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Conflicts of Interest areCENTRAL Rife Between BASIN Bell Gardens Mayor and MANAGER PAYING Political AGENCYConsultant EMPLOYEES

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

LAST WEEK! Win a $100 Serving Cerritos and ten other surrounding communities • September 25, 2020 • Vol 35, No. 6 • loscerritosnews.net Eureka Burger Card! Was Grateful Hearts Helping Out the Needy During COVID ProjectGift Roomkey See page 16

Allowed by County CERRITOS TRIPLETS HELP THE HOMELESS DURING COVID WRD APPROVES in Artesia Travelodge

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HMG EXCLUSIVE

CONSTRUCTION OF The county has WELL announced the MONITORING program will be winding down next year.

INearly CERRITOS

WITHOUT APPROVAL

Mayor votes on $36,000 contract for vendor who manages her Facebook pageDirector and whoAndrew gave Finance $500 to her campaign.

BY BRIAN HEWS

BY BRIAN HEWS Lakewood~The Water Replenishment District (WRD) embarking on a first proj- proWhen LosisAngeles County Hamilton refuses to submit ectposed to construct new wells as part of to Projecttwo Roomkey - using hotels ďŹ nancial reports for scrutiny.

WRD’s Regional Groundwater Monitorhouse the homeless and the most vulnerBY BRIAN HEWS ingable Program (RGWMP). to contracting COVID-19- a hotel in One well would be in Paramount in the

BY BRIAN HEWS Norwalk was one of the first identified for The City Council of Bell Gardens, like other well will be in Cerritos. housing. many other cities in Los Angeles County, In a phone call WRD President Vera Hews Media Group-Los Cerritos city officials were up in arms placed a ž cent sales tax on the upcoming IN BETWEEN PACKAGING and giving out food donations are Grateful Hearts RoblesNorwalk DeWitt told HMG that the wells Community News has learned that saying they were not consulted by L.A. staff members (l-r) Storehouse Coordinator Lizbeth Garcia, Acquisitions Manager Jeff will be in Progress November Park and Cerritos Park Centralballot.

Basin Finance Director Andrew Perea, Operations Manager Amy Ovando and Executive Director Blair Pietrini.

County to open the hotel in their city so East.

And like many other cities, the City Hamilton has been issuing paychecks to KITS FOR HOMELESS: Cerritos residents Josiah, Jacob and Jared Joseph with LAFD officials voted to impose a temporary Because groundwater, water contained ban Council is going spend taxpayer Central Basintoemployees despitemoney the fact ofďŹ cials display their COVID Kits for the Homeless. They were inspired by paramedic on hotel conversions without city apin deep underground aquifers,prior cannot "to ensure voters arepassed accurately edu- BY ing food assistance fora themselves or LAURIE HANSON that thethe board has not a 2020-’21 Jose Perez and his actions helping the homeless.

FireďŹ ghter Perez, 16-year veteran, be directly observed; WRD must track it catedbudget. and understand the outcome of their their families. recently died after contracting COVID. Photo courtesy of the Joseph family. through deep wells and specialized moniSee ROOMKEY page 14 vote associated with the sales taxto meaThe budget stalemate is due DirecGiving hope to the hurting at a time “We have seen an increase of 42 toring equipment. sure,â€? which against Code tors John is Oskoui andGovernment Bob Apodaca; they when it is most needed is a commupercent the average number of undupliBYnonprofit, TAMMYE MCDUFF teens clients, how to having developserved a business 8314are which states, "It is unlawful forlast any nity defying a court decision from Grateful Hearts, of Los cated 2,392 plan, per See WRD page 14 learn critical thinking skills and learn elected or localnotofficer, including weekstate deliberately attending special Alamitos. Since COVID-19, they are month between April and August,â€? said Jacob and Jared Joseph what it takes to be your own boss. Instead boardor meetings called to approve the or seeingJosiah, any state local appointee, employee, close totheir double the clients seekare making mark. As part of the of baking cupcakes or creating shirts, the14 See HEARTS page budget. to use or permit others to use consultant, curriculum for Los Angeles Urban League Joseph brothers took it to a whole new In addition, amount of paypublic resources forthea actual campaign activity, 2020 Online Biz Camp, these young men level. After holding a family meeting they roll has not an itemare on or personal or been otherapproved purposesaswhich had to turn an idea into a business. decided to give back to the community and the consent calendar during regular board not authorized by law.â€?

Partnering with the Network for develop CoVID Kits for the homeless. meetings, and Hamilton is not submitting All this with less than 45 days until Teaching Entrepreneurship, Biz Camp is Initially the project was made possible

BY BRIAN HEWS election day.

See $&/53"- #"4*/ page 12 a four week summer program that teaches See TRIPLETS page 12

High Speed Car Chase Ends in Norwalk

Area Cities PROP 17 WOULD Lagging in ALLOW PAROLEES Census Response

INTO THE BALLOT BOX.AHOW WOULD study of local area cities on the 2020 census website public.tableau.com THEY VOTE? shows that out of a total

by HMG-CN

The city recently sent out a request for proposal labeling a $36,000 outreach contract “professional services� which precluded the agreement from any kind of formal bidding process. of 482 cities in California, many rank in

BY BALA THENAPPEN According to City Manager Mike the bottom 50% in response rates but are O’Kelly, the city received one response for above the overall response rate for Los This November’s ballot will feature the typical outreach contract, submitted by Angeles County. proposition 17, which would allow Blue Icon Media, which is owned by longThe census has been by outCalifornians on parole for a hindered felony contime political operative Louis Reyes. reachtochallenges amid the pandemic, viction vote. Currently, felons must with The contract was placed on the Sept 14 counting efforts to sentence end Sept.and 30.their complete their prison City Council agenda, with sources telling March,tocensus officials suspended paroleInsentence vote. Could parolees HMG-CN that Mayor Alejandra Cortez fieldelections operations, to state’s protectmost workers swing in the com- from led the charge for the item to be on the the virus.

This included efforts to drop off petitive districts?

CHP AND SHERIFF'S approach suspect after a two hour chase. The man was taken agenda. census forms at households in rural areas The term “parolees� applies to peointo custody without incident. Courtesy FoxPhoenix.

Reyes was a staffer for disgraced forplewith whono aretraditional allowed back into the comaddresses. mer State Senator Ron Calderon who in munityWorkers from prison before their prison didn't return until May 4 as 2014 was indicted on 24 criminal charges BY BRIAN HEWS lice around 3:10 p.m. to report. sentence is scheduled to be completed, part of a phased restart. that alleged he took nearly $100,000 in About one hour later, two officers as longThe as they follow certainrate guidelines national response is 66.1 perbribes in exchange for efforts to influence A man wanted for assault with a found the suspect, tried to pull him over, and reporting requirements. Roughly cent, a minimal increase from mid-June, legislation. He was convicted in 2016. but he took off. deadly weapon was placed into custody 52,000 Californians are expected to be when the response rate was 61.5 percent.

Reyes is also best known for staunch- after leading officers on a high speed The suspect took the 91 freeway to on parole in 2021.

In California, response rates are highly defending indicted former LA County pursuit from Riverside to Norwalk that Anaheim then into Cerritos - driving on California paroleesaverage. should beToexpecter than the national date, 68.6 Assessor John Noguez as the D.A.’s in- wound through Cerritos and Artesia. the shoulder for miles - where he exited ed to lean left as a voting bloc. In 2007, percent of households in our state have vestigation into Noguez was revealed by PRIDE: Reports came that the alon Bloomfield goingand west onemployees Artesia Florida gave 150,000 ex-felons who had ALL ABOUT LOCAL GOVERNMENT City HallinSelďŹ e Daysuspect is a celebration of local government gives responded to the census.

HMG-CN. and residents the opportunity to get out in their community show to offhit their best cameraBoulevard. phone skills while showcasing their local been convicted for less serious offenses legedly used hisand vehicle a former

FIFTH ANNUAL CITY HALL SELFIE DAY COMING FRIDAY AUGUST 14

government buildings. The pictures must begirlfriend's posted to social media using hashtag #cityhallselďŹ e to enter the contest. Story on page 9. vehicle, she called the po-

See CHASE page 13

See BELL GARDENS page 12

See PROP 17 pagepage 4 13 See CENSUS

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Los Cerritos Community News - LosCerritosNews.net

Dirt Already Flying in Hawaiian Gardens City Council Elections

BY TAMMYE MCDUFF Hawaiian Gardens will look to fill three vacancies on their City Council this November. Two of the Council seats will be for a full four year term until November 2024 and one will be for an unexpired term ending November 2022.

Looking to fill the two year term is Alba Bac, Maria Del Rio, Phillip Cabrera and Francisco Noyola.

Councilpersons Hank Trimble, Myra Maravilla and Victor Farfan will face off against Joe Cabrera Zermeno and former Mayor Reynaldo Rodriquez for the four-year terms.

There are questions surrounding Farfan, who was appointed, and if he should be running for the two year seat Get breaking news!

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and not the four year seat.

Sources have told HMG-CN that the City Attorney wrote an opinion indicating it was permissible that he run for the four year seat.

The dirt is already flying; at the City Council meeting held September 22nd, public comments and letters slammed certain City Councilmembers, 52 letters in total, all were first person with no audio or video backup.

Also on November 3rd, voters are being presented a proposition that goes against the City values, Proposition 16 which aims to restore affirmative action in California. Despite the recent political wave in favor of social justice, the measure is not polling very well and residents are calling it racist.

If passed, Prop 16 would repeal 1996’s Proposition 209, which banned the government and public institutions like schools from discriminated or giving preferential treatment based on sex, race, ethnicity and nationality. Prop 209 effectively banned public employers from using affirmative action as it was seen as discriminatory.

Many voters may not even realize that affirmative action is basically illegal in California. The latest poll on Prop 16 is that 31 percent of Californians are in favor, 47 percent oppose and 22 percent are unsure.

For further information regarding Prop 16 and other measures visit voterguide.ca.gov

Cerritos' Roots Café Celebrates Back to School

SEPTEMBER 25, 2020

BY TAMMYE MCDUFF The Cerritos High School Associated Student Body, along with Roots Café held a special ‘Welcome Back’ for teachers and staff on Friday, September 18th.

Angellina Train, ASB member requested HMG help cover the event, “We would like to shed some light on this event. We want to show our appreciation to the school staff and our teachers who work hard, especially during this difficult and unprecedented time. With news coverage, we hope to inspire other schools to do something similar, just to say thank you.”

The owner Peter Park is a former graduate of Cerritos High School & joined with ASB to offer a drink, any drink to teachers or staff members for free that day.

Roots Café opened three years ago; Park named it Roots because he was returning to his roots.

Pandemic Not Holding Down Home Prices

BY BRIAN HEWS The shortage of inventory in the Southern California market caused yet another record for housing prices which saw the area climb 12% to reach $600,000 in August.

One cause is certainly interest rates with the average rate on a 30-year fixedrate mortgage now below 3%.

Currently, the mortgage industry is booming with hiring up 20% across all sectors and will remain that way for months to come.

The other is the need for more space during the pandemic which has helped the real estate industry across the country, and exacerbating the inventory shortage in California.

And that shows in the size of homes that have sold; sales of less than $500,000 homes fell nearly 40%, those over $1 million showed a 22% increase.

Median home price rose 12% In Los Angeles County to nearly $693,000.

Median home price in Riverside County rose 13.1% to $441,000.

The median home price rose 9.4% to $640,000 in San Diego County.

Orange County saw an 11.6% increase in the median to $800,000.

In San Bernardino County, the median home price rose nearly 10% to $380,000.

Ventura County realized a 8.1% to over $647,000.

SEPTEMBER 25, 2020

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Downey Soroptimists Honored by City Council

THE DOWNEY CITY COUNCIL recognized Soroptimist International in celebrating the 100th anniversary of the 19th amendment giving women the right to vote. Gigi Saab received the commendation alongside Soroptimist President Carrie Rios.

BY TAMMYE MCDUFF In a special presentation, the Downey City Council recognized Soroptimist International [SI] and the celebration of the 100th anniversary of the 19th Amendment with a commemoration. SI is a business women's philanthropic organization that was formed and inspired by the 1920 ratification of the 19th amendment of the U.S. Constitution allowing women in America the right to vote for the first time.

Formed in 1921 in Oakland, California, at a time when women were not permitted to join service organizations, Soroptomist loosely translates from Latin, meaning ‘best for women’.

Each year a President’s Appeal is announced. President Elect Sharon Fisher has invited Soroptimists around the world to join her on a two-year road trip to find and empower women and girls who have

been left behind. The Appeal will raise awareness of human rights challenges that prevent women and girls from reaching their full potential.

Fishers stated, “The Road to Equality Appeal, 2019-2021, will focus on issues already the focal point of much of the SI advocacy work, such as child marriage, the rights of older women, human trafficking, migration and domestic violence.

A grassroots project for each topic will bring stories from the field that we can share, allowing Soroptimists to turn up the volume of our global voice.”

What is an interesting note on history, the adoption of the 19th Amendment rested on a single vote. Tennessee State Representative Harry Thomas Burn, Sr. He had planned to vote ‘nay’ on the amendment, but ultimately voted ‘yay’ because he found a letter in his pocket to him from his mother telling him to be a good boy and vote yes on the amendment.

Los Cerritos Community News - LosCerritosNews.net

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to meet changing consumption patterns.

A new report warns that the current their main source of information and headwinds facing community In addition, to further aid ethnic and health crisis may accelerate the closing their connection to the community. newspapers, the Legislature gave news community news publishers, the25, 44 Los LosCerritos CerritosCommunity CommunityNews News--LosCerritosNews.net LosCerritosNews.net Toadvertise advertise call562-407-3873 562-407-3873 SEPTEMBER 2020 To call AUGUST 7, 2020 Keeping news publishers strong publishers a one-year exemption, but Legislature should prioritize these is in the interest not only of the when the extension ends in December newspapers are especially vulnerable to of community newspapers across the outlets for public outreach ads. Not press, but uctuations of our greater democracy.

2020, publishers will be forced economic and catastrophic nation. These outlets are critical to only will this help provide residents When they lacklike a steady ow of to classify newspaper carriers consequences, closure.

These our When they canas no BYdemocracy.

DANIEL SUAREZ JR. information, communities suffertoa stay slew employees. with access to key local resources and small publishers are scrambling longer afford to continue reporting, of ailments, from declining citizen This signiďŹ cant change to a business public health information, it will help communities a vital Poor air lose quality andwatchdog gaseous and odors aoat by cutting coverage, furloughing engagement to increased corruption and practice that has been in place for more these community outlets bridge the government business is hidden from from a Compton chemical spill did not reporters and eliminating print declining government performance. than 100 years will have the effect ďŹ nancial gap without any additional publication on certain days of the week. public view. impede the volunteers and faculty of

BY DAVID CHAVERN Fewer people run for ofďŹ ce and fewer of increasing the cost of newspaper state funding.

They are expediting their transition Rightwho now,handed many communities Umoja, out free textbooks, people vote. delivery by as much as 85%, a burden throughout sufferingschool to digital-ďŹ rst publishing and exploring If California’s lawmakers don’t backpacks California and otherareessential You’d be hard pressed to ďŹ nd an At a time when California’s thatloss is unsustainable for small publishers the oftotheir watchdogs.

