3-D RENDERING of the approved 30-unit for-sale townhome development at 20223 Cabrillo Lane in Cerritos. The project, approved 5-0 by the City Council, will replace a former preschool campus with six three-story contemporary residential buildings featuring light-gray stucco finishes, decorative brick accents, pitched gable roofs and private balconies. Of the 30 units, three will be designated as affordable housing, while six moderate-income units originally assigned to the site have been reassigned to a future Housing Element parcel.
EXCLUSIVE: Another GM Ousted at Central Basin as Financial Questions Mount
By Brian Hews
Here we go again. The Central Basin Municipal Water District has fired another general manager — this time Elaine Jeng — continuing a stunning pattern that has now chewed through five GMs in just a few years.
But to understand this latest implosion, you have to rewind.
In early 2024, the board majority pushed out Dr. Alex Rojas, placing him on paid administrative leave in what critics say violated his employment contract, the California Water Code, and Central Basin’s Administrative Code. At the time, Central Basin had over $14.2 million in reserves and had steadily grown cash from $7.4 million in 2020 to more than $17 million in 2023 during Rojas’ tenure, even while paying down debt and improving its credit rating.
After removing Rojas, the board installed outside attorney Victor Ponto — who had no operational water experience — and shortly thereafter rushed to hire Jeng.
The hiring process was questionable at best. The position was advertised for just one week. Interviews were conducted in closed session, reportedly limited to twenty minutes per candidate. Jeng was awarded a $265,000 salary, generous leave benefits, and a $400 monthly car allowance. The salary was listed as “unbudgeted” and funded from surplus reserves — meaning ratepayers were effectively paying two GMs at once.
Jeng came from Palos Verdes Estates, where she had served as city manager for only eight months. A prior city press
release noted she previously served in Rolling Hills and holds an engineering degree from UCLA.
Then came the chaos.
During Jeng’s tenure, two long-time Central Basin employees were abruptly fired on the exact day nomination papers were due for two appointed board seats held by Nem Ochoa and Joanna Moreno — directors whose continued presence on the board is legally disputed. The move shifted control of the nomination and verification process directly into Jeng’s hands.
That was in 2024, when Ochoa and Moreno should have left the board. Instead, they remain seated because Jeng, attorney Victor Ponto, and the board majority refused to allow the legally required replacement process to move forward. The same maneuver was repeated in November 2025, when the majority again blocked the appointment process, effectively preserving its control.
Meanwhile, cash reserves — once climbing — plunged. By May 2025, district cash had dropped to roughly $9.5 million, nearly a $5 million decline since Rojas was placed on leave.
Monthly financial reports that had been regularly presented during Rojas’ tenure disappeared for six months, only to reappear in a bundled approval vote.
Board meetings devolved into public infighting. Agenda disputes erupted. Director Art Chacon accused Jeng of refusing to post agendas as submitted and of adding unauthorized items. Special meetings were canceled. Legal fees to Ponto’s firm reportedly soared past
Cerritos Approves 30-Unit Townhome Project, Shifts Affordable Housing Obligation to Future Site
By Brian Hews
On a 5-0 vote, the Cerritos City Council approved a 30unit for-sale townhome development at 20223 Cabrillo Lane, replacing a former preschool campus that closed last summer.
The project, proposed by Melia Homes Inc., will demolish two vacant preschool buildings totaling about 5,220 square feet and construct six three-story residential buildings on the 1.34-acre site. The preschool previously served roughly 100 students and employed 21 people before ceasing operations in June 2025.
Commerce Votes to Place Quarter-Cent Sales Tax Measure on June 2026 Ballot
By Brian Hews
COMMERCE — The City of Commerce City Council voted unanimously to place a ¼-cent sales tax measure on the June 2026 ballot, asking voters to approve what officials are calling the Commerce Essential Services Protection Measure.
City leaders say the proposal is intended to protect local revenues and diversify the city’s funding sources as the Commerce Casino — a major contributor to the city’s general fund — faces potential regulatory changes.
The Commerce Casino generates more than $30 million annually for the city, funding law enforcement, youth programs, parks and the city’s free bus system. City officials said recent changes announced by the state attorney general regarding gaming regulations could negatively affect casino revenues.
“We can’t afford to sit back and hope things stay the same,” said Mayor Kevin Lainez. “With the state threatening our cardroom revenues and the county looking to take more sales tax, the city must find new ways to fund the services our community relies on. This measure is about maintaining essential services.”
Los Angeles County law caps total sales tax at 10.75%. Commerce’s current rate is 10.50%, leaving 0.25% before reaching the legal maximum. County officials are expected to pursue their own sales tax measure in 2026.
If Commerce voters approve the local measure first, city officials
The development will include 30 attached townhomes ranging from 1,390 to 1,928 square feet across three floor plans. Fourteen units will follow Plan 1, offering three bedrooms and three bathrooms at 1,390 square feet with tandem two-car garages. Eight units will follow Plan 2, featuring two bedrooms and two-and-one-half bathrooms at 1,400 square feet with standard two-car garages. The remaining eight units will be Plan 3, providing four bed-
rooms and three-and-one-half bathrooms at 1,928 square feet, each with a two-car garage.
All homes will include private balconies between 60 and 78 square feet. The overall density of approximately 23 units per acre falls within the 20 to 60 units per acre allowed under the property’s Area Development Plan 18 zoning designation.
The architecture is described as Contemporary, with lightgray stucco finishes, darker trim accents, decorative brick veneer at lower levels, pitched gable roofs with composite shingles and enhanced materials covering more than 40 percent of building elevations. Structures will reach approximately 38 feet in height.
The site plan includes three community open-space areas, including a central lawn with a wood shade structure, landscaped pedestrian paseos and decorative hardscape elements, along with frontage improvements along Cabrillo Lane.
Parking will total 72 spaces — 60 garage spaces and 12 guest spaces — resulting in a 2.4-space-per-unit ratio that meets zoning standards. Access will be con -
See CERRITOS, Page 7
La Palma Receives $850K for Public Safety Upgrades; Norwalk Nets $250K for Metro Station
By Brian Hews
The City of La Palma will receive $850,000 in federal funding to modernize its Public Safety Center as part of a
Department, including updated security systems, equipment and technology improvements aimed at strengthening emergency response capabilities. The La Palma allocation was included in Fiscal Year
LA PALMA Public Safety Center will receive $850,000 in federal funding secured by U.S. Senator Alex Padilla to modernize infrastructure used by both the La Palma Police and Fire departments.
$24.3 million package secured by U.S. Senator Alex Padilla for projects across Los Angeles and Orange counties. The funding will support infrastructure upgrades used by both the La Palma Police Department and the La Palma Fire
2026 Congressionally Directed Spending appropriations, part of nearly $242 million Padilla secured statewide. In addition to La Palma, nearby transit infrastructure in the Norwalk area will receive
WATCHDOGS.
NOT
LAPDOGS.
Holding Local Government Accountable. Los Cerritos News
Artesia Moves to Hold Property Owners Liable for Illegal Fireworks
By Brian Hews
The Artesia City Council is moving to crack down on illegal fireworks by holding property owners and event organizers strictly liable if fireworks are used on or near their property.
Councilmembers will consider adopting an ordinance that revises the city’s municipal code to expand responsibility beyond the individual lighting the fuse.
Under the proposed changes, any “responsible person” who allows or invites others to gather on property they own, possess, or control — or who organizes, supervises, conducts, or is otherwise in charge of an activity on that property — could be held strictly liable if illegal fireworks are used or found there. Violators would face fines.
The ordinance goes a step further. Property owners could also be held responsible for illegal fireworks discharged on public property immediately adjacent to their parcel.
In practical terms, if fireworks are shot off in the street directly in front of a home, the homeowner could face penalties unless they are the first to report the violation.
City officials say the ordinance is aimed at reducing dangerous and disruptive fireworks activity that spikes around holidays and strains public safety resources.
Illegal fireworks have long been a concern in Southeast Los Angeles County communities, where dense residential neighborhoods increase the risk of fires, injuries, and property damage.
The proposed amendments include an exception: property owners who proactively report illegal fireworks activity would not be held liable. If adopted, the ordinance would amend Chapter 2 (Fireworks) of Title 4 (Public Safety) of the Artesia Municipal Code.
The measure reflects a growing trend among cities seeking stronger enforcement tools as traditional citation methods often fail to deter repeat violations.
The council is expected to vote on the ordinance in the coming weeks.
Ross Middle School Band Honored After Disneyland
MEMBERS of the Ross Middle School Band pose with Artesia City Council members, ABC Unified School District Trustees and school staff after receiving Certificates of Recognition for their recent performance at the Disneyland Resort.
By Brian Hews
The Ross Middle School Band was recognized this week for its recent performance at the Disneyland Resort, where student musicians represented Artesia and the ABC Unified School District on one of the state’s most iconic stages.
Certificates of Recognition were presented to the band celebrating what officials described as an “incredible performance” during their Disneyland appearance. The student musicians performed
before park guests as part of Disney’s youth performance program, showcasing months of preparation and rehearsal.
Artesia City Council members joined ABC Unified School District trustees and school staff in honoring the students, applauding their dedication, teamwork and musical excellence.
School leaders said the performance was not only a proud moment for the students and their families, but also a chance to highlight the strength of local arts education programs.
Artesia Libarary Offers Free Homework Help and Quiet Study
LCCN Staff Report
Los Angeles County Library is offering students in Artesia a quiet place to focus, free homework help, and online tutoring designed to improve concentration and academic performance.
At the Artesia Library, located at 18801 Elaine Avenue, students in grades 1 through 12 can use the Homework Center during the school year. The center provides a structured environment where students can complete assignments, use computers for research, and receive guidance from trained staff. For many families, the biggest benefit is simple but powerful: a calm, distraction-free space where kids can concentrate.
Library staff assist with math, reading, writing, science, and social studies assignments while also helping students develop better study habits. Tables are set up for focused work, computers are available for research and school portals, and the overall environment is intentionally designed to reduce distractions and encourage productivity.
For students who prefer help from home, LA County Library also provides free online tutoring through Brainfuse. With a valid library card, students can connect to live tutors in the afternoon
FUNDS from page 1
$250,000 for advanced traffic signal controllers near the future Metro L Line station in Norwalk and along the Lambert Road corridor near the Los Angeles–Orange County border. The improvements are intended to enhance traffic flow and transit coordination as the Foothill Gold Line extension progresses.
Some other projects include:
• San Gabriel Basin Restoration Fund — $3.24 million for groundwater cleanup and orphan contamination sites.
• Community Crisis Response Program (Long Beach) — $1.49 million to expand non-emergency response services.
• Nueva Maravilla Extreme Heat Measures — $1.2 million for cooling equipment installation at the East Los Angeles public housing development.
• Water Bank Study (Las Virgenes Municipal Water District) — $1.09 mil-
and evening, receive writing feedback, complete practice tests, and access study tools 24 hours a day. This allows families to schedule homework support around sports, activities, and work schedules.
