PRESS CONFERENCE: Commerce Councilman Hugo Argumedo speaks as officials from Commerce and Bell Gardens announce fiscal emergencies and June 2 sales tax measures, warning new state cardroom regulations could slash revenue, forcing cuts to police, fire, parks, and community services.
Southeast L.A.’s ‘Big Four’ Cities Unite to Drive Industrial Growth
Regional partnership aims to attract major investment, boost jobs, and strengthen Southeast L.A. County’s industrial dominance.
By Brian Hews
Four of the region’s most economically vital cities— Commerce, Industry, Santa Fe Springs and Vernon—are beginning to see early results from a coordinated effort to position Southeast Los Angeles County as a premier destination for industrial investment.
Dubbed the “Big Four,” the cities recently previewed a coordinated economic development
E-Bike Boom Outpaces
Enforcement as Crashes Surge and Rules Go Ignored
Riders speed through neighborhoods and sidewalks while police focus on “education,” leaving residents asking: who’s actually enforcing the law?
By Brian Hews
You’ve seen them, e-bikes, they are everywhere—fast, convenient, and increasingly out of control.
From beach paths to neighborhood streets, riders—many of them teenagers—are zipping by at speeds that rival small motorcycles, often
strategy at a major national industrial real estate conference, drawing “strong interest” from investors, developers and brokers from across the country.
Together, the four cities represent one of the most concentrated industrial corridors in the nation, accounting for more than 217 million square feet of industrial space—about a quarter of Los Angeles County’s total—despite occupying less than 1% of its land area.
City leaders say the initiative is designed to highlight the region’s strengths and create a unified, business-friendly approach to attracting new investment, supporting job growth and
Artesia Secures $2 Million Grant for Botanical Garden Project
By Brian Hews
The City of Artesia has been awarded $2 million in grant funding from the Los Angeles County Regional Park and Open Space District as part of a broader $78 million funding round aimed at expanding and improving parks across the county. The funding, announced March 17, will support construction of the planned Artesia Botanical Garden, a project with a total estimated cost of $9 million. The county grant will cover a portion of the cost, with the remaining funding coming from federal, state, and city
Commerce, Bell Gardens Declare Fiscal Emergencies, Move Sales Tax Measures to June Ballot
Cities move to backfill casino revenue losses, warning of cuts to police, parks, and community services if voters reject new taxes.
By Brian Hews
The Cities of Commerce and Bell Gardens have declared fiscal emergencies and are moving forward with new sales tax measures on the June 2, 2026 ballot, citing major anticipated revenue losses tied to new state cardroom regulations.
Cerritos
Recall Effort Underway Against Mayor, Mayor Pro Tem
By Brian Hews
` The political fallout from Cerritos’ controversial water and sewer rate increases is no longer theoretical—it’s now in ink.
A recall campaign targeting Mayor Frank Aurelio Yokoyama and Mayor Pro Tem Lynda P. Johnson is actively underway, with signed petitions already circulating throughout the city and published this week in Los Cerritos Community News.
The petitions, which include pages of resident names, addresses, and signatures, mark a significant escalation in opposition to the City Council’s approval of sweeping rate increases earlier this year.
What began as roughly 6,400 written protests during the Proposition 218 process has now evolved into a coordinated effort to remove two of the city’s top elected officials.
And unlike earlier opposition, this time residents are putting their names on the line.
The recall documents cite the council’s decision to approve the multi-year water and sewer rate increases despite widespread public opposition. Organizers also point to concerns over spending priorities, including council travel, participation in city-funded international trips, and discretionary expenditures during a period when residents were being asked to absorb higher utility costs.
The filings further reference public meeting tensions, including remarks made from the dais characterizing some
Both cities are proposing quarter-cent sales tax increases aimed at stabilizing budgets and protecting core services, including police and fire protection, parks and recreation, libraries, and youth and senior programs.
City officials say the urgency stems from regulations approved by Rob Bonta that are expected to significantly impact cardroom operations—long a primary revenue source for both cities.
Commerce relies on card-
room table tax revenue for roughly 40 percent of its general fund, while Bell Gardens receives more than $17 million annually from similar sources, representing a substantial portion of its operating budget.
The new regulations restrict certain types of games, including blackjack-style and player-dealer formats, which city leaders say are key drivers of local gaming revenue. According to the state’s own economic analysis, the changes could reduce industry jobs and revenue by as much as 50 percent.
In response, Commerce has placed the “Essential Services Protection Measure” on the ballot, projected to generate approximately $4.5 million annually. Bell Gardens has placed Measure BG, expected to generate about $1.2 million per year.
Officials in both cities warn that without the additional revenue, they may be forced to reduce public safety services, scale back community programs,
See TAX, Page 4
Pets Stuck In Legal Limbo as Massive Rescue Case Drags on In Downey
HOLDING AREA: Dogs rescued from a Lake Hughes property remain housed at the Downey Animal Care Center, where many continue to receive care while a court decision determines when—or if—they can be released for adoption. Jonathan Alcorn for CA Post.
By Brian Hews
Hundreds of dogs and cats rescued from a Lake Hughes property—what officials say could be one of the largest animal seizure cases in the country—remain confined at the Downey Animal Care Center, unable to be adopted as a legal battle over their fate continues to unfold.
More than 300 animals were initially believed to be on the property tied to Rock ‘N Pawz Animal Rescue operator Christine De Anda, but officials have since confirmed approximately 250 dogs and 66 cats were removed during the large-scale
operation, which involved dozens of personnel and followed complaints from neighbors about conditions at the site.
Authorities allege the animals were kept in overcrowded and unsanitary conditions, with many requiring medical attention at the time of the rescue. The investigation remains ongoing, and as of now, no criminal charges have been filed.
De Anda has strongly denied the allegations, claiming the animals were properly cared for and disputing the conditions described by authorities. In public statements, she has also suggested some animals may have been injured during the seizure
See ANIMALS, Page 4
See BIG FOUR, Page 4
Artesia Moves to Expand Community Services Tax District to Include Additional Properties
LCCN Staff Report
Artesia is moving forward with a plan to expand one of its existing community facilities districts, a step that will allow additional properties to be included in a funding structure that supports local services.
The proposal, set for consideration on April 13, would annex new territory into Community Facilities District No. 2017-1 (Services), commonly used by cities across California to help fund ongoing public services in specific areas.
If approved, the expansion would apply to properties within the newly included area, which are generally tied to recent or planned development projects. These properties would become part of the district and contribute through a special tax that supports services such as neighborhood maintenance, landscaping, and other city-provided services.
City officials say the district helps ensure that areas experiencing growth are able to maintain service levels without placing additional strain on the city’s general fund.
The ordinance authorizes the continued collection of these special taxes within the district, and outlines that funds will be used for public services, as well as administrative and operational costs associated with the district.
Property owners within the annexed area would see the assessment reflected on their property tax bills once the annexation is finalized.
A full copy of the ordinance is available at City Hall for public review.
Careers in Water Workshop Draws Hundreds to Pico Rivera Event
CAREER FAIR: Attendees connect with water industry employers during WRD’s Careers in Water Workshop at the Albert Robles Center in Pico Rivera, where students explored job opportunities, toured advanced treatment systems, and participated in handson resume reviews and networking sessions.
Hands-on training, networking, and real job opportunities highlight growing demand for skilled workers in Southern California’s evolving water industry workforce pipeline.
LCCN Staff Report
PICO RIVERA — The Water Replenishment District of Southern California hosted its third annual Careers in the Water Industry Workshop on March 14 at its Albert Robles Center, drawing approximately 150 attendees and nearly 75 industry professionals for a full day of hands-on career development and networking.
one-on-one conversations about careers,” one attendee noted. Another highlighted the diversity of the field, saying the event showed “how many different pathways exist within the water industry.”
The career panel featured professionals ranging from interns to project managers, offering a realistic look at entry points and long-term growth opportunities. Meanwhile, employer booths allowed attendees to submit resumes directly, with several organizations actively recruiting.
Tours of the Albert Robles Center gave participants a behind-the-scenes look at water treatment operations, showcasing careers that typically operate out of public view but play a critical role in maintaining regional water quality and supply.
Monday thru Saturday6 pm to 12 Midnight
Doors open at 4pm Sunday 2 pm to 9 pm
Doors open at 12pm
Held in Pico Rivera, the event brought together more than 20 water-related companies and organizations, offering participants a rare opportunity to connect directly with professionals working in fields such as engineering, hydrogeology, water treatment, and operations.
Attendees participated in a structured program that included a career panel, mock interviews, resume review sessions, and guided tours of the water recycling facility. The goal was simple: expose students and young professionals to stable, in-demand careers in an industry facing a wave of retirements and a growing shortage of skilled workers.
WRD General Manager Stephan Tucker and Board President Sergio Calderon were among the officials present, along with Director John Allen, reinforcing the agency’s push to build a future workforce pipeline.
Participants said the workshop delivered practical value. “I enjoyed the mock interviews and review sessions to build confidence in my skills and have
Organizers said the event also served as a bridge between education and employment, helping students better understand certification requirements, apprenticeship pathways, and the real-world expectations of water industry careers. Several attendees left with follow-up interviews scheduled, underscoring the workshop’s role as more than just an informational event.
The workshop also emphasized inclusivity, with organizers specifically encouraging participation from underrepresented communities and students exploring both technical and non-technical career paths.
As WRD officials pointed out, the water industry offers opportunities for individuals with a wide range of educational backgrounds—from vocational training to advanced degrees—making it one of the more accessible yet essential sectors in California’s infrastructure landscape.
ABC Students Showcase Innovation at STEM Fest in Cerritos
LCCN Staff Report
Students from across the ABC Unified School District gathered at Cerritos High School on March 21 for the annual ABC STEM Fest, an event highlighting student achievement in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
Sponsored in part by the ABC Education Foundation, the event brought together students, families, and educators for a day of hands-on learning and project showcases.
Students presented a wide range of work, including robotics demonstrations, engineering designs, coding projects, and science-based experiments,
reflecting the district’s continued emphasis on STEM education.
The event also featured interactive exhibits and activities, allowing attendees to engage directly with student projects and explore STEM concepts in a collaborative environment.
Organizers said the festival provides an opportunity for students to share their creativity and problem-solving skills while building confidence and interest in STEM-related fields.
The annual event continues to serve as a platform for highlighting innovation across ABC schools and strengthening connections between students, educators, and the community.
Earth Month Celebration Set for April 19 at Cerritos Library
The Cerritos Library will host an Earth Month celebration on Saturday, April 19, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., featuring a variety of hands-on activities for all ages. No registration is required.
A special Earth Month-themed storytime will take place in the Little Theater at 11 a.m. and again at 12 p.m., with space limited to 40 participants per session.
Outdoor activities will be held on the library grounds and include a range of crafts and educational stations designed to promote environmental awareness. Participants can create pressed flower bookmarks with guidance from students
from the STEM Up 4 Youth Mission Evergreen organization, decorate and paint rocks with Earth-friendly messages, and make flowers using recycled water bottles.
Additional activities include a “Succulents 101” station, where attendees will learn about the importance of succulents and plant their own in biodegradable pots, as well as a UV detection bracelet craft and a koala art project using recycled magazines and newspapers.
All activities are available while supplies last.
Pico Rivera Named World Cup Celebration Hub for 2026 Tournament
LCCN Staff Report
City officials announced last month that Pico Rivera will be a World Cup Celebration Hub, a multi-day festival that celebrates the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The festival will take place June 26-27 and include a one-day open streets event.
The event, made possible through a Metro Open Streets Grant, will connect Historic Whittier Boulevard, Mines Avenue, the San Gabriel River, and the Smith Park Sports Complex.
The Celebration Hub will feature a dynamic mix of soccer tournaments, exhibitions, and clinics, diverse entertainment, cultural and artistic installations, and local business activation - positioning the area as a regional hub for World Cup-inspired festivities. The city is also partnering with the United Soccer League (USL) to launch a professional men’s and women’s team franchise in Pico Rivera.
The event also serves as a precursor for the LA28 Olympics Celebration Hub, for which Pico Rivera was awarded a grant by Metro as well. In recent years, Pico Rivera has emerged as a ris-
ing star, hosting film festivals, earning recognition as a Most Business Friendly City finalist, launching a USL franchise, and preparing for its 70th Anniversary in 2028. This celebration is one of many milestones in the City’s broader journey to becoming a sports and entertainment destination.
Event Highlights Include:
• Soccer tournaments, clinics, and exhibitions for youth and community players in the region.
• High-level activations featuring United Soccer League Media Day and Open Streets Programming.
• Multiple entertainment stages and jumbo-screen watch parties.
• Small business activations spotlighting local vendors and entrepreneurs.
• Immersive and creative experiences throughout the route.
• Kids’ fun zones and family-friendly activities.
The celebration will be delivered in partnership with CicLAvia, Day One, and Public Matters, leveraging their expertise in open streets programming, youth engagement, and community-centered design.
STEM LEADERSHIP: From left, Dr. Zietlow, Superintendent of the ABC Unified School District; Mrs. McHatton, Board of Education; Ms. Serina Yuan, President of the ABC Education Foundation; Mrs. Jenny Chan, Treasurer; and Dr. Castro, Assistant Superintendent of Academic Services, at ABC STEM Fest in Cerritos.
opponents of the rate increases as “bullies,” a comment that appears to have deepened frustration among residents.
City officials have defended the rate increases, pointing to aging infrastructure and long-term system costs. But for many residents, the explanation hasn’t been enough.
Now, the process moves into a critical phase.
