $1 donation can erase $100 or more of medical debt.

Eligible residents will

automatically receive an Undue Medical Debt/LA County-branded envelope in the mail without any need to apply. The program also connects residents with tools and resources to further reduce future medical debt.

This medical debt relief is source-based, meaning only qualifying debts held by participating providers or collectors can be canceled. Relief cannot be requested. To qualify for relief, current LA County residents must be either at least four times below the federal poverty level or have medical debt that totals 5% or more of

their annual income.

“Medical debt continues to be a significant burden for too many LA County residents, with the total debt estimated at over $2.9 billion in 2023 in LA County — a staggering amount that has not decreased despite gains in insurance coverage,” county Department of Public Health

Director Barbara Ferrer said in a statement.

“While the launch of the Medical Debt Relief Program now brings relief letters to thousands of residents, we continue to work with hospitals and health care providers to improve

PUSD reports elevated levels of Eaton Fire toxins at 12 campuses

By Joe Taglieri joet@beaconmedianews.com

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Pasadena and Altadena has elevated levels of toxins following the Eaton Fire, the Pasadena Unified School District announced Wednesday night.

A state-licensed environmental consulting firm tested soil samples at PUSD campuses following the devastating January wildfire and the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health’s recent findings of soil with elevated levels of lead, school district officials said.

“Unfortunately,after testing, some district campuses had impacted soil containing elevated levels of certain firerelated substances,” according to a PUSD statement.

The campuses with elevated toxin levels found in soil are the Altadena Arts Magnet’s sites at Allendale Elementary and on Calaveras Street, Blair Middle and High School, Field Elementary, John Muir High School, Longfellow Elementary, Madison Elementary, Octavia E. Butler Magnet, San Rafael Elementary, Thurgood Marshall Secondary School, Webster Elementary and Washington Elementary.

Individual school maps will be posted on the district’s website, with the final results of soil testing reports posted there in the coming days,

OUR 2025 SUMMER CAMP GUIDE

district officials said.

“While the results for heavy metals like lead are in, other results may take longer,” officials said. “Maps will be updated as new data becomes available.”

Several schools have been fully cleared with no elevated levels of harmful fire-related substances detected in soil samples.

“These schools are safe for students and employees, and as a result, outdoor playfields and bare dirt areas at those campuses will fully reopen,” according to the district statement. “Normal operations — including recess, PE classes, and athletic team practices — will resume immediately at these locations.”

A list of testing results from all PUSD campuses is online at pusd.us/fire-relief/ safety.

“We want to be abundantly clear: safety is not negotiable,” PUSD Superintendent Elizabeth Blanco said in a statement. “That’s why we’re moving forward with both urgency and care. We are grateful to our school communities for their patience as we work to ensure that every student and employee has a safe environment to learn and grow.”

PUSD officials implemented these measures

| Photo courtesy of the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health

Menendez brothers resentenced, eligible for parole

By Fred Shuster, City News Service

Erik and Lyle Menendez, who have served roughly 35 years of a life-without-parole prison sentence for the 1989 shotgun slayings of their parents in Beverly Hills, were resentenced Tuesday to 50 years to life, immediately making them eligible for parole.

The decision by Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Michael Jesic does not automatically mean the pair will be released from prison. They will have to appear before a parole board, which will recommend whether they should be paroled. The recommendation would then go to Gov. Gavin Newsom, who could reject their release.

Jesic removed a special circumstance allegation from the brothers’ original conviction, allowing for the reduced sentence of 50 years to life. Jesic noted that the new sentence means the brothers’ fate is now “up to the parole board and the governor.”

Both brothers spoke at length via video from prison in San Diego, apologizing for their actions and expressing regret to relatives and even to their former neighbors in Beverly Hills. They also both gave emotional testimony about their work to turn their lives around and help fellow inmates.

“I killed my mom and dad,” Lyle Menendez, 57, said in the opening of his 15-minute statement to the court. “I make no excuses. I take full responsibility for my choices.”

He listed some of those choices: “the choice to shoot my mom and dad in their own home,” “the choice of making a mockery of the legal system by soliciting perjury.”

“I am deeply ashamed of who I was,” he said, adding that when he originally received the life-withoutparole prison sentence in 1996, “I knew I deserved the suffering to come.”

Deputy District Attorney Habib Balian argued forcefully against any change to the brothers’ sentence, telling the judge that the pair had still not “fully understood the depth of their crime” or taken accountability for their efforts to recruit friends to lie on their behalf at trial.

“Are they trustworthy?” Balian said as Menendez family members grumbled. “They stick to the same false story. They haven’t changed. They haven’t found redemp-

tion ... they have no insight into their crimes. ... They are not ready yet.”

However, Jesic said he was convinced the brothers deserved a new sentence due to all the work they did in prison on behalf of the inmate population. The judge also noted unexpected letters he received in favor of the Menendez brothers from correction officers, including a lieutenant.

The next step in the case will occur June 13, when state parole boards are set to conduct separate hearings for the brothers and send their reports to Gov. Gavin Newsom to help him decide whether the two should receive clemency — another avenue toward possible prison release the family had also requested.

In light of Jesic’s ruling, a state parole board will instead consider on June 13 whether to recommend parole for the Menendez brothers, a spokesman for the state Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation said Thursday.

Attorneys on both sides of the issue will have a chance to object to the change if they desire.

“Since the ruling makes them immediately eligible for parole consideration as youth offenders, it is the board’s intent to convert the June 13, 2025, clemency hearings to initial parole suitability hearings,” Scott Wyckoff, executive officer of the Board of Parole Hearings, wrote in a Wednesday letter sent to attorneys in the case and obtained by the Los Angeles Times, which first reported the change.

If the board recommends the brothers for parole, the issue will then be forwarded to Gov. Gavin Newsom, who will have 90 days to review the matter and could reject the parole grant.

Along with family members, emotional testimony was heard Tuesday from rapper Anerae Brown, better known by his stage name X-Raided, who was sentenced to decades in prison on gang-related murder charges and ended up spending years in the same facility as the Menendez brothers. He credited the brothers for saving his life. Brown was paroled in 2018 after serving 26 years behind bars.

“If I hadn’t met Lyle and Erik, I might still be sitting there (in prison), doing stupid things,” Brown said

from the witness stand, telling the court that the brothers counseled him to stop getting involved in illegal activity in prison and to work on his own personal development.

In his statement, which was interrupted for about 10 minutes when the feed from San Diego failed, 54-year-old Erik Menendez discussed the murders of his parents, saying he had “committed an atrocious act against people who had every right to live.”

