Winner of Fourteen LA Press Club Awards from 2012- 2017.
www.lmlamplighter.com 6 DelivereD to 10,000 homes every week
la surrounding miraDa, ca., NovemBer 22 ,17, 2019 Serving La Mirada and ten communities • July 2026 • Vol. 70, No. 37 • LMLAMPLIGHTER.COM
CALTRANS REROUTED TRAFFIC WITHOUT INFORMING CERRITOS, ILLEGAL MOVE WILL COST THE CITY OVER $5 MILLION Three Months Before DOJ Subpoenaed New York Times Reporters, Central Basin Subpoenaed LCCN Publisher
BY BRIAN HEWS
Hews Media Group-Los Cerritos Community News has obtained a letter, dated September 6, 2019, addressed to Caltrans from the city of Cerritos that A taxpayer-funded lawsuit blasts the state agency for rerouting tractor-trailer traffic through forced Los Cerritos the City due toNews I-5 construction Community to projects. spend thousands of dollars Shockingly, the rerouting was defending guaranteed done withoutrights notifying the City.
by the First Amendment.
The City is claiming that the during the construction period. rerouting has caused over $5 “Caltrans has failed to coormillion in damage to the streets, dinate thus far, and any further increased pollution in the area, lack of communication or conincreased traffic noise, and in- sultation with the City and its creased the safety risk of resi- residents is unacceptable.” dents. er-Publisher Brian Hews with aThe City blasted Caltrans for establishing a detour route on Further the subpoena. letter statesAthat sweeping subpoena Caltrans is in violation of the southbound Carmenita between is a legal order requiring someproject’s final Environmental the I-5 and Artesia Blvd., and one to provide documents or Impact Report which obligates eastbound Artesia Blvd. between testimony in connection a the agency to coordinate with cit- with Carmenita and the I-5. legal proceeding. this case, the“Neither stretch of Carmeniies to minimize adverseInimpacts
LCCN Staff Report Last week’s subpoenas served on New York Times reporters triggered a national debate over press freedom. For Los Cerritos Community News, however, that debate had already become reality. Just three months earlier, Central Basin Municipal Water District, acting through its outside attorneys, Los Angeles-based Buchalter, served LCCN Own-
subpoena sought years of communications with district officials and others connected to Hews’ investigative reporting, forcing the newspaper to retain private First Amendment counsel. The Justice Department subpoenas sought testimony from four New York Times journalists following reports about security concerns involving the new, Qatari-gifted Air Force One. Federal agents reportedly delivered some of the subpoenas directly to the reporters’ homes.
ta or Artesia is a city designated truck route, commercial vehicles over 6,000 pounds are strictly prohibited on the streets, per City Municipal Code.” The Caltrans rerouting of trucks has caused severe damage and increased traffic at peak hours, the extensive damage alone is estimated “to cost $5.2 million to repair,” and the “average daily traffic on said streets has significantly increased and
flows onto arterial streets.” The City then cited the numerous safety hazards caused by the rerouting of traffic, concerns that have been voiced by Cerritos residents in calls and emails to both HMG-LCCN and the City. The rerouting on Carmenita takes large trucks by two schools, Stowers Elementary and Carmenita Middle school in addition
See CALTRANS page 14
ARTESIA HIGH STAFF-MEMBER RECEIVES AWARD OF VALOR FROM LAKEWOOD BY THOM MARTIN
action, jumping out of her car grabbing the boy and helping the The City of Lakewood held woman. its annual Award of Valor lunShe took them to Artesia High DUNKEL BROS. owners and staff, joined by Historical Preservation Advisory Council member Harry Scott, cheon on Nov. 6 to thank the men School, where they received medCouncilmembers John Lewis Ed Eng, theassistance transportation team, pose atop and around and and women of theand Losmembers Angeles ofical and were ultimatethe historic Windermere Ranch olive press after it was loaded for its journey back to County Sheriff’s Department and ly transported to the hospital. La Mirada. Dunkel Bros. donated the transportation of the massive 19th-century press at no cost to the City,acearning La Mirada’s Fire Department, as well as the Because of her selfless Community Spotlight Award for helping preserve an important piece of the community’s agricultural history. community volunteers who pro- tions, the City of Lakewood retect and serve Lakewood. cently awarded Bridget with the Bridget Perrizo, a staff mem- Mayor’s Award at the city’s an[ See SUBPOENA, page 12 ] ber at Artesia Highon was the honored nual Awards of Valor ceremony. War Middle Class when she helped two people that "I always wondered what I was being attacked by a dog. would do when faced with a situBridget, was headed back to ation like this one," said Perrizo. work from lunch when she spot- "By the grace of God, I had the ted a dog attacking a woman and courage to take action. I'm so young boy. The dog had knocked glad that both the mom and son them to the ground and they were are okay, and I'm so honored to improving pedestrian safety at Traffic-calming receive this award.” several of the city’s busiest inter- City honors Harry Scott’sscreaming for help. upgrades move forward, and Dunkel Bridget immediately took TRASH piles up at a condominium complex in City Hawaiian The Citydetermination chose Waste Resources sections. staffGardens. recommendSee HERO page 15 but proposed miniBros.’ extraordinary Incorporated as their new hauler, who said would immediately begin trash pick up. Photo Brian Hews. edthey awarding the construction
Artesia Set to Approve $881,000 Street Safety and Road Improvement Project roundabouts have been removed for further study.
La Mirada’s Historic McNally Olive Press Returns Home
Trump’s Big Beautiful Bill Cuts Federal Loan Options, Leaving Parents to Pay More
contract to Onyx Paving Com- donation that returned pany, Inc., the lowest responsive the historic olive press bidder among eight contractors. to La Mirada. By Brian Hews Although the company’s original bid included construction two By Briandefault Hewsletters, BY BRIAN HEWS “Poor leadership, no foresight of included several mini-roundabouts, the proposed on the situation, typical of this which, under California’s Public ARTESIA — is AaccumuproposedCitycontract those features While rotting trash Council,”excluded former Hawaiian Resource Code Section 49000, LA MIRADA — A rust$880,900 roadway following lating in many parts ofimprovement Hawaiian Gardens Mayor Reyrecommendations Rodriguez starts the clock on termination. ed, 19th-century olive press Gardens, that Mayorwould Myra Maravilla HMG-LCCN. went the extra project rehabilitatetoldfrom the Public Works Commit-City staff even that once helped produce oland the City Council finally constreets and add pedestrian safety The tee. staff report included in step and attempted to work with ducted a hearing, waiting an en- last week’s meeting presented CWS toive cureoiltheonbreaches AndrewandMcNally’s CAPPED: The Parent Plus loan will be capped at $20,000 per year, tire week, and allowing the trash clear evidence that CWS was in defaults famed starting Windermere in March of thisRanch has this was a crucial loan for parents of college students, loans were not capped before Trump’s Big Bill. to accumulate even more, to once violation of its contract with the year, each of which gave CWS returned home after spending again discuss terminating CWS’ City, but Mayor Maravilla and the steps to resolve the defaults. nearlytotwo decades contract. In addition the default no- at a muCouncil were apparently afraid to in attempted eastern San Diego Under the Ralph M. Brown pull the termination trigger, leav- tices, theseum City also to dle-class families may now have Act, Maravilla and the City Coun- ing residents driving by stinky arrange County, meetings with CWStobutthe efforts New borrowing caps thanks to turn to private lenders—or pay cil could have sent out a notice piles of trash for the foreseeable CWS didofnotlocal attendhistorians most meet- and one leave many middle-class out of pocket—to bridge the gap. and held a meeting within two future. ings. ARTESIA HIGH staff-member the Award of parents searching Bridget for Perrizo receivedThe changes are part of Presgenerous industrial moving days to address the situation. The voluminous staff report Valor from Lakewood for savingas two in a dog attack. private financing the ident Donald Trump’s “One Big company. See TRASH page 15 price of higher education Beautiful Bill,” which eliminates At a recent City Council continues to climb. several federal repayment opmeeting, the City honored tions, ends the Biden administraDunkel Bros. with its ComBy Brian Hews tion’s SAVE repayment plan, and munity Spotlight Award for places new caps on Parent PLUS donating the transportation and graduate student loans. For many American families, of the massive historic press For decades, Parent PLUS back to La Mirada, where it paying for college just became loans allowed families to boronce played a key role in the significantly more difficult. row up to the full cost of attenSweeping changes to the city’s early agricultural econdance, minus any financial aid federal student loan system that omy. received. Beginning July 1, new The recognition also high- took effect July 1 are shifting Parent PLUS loans are capped at more of the financial burden lighted the years-long work of $20,000 per student per year and from the federal government to $65,000 per family over a lifeIMPROVEMENTS Streets included in Artesia’s proposed roadway Historical Preservation Adviparents, particularly those with improvement project are highlighted in blue. sory Council member Harry children attending four-year uni- time. That may sound like a subScott, who tracked down the versities. While students’ annual stantial amount until compared historic equipment, negotiated federal loan limits remain largely with today’s college costs. enhancements throughout neighRoadway improvements in- with its owners, and coordi- unchanged, the amount parents A student attending a Caliborhoods surrounding Artesia clude Elaine Avenue from 183rd nated its return. can borrow through the federal fornia State University can exPark has been continued until the Street to South Street; Grayland The olive press original- Parent PLUS loan program has pect annual expenses of roughly City Council’s August meeting. Avenue from 183rd Street to ly operated on Andrew Mc- been sharply reduced. $30,000 to $38,000, including The project combines state South Street; 186th Street from Nally’s Windermere Ranch, The result, higher education and local transportation funding experts say, is that many midto rehabilitate aging streets while See ARTESIA, Page 6 See OLIVE, Page 6 See COLLEGE, Page 4
TRASH WILL FINALLY GET CLEANED UP IN HAWAIIAN GARDENS
2 | Los Cerritos Community News | July 17, 2026
Artesia High Students Complete Skilled Trades Summer Program LCCN Staff Report Forty Artesia High School students graduated Friday from a six-week paid “Earn and Learn” summer program that provided hands-on training in welding and automotive electrical systems while preparing them for careers in California’s growing skilled trades workforce. Many participants earned Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Electrical Systems certifications during the program, an industry-recognized credential that prepares students for employment in the skilled trades. The program was supported through
To advertise call 562-407-3873
L.A. County Skilled Trades Summers, an initiative launched by Harbor Freight Tools for Schools in 2021 to introduce high school students to careers in technical trades. Over the six-week program, students received practical instruction in automotive electrical systems and welding while developing technical skills needed to support Southern California’s growing demand for skilled workers driven by infrastructure improvements, clean energy projects, and preparations for the 2028 Olympic Games. The graduation ceremony featured remarks from program leaders, instructors, and community partners before students demonstrated completed projects and showcased the skills they developed throughout the summer. The event was held at Artesia High School’s Fine Arts Center.
GRADUATES: Welding students (top) from Artesia High School celebrate their completion of Harbor Freight Tools for Schools’ L.A. County Skilled Trades Summers program alongside instructor Jose Bran during the graduation ceremony. Auto electrical students (bottom) also from Artesia High School celebrate completing Harbor Freight Tools for Schools’ L.A. County Skilled Trades Summers program with instructor Marty Supple during the graduation ceremony.
Los Cerritos Community News | July 17, 2026 | 3
To advertise call 562-407-3873
Otero Selected as La Mirada Mayor; De Ruse Named Mayor Pro Tem LA Fixit Clinic Offers Free
Repair Event at Norwalk Library Aug. 22 By Brian Hews
served on several city committees and regional boards during his time on the council. De Ruse, who has lived in La Mirada since 1976, was first elected to the City Council in 2011 and has since been reelected in 2015, 2020 and 2024. The council also administered the oath of office to Councilmembers John Lewis and Michelle Velasquez Bean following their re-election to represent Districts 1 and 2, respectively. Under the city’s rotating leadership system, the mayor and mayor pro tem each serve one-year terms while continuing to serve as members of the City Council.