More than act soon to help community news supplies students via curbside pickup new methods for providing information industry that hasn’t been negatively unemployment rate isasalarming, lack that have also recently been hit with to their communities more readers aon dozen have suspended Sept.newspapers 10. publishers, they risk losing a vital of legislative action to extend the advertising revenue declines of 30% to impacted by the coronavirus pandemic. operations in the Umoja, last ďŹ ve months, with a turn to these methods during the The name, comes from local voice for their constituents – and exemption for newspaper carriers 50% as a resulttoofclose the coronavirus crisis. crisis.

But when it comes to news publishing, However, cutting print days more planning in ‘unity.’ the coming carrier routes will be eliminated.

Kiswahili word meaning themselves. will cause even more job losses. If Local publishers have sounded the the virus has accelerated some difďŹ cult months.

According to academic counselor and disenfranchises speciďŹ c demographic To save California newspapers, at a David Chavern is president publishers are forced to limit circulation alarm California lawmakers, but trends, especially for small community Lastwith year, the California Legislature Umoja Coordinator, Dr. Shelia Hill, the groups, such as senior citizens and minimum, the Legislature must extend and CEO of News Media Alliance, areas for ďŹ nancial reasons, they will so far, Assembly they have not to publishers. passed Billtaken 5 because for any howsteps program is exceptional it teaches other residents who don’t have internet the exemption to AB 5, which willlargest the news industry’s have to(6%) reconďŹ gure address the devastating impact this will access And now yet another blow to small or don’tcarrier have aroutes, reliable businesses workers asrelevant and advisesclassify from a culturally poprovide newspapers with more time trade organization, david@ reduce home deliveries and cease daily have on both readers. newspapers in California is about to be internet connection (up to 25% of rural contractors or publishers employees.and In recognition sition. to get past COVID-related advertising publication, which means thousands of newsmediaalliance.org.

Small community and ethnic dealt, unless the state Legislature acts of the inapplicability the between legislation The distribution of went 5:30 communities). Through losing their declines and to adjust their operations soon. to the news industry and the economic p.m. to 7 p.m. and was executed right local newspaper, these groups are losing *+2 +2 $041 ' 100) to meet changing consumption patterns. *+2 +2 $041 ' 100) A new report warns that the current headwinds facing community on schedule despite the minor eclipse their main source of information and *+2 +2 $041 ' 100) In addition, to further aidthe ethnic 2009 and 2010 voted in 2012and presiand Democrats ex-felons who health crisis may accelerate the closing )01 3*( 02 (11+302 their connectionamong to the community. newspapers, thefrom Legislature gavebreaking news caused by ash the record )01 3*( 02 (11+302 THE UMOJA Success Program at Cerritoscommunity College prepares a free college student news publishers, the dential election, much smaller than the are not Black. )01 3*( 02 (11+302 Keeping news publishers strong publishers afires. one-year exemption, but California 0..4/+37 (62 PROP 17 care-package filled with a binder, notebook and miscellaneous school supplies.

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Continued from page 1 OF COPPER REPIPING: electorate that year. fornia is disproportionately Black and !

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2%-(2 &(11+302/(62 /(3 Family Owned & Operated %.,-8 7/(' 1(2%4(' felons roughly matched partisan trends # 1,000,000 votes - prop 17 would hardly according to the California Public Policy An easy to navigate interactive map observed in the general public, with WE USE

#tend to vote Democrat by a • Fast & Friendly Crew 9 %34 2,(/'-8 2(7 # make a dent in statewide election reInstitute, connects viewers with the Festival’s many the overwhelming majority of Black

• Same Day Service 9 !%.( %8 !(26,&( sults. Even at the local level, where prop signiďŹ cant margin. attractions, including movies, George ex-felons registering as Democrats and a

EQUIPMENT Newnam's “Casa Calaveras" experience, a However, most research also sug17 has the potential to be most relevant • Free Estimates 9 2(( 34,.%4(3 roughly even split between Republicans photo/music montage; music from cumbia gests that voter turnout amongst papolitically, only a handful of races were • All Types of Repair 9 -- "81(3 0) (1%,2 to juke n’ jive, ballet folklorico perforrolees would be very low. The Florida decided by less than 10,000 votes in OFF CALL INFORMATION

" mances, DIY arts & crafts, shopping, and WITH THISFOR AD! recent years. study mentioned above found that, photo galleries from festivals. lospast cerritos among those eligible to vote, only 16 Currently, 19 states allow parolees OR community Special this year are two new original percent of black ex-felons and 12 perto vote.

The passage of prop 17 would newspaper art exhibits: a Dia de Los Muertos themed cent of all other felons voted in the 2016 be perhaps the most progressive shift in CALL FOR A FREE ESTIMATE collection curated by the Stay Gallery, and election.

California’s electoral policy since the 3099 E. Pacific Coast Highway %&,),& 0%34 ,*+7%8 (562) 924-2565 • with (714) 527-5300 an interview urban artist Martin San20014 State Road, CERRITOS Another study found that only ~13 state began allowing ex-felons (who had Follow us!

LONG BEACH

chez that includes @cerritosnews a private, guided tour of BEFORE & Insured • California Contractors Lic. #458625 completed their prison sentence/parole) percent of ex-felons in Iowa who had MOST MAJORAFTER CARDS ACCEPTED Bonded !"

CREDIT " ! " his studio/gallery.

S E W E R L O CAT I O N • WA L L & F L O O R H E AT E R S • C I R C U L AT I N G P U M P S gotten their right to vote restored in to vote in 1974.

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Prior to November 1st, the Downey Civic Theater will upload links, clips, and tips to social media platforms with “all you need to know� to make, bake, buy, and decorate your own home for a traditional Dia de Los Muertos family gathering, from a recipe for pan de muertos, to tutorials for face painting, altar making, and how to make and decorate calaveras (sugar skulls) and where to buy the molds and decorations.

Were you at past Festivals? The Theatre is collecting your selfies, pictures and memories. They will post them on the virtual Festival site. Upload your photos to social media and tag #DOWNEYDDLM Call to Community Performers: Send in your videos of performances: dance,

music, and art. If chosen you could be featured at the virtual Festival! A performer application must be completed and submitted along with a video link to ashleyddlm@gmail.com.

Since 2013, the Festival has been recognized for its authenticity and wide range of how Dia de Los Muertos is expressed through art.

The Festival is presented by the City of Downey, and produced by Downey Theatre staff.

The Downey Theatre is an area landmark that has presented top-notch drama, dance, and music to the City for the past 50-years.

Join them November 1st the Day of the Dead at http://ddlm.downeytheatre.org

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NASA Series 'The Moon' at Cerritos Library LOCAL BUSINESSES RECEIVE ASSISTANCE FROM THE NORWALK LOAN PROGRAM

newspapers are especially vulnerable to economic fluctuations and catastrophic consequences, closure. These

BY TAMMYE like MCDUFF small publishers are scrambling to stay afloat by cutting Observe coverage, International thefurloughing Moon Night reporters and eliminating print is a time to come together with fellow Moon publication on certain of worldwide. the week. enthusiasts and curious days people They are expediting their transition Everyone on Earth is invited to learn about to digital-first publishing and exploring lunar science and exploration, September new 26th.methods for providing information to their communities more readers Cerritos Library isaspleased to present turn to these methods during the a new virtual program as part of NASA's crisis.

However, cutting print days is the Universe of Learning.

This program disenfranchises specific demographic second in a series that will cover topics such groups, such as senior citizens and as the sun, constellations and exo-planets. other who don’t In residents ‘The Moon’ video,have Mr. internet Eric disaccess or don’t have a reliable cusses (6%) interesting facts about the moon internet (up to 25%aoffun rural and Ms. connection Rochelle demonstrates craft communities).

Through losing their that shows the phases of the moon and how local newspaper, theseJournal. groups are losing to keep a Moon Phase Additional their main source of information and educational resources, including craft matheir connection to and the community. terials, a book list science databases publishers strong are Keeping available news through the Cerritos Library's is in the interest not only of the website. press, of our greater democracy.

Thebut Moon observation journal gives atWhen they lack a steady tendees the opportunity to flow recordofand study information, communities sufferwith a slew moon phases for an entire month links of ailments, from declining citizen to NASA’s moon and exploration sites engagement increased corruption anda along with a to lunar crossword puzzle and declining government performance. link to NASA’s micro observatory robotic Fewer people run for office and fewer telescope network. people vote.

This program is supported by NASA's At a time when California’s Universe of Learning, in partnership with unemployment rate is alarming, lack Smithsonian Affiliations.

The first in the of legislative action to extend the exemption for newspaper carriers will cause even more job losses. If publishers are forced to limit circulation areas for financial reasons, they will have to reconfigure carrier routes, reduce home deliveries and cease daily publication, which means thousands of

11515 PIONEER ARTESIA BLVD. BLVD. 17623 carrier routes will be eliminated.

ARTESIA ARTESIA To save California newspapers, at a 562-402-1000 562-402-1000 minimum, the Legislature must extend fax 562-402-2471 fax 562-402-2471 the exemption to AB 5, which will ARTESIA provide newspapers with more time 176th ST CERRITOS LIBRARY is presenting a new virtual program as part of NASA's Universe to get past COVID-related advertising of Learning.

Moontheir program is the second in an ongoing series. declines andThis to adjust operations to meet changing consumption patterns.

GRIDLEY Stan Winters, R.Ph In addition, to further aid featured ethnic and series ‘Our Solar System’ a video telephone. After receiving an application, community the we call library staff will schedule an appointment exploring thenews solarpublishers, system in which WELCOME RELIEF: 88required King Chinese Legislature should prioritize thesethe sun, for home with interesting facts about the person to bring their docu- Fast Food & Donut was awarded over $4,000 under Norwalk's program. outlets for public ads.ANot constellations and outreach exo-planets. colorful ments to a table outside the Library for reonly will this form help to provide free printable create residents a solar system view, and will then issue the new library with access to keyalong local with resources and mobile is included recommendcard if all the information is complete. public it will help ed bookhealth list forinformation, further exploration.

The Cerritos Library also offers a Side- help prevent the spread of COVID-19 or STAFF REPORT these community outlets bridge the the walk Service for cardholders. The pick-up costs associated with requirements The Cerritos Library now offers IED WITH under SF TI SA T O N t Norwalk, CA – COVID-19 has financial gap without any additional public the ability to register for a new service is offered from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., current health department guidelines.

RRENT HOUSE URtheCU YO greatly impacted throughout state funding.

Cerritos Library card while the library is Monday through businesses Friday. Library staff Loans have potential to be forgiven.

T? YMEN the following nation. all workplace policies and PAqualify If California’s closed to the public.lawmakers Instructionsdon’t are posted are To for the Business Loan Recognizing thatemployee small businesses are Program, a business must: act soonlibrary’s to help website. community news on the Applications can practices to protect and public G BANK TURNED YOU t BI the backbone of our neighborhoods, and publishers, risk losing Be located in Norwalk, employ be submittedthey online, by maila vital or over the health. that a healthy business environment is DOWN? local voice for their constituents – and 20 staff or less (including the owner) essential to the well-being of the comthemselves. munity, the City of Norwalk launched the and possess a valid Norwalk Business I canAdditional help you with that.

License. requirements are David Chavern is president Economic Recovery Stimulus Program. detailed at Norwalk.org and CEO of News Media Alliance, The program consists of one time Allensworth For more DeAnna information, please call the the news industry’s largest loans of up to $35,000 at 0% interest.

Broker Advisor at Community Development-Department trade organization, david@ Funds must be used for lease/rent/mortnewsmediaalliance.org. gage, and/or utility payments, supplies to (562) 929-5951.

Phone: 562-533-5600

are not Black.

STAFF REPORT The population of parolees in California is disproportionately Black and At their Sept. 22 regular evening meetLatino.

In 2016, 26% of California’s ing, Lakewood City Council Members parole population was Black (even welcomed their newest colleague, longtime though only 6% of California’s overall resident and city Planning Commissioner population was) and 40% of California’s Vicki Stuckey, to her council seat. parole population was Latino. In CaliStuckey thanked "the people of Lakefornia, Black voters and Latino voters, wood for all the warmth and well-wishes according to the California Public Policy I’ve received the past two weeks since I Institute, tend to vote Democrat by a was appointed. Your support really means significant margin. a lot to me.” She also recognized and However, most research also sugthanked her parents and close friends and gests that voter turnout amongst pafamily in the audience. Lakewood City rolees would be very low. The Florida Council meetings are now held in the large study mentioned above found that, ballroom at The Centre, which can safely among those eligible to vote, only 16 socially distance audience members. percent of black ex-felons and 12 per“I’m going to devote myself to being cent of all other felons voted in the 2016 the best council member possible…repreelection. senting everyone in our community…and Another study found that only ~13 working with my council colleagues and percent of ex-felons in Iowa who had our residents to keep Lakewood in great gotten their right to vote restored in

2009 and 2010 voted in the 2012 presiminimize the need for electric lighting dential election, much smaller than the ~55% turnout rate observed in the whole and create energy savings.

Through meticulous planning, WRD electorate that year. reduced waste and maximized recycling Given the low turnout typically observed among ex-felons and the during the construction of ARC by diDemocratic party’s dominance in recent verting 75 percent of construction waste VICKI STUCKEY all smilesNewsom at her first Lakewood City Council meeting. Stuckey statewide elections -isGovernor from the landfill. and Governor Brown each offorthe thanked "the people of won Lakewood all the warmth and well-wishes I’vereceive received."

“WRD is excited to a Platilast 3 gubernatorial elections by over num Certification from LEED for our Al1,000,000 votes - prop 17 would hardly bert Robles Center for Water Recycling shape aand make our city the best itrepossi- ments, including anonymously if you premake dent in statewide election and Environmental Learning,” said WRD bly can be." at the local level, where prop fer, at www.lakewoodcity.org/TownHall. sults.

Even President Vera Robles DeWitt. “Many Thethe council agenda formost the evening 17 has potential to be relevantinThe topics of discussion at each Town eco-conscious decisions were made durcluded an update City of Manager Thad- Hall politically, only afrom handful races were will be: (1) have you experienced ing the construction of ARC. This project deus McCormack on the city'svotes Community decided by less than 10,000 in or seen acts of racism or discrimination Dialogue work. Online town halls are com- will serve millions of people through our recent years. in Lakewood, and (2) tell us about your 19 Sept. states26 allow ing Currently, this Saturday, fromparolees 3 to 5 p.m. water recycling facility and educational thoughts or recommendations for how we to passage of prop would andvote. nextThe Wednesday, Sept.

3017 from 6 to 8 exhibits.” can build the good in Lakewood ARC onalso offersthings a state-of-the-art be perhaps the most progressive shift in p.m. make our city that a positive example of a learning center immerses visitors California’s electoral policy thefirst and The deadline to sign up since for the community creating harmonious racial restate began allowing ex-felons (who had town hall is Wednesday, Sept. 23 at 2 p.m. into an interactive educational experience completed stronger focusedand on even the history of community/law water in the reand Friday, their Sept.prison 25 at 2sentence/parole) p.m. for the Sept. lations to 1974. gion and therelations. importance of groundwater.

30 vote townin hall.

Sign up or leave written com- enforcement

Stuckey Joins Lakewood Council, City Will Hold Virtual Town Halls and Democrats among ex-felons who

WRD

Continued from page 1 This project is made possible through a partnership with the United States Geological Survey (USGS). WRD’s partnership with the USGS saves ratepayer funds.

WRD has been monitoring groundwater in the Central and West Coast Basins for over 50 years. This monitoring program is integral to WRD’s work and consists of a network of more than 300 monitoring wells at 60 locations throughout the District.

The new wells will be installed and drilled approximately 2,100 feet deep.