Under California recall law, once petitions are approved for circulation, supporters must gather signatures from registered voters within a limited timeframe—typically up to 160 days for a city the size of Cerritos. The number of required signatures is tied to voter registration and can be significant, often requiring thousands of valid names to qualify a recall for the ballot.
Only registered voters within the city can sign the petition, and each signature must include a valid address and be verified by election officials. Once submitted, signatures are reviewed—either fully or through sampling—to determine if the recall effort meets the required threshold.
Based on recent Los Angeles County voter registration data, Cerritos has roughly 31,000 to 33,000 registered voters. Under California recall law, that places the city in the 20% threshold category, meaning organizers must collect signatures equal to about one-fifth of registered voters—approximately 6,400 valid signatures—to qualify the recall for the ballot.
The number carries a striking parallel, closely matching the roughly 6,400 protest forms submitted during the Proposition 218 process opposing the water and sewer rate increases. City officials, however, argue the increases are necessary, pointing to aging infrastructure and recent failures such as the breakdown of Well C-4, as well as long-term system costs. They also note that even with the increases, Cerritos’ water rates will fall in the middle range compared to surrounding cities, not at the high end.
If enough valid signatures are confirmed, the City Council must call a recall election, where voters will decide whether to remove the officials from office. If a majority votes yes, the official is removed.
At this stage, petitions are actively being circulated, marking a clear shift from protest to organized political action.
Whether the effort ultimately qualifies for the ballot remains to be seen, but the presence of multiple signed petition sheets already in circulation indicates growing momentum—and a level of political unrest rarely seen in Cerritos.
Recalls targeting both the mayor and mayor pro tem at the same time are highly unusual and signal a widening divide between City Hall and residents.
For now, the message from a segment of Cerritos voters is clear: the fight over water rates is far from over—and this time, it may end at the ballot box.
E-BIKES from page 1
ignoring basic traffic laws. And while crashes and injuries are rising sharply, enforcement remains minimal, leaving residents, drivers, and business owners angry.
The surge in e-bike popularity has been dramatic. National sales topped one million units in 2022—nearly four times what they were just a few years earlier. But while the technology exploded, regulation and enforcement haven’t kept pace.
The result: a growing safety problem with little accountability.
According to California Highway Patrol data, reported e-bike crashes jumped 2,750% from 2020t o 2025. In Orange County alone, crashes in-
creased 1,000% with fatalities reported.
Doctors are now seeing the consequences firsthand. Emergency rooms are treating a steady stream of e-bike injuries, many involving head trauma and broken bones.
Despite the rising danger, enforcement remains light.
Law enforcement officials openly acknowledge that their primary approach is not issuing citations—but education.
That approach may sound reasonable, but critics say it’s not working.
Under California law, e-bikes are supposed to follow many of the same rules as cars. Riders under 18 must wear helmets, speed limits apply, and certain high-speed or modified bikes are illegal on public streets.
Yet in practice, those rules are often ignored.
Residents have seen riders frequently travel against traffic, blow through red lights, ride on sidewalks at high speeds, and operate modified bikes that exceed legal limits. Some electric motorcycles—illegal on public roads—are even disguised with pedals to avoid detection.
Meanwhile, officers admit enforcement is difficult. The lack of regulation—and enforcement—has led to more aggressive behavior in some areas. Reports have surfaced of groups of riders blocking streets, intimidating pedestrians, and even assaulting bystanders.
Cities are scrambling to respond. Some have banned e-bikes from sidewalks or certain trails. Schools are beginning to require safety courses or permits for students who ride to campus. State lawmakers are even considering broader regulations.
But for many residents, those efforts feel too little, too late.
E-bikes were introduced as a cleaner, more accessible way to get around—and for many riders, they still are. Older users and recreational cyclists say they provide exercise, mobility, and independence.
But as speeds increase and younger riders take over the streets, the line between bicycle and motorized vehicle continues to blur.
And without meaningful enforcement, that line may not matter at all.
Right now, the message many riders seem to be getting is simple:
Ride fast. Ride anywhere. Don’t worry about the rules.
Because no one is stopping them.
modernizing existing industrial facilities.
The strategy comes at a time when global supply chains are evolving and companies are looking for reliable locations with strong infrastructure, workforce access and efficient development processes.
At the recent conference, the Big Four cities connected with more than 100 industry professionals, including major institutional investors and global real estate firms. LCCN has been told that “several follow-up discussions are already underway regarding potential development and redevelopment opportunities across the region.”
The collaboration emphasizes streamlined communication between cities and the private sector, giving developers greater clarity and confidence as they explore projects in Southeast Los Angeles County.
Industry leaders also highlighted the region’s advantages, including its central location, established industrial base and access to major transportation cor-
La Palma-Cerritos AAUW Branch Celebrated Women’s
By Edna Ethington
The La Palma-Cerritos branch of the American Association of University Women marked Women’s History Month with an engaging and educational program on March 19 at the ABCUSD Adult School Auditorium, spotlighting lesser-known women who helped shape American history.
Program Facilitator Christine Taxier led the presentation, titled “Unheralded Women in American History,” which challenged attendees to match 23 historical figures with their accomplishments. The interactive format kept the audience engaged, while Taxier, along with Administrator Celia Spitzer and members Tobi Balma and Faith Herschler, shared stories highlighting the women’s lasting contributions.
Among those featured was Phillis Wheatley, a former enslaved woman whose poetry gained national recognition during the American Revolution and helped inspire support for independence. Another standout was Charlotte Forten Grimké, a writer and educator who became the first Northern Black teacher to travel south to educate freed slaves and later helped establish key civil rights organizations.
The program also highlighted Zit-
ridors that connect Southern California to national and international markets.
Early interest in the initiative has been encouraging. Organizers reported strong engagement from firms managing billions in assets, along with sponsorship support for an upcoming regional summit that will further expand collaboration between cities and investors.
That summit, scheduled for April 30, is expected to bring together city officials, business leaders and development partners to continue building momentum and explore long-term opportunities for growth.
Officials say the goal is simple: position Southeast Los Angeles County as a first-choice destination for industrial investment while ensuring the region remains competitive in a rapidly changing economic landscape.
By working together, the Big Four cities are aiming to create a unified platform that supports business expansion, strengthens local economies and reinforces the region’s role as a cornerstone of California’s industrial future.
ANIMALS
from page 1
and says she plans to challenge the case in court.
For now, the animals remain in a kind of legal purgatory.
Under California law, animals seized in cruelty investigations are treated as evidence, meaning they cannot be adopted, transferred, or permanently placed until a judge authorizes their release—a process that can take months or longer depending
kala-Sa, a Sioux writer and activist who fought for Native American rights and played a role in securing citizenship for Indigenous people, and Patsy Mink, the first woman of color elected to Congress and a driving force behind Title IX, advancing equal access to education.
Members received informational materials on all 23 women, reinforcing the program’s goal of recognizing contributions often overlooked in traditional history lessons.
The evening also included a brief business update, with Treasurer Marilyn Forsstrom announcing more than $950 raised during a recent fundraiser, funds that will support scholarships and grants through AAUW’s national programs.
Organizers said the event underscored AAUW’s continued mission of promoting education and equity for women, while reminding attendees that many of today’s opportunities were shaped by trailblazers whose stories are still being uncovered.
The branch will hold its next meeting on April 16 at the same location, featuring officer elections and a game night designed to bring members together in a more relaxed setting
on how the case proceeds.
Los Angeles County officials have opened limited adoption opportunities for some animals not directly tied to the case, but the majority remain off-limits to the public while the legal process plays out.
Inside the Downey facility, rows of dogs and cats wait in kennels—some still recovering, others simply waiting as the system moves slowly forward.
For shelters already stretched thin, the situation is creating a backlog, with hundreds of animals occupying space and resources while other animals in need of intake wait.
And for the animals themselves, every day in a kennel is another day without a home.
TAX from page 4
and delay infrastructure improvements. Bell Gardens Mayor Miguel De La Rosa said the city is facing immediate financial pressure tied to the anticipated decline in cardroom revenue, noting that even modest reductions would require difficult budget decisions. City leaders also pointed to structural funding limitations, particularly in Bell Gardens, where officials say the city retains only a small portion of overall sales tax revenue collected locally. Both cities emphasized that the measures are intended to maintain service levels and avoid disruptions that could directly impact residents. The proposed tax increases will go before voters on June 2.
AAUW EVENT: At the meeting of the La Palma-Cerritos AAUW Branch at the ABCUSD Adult School Auditorium are, left to right, Program Facilitator Christine Taxier, Administrator Celia Spitzer, and members Tobi Balma and Faith Herschler.
Protesters Rally in Cerritos Against ICE and Iran War
PROTEST SCENE: Activists gather at Gridley Road and South Street in Cerritos holding anti-war signs and American flags during a demonstration opposing U.S. military action in Iran. Among those present was Mayor Frank Yokoyama, (4th from left) who attended to show support for the protesters and their message.
LCCN Staff Report
On Friday, March 20, activists gathered at the intersection of Gridley Road and South Street in Cerritos to protest the new war in Iran. Participants waved American flags and held signs, emphasizing that while they love their country, they oppose the actions taken by President Trump.
The demonstration was organized by Cerritos resident John Darnell, who said he chose the date to coincide with the 23rd anniversary of the United States’ invasion of Iraq. Darnell said, “Both of these wars were based on lies. The war against Iraq only created regional chaos. Neither of these wars will benefit us; in fact, both will ultimately hurt us. We can no longer be an honest broker in the Middle East. Also, we bombed a school in Iran, resulting in about 160 little girls being killed. It’s horrible. And Secretary of War Pete Hegseth now wants an additional $200 billion for this war and will go to Congress to ask for it. This comes
at a time when Republicans in Congress and President Trump voted last year to cut billions of dollars for healthcare, removing health insurance for millions of Americans, among many other essential services that were cut.”
According to a Quinnipiac University poll, 53 percent of voters oppose U.S. military action against Iran, while 40 percent support it. Historically, Americans have tended to support military action at the outset of a conflict, but early polling suggests this war is not receiving the same level of backing.
Cerritos Mayor Frank Yokoyama attended the event to show his support, telling attendees he was proud of those who came out and said they demonstrated courage by standing up for what they believe is right.
More protests are planned, including “No Kings” rallies scheduled for Saturday, March 28, in cities across the United States. Information on nearby events is available at www.nokings.org.
Friends of Signal Hill Library Spring Book Sale
Book lovers looking for a bargain — and a good excuse to add a few more titles to their shelves — at the Friends of the Signal Hill Library Book Sale.
The event is scheduled for Friday, March 27 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. inside the Signal Hill Library, located at 1800 East Hill Street near Cherry Avenue.
Shoppers will be able to fill an entire bag of books for just $5, with bags provid-
ed at the event. Payment will be accepted in cash only. Rare and specialty titles will be priced separately. The sale will feature a wide variety of categories and all proceeds from the event will go toward enhancing reading and literacy programs connected to the Signal Hill Library.
For more information call the library at 562-989-7423.
sources.
City officials said the project has been in development for several years and is intended to address the community’s limited access to green space while creating a regional attraction that could draw visitors from across Southeast Los Angeles County. The garden is also expected to provide educational programming for local schools and community groups.
The grant is funded through Measure A, a voter-approved property tax passed in 2016 to expand parks, open space, and related public health and environmental benefits throughout Los Angeles County. According to city officials, the Artesia Botanical Garden will include a 1.43-acre park designed with plantings intended to attract birds and butterflies, along with educational features highlighting tropical, California arid, and desert landscapes. Plans also call for a 3,050-square-foot community center with indoor and outdoor space for gatherings and small-scale events. Artesia Mayor Ali Taj said the funding will help move the long-planned project closer to construction. “Park spaces are a vital part of any community, and we are extremely excited about our Botanical Garden, which will be a huge addition to our city,” Taj said. Construction is expected to begin toward the end of 2026. For more information, contact Artesia City Hall at (562) 865-6262.
WATCHDOGS. NOT LAPDOGS.
Holding Local Government Accountable. Los Cerritos News
Hunger Isn’t Gone — OC Food Bank Ramps Up Major Fundraiser Walk
Food bank aims to raise $300,000 while serving nearly half a million residents monthly amid rising costs and reduced assistance programs.
By Laurie Hanson
With the need increasing to feed the hungry in Orange County, the Second Harvest Food Bank will host its 4th Annual Walk to Feed OC on Saturday, April 18 at Tanaka Farms in Irvine.
Ongoing efforts include volunteerism, monetary and food donations, and food procurement, all of which help the nonprofit meet its commitment to ending hunger in Orange County.
The walk is a free, 1.5-mile fundraising event for groups and individuals of all ages, presented by the Kroger Company, Zero Hunger Zero Waste Foundation, Ralphs, and Food 4 Less. Check-in begins at 7:30 a.m., opening ceremonies are at 8:30 a.m., and the walk starts at 8:45 a.m. at Tanaka Farms, 5380 3/4 University Dr., Irvine.
“Every step participants take helps provide dignified, equitable, and consistent access to nutritious food for people facing food insecurity in Orange County,” according to [www.feedoc.org/walk-details] (http://www.feedoc.org/walk-details).
“With a goal of raising $300,000, the walk will help provide the equivalent of nearly 120,000 bags of groceries to community members through almost
400 distribution sites in Second Harvest’s partner network,” according to together.feedoc.org/event/walk-to-feed-oc.
Second Harvest Food Bank of Orange County has served the community since 1983. According to Feeding America, 1 in 9 adults and 1 in 8 children in Orange County are food insecure.