He also apologized to the community of Beverly Hills where the murders worried and frightened residents of the normally tranquil enclave.

“I stole from the neighbors the right to live in a peaceful community,” he said, also expressing regret for telling police and family members that he believed the killings were somehow tied to organized crime.

As for his parents, he said, “I imagine their last moments over and over again” and the “infliction of unimaginable suffering” he and his brother caused.

“After the killings, I denied responsibility,” Erik Menendez said. “I even blamed others. ... During the past 35 years, I have worked hard to find out what kind of person would kill their parents. For a long time, I lost hope and became selfdestructive.”

In closing, he said that whether he is released or not, “I will not stop trying to make a difference.”

As the brothers spoke, Menendez family members wept openly in court. Earlier in the day, three members of the family testified of their abiding trust, love and forgiveness for the siblings.

The brothers have spent about 35 years behind bars without the possibility of parole for the Aug. 20, 1989, killings of Jose and Mary Louise “Kitty” Menendez in their Beverly

sexual abuse at the hands of their father — a letter allegedly written by Erik Menendez to his cousin Andy Cano in early 1989 or late 1988, and recent allegations by Roy Rosselló, a former member of the boy band Menudo, that he too was sexually abused by Jose Menendez as a teenager.

Prosecutors allege the murders were carried out due to greed, to acquire their parents’ money.

Hills home. The Menendez brothers claim the killings were committed after years of abuse, including alleged sexual abuse by their father.

After the hearing, defense attorney Mark Geragos said the resentencing decision proves that “redemption is possible.”

“The fact is the Menendez brothers have done remarkable work, and today is a great day after 35 years,” he said, adding that the family is “one huge step closer to bringing the boys home.”

In court Tuesday morning, Menendez family members were called to the stand by the defense to try to convince the judge that the brothers had shown remorse and had developed great insight into their crimes.

The first witness, Erik and Lyle Menendez’s cousin Anamaria Baralt, was adamant that the brothers have earned their chance at freedom.

“We believe that 35 years is enough,” she told a courtroom crowded with family members, supporters and media. “They are universally forgiven by our family. They deserve a second chance at life.”

She added that the family has suffered from the “relentless attention” the case has stirred up.

“It’s been torture for decades to live this out in the public eye,” Baralt, 54, said, weeping. “To be the butt of every joke on SNL (“Saturday Night Live”) since (the trial) happened.

The cousin spoke harshly about “the narrative that they have not completely taken accountability (for their crimes). They feel terrible about it.”

In a 2023 court petition, attorneys for the brothers pointed to two new pieces of evidence they contend corroborate the brothers’ allegations of long-term

were 35 years ago.”

Another cousin, Tamara Goodell, testified that the brothers “have made every possible effort to rehabilitate themselves. ... They now see the world through 35 years of healing. They have created careers for themselves in prison.”

District Attorney Nathan Hochman told reporters Tuesday morning that the brothers repeatedly lied after the killings about their motivation for the crime, and didn’t initially claim that sexual abuse prompted them to act.

Hochman said Tuesday evening that his office’s “unwavering commitment to presenting all relevant facts and perspectives was pivotal” to the court’s ruling.

“The decision to resentence Erik and Lyle Menendez was a monumental one that has significant implications for the families involved, the community, and the principles of justice. Our office’s motions to withdraw the resentencing motion filed by the previous administration ensured that the Court was presented with all the facts before making such a consequential decision,” Hochman said in a statement.

“The case of the Menendez brothers has long been a window for the public to better understand the judicial system. This case, like all cases — especially those that captivate the public — must be viewed with a critical eye. Our opposition and analysis ensured that the Court received a complete and accurate record of the facts. Justice should never be swayed by spectacle,” he added.

Family members insisted that if released, the brothers would assume roles as advocates for victims of childhood sexual trauma, which the brothers contend they are victims of. While behind bars, Baralt said, Erik and Lyle Menendez have been involved in rehabilitation projects for elderly inmates, hospice services, and gardening and painting efforts at the prison.

“They are incredible people,” she told the court. “The work they have done has been inspiring and I hope they have a chance to inspire the world. ... They are not the same people they

Another witness, Diane Hernandez, niece of Kitty Menendez, called Erik and Lyle Menendez “remarkable human beings. There is absolutely no chance that they would break the law (if released). Their only desire is to do good.”

Interest in the Menendez case surged following the release of a recent Netflix documentary and dramatic series.

In October, then-Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón announced he was in favor of the brothers being resentenced to make them eligible for parole. Since the brothers were under 26 at the time of the murders, they would be eligible for parole through the state’s youthful offender law.

Gascón pointed to the brothers’ work to help other inmates, and officials’ assessment that they present a low risk of reoffending. The now- former district attorney also cited the possible new evidence about the father’s alleged abusive behavior as additional factors in support of new sentences.

However, when he was elected, Hochman promised to reexamine the case, eventually saying he did not support resentencing. Hochman contends the brothers have not shown “insight” into their crimes during their years of incarceration and continue to lie about the alleged abuse.

Earlier this month, attorneys for the brothers withdrew a motion asking that the DA’s office be removed from the case, saying they want to expeditiously move forward with their bid to have the pair resentenced.

In court Friday, Hochman reiterated his opposition to resentencing for the brothers, arguing they have not “accepted complete responsibility for their actions.” He maintained in court that his decision was not based on a “political whim.”

“Right now, they are not in a position where we would advocate for resentencing,” Hochman told the judge.

From left, Lyle and Erik Menendez. | Photos courtesy of the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation/Wikimedia Commons (CC0)

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US AG Pam Bondi sold more than $1 million in Trump Media stock the day Trump announced sweeping tariffs

By Robert Faturechi and Brandon Roberts, ProPublica

This story was originally published by ProPublica. ProPublica is a Pulitzer Prize-winning investigative newsroom. Sign up for The Big Story newsletter to receive stories like this one in your inbox.

Attorney General Pam Bondi sold between $1 million and $5 million worth of shares of Trump Media the same day that President Donald Trump unveiled bruising new tariffs that caused the stock market to plummet, according to records obtained Wednesday by ProPublica.

Trump Media, which runs the social media platform Truth Social, fell 13% in the following days, before rebounding.

Trump’s “Liberation Day” press conference from the White House Rose Garden unveiling the tariffs came after the market closed on April 2. Bondi’s disclosure forms showing her Trump Media sales say the transactions were made on April 2 but do not disclose whether they occurred before or after the market closed.

Trades by government officials informed by nonpublic information learned through work could violate the law. But cases against government officials are legally challenging, and in recent years judges have largely narrowed what constitutes illegal insider trading.