In addition to homework assistance, the library offers free Wi-Fi, printing services, research databases, teen study spaces, and educational workshops throughout the year. All services are available at no cost with a library card.
Nearby Los Angeles County Library branches serving the Southeast Los Angeles County area include: Artesia Library, 18801 Elaine Ave, Artesia; Alondra Library, 11949 Alondra Blvd, Norwalk; Norwalk Library, 12350 Imperial Hwy, Norwalk; Clifton M. Brakensiek Library, 9945 E Flower St, Bellflower; Angelo M. Iacoboni Library, 4990 Clark Ave, Lakewood; George Nye Jr. Library, 6600 Del Amo Blvd, Lakewood; Hawaiian Gardens Library, 11940 Carson St, Hawaiian Gardens; La Mirada Library, 13800 La Mirada Blvd, La Mirada; South Whittier Library, 11543 Colima Rd, Whittier.
For students struggling to concentrate at home, the local library may be the simplest solution — a quiet table, a helpful staff member, and the tools needed to succeed.
lion to study desalinated water delivery.
• CIRCLE Program (Los Angeles) — $1.06 million to expand unarmed crisis response services.
• West LA Real Time Crime Center — $1.03 million to expand crime center and sensor capabilities.
• San Gabriel River Water Quality Improvement Project — $1 million to reduce trash entering the Pacific Ocean.
• Los Angeles Conservation Corps Workforce Training — $969,000 for education and training programs.
• Los Angeles County Fire Department Pacoima Warehouse Renovation — $968,000 for facility upgrades.
• Inside Safe Program — $850,000 for housing acquisition and improvements.
• Rio Hondo Community College Firefighting Education — $790,000 for equipment purchases.
State Audits Cost California Schools Over $2.2 Million
A HEALTH WORKER administers a vaccine to a young student. State officials say immunization compliance is critical as measles cases rise and school districts face funding penalties for falling short of state requirements.
By Diana Lambert, EdSource
California has pulled more than $2.2 million in state funding from public schools over the past two years after audits found students were not fully vaccinated as required by state law.
Last year, the state flagged 428 California schools for low vaccination rates, triggering audits that are still underway. Among the districts that remain under review are Los Angeles Unified, San Francisco Unified and Oakland Unified. It is not yet clear whether ABC Unified or other Southeast Los Angeles County districts are among the schools currently under audit.
The funding losses stem from average daily attendance penalties after state investigators reviewed more than 1,000 public schools in 2023 and 2024. Schools where more than 10% of kindergartners or seventh grade students were not fully vaccinated were subject to review. After investigations were completed, schools in 72 districts lost funding.
Los Angeles Unified, the state’s largest school district with more than 400,000 students, lost $324,055 in attendance funding during the two years reviewed. San Francisco Unified lost $315,775, while Oakland Unified lost $155,347 after failing to verify full compliance with state vaccination requirements.
Even smaller districts saw signifi-
cant losses. Snowline Joint Unified, with about 8,000 students, lost 15.6 days of attendance funding worth $195,390. Ojai Unified, serving about 2,000 students, lost 14 days of funding worth $166,993.
Under California law, students must be immunized against 10 serious communicable diseases. Proof of immunization is required in kindergarten and seventh grade, as well as when enrolling in child care, transitional kindergarten, or transferring from out of state. Schools lose attendance funding for the period each year that a student remains out of compliance.
Districts found to be out of compliance must submit corrective action plans to the California Department of Education to prevent future violations.
L.A. Unified officials said the district has maintained a 98% immunization compliance rate since the audit and has hosted vaccination clinics and outreach events to address gaps.
The renewed enforcement comes as measles cases are rising nationally. In California, reported cases climbed from four in 2023 to 25 in 2025, with 19 already reported this year. L. A. County alone has confirmed four cases since Jan. 30.
“The MMR vaccine is the safest and most reliable way to prevent measles and protect yourself, your family and your community,” Los Angeles County Health Officer Muntu Davis said in a statement.
Cerritos-Based Revolve Earns $18.6 Million Fourth Quarter Profit
CERRITOS — Revolve Group Inc., the Cerritos-based online women’s fashion retailer, reported fourth-quarter profit of $18.6 million Tuesday, exceeding Wall Street expectations.
The company said earnings totaled 26 cents per share for the quarter.
Analysts surveyed by Zacks Investment Research had projected earnings of 16 cents per share.
Revolve posted revenue of
$324.4 million for the quarter, also beating expectations.
Six analysts surveyed by Zacks had forecast revenue of $305.4 million.
For the full year, Revolve reported profit of $61.7 million, or 86 cents per share, on revenue of $1.23 billion.
Revolve Group trades on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol RVLV.
La Mirada Ticket Wins $35K in SuperLotto Plus Jackpot
By Brian Hews
A SuperLotto Plus ticket sold in La Mirada came within one number of winning the $30 million jackpot Saturday night, lottery officials announced.
The lucky ticket matched five of the six required numbers but missed the Mega number, earning the player $35,224 instead of the multimillion-dollar grand prize.
According to the California State Lottery, the winning numbers drawn were 1, 19, 24, 38 and 46, with a Mega number of 3.
The near-jackpot ticket was sold at Royal Liquor & Wine, located at 15827 E. Imperial Highway in La Mirada, approximately 35 miles southeast of downtown Los Angeles.
No ticket matched all five numbers plus the Mega number, causing the jackpot to roll over. The next SuperLotto Plus drawing, scheduled for Wednesday, Feb. 25, now carries an estimated $31 million jackpot, with a cash value of approximately $14.3 million.
More than 100,000 other SuperLotto Plus tickets sold statewide also won prizes ranging from $1 to $1,300 in Saturday’s drawing.
The SuperLotto Plus jackpot was last claimed on Dec. 11, when a ticket purchased in Artesia won $47 million.
To win the SuperLotto Plus jackpot, a player must match all five numbers and the Mega number. The odds of hitting the jackpot are 1 in 41,416,353.
Tickets cost $1 and can be purchased up until 7:45 p.m. on drawing days. Drawings are held Wednesdays and Saturdays.
Two Cerritos Women Killed in Victorville Shooting; Family Member Arrested
VICTORVILLE — A family member has been arrested in connection with a deadly shooting in Victorville that left two Cerritos women dead and a third victim hospitalized, authorities said.
San Bernardino County Sheriff’s deputies responded at approximately 8:58 p.m. Friday to reports of an assault with a deadly weapon and multiple people shot in the 13000 block of Sundown Road.
When deputies arrived, they found Ayanna Smith, 48, of Cerritos; Annaya Scott, 26, of Cerritos; and a 28-yearold man from Redlands suffering from gunshot wounds.
All three victims were transported to local hospitals. Smith and Scott were later pronounced dead.
The Sheriff’s Specialized Investigations Division – Homicide Detail took over the investigation.
Detectives identified Sydney Smith, 45, of Victorville — described by authorities as a family member of the victims — as the suspect in the murders of Ayanna Smith and Annaya Scott and the attempted murder of the male victim.
Sydney Smith was arrested on suspicion of murder and attempted murder and booked into the High Desert Detention Center, where he is being held without bail.
Authorities have not released a motive. The investigation remains ongoing.
Anyone with information is urged to contact the Sheriff’s Homicide Detail at
909-890-4904. Anonymous tips can be submitted through We-Tip at 1-800-78CRIME or online at wetip.com.
Hot Streets Crime Report
February 16-22, 2026
Welcome to LCCN’s new crime report, which tracks incidents reported by law enforcement across LCCN cities with an emphasis on repeat locations and emerging patterns rather than isolated events.
Artesia
Artesia checked in with a pick-pocket style theft report on a familiar corridor that keeps popping up regionwide.
Grand Theft, 11600 blk South St
Repeat crimes: South St continues to surface as a recurring theft corridor across multiple cities.
Bellflower
Bellflower’s log stayed true to form: domestic violence calls plus another hit on a major east–west corridor.
Assault, 16200 blk Eucalyptus Ave
Assault, Artesia Blvd & Woodruff Ave
Robbery, 9900 blk Artesia Blvd
Roberry-Auto, 13600 blk Faust Ave
Repeat crimes: Artesia Blvd appears again, spanning both Bellflower and Cerritos activity.
Cerritos
Cerritos stayed concentrated around the same shopping-and-parking gravity wells, with Los Cerritos Center showing up again.
Assault, 13100 blk Cantrece Ln
Roberry-Auto, 12600 blk Artesia Blvd
Roberry-Auto, 19200 blk Kay Ave
Burglary, 19400 blk Amhurst Ct
Burglary, 19500 blk Albert Ave
Burglary, 17100 blk Janell Ave
Cerritos Senior Center 12340 South St. Cevitas Coffee 14218 Rosecrans Ave CTA Travel 12750 Center Ct Dr S. ContunEM 6430 South St Don Knabe Park At the Tennis Center Foggia Deli 5522 Del Amo Blvd.
Grocery Outlet 15745 Imperial Hwy, Grove at Cerritos 11000 New Falcon Way
Goodyear Auto 19404 Norwalk Blvd. Gardens Casino 11871 E Carson St. Hawaiian Gardens City Hall, Rec. Center, Library 21815 Pioneer Heritage Park 18600 Bloomfield Holy Family Church, Artesia 18708 Clarkdale IHop La Mirada 15140 La Mirada Blvd
Imperial Healthcare Center 11926 La Mirada Blvd
Kindred Hospital 14900 Imperial Hwy. Kristens Beauty Salon 13952 Valley View Ave La Casa de Concinera 15711 Imperial Hwy, UCI/Lakewood Regional 3700 South St.
La Mirada City Hall, Library, Resource Center, Sheriff’s Splash! La Mirada
13700 La Mirada Blvd LA Nails 13239 South St La Palma City Hall
7822 Walker St
Artesia Blvd.
cerritosnews.bsky.social
Petty Theft, 12700 blk Towne Center
Petty Theft, 11500 blk South St
Petty Theft, 500 blk Los Cerritos Ctr
Grand Theft, 400 blk Los Cerritos Ctr
Grand Theft, 18600 blk Gridley Rd
Assault, 19100 blk Gridley Rd
Auto, 200 blk Los Cerritos Ctr
Repeat crimes: Los Cerritos Ctr continues to generate theft and vehiclerelated incidents; Gridley Rd shows up for both theft and domestic violence.
Lakewood
Lakewood’s week mixed domestic violence calls with a heavy run of autorelated theft, including multiple streets hit for auto parts.