The wells will provide comprehensive data of groundwater levels and quality in aquifers within the Montebello Forebay.

The Forebay is vital to Southern Los Angeles County’s water supply. The 43 cities within WRD’s jurisdiction use about

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250,000 acre-feet (82 billion gallons) of water annually. The Forebay conserves 150,000 acre-feet (48.9 billion gallons) each year. WRD employs the most advanced technology to maintain high-quality water for millions of people in Los Angeles County.

“The Water Replenishment District always strives to be proactive in monitoring groundwater quality” said WRD President Vera Robles DeWitt, representing District 5 and the City of Paramount. “The construction of these two wells is an investment in our future to create a drought-resilient and locally-sustainable water supply.”

Director Allen, representing District 3 and the City of Cerritos, added “WRD is proud of its commitment to delivering quality water to pumpers and residents in our region. These new wells support WRD’s mission to protect and preserve high quality groundwater.”

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Metro Deploys First 60foot Zero Emission Bus

Metro) has deployed its first zero emisNews When sion electric bus on the G Line in the San You The Want It Fernando Valley deployment is the first of 40 electric buses that will be put into service by the end of 2020.

“Even as we confront the immediate challenge of COVID-19, we are making a long-term investment in a healthier, more HEWS M with E D I Athe GROUP sustainable future delivery of this first electric bus on the G Line,” said Los Winner of Eight L.A. Press Club Awards 2012-2015 Angeles Mayor and Metro Board Chair Eric Garcetti.

The electric buses cost $1.15 million each in a total project valued at over $80 million. This project includes the deployment of the electric buses and associated charging equipment and infrastructure improvements. The new buses will be capable of recharging at various points along the G Line (Orange).

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Los Cerritos Community News - LosCerritosNews.net

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SEPTEMBER 25, 2020

EEKE! Spider Pavilion at Natural History Museum

BY TAMMYE MCDUFF

THE SPIDER PAVILION features several hundred orb weaver spiders in an outdoor enclosure filled with plants and spacious pathways that allow visitors to safely connect with nature.

Just in time to give you the heebie jeebies, the Natural History Museum will open their seasonal outdoor Spider Pavilion beginning October 24th.

The Spider Pavilion features several hundred orb weaver spiders in an outdoor enclosure filled with plants and spacious pathways that allow visitors to safely connect with nature. Visitors can walk among spiders and their amazing webs, observe habitats that are home to tarantulas, wolf spiders and jumping spiders. Visitors can also talk with educators about the spiders.

Along the way you will see a variety of spectacular webs, including those of the garden spider which can range up to three meters in diameter.

The spiders in the Pavilion present no danger to people. ‘To a spider, you are Godzilla,” says Forest Urban, Manager of NHM’s live invertebrate program, “most don’t even know you are around."

Some of their star spiders on display include the Silver Argiope, which folds its

eight legs into four so it can sit in an ‘X’ shape. Also known as Silverback Spiders, they create intricate, cottony zigzag pattern in their webs known as stabilimentum, which keeps birds from flying through them. If you pay attention you might be able to catch the Goldenrod Crab Spider change color from yellow to pink depending on the flower on which it sits.

Pavilion staff collect these amazing spinners from the swamps of Louisiana to the jungles of southeast Asia forming a world wide web, of sorts at the Pavilion.

NHM has implemented CoVID related health and safety protocols in accordance with the Los Angeles County Public Health Department. Measures include limiting the number of people inside the pavilion, requiring advance timed-ticket reservations, mandatory face coverings and signage to enforce physical distancing.

The Spider Pavilion will be open until November 29. Tickets go live on Monday October 5 at https://nhm.org/experiencenhm/exhibitions-natural-history-museum/ spider-pavilion.

Crime Summaries

La Mirada

Cerritos

Residents reported hearing gunshots near the intersection of El Moro Ave. and Adoree St. No injuries were reported during the incident. The case is still under investigation.

A victim was assaulted during a domestic incident on the 16000 block of Jalon Rd. The known suspect is still at large. The victim refused medical treatment for his injuries.

September 14-20

Aggravated Assault

9/14/20 166th St/Bloomfield Ave. An adult with a handgun- White chevy van (victim) was stopped at a red light. Suspect stopped next to him and yelled racist remarks at victim. Suspect then pointed a handgun at the victim, suspect fled when light turned green.

Burglary Other

9/15/20 12200 Blk Artesia Blvd. at a bank front glass door shattered 9/19/20 12900 Park Plaza Dr., store, display case removed large quantity of air pods taken.

Grand Theft

9/18/20 11500 Blk. South St., store, purse, iphone stolen.

Grand Theft Auto

9/19/20 Blk. Norwalk Bl. Honda not recovered 9/15/20 13500 Blk Village Dr. 2017 Toyota, not recovered.

Vehicle Burglary

9/17/20 10900 Blk Alondra Bl., restaurant 2007 Dodge, driver side door/pried, stole tool bag, misc tools.

9/20/20 12600 Blk Artesia Bl., apartment, 2018 BMW, front passenger window shattered, stole cash, shoes, lunch pail.

9/21/20 12600 Blk Artesia Bl, apartment, 2019 Dodge no sign of forced entry, stolr police badge, i.d. card.

Aggravated Assault

Residential Burglary

A toolbox and handgun were reported stolen from an attached garage on the 15000 block of Barnwall St.

Other Structure Burglary

Two window smash burglaries were reported on the 13200 block of Marquardt Ave. A suspect was detained and arrested at the scene.

Vehicle Burglary

An early morning window smash burglary was reported on the 16400 block of Omally Ct.

Grand Theft

A daytime theft of a catalytic converter was reported on the 14400 block of Hardaway Dr. An overnight theft of a catalytic converter was reported on the 13900 block of El Moro Ave.

Grand Theft Auto

A commercial van was reported stolen on the15700 block of Valley View Ave. A sedan was reported stolen on the 15500 block of Calverton Dr.

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Local Company Says Recent Earthquake a Wakeup Call

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BY TA

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA had major wakeup calls last year, when a whopping 7.1magnitude earthquake in July came on the heels of a 6.4 temblor in desert area near Ridgecrest, a similar quake in a more urban area could have been devastating.

LOS ANGELES — A 4.5 magnitude earthquake on the Puente Hills fault jolted much of Los Angeles and Orange counties Friday, raising concerns about the volatility of this seismic threat to Southern California.

Considered far more deadly than the infamous San Andreas, the Puente Hills thrust fault has the capacity to kill more people and cause more damage because it lies under vulnerable older neighborhoods and dangerous concrete buildings, and produces heavy reverberations that can be felt over a wide area.

The United States Geological Survey estimates that a magnitude 7.5 earthquake along that fault could kill up to 18,000 people and cause up to $250 billion in damage – devastation that would only be experienced with an 8.0 quake along the San Andreas.

“This relatively modest September 19 Puente Hills quake is a reminder of much more serious damage that can be inflicted by lesser known earthquake faults that riddle our area,” says Optimum Seismic Chief Operating Officer Ali Sahabi, an expert in resilience and sustainability.

Los Angeles County ranks as the nation’s No. 1 region for earthquake damage and loss, according to the USGS. A recent study at U.C. Berkeley performed by the CGS supported that finding, ranking potential damage in Southern California higher than that of any other part of the state, including San Francisco.

Estimates for potential damage along other Southern California earthquake faults include: $29 billion from a 6.8 event on the Whittier fault; $49 billion from a 6.9 magnitude quake on the Newport-Inglewood fault; $30 billion from a 7.1 magnitude event along the Palos Verdes fault; and $24 billion for a 6.7 event on the Verdugo fault.

An estimated 300,000 structures could be damaged in a 7.8 earthquake along the better-known San Andreas fault, according to the USGS. That’s as many as one in every 16 buildings in the region.

Seismologists and structural engineers have identified specific types of buildings that are most likely to be damaged in a major earthquake. These include: •Soft-story structures built before 1978 •Unreinforced Masonry built before 1933 •Concrete Tilt-up built before 1980 •Non-Ductile Concrete built before 1978 •Steel moment frame built before 1996 Not only could a major quake cause costly property damage or trigger lawsuits, loss of income can also occur when commercial property is damaged to the point where it is no longer habitable. This can create severe financial hardship for property owners who lose their monthly rental income, and simultaneously face the costs of recovery coupled with ongoing monthly payments on their original mortgage.

California’s Earthquake Risks Los Angeles is not the only California region at risk.

More than 30 years after the devas-

tating Loma Prieta earthquake of 1989, a USGS geologist called the Bay Area a “tectonic time bomb,” and the head of U.C. Berkeley’s Seismological Lab warned that “Loma Prieta was not the big one” — that an even more destructive quake is waiting to strike.

Southern California had major wakeup calls last year, when a whopping 7.1magnitude earthquake in July came on the heels of a 6.4 temblor in desert area near Ridgecrest, a relatively undeveloped area.

A similar quake in a more urban area could have been devastating.

Lurking just beneath the Long Beach harbor is a newly awakened giant: the Wilmington Blind-Thrust fault, which was long dormant but has recently shown new activity that could spark a destructive 6.4magnitude quake locally, or trigger the nearby San Andreas to produce an even larger temblor reaching in the 7 magnitudes.

San Diego also faces serious earthquake risks. The Rose Canyon Fault runs right through the city — from the Silver Strand to La Jolla — snaking its way under lofty skyscrapers, commercial districts and apartment buildings that draw tens of thousands of people each day. Seismologists agree that Rose Canyon, while relatively inactive, has the capacity for a 7.0-magnitude quake – larger and more destructive than Loma Prieta and Northridge.

If such an earthquake does strike San Diego, the damage estimates range between $124 million and $13 billion because many of the area’s buildings are older and built under outdated codes.

Good News California in 2019 rolled out its early warning system, designed to save lives by giving people about 20 valuable seconds to prepare before an earthquake strikes. A newly released phone app will enable the Office of Emergency Services to broadcast warnings throughout the state, should a major quake be detected.

Optimum Seismic is taking a lead role in presenting a series of webinars using the theme “The Resilience Advantage” beginning in October to educate businesses to the many actions they can take to protect their buildings, assets and employees from earthquake risks. These webinars will be presented in cooperation with the Los Angeles County Business Federation (BizFed), the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce and other leading business organizations.

“Preparation is the key to resilience,” Sahabi said. “Educating ourselves about our earthquake risks and vulnerabilities is the first step to guarding against it.”

State and local governments continue to identify vulnerable buildings that may be significantly damaged or collapse in a major earthquake. This includes some 600 structures recently pinpointed on college campuses up and down the coast.

And in the Los Angeles region, more than 2,500 soft-story apartment buildings have been retrofitted.

He with a day A on so hash t downe M asking “I wan City H NEW NORMAL: PPE vending machine at LAX offers everything the traveller needs, take a sMake even N95 masks. The machines offer touch-free payment options.

Th stand KIDS can begin exploring by watching a fun video which includes Smokey the Bear.

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STAFF REPORT brary, Justin Erbacci, the airport’s chief ex- Twitte what is the new normal and United 240that milBY In BRIAN HEWS ecutiveStates officer,there saidare in aroughly statement another nod to the battle against the lion 9-1-1 calls? If an emergency should the machines are part of the airport’s coronavirus, travelers passing Parents need to check out through ocfa.org/ occur, does your child know when to call efforts to keep passengers safe though SafetyPrograms/KidsCorner.

The can infor- 9-1-1?

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Group and PepsiCo Beverages North facial-covering you know thatpolicy. a child can drown Downloadbale resources include, toryDid America to install the machines in areas than two inches of water? What in both English and Spanis, family fire in less Some of the prices include: on the check, departures level inside terminals safety smoke alarm calendar, fire does your child know about water safety?

• Digital thermometer — $9.99 1, 2, 4,word 5, 6 and 7 and the Tom Bradley OCFA understands and sees firsthand safety search, wildfire maze, home N95 maskof —having $6.99 these conversaInternational Terminal in the pre-sefire maze, fire academy coloring sheet, the •importance cuirty areas. disposable fire engine coloring sheet, fire truck color- tions• Two-pack with your of children.

Kidsface Corner is offer a touch-free payment ing The sheet,units firefighter gear coloring sheet, amasks place — where pre-school and elementary $4.50 option that accommodates OCFA helicopter coloring tap-to-pay sheet, OCFA aged children can learn the importance • Ten-pack of nitrile gloves — $7.99 arson dog or coloring sheet, disaster credit card mobile-payment plat- pre- of fire safety, preparing for emergenFour-ounce of hand cies•and how to becontainer water safe.

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ABCUSD To Hold Free Flu Shot Clinics However, as of August 4, just 60.7%

STAFF REPORT

ABUSD NEWSand SERVICE Nationwide in California as a whole, responses to the 2020 Cen21,as2020 - The susSeptember are on track, more thanABC 62% of Unified School District Health Services households have responded online or Department partnering withreceived healthcare by phone, orisby mail if they agencies and local colleges bring a paper questionnaire in thetomail orfree on flu shots to the community.

Anyone age their doorstep. nineHowever, and up who healthyimportant enough tothat reit isisvitally ceive a flu shot may get one. The clinics everyone be counted. Results from the will be at the following dates: 2020 Census inform planning and fundWednesday, September 30, 2020 ing decisions for such critical public 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. services as hospitals and health care, Artesia High School emergency and disaster response – and 12108 E. Del Amo Blvd., Lakewood. schools and education programs. In fact, Wednesday, October 7, 2020 census results will shape decisions about 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. how billions of dollars in federal funds Burbank Elementary School flow into communities each 17711 Roseton Ave., Artesia. year for the next decade.

of Hawaiian Gardens residents have reWednesday, October 21, 2020 sponded among the state’s 480 incorpo1:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. rated cities. And for every person who Hawaiian Elementary does not respond, the School California Depart12350 E. 226th St., Hawaiian Gardens. ment of Finance estimates that state and local governments will lose out on Hoaga Presbyterian Hospital, $1,000 year in federal fundingHealth tied to Ministries Department, has donated the population for the next 10 years. vaccines.

Nursing fromresponse Biola Now more thanstudents ever, your University and Azusa Pacific University to the 2020 Census matters. Respondwill be assisting at the clinics. ing is easier than ever. For the first “I expect this to be a difficult flu time, you can respond online. And the season, and we need to make sure we are census asks just a few questions and doing all we can to keep our communitakes only a few minutes to respond. ties well,” said Patty Dupont-Tyler, Head So, if you haven’t responded, please do of Health Services at ABCUSD. “We are so today, and urge your family, friends, grateful to Hoag Hospital for donating andflu neighbors to respond too. For more the vaccine and to the universities asinformation, visit https://2020census. sisting us at the clinics gov/en/ways-to-respond.html.

8

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SEPTEMBER 25, 2020

Create New Garden Beds This Fall

BY MELINDA MYERS

RENTING A POWER EDGER will make creating a large garden bed easier and less labor intensive. One of the most important steps is soil improvement. It is easier to repair and improve the soil before you plant. Plus, time spent now yields years of good results.

Fall is a great time to create new garden beds. Cool, usually drier, fall weather makes it easier to work in the garden and for plants to establish. Plus, the Garden Todo list is often a bit shorter this time of year and you will get a head start on the next growing season.

Start by locating the placement, size and shape of this new garden. Always contact your local underground utility locating service at least three business days in advance. It’s free and as easy as calling 811 or filing an online request. They will contact the appropriate companies who will mark the location of their underground utilities in your work area. This reduces the danger and inconvenience of accidently knocking out power, cable or other utilities while you create a beautiful landscape.