Residents are invited to give broken items a second life at a free LA Fixit Clinic on Sat., Aug. 22, at the Norwalk Library. The event will be held from noon to 3 p.m. at the library, 12350 Imperial Hwy., and offers free repair assistance from experienced volunteer coaches. Participants are encouraged to bring a variety of household items, including bicycles, clothing, electronics, small appliances, toys and jewelry. Rather than simply fixing the items for participants, volunteers work alongside attendees, helping them troubleshoot problems, learn repair techniques and extend the life of well-loved possessions. Organizers say the clinics reduce waste while teaching valuable repair skills and promoting sustainability. The event is sponsored by the Los Angeles County Department of Public Works in partnership with LA Fixit Clinic, Fixit Clinic and the Los Angeles County Library. Organizers are also seeking volunteers for the event. Volunteer “Fixit Coaches” help participants diagnose and repair items, regardless of their professional experience. A passion for repairing and sharing knowledge is encouraged, and organizers say volunteers do not need to be experts to participate. For more information or to register, visit: https://bit.ly/LAFC-Norwalk
Wood Selected Lakewood Mayor, Council Swears in Rudy Villarreal
Those interested in volunteering can sign up at: https://bit.ly/LAFixitClinic-Volunteer
LA MIRADA City Council members following the annual City Council reorganization on July 15. Pictured (l-r) are Councilmember John Lewis, Mayor Pro Tem Steve De Ruse, Mayor Anthony A. Otero, Councilmember Ed Eng and Councilmember Michelle Velasquez Bean. Otero was selected to serve as mayor for the 2026-27 term, while De Ruse was named mayor pro tem. LCCN Staff Report LA MIRADA — The La Mirada City Council selected Councilmember Anthony A. Otero to serve as mayor during its annual reorganization meeting on July 15. Councilmember Steve De Ruse was selected as mayor pro tem for the 202627 term, while Councilmember Ed Eng concluded his one-year term as mayor. Otero was first elected to the City Council in 2020 and re-elected in 2024. This marks his second time serving as mayor, having previously held the position during the 2022-23 term. A La Mirada resident since 2007, Otero has
LAKEWOOD’S City Council following the annual leadership transition on July 14. Pictured (l-r) are Councilmember Cassandra Chase, Vice Mayor David Arellano, Mayor Jeff Wood, Councilmember Rudy Villarreal and Councilmember Todd Rogers. Wood was selected to serve as mayor and Arellano as vice mayor for the 2026-27 term.
LCCN Staff Report LAKEWOOD — The Lakewood City Council completed its annual reorganization on July 14, selecting Councilmember Jeff Wood to serve as mayor and David Arellano as vice mayor for the 2026-27 term. Wood, who was first elected to the council in 2011, begins his third term as mayor. Under Lakewood's long-standing tradition, the mayor's position rotates annually among the five council members. While the mayor has the same voting authority as other council members, the position serves as the city's presiding officer at meetings and official representative at public events. The meeting also marked the end of Cassandra Chase's one-year term as mayor. More than 200 residents attended a community celebration recognizing Chase's service before she resumed her role as a council member. The council also honored Steve Croft
for 21 years of service before he concluded his tenure on the City Council. Newly elected District 2 Councilmember Rudy Villarreal was sworn into office alongside returning Councilmembers Cassandra Chase and Todd Rogers, who each begin new four-year terms through July 2030. Villarreal, an active law enforcement officer, helicopter pilot and U.S. Army Reserve veteran, won the District 2 seat in the June 2 election. Before joining the council, he served on the city's Measure L Citizens Oversight Committee and currently serves on the Los Angeles County Aviation Commission and the Southeast Los Angeles County Workforce Development Board. He is also a graduate of the Lakewood Leadership Academy and has been active in several local civic organizations, including the Rotary Club of Lakewood and Lakewood Little League.
To advertise call 562-407-3873
4 | Los Cerritos Community News | July 17, 2026
From the Mayor’s Desk: July 17, 2026 One hundred days ago, I had the honor of being selected to serve as Mayor of the City of Cerritos, the community I proudly call home. Since then, we’ve made meaningful progress, shared memorable celebrations, and strengthened our City. I am grateful for the partnership of my City Council colleagues, staff, Cerritos Mayor residents, businesses, Lynda Johnson and local organizations. As we mark this 100-day milestone, I am proud to share our collective achievements: Support a Strong Local Economy A healthy local economy creates jobs and generates revenue for the City, keeping Cerritos a vibrant place to live, work, and shop. Over the last 100 days, we have: • Recognized Cerritos-based businesses, including VM Pharmacy in June 2026, through the City’s Business Spotlight program. • Facilitated tenant-funded improvements at City-owned properties, including upgrades at Kia of Cerritos and a property occupied by REVOLVE. • Expedited local business development and expansion efforts at the Cerritos Auto Square (Genesis of Cerritos), Los Cerritos Center (former Sears redevelopment), Cerritos Towne Center (Tokyo Central), and the Carmenita Plaza North shopping center. Invest in Our City’s Future Maintaining and improving our infrastructure and investing in community engagement and government partnerships help ensure Cerritos remains safe, reliable, and prepared for the future. Recent efforts include: • Completing critical repairs to the C-4 well to support our aging water system. • Replanting parkway landscaping along 195th Street and Bloomfield Avenue. • Constructing the Frontier Park Picnic Shelter and renovating the Heritage Park Play Island. • Continuing the L.E.A.D (Learn, Educate, Act, and Discover) Cerritos academy, which empowers residents and promotes understanding of local government. • Instituting collaborative discussions with federal, state, and county legislative representatives to advocate for Cerritos’ interests and priorities by making sure Cerritos has a seat at the table.
Celebrate Our Community Community traditions strengthen the pride we share in calling Cerritos home. In the past 100 days, we: • Dedicated the Milking Time: A Tribute to Dairy Valley sculpture at Cerritos Civic Center. • Kicked off the 70th Anniversary 5K Run/ Walk and Health Expo event. • Celebrated National Library Week by hosting special programs for children, teens, and families, highlighting the important role libraries play in education and the community, which was featured in local TV news. Honor Those Who Make Cerritos Exceptional Cerritos is defined by people who make a difference every day. We applaud their contributions by: • Introducing the Celebrating Cerritos quarterly recognition program to honor community leaders, volunteers, and organizations. • Initiating a Veterans Reserved Parking Program at City facilities. • Unveiling Storycorp: Voices of Cerritos, a storytelling project to preserve residents’ personal stories for future generations. • Launching the Employee Spotlight Video Program to showcase City staff and their contributions to the community. Keep Cerritos Safe Public safety is one of the City’s top priorities, so we: • Advanced pedestrian safety by approving design plans for crosswalk improvements at Del Amo Boulevard and Claretta Avenue. • Expanded the City’s public safety technology capabilities with the acquisition of an additional ALPR mobile trailer to support crime prevention efforts. • Strengthened public safety by adopting an ordinance prohibiting the sale, distribution, and possession of nitrous oxide. • Ensured the continuation of the Sky Knight Helicopter Patrol Program. Reflecting on the first 100 days, I am reminded that what makes Cerritos truly exceptional is not only our outstanding services, thriving businesses, or beautiful neighborhoods; it is the people who call this City home. These accomplishments reflect the dedication of our entire Cerritos community. It is an incredible privilege to serve as your Mayor. I look forward to building on this momentum to make Cerritos even stronger for generations to come.
Los Cerritos Community News Donates $500 to Su Casa From Cerritos 70th Anniversary Edition LCCN Staff Report Earlier this year, Los Cerritos Community News published a special commemorative edition celebrating the City of Cerritos’ 70th anniversary. As part of the publication, LCCN pledged to donate 10 percent of all advertising proceeds to Su Casa – Ending Domestic Violence, a Long Beach nonprofit that provides emergency shelter, counseling, advocacy and support services for survivors of domestic violence and their families. Several community leaders and organizations supported the fundraising effort by purchasing advertising in the special edition, including Los Angeles County Fourth District Supervisor Janice Hahn, State Senator Bob Archuleta, the City of Pico Rivera, the City of Artesia, Athens Services and PRIME. In a letter to LCCN Publisher Brian Hews, Su Casa Executive Director Alberto Uribe expressed his appreciation for the contribution. Dear Brian, On behalf of the volunteers, staff, and Board of Directors of Su Casa-Ending Domestic Violence, I want to express my deepest appreciation to you for supporting Su
Casa by making a donation of $500 for the families in our shelters and walk-in center on June 4, 2026. Most of all, I thank you on behalf of the many families who come to Su Casa seeking safety and assistance to break the inter-generational cycle of violence. We are seeing more and more survivors come through our doors seeking protection, counseling, and safety planning. Our resources may be stretched thin, but we remain steadfast in our mission to empower individuals and families to break free from domestic abuse and to build relationships with communities to end domestic violence. To our delight and total appreciation, we find that supporters like you stand by us and help keep us strong. Your donations go directly to helping people live their lives free from abuse and Su Casa will continue to help them find their next right step towards safety and healing. Thank you again for caring and helping to make a difference in the lives of our families. Sincerely, Alberto Uribe Executive Director
Parents Get the Shaft Under Trump’s New Student Loan Law Middle-class parents just became the biggest losers in Washington’s latest overhaul of the federal student loan system. Tucked inside President Donald Trump’s “One Big Beautiful Bill” is yet another back-breaking middle-class provision that dramatically reduces how much parents can borrow through the federal Parent PLUS loan program. It won’t make college less expensive. It won’t lower tuition. It won’t reduce the cost of textbooks, housing, or meal plans. It simply shifts more of the financial burden from the federal government onto families already struggling to keep up with the rising cost of living. That burden is enormous. A year at a California State University can cost more than $30,000. A University of California education now approaches $45,000 annually when tuition, housing, books, transportation and living expenses are included. At many private universities, families face annual costs exceeding $70,000, with some schools nearing $100,000 a year. For decades, middle-class families relied on the federal Parent PLUS loan program to bridge the gap between financial aid and the actual cost of attendance. Beginning this month, new Parent PLUS loans are capped at $20,000 per student per year and $65,000 over a family’s lifetime. The numbers may sound generous in Washington, but they disappear quickly when measured against today’s tuition bills. Imagine parents whose daughter earns a scholarship to attend a private university costing $80,000 a year. After scholarships and the student’s own federal loan, the family may still face a bill of more than $50,000. Under the previous system, much of that gap could be financed through a federal loan with established borrower protections. Today, those parents may have to raid retirement accounts, borrow against their home, or turn to private lenders whose loans are based on creditworthiness and generally offer far fewer protections if financial hardship strikes. That isn’t making college more affordable. It’s making financing college more difficult. Supporters of the legislation
argue that limiting federal lending protects taxpayers and discourages excessive borrowing. There is a legitimate discussion to be had about the size of the federal student loan program and the nation’s mounting education debt. But that discussion should also include why college costs have been allowed to spiral so far beyond the reach of ordinary families. Washington didn’t confront skyrocketing tuition. It didn’t require universities to control administrative costs. It didn’t demand greater accountability from institutions charging families the equivalent of a mortgage payment every semester. Instead, it reduced one of the primary tools middle-class parents have relied upon to help their children earn a college degree. There is another irony that many families will find difficult to ignore. During the pandemic, Congress authorized hundreds of billions of dollars in forgivable Paycheck Protection Program loans for businesses that met the program’s requirements. Today, many of those same families are learning that when it comes to financing a child’s education, Washington’s answer is no longer expanded opportunity but reduced assistance. The political consequences may prove significant. Many suburban and middle-class voters supported President Trump believing his administration would lower costs and strengthen family finances. Instead, many are discovering that one of the largest investments they will ever make— the education of their children—has become even harder to finance. No one disputes that the student loan system needs reform. The real reform, however, would have focused on why a college education costs as much as a luxury automobile every year. Until lawmakers address runaway tuition instead of limiting access to financing, middle-class families will continue paying the price for a system that asks more of them every year while offering less in return. Parents don’t need Washington to make college more expensive than it already is. They need leaders willing to confront the real problem. Unfortunately, this legislation does exactly the opposite.