Assault, 11800 blk 206th St
Assault, 11600 blk 207th St
Assault, 5200 blk Bellflower Blvd
Assault, 500 blk Lakewood Center
Mall
Assault, Harvey Way & Los Coyotes Diagonal
Robbery, 5100 blk Fidler Ave
Burglary, 5900 blk Del Amo Blvd
Auto, 6000 blk Deerford St
Grand Theft Vehicle, 2400 blk Hardwick St
Grand Theft Vehicle, 3700 blk South St
Grand Theft Vehicle, 4300 blk Deeboyar Ave
Grand Theft Vehicle, 21400 blk Wardham Ave
Roberry-Auto, 5800 blk Pennswood Ave
Roberry-Auto, 6000 blk Autry Ave
Roberry-Auto, 6100 blk Lorelei Ave
Roberry-Auto, 5400 blk Andy St
Roberry-Auto, 5900 blk Fidler Ave
Roberry-Auto, 6100 blk Pearce Ave
Roberry-Auto, 4300 blk Canehill Ave
Petty Theft, 5800 blk Lakewood Blvd
Petty Theft, 4200 blk Woodruff Ave
Repeat crimes: Lakewood Blvd stacks multiple shoplifting reports; Fidler Ave shows up in both robbery and auto parts theft.
La Mirada
La Palma Community Center
7822 Walker St La Palma Intercomm.
Hospital
Liberty Park 9211 Studebaker Rd, Long Beach Memorial 2801 Atlantic Ave
Massage & Stone
13247 South St.
Medipost
13299 E South Street
Norwalk Arts/Sports 13000 Clarkdale
Norwalk SR. Center
14040 San Antonio Dr.
Norwalk City Hall
12700 Norwalk Blvd, Olive Lawn
13926 La Mirada Blvd
11832 E Carson St
Pico Rivera Chamber
5016 Passons Blvd
Pico River City Hall and Sheriffs
6615 Passons Blvd
Rosewoods
10769 South St.
State Farm
12616 South St
LAFD Station 30
19030 Pioneer Blvd
Santa Fe Springs City Hall
Silverlake Ramen 11103 183rd St
Sophia Hair Salon
13243 South St.
Tacos San Pedro 11832 E Carson St
Tour Le Jour
13359 South St VI Pharmacy
12610 South Street
WRD
4040 Paramount
Assault, 14100 blk Funston Ave
Assault, 11900 blk 162nd St
Assault, 16300 blk Pioneer Blvd
Assault, 11000 blk Imperial Hwy
Burglary, 11200 blk Ferina St
Burglary, 11500 blk Rosecrans Ave
Burglary, 15600 blk Lancelot Ave
Burglary, 14000 blk Pioneer Blvd
Robbery, 12000 blk Imperial Hwy
Robbery, 12600 blk Imperial Hwy
Robbery, 11800 blk Alondra Blvd
Grand Theft Vehicle, 10900 blk Firestone Blvd
Grand Theft Vehicle, 12800 blk Larwin Rd
Grand Theft Vehicle, 13800 blk Shoemaker Ave
Grand Theft Vehicle, 14600 blk Dumont Ave
Grand Theft Vehicle, Funston Ave & Front St
Auto, 11600 blk Firestone Blvd
Roberry-Auto, 11000 blk Liggett St
Petty Theft, 11800 blk Firestone Blvd
Petty Theft, 12500 blk Alondra Blvd
Repeat crimes: Imperial Hwy appears repeatedly across robbery and assault reports; Firestone Blvd shows up for both vehicle burglary and vehicle theft; Dumont Ave logged back-to-back vehicle theft activity.
Pico Rivera
Pico Rivera stayed locked onto Washington Blvd as the main stage, with repeated vehicle burglaries plus theft and a domestic violence call in the same corridor.
Petty Theft, 8800 blk Whittier Blvd
Petty Theft, 8500 blk Washington Blvd
Petty Theft, 8800 blk Washington Blvd
Petty Theft, 8200 blk Pioneer Blvd
Auto, 8900 blk Washington Blvd
Auto, 9500 blk Bexley Dr
Auto, 9300 blk Maxine St
Locker Burglary, 8900 blk
Washington Blvd
Assault, 9700 blk Washington Blvd
La Mirada kept deputies busy with four suspects arrested on various warrants and narcotics violations — apparently paperwork and powder remain popular.
Residential Burglary
A burglary was reported on the 14900 block of Tacuba Dr. One suspect was arrested in result of the incident.
Grand Theft
Copper wire was reported stolen on the 16000 block of Alicante Rd.
An attempt was made to steal a catalytic converter on the 14400 block of Plantana Dr.
A catalytic converter theft occurred on the 14600 block of Fairvilla Dr.
A theft of a catalytic converter was reported on the 14300 block of Plantana Dr.
A catalytic converter was stolen on the 14700 block of Richvale Dr.
An overnight theft of a catalytic converter occurred on the 14600 block of Poner St.
A catalytic converter was reported stolen on the 13800 block of Muroc St.
Norwalk
Norwalk posted the widest mix this week—robberies, burglaries, domestic violence calls, and multiple vehicle crimes concentrated along repeat corridors.
Assault, 14500 blk Fairford Ave
Assault, 11600 blk Imperial Hwy
Assault, 11300 blk Washington Blvd
Burglary, 9500 blk Slauson Ave
Roberry-Auto, 9600 blk Charlesworth Rd
Roberry-Auto, 9600 blk Terradell St
Roberry-Auto, 8500 blk Dalewood Ave
Repeat crimes: Washington Blvd appears across theft, auto burglary, locker burglary, and assault reports—an unusually concentrated week for one corridor.
Santa Fe Springs
Santa Fe Springs activity showed up under the Whittier Police–Santa Fe Springs reporting feed, with a mix of drug, DUI, burglary, and robbery calls. Drug, 9039 S Pioneer Blvd DUI, 12500 blk Lakeland Rd
Burglary, 11200 blk Norwalk Blvd
Robbery, 11100 blk Washington Blvd
Assault, 12600 blk Carmenita Rd
Repeat crimes: None identified in this batch.
HOT STREETS THIS WEEK
Washington Blvd, Pico Rivera — repeated auto burglaries, theft reports, and assaults stacked on the same corridor.
Firestone Blvd, Norwalk — vehicle burglary and vehicle theft clustered on the same corridor.
Lakewood Blvd, Lakewood — repeated shoplifting activity at the same block range.
Los Cerritos Ctr, Cerritos — vehiclerelated and theft activity continues to concentrate around the mall zone.
Fidler Ave, Lakewood — shows up in both robbery and auto parts theft activity.
Dumont Ave, Norwalk — back-toback vehicle theft activity in the same block range.
Source: Crimemapper.com
Passing of Longtime Burbank Elementary Teacher Antonia Flores
and Pam Plakos delivering holiday gift baskets to needy local families.
By Linda J. Hernández
Antonia Flores spent her entire career as a sixth-grade teacher at Burbank Elementary School in Artesia, where she also served in assistant principal assignments. Mrs. Flores, as she was known to students and colleagues, passed away Saturday, February 21, after a lengthy illness. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her for her sense of humor, generosity and dedication to teaching, family and friends.
Her students fondly remember elaborate reenactments of ancient Egyptian rituals and other world history events they were studying. After retiring, she became a dedicated member of the ABCFT-Retirees group. Toni devoted many hours to collecting and distributing holiday gift baskets to needy local families throughout the school district.
Known for her love of cats, Bur-
La Palma Mourns Passing of Former Mayor Alan I. Priest
LCCN Staff Report
The City of La Palma is saddened to announce the passing of former Mayor Alan I. Priest, who passed away in December 2025, just days shy of his 87th birthday.
Priest served on the City Council from 1976 to 1980, including one term as Mayor, leaving a lasting impact on the community through his leadership and dedication to public services.
During his time in La Palma, Priest balanced a distinguished career as a Detective Level III with the Los Angeles Police Department, while simultaneously serving on the La Palma City Council.
A graduate of law school and a member of the California State Bar, he also operated a law practice in La Palma alongside his wife, Sandy.
Following his retirement in 1982, Priest moved to Oregon, where his commitment to civil service continued.
He was eventually appointed by Oregon Gov. Neil Goldschmidt as the State Corrections Ombudsman.
In his private life, Priest was known for his vibrant hobbies and deep faith.
He was an active member of the USC Trojans Club, a skilled sailor, and won awards at the Oregon State Fair for his
bank staff and students remember that she cared for several strays who made their home on campus. She also fed and adopted a series of cats in the Bellflower and Downey areas.
Antonia Flores requested that no memorial services be held, and her large and beloved family is honoring that wish.
Those wishing to honor her memory may make a donation to any animal rescue group or shelter in her name. In recognition of her dedication to students and their families — even after retirement — donations may also be made to the ABCFT-Retirees Scholarship Program for graduating ABC seniors pursuing careers in education, or to Holiday Gift Baskets for Local Needy Families.
For information on how to donate to the funds she supported, contact: abcftretirees2317@gmail.com
specialty jams and home-brewed beers.
Priest is survived by his children — Todd, Craig, and Kimberly — and his granddaughters, Erica and Savannah
Those who served alongside Priest recall a steady, thoughtful leader who preferred solutions over speeches. Colleagues say he brought a law enforcement mindset to City Hall — focused on accountability, public safety, and long-term stability. Even after leaving office, he remained proud of La Palma’s growth and often stayed in touch with former colleagues and residents. Friends describe him as disciplined yet warm, serious about duty but quick with a story and a laugh.
During his four years on the Council, Priest was known for his careful preparation and measured approach to decision-making. Former colleagues said he rarely rushed a vote, preferring instead to ask questions and weigh long-term impacts on residents and city finances. At a time when La Palma was continuing to grow and define its civic identity, Priest emphasized responsible development and strong public safety partnerships. His background in policing and law gave him a practical understanding of governance that residents valued. Friends say he viewed public office not as a platform, but as a responsibility entrusted to him by neighbors.
“Former Mayor Priest represented the very best of La Palma - a commitment to family, a passion for service, and a neighborly spirit,” said Mayor Nitesh P. Patel. “His contributions to our city helped shape the community we enjoy today.” The City of La Palma extends its deepest condolences to the Priest family.
Consumer Caution Corner Glass in Frozen Rice, Metal in Meatballs, and a Grill Brush Warning
By Brian Hews
Shoppers across Southeast Los Angeles County may want to check their freezers and backyard barbecue gear as several significant recalls have been announced involving food and household products.
Trader Joe’s has recalled certain packages of its frozen Chicken Fried Rice after reports the product may contain pieces of glass.
The affected 20-ounce bags carry best-by dates ranging from early September through mid-November 2026 and were distributed nationwide.
Federal regulators classified the recall at the highest risk level, meaning there is a reasonable probability of serious injury if consumed. Customers are urged not to eat the product and to return it to any Trader Joe’s store for a full refund.
Nearly 10,000 pounds of frozen Italian-style meatballs sold at Aldi have also been pulled due to possible metal contamination. Officials say small metal fragments may be present. Consumers should discard the meatballs or return them to the store.
Certain cottage cheese products sold under a major national brand have been recalled over improper pasteurization concerns.
A regional cream cheese producer also issued a recall after possible listeria contamination was identified during routine testing.
Health officials advise consumers to check lot numbers carefully.