“These are working parents, college students and seniors on a fixed income,” said CEO Claudia Bonilla Keller, who has led the organization for six years. “Hundreds of thousands of community members rely on Second Harvest each month to help feed their families.”
“We accomplish this through a staff of more than 100 employees, thousands of volunteers, and a partner network of 286 partners distributing food at 380 sites across Orange County,” she added.
Second Harvest sources food in five ways. These include grocery rescue, where the sourcing team works with grocery chains to redistribute food that is still safe to eat; donations from major
food manufacturers and distributors; direct purchases made possible by financial contributions; government programs at the federal, state, and local levels; and produce grown at Harvest Solutions Farm and Founders Farm in Irvine.
Food insecurity continues to rise. Before COVID-19, the food bank served about 249,000 people per month. That number surged to 527,000 during the pandemic and currently averages about 450,000 per month. Three times in the past year, demand exceeded 500,000 people monthly, according to Keller.
“Additionally, we know that federal changes to SNAP — known in California as CalFresh — will result in current recipients losing benefits and relying more heavily on food banks,” she said.
During fiscal year 2024–25, Second Harvest distributed 42.1 million pounds of food, serving an average of about 459,000 people per month, including over 138,000 children and 100,000 seniors. Some of that need is duplicated, as many recipients
visit pantries more than once a month.
“Second Harvest is fortunate to have the support of individuals, groups, companies and foundations whose financial support fuels our mission,” Keller said.
“A vital part of our efforts is the volunteer program, which is critical to distributing millions of pounds of food,” she added. “In fiscal year 2024–25, we had 16,462 volunteers, making us the top destination for volunteers among Orange County nonprofits.”
Volunteers contributed 66,771 hours that year, the equivalent of more than 32 full-time employees.
Volunteer opportunities are based in Irvine at the distribution center and the two farms. At the distribution center, volunteers ages 13 and older help process food for distribution. At the farms, volunteers as young as 7 help plant, harvest, weed and maintain 40 acres in partnership with UC South Coast Research and Extension Center and Solutions for Urban Agriculture.
“Our volunteers include adults, children, school groups, corporate teams, and retirees,” Keller said. “All are welcome.” For more information: feedoc.org/volunteer
Community members can support Second Harvest by participating in the Walk to Feed OC, making a financial donation, organizing a food drive, or volunteering at distribution centers or partner pantries. More information is available at feedoc.org.
Support is also welcomed on social media via @SHFBOC on Facebook, Instagram, X, and LinkedIn. The organization also offers public tours, typically held the second Tuesday of each month from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m.
Residents in need of food assistance can visit feedoc.org for a pantry map or contact 2-1-1 via 211OC.org, by dialing 2-1-1, or by texting 898-211.
SECOND HARVEST FOOD BANK in Orange County operates farms out of Irvine to help supply the food needed to combat ever increasing hunger in the O.C. They are having their 4th Annual Walk to Feed OC (last year’s event above) on Saturday, April 18 at Tanaka Farms in Irvine.
FREEDOM OF THE PRESS
Federal Judge Strikes Down Trump-Era Media Restrictions
A federal judge delivered a sweeping rebuke of the Trump administration’s restrictions on journalists—not just at the Pentagon, but across the broader landscape of American media—declaring the policy unconstitutional and warning it threatens the very foundation of a free press.
In a sharply worded 40-page ruling, Paul L. Friedman struck down the Defense Department’s credentialing policy, but made clear the implications extend far beyond one building or one agency.
“A primary purpose of the First Amendment is to enable the press to publish what it will and the public to read what it chooses, free of any official proscription,” Friedman wrote.
He framed the issue as a fundamental test of democracy itself, not simply a dispute over Pentagon access.
“Those who drafted the First Amendment believed that the nation’s security requires a free press and an informed people and that such security is endangered by governmental suppression of political speech,” Friedman wrote. “That principle has preserved the nation’s security for almost 250 years. It must not be abandoned now.”
While the case centered on restrictions imposed by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, the judge repeatedly emphasized that the policy reflects a broader attempt to control how journalists operate—what they can ask, what they can pursue, and ultimately what the public is allowed to know.
Under the policy, reporters were required to agree not to seek or report information the administration had not approved, a condition many major news organizations refused to accept. Their removal from the Pentagon press corps— and replacement with pro-administration voices—became a flashpoint in the case.
Friedman ruled the policy uncon -
stitutional under both the First and Fifth Amendments, calling it vague, arbitrary, and fundamentally incompatible with independent journalism.
More broadly, the judge warned that the government cannot redefine journalism itself by rewarding compliant coverage and punishing scrutiny.
“The record evidence supports the conclusion that the policy discriminates not based on political viewpoint but rather based on editorial viewpoint,” Friedman wrote, describing a system that favors those willing “to publish only stories that are favorable to or spoon-fed by department leadership.”
He distilled the finding into a blunt conclusion: “Viewpoint discrimination, full stop.”
The ruling lands amid escalating tensions between the Trump administration and the press, including lawsuits against media outlets, threats involving broadcast licenses, and expanded federal actions targeting reporters.
Friedman made clear that these broader pressures heighten—not diminish—the need for an independent press.
“Especially in light of the country’s recent incursion into Venezuela and its ongoing war with Iran,” he wrote, “it is more important than ever that the public have access to information from a variety of perspectives about what its government is doing.”
Though the case focused on Pentagon credentials, the decision sends a clear signal: government efforts to control or curate journalism—anywhere— run headlong into the Constitution.
The ruling may face appeal, but for now it stands as one of the most forceful judicial defenses of press freedom in recent years—one that applies not just to a press room in Washington, but to journalists across the country.
Brian Hews, Editor and Publisher
Guest Commentary: Diplomacy and Peace, Not War!
Last Friday Cerritos residents and others gathered peacefully to oppose the U.S.-Israel-Iran War. As demonstrated by the overwhelming support of honking drivers, people stood firmly for peace, signaling their opposition to the war’s frightening escalation.
Cerritos Mayor Yokoyama delivered an inspiring message: “The residents of Cerritos are rational, compassionate, and peaceful people who want peace as much as any other community.”
John Darnell, the event organizer, also gave an impassioned speech, standing resolute in opposition to the war alongside fellow Cerritos residents and those from neighboring cities.
ABCUSD School Board Trustee, Ernie Nishi, an historian on WWII and its impact on Japanese Americans, was also present to lend his support.
In conversations among rally attendees, many holding anti-war and anti-ICE signs, we expressed the need to support anti-war, pro-democracy, pro-diplomacy leaders. Congressman Derek Tran from District 45 and a member of the Armed Services Committee has been a vocal opponent of the U.S.- Israel-Iran war and its escalation.
With the deployment of over 2,500 Marines, along with multiple amphibious assault ships approaching the Middle East off the coast of Iran, the escalation is seemingly spiraling out of control, posing potential devastating consequences for both the U.S. and the Middle East. This active deployment signals a major escalation and a strategic move that heightens the potential for more American lives lost. Equally lost lives from Israel, Iran and other Middle East nations seems daunting.
According to a recent Quinnipiac poll
53% of Americans oppose this war while 40% support it. 74% oppose sending U.S. ground troops while only 7% support ground war. Americans can wish away this escalat-
ing crisis, or we can voice our opposition to this unpopular war—one that is costing human lives and draining billions of taxpayer dollars. With unprecedented federal funding allocated to this war chest- the most massive in U.S. history- the Secretary of War now requests an additional 200 billion taxpayer dollars to further fund this senseless war.
Moreover, it is hard to separate the loss of human lives from the damage to the U.S. economy while the global economy and the U.S. standing crumble under the weight of this unauthorized war, one that shows no end in sight.
Americans can stem the momentum of this frightening war through peaceful protest at one of thousands of No Kings Rallies sprawled across the nation. These rallies afford concerned citizens an opportunity to express opposition to the war and our opposition to the authoritarian takeover.
The Lakewood Indivisible No Kings Rally is scheduled from 10:00 am.-12:00 p.m. at the Lakewood Civic Center on the corner of Del Amo Blvd .and Clark Ave.
Another No Kings Rally will be held in Long Beach at Bluff Park on Ocean Blvd. and Temple Ave. from 12:00-2:00 p.m. At this rally, Veterans for Peace will present a special exhibit titled Eyes Wide Open which will reflect the true cost of war- human lives. Shoes on display will symbolize the school children killed during the bombing in Iran; and photos and crosses for the 13 American soldiers, killed in the line of duty, will be on display.
Let us show up at the No King Rallies and peacefully protest against this inhumane war. Let us demand our leaders choose the moral path of diplomacy and peace—not destruction and war. And thank you, Cerritos, for your war protest.
Sandy Mercado and Linda J. Hernandez
From the Mayor’s Desk: March 27, 2026
By Cerritos Mayor Frank Yokoyama
The start of the spring season brings exciting changes to the City of Cerritos, as well as a chance for me to reflect on the past year in my role as Mayor of my hometown of Cerritos.
While my time on the City Council is continuing, my term as Mayor will conclude at the Mayoral Transition on Wednesday, April 8. This event is part of a Special Meeting of the Cerritos City Council, during which the City Council will make nominations and selections of a new Mayor and Mayor Pro Tem. Looking back on this period, there is no shortage of memories that I’ll forever hold dear. I cannot possibly summarize in just one column all the significant things accomplished. So, I’ll take this opportunity to reflect on a portion of my tenure and key initiatives that I was fortunate to have supported in my role. Our City is committed to enhancing public safety, the first goal in our Strategic Plan. As Mayor, I have enjoyed working with my City Council colleagues, safety personnel, and Neighborhood Watch volunteers to reduce residential burglaries. For the 2025 calendar year, there were 37% fewer residential burglaries than the year prior. This is thanks to a number of factors, including working alongside the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department to prioritize residential burglary alarm calls with a reduction in deputy response times to an average of 7 minutes each incident. The City also contracted with Southwest Patrol to employ three full-time patrol units. We’ve also added dozens of Automatic License Plate Recognition (ALPR) cameras at high-volume intersections to help identify potential suspect vehicles. Cerritos is proud to become the first City in Los Angeles County to operate a drone
program to support patrol operations. From a volunteer perspective, we continue to receive strong support from our Volunteers on Patrol unit. Additionally, our Neighborhood Watch Program has recruited 12 more block captains and 50 new members. Our open spaces and parks continue to be popular destinations for residents and visitors. Last summer, I was honored to support the opening of 12 new pickleball courts at Liberty Park and Cerritos Park East. Our facilities also play host to several educational classes and activities. This includes new events approved by the City Council like Santa’s Sleigh Day at the Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts (CCPA). We also hosted the annual Festival of Friendship at the CCPA for the first time, helping to grow community engagement and cultural enrichment.
The City has prioritized strengthening economic development. Last year, I was honored to cut the ribbon to celebrate the opening, renovation, and relocation of several businesses including Chubby Cattle, Golden Star Technology, and Baskin-Robbins. Featuring our businesses at ribbon cuttings or during our monthly Business Spotlight creates a positive environment in which they can thrive.
I had the opportunity to discuss many of these accomplishments before approximately 325 people at last year’s State of the City Address inside the CCPA Sierra Room. This was one of my proudest moments as your Mayor, as it was hosted by the City for the first time and free of charge, allowing businesses, residents, and City staff to learn about our many accomplishments. There, we introduced our Strategic Plan theme: Cerritos in Progress, which continues to guide the work of the City Council and staff.
The accomplishments over the past year in the City of Cerritos are not possible without the support of many. In my final column on April 3, I look forward to expressing my gratitude for your contributions to our beautiful community.
Two TSA Lines: One for Trump Voters
Standing in a four-hour TSA line, shoes in hand, laptop out, patience long gone, you have to wonder—was this the plan, or just the predictable result of voting for chaos and calling it strategy? Because if it was the plan, congratulations, it worked perfectly.
The same Trump voters who cheered for shutdowns, disruption, and “blowing it all up” are now stuck in the same airport lines as everyone else, staring at the same delays, dealing with the same mess, wondering why nothing works.
Turns out when you vote for dysfunction, you don’t get to skip the consequences—you stand in them.
So here’s the idea. Two TSA lines. One for Trump voters, one for everyone else.
The Trump line comes with a sign: “Shutdown Experience—You Asked For This.”
No complaining, no checking your watch, no muttering about inefficiency. This is the system working exactly the way it was sold—government squeezed, agencies starved, workers stretched to the breaking point. Enjoy the full experience.
Because let’s drop the polite fiction. A big chunk of those votes weren’t about policy or budgets or some master plan for better governance. It was about attitude. It was about making the other side mad. “Own the libs.” That was the strategy. Not fix the system—just break it in a way that felt satisfying.
Well, here it is, fully operational: long lines, short staffing, and TSA agents working without paychecks while politicians argue on TV. That’s not a glitch—that’s the
outcome.
And here’s the part nobody wants to revisit: why did they vote for Trump again?
Bases on his last administration, did you think Trump would suddenly become efficient? That his agencies would run smoother? That services would improve? No. We just got more chaos, more turnover, more dysfunction dressed up as toughness.
The slogans were loud, the rallies were all MAGA, but none of that speeds up a security line when half the workforce is burned out or gone.
Meanwhile, real people are paying for it. TSA agents are showing up without pay, dealing with crowds that are only getting angrier, and trying to keep the system moving with fewer bodies and less support.
Travelers are missing flights, rebooking trips, and burning entire days just trying to get through security.
And the punchline is nobody gets a separate lane based on how they voted. There’s no fast pass for political loyalty.
That’s the joke, if there is one. The people who cheered for disruption don’t get a disruption-free version of reality. They get the same line, the same delays, the same consequences as everyone else. Because once the system breaks, it breaks for everybody.
