May 1, 2026 LCCN

Norwalk-La Mirada USD Deal for Controversial Attorney Dies After Public Scrutiny

After an LCCN report published before the meeting raised red flags, Norwalk-La Mirada trustees refused to advance the $240,000 Sarega contract without a second motion.

By Brian Hews

The Norwalk-La Mirada Unified School District’s proposed $240,000-a-year legal services contract with Sarega Law, APC abruptly collapsed this week after a failed board vote—marking a dramatic reversal for a deal that had been quietly placed on the consent calendar.

The agreement, which would have paid attorney Andrew Sarega $20,000 per month for general counsel services, was initially

slated for routine approval with other non-controversial items. But trustees Espie Free and Becky Langenwalter pulled the contract from the consent calendar, forcing a public discussion and separate vote.

What followed underscored the growing discomfort surrounding the hire.

Board President Rudy Cancio attempted to revive the contract by bringing it forward for approval. However, when the motion was made, it failed to receive a second from any other trustee—effectively killing the proposal on the spot.

Under standard parliamentary procedure, a motion without a second cannot proceed to a vote, rendering the contract dead on arrival.

The collapse comes after Los Cerritos Community News raised significant concerns about both the cost and the candidate. District documents showed the contract included not only the

See NLMUSD, Page 4

Facing 25% Policing Cost Surge, Santa Fe Springs Pulls Plug on Whittier PD Contract

City cites cost control, local oversight, and flexibility as key drivers behind police transition.

By Brian Hews

SANTA FE SPRINGS —

The City of Santa Fe Springs, California will establish its own municipal police department, with full operations set to begin March 1, 2028, ending more than three decades of contracted law enforcement services in a move driven in part by rising costs, according to city officials and sources familiar with the discussions.

HAWAIIAN GARDENS ELEMENTARY: Students, staff, and parents from Hawaiian Gardens Elementary School—an award-winning campus—march proudly during the city’s 62nd Annual Anniversary Parade, celebrating community pride, education, and local achievement.

Hawaiian Gardens Draws Thousands for 62nd Anniversary Parade

By Brian Hews

HAWAIIAN GARDENS —

Proposed SSI Rule Could Cut Checks for Up to 70,000 in Los Angeles County

Advocates warn cuts could push vulnerable residents into deeper poverty and strain local economies.

costs toward roughly $23 million within three years if the city remained under the agreement.

City officials said those escalating costs, combined with a desire for greater local control, factored heavily into the decision.

“This was not a decision made lightly,” said Mayor Joe Angel Zamora. “After extensive review and discussion, the Council believes that establishing a Santa Fe Springs Police Department is the best longterm fiscally responsible approach to ensure exceptional, responsive, and community-focused public safety services.”

For more than 30 years, the city has contracted with the Whittier Police Department for policing services, following an earlier arrangement with the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department. The current contract is valued at about $18 million annually.

Sources told Los Cerritos Community News that the contract was set to increase by 9 percent this year, followed by 8 percent increases in each of the next two years—pushing annual

The transition to an in-house department will take approximately 22 months and will include hiring and training personnel, acquiring equipment, developing policies, and establishing facilities needed for full-service operations. The department is expected to include patrol, investigations, traffic enforcement, and community engagement functions, along with coordination with existing public safety and code compliance teams.

Officials emphasized that

The City of Hawaiian Gardens, California celebrated its 62nd anniversary with a packed parade that drew thousands of residents, families, and community groups to city streets in one of the largest turnouts in recent years.

The annual parade showcased the city’s schools, businesses, and public safety agencies, with a procession that highlighted student achievements, local entrepreneurship, and the diverse neighborhoods that make up the community. Marching groups, family floats, and civic organizations joined city officials in a display of unity and hometown pride.

Mayor Maria Teresa Del Rio said the event reflects more than just a milestone.

“The anniversary parade is more than just a celebration; it is a statement about who Hawaiian Gardens is, where we’ve been, and where we’re going,” Del Rio said. “For over 62 years, Hawaiian Gardens has been built on heart, hard work, and family, on neighbors who look out for one another.”

She added that the parade continues to serve as a central tradition for the city, bringing together generations of residents while highlighting ongoing progress.

“This parade is our tradition. It’s our pride. It’s our community coming together, not just to celebrate our history, but to

By Brian Hews

A proposed federal rule change pushed by the Trump administration could slash monthly disability payments for tens of thousands of Los Angeles County residents, targeting some of the region’s poorest households— those where disabled adults or seniors live with family simply to survive.

Nationwide, the impact could be sweeping. As many as 400,000 Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients across the United States could see their benefits reduced or eliminated under the proposal, according to reporting by ProPublica.

For many, the change would mean losing roughly one-third of their monthly income—about $300—amounting to as much as $3,600 a year for some of the country’s poorest and most vulnerable residents.

The plan would reduce or eliminate benefits for SSI recipients living in households that also receive food assistance.

The proposed change is not legislation passed by Congress. It is a regulatory action being developed within the executive branch, initiated by White House officials and advanced through the Social Security Administration as part of the administration’s broader policy agenda.

The change would undo a long-standing rule that recog-

nizes these families as already struggling financially. Instead, it would treat living with family as if the person is getting extra help—basically counting a place to live as income—even when no money is being exchanged, which could reduce their monthly benefits.

The impact in Los Angeles County could be massive—and immediate.

Federal data show approximately 349,000 residents in the county receive Supplemental Security Income, a program that provides monthly payments to people with severe disabilities and low-income seniors. Of those, roughly 285,000 are disabled individuals under age 65, while about 64,000 are elderly recipients. Data is based on Social Security Administration county-level statistics.

Applied locally, that translates to roughly 50,000 to 70,000 people in Los Angeles County who could see their benefits reduced.

For many, the cuts would be severe.

The maximum SSI benefit is about $994 per month. Under existing rules governing “inkind support,” recipients who are deemed to be receiving housing assistance can lose up to a staggering one-third of that amount— roughly $300 per month, or about $3,600 annually.

A significant number of recipients rely on both Social Security and Supplemental Security Income to get by.

In Los Angeles County, an estimated 80,000 to 100,000 residents fall into this category, receiving smaller Social Secu-

Community Pride Shines at Hawaiian Gardens Parade

Andrew Sarega

HONORED: from left to right, are: Elpedio Andrion, Terri Torres, Maryann Brown, Shivas (girlfriend of Sgt. Kemp), Sgt. Robert Kemp V, Gerri and Gregg Forence (SoCal QoV), Laurie Forward, Kammie Nyo, George Ray, and Mayor Lynda Johnson.

The City of Cerritos honored Sergeant Robert H. Kemp V of the 1st Combat Engineer Battalion during a ceremony held Saturday, April 25, 2026, recognizing his exemplary military service and ongoing commitment to the nation. The event took place at the Sheraton Fountain Court, where the mayor and city council presented Kemp with a Certificate of Appreciation in front of community members and supporters.

Cerritos, which formally “adopted” the Marines and Sailors of the 1st Combat Engineer Battalion at Camp Pendleton in 2007, continued its long-standing tradition of honoring service members assigned to the unit. As part of the ceremony, the Southern California Quilt of Valor organization presented Kemp with a handcrafted quilt, symbolizing gratitude for his service. The presentation was made by representatives Gregg and Jeri Florence following the city’s proclamation.

Kemp and his guest spent the weekend

in Cerritos as honored visitors, with lodging, meals and entertainment provided by local sponsors, including area restaurants, a hotel stay, bowling at Bowlero Cerritos and recreational activities such as golf and a movie outing.

Born in Denver and raised in Atlanta, Kemp enlisted in the Marine Corps in 2018 and quickly advanced through the ranks. His service has included assignments in Japan, Thailand and the Philippines, where he supported humanitarian missions building schools and infrastructure. He also participated in joint training exercises with allied forces and helped train deploying Marine units.

Now serving as a platoon sergeant at Camp Pendleton, Kemp has earned multiple honors, including the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal. His career has reflected strong leadership, technical expertise and a continued dedication to service.

‘Bark Spot’ Dog Park Opens at Caruthers Park in Bellflower

Families Get Fairy Tale Escape at Lakewood Light Show

DOG DAYS DONE RIGHT: City officials, residents, and their four-legged companions will gather May 1 at 3:30 p.m. for the ribbon-cutting of The Bark Spot at Caruthers Park, a new off-leash dog park featuring separate areas for small and large dogs.

ENCHANTED MOMENT: A glowing Beauty and the Beast scene comes to life at Imaginarium’s “Utopia,” where classic fairy tales are reimagined through millions of lights, immersive sets, and storybook magic at Lakewood Center.

LCCN Staff Report

Construction is officially underway on The Bark Spot, a brand-new dog park located at Caruthers Park. Bring your fourlegged companions to celebrate the ribbon-cutting of The Bark Spot, on Friday, May 1, at 3:30 p.m. at Caruthers Park, 10500 Flora Vista St.

The Bark Spot will serve as a safe and inclusive space that promotes responsible pet ownership, connection and active recreation. The new park expands access to off-leash recreation and offers another convenient option for residents to enjoy with their dogs close to home.

The park includes separate areas for small and large dogs, providing space for both active play and more casual use.

A glowing fairy tale world has arrived just minutes from Cerritos as Imaginarium’s “Utopia… Where Fairy Tales Come Alive” transforms nearly three acres of Lakewood Center into a dazzling nighttime attraction through Sept. 7. Featuring more than five million lights, the indoor-outdoor experience invites visitors to wander through illuminated kingdoms filled with storybook characters, towering glowing trees and interactive displays designed for all ages. Organizers say the event blends fantasy and hands-on fun, offering everything from infinity mirror rooms to themed photo spaces and immersive activity zones.