A large batch of frozen blueberries has been upgraded to a Class I recall after possible listeria contamination was detected, posing particular risks to pregnant women, seniors and individuals with weakened immune systems.
More than 3.2 million metal wire-bristle grill brushes have also been recalled because bristles can break off and become lodged in food, creating a serious ingestion hazard. Consumers are advised to stop using affected brushes immediately and contact the manufacturer for a refund.
Consumers should check labels, lot codes and best-by dates, especially on frozen items stored for extended periods.
As always, Consumer Caution Corner will continue monitoring recalls that could impact families in Cerritos, Artesia, Bellflower, Pico Rivera, La Mirada, Norwalk, Lakewood, Hawaiian Gardens, Commerce and Santa Fe Springs.
By Brian Hews
The Pico Rivera City Council met February 10 at the Pico Rivera Senior Center, approving a series of land, infrastructure and youth programming items, while receiving updates on more than $143 million in capital improvement projects.
During a public hearing, the Council approved a resolution declaring certain City-owned property as exempt surplus land and authorized the summary vacation of a public alleyway. The item passed unanimously.
On the consent calendar, the Council awarded a construction contract not to exceed $1.308 million to Elegant Construction, Inc. for heating, ventilation and air conditioning improvements at Rivera Park and Pico Park gymnasiums.
The action included authorization for up to $200,000 in contingency funding and budget adjustments totaling approximately $1.2 million to support the project.
Councilmembers also approved a three-year transportation services agreement for Parks and Recreation programs with Inland Empire Stages, LTD, not to exceed $240,000.
A youth-focused music mentorship program drew additional discussion after being pulled from the consent calendar. The Council approved transferring $145,000 to fund a pilot program called Sounds of New Generations [S.O.N.G.] in collaboration with the Andy Vargas Foundation. The funding supports Phase 1 of the initiative aimed at mentoring local youth through music instruction and performance opportunities.
Public comment included concerns from multiple residents about ongoing public safety issues at a vacant property located at 8320 Lexington and Gallatin Road, citing unauthorized access and disruptive activity.
Written correspondence also referenced homelessness and long-term RV parking concerns at a commercial parking lot.
City staff provided capital improvement updates, noting a two-year CIP budget totaling over $143 million and reporting that $44 million in projects have been completed over the past two years.
Major projects in progress include park renovations, street resurfacing, water main replacement, and PFAS treatment system design.
DEDICATED: Antonia Flores, left, was a dedicated member of ABCFT-Retirees. Here she is with fellow retired teachers Licha Barrios, Diane Ramírez
Alan Priest
MemorialCare Physicians Treat 2,300 Patients on Vietnam Medical Mission
LCCN Staff Report
Two MemorialCare Medical Group physicians recently returned from Vietnam after providing lifesaving medical, dental and vision care to more than 2,300 residents in one of the country’s most underserved regions. Pediatrician Matthew Coulson, M.D., of MemorialCare Medical Group–Laguna Hills, and family medicine physician and chief medical information officer Vinh Nguyen, M.D., of MemorialCare Medical Group–Huntington Beach, spent a week delivering essential care in the Mekong River Delta’s Soc Trang province as part of a humanitarian mission with the Project Vietnam Foundation.
During the mission, rural middle schools were transformed into temporary clinics, giving residents access to healthcare services that are often unavailable in the region. Working alongside 11 physicians, six dentists, four pharmacists, four optometrists and more than 20 volunteers, the team distributed 1,500 prescription glasses, conducted 800 dental exams and procedures, and treated approximately 900 children— many of whom were seeing a healthcare professional for the first time.
For Dr. Nguyen, who was born in the United States to Vietnamese parents, the mission carried special meaning.
“Returning to my family’s roots to serve was humbling and profoundly meaningful,” Nguyen said. “Even though the days were long, it never felt like a burden. The smiles we saw made every moment worth it.”
Nguyen was joined on the trip by his son, Bryce. Coulson was accompanied
by his wife, Diana; his son, Brady; and his mother-in-law, Anh, who served as a translator. Their participation underscored the mission’s ability to unite families across generations in service to others.
Each morning began before sunrise, with volunteers traveling for hours along rural roads to reach remote communities in the Mekong Delta. By the time the team arrived, families were already waiting, some having journeyed long distances for the opportunity to see a doctor.
“Many of us enter medicine with a strong desire to serve, but the realities of daily life can make that purpose feel distant over time,” Coulson said. “This mission reconnected us to that calling. At a time when the world often feels divided, this experience brought people together in a deeply meaningful way.”
In one lighthearted moment that captured the spirit of the mission, Coulson and Nguyen handed out rally monkeys—fuzzy mascots from the Los Angeles Angels baseball team—to children during clinic visits. The small gifts sparked laughter, eased nerves and helped turn medical appointments into moments of joy.
The humanitarian effort continued into a second week in Ho Chi Minh City, where Project Vietnam Foundation surgical teams performed life-changing procedures, including cleft lip and palate repairs for children who might otherwise never have access to corrective surgery. These operations are expected to have lifelong impacts, improving speech, nutrition and overall quality of life for patients and their families.
Warm, Wet Weather Driving Early Mosquito Buildup
LCCN Staff Report
A stretch of unusually warm temperatures combined with recent rain is being blamed for a noticeable surge in mosquito activity across Southeast Los Angeles County.
The Greater Los Angeles County Vector Control District, known as LA Vector, reports mosquito numbers are rising earlier than typical for this time of year.
Residents in cities including Cerritos, Artesia, Bellflower, Norwalk, Lakewood, La Mirada, Pico Rivera, Santa Fe Springs, Hawaiian Gardens, and Commerce have already begun reporting increased mosquito activity.
Officials say both common house mosquitoes and invasive “ankle biters” — Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus — are active. These aggressive daytime biters prefer targeting legs and ankles and can breed in very small amounts of standing water, such as plant saucers or
Archuleta Seeks Full Military Pension Tax Exemption
By Brian Hews
Senator Bob Archuleta has introduced Senate Bill 1407, legislation that would exclude military retirement and survivor pay from personal gross income under California’s Personal Income Tax Law.
The bill is co-authored by Assemblymember Pilar Schiavo and Senator Steven Choi and co-sponsored by State Treasurer Fiona Ma and the San Diego Military Advisory Council.
SB 1407 is designed to encourage veterans to remain in California after leaving active duty by eliminating state income taxes on their military retirement benefits.
Dr. Lorena Vidaurre Resigns From NLMUSD Board of Education
By Brian Hews
neglected containers.
Mosquito season traditionally ramps up in April, but the combination of warm weather and lingering stormwater has accelerated breeding conditions. Free Services Available from LA Vector
LA Vector offers free home inspections to help residents identify and eliminate mosquito breeding sources. Technicians can inspect yards, locate standing water, and recommend treatment options.
The district also provides free mosquitofish — small fish that consume mosquito larvae — for appropriate water features such as ornamental ponds, neglected pools, irrigation ditches, and certain artificial lakes. Residents with abandoned swimming pools or large standing-water sources can request assistance.
Residents can submit a service request or contact LA Vector directly at (562) 944-9656 for inspection or mosquito control support.
Dr. Lorena Vidaurre, Trustee Area 6 and Norwalk-La Mirada Board of Education Vice President, has resigned from the Board of Education due to personal reasons, effective immediately. Dr. Vidaurre’s resignation was formally accepted by the Board during the regularly scheduled meeting on February 23. “On behalf of the Board of Education, I would like to thank Dr. Vidaurre for her service to the Board and to the Norwalk-La Mirada community,” said Board President Dr. Rob Cancio.
“Dr. Vidaurre is a stout advocate for our students and community, and a shining example of dedication and perseverance over her three decades in education. We wish her well in the next phase of her life.”
Becky Langenwalter, MS,LMFT, Trustee Area 7, was unanimously elected as Vice President during the Board Reorganization section of the February 23 meeting.
“I happily accept this role [as Vice President of the Board],” said Langenwalter during her comments. “I am humbled because this is part of my desire to serve the families and community. I don’t take this responsibility lightly, and this is not for personal gain. Being in this position is an expression of God’s grace in my life and for that I am deeply grateful.”
The Board of Education will be taking applications for a provisional appointment to fill the vacancy of Trustee Area 6 from Monday, February 23 through March 13. Applicants must reside in Trustee Area 6, with the District vetting home addresses of candidates. For Trustee Area borders, please visit the Board of Education page on the District Website.
Applications will be vetted during a Special Board of Education meeting on Saturday, March 14. Selected candidates will be invited to attend the Board of Education meeting on Monday, March 23, for interviews, with the appointment to be made during that meeting.
The application can be completed online on the Board of Education page on the District website, while print copies are available in the front lobby of the District Office during business hours.
Supporters argue that California’s current tax structure makes it more financially attractive for retirees to relocate to states that already offer full exemptions.
Archuleta, a U.S. Army veteran and chair of the Senate Committee on Military and Veterans Affairs, said many retired service members have told him that rising living costs and state taxation are key factors in their decisions to move elsewhere.
He said a full tax exemption could be the deciding factor in whether veterans stay and pursue second careers in California.
Treasurer Fiona Ma said exempting military retirement and survivor pay would provide tangible recognition of veterans’ service while strengthening California’s workforce. She noted that military retirees often bring leadership experience and specialized skills that benefit both public and private sectors.
Data cited by supporters show that from 2010 to 2021, the national military retiree population grew by 17 percent, while California experienced a 14 percent decline. Between 2010 and 2022, the state lost more than 24,000 military retirees, resulting in an estimated recurring annual loss of more than $700 million in federal retirement and survivor payments that could otherwise flow through California’s economy.
California previously approved a partial exemption beginning in 2026 that will exclude the first $20,000 of military pension income from state taxes. SB 1407 would expand that policy to fully exempt military retirement and survivor pay.
Supporters also argue that veteran households typically contribute additional taxable income through second careers, along with sales, property and use taxes that benefit local governments. They contend the measure would help California retain experienced professionals while keeping federal retirement dollars circulating within the state’s economy.can contribute $50,000 to $100,000 in annual taxable income.
Rear Adm., U.S. Navy (Ret.) David Boone, SDMAC President and CEO states, “SB 1407 is a responsible measure that honors those who served, and allows our brave men and women a fighting chance to actively participate and contribute in California’s economy.”
“Veterans staying in California will pay sales, property, and use taxes, benefiting local governments” said Senator Archuleta, “by exempting military retirement pay for retirees, SB 1407 will ensure California retains these highly skilled professionals and keeps the reinvestment of federal dollars and wages from second careers.”
MEMBERS of the Project Vietnam Foundation team—including physicians, dentists, pharmacists, optometrists and volunteers— gather after delivering care to more than 2,300 patients in Soc Trang province. Courtesy Memorial Care.
Dr. Vidaurre
AG Bonta and S.F. Attorney Chiu Attend Pulido Fundraiser
Assembly District 67.