COLLEGE
ini of the Institute for College Access & Success said. “A lot of people are simply going to see their payment increase significantly.” The legislation also eliminates Graduate PLUS loans for new borrowers and establishes lifetime borrowing caps for graduate and professional degree programs, potentially requiring students pursuing advanced degrees to seek additional private financing. Supporters of the changes argue the new law reduces taxpayer exposure, simplifies the federal loan system and discourages excessive borrowing. Critics counter that the legislation does nothing to address the underlying cost of college while reducing access to affordable federal financing. The contrast has fueled political debate. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Congress authorized hundreds of billions of dollars in forgivable Paycheck Protection Program loans to help businesses retain employees. Critics now question why Washington is reducing borrowing options for families seeking to finance a college education while many businesses benefited from broad federal loan forgiveness. The cost of college continues to rise, but the federal government’s role in helping families finance that education has become considerably smaller. For many parents, the difference will likely be measured not in policy, but in monthly payments—and whether their child can afford the school of their choice.
Continued from Page 1
housing, meals, books and transportation. A year at a University of California campus can approach $45,000. At many private universities, the annual cost of attendance now exceeds $65,000, with schools such as USC approaching $100,000 per year. Consider a family whose child attends a private university costing $80,000 annually. If the student receives a $20,000 scholarship and borrows the maximum federal undergraduate loan of $5,500, the family is still responsible for more than $54,000. Under the previous system, parents could often finance most of that remaining balance through the federal Parent PLUS program. Under the new law, they can borrow only $20,000 through Parent PLUS, leaving a gap of more than $34,000 that must be covered through savings, home equity, or private student loans. Unlike federal loans, private education loans are based on creditworthiness, frequently require a co-signer, and generally offer fewer borrower protections if a family experiences financial hardship. Education advocates warn the new limits could make higher education less accessible for middle-income families— those who earn too much to qualify for substantial financial aid but not enough to comfortably write tuition checks. “The main concern is the affordability of monthly payments,” Michele Zamp-
Los Cerritos Community News | July 17, 2026 | 5
To advertise call 562-407-3873
Cerritos Honors First Responders at ‘Let Freedom Ring’ Celebration
Pico Rivera Gears Up for Busy Summer of Entertainment, Family Activities and Community Programs LCCN Staff Report
CERRITOS city officials joined Los Angeles County Sheriff’s deputies, Cerritos Fire Station personnel and other first responders during the city’s July 4 “Let Freedom Ring” celebration to recognize their service and dedication to the community. Front row, from left, are Councilmember Jennifer Hong, Mayor Pro Tem Mark Pulido, Mayor Lynda Johnson, Councilmember Frank Yokoyama and Councilmember Sophia Tse. Courtesy city of Cerritos.
Inaugural Long Beach Film Festival Announces First Feature Film Lineup LCCN Staff Report LONG BEACH — The inaugural Long Beach Film Festival has announced the official lineup of feature films for its first festival, bringing four acclaimed independent productions and their filmmakers to the historic Art Theatre Long Beach on Aug. 29-30. Festival organizers also announced that weekend passes are now on sale, with individual screening tickets expected to be released soon. Additional short-film selections, special guests and programming will be announced in the coming weeks. “Our vision has always been to create a festival that feels both world-class and deeply rooted in Long Beach,” said Hunter Stiebel, the festival’s director of programming. “This first feature lineup reflects the type of bold, original storytelling we hope audiences will come to expect from the festival for years to come.” The inaugural feature lineup includes: • Downbeat – Director Danny Madden’s 91-minute drama follows a musician struggling to balance personal relationships with artistic ambition. The film recently screened at the South by Southwest Film & TV Festival and stars Daniel Rashid, Addie Weyrich, Arkira Chantarantananond, Terence Nance and Christie Lynn Smith. • Ugly Cry – An 84-minute psychological horror film starring Emily Robinson, Robin Tunney, Ryan Simpkins and Aaron Dominguez. The story follows an aspiring actor whose disastrous audition leads to a dangerous obsession with perfection. • Again Again – A science fiction romance centered on a woman who finally escapes a decade-long time loop, only to discover that facing an uncertain future may be more frightening than reliving the past. The film stars Mia Moore Marchant, Aria Taylor, Abigail Thorn and Jon Meggison. • Rescued – Written, directed by and starring Long Beach filmmaker DJ Hale, the 126-minute drama tells the story of a man experiencing homelessness whose life changes after adopting a stray dog. Filmed in Long Beach, the movie also stars Lindsay Shaw and showcases recognizable local landmarks throughout the city. In addition to screenings, the festival
will feature an Opening Night Party and a Filmmakers Lounge designed to bring together filmmakers, industry professionals and audiences through networking, discussions and special events. Produced in partnership with the Arts Council for Long Beach and Visit Long Beach, the filmmaker-led festival aims to strengthen Long Beach’s growing reputation as a destination for independent cinema while connecting local audiences with filmmakers from around the world. “Long Beach is one of the most diverse and vibrant creative communities in the country, and that spirit is at the heart of this festival,” said Andi Orendain, director of advancement and community partnerships. “We want audiences to experience incredible films while also creating meaningful moments with the filmmakers who brought them to life.” Ahead of the festival, organizers will host a fundraising event on July 29 featuring filmmaker DJ Hale. The evening will include a conversation with Hale, wine, hors d’oeuvres, previews from the inaugural festival and opportunities to win all-access passes to the Filmmakers Lounge. Proceeds will benefit LBFF StoryLab, the festival’s youth filmmaking initiative. The Long Beach Film Festival will take place Aug. 29-30 at the Art Theatre Long Beach. Weekend passes are available now, with individual screening tickets expected to go on sale soon.
Pico Rivera is inviting residents to enjoy a full schedule of summer events, family activities and community programs, highlighted by the return of the popular Summer Street Fest and National Night Out. Summer Street Fest will once again transform Mines Avenue into a community celebration on Aug. 14 and Aug. 21 from 5 to 10 p.m. The free event will feature live entertainment, food trucks, local vendors, a beer garden, family activities and a marketplace. This year’s entertainment lineup includes Grammy Award-winning Mariachi Los Camperos de Jesús “Chuy” Guzmán on Aug. 14, followed by Exposé, the Dons of Distinction and the Tapia Sisters and the Elements on Aug. 21. Several of the featured performers have strong ties to Pico Rivera and El Rancho High School. Residents are also invited to National Night Out on Friday, July 31, beginning at 5:30 p.m. at the Pico Rivera Sheriff’s Station. The annual event brings together residents, Sheriff’s deputies and City officials for an evening of live entertainment, children’s activities, food and crime prevention information designed to strengthen neighborhood partnerships. The City is continuing its Summer Meal Program through Aug. 7, providing free breakfast and lunch Monday through Friday for children ages 18 and younger at Pico Park, Rivera Park, Rio Hondo Park, Rio Vista Park and Smith Park. Meals are available on a first-come, first-served basis and must be eaten on site. The City is also seeking volunteers to assist with meal distribution and site operations. Pico Rivera is also encouraging resi-
SUMMER STREET FEST will once again transform Mines Avenue into a community celebration on Aug. 14 and Aug. 21 from 5 to 10 p.m.
dents to stay safe during the busy summer months. Sheriff’s officials are reminding the public to remain aware of their surroundings at large events, secure personal belongings and report suspicious activity. Residents can also take advantage of the City’s free monthly electronic waste recycling events at Pico Park through December. The drive-through program accepts computers, televisions, printers, phones and other electronic devices, helping keep hazardous materials out of landfills while supporting the City’s sustainability efforts. City officials encourage residents to visit the City’s website for complete event schedules, program information and updates throughout the summer.
To advertise call 562-407-3873
6 | Los Cerritos Community News | July 17, 2026
Cerritos-Artesia Rotary Club Enjoys Night of Baseball and Fellowship at Dodger Stadium
PLAY BALL! Members and friends of the Rotary Club of Cerritos-Artesia, including Artesia Mayor Rene Trevino and Mayor pro tem Melissa Ramoso, gather in front of their luxury coach at Artesia Park before departing for Dodger Stadium on July 11 for an evening of baseball, fellowship and community spirit. Inset picture is the Dodger Message board welcoming the Rotary Club to the game.
LCCN Staff Report CERRITOS — Members, family and friends of the Rotary Club of Cerritos-Artesia boarded a luxury motorcoach on Saturday, July 11, for an evening of baseball, fellowship and community spirit at Dodger Stadium. The outing featured round-trip transportation from Artesia Park, reserved lodge seating in Section 159LG and light refreshments during the ride to watch the Dodgers take on the Arizona Diamondbacks. The annual event brought Rotarians together for an evening of camaraderie
while helping support the club’s ongoing community service efforts. The Rotary Club of Cerritos-Artesia is known for its local and international service projects, scholarships, youth programs and charitable initiatives throughout the year. Club leaders said events like the Dodger outing provide members an opportunity to strengthen friendships while raising funds that benefit Rotary’s mission of “Service Above Self.” The Rotary Club of Cerritos-Artesia meets weekly and welcomes new members interested in making a positive impact in the community.
Grocery Outlet Expands Despite Earlier Store Closures LCCN Staff Report Grocery Outlet is continuing its California expansion despite closing dozens of underperforming stores earlier this year, with a new location opening July 23 in Ontario Ranch and additional stores planned in Ramona, San Francisco, Clovis and Petaluma by the end of August. The discount grocery chain closed 36 stores nationwide in March, including nine in California, as part of a restructuring effort to improve profitability. Several Southern California locations, including La Habra, were among those slated for closure. The expansion comes as Grocery Outlet works to strengthen its market position against competitors such as Aldi, Trader Joe’s, Walmart and Amazon. Closer to home, a new Grocery Outlet is also under construction in La Mirada, bringing another discount grocery option to local shoppers. Company officials said the restructuring has improved operations, while first-quarter net sales rose 4% to $1.17 billion despite the company posting a quarterly loss.
WATCHDOGS. NOT LAPDOGS. Holding Local Government Accountable for 24 years LosCerritosNews.net
ARTESIA
Continued from Page 1
Arline Avenue to Norwalk Boulevard; Devlin Avenue from 186th Street to 187th Street; 187th Street from Devlin Avenue to Elaine Avenue; and Droxford Street from the cul-de-sac to Elaine Avenue. The project also includes enhanced crosswalks, ADA-compliant curb ramps, raised pedestrian crossings, new pavement markings, traffic striping, flashing pedestrian beacons, upgraded signage and red curb improvements at numerous locations throughout the city. Additional intersection safety improvements are planned at 166th Street and Alburtis Avenue, 178th Street at Roseton Avenue, 178th Street at Jersey Avenue, Ashworth Street and Clarkdale Avenue, and multiple intersections along 186th Street. The proposal originally included mini-roundabouts at the intersections of 186th Street with Clarkdale Avenue and Elaine Avenue. However, after public demonstrations and months of committee review, city officials removed the roundabouts from the project while continuing to evaluate traffic-calming alternatives. The remaining roadway rehabilitation and pedestrian safety improvements will now be considered by the City Council in August, when members are expected to determine whether to award the construction contract.
OLIVE
Continued from Page 1
where thousands of olive trees once covered what is now modern-day La Mirada. The ranch produced premium olive oil that was marketed across the country under the McNally name during the early 1900s, helping establish Southern California as a producer of high-quality olive oil. After leaving La Mirada decades ago, the press was purchased by McNally friend Leonardo DiChiara and eventually made its way to the Motor Transport Museum in Campo, where it remained for nearly 20 years. Scott’s research led him to the museum and the DiChiara family, who agreed the historic equipment should return to the city where it had spent its working life. Moving the enormous cast-iron machinery, however, was no small task. Enter Dunkel Bros. The longtime Southern California industrial moving company donated its expertise, equipment and labor to transport the massive olive press back to La Mirada at no cost to the City. The project involved Operations Manager Tim Hogan, General Manager Brett Calvin, Dispatcher Chris Elias and Driver Jeff Mosby, whose careful planning and coordination safely delivered the century-old machinery back home. The press bears the original manufacturer’s plate from Boomer & Boschert Press Co. of Syracuse, New York, one of the nation’s leading builders of olive and fruit processing equipment during the late 1800s. Historical records indicate McNally’s Windermere Ranch once contained more than 50,000 olive trees and operated one of California’s premier olive oil facilities. Contemporary advertisements promoted “McNally’s Olive Oil” as a premium product sold nationwide, while promotional booklets showcased the ranch, the olive mill, hydraulic presses and storage vaults that made the operation one of the most advanced of its era.