So no, we’re not really splitting TSA lines. But maybe next time, before voting to “blow it all up,” it’s worth asking what happens when “all of it” includes the things you actually use. Because now the chaos isn’t on TV or at a rally—it’s right there at Gate 12, and nobody’s cutting in line.
~Brian Hews, Editor and Publisher
Selecting the Right Potting Mix for Your Plantings
By Melinda Myers
As gardeners, it seems we are all looking for an ideal potting mix for our houseplants and containers. As with any gardening endeavor, a lot depends on what is available, the plants you are growing, and the type of maintenance you provide.
That said, there are some things you can do to increase your success and reduce ongoing maintenance.
It all starts by reviewing the label on the bag you plan to purchase. You’ll find a variety of bags labeled as planting mix, potting mix, container mix, and more.
Check the label to see what the bag contains and recommendations for its use.
These mixes usually contain inorganic and organic materials and may also include sand and mineral soil.
They may or may not be sterilized to kill weed seeds and pests. If it doesn’t say sterilized, it probably is not, and you should consider another product instead.
Soil-less
Many potting mixes are labeled as “soilless.” They consist of peat moss, sphagnum moss, and compost for moisture retention and vermiculite or perlite for drainage but do not contain mineral soils such as sand or clay.
They are lightweight and blended to hold moisture while draining well.
KNOW BEFORE YOU BUY: there are some things you can do to increase your success and reduce ongoing maintenance. It all starts by reviewing the label on the bag you plan to purchase. You’ll find a variety of bags labeled as planting mix, potting mix, container mix, and more.
Some potting mixes are modified to accommodate the needs of certain plants. Orchid mixes often contain more bark for better aeration while cacti and succulent mixes have more sand or perlite for better drainage.
African Violet potting mix contains more organic matter to create a moist, rich growing medium.
Organic
Organic potting mixes are also available. Many gardeners prefer to know the ingredients are free of pesticides and other contaminants. Check for the word organic and OMRI on the label if you want an organic product.
Once again, check the label on
the bag for more details on the potting mix.
Starter-Charge
Some potting mixes contain a “starter charge” of fertilizer.
This minimal amount of fertilizer is usually gone after two or three waterings.
Some include additional fertilizer that provides small amounts of nutrients over a longer period.
The label may say controlled-release, time-release, or slow-release fertilizer, meaning it provides your plants with nutrients for a certain amount of time.
Moisture retaining products are
supposed to hold water near plant roots and reduce the frequency of watering.
Research has not shown them to be effective.
Some gardeners feel they are effective while others end up with root rot when using these.
Consider adding an organic product, like Wild Valley Farms wool pellets wildvalleyfarms.com to potting mixes that do not contain moisture-retaining products. It is sustainable, made from wool waste, University-tested, and has been shown to reduce watering by up to twenty percent, while also increasing air space and adding organic matter.
Select bags of potting mix that are light, fluffy, and moist. Avoid bags that are waterlogged and heavy.
The mix can break down and become compacted and some of the slow-release fertilizer may be pre-released and damage young seedlings when saturated with water.
Spend a bit of time searching for the potting mix that best matches the plants you are growing and your watering regime.
The time spent selecting your perfect potting mix will pay off with greater growing success.
Melinda Myers has written more than 20 gardening books, including the recently released Midwest Gardener’s Handbook, 2nd Edition and Small Space Gardening. She hosts The Great Courses “How to Grow Anything” instant video and DVD series and the nationally syndicated Melinda’s Garden Moment radio program. Myers is a columnist and contributing editor for Birds & Blooms magazine and was commissioned by Wild Valley Farms for her expertise to write this article. Myers’ website is MelindaMyers.com.
HIGH SCHOOL BASEBALL: Valley Christian all over Artesia as both teams search for answers to pitching staffs
By Loren Kopff @LorenKopff on X
Valley Christian High may have dominated Artesia High last Friday night, but head coach Eric Stater is probably more concerned about injuries to two key players and how he is going to navigate his pitching staff as Olympic League action begins this week. Artesia head coach Jose Serrano is also concerned, but his issues lie in commitment and leadership.
Either way, the host Defenders routed the Pioneers 18-3 and that’s despite Artesia scoring twice in the top of the first inning. After that, V.C. reeled off a dozen unanswered runs in a contest in which eight starters had at least a hit with six of them collecting at least two hits.
The game got off to an auspicious start as senior pitcher Josh Hulse hit senior center fielder Emmanuel Rocha on the second pitch of the game, then walked senior shortstop Devon Torrez on four pitches. Slater came out to the mound and replaced Hulse with junior John Cardenas who limited the damage to a one-out, two-run single by junior second baseman Jorge Vidal.
Hulse said he felt something in his neck on the last pitch of his bullpen session prior to the start of the game and it’s believed that he has some muscle nerve damage. This is coming after senior catcher Nolan Dietz, who last played on Feb. 26, injured his arm.
“We just know that he has some arm issues that we’re trying to diagnose and take care of,” said Slater. “We’re working hard with our training staff to get him ready to roll. We definitely miss him out here having that senior leadership and just the ability to kind of galvanize this ball club. It’s hard for us not having him out there, but he’s at our games and he’s making sure we’re locked in. It’s almost like having an extra coach on the bench when he’s with us, which is a good thing.”
The Defenders shrugged off those two
By Loren Kopff @LorenKopff on X
key injuries and got back into the game with a run in their half of the inning on a twoout single from senior center fielder Max Douglas, plating senior third baseman Lucas Witt. V.C. continued to swing the bats in the second inning when senior second baseman Cole Hefner singled on the first pitch from senior Ivan Rodriguez and scored on senior first baseman Isaac Morales’ double to the right field gap on a 0-2 count.
On the next pitch, junior right fielder Lincoln Slater singled, which would be followed by a base hit to right from sophomore catcher Trevor Torres, bringing home Morales. The next three V.C. batters would reach base, and another run would be tacked on the board for a 4-2 lead.
tween two stretches of retiring five batters.
“One of the great things is that we had John Cardenas come in and close out a very tough situation for us,” said Eric Slater. “Obviously, whenever you put the first two guys on base it make it very, very difficult to get out of that inning from it being a big inning. For us to get out of that with two was a big deal. This is a team that is competitive and will score runs against you if you give them the opportunity to do so, and that’s absolutely what they did.”
“Just in general, we’re not baseball ready, not mentally ready; it’s a struggle,” said Serrano. “Just not knowing what the next option is…I’ve tried so many things from moving two or three guys around and trying to figure out if somebody clicks, if somebody turns it around or if somebody pretty much wants to be the guy to step up. It’s hard to pinpoint what’s wrong because there’s so many things going wrong right now.”
The only inning in which V.C. did not score was in the third, but the onslaught continued in the fourth with three runs on three hits with junior left fielder Mack Lynott bringing in a pair of runs on a first-pitch double to the right field gap and a single from Morales, allowing Hefner to make it 7-2.
Five more runs came across in the fifth and six more in the sixth, but the other story of the game as far as Eric Slater and his team were concerned came from the pitching of Cardenas. He pitched five solid innings in relief of Hulse, striking out four batters, allowing a pair of hits and walking one batter, which came in be-
Offensively, the Defenders scored at least 10 runs for the fourth straight game, all resulting in wins, and the 19 hits they got off Rodriguez, senior Daniel Jimenez and junior Cameron Garrison is a season high. All nine starters scored at least once as Douglas went three for five, scored twice and drove in a pair while Lincoln Slater and Torres each went three for four and drove in a pair. Even senior Derek Hofius and juniors Brody Fowler and Luke Gisler came off the bench late to pick up a hit.
“It’s like Valley, Cerritos, even Oxford [Academy],” said Serrano. “The kids show up and they’re already panicking; they’re already scared. They’re looking for an excuse than a solution. I think that’s what we’re lacking of; figuring out what is it that I can do as a player to make sure that I’m ready.”
“As a coach, it’s a wonderful thing to look at your lineup and see it go pretty strong from top to bottom,” said Eric Slater. “We have guys who compete at the plate right now and I can honestly say that I’m truly blessed to have nine guys in my lineup that are absolutely going to compete.
“Trevor is a sophomore; this is his first year on varsity baseball right now and he is absolutely doing an amazing job,” he continued. “He’s getting better every day behind the plate and he’s getting a lot
GATEWAY LEAGUE BASEBALL:
of hits for us and driving in a lot of runs. To have that come out of the nine hole, that’s a big deal because it sets the table for our veterans to come up at the top of the lineup and take care of business.”
Artesia was able to collect four hits from four different players, but the defense committed five errors. Making matters worse is the fact that the pitching staff has allowed 18 runs in consecutive games and 17 before that as its record dropped to 2-8. It won’t get better for the Pioneers as they begin a home and home series with perennial 605 League power Cerritos High with the first one to be played on Mar. 24 on the road. The red and black will also host John Glenn High on Tuesday in the beginning of that home and home series with the Eagles.
Artesia has lost 19 straight games to Cerritos, getting outscored 19625 in those games. The last time the red and black defeated the Dons game on Mar. 28, 2014 in a 3-1 contest.
“We start with Cerritos every year; I wonder who makes the schedule,” said Serrano. “That’s why I schedule [Long Beach] Poly and Valley Christian, knowing that we’re going to play Cerritos [soon]. So I wanted to see some good pitching. We’re only one play away, one hit away from turning things around. I know we can do it. I think the kids need to believe it. That’s all it is.”
For V.C. it begins Olympic League action on Mar. 24 with a home game against Village Christian High, then face the Crusaders on the road two days later before hosting them on Friday. Since 2004, the Defenders trail the series with Village Christian 28-16. They split a home and home series last season but before that, when the league went with a three-game weekly series, the Defenders were swept in 2024, lost two of three in 2023, took two of three in 2022 and swept the Crusaders in 2021.
After that, the Defenders will entertain Schurr High on Monday and Santa Barbara High on Tuesday.
La Mirada scores early, adds insurance runs late to knock off Gahr in league opener
The Gateway League opened its 60game season for 2026 this past Tuesday with the top two teams of the circuit over the past three seasons who have set the bar so high, and for the first time, they will not face each other in the final week of the regular season, or towards the end of the season when the stakes are at the highest. Gahr High and La Mirada High met for the 10th time as league members, 12th overall since 2006, with the latter having won six of the past nine league meetings.
That trend continued as the Matadores took advantage of some poor defense to score a pair of runs in the top of the first inning, then iced the game with two more tallies in the seventh as they posted a 5-1 victory.
“Obviously, we have great respect for Gahr, and I feel it’s mutual,” said La Mirada head coach Jimmy Zurn. “It’s been a good rivalry; this is our fourth year [in the Gateway League], and we knew it was going to come down to the little things like we talked about [after the game]. Some of our keys here was winning the little; that’s what we call it, winning the little stuff. I just thought getting off to a good start…letting us breathe a little bit, getting two in the first and one in the second. What good teams do is their pitching buckled down, but we executed; we put balls in play when we needed to do.”
Gahr senior pitcher Bryce Morrison began the game by striking out junior right fielder Michael Burgueno. But when the ball got past senior catcher Nathan Guan-
gorena, it allowed La Mirada’s leadoff hitter to be safe at first. Freshman second baseman Blake Barberena then singled to right field on the next pitch before sophomore designated hitter Ian Nunez was safe on a double error, making it 1-0. A groundout from senior catcher Justin Torres brought in Barberena before Morrison ended the frame with back to back strikeouts.
“How about a strike three and the guy doesn’t catch the ball,” said Gahr head coach Gerardo Perez of the rocky start. “[Barberena] hits a first pitch, fast ball out over the plate, single to right field, and then we can’t get an out on a bunt. Then later in the game, we can’t get an out on [another] bunt.”
went to second on an error, moved to third on a sacrifice fly from Guangorena and scored on a base hit from senior left fielder Oscar Grijalva for Gahr’s only run.
But Gahr couldn’t take advantage of the traffic it constantly had, stranding runners at first and second with one out in the second and the bases loaded in the fourth. In fact, senior second baseman Julian Lucero’s single to right with one out in the fourth chased Armijo from the mound.
In the next inning, junior shortstop Jesse Colon singled to right on a full count, was sacrificed to second by junior third baseman Ian Aguayo and advanced to third when senior second baseman Aaron Sykes knocked a single off Morrison’s foot for an infield hit. Colon and Sykes would then work a double steal and just like that, the Matadores had a 3-0 lead.
That early advantage was good enough for junior pitcher Luke Armijo, who dodged one bullet after another from Gahr’s stellar lineup that produced 10 hits. Armijo worked into the fourth inning, yielding seven of the 10 hits the Gladiators got. He struck out four, walked none and allowed an unearned run in the third inning.
Gahr senior shortstop Andres Gonzalez led off the frame with a single to left on the 10th pitch he saw in the at-bat,
“Luke competed; he gave us what he could,” said Zurn. “Then [senior first baseman Jacob] Oropeza, who hasn’t thrown as much as he had in the past, came in and was light’s out. He was amazing. He’s got the ability to throw three pitches at any time and his change-up is elite to where you could know it’s coming, and it’s still hard to layoff it.”
Oropeza worked the remainder of the game, retiring seven straight batters at one point including getting Guangorena to pop-up with the bases loaded in the third. Oropeza allowed a two-out single in the sixth to end that streak, and a two-out single in the seventh while striking out four of the 14 batters he faced.
“We just didn’t get the runners home,” said Perez. “I think we didn’t do a good job of adjusting to Oropeza, who changed speeds.”