LCCN Staff Report
Assembly District 67 candidate Mark Pulido drew prominent state leaders to a Saturday night fundraiser that featured California Attorney General Rob Bonta and San Francisco City Attorney David Chiu.
Supporters gathered to back Pulido’s campaign, with local and regional officials in attendance. The event highlighted growing support for Pulido as he seeks election to the State Assembly
SCOTUS
seat representing the district, which includes portions of Southeast Los Angeles County.
Cerritos Mayor Frank Aurelio Yokoyama publicly voiced his support following the event, stating, “We all support Mark Pulido for Assembly.”
The fundraiser served as both a show of political strength and an opportunity for supporters to hear from Bonta and Chiu about statewide priorities and the importance of legislative leadership at the Capitol.
Says Charter Cities Must Follow State Housing Law — What It Means for Local Communities
The U.S. Supreme Court has refused to hear a case from the City of Huntington Beach that tried to avoid California’s housing laws — and the decision could have implications for Cerritos and other local cities.
Huntington Beach, a charter city in Orange County, argued that its charter status gave it the right to reject certain state housing requirements. The city claimed it should not be forced to adopt a state-approved housing plan that allows for higher-density development.
The courts disagreed.
Lower federal courts ruled that housing is a “statewide concern,” meaning California has the authority to require cities to plan for new housing. When the U.S. Supreme Court declined to take the case, it effectively ended Huntington Beach’s legal challenge.
So what does that mean locally?
Cerritos is also a charter city. Charter cities have their own local constitution, called a charter, which gives them more control over certain local matters. In the past, some charter cities believed that status gave them stronger legal ground to resist Sacramento’s mandates.
But this case reinforces a growing reality: when it comes to housing, the state is in charge.
Under California law, every city must adopt a “Housing Element.” That is a plan showing how the city will zone land to allow housing at all income levels. Cities that do not comply
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estimate it would generate approximately $4.5 million annually for local use.
City Manager Ernie Hernandez framed the proposal as a question of local control.
“Increased sales taxes are likely going to happen by one agency or another,” Hernandez said. “The only question is where the money goes. Does it stay in Commerce to fix streets and libraries, or does it go elsewhere?”
Officials also noted that a significant portion of the city’s sales tax revenue is generated by visitors shopping at major retail centers such as the Citadel Outlets.
To illustrate the impact, city officials
can face penalties. Those penalties can include: loss of some state funding; lawsuits from the Attorney General; and something known as “builder’s remedy,” which can allow developers to bypass local zoning rules in certain situations
For built-out cities like Cerritos — where most land is already developed — meeting state housing requirements can be politically difficult. Residents often oppose high-density projects. But the Huntington Beach ruling makes clear that charter status does not provide a legal escape from state housing mandates.
The bigger issue is whether charter authority is shrinking over time.
Charter cities still control many local matters, such as how they run elections and manage city contracts. But courts have increasingly ruled that housing, labor rules, and some environmental matters affect the entire state — not just one city.
That means Sacramento can override local decisions in those areas.
For Cerritos, the key question now is not whether the city agrees with the state’s housing policies. It is whether the city’s Housing Element remains certified and in compliance — and what could happen if it does not.
The Huntington Beach case sends a clear message to cities across California: when it comes to housing, local control has limits.
Brian Hews, Editor and Publisher
said the ¼-cent increase would add approximately 4 cents to a $20 purchase. The tax would not apply to groceries, prescription medicine, rent or utilities.
If approved by a simple majority of voters, revenue from the measure would support emergency response services, senior and youth programs, street and sidewalk repairs, park maintenance, library services and transportation operations.
Commerce officials said they will host community budget workshops in the coming months to discuss the city’s financial outlook and gather public input. Residents can find more information at www.CommerceCA.gov.
Voters will decide the measure in June 2026.
From the Mayor’s Desk: February 27, 2026
More than a year after implementing new safety initiatives, we continue to see residential burglary numbers decline across the City of Cerritos. The latest crime statistics were presented to members of our civic leadership academy, L.E.A.D. Cerritos. The Cerritos City Council is proud of the work of our Community Safety and Cerritos Sheriff’s Station personnel. Their efforts are producing positive results and reinforce our commitment to Strategic Plan Goal #1: Enhance Public Safety.
Since the City Council adopted new burglary abatement initiatives in late 2024, monthly crime data has trended lower. The 2025 calendar year produced 37% fewer residential burglaries than the year prior. In January 2026, there were just 10 residential burglaries compared to 28 in January 2025.
These results are thanks in part to reclassifying dispatch call response times for burglaries, installing automatic license plate reader (ALPR) cameras in high traffic areas, and preventative measures through community partnerships such as Neighborhood Watch. Each of our Neighborhood Watch zones have assigned Block Captains, and it’s
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solidated into a single 26-foot-wide driveway on Cabrillo Lane, replacing two existing driveway approaches.
A traffic analysis prepared by a third-party consultant determined the residential development would generate fewer vehicle trips than the former preschool use.
The City retained EPD Solutions to prepare a technical memorandum supporting a Class 32 Infill Development categorical exemption under the California Environmental Quality Act. The consultant reviewed vehicle miles traveled, traffic generation, air quality, greenhouse gas emissions, noise and water quality and concluded the project would not create significant environmental impacts and would generate fewer trips than the prior school use.
That finding allows the project to move forward without a full environmental impact report. Instead, the development qualifies for a streamlined CEQA exemption typically applied to infill projects under five acres that meet specific criteria. City staff determined none of the exceptions to categorical exemptions apply.
Three of the 30 units will be designated as affordable housing — two for low-income households and one for moderate-income households.
However, the project departs from the original Housing Element allocation for the site. Under the City’s certified 2021–2029 Housing Element, the Cabrillo Lane parcel was initially required to provide seven moderate-income units. The approved project includes only one moderate-income unit.
To balance that reduction, the City is shifting six moderate-income units from Cabrillo Lane to another Housing Element site — Site 7 at 16601 Valley View Avenue. In exchange, seven above-moderate market-rate units are shifted from Site 7 back to Cabrillo Lane, resulting in what staff describe as a net-zero unit adjustment citywide.
City officials stated the reassignment complies with State “No Net Loss” housing law and that discussions with the California Department of Housing and Community Development confirmed the move is legally acceptable.
Site 7 is currently owned by Caltrans, and the City is negotiating to acquire the property for future mixed-in-
rewarding to know we have 125 active Block Captains volunteering to protect others. Through another proactive measure, the Green Bar Initiative, we identify causal factors of burglaries. This informs residents and businesses of ways to secure their property based on burglary trends. From exterior lighting to security cameras, the City publishes data to show what may be deterring and attracting burglars. This information can be viewed on the Safer Cerritos webpage at cerritos.gov/communitysafey.
In early March, the City will conclude the third and final phase of ALPR camera installations. This will bring the total number of cameras to 53 at 15 high-traffic intersections across Cerritos. These cameras help law enforcement identify suspected vehicles observed leaving the scene of a crime.
I’m pleased with the progress we’ve made to enhance public safety in Cerritos. Thank you for your vigilance and feedback in helping the City protect our residents, businesses, and visitors.
come housing. There is no approved project or construction timeline for that parcel. As a result, the six moderate-income units originally assigned to Cabrillo Lane are deferred to a future development that has yet to materialize. With the approval, 27 of the 30 Cabrillo Lane units will be priced at above-moderate, market-rate levels. The City retains the obligation to deliver the reassigned moderate-income units elsewhere before the current Housing Element cycle ends in 2029.
The Council also approved the Vesting Tentative Tract Map, Precise Plan and Housing Element unit reassignment as part of the project’s public hearing
The approval marks one of the more significant infill housing decisions in Cerritos in recent years, converting an institutional site into higher-density residential use consistent with state housing mandates. Supporters argue the project brings new ownership housing opportunities while maintaining architectural compatibility and on-site parking standards. Critics, however, have questioned the long-term feasibility of deferring moderate-income units to a separate, currently unentitled property. Whether Site 7 ultimately delivers the reassigned units will determine if the City’s “net-zero” housing strategy holds up under state scrutiny as the 2029 Housing Element deadline approaches..
Assembly Candidate Mark Pulido is joined by California Attorney General Rob Bonta, San Francisco City Attorney David Chiu and supporters during a Saturday night fundraiser for
‘Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?’ at SCR
By Stepheny Gehrig
If you’re looking to endure an endless, nail-biting dinner party, the South Coast Repertory is showcasing “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf” until March 21, to satiate that need.
With a small cast of four, the show successfully portrays the juxtaposition of personalities and partnerships
With a small cast of four, the show successfully portrays the toxicity of a tumultuous marriage, while also offering dry and witty humor that brings a bit of relief during a tense night. Joining Martha and George for evening spirits, Honey and Nick are sucked into a night of thrilling arguments and extreme choices.
Kim Martin-Cotten had an eclectic, yet very moving and complex character in Martha. While posed as the story’s villain, Martin-Cotten crafted such a vulnerable character that her actions become understandable. Despite egging on arguments and encouraging negative behaviors, Martin-Cotten’s sincerity as Martha drives viewers to look at Martha through a lens of anger and fragility.
George, played by Brian Vaughn, on the other hand, is positioned as a man justified in his morally-grey actions, but as the night-cap continues, George dives into more sinister behaviors. Becoming increasingly more manipulative in his story-telling and games, George utilizes deception to manipulate Martha and Nick into acting in specific ways. Vaughn’s nonchalant, yet charismatic presence allows him to perfectly attain a unique personality on stage, leaving audiences confused on whether he is likeable or not.
Similarly, Nick, played by Gabriel
Gaston, waivers in his morality as the show progresses, and Gaston spotlights that struggle while retaining a sense of over-confidence and conceitedness. Although he begins as an agreeable husband, Nick quickly spirals into becoming an untrustworthy man. Gaston’s ability to capture Nick’s fall and devolvement is striking.
Elysia Roorbach’s portrayal of Honey was sublime as she added a much-needed lightness to a heavy show. Although Honey was written as a somewhat flat character, Roorback brought vitality to her through physicality and on-stage presence. Despite remaining “drunk” throughout the majority of the show, Honey did have moments of emotionality revolving around difficult topics, specifically around her longing to be a mother, and, in those short bursts, Roorbach successfully captured Honey’s internal turmoil, in turn making her a more likeable and human character.
With a run time of three hours and 15 minutes, and two intermissions, this show is worth the commitment. “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?” is an interesting production and will leave audiences feeling uneasy, weighted and uncomfortable, while also offering pensive moments regarding the over-the-top setting of being an after-dinner night cap. The show serves as a thriller, as there are themes of abuse, manipulation and coercion, and there are some comical reliefs that lighten the load. Viewers are left to think about the psychological damages of argumentation, the complexities of relationships, and, mostly, rethink if they would ever want to attend a night cap.
Tickets can be purchased at www.scr. org and range from $23 to $100. Some mild language and suggestive themes makes this show suitable for people ages 16 and older.