Guests can navigate winding paths through animated gardens, step inside

The construction of The Bark Spot aligns with the City Council’s 2025-2027 Strategic Plan and supports implementa-

mirror rooms that create endless reflections, or dive into playful attractions including laser mazes, ball pits and interactive art exhibits. The event also features daily live entertainment, including circus-style performances with aerial acts, fire juggling and motorcycle stunts inside a Globe of Death.

tion of the Parks and Recreation Master Plan. By continuing to invest in parks and public spaces, the City is enhancing amenities that support a safe, well-maintained and connected community. Residents, business owners and community members played a key role in shaping these priorities, prioritizing improvements to parks and public spaces.

City official wanted to thank the Rotary Club of Bellflower for their support of this project. In recognition of its 100th Anniversary, the Bellflower Rotary Club partnered with the City of Bellflower to create a lasting community legacy. Rotary’s contribution supports The Bark Spot and provides the initial funding to establish the future Bellflower Parks and Recreation Foundation.

The city asks residents to pardon the dust as finishing touches are put on this “paw-some” new amenity.

Located at 326 Lakewood Center Mall, the attraction runs six nights a week with varying evening hours. General admission starts at $20, with discounts available for children, seniors and military personnel. Children under two are admitted free, and parking is included. With its mix of spectacle, nostalgia and social media-ready visuals, Utopia offers a colorful spring and summer outing for local families looking for something beyond the usual night out.

Santa Fe Springs Approves Temporary Truck and Container Storage on Vacant Lots

Commerce Sets Community Meeting on Sales Tax Measure Amid Revenue Threat

LCCN Staff Report

By Brian Hews

The City of Commerce will host an informational community meeting on Measure PC, a proposed quarter-cent sales tax aimed at protecting local services, on Wednesday, May 6 at 6 p.m. inside Council Chambers at 5655 Jillson Street. The meeting is part of an ongoing outreach effort to explain the Commerce Essential Services Protection Measure, which will appear on the June 2026 ballot.

SANTA FE SPRINGS — The Santa Fe Springs City Council has approved a new ordinance allowing temporary storage of trucks, trailers, and shipping containers on vacant properties, opening the door for interim industrial use of undeveloped land across the city.

The newly adopted ordinance establishes a formal process requiring property owners to obtain a Conditional Use Permit before using land for storage purposes. Each proposal will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis, with the city retaining authority to impose conditions or deny applications.

City officials say the proposal is designed to ensure tax dollars remain in Commerce to support core services, including public safety, youth and senior programs, and infrastructure maintenance.

City officials say the move is intended to address ongoing issues with vacant properties, including illegal dumping and blight, while giving landowners an opportunity to generate limited income as they move toward future development.

The push for Measure PC follows a Feb. 24 City Council decision declaring a fiscal emergency, driven largely by anticipated losses tied to new state gambling regulations. Officials estimate the City could lose up to $18 million annually in casino-related revenue. The Commerce Casino currently generates more than $30 million a year for the General Fund, accounting for over 40 percent of the City’s roughly $80 million budget.

Under the ordinance, storage sites must meet specific operational standards, including requirements for security, screening from public view, and limits on how long the use can remain in place. The policy is designed to ensure that the temporary use does not interfere with the city’s long-term development plans.

Measure PC would add a quarter-cent to the local sales tax, allowing the City to capture the remaining available increment before reaching the countywide cap of 10.75 percent. Commerce’s current rate stands at 10.50 percent, leaving only a quarter-cent available. swer session with City staff.

The measure was unanimously approved by the City Council at a March meeting will take effect May 7, 2026.

The change reflects a growing trend among cities to allow short-term industrial uses on idle land, balancing economic activity with concerns about neighborhood impacts such as increased truck traffic and visual clutter.

Additional information about Measure PC and future meetings is available at www.CommerceMeasurePC.com.

Why Small Community Newspapers Don’t Get to Choose Between Reach and Relevance

By Brian Hews

A recent column in Editor and Publisher by Christian A. Hendricks, publisher & founder of Holly Springs Update, a digital-only news outlet in North Carolina asked a question that has been around newsrooms for years: are we giving people what they want, or what they need?

It’s a fair question. But it doesn’t apply the way some people think.

In smaller community newsrooms—especially ones that print a paper every week—this is not a theory question. It’s a real one. And the answer is not choosing between reach and relevance. It’s both. It has to be.

There’s a growing idea, mostly from digital-first publishers, that newsrooms should do less. Publish fewer stories. Go deeper. Focus on relevance instead of reach. Build trust with fewer, stronger pieces.

That works—if all you have is a newsletter.

It does not work when you print and deliver thousands of newspapers every week to real homes in real communities. Because in that world, reach is not the enemy of relevance. It is how you deliver it.

If people don’t pick up the paper, they don’t see the reporting. If the paper doesn’t reflect the community, they stop picking it up. And if they stop picking it up, the journalism—no matter how important—never gets seen.

That’s what gets missed in these conversations. A community newspaper is not just one product. It is a system.

It informs people, yes. But it also reflects the community and brings people together. It covers city councils, school boards, and public records. It also shows photos of kids, local events, and everyday life. Those are not filler stories. They are what keep people reading long enough to see the stories that matter most.

In a small newsroom, you don’t have the luxury of specialists. You don’t have separate teams for different topics. You have limited time, limited staff, and constant choices about what to cover.

That means you don’t pick between volume and depth. You handle both. Some weeks, there are big stories— policy decisions, money issues, investigations. Other weeks, there are fewer. But the paper still has to come out. It still has to be worth picking up. That consistency builds habit, and habit

builds readers. And readers give your reporting impact.

There is also a difference between chasing volume and serving a community.

The goal is not to fill space with anything. But it’s also not to publish so little that people forget about you. The balance is not random. It is built over time by knowing what your readers expect and what they care about.

That knowledge doesn’t come from data alone. It comes from being in the community, talking to sources, and hearing what people are actually discussing—at parks, at games, and in daily life. That’s where real engagement happens.

In bigger or digital-only newsrooms, audience strategy and editorial goals are often separate.

In a community newspaper, they are connected.

You can’t choose one over the other. You have to produce journalism that matters, and present it in a way people will actually read.

That includes everything from investigations to community events.

Because the truth is simple: the stories that bring readers in are not always the same ones that carry the most weight. But without those first stories, the important ones may never be seen.

So when people ask, “What are you trying to do?” the answer is clear. You are trying to inform your community in a way that reaches them.

That takes depth. It takes consistency. And yes, it takes reach.

Not as competing goals—but as parts of the same mission.

LCCN Owner/Publisher BRIAN

HEWS has published weekly, home-delivered community newspapers in Los Angeles County for more than 43 years—continuing a family legacy in local journalism. His grandfather founded The Wave Newspapers in the 1950’s, which remained family owned and operated for decades. During the 1980s and 1990s, Hews helped lead the company as it grew into the largest community newspaper group in the nation, reaching 280,000 print newspapers delivered every Wednesday. The family sold The Wave in 1999. In 2002, Hews purchased the Los Cerritos Community News, which he has owned and operated ever since—through the collapse of print, the rise of digital, and everything in between.

From the Mayor’s Desk: May

Mayor warns of deficits, outlines dual budget plan, urges residents to engage as Cerritos weighs cuts or potential new tax decisions.

By Lynda Johnson Mayor, City of Cerritos

One of the most important responsibilities of the Cerritos City Council and City staff is to ensure we are good stewards of taxpayer dollars. This creates trust and greater financial sustainability and ensures that quality services can be provided. That commitment is at the heart of our Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Budget process.

Current financial forecasts show that City expenditures are projected to outpace revenues over time, resulting in recurring structural budget deficits.

The Cerritos City Council recognizes that, absent meaningful changes, these long-term financial pressures will intensify.

That is why, at our March 9 meeting, the City Council directed staff to develop a dual budget planning framework for the coming fiscal year.

Under this approach, the City Council will consider two budget scenarios. In one scenario, City staff will present a balanced budget using expenditure cuts achieved through service and infrastructure maintenance reductions.

A second scenario will include a combination of expenditure cuts and an increase in revenue generated from

1, 2026

the potential adoption of a Transactions and Use Tax (TUT) to help offset rising costs while growing long-term revenues.

The primary scenario, if no TUT revenue is approved, would require extensive expenditure reductions and service level adjustments.

Both paths have real impacts for our community, and I want residents to understand them fully.

This is precisely why we’ve sought feedback from the public during this budget process.

That included the creation of a Resident Budget Task Force, which the City Council directed the City Manager to appoint in early March.

The 16-member Task Force recently concluded its work, and a report will be delivered to the City Council at our May 11 meeting.

Additionally, the City hosted two Community Budget Workshops to connect with the broader community about our fiscal climate, financial forecasts, and receive feedback.

Thank you to those who attended and let your voices be heard. Your feedback is incredibly insightful.

Presentation slides, a recording of our webinar workshop, and a feedback form can be found at cerritos.gov/future.

Ahead of our new fiscal year beginning July 1, I hope you’ll take some time to join us at our upcoming meetings.

This includes the City Council’s next two budget study sessions on May 11 and June 8, with a public hearing and final budget adoption scheduled for June 22.

Our collective efforts align with the City’s Strategic Plan goal of Fiscal Transparency and Sustainability.

To borrow our theme of “Cerritos in Progress,” it is your participation that makes that progress meaningful.