It’s unclear from the public record whether Bondi as attorney general would have known in advance any nonpublic details about the tariffs Trump was announcing that day.

Trump, of course, publicly announced his plans to institute dramatic tariffs during the election campaign. But during the first weeks of his term, the market seemed to assume his campaign promises were bluster.

The Justice Department did not immediately respond to questions about the trades.

The disclosure forms do not include the specific amount of stocks sold or their worth but instead provide a rough range. The documents do not say exactly what time she sold the shares or at what price. The company’s stock price closed on April 2 at $18.76 and opened the next morning, after the press conference, at $17.92 before falling more in the days

ahead. In addition to selling between $1 million and $5 million worth of Trump Media shares, Bondi’s disclosure form shows she also sold between $250,000 and $500,000 worth of warrants in Trump Media, which typically give a holder the right to purchase the shares.

Bondi’s ownership of Trump Media shares has previously been disclosed. Before she became attorney general, Bondi was a consultant for Digital World Acquisition Corp., the special purpose acquisition company that merged with Trump Media to take the president’s social media company public.

As part of her ethics agreement, Bondi had

pledged to sell her stake of Trump Media within 90 days of her confirmation, a deadline that would have allowed her until early May to sell the shares.

On April 1, Trump Media filed a disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission with details about holdings of various top shareholders, including Trump and Bondi. The purpose of the filing is unclear, as is whether it relates to Bondi’s sales the next day. It appeared to reregister for sale shares held by several of the company’s top shareholders.

Alex Mierjeski contributed research.

Republished with Creative Commons License (CC BY-NC-ND 3.0).

Access to Pacific Crest Trail threatened by federal cuts

By Suzanne Potter, Producer, Public News Service

Access to the beloved Pacific Crest Trail may soon be limited - due to a drop in federal grants and big layoffs proposed for federal public lands agencies.

This month, the Trump administration is expected to release the reduction-inforce targets for the National Park Service, U.S. Forest Service and the Bureau of Land Management.

Megan Wargo, chief executive officer of the Pacific

Crest Trail Association, said federal grant money dried up last October, so they’ve had to cancel 56 weeks of crew maintenance work on the trails.

“If large sections of the trails are forced to be closed because of this lack of maintenance and care, that’s devastating that folks won’t be able to access their public lands because of these cuts,” she explained.

Volunteers help keep the

Pam Bondi. | Photo by Gage Skidmore via Flickr CC BY-SA 2.0

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Study: 85% of callers to CA Parent Youth Helpline feel ‘more positive’

By Suzanne Potter, Producer, Public News Service

The California Parent and Youth Helpline turned five years old May 9 - just in time for a brand new study that confirms its effectiveness.

The study, published in the Journal of Technology in Human Services, found that 85% of people felt more positive, calmer and less angry after calling in.

Lead author Elizabeth Harris, a sociology professor at Arizona State University, said that kind of result is rare in social science research.

“Parenting interventions are expensive and difficult to do,” she said. “Most interventions take months to take effect, so to be able to do an effective intervention in 30 minutes,

that’s a big deal.”

The data also show about one-third of callers improved significantly on the scale - meaning they either went from making all negative statements to feeling 100% neutral, or they started off neutral and said they felt “100% positive” by the end of the call.

Parents and youths in distress can reach a trained counselor at 855-427-2736, 12 hours a day, seven days a week. Or they can reach out online at CAparentyouthhelpline.org.

Harris said the data show the helpline is especially effective at making people feel heard.

“Fifty percent of people who are lonely and isolated

Pacific Crest Trail

in their parenting role, they feel less of that by the end of the call,” she said. “So, it shows that in less than 30 minutes, it’s possible for a trained counselor to make a measurable difference.”

She explained that the research used what’s called sentiment analysis and secondary qualitative analysis, and validates the approach taken by Parents Anonymous, the group that runs the helpline. Disclosure: Parents Anonymous contributes to Public New Service’s fund for reporting on Children’s Issues, Family/Father Issues, Social Justice. If you would like to help support news in the public interest, visit https://www.publicnewsservice.org/dn1.php.

trails clear of debris and repair erosion from storm damage. The Pacific Crest Trail runs more than 2,600 hundred miles from Mexico to Canada and includes landscapes from Anza Borrego in the South, to Sequoia, Kings Canyon, and Lake Tahoe in the Sierras, and points north.

Wargo said the National Trails System Act calls for a public-private partnership to manage the national scenic trails. The Pacific Crest Trail Association normally gets between $667 million per year in federal funding - about a quarter of what it needs to help maintain the PCT.

“Typically, that breakdown is about 25% value that’s coming from the federal government, while the other 75% is coming through private donations and that volunteer service hour value,” she continued.

Wargo added that cuts to the federal workforce hobble agencies’ abilities to make grants and approve volunteer projects. And that means less brush gets cleared, raising the risk of wildfires in California.

References: Pacific Crest Trail volunteer data Pacific Coast Trail Association 2025

Photo by AMIRALI NASIRI on Unsplash

Hollywood unions urge Trump to enact tax measures boosting US film industry

By City News Service

Top Hollywood movieindustry unions added their names to a letter sent to President Donald Trump this week in support of various tax measures they said would stave off runaway production and strengthen the American film industry.

"Over the past two decades, countries around the world have recognized the value of film and television productions and have increasingly offered significant incentives to attract projects and the high-paying jobs and local cash infusions they bring," according to the letter. "Currently, more than 80 countries offer production tax incentives and as a result, numerous productions that could have been shot in America have instead located elsewhere.

"Returning more production to the United States will

require a national approach and broad-based policy solutions, including those we propose below as well as longer term initiatives such as implementing a federal film and television tax incentive."

The letter goes on to recommend changes in select tax codes the organizations said would bolster domestic film production.

The letter was led by actors Jon Voight and Sylvester Stallone, who were named by Trump as Hollywood ambassadors earlier this year. Also signing onto the document were the Directors Guild of American, Producers Guild of America, Writers Guild of America, the SAGAFTRA actors' union, the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees, International Brotherhood

of Teamsters, the Motion Picture Association, Producers United, FilmUSA and the Independent Film and Television Alliance.

SAG-AFTRA National Executive Director Duncan Crabtree-Ireland said in a statement Monday the union joined the letter "because we strongly support urgent federal action to address the outsourcing of American production. Prioritizing domestic jobs is essential to maintaining the U.S. entertainment industry's leadership on the global stage."

Trump last week suggested that he would impose a 100% tariff on movies produced outside the United States, a proposal that was quickly criticized by many industry officials but sparked a discussion about ways to support domestic production and reduce competition.