By Brian Hews
International City Theatre launched its 41st season with I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change , and if opening weekend is any indication, the company picked the perfect crowd-pleaser to start the year.
The long-running Off-Broadway musical comedy revue, featuring book and lyrics by Joe DiPietro and music by Jimmy Roberts, takes a witty, honest look at the mating game — from first dates and fumbling introductions to marriage, in-laws and long-term negotiation.
Under the direction of Barry Pearl, the production is brisk, polished and consistently funny.
Pearl, best known for his role as Doody in the film Grease, keeps the pacing tight and the humor grounded.
The show moves through a fast sequence of scenes and songs without feeling rushed, allowing both punchlines and poignant moments to land. Music direction by Daniel Gary Busby keeps the score light and lively, while Becca Sweitzer’s choreography adds energy without overwhelming the intimate revue format.
Act 1 delivers some of the evening’s sharpest laughs, particularly in the cleverly staged “Cantata for a First Date,” which captures the painfully polite small talk of two strangers while revealing their wildly divergent internal monologues.
The audience responded immediately, recognizing every awkward pause and overthought sentence. Other early numbers skewer dating rituals and gender misunderstandings with rapid-fire timing, setting a tone that is both biting and affectionate.
“This show is funny, poignant and will resonate with everyone,” Pearl said. “No matter your age or relationship status,
you’ll see yourself somewhere onstage.”
He’s right.
The cast — Michael Deni, Will Riddle, Erika Schindele and Whitney Kathleen Vigil — portray more than 40 characters, shifting ages, attitudes and relationship statuses with impressive ease. Each performer gets moments to shine, whether navigating the awkward optimism of dating or the weary affection of long-term marriage.
One of the evening’s standout moments arrives in Act 2 during “On the Highway of Love.” Staged with four rolling office chairs — two serving as the “front seats” and two as the “back” — the cast propels themselves around the stage using their feet to steer, transforming simple office furniture into a moving car and a sharp metaphor for marriage. The choreography is decep -
tively simple but wildly effective. As the performers glide, pivot and dramatically overcorrect their imaginary vehicle, the physical comedy lands hard. It’s low-tech theater magic at its best — no elaborate set piece, just timing, precision and full commitment. The audience roared. Beneath the laughter, the scene cleverly captures the push-and-pull of long-term partnership: who’s driving, who’s navigating, and who refuses to admit they’re lost.
What makes this ICT production especially effective is its balance. The humor lands — often big laughs — but it never drifts into cartoonish exaggeration. Instead, it taps into recognizable truths.
Early dating scenes drew knowing laughter from across the audience, while later sketches about parenting and marital compromise hit closer to
home. More than once, couples in the crowd exchanged the kind of sideways glance that says, “That’s us.”
Originally premiering in 1995, I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change has become the second longest-running Off-Broadway musical and the longest-running revue in Off-Broadway history. Its durability makes sense. While the tools of romance may have evolved, the insecurities, expectations and negotiations remain timeless.
ICT’s production leans into that universality. The minimal set design by Stephen Gifford allows the performances to carry the show, supported by lighting from Maren Taylor, costumes by Kim DeShazo and sound design by Hunter Moody.
The result is a clean, professional presentation that feels both intimate and expansive.
Performances run through March 8 at the Beverly O’Neill Theater inside the Long Beach Convention & Entertainment Center, with evening shows Thursdays through Saturdays and Sunday matinees.
I LOVE YOU, YOU’RE PERFECT, NOW CHANGE
Presented by International City Theatre
Beverly O’Neill Theater, Long Beach Convention & Entertainment Center, 300 E. Ocean Blvd., Long Beach
Now through March 8
Performances: Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m.; Sunday matinees at 2 p.m. Tickets: Available at ictlongbeach.org
CAST MEMBERS from I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change belt out a comedic driving scene during a lively musical number, with live musicians performing behind them. The romantic comedy revue explores the ups and downs of modern relationships through fast-paced sketches and song. Courtesy ICT.
WRD: BUILDING A CLIMATE RESILIENT WATER FUTURE
For more than 60 years, WRD has been dedicated to delivering safe, reliable, and sustainable groundwater to over 4 million residents across southern Los Angeles County. Wildfires in Los Angeles County have devastated parts of our region, destroy ing homes, displacing families, and threatening our water supplies. These extreme events are a clear reminder of the urgent need to invest in climateresilient water solutions to safeguard our communities and secure a reliable water future.
State-of-the-Art Technology
WRD's innovative groundwater replenishment efforts are vital in achieving our goal of boosting water reliability and improving water quality. By leveraging state-of-the-art technology and forging strategic partnerships, we are effectively replenishing our local aquifers, ensuring that future generations will have access to a dependable water supply.
Conservation, Recycling, and Advanced Water Treatment
Our dedication to environmental stewardship drives us to pursue projects that protect our groundwater resources while promoting sustainable practices. Our proactive approach to water conservation, recycling, and advanced water treatment is setting new benchmarks for how communities can adapt to the environmental challenges ahead.
Take a Tour of our Service Area
Scan the QR code to watch "Securing Our Water Future -A Journey Through WRD's Service Area," which highlights our ongoing projects and how WRD is leading the way in water sustainability and climate resilience.
Aerial view of the Rio Hondo Spreading Grounds in Pico Rivera, CA
The Albert Robles Center for Water Recycling and Environmental Learning (ARC) in Pico Rivera BOARD OF DIRECTORS Joy Langford
WRD is dedicated to environmental stewardship to protect groundwater resources
WRD offers public tours of the ARC Facility
Vera Robles DeWitt Divisions Stephan Tucker GeneralManager
BASEBALL: Cerritos Jumps All Over Valley Christian
Early in Season-Opening Rout
By Loren Kopff @LorenKopff on X
Cerritos High head coach Matt Joyce saw his team get rained out of its first two games of the 2026 season, and so did Valley Christian High head coach Eric Slater. But the inclement weather from Feb. 16-19 gave way to perfect baseball conditions this past Monday evening. It was on V.C.’s home diamond
it very difficult to recover from in a first inning, especially against a team that can move the ball all over the field and run the bases very well,” said Slater. “You have to be very close to perfect, and we just weren’t perfect today.”
NEWS AND NOTES FROM PRESS ROW:
Gahr Softball Survives Late Rally
From Valley Christian In Battle of Former CIF-SS Champions
By Loren Kopff @LorenKopff on X
The Gahr High and Valley Christian High softball teams won the CIF-Southern Section Division 2 and 5 championships, respectively, on May 18, 2024 by a run. Last season, they played each other to a 2-2 tie in the middle of April and for the second straight season, third overall since 2014.
CERRITOS HIGH senior first baseman Ryan Salas tries to stretch a single into a double in the top of the third inning but is thrown out with Valley Christian High senior shortstop Lucas Witt applying the tag. Salas would go three for four and drive in a run as the Dons defeated the Defenders 13-4 this past Monday in the season opener for both teams. PHOTO BY STEVE FERICEAN.
where senior pitcher Max Douglas was roughed up in the first two innings as the Dons collected half of their 10 hits, scored seven runs and benefited from a pair of errors as Cerritos had no problems with the Defenders in a 13-4 victory.
“It was a really good game; I thought we played a complete game,” said Joyce. “Our pitchers battled, and I tell these guys all the time, there was no excuse, but we haven’t been on the field in a week. It was a little messy, but all in all, honestly, our offensive approach was great. I don’t think we swung at a lot of balls. We put the ball in play, and we didn’t strikeout too much, and we just played a complete game.”
Joyce went on to praise the pitching of senior starter Jacob Hoosac (three innings, four strikeouts, one hit), senior Dylan Davis (two innings, four hits, two walks, one run) and sophomore Noah Sarno (two innings, four hits, four strikeouts, three runs, three walks).
“They looked engaged; they looked ready to play, we just made some mistakes,” said Slater. “The goal is to play our best baseball at the end of the season versus the beginning of the season. So that’s what we want to do.”
The Cerritos offense gave Hoosac all the support he needed as junior second baseman Alex Laurin reached on an infield single on the second pitch of the game and Douglas hit senior left fielder Ethan Martiz three pitches later. Senior shortstop Jayce Aragon sacrificed both runners over but was safe on the first of three errors.
That was followed by a single to left field from junior designated hitter Julian Diaz and after the first out was recorded, Douglas walked junior catcher Jordan Ju. After senior center fielder Jacob Johnson sacrificed the runners, senior first baseman Ryan Salas singled in a pair of runs.
“We just didn’t throw a lot of strikes, didn’t make a couple of plays and an error and two walks is going to make
In the next inning, Douglas walked Laurin and Martiz on full counts and a first pitch double from Diaz made it 7-0. The lead would increase to 9-0 in the fourth as Aragon was safe on an infield single with one out, stole second and third, and came home when Ju was safe on an error, which also allowed senior third baseman Justin Sagun, who was on base via a walk.
Meanwhile, Hoosac was nearly brilliant, facing 13 batters, throwing 57 pitches, and allowing a pair of runners to reach base. Junior center fielder Quintin Ekstrom led off the bottom of the first inning with a walk and doubled to the right field gap to lead off the third and Hoosac hit senior first baseman Isaac Morales with one out in the second.
“Ideally, I would like to get four [innings] out of him, but early,” said Joyce of Hoosac. “So I made a little rule this year. I’ve learned, after doing this for a while, early in the year, I don’t want to get anybody past 65 pitches because I think it comes back to haunt you later. It was a pitch count thing for me.”
The Defenders finally got on the board in the bottom of the fourth inning when senior catcher Nolan Dietz was safe on a bases loaded infield single, plating junior pinch runner Nathan Sevy, who was running for Morales after he produced a one-out single.
The Dons would tack on a run in the fifth, and three more in the sixth. Seven of the nine starters collected a hit, but the big star of the night was Salas, who was batting eighth. Salas went three for four, drove in five runs, all with two outs, scored once and saw a total of eight pitches in his four at-bats. His last hit was a three-run home run in the sixth inning.
“Ryan is a returning senior; he played a little bit for us last year in and out of the lineup,” said Joyce. “He’s a really, really good hitter. I put him back in the lineup there because he gets a little [nervous], so I figured that would be a real comfortable spot for him. He’s probably better than a [number] eight hitter, but it suits him pretty well.”
“Most of the time when he came up
[ See CERRITOS page 12 ]
This past Tuesday on the west side of the 605 Freeway, two of the area’s powerhouse programs met in a battle of 2-0 teams and backed by the pitching of junior Bella Gonzalez, she enabled Gahr’s offense to build a 3-0 lead after two innings. The Gladiators added two more, then held off a late rally to defeat the Defenders 5-4 as darkness filled the skies over two hours after the first pitch of the game.
V.C. junior pitcher Rachel Zhang walked sophomore center fielder Megan Wong to begin the game and moved to third on a single from sophomore shortstop Hazel Anglo and a stolen base. Following a walk to junior designated player Cierra Contreras, Wong scored on a fielder’s choice from sophomore third baseman Mylah Burrowes.