Los Cerritos Community News | July 17, 2026 | 7
To advertise call 562-407-3873
Pico Rivera Leads Gateway Cities With 6% Gain in Assessed Property Values LCCN Staff Report PICO RIVERA — Assessed property values in Pico Rivera increased 6% in 2026, the highest growth rate among Gateway Cities and well above the Los Angeles County average, according to the Los Angeles County Assessor’s 2026 Assessment Roll released Tuesday. The city’s assessment roll climbed to $7.97 billion, up from $7.52 billion in 2025—an increase of more than $450 million in taxable value. By comparison, Los Angeles County’s overall assessment roll grew 4.42%, reaching a record net taxable value of $2.272 trillion. “Los Angeles County’s economy continues to demonstrate remarkable resilience,” County Assessor Jeff Prang said, noting the assessment roll exceeded his office’s May forecast of 3.9%. “This is great news for Pico Rivera families,” said Mayor Gustavo Camacho. “A growing tax base means more resources for the parks, public safety and infrastructure projects our residents rely on, and it’s a sign that people continue to see Pico Rivera as a great place to invest and call home.” Among neighboring Gateway Cities, Pico Rivera’s 6% increase was the strongest. La Mirada followed at 4.8%, Artesia at 4.7%, Commerce at 4.4%, Bellflower at 4.3%, Lakewood at 4.2%, Whittier at 4.0%, Downey at 3.9%, Hawaiian Gardens at 3.7%, Santa Fe Springs at 3.6%, Cerritos at 3.5%, while Norwalk posted the region’s slowest growth at just 0.4%. The increase reflects continued
strength in Pico Rivera’s real estate market and expands the city’s long-term property tax base heading into the new fiscal year. Countywide, the 2026 Assessment Roll marked the 16th consecutive year of growth despite a cooling real estate market, ongoing economic uncertainty and the lingering effects of January’s wildfires in Pacific Palisades and Altadena. Property transfers accounted for the largest share of the county’s growth, adding more than $49 billion in assessed value, followed by the annual Proposition 13 inflation adjustment, which added another $43 billion. New construction contributed more than $12 billion. County officials estimate the assessment roll will generate more than $27 billion in property tax revenue to support public education, public safety, healthcare, libraries, parks and other government services throughout Los Angeles County. “This kind of growth strengthens our ability to plan responsibly for the future,” said City Manager Steve Carmona. “With our budget already in place for this fiscal year, a stronger assessed value gives us added confidence in our long-term revenue projections as we evaluate major capital projects and plan ahead.” Because property tax revenue is based on assessed values, a growing tax base generally provides cities with greater long-term financial stability to help fund public safety, parks, infrastructure improvements and other essential services. Although assessed values increased countywide, most homeowners will not see property taxes rise by the same percentage. Under Proposition 13, annual increases in a property’s assessed value generally are limited to 2%, unless the property changes ownership, undergoes new construction or qualifies for another adjustment.
La Palma’s 44th Annual Fitness Run for Fun Celebrated Independence Day and America’s 250th Anniversary
READY, SET: Over two thousand runners, walkers and families poured onto the course as the 44th Annual La Palma Fitness Run for Fun got underway on Independence Day. LCCN Staff Report LA PALMA — Over two thousand runners, walkers and families gathered at Central Park on Independence Day for the 44th Annual La Palma Fitness Run for Fun, kicking off the Fourth of July with fitness, fun and community spirit while celebrating America’s 250th anniversary. The annual event featured 5K and 10K races, along with the popular Yankee Doodle Dash for children ages 2 to 12. Following the races, participants enjoyed a pancake breakfast hosted by the La Palma Kiwanis Club before gathering for the awards ceremony at the Park Pavilion. This year’s celebration also included the unveiling of a new “Liberty Tree”
plaque. City Council members and the Community Activities & Beautification Committee dedicated the plaque in honor of the nation’s 250th anniversary, creating a permanent tribute for future generations. City officials thanked the many runners, volunteers, sponsors and community members who helped make the event another successful Independence Day tradition. “Thank you to everyone who laced up and showed up,” the city said in a statement. The Fitness Run for Fun has become one of La Palma’s signature Fourth of July traditions, bringing together residents of all ages to celebrate health, community and patriotism before the day’s holiday festivities.
8 | Los Cerritos Community News | July 17, 2026
It’s never too early to plan your Santa Fe holiday getaway. From glowing farolitos and adobe-lined streets to festive Canyon Road walks, unforgettable dining, and a New Year’s celebration beneath the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Santa Fe transforms the holiday season into one of America’s most magical winter escapes.
To advertise call 562-407-3873
Los Cerritos Community News | July 17, 2026 | 9
To advertise call 562-407-3873
Timeless Traditions.
UNFORGETTABLE MEMORIES.
EDITOR’S PICKS
W
hen the first snow dusts the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and hundreds of farolitos begin to glow, Santa Fe feels like stepping into a holiday storybook. Centuries-old traditions blend seamlessly with vibrant art, culture, and cuisine, creating a celebration unlike anywhere else in America. Whether you’re strolling Canyon Road after dark, warming up beside a crackling kiva fireplace, or counting down to midnight on the Plaza, every moment becomes a memory.
Sunset at Cross of the Martyrs. Canyon Road after dark Hot chocolate at Iconik Coffee Roasters. Dinner at Sazón.
Midnight on the Plaza.
High Road to Taos.
FIVE HOLIDAY MOMENTS Canyon Road After Dark
Twinkling lights, glowing farolitos and adobe galleries create one of Santa Fe’s most enchanting evening strolls.
New Year’s Eve on the Plaza
Celebrate with live music, fireworks and thousands of revelers beneath the stars. It’s Santa Fe’s biggest party of the year.
Sandia Peak Tramway
Take a scenic ride to the top of the Sandia Mountains for breathtaking winter views. It’s an easy day trip from Santa Fe.
Drive the High Road to Taos
Travel through Chimayó, Truchas and other historic villages before exploring Taos Plaza and the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge. The journey is just as memorable as the destination.
HOLIDAY ITINERARY
BEST HOLIDAY DINING
WHERE TO STAY
Sazón
La Fonda on the Plaza
Geronimo
Inn of the Five Graces
DEC. 30
Market Steer
Rosewood Inn of the Anasazi
• Fly into Albuquerque
The Compound
Bishop’s Lodge
• Check into hotel
The Shed
Hotel Chimayó
• Evening stroll around the
Tia Sophia’s
• Scenic drive to Santa Fe • Dinner at Sazón Plaza to see the holiday lights and farolitos
DEC. 31
La Choza
• Loretto Chapel • Cathedral Basilica • Palace of the Governors • Lunch on the Plaza
Cocktails At a Kiva Fireplace
• Canyon Road galleries
Relax with a handcrafted cocktail or glass of wine beside a crackling kiva fireplace. It’s one of the coziest ways to end a winter day in Santa Fe.
• Dinner at Geronimo • New Year’s on the Plaza
JAN. 1 • High Road drive to Taos • Stop at Chimayó
DAY TRIP TO TAOS
NEW YEAR’S EVE ON THE PLAZA
HOLIDAY HIGHLIGHTS
Follow the High Road through Chimayó, Truchas, and
Live music, fireworks, and a festive countdown
DECEMBER
• Taos Plaza
other historic villages before exploring Taos Plaza and
transform the historic Plaza into Santa Fe’s
the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge. It’s one of New Mexico’s
biggest celebration of the year. Arrive early to
1–24
Farolitos in the Historic District
• Return to Santa Fe
most memorable road trips.
enjoy the atmosphere and claim a great viewing
13
Canyon Road Farolito Walk
• Dinner at The Compound
spot.
24
Christmas Eve on the Plaza
JAN. 2
24
Midnight Mass at St. Francis Cathedral
• Georgia O’Keeffe Museum
31
New Year’s Eve on the Plaza
JANUARY
MUST SEE: Taos Plaza • Rio Grande Gorge Bridge High Road • Chimayó
• Stop at San Francisco de Asís • Rio Grande Gorge Bridge
• New Mexico Museum of Art • Museum of Folk Art • Shopping along the Plaza
1
New Year’s Day Celebration
1-4
Ski Santa Fe Holiday Weekend
6
Three Kings Day (El Día de los Reyes)
• Sunset at Cross of Martyrs • Dinner at the Market Steer
JAN. 3 • Breakfast • Shopping around the Plaza • Pick up biscochitos, local chile, or artwork
There are beautiful Holiday destinations... and then there’s Santa Fe. LCCN TRAVEL
• Head to Albuquerque
To advertise call 562-407-3873
10 | Los Cerritos Community News | July 17, 2026
PGF NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS, THE ALLIANCE FASTPITCH PREVIEW
Top area travel softball players to showcase talents on summer’s biggest stages By Loren Kopff @LorenKopff on X Travel softball players across the nation have waited all summer long for this time to arrive and for the remainder of month, the stakes will be the highest they have ever been as the Premier Girls Softball National Championships and The Alliance Fastpitch Championship Series take centerstage. For the area, nearly 20 players will be making one last attempt to bring home a championship or make one final memory before heading off to college or in preparation for their next season in high school. The PGF National Championships, now in its 16th season, begins its road to the championship games on Friday with the coaches dinner and bracket draw, followed by pool play games on Saturday and Sunday, then bracket games from Monday throughout the week leading up to the championship games. The Platinum Division championship games from the 18-Under and 16-Under age groups will be on July 24 and the Premier Division final games on July 25 along with the PGF High School (Futures) All-American Game and PGF High School (Senior) All-American Game to follow. Simultaneously, the sixth installment of The Alliance Fastpitch Championship Series will be held at Grand Park in Westfield,
Indiana and Championship Park in Kokomo, Indiana. The festivities begin on Saturday with the arrival of the teams and a media day event with games kicking off Monday and going all week long. Each age group of the AFCS will be broken off into three tiers once the initial games have been completed, and from that, eight teams from each tier will play in the championship bracket. Here is a look at the area players and their teams, some of their statistics, who they will be playing before the double elimination playoff games begin and where. For the PGF National Championships, the pool play games will be held at Bill Barber Park in Irvine (BBP), Fountain Valley Sports Park (FVSP), Great Park of Irvine (GP), Harvard Park in Irvine (HP) and Huntington Beach Sports Complex (HBSC). 18-Under Premier Division (18 pools, 72 teams, 22 states represented) (La Habra) Athletics Mercado-Chavolla Alyssa Hurst (Norwalk High) 17-4-1 since June 6 Pool P games @ HBSC Field 6 Saturday @ 6:30 p.m. vs. (Mesa) Arizona StormMendez Saturday @ 8:15 p.m. vs. (Roseville, CA) USA Premier National-Zepeda Sunday @ 12:00 p.m. vs. (Seattle) WA LadyhawksSimpson
The team had a seven-game winning streak snapped and now enters the tournament winners in nine of its last 12 games. Hurst, who is a pitcher for Norwalk has played in only 11 games, none in the circle and is batting .476 with 10 hits, six runs batted in, and four runs scored. (Yorba Linda) BSC Bengals-Briggs Kayleigh Allen (Gahr High/University of Kansas commit), Peyton Kingery (Valley Christian High/University of North Texas) 12-9 since June 6 Pool I games @ HBSC Field 4 Saturday @ 3:00 p.m. vs. (Chicago) Beverly Bandits
Trackwell/Meredith Saturday @ 6:30 p.m. vs. (Humble) Texas Riptide Sunday @ 2:00 p.m. vs. (Woodland) California Grapettes Gold
Allen is 9th on the team amongst players with at least 13 games played with a .308 batting average in 21 games, and the last with an average north of .300. She has 12 hits, four of which have gone for doubles and two more for home runs, 13 runs scored and nine runs driven in. Two spots behind her in the batting statistics is Kingery, who has played in 17 games, has a .250 average with eight hits, three going for two-baggers and two more for home runs. She has seven RBI and scored five runs. (Mission Viejo) California Cruisers Gold-Sievers 3-14-1 since June 6 Mylah Burrowes (Gahr) Pool R games @ HBSC Field 8 Saturday @ 3:00 p.m. vs. Las Vegas Blast Saturday @ 4:45 p.m. vs. (Tracy, CA) AASA Mortimer Sunday @ 12:00 p.m. vs. (Rumson) NJ Intensity KOD/BOD
Burrows heads into the PGF National Championships as the team’s third leading hitter with a .471 average in 18 games but leads the Cruisers with a .591 on base percentage and an OPS of 1.591. Of her 16 hits, five have left the yard and she leads the team in that category. She has driven in a team-leading 14 runs, scored 11 runs and has drawn eight walks. (Long Beach) USA Athletics Gold-Rogers 20-7-1 since June 6 Isabella Gonzalez (Gahr/University of Nevada, Reno) Pool M games @ HSBC Field 3 Saturday @ 6:30 p.m. vs. (Vacaville, CA) SorcererWalling/Kyne Saturday @ 8:15 p.m. vs. (Dallas) TitansBuettner Sunday @ 12:00 p.m. vs. (Fort Myers, FL) Rock Gold-Manetta Premier
The USA Athletics Gold which finished in a tie for 9th place last year in the Premier Division of the PGF National Championships is managed by former Gahr head coach Mike Rogers. The team saw their 10-game winning streak snapped by the (Anaheim) Orange County BatbustersStith on June 5 at the Louisville Slugger IDT in Longmont, CO. Gonzalez, who has started 12 games, leads the pitching staff in nearly every category, including innings pitch (40.2), earned runs allowed (12) and strikeouts (20) while sporting a 2.67 earned run average.
