Riverside Independent_1/22/2026 by Beacon Media News

County's annual Mock Trials Competition set for

At World Economic Forum, Newsom touts

clean car sales, slams 'federal chaos'

By Joe Taglieri joet@beaconmedianews.com

Duringhisvisitto

thisyear'sWorld Economic Forum in Davos-Klosters, Switzerland, Gov. Gavin Newsom emphasized California's stability "amid federal chaos" as he announced a benchmark in electric vehicle sales.

According to the governor's ofﬁce, California has surpassed 2.5 million cumulative new sales of zero-emission vehicles, or ZEVs — far exceeding the state’s goal of 1.5 million ZEVs by 2025.

"California didn’t reach 2.5 million zero-emission vehicles by accident — we invested in this future when others said it was impossible," Newsom said in a statement. "While Washington now cedes the global clean vehicle market to China, California is ensuring American workers and manufacturers can compete and win in the industries that will deﬁne this century."

Ofﬁcials said the sales milestone is the result of decades of California pioneering the clean-car market, leading to a solid foundation that continues to drive electric-vehicle sales and the world's fourth-largest

economy, "despite the Trump administration’s efforts to derail our clean transportation future."

Since the end of 2019, cumulative new ZEV sales in California have increased more than 300%, driven by effective clean transportation policy and various ZEV incentives, according to Newsom's ofﬁce. California stands as the nation's undisputed leader in emission-free transportation, proving that consumer

demand for electric vehicles remains strong despite federal headwinds.

Anationwide campaign got underway Tuesday that seeks to rectify what advocates insist are unjust classiﬁcations of deaths when the victims are killed by drunk or drug-impaired motorists, or die from ingesting drugs they didn't realize might be lethal.

Ofﬁcials noted the state’s commitment to establishing a robust network of ZEV infrastructure.

“No state in the union can match California’s ﬁveyear growth in ZEV sales,” California Energy Commissioner Nancy Skinner said in a statement. “This serves as a reminder of how far we’ve come thanks to historic levels of state investment and Californians’ strong demand for clean cars. Each quarter, even in the face of increasing federal headwinds, tens of thousands of consumers are purchasing a ZEV in the Golden State, enjoying a great driving experience, and knowing they never have to go to a gas station again.”

"When someone chooses to drive impaired or knowingly supplies a lethal substance, that choice carries deadly consequences," Stop Drug Homicide founder Matt Capelouto said. "Calling these deaths `accidents' minimizes accountability. Our goal is to drive change for the hundreds of thousands of families whose tragedies have been mislabeled for far too long."

Capelouto,whose Temecula-based organization was instrumental in adding provisions to voter-approved Proposition 36 in 2024, has joined Mothers Against Drunk Driving founder Candace Lynne Lightner in spearheading the "Not An Accident" campaign. The effort focuses on certainclassifications contained in death certificates issued by coroners and other law enforcement officials throughout the United States. Campaign supporters argue that anyone killed in a DUI wreck or because he or she consumed a toxic controlled substance, such as fentanyl, provided by a person who knew it could have fatal

San Bernardino County homelessness count set for Thursday

City News Service

A ﬂeet of ZEVs at the Air Force facility in El Segundo. | Photo courtesy of Sarah Corrice/U.S. Air Force

Parents who lost children to fentanyl poisoning gather in Washington D.C. in 2024. | Photo courtesy of Samuel P. Chapman/Facebook

County's annual Mock Trials Competition set for this week

Students from two dozen high schools throughout Riverside County will match wits and attempt their best legal maneuvering next week in the ﬁrst round of the 44th annual Riverside County Mock Trials Competition.

The event will be held Thursday evening at the Larson Justice Center in Indio, the Southwest Justice Center in Murrieta and the Riverside Hall of Justice, continuing until the ﬁnal round, scheduled for Feb. 19.

Typically, the meets are not open to the general public, except by special permission of the Superior Court Executive Ofﬁce or Ofﬁce of Education.

The contest, which regularly draws about 400 students for the initial rounds, returned to in-person activities instead of virtual ones in 2023 after the public school system rescindedCOVID-driven restrictions on gatherings that were in place in 2021 and 2022. The 2020 competition was held prior to the school closures.

The Ofﬁce of Education, in partnership with the Constitutional Rights Foundation, Riverside County Bar

Association and the Superior Court, sponsor the competitions annually. The county began holding student-level mock trials in 1983. More than 14,000 youths have participated since then, organizers said.

This year's contest will challenge participants to successfully argue the ﬁctitious case of "People v. Fromholz," involving an alleged retribution murder tied to outrage over the defendant's treatment by a food critic who found the man's cuisine unpalatable — and said so publicly.

Students will be tasked with analyzing forensic evidence, admissibility of statements, possible due process infringements and other matters during the trials. Teams consisting of eight to 25 students will play the parts of deputy district attorneys, defense attorneys, bailiffs, witnesses, clerks and investigators.

Contestants are given an allotted time, generally four to six minutes, at each stage of a proceeding, including opening and closing statements and cross-examina-

tions. Practicing attorneys and judges assess students' performance,awarding points in accordance with criteria established for the contest.

Students from public and private high schools may take part. The 2026 championship team will represent the county in the California Mock Trial Competition, tentatively scheduled for March 20-22 in Oakland. Poly High School in Riverside won the county's 2025 contest, repeating on its victory in 2024.

Festival Theatres commits to showcasing independent cinema

Festival Theatres in Palm Springs will prioritize showcasing arthouse and community-driven ﬁlm programming designed to support independent voices and inclusive perspectives, theater ofﬁcials announced Tuesday.

"We're the last shot of a true independent, arthouse movie theatre experience in the desert," Zack Solomon, general manager of the theatre, said in a statement. "Palm Springs is a historically and artistically relevant city, and it deserves a theatre that reﬂects that — one that supports serious, adult-driven ﬁlms while still welcoming the

broader community."

While the theatre, located at 789 E. Tahquitz Way, will continue to screen studio releases, its renewed focus aims to showcase independent, international and LGBTQ+ cinema for the Coachella Valley.

"We're seeing a demand for serious, adult-driven ﬁlms," Solomon said. "People here want to engage with cinema as an experience — not just a transaction."

Additionally, the facility has introduced new features, including expanding its operating hours starting at 11 a.m. daily, $7 ticket days every Tuesday, discounted senior

admission on Thursdays and a free-to-join membership program with monthly rewards and concession perks.

Festival Theatres will host a special screening of "Pillion," alongside international award contenders such as "`The Secret Agent," "It Was Just an Accident" and "Sirat"

throughout the year. "We want Festival Theatres to be a place people trust — a space that grows with its audience and stays rooted in what makes Palm Springs unique," Solomon said. More information can be found at festivaltheaters.com, or by calling 760-528-9945.

Last year Poly High School took ﬁrst prize in the Mock Trials Competition. | Photo courtesy of the Riverside County o ce of Education.

Moviegoers line up at Festival Theatres, 789 Tahquitz Way in Palm Springs. | Photo courtesy of the city of Palm Springs

California GOP files emergency petition with SCOTUS to block Prop. 50

By City News Service

The California RepublicanPartyand

others Tuesday filed an emergency application at the U.S. Supreme Court seeking to block California from using the congressional district lines enacted through Proposition 50 for the 2026 midterm elections.

The emergency application in Tangipa v. Newsom asks Justice Elena Kagan, the justice assigned to the U.S. 9th Circuit Court of Appeals, to issue an injunction pending appeal that would temporarily reinstate the 2021 California Redistricting Commission map while the case is litigated.

The filing asks the court to act by Feb. 9, citing the start of California's candidate filing period and arguing that candidates and voters will face immediate effects if the Proposition 50 district lines remain in place.

"California cannot create districts by race, and the state should not be allowed to lock in districts that break federal law," Corrin Rankin, California Republican Party chairwoman, said in a statement. "Our emergency application asks the Supreme Court to put the brakes on Prop. 50 now, before the Democrats try to run out the clock and force candidates and voters to live with unconstitutional congressional districts. Californians deserve fair districts and clean elections, not a backroom redraw that picks winners and losers based on race."

A three-judge panel in Los Angeles federal court last week ruled against California Republicans in their bid to nullify the new congressional map, which California voters approved in November.

In their lawsuit, filed one day after California voters approved Prop. 50, Assemblyman David Tangipa, R-Fresno, the California Republican Party and a group of Republican voters -- joined by the U.S. Department of Justice -- urged

judges to block the new district lines at least temporarily so California's original map would stay in effect for the 2026 midterms.

Prop. 50 was passed after Republicans in Texas redrew their congressional map, a move California leaders said was designed to favor Republicans in the upcoming midterms.

The suit, which names Gov. Gavin Newsom, state Attorney General Rob Bonta and California Secretary of State Shirley Weber as defendants, argues the new Prop. 50 maps are unconstitutional because they improperly use voters' race as a factor in drawing districts and asked the court to block them from taking effect.

The proposition's passage increases Democrats' chances of winning five additional U.S. House seats in the state in November and seizing control of the chamber.

Democrats already hold a 43-9 advantage in the state's House delegation.

Republicans had asked the court for a preliminary injunction blocking the maps from being used in 2026. In its 2-1 decision, the court upheld the new congressional districts, rejecting plaintiffs' claims that the maps had been drawn to favor Latino voters over other voting groups.

Judge Josephine Staton,

an appointee of former President Barack Obama, wrote the ruling, with Judge Kenneth Lee, a President Donald Trump appointee, dissenting. Judge Wesley Hsu, appointed by former President Joe Biden, joined Staton in her ruling.

"We find that Challengers have failed to show that racial gerrymandering occurred, and we conclude that there is no basis for issuing a preliminary injunction," Staton wrote.

"Our conclusion probably seems obvious to anyone who followed the news in the summer and fall of 2025."

Votersoverwhelmingly approved Prop. 50 in November, which supporters dubbed "The Election Rigging Response Act."

It establishes new congressional district maps for the 2026 midterm elections that will also be used for the 2028 and 2030 elections.

An analysis by the election news website Ballotpedia said it would shift five Republican- held congressional districts to Democrats.

Weber, a co-defendant in the lawsuit, said last week she was pleased the court acknowledged "that the will of California's voters should prevail. Our democracy is in jeopardy and the fight to maintain our constitutional right to vote must continue.

... Our democracy is worth protecting and today's ruling was the right result."

| Photo courtesy of Leo_Visions/Unsplash

Pro-democracy groups question plans to build new CA city

By Suzanne Potter, Public News Service

Anew city proposed in Solano County backed by tech billionaires is drawing concern from prodemocracy groups that track right-wing philanthropy.

The proposed town 40 miles north of San Francisco would be called "California Forever." Backers promise jobs and affordable housing, but local groups such as Solano Together are organizing against the idea of a forprofit charter city that would be run by an appointed executive instead of an elected mayor and city council.

"Philanthropic efforts are being used to subvert democracy in the United States," said Jeremy Mack, executive director of the Phoenix Project, a nonprofit that

follows donations in the Bay Area. "Billionaires are able to use their personal wealth foundations to channel into these different efforts that are ultimately in support of the destruction of democratic safeguards."

Research by the nonprofit National Committee on Responsive Philanthropy found that from 2020 to 2023, donors gave more than $1.5 billion to attack representative democracy and try to reverse progress on racial, gender and economic justice in the United States. On the campaign trail, President Donald Trump promised to build 10 so-called “Freedom Cities” on federal land with special economic zones and

fewer regulations. Possible sites suggested in California include land in Alameda and at the Presidio in San Francisco.

According to the California Forever website, its city of the future would be highly efficient and foster innovation. Mack said so-called “network” or “freedom” cities could chip away at people’s rights.

"There's been this sort of infatuation with technocracy, moving away from representative democracy and towards less elected officials, more top-down control," he said, "and a lot less citizens' oversight or say over what happens in their own communities.

A similar city is rising in

envisioned as a place entirely run on cryptocurrency, with pro-business tax laws, few regulations

on things such as medical research, and privatized public services such as schools and police. Elon

a similar city

U.S. political climate makes jobs tougher to ﬁnd for trans folks

By Roz Brown, Public News Service

Amajority of American adults express support forpoliciesthat protect transgender people from discrimination, but many in the trans community still struggle to find a job.

The Pew Research Center says the political climate has changed many people's views on transgender issues –although 56% of adults still support policies aimed at protecting them from discrimination in jobs, housing and public spaces.

"We're not looking for a free handout," said Toni Newman, who chairs the board of directors at California's TransCanWork and assists some 100 trans individuals every month in

finding employment. "We're not looking for anything else but what every other American needs – is economic and financial security in 2026."