$240,000 base salary, but also open-ended reimbursements for litigation costs, consultants, investigators, and travel—potentially pushing total taxpayer exposure far higher.

Equally controversial was Sarega himself.

Past reporting by Los Cerritos Community News detailed a political career marked by Fair Political Practices Commission fines, allegations of “dark money” activity in local elections, and a failed lawsuit against this publication.

The opinions in this section are those of the individual writers and do not necessarily reflect the positions of LCCN. Email editor@cerritosnews.net or mail PO Box 788 Artesia Ca. , 90701.

NLMUSD Board President Dr. Robert Cancio tried to bring the contract back for voting after it was tabled but failed.

Sarega resigned from the La Mirada City Council in 2024 shortly after serving as mayor and has only a few years of experience as a practicing attorney.

The failed motion suggests at least some trustees were unwilling to move forward without deeper scrutiny.

For now, the contract is effectively dead, though it could be reintroduced at a future meeting. Whether the district attempts to revive the deal—or pivots to a more traditional law firm with broader experience—remains to be seen.

What is clear is that public exposure played a decisive role.

A contract that was initially positioned for quiet approval unraveled in open session, raising fresh questions about how major financial decisions are vetted—and how close this one came to passing without debate.

Cerritos Mayor Lynda Johnson

Behind the Agenda: What Your City is Planning Next

Because what’s buried in the agenda today shapes your city tomorrow.

By Brian Hews

Cities across Southeast Los Angeles County are advancing a wave of policy decisions that, while routine on paper, carry long-term consequences for residents—from water reliability and housing rules to redevelopment and density shifts. Here’s what’s moving forward.

Artesia Moves to Rewrite Housing Rules, Streamline Development

The Artesia Planning Commission is considering a sweeping overhaul of the City’s zoning code aimed at accelerating housing approvals and aligning local rules with state mandates.

Proposed amendments would establish objective development standards for mixed-use and multifamily housing, introduce ministerial approvals to reduce discretionary review, and revise existing zoning and design rules. The changes implement the City’s 2021–2029 Housing Element and apply citywide.

Planning staff determined the proposal is exempt from environmental review under the California Environmental Quality Act, concluding the changes would not increase density or create new environmental impacts. The public hearing is set for May 19.

Artesia Bell Tower Proposal Seeks to Preserve Historic Landmark

Also on the May 19 agenda, Artesia officials will consider a proposal to construct a 35-foot-tall bell tower to house the historic Artesia Grammar School bell.

Submitted by the Artesia Historical Society, the project requires a variance to exceed the current 30-foot height limit in the City’s Historic District.

Supporters say the tower would serve as a cultural focal point, preserving a piece of the City’s past. Planning staff have deemed the project exempt under CEQA as a small-scale structure.

Apartment Project Raises Questions After Demolition, Density Reduction Proposal

A separate proposal in Artesia could replace 21 existing residential units with a new 22-unit apartment building—but with a twist: the project also seeks to reduce minimum density requirements on the site.

The development, located in the Downtown Specific Plan area, includes both a design review and a zoning map amendment. While the project results in a net gain of one unit, the requested

density reduction runs counter to broader state pressure to increase housing capacity.

City staff determined the project qualifies for multiple CEQA exemptions, citing infill development standards and consistency with previously analyzed plans.

The Planning Commission will consider the proposal at its May 19 meeting, where residents can weigh in before any decision is made.

Bellflower Grants Water Franchise for Citywide Distribution

The Bellflower City Council has approved a new franchise agreement allowing the Bellflower-Somerset Mutual Water Company to continue transmitting and distributing potable water throughout the city using public streets, alleys, and rights-of-way.

The ordinance, adopted April 27 and effective May 27, formalizes the company’s authority to operate within public infrastructure—an often-overlooked but critical component of how water is delivered to homes and businesses.

While largely administrative, franchise agreements define long-term operational rights and responsibilities, making them a key piece of a city’s infrastructure framework, especially as water supply and reliability remain ongoing concerns across California.

Bellflower Approves Flower Street Housing Plan and Development Agreement

The Bellflower City Council has approved a zoning change and development framework that will guide new residential construction on three parcels along Flower Street.

The action replaces an existing transit-oriented zoning designation with a newly created specific plan tailored to the site, establishing development and design standards for properties at 9855, 9903, and 9915 Flower Street.

The ordinance also approves a development agreement between the City and a private developer, paving the way for construction at 9903 Flower Street and potential future development at 9855 Flower Street.

City officials say the move creates a clearer path for residential development, but it also shifts the planning approach away from a transit-oriented model, raising broader questions about how growth will align with regional housing and transportation goals. The ordinance was adopted April 27 and will take effect May 27.

Bellflower Expands Fireworks Sales Rules Ahead of Summer Season

The Bellflower City Council has approved changes to local fireworks regulations that will expand both when and where “safe and sane” fireworks can be

sold within city limits.

The updated ordinance extends the allowable sales period and permits certain fireworks stands to operate along secondary arterial streets, increasing visibility and access for residents.

Supporters say the changes could benefit local nonprofit groups that rely on fireworks sales for fundraising, while also making it easier for residents to purchase legal fireworks ahead of Independence Day celebrations.

The ordinance was adopted April 27 and takes effect May 27.

Cerritos Prepares to Adopt LongTerm Water Plan Amid State Mandate

The City of Cerritos is preparing to adopt its 2025 Urban Water Management Plan and Water Shortage Contingency Plan, a state-required document that maps out water supply, demand, and reliability over the next 25 years.

Mandated by the California Department of Water Resources, the plan evaluates future water needs, supply sources, and conservation strategies, while outlining specific actions the City would take during droughts or supply disruptions.

A public hearing is scheduled for May 28 at City Hall, with the draft plan available for public review through that date. Officials say the update ensures compliance with state law—but it also quietly sets the framework for how Cerritos will respond to future water shortages and rising infrastructure demands.

Across all of these items, the pattern is clear: cities are making long-range decisions—about water, housing, and development—through technical plans and zoning changes that rarely make headlines but shape daily life.

And most of it is happening in plain sight, tucked inside public notices and agenda packets.

La Palma Mourns

Passing of Former Mayor Edward Byrne

LCCN Staff Report

LA PALMA, Calif. — The City of La Palma announced the passing of former Mayor Edward J. Byrne, a longtime civic leader and aerospace engineer who died April 24, 2026, at age 92.

Byrne spent decades balancing a career in engineering with public service, leaving a lasting mark on both the city and the aerospace industry. After serving four years in the United States Air Force specializing in aircraft maintenance, he earned a mechanical engineering degree from the Indiana Institute of Technology. He later joined Rockwell, where he contributed to major national programs, including the Apollo missions in the 1960s and the development of the Space Shuttle in the 1970s.

He was elected to the La Palma City Council in 1971 and served for 13 years, including terms as mayor from 1972 to 1976 and again from 1983 to 1984. His tenure coincided with a key period of growth for the city, and he is credited with helping guide its early development.

Among his most notable contributions, Byrne helped advance the creation of the 35-acre industrial park on Fresca Drive in 1972, which remains a central hub of business activity. He also played a role in the 1984 groundbreaking of Centerpointe La Palma, then considered one of Orange County’s most innovative multi-use business parks.

Byrne was also instrumental in expanding community amenities. He helped lead the development of La Palma’s Central Park, overseeing its groundbreaking

and dedication in 1975. The park continues to serve as a focal point for recreation and community events.

Throughout his time in office, Byrne was known for a measured, forward-looking approach and a focus on building a stable, family-oriented community. His influence remains visible in the city’s infrastructure, parks, and economic base.

La Palma Mayor Nitesh P. Patel said, “Former Mayor Byrne was a visionary leader whose contributions helped shape the foundation of our city. His commitment to thoughtful development, community spaces, and public service continues to benefit generations of residents.”

Byrne is survived by his wife, Marilyn; his children, Margaret, Edward, and Jean Marie; six grandchildren; and one great-grandson.

City officials extended condolences to the Byrne family and recognized his decades of service and lasting impact on the La Palma community.

Stater Bros., ‘Shoes That Fit’ Launch Fundraiser to Provide New Sneakers for Local Kids

Regional campaign aims to provide properly fitting shoes to children, boosting participation and success in school and activities.

By Brian Hews

SAN BERNARDINO — Stater

Bros. Charities has partnered with the national nonprofit Shoes That Fit to help provide children across Southern California with brand-new, properly fitting sneakers, launching a regional fundraising campaign aimed at improving both student confidence and classroom participation.

The campaign comes as many families continue to struggle with basic necessities, including properly fitting footwear for growing children.

Worn or ill-fitting shoes can affect not only comfort, but also a child’s ability to fully participate in school, sports, and daily activities.

“At Shoes That Fit, we believe every child deserves the chance to move forward with confidence,” said Amy Fass, CEO/Executive Director of Shoes That Fit. “A new pair of properly fitting, brand-name athletic shoes doesn’t just protect growing feet; it helps children participate in organized sports and recess, stay active and healthy, and walk into school feeling proud instead of self-conscious. We are so grateful for this partnership with Stater Bros. Charities to ensure that children in Southern California

have what they need to learn, play and thrive.”

Stater Bros. Charities Chairman and President Nancy Negrette emphasized that the impact goes beyond physical comfort.

“Shoes do more than just enable kids to run and play outside comfortably,” Negrette said. “High-quality, name-brand shoes also help provide children with dignity and self-esteem to help them succeed in school and thrive in life.”

The in-store fundraising campaign begins Wednesday, April 29 and runs through Mother’s Day on Sunday, May 10, 2026.