18-Under Platinum Division (20 pools, 80 teams, 15 states represented) (Carson) Firecrackers-Chavez/ Moreno Leah Magana (Gahr) Pool N games @ GP Field 5 Saturday @ 4:55 p.m. vs. (Covina) Wolfpack Fastpitch-Moreno Saturday @ 8:40 p.m. vs. (Folsom, CA) Foothill Gold-Moore Sunday @ 2:15 p.m. vs. (Fullerton) Athletics Mercado-Slater (Downey) Nemesis Elite 11-12-1 since May 30 Maryah McElroy (Gahr) Pool C games @ GP Field 2 Saturday @ 8:00 a.m. vs. (Surprise) Arizona Storm-Walding Saturday @ 11:35 a.m. vs. (Irvine) Southern California Sting-UNO Sunday @ 10:00 a.m. vs, (Murrietta) Athletics Mercado-Marinakis/Schimmel The Nemesis recently went 2-1-1 in Pool A last week in the Champions Cup Elite Showcase in Irvine, then dropped a 9-4 contest to the (Livermore, CA) BatbustersChing in the first single elimination playoff game last Saturday. McElroy, who was hitless in two at-bats against the Batbusters, had a pair of hits in three pool play games with four runs batted in. One of those hits was a two-out, two-run home run in the top of the fifth inning against the (Whittier) USA Athletics-Garcia to make it the final score of 6-2. (Buena Park) USA Athletics-RML 25-11 since June 6 Choyce Chambers (V.C./ Sacramento State University), Aubrielle Ramirez (V.C.) and Rachel Zhang (V.C.) SOLUTION ON PAGE 13
Pool J games @ GP Field 1 Saturday @ 6:35 p.m. vs. (San Mateo) Eagles Fastpitch-Deke
Saturday @ 8:20 p.m. vs. (Santa Ana) Firecrackers-Pantages/Martinez Sunday @ 12:00 p.m. vs. (Florence, SC) Carolina Elite National-Drotar
It was a good showing in the Champions Cup Elite Showcase in Irvine for the V.C. trio and the USA Athletics. After going 3-1 and finishing in second place in Pool G, the team defeated the (Fontana) Arsenal Eklund 14-5 last Saturday morning in the first playoff game. That was followed by four straight wins this past Sunday as the team captured the championship of the 18-U division. The USA Athletics outscored the opposition 33-8 in the playoffs with Zhang going six for 13 and two runs scored while Chambers was seven of 18, nine RBI, seven runs scored, two doubles and two home runs. She had a monster game against the Arsenal, going four for four, driving in seven runs including hitting a grand slam in the top of the second inning and scoring four runs. Ramirez went three for nine in the playoffs and has scored three runs. For the summer, Zhang is batting .474, good for second among players with at least 24 games played while Chambers is fourth (.418) and Ramirez seventh (.390). 16-Under Premier Division (20 pools, 80 teams, 21 states represented) (Riverside) BSC Bengals-Briggs 16R 18-10-1 since June 6 Juliana Rivera (La Mirada High) Pool E games @ FVSP Field 6 Saturday @ 9:45 a.m. vs. Birmingham Thunderbolts Premier-Alford/Rocky Saturday @ 1:15 p.m. vs. (Sacramento) Lady Magic-Munoz Sunday @ 10:00 a.m. vs. (Sanford, FL)
Unity-Amsler/Johnson Rivera has had a streaky summer where she hit the team’s first home run in the first game on June 6, then went into a one for 16 slump over the next seven games. However, over the final 10 games of June, Rivera got her groove back and went on an 11 See PGF, Page 12
Los Cerritos Community News | July 17, 2026 | 11
To advertise call 562-407-3873
This is the sixth in a series of stories on the new Suburban Valley Conference which involves 20 schools from the 605 League, Del Rio League, Gateway League and Mid-Cities League. The SVC will begin with the 2026-2027 school year and over the next month and a half, I will be getting comments from the athletic directors of the area schools on what it has been like the past year and the effects the new SVC will have on their respective schools this upcoming school year and beyond.
WHITNEY HIGH-INSIDE THE NUMBERS OF THE EIGHT MAJOR SPORTS WHILE IN THE 605 LEAGUE SINCE 2018 Football: Does not field a football program Girls volleyball: 44-26 league record, one league title, second place three times, third place once Boys basketball: 30-45 league record, third place four times, fourth place twice Girls basketball: 58-17 league record, three league titles, second place four times Boys soccer: 12-56-5 league record, second place once, third place once, fifth place twice Girls soccer: 10-9-1 league record, third place once, fourth place once Baseball: 3-37 league record, fifth place once, sixth place three times Softball: 12-48 league record, third place once, fifth place three times, sixth place twice CIF-Southern Section divisional championships: None CIF-Southern Section divisional finalist: once CIF-Southern Section semifinalist: once CIF-Southern Section quarterfinalist: five times From the beginning of the 19981999 school year until the 605 League was formed, a good chunk of the Whitney High athletic teams struggled in the Delphic League and the Academy League. In fact, the consistent successful athletic programs of the major sports, were girls volleyball and girls basketball. Now with the new SVC beginning next month, Whitney appears to be in decent shape as they are situated in either of the top two leagues of the conference, the Gateway League or the Mid-Cities League, in six of the seven fall sports the school has and in five other sports from the winter and spring seasons combined. Most schools would take such odds considering Whitney is one of two schools in the conference that does not offer an 11-man football program and has the third fewest enrollment numbers of the 20 schools. With that said, Whitney co-athletic director Marlene Jollensten seems to be okay with the structure of the conference based off how the past year has been with all the monthly meetings that took place with the other athletic directors and principals. “Did we decide on the decisions that I was expecting,” questioned Jollensten. “Not for everything, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing.” She said that at the beginning of the year, the athletic directors were still picturing how to put the schools in their proper leagues for cross country, track and field and wrestling, which happens to be the last item of business to work on before school begins in a month. Jollensten said she didn’t have enough information or opinions from the other athletic directors as to which direction
SUBURBAN VALLEY CONFERENCE:
Whitney to bring back girls soccer program as Wildcats look for better days in SVC
LOREN KOPFF Sports Editor @LorenKopff on X
they were going to go. Of the area schools, Whitney is the only one besides Cerritos High that will be in one of the two upper leagues in at least six of the eight fall sports. Not bad for a school that had an enrollment of just over 1,000 students for the 2023-2024 school year, ahead of only Firebaugh High (632) and John Glenn High (945). The Whitney girls golf and girls tennis teams will be running with the best in the Gateway League for at least this fall while its boys water polo, girls volleyball and both cross country teams are in the Mid-Cities League. “I will say that I did like how many of our teams ended up in the top two leagues,” said Jollensten. “It really speaks volumes about how well our programs have been doing. I think sometimes the kids can be overlooked because we’re known for academics. Just because we’re good at academics doesn’t necessarily mean that we’re only good at that. The kids are phenomenal while they’re out. So, I will say that I’m very pleased…that they’re also athletes. I’m excited to see how they compare to everybody else.” The Whitney girls volleyball team won three straight Delphic League titles from 1998-2000 under three different head coaches, reaching the semifinals once while losing in the quarterfinals in another. However, the Wildcats finished no better than fourth place in the Academy League from 2002-2011, missing the playoffs for those eight seasons. But as members of the 605 League, Whitney finished north of fourth place five times and reached the postseason four times. Jollensten admitted that it’s going to be easier and harder to make the CIFSouthern Section playoffs because, in her words, everyone has a good shot of making the postseason but easier if you were in a league where you were towards the bottom more than the top. While the boys and girls cross country teams are going to begin the SVC era in the Mid-Cities League, the competition is going to be much tougher with the likes of California High, Gahr High, Norwalk High and Santa Fe High for the boys and California, Cerritos High, Paramount High and Santa Fe for the girls. “I think we’re in a position where I know we’re going to perform well; again because this is supposed to be more equitable,” said Jollensten on her cross country teams. For the winter sports, the boys basketball team finished in third place the past four seasons but because of the CIFSS rankings the past two seasons, the ‘Cats will be in the 605 League, or last league for at least this upcoming season along with Firebaugh, John Glenn, Lynwood High and Whittier High. What will be new for the Wildcats this winter is the return of a girls soccer program, which will be in the 605 League along with Firebaugh, Glenn, Oxford Academy and Pioneer High. Whitney has not had a girls soccer team since the 2019-2020 season and dating back to the 1997-1998
season, the program has finished in either fifth or sixth place 14 times. In fact, the Wildcats have reached the playoffs three times over the past 23 seasons of having a girls soccer program, losing in the wild card twice and the first round once. For the spring sports, the Wildcats will be in the Gateway League for boys and girls swimming and boys tennis and the Mid-Cities League for boys golf and boys volleyball. Yet to be finalized are the league placements for girls beach volleyball and track and field for the spring sports and wrestling, which Whitney has never fielded a program for the winter sport. “I think we’ve established ourselves from the powerhouse [programs],” said Jollensten of the spring sports. “Most of the teams in the Gateway League are teams that we normally schedule against anyway for our non-league games. So now, we get to play them twice. Again, I think we’re in a good position.” Besides girls soccer, Whitney did not have a baseball program from 20212023, and did not field a team in 2016, and was without a softball team in 2009 and this past season. Baseball, which will be in the 605 League, is the only major sport at the school without a playoff appearance since at least 1998. With the return of girls soccer this upcoming season, Jollensten said she would like to see the other sports field a team. “That’s kind of my goal; to make sure that the teams that are going in and out are staying strong,” she said. “I’ll talk about girls soccer; without the number of girls [to put together a] water polo team this upcoming season, which means the only other girls team we have for the winter is girls basketball. I really wanted to push the girls soccer option, and we
had enough girls for this upcoming [season]. We have a pretty good group of girls who are interested. and I think they will be interested, hopefully, for years. Now it’s just my job to continue to find other girls who are [also interested]. The same will also apply for softball and the other sports.” The athletic directors of the original six 605 League sports have talked about how close knit of a group it has been for the past eight years. Obviously, it won’t be the same with a 20-member SVC and there will be challenges ahead for not just the original 605 League top brass, but the same will be true for the four former Del Rio League personnel who will merge with the other 10 schools from the original SVC. Jollensten said one of the biggest challenges will be getting to know each other for usage of the different facilities, citing that each school is different. She used her gym as an example as the City of Cerritos also uses the gym, meaning there are days and nights on which Whitney can’t conduct any sporting events, or their practices are subjected to being cut short. Because of that, the basketball and volleyball teams don’t get as much practice time as the other schools do. “It’s going to take everyone’s understanding to really make this work because the way we [did it before], we put out fires every day,” said Jollensten. “We can plan everything 100 percent, but I guarantee you you’re going to get calls every single day because something didn’t go the way it should have. I think it’s just going to take some understanding of each other.” While Jollensten said there’s no particular school from the former Del Rio League, Gateway League or Mid-Cities League she’s looking forward to facing, she is looking forward to the different competition her athletic teams will be playing for the first year of the SVC. She added that she’s looking forward to building relationships with the personnel from the schools that she already doesn’t have, especially the networking. “For me, I think that sounds like a very cool thing,” said Jollensten. “But in terms of our school, I’m excited to show other people how well our school can do. We are a very, very small school compared to some of these bigger schools; we’re little but mighty.”