The Gladiators would score two more runs in the second inning and had a chance to blow the game wide open as they stranded the bases loaded in the sec-
ond and third innings. But Gonzalez was doing her part of keeping the Defenders at bay through the first five innings. She yielded a pair of hits, walked two and had a pair of perfect innings through the first five frames, not allowing a runner to get past second base. Gahr tacked on its fourth run in the fifth inning when freshman catcher Rylee Jackson was hit by a pitch, the third and final batter Zhang hit. Jackson was replaced by junior courtesy runner Jaidu De Avila Barroga and she later came home on an error.
The Defenders avoided the shutout in the bottom of the sixth when senior center fielder Choyce Chambers led off with a home run. But the Gladiators added what turned out to be the game-winning run in the seventh when senior first baseman Maryan McElroy and Jackson each singled. Then with one out, a groundout from freshman right fielder Skyy Saucedo allowed sophomore pinch runner Citlalli Gonzalez to come home. V.C/ sophomore second baseman Jewel Malae led off the bottom of the seventh with a double to center and Bella Gonzalez walked sophomore first baseman Molly Douglas. With one out, Zhang reached on a fielder’s choice and Chambers was safe on an error after striking out. A walk to junior pinch hitter Lydia Dietz loaded the bases and another error allowed
[ See GAHR, page 12 ]
NEWS AND NOTES FROM PRESS ROW:
Gahr Squanders 11-Point First Half Lead, Unable to Overcome Aliso Niguel’s Hot Shooting
By Loren Kopff @LorenKopff on X
ALISO VIEJO-Gahr High needed to play a near perfect CIF-Southern Section Division 3 semifinal game if it wanted to advance to the championship game for the fifth time in school history. And for nearly the first 14 minutes of its game against Aliso Niguel High last Friday night, the Gladiators were hanging with the Wolverines, dodging serious foul trouble and building an 11-point lead.
But the hosts were shooting at will in the second half, reclaiming the lead and making sure Gahr would not stage a comeback. When the dust had settled, Aliso Niguel had rallied for a 66-59 victory to advance to the school’s second trip to the divisional finals.
“When you get this deep in the playoffs, it’s going to come down to discipline and execution,” said Gahr head coach Marcus Girley. “I just thought in the third quarter, we just got disconnected and disjointed and just kind of played bad basketball for a quarter. You can’t afford [to do] that against a well-coached team like that.”
The Wolverines went on a 10-2 run over the final 2:14 of the first half, including a steal and basket from Miles Iribarne with 3.4 seconds left for his only points of the game. But the 11-point lead wasn’t the only story of the first half. Senior Harshveer Shergill, one of the team’s top rebounders, picked up two fouls before the midway part of the first quarter and his third infraction with 1:04 left in the half.
He would be relegated to the bench for the final 4:14 of the opening stanza and most of the second half, ending with four rebounds, all coming in the first quarter. But his replacement, 6’9” senior Makhi Montgomery, who scored
a career-high 20 points against Woodbridge High in the quarterfinals, picked up a pair of fouls in the first half. In fact, Gahr had 10 fouls before halftime as opposed to Aliso Niguel’s four.
“We knew that Aliso pretty much runs five guards and wings, and we knew that would be an issue in space,” said Girley. “I just think ultimately our bigs didn’t trust themselves. Instead of being confident in that if I make a mistake, at least I [went] hard, they kind of were in between and they kind of kept getting caught in no man’s land.”
Adding insult to injury was the non-factor of junior Jaylen Maxwell, who strained his Achilles slightly in the second quarter against Woodbridge High in the quarterfinals but continued to play through it. He started against the Wolverines but took four shots from the field and did not score.
With all that going on, Gahr bounced back from the domination of Jay Keys, who scored 10 points in the first quarter, and went on a 10-0 run in the opening minutes of the second quarter to turn a 17-12 deficit into a 22-17 advantage. The momentum continued as senior Kingston Nathaniel completed a three-point play with 3:43 remaining in the half and sophomore Arien Cruz-Davis sank the team’s lone three-pointer of the stanza to make it 28-19 with 3:11 remaining in the first half.
Moments later, baskets from senior Austin Woon, who finished with a season-high nine points, and Shergill, gave the Gladiators their 11-point lead. But Shergill picked up his third foul 13 seconds after his last basket, in which Wyatt Richmond completed the three-point play. Then Richmond hit a three-pointer with 28.9 seconds left in the half.
“We got a big lead, got a few defen-
[ See NOTES page 12 ]
in that spot was a result of missed opportunities for us to end innings,” said Slater. “So whenever you extend the inning, you’re going to have opportunities for people to be successful. Most of those runs were unearned runs that we allowed them to take advantage of, and that’s the bottom line. We made mistakes and they took advantage of our mistakes. If we can start getting those mistakes off the board, the runs are going to start dwindling significantly.”
With the game in control at 13-1, Slater began to go to his bench, and it began with sophomore catcher Trevor Torres leading off the bottom of the sixth with a single and junior second baseman Luke Gisler getting a free pass. They would score when senior shortstop Lucas Witt brought in Torres with a bases-loaded sacrifice fly and Douglas scoring Gisler with an infield single.
Senior third baseman Cole Hefner would lead off the seventh with an infield single and eventually score the game’s last run on a fielder’s choice from Torres. V.C. got nine hits from nine different players.
“We have a lot of depth this year; a lot of guys who can swing the bat,” said Slater. “So it’s going to be awesome for them to determine what our lineup is going to look like in the future. And if they can build upon when those kids get the chances, and they are successful, it’s very good news for the coaching staff.”
This was the 18th meeting between the two city teams since 2005, and the win leveled the series at nine wins a piece. The teams had split the last eight encounters and neither team has won more than four straight games at any time. The last time they played, the Defenders were all over the Dons in
a 12-2 contest in late April of 2024. “They’re great guys,” said Joyce of V.C. “Literally, we didn’t even take a bus; we all drove here. We caravanned in a line of cars. They’re great guys [and have] a great program, and it’s super fun to play here. We love playing them. Last year, we didn’t get a chance to [play them], but I like playing them twice a year, every year, and I’d love to continue doing that.”
Cerritos visited Ocean View High on Feb. 26 and will host a trio of Moore League teams next week-Long Beach Cabrillo High on Monday, Lakewood High on Wednesday and Long Beach Poly High on Thursday. V.C. got into the win column this past Tuesday with a 19-6 victory at Santa Ana High and entertained St. Anthony High on Feb. 26. The Defenders, too, will host Poly on Monday before going to Burbank on Tuesday to face Providence High.
NOTES from page 11
sive lapses in our rotations; guys left their feets,” said Girley. “Offensively, I felt we kind of got a little bit robotic instead of getting to our reads. That comeback at the end of the second quarter…I think guys got a little bit anxious towards the end.”
The Wolverines continued that momentum into the third quarter as it was the Jayden Mysin show. He was four of seven from the field in the stanza, scoring nine points as Aliso Niguel led 52-46 entering the fourth quarter. The team would miss on only five of 15 shots taken in the quarter while the Gladiators were five of 14. In fact, all five Aliso Niguel starters scored at least three points.
“That was game right there,” said Girley. “That momentum that they took going into halftime…they brought it straight out of the locker room. We just gave up too many easy bunnies at the rim, a couple of
wide open shots, and miscommunication.
“Like I said, bigger guards, but I felt our guys were not well enough; they weren’t planting their feet,” he later said. “They were letting [Mysin] walk to his spot with very little resistance and let him score. There just wasn’t enough resistance in that third quarter.”
The Wolverines were up 57-51 with 3:27 left in the contest before the Gladiators tried to make one last surge. Montgomery completed a threepoint play before Aliso Niguel scored the next six points. Then sophomore Bryce Titus drained a trifecta before Keys and Titus traded two-pointers. But Gahr would attempt one more shot in the final 62 seconds of the game.
“Guys kept losing track of their assignments,” said Girley. “We didn’t have any weakside help and like I said, against this team, they’re a well-oiled machine. If you have that second of a brain fault, it’s probably going to catch up to you, and that’s what kept happening, unfortunately.”
The Wolverines were led by Mysin (24 points) and Keys and Richmond, who each scored 16 points while Titus paced the Gladiators with 14 points and six rebounds and Montgomery added 11 points and four rebounds. Nathaniel and Woon each had nine points with the latter adding three assists and sophomore Xavier Brown came off the bench to score seven points and grab three boards.
While Gahr won’t be playing for a divisional title, they still have a chance at a state title. The brackets will be released on Mar. 1 with the first round game two days later.
“Hey, I’m not going to give a eulogy speech; there’s no memorial services,” said Girley. “We have a season still going. We have to watch some film, and we have to get right back in it next week. I told the kids we win some, we lose some. This one we lost, but we’ll
CENTRAL from page 1
$700,000. Outside contracts ballooned.
Now, the same board culture that removed Rojas and installed Jeng has fired Jeng.
The pattern is undeniable: remove, install, implode, repeat.
Five general managers. Plummeting reserves. Escalating legal bills. Board factions openly battling. Nomination disputes. Administrative code fights.
And through it all, ratepayers in Southeast Los Angeles County are left funding the dysfunction.
Central Basin’s mission is simple: deliver reliable, affordable water.
Instead, it has become a case study in
be right back in it because the way they played and their effort, they rewarded themselves with an extended season.”
from page 11
two runs to come across, making it 5-4. The Defenders will go to Long Beach Poly High on Tuesday while Gahr travelled to Millikan High on Feb. 26 and will face Los Altos High and Chino Hills High on Saturday before going to California High on Tuesday and La Serna High on Wednesday. BOYS BASKETBALL
La Mirada High dropped a 71-57 decision to Harvard-Westlake High this past Tuesday in a CIF-SS Open Division semifinal game. The Matadores drop to 24-8 and will wait until Sunday to see who they will play next week in the state playoffs. Gahr, which had lost in the Division 3 semifinals to Aliso Niguel last Friday, will also find out its first round opponent in the state playoffs on Sunday.
WRESTLING
Cerritos High senior Julian Espinoza will face Cole Schmidt of Windsor High in the 138 lb. division as his first opponent of the CIF State Championships with the winner to square off against James Otuhiva of Palo Alto High in the next round. Also from Cerritos, in the 130 lb. division, senior Isabella Sermana, who is seeded fourth in the bracket, will go against Eliza Pena of Modoc High in the first round. In the 145 lb. division, Norwalk High senior Amber Farr opens against fourth-seeded Kirin Smith of Clovis West High. The CIF State Championships will be held at Dignity Heath Arena in Bakersfield on Feb. 26-28.
governance instability.
The question is no longer why a general manager was fired.
The question is: who’s next?
Newly appointed Board President Gary Mendez confirmed Jeng’s dismissal in a written statement, saying, “Her services are no longer needed. We thank her for her service to the District. Central Basin is taking a new direction, with a renewed vision to strengthen the District as a democratic public institution responsible for providing quality, accessible, and affordable water to the communities we serve. We are unified in this purpose.” It marks yet another “new direction” for a district that has cycled through multiple general managers in recent years, each departure accompanied by similar assurances of unity and reform.
GAHR
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NOTICE OF LIEN SALE:
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned intends to sell the personal property described below to enforce a lien imposed on said property pursuant to Sections 21700–21716 of the CA Business and Professions Code, Section 2328 of CA Commercial Code, Sections 1812.600 –1812.609, Section 1988 of CA Civil Code and Section 535 of the CA Penal Code.
The undersigned will be sold at a public auction conducted on www.storagetreasures.com ending on Monday, March 9,2026 at 10:00am. The personal property including: general household goods, electronics, tools, personal effects, and or miscellaneous items are stored at: Cerritos Self Storage, 16515 Valley View Ave., Cerritos, County of Los Angeles, State of California by the following:
Name Unit #
Evelyn Gamboa A56
Kyla Yancy A60
Sandra Thorn A71 Julian Steinman M005
Purchases must be made in CASH ONLY and paid at the above referenced facility in order to
the transaction. Sale is subject to cancellation in the event of settlement between owner and obligated party. Self Storage Management Company Bond #: WLI1254152
Published at LCCN Friday February 20,2026 and Friday February 27, 2026
ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME CASE NO. 26VECP00048
TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: Petitioner JORDAN BROOKLYN FRANSEN filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: JORDAN BROOKLYN FRANSEN to JORDAN BROOKLYN FRANSEN DOOST. THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant a petition without a hearing. Court date March 20, 2026, at the SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF VAN NUYS, 6230 SYLMAR AVE., VAN NUYS, CA 91401, BRANCH: VAN NUYS EAST COURTHOUSE. A HEARING will be held MARCH 20, 2026 at 8:30 AM., DEPT. 107, ROOM 507. Published at Hawaiian Gardens Community Newspaper 1/30, 2/6, 2/13 and 2/20/26
NOTICE INVITING SEALED BIDS
MURAL LIGHTING INSTALLATION AT MIXMASTR UNDERPASS AND CITY HALL PARKING LOT
PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the CITY OF COMMERCE, referred to as “CITY”, invites sealed bids for MURAL LIGHTING INSTALLATION AT MIXMASTR UNDERPASS AND CITY HALL PARKING LOT and will receive on PlanetBids, up to the hour of 2:00 PM, Thursday, March 5, 2026, at which time they will be publicly opened and read aloud online. Late submittals will not be considered. It is the bidder’s responsibility to upload the bid proposal file by the due date to City’s portal on PlanetBids.
Electronic files of the Contract Documents are available for download on the City’s portal on PlanetBids.
Day working hours are from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Monday through Friday and night working hours are from 8:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. Monday through Friday. Work that requires lane closures shall be conducted during the night working hours.
The work shall be completed within 120 working days after the City’s Notice to Proceed.
Each Bidder shall possess a valid California General Contractor License, Class A Contractor, or other license classification legally sufficient to perform the work of this Project at the time of the Bid submission. The successful Contractor must also possess a current City business license.
This project is subject to the requirements of SB 854. No prime contractor or subcontractor may be listed on a bid proposal and may be awarded for a public works project unless registered with the Department of Industrial Relations pursuant to Labor Code section 1725.5.
If there are any questions regarding this project, please upload all questions to: City’s portal on PlanetBids.
Published at Los Cerritos Community Newspaper 2/19/26 and 2/26/26
CITY OF BELLFLOWER NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION (MND 25-01), GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT (GPA 25-02), ZONE CHANGE (ZC 25-02), SPECIFIC PLAN (SP 25-01), VESTING TENTATIVE MAP (TM 84789), DEVELOPMENT REVIEW (DR 3-25-16185), AND DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT (AFN 1125)
TAKE NOTICE that the Bellflower City Council will hold a Public Hearing on Monday, March 23, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers located at 16600 Civic Center Drive, Bellflower, CA 90706 to consider applications associated with a project located at 9855, 9903, and 9915 Flower Street consisting of: 1) a Zone Change from Transit Oriented Development Specific Plan (TODSP) to Flower Street Specific Plan (FSSP); 2) a General Plan Amendment from Commercial to Mixed Use; 3) the FSSP which provides the development and design standards for the three parcels; 4) a Development Review to approve the design of the 32-unit condominium project at 9903 Flower Street only; 5) a Vesting Tentative Map to allow for condominium use on 9903 Flower Street only; 6) a Development Agreement between Bellflower 5 Inv, LLC and the City to facilitate development of 9903 Flower Street and potential future development of 9855 Flower Street; and 7) a Mitigated Negative Declaration (MND) and Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program (MMRP).
Pursuant to the authority and criteria of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), an environmental assessment was conducted for this project. An Initial Study (IS), and an MND were prepared, which means the project will not have a significant adverse effect on the environment with implementation of proposed mitigation measures. The 30-day public review period for the IS and MND began on January 9, 2026 and closed on February 9, 2026. The City is now considering the IS and MND. The IS and MND are available online at (https://www.bellflower.org/departments/planning/planning_division/environmental_ documents_and_information.php#outer-234).
The City of Bellflower invites members of the public to review and comment on this item. Copies of the staff report and supporting documents regarding this matter may be inspected by the public on the City’s website at www.bellflower.ca.gov, or by appointment in the City Clerk’s Office at Bellflower City Hall, 16600 Civic Center Drive, Bellflower, California; telephone number (562) 804-1424, extension 2220. All written comments concerning this may be submitted to the City Clerk’s Office at 16600 Civic Center Drive, Bellflower, CA 90706; or by email at cclerk@bellflower.ca.gov.
If you wish to challenge this item 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 at or before the Public Hearing.
MAYRA OCHIQUI, CITY CLERK
CITY OF LA MIRADA
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that on February 24, 2026, at 6:30 p.m., or as soon thereafter, the City Council of the City of La Mirada adopted the following Ordinance No. 748: ORDINANCE NO. 748: ADOPTED BY REFERENCE THE 2026 LOS ANGELES COUNTY BUILDING CODES, INCLUDING TITLES 26 (BUILDING), 27 (ELECTRICAL), 28 (PLUMBING), 29 (MECHANICAL), 30 (RESIDENTIAL), 31 (GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS), AND 33 (EXISTING BUILDING CODE) OF THE LOS ANGELES COUNTY CODE. UPON ADOPTION, THESE CODES WOULD BE INCORPORATED INTO TITLE 17, CHAPTERS 17.04 THROUGH 17.19 OF THE LA MIRADA MUNICIPAL CODE AND WOULD SERVE AS THE CITY’S ENFORCEABLE BUILDING REGULATIONS. THIS ACTION IS EXEMPT FROM THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA) PURSUANT TO CEQA GUIDELINES SECTION 15061(B)(3), AS IT CAN BE SEEN WITH CERTAINTY THAT THERE IS NO POSSIBILITY THE ACTIVITY MAY HAVE A SIGNIFICANT EFFECT ON THE ENVIRONMENT.
Summary of Ordinance No. 748
Ordinance No. 748 adopted by reference Titles 26 (Building), 27 (Electrical), 28 (Plumbing), 29 (Mechanical), 30 (Residential), 31 (Green Building Standards), and 33 (Existing Building Code) of the Los Angeles County Code. Upon adoption, these codes would be incorporated into Title 17, Chapters 17.04 through 17.19 of the La Mirada Municipal Code and would serve as the City’s enforceable building regulations.
The ordinance is intended to align the City’s building regulations with the most current editions of the State of California model codes as amended and administered by the County of Los Angeles, which provides building plan review, permitting, and inspection services on behalf of the City.
The names of those Councilmembers voting for or against Ordinance No. 748 are as follows:
AYES: Councilmembers Bean, De Ruse, Lewis, Mayor Eng
NOES: None
ABSENT: Mayor Pro Tem Otero
ABSTAIN: None
A certified copy of the entirety of the text of Ordinance No. 748 is available in the office of the City Clerk, City of La Mirada, 13700 La Mirada Boulevard, La Mirada, California, and is available for public inspection at that location.
Manuel Muñoz, Community Development Director
Dated: February 27, 2026
Published at La Mirada Lamplighter Newspaper 2/27/26
NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF:
LOUIS LUHUEI WU
CASE NO. 26STPB01398
To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the WILL or estate, or both of LOUIS LUHUEI WU.
A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by JERRY CHIATZENG WU in the Superior Court of California, County of LOS ANGELES.
THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that JERRY CHIATZENG WU be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent.
THE PETITION requests the decedent’s WILL and codicils, if any, be admitted to probate. The WILL and any codicils are available for examination in the file kept by the court.
THE PETITION requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority.
A HEARING on the petition will be held in this court as follows: 03/12/26 at 8:30AM in Dept. 62 located at 111 N. HILL ST., LOS ANGELES, CA 90012
IF YOU OBJECT to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney.
IF YOU ARE A CREDITOR or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code.
Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law.
YOU MAY EXAMINE the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk.
Attorney for Petitioner
DEBBY S. DOITCH, ESQ. - SBN 266731 ANDREW D. NUTBROWN, ESQ. - SBN 343702
KJMLAW Partners, PLC 301 E. COLORADO BLVD., SUITE 600 PASADENA CA 91101
Telephone (626) 568-9300
2/20, 2/27, 3/6/26
CNS-4012820# LOS CERRITOS COMMUNITY NEWS
NOTICE AND SUMMARY OF ORDINANCE NO. 26-982
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ARTESIA, CALIFORNIA, REVISING CHAPTER 2 (FIREWORKS) OF TITLE 4 (PUBLIC SAFETY) OF THE ARTESIA MUNICIPAL CODE REGARDING ILLEGAL FIREWORKS
The City Council of the City of Artesia will consider the adoption of Ordinance No. 26-982, making certain amendments and additions to the Artesia Municipal Code related to the use and possession of illegal fireworks. The following is a summary of the proposed Ordinance: Amends the municipal code to hold any responsible person who allows or invites others to gather on a parcel of property that the persons owns, possesses, or controls, or who organizes, supervises, officiates, conducts, controls or otherwise in charge of an activity on the property, to be strictly liable for illegal fireworks used or found on their property and are subject to fines. The amendment also holds responsible persons liable for illegal fireworks discharged on public property immediately adjacent to their property and are subject to fines. The amendment includes exceptions for responsible person liability when they are first to report illegal fireworks.
Please note that the above is a simply a summary of the Ordinance. To obtain a full understanding of the Ordinance it should be read in its entirety. A copy of the full text of the Ordinance is posted in the City Clerk’s office at 18747 Clarkdale Avenue, Artesia, California 90701.
Date: February 27, 2026
Jennifer Alderete, City Clerk
Published at Los Cerritos Community Newspaper 2/27/26