Use a rope or hose to outline the area.

Avoid tight corners or creating narrow grass borders that will be difficult to mow or require hand trimming.

Once satisfied with the layout, take a soil test and decide how to kill the existing lawn and weeds as needed. A soil test will tell you how much and what type of fertilizer you will need for the plants you are growing. Testing now means you will have the information in hand when it is time to fertilize in spring.

Next edge the bed. Use a shovel to dig a V-shaped trench around the border of the garden. Or rent or borrow a power edger to make larger jobs easier.

Once the edging is complete, remove healthy grass with a sod cutter and use it to fill bare spots in the lawn. Or create a planting berm or simply add it to the compost pile. Just place it green side down and wait for it to decompose.

Another method for clearing the grass is to cover the area with cardboard topped with several inches of organic mulch and wait for the grass and cardboard to decompose. You can push back the mulch and cut through the cardboard to plant immedi-

ately. Or wait to begin planting next spring after the grass and cardboard have broken down completely.

For quicker results and control of perennial weeds, try a total vegetation killer.

These products kill the top and roots of the good and bad plants they touch. Read and follow label directions carefully. Start your soil preparation after the required waiting period has passed.

The next step, an important one, is soil improvement. It is easier to repair and improve the soil before you plant. Plus, time spent now yields years of good results. Add two to four inches of organic matter like aged manure, peat moss or leaf compost to the top 8 to 12 inches of soil. These materials improve the drainage in heavy clay soil and increase the water holding ability in fast draining sandy or rocky soils.

Check the labeling on the bag when purchasing these products. Make sure the product you select is USDA and STA certified to ensure quality. USDA BioPreferred certified products are derived from plants and other renewal products, providing an alternative to petroleum-based goods.

Look for United States Composting Council’s STA certified compost that is a renewable, consistent, high quality product made from locally available organic material.

Once you mix in the organic matter, rake the garden level and smooth. Your garden is ready to plant. Fill it with spring flowering bulbs, perennials, trees, and shrubs this fall. Or cover it with shredded leaves or other organic mulch to suppress weeds and prevent soil erosion. Use the winter to plan the garden so you will be ready to plant once spring arrives.

In either case, your efforts this fall reduce your workload next spring and shorten the time to a more beautiful landscape.

Gardening expert Melinda Myers has more than 30 years of horticulture experience and has written over 20 gardening books, including Small Space Gardening.

Myers’ website is www.melindamyers. com.

Pumpkin Patches Opening Soon Pa’s Pumpkin Patch

Opens September 29th until Halloween night, 6701 E Pacific Coast Hwy, Long Beach. Offers a snack bar, pony rides, a petting zoo, and a variety of games and rides.

Trick or Trees

Opens September 29th until Halloween night, 12345 Beach Blvd, Stanton Activities include: bounce houses, inflatable slides, obstacle courses, a section specially designed for little ones.

Whittier Pumpkin Patch

Opens October 1st until Halloween night 11760 Whittier Blvd, Whittier Activities include: jumping zone, tractor town, pony rides, and a petting zoo.

The Pumpkin Factory

Opens October 6th until Halloween night Operates 4 locations, including one at the Westminster Mall and the Santa Ana Mall. Activities include: petting zoo, pumpkins, inflatable rides & slides. The location at Live Oak Ranch has a u-pick area, sunflower fields, and farm animals in the petting zoo.

Irvine Park Railroad

Pumpkin patch opens September 16th until October 31st, 1 Irvine Park Road, Orange Train rides, bounce house, tractor races, panning for gold, ring tosses and more.

Attend on September 23rd for the Great Pumpkin Weigh off. Arrive early to avoid traffic going into the regional park.

Frosty’s Forest and Pumpkin Patch

October 6th- October 31st, 17145 Bastanchury Rd, Yorba Linda,. Aside from pumpkins, families can enjoy a petting zoo, gold mining, rat race obstacle course,

slides and bounce houses, an arcade and much more!

Johnson Brothers Pumpkin Patch & Harvest Festival

Beginning Oct 1st 9 am to 9 pm until Halloween night, 15500 Jeffrey Rd Irvine CA 92618, Irvine. Pumpkins of all shapes and size and many kid activities: slides, bouncers, kiddie rides and farm animals!

Entrance into this pumpkin patch is free!

Tanaka Farms

Pumpkin patch opens September 29th until October 31st. 5380 3/4 University Dr., Irvine. This working farm grows a variety of fruits and vegetables. Each fall, visitors are welcomed to pick pumpkins from the vine, go on tractor rides, and much more.

Pumpkin City’s Pumpkin Farm

Opens September 30th, 11am until Halloween night, 24203 Avenida de la Carlota, Laguna Hills (main location) and 2190 E. Lincoln, Anaheim. Operates 3 locations.

The main location, at Laguna Hills Mall, hosts the Rocky Mountain Mining Co. and Lucky Luke's Gem Stones. They also offer a petting zoo, pony rides, and show by the Puppets and Players Little Theater.

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National POW/MIA Recognition Day

EILEEN BJORKMAN above, published Unforgotten in the Gulf of Tonkin: A Story of the U.S. Military’s Commitment to Leave No One Behind set against the backdrop of Navy fighter pilot Willie Sharp's unlikely rescue from the Gulf of Tonkin during the Vietnam War.

BY TAMMYE MCDUFF In honor of POW / MIA Recognition Day which is celebrated the third Friday of each September, comes a riveting new book by retired Air Force Colonel and flight test engineer Eileen Bjorkman. ‘Unforgotten in the Gulf of Tonkin: A Story of the U.S. Military’s Commitment to Leave No One Behind’ tells the incredible story of the men and women who have advanced the military’s selfless mission through air and sea rescue from World War I to the present day.

Set against the backdrop of Navy fighter pilot Willie Sharp's unlikely rescue from the Gulf of Tonkin during the Vietnam War, the book offers a tender and human look at the impacts of war and how the "no one left behind" mission came to include efforts to recover the more than 80,000 Americans still missing from World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. In particular, ‘Unforgotten’ focuses on the evolution of the League of Families, which originated from efforts by Californiabased POW/MIA wife Sybil Stockdale and their efforts to increase public awareness of the POW/MIA plight, as well as the Defense POW / MIA Accounting Agency’s ongoing efforts to make sure that every serviceman and woman comes home.

Bjorkman is an incredibly compelling writer, who gives readers an inside view of some of the most harrowing recues in military history.

Her newest release offers nail-biting accounts of some of the most daring combat search and rescue missions in history as well as an empathic look at the human costs of war.

At its core, Unforgotten is an indepth exploration of the U.S. military’s most sacred credo -- “No One Left Behind” -- through the prism of air and sea rescue, efforts to Americans still missing since World War II, and the military’s unyielding obligation to make combat vets whole upon return.

An Excerpt: On the morning of November 18, 1965, American fighter pilot Willie Sharp had his target in his sights: a North Vietnamese rail yard suspected of running supplies down the Ho Chi Minh Trail to Viet Cong soldiers. As antiaircraft artillery began firing from the ground, Sharp released two Zuni rockets from his F-8 Crusader and flew back around for another pass.

He felt a jolt, and -- realizing he’d been hit -- unleashed his remaining

ten rockets on the enemy below. A glance at the aircraft’s instruments told Sharp that all three hydraulic systems had failed. Just then, an artillery shell smashed through the right side of the cockpit and the oxygen tank exploded, sending shards of metal into the pilot’s leg. As he ejected, cloud cover made it impossible for Sharp to tell whether he was over land or over water. Over land, he’d almost certainly be killed or captured. Over water, combined Air Force and Navy search and rescue operations gave him a fighting chance.

National POW/MIA Recognition Day was established in 1979 through a proclamation signed by President Jimmy Carter. Since then, each subsequent president has issued an annual proclamation commemorating National POW/MIA Recognition Day. A national-level ceremony is held on every Recognition Day. Traditionally held at the Pentagon, it features members from each branch of military service and participation from highranking officials. In addition, these observances are held across the country on military installations, ships at sea, state capitols, schools and veterans' facilities.

No matter where they are held, these National POW/MIA Recognition Day ceremonies share the common purpose of honoring those who were held captive and returned, as well as those who remain missing.

Bjorkman, is a member of the Senior Executive Service, Executive Director of the Air Force Test Center, Edwards Air Force Base, California.

She serves as principal deputy to the AFTC Commander on all matters under the cognizance of the Commander. She has authority for broad management, policy development, decision-making and effective program execution of the AFTC’s developmental test and evaluation mission. Her role as Executive Director involves long and short-range planning, policy development, the determination of program and center goals, including those involving scientific and technical matters, and the overall management of the AFTC enterprise.

A tale well told, Bjorkman’s narrative grips the reader and cause you to yearn to know what happens next.

Put this book on your shortlist, you won’t be disappointed.

‘Unforgotten’ can be found on Amazon in Kindle or hardcover formats.

Los Cerritos Community News - LosCerritosNews.net

9

Los Cerritos Community News - LosCerritosNews.net

Valley Christian Becomes Area’s First High School to Bring Back Athletes for Practices

BY LOREN KOPFF @LORENKOPFF ON TWITTER Once the CIF-Southern Section released its revamped 2020-2021 athletic calendar on July 20, Valley Christian High athletic director Dan Leffler wasn’t surprised at the new starting dates for all the sports. If anything, he was just thankful that something was being put together so that the school could get kids back to play.

“I was a little more fearful that they weren’t able to come to an agreement on that, and safety-wise and what makes sense,” Leffler said. “But I was excited that we were going to get an opportunity to actually put some kids back on the field and court and play.”

Because V.C. is a complete school system, it was anticipating getting a waiver for at least its elementary school. Leffler said the bulk of his work since March has been writing protocol for return to play, not just for athletes, but for students as well. He added that he and his administrative team have been working extensively to create

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the formula within the guidelines of Los Angeles County and trying to make sure everyone stays healthy.

“We want to get back in the classroom as quick as we can, and we’re trying to be as cautious as we can,” Leffler said. “I don’t see that we’re going to do anything drastic here in the near future as far as open up the floodgates to let kids in.”

However, he is quick to add that once things kept getting pushed back and they may not get the waiver and it may take until after the election for anything to happen, V.C. was intent on getting the athletes back on campus, in groups of 12. The school has a COVID-19 monitor form; everybody signs a release, and everybody gets their temperature check. There are sanitizing stations set up and the teams take regular breaks within the course of their practice times.

“We do have kids on this campus every day for athletics,” Leffler said. “That’s something that the school is committed to, and it’s in a controlled environment and it’s using our protocol. We’re still in the pods.

But that’s something that we feel adds value to them and to their well-being.”

For football, weight training is done outside, speed and agility drills are done outside, and throwing is done on an individual basis, according to Leffler. He also said the school has been fortunate so far not to have any cases and everyone wears a mask on the way in as well as on the way out. Most importantly, Leffler wanted to point out that athletes are not required to come on campus to practice; it’s all optional and parents made the choice for their son or daughter to come to V.C. to workout.

“Obviously, it’s probably not a popular decision,” he said. “But our community feels like there’s a lot of value in that. So, we do it and we do it safely.”

Leffler also said the L.A. County Health

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Department has called him at least three times and ask questions about the school’s protocol and what it is doing. Those calls have probably come to follow-up on complaints or concerns that people have made on the health department’s website on V.C. allowing athletes to be on campus.

When the schools were shut down in the middle of March due to COVID-19, it took V.C. and the other Olympic League members about 30 days before the dialogues began, according to Leffler, as far as putting together a master league schedule.

Over the next few months, that process intensified, even though the athletic directors knew it could be a long journey.

“We didn’t really know, obviously, at the time,” Leffler said. “We were exploring all options. But it didn’t take long before the Olympic League to just start kicking ideas around. We were about a month into this thing and then we were starting to think, hey, we’re in a full-fledged pandemic and that’s obviously going to have a huge effect on our athletic programs. So, what’s that going to look like for us?”

What Leffler wasn’t anticipating when the CIF-SS put together its new calendar was that some of the sports were doubling up in the same season, especially boys volleyball moving to the temporary fall and girls tennis switching to the temporary spring. Instead, he was anticipating the traditional fall, winter and spring seasons to be shrunk. The 2020-2021 calendar will consist of a fall season of 10 sports plus competitive cheer and a spring season of 19 sports plus competitive cheer. For the purposes of V.C., it will have half a dozen fall sports, plus cheer, and 12 in the spring, plus cheer.

“As far as timing goes, I wasn’t expecting to play this many games, to be honest with you,” Leffler said. “I thought for sure that the football season would be shrunk down in an abbreviated time season. But as I studied the CIF seasons more, they’re just shrinking the amount of days in a season.

They’re not really shrinking games.”

The compression of the sports into the two seasons creates a bigger problem for V.C. more so than at a lot of schools with higher enrollment. Not only does V.C. have the usual multi-sport athletes that you see at every high school, but many are also involved in extracurricular activities. That’s the reason V.C. gets the student-athletes it does, according to Leffler.

One of those extracurricular activities, which has been a popular mainstay at the school for the longest time, is the annual Broadway Showcase, held every March.

During this time, one can anticipate multiple athletes juggling their on the court, field or track talents for that on the stage.

Many times, an athlete or more could possibly miss a key game or two because they have to go home to get dressed for Broadway Showcase, then make their way to the La Mirada Performing Arts Theater where the event is held over several nights. But for this year, Leffler said that it’s still up in the air and it might be postponed or even cancelled. He also doesn’t anticipate it being held offsite.

“The Broadway topic comes up a lot because it encompasses K-12 here and our school system,” Leffler said. “We’re anticipating that that’s not going to be held at the La Mirada Performing Arts Theater this next year in March. We’re anticipating something that’s on a smaller scale and maybe done a couple of different nights rather than just a Friday-Saturday type setup to give a little bit of flexibility.

“It’s a huge challenge for the kids because everybody wants to participate in it,” he later said. “It’s already a bit of a nightmare for coaching staffs because kids are pulled away while we’re preparing midweek.”

SEPTEMBER 25, 2020 He added that the school is ‘now stuck in a bind’ to try to figure out what’s a good balance with academics; how many games can a particular sport schedule in a week, in which the CIF-SS has regulations on that as well. Leffler also admitted it’s already going to be tough for the school and sees some of the ‘so-called non-signature sports’ struggling a bit.

Leffler said putting together the nonleague schedules in most, if not all the sports has been a work in progress so far because V.C. plays a lot of non-league contests against schools from many school districts that are near V.C. that don’t have the flexibility to commit to scheduling a contest against the Defenders at this point in time. He said the athletic department is on the fourth version of a schedule and is constantly tweaking it and trying to figure out games.

“Then there’s always the chance that some of the districts are going to say, ‘no you can’t do that’,” Leffler said. “The nonleague is definitely the hardest part of our schedule to nail down because of the fact that our league is pretty committed to be playing and we work really hard to try to figure that out.”

Leffler hinted at the possibility of the league moving some of its contests to Saturdays and having doubleheaders for baseball on Saturdays. He continued to say that V.C. is trying to give the student-athletes the best opportunity to do multiple things.

The only change to its football schedule was moving a Week Zero contest against San Marino to the last game of the regular season on Mar. 12 as there are now Week Zero games with the revised CIF-SS calendar.

“We have a huge conflict here at Valley Christian with the baseball side of that thing along with soccer now that they’re in the same season,” Leffler said. “We have a lot of soccer kids that would normally play baseball. So, those have been interesting conversations for myself and my coaches, just trying to work together and figure out how to make that work.”