Photo by Drei Kubik on Unsplash

Atariffisataxon

imported goods that’s paid by the importing firm to its government. However, those costs often get passed down to consumers, resulting in higher prices for the affected products.

Here’s Experian’s guide to what you need to know about how tariffs work and how they may affect your wallet.

How Do Tariffs Work?

When a country imposes a tariff, any affected goods imported into that country will be taxed. The domestic company importing the product pays the tax to the federal government.

The federal government may set a tariff on specific items imported from one or more countries, or it may create a blanket tariff that affects all imported goods from specific countries.

Tariffs are typically set as a percentage of the price of the goods imported.

Example: If a U.S. company imports $100 worth of apples from a country with a 10% tariff, the company will need to pay a $10 tax to the U.S. federal government.

What are tariffs and how do they impact consumers?

By Ben Luthi, Experian via Stacker

Who Pays for Tariffs?

While the corporations and manufacturers that import tariffed goods are directly responsible for paying the tax, they often pass the cost onto consumers, resulting in higher prices.

Example: A 25% tariff on an imported automobile worth $30,000 could result in a new price tag of $37,500.

Not all businesses increase their prices to cover the cost of tariffs, however. Instead, they may choose to cut jobs, reduce or pause import shipments or negotiate lower prices from their foreign suppliers.

How Tariffs Can Raise Prices

Tariffs are effectively a cost of doing business for importers. But like other costs associated with manufacturing and selling goods, that cost is usually incorporated into the price you pay as a consumer.

In some cases, the tariff is applied directly to the end product. Examples include:

- Beef

- Cheese

- Chocolate - Coffee

- Fruit - Liquor

- Nuts

- Rice

- Seafood

In this instance, the tariff applies to the full cost of the item imported. In other cases, the tariff may apply to certain components used in manufacturing, such as:

- Aluminum

- Copper

- Lumber

- Minerals

- Semiconductors

- Steel

In these cases, the price increase on the end product may not be as drastic, especially if the majority of the final product was sourced domestically.

Recent Price Increase

Example: Auto Loans

Consumer prices have already been rising over the past few years, fueled by pandemic-era inflation that rocked economies around the world. While inflation numbers have trended downward since their peak in June 2022, new tariffs threaten to reverse that course.

To give you an idea of how prices have risen in recent years in one area, here’s a look at the average auto loan debt according to Experian data from the third quarter (Q3) of each year.

In step with total loan amounts increasing, average auto loan payments rose 5.1% to $662 per month from 2023 to 2024:

Are Tariffs Good or Bad for the Economy?

Historically, tariffs were often a primary source of revenue for the federal government. However, since the late 19th century, they’ve often been used to:

Protect domestic manufacturers: Tariffs can reduce foreign competition, driving demand for goods produced domestically. This, in turn, allows those manufacturers to grow, further increasing domestic production.

Negotiate trade agreements: Tariffs create additional pressure that can be used to gain an advantage in negotiations with trade partners.

Advance foreign policy objectives: A country may use tariffs to further unrelated foreign policy goals, such as reducing illegal immigration or combating drug trade.

That said, studies provide overwhelming evidence that tariffs can stunt economic growth, which can have an indirect impact on consumers. Here are some examples of how tariffs can impact the economy:

Higher prices: As previously mentioned, tariffs are often passed on to the consumer. The more tariffs a country imposes, the harder it is for its citizens to avoid higher costs on everyday items.

Reduced consumer spending: As prices rise, many consumers may be forced to cut back on spending. Reduced consumer spending generally hampers economic growth.

Job losses: Industries that rely heavily on imported goods, such as auto manufac-

turing, may be forced to lay off workers to compensate for rising costs and lower sales due to reduced consumer spending.

Impact on small business owners: Small businesses make up 99.9% of all U.S. companies and create roughly two-thirds of all jobs, according to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Unlike large corporations, though, they don’t have the same negotiating power with foreign suppliers. As a result, small business owners and their employees will likely be hit the hardest.

Retaliation: When a country sets a tariff that targets a specific trade partner, the latter may impose a tariff on goods and services exported by the former in retaliation. These retaliatory tariffs can hurt domestic exporting companies and also result in further escalation between the two countries.

Lower investor confidence: Due to the impact tariffs can have on businesses and consumers, they often undermine investor confidence, resulting in lower stock prices. This can negatively affect anyone who has money in the market, particularly those who are nearing retirement.

How to Protect Your Money From Tariffs

In a trade war, it can be impossible to completely avoid the cost of tariffs. However, there are some steps you can take to shore up your finances amid economic uncertainty. Here are just a handful of tips:

Build an emergency fund. An emergency fund can be helpful in a one-time financial emergency or if you’re experiencing higher costs or reduced income in the long run. Experts recommend keeping three to six months’ worth of expenses in your rainy-day fund, but any buffer is better than nothing.

Pay down debt. Debt payments can put a strain on your budget, especially during challenging economic

times. If possible, look for ways to accelerate your debt repayment through strategies like the debt snowball or avalanche method, debt consolidation or a debt management plan.

Limit new credit. Taking on new debt can give you less flexibility with your budget, especially if it’s a large loan. If you’re uncertain about the state of the economy and your own personal finances, it may be best to avoid unnecessary debt. Cut expenses. Take a look at your budget to find areas where you can cut back. Start with your discretionary spending, such as eating out, entertainment and luxuries. Then, consider looking for ways to reduce your necessary expenses, such as buying generic groceries, negotiating utilities, saving on auto insurance and downsizing.

Think twice before big purchases. If you’re planning a sizable purchase, such as a car or a major appliance, take some extra time to consider whether now is the right time. You may also consider cheaper alternatives, which may provide the same benefits at a lower cost.

Shop sales. Check for local sales and coupons before heading out to spend money on groceries, clothing, household goods and other necessities.

The Bottom Line While tariffs can be used to raise revenue for the federal government, support domestic manufacturers and negotiate trade agreements, their impact can be significant for the businesses and consumers affected by increased costs.

Understanding how tariffs work can help you identify areas of your budget that may be impacted, so you can take steps to protect your finances as much as possible.