“Two veteran guys who have been in those situations before,” said Zurn of Armijo and Oropeza. “So the ability to make big pitches in certain spots obviously was huge
for those two, and then our defense behind them…we made two big defensive plays. But again, those two have been in those situations time and time again and can get themselves out of jams when we need to.”
The Matadores iced the game in the last inning when Aguayo led off with a double to the right field gap off junior Juan Carlos Munoz, followed by an infield single from Sykes and a run-scoring hit from Burgueno. Sykes would later score on a groundout from junior pinch hitter Joshua Angulo. Morrison struck out seven batters in the four innings he worked, scattered five hits and did not walk a batter. He also had one of the 10 hits Gahr had while Gonzalez, Grijalva, Lucero and senior right fielder Anthony Ward all had a pair of hits.
“I think Bryce showed a lot because he easily could have let the [early] frustrations get to him, but he came back,” said Perez. The teams met this past Wednesday at La Mirada and Gahr had a 7-1 lead heading into the bottom of the seventh before the Matadores rallied to win 8-7 on a bases loaded hit batter. La Mirada will go for its second sweep in three seasons when the league powers wrap us the series on Friday at Gahr. The Gladiators (5-6-1, 0-2), who went 2-1-1 in the Bishop Gorman Invitational prior to the La Mirada series, will then go to Bellflower High on Tuesday before hosting the Buccaneers the next day. La Mirada, which improved to 10-2, 2-0, will face Laguna Beach High on Saturday, Segerstrom High on Monday and San Dimas High on Tuesday in the Ryan Lemmon Tournament. The Matadores won all four games of the Anaheim Lions Tournament before facing Gahr, outscoring its opponents 22-6.
SOFTBALL
Gonzalez dominates in second shutout of season as Gahr’s youth bests Cerritos
By Loren Kopff @LorenKopff on X
Gahr High’s softball team may have 10 returning players and of those, half are either seniors or juniors. Cerritos High has eight seniors on its team, but only three are returning from a 17-7 season and a trip to the CIF-Southern Section Division 5 semifinals under Michelle Steck’s first season as the head coach for the Dons.
This season, both teams have a combined 18 freshmen and sophomores, and when they met for the 15th time since 1998, it was the youth of the host Gladiators that got the better of the Dons in a 10-0 victory that ended with two outs in the bottom of the fifth inning.
“Cerritos has always been a city that brings in some pretty good talent,” said Gahr head coach Rey Sanchez. “We’ve been fortunate to get some very talented players who come through our program and I know Cerritos…you look at Cerritos over the last 15 years; they’ve had some really good players come out of that school also.
“They are definitely young, but I think after talking to Michelle, she was telling me she has some young kids who are very committed and some nice players to work with,” he continued. “But I’m happy we can both benefit from some youth talent, which is always important to add and sprinkle in with some of the older kids that you have.”
While Gahr (7-5) snapped a two-game losing streak in which it was outscored 20-6, it has been rough going for Cerritos, which dropped to 2-5 and has been outscored 29-7 in its last three games.
“It’s challenging for different reasons,” said Steck of this season. “Last year, it was just trying to get them to buy in to what [assistant] coach Keith [Schwecke] and I were trying to bring to Cerritos. This year, it’s more of trying to find leadership within our own team; to
kind of help step up and help guide our younger girls.”
Gahr junior pitcher Isabella Gonzalez was perfect in the top of the first and third innings, throwing a combined 24 pitches. But in the second inning, she walked freshman first baseman Adelyn Archie, who would immediately be picked off by freshman catcher Rylee Jackson. Gonzalez then walked freshman third baseman Alexis Ceron and gave up a single to freshman Daphne Linsangan before striking out the next two batters to avoid further damage.
we play…they’re great players. All the girls are great on our team. Today, some of them might not have been seen that well. Last game, you could look at the lineup and maybe [senior] Ava [Ceron] was getting on a ton [of pitching]. It just varies from game to game and day to day. That’s what’s beautiful about softball.”
ried,” said Sanchez. “We missed hit some balls; Megan hit a nice ball, then from there, we missed hit some balls. Early on, the pitch selection wasn’t there. We got a little bit better in the second inning, and then the third inning and we started squaring up some balls. But the big home rum from Alexis to get us on the board early…that took a little bit of the tension off for the girls and they started swinging the bats a little bit better.”
By Loren Kopff @LorenKopff on X
Valley Christian High was the last team to begin Olympic League action, and the top of the first inning was not how head coach Chet Kingery envisioned his team would come out as it tries to defend its league title of last season. Heritage Christian High got to junior pitcher Rachel Zhang almost immediately as she loaded the bases on the first nine pitches thrown.
Five batters later, the Warriors had a 2-0 lead before the Defenders erupted for six runs in the bottom of the first and went on for a 7-3 victory this past Monday. V.C. improved to 5-4 and became the last of the five-team league to push its overall record north of .500.
“I’m not very happy with how we’re playing,” said Kingery. “There are a lot of things that should be cleaned up that aren’t right now, especially starting league today. I’m not worried, but I know we’ll dial it in with our days off. But we have to have better at-bats and play better defense. The defense way okay; routine outs have to be routine outs. You can’t throw the ball away on routine ground ball.”
On the fourth pitch of the game, Tatum Tassio singled to the right field gap, and Zhang walked Giselle Figueroa on four pitches. On the next pitch, the bases were loaded when Zhang hit Erika Laufer. A groundout from Aubrey Akins
In the fourth with one out, Archie singled but was thrown out again by Jackson as she attempted to steal second. Gonzalez then walked Ceron before Linsangan grounded out to end that mini threat. In the next inning, junior right fielder Zoe Corrales reached on an error to become the fourth and final Cerritos player to reach base.
Ironically, it was the middle of the batting order, all freshmen, who got on base. But the veteran Gonzalez was too much for the Dons as she threw 84 pitches, struck out eight batters and walked three in her second shutout of the season.
“She was good today,” said Sanchez. “A few too many walks, I think. She had three walks, and we talked about attacking them before the game. I’m not going to say it was her best outing, but it was a typical strong outing by Bella. She’s had some games this year where she’s been super sharp. Today, she did what she needed to do, and she competed and put us in a good spot.”
“It doesn’t matter; I’ll ride my freshmen no matter what,” said Steck. “Who
OLYMPIC
Meanwhile, Gahr was getting to freshman pitcher Jade Hernandez early and often. Although sophomore shortstop Hazel Anglo was stranded at third with one out in the bottom of the first inning, the action would ramp up in the second inning. Hernandez would hit junior designated player Cierra Contreras on the first pitch to lead off the frame. One out later, senior left fielder Alexis Johnson sent a ball over the left field fence for her first home run of the season.
Sophomore third baseman Megan Wong led off the third inning with a triple to the left field gap and scored two pitches later on a single from Anglo. After Anglo stole second and sophomore second baseman Mylah Burrowes was hit by a pitch, Anglo made it a 4-0 contest on a throwing error after the first out of the frame.
The nail in the coffin came in the fifth inning when Hernandez walked Johnson ahead of freshman center fielder Skyy Saucedo smacking a home run over the right field fence, her first of her high school career. That ended the day for Hernandez, who was replaced by Alexis Ceron and was immediately greeted by first-pitch singles from Jackson and Wong. Then on a 2-0 count, Anglo launched her first home run of the season that barely cleared the left field fence, “In the first inning, I was a little wor-
LEAGUE
SOFTBALL:
Valley Christian shakes off rough start to win its league opener
made it 1-0 and on the next pitch, Katilyn Sanchez singled to center to plate Figueroa.
A walk to Janice Martinez loaded the bases again before Zhang avoided further damage by inducing Summer Hill to hit into a fielder’s choice with Laufer being thrown out at home and striking out Mia Owen.
The Defenders bounced back and forced Martinez to throw 33 pitches in the bottom of the first. Senior center fielder Choyce Chambers, who is committed to Sacramento State University singled to right and went to second on an error. Then senior catcher Peyton Kingery, who will be taking her talents to the University of North Texas, was walked on four pitches. Chambers would steal third and scored on an infield hit from senior shortstop Aubrielle Ramirez.
That was followed by a run-scoring double to right field by junior right fielder Tallulah Ireland on the next pitch. Three pitches later, freshman left fielder Jade Jaquez doubled to center to bring in Ramirez and Ireland. Senior third baseman Brianna Ramirez then reached on the second of six errors by Heritage Christian in the game and a single from sophomore first baseman Molly Douglas allowed Jaquez to make it 5-2. Junior second baseman Lydia Dietz, Zhang and Chambers would all reach on a fielder’s choice to load the bases with Dietz scoring the last run of the frame.
However, the V.C. bats cooled down for the next four innings, as four runners
reached base. Dietz led off the third with a double down the third base line but was stranded at third. Ireland singled with one out in the fourth but was left at second and Douglas was safe on an error to begin the fifth but was doubled up to end that threat.
“Bad pitch selection; that’s what it boils down to,” said Chet Kingery on his team offense beyond the first inning. “Not having quality at-bats, being impatient…[Martinez] was wild, but effectively, and we just got impatient and didn’t swing at good pitches. So, it was just bad at-bats. With a pitcher like that, we have to be really picky. We should have made her throw 30 pitches every inning, but we didn’t.”
The Defenders would not score again until the sixth when Martinez walked Peyton Kingery again with one out. Aubrielle Ramirez followed with a single to left and stole second. With two outs, Jaquez singled to left to end the game’s scoring.
While the offense couldn’t do much outside the first and sixth innings, Zhang was doing her part to keep her team in the game, but it wasn’t easy. She threw a combined 60 pitches in the second, third and fourth innings but the Warriors left five runners on base. They did get to Zhang in the fourth when Tassio singled with one out, stole second and scored on a two-out single from Laufer.
But Zhang worked a perfect fifth and sixth inning and finished the game striking out eight batters, allowing six hits and
“She did fine,” said Steck of Hernandez. “There were a couple of dropped balls that weren’t really helping her on defense either; a couple of bad routes in the outfield. Obviously, that didn’t help to get [Gahr] runners on, or a walk or a hit by pitch here and there. But ultimately, she left the ball over the plate too much, and that’s what’s going to happen.”
Sophomore right fielder Alissa Agaton came off the bench in the fifth inning and led off with single before moving to second on an error. After a pair of strikeouts, Jackson ended the game with a base hit to left field. Anglo, who drove in four runs, Wong and Jackson all had a pair of hits and for Jackson, who’s mother Jennifer was a catcher for Gahr in the late 1990s and early 2000s, it was her first two-hit game of her high school career. In fact, eight of the nine hits Gahr collected came from either a freshman or a sophomore.
“When you step into a good program like this, it’s easy for the freshmen to be a little intimidated and have a tough time,” said Sanchez. “But I think we have a good group of girls who are welcoming and will help some of those younger kids kind of come in and be comfortable. Rylee is getting more and more comfortable behind the plate; she’s definitely more and more comfortable. Really, all the young kids have done a nice job of coming in and really absorbing what we like to do in our program.”
After hosting El Rancho High early in
See GAHR, Page 16
walking four batters while throwing 128 pitches.
“It’s been a week since she’s thrown [in a game],” said Chet Kingery. “But we have to come out and be better; be mentally tougher than that and go out and attack hitters right away.”
V.C. collected nine hits with Ireland, Jaquez and Aubrielle Ramirez all collecting a pair of hits. As one of two freshmen on the team, Jaquez isn’t playing as a freshman as she is batting .333 and is one of five players with at least 10 hits.
“Jade had good at-bats; Jade has been swinging the bat well,” said Chet Kingery. “The kid goes up there, and she looks to drive the ball, and that’s what I like about her.”
This was the seventh straight win over Heritage Christian, which used to be Los Angeles Baptist High, and at 30-12 over the Warriors since 2005, it’s the most victories for V.C. over any school in the CIF-Southern Section. The Defenders went to Village Christian High on Mar. 26 and will not be in action until an Apr. 7 matchup at Kennedy High.
“The Olympic League is getting tougher; talent is starting to get to the private schools in the league,” said Chet Kingery. “Every game is going to be tough, and you have to play at your best Being at 4-4 we really pushed ourselves hard this year with a tougher non-league schedule. We still have Cal High coming up, we still have Kennedy coming up and that’s not taking anything away from Village on Thursday.”
CITY OF LA MIRADA NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN of a public hearing to be held by the City Council of the City of La Mirada on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. in the City Hall Council Chambers located at 13700 La Mirada Boulevard, La Mirada, California to consider the following item:
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA MIRADA WILL CONSIDER AN ORDINANCE APPROVING AMENDMENT NO. 1 TO DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT NO. 19, AMENDING THE FINANCIAL TERMS TO ALLOW THE INSTALLATION OF AN ELECTRONIC BILLBOARD AT 14655 FIRESTONE BOULEVARD, LOCATED WITHIN THE FREEWAY COMMERCIAL (C-F) ZONING DISTRICT. THE PROPOSED ACTION IS NOT A PROJECT PURSUANT TO THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA) GUIDELINES SECTION 15378(b)(5), AS IT INVOLVES ADMINISTRATIVE AND FINANCIAL CHANGES THAT WILL NOT RESULT IN ANY PHYSICAL CHANGES TO THE ENVIRONMENT.
At the hearing, the City Council will consider staff’s report and staff recommendations, as well as all testimony and public input prior to making a final decision. The documents being considered are available for review at the City’s Community Development Department offices located at City Hall, 13700 La Mirada Boulevard, La Mirada, California. You may contact the Community Development Department at (562) 943-0131 should you have any questions concerning this item.