In terms of V.C. having the same person to coach boys and girls volleyball in the fall and boys and girls golf or boys and girls tennis, both in the spring, Leffler said he had to move girls volleyball head coach Jeff Ornee to director of volleyball operations. Originally, Ornee was going to be the head coach of both programs because they play in different seasons. But Leffler backed off that plan because Ornee is, as Leffler put it, “pretty focused on what’s going on with the girls program” and couldn’t balance both programs and do it well. V.C. could bring back former boys head coach Jason Kwok to take over the same position.

In fact, Leffler said at V.C., it doesn’t have any crossover head coaches, meaning boys and girls golf will each have their own head coach as will boys and girls tennis.

Another major problem facing V.C. is that it has one gymnasium, just like Whitney High. While the school doesn’t field a wrestling program, it still has three levels in its volleyball and basketball programs for a total of 12 teams. The school has always been successful with those varsity programs and has already had to juggle between boys and girls basketball, who have started their practices early and girls volleyball whenever it makes a deep playoff run. With the addition of boys volleyball, which always makes deep playoff runs in the spring, Leffler has his work cut out for him this school year.

Boys and girls volleyball are slated to end the regular season on Feb. 13 and 20 respectively with basketball beginning on Mar. 12. But if either volleyball team advances to the CIF-SS finals, which is scheduled for Mar. 6 or Mar. 12, that could

See VALLEY CHRISTIAN page 11

SEPTEMBER 25, 2020

To advertise call 562-407-3873 Los Cerritos Community News - LosCerritosNews.net 11 and improve the department’s services provided to the community.�

Lopez began working for the City To advertise call 562-407-3873 Los Cerritos Community News - LosCerritosNews.net 11 of Cerritos as a consultant in September 2001, and became a full-time Planning Assistant in February 2002. He CITY NEWS SERVICE was promoted to Associate Planner in educate our children.�

August 2002 and to Advance Planning/ Observing the requirements to wear Cerritos TV3, the City’s government masks and social distancing guidelines, Redevelopment Manager in July 2005. access channel, provides coverage of He became Current Planning Manager in participating families remained safely in Cerritos City Council and Commission their vehicles while DPSS Toy Loan staff December 2009 and was responsible for CITY NEWS SERVICE meetings. It also presents a community placed the backpacks in their trunks. For overseeing the City’s current planning, bulletin board and a variety of entertainfamilies that indicated they use public The City of Cerritos has named Rob- business license and GIS functions. Dur- ing and educational videos, including transportation, an appointment was made ing his time as Current Planning Manert A. Lopez the new Director of Comfitness programs. for a contact-free pick up. ager, Lopez oversaw various residential, munity Development. Lopez replaces Each week Cerritos TV3 airs several All backpacks and school supplies industrial and commercial developments former director Torrey Contreras, who exercise shows for individuals with difwere donated by County of Los Angeles in the city, including shopping center was promoted to Senior Assistant City ferent abilities. employees, private/corporate donors and revitalizations, Cerritos Auto Square Manager in 2019. Lopez previously New episodes of each show are prothrough a partnership with Amazon, which dealership enhancements and the expanserved as Current Planning Manager for grammed each month. allowed online donations by visiting the sion of Los Cerritos Center. the City of Cerritos.

For seniors and those who have Toy Loan Program’s Amazon Smile wish Prior to working for the City of As Director of Community Devellimited mobility, “Sit and Be Fit� airs on list.

Cerritos, Lopez worked for engineering opment, Lopez will be responsible for Monday, Thursday and Friday at 8 a.m.

The DPSS serves 3.5 million customfirms in the United States, Mexico and overseeing and administering the City’s “Feeling Fitâ€? is a one-hour exercise ers in L.A. County, the Department of Japan. He is a member of the American land development, use, specifically for seniors that airs LOSplanning, ANGELES COUNTYland SUPERVISOR Hilda L. Solis (in window) joined Dept. program Public Social Services is the largest local Planning Association and holds a profes- every Wednesday business license, public transportation at 10:30 a.m. of Public Social Services Director Antonia JimĂŠnez and DPSS Toy Loan Program social services agency in the nation. The sional certification by the American and building and safety programs.

The A Tai Chi program is cablecast on staff for the annual Backpack & School Supply Giveaway to ensure that over 1,000 department provides beneďŹ ts and services Institute of Certified Planners (AICP).

Tuesday at 8 a.m. and Friday at 9:30 a.m.

Director of Community Development children ages 5 through 17 have the necessary tools for a successful school year. to families and individuals, including Lopez received his bachelor of sciYoga master Susan Foxley presents manages the City’s Current Planning, CalFresh food and nutrition assistance; ence degree in civil engineering with a “Mind/Bodyâ€? every Friday at 9 a.m. and Advance Planning/Economic DevelopMedi-Cal health, dental and vision insurminor in urban studies from Stanford Wednesday at 10:30 p.m. ment, Building and Safety andorganizaGeo“Our department recognizes the community centers, nonproďŹ t ance; ďŹ nancial and homeless assistance for University, and histhat master of public “Jazzerciseâ€? is for active individugraphic Systems the (GIS) increasing support children need durtions andInformation libraries throughout county. qualifying individuals through the General administration and master of planning als who exercise regularly and is shown divisions. ing this pandemic and we want to ensure This year marks the 5th anniversary Relief program and for families through from the University of Southern Califoron Monday, Thursday and Friday at 8:30 “I am lookingGiveaway, forward towhich serving the they are prepared with the tools necessary of the Backpack serves the CalWORKs program; In-Home Supnia.

Lopez is a lifelong Cerritos resident a.m.

Cerritos TV3 is cablecast to Cerritos residents and businesses of Cerritos in for a successful school year, whether it is children from families receiving beneďŹ ts portive Services for disabled and elderly and was a valedictorian of his graduating homes through the Spectrum Communithis role,â€? remarked Lopez. impact “Drawvirtual or in-personâ€? said DPSS Director fromnew DPSS. Due to the ďŹ nancial residents, and employment and supportive class at Whitney High School.

He and cations and Frontier FiOS cable systems. ing from my experience in the both Antonia JimĂŠnez. “Today’s children are of COVID-19 on the localworking economy, services to help residents prepare for the his wife and their five sons are happy to It also is streamed live on the City’s Current and Advance Planning nearly tomorrow’s future. That’s why I believe event’s host emphasized that thisfor distribulabor market. For more information, visit call Cerritos their home. at cerritos.us.

20 I hope to continue it’s important that we nurture, prepare and website tionyears, is needed more than ever.to enhance www.dpss.lacounty.gov.

Cerritos Names Exercise for All VALLEY CHRISTIAN Continued from page 10 New Director Ages on Cerritos TV3 Supervisor Hilda L. Solis and the DPSS Give 1,000 Students Backpacks with School Supplies of Community Development

AUGUST 7, 2020

demand some creativity from everyone involved.

STAFF REPORT “It already creates a crunch for us because getting “Wepeople know are thatworried it can beabout costly to pre-in the agym,� said.especially “We’re going pare child Leffler for school, duringto these times,�

Supervisor Solis havechallenging to be creative with that.

Some teams told reporters prior to the distribution at will have to go in the mornings, so we’ll DPSS Toy Loan Headquarters in downbe doing some 6:00 A.M. practices here. town Angeles. “That’s why it’s We’llLos extend our time to practice, soimwe’ll portant that as a County, we do whatever be going until 9:00 on certain nights to we can sure to help in our make thatyouth people can communities get gym time. have the tools they need to be successful It’s not ideal, obviously. But it’s what we in the classroom. have to work with. We’re exploring some Solis acknowledged the annual event options with outdoor courts whichfamilies are acfor its commitment to low-income tually covered and lit.� in L.A. County, praising the 85-year-old WhileProgram many high schools associated Toy Loan for its well-earned with a school willmost havesuccessmajor reputation as the district largest and transportation issues to navigate through, ful free toy-lending library program in the nation. sponsored LefflerThe saysprogram V.C. isisfortunate in and thatsupreported by the Board of Supervisors. gard. It has 14 busses and a dozen of them was day. created are Toy put Loan on theProgram road every He in added 1935 during the Great Depression that it will mix it up a bit this year as byaaddfree to allow ing service some vans to itslow-income fleet to keepchildren the kids toinborrow toys from a lending class for as long asDPSS it cantoy before sendlibraries in the same manner that books are ing them to the games. borrowed from a public library. Children Another positive has been the fact who participate develop a sense of rethat V.C. has not dwelled on the negative sponsibility through the observance of an things because, as Leffler all the honor code and merit systemput thatit,rewards sports are toys still are on returned the adjusted calendar them when on time and and the athletes still have that opportuniundamaged. ty The to play.

In addition, the school has not program serves approximately 30,000 children over 50 toy lending lost any athletesat in terms of not wanting libraries located at school programs, to play because ofafter COVID-19.

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Los Cerritos Community News - LosCerritosNews.net

To advertise call 562-407-3873

SEPTEMBER 25, 2020

BELL GARDENS

Continued from page 1 Reyes organized an attack to discredit HMG-CN’s investigation but eventually left the assessor’s office as more evidence came out.

Reyes is also good friends with Mario Beltran, who is mounting a major effort to pass cannabis laws in cities across East Los Angeles and who also worked for Calderon.

Now Reyes, and Mayor Cortez, could come under scrutiny from the D.A.’s office related to the outreach contract.

HMG-CN has learned that a business relationship existed between Reyes and Cortez, a relationship that would have dictated Cortez recuse herself from voting to give Reyes the contract.

A Facebook screenshot from last week showed that Reyes’ Blue Icon was managing Cortez’ Bell Gardens City Mayor Facebook page.

Just days later, but before the vote,

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Just two days before the vote Blue Icon was removed as the manager.

Mayor Cortez' Facebook page shows Louis Reyes' BI Comm LLC managing posts and comments.

Blue Icon was removed as the manager.

People for Bell Gardens Facebook page showing side by side shots of Mayor Cortez' Facebook page with Blue Icon as manager (left), then days later Blue Icon was removed to hide their business relationship.

In addition, documents obtained by HMG-CN from the Norwalk Registrar Recorder’s office show that Reyes donated

    XVHG PRUH WKDQ RQFH VR GR QRW FURVV WKHP RXW ,W LV EHVW WR ¿QG WKH ELJ ZRUGV ¿UVW :KHQ \RX ¿QG DOO WKH ZRUGV OLVWHG LQ WKH FOXHV \RX¶OO KDYH D QXPEHU RI OHWWHUV OHIW RYHU WKDW VSHOO RXW WKH :21'(5:25' 7R VHH WKH DQVZHU XVH WKH 

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E A S S A L G F T S Y M B O L

A C A D E M I C S T E Y S A R

H C N M E G M E U S T A T U E

U O A A U L E A D I C E R T M

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N M N R R E E N N I M U O N R

T P E O V B S U G T R K P T O

I L Z G R I M U C R E P S S F

N I I H O M N E M N A L E R R

G S R I O L L G M W S V S I E

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O M A H B M V R E E R L F N M

R E I R A E D E S A A W I I G

Y N A E S E S E N D M A A V L

Y T C V E N D T E T P L A T E

E T A R O M E M M O C L E A R

    



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$500 to Cortez’ campaign committee between January 1 and June 30 of this year.

Normally a donation from a city vendor would demand recusal, but not in Bell Gardens.

Finally, an email obtained by HMGCN shows Reyes and Cortez working together since 2018 with Reyes designing and printing a “slate” election piece for Cortez and now-Mayor pro tem Lisseth Flores.

Compounding Reyes and Cortez’ conflict of interest is the existing situation on the Bell Gardens City Council.

Currently, there are only four City Councilmembers; Cortez is Mayor, Lisseth Flores is Mayor pro tem, and Marco Barcena and Pedro Aceituno, who was forced from a seat on the Central Basin Municipal Water Board for holding incompatible offices, are councilmembers.

Even though four members exist on the council, a majority remains three which makes Cortez’ non-recusal even more suspect and smacks of pay-to-play.

The final vote to give Reyes the contract was 3-1 with Cortez, Barcena, and Aceituno voting yes, while Mayor pro tem Lisseth Flores voted no.

Had Cortez properly recused herself, a majority would not have existed and a vote could not have been taken to award the contract to Reyes.

Yet with the many blatant conflicts of interest, Cortez voted yes to give Reyes the contract.

In addition HMG-CN has learned that, under new laws passed in January, the tax measure itself, and the way it was placed on the ballot, could be violating the state’s elections code.

Emails into Reyes and Mayor Cortez went unreturned.

PLEASE PATRONIZE THE ADVERTISERS IN THIS NEWSPAPER! Their advertising support keeps this paper in operation.

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SEPTEMBER 25, 2020

To advertise call 562-407-3873

Nuts, Bolts & Thingamajigs Virtual Awards Gala

THE VIRTUAL GALA is free to attend and reservations are encouraged. RSVP before October 15, 2020 to receive a complimentary gift. Proceeds from the Nuts, Bolts & Thingamajigs Virtual Awards Gala will support the foundation’s mission to build a pipeline of skilled workers for the manufacturing industry of tomorrow.

STAFF REPORT Nuts, Bolts & Thingamajigs [NBT] , the foundation of Fabricators & Manufacturers Association [FMA] International, will host the Nuts, Bolts & Thingamajigs Virtual Awards Gala on October 22, 2020 at 6:00 p.m. Together with presenting sponsor Amada America, Inc., NBT will celebrate and honor several of manufacturing’s finest contributors and highlight NBT’s mission through a virtual presentation.

Uplifting, inspiring stories revealing the foundation’s impact on future manufacturers will be shared throughout the evening. Awards for the Power of Industry, Impact on Industry, and the Future of Industry will be presented to individuals, companies, and manufacturing camp hosts demonstrating exceptional generosity and outstanding commitment.

Summer camps are designed for students, ages 12-16, where they experience modern manufacturing by creating, building, and taking a product home. At camp, they tour manufacturing facilities, learn about entrepreneurship, and meet top industry experts.

The gala art auction will feature oneof-a-kind art pieces contributed by professional and student artisans from across the country. Artwork will consist of items in a variety of media, including various metals, woods, oil paintings, giclée, and more. Artists interested in learning more

CENSUS

Continued from page 1 Among area cities, Cerritos ranks number one and 21 out of 482 cities with a response rate of 82.8 percent.

Los Alamitos and Lakewood are tied at 81, both with a 78.7 percent rate.

Artesia sits at 145 with a 75.8 percent rate followed by Norwalk at 250 with a 71.3 percent response rate.

Bellflower is just behind Norwalk at 253 with a 71.1 percent rate with Commerce next at 269 with a 70.3 percent response rate.

Surprisingly, Downey sits a 298 with a 69.3 percent rate followed by Santa Fe Springs at 301 with a rate of 69.1 percent.

Pico Rivera is close behind at 304 with a rate of 69 percent with Montebello right behind at 307 with a rate of 68.8 percent Sitting last on the list is Hawaiian Gardens at 373 with a response rate of 64.9 percent.

Some on the bottom of the list will surprise observers, Los Angeles sits at 442 with a 57 percent rate while Malibu is ranked 472 with a 40.9 percent response.

about getting involved should contact NBT at foundation@fmanet.org.

Entertainment, raffles, prizes, and more are planned for the virtual event.

The virtual gala is free to attend and reservations are encouraged. RSVP before October 15, 2020 to receive a complimentary gift by mail. Proceeds from the Nuts, Bolts & Thingamajigs Virtual Awards Gala will support the foundation’s mission to build a pipeline of skilled workers for the manufacturing industry of tomorrow. To date, NBT has awarded over $2 million in scholarships and manufacturing camp grants impacting over 9,000 students across the country.