Customers can donate at checkout at any Stater Bros.

Market location, with all proceeds going toward purchasing new sneakers for children in need.

Donations can also be made online at staterbros.com/shoesthatfit or by texting NEWSHOES to 41444.

According to the nonprofit, educators have reported measurable benefits when students receive properly fitting shoes, including improved behavior, increased participation, higher self-esteem, and greater physical activity.

The program aims to ensure that children can “walk, run, hop, skip, and jump” without the barriers that come from inadequate footwear—something organizers say is a small investment with long-term impact.

Local school districts and community organizations are expected to help identify students most in need, ensuring donations reach underserved families.

Organizers say the campaign’s regional focus allows for direct impact, keeping funds within Southern California communities while addressing a basic but often overlooked barrier to student success and overall well-being.

EDWARD BYRNE was elected to the La Palma City Council in 1971.

By Stepheny Gehrig

Santa Fe Springs’ Heritage Park was transformed into its own Coachella — a vibrant, daylong celebration of art, culture and community. The 11th annual Art Fest took place April 25 from 2 p.m. to 10 p.m., drawing an estimated 12,000 attendees from across the region.

“The city’s so rich in tradition with tradition in putting on events — we’re really blessed and happy to have the opportunity to be able to do things like this in our city,” Santa Fe Springs City Manager Rene Bobadilla told Los Cerritos Community News. “We really enlarged our scale of artists.”

From musical performances and film talkbacks to gallery walk-throughs and free hands-on workshops, the Art Fest delivered a wide-ranging experience designed to engage residents of all ages. Families, students and longtime community members filled the park, moving from stage to stage and booth to booth, creating a steady buzz of activity throughout the afternoon and evening.

Within the festival, Santa Fe Springs spotlighted local actors, directors, screenwriters and producers through the Santa Fe Springs Film Fest. Over four hours, 13 short films were screened, along with two artist talkbacks that gave audiences a behind-the-scenes look at the creative process. For many emerging filmmakers, the event offered a rare opportunity to present their work in front of a live audience.

On the main stage, performers included Blue Breeze Band, Kimba Light and MKY, drawing crowds with high-energy sets, while the second stage showcased cultural performances from Ada S. Nelson Elementary Folklorico, Santa Fe High School Mariachi and the Polynesian Paradise Dancers. The variety of acts reflected the city’s diverse cultural

Party City Will Be Inside Staples Stores Nationwide

By Brian Hews

After filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in late 2024 and closing all of its standalone stores by early 2025, the once-dominant party supply chain has reemerged through a nationwide partnership with Staples, placing its products inside more than 700 locations across the country.

The move marks a dramatic shift for the nearly 40-year-old brand, which quietly exited the traditional retail model after struggling with debt, changing consumer habits, and increased competition. Instead of reopening its big-box party stores, Party City is now operating as a “storewithin-a-store” inside Staples, while continuing to sell products online under new

Inclusivity and Diversity Celebrated at Santa Fe Springs Art Fest

tained but also encouraged self-expression and exploration, especially among younger participants experiencing art in a new way.

Across Heritage Park, vendors and artist booths stretched throughout the grounds, offering everything from handcrafted goods to live demonstrations. The steady stream of visitors underscored the event’s role as more than just entertainment — it served as a gathering place where creativity, culture and community intersect.

“Overall, for the community, it’s really important to show the creativity of not only our kids, but the talented artists in this community,” Zamora said. “We give them the opportunity — not only Santa Fe Springs residents, but people from surrounding communities — to come and showcase their art. I want to make sure artists are highlighted and that we spread the love everywhere.”

makeup and its commitment to highlighting local talent.

“We give the opportunity to our local bands, Mariachis, and different people who just want to showcase what they do, whether it’s arts or entertainment — we give them that opportunity,” Mayor Joe Angel Zamora said.

Members of the Santa Fe Springs City Council unanimously pointed to the breakdancing battle as one of the day’s standout attractions. Open to all ages, the competition brought together participants ranging from young beginners to experienced dancers, each taking turns on the floor as DJ Prolifix kept the energy high.

“I just saw the breakdancing and I see the diversity of the little kids and the older people,” said Councilmember Juanita Martin. “I think that’s so cool. That’s

ownership.

Staples confirmed the rollout includes decorations, balloons, costumes, tableware, gift bags, and custom items such as banners and invitations. The partnership is designed to create a one-stop shop by combining party supplies with Staples’ printing and marketing services—targeting everything from birthday parties to business grand openings.

The rollout is still underway. Staples plans to expand Party City offerings to nearly all of its roughly 900 U.S. locations by the end of 2026, meaning availability will vary by store for now. The timing of the relaunch coincides with peak celebration season, including graduations and summer events, and includes promotional deals aimed at drawing customers back to the brand.

Bottom line: Party City didn’t reopen—it reinvented itself. The balloons are back, just next to the printer ink.

something that has been around for so long — it loses its momentum and then comes right back. When you see it, it brings back so many memories of when we were kids.”

Beyond the performances, interactive workshops allowed attendees to step into the creative process themselves, whether through painting, crafts or other hands-on activities. The workshops not only enter-

ART FEST HANDS-ON:

Attendees shape clay creations during a hands-on workshop at the Santa Fe Springs Art Fest, one of many interactive activities offered throughout the day.

For the 11th year, the Santa Fe Springs Art Fest once again highlighted the power of the arts to bring people together. Through music, film, dance and visual expression, the event reinforced a simple idea: when a city invests in creativity, it strengthens the connections that make a community thrive.

Monday thru Saturday6 pm to 12 Midnight

Doors open at 4pm Sunday 2 pm to 9 pm

Doors open at 12pm

SANTA FE SPRINGS PRIDE: (l-r) Councilmember John M. Mora, Mayor Pro Tem Annette Rodriguez, Mayor Joe Angel Zamora, and Councilmembers Juanita Martin and William K. Rounds pose in front of the “I Love SFS” sign during the Art Fest.

SSI CUTS

rity checks that are supplemented by SSI to cover basic living expenses. For these individuals, SSI is not extra income—it is the difference between scraping by and falling short. Any reduction in SSI benefits would directly cut into their total monthly income, leaving some with only a few hundred dollars to cover rent, food, and essentials in one of the most expensive regions in the country.

The proposed rule would expand that reduction to far more households, including those already deemed poor enough to qualify for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), commonly known as food stamps.

In a county where high housing costs force many families to live together, the consequences could be immediate. Multigenerational households are common across Southeast Los Angeles County, where rent and home prices have made independent living out of reach for many disabled adults and seniors.

The policy also raises a fundamental contradiction: a household can be poor enough to qualify for food assistance, yet still be treated as financially supporting a disabled family member when calculating SSI benefits.

Advocates argue the change could backfire financially. While cutting a few hundred dollars a month might reduce federal spending in the short term, it could push vulnerable residents into institutional care, which costs significantly more per day.

Economists have long found that safety-net dollars like SSI don’t just support recipients—they ripple through the broader economy. Research shows that every $1 in benefits typically generates about $1.50 to $1.90 in economic activity, as recipients immediately spend the money on rent, gro-

CELEBRATING

ceries, transportation, and basic services in their communities.

In Los Angeles County, where roughly $295 million in SSI payments flow each month, that translates into hundreds of millions more circulating through local businesses. Any reduction in those payments doesn’t just hit vulnerable households—it pulls spending power out of local economies that depend on it.

Before the rule can take effect, it must go through a federal public comment process. Once published in the Federal Register, the proposal will be open for feedback from the public, advocacy groups, and local governments, typically for 30 to 60 days. During that time, anyone can submit comments through Regulations. gov, outlining support, concerns, or potential impacts. Federal officials at the Social Security Administration are required to review those responses before finalizing the rule, and significant public opposition can lead to changes—or even halt the proposal altogether.

For now, families across Los Angeles County—many already stretched thin— are watching closely.

PARADE from page 1

celebrate each other,” Del Rio said. “We may be small in size, but we are mighty in spirit.”

City officials pointed to strong participation from local schools and youth programs, along with businesses investing in the city’s economic future. Public safety personnel also took part, drawing applause from spectators lining the route.

The parade underscores Hawaiian Gardens’ continued focus on community engagement and civic identity as the city looks toward future growth while maintaining long-standing traditions.

Growing BasilThe King of Herbs

By Melinda Myers

Look for opportunities to include basil in gardens, containers, and ornamental plantings. Purple varieties add color and combine nicely with other flowers and vegetables. Everleaf Emerald Towers is a very tall and productive plant that adds vertical interest to container and in-ground gardens.

Always wait for the air and soil to warm before moving basil into the garden. Cold air and soil can stunt or damage the plants and increase the risk of downy mildew. You may even see blackened leaves and other damage when temperatures drop to 50 degrees.

Protect tender plants in spring and extend the harvest in fall with the help of floating row covers. These spun fabrics trap heat around the plants while allowing air, light, and water through. Lightweight row covers can be used throughout the summer to protect the plants from Japanese beetles.

Keep plants healthy and help reduce the risk of downy mildew disease

by growing basil in sunny locations with plenty of room to reach their mature size. The extra space allows sunlight to reach all parts of the plants, and the added air movement quickly dries the leaves.

Avoid overhead irrigation whenever possible. Instead, use soaker hoses, drip irrigation, or a watering wand to apply the water directly to the soil.

Red leaf, Thai, and lemon-flavored basil varieties are less susceptible to downy mildew. Relatively new sweet basil varieties such as Devotion DMR, Obsession DMR, Passion DMR, Thunderstruck DMR, Prospera Compact DMR, and Prospera are downy mildew resistant.