If you wish to be heard concerning the item identified in this Notice, you may appear in person at the public hearing, or you may submit your comments in writing to the City prior to or at the public hearing. Mailed comments should be addressed to the City of La Mirada, Community Development Department, 13700 La Mirada Boulevard, La Mirada, California 90638.
Please notify the City Clerk’s office at (562) 943-0131 at least four days prior to this hearing should you require disability-related accommodation (e.g. sign language interpreter).
IF YOU CHALLENGE ANY OF THE FOREGOING ACTIONS IN COURT, YOU MAY BE LIMITED TO RAISING ONLY THOSE ISSUES YOU OR SOMEONE ELSE RAISED AT THE PUBLIC HEARING FOR FINAL ACTION DESCRIBED IN THIS NOTICE, OR IN WRITTEN CORRESPONDENCE DELIVERED TO THE CITY COUNCIL AT OR PRIOR TO THE PUBLIC HEARING.
Jorge Orozco Senior Administrative Analyst
Published at La Mirada Lamplighter Newspaper 3/27/26 CITY OF LA MIRADA
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that on March 24, 2026, at 6:30 p.m., the City Council of the City of La Mirada adopted the following Ordinance:
ORDINANCE NO. 749 AMENDING SECTION 10.12.020 OF CHAPTER 10.12. OF TITLE 10 OF THE LA MIRADA MUNICIPAL CODE ESTABLISHING PRIMA FACIE SPEED LIMITS ON CERTAIN CITY STREETS
Summary of Ordinance No. 749
Ordinance No. 749 amended Section 10.12.020 of Chapter 10.12 of Title 10 of the La Mirada Municipal Code setting speed limits on arterial highways and major collector streets. The speed limits are based on the results of an Engineering and Traffic Survey conducted in February 2026. The speed limits are also based on speed checks of the 85th percentile, collision rates, roadside developments and average daily traffic
A certified copy of the entirety of the text of Ordinance No. 749 is available in the office of the City Clerk, City of La Mirada, 13700 La Mirada Boulevard, La Mirada, California, and is available for public inspection at that location.
The names of those Councilmembers voting for or against Ordinance No. 749 are as follows:
AYES: Councilmembers Bean, Lewis, Mayor Pro Tem Otero, Mayor Eng NOES: None
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: Councilmember De Ruse
A certified copy of the entirety of the text of Ordinance No. 749 is available in the office of the City Clerk, City of La Mirada, 13700 La Mirada Boulevard, La Mirada, California, and is available for public inspection at that location.
Leticia Revilla, City Clerk
Published at La Mirada Lamplighter Newspaper 3/27/26
NOTICE OF SALE OF ABANDONED PROPERTY
Notice is given that pursuant to sections 21700-21713 of the Business and Professions Code, Section 2328 of the Commercial Code, Section 535 of the Penal Code. 1812.607, that Mission Hills Self Storage 15241 Rinaldi St., Mission Hills, CA 91345 intends to sell the personal property described below to enforce a Lien imposed on said property. The undersigned will be sold at public auction conducted on www.storagetreasures.com (bond #63747122) ending on or after Tuesday April 14th, 2026, at 9:00AM.
NAME UNIT
Alex Cooper E108
This notice is given in accordance with the provisions of Section 21700 et seq. of the Business and Professions Code of the State of California. Storage Treasures’ Principal Auctioneer and Auctioneer on Record: Auctioneer License Numbers for Christopher Paul Rosa-California 3112562
Sales subject to prior cancellation in the event of settlement between Owner and obligated party. Published at Los Cerritos Community Newspaper 3/27 and 4/3/27
NOTICE AND SUMMARY OF ORDINANCE NO. 26-983
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ARTESIA, CALIFORNIA, AUTHORIZING THE LEVY OF SPECIAL TAXES IN A COMMUNITY FACILITIES DISTRICT, INCLUDING CERTAIN ANNEXATION TERRITORY IDENTIFIED AS
ANNEXATION NO 4, INTO CITY OF ARTESIA, COMMUNITY FACILITIES DISTRICT NO. 2017-1 (SERVICES), COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES, STATE OF CALIFORNIA
Notice is hereby given that on April 13, 2026, the City Council of the City of Artesia will consider the adoption of Ordinance No. 26-983 authorizing the levy of special taxes in a community facilities district, including certain annexation territory identified as Annexation No. 4 in the City of Artesia, Community Facilities District No. 2017-1 (Services). The following is a summary of the proposed Ordinance.
• The City Council of the City of Artesia has conducted proceedings to annex territory into City of Artesia, Community Facilities District No. 2017-1 (Services) (the “District”).
• By passing Ordinance No. 26-983, the City Council of the City of Artesia authorizes and levies the special tax within the District, including the annexed territory.
• The special tax revenue shall be used to pay for the costs of public services, the payment of the costs of the City in administering the District, and the costs of collecting and administering the special tax.
Please note that the above is 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, CA 90701
Date: March 27, 2026 Jennifer Alderete, City Clerk
Published at Los Cerritos Community Newspaper 3/27/26
CITY OF SANTA FE SPRINGS
SUMMARY OF ORDINANCE NO. 1167
Per Government Code Section 36933, a summary of Ordinance No. 1167 is as follows:
First Reading Date: March 17, 2026
Second Reading, Public Hearing and Adoption Date: April 7, 2026
Effective Date: May 7, 2026
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA FE SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA AMENDING SECTIONS 155.123 (CONDITIONAL USES), 155.153 (CONDITIONAL USES), 155.175.2 (USES), 155.183 (CONDITIONAL USES), 155.213 (CONDITIONAL USES), 155.243 (CONDITIONAL USES), AND ADDING SECTION 155.725 (CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT FOR TRUCK, TRAILER, CHASSIS OR CONTAINER STORAGE) WITHIN TITLE 15, CHAPTER 155 OF THE SANTA FE SPRINGS MUNICIPAL CODE, AND MAKING A DETERMINATION OF EXEMPTION UNDER CEQA
The Santa Fe Springs City Council will adopt Ordinance No. 1167, amending Chapter 155 (Zoning Code) of the Santa Fe Springs Municipal Code to establish regulations for the temporary storage of trucks, trailers, chassis, and shipping containers on certain vacant, entitled properties. Specifically, the ordinance:
• Amends §§ 155.123, 155.153, 155.175.2, 155.183, 155.213, and 155.243 to incorporate this use into applicable zoning districts; and
• Adds § 155.725 to establish a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) process and operational standards for truck, trailer, chassis, and container storage.
Purpose
The ordinance establishes a regulatory framework to allow a temporary, controlled interim use on vacant properties that have received, or are pursuing, development approvals. The CUP process ensures case-by-case review and includes standards related to site eligibility, security, screening, operational restrictions, and time limitations.
The intent is to reduce nuisance conditions such as illegal dumping and blight, support property maintenance and potential environmental remediation, and allow limited interim economic use—while maintaining consistency with the City’s long-term development goals.
The ordinance is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3), as it can be seen with certainty that the action will not have a significant effect on the environment.
The City Council introduced and conducted a first reading of the ordinance with the following vote:
City Council Vote
AYES: Martin, Mora, Rodriguez, Rounds, Zamora
NOES: None
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: None
For additional information or to view Ordinance No. 1167 in full, contact the Office of the City Clerk, City of Santa Fe Springs, 11710 Telegraph Road, Santa Fe Springs, CA 90670, or visit the City’s official website at www.santafesprings.gov
Published at Los Cerritos Community Newspaper 3/27/26
NOTICE OF SALE OF ABANDONED PROPERTY
Notice is given pursuant to sections 21700-21713 of the Business and Professions Code,
County of Los Angeles Department of the Treasurer and Tax Collector
Notice of Divided Publication
Pursuant to Revenue and Taxation Code (R&TC) Sections 3702, 3381, and 3382, the Los Angeles County Treasurer and Tax Collector is publishing in divided distribution, the Notice of Online Public Auction of Tax-Defaulted Property Subject to the Tax Collector’s Power to Sell in and for the County of Los Angeles, State of California, to various newspapers of general circulation published in the County. A portion of the list appears in each of such newspapers.
Notice of Online Public Auction Tax-Defaulted Property Subject to the Tax Collector’s Power to Sell (Sale No. 2026A)
Whereas, on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, the Board of Supervisors of the County of Los Angeles, State of California, directed the County of Los Angeles Treasurer and Tax Collector (TTC), to sell certain tax-defaulted properties at the online public auction.
TTC does hereby give public notice, that unless said properties are redeemed, prior to the close of business on Friday, April 17, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time, the last business day prior to the first day of the online public auction, TTC will offer for sale and sell said properties on Saturday, April 18, 2026, beginning at 3:00 p.m. Pacific Time, through Tuesday, April 21, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. Pacific Time, to the highest bidder, for not less than the minimum bid, at the online public auction at www.govease. com/los-angeles.
Free computer access is available at public libraries located throughout Los Angeles County. The County and its employees are not liable for the failure of any electronic equipment that may prevent a person from participating in an online auction.
The minimum bid for each parcel is the total amount necessary to redeem, plus costs, as required by R&TC Section 3698.5.
If a property does not sell during the online public auction, the right of redemption will revive and remain until Friday, June 5, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time.
The TTC will re-offer any properties that did not sell or were not redeemed prior to Friday, June 5, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time, for sale at the online public auction at www.govease. com/los-angeles beginning Saturday, June 6, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. Pacific Time, through Tuesday, June 9, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. Pacific Time.
Information regarding this sale is available at ttc.lacounty. gov. Bidders are required to pre-register at www.govease.com/ los-angeles and submit a deposit of $5,000 or 10 percent of the spend limit that is set by each registered bidder, whichever is greater. Bid deposits must be in the form of a wire transfer, cashier’s check, electronic check (eCheck), or bank-issued money order at the time of registration. Registration will begin on Friday, March 13, 2026, at 8:00 a.m. Pacific Time and end on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. Pacific Time.
Pursuant to R&TC Section 3692.3, TTC sells all property ``as is`` and the County and its employees are not liable for any known or unknown conditions of the properties, including, but not limited to, errors in the records of the Office of the Assessor (Assessor) pertaining to improvement of the property.
If TTC sells a property, parties of interest, as defined by R&TC Section 4675, have a right to file a claim with the County for any proceeds from the sale, which are in excess of the liens and costs required to be paid from the proceeds. If there are any excess proceeds after the application of the minimum bid, TTC will send notice to all parties of interest, pursuant to State law.
Please direct requests for information concerning redemption of tax-defaulted property to the Treasurer and Tax Collector, at 225 North Hill Street, Room 130, Los Angeles, California 90012.
County of Los Angeles Department of the Treasurer and Tax Collector Notice of Divided Publication
Pursuant to Revenue and Taxation Code (R&TC) Sections 3702, 3381, and 3382, the Los Angeles County Treasurer and Tax Collector is publishing in divided distribution, the Notice of Online Public Auction of Tax-Defaulted Property Subject to the Tax Collector’s Power to Sell in and for the County of Los Angeles, State of California, to various newspapers of general circulation published in the County. A portion of the list appears in each of such newspapers.
Notice of Online Public Auction Tax-Defaulted Property Subject to the Tax Collector’s Power to Sell (Sale No. 2026A)
Whereas, on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, the Board of Supervisors of the County of Los Angeles, State of California, directed the County of Los Angeles Treasurer and Tax Collector (TTC), to sell certain tax-defaulted properties at the online public auction.
TTC does hereby give public notice, that unless said properties are redeemed, prior to the close of business on Friday, April 17, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time, the last business day prior to the first day of the online public auction, TTC will offer for sale and sell said properties on Saturday, April 18, 2026, beginning at 3:00 p.m. Pacific Time, through Tuesday, April 21, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. Pacific Time, to the highest bidder, for not less than the minimum bid, at the online public auction at www.govease. com/los-angeles.
Free computer access is available at public libraries located throughout Los Angeles County. The County and its employees are not liable for the failure of any electronic equipment that may prevent a person from participating in an online auction. The minimum bid for each parcel is the total amount necessary to redeem, plus costs, as required by R&TC Section 3698.5.
If a property does not sell during the online public auction, the right of redemption will revive and remain until Friday, June 5, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time.
The TTC will re-offer any properties that did not sell or were not redeemed prior to Friday, June 5, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time, for sale at the online public auction at www.govease. com/los-angeles beginning Saturday, June 6, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. Pacific Time, through Tuesday, June 9, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. Pacific Time.
Information regarding this sale is available at ttc.lacounty. gov. Bidders are required to pre-register at www.govease.com/ los-angeles and submit a deposit of $5,000 or 10 percent of the spend limit that is set by each registered bidder, whichever is greater. Bid deposits must be in the form of a wire transfer, cashier’s check, electronic check (eCheck), or bank-issued money order at the time of registration. Registration will begin on Friday, March 13, 2026, at 8:00 a.m. Pacific Time and end on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. Pacific Time. Pursuant to R&TC Section 3692.3, TTC sells all property ``as
Phone calls can be directed to (213) 974-2045, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time, visit TTC’s website at ttc.lacounty.gov or email at auction@ttc.lacounty.gov.
The Assessor’s Identification Number (AIN) in this publication refers to the Assessor’s Map Book, the Map Page, and the individual Parcel Number on the Map Page. If a change in the AIN occurred, the publication will show both prior and current AINs. An explanation of the parcel numbering system and the referenced maps are available at the Office of the Assessor located at 500 West Temple Street, Room 225, Los Angeles, California 90012, or at assessor.lacounty.gov.
I certify under penalty of perjury that the foregoing is true and correct. Executed at Los Angeles, California, on February 20, 2026.