To advertise call 562-407-3873
12 | Los Cerritos Community News | July 17, 2026
SUBPOENA
Continued from Page 1
Press freedom organizations immediately condemned the move, warning that compelling journalists to testify sends a chilling message not only to reporters, but also to government employees and whistleblowers who provide information in the public interest. Three months earlier, a similar knock came at Hews’ home. “The process server came to my house around 7:30 that night,” Hews said. “I wasn’t home, but my wife was. The pounding on the door scared the hell out of her, and the server kept banging on and over. My wife did not answer. The next day, I was outside talking with our contractor when the same process server pulled up and handed me the subpoena.” The subpoena, issued in an arbitration involving former Central Basin General Manager Dr. Alejandro Rojas, demanded Hews’ personal appearance and sought years of emails, text messages and other communications dating back to January 2020 involving Rojas, current and former Central Basin directors, district officials and others connected to the agency’s long-running political turmoil. Several sources familiar with the matter said they believed the subpoena’s true purpose was to identify Hews’ confidential sources inside Central Basin. While the District later stated it was not seeking information related to Hews’ reporting, the first subpoena sought years of communications with current and former board members, district officials and others connected to the agency. The subpoena also sought documents concerning allegations made by Rojas and records relating to Hews’ requests to receive notices of Central Basin meetings. After reviewing the subpoena, Hews contacted the First Amendment Coalition. Legal Director David Loy immediately challenged the subpoena, arguing it was procedurally defective and violated California’s reporter shield law and the First Amendment. Formal objections followed, asserting journalist privilege, privacy protections, attorney-client privilege, and raising concerns such as overbreadth (meaning the subpoena requested much more information than was necessary), undue burden, lack of materiality (arguing that the information requested was not important or relevant to the case), and the availability of the requested information from other sources. Faced with that challenge, Central Basin’s attorneys significantly narrowed their position. After initially demanding years of communications and documents, they proposed a one-hour deposition limited to what they described as Hews’ “non-journalistic” interactions with the District. That phrase was never meaningfully defined. For a working journalist, the distinction isn’t simply blurry—it can easily become the subject of disagreement once questioning begins. Hews and Loy rejected the proposal. Within days, Central Basin and Buchalter informed Loy they would not withdraw the subpoena. Because the First Amendment Coalition’s representation concluded after its initial intervention, Hews had no choice but to retain private First Amendment attorney Dan Laidman of Davis Wright Tremaine LLP to continue defending the newspaper and its reporting. Hews is no stranger to litigation involving his reporting. Years earlier, he successfully defeated a Strategic Lawsuit Against Public Participation (SLAPP) after filing an anti-SLAPP motion filed under California law. Unlike that case, however, this issue involved a subpoena rather than a lawsuit, requiring Hews to defend his reporting
through California’s reporter shield law and First Amendment protections instead. “Central Basin and its board majority had taxpayer-funded attorneys,” Hews said. “And if LCCN readers recall our previous reporting, those attorneys were never approved by the board to litigate the current Rojas matter. Meanwhile, LCCN had to reach into its own pocket. “That is the part rarely discussed when public agencies subpoena journalists. The Constitution may protect the press, but it does not automatically reimburse a small newspaper for the thousands of dollars required to defend those protections. “A government agency can issue an aggressive subpoena, force a publisher to hire specialized First Amendment counsel, create months of uncertainty, and then simply wait. “Even if the journalist ultimately prevails, the legal bills remain. “The practical effect is that a public agency, using taxpayer-funded lawyers, can force a local newspaper to spend thousands of dollars simply to defend rights the Constitution already guarantees.” There was another troubling development. After Hews served formal objections on March 31, Buchalter did not promptly seek an order compelling compliance. Instead, after their original subpoena had been dismantled by First Amendment attorneys, they left Hews in legal limbo while continuing to pay their lawyers with public funds. California case law generally provides a 60-day period to seek enforcement after objections are served to certain subpoenas. Whether that deadline applies to a subpoena seeking deposition testimony constitutes a legal gray area. Hews’ attorney believes there is a strong argument that Central Basin waited too long and noted that courts have previously rejected subpoenas to reporters under similar circumstances. At this point, it is unclear whether Central Basin will attempt to revive the subpoena or allow it to lapse entirely. If the district elects to pursue enforcement, the court will need to decide whether the subpoena is still valid and whether LCCN must comply. Alternatively, if no further action is taken, the matter may quietly fade, though the basic issues of reporter protections and legal costs remain unresolved. The subpoena may now be dead. Or the taxpayer-funded Buchalter could still attempt to revive it, forcing LCCN to spend even more money defending against a subpoena that sought years of communications from a local newspaper. The circumstances surrounding the New York Times and LCCN are different. One involves a federal national security investigation; the other arose from a civil arbitration involving a public water district. But both involve government efforts to compel testimony or obtain information from journalists in connection with their reporting. Central Basin’s subpoena ultimately produced no testimony, no documents and no confidential sources. What it did produce were months of uncertainty, thousands of dollars in legal fees for a small independent newspaper, and a signal that, even in California, where reporter protections are among the strongest in the nation, defending a free press can still carry a steep price. Similar efforts to compel journalists’ testimony or access their confidential materials have surfaced in other states as well, showing a growing national trend that puts local newsrooms under increasing legal and financial pressure. As cases continue to emerge across the country, the difficulties encountered by LCCN illustrate broader threats to press freedom and point up the vulnerability of local journalism in the current climate.
PGF
Continued from Page 10
for 20 tear with nine runs, nine RBI and three homes, all in consecutive games. But in the 10 games played this month, Rivera is five for 19 with six runs, four RBI and one home run. (Corona) The Vault FastpitchHoward Elizabeth Biado (La Mirada) Pool L games @ FVSP Field 7 Saturday @ 3:00 p.m. vs. (Princeton, TX) Hotshots National-Naudin Saturday @ 6:30 p.m. vs. (Garden Grove, CA) Wildcats-Laukat Sunday @ 2:00 p.m. vs. (Shawnee, KS) Select Fastpitch-Byrn/Jones
16-Under Platinum Division (23 pools, 92 teams, 23 states represented) (Whittier) Firecrackers-Brashear/ Ojinaga 13-9-1 since June 6 Noelle Martinez (Cerritos High) Pool E games @ HP Field 4 Saturday @ 4:55 p.m. vs. (Lake Forest) So. Cal. Athletics O.C. PremierLastrapes Saturday @ 8:30 p.m. vs. (Boulder) Colorado Stars-Glaza Sunday @ 2:15 p.m. vs. (Sacramento) California Breeze-Daniel Martinez brings her .459 average into the PGF National Championships where she has recorded at least a hit in seven straight games and in 18 of the 23 games played. Martinez has driven in 13, scored 12 times and has a pair of doubles and triples while leaving the yard once. (Placentia) Firecrackers Premier RTY 13-20-1 since June 6 Rylee Jackson (Gahr) and Skyy Saucedo (Gahr) Pool J games @ HP Field 7 Saturday @ 3:00 p.m. vs. (Honolulu, HI) Na Wahine Saturday @ 6:35 p.m. vs. (San Marcos, CA) Breakers Lab-Jarred Sunday @ 2:00 p.m. vs. (Beaverton, OR) NW Vandals-
Larson It hasn’t been a strong summer for wins and losses, but Saucedo is batting .258 in 29 games played with seven runs scored and one RBI while Jackson has played in 26 contests, has driven in two runs, scored twice and hit a home run. The two have also combined to get on base 13 times by way of walks. The Alliance Fastpitch Championship Series 18-Under (91 teams, 29 states represented) Reese Hilliard (La Mirada/Stanford University commit) and Riley Hilliard (La Mirada/University of Oklahoma commit) (Anaheim) Batbusters-Stith The talented sisters from La Mirada are on the seventh-ranked team nationally in The Alliance Fastpitch, winners of 12 straight games who are in Pool Region 1 where they will face either the (San Diego) Power Surge-Carden/ Hull or the (Herculaneum) Missouri Bombers-Gold on Monday at 6:00 p.m. (3:00 PDT). Alison Ortega (La Mirada/Duke University commit) (Laguna Hills) Firecrackers SelectRico/Brashear 6-7-1 since June 22 Ortega made news last Saturday when she announced that she had backed out of her previous commitment to Harvard University and chose Duke University where she will begin her next chapter a year from now. The standout pitcher and her Firecrackers Select travel team will be in the Super Division of The Alliance Fastpitch Championship Series where they will face either the (Flower Mound, TX) Glory Adkins Gold or the (Oklahoma City) Oklahoma Exclusive National-Hughes at 1:30 p.m. on Monday (10:30 a.m. PDT). Ortega leads her travel team with 42 innings pitched, seven starts, 45 strikeouts and has an earned run average of 3.83.
CITY OF PICO RIVERA CITY COUNCIL NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER UPDATES TO THE GENERAL PLAN SAFETY ELEMENT, EMERGENCY OPERATIONS PLAN, AND CHAPTER 2.52 OF THE PICO RIVERA MUNICIPAL CODE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a public hearing will be held before the City Council to consider approval of updates to General Plan Safety Element, the City’s Emergency Operations Plan, and amendments to Title 2, Administration and Personnel, Chapter 2.52 Emergency Preparedness of the Pico Rivera Municipal Code. WHEN:
Tuesday, July 28, 2026
TIME:
6:00 P.M.
WHERE:
City Hall Council Chambers 6615 Passons Boulevard Pico Rivera, CA 90660
The proposed actions are categorically exempt from the provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15378(b) (5) as this approval is not considered a “project” subject to CEQA but an administrative activity that will not approve a specific development project or result in direct or indirect physical changes in the environment. Here it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the proposed resolutions and ordinance may have a significant effect on the environment, therefore the proposed resolutions and ordinance are not subject to CEQA. PERSONS INTERESTED IN THIS MATTER wishing to observe or comment may do so in the following ways: (1) Turn your TV to Channel 3 (2) City’s website at https://bit.ly/picorivera-ctv3live (3) Email public comments to publiccomments@pico-rivera.org prior to 4:00 p.m. on the day of the meeting (4) Attend the Public Hearing in person Copies of all relevant material and project specifications are available for public review at City Hall in the Community & Economic Development Department, 6615 Passons Boulevard, Pico Rivera, California. For additional information please contact Hector Hernandez, Senior Planner at 562-801-4340. If you challenge the consideration or adoption of the proposed applications 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 written correspondence delivered to the City of Pico Rivera City Clerk at, or prior to, the public hearing. ******************************************************************************************************* In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, the City of Pico Rivera is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for a person with a disability. Please contact Cynthia Ayala at (562) 801-4389 if special program accommodations are necessary and/or if program information is needed in an alternative format. Special requests must be made in a reasonable amount of time in order that accommodations can be arranged. Published at Los Cerritos Community News 7/17/26
Los Cerritos Community News | July 17, 2026 | 13
To advertise call 562-407-3873 LEGAL NOTICE CITY OF BELLFLOWER ORDINANCE NO. 1458 AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 2.32 OF THE BELLFLOWER MUNICIPAL CODE (“BMC”) REGARDING THE REGULAR PLANNING COMMISSION MEETINGS AND MEETING MINUTES Pursuant to Government Code Section 36933(b), Ordinance No. 1458 is summarized as follows: Ordinance 1458 directs the City Manager to schedule one regular Planning Commission meeting a month. This Ordinance also allows the City Manager to cancel a Planning Commission meeting should there be no business to consider. In addition, this Ordinance eliminates outdated provisions related to meeting minutes.