Watch for slugs that feed at night, eating large, ragged holes in the leaves. Trap them with shallow containers of beer sunk into the ground or use a slug beer trap with a built-in cover. The slugs are attracted to the fermenting yeast, crawl inside, and die.

Unlike slugs, the Japanese beetles feed and mate in broad daylight. They devour large portions of the leaves, leaving only the veins behind.

If you see circular clear or black spots on the leaves the four-lined plant bug is the culprit. The dead tissue may eventually fall out, resulting in small holes.

Manage Japanese beetles and plant bugs by knocking them into a can

‘DEVOTION DMR’:

New strains of basil are mildew resistant.

of soapy water or treating the plants with an organic insecticide labeled for controlling these pests on basil. Always read and follow all label directions for safe and effective control.

Harvest basil as needed. Regular harvesting will increase productivity and ensure the best flavor. Remove flower buds as soon as they appear to maintain foliage flavor. But don’t worry if a few blossoms appear, these are also edible and a favorite of beneficial insects.

Plan to grow and harvest extra basil to make pesto or flavored vinegar. Make plenty to enjoy throughout the

ROW COVER:

Buy these to keep pests off your basil and vegetables.

year and share with family and friends. Melinda Myers has written over 20 gardening books. Myers is a columnist and contributing editor for Birds & Blooms magazine. Myers’ website is www.MelindaMyers.com.

KING OF HERBS: Fresh on your pizza, added to your favorite Italian and Southeastern Asian dishes, or made into pesto, it’s not surprising basil is often called the king of herbs.

By Loren Kopff @LorenKopff on X

Cardenas roughed up early as Valley Christian falls to Heritage Christian

Before the first pitch was thrown, all the cards seemed to be in favor of Valley Christian High as it hosted Heritage Christian High last Thursday. The Defenders were sending junior John Cardenas to the mound, making his seventh start in eight appearances and hoping to remain undefeated.

Cardenas had not allowed a first inning run in any of his starts and was hoping to give the Defenders a season-series win over the Warriors as Olympic League-leading Maranatha High awaits this week. But Cardenas threw 30 pitches in the top of the first inning, allowed three

hits and three runs and the Warriors held on late for a 6-4 victory. The Defenders began the final week of league action tied with Heritage Christian for second place and two games behind Maranatha with three to go.

“He kept his pitches up a little bit; [Heritage Christian] got a couple of twostrike hits that didn’t make his best pitch, which led to the baserunners,” said V.C. head coach Eric Slater of his star pitcher. “This is a good team; they compete and they’re solid up and down the lineup. They’re doing their best job to get baserunners on, and they did that in the first couple of innings.”

the sixth inning for the fourth time this season.

“The great part about that though is to see the resilience of John to settle down and then really start pitching pretty well after a couple tough innings for himself,” said Slater. “He settled down and kept the ball down. That’s the difference. When the ball stays down for him, he’s going to be effective, and he became a lot more efficient in those last few innings.”

On the fourth pitch of the game, Nicholas Boldt singled to right field and on the next pitch, Cardenas hit Colter Hirtensteiner. Two batters later, a double from Crosby Hirtensteiner brought in Boldt and now with two outs, an infield hit from Robert Pettijohn made it 2-0. That was followed by a one-strike single from Ian Patterson and a base hit to left from Josh Park on a 2-2 count to load the bases before Cardenas struck out Isaac Patterson.

After Cardenas got Boldt to hit a comebacker to him to lead off the second, Colter Hirtensteiner, who would make it 4-0 on a wild pitch, and Christian Boldt each singled and Noah Arreola doubled with two outs to plate Boldt.

After that, Cardenas settled down and threw 54 pitches until he was lifted with one out in the seventh. He ended the game by allowing a season-high 11 hits and six hits, striking out three and releasing 94 pitches. He did get to at least

V.C. had opportunities to get on the board in the first few innings but came away empty. With two outs in the first, senior shortstop Lucas Witt singled but was out at second on a fielder’s choice from junior catcher Mack Lynott. Then with one out in the second, Crosby Hirtensteiner walked junior first baseman Brody Beck, who moved to second on a two-out single from junior right fielder Lincoln Slater. After both runners stole their respective bases, sophomore third baseman Hunter Deeble was caught looking at a third strike.

The Defenders (15-7, 6-3) got on the board in the third when junior center fielder Quintin Ekstrom, Witt and Lynott all singled on the first pitch they saw from Hirtensteiner with one out. Senior left fielder Max Douglas hit a sacrifice fly to bring home Ekstrom, but another strikeout ended further scoring.

V.C. got its second run in the sixth when Beck singled with one out and was replaced by junior pinch runner Luke Gisler who made it 5-2 on Deeble’s twoout single. The Warriors would tack on their last run in the seventh, but the hosts sent eight to the plate in their half of the inning and had the winning run come up to bat.

With one out, Witt doubled down the left field line and Lynott singled before a base hit from Douglas scored Witt. One out later, senior designated hitter Cole Hefner singled to load the bases and a walk to Lincoln Slater allowed Lynott to score. Two pitches later, a fly out ended the game the ended any chance for the Defenders to win the all-important season series with Heritage Christian and move a game closer to Maranatha.

“They do a lot of things well,” said Eric Slater of Heritage Christian. “They have a lot of bat control; they keep the ball out of the air, they put the ball in play a lot and then today, what happened was nothing different from the last two times they played us. It’s just today, their hitting just found those right spots against us. The same thing could have happened in game two. Luckily in game two, those

ground balls were hit to our guys.

“We just didn’t quite get the big hit that we needed,” he later said. “And that’s baseball; you can’t do it all the time, and we’ve done it a lot this year. I like these moments. I hate losing, but I like these moments because it trains your team to be competitive in these types of ballgames.”

On Apr. 20, Heritage Christian scored in the bottom of the sixth to edge the Defenders 4-3, but the next day, V.C. scored four times in the top of the third and posted a 6-2 victory.

Before the loss to begin the week, the Defenders had won 18 straight games over Heritage Christian. They have won 43 of the past 60 meetings against the Warriors and the 43 wins are the most against any opponent. Meanwhile, Maranatha has been on top of the league since 2018, winning 83 of its 89 league contests, including this season. Of the six league losses over the past eight seasons, four have been to V.C. Maranatha did lose to Heritage Christian earlier this season.

Any chance of the Defenders (15-8, 6-4) winning the league were quickly dashed as Maranatha won 19-6 this past Tuesday. The middle game with the Minutemen, which is also the last home game of the regular season for the Defenders, is on Apr. 30 with the regular season finale on Friday.

“The bottom line is that we look at every single game at that particular moment,” said Eric Slater. “Now obviously you have to plan in advance for these long series and stuff like that. But it really is the same type of motto that’s been around for a long time-one game at a time. If we’re focused on playing one game at a time, we’ll let the cards fall where they’re at.”

POLICE from page 1

maintaining uninterrupted service during the transition will remain a top priority. The city also expressed appreciation to Whittier for its decades-long partnership and said it will work collaboratively to ensure a smooth transition through the end of the agreement in early 2028.

In response, Whittier officials confirmed the contract’s conclusion and said the city will coordinate closely with Santa Fe Springs during the transition period. Whittier Mayor James Becerra said the city is proud of the service its police department has provided and views the change as an opportunity to refocus resources on its own public safety priorities.

Santa Fe Springs officials also pointed to operational flexibility as a benefit of bringing policing in-house, including the ability to tailor services, expand community policing efforts, and incorporate technology-driven strategies.

The move places Santa Fe Springs among a number of smaller Southern California cities that operate their own police departments, including La Palma, California, reinforcing that the shift is less about city size and more about long-term cost control and governance. With a population of about 19,000 residents but a daytime workforce nearing 95,000 due to its industrial and commercial base, the city faces unique public safety demands that officials say will shape the new department.

City leaders said they will continue to engage residents, businesses, and stakeholders throughout the transition, with additional updates and opportunities for public input expected as the process moves forward.

flirts with perfect game as Cerritos continues its dominance in league

By Loren Kopff @LorenKopff on X

The numbers have been staggering, in a positive way since 2019 and with a new league waiting for the Cerritos High softball program for 2027, the only thing remaining to add to its eight-year dominance is another 605 League title. The Dons, behind freshman pitcher Jade Hernandez, moved one step closer to their goal with an 11-0 win over Pioneer High last Friday.

Hernandez took a per fect game into the top of the fifth inning when Abbie Morlet led off the frame with a base hit to right. Pilar Marquez then reached on an error before Hernandez struck out Dylan Villalobos, induced Isabella Copado into a groundout and struck out Aubrie Leon. Hernandez needed 56 pitches and struck out five for her fourth league shutout. It’s the second time she has allowed a hit, accomplishing that feat in a 6-0 win at Artesia High on Mar. 27.

defense behind her backs her up.”

Hernandez is one of five freshmen for Steck’s squad, which fields seven seniors, but only three played on varsity last season. In fact, only half a dozen players returned from last season’s 17-7 team that advanced to the CIF-Southern Section Division 5 semifinals.

“Obviously we knew our sophomores and what they did for us starting as freshmen,” said Steck. “We knew what they were capable of. Our freshmen…we knew a couple of them already from just knowing travel teams and stuff, and they played with people who have played with my daughters. [Assistant] coach Keith [Schwecke] and I coached Jade back in 10-Under all-stars. We had an idea about some of them; it was a matter of molding them and trying to get them to buy in and get them to understand how we do things here.”