ELIZABETH BUENROSTRO GINSBERG
Treasurer and Tax Collector County of Los Angeles State of California
The real property that is subject to this notice is situated in the County of Los Angeles, State of California, and is described as follows:
PUBLIC AUCTION NOTICE OF SALE OF TAX-
DEFAULTED PROPERTY SUBJECT TO THE POWER OF
SALE(SALE NO. 2026A)
2836 AIN 6248-003-019 DOURAGHI,IRAJ TR ET AL IRAJ
DOURAGHI TRUST AND DOURAGHI,AMIN LOCATION
CITY-DOWNEY $11,697.00
2837 AIN 6251-037-016 CANO,OTONIEL M LOCATION
CITY-DOWNEY $66,829.00
2839 AIN 6254-009-014 8211 FIRESTONE LLC LOCATION
CITY-DOWNEY TD#1 $284,815.00
2841 AIN 6261-006-025 BEGAZO,ERICK LOCATION CITYDOWNEY $15,128.00
2881 AIN 6361-006-006 ORTIZ,SERGIO TR LA REINA
FAMILY TRUST LOCATION CITY-DOWNEY $3,916.00
2882 AIN 6362-010-009 SECRETARY OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT C/O C/O PEMCO LTD LOCATION
CITY-DOWNEY $108,179.00
2896 AIN 7009-012-007 MAGANA,JORGE A AND JENNY AND HERNANDEZ,NYDIA M LOCATION CITY-NORWALK
$16,221.00
2897 AIN 7009-028-025 MENDOZA,JOSE F AND GUADALUPE G AND LOPEZ,RUBEN LOCATION CITYNORWALK $8,328.00
3121 AIN 8017-015-019 ROBINSON,VANESSA AND MAXIE,CHRISTOPHER D LOCATION CITY-SANTA FE SP
$25,556.00
3122 AIN 8020-008-012 NUNEZ,LUIS A AND LUIS,JOSEFA D LOCATION CITY-NORWALK $11,265.00
3123 AIN 8021-037-021 RODRIGUEZ,BERGELINA AND BARRAGAN,ILEANA LOCATION CITY-NORWALK
$63,251.00
3136 AIN 8073-027-027 REYES,LLESENIA C AND CORNEJO,GLADIS R LOCATION CITY-NORWALK
$7,442.00
3138 AIN 8075-039-028 LE,MINH TAM C/O C/O GLADYS
LOCATION CITY-NORWALK $8,370.00
3139 AIN 8080-015-029 MAGANA,MIGUEL LOCATION CITY-NORWALK $3,808.00
3141 AIN 8080-021-025 TELLEZ,LINDA M AND MURILLO,SEBASTIANA LOCATION CITY-NORWALK
$9,887.00
3674 AIN 6283-018-032 EAST DOWNEY CONGREGATION OF JEHOVAHS WITNESSES LOCATION CITY DOWNEY TD # $13,800.00
3707 AIN 8037-047-140 RIGGINS,LLEWYN W LOCATION CITY-LA MIRADA $29,161.00
3708 AIN 8056-009-034 LAMORE,GARRETTA S AND STRYKER,GEORGE B LOCATION CITY-NORWALK
$3,967.00
CN125316 607 Mar 20,27, Apr 3, 2026
is`` and the County and its employees are not liable for any known or unknown conditions of the properties, including, but not limited to, errors in the records of the Office of the Assessor (Assessor) pertaining to improvement of the property.
If TTC sells a property, parties of interest, as defined by R&TC Section 4675, have a right to file a claim with the County for any proceeds from the sale, which are in excess of the liens and costs required to be paid from the proceeds. If there are any excess proceeds after the application of the minimum bid, TTC will send notice to all parties of interest, pursuant to State law.
Please direct requests for information concerning redemption of tax-defaulted property to the Treasurer and Tax Collector, at 225 North Hill Street, Room 130, Los Angeles, California 90012.
Phone calls can be directed to (213) 974-2045, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time, visit TTC’s website at ttc.lacounty.gov or email at auction@ttc.lacounty.gov.
The Assessor’s Identification Number (AIN) in this publication refers to the Assessor’s Map Book, the Map Page, and the individual Parcel Number on the Map Page. If a change in the AIN occurred, the publication will show both prior and current AINs. An explanation of the parcel numbering system and the referenced maps are available at the Office of the Assessor located at 500 West Temple Street, Room 225, Los Angeles, California 90012, or at assessor.lacounty.gov
I certify under penalty of perjury that the foregoing is true and correct. Executed at Los Angeles, California, on February 20, 2026.
ELIZABETH BUENROSTRO GINSBERG
Treasurer and Tax Collector County of Los Angeles State of California
The real property that is subject to this notice is situated in the County of Los Angeles, State of California, and is described as follows:
PUBLIC AUCTION NOTICE OF SALE OF TAX-
DEFAULTED PROPERTY SUBJECT TO THE POWER OF
SALE(SALE NO. 2026A)
2194 AIN 5267-015-011 MOUNGAIN,ANN TR ANN
MOUNGAIN TRUST LOCATION CITY EMP PENSION
$17,025.00
2197 AIN 5269-012-051 THROPAY,JOHN AND MARICELA
TRS THROPAY TRUST LOCATION CITY EMP PENSION
$94,676.00
2202 AIN 5278-027-070 YBANEZ,HUGH C ET AL
COROMINAS,CRISTINA N LOCATION CITY EMP
PENSION $23,803.00
2876 AIN 6350-018-081 KIM,JIYOUNG LOCATION CITY
EMP PENSION $21,208.00
3613 AIN 5267-029-025 YBARRA,RAUL LOCATION CITY
EMP PENSION $13,324.00
3680 AIN 6350-021-020 SAHAGUN,MIGUEL G LOCATION
CITY EMP PENSION $89,361.00
CN125321 616 Mar 20,27, Apr 3, 2026
CITY OF COMMERCE
NOTICE OF MEASURE TO BE VOTED ON [Pursuant to Elections Code Section 12111]
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the following measure is to be voted on at the Special Consolidated Statewide Primary Election to be held in the City of Commerce, California on Tuesday, June 2, 2026:
Commerce Essential Services Protection Measure: To protect local funding threatened by State gaming regulations and maintain police services, 911 emergency response, youth and senior programs, library services, parks, streets, and infrastructure, shall the City of Commerce enact a ¼-cent (0.25%) transactions and use (sales) tax, providing approximately $4.5 million annually for general government use until ended by voters, with annual audits and public disclosure?
For additional information, please visit the City’s website at: https://www.commerceca.gov/ city-hall/finance/city-of-commerce-essential-services-protection-measure or call the City Clerk at (323) 722-4805 ext. 2252.
Pat Jacquez-Nares, Interim City Clerk City of Commerce
Published on March 27, 2026 – Los Cerritos News
Published at Los Cerritos Community Newspaper 3/27/26
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on April 14, 2025, the City Council of the City of Commerce (“the City”) will consider adoption of Ordinance 833, and FURTHER NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on Tuesday, March 24, 2026 the City Council of the City of Commerce by the following vote: AYES: Mayor Kevin Lainez; Mayor Pro Tem Mireya Garcia; Councilmember Hugo Argumedo; Councilmember Oralia Rebollo; NOES: None; ABSENT: Councilmember Ivan Altamirano; introduced said Ordinance entitled:
ORDINANCE NO. 833
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COMMERCE, CALIFORNIA IMPLEMENTING GREEN BUILDING PRACTICES FOR NEW CONSTRUCTION OF CITY BUILDINGS
The proposed ordinance will implement green building practices for new construction of City buildings.
A certified copy of the full text of this ordinance is available at the office of the City Clerk, 2535 Commerce Way, Commerce, CA 90040, during regular business hours.
Pat Jacquez-Nares, Interim City Clerk City of Commerce
Published on March 27, 2026 – Los Cerritos News
Published at Los Cerritos Community Newspaper 3/27/26
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT the City Council of the City of Artesia will hold a Public Hearing in the City Council Chambers of Artesia City Hall located at 18747 Clarkdale Avenue, Artesia, California at 7:00 pm on Monday, April 13, 2026, to consider the following:
Project Description: The City Council will consider an approval recommendation from the Planning Commission to Amend Article 32 of the Zoning Code to remove the prohibition of alcohol sales at automobile service stations or gasoline stations in the Commercial General (CG) Zoning district.
Project Location: 18609 Pioneer Boulevard and Citywide Case Number: 2025-12
CEQA: The subject ordinance would be exempt from the requirements to prepare additional environmental documentation per California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines, Section 15061 (b)(3). This section is the “common sense exemption” that states that CEQA applies only to projects which have the potential for causing a significant effect on the environment.
Planning Commission Action: On March 17, 2026, the Planning Commission held a public hearing, approved a corresponding Conditional Use Permit to allow the sale of beer, wine and distilled spirits at 16809 Pioneer Boulevard, and voted unanimously to recommend that the City Council approve a Zoning Text Amendment to allow the sale of beer, wine, and distilled spirits at automobile services stations citywide.
If you challenge any of these proposals in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the public hearing described in the notice, or in written correspondence delivered to the City of Artesia City Council at or prior to the public hearing. All interested persons are invited to attend this hearing and express their opinion on the matters listed above.
Paul Bollier, Community Development Director
Phone: 562-865-6262 Ext. 200 or 224
Email: Planning@cityofartesia.us
Published at Los Cerritos Community Newspaper 3/27/26
NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF BOBBY LING JOE CASE NO. 25STPB10107
To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors and persons who may otherwise be interested in the Will or estate, or both, of BOBBY LING JOE.
A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by SUSAN JOE in the Superior Court of California, County of Los Angeles. THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that SUSAN JOE be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent. THE PETITION requests the decedent’s will and codicils, if any, be admitted to probate. The will and any codicils are available for examination in the file kept by the court.
THE PETITION requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This
however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to
persons unless
have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an
files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority.
A HEARING on the petition will be held on April 9, 2026 at 8:30 a.m. in Dept. 11 Address of the Court: 111 North Hill Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012.
BRANCH NAME: STANLEY MOSK COURTHOUSE
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
CITY OF BELLFLOWER NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER THE AWARD OF ONE LOAN THROUGH THE CITY OF BELLFLOWER’S BUSINESS ASSISTANCE PROGRAM TO KWANG JA KIM DBA KOAM PHARMACY TO FINANCE FAÇADE IMPROVEMENTS AT THEIR LOCATION ON 16827 BELLFLOWER BOULEVARD IN BELLFLOWER, CALIFORNIA
TAKE NOTICE that the Bellflower City Council will hold a Public Hearing on Monday, April 13, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. in the City Hall Council Chambers located at 16600 Civic Center Drive, Bellflower, CA, 90706 to consider the award of one loan through the City of Bellflower’s Business Assistance Program to Kwang Ja Kim DBA Koam Pharmacy, to finance building façade improvements at their location on 16827 Bellflower Boulevard in Bellflower, CA.
The City of Bellflower invites members of the public to review and comment on this item. Copies of the staff report and supporting documents regarding this matter may be inspected by the public on the City’s website at www.bellflower.ca.gov, or by appointment in the City Clerk’s Office at Bellflower City Hall, 16600 Civic Center Drive, Bellflower, CA; telephone number (562) 804-1424, extension 2220. All written comments concerning this may be submitted to the City Clerk’s Office at 16600 Civic Center Drive, Bellflower, CA, 90706; or by email at cclerk@bellflower.org. For more information, please contact Annika Miyashiro-Ruiz, Senior Project Manager, at (562) 804-1424 ext. 2249 or via email at amiyashiro@bellflower. ca.gov.
If you wish to challenge this item in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the Public Hearing described in this notice, or in written correspondence delivered to the City at or before the Public Hearing.
MAYRA OCHIQUI, CITY CLERK
Published at Los Cerritos Community News 3/27/26
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 Monday, April 13,2026 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 #
Carlos C Castillo I45
Troy Alan Dwelley M012
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 Los Cerritos Community News 3/20 and 3/27/26
ABC UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT NOTICE CALLING FOR BID
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the ABC Unified School District will receive up to but not later than 2:00 PM on the 21st day of April 2026 Bids for:
ABC Bid # 1699 Leal Elementary School Modernization and Relocatable Site Work
All bids shall be made and presented on a form furnished by the District. Bids submitted shall conform to the terms and conditions stated on said form. Bids shall be received in the office of the Purchasing Department at 16700 Norwalk Blvd., Cerritos, CA 90703 and shall be opened and publicly read aloud at the above-stated time and place. There will be a mandatory jobwalk meeting on March 31, 2026 at 9:00 AM sharp at the front of Administration building at Leal ES 12920 Droxford St., Cerritos CA. To prequalify to bid, bidders and subcontractors with contractor license class of B, C-7,C-10, C-16, C-20, C-36 must submit Prequalification package no later than April 16, 2026 12:00 PM. Prequalification Package is available to enter and submit at the PQ Website https://pqbids.com/abc-usd-ab2031/ All public works are subject to prevailing wage payments, Valid License valid Class B Contractor’s License and DIR Registration will be required.
Los Cerritos News
Published at LCCN 3/20 and 3/27/26
March 20, 2026 March 27, 2026
PUBLIC NOTICE
CITY OF BELLFLOWER
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING AND 30-DAY COMMENT PERIOD
DRAFT FISCAL YEAR (FY) 2026-2027 ANNUAL ACTION PLAN
TO ALL INTERESTED PARTIES:
Public Hearing:
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City of Bellflower (“City”) has prepared its Draft Fiscal Year (FY) 2026–2027 Annual Action Plan (AAP). The City proposes to submit the Annual Action Plan to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). As a recipient of Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME Investment Partnerships (HOME) funding from HUD, the City is required to prepare and submit an Annual Action Plan each year. The Annual Action Plan describes how the City will utilize and distribute these federal funds among eligible activities during the program year.