CITY OF SANTA FE SPRINGS NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING & CEQA EXEMPTION GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT CASE NO. 33 & ZONE CHANGE CASE NO. 142 NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Planning Commission of the City of Santa Fe Springs will hold a Public Hearing to consider the following: PROJECT: A General Plan Amendment and Zone Change affecting a City-owned parcel located at the northwest corner of Shoemaker Avenue and Firestone Boulevard (Assessor Parcel Number 8082-002-918). The proposal would establish a Freeway Commercial General Plan land use designation and apply the M-2-FOZ (Heavy Manufacturing – Freeway Overlay Zone) zoning designation to the property. APPLICANT: City of Santa Fe Springs
Ordinance No. 1458 had its first reading on June 22, 2026, its second reading on July 13, 2026, and was duly passed, approved, and adopted by the City Council of the City of Bellflower at its Regular Meeting of July 13, 2026, by the following vote to wit:
CEQA STATUS: The Zoning Code Amendment is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) in accordance with State CEQA Guidelines, Section 15061(b)(3) (Common Sense Exemption).
AYES:
THE HEARING will be held before the Planning Commission of the City of Santa Fe Springs in the Council Chambers of the City Hall, 11710 Telegraph Road, Santa Fe Springs, on Monday, August 10, 2026, at 6:00 p.m.
Council Members – Dunton, Koops, Morse, Sanchez, and Mayor Santa Ines
Effective Date: August 12, 2026. For a copy of Ordinance No. 1458, please contact the City Clerk’s Office at (562) 804 1424. Approved as submitted above: Karl H. Berger, City Attorney ATTEST: Mayra Ochiqui, City Clerk Published at Los Cerritos Community News 7/17/26 LEGAL NOTICE CITY OF BELLFLOWER ORDINANCE NO. 1457 AN ORDINANCE AMENDING § 2.16.010 OF THE BELLFLOWER MUNICIPAL CODE TO PROVIDE A SALARY ADJUSTMENT FOR MEMBERS OF THE CITY COUNCIL FOLLOWING THE NEXT GENERAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION; AND SUPERSEDING ORDINANCE NO. 1436 Pursuant to Government Code Section 36933(b), Ordinance No. 1457 is summarized as follows: Ordinance 1457 supersedes Ordinance No. 1436 and increases monthly salaries for City Council Members by $114.15. This increase would become effective after the November 2026 General Municipal Election. Ordinance No. 1457 had its first reading on June 22, 2026, its second reading on July 13, 2026, and was duly passed, approved, and adopted by the City Council of the City of Bellflower at its Regular Meeting of July 13, 2026, by the following vote to wit: AYES: Council Members – Dunton, Koops, Morse, Sanchez, and Mayor Santa Ines Effective Date: August 12, 2026. For a copy of Ordinance No. 1457, please contact the City Clerk’s Office at (562) 804 1424. Approved as submitted above: Karl H. Berger, City Attorney ATTEST: Mayra Ochiqui, City Clerk Published at Los Cerritos Community News 7/17/26 NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ES-TATE OF KARL REINHOLD RACH Case No. 26STPB07349 To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be inter-ested in the will or estate, or both, of KARL REINHOLD RACH A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by Matthew Rach in the Superior Court of California, County of LOS ANGELES. THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that Matthew Rach be appointed as personal repre-sentative to administer the estate of the decedent. THE PETITION requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority. A HEARING on the petition will be held on August 7, 2026 at 8:30 AM in Dept. No. 236 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: PATRICK C STACKER ESQ SBN 72783 STACKER & ASSOCIATES 3030 OLD RANCH PARKWAY NO 170 SEAL BEACH CA 90740 CN128968 RACH Jul 17,24,31, 2026 NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF TERRENCE LYLE CHRISTOPHER BERG Case No. 26STPB07429 To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate, or both, of TERRENCE LYLE CHRISTOPHER BERG A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by Brianna Chastain Cassidy Novak in the Superior Court of California, County of LOS ANGELES. THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that Brianna Chastain Cassidy Novak be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent. THE PETITION requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority. A HEARING on the petition will be held on August 8, 2026 at 8:30 AM in Dept. No. 244 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. LCCN Jul 17, 24, 31, 2026
PUZZLE ANSWER: FOODTRUCKS
ALL INTERESTED PERSONS are invited to participate in the Public Hearing and express their opinion on the item listed above. Please note that if you challenge the aforementioned item in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues raised at the Public Hearing, or in written correspondence to the office of the Commission at, or prior to the Public Hearing. PUBLIC COMMENTS may be submitted in writing to the Community Development Department at City Hall, 11710 Telegraph Road, Santa Fe Springs, CA 90670, or e-mail the Planning Commission Secretary, Esmeralda Elise, at EsmeraldaElise@santafesprings.gov. Please submit your written comments by 12:00 p.m. on the day of the Planning Commission meeting. You may also contact the Community Development Department at (562) 868-0511 ext. 7550. FURTHER INFORMATION on this item may be obtained from Vince Velasco, Assistant Director of Community Development, via e-mail at VinceVelasco@santafesprings.gov or by phone at: (562) 868-0511 ext. 7353. Published at Los Cerritos Community News 7/17/26 NOTICE OF REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS FOR AUCTIONEERING SERVICES NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City of Bellflower will receive Proposals for auctioneering services. Sealed proposals will be received at the City Clerk’s Office at City Hall located at 16600 Civic Center Dr., Bellflower CA 90706 until 4:00 p.m. on Friday, August 7, 2026. POSTMARKS WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED. Failure of, or disturbances in, any mail service is not a legitimate reason for the Proposals to be submitted after the above due date. Electronic mail or facsimiles will not be accepted. The City may extend the deadline at its option. All Requests for Proposals must be clearly marked, “PROPOSALS FOR AUCTIONEERING SERVICES, PROPOSAL NO. PW-2026-03 – DO NOT OPEN WITH REGULAR MAIL” and shall be delivered to the City Clerk’s Office at City Hall located at 16600 Civic Center Dr., Bellflower CA 90706 during the business hours of 8:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Monday through Thursday and 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. every other Friday. City calendar is posted on the City’s website www.bellflower.ca.gov. Submit three (3) copies of your Proposal. It should be understood that the final fee will be negotiated with the City. As part of the Cost Proposal, please provide a breakdown of the fee by monthly fees and reimbursables. All submitted proposals will be reviewed and analyzed by City staff and the proposals which best meet the City’s needs will be selected for further analysis. The City of Bellflower reserves the right, in its sole discretion during the selection process, to reject any or all submittals or any portion without exception or explanation. Parties interested in obtaining a Request for Proposals (RFP) package (at no cost) should contact: Public Works Department at (562) 804-1424, ext. 2285 or via email at kgonzalez@bellflower.ca.gov. Published at Los Cerritos Community News 7/17/26 NOTICE AND SUMMARY OF ORDINANCE NO. 26-987 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ARTESIA AMMENDING ARTICLE 6 AND 7 OF TITLE 4 OF THE ARTESIA MUNICIPAL CODE REGARDING CITY PAID PARKING PROGARM Notice is hereby given that on July 8, 2026, the City Council of the City of Artesia adopted Ordinance No. 26-987, making certain amendments and additions to the Artesia Municipal Code related to City Paid Parking Program and Preferential Parking Program Fee Schedule. The following is a summary of the proposed Ordinance: • To establish a mobile pay application. • To secure three physical parking meters in the downtown areas to meet requirements of Senate Bill 532. • Standardize both on-street and off-street parking fees at $2.00 per hour. • Reduce the number of residential parking permits to three and change visitor passes from annual to 24-hour permits as needed. 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. The Ordinance was adopted by the City Council by the following vote: Ayes: Councilmembers , Taj, Ahir, Manalo, Ramoso, Trevino; Noes: None Jennifer Alderete, City Clerk Date: June 26, 2026 Published at Los Cerritos Community News 7/17/26
PUBLIC SCHOOLS. PUBLIC ACCOUNTABILITY. Board Meetings Covered. Budgets Examined. Questions Asked.
Los Cerritos Community News
To advertise call 562-407-3873
14 | Los Cerritos Community News | July 17, 2026 LEGAL NOTICE CITY OF BELLFLOWER ORDINANCE NO. 1459
AN ORDINANCE ADDING CHAPTER 12.45 TO THE BELLFLOWER MUNICIPAL CODE (“BMC”) GOVERNING PUBLIC TREE MANAGEMENT FOR THE CITY OF BELLFLOWER The City Council of the City of Bellflower introduced Ordinance No. 1459 at its Regular Meeting of July 13, 2026. If adopted, Ordinance 1459 would add Chapter 12.45 to the Bellflower Municipal Code (“BMC”) to establish a framework for the management, protection, maintenance, and replacement of public trees. The Ordinance would designate the Director of Public Works, or his or her designee, as the responsible authority for public tree management and for establishing and implementing an Urban Forest Master Plan. The Ordinance would also establish permit requirements for work affecting public trees, prohibit activities and conditions that damage or endanger public trees, provide a method for tree valuation, establish penalties and liability for unauthorized removal or damage, and create an administrative appeal process. 1970s Polished wood roll top desk with drawers on both sides. Needs a little loving care. Spent $1500. Asking $550. Srilakshini2@gmail.com Computer workstation with tinted tempered glass for safety 2 workstations, 45” (W),24” (D), 29 3/4”(H); 1 corner connector 24”x24”; slideout keyboard shell 28”(W); slide-out drawer for supplies; integrated hanging CPU holder; cord management clips; powder coated steel frame construction; rear crossbars added for stability; floor levellers adjust to uneven surfaces. Still in the unopened box. Brand new. Can be used in a sewing room too. Similar one used for two sewing machines. Very convenient. $325 obo. Pickup near Cerritos College in Cerritos. Srilakshini2@gmail. com Do you need more sets around pool I have a Set of two pool lounge recliners. Thick plastic strips and metal frame With four positions to recline. Pick up in Downey Take set for $35. Would look great at your pool. susankocher123@icloud.com 3 wheel swing and kick scooter, fully working 6 years old but working like new. $62. shethamit51@gmail.com New dell inspiron pentium i5 8gb ram. 16inch laptop and 19inch LCD monitor. Laptop space bar, letter B keys sometimes jams but repairable. $90. shethamit51@gmail.com Queen bedroom set luxury bed set Headboard Bed frame Night stand Dresser and mirror. Excellent condition If you want mattress I have firm mattress with bed set it’s free So complete set. Asking price: $1200 for all Pick up near Cerritos college. lajinta@gmail.com Queen bedroom set. Luxurious bed frame and head board Night stand Dresser, Dresser with lots of space. Chest of drawer Spend $5,500 Asking all for $3000 only lajinta@gmail.c C.T.M. HS-125 MOBILITY SCOOTER AND INSTRUCTION BOOKLET-$500 OBO Purchased for use by a mobility-impaired parent and used occasionally for a few years It’s been sitting unused for several years in the parents garage, as our parent’s vision issues now prevent them from proper safe operation of the scooter The old batteries were replaced by new ones a couple of months ago No special cable or transformer is required for charging Charging is by a standard off-the-shelf NEMA 5-15P to IEC 60320 C13 power cord [INCLUDED] RV cover for a 30 foot Class C .otorhome. new still in box. Never opened. $200.00 negotiable. 714-225-6268 GE window mounted air conditioner, $25.00 cash, good condition, owner’s manual included. Call John 562-965-6408. Located in Cerritos. Curio w/four glass shelves. Inside back mirror w/ light.32” wide 78”high. A Long table w/glass insert 54” Long 27” high. Tall pedestal w/small wooden top. Color: Dark Brown w/Cherry blend. $500. Cash Only Contact: Josephine @ 562-965-1632. Location: near downtown Bellflower Street. 55 Inch Samsung TV in fully working condition for sale @ $150.00 Two grain Leather sofa / couches from Macy’s. Excellent condition like new . Had it for a guest room . High end material Retail $1300 (3 seater) Asking $900 Single chairs $1200 (retail) Asking $800 each have 2 So, 3 seater and 2 single seat Elegant pieces do or living room. lajinta@gmail.com Kitchen Lights Beautiful Project Source Fallsbrook 5 -Light Brushed Nickel Etched Glass Mixed material Chandelier, $20, used for about two years. 562.926.8099 Bike for 10-year kid, in good condition, $25 Tel: 562.926.8099 Cherry wood Antique four feet tall and wide curio cabinet, $350 excellent condition. Weight around 40 pounds. Must pick up. bbrown201608@ charter.net Beautiful Bedroom furniture! Queen platform bed, mattress, side table, dresser, Desk, cabinet & corner high cabinet! Everything for $550. Extremely well maintained high gloss wood furniture. Perfect for young adult or elderly parent’s room. Email dshah50@gmail.com for photos. Cash only. Pick up and transport yourself from Cerritos (Norwalk + Artesia). 42 inch LG tv excellent condition $75, bbrown201608@charter.netOne canopy brand new $80 stand up mirror 2 $20 black canopy 60 Cash only there are much more items There’s more 310484-8949 Whirlpool Dishwasher White Like New, never been used. $ 275.00 CASH ONLY Contact: Sally Phone: 562-208-5273 Please bring truck and person