Newman said TransCanWork seeks out companies willing to hire qualified transgender folks and then encourages them to post an open position on the nonprofit's job board. She noted that they do not try to change a company's culture to be more accepting, but rather act as an intermediary service to help trans people find a job, achieve economic security and maintain a healthy life.

Transgender workers report unemployment at twice the rate of the popula-

tion as a whole, and many who are currently working say they're underemployed.

Newman said some people, including those responsible for hiring within their companies, have never met or interacted with a transgender person, and that's where TransCanWork can lend support.

"We offer training – 'we know this is new for you, we appreciate you being willing to hire TGNC individuals'," Newman said. "So, we're open, we're not so, – 'Ugh, we can't work with you' –because a lot of people need education."

Newman's group is the only one in the country that offers a national job board to

help employers and potential employees connect. She said she believes creating a gender-diverse culture in the workplace has benefits.

"Diversity, having someone from various back-

grounds, makes for a very robust corporate structure," Newman said. "If everybody is the same, looks the same, walks the same, talks the same – how do you get new ideas? How do you grow?"

California has several new laws aimed at strengthening existing protections for transgender individuals, focusing on refugee status, health-care access and privacy.

Honduras called "Prospera." It's

Musk has built

in Texas called "Starbase" that critics say operates like a company town of old, where everything ties back to the biggest employer around.

Tech executives have purchased 73,000 acres of land in Solano County for a proposed new city.

An eﬀort to get the county to rezone the land was withdrawn in the face of local opposition. Backers are now asking the neighboring town of Suisun to annex some of the land. | Rendering courtesy of Californiaforever.com

| Photo by Kamaji Ogino/Pexels

Los Angeles

Rosemead

SGVCOG to hold meeting on proposed SGV Forward plan

The San Gabriel Valley Council of Governments (SGVCOG) will hold a community meeting in Rosemead to learn more about SGV Forward, a proposed project that will bring faster, more reliable, and more accessible transit service in the community. The meeting will be held on Jan. 28 from 6 to 7 p.m. at Rosemead Community Center, located at 3936 Muscatel Ave. in Rosemead. SGV Forward proposes dedicated bus lanes on key corridors, upgraded traffic signals to help buses move efficiently, improved bus amenities, and safer walking and biking connections. The proposed improvements are expected to make “bus service faster, cut travel times by up to 25%, and provide stronger connections to jobs, schools, and healthcare,” according to SGVCOG.Long

Long Beach

Spring recreation classes open for registration Feb. 2

This spring, the City of Long Beach Department of Parks, Recreation and Marine (PRM) will offer over 700 classes, activities, sports and leagues for people of all ages and abilities. Registration for new and existing spring recreation classes begins Monday, Feb. 2, 2026, available online, by phone and in person. Community members can register for classes by visiting LBParks.org and clicking on Online Registration under the LB RecConnect side menu button, by calling 562.570.3111 or by visiting the Registration Reservations Office (2760 Studebaker Rd.), Monday through Friday between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Beginning the week of Jan. 26, the latest issue of Recreation Connection, PRM’s recreation catalog, will be available online at LBParks.org and hard copies available at Long Beach parks community centers and Long Beach Public Library locations.

Burbank

Now accepting nominations for the 2026 Peter McGrath Older Americans Volunteer Service Award

During the month of May, the City of Burbank Parks and Recreation Department will celebrate Older Americans Month. A major focus is to honor a maximum of three (3) outstanding volunteers for the Peter McGrath Older Americans Volunteer Service Award. One will move on to represent Burbank at the Annual Older Americans Recognition Day in Los Angeles on Thursday, May 21, 2026. The deadline to submit the included nomination form is Monday, Jan. 26, 2026. The application can be found at https://www.burbankca. gov/documents/d/parksrecreation/2026-petermcgrath-older-americansvolunteer-service-award. omination forms may be dropped-off at the Joslyn Adult Center,located at 1301 W Olive Ave Burbank, CA 91506, mailed to Joslyn Adult Center Attn: Recreation Supervisor at PO Box 6459, Burbank, CA 91510, or emailed to BVP@burbankca. gov.

Orange County

OC Black History Parade & Unity Festival seeks grand marshal

The 46th Annual Orange County Black History Parade & Unity Festival will take place on Saturday, Feb. 7, 2026 (9 a.m. to 4 p.m.) in downtown Anaheim. This year’s theme, “Unity in Purpose,” continues the parade’s decades-long tradition of celebrating African American history and culture while fostering community unity. The Orange County Heritage Council and organizers are inviting prominent community leaders, media personalities, and cultural icons to serve as the parade’s grand marshal. The event features more than 15 marching bands, dance ensembles and colorful parade vehicles, along with two stages (the Freedom Stage and Unity Stage) showcasing live music and cultural perfor-

REGIONALS

mances. Attendees can also enjoy a bustling Unity Festival on Center Street Promenade, which includes a college fair, health fair and youth resource tables aimed at empowering local students. The street fair will host 100+ community and retail vendors, plus a youth village with sports games and inflatable activities for children. This family-friendly event is free and open to all. For more information, or to submit a Grand Marshal nomination,contact KimiRhochelle at (909543-2978 text only) or email krprmedia@gmail. com.

Doug Chaffee elected chair of OC board of supervisors

Supervisor Doug Chaffee, fourth district, has been chosen by his board colleagues to serve as chair of the Orange County Board of Supervisors for 2026. Supervisor Katrina Foley, fifth district, to serve as the board’s vice chair. Chaffee represents the residents of the fourth district which includes the cities of Anaheim (portion of), Brea, Buena Park, Fullerton, La Habra, Placentia and Stanton and unincorporated areas. This will be the third time Supervisor Chaffee will serve as Chair for the Orange County Board of Supervisors, last serving in 2022 and 2025, and as Vice Chair in 2021 and 2024. Foley represents the residents of the fifth district which includes the cities of Aliso Viejo, Costa Mesa, Dana Point, (portion of) Irvine, Laguna Beach, Laguna Hills, Laguna Niguel, Laguna Woods, Newport Beach, San Clemente and San Juan Capistrano and unincorporated areas.

Riverside County

'Chicano Camera Culture: A Photographic History, 1966 to 2026’ to open Feb. 7 at RAM

Chicano Camera Culture: A Photographic History, 1966 to 2026 is the first major survey to examine the depth and evolution of Chicana/o/x lens-based image-making over the

past 60 years. Featuring some 150 works by nearly 50 U.S. Chicana/o/x artists, the exhibition moves thematically and intergenerationally, spanning early activist photographers with contemporary artists whose work builds upon this legacy. Organized with a mix of traditional and experimental photography— including silver gelatin and digital prints, manipulated imagery, constructed scenes, photographic installations, and conceptual approaches—the exhibition invites viewers to consider the camera’s enduring role in shaping self-representation, cultural identity, and political expression.

City of Riverside

Riverside takes steps towards personal delivery device program

A key Riverside City Council committee has supported an ordinance that will guide a program for the safe and responsible operation of personal delivery devices (PDDs) on public streets, sidewalks, and pedestrian areas. Personal delivery devices (PDDs) are automated ground-based delivery devices designed to transport goods such as meals and other items within local communities. The proposed ordinance will lay the foundation for a permitting and regulatory framework that will enable emerging delivery technologies, including PDDs, to operate. The ordinance will detail requirements for operators, including permitting stan-

dards, safety protocols, and performance expectations.

Corona

Adopt a pal with paws

The Corona Animal Shelter may have just the pal for you. On the first Saturday of each month, you can adopt at a reduced rate of $45 which includes the cost of spay/neuter. Normal dog licensing and microchip fees, if applicable, will still apply. To learn more, call (951)736-2309. The Corona Animal Shelter is located at 1330 Magnolia Ave., Corona, CA 92882. The next event will be on Feb. 7.

San Bernardino County

County Library and Inland Empire 66ers team up to help readers ‘Hit the Books’

The San Bernardino County Library is stepping up to the plate with the Inland Empire 66ers of San Bernardino in a winning new partnership designed to knock childhood literacy out of the park. The Hit the Books Reading Program will run Monday, Jan. 26 through Friday, Mar. 6, giving readers a chance to turn pages into baseball tickets. The program invites children and teens ages 0–17 to round the bases of reading success. For every five books read and logged in Beanstack, the County Library’s digital reading app, along with a checkout receipt showing five books borrowed from the library, participants

will earn a special Hit the Books bookmark, their official ticket to the big leagues. Each bookmark can be redeemed for one free Inland Empire 66ers baseball game ticket, either at the box office or online. Readers can earn up to three bookmarks per person during the program, giving them multiple chances to score a free game-day experience. There’s no purchase necessary, and bookmarks cannot be combined with any other offer. All earned bookmarks must be redeemed by Aug. 30, 2026. Library staff will distribute bookmarks at County Library branches throughout the program period.

Ontario

Empire Strykers Soccer Clinic set for Sunday

The Empire Strykers Soccer Clinic is returning again this Sunday. Youth ages 5 to 14 years old can play soccer on the Toyota Arena turf. Each participant will receive a t-shirt, a soccer ball, and a ticket to the 4:05 p.m. game following the clinic. The clinic fee is $15. Additional tickets for family and friends will be available through a special QR code, while supplies last. Kids can remain inside the Toyota Arena for a free pizza party after the clinic and before the game. Parking is free for the clinic if you remain in the lot. Parking is $15 if you leave and return. The last day to register is Jan. 23 at 11:59 p.m. To register, visit http://bit. ly/49OexI6.

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Netﬂix makes all-cash offer for Warner Bros.

By City News Service

Netflix Tuesday officially made its $83 billion bid for Warner Bros. Discovery's studios and HBO Max streaming business an all-cash offer, a move that could reshape a high-stakes takeover battle with Paramount.

Netflix's move would simplify the transaction and could appeal to shareholders who have been weighing the competing offers.

"Today's revised merger agreement brings us even closer to combining two of the greatest storytelling companies in the world," Warner Bros. Discovery President and CEO David Zaslav said in a statement.

Paramount has made a

hostile all-cash bid valued at $77.9 billion for Warner Bros. and has accused the company of failing to meaningfully engage with its proposal.

Last week, Paramount escalated the fight by announcing plans to launch a proxy contest for seats on Warner's board and by filing a lawsuit seeking more information about Warner's deal with Netflix.

"Along with the WBD shareholders, we have asked for the customary financial disclosure a board is supposed to provide shareholders when making an investment recommendation," Paramount CEO David Ellison wrote in a letter sent to Warner shareholders.

Ellison said those details are necessary for shareholders to make an informed decision and that Delaware law requires they be disclosed, adding that Paramount filed a lawsuit in Delaware Chancery Court seeking a court order compelling Warner to provide the information.

The WBD board has voted unanimously to reject Paramount's latest purchase offer, which would include a takeover of the entire company.

Netflix's offer is to purchase WBD but not all of its cable channels. Warner is planning to spin off its cable channels into a separate company.

| Photo courtesy of Venti Views/Unsplash

Monrovia Old Town report: Read between the wines

By Shawn Spencer shawn@girlfridaysolutions.net

Thecalendarsays winter, but the weather says spring, with a nod toward summer. The mornings require jackets and by noon, it’s sundress weather. I have no idea what to wear. I just went to the car wash, which means it should rain any day now, thankfully. I love seeing our beautiful hillside so lush and green. This is the only time of year I hike. Our trails are absolutely beautiful, with zero snakes to be seen!

We have some can’tmiss events coming soon to Old Town. Please mark your calendars as follows:

-On Thursday, MOTAB and city staff are hosting a Merchant Mixer from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., at Makers & Clay. It’s a fantastic opportunity for business owners to meet their business neighbors, chat and learn about upcoming events and ways to get more involved in Old Town happenings.

-On Tuesday, Feb.10, at LOOK Cinema at 6 p.m., please join your mayor and city council members, city manager, city staff and community members. Learn about issues our city has faced, the hurdles that have been jumped and celebrate the achievements won.

-Love is in the air..

shooby dooby doo. Valentine’s Day is on Saturday, Feb. 14. Nothing says love like a romantic carriage ride through Old Town. Each private ride is just $40 and begins at Library Park from 4 to 9 p.m. Space is limited so reserve your romantic ride soon by calling 626-2556-8246.0

While we are marking our calendars, please save the date for the Old Town Wine Walk. It is scheduled for April 11 and if the past eight years have taught us anything, no one sips, shops and supports like Old Town Monrovia. This sellout event happens rain or shine and is a lot of fun. If you have never been, grab some friends and enjoy strolling through Old Town sampling wines and nibbles, listening to live music, great photo ops and more.

Have you heard of One City ~ One Story? It’s a citywide book club or reading program, geared for all ages. The kick-off is on Saturday from 1 to 3 p.m. at Library Park. The book selected for reading is “The Bear” by Andrew Krivak, a short, post-apocalyptic novel about the last two humans, a father and daughter, living in

Dutchie A526329

harmony with nature after an unspecified catastrophe. It is suitable reading for middle school-aged kids and up. Monrovia Reads is sponsoring the books for this event and have generously donated copies of “The Bear" and books for younger readers, which are available now, while supplies last. To learn more about this event and the many events that are scheduled in this program, please visit the city’s website under the Library section. I think this is a great program that will be so much fun for the whole family to do together!

I’d like to end this article with a brief word about a huge loss our community has suffered. Gayle Montgomery passed away after suffering from declining health post covid. Gayle was a very strong woman, even when her body became less so. While she was not everyone’s cup of tea, you could always count on her to stand up for the poor, the needy and the disenfranchised. She loved her family dearly and her community. Her passing leaves a huge void in Monrovia. May God bless her, her family and friends during their time of mourning.

Dutchie is a 2-year-old brindle bulldog at Pasadena Humane with a whole lot of love to give! Playful but not over-the-top, Dutchie is always ready to enjoy a nice game of fetch followed by plenty of lounging and cuddles. She’s very affectionate, thrives on praise, and loves being close to you. Not to mention, Dutchie is potty trained, well-mannered indoors, and walks nicely on a leash. An easygoing companion, Dutchie has shown herself to be calm around kids and people in her foster home. She’s quiet, rarely barks, and can be left alone without issues. While she may need a brief moment to warm up in new situations, she quickly blossoms into a trusting, sweet, and devoted friend. Available for a 10-day adoption trial, Dutchie would thrive in a loving home — especially with a family looking for a well-behaved, cuddly, and incredibly kindhearted dog. And there’s no better time to adopt — adoption fees for dogs 6 months and older are waived at Pasadena Humane as part of the Dog Days of Winter adoption promotion, now through January 25.

Tipton A526589

Meet Tipton! This 5-year-old white Akita at Pasadena Humane is calm, thoughtful, and sweet. After he’s found his reassurance in you, Tipton's easygoing nature shines through. His recent foster family has also said he’s content to relax nearby, follow his people from room to room, or settle independently for a good nap. Tipton is also housebroken, has very polite manners, and is always ready for a good time. On walks, Tipton enjoys exploring the world through his nose and is especially motivated by treats, which makes him a smart and rewarding dog to work with. He’d do best with a confident, patient adopter who can set clear boundaries while earning his trust. In return, Tipton will be a loyal and intelligent best friend. If Tipton has piqued your interest, he is available for a 10-day adoption trial! There’s no better time to adopt — adoption fees for dogs 6 months and older are waived at Pasadena Humane as part of the Dog Days of Winter adoption promotion through January 25.

The adoption fee for dogs is $150. All dog adoptions include spay or neuter, microchip, and age-appropriate vaccines. Walk-in adoptions are available every day from 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. View photos of adoptable pets at pasadenahumane. org. New adopters will receive a complimentary health-and-wellness exam from VCA Animal Hospitals, as well as a goody bag filled with information about how to care for your pet. Pets may not be available for adoption and cannot be held for potential adopters by phone calls or email.

| Photo courtesy of Old Town Monrovia / Facebook

Monrovia

Jan. 8

At 3:24 a.m., a resident in the 100 block of North 5th called to report her vehicle stolen. This investigation is continuing.

Between 4:42 a.m. and 8:26 a.m., four residents in the 800 and 900 block of West Walnut reported the catalytic converters to their vehicles’ stolen. This investigation is continuing.

Jan. 9

At 1:40 a.m., a disturbance was reported in the 100 block of South Mayflower. Officers arrived and made contact with a male subject yelling and causing a disturbance. An investigation revealed he was in possession of brass knuckles. He was arrested and taken into custody.

At 8:29 p.m., officers were dispatched to the 500 block of West Huntington regarding an intoxicated male subject. Officers arrived and made contact with the subject who was found to be in possession of a controlled substance. It was determined he was too intoxicated to care for himself. He was arrested and transported to the MPD jail to be held for a sobering period.

At 10:11 p.m., while patrolling the area of Huntington and Encino an officer saw a vehicle in violation of a vehicle code. A traffic stop was conducted and the driver was contacted. A computer search revealed the driver was on probation for robbery. An investigation revealed the driver was in possession

of an unregistered rifle. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Jan. 10

At 12:43 a.m., an officer patrolling the 1600 block of South Myrtle saw a male subject in a park after hours, in violation of a municipal code. The officer attempted to make contact with the subject, but the subject fled on foot. The subject was located and found to be in possession of drug paraphernalia. He was arrested and taken into custody.

At 7:58 a.m., an employee from a business in the 400 block of South Myrtle reported a subject using illegal drugs. Officers arrived and made contact with the subject. The subject was found to be in possession of drug paraphernalia and a controlled substance. He was arrested and taken into custody.

At 3:29 p.m., a caller in the 100 block of West Huntington requested police assistance. Officers arrived and made contact with the subject. It was determined he was too intoxicated to care for himself. A computer search revealed he had a warrant for his arrest. He was arrested and transported to the MPD jail to be held for a sobering period.

Jan. 11

At 5:30 p.m., an employee from a business in the 500 block of West Huntington reported a shoplifting incident. Officers arrived and located the two suspects. They were arrested and taken into custody.

Jan. 12

At 10:44 a.m., a victim in the 600 block of East Olive reported a robbery. Officers arrived and learned that the victim was in an alley when an unknown vehicle with three occupants stopped near him. He was approached by two female passengers trying to sell him jewelry, when suddenly one of the female subjects forcibly removed the victim’s jewelry from him. The victim was able to wrestle the jewelry away, but one of the female subjects took a shoe and fled. This investigation is continuing.

At 11:21 a.m., a caller in the 300 block of North Ivy reported fraudulent activity on a friend’s bank account. This investigation is continuing.

At 11:34 a.m., officers were alerted to a stolen vehicle in the 500 block of West Huntington The vehicle was located parked and unoccupied. This investigation is continuing.

At 4:55 p.m., a victim in the 500 block of South Magnolia reported a residential burglary and that property was taken. This investigation is continuing.

At 5 p.m., a caller in the area of Colorado and Shamrock requested a welfare check on a male subject slumped over a rear seat of a vehicle. Officers arrived and made contact with him. It was determined he was too intoxicated to care for himself. He was arrested and transported to the MPD jail to be held for a sobering period.

Jan. 13

At 8:12 a.m., a resident in the 800 block of Bonita reported their parked vehicle was broken into and property was taken. This investigation is continuing.

At 8:39 a.m., a victim walked into the MPD lobby to report that she clicked on a link on her computer which allowed an unknown subject access to her bank account. This investigation is continuing.

At 11:20 a.m., a caller in the 1500 block of South Mayflower reported leaving his vehicle on and stepping back inside his home. When he walked back outside, his vehicle was gone. This investigation is continuing.

At 3:55 p.m., a resident in the 200 block of Oaks reported flames coming from a neighbor’s home. Officers arrived and quickly extinguished the fence that was on fire. MFD responded and made the area safe.

At 5:03 p.m., a victim walked into the MPD lobby to report her ex-husband was communicating with her in violation of a court order. This investigation is continuing.

At 9:57 p.m., an officer patrolling the area of Raymond and Pomona saw a male subject attempting to start a fire of an unknown object. The officer made contact with the subject and found the subject to be in possession of a piece of paper that was on fire. A computer search revealed he had a warrant for his arrest. A search revealed he was in possession of drug paraphernalia. He was arrested and taken into custody.

Jan. 14

At 2:06 a.m., an officer in the area of Huntington and Alta Vista saw a vehicle in violation of a traffic code. A traffic stop was attempted, but the driver refused to stop, and a brief pursuit ensued. The vehicle eventually came to a stop and the officers made contact with the two occupants. The subject was arrested, cited and released

at the scene.

At 9:10 a.m., a victim in the area of Genoa and Magnolia reported her vehicle stolen. This investigation is continuing.

At 10:12 a.m., a passerby in the 300 block of South Myrtle reported a male and female subject in a park smoking a controlled substance. Officers arrived and made contact with the subjects. An investigation revealed the female subject was in possession of a controlled substance. She was arrested and taken into custody.

At 4:29 p.m., a victim was shopping in the 600 block of West Huntington and reported that her wallet was stolen while she was shopping. This investigation is continuing.

Arcadia

Jan. 4

At approximately 2:50 p.m., an officer responded to a residence in the 500 block of Workman Avenue regarding a burglary report. The victim stated two suspects smashed a window, robbed him of his cellphone, and fled. Through an investigation, the suspect was identified as a 37-year-old male from Los Angeles. He was arrested and transported to the Arcadia City Jail for booking. The investigation into the second suspect is ongoing.

Jan. 5

At approximately 9:26 a.m., an officer responded to Holly’s Hut (Eisenhower Park Baseball Field Snack Bar), located at 601 N. Second Ave., regarding a burglary investigation. Surveillance footage captured a male suspect prying open the snack bar door and stealing electronics and cash. He was seen with a medium-sized dog.

Jan. 6

At approximately 1:50 p.m., an officer responded to the front counter of the Arcadia Police Department regarding a theft incident

that happened at Arcadia Outpatient Surgery Center, 614 W. Duarte Road. The victim stated someone stole his wallet and cellphone that had been left unattended on the hood of his vehicle. Someone then completed a number of fraudulent transactions using the victim’s stolen credit cards.

Jan. 7

At approximately 6:47 a.m., an officer responded to Eisenhower Park, located at 601 N. Second Ave., regarding a vandalism report. Sometime during the previous night, an unidentified suspect used a marker to graffiti the restroom. The investigation is pending a review of available surveillance footage.

Jan. 8

At approximately 9:34 p.m., an officer responded to a residence in the 900 block of South Fourth Avenue regarding a robbery investigation. The officer discovered the victim was robbed while in his driveway, after returning home from work. The suspect is described as a male Hispanic, approximately 20 to 30 years old, with a thin build, and wearing all black clothing and a ski mask. It appears the incident may have been targeted.

Jan. 9

At approximately 7:13 p.m., an officer responded to a residence in the 1000 block of Don Alvarado Drive regarding a fraud report. An investigation revealed an elderly house cleaner altered a check that had been issued to her for her services due to being in a romance scam.

Jan. 10

At approximately 11:52 a.m., an officer responded to a residence in the 2600 block of El Capitan Avenue regarding a restraining order violation. After contacting the parties, the male half became aggressive with officers and injured two of them. The 38-year-old male from Pasadena was arrested and transported to the Arcadia City Jail for booking.

Congress considers bill to make cars with electronic door handles safer

Abilltomakecars with electronic door handles safer was part of a hearing last week in Congress.

Stakeholdersspoke before members of the House Energy and Commerce Committee about a slew of auto-related bills, including the recently introduced SAFE Exit Act, which would require all vehicles with electronic door latches to include accessible, clearly labeled manual releases capable of functioning without vehicle power.

Cooper Lohr, senior policy

analyst of transportation and safety for Consumer Reports, said investigations have linked electronic door failures to at least 15 deaths.

"We've had people die in incidents because they couldn't exit their vehicle," Lohr pointed out. "Whereas if they were in that same incident and had a vehicle with a regular mechanical old-time door handle, they would have easily been able to get out of the car."

The Alliance for Automotive Innovation, which represents car manufactur-

By Suzanne Potter, Public News Service

ers, testified in favor of bills to promote a framework for autonomous vehicles but did not take a position on the SAFE Exit Act. The hearing is a precursor to a package of transportation bills which will have to be reauthorized once it expires at the end of this year.

Lohr noted people who drive cars with door handles dependent on power to open should familiarize their families with the car’s manual safety features.

"If you have a vehicle with any electronic door

handle please consult your model owner manual to make sure that there are manual releases and that you

ZEVs

“While the federal government reversed and put up roadblocks, the global zero-emission vehicle market surged ahead last year,” California Air Resources Board Chair Lauren Sanchez said in a statement. “Governor Newsom’s new rebate proposal sends a clear message: California isn’t slowing down, we’re still leading the pack. It’s not just about clean air, it’s smart economic policy.”

ZEV market resilience

During last year's fourth quarter after federal tax credits expired Sept. 30, Californians bought 79,066 new ZEVs, which was 18.9% of new car sales statewide, according to the governor's office. Prior to the tax credit expiration, sales surged in the third quarter of 2025 to 29.1% of new car sales, "likely softening sales in the fourth quarter as a result," officials said.

As the loss of federal support set off a nationwide decline in EV sales — from 10.5% in Q3 to 5.8% in Q4, according to Cox Automotive — California’s market stayed resilient.

"This resilience reflects a market turning point," according to Newsom's office. "After decades of strategic state investment in charging infrastructure,consumer incentives, and manufacturer standards, California has built a strong, mature, resilient ZEV ecosystem grounded in

policy certainty and sustained investment. Consumers are buying electric vehicles in part because the technology works, the vehicles perform, and the charging infrastructure continues to grow rapidly."

Despite the lack of financial incentives from federal government, ZEV sales were strong in Q4.

Officials noted the ZEV market's diversity, and electric vehicles' cost-effectiveness.

"With 149 ZEV models available in California in Q4 of 2025, consumers are buoyed by the diversity in the ZEV market," according to the governor's office. "Not only do ZEVs produce zero tailpipe pollution, but they are also fun and powerful to drive, and cost less to operate and maintain compared to gaspowered vehicles."

Officials suggested this website for prospective ZEV buyers: ElectricForAll.org.

Clean transportation spending

State officials are "doubling down" on clean transportation spending.

In his Jan. 9 budget, Newsom proposed launching a $200 million incentive program to accelerate ZEV adoption and respond to the loss of the federal tax credit. According to the governor's office, the move would support "American automotive innovation at

a critical moment — just as the Trump administration has abandoned the goodpaying jobs of this global market."

According to Newsom, after ess than a year in office President Donald Trump's tariff policy has driven away the United States’ secondlargest trading partner, pushing Canada toward deeper economic ties with China and surrendering America’s top global spot in electric vehicle manufacturing.

"Competing to win the future requires investing in clean energy technologies, strengthening partnerships with allies like Canada, and reducing dependence on China in critical sectors," officials said.

"Instead, the Trump administration repealed key parts of the Inflation Reduction Act and Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, and imposed broad tariffs that have raised costs for American consumers while straining relationships with close allies," state officials continued. "Despite Donald Trump’s efforts to cede the clean energy economy to China, California is ensuring American workers and manufacturers can compete and win in the industries that will define this century."

The Trump administration has said tariffs will bolster the nation's global

economic leadership.

"I always say 'tariffs' is the most beautiful word to me in the dictionary," President Donald Trump said at a rally hours after his inauguration in January 2025. "Because tariffs are going to make us rich as hell. It's going to bring our country's businesses back that left us."

In an interview with Time magazine, the president said, "We’re a department store, a giant department store, the biggest department store in history. Everybody wants to come in and take from us. They’re going to come in and they’re going to pay a price for taking our treasure, for taking our jobs, for doing all of these things.”

The state’s zero-emission commitment extends beyond consumer incentives, official said. In the latest Clean Transportation Program Investment Plan Update, the California Energy Commission allocated $98.5 million for lightduty, zero-emission vehicle infrastructure for fiscal year 2025-26. The funding will focus on Level 1 and Level 2 charging in locations with longer vehicle dwell times, including at-home charging with a focus on multifamily residences.

The Energy Commission is also continuing to study infrastructure needs statewide, officials said.

know where those are," Lohr advised.

Consumer Reports has gathered more than 46,000

The following is planned for release later this year:

-New and ongoing ZEV infrastructure funding opportunities driven by the $98.5 million from the Clean Transportation Program;

-The third Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure Assessment, as mandated by Assembly Bill 2127, which will assess the state's infrastructure needs to meet EV demand; and

- The next Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Deployment Assessment, as mandated by Senate Bill 1000, to assess whether charging infrastructure is disproportionately deployed.

EV infrastructure

The governor's office touted efforts to tear down barriers that keep ZEVs off the roadways, speeding up charging station installations and deploying infrastructure in difficultto-reach and low-income areas.

"Becoming an EV driver in California is increasingly getting easier," according to state officials. "There are now over 200,000 public and shared EV charging stations statewide. EV chargers can be found at grocery stores, park-andride lots, and even gas stations, whereas shared EV chargers can be found at apartment complexes, workplaces, doctors’ offices, sports facilities, and other

signatures on an online petition to require carmakers to provide manual door releases on all vehicles.

parking areas with some level of restricted access. This statewide network of public and shared private chargers is in addition to the estimated 800,000 EV chargers installed in California homes."

California’sclimate leadership Pollution is down and the economy is up, according to Newsom. Greenhouse gas emissions in California have dropped 21% since 2000 — even as the state’s GDP increased 81% in that same time period on the way to becoming the world’s fourth largest economy.

Officials also boasted about California's clean energy records. In 2023 the state was powered by two-thirds clean energy, the largest economy in the world to achieve that level. California has also run on 100% clean electricity for part of the day almost every day last year, officials said.

Since the beginning of the Newsom administration in 2019, battery storage has surged to nearly 17,000 megawatts — a more than 2,100% increase, and over 30,000 megawatts of new resources have been added to the state's electricity grid. California now has 33% of the storage capacity estimated to be needed by 2045 to reach 100% emission-free electricity.

Photo by Eyosias G on Unsplash

'Fight for Our Health' rally calls on lawmakers to soften Medi-Cal cuts

By Suzanne Potter, Public News Service

Last week, dozens of health care advocates rallied in Sacramento, asking lawmakers to find ways to shield Californians from massive federal cuts to Medi-Cal.

Republicans in Congress passed a huge budget bill called House Resolution 1 last summer, which cut $1 trillion from Medicaid nationwide.

Asm.MiaBonta, D-Oakland, is chair of the State Assembly Health Committee.

"It means over $30 billion every single year have been ripped out of the hands of Medi-Cal recipients: 3.4 million Californians," Bonta outlined.

Republicans defended the cuts as necessary to fund other administration priorities, including tax cuts and increased immigration enforcement. Gov. Gavin Newsom’s January budget proposal continues limits on

Medi-Cal for undocumented people and some lawfully present immigrants while adding some additional restrictions to immigrant

TheAmericanRed Crossannounced

Tuesday that it is facing a serious shortage and to encourage donors it will be holding a blood drive that gives a trip to this year's Super Bowl.

Facingashortage it termed as severe, the

care. Lawmakers start negotiating the state budget this week.

Amanda McAllisterWallner, executive director

of the advocacy coalition Health Access, said lawmakers should raise revenue from big companies in order to mitigate the worst federal cuts.

Red Cross blood drive offers chance to go to Super Bowl

By City News Service

American Red Cross is urging eligible donors to make an appointment to give blood as soon as possible.

"Winter typically puts pressure on the blood supply," according to a Red Cross statement.

Anyone who gives blood through Jan. 25 will be auto-

matically entered for a chance to win a trip for two to the Feb. 8 Super Bowl at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, California.

Anyone who gives blood between Jan. 26 and Feb. 28 will get a $20 e- gift card.

Details are available at RedCrossBlood.org/Heart.

Rachel Linn Gish, interim deputy director of Health Access, said there are things California can do to ease federal work reporting requirements and eligibility checks, calling them burdens designed to force people off of Medi-Cal. However, she added, the changes alone will not keep many Californians from falling off care.

"We are on the precipice of a huge public health crisis if our state does not take action," Gish argued. "It will be in the state budget that these decisions about whether to cut our care or protect our care are going to be made."

"H.R.1 wasn't only a cut to health care, it was the largest redistribution of wealth in American history," McAllister-Wallner contended. "Cutting services for the most vulnerable in order to put money in the pockets of the richest Americans and most profitable corporations, many of whom live and do business right here in California."

Activists rallied in Sacramento last Wednesday and met with lawmakers to press for state-level action to counter federal health care cuts. | Photo courtesy Health Access

| Photo courtesy of LuAnn Hunt/Unsplash

El Monte City Notices

NOTICE OF OUTSTANDING CHECKS

The following list of disbursements is unclaimed by the listed payee and held by the City of El Monte. If you have a

Attention: Accounts Payable

Publish January 22, 2026 & January 29, 2026 EL MONTE EXAMINER

URGENCY ORDINANCE NO. 3057

AN URGENCY ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF EL MONTE IMPOSING A TEMPORARY MORATORIUM ON THE ISSUANCE OF NEW TOBACCO RETAIL PERMITS AND ON THE ISSUANCE OF LAND USE AND ZONING APPROVALS OR ENTITLEMENTS FOR A SIGNIFICANT TOBACCO RETAIL USE WITHIN THE CITY LIMITS

WHEREAS, the City of El Monte (“City”) is a general law city, incorporated under the laws of the State of California; and WHEREAS, pursuant to Article XI, section 7 of the California

Constitution, the City may enact and enforce laws and regulations within its boundaries that promote the public health, morals, safety, or general welfare of the community and that are not in conflict with general laws; and

WHEREAS, California Government Code Section 65858 authorizes the City Council to adopt, as an urgency measure, an interim ordinance to protect the public health, safety, and welfare by prohibiting land uses that may conflict with contemplated land use regulations that the City is studying, considering, or intends to study within a reasonable time, provided that such urgency ordinance is passed by a four-fifths vote of the City Council; and WHEREAS, the City has observed increasing negative impacts associated with tobacco retailers operating throughout the City, in-

cluding increased criminal activity in and around such establishments, deterioration of neighborhood character, and adverse effects from tobacco on the health, safety, and welfare of City residents; and

WHEREAS, the El Monte Police Department (“EMPD”) and the City’s Code Enforcement Division have observed illegal activities and repeated permit violations by smoke shops and tobacco retailers within the City, involving but not limited to the following:

• Illegal sales of flavored tobacco products; and

• Illegal sales of cannabis and cannabis-derived products; and

• Illegal possession of mushrooms; and

• Illegal possession of nitrous oxide cylinder tanks; and

• Illegal possession of controlled substances; and

WHEREAS, a law enforcement investigation is ongoing regarding illegal gambling activities at an undisclosed tobacco retailer location which has resulted in multiple arrests; and

WHEREAS, in 2025, the EMPD and the City’s Neighborhood Services Department conducted multiple tobacco compliance checks and identified multiple violations of the EMMC and state law including, but not limited to:

• On June 20, 2025, the seizure of a substantial quantity of illegal tobacco and cannabis products, the issuance of five administrative citations, and the immediate closure of one business;

• On December 5, 2025, the seizure of approximately 205 pounds of illegal flavored tobacco and cannabis/THC edible products, and the issuance of three administrative citations;

• On December 12, 2025, the seizure of over 200 pounds of illegal flavored tobacco and cannabis/THC edible products, the issuance of two administrative citations, and compliance advisements issued to five businesses displaying flavored tobacco products for sale; and

WHEREAS, Los Angeles County public health officials have reported six overdose deaths and other harms associated with synthetic kratom compounds such as 7-Hydroxymitragynine (7-OH), which are often sold in smoke shops and similar retailers; and WHEREAS, the City’s Neighborhood Services Department has also identified tobacco retailers within the City in possession of products containing synthetic kratom compounds; and

WHEREAS, the City Council finds that the sale, distribution, and public access to illegal and unregulated tobacco, cannabis, synthetic kratom, and other illicit products are not in conformity with the City’s General Plan goals, policies, and objectives related to land use compatibility, public health and safety, including the General Plan’s goal to have safe neighborhoods and the land use goal of ensuring compatible residential, commercial, and industrial development that is sensitively integrated with existing development and neighborhoods and minimizes such impacts on surrounding land uses, because such activities create adverse health impacts, public nuisances, and incompatibilities with surrounding residential and commercial uses; and

WHEREAS, the City Council finds that the current operation and concentration of tobacco retailers within the City contribute to public nuisances and quality-of-life issues that disproportionately impact vulnerable neighborhoods, while placing increased demands on law enforcement and code enforcement resources; and WHEREAS, the City Council is further concerned that the establishment of additional tobacco retailers, absent a comprehensive policy review and updated regulatory framework, would exacerbate existing public health, safety, and quality-of-life impacts within the City; and

WHEREAS, in light of these concerns, the City Council finds it is necessary to conduct a study on the impact of tobacco retailers within the City and consider comprehensive zoning and regulatory measures to address their potential effects on the community; and

WHEREAS, to preserve the public peace, health, safety, and welfare during the period in which the City conducts this study and considers permanent regulations, the City Council desires to adopt a temporary, citywide moratorium on the issuance of new tobacco retail permits pursuant to Chapter 8.10, and land use approvals of significant tobacco retailers pursuant to Title 17 of the El Monte Municipal Code within the City.

NOW THEREFORE, the City Council of the City of El Monte does find, determine, declare and ordain as follows:

SECTION 1. The recitals set forth above are true and correct and are hereby incorporated by reference in full herein.

SECTION 2. The City of El Monte has a significant interest in preserving the threat to the public health, safety, or welfare of its residents, and in particular its minor residents, in considering enactment of additional regulations on the sale and distribution of tobacco products.

SECTION 3. The City is concerned with the negative secondary impacts caused by the permit violations of tobacco retailers including tobacco operators who often operate in excess of allowed activities issued by their permits. After several tobacco compliance inspections, the EMPD reports that in 2025 alone, the EMPD Special Investigations Unit and the City’s Neighborhood Services Department seized approximately 1,000 pounds of illegal flavored tobacco products, vapes, and cannabis products from different businesses citywide. The City has a significant interest in discouraging tobacco use by minors and in discouraging the sale and distribution of tobacco products by minors including flavored tobacco.

SECTION 4. There is a current and immediate threat to the public health, safety, and welfare of the City’s residents with respect to the sale and distribution of tobacco products within the City. The continued consideration and approval of retail tobacco applicants within the City limits may result in an over-concentration of tobacco retail uses that may result in the need for additional City resources to preserve the surrounding public safety and public welfare.

SECTION 5. The City of El Monte hereby establishes an interim

moratorium on the approval of any pending tobacco retail permits, land use or zoning applications for significant tobacco retail uses within the City limits, inclusive of conditional use permits, for the purpose of preserving the public health, morals, safety, and general welfare of the community.

SECTION 6. No applicant shall be entitled by the City, in any zone, on any parcel, or at any place, public or private, within the City, to operate a significant tobacco retail use pursuant to Title 17 (Zoning) of the EMMC. No application for any permit or license shall be granted or approved for any new tobacco retailer pursuant to Title 8 (Health and Safety) of the EMMC. This moratorium shall not impact any person who lawfully holds an existing permit, license, and/or land use entitlement for an existing and lawfully operating significant tobacco retailer and/or tobacco retailer in the City of El Monte as of the effective date of this Urgency Ordinance, so long as the operator is in full compliance with all City and state requirements, inclusive of state laws, the El Monte Municipal Code, and conditions of approval.

SECTION 7 Pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) (Pub. Res. Code § 21000 et seq.) and CEQA Guidelines (Cal. Code Regs., tit. 14, § 15000 et seq.), there is no possibility that the adoption of this Urgency Ordinance and establishment of a moratorium, hereby, may have a significant effect on the environment, because the moratorium will maintain the current environmental conditions arising from the current land use regulatory structure and is therefore exempt from CEQA pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3).

SECTION 8. If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, phrase, or portion of this Urgency Ordinance is for any reason held to be invalid or unconstitutional by the decision of any court of competent jurisdiction, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this Urgency Ordinance. The City Council hereby declares that it would have adopted this Urgency Ordinance, and each section, subsection, subdivision, sentence, clause, phrase, or portion thereof, irrespective of the fact that any one or more sections, subsections, subdivisions, sentences, clauses, phrases, or portions might subsequently be declared invalid or unconstitutional.

SECTION 9. This Urgency Ordinance shall expire, and the moratorium established shall terminate, forty-five (45) days after the date of adoption, unless extended by the City Council at a regularly noticed public hearing, pursuant to California Government Code Section 65858.

SECTION 10. The Mayor shall sign, and the City Clerk shall certify to the passage and adoption of this Urgency Ordinance and shall cause this Urgency Ordinance to be published or posted as required by law, which shall take full force and effect immediately upon its adoption by a four-fifths vote of the City Council.

PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED by the City Council of the City of El Monte at the Concurrent Special meeting of this 14th day of January, 2026.

STATE OF CALIFORNIA )

COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES ) SS: CITY OF EL MONTE )

I, Gabriel Ramirez, City Clerk of the El Monte, County of Los Angeles, State of California, do hereby certify that the above and foregoing is a full, true, and correct copy of Urgency Ordinance No. 3057 adopted by the City Council of the City of El Monte, at a Concurrent Special meeting by said Council held on the 14th day of January, 2025 by the following votes to wit:

AYES: Mayor Ancona, Maypr pro Tem Longoria, Councilmembers Cortez, Crippen-Thomas, Galvan, Herrera, and Dr. Ruedas

NOES: None

ABSTAIN: None

ABSENT: None Publish January 22, 2026

San Gabriel City Notices

City of San Gabriel Summary of OrdinanceOrdinance No. 727

An Ordinance of the City Council of the City of San Gabriel, California, Amending San Gabriel Municipal Code Section 99 Relating to Park Regulations

Ordinance No. 727 amends the San Gabriel Municipal Code to update operating hours for City-owned parks. The ordinance establishes general park hours of 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., replacing the prior 7:30 a.m. opening time. Marshall Park will retain its existing hours of 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. The ordinance also removes references to school parks from the Municipal Code, with park access at school sites to be governed by a Joint Use Agreement with the San Gabriel Unified School District. Specific hours for certain park activities will be set by Resolution No. 26-02, which may be amended as needed.

Ordinance No. 727 was approved for introduction and first reading at the City Council Regular Meeting of January 20, 2026, by a vote of 5-0.

Ayes: Councilmember(s)- Ding, Herrera Avila, Wu, Chan, Menchaca Noes, Abstain, Absent: Councilmember(s)- None

The Ordinance will be considered for adoption by the City Council at its February 3, 2026, regular meeting held at 6:30 p.m. Anyone having questions may contact the City Clerk at (626) 308-2816 or cityclerk@sgch.org.

San Gabriel City Council Julie Nguyen, City Clerk

Published January 22, 2026 SAN GABRIEL SUN

Probates Notices

NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF:

GEORGE MAURER

CASE NO. 26STPB00148

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

A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by DAVID R. MAURER in the Superior Court of California, County of LOS ANGELES.

terested 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.

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

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

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

Attorney for Petitioner

WILLIAM R. REMERY - SBN 89897

REMERY LAW FIRM

1955 WEST GLENOAKS BLVD. GLENDALE CA 91201

Telephone (818) 558-5909 1/15, 1/19, 1/22/26 CNS-4003313# EL MONTE EXAMINER

NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF Reynaldo J. Balangue Case No. 25STPB13753

To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate, or both, of Reynaldo J. Balangue

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

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

Dean Balangue 12038 Roseglen St El Monte, Ca 91732

January 19, 22, 26, 2026 EL MONTE EXAMINER

NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF: IVY FUNG CASE NO. 26STPB00085

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

A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by FLAVIA FANG KAN in the Superior Court of California, County of LOS ANGELES. THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that FLAVIA FANG KAN 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 with limited authority. (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: 02/05/26 at 8:30AM in Dept. 11 located at 111 N. HILL ST., LOS ANGELES, CA 90012

THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that DAVID R. MAURER 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: 02/06/26 at 8:30AM in Dept. 4 located at 111 N. HILL ST., LOS ANGELES, CA 90012

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 in-

Attorney for Petitioner JASON A. FETCHIK - SBN 227832 DRISKELL, GORDON & FETCHIK, LLP 180 N. GLENDORA AVE., STE. 201 GLENDORA, CA 91741

Telephone (626) 914-7809 1/15, 1/19, 1/22/26 CNS-4002069# AZUSA BEACON

NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF: OLGA LYDIA RAZOMELENDEZ

CASE NO. 26STPB00313

To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the WILL or estate, or both of OLGA LYDIA RAZO-MELENDEZ.

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

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

A HEARING on the petition will be held in this court as follows: 02/17/26 at 8:30AM in Dept. 29 located at 111 N. HILL ST., LOS ANGELES, CA 90012

IF YOU ARE A CREDITOR or a contingent creditor 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.

A HEARING on the petition will be held on February 11, 2026 at 8:30 AM in Dept. 5. located at 111 N. Hill St., Los Angeles, CA 90012.

Petitioner:

Attorney for Petitioner

DANIEL FONG, ESQ. - SBN 248397 FONG LAW GROUP 407 W. VALLEY BLVD., UNIT 3 ALHAMBRA CA 91803

Telephone (626) 289-8299 1/19, 1/22, 1/26/26 CNS-4004222# TEMPLE CITY TRIBUNE

Palm Springs International Airport handled a record 3.3 million passengers in 2025, marking a roughly 2.4% increase over 2024, airport ofﬁcials announced Wednesday.

March was the airport's busiest month, with about 500,000 passengers passing through the terminal. Ofﬁcials said passenger demand remained strong even after the peak travel season.

"We're proud to see more travelers choosing to ﬂy from Palm Springs," Executive Director of Aviation

Palm Springs Airport sets passenger record in 2025

Harry Barrett Jr. said in a statement.

"It reﬂects the strength of our air service and the convenience of PSP. Every trip that starts here supports local jobs, helps sustain the regional economy and creates momentum for expanding nonstop air service that beneﬁts the entire Coachella Valley."

Airport ofﬁcials attributed the growth in demand to increased travel through local and domestic routes.

Although the airport welcomed more travelers,

By City News Service

PSP handled about 3,800 fewer commercial flights in 2025 than in pre-pandemic years due to airlines using larger, quieter and more fuelefficient aircraft that carry more passengers per flight.

The airport has invested in infrastructure improvements to enhance the guest experience, including new shops and restaurants, expanded passenger seating and charging areas, additional water bottle ﬁlling stations and a remodeled conference space.

Additional upgrades are underway, including an expanded zero-emission

San Bernardino County homelessness count set for Thursday

By Sta

Hundreds of volunteers will fan out throughout San Bernardino County on Thursday for the annual Point-in-Time Count to assess the number of people experiencing unsheltered homelessness.

The PIT Count provides insight into the county’s homeless population, which enables ofﬁcials to track progress toward helping people off of the streets and make sure resources are directed where they are most needed, ofﬁcials said.

This year's event will again feature the PIT Count Plus, ofﬁcials said. The Ofﬁce

of Homeless Services will collaborate with other county agencies and communitybased organizations to send outreach teams to eligible individuals experiencing homelessness who are willing to accept services and shelter on the day of the count. Assistance with the counts will come from volunteers recruited by the county and local cities, social service providers, law enforcement, educational institutions, faith-based organizations, local businesses, civic groups, neighborhood associations and nonproﬁts.

"The results of the annual

count are crucial for securing grant funding to assist individuals who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless," according to the county.

County Supervisors Joe Baca Jr., Jesse Armendarez, Curt Hagman and AssessorRecorder-County Clerk Josie Gonzales were scheduled to participate in the count at various locations countywide.

The count's command center is at the San Bernardino County Government Center in the Sage/Manzanita Room at 385 N. Arrowhead Ave. in San Bernardino.

Hiker killed in Anza after attempting to search for missing group

By City News Service

Ahiker was killed in Anza this weekend after going on a search for a group of lost hikers, the Riverside County Sheriff's Department announced Sunday.

Deputies responded to the 56000 block of East State Highway 74 around 8:30 p.m. Saturday to a report of a missing hiker. The caller told deputies

that four people in a group had gone for a hike early Friday, had not returned, and an additional person in the party went searching for the lost group, believing they could be in distress.

The sheriff's Aviation Unit and Riverside Mountain Rescue Unit responded to assist with the search. The lost group of hikers was later located and safely

hoisted out by the aviation unit, before being transported to the Lake Hemet Mountain Station where they were medically evaluated.

The additional hiker who attempted searching for the group was subsequently found near the bottom of an approximately 150-foot rock face and was pronounced dead at the scene by RMRU personnel,

according to the sheriff's department.

The hiker's remains was recovered from the area and the Riverside County Coroner's Bureau assumed the investigation. The identity of the hiker was withheld.

Anyone with additional information about the death was encouraged to contact Deputy Francisco Lopez at 951-791-3400.

| Photo courtesy of Palm Springs International Airport

San Bernardino County Supervisor Joe Baca Jr., middle, and a sheri 's deputy speak a person experiencing homelessness during the 2025 point-in-time count. | Photo courtesy of San Bernardino County

Rock faces like this one in the Anza Borrego Desert State Park, are common in the Anza area. | Photo courtesy of Bob Perry/Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 3.0)

AFoster caregiver arrested on child sexual assault charges

By City News Service

64-year-oldman suspected of sexually assaultingaminor while acting as the child's foster caregiver, as well as allegedly assaulting additional underage victims, was taken into custody Tuesday.

Sergio Avalos Perez of Desert Hot Springs was located on Tuesday in the 44000 block of Town Center Way, near Fred Waring Drive, where deputies from the Palm Desert Station Robbery Suppression Team took him into custody without incident, according to the Riverside County Sheriff's Department.

Perez was booked into the John Benoit Detention Center on suspicion of various charges of sexual assault of a minor and was being held on $2 million bail.

Deputies began investi-

gating allegations of child abuse at the foster home on Dec. 10 and notiﬁed Child Protective Services, prompting the removal of all children from the residence.

"During the investigation, it was determined that a minor who was placed in foster care at the home had been sexually assaulted by the

caregiver," the sheriff's department said in a statement. Investigators believe there may be additional victims and are encouraging them to come forward.

Anyone with information about the case was urged to call Palm Desert Sheriff's Station Investigator Iniguez at 760-836-1600.

Cathedral City police experience temporary radio disruption

By City News Service

Cathedral City police announced a temporary interruption to police radio service Wednesday due to vandalism at a local radio tower.

The department was advised of the interruption by the Riverside County Sheriff's Department, according to the Cathedral City Police Department.

Police said all phone lines, including emergency and non-emergency numbers, remained fully operational.

The agency's technical personnel were in the process of addressing the issue and attempting to restore radio services as quickly as possible Wednesday.

Anyone with information about the vandalism was asked to contact the department at 760-770-0300, or report tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 760-341-7867.

A police radio communications tower. | Photo courtesy of Lee County, Florida

Sergio Avalos Perez. | Photo courtesy of the Riverside County Sheri 's Department

The views expressed in the ad below are those of the client organization and not necessarily the views of this publication.

Statement on Religious Freedom and Constitutional Concerns

The South Korean government has explicitly targeted a specific religious group, categorically labeling it a "social harm" and a "detriment" while mobilizing state power in a retaliatory manner. Such actions constitute a grave violation of Article 20 of the Constitution of the Republic of Korea, which guarantees the freedom of religion and the principle of the separation of church and state. The Shincheonji Church of Jesus expresses profound concern over this unilateral interference by state power and strongly urges the administration to uphold the principles of fair, restrained, and constitutional governance.

On 12 January, President Lee Jae-myung stated during a meeting with religious leaders that "societal harm [caused by a specific religion] has been neglected for too long, resulting in great damage." This was followed on 13 January by Prime Minister Kim Min-seok, who, during a Cabinet meeting, utilized terms such as "cult" and "heresy" to order a joint investigation and "eradication" measures.

These statements effectively draw a conclusion before any formal investigation has begun. Such rhetoric from the head of the executive branch preemptively brands a specific religious group as a "socially problematic entity," which could be interpreted as compromising the due process and principles of the investigative process.

While a government-mandated joint investigation is underway, the administration is blatantly dismantling constitutional boundaries by declaring the group a "cult" and a "harm" as a foregone conclusion. By what authority does a secular government define and judge religious doctrine? On what legal basis does the highest seat of power provide "investigative guidelines" that undermine the independence of the judiciary?

The criteria for "orthodoxy" or "heresy" must never be based on political proximity or secular interests; they must be rooted solely in the Holy Scriptures.

History repeats itself. Two thousand years ago, Jesus Christ was branded a "heretic" and persecuted by the religious establishment of his time. Yet, history has vindicated Jesus as the cornerstone of the faith. Similarly, is it justifiable to label a religious body "heretical" based on congregation size or the assertions of rival pastors rather than the content of the Bible today?

Shincheonji Church of Jesus has never claimed infallibility. If there are genuine doctrinal or social errors, we ask that they be identified with specificity. We are committed to correcting any faults and have consistently maintained this stance. The Bible’s teachings guide our actions as we strive to become upright believers respected in our communities. From voluntary service during national disasters to leading record-breaking blood drives during supply crises, we have sought to be a vital part of society. Despite this, the government continues to use abstract labels such as "harm" without presenting a single specific instance of verified damage.

Furthermore, despite numerous past allegations, the judicial process has repeatedly resulted in acquittals or findings of no suspicion. Recycling matters already settled by the courts as fuel for political and media attacks only leads spectators and all parties involved to question whether it reflects what the Republic of Korea stands for or marks a departure from the standards of a democratic state governed by the rule of law.

The President and the political establishment must move away from the politics of scapegoating and toward a politics of unity that serves all the people they represent. Attempts to use religious establishments to evade political risks, or to weaponize majority opinion to suppress a minority religion, serve neither national development nor democracy. The State has a duty to ensure that no citizen is ostracized or discriminated against on the basis of their faith.

If one religion is targeted today, any marginalized group could be the target tomorrow. The Shincheonji Church of Jesus will stand firm in truth and faith within the framework of law and order, and will not be silenced, affirming its constitutional right to freedom of religion. We call upon the government to cease emotional branding, base its judgments on facts and law, and return to its fundamental duty of serving all people equally.

With due regard for the issue, the Shincheonji Church of Jesus has repeatedly proposed a transparent solution: let us resolve these theological disputes through an open, public Bible examination, grounded in the Holy Scripture rather than emotion or political pressure. To date, there has been no fair response to this invitation.

The members of Shincheonji Church of Jesus have always been sincere as people of the Republic of Korea. They have shown it through their actions, including cooperating with authorities in a collaborative spirit, engaging in unsparing volunteerism, and donating blood that saved lives. As people of faith who believe in God and Jesus, and as people of this nation, the church members will continue to live up to who they are as they always have.

13 January 2026

Members of Shincheonji Church of Jesus

NOTICE OF PREPARATION OF A DRAFT ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT AND PUBLIC SCOPING MEETING

The County of Los Angeles (“County”) is the lead agency pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (“CEQA”) for the proposed project identified below. The purpose of this Notice of Preparation (“NOP”) is to notify agencies and the general public that an Environmental Impact Report (EIR) will be prepared to evaluate the potential environmental effects of the project and to solicit comments on the scope and content of the EIR.

PROJECT TITLE/NO. & PERMIT(S): Los Angeles County Events Ordinance, Project No. PRJ2025-001541, Ordinance RPPL2025001715, Environmental Plan RPPL2025005389

PROJECT LOCATION: Unincorporated los Angeles County (Countywide)

PROJECT DESCRIPTION: The County of Los Angeles Department of Regional Planning (LA County Planning) staff has prepared the Events Ordinance to codify and update guidance from the 2016 Subdivision and Zoning Ordinance Interpretation memorandum; provide clear definitions and standards for event facilities and special events; identify appropriate zones where event facilities may be considered with discretionary review; clarify when event activity is a primary use or a temporary special event; and align event-related regulations with other Zoning Code provisions.

- Legal Ad -

2026, at 6:00 p.m.

Link: https://bit.ly/4szekB0

Specifically, the Events Ordinance would: (1) modify Division 2 (Definitions) of the Zoning Code to add and clarify terms related to event activities; (2) add event facilities to several Division 3 (Zones) use tables as a conditionally permitted use in specified base zones, as well as in selected zones within the Santa Monica Mountains Local Implementation Program and various specific plans; (3) add a new “Event Facilities” section within Division 7 (Standards for Specific Uses), establishing development, operational, and management standards for event facilities; (4) revise Chapter 22.188, Special Event Permits to define and regulate short-term and extended-term special events, clarify procedures and findings, and strengthen enforcement provisions; and (5) make conforming changes elsewhere in the Zoning Code to ensure internal consistency and avoid duplication or conflict with related regulations.

POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS:

The project may result in significant environmental effects in the following subject areas that will be analyzed in the EIR:

•Biological Resources

PENDING DECISION AND COMMENTS

Copies of plans, staff analysis, and the proposed decision letter are available at GlendaleCA. gov/planning/pending-decisions

If you would like to review plans, submit comments, or be notified of the decision, please contact case planner Soc Yumul at (818) 937-8166 or SYumul@glendaleca.gov

DECISION On or after Friday, February 6, 2025, the Community Development Director will make a written decision regarding this request.

APPEAL

After the Director has made a decision, any person may file an appeal within 15 days of the written decision. Appeal forms are available at GlendaleCA.gov/home/ showdocument?id=11926

Dr. Suzie Abajian, The City Clerk of the City of Glendale

Publish January 22, 2026

GLENDALE INDEPENDENT

January 12, 2026

Subject: Central Park Block Project, Specifications No. 3951R ADDENDUM NO. 1

To All Prospective Bidders:

If you are interested in bidding on this project, please obtain an electronic copy of the Bidding Documents (plans, specifications, proposal forms and Addendums) on the City’s and/ or E-bid board web sites:

https://www.glendaleca.gov/Home/Components/RFP/RFP/3452/2961 https://www.ebidboard.com

other languages can be made available at the meeting upon request. Please submit requests at least seven business days before the scheduled meeting to @planning.lacounty.gov.

•Land Use/Planning

•Noise

•Transportation

NOTICE OF SCOPING MEETING: The County will conduct a public scoping meeting to present the project as well as the EIR process and to receive public comments and suggestions regarding the scope and content of the EIR.

Please note the following as part of the bid proposal for the subject project: 1. Replace Appendix “F” Federal Prevailing Wage Rates section in its entirety, with the Prevailing Wage Rates, General Decision Number CA20260022 published January 2, 2026.

The Federal Prevailing Wage Rates (Davis-Bacon) have been revised and are also available online at: https://beta.sam.gov/wage-determination/CA20200022/3?index=wd&keywords=P revailing%20wage%20for%20Los%20Angeles% 20County&is_active=true&sort=relevance&date_filter_index=0&date_rad_selection=date&wdType=dbra&constr uction_type=Highway& state=CA&county=16321&page=1

related to this Notice must be postmarked or received by February 26, 2026 be sent to LA County Planning, Attention: Lauren De La Cruz, 320 West Temple Angeles, CA 90012, or emailed to ordinance@planning.lacounty.gov.

The Scoping Meeting will be held online at the following date and time: February 11, 2026, at 6:00 p.m.

Microsoft Teams Link: https://bit.ly/4szekB0 Translation in other languages can be made available at the meeting upon request. Please submit translation requests at least seven business days before the scheduled meeting to ordinance@planning.lacounty.gov.

the Project. The Work included in the Bid is defined in the Specification No. 3951R and Plan No. 22-106, and will generally include Installation of grand steps at the entry plaza, open space including great lawn, amphitheater and event stage, new steps south of the Central

Plans for Public Works Construction (SPPWC 2024 Edition), and the Standard Specifications for Public Works Construction (2024 Edition), including all supplements thereto issued prior to bid opening date.

Other Bidding Information: Number of Contract Working Days: 250 Working Days Amount of Liquidated Damages: $9,500 per Calendar Day

Other Bidding Information:

1. Bidding Documents: Bids must be made on the Bidder’s Proposal form contained herein. Bidding Documents may be obtained in the Public Works Engineering Department, 633 E. Broadway, Room 205, Glendale, CA 91206 where they may be examined. Electronic copies of bidding documents can be obtained at no cost from: https://www. glendaleca.gov/government/departments/finance/purchasing/rfp-rfq-page/-fsiteid-1. Future addenda, if

3. Completion:

all or any individual part/item of the Bid, and to waive any informalities, irregularities or technical defects in such Bids and determine the lowest responsible Bidder, whichever may be in the best interests of the City. No late Bids will be accepted, nor will any oral, facsimile or electronic Bids be accepted by the City.

2. Installation of a Rotary Clock (Item 168 on the updated Schedule of Bid Prices form) at a location to be determined. The City will provide the clock. The contractor shall be responsible for providing power, constructing the foundation per the provided plans, and coordinating the pickup, delivery, and installation of the clock from the City’s warehouse.

AVAILABILITY: The NOP is available for public review online at https://planning.lacounty.gov/long-range-planning/events-ordinance.

All comments related to this Notice must be postmarked or received by February 26, 2026. Comments may be sent to LA County Planning, Attention: Lauren De La Cruz, 320 West Temple Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012, or emailed to ordinance@ planning.lacounty.gov.

DOCUMENT AVAILABILITY: The NOP is available for public review online at https://planning.lacounty.gov/long-range-planning/events-ordinance.

Glendale City Notices

3. Replacement of Canvus Deborah Classic Bench with Noblewins Arch Bench as shown on Sheet 39 and Item 140 on the updated Schedule of Bid Prices form.

4. Replacement of page F-32 to include four (4) refences in the past ten (10) years to match requirements indicated on Notice Inviting Bids.

5. To allow adequate review and submittal time for the bids, the City of Glendale is extending the due date for the submittal of the bid to Wednesday, January 28 at 2:00 PM.

The Contractor will submit their bid with all the necessary forms (See Bidder’s Proposal, F1 to F51). The addendum MUST be signed by the bidder and submitted along with the bid package. No bids will be accepted without the signed addendum.

Acknowledgement:

NOTICE is hereby given that the City of Glendale (“City”) will receive sealed Bids, before the Bid Deadline established below for the following work of improvement:

CENTRAL PARK BLOCK PROJECT SPECIFICATION NO. 3951R

Bid Deadline: Submit before 2:00 p.m. on January 28, 2026 (“the Bid Deadline”)

Original Bid to be submitted to: Office of City Clerk 613 E. Broadway, Room 110 Glendale, CA 91206

Bid Opening: 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, January 28, 2026 City Council Chambers 613 E. Broadway, 2nd Floor Glendale, CA 91206

NO LATE BIDS WILL BE ACCEPTED.

Bidding Documents Available: Bidding documents are also available to view and download online at: https://www.glendaleca.gov/government/departments/finance/purchasing/rfp-rfq-page/fsiteid-1

Additional Bid Document 1. Bid America (951) 677-4819

Procurement Locations: 2 Construct Connect (877)

City of Glendale Contact Person: Arthur Asaturyan, Senior Project Manager Phone: 818-548-3945 E-mail: aasaturyan@glendaleca.gov

Mandatory Pre-Bid Conference: Date: January 16, 2026 Time: 3:00 p.m.

Location: Central Park 201 E. Colorado Street Glendale,

5. Contractor License. At the time of the Bid Deadline and at all times during performance of the Work, including full completion of all corrective work during the Correction Period, the Contractor must possess a California contractor license or licenses, current and active, of the classification required for the Work, in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 9, Division 3, Section 7000 et seq. of the Business and Professions Code. In compliance with Public Contract Code Section 3300, the City has determined that the Bidder must possess the following license(s): General A. For federally funded projects, the Contractor shall be properly licensed at the time of award. The successful Bidder will not receive a Contract award if the successful Bidder is unlicensed, does not have all of the required licenses, or one or more of the licenses are not current and active. If the City discovers after the Contract’s award that the Contractor is unlicensed, does not have all of the required licenses, or one or more of the licenses are not current and active, the City may cancel the award, reject the Bid, declare the Bid Bond as forfeited, keep the Bid Bond’s proceeds, and exercise any one or more of the remedies in the Contract Documents. 6. Subcontractors’ Licenses and Listing. At the time of the Bid Deadline and at all times during performance of the Work, each listed Subcontractor must possess a current and active California contractor license or licenses appropriate for the portion of the Work listed for such Subcontractor and shall hold all specialty certifications required for such Work. When the Bidder submits its Bid to the City, the Bidder must list each Subcontractor whom the Bidder must disclose under Public Contract Code Section 4104 (Subcontractor Listing Law), and the Bidder must provide all of the Subcontractor information that Section 4104 requires (name, the location (address) of the Subcontractor’s place of business, California Contractor license number, California Department of Industrial Relations contractor registration number, and portion of the Work). In addition, the City requires that the Bidder list the dollar value of each Subcontractor’s labor or services The City’s disqualification of a Subcontractor does not disqualify a Bidder. However, prior to and as a condition to award of the Contract, the successful Bidder shall substitute a properly licensed qualified Subcontractor— without an adjustment of the Bid Amount. Permits, Inspections, Plan Checks, Governmental Approvals, Utility Fees and Similar Authorizations: The City has applied and paid for the following Governmental Approvals and Utility Fees: Permit: BCOMM-012056-2024, Plans are Approved (Landscape & More) Permit: BCOMM-016853-2024, Plans are Approved (Amphitheater) Permit: BCOMM-018077, Plans are Approved (Restroom Building) Permit: BE-MFC-020162-2024, Plans are Approved (Restroom Electrical) Plumbing Permit: BP-MFC-020212-2024, Plans are Approved (Restroom Plumbing) Grading Permit: BGRADING-014237-2024, Plans are Approved (Grading & Drainage) PLAYGROUND EQUIPMENT – DEFERRED SUBMITTAL REQUIRED SPLASH PAD EQUIPMENT – DEFERRED SUBMITTAL REQUIRED PLAYGROUND SHADE SAIL STRUCTURE – DEFERRED SUBMITTAL REQUIRED

All other Governmental Approvals and Utility Fees shall be obtained and paid for by Contractor and will be reimbursed based on Contractor’s actual direct cost without markup. See Instructions to Bidders Paragraph

the total maximum amount of the Bid may accompany the Bid. Said security shall serve as a guarantee that the successful Bidder, within fourteen (14) calendar days after the City’s Notice of Award of the Contract, will enter into a valid contract with the City for said Work in accordance with the Contract Documents.

9. Bid Irrevocability. Bids shall remain open and valid for ninety (90) calendar days after the Bid Deadline.

10. Substitution of Securities. Pursuant to California Public Contract Code Section 22300, substitution of securities for withheld funds is permitted in accordance therewith. 11. Prevailing Wage Resolution. Bidders are hereby notified that in accordance with the provisions of the Labor Code of the State of California, the City Council of the City has ascertained and determined by Resolution No. 18,626 (as amended), the general prevailing rate of per diem wages of a similar character in the locality in which the Work is performed and the general prevailing rate for legal holiday and overtime Work for each craft or type of worker needed in the execution of agreements with the City. Said resolution is on file in the Office of the City Clerk and is hereby incorporated and made a part hereof by the same as though fully set forth herein. Copies of said resolution may be obtained at the Office of the City Clerk.

12. Prevailing Wages. This Project is funded, in part, with state and federal funds and is therefore a “public work” subject to the provisions of California Labor Code

California, pursuant to the California Labor Code, and the United States Secretary of Labor, pursuant to the Davis-Bacon Act, have determined the general prevailing rates of wages in the locality in which the Work is to be performed. The rates determined by the California Director of Industrial Relations are available online at www.dir.ca.gov/DLSR/PWD/. Davis-Bacon wage rates are included in this Specification and are available online at https://sam.gov/content/wage-determinations. To the extent that there are any differences in the federal and state prevailing wage rates for similar

fee of $400. More information is available at the following links: https://www.dir.ca.gov/public-works/PublicWorksSB854.html

Beginning April 1, 2015, the City must award public works projects only to contractors and subcontractors who comply with the Public Works Contractor Registration Law.

Notice to Bidders and Subcontractors:

• No contractor or subcontractor may be listed on a Bid proposal for a public works project (submitted on or after March 1, 2015) unless registered with the Department of Industrial Relations pursuant to Labor Code Section 1725.5 [with limited exceptions from this requirement for bid purposes only under Labor Code Section 1771.1(a)]. No contractor or subcontractor may be awarded a contract for public work on a public works project (awarded on or after April 1, 2015) unless registered with the Department of Industrial Relations pursuant to Labor Code section 1725.5. This Project is subject to compliance monitoring and enforcement by the Department of Industrial Relations.

The prime contractor must post job site notices prescribed by regulation. (See 8 Calif. Code Reg. Section 16451(d) for the notice that previously was required for projects monitored by the DIR Compliance Monitoring Unit.)

Furnishing of Electronic Certified Payroll Records to Labor Commissioner. For all new projects awarded on or after April 1, 2015, contractors and subcontractors must furnish electronic certified payroll records directly to the Labor Commissioner (aka Division of Labor Standards Enforcement).

Dated this ____ day of _______, 20___, City of Glendale, California.

Dr. Suzie Abajian, Ph.D., City Clerk of the City of Glendale.

Publish January 22, 2026 GLENDALE INDEPENDENT

Pasadena City Notices

NOTICE OF ELECTION

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a Primary Municipal Election will be held in the City of Pasadena on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, for the following officers:

For three Members of the City Council, Districts 3, 5, and 7 (each for a full term of four years)

The Vote Centers for the election shall be open as required during the identified voting period, pursuant to Election Code Sections 4007 and 14404 and will be open on Election Day between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m.

Publish: January 22, 29, 2026 MARK JOMSKY February 5, 2026 City Clerk

PASADENA PRESS

Notice of Public Hearing Planning Commission

Notice of Public Hearing for Amendments to Title 17 (Zoning Code) of the Pasadena Municipal Code (PMC) and the City’s Specific Plans

PROJECT DESCRIPTION:

The Planning and Community Development Department is bringing forward Amendments to Title 17 (the Zoning Code) of the Pasadena Municipal Code (PMC) and the City’s Specific Plans. This includes changes to the following:

1) Zoning Code Sections 17.22.030 (Residential District Land Uses and Permit Requirements), 17.24.030 (Commercial and Industrial District Land Uses and Permit Requirements), 17.26.030 (Special Purpose District Land Uses and Permit Requirements), 17.30.030 (Central District Specific Plan - Allowable Land Uses),17.31.040 (East Colorado Specific Plan - Allowable Land Uses), 17.34.030 (North Lake Specific Plan - Allowable Land Uses), 17.35.030 (South Fair Oaks Specific Plan - Allowable Land Uses), 17.37.040 (Lincoln Avenue Specific Plan - Allowable Land Uses) and 17.38.030 (Lamanda Park Specific Plan - Allowable Land Uses): To update the land use tables.

2) Zoning Code Section 17.50.030 (Adaptive Reuse Projects): To allow the conversion of hotels/motels with 80 or fewer rooms to housing.

3) Zoning Code Sections 17.50.075 (Conversion of a Hotel or Motel to Affordable Housing) and 17.61.055 (Hotel Conversion Permits): To remove both Sections from the Zoning Code.

4) Zoning Code Section 17.60.030 (Concurrent Permit Processing): To update the review authorities identified in Table 6-1.

5) Zoning Code Article 8 (Glossary): To update the definition of uses listed in the land use tables.

6) Lincoln Avenue, East Colorado, South Fair Oaks, Central District, Lamanda Park and North Lake Specific Plans: To update the land use tables.

PROJECT LOCATION: Citywide.

ENVIRONMENTAL DETERMINATION: The City Council will consider whether adoption of the proposed Amendments are exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to State CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3), under the “Common Sense” exemption that CEQA applies only to projects which have the potential for causing a significant effect on the environment. Where it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the activity in question may have a significant effect on the environment, the activity is not subject to CEQA. Items 1, 5 and 6 focus on updating the land use tables for various zoning districts throughout the City and making sure they are consistent with each other. Items 2, 3 and 4 implement programs of the 2021-2029 General Plan Housing Element that would incentivize the conversion of motels to housing.

APPROVALS NEEDED: The Planning Commission will conduct a public hearing and consider the proposed Zoning Code Amendments and environmental determination. The Planning Commission recommendation will be forwarded to the City Council, who will make a final decision at a separately noticed public hearing.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Planning Commission will conduct a public hearing and consider the proposed Zoning Code Amendments and proposed environmental determination. The hearing is scheduled for:

Date: Wednesday, February 11, 2026

Time: 6:30 p.m.

Place: Council Chambers, Pasadena City Hall 100 North Garfield Avenue, Room S249. The meeting agenda will be posted by February 6, 2026 at www.cityofpasadena.net/commissions/ planning-commission/

PUBLIC INFORMATION: Any interested party or their representative may provide live public comment by following the instructions in the meeting agenda. Prior to the start of the meeting, written correspondence may be emailed to commentsPC@cityofpasadena.net or mailed to the address below (note that this email address will not be checked once the meeting starts).

Contact Person: Jason Mikaelian, Deputy Director Phone: (626) 744-7231

E-mail: jmikaelian@cityofpasadena.net

Website: www.cityofpasadena.net/planning

Mailing Address:

Planning & Community Development Department Planning Division, Community Planning Section 175 North Garfield Avenue, Pasadena, CA 91101

ADA: To request a disability-related modification or accommodation necessary to facilitate meeting participation, please contact the Planning & Community Development Department as soon as possible at (626) 744-4009 or (626) 744-4371 (TDD) or commentsPC@ cityofpasadena.net. Providing at least 72 hours advance notice will help ensure availability. Language translation services may also be requested with 72-hour advance notice by calling (626) 744-4009

Publish January 22, 2026 PASADENA PRESS

Probate Notices

NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF:

ELSA S. RODRIGUEZ

CASE NO. 25STPB14481

To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the WILL or estate, or both of ELSA S. RODRIGUEZ.

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

THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that ELSA JANSEN 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: 02/23/26 at 9:30AM in Dept. 2D 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

NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF: ENID SCIALO

CASE NO. PROVA2600002

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

A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by KEVIN KLEEN in the Superior Court of California, County of SAN BERNARDINO.

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

A HEARING on the petition will be held in this court as follows: 02/10/26 at 9:00AM in Dept. F2 located at 17780 ARROW BLVD., FONTANA, CA 92335

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.

Attorney for Petitioner

DEBORA YOUNG - SBN 250106 YOUNG LAW FIRM 11500 W. OLYMPIC BLVD., SUITE 400 LOS ANGELES CA 90064

the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney.

Attorney for Petitioner

ANN E. O'HARA - SBN 242709

SHERAK LAW GROUP, ALC 4400 MACARTHUR BLVD., SUITE 900 NEWPORT BEACH CA 92660

Telephone (949) 988-7553

BSC 227898 1/15, 1/19, 1/22/26 CNS-4001550# BALDWIN PARK PRESS

grant the authority. A HEARING on the petition will be held in this court as follows: 02/06/26 at 8:30AM in Dept. 11 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.

Attorney for Petitioner

JOHN B. JAKLE, ESQ. - SBN 049540 JAKLE, ALEXANDER & PATTON, LLP 2001 WILSHIRE BLVD., SUITE 420 SANTA MONICA CA 90403

Telephone (310) 395-6555 BSC 227902 1/15, 1/19, 1/22/26 CNS-4001718# BURBANK INDEPENDENT

NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF: FLORENCE B. TREMPE AKA FLORENCE ELIZABETH TREMPE

CASE NO. GP013323 To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the WILL or estate, or both of FLORENCE B. TREMPE AKA FLORENCE ELIZABETH TREMPE.

Telephone (310) 444-3003 1/15, 1/19, 1/22/26 CNS-4001648# ONTARIO NEWS PRESS

NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF: DEANNE S. HAYES

CASE NO. 26STPB00120

To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the WILL or estate, or both of DEANNE S. HAYES.

A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by PATRICIA HAYES CHRISTENSEN in the Superior Court of California, County of LOS ANGELES. THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that PATRICIA HAYES CHRISTENSEN 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

A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by JOHN J. SWIFT JR. in the Superior Court of California, County of LOS ANGELES. THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that JOHN J. SWIFT JR. 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: 02/06/26 at 8:30AM in Dept. 29 located at 111 N. HILL ST., LOS ANGELES, CA 90012

any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk.

Attorney for Petitioner

DARLYNN MORGAN, ESQ. - SBN 185963

MORGAN LAW GROUP

1500 QUAIL STREET, STE. 540 NEWPORT BEACH CA 92660

Telephone (949) 260-1400

1/15, 1/19, 1/22/26 CNS-4001964# BURBANK INDEPENDENT

NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF LAURA LOWE BARKER aka LAURA L. BARKER aka LAURA BARKER

Case No. 26STPB00057

To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the will or estate, or both, of LAURA LOWE BARKER aka LAURA L. BARKER aka LAURA BARKER

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

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

A HEARING on the petition will be held on Feb. 6, 2026 at 8:30 AM in Dept. No. 99 located at 111 N. Hill St., Los Angeles, CA 90012.

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.

ELLEN EDWARDS FAREWELL ESQ SBN 128113 FAREWELL & FAREWELL LLP 1601 GRANDVIEW AVE GLENDALE CA 91201 CN123467 BARKER Jan 15,19,22, 2026 WEST COVINA PRESS

NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF:

MARLINE IRENE FONSECA AKA MARLINE IRENE VALADEZ

CASE NO. PROVA2600004

To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the WILL or estate, or both of MARLINE IRENE FONSECA AKA MARLINE IRENE VALADEZ.

A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by PAUL FONSECA in the Superior Court of California, County of SAN BERNARDINO. THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that PAUL FONSECA 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: 02/17/26 at 9:00AM in Dept. F2 located at 17780 ARROW BLVD., FONTANA, CA 92335

Attorney for Petitioner

DANIEL B . BURBOTT - SBN 279759

GAUDY LAW INC.

267 D STREET

UPLAND CA 91786

Telephone (909) 982-3199

1/15, 1/19, 1/22/26

CNS-4002236#

ONTARIO NEWS PRESS

NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF:

JENNIFER CAROL DAHER

CASE NO. 25STPB12878

To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the WILL or estate, or both of JENNIFER CAROL DAHER.

A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by CHAOUKI HANI DAHER in the Superior Court of California, County of LOS ANGELES. THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that CHAOUKI HANI DAHER be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent.

A HEARING on the petition will be held in this court as follows: 05/14/26 at 8:30AM in Dept. 9 located at 111 N. HILL ST., LOS ANGELES, CA 90012

LEGALS

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.

Attorney for Petitioner

GERARD V. KASSABIAN, ESQ.SBN 222703

LAW OFFICES OF GERARD V. KASSABIAN, A PROF. CORP. 15260 VENTURA BLVD. SUITE 960 SHERMAN OAKS CA 91403

Telephone (310) 278-8001 1/15, 1/19, 1/22/26 CNS-4002998# BURBANK INDEPENDENT

NOTICE OF AMENDED PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF:

BERNARD GEORGE HOLMBRAKER

CASE NO. 25STPB12155

To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the WILL or estate, or both of BERNARD GEORGE HOLMBRAKER.

AN AMENDED PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by MARIA TERESA QUIOGUE ESTEBAN in the Superior Court of California, County of LOS ANGELES. THE AMENDED PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that MARIA TERESA QUIOGUE ESTEBAN be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent.

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

A HEARING on the petition will be held in this court as follows: 03/03/26 at 8:30AM in Dept. 4 located at 111 N. HILL ST., LOS ANGELES, CA 90012

Attorney for Petitioner

CLAIRE N. ESPINA - SBN 176648

ESPINA LAWYERS, APLC 5161 LANKERSHIM BLVD., SUITE 250 NORTH HOLLYWOOD CA 91601

Telephone (818) 708-7791

1/22, 1/26, 1/29/26

CNS-4003592#

BURBANK INDEPENDENT

NOTICE

OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF: YUEH-ER PAN TSENG CASE NO. 26STPB00365

To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the WILL or estate, or both of YUEH-ER PAN TSENG.

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

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

A HEARING on the petition will be held in this court as follows: 02/17/26 at 8:30AM in Dept. 44 located at 111 N. HILL ST., LOS ANGELES, CA 90012

JENNIFER FU, ESQ. - SBN 237082 AMITY LAW GROUP LLP 800 S. BARRANCA AVE., #260 COVINA CA 91723

Telephone (626) 307-2800 1/22, 1/26, 1/29/26 CNS-4004456# MONTEREY PARK PRESS

Public Notices

Order To Show Cause For Change

of Name Case No. 25FL001354 To All

Persons: Julie Hutchinson

Interested

OBO Lucy Meredith Seward, a minor filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: PRESENT NAME Lucy Meredith Seward PROPOSED NAME Lucy Meredith Hutchinson. The Court Orders that all persons interested in this matter shall appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. Notice Of Hearing

Date: 2/9/2026 Time: 8:45am Dept. L63

Room: 6th Floor The address of the court is Lamoreaux Justice Center, 341 The City Drive South, Orange, Ca 92868. A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation, printed in this county: Anaheim Press Date: December 23, 2025 Eric J. Wersching Judge of the Superior Court Pub Dates: January 1, 8, 15, 22, 2026 ANAHEIM PRESS

ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME PETITION OF Phien Thi Vo FOR CHANGE OF NAME CASE NUMBER: 25NNCP00931 Superior Court of California, County of Los Angeles 300 East Olive , Burbank, Ca 91502, North Central Judicial District TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: 1. Petitioner Phien Thi Vo filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: Present name a. OF Phien Thi Vo to Proposed name Lily Phien Vo 2. THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter shall appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reason for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing NOTICE OF HEARING a. Date: 02/27/2026 Time: 8:30AM Dept: B. The address of the court is same as noted above. 3. a. A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the day set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation, printed in this county: Alhambra Press DATED: December 22, 2025 Roberto Longoria JUDGE OF THE SUPERIOR COURT Pub. January 1, 8, 15, 22, 2026 ALHAMBRA PRESS

ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME PETITION OF Aiden Andrew Segura FOR CHANGE OF NAME CASE NUMBER: 25PSCP00604

Superior Court of California, County of Los Angeles 1427 West Covina Parkway, West Covina, Ca 91790, East Judicial District TO ALL INTERESTED

PERSONS: 1. Petitioner Aiden Andrew Segura filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: Present name a. OF Aiden Andrew Segura to Proposed name Aiden Anthony Lomeli 2. THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter shall appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reason for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing NOTICE OF HEARING a. Date: 02/13/2026

Time: 8:30AM Dept: 1. Room: 117 The address of the court is same as noted above. 3. a. A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the day set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation, printed in this county: Baldwin Park Press DATED: November 26, 2025 Benjamin P. Hernandez JUDGE OF THE SUPERIOR COURT Pub. January 8, 15, 22, 29, 2026 BALDWIN PARK PRESS

ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME PETITION S FOR CHANGE OF NAME CASE NUMBER: 25PSCP00640 Superior Court of California, County of Los Angeles 400 Civic Center Plaza , Pomona, Ca 91706, East Judicial District TO ALL INTERESTED

PERSONS: 1. Petitioner Maria Ordunez

Lazaro filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: Present name a. OF Maria Ordunez

Lazaro to Proposed name Maria Ladislao Ordunez 2. THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter shall appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reason for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing NOTICE OF HEARING a. Date: 02/20/2026

Time: 9.00:AM Dept: O. Room 5th Floor

The address of the court is same as noted above. 3. a. A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the day set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation, printed in this county: Baldwin Park Press DATED: December 23, 2025 Christian R Gullon JUDGE OF THE SUPERIOR COURT Pub. January 8, 15, 22, 29, 2026 BALDWIN PARK PRESS

Order To Show Cause For Change of Name Case No. 26FL000017 To All Interested Persons: Aaron Hanson and Kelly Hanson on behalf of Dean

Sandy Kenneth Hanson, a minor filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: PRESENT NAME Dean Sandy Kenneth Hanson PROPOSED NAME Dean Tiberius Hanson. The Court Orders that all persons interested in this matter shall appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. Notice Of Hearing Date: 04/20/2026 Time: 1:30pm Dept. L74 REMOTE HEARING The address of the court is Lamoreaux Justice Center, 341 The City Drive South, Orange, Ca 92868. A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation, printed in this county: Anaheim Press Date: January 12, 2026 Eric J. Wersching Judge of the Superior Court Pub Dates: January 15, 22, 29, February 5, 2026 ANAHEIM PRESS

ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME PETITION OF North FOR CHANGE OF NAME CASE NUMBER: 26STCP00054 Superior Court of California, County of Los Angeles 111 N Hill St, Los Angeles, Ca 90012, Central Judicial District TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: 1. Petitioner North filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: Present name a. OF North to Proposed name Jay Pharaoh North 2. THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter shall appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reason for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing NOTICE OF HEARING a. Date: 05/04/2026 Time: 8:30AM Dept: 45. Room: 529 The address of the court is same as noted above. 3. a. A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the day set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation, printed in this county: Pasadena Press DATED: January 6, 2026 Virginia Keeny JUDGE OF THE SUPERIOR COURT Pub. January 15, 22, 29, February 5, 2026 PASADENA PRESS

CASE NUMBER: (Numero del Caso): 25CMCV01892 SUMMONS (CITACION JUDICIAL)

NOTICE TO DEFENDANT: (AVISO AL DEMANDADO): ALOYSIUS DIMITRI NNADOZIE, an individual; LGL, INC., a California corporation; FAF, INC., a Tennessee corporation; OC EXPRESS, INC., a California corporation; and DOES 1 through 50, inclusive.

Plaintiff’s Title Thereto. YOU ARE BEING SUED BY PLAINTIFF: (LO ESTA DE-MANDANDO EL DEMANDANTE): HAROLD KAYE JR. HICKS, an individual;

NOTICE! You have been sued. The court may decide against you without your being heard unless you respond within 30 days. Read the information below.

You have 30 CALENDAR DAYS after this summons and legal papers are served on you to file a written response at this court and have a copy served on the plaintiff. A letter or phone call will not protect you. Your written response must be in proper legal form if you want the court to hear your case. There may be a court form that you can use for your response. You can find these court forms and more information at the California Courts Online Self-Help Center (www. courtinfo.ca.gov/selfhelp), your county law library, or the courthouse nearest you. If you cannot pay the filing fee, ask the court clerk for a fee waiver form. If you do not file your response on time, you may lose the case by default, and your wages, money, and property may be taken without further warning from the court. There are other legal requirements. You may want to call an attorney right away. If you do not know an attorney, you may want to call an attorney referral service. If you cannot afford an attorney, you may be eligible for free legal services from a nonprofit legal services program. You can locate these nonprofit groups at the California Legal Services Web site (www.lawhelpcalifornia.org), the Califor-nia Courts Online Self-Help Center (www.courtinfo.ca.gov/selfhelp), or

Precipitation in forecast for week's end across Inland Empire

By City News Service

Wetweatheris forecast for parts of the Inland Empire starting Thursday and possibly lingering into Saturday, though the precipitation is expected to be light, according to the National Weather Service.

An upper level trough of low pressure forming