Although HUD has not yet released the City’s funding allocations for FY 2026-2027, the City is working with estimated allocations based on the amounts it received last year from HUD. Once the actual allocations are released by HUD, the budgets for all proposed activities will be proportionately increased or decreased to align with these actual amounts. For FY 2026-2027, the City estimates it will receive approximately $934,279 in CDBG funds and $389,914 in HOME funds.
The Citizen Participation Plan establishes the City of Bellflower’s policies and procedures for citizen participation in the development of the Consolidated Plan, the Annual Action Plan, and any subsequent amendments.
In accordance with the City’s Citizen Participation Plan, notice is hereby given that a public hearing will be held on April 27, 2026, at 7:00 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, at the City Council Chambers, Bellflower City Hall, 16600 Civic Center Drive, Bellflower, CA 90706, to receive public comments regarding the City’s Draft FY 2026–2027 Annual Action Plan.
Public Review and Comment Period:
The Draft Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Annual Action Plan and Citizen Participation Plan will be available for a 30-day public review and comment period beginning on March 27, 2026, and ending on April 27, 2026. This document will be available for public review on the City’s website at www.bellflower.ca.gov/departments/economic_department /housing__grants
Questions and written comments regarding the FY 2026–2027 Annual Action Plan and Citizen Participation Plan may be submitted to: City of Bellflower Economic Development Department
Attn: Karla Pineda, Senior Project Manager 16600 Civic Center Drive
Bellflower, CA 90706
Comments may also be submitted by email to kpineda@bellflower.ca.gov
Those desiring further information or assistance in Spanish may contact Karla Pineda, Senior Project Manager, at (562) 804-1424, Ext. 2013, or by email at kpineda@bellflower.ca.gov
Published: March 27, 2026, Los Cerritos Community Newspaper Published at Los Cerritos Community Newspaper 3/27/26
Pursuant to
and
(R&TC)
and 3382, the Los Angeles County Treasurer and Tax Collector is publishing in divided distribution, the Notice of Online Public Auction of Tax-Defaulted Property Subject to the Tax Collector’s Power to Sell in and for the County of Los Angeles, State of California, to various newspapers of general circulation published in the County. A portion of the list appears in each of such newspapers.
Notice of Online Public Auction Tax-Defaulted Property Subject to the Tax Collector’s Power to Sell (Sale No. 2026A)
Whereas, on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, the Board of Supervisors of the County of Los Angeles, State of California, directed the County of Los Angeles Treasurer and Tax Collector (TTC), to sell certain tax-defaulted properties at the online public auction.
TTC does hereby give public notice, that unless said properties are redeemed, prior to the close of business on Friday, April 17, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time, the last business day prior to the first day of the online public auction, TTC will offer for sale and sell said properties on Saturday, April 18, 2026, beginning at 3:00 p.m. Pacific Time, through Tuesday, April 21, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. Pacific Time, to the highest bidder, for not less than the minimum bid, at the online public auction at www.govease. com/los-angeles.
Free computer access is available at public libraries located throughout Los Angeles County. The County and its employees are not liable for the failure of any electronic equipment that may prevent a person from participating in an online auction.
The minimum bid for each parcel is the total amount necessary to redeem, plus costs, as required by R&TC Section 3698.5.
If a property does not sell during the online public auction, the right of redemption will revive and remain until Friday, June 5, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time.
The TTC will re-offer any properties that did not sell or were not redeemed prior to Friday, June 5, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time, for sale at the online public auction at www.govease. com/los-angeles beginning Saturday, June 6, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. Pacific Time, through Tuesday, June 9, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. Pacific Time.
Information regarding this sale is available at ttc.lacounty. gov. Bidders are required to pre-register at www.govease.com/ los-angeles and submit a deposit of $5,000 or 10 percent of the spend limit that is set by each registered bidder, whichever is greater. Bid deposits must be in the form of a wire transfer, cashier’s check, electronic check (eCheck), or bank-issued money order at the time of registration. Registration will begin on Friday, March 13, 2026, at 8:00 a.m. Pacific Time and end on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. Pacific Time.
Pursuant to R&TC Section 3692.3, TTC sells all property ``as is`` and the County and its employees are not liable for any known or unknown conditions of the properties, including, but not limited to, errors in the records of the Office of the Assessor (Assessor) pertaining to improvement of the property.
If TTC sells a property, parties of interest, as defined by R&TC Section 4675, have a right to file a claim with the County for any proceeds from the sale, which are in excess of the liens and costs
required to be paid from the proceeds. If there are any excess proceeds after the application of the minimum bid, TTC will send notice to all parties of interest, pursuant to State law. Please direct requests for information concerning redemption of tax-defaulted property to the Treasurer and Tax Collector, at 225 North Hill Street, Room 130, Los Angeles, California 90012. Phone calls can be directed to (213) 974-2045, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time, visit TTC’s website at ttc.lacounty.gov or email at auction@ttc.lacounty.gov.
The Assessor’s Identification Number (AIN) in this publication refers to the Assessor’s Map Book, the Map Page, and the individual Parcel Number on the Map Page. If a change in the AIN occurred, the publication will show both prior and current AINs. An explanation of the parcel numbering system and the referenced maps are available at the Office of the Assessor located at 500 West Temple Street, Room 225, Los Angeles, California 90012, or at assessor.lacounty.gov.
I certify under penalty of perjury that the foregoing is true and correct. Executed at Los Angeles, California, on February 20, 2026.
ELIZABETH BUENROSTRO GINSBERG Treasurer and Tax Collector County of Los Angeles State of California
The real property that is subject to this notice is situated in the County of Los Angeles, State of California, and is described as follows:
PUBLIC AUCTION NOTICE OF SALE OF TAXDEFAULTED PROPERTY SUBJECT TO THE POWER OF SALE(SALE NO. 2026A) 2847 AIN 6278-013-013 TORRES,BERNARDO LOCATION CITY-BELLFLOWER $12,019.00
2901 AIN 7040-007-018 RINCON,ELIJIO
the week, the Dons will begin their last 605 League opener at Artesia High on Friday before hosting Oxford Academy on Tuesday. Cerritos will also visit Pioneer High on Thursday before taking nearly two weeks off because of Spring Break. No one in the league is currently above .500. The Dons still have a few games to make up due to the February rains and the recent heat wave if they can be rescheduled.
“I think we’re ready for league,” said Steck. “We’ve been playing tougher competition, and we do that on purpose just to get us ready for league and hopefully beyond league. But I think it’s important for us to make a strong preseason and kind of take our hits early on, so we know what to
work on and know what to adjust.”
Gahr’s Gateway League opener is at Downey High before entertaining Warren High on Tuesday. After that, the Gladiators won’t have a scheduled game until Apr. 14 when they host Mayfair High, and unlike the 605 League, four of the five members of the Gateway League have a winning record.
“We’re slowly mending,” said Sanchez of the early season injuries. “We still our banged up a little bit. We have Downey on Thursday; we have another non-league game on Tuesday versus Kennedy, so that’s going to be another good tune-up for us. The girls have to be ready [for league]. It’s another season; these are going to be challenging, intense games. Downey has a great program, they have some great players over there and I know they’re going to come in and battle us.”
CITY OF LA MIRADA NOTICE INVITING BIDS
CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECT NO. 2025-06
NEIGHBORHOOD SLURRY SEAL AREA 7
Notice is hereby given that the City of La Mirada, California invites sealed bids for the furnishing of all labor, materials, equipment, and services for Capital Improvement Project No. 2025-06, Neighborhood Slurry Seal Area 7. Work includes roadway slurry seal including providing traffic control, crack sealing, weed abatement, type II latex slurry seal, removal and reconstruction of failed AC pavement, and installation of pavement striping and markings in the City of La Mirada.
Project Documents are available online from American Reprographics Company (ARC). Bidders may obtain free copies of the Plans, Specifications and other Contract Documents online by visiting the ARC Southern California website: https://customer.e-arc.com/ arcEOC/PWELL_Main.asp?mem=29. Look under PUBLIC PLANROOM and click GO, then search for City of La Mirada from the dropdown list titled “in all company”. You can also contact ARC at (949) 660-1150 or costamesa.planwell@e-arc.com to request Plans and Specifications.
Sealed bids shall be delivered to the City Clerk at or before 11 a.m. on May 4, 2026. Bids must be submitted on the blank forms, prepared and furnished for that purpose and included in the Plans and Specifications. The City reserves the right to reject any and all bids, or delete portions of any or all bids, or waive any informality or irregularity in the bid or the bid procedures.
Leticia Revilla, City Clerk Published at La Mirada Lamplighter Newspaper 3/27 and 4/3/27
LEGAL NOTICE CITY OF BELLFLOWER ORDINANCE NO. 1453
AN ORDINANCE ADDING CHAPTER 1.18 TO THE BELLFLOWER MUNICIPAL CODE TO IMPLEMENT THE BELLFLOWER CITY CHARTER TO ESTABLISH PUBLICATION REQUIREMENTS FOR OFFICIAL CITY ACTIONS PURSUANT TO THE CITY CHARTER.
The City Council of the City of Bellflower introduced Ordinance No. 1453 at its Regular Meeting of March 23, 2026.
If adopted, Ordinance No. 1453 would add Chapter 1.18 to the Bellflower Municipal Code (“BMC”) to establish a Charter-based framework for publishing City ordinances, resolutions, notices, and other official City actions.
Chapter 1.18 preserves state law publication requirements for matters of statewide concern and authorizes the City to select lawful publication methods for municipal affair matters where state law does not prescribe a specific method. The Ordinance does not eliminate any state-mandated notice requirement and clarifies when publication is governed by state law and when the City may exercise local discretion under the Charter.
For a copy of Ordinance No. 1453, please contact the City Clerk’s Office at (562) 804 1424 or cclerk@bellflower.ca.gov.
Approved as submitted above:
Karl H. Berger, City Attorney
ATTEST: Mayra Ochiqui, City Clerk
Published at Los Cerritos Community Newspaper 3/27/26
CITY OF PICO RIVERA CITY COUNCIL
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING AND PUBLIC COMMENT PERIODS FISCAL YEAR (FY) 2026-2027 ANNUAL ACTION PLAN
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a public hearing will be held before the City of Pico Rivera City Council to receive public comment for Fiscal Year (FY) 2026-2027 Annual Action Plan.
WHEN: Tuesday, April 28, 2026
TIME: 6:00 p.m.
WHERE: City Hall Council Chambers 6615 Passons Boulevard Pico Rivera, CA 90660
The City of Pico Rivera (City) hereby notifies the general public of a public hearing on April 28, 2026, to receive public comment for the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026-2027 Annual Action Plan. The City is an entitlement community and is expected to receive federal Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds from the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for the FY 2026-2027 (July 1, 2026 – June 30, 2027).
As an entitlement jurisdiction, the City is required to prepare and submit to HUD an Annual Action Plan that generally describes how the City will utilize federal money during the next fiscal year to meet the goals and objectives approved by the City Council in the Five-Year Consolidated Plan.
For FY 2026-2027, the City expects to receive approximately $600,000 in CDBG funds that will be available to program.
Priority Funding for CDBG activities are given to activities that:
• Provide decent affordable housing.
• Maintain and promote neighborhood preservation.
• Affirmatively further fair housing choice for all.
• Provide public services for extremely low, low- and moderate-income residents.
• Construct or upgrade public facilities and infrastructure.
• Planning and administration.
Pursuant to the provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and Section 24 CFR 58.34(a) of the National Environmental Protection Act (“NEPA”), the approval of the proposed substantial amendments are exempt from CEQA and NEPA respectively. Under CEQA, the approval of the proposed substantial amendments are exempt from CEQA under the Section 15061(b)(3)’s common sense exemption that CEQA applies only to projects which have the potential for causing a significant effect on the environment and where it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the activity in question may have a significant effect on the environment, the activity is not subject to CEQA.
PERSONS INTERESTED IN THIS MATTER wishing to observe the meeting may do so in the following ways:
(1) Visit the City’s website at https://bit.ly/picorivera-ctv3live;
(2) Email public comments to publiccomments@pico-rivera.org prior to 4:00 pm on the day of the meeting;
(3) Attend the public hearing in person.
The City of Pico Rivera encourages citizen participation in the substantial amendment process. For more information, please contact Julia Gonzalez, Deputy Director, at (562) 8014447 or via email at juliagonzalez@pico-rivera.org.
Members of the public wishing to make public comments may do so via email to the City Clerk at publiccomments@pico-rivera.org.
Availability of Document for Public Comment: The City of Pico Rivera encourages citizen participation in the planning process. The 30-day public review period for the Substantial Amendments to the FY 2026-2027 Annual Action Plans starts on Friday, March 27, 2026, and runs through Tuesday, April 28, 2026. A copy of the draft Plans will be made available for public review on the City of Pico Rivera’s website: https://www.pico-rivera.org/communitydevelopment-block-grant/. For more information, please contact Julia Gonzalez, Deputy Director, at (562) 801-4447 or via email at juliagonzalez@pico-rivera.org.
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 the City Clerk Office at (562) 801-4389 if special program accommodations are necessary and/or if program information is needed on an alternative format. Special requests must be made in a reasonable amount of time so that accommodations can be arranged.
Published: March 27, 2026
Los Cerritos Newspaper
Published at Los Cerritos Community Newspaper 3/27/26