FMA is a professional organization with more than 2,500 members working together to improve the metal processing, forming, and fabricating industry.

Founded in 1970, FMA brings metal fabricators and equipment manufacturers together through technology councils, educational programs, networking events, and the FABTECH trade show.

NBT awards scholarships and supports summer camp programs in efforts to engage, nurture, and excite individuals of all ages in the pursuit of careers in manufacturing. Learn more at nbtfoundation.org Number one is Piedmont at 89.4 percent with Paradise last at 12.5 percent.

For households that have not responded to this year's census, it's not too late.

The census questionnaire is available online at my2020census.gov and takes only 5 minutes to fill out.

Failure to respond will cost cities, counties, and states billions of dollars that fund crucial services needed before, during and after the pandemic. This includes hospitals, Head Start programs, school lunch programs, Medicaid, food stamps and more.

CHASE

Continued from page 1 Driving on the other side of the road to go around stopped traffic, the man turned and went west on Excelsior, turning on Clarkdale, going back to Pioneer ending at Maza and Gridley in Norwalk.

The man got out of his car and handed something to people on the other side of a fence in front of a house.

He then stood for two minutes talking on his cell phone while officers had their guns out telling him to get on the ground.

He finally reliquished and was taken into custody.

Los Cerritos Community News - LosCerritosNews.net

Red Cross Blood Donors Have New Opportunity to Help Patients Fighting COVID-19 Donors needed this fall to maintain blood supply amid ongoing pandemic.

STAFF REPORT Plasma from whole blood donations made through the American Red Cross that test positive for COVID-19 antibodies may now help current coronavirus patients in need of convalescent plasma transfusions. Donors are encouraged to make an appointment to give blood now to help ensure coronavirus patients and others who depend on transfusions have needed blood products this fall.

In April, the Red Cross began collecting COVID-19 convalescent plasma from previously diagnosed individuals, who could only give at one of approximately 170 Red Cross blood donation centers across the country. Convalescent plasma contains COVID-19 antibodies that may help the most critical patients actively fighting this virus. Now, whole blood donations made at any Red Cross blood drive or blood donation center could be helpful in this effort.

“Donations that come back positive for COVID-19 antibodies now undergo secondary testing to confirm antibody results, and that enables the Red Cross to then potentially use the plasma from those donations for COVID-19 patients,” said Dr. Erin Goodhue, executive medical director of direct patient care with the Red Cross Biomedical Services. “With approximately 2% of the U.S. population testing positive for COVID-19 antibodies, every donation is important to ensure patients with coronavirus have access to every treatment option available to them.”

The Red Cross encourages eligible individuals to schedule an appointment, download the free Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or enable the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device.

In thanks, the Red Cross is offering a $1,000 Amazon.com Gift Card to five lucky winners who come to give in October. Terms and conditions apply; visit rcblood.org/unite. Additionally, those who come to give by the end of September will receive a free haircut coupon by email to participating Sport Clips Haircuts locations. More information is available at RedCrossBlood.org/ Sport-Clips.

Important COVID-19 information for donors

Each Red Cross blood drive and donation center follows the highest standards of safety and infection control, and additional precautions – including temperature checks, social distancing and face coverings for donors and staff – have been implemented to help protect the health of all those in attendance.

About blood donation

All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood do-

los cerritos community newspaper

13

nor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.

Blood donors can save time at their next donation by using RapidPass® to complete their pre-donation reading and health history questionnaire online, on the day of their donation, before arriving at the blood drive. To get started, follow the instructions at RedCrossBlood.org/ RapidPass or use the Blood Donor App.

Artesia

10/13/2020: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., Angeles Institute, 17100 Pioneer Blvd Suite 170

Bell Gardens

9/23/2020: 11 a.m. - 5 p.m., The Bicycle Hotel & Casino, 888 Bicycle Casino Drive

Bellflower

9/24/2020: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., Kiwanis International, 9302 Laurel St

Cerritos

9/28/2020: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 16115 Studebaker Rd.

Commerce

10/1/2020: 12 p.m. - 6 p.m., American Red Cross Youth Corps, 2227 S Atlantic Blvd 10/5/2020: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., Los Angeles County Department of Health, 5555 Ferguson St. 10/15/2020: 1 p.m. - 7 p.m., American Red Cross Youth Corps, 2227 S Atlantic Blvd

Downey

10/14/2020: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., Ministerios Llamada Final, 12145 Woodruff Ave 10/15/2020: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., Promenade at Downey, 8980 Apollo Way

Norwalk

9/27/2020: 9 a.m. - 3 p.m., Newah Organization of America, 10843 Kenney Street 9/28/2020: 1 p.m. - 7 p.m., St Paul Lutheran Church, 14134 Clarkdale Ave 10/4/2020: 9 a.m. - 3 p.m., Joy of Sharing Community Center, 15311 Pioneer Blvd 10/5/2020: 1 p.m. - 7 p.m., St Paul Lutheran Church, 14134 Clarkdale Ave 10/10/2020: 8 a.m. - 1 p.m., St Paul Lutheran Church, 14134 Clarkdale Ave.

La Mirada

9/29/2020: 9 a.m. - 3 p.m., La Mirada Church of the Nazarene, 15575 Foster Rd 10/6/2020: 11 a.m. - 5 p.m., La Mirada Church of the Nazarene, 15575 Foster Rd 10/13/2020: 11 a.m. - 5 p.m., Community Presbyterian Church, 13701 Hilsborough Dr.

Whittier

9/24/2020: 1 p.m. - 7 p.m., The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 15265 Mulberry Drive 9/27/2020: 9:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m., East Whittier YMCA Family Center, 15740 Starbuck St 9/28/2020: 1 p.m. - 7 p.m., Montebello Whittier Masonic Lodge, 7604 Greenleaf Avenue 10/5/2020: 1 p.m. - 7 p.m., Montebello Whittier Masonic Lodge, 7604 Greenleaf Avenue 10/8/2020: 1 p.m. - 7 p.m., Whittier Area Community Church, 8100 Colima Road 10/15/2020: 1 p.m. - 7 p.m., Whittier Area Community Church, 8100 Colima Road

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Los Cerritos Community News - LosCerritosNews.net

ROOMKEY

Continued from page 1 proval, passing an emergency ordinance.

Just one day later, L.A. County Supervisor Kathryn Barger authorized the county to sue Norwalk.

“That action is an attack on Project Roomkey, injecting an illegal city approval process to a program that has been expressly authorized under state law, attempting to supersede the clear authority of the state and the county to address the COVID-19 emergency without delay,” the order said.

Five days after later, a judge issued a temporary restraining order directing Norwalk to comply with the state, with Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Samantha Jessner ruling the interests of the county in implementing a state order under Project Roomkey to safely house the homeless during the pandemic outweighed any harm the city could suffer.

Now the same personnel and temporary blockages can be seen at the Artesia Travelodge, which was chosen by LA County a few weeks ago as another hotel under Project Roomkey.

Hotel rooms provide temporary housing for people experiencing homelessness who are not COVID-19 positive or symptomatic, but are vulnerable to complications should they become infected with COVID-19.

Only people 65 years of age or older or who had underlying medical conditions qualified.

Workers can be seen going door-todoor to deliver three pre-packaged meals and two snacks daily, sanitizing, recordkeeping, making sure guests wear masks and keep their distance and, importantly, maintaining a positive environment for fragile people who are isolated in their rooms for long hours every day.

Now, according to the L.A. Times, the project is ending.

The Times reported that one hotel emptied its rooms in late August and two others are in the midst of closing out the program and is beginning of the end for the $100 million-plus program meant to repurpose empty hotels and motels as safe havens for homeless people.

Heidi Marston, executive director of the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority, told the Times, “after peaking at just over 4,300 guests — about 30% of its ambitious goal — the project will shed several hundred beds monthly until it closes down early next year.”

While participants are staying at these hotels, on-site service providers are working with each client to develop an exit plan, with the goal of moving them to a situation that resolves their homelessness. In cases where this isn’t feasible, the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority will use existing shelter capacity to move people into an interim housing environment or explore other options.

To advertise call 562-407-3873

HEARTS

Continued from page 1 Operations Manager Amy Ovando. “We began to see a slight increase in March.

Before then, we averaged 1,697 clients a month.”

Food assistance is the greatest need seen since many have lost their jobs during the pandemic, according to Ovando, who has worked on and off at Grateful Hearts for approximately 2 years.

It is also a great priority to simply keeping their doors open, as like many organizations they have felt the impact of the coronavirus. As a result, they were not able to open their thrift store on time, a vital resource which helps fund their operations.

“With the temporary loss of our main source of revenue, we fell behind on our rent,” she said. “We were able to reopen our thrift store about a month ago and are doing all we can to keep our storehouse open.”

Ovando said that Second Harvest Food Bank has been a wonderful support by remaining accessible to them and other partners every step of the way.

“As soon as the pandemic hit, we were able to contact them for guidance as to how to operate under these unforeseen circumstances,” she said.

“They have kept all their partners well informed and have ensured that we are able to meet all the food needs of our clients. We are so thankful for their support!”

She said that as a result, Grateful Hearts clients received nutritious foods including fresh produce, dairy items like cheese, milk, and yogurt. Recently when they had a shortage of canned goods and grains, they called upon Second Harvest who met the need and has been ever since.

“We could not be more grateful to Second Harvest for all their hard work and dedication to fighting hunger,” she added. “As a small non-profit, having their support is so valuable to us. It’s not only what they do to help us meet the needs of our clients, but also it is the support we’ve received from them for our staff.”

Grateful Hearts currently serves both Los Angeles County and Orange County. In addition to serving individuals and families within the city of Los Alamitos, a large portion of their clients come from the Anaheim, Long Beach and elsewhere. They were first established in 1998 by Blair Pietrini, then incorporated in 2000.

It was while working in an accounting department of her local church for 7 years that Pietrini continuously received numerous calls from people seeking as-

CITY OF CERRITOS STATE OF CALIFORNIA NOTICE TO PROPOSALDERS CERRITOS LIBRARY CHINESE LANGUAGE BOOK COLLECTION DEVELOPMENT SERVICES RFP NO. 1410-20 Sealed proposals will be received at the Office of the City Clerk of the City of Cerritos, 18125 Bloomfield Avenue, First Floor, Bloomfield Avenue at 183rd Street, Cerritos, California, 90703, until 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, October 20, 2020, for the Cerritos Library Chinese Language Book Collection Development Services. Proposals must be addressed to the City Clerk, City of Cerritos, 18125 Bloomfield Avenue, Cerritos, California, 90703, marked “Proposal for Cerritos Library Chinese Language Book Collection Development Services RFP No. 1410-20”. Four (4) copies of the entire proposal and also one (1) electronic version of the entire proposal on a USB drive must be delivered in a sealed envelope or package. One copy shall be marked as “Original” and must contain an original signature. No proposal will be accepted unless it has the proposal number and project name clearly identified on the outside label. The City of Cerritos reserves the right to reject any and all proposals, or portions of any and all proposals or waive the informality in a proposal not affected by law. Proposal specifications are available online at www.cerritos.us/BUSINESSES/bid_and_contract_ opportunities/bid_listings.php. Notifications, updates and addenda will also be posted on the City’s bid page. Proposers shall be responsible for monitoring the site to obtain information regarding this solicitation. Failure to respond to required updates may result in a determination of a nonresponsive proposal. For additional questions please contact Support Services at (562) 916-1318. Dated/Posted/ Published: September 25, 2020 Published at Los Cerritos Community News 9/25/20

SEPTEMBER 25, 2020

sistance, hearing stories of single mothers not able to provide food or other basic necessities for their children. At the time, she did not know of any other program in existence that could help.

She felt compelled and began to search for ways to help.

“She started by hosting a canned food drive,” said Ovando. “We now serve up to 9,000 meals a month through our Food Distribution Program.”

Grateful Hearts also provides clothing, hygiene products, furniture, appliances, and other necessities free of charge to the jobless, working poor, the disabled and elderly as well as those experiencing times of crisis. They do this not only locally but also abroad as part of their mission “to provide hope for the hurting”.

Over the years, the organization has learned that showing up to a food pantry or seeking assistance for basic needs is not an easy thing to do.

“People come to us afraid, embarrassed, sometimes even feeling ashamed,” said Ovando. “But here at Grateful Hearts, we just want everyone to find hope, we want everyone to know that they are not alone, and anyone can find themselves in a situation of need at any point in life.”

To qualify for services, one only must be an individual in need, she added. For reporting purposes, they do request documentation (except from homeless individuals and families). This includes a photo I.D., proof of residence for all claimed household members over the age of 18 (that must be current with 60 days), and all household members’ dates of birth, birth certificates or custody documents (for claimed members 17 years old and under).

Ovando said that due to recent increases in requests for services, Grateful Hearts asks all individuals and families seeking help to make an appointment

(except for the homeless and those without access to phones). She said appointments help the organization to be mindful of their neighbors, regulate traffic flow and avoid interrupting other businesses in the area.

Besides being supported by Second Harvest, Grateful Hearts is also supported by many individuals and other organizations, some who are local churches, the Los Alamitos Police Department, the Rotary Club of Los Alamitos/Seal Beach, and many local companies.

“There is no way Grateful Hearts could do all that we do without their assistance and support,” added Ovando.

“Whether through volunteering, generous one-time giving, ongoing donations, or non-cash donations, we have been blessed to receive support from other organizations.”

Grateful Hearts is always seeking donations and volunteers. They welcome donations of factory-sealed nonperishable food products and nonfood essentials such as hygiene and cleaning items. They are also in need of PPE for staff and volunteers, specifically disposable gloves. For more information on ways to give, please visit their website at www.gratefulhearts.org/give or call 562-431-0880.

PLEASE PATRONIZE THE ADVERTISERS IN THIS NEWSPAPER! Their advertising support keeps this paper in operation.

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CITY OF CERRITOS STATE OF CALIFORNIA NOTICE TO PROPOSALDERS CERRITOS LIBRARY KOREAN LANGUAGE BOOK COLLECTION DEVELOPMENT SERVICES RFP NO. 1411-20 Sealed proposals will be received at the Office of the City Clerk of the City of Cerritos, 18125 Bloomfield Avenue, First Floor, Bloomfield Avenue at 183rd Street, Cerritos, California, 90703, until 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, October 20, 2020, for the Cerritos Library Korean Language Book Collection Development Services. Proposals must be addressed to the City Clerk, City of Cerritos, 18125 Bloomfield Avenue, Cerritos, California, 90703, marked “Proposal for Cerritos Library Korean Language Book Collection Development Services RFP No. 1411-20”. Four (4) copies of the entire proposal and also one (1) electronic version of the entire proposal on a USB drive must be delivered in a sealed envelope or package. One copy shall be marked as “Original” and must contain an original signature. No proposal will be accepted unless it has the proposal number and project name clearly identified on the outside label.