GATEWAY LEAGUE BASEBALL: Ourique gives up two hits against Downey as Gahr continues dominance over Vikings

By Loren Kopff @LorenKopff on X

Since 2005 when Gerardo Perez took over as the head coach of Gahr High’s prestigious baseball program, the one team that has had the most difficulty against the Gladiators has been Downey High. That trend continued this past Tuesday as senior pitcher Jake Ourique threw five solid innings, allowing two hits, walked one and had another reach on an error as Gahr posted a 4-0 win, locking up at least second place in the Gateway League.

Ourique also struck out half a dozen in his fourth victory over the Vikings since he was a sophomore. In his four high school starts against Downey, the University of Oregon commit has pitched 20 innings, allowed 16 hits, four earned runs, walked five and struck out 23. In addition, Ourique was ahead in the count to 13 of the 18 hitters he faced as he improved to 3-0 in nine starts this season.

ulous right now. But all the credit goes to him, and he gives us a chance to win every time out.”

In his last five games, Ourique has an earned run average of 1.16, has allowed 16 hits, struck out 41 and walked three.

Ourique was hit in the first inning in which he said it messed with his back and his shoulder a little bit. That was why he was lifted for senior Anthony Ward after five innings, but you wouldn’t have known. After walking Roel Mercedes to begin the game, Ourique struck out Morise Robinson, got Eddie Causley to ground out and struck out Chris Palacios.

Ourique retired the next five batters until Mercedes singled to left and Causley reached on an error. Palacios led off the fourth with a double to deep center but was thrown out at third. Ourique then struck out three of the next five batters while inducing Nathan Carrasco and Sebastian Cortez into groundouts. Mercedes was the only Viking to get to third off Ourique.

“She didn’t even realize she was close [to a perfect game] until I told her after the game,” said Cerritos head coach Michelle Steck. “It’s one of those things where she goes out there and does what we ask her to do and takes care of things. That’s what most of these girls do. They buy in, they’re doing what we ask of them, they play as a team and they’re not playing selfishly. Honestly, that’s what makes the difference. She does have a lot of strikeouts, but at the same time when the ball is put in play, her

The Dons, who roughed up Pioneer 16-2 on Apr. 2, wasted no time in getting on the board as senior second baseman Ava Ceron beat out a bunt on the second pitch she saw from Katelynn Gauthier and was sacrificed over by sophomore center fielder Demi Lagare. That was followed by consecutive triples from freshman right fielder Adelyn Archie, to the right field corner, and freshman catcher Daphne Linsangan, to the right field gap.

Hernandez got into the offensive party and singled to right field, bringing in Linsangan. Then in the second inning, Gauthi-

See CERRITOS, Page 15

“I had a little bit of body discomfort today, so my goal was to get strikes early; get contact whenever I can and strikeouts whenever I can,” said Ourique. “I actually wanted to get up there, throw strikes and hopefully we would score some runs.”

“I think he’s in complete control of what he’s throwing and where he’s throwing,” said Gahr head coach Gerardo Perez. “He’s had an amazing year. Let’s just call it what it is; he’s been dominant no matter what. I’d have to be hard pressed; I don’t think he’s given up more than one earned run in a game, and he’s got the strikeout totals matching. His strikeout to walk [ratio] is pretty ridic-

The only run Ourique needed came in the bottom of the first inning when Max Bailon walked senior catcher Nathan Guangorena, a California State University, Northridge commit, who scored two batters later on a double from senior shortstop Andres Gonzalez, who will be going to the University of Southern California.

Two innings later, senior first baseman Bryce Morrison, another USC commit, reached on a fielder’s choice, stole second, moved to third on a sacrifice fly from Ourique and came home on the next pitch when freshman second baseman Mark Redaja singled to center. The other two runs were scored in the with when Morrison,

See GAHR, Page 15

CITY

OF ARTESIA

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT the Planning Commission 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 7:00PM on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, to consider the following:

Project Description: A Conditional Use Permit and Design Review for a proposed 35-foot-tall bell tower containing the historic Artesia Grammar School bell, in conjunction with a Variance to allow a maximum height of 35 feet where 30 feet is permitted, within the Historic District (H-D) Zone.

Case Number: 2026-08

Applicant: Artesia Historical Society

Project Location: 18641 Corby Avenue (Assessor’s Identification Number 7039-010905), Artesia, CA 90701.

CEQA: Pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), Planning Division Staff have determined that, as proposed, the project is categorically exempt from the requirements of CEQA. The project qualifies as categorically exempt pursuant to Section 15303 – New Construction or Conversion of Small Structures, which consists of the construction and location of limited numbers of small facilities or structures.

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 Planning Commission 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.

For more information, please contact the project planner, Devan A. Wells, Assistant Planner, at 562-865-6262, ext. 238, or via email at dwells@cityofartesia.us.

Published at Los Cerritos Community Newspaper 5/1/26

LEGAL NOTICE CITY OF BELLFLOWER ORDINANCE NO. 1454

AN ORDINANCE GRANTING TO BELLFLOWER-SOMERSET MUTUAL WATER COMPANY A FRANCHISE TO TRANSMIT AND DISTRIBUTE POTABLE WATER IN, UNDER, ALONG, ACROSS OR UPON CITY’S PUBLIC STREETS, WAYS, ALLEYS AND PLACES

Pursuant to Government Code Section 36933(b), Ordinance No. 1454 is summarized as follows:

Ordinance No. 1454 would grant a Water Franchise to Bellflower-Somerset Mutual Water Company (BSMWC) for the purpose of transmitting and distributing water within the public right-of-way.

Ordinance No. 1454 had its first reading on April 13, 2026, its second reading on April 27, 2026, and was duly passed, approved, and adopted by the City Council of the City of Bellflower at its Regular Meeting of April 27, 2026, by the following vote to wit:

AYES: Council Members – Koops, Morse, Sanchez, Dunton, and Mayor Santa Ines

Effective Date: May 27 2026. For a copy of Ordinance No. 1454, 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

LEGAL NOTICE CITY OF BELLFLOWER

ORDINANCE NO. 1456

AN ORDINANCE APPROVING 1) ZONE CHANGE CASE NO. ZC 25 02 TO AMEND THE ZONING MAP FROM TRANSIT ORIENTED DEVELOPMENT SPECIFIC PLAN (“TODSP”) TO FLOWER STREET SPECIFIC PLAN (“FSSP”) ON REAL PROPERTY COMMONLY KNOWN AS 9855, 9903, AND 9915 FLOWER STREET; 2) SPECIFIC PLAN CASE NO. SP 25-01 FOR FLOWER STREET SPECIFIC PLAN (“FSSP”) WHICH PROVIDES THE DEVELOPMENT AND DESIGN STANDARDS FOR THE THREE PARCELS; AND 3) DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT FILE NO. 1125.1 BETWEEN BELLFLOWER 5 INV, LLC AND THE CITY TO FACILITATE DEVELOPMENT OF 9903 FLOWER STREET AND POTENTIAL FUTURE DEVELOPMENT OF 9855 FLOWER STREET; APPLICANT: ERIC MILLER REPRESENTING CITY VENTURES HOMEBUILDING, LLC AND CITY OF BELLFLOWER

Pursuant to Government Code Section 36933(b), Ordinance No. 1456 is summarized as follows:

Ordinance No. 1456 would establish the Flower Street Specific Plan (“FSSP”) which would provide development and design standards for 9855, 9903, and 9915 Flower Street, collectively the “Specific Plan Area”, the FSSP would allow for residential development within the Specific Plan Area. The Ordinance would also amend the zoning designation of the Specific Plan Area from Transit-Oriented Development Specific Plan (“TODSP”) to FSSP. In addition, the Ordinance would approve the Development Agreement between the City and Bellflower 5 Inv, LLC, facilitating the development of 9903 Flower Street as well as potential future development of 9855 Flower Street.

Ordinance No. 1456 had its first reading on April 13, 2026, its second reading on April 27, 2026, and was duly passed, approved, and adopted by the City Council of the City of Bellflower at its Regular Meeting of April 27, 2026, by the following vote to wit:

AYES: Council Members – Koops, Sanchez, Dunton and Mayor Santa Ines

RECUSE: Council Member – Morse

Effective Date: May 27 2026. For a copy of Ordinance No. 1456, 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

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING CITY OF CERRITOS Notice is hereby given that the City of Cerritos has prepared the 2025 Urban Water Management Plan and Water Shortage Contingency Plan (UWMP), pursuant to the Urban Water Management Planning Act and the California Water Code, and the Cerritos City Council will conduct a public hearing at a special meeting on Thursday, May 28, 2026 at 7:00 p.m. on the following matter:

REVIEW AND CONSIDERATION OF THE CITY OF CERRITOS 2025 URBAN WATER MANAGEMENT PLAN AND WATER SHORTAGE CONTINGENCY PLAN PROJECT LOCATION: The 2025 Urban Water Management Plan and Water Shortage Contingency Plan apply to the City of Cerritos water service area. DESCRIPTION OF THE PROPOSED ACTION: The proposed action is adoption of the City of Cerritos 2025 Urban Water Management Plan and Water Shortage Contingency Plan. The California Department of Water Resources requires every urban water supplier to prepare and adopt an Urban Water Management Plan, including a Water Shortage Contingency Plan, and update the Urban Water Management Plan at least once every five years, in years ending in six and one. The UWMP evaluates existing and future water demands, water supplies, water supply reliability, and demand management measures over a 25-year planning horizon and established response actions and procedures to address potential water shortages and supply interruptions. PUBLIC REVIEW PERIOD: May 1, 2026 through May 28, 2026, 3:00 P.M. The draft 2025 Urban Water Management Plan and Water Shortage Contingency Plan are available for public review and comment during the review period. Public comments can be provided during the public hearing, via email to city_clerk@ cerritos.gov, or by hard copy to the Office of the City Clerk, 18125 Bloomfield Avenue, 1st floor Cerritos, CA 90703 no later than 3:00 p.m. on the day of the public hearing. Please identify the agenda item in the subject line of the email or hard copy document. All written correspondence received by the 3:00 p.m. deadline will be distributed to the legislative body prior to the meeting and retained with the official meeting record. If you challenge the abovementioned item and related actions 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 received in the Office of the City Clerk by the submission deadline, prior to the public hearing. LOCATION WHERE DOCUMENT CAN BE REVIEWED: Copies of the draft 2025 Urban Water Management Plan and Water Shortage Contingency Plan may be reviewed online at: https://www.cerritos.gov/water or in person in the Office of the City Clerk during normal business hours as posted. PUBLIC HEARING DATE/ TIME/LOCATION: This public hearing will be conducted in person in the City Council Chamber, 18125 Bloomfield Avenue, Cerritos, California, 90703. The public hearing will also air live on Cerritos TV3 and will be streamed over the City of Cerritos website at cerritos.gov. A copy of the related agenda report will be available for download from the website on the Thursday prior to the public hearing at https://www.cerritos.gov/agendas. Any person interested in this matter may contact the Office of the City Clerk at (562) 916-1248 for additional information and/or appear at the hearing in person or by agent and be heard.

/s/Cynthia Nava, City Clerk

Published at Los Cerritos Community Newspaper 5/1/26

LEGAL NOTICE CITY OF BELLFLOWER ORDINANCE NO. 1455

AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 8.16 (REGULATING FIREWORKS) OF THE BELLFLOWER MUNICIPAL CODE TO EXTEND THE TIME FOR SELLING SAFE AND SANE FIREWORKS WITHIN THE CITY AND TO ALLOW CERTAIN FIREWORKS STANDS TO BE LOCATED ALONG SECONDARY ARTERIAL STREETS

Pursuant to Government Code Section 36933(b), Ordinance No. 1455 is summarized as follows:

Ordinance No. 1455 would amend Chapter 8.16 (Regulating Fireworks) of the Bellflower Municipal Code to extend the time for selling safe and sane fireworks within the City and to allow certain fireworks stands to be located along secondary arterial streets.

Ordinance No. 1455 had its first reading on April 13, 2026, its second reading on April 27, 2026, and was duly passed, approved, and adopted by the City Council of the City of Bellflower at its Regular Meeting of April 27, 2026, by the following vote to wit:

AYES: Council Members – Koops, Morse, Sanchez, Dunton, and Mayor Santa Ines

Effective Date: May 27 2026. For a copy of Ordinance No. 1455, 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 5/1/26

NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF:

JANET MARIE CABALLERO CASE NO. 26STPB02401

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

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

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

THE PETITION requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority.

A HEARING on the petition will be held in this court as follows: 05/28/26 at 8:30AM in Dept. 5, Room 236 located at 111 N. HILL ST., LOS ANGELES, CA 90012

IF YOU OBJECT to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney.

IF YOU ARE A CREDITOR or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code.

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

YOU MAY EXAMINE the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk.

In Pro Per Petitioner

ANGELA CABALLERO

14027 LAKE CREST DRIVE

LA MIRADA CA 90638 5/1, 5/8, 5/15/26

CNS-4038167# LA MIRADA LAMPLIGHTER

CITY OF ARTESIA NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT the Planning Commission 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 Tuesday, May 19, 2026, to consider the following:

Project Description: Case No. 2025-18: A Design Review application to demolish 21 residential units and construct a 22-unit apartment building, along with a Zoning Map Amendment to reduce minimum density requirements on three parcels within the Artesia Downtown Specific Plan area.

Project Location: (Assessor’s Identification Numbers: 7040-017-008 and 7040-017-0001 and 02)

Applicant: Venkatesh Koka.

CEQA: The proposed project, Case No. 2025-18, consisting of the demolition of twenty-one (21) existing residential units and construction of a two-story, twenty-two (22) unit apartment building, along with a Zoning Map Amendment to reduce the minimum density on three parcels within the Artesia Downtown Specific Plan area, has been determined to be exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA).The residential development is categorically exempt pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15332 (Class 32 – In-Fill Development Projects), as it is consistent with applicable plans and regulations, located on a site less than five acres within an urbanized area, and can be adequately served by existing utilities and public services. The Zoning Map Amendment is exempt pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Sections 15183 and 15168(c), as it implements the development framework analyzed in the certified City of Artesia General Plan EIR and reduces allowable residential density, resulting in no new or more severe environmental impacts. The action is also consistent with CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3), as it can be seen with certainty that it will not result in a significant effect on the environment. Accordingly, no further environmental review is required.

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 Planning Commission 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 5/1/26

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING DEVELOPMENT PLAN APPROVAL CASE NO.1018

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Planning Commission of the City of Santa Fe Springs will hold a Public Hearing to consider the following:

DEVELOPMENT PLAN APPROVAL CASE NO. 1018: To construct a new 9,943 square-foot concrete industrial building within the M-2-FOZ, Heavy Manufacturing-Freeway Overlay, Zone.

PROJECT LOCATION: 13772 Firestone Boulevard, Santa Fe Springs, CA, 90670

APPLICANT: Roy Furuto on behalf of LeFiell Manufacturing Company

CEQA STATUS: The Planning Commission will determine whether the project qualifies for a categorical exemption from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Section 15332 – Class 32 (Infill Development Projects) of the CEQA Guidelines.

THE HEARING will be held before the Planning Commission of the City of Santa Fe Springs in the Council Chambers of the City Hall, 11710 Telegraph Road, Santa Fe Springs, on Monday, May 11, 2026 at 6:00 p.m.

ALL INTERESTED PERSONS are invited to participate in the Public Hearing and express their opinion on the item listed above. Please note that if you challenge the aforementioned item in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues raised at the Public Hearing, or in written correspondence to the office of the Commission at, or prior to the Public Hearing.

PUBLIC COMMENTS may be submitted in writing to the Community Development Department at City Hall, 11710 Telegraph Road, Santa Fe Springs CA 90670 or e-mail the Planning Commission Secretary, Esmeralda Elise, at esmeraldaelise@santafesprings.gov. Please submit your written comments by 12:00 p.m. on the day of the Planning Commission meeting. You may also contact the Community Development Department at (562) 868-0511 ext. 7550.

FURTHER INFORMATION on this item may be obtained from Cynthia Alvarez, Assistant Planner, via e-mail at cynthiaalvarez@santafesprings.gov or by phone at: (562) 868-0511 ext. 7519.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

ALCOHOL SALES CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT NO. 95

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Planning Commission of the City of Santa Fe Springs will hold a Public Hearing to consider the following:

ALCOHOL SALES CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT NO. 95: To allow the on-sale of beer and wine in conjunction with a bona fide public eating establishment within the MU, Mixed-Use, Zone.

PROJECT LOCATION: 8039 Norwalk Boulevard, Whittier, CA, 90606

APPLICANT: TACOS LA WERA, LLC, DBA: Puro Guanatos 100%

CEQA STATUS: The Planning Commission will determine whether the project qualifies for a categorical exemption from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Section 15301 – Class 1 (Existing Facilities) of the CEQA Guidelines.

THE HEARING will be held before the Planning Commission of the City of Santa Fe Springs in the Council Chambers of the City Hall, 11710 Telegraph Road, Santa Fe Springs, on Monday, May 11, 2026 at 6:00 p.m.

ALL INTERESTED PERSONS are invited to participate in the Public Hearing and express their opinion on the item listed above. Please note that if you challenge the aforementioned item in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues raised at the Public Hearing, or in written correspondence to the office of the Commission at, or prior to the Public Hearing.

NOTICE INVITING BIDS

WELL 7,8,9 AND 10 DESTRUCTION PROJECT; CIP NO. 50094

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City of Pico Rivera, California (“City”) invites Bids for the Project. Bids will be received electronically only through Planet Bids system (https:// pbsystem.planetbids.com/portal/41481/portal-home). A bid received after the time set for the bid opening shall not be considered. Bidders are required to submit (upload) all items listed in the BIDDER’S CHECKLIST including acknowledgement of all addenda. Bids will be received prior to 2:00 p.m. on June 2, 2026, at which time they will be publicly opened on the City’s approved electronic procurement platform.

SCOPE OF WORK. The Project includes, without limitation, furnishing all necessary labor, materials, equipment and other incidental and appurtenant work necessary to satisfactorily complete the Project, as more specifically described in the Contract Documents. Time for completion of the Work is Sixty (60) total Working Days from the date specified in the Notice to Proceed and shall be inclusive of the procurement time to furnish and install all materials associated with this project.