This story was produced by Experian and reviewed and distributed by Stacker. Republished with CC BY-NC 4.0 license.

| Photo by rblfmr // Shutterstock

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Temple City City Notices

CITY COUNCIL ORDINANCE

SUMMARY OF ORDINANCE AS REQUIRED BY GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 36933(c)

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT AT ITS SCHEDULED SPECIAL CITY COUNCIL MEETING ON TUESDAY, MAY 13, THE CITY COUNCIL ADOPTED:

ORDINANCE NO. 25-1081 U

AN URGENCY ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF TEMPLE CITY, CALIFORNIA, ADOPTING ZONING CODE TEXT AMENDMENTS, AMENDING TITLE 5 AND TITLE 9 OF THE TEMPLE CITY MUNICIPAL CODE TO COMPLY WITH SB 1186

THE FOLLOWING SUMMARIZES ORDINANCE 25-1081U:

Ordinance 25-1081U restricts non-storefront medicinal cannabis delivery businesses to the Industrial Zone, requires a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) approved by the Planning Commission, and establishes robust location, operational, and security requirements.

Ordinance No. 25-1081U was introduced and duly passed, approved and adopted at the City Council Regular Meeting of May 13, 2025, by the following vote:

AYES: Councilmember- Chavez, Chen, Yu, Man, Sternquist NOES: Councilmember- None

ABSENT: Councilmember- None

ABSTAIN: Councilmember- None

A certified copy of the full text of the Ordinance is available for review at the City Clerk’s Office, City Hall, 9701 Las Tunas Drive, Temple City, California, 91780. Anyone having questions may contact the City Clerk at (626) 285-2171.

Dated: May 19, 2025

Peggy Kuo City Clerk City of Temple City

Publish May 19, 2025

TEMPLE CITY TRIBUNE

TEMPLE CITY

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING FOR THE PLANNING COMMISSION

The Planning Commission is holding a public hearing on the project described below. You are receiving this notice because your property is located near the project, the project may directly, or indirectly affect you, or because you have requested to be notified.

Project Location: Citywide, City of Temple City, County of Los Angeles

Project: Zoning Code Amendment. The proposed ordinance would amend the Temple City Municipal Code to comply with SB 1186 (Medicinal Cannabis Patients’ Right of Access Act)

Applicant: City of Temple City, 9701 Las Tunas Drive, Temple City, CA 91780

Environmental This Ordinance is not subject to environmental Review: review under the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3) and 15305 (Class 5 – Minor Alterations in Land Use Limitations).

The Planning Commission Public Hearing will be held:

Meeting Date & Time: Tuesday, June 10, 2025, at 7:00 P.M.

Meeting Location: City Council Chambers, 5938 Kauffman Avenue, Temple City, CA 91780

For questions or concerns regarding this project, or if you wish to review the project file, please contact:

Project Planner: Scott Reimers, Community Development Director (626) 656-7316

sreimers@templecity.us or visit the Community Development Department offices at City Hall, located at: 9701 Las Tunas Drive, Temple City, CA 91780

Monday – Thursday: 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Friday 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.,

If you have a request for reasonable modification or accommodation due to a disability covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act please contact staff (planning@templecity.us or (626) 656-7316) 48 hours in advance of the meeting.

The decision of the Planning Commission is a recommendation to the City Council. A separate public hearing for the project will be held before the City Council. When scheduled, the hearing will be separately noticed. If you challenge any of the foregoing actions in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the public hearing or in written correspondence delivered to the hearing body at, or prior to, the public hearing.

Date: May 15, 2025 Signature: Scott Reimers Scott Reimers, Community Development Director

Publish May 19, 2025

TEMPLE CITY TRIBUNE

Notices

ORDINANCE NO. 1029

A SUMMARY ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ROSEMEAD, CALIFORNIA, ADOPTING

THE UPDATED FIRE HAZARD SEVERITY ZONES MAP AS RECOMMENDED BY THE STATE FIRE MARSHAL AND IMPLEMENTING REGULATIONS FOR FIRE HAZARD SEVERITY ZONES PURSUANT TO GOVERNMENT CODE SECTIONS 51178, 51179 & 51182

On May 13, 2025, the City Council of the City of Rosemead introduced for first reading by title only, Ordinance No. 1029, approving the Fire Hazard Severity Zone Map as recommended by the State Fire Marshal and implementing regulations for the Fire Hazard Severity Zones pursuant to Government Code Sections 51178, 51179, and 51182.

The updated Fire Hazard Severity Zones (FHSZ) map for the City of Rosemead identifies areas at risk of wildfires using scientific data on vegetation, topography, weather, and fire history. It categorizes risk into three levels: Moderate (Yellow), High (Orange), and Very High (Red).

The Los Angeles County Fire Department will enforce fire safety regulations in High and Very High zones. The updated FHSZ map will be integrated into the City’s Safety and Hazard Mitigation Plans, and all new or substantially remodeled buildings in Very High zones must comply with fire-resistant construction standards under California Building Code regulations.

The full text of Ordinance No. 1029 is available for inspection during regular business hours at the City Clerk’s Office, 8838 E. Valley Blvd. Monday –Thursday 7:00 a.m. till 6:00 p.m. or at www.cityofrosemead.org.

DATED THIS 19th DAY OF MAY 2025

Ericka Hernandez, City Clerk City of Rosemead 8838 E. Valley Boulevard

Publish May 19, 2025

ROSEMEAD READER

NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF:

ZHAOLIANG TANG

CASE NO. 25STPB05080

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

A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by HONGBIN ZENG in the Superior Court of California, County of LOS ANGELES. THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that HONGBIN ZENG 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: 06/04/25

Telephone (626) 289-8299 5/12, 5/15, 5/19/25 CNS-3924949# AZUSA BEACON

NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF:

SUZANNE EILEEN AXT AKA

SUZANNE E. AXT

CASE NO. 25STPB05213

To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the WILL or estate, or both of SUZANNE EILEEN AXT AKA SUZANNE E. AXT.

A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by JENNIFER S. TODOROV (REFERRED TO IN WILL AS JENNIFER SUZANNE AXT) in the Superior Court of California, County of LOS ANGELES.

THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that JENNIFER S. TODOROV 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: 06/23/25 at 8:30AM in Dept. 62 located at 111 N. HILL ST., LOS ANGELES, CA 90012

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.

ing 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: 06/05/25 at 8:30AM in Dept. 44 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. In Pro Per Petitioner

GABRIELLE IRENE AGUILAR 1615 STATUE ROW SAN JACINTO CA 92582 5/15, 5/19, 5/22/25 CNS-3925448# AZUSA BEACON

NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF CESAR CUATE PULIDO Case No. 25STPB05404

at 8:30AM in Dept. 9 located at 111 N. HILL ST., LOS ANGELES, CA 90012

Attorney for Petitioner

DANIEL K. FONG - SBN 248397 FONG LAW GROUP

300 S. GARFIELD AVE. #207 MONTEREY PARK CA 91754

Attorney for Petitioner

THOMAS O. HOFFMAN - SBN 100881

LAW OFFICES OF THOMAS O. HOFFMAN

302 W SIERRA MADRE BLVD SIERRA MADRE CA 91024

Telephone (626) 355-4422 5/15, 5/19, 5/22/25 CNS-3925385# ARCADIA WEEKLY

NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF: RAYMOND RIVERA ELIAS CASE NO. 25STPB04979

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

A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by GABRIELLE IRENE AGUILAR in the Superior Court of California, County of LOS ANGELES. THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that GABRIELLE IRENE AGUILAR be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent.