The City of Cerritos reserves the right to reject any and all proposals, or portions of any and all proposals or waive the informality in a proposal not affected by law. Proposal specifications are available online at www.cerritos.us/BUSINESSES/bid_and_contract_opportunities/bid_listings.php. Notifications, updates and addenda will also be posted on the City’s bid page. Proposers shall be responsible for monitoring the site to obtain information regarding this solicitation. Failure to respond to required updates may result in a determination of a nonresponsive proposal. For additional questions please contact Support Services at (562) 916-1318. Dated/Posted/Published: September 25, 2020 Published at Los Cerritos Community News 9/25/20

Loan No.: 19-2524 Boswell TS no. 2020-10138 APN: 7008-003-016 NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S SALE UNDER DEED OF TRUST YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF TRUST, DATED 12/30/2019, UNLESS YOU TAKE ACTION TO PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY, IT MAY BE SOLD AT A PUBLIC SALE. IF YOU NEED AN EXPLANATION OF THE NATURE OF THE PROCEEDING AGAINST YOU, YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LAWYER. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that on 10/20/2020, at 10:00 AM of said day, Behind the fountain located in Civic Center Plaza, 400 Civic Center Plaza, Pomona CA 91766, Beneficial TD Services LLC, a California Limited Liability Company, as duly appointed Trustee under and pursuant to the power of sale conferred in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Phoebe Boswell, an unmarried woman recorded on 1/3/2020 in Book n/a of Official Records of LOS ANGELES County, at page n/a, Recorder’s Instrument No. 20200007221, by reason of a breach or default in payment or performance of the obligations secured thereby, including that breach or default, Notice of which was recorded 6/15/2020 as Recorder’s Instrument No. 20200649546, in Book n/a, at page n/a, WILL SELL AT PUBLIC AUCTION TO THE HIGHEST BIDDER FOR CASH, lawful money of the United States, evidenced by a Cashier’s Check drawn on a state or national bank, or the equivalent thereof drawn on any other financial institution specified in section 5102 of the California Financial Code, authorized to do business in the State of California, ALL PAYABLE AT THE TIME OF SALE, all right, title and interest held by it as Trustee, in that real property situated in said County and State, described as follows: Lot 16, Tract 26261, per Map, Book 777, Pages 97 and 98 of Maps. The street address or other common designation of the real property hereinabove described is purported to be: 13000 Palm Place, Cerritos, CA 90703. The undersigned disclaims all liability for any incorrectness in said street address or other common designation. Said sale will be made without warranty, express or implied regarding title, possession, or other encumbrances, to satisfy the unpaid obligations secured by said Deed of Trust, with interest and other sums as provided therein; plus advances, if any, thereunder and interest thereon; and plus fees, charges, and expenses of the Trustee and of the trusts created by said Deed of Trust. The total amount of said obligations at the time of initial publication of this Notice is $55,468.35. In the event that the deed of trust described in this Notice of Trustee’s Sale is secured by real property containing from one to four single-family residences, the following notices are provided pursuant to the provisions of Civil Code section 2924f: NOTICE TO POTENTIAL BIDDERS: If you are considering bidding on this property lien, you should understand that there are risks involved in bidding at a trustee auction. You will be bidding on a lien, not on the property itself. Placing the highest bid at a trustee auction does not automatically entitle you to free and clear ownership of the property. You should also be aware that the lien being auctioned off may be a junior lien. If you are the highest bidder at the auction, you are or may be responsible for paying off all liens senior to the lien being auctioned off, before you can receive clear title to the property. You are encouraged to investigate the existence, priority, and size of outstanding liens that may exist on this property by contacting the county recorder’s office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge you a fee for this information. If you consult either of these resources, you should be aware that the same lender may hold more than one mortgage or deed of trust on the property. NOTICE TO PROPERTY OWNER: The sale date shown on this notice of sale may be postponed one or more times by the mortgagee, beneficiary, trustee, or a court, pursuant to Section 2924g of the California Civil Code. The law requires that information about trustee’s sale postponements be made available to you and to the public, as a courtesy to those not present at the sale. If you wish to learn whether your sale date has been postponed, and, if applicable, the rescheduled time and date for the sale of this property, you may call 916-939-0772 or visit this Internet Web site www.nationwideposting.com, using the file number assigned to this case 2020-10138. Information about postponements that are very short in duration or that occur close in time to the scheduled sale may not be immediately reflected in the telephone information or on the Internet Web site. The best way to verify postponement information is to attend the scheduled sale. Dated: 9/18/2020 Beneficial TD Services LLC, a California Limited Liability Company By: Ashwood TD Services LLC, its Agent Christopher Loria, Trustee's Sale Officer P.O. Box 3552, Paso Robles, CA 93447 (SEAL) Tel.: (805) 296-3176 Fax: (805) 323-9054 Trustee’s Sale Information: (916) 939-0772 or www.nationwideposting.com NPP0371524 To: LOS CERRITOS COMMUNITY NEWS 09/25/2020, 10/02/2020, 10/09/2020

SEPTEMBER 25, 2020

To advertise call 562-407-3873

T.S. No.: 200908279 Notice Of Trustee's Sale APN 7008-005-033 U.S. Department Of Housing And Urban Development Notice Of Default And Foreclosure Sale Recorded in accordance with 12 USCA 3764 (c) Whereas, on 7/13/2009, a certain Deed of Trust was executed by Robert J. Di Sessa, an unmarried man as trustor in favor of Sun West Mortgage Company, Inc. by Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. (solely as nominee for Lender and Lender's successors and assigns) and the successors and assigns of MERS as beneficiary, and Commonwealth Land Title Company as trustee, and was recorded on 7/22/2009, as Instrument No. 20091107148, in the Office of the County Recorder of Los Angeles County, California; and Whereas, the Deed of Trust was insured by the United States Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (the Secretary) pursuant to the National Housing Act for the purpose of providing single family housing; and Whereas, the beneficial interest in the Deed of Trust is now owned by the Secretary, pursuant to an Assignment of Deed of Trust dated 8/7/2015, recorded on 9/2/2015, as instrument number 20151084361, in the Office of the County Recorder, Los Angeles County, California; and Whereas, a default has been made in the covenants and conditions of the Deed of Trust in that the payment due on 6/17/2017, was not made and remains wholly unpaid as of the date of this notice, and no payment has been made sufficient to restore the loan to currency; and Whereas, the entire amount delinquent as of 10/20/2020 is $865,054.96; and Whereas, by virtue of this default, the Secretary has declared the entire amount of the indebtedness secured by the Deed of Trust to be immediately due and payable; Now Therefore, pursuant to powers vested in me by the Single Family Mortgage Foreclosure Act of 1994, 12 U.S.C. 3751 et seq., by 24 CFR part 27, subpart B, and by the Secretary's designation of Total Lender Solutions, Inc. as Foreclosure Commissioner, recorded on 12/28/2018 as instrument number 20181313015, notice is hereby given that on 10/20/2020 at 11:00 AM local time, all real and personal property at or used in connection with the following described property will be sold at public auction to the highest bidder: Legal Description: Lot 60 Of Tract 27356, In The City Of Cerritos, County Of Los Angeles, State Of California, As Per Map Recorded In Book 806, Pages 69 And 70 Of Maps, In The Office Of The County Recorder Of Said County. Commonly known as: 17139 Leal Ave, Cerritos, CA 90703 The sale will be held at Behind the fountain located in Civic Center Plaza, 400 Civic Center Plaza, Pomona, CA. The Secretary of Housing and Urban Development will bid an estimate of $865,054.96.

There will be no proration of taxes, rents or other income or liabilities, except that the purchaser will pay, at or before closing, his prorata share of any real estate taxes that have been paid by the Secretary to the date of the foreclosure sale. When making their bids, all bidders except the Secretary must submit a deposit totaling $86,505.49 [10% of the Secretary's bid] in the form of a certified check or cashier's check made out to the Secretary of HUD. Each oral bid need not be accompanied by a deposit. If the successful bid is oral, a deposit of $86,505.49 must be presented before the bidding is closed. The deposit is nonrefundable. The remainder of the purchase price must be delivered within 30 days of the sale or at such other time as the Secretary may determine for good cause shown, time being of the essence. This amount, like the bid deposits, must be delivered in the form of a certified or cashier's check. If the Secretary is the high bidder, he need not pay the bid amount in cash. The successful bidder will pay all conveyancing fees, all real estate and other taxes that are due on or after the delivery of the remainder of the payment and all other costs associated with the transfer of title. At the conclusion of the sale, the deposits of the unsuccessful bidders will be returned to them. The Secretary may grant an extension of time within which to deliver the remainder of the payment. All extensions will be for 15-day increments for a fee of $500.00, paid in advance. The extension fee shall be in the form of a certified or cashier's check made payable to the Secretary of HUD. If the high bidder closes the sale prior to the expiration of any extension period, the unused portion of the extension fee shall be applied toward the amount due. If the high bidder is unable to close the sale within the required period, or within any extensions of time granted by the Secretary, the high bidder may be required to forfeit the cash deposit or, at the election of the foreclosure commissioner after consultation with the HUD Field Office representative, will be liable to HUD for any costs incurred as a result of such failure. The commissioner may, at the direction of the HUD field office Representative, offer the Property to the second highest bidder for an amount equal to the highest price offered by that bidder. There is no right of redemption, or right of possession based upon a right of redemption, in the mortgagor or others subsequent to a foreclosure completed pursuant the Act. Therefore, the Foreclosure commissioner will issue a Deed to the purchaser(s) upon receipt of the entire purchase price in accordance with the terms of the sale as provided herein. HUD does not guarantee that the property will be vacant. The amount that must be paid if the Mortgage is to be reinstated prior to the scheduled sale is $865,054.96, as of 10/19/2020, plus all other amounts that would be due under the mortgage agreement if payments under the mortgage had not been accelerated, advertising costs and postage expenses incurred in giving notice, mileage by the most reasonable road distance for posting notices and for the Foreclosure Commissioner's attendance at the sale, reasonable and customary costs incurred for title and lien record searches, the necessary out-of-pocket costs incurred by the Foreclosure Commissioner for recording documents, a commission for the Foreclosure Commissioner, and all other costs incurred in connection with the foreclosure prior to reinstatement. Date: 9/8/2020 Total Lender Solutions, Inc. U.S. Dept. of HUD Foreclosure Commissioner By: /s/Max Newman 10505 Sorrento Valley Road, Suite 125 San Diego, CA, 92121 Phone: 866-535-3736 Fax: 866-242-8599 A notary public or other officer completing this certificate verifies only the identity of the individual who signed the document to which this certificate is attached, and not the truthfulness, accuracy, or validity of that document. State Of CA County Of San Diego On 9/15/2020 before me, Brittany Anne Lokey, a notary public personally appeared, Max Newman who proved to me on the basis of satisfactory evidence to be the person whose name is subscribed to the within instrument and acknowledged to me that he executed the same in his authorized capacity, and that by his signature on the instrument the person, or the entity upon behalf of which the person acted, executed the instrument. I certify under Penalty Of Perjury under the laws of the State of California that the foregoing paragraph is true and correct. Witness my hand and official seal. Brittany Anne Lokey Published at Los Cerritos Community News 9/18, 9/25, 10/2

NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF BULK SALE AND OF INTENTION TO TRANSFER ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE (U.C.C. 6101 et seq. and B & P 24074 et seq.)

Escrow No. 204321-CS Notice is hereby given that a bulk sale of assets and a transfer of alcoholic beverage license is about to be made. The names and address of the Seller/Licensee are: DELAMO LIQ INC, 2702 DEL AMO BLVD., LAKEWOOD, CA 90712 The business is known as: DEL AMO CORNER LIQUOR The names and addresses of the Buyer/Transferee are: DEL AMO CORNER LIQUOR, INC., 13904 ERIN STREET, UNIT #C, GARDEN GROVE, CA 92844 The assets to be sold are described in general as: FURNITURE, FIXTURES AND EQUIPMENT and are located at: 2702 DEL AMO BLVD., LAKEWOOD, CA 90712 The kind of license to be transferred is: Type: OFF-SALE GENERAL 21-583311 now issued for the premises located at: 2702 DEL AMO BLVD., LAKEWOOD, CA 90712 The anticipated date of the sale/transfer is OCTOBER 26, 2020 at the office of: R ESCROW CORPORATION, 1205 E. CHAPMAN AVE, ORANGE, CA 92866 The amount of the purchase price or consideration in connection with the transfer of the license and business, including the estimated inventory, is the sum of $200,000.00 which consists of the following: DESCRIPTION, AMOUNT: CASH THROUGH ESCROW $100,000.00; PROMISSORY NOTE $100,000.00 It has been agreed between the Seller/Licensee and the intended Buyer/Transferee, as required by Sec. 24073 of the Business and Professions Code, that the consideration for transfer of the business and license is to be paid only after the transfer has been approved by the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control.

DATED: AUGUST 31, 2020 DEL AMO CORNER LIQUOR, INC., A CALIFORNIA CORPORATION, Buyer(s)/Applicant(s) ORD-57923 LOS CERRITOS COMMUNITY NEWS 9/25/2020

CITY OF COMMERCE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING CITYWIDE NOTICE

CITY OF COMMERCE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING CITYWIDE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City Council of the City of Commerce will conduct a public hearing to consider a resolution of the City Council of the City of Commerce, California, establishing new fees related to Sidewalk Vendor Permits, pursuant to Title 5 “Business Regulations and Licensing,” Chapter 5.16 “Sidewalk Vending” of the Commerce Municipal Code (“Sidewalk Vending Ordinance”).

The public hearing may also include City Council’s consideration of related matters, including potential proposed amendments to the Sidewalk Vending Ordinance, and related policies and regulations.

The Sidewalk Vending Ordinance was enacted in response to Senate Bill (“SB”) 946, which establishes statewide regulations for vending from non-motorized conveyances and one’s person on sidewalks and in parks. The City adopted the Sidewalk Vending Ordinance to establish a regulatory and permitting program that is consistent with SB 946. The Sidewalk Vending Ordinance authorizes the City Council to impose fees by the adoption of a Resolution to enable the City’s recovery of costs incurred in enforcing and administering the program, including those costs incurred in processing application for permits, applications for renewals of permits, and appeals for denial or revocation of a permit. Data indicating the amount of the estimated cost required to provide the service for which the fees are to be levied is contained in the fee analysis included with the proposed Resolution. The proposed Resolution implementing new fees related to sidewalk vendor permits is available for public review and/or copying during normal business hours at the City Clerk’s Office located at 2535 Commerce Way, Commerce, California 90040.

Said public hearing will be held before the City Council of the City of Commerce on Tuesday, October 6, 2020 at 6:00 p.m., at which time any proponents and opponents will have the opportunity to be heard. Under regular circumstances, said hearing would be held at the Council Chambers, 5655 Jillson Street, Commerce, CA; however, due to COVID-19, pursuant to Executive Order N-29-20, members of the public may view the meeting, streamed live, at www.ci.commerce.ca.us, and may participate telephonically by calling to submit comments at (323) 887-4442, or may submit written comments through email at cityclerk@ci.commerce.ca.us. Please visit the City’s website for additional information on public participation, at https://cityofcommerce.legistar.com/Calendar.aspx Per Government Code Section 65009, if you challenge this matter in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the public hearing described in this notice, or in written correspondence delivered to the City Council at, or prior to, the public hearing.

Public Hearing Instructional Materials Compliance A Public Hearing will be held virtually on the ABC Unified School District website on Tuesday, October 6, 2020, at 7:00 p.m. as part of the School Board meeting. The Public Hearing will stream virtually on www.myabcusd.org/boardmeeting during Open Session. The Public Hearing is held in compliance with State guidelines to determine the adequacy of instructional materials in the District.