OBTAINING BID DOCUMENTS. Bidders may download free copies of the Plans, Specifications, and other Contract Documents online by visiting https://pbsystem.planetbids. com/portal/41481/portal-home. Hard copies of the Contract Documents are not available. REGISTRATION WITH THE DEPARTMENT OF INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS. In accordance with Labor Code Sections 1725.5 and 1771.1, no contractor or subcontractor shall be qualified to bid on, be listed in a bid proposal, subject to the requirements of Section 4104 of the Public Contract Code, or engage in the performance of any contract for public work, unless currently registered and qualified to perform public work pursuant to Section 1725.5 [with limited exceptions for bid purposes only under Labor Code Section 1771.1(a)]. The Project is subject to compliance monitoring and enforcement by the Department of Industrial Relations (DIR) PAYMENT OF PREVAILING WAGES ON PUBLIC WORKS PROJECTS. In accordance with Labor Code Section 1770, 1771, 1774, 1775, 1776, 1777.5, 1813 and 1815 et seq., the Project is a “public work.” The selected Bidder (Contractor) and any Subcontractors shall pay wages in accordance with the determination of the Director of the Department of Industrial Relations (“DIR”) regarding the prevailing rate of per diem wages. The Contractor shall post a copy of the WHD/DIR’s determination of the prevailing rate of per diem wages at each job site. This Project is subject to compliance monitoring and enforcement by the WHD/DIR.

LICENSES. Each Bidder shall possess either a valid Class “A” Contractor’s license issued by the California State Contractors License Board, or all of the following specialty license: C-57 – Water Well Contractor and a C-22 – Asbestos Abatement Contractor.

MATERIALS SUBSTITUTIONS AND OTHER QUESTIONS. Bidders are required to post their questions or equivalent material or substitution request of construction materials to the City Project Manager online by visiting https://pbsystem.planetbids.com/portal/41481/ portal-home . Any questions or equivalent material or substitution request of construction materials asked by email or by telephone will not be answered. Materials substitutions or questions are acceptable until 4:00 pm on or before May 19, 2026. Any questions or equivalent material or substitution request of construction materials submitted after May 19, 2026 will not be answered.

CITY PROJECT MANAGER CONTACT INFORMATION:

Name: Gene Edwards Contact Number: 562-801-4221 E-mail address: gedwards@pico-rivera.org

By: Noe Negrete

4/29/2026

Public Works Director Date

Published at Los Cerritos Community Newspaper 5/1/26

CITY OF ARTESIA

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT the Planning Commission 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 Tuesday, May 19, 2026, to consider the following:

Project Description: Amendments to Title 9 (Planning and Zoning) of the Artesia Municipal Code to establish objective development standards for mixed-use and multifamily projects; introduce new definitions and ministerial review procedures; and revise Article 28 (Single-Family Residential Zone) and Article 20 (Design Review) to streamline development review. The amendments implement the City’s 2021–2029 Housing Element and comply with State law, and includes updates to rear yard setback requirements, and objective standards in Article 28

Project Location: Citywide. Applicant: City of Artesia

Published at Los Cerritos Community Newspaper 5/1/26 NOTICE TO CREDITORS OF BULK SALE (Division 6 of the Commercial Code) Escrow No. 001092-IH

PUBLIC COMMENTS may be submitted in writing to the Community Development Department at City Hall, 11710 Telegraph Road, Santa Fe Springs, CA 90670 or e-mail the Planning Commission Secretary, Esmeralda Elise, at esmeraldaelise@santafesprings.gov. Please submit your written comments by 12:00 p.m. on the day of the Planning Commission meeting. You may also contact the Community Development Department at (562) 868-0511 ext. 7550.

FURTHER INFORMATION on this item may be obtained from Pieter Wielenga, Administrative Intern, via e-mail at PieterWielenga@santafesprings.gov or by phone at: (562) 868-0511 ext. 7053.

Published at Los Cerritos Community Newspaper 5/1/26

CEQA: In accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act (Public Resources Code, §§ 21000 et seq., “CEQA”), the proposed amendments are exempt from environmental review under the California Environmental Quality Act ( California Public Resources Code §§ 21000, et seq., ("CEQA") and the CEQA Guidelines ( 14 California Code of Regulations §§ 15000, et seq.) because the amendments do not change the existing allowable maximum densities and allowable uses, which were previously analyzed as part of an Environmental Impact Report for the Housing Element and the Mixed-Use Overlay Zone when it was first introduced and adopted. The amendment, therefore, is exempt from the requirements of CEQA under CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3), because it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the activity in question may have a significant effect on the environment.

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 Planning Commission 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. 2227 Email: Planning@cityofartesia.us

PUBLISHED: May 8, 2026

Published at Los Cerritos Community Newspaper 5/1/26

CA 90701

(4) The names and business address of the Buyer(s) are: GOHYANG TABLE, INC., A CALIFORNIA CORPORATION, 17303 PIONEER BOULEVARD, ARTESIA, CA 90701

(5) The location and general description of the assets to be sold are: FURNTIURE, FIXTURES, EQUIPMENT, GOODWILL, LEASE, LEASEHOLD INTEREST & IMPROVEMENTS, COVENANT NOT TO COMPETE, INVENTORY OF STOCK IN

er walked junior designated player Zoe Corrales with one out and Ceron bunted her way on base. After the second out was recorded, Archie deposited a two-run single to right field.

Any chance of the Titans, who have the inside shot of third place in the league, coming back in the game was dashed in the fourth when Cerritos sent 10 to the plate and scored half a dozen runs. Corrales reached on a bunt single in front of home and two batters later, scored on a double down the left field line from Lagare. Back to back singles from Archie and Linsangan and a sacrifice fly from Hernandez increased the score to 9-0.

Gauthier would walk freshman third baseman Alexis Ceron, who immediately scored in a double from freshman shortstop Emma Villegas, and she came in for the last run when senior first baseman Jeanine Mauricio singled to center.

Archie went three for three and drove in four runs as eight of the nine starters collected at least a hit, but all nine reached base as Cerritos posted its third shutout over Pioneer as members of the league. Entering the game, the Dons were batting .384 as a team and had six players batting over .350. They also had 30 stolen bases and added five more against the Titans.

“We take our hits in preseason, and we schedule hard because it helps get us ready for the league season and hopefully beyond,” said Steck. “Sometimes the numbers don’t look great on paper in preseason. But we’re seeing what they’re doing in practice; we’re seeing what they’re doing in a game and knowing that that’s realistically not normally what we face in league and not normally what we’re going to face in [the playoffs]…we know by playing those better teams is helping us get better even though we’re losing or getting crushed.”

How dominant have the Dons been in the 605 League, which began in the 2019 season? Including this past Tuesday’s 15-4 win over John Glenn High, which officially cliched another league title, they have won 64 of the 66 games, gone on league winning streaks of five, 43 and currently 16 games, and outscored their opponents 845-103. The two losses came to Artesia High in 2019, which was a big win for the Pioneers as they and Cerritos were co-league champs, and in 2024 to the Titans on the last day of the regular season.

The Dons will entertain Bishop Montgomery on Friday, La Serna High on Monday and Artesia on Tuesday to wrap up the regular season. Artesia is currently in second place.

“I think it’s a testament to the girls; I’m not the one playing,” said Steck of the dominance in league. “We’re here; we help them trying to get better and try to get them prepared. But at the end of the day, they’re the ones doing it. We’re just the ones guiding

NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF:

SANDRA SUEANN REYNOLDS

CASE NO. 26STPB04572

them, and before us, it was [former head coach] Todd [Denhart], who was phenomenal with them.

“Next year, it could be completely different with the leagues changing, she continued. “We might be the ones that is struggling, and that’s a real scenario and it kind of is what it is.”

GAHR from page 11

Gonzalez and Ourique all singled with one out on a combined six pitches. After a fielder’s choice from Redaja, Gonzalez completed the scoring on a throwing error.

“Obviously, my role in the lineup is just to kind of …I’m not a home run guy; I just kind of get guys over when I have to,” said Ourique. “I just have to understand my role and do what I have to for the team.”

“That’s why he’s in [there]; he can do a multitude of things,” said Perez of Ourique. “He’s an old school, West Coast four-hitter as they call it…when the Dirtbags could have some versality in the middle of the order.”

Gahr edged the Vikings 4-3 in nine innings the next day to improve to 159-1, 8-3 and remains in second place in the league, a game behind La Mirada High. Since the Matadores swept all three games against the Gladiators in late March, Gahr has won 10 of its last 12 games, losing to Orange Lutheran High 2-1 in eight innings and to Ayala High 6-4. Both those games came in the Boras Baseball Classic. The Gladiators host Downey on Friday, then close out the regular season with games at Huntington Beach High on Tuesday and Aquinas High on Wednesday.

“I think that was a big punch in the mouth,” said Ourique of the sweep to La Mirada. “So, our goal was to forget about it, get back in the win column and I think we’ve done well with that, especially in league.”

“We’re starting to show of semblances of being able to win ugly; is what I call it,” said Perez. “I think there’s a certain grind and fortitude you have to have. It’s easy to be great when it’s 8-0 or 10-0. Now we’re starting to be a little more consistent regardless of who is on the mound.”

Gahr has now won 44 games against Downey since 2004, most against any opponent in the past two-plus decades, 13 straight and 19 of the last 20 against the Vikings and since 2013, the Gladiators are now 28-3 against Downey.

“I think they’re pretty athletic,” said Perez of Downey. “The shortstop, third baseman and center fielder made a diving catch. The shortstop had some good range; they almost turned some double plays. The third baseman has some athleticism.”

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

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

THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that ARLIE FISH HENDERSON III be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent.

THE PETITION requests the decedent’s WILL and codicils, if any, be admitted to probate. The WILL and any codicils are available for examination in the file kept by the court.

THE PETITION requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority.

A HEARING on the petition will be held in this court as follows: 06/04/26 at 8:30AM in Dept. 246 located at 111 N. HILL ST., LOS ANGELES, CA 90012

IF YOU OBJECT to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney.

IF YOU ARE A CREDITOR or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code.

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

YOU MAY EXAMINE the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form

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