To all heirs, beneficiaries, cred-itors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate, or both, of CESAR CUATE PULIDO A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by Diego C. Pulido in the Superior Court of California, County of LOS ANGELES. THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that Diego C. Pulido 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 June 23, 2025 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 issu-ance 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

Probate Notices

Rosemead City

in Dept. No. 4 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 issu-ance 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.

BERNARD NACIONALES ESQ SBN 201799 PO BOX 4851 W COVINA CA 91791

CN116842 METCALF

May 12,15,19, 2025 WEST COVINA PRESS

NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF:

YELENA SARKISYAN CASE NO. 25STPB05267

To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contin-gent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the WILL or estate, or both of YELENA SARKISYAN.

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

THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that JED BYERLY 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 authori-ty will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very im-portant actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested personas unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interest-ed 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: 06/09/25 at 8:30AM in Dept. 99 located at 111 N. HILL ST., LOS ANGELES, CA 90012

Attorney for Petitioner

CHRISTINE JAMES - SBN 204048

JAMES LAW GROUP

227 BROAD STREET, STE. 201 NEVADA CITY CA 95959

Telephone (530) 470-9291 5/15, 5/19, 5/22/25

CNS-3925441#

GLENDALE INDEPENDENT

NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF:

JUDY ELLEN WOOTEN AKA

JUDY E. WOOTEN AKA JUDY WOOTEN

CASE NO. 25STPB05304

To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contin-gent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the WILL or estate, or both of JUDY ELLEN WOOTEN AKA JUDY E. WOOTEN AKA JUDY WOOTEN.

A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by EMILY ELLEN WOOTEN in the Superior Court of California, County of LOS ANGELES.

THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that EMILY ELLEN WOOTEN 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 consent-ed 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: 06/09/25 at 8:30AM in Dept. 99 located at 111 N. HILL ST., LOS ANGELES, CA 90012

Attorney for Petitioner MARK W. REGUS II - SBN 279653 LAW OFFICE OF MARK W. REGUS II 453 NORTH CENTRAL AVENUE UPLAND CA 91786

Telephone (909) 500-1161 5/15, 5/19, 5/22/25 CNS-3925555# WEST COVINA PRESS

NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF: DAVID A. PETERSON AKA DAVID ARTHUR PETERSON CASE NO. 25STPB05246

To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contin-gent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the WILL or estate, or both of DAVID A. PETERSON AKA DAVID ARTHUR PETERSON. A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by DEBORAH SMITH DUPREE in the Superior Court of California, County of LOS ANGELES. THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that DEBORAH SMITH DUPREE be ap-pointed 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.

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 interest-ed 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: 06/06/25 at 8:30AM in Dept. 9 located at 111 N. HILL ST., LOS ANGELES, CA 90012

Attorney for Petitioner

GLORIA SCHARRE PITZER - SBN 84709

BARBARO, CHINEN, PITZER & DUKE LLP

301 E COLORADO BLVD., STE. 700 PASADENA CA 91101-1911

Telephone (626) 793-5196 5/15, 5/19, 5/22/25

CNS-3925679#

GLENDALE INDEPENDENT

NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF:

CHARLES ANTHONY YAMARONE, JR.

CASE NO. 25STPB05315

To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the WILL or estate, or both of CHARLES ANTHONY YAMARONE, JR.

A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by CHARLES A. YAMARONE, III in the Superior Court of California, County of LOS ANGELES.

THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that CHARLES A. YAMARONE, III 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.

A HEARING on the petition will be held in this court as follows: 06/10/25 at 8:30AM in Dept. 79 located at 111 N. HILL ST., LOS ANGELES, CA 90012

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

Attorney for Petitioner

JONATHAN D. PRIMUTH - SBN 143736

NOLAN A. ARCOS - SBN 334607 LAGERLOF, LLP 155 N. LAKE AVENUE, 11TH FLOOR PASADENA CA 91101

Telephone (626) 793-9400 BSC 226840 5/15, 5/19, 5/22/25 CNS-3925891# GLENDALE INDEPENDENT

NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF CHARLOTTE V. DECKER aka CHARLOTTE VALENCIANA DECKER

Case No. PROVA2500379

To all heirs, beneficiaries, cred-itors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate, or both, of CHARLOTTE V. DECKER aka CHARLOTTE VALENCIANA DECKER

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

THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that Jacqueline Sloniker 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 June 12, 2025 at 9:00 AM in Dept. No. F1 located at 17780 ARROW BLVD, FONTANA CA 92335.

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 issu-ance 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.

STAPLETON & STAPLETON 401 E ROWLAND AVE COVINA CA 91723

CN116849 DECKER May 15,19,22, 2025 ONTARIO NEWS PRESS

NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF RICHARD BERUMEN FIERRO

Case No. PROVA2500387

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

RICHARD BERUMEN FIERRO

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

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

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 June 18, 2025 at 9:00 AM in Dept. No. F1 located at 17780 ARROW BLVD, FONTANA CA 92335.

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 issu-ance 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.

Attorney for petitioner:

JOHN S MORRIS ESQ SBN 173014

MORRIS & MORRIS

ATTORNEYS AT LAW 150 N SANTA ANITA AVE STE 300 ARCADIA CA 91006 CN116862 FIERRO May 15,19,22, 2025 ONTARIO NEWS PRESS

NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF ZEFERINA MACIAS ACOSTA aka ZEFERINA M. ACOSTA aka ZEFERINA ACOSTA Case No. 25STPB05498

To all heirs, beneficiaries, cred-itors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate, or both, of ZEFERINA MACIAS ACOSTA aka ZEFERINA M. ACOSTA aka ZE-FERINA ACOSTA

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

THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that Linda Vega be ap-pointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the dece-dent.

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 June 12, 2025 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 issu-ance 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:

JAMES L LEESTMA ESQ SBN 207311 LAW OFFICE OF JAMES LAMBERT LEESTMA 7301 TOPANGA CYN BL STE 202 CANOGA PARK CA 91303 CN116874 ACOSTA May 19,22,26, 2025 WEST COVINA PRESS

NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF: TRACEY LEE CAWDREY CASE NO. 25STPB05401 To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the WILL or estate, or both of TRACEY LEE CAWDREY.

A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by LORI D. CLARK in the Superior Court of California, County of LOS ANGELES. THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that LORI D. CLARK 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: 06/11/25 at 8:30AM in Dept. 67 located at 111 N. HILL ST., LOS ANGELES, CA 90012

Attorney for Petitioner J.

Hochman hails success of Prop 36, says retail theft deterrence is goal

By City News Service

Standingoutsidea

7-Eleven store that has been repeatedly targeted by flash-mob and other robberies, District Attorney Nathan Hochman Wednesday hailed what he called the success of the tough-oncrime Proposition 36 passed by voters in November, and touted a new effort to warn potential criminals of penalties they may face.

“It is working? Has Proposition 36 actually resulted in more felony arrests?” Hochman said as he was joined by elected officials and law enforcement officials outside the store. “The answer is yes. Since Dec. 18, we have had over a thousand Proposition 36 arrests for thieves alone.”

The measure increased some shoplifting offenses from misdemeanors to felonies in an effort to crack down on so-called flash-mob robberies and burglaries. A seeming spike in such crimes -- some of which were caught on video and widely televised -- in recent years led to a public outcry for more enforcement efforts.

Hochman said the increased penalties should serve as a warning to potential offenders.

“Our goal is not to fill our prisons with these thieves,” the district attorney said. “If anything, that will be the failure of our efforts. Our goal is to deter these criminals from committing these crimes in the first place, thus saving a

whole lot of victims.

“And when I say victims, I don’t mean just the stores and the store owners -- the quality of our life is degrading.”

The owner of the 7-Eleven store in the 8500 block of West Olympic Boulevard where Hochman made his remarks Wednesday echoed the district attorney’s sentiments, saying retailers have been targeted by repeat offenders with no fear of reprisal.

“Communities have been targeted repeatedly by shoplifters -- not one- time offenders, but the same individuals coming back over and over knowing that there were no real consequences,” Jawad Ursani told reporters. “My store was targeted not once but twice by a smash-andgrab by about over 50 teenagers and a repeat shoplifter who is now detained and will be held accountable by this D.A.’s Office as we speak.”

One of the flash-mob

robberies at Ursani’s store occurred in September of last year, when dozens of teens on bicycles swarmed the location and ransacked the outlet. Video of the crime was widely broadcast.

In hopes of deterring criminals, Hochman announced a campaign to distribute thousands of bright yellow stickers to be posted at businesses, warning potential thieves of the stepped-up criminal penalties for robberies.

Los Angeles City Councilwoman Traci Park stressed the seriousness of the retail theft problem, particularly flash mobs.

“These are group thefts. Smash-and-grabs. Daylight raids on stores big and small,” Park said. “These crimes are damaging property and putting people at risk of serious harm. And for every video that goes viral, there are dozens of incidents that don’t make the news but leave real scars behind.”

following the soil testing:

“Continued restriction of access to affected outdoor areas until further investigation, and if necessary, remediation is complete.

“Ongoing collaboration with local and state health and environmental agencies, including the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health and the Pasadena Public Health Department, to review test results and, if necessary, develop safe, science-based remediation plans that will protect our students and employees.

“Conduct additional soil testing and remediation where needed to maintain and ensure safety.

“Provide individual school notifications, which will include summaries of

findings, maps of affected areas, and clear timelines for resolution.”

PUSD operates 30 campuses.

Fire releases into the environment lead and other heavy metals from electronics, lithium-ion batteries, appliances and other household items.

Children, and also adults

Medical debt relief

who are pregnant, elderly or have existing health conditions, are especially vulnerable to lead and other firerelated toxins.

The Eaton Fire erupted Jan. 7 in Altadena’s Eaton Canyon amid fierce winds, killing 18 people, charring over 14,000 acres and destroying or damaging over 10,000 structures.

the quality of financial assistance programs and debt-collection practices so that those with limited means are not facing financial distress for seeking medical care,” she added.

County officials noted medical debt impacts nearly 882,000 adults in the region or about 1 in 9 residents. An analysis conducted by the county found the following:

-- Medical debt prevalence increased to 11.1% of LA County adults in 2023, up from 10% in 2022;

-- Over half (51%) of adults with medical debt

have taken on credit card debt to pay medical bills;

-- Among those with medical debt, 45% report being unable to afford basic necessities, and 72% skipped needed medical care;

-- Medical debt affects people across insurance statuses, with the uninsured particularly vulnerable (29.4%);

-- About 42% of medical debt burden falls on adults living below 200% of the Federal Poverty Level; and

-- Medical debt significantly impacts Latino, Black, Indigenous, Indian/

Alaska Native, Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander and multiracial adults disproportionately. To help with this program, the county approved an ordinance in September 2024, requiring hospitals in unincorporated areas to report on debt and financial assistance activities. The city of Los Angeles approved a similar policy in April, extending medical debt data collection to 34 additional hospitals within city limits, which officials expect to enhance its medical debt relief program.

Islamic Center of Southern California defaced with graffiti

By City News Service

The Los Angeles Police Department Wednesday was investigating vandalism at the Islamic Center of Southern California as a potential hate crime.

The religious center, located at 434 S. Vermont Ave., was targeted with graffiti sometime between 5:45 a.m. and noon May 11, an LAPD officer told City News Service.

Vandals defaced an exterior wall at the center as well as several nearby trees with drawings of religious symbols, the department said.

“We are grateful to LAPD for their swift and serious response, and we remain in close communication with city officials as this investigation continues,” the

center said in a statement Tuesday.

Officials at the center said they’re planning to hold a news conference about the crime Friday morning with the LAPD and local civic leaders.

“As a house of worship, the Islamic Center of Southern California has always strived to be a space of refuge, dignity, and community for all Angelenos. We are deeply saddened by this act, but not deterred,” the statement continued.

“ ... To our daily congregants, families, students, and visitors -- your safety and peace of mind are paramount. We understand that incidents like this may cause concern, fear, or even strong emotions such as

anger or grief, especially for those who come to ICSC for prayer, learning, or a sense of belonging. ... Please know that enhanced safety measures are in place, and we are working closely with law enforcement to ensure that our campus remains a secure and welcoming space for all.”

Hussam Ayloush, executive director of the Greater Los Angeles Office of the Council on American-Islamic Relations, condemned the crime as “not just an attack on a house of faith,” but also an “assault on the values of diversity and tolerance.”

“Amidst rising antiMuslim rhetoric across the country, this disturbing attempt to intimidate and marginalize our commu-

nity is deeply concerning,” Ayloush said. “Hate and bigotry, against any

group regardless of faith or background, cannot go unchecked.

| Photo courtesy of Islamic Center of Southern California / Facebook

Screenshot from LA County DA via YouTube

Soil testing. | Photo courtesy of Supervisor Kathryn Barger’s office

LA Metro committee advances study for future water taxi during Olympic Games

By City News Service

AMetro committee is calling for a study Thursday to explore the feasibility of a water taxi service to connect San Pedro and Long Beach for the 2028 Summer Olympic and Paralympic Games.

In a unanimous vote Wednesday, the Ad Hoc 2028 Olympic & Paralympic Games Committee approved the motion. If approved by Metro’s Board of Directors at the end of the month, the transit agency would request staff to identify a potential route, conduct an infrastructure assessment for potential docks and terminals to support the service, as well as a financial analysis.

“Last month, the city of Long Beach announced

that they will be hosting 11 sporting events during the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games, making Long Beach a host of the second highest number of sports of any city in the county after the city of Los Angeles,” county Supervisor and Metro Board of Director Chair Janice Hahn said.

“...And if we’re serious about the 2028 Games being transit first, we must make transit safe, accessible, reliable and fun for people, and we can’t only rely on our buses and trains. I have this vision of a water taxi that operates between San Pedro and Long Beach,” she added.

Long Beach Transit already operates two water taxi services: the AquaBus,

which operates within Rainbow Harbor, and the AquaLink, which connects Alamitos Bay to Rainbow Harbor, Hahn’s office stated.

Hahn’s proposed water taxi would expand public

transport connections for San Pedro and surrounding communities, as well as for riders along Metro’s J (Silver) Line, which runs along the El Monte Busway and Harbor Transitway from El Monte to

San Pedro via downtown Los Angeles.

According to Hahn, there’s precedent for such a service, citing an old ferry that used to operate between San Pedro and Terminal Island before the Vincent Thomas Bridge was built. The ferry service, operated by both private and municipal companies, provided transportation for workers, residents, commuters and even some tourists.

Additionally, the city of Los Angeles signed a contract with the Croatia Olympic Committee to host the Croatia House during the 2028 Games, an initiative led by Councilman Tim McOsker, who represents the Harbor Area. These sites will

serve as hubs for that country’s athletes and tourists, and cultural events and watch parties.

“I think water taxi’s time has come, and while this motion is specifically for a water taxi between Long Beach and San Pedro during the Olympics, I know there’s interest to expand the idea of a water taxi across the county, connecting piers on the west side during and even after the Games,” Hahn said.

The motion garnered support from Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, a member of the committee, as well as representatives of San Pedro, including McOsker and the San Pedro Chamber of Commerce, among others.

Last fire-impacted water system in LA region cleared for safe drinking

By City News Service

Astate entity earlier this month cleared the last of nine fire-impacted public water systems to resume delivering safe, clean drinking water to customers.

The State Water Resources Control Board stated May 9 that Las Flores Water Company in Altadena lifted its notice — the last remaining do-not-drink/do-notboil advisory for a fireimpacted system, marking

what officials described as a “critical milestone” in Los Angeles County’s recovery from January’s wildfires.

“After this year’s devastating LA firestorms, the state has been laser-focused on helping communities recover and rebuild,” Yana Garcia, California Secretary for Environmental Protection, said in a statement May 9. “That includes bringing critical water

infrastructure back online. Today’s milestone would not have been possible without the dedication and partnership between local systems and the State Water Board.”

The State Water Board issued nine systems a formal order requiring benzene contamination screening throughout fireimpacted areas, public notification of a drinking water

advisory and remediation of any contamination.

Advisories remained in effect until State Water Board staff confirmed sampling and field verification that contaminant levels meet all state and federal regulatory requirements.

Wildfires caused infrastructure damage, power outages and contamination from smoke, ash or burned

materials.

“The California Association of Mutual Water Companies appreciates the State Water Board’s diligent work in guiding the restoration of water service after our members in Altadena suffered so much damage during the Eaton firestorm,” Karina Cervantes, managing director of CalMutuals, said in a statement.

Jennifer Betancourt Torres, general manager of the Lincoln Avenue Water Company, added: “We wish to thank State Water Board Chair Joaquin Esquivel for personally and promptly surveying the aftermath of the Eaton Fire’s impact on or water systems in Altadena, and galvanizing resources to expedite our return to service for our community.”

LA28 announces Archer as official air taxi provider for Olympic Games

By City News Service

The LA28 organizing committee has partnered with Archer Aviation as the official air taxi provider for the Olympic and Paralympic Games and Team USA with the aim of creating areas around the region where VIPs and fans can take mini-helicopters to and from key venues.

Archer Aviation and LA28 will introduce the company’s Midnight eVTOL, an electric four-passenger aircraft, to Los Angeles. Archer manufactures its aircrafts in facilities located in San Jose and Covington, Georgia.

Midnight is Archer’s piloted electric air taxi designed to carry up to four passengers while producing

less noise and emissions than a traditional helicopter. The eVTOL aircraft has 12 total engines and several propellers, classifying it under the Federal Aviation Administration’s commercial airliners.

“At LA28, we’re building a platform for constant innovation and creativity, which is why we’ve partnered with forward-thinking companies like Archer,” LA28 Chairperson and President Casey Wasserman said in a statement. “Our vision is to fundamentally reimagine the Olympic and Paralympic Games experience, and this partnership represents an incredible opportunity to deliver something unprecedented, showcasing the very

best of what Los Angeles has to offer on the world stage.”

The company is working to build out its network throughout L.A., with so-called vertiports at key venues central to the LA28 Games such as SoFi Stadium in Inglewood and the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. In addition, Archer Aviation intends to create access to visitor hubs such as Los Angeles World International Airport, Hollywood, Orange County and Santa Monica.

“We want to transform the way people get around Los Angeles and leave a legacy that shapes the future of transportation in America. There’s no better time to do that during the LA28 Games,” Adam Gold-

stein, CEO and founder of Archer Aviation, said

a statement.

“I can’t wait to see Midnight

The agreement also includes access to

flying passengers over Los Angeles, embla-

zoned with the Team USA logo and the Olympic Rings and Paralympic Agitos,” Goldstein added.

story-

telling throughout NBCUniversal’s 2026 and 2028 Olympic Games coverage, including moments like the 2028 Opening and Closing Ceremonies in Los Angeles.

Archer has been selected as the Official Air Taxi Provider of the LA28 Olympic and Paralympic Games and Team USA. | Photo courtesy of Archer Aviation

Water taxi in the Netherlands. | Photo by Mike van den Bos on Unsplash