Published at LCCN 9/25 and 10/2/20

APN 376-032-020-3 TS No. 180904260 U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT NOTICE OF DEFAULT AND FORECLOSURE SALE Recorded in accordance with 12 USCA 3764 (c) WHEREAS, on 10/28/2005, a certain Deed of Trust was executed by Madeline Somerville, a widow as trustor in favor of Seattle Mortgage Company as beneficiary, and Northwest Trustee Services, Inc. as trustee, and was recorded on 11/4/2005, as Instrument No. 2005-0919582, in the Office of the County Recorder of Riverside County, California; and WHEREAS, the Deed of Trust was insured by the United States Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (the Secretary) pursuant to the National Housing Act for the purpose of providing single family housing; and WHEREAS, the beneficial interest in the Deed of Trust is now owned by the Secretary, pursuant to an Assignment of Deed of Trust dated 11/23/2015, recorded on 3/22/2016, as instrument number 2016-0110055, in the Office of the County Recorder, Riverside County, California; and WHEREAS, a default has been made in the covenants and conditions of the Deed of Trust in that the payment due on 7/5/2018, was not made and remains wholly unpaid as of the date of this notice, and no payment has been made sufficient to restore the loan to currency; and WHEREAS, the entire amount delinquent as of 10/16/2018 is $200,406.60; and WHEREAS, by virtue of this default, the Secretary has declared the entire amount of the indebtedness secured by the Deed of Trust to be immediately due and payable; NOW THEREFORE, pursuant to powers vested in me by the Single Family Mortgage Foreclosure Act of 1994, 12 U.S.C. 3751 et seq., by 24 CFR part 27, subpart B, and by the Secretary’s designation of Law Offices of Jason C Tatman APC as Foreclosure Commissioner, recorded on 9/4/2018 as instrument number 2018-0353951, notice is hereby given that on 10/16/2018 at 9:30 AM local time, all real and personal property at or Used In Connection With The Following Described Property Will Be Sold At Public Auction To The Highest Bidder: Legal Description: Lot 60 Of Tract 27356, In The City Of Cerritos, County Of Los Angeles, State Of California, As Per Map Recorded In Book 806, Pages 69 And 70 Of Maps, In The Office Of The County Recorder Of Said County.

Commonly known as: 17139 Leal Ave, Cerritos, CA 90703 The Secretary of Housing and Urban Development will bid an estimate of $303,956.09.

There will be no proration of taxes, rents or other income or liabilities, except that the purchaser will pay, at or before closing, his prorata share of any real estate taxes that have been paid by the Secretary to the date of the foreclosure sale. When making their bids, all bidders except the Secretary must submit a deposit totaling $30,395.61 [10% of the Secretary’s bid] in the form of a certified check or cashier’s check made out to the Secretary of HUD. Each oral bid need not be accompanied by a deposit. If the successful bid is oral, a deposit of $30,395.61 must be presented before the bidding is closed. The deposit is nonrefundable. The remainder of the purchase price must be delivered within 30 days of the sale or at such other time as the Secretary may determine for good cause shown, time being of the essence. This amount, like the bid deposits, must be delivered in the form of a certified or cashier’s check. If the Secretary is the high bidder, he need not pay the bid amount in cash. The successful bidder will pay all conveyancing fees, all real estate and other taxes that are due on or after the delivery of the remainder of the payment and all other costs associated with the transfer of title. At the conclusion of the sale, the deposits of the unsuccessful bidders will be returned to them. The Secretary may grant an extension of time within which to deliver the remainder of the payment. All extensions will be for 15-day increments for a fee of $500.00, paid in advance. The extension fee shall be in the form of a certified or cashier’s check made payable to the Secretary of HUD. If the high bidder closes the sale prior to the expiration of any extension period, the unused portion of the extension fee shall be applied toward the amount due. If the high bidder is unable to close the sale within the required period, or within any extensions of time granted by the Secretary, the high bidder may be required to forfeit the cash deposit or, at the election of the foreclosure commissioner after consultation with the HUD Field Office representative, will be liable to HUD for any costs incurred as a result of such failure. The commissioner may, at the direction of the HUD field office Representative, offer the Property to the second highest bidder for an amount equal to the highest price offered by that bidder. There is no right of redemption, or right of possession based upon a right of redemption, in the mortgagor or others subsequent to a foreclosure completed pursuant the Act. Therefore, the Foreclosure commissioner will issue a Deed to the purchaser(s) upon receipt of the entire purchase price in accordance with the terms of the sale as provided herein. HUD does not guarantee that the property will be vacant. The amount that must be paid if the Mortgage is to be reinstated prior to the scheduled sale is $200,406.60, as of 10/15/2018, plus all other amounts that would be due under the mortgage agreement if payments under the mortgage had not been accelerated, advertising costs and postage expenses incurred in giving notice, mileage by the most reasonable road distance for posting notices and for the Foreclosure Commissioner’s attendance at the sale, reasonable and customary costs incurred for title and lien record searches, the necessary out-of-pocket costs incurred by the Foreclosure Commissioner for recording documents, a commission for the Foreclosure Commissioner, and all other costs incurred in connection with the foreclosure prior to reinstatement. Date: Total Lender Solutions, Inc. U.S. Dept. of HUD Foreclosure Commissioner BY: /s/ Chelcey Romeril 10951 Sorrento Valley Road, Suite 2F San Diego, CA 92121 Phone: 866-535-3736 Fax: 760-278-9505 A notary public or other officer completing this certificate verifies only the identity of the individual who signed the document to which this certificate is attached, and not the truthfulness, accuracy, or validity of that document. State of California County of San Diego On before me, a Notary Public, personally appeared who proved to me on the basis of satisfactory evidence to be the person(s) whose name(s) is/are subscribed to the within instrument and acknowledged to me that he/she/they executed the same in his/her/ their authorized capacity(ies), and that by his/her/their signature(s) on the instrument the person(s), or the entity upon behalf of which the person(s) acted, executed the instrument. I certify under PENALTY OF PERJURY under the laws of the State of that the foregoing paragraph is true and correct. WITNESS my hand and official seal Signature

CITY OF COMMERCE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING CITYWIDE NOTICE

CITY OF COMMERCE NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING CITYWIDE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City Council of the City of Commerce will conduct a public hearing to consider Ordinance Amendment(s) to Chapter 12.06 (“City Trees”) of the Commerce Municipal Code, including to make corrections concerning the administration and enforcement of said provisions; as well as a Resolution making proposed amendments to the City’s Tree Policy. The proposed revisions to the City’s Tree Policy, include but are not limited to, maintenance, planting, and removal of trees on public property, as we all as revising and/or implementing penalties, including abatement costs, fees and fines, to provide for clearer and stronger enforcement guidelines.

Said public hearing will be held before the City Council of the City of Commerce on Tuesday, October 6, 2020 at 6:00 p.m., at which time any proponents and opponents will have the opportunity to be heard. Under regular circumstances, said hearing would be held at the Council Chambers, 5655 Jillson Street, Commerce, CA; however, due to COVID-19, pursuant to Executive Order N-29-20, members of the public may view the meeting, streamed live, at www.ci.commerce.ca.us, and may participate telephonically by calling to submit comments at (323) 887-4442, or may submit written comments through email at cityclerk@ci.commerce.ca.us. Please visit the City’s website for additional information on public participation, at https://cityofcommerce.legistar.com/Calendar.aspx Per Government Code Section 65009, if you challenge this matter in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the public hearing described in this notice, or in written correspondence delivered to the City Council at, or prior to, the public hearing.

Published at Commerce Community News 9/25/20

Published at Commerce Community News 9/25/20

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NOTICE OF TRUSTEE'S SALE T.S. No.: 2020-02080 Loan No.: WHEELER/CHERNISH ETAL YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF TRUST DATED 12/08/2015. UNLESS YOU TAKE ACTION TO PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY, IT MAY BE SOLD AT A PUBLIC SALE. IF YOU NEED AN EXPLANATION OF THE NATURE OF THE PROCEEDING AGAINST YOU, YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LAWYER. A public auction sale to the highest bidder for cash, cashier's check drawn on a state or national bank, check drawn by a state or federal credit union, or a check drawn by a state or federal savings and loan association, or savings association, or savings bank specified in Section 5102 of the Financial Code and authorized to do business in this state will be held by the duly appointed trustee as shown below, of all right, title, and interest conveyed to and now held by the trustee in the hereinafter described property under and pursuant to a Deed of Trust described below. The sale will be made, but without covenant or warranty, expressed or implied, regarding title, possession, or encumbrances, to pay the remaining principal sum of the note(s) secured by the Deed of Trust, with interest and late charges thereon, as provided in the note(s), advances, under the terms of the Deed of Trust, interest thereon, fees, charges and expenses of the Trustee for the total amount (at the time of the initial publication of the Notice of Sale) reasonably estimated to be set forth below. The amount may be greater on the day of sale. Trustor: FRANCES WHEELER Duly Appointed Trustee: Foreclosure Specialists, Inc,. A California Corporation Recorded 12/16/2015 as Instrument No. 2015-1582234 in book , page of Official Records in the office of the Recorder of LOS ANGELES County, California, Date of Sale: 10/15/2020 at 10:00AM Place of Sale: Behind the fountain located in Civic Center Plaza, 400 Civic Center Plaza, Pomona CA 91766. Amount of unpaid balance and other charges: $481,553.02 Street Address or other common designation of real property: 11228 SHARON STREET CERRITOS , CA 90703 A.P.N.: 7034-014-012 The undersigned Trustee disclaims any liability for any incorrectness of the street address or other common designation, if any, shown above. If no street address or other common designation is shown, directions to the location of the property may be obtained by sending a written request to the beneficiary within 10 days of the date of first publication of this Notice of Sale. NOTICE TO POTENTIAL BIDDERS: If you are considering bidding on this property lien, you should understand that there are risks involved in bidding at a trustee auction. You will be bidding on a lien, not on the property itself. Placing the highest bid at a trustee auction does not automatically entitle you to free and clear ownership of the property.

You should also be aware that the lien being auctioned off may be a junior lien. If you are the highest bidder at the auction, you are or may be responsible for paying off all liens senior to the lien being auctioned off, before you can receive clear title to the property. You are encouraged to investigate the existence, priority, and size of outstanding liens that may exist on this property by contacting the county recorder's office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge you a fee for this information. If you consult either of these resources, you should be aware that the same lender may hold more than one mortgage or deed of trust on the property. NOTICE TO PROPERTY OWNER: The sale date shown on this notice of sale may be postponed one or more times by the mortgagee, beneficiary, trustee, or a court, pursuant to Section 2924g of the California Civil Code. The law requires that information about trustee sale postponements be made available to you and to the public, as a courtesy to those not present at the sale. If you wish to learn whether your sale date has been postponed, and, if applicable, the rescheduled time and date for the sale of this property, you may call 760-758-7622 or visit this Internet Web site WWW.ZENITHTRUSTEE.COM, using the file number assigned to this case 2020-02080. Information about postponements that are very short in duration or that occur close in time to the scheduled sale may not immediately be reflected in the telephone information or on the Internet Web site. The best way to verify postponement information is to attend the scheduled sale. Date: 09/16/2020 Foreclosure Specialists, Inc,. A California Corporation DBA Zenith Trustee Services 217 Civic Center Drive # 2 Vista, California 92084 Sale Line: 760-758-7622 DANA A. FAZIO, TRUSTEE OFFICER NPP0371532 To: LOS CERRITOS COMMUNITY NEWS 09/25/2020, 10/02/2020, 10/09/2020

CITY OF COMMERCE Norma Copado, Assistant City Attorney 2535 Commerce Way Commerce, California 90040 (323) 722-4805

CITY OF COMMERCE Vilko Domic, Assistant City Manager 2535 Commerce Way Commerce, California 90040 (323) 722-4805

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Cerritos teenager and his team making the world greener one drop at a time

BY LAURIE HANSON “Many little drops make an ocean,” is a Chinese idiom taught by parents of Harry Yuan of Cerritos that motivates him today towards a greener future for the world’s oceans tomorrow.

The 17-year-old Whitney High School student and his team have developed a fashionable way to revolutionize beverage drinking with one simple invention called the “BluStraw”.

“My parents always used that saying to push me to recycle and make environmentally conscious decisions,” said Yuan, “however, I never really understood the gravity of plastic pollution until my high school years.”

After reading about literal islands of plastics floating in the world’s oceans, Yuan learned they would soon outnumber all the fish in the sea. He said in the United States, more than 500 million plastic straws are used daily, and if put together would circle the planet two and a half times over.

“Crazy, right?!” he said. “I can’t even fathom how much plastic that is.”

That is when he reached out across the state to a few environmentally passionate friends who together came up with a “small solution” to decrease oceanic plastic waste.

“Our original thought was if we could get people to make a tiny change in their everyday lives, it would be the ‘little drops’ [in the ocean] that would make a big difference,” explained Yuan. That is when he and his team of came up with the

reduced scope of work, the re-certification resulted in a savings of $1,225.

SEPTEMBER 2020 AUGUST25, 7, 2020

“I have owned lots of reusable straws, and my friends have as well - they’re great for the environment, but they’re a bother to clean and take around,” Yuan said. “Using tiny brushes is extremely annoying, and I would often find myself forgetting to take out my reusable straw when eating out.”

“With a bracelet on, I could wear it around every day without noticing it, and whenever I decide to get a drink my straw would conveniently be right there,” he explained.

After conducting more than 300 surveys and 40 interviews plus doing extensive market research, Yuan and his team came with a few key features: • An openable yet functional reusable straw that is extremely easy to clean • A bracelet that covers the straw on the wrist to prevent germs and bacteria • A stylish design to spark conversation/make a statement about keeping oceans clean • To donate part of the proceeds to plastic cleanup nonprofits around the world “Over the past few months, we have worked for hours each day to turn our idea into a reality,” Yuan said. “We have conducted market research, created prototypes, contacted manufacturers, and are almost ready to start product production.”

They have begun with an Indiegogo to begin crowdfunding the idea, and raised about $500 in two days, but still need additional funding. “We’re currently trying to raise awareness, as well as crowdfund through preorders and donations,” he added.

To become ‘a little drop’ in this movement to save the ocean and for more information on the BluStaw’s IndieGoGo campaign (and to place an order to be filled

by January 2021), please visit online at www.//igg.me/at/blustraw/x/24223350#/.

To all of our many healthcare professionals, first responders, and volunteers, the Gardens Casino says THANK YOU for your tireless efforts, strength of spirit and unfailing determination. We are grateful for your selflessness and sacrifice in helping restore our health and well-being.

Together we will emerge stronger!

ON A MISSION to save the world’s oceans with one small invention, Harry Yuan of Cerritos is pictured holding his BluStraw image and silicone cylinder it will be made from. He and a group of teen’s simple idea is to create a reusable straw that can be worn as a bracelet, making it handy to use anytime, anywhere. Photo by Laurie Hanson.

idea of a reusable straw that doubles as a stylish bracelet – the BluStraw.

“We’re aiming to keep plastic out of our oceans and start an environmentally friendly movement around the globe,” he said. “We have been working on this idea since the beginning of summer as there are few activities due to the pandemic.”

On Yuan’s team is Derrick Cai, 16, of San Jose, Ashish Basetty, 17, of Fremont, Arnav Jain, 16, of San Jose, and Maddox Yu, 16, of Evergreen.

Though plastic straws aren’t the largest contributor to plastic pollution in the ocean, Yuan and his team discovered that the whole idea to shift away from plastic to reusable straws is really a symbol of an eco-friendly future for all, he said. It is something they concluded through social media, friends, and the eco-friendly community of the last decade. It is why they came up with a new reusable silicone straw in the form of a bracelet for everyday living.