For a copy of Ordinance No. 1459, please contact the City Clerk’s Office at (562) 804 1424. to help transport. Location Cerritos Sports Memorabilia Collection-Vintage signed 8x10 photos with COAs for sale including Mantle, Mays, Kobe, LeBron, Gretzky and many more. Various prices. Also selling graded sports cards from the 1960s and other collectible memorabilia from my personal collection accumulated over many years. Located in Artesia. I am not a dealer. If interested please email lanreb1@yahoo.com Office Relocation Furniture Sale — All office furniture, including 5 sets of business greyish L-shaped desks with 2 2-drawer metal cabinets, Hon metal file cabinets, glossy cherry-finish armed lobby chair, secretary chairs, office supplies, folding tables, etc. Contact: Charleen Hsieh @ 562-652-9228. Location: Cerritos (Alondra + Shoemaker). Vintage Amber Glass Bowl — Vintage amber glass bowl with fruit design, 12” x 9”. Heavy glass and very well made. Great for any table setting or decor. $20. Call 310-834-4560. Iron Bedroom Furniture Set — Elegant high-quality iron bedroom furniture set with antique bronze/ brass finish, intricate scrollwork detailing and classic cage-style finials. Excellent pre-owned condition, very sturdy and well maintained. Includes heavy-duty headboard, standard metal bed frame and 2 matching nightstands with tempered glass tops and bottom glass shelves. Prices: Headboard + Bed Frame $199, Nightstands $99 each, Complete Set $299. Cash only, must pick up and transport. Location: Cerritos (Artesia + Norwalk). Contact Charleen @ 562-652-9228. Formal Dining Room Set — Beautiful traditional-style formal dining room set with high-gloss mahogany finish, elegant cabriole legs and balland-claw feet. Includes large oval dining table and 6 matching chairs with Chippendale-style chair backs and upholstered seats. Sturdy, well maintained and high quality. $299 cash only. Please bring a truck and help for transport. Location: Cerritos (Artesia + Norwalk). Contact: 562-652-9228. Bissell Vacuum Cleaner — Works great. $30 cash only. Contact: photosbypat@hotmail.com Vintage amber glass bowl with fruit design. 12” x 9”. Heavy glass and well made for sure! Great for any table setting or decor . $20 310-834-4560 Update your bedroom with this elegant, high-quality iron bedroom furniture set. The pieces feature a beautiful antique bronze/brass finish with intricate scrollwork detailing and classic cage-style finials. Condition: Excellent pre-owned condition. Very sturdy and well-maintained. The nightstands feature thick tempered glass tops and a bottom glass shelf for extra storage. Set Includes: Headboard: Heavy-duty metal with ornate scrollwork. Bed Frame: Included (Standard metal rails). 2 Matching Nightstands: Elegant scrolling metal sides with two tiers of glass shelving. Location: Cerritos (Artesia + Norwalk) Price: 1. Headboard + Bed Frame: $199 2. NightStand: $99 /each 3. Complete set (Headboard, Bed Frame, 2 Nightstands): $299 Note: Cash only. Must be able to pick up/transport. Contact: Charleen @ 562-652-9228 Beautiful formal dining room set in a classic traditional style. The table features a high-gloss mahogany finish and elegant cabriole legs with balland-claw feet. This set is sturdy, well-maintained, and adds a touch of sophistication to any home. Set Includes: Large oval dining table and 6 matching chairs (including 2 armchairs and 4 side chairs). Design Details: Chippendale-style chair backs with neutral upholstered seats. Price: $299 (Cash only) Location: Cerritos (Artesia + Norwalk) Note: Please bring a truck and a friend for transport as this is solid, high-quality furniture. Contact: Charleen @ 562-652-9228 Office Relocation. All office furniture, including 5 sets of business greyish L-shaped desks with 2 2-drawer metal cabinets, Hon’s metal file cabinets, Glossy cherry-finish armed lobby chair, Secretary Chairs, Office Supplies, Folding Tables, etc. Contact: Charleen Hsieh @562-652-9228 Location: Cerritos (Alondra + Shoemaker) 2011 BMW X5 Diesel 2 new cabin air filters by MANN Model C33001 and new 2 oil filters by HENGST (Poland) P/N E28H01 D26. All 4 items for $30 cash. SMS Text: 562-293-8519. Eastern County Newspaper Group (ECNG) and its’ subsidiaries are not responsible for items listed herein. The responsibility of all items’ condition and description lies on the seller. The buyer assumes all responsibilities of the purchase. No warranty on items is implied or expressed by ECNG.
Approved as submitted above: Karl H. Berger, City Attorney ATTEST: Mayra Ochiqui, City Clerk Published at Los Cerritos Community News 7/17/26 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 Wednesday August 5,2026 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 #
Melanie Davis
A69
Alisha Lynne Scott
H24
Keith Stephen Shirran
A51
Purchases must be made in CASH ONLY and paid at the above referenced facility in order to complete 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 7/10 and 7/17/26
CITY OF HAWAIIAN GARDENS PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT NOTICE INVITING SEALED BIDS PUBLIC SAFETY CENTER ROOF REPLACEMENT, PROJECT 125 Public Notice is hereby given that City of Hawaiian Gardens invites sealed bids pertaining to the item(s) listed below: PRE-BID MEETING ON: Wednesday, July 22, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. BIDS MUST BE RECEIVED BY: Wednesday, August 5, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. BIDS WILL BE OPENED ON: Wednesday, August 5, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. PLACE OF BID RECEIPT: Office of the City Clerk, City Hall, 21815 Pioneer Boulevard Hawaiian Gardens, CA 90716 The City of Hawaiian Gardens invites sealed bids for the Public Safety Center Replacement, Project 125, and will receive such bids in the office of the City Clerk, 21815 Pioneer Boulevard, Hawaiian Gardens, California 90716, up to the hour of 11:00 a.m., on Wednesday, August 5, 2026 at which time they will be publicly opened. A pre-bid meeting will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, at Hawaiian Gardens Public Safety Center Building, located at 11940 East Carson Street, Hawaiian Gardens, CA 90716, to walk through the site and go over the scope of work. The project will include the removal and replacement of the existing roof including roofing materials, rain gutters, screens, and all other appurtenances, miscellaneous replacement of structural plywood, some electrical work, and all other items not mentioned but indicated in the Plans and Specifications. The Contractor shall complete all work in every detail within Twenty (20) working days after the date of the “Notice to Proceed”. Electronic copies of the Plans, Specifications, and Contract Documents are available from the City of Hawaiian Gardens website. Bidders must submit their request for receiving the plans and specifications via email to Neema Ghanbari at nghanbari@hgcity.org. Should you have any questions regarding the project, please contact the City of Hawaiian Gardens Engineering Division at (562)420-2641 ext. 206. Published at Los Cerritos Community News 7/17/26 NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF: RHONDA SUE ALDER CASE NO. 26STPB05791 To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the WILL or estate, or both of RHONDA SUE ALDER. A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by JANA M. STONER in the Superior Court of California, County of LOS ANGELES. THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that JANA M. STONER be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent. THE PETITION requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority. A HEARING on the petition will be held in this court as follows: 11/17/26 at 8:32AM in Dept. 236 located at 111 N. HILL ST., LOS ANGELES, CA 90012 IF YOU OBJECT to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney. IF YOU ARE A CREDITOR or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code. Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law. YOU MAY EXAMINE the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk. In Pro Per Petitioner JANA M. STONER 13217 CORLEY DRIVE LA MIRADA CA 90638 7/10, 7/17, 7/24/26 CNS-4057610# LA MIRADA LAMPLIGHTER
Los Cerritos Community News | July 17, 2026 | 15
To advertise call 562-407-3873
LeafFilter Gutter Protection Eliminate gutter cleaning with LeafFilter’s advanced debrisblocking system. Free estimates. 20% off entire purchase plus 10% senior and military discounts. Call 1-855-424-7581. (Cal-SCAN) Consumer Cellular Reliable nationwide coverage with no long-term contracts, no hidden fees and free activation. Plans with unlimited talk and text starting at $20 per month. Call 1-844-9080605. (Cal-SCAN) Heritage for the Blind Donate your car, truck or SUV to assist the blind and visually impaired. Free vehicle pickup and potential tax benefits. Call 1-844491-2884. (Cal-SCAN) Generac Home Standby Generators Prepare for power outages with a Generac Home Standby Generator. Free quote and free 5-year warranty with qualifying purchase. Call 1-844-439-5645. (Cal-SCAN) Priority Tax Relief Tax problems? Free consultation available. Call Priority Tax at 1-877-361-0387. (Cal-SCAN) AUTOS WANTED Patriotic Hearts Vehicle Donation
Donate your unwanted vehicle. Free nationwide pickup. Proceeds help veterans find employment or start businesses. Call 1-833-4260105. (Cal-SCAN) Patriotic Hearts Donación de Vehículos Done su vehículo no deseado. Recogida gratuita en todo el país. Los programas ayudan a veteranos a encontrar empleo o iniciar negocios. Llame al 1-833-6951947. (Cal-SCAN) FINANCIAL SERVICES Debt Relief If you have more than $10,000 in debt, assistance may be available. No upfront enrollment costs. Call 1-833-641-3437. (Cal-SCAN) HEALTH Viagra & Cialis Savings Program Affordable alternatives to retail pricing. Call 1-833-641-3889. (Cal-SCAN) INSURANCE/HEALTH Physicians Mutual Dental Insurance Coverage for more than 400 procedures. Request a free information kit. Call 1-844-2032677. (Cal-SCAN)
HOME IMPROVEMENT Safe Step Walk-In Tubs Walk-in tubs with lifetime warranty, professional installation and financing available. Call 1-888989-5749. (Cal-SCAN) SERVICES Bath & Shower Updates Bathroom updates in as little as one day. Lifetime warranty. Senior and military discounts available. Call 1-877-252-9868. (Cal-SCAN) Home Warranty Coverage Protection for major home systems and appliances. Call 1-855-4111731. (Cal-SCAN) Water Damage Cleanup & Restoration Professional water damage cleanup and repair services available 24/7. Call 1-888-248-0815. (Cal-SCAN)
REAL ESTATE LOANS V.I.P. Trust Deed Company Business-purpose real estate loans. Credit considerations flexible. Call 1-818-248-0000. DRE 01041073. No consumer loans. (Cal-SCAN) ADVERTISING CNPA Advertising Services Reach nearly 13 million California newspaper readers through CNPA’s statewide advertising network. Call (916) 288-6011 or email [cecelia@ cnpa.com](mailto:cecelia@cnpa. com). Discover the Power of Newspaper Advertising Learn how newspaper content reaches audiences through print, online, social media and broadcast channels. For information call (916) 288-6011 or email [cecelia@ cnpa.com](mailto:cecelia@cnpa. com). (Cal-SCAN)
16 | Los Cerritos Community News | July 17, 2026
To advertise call 562-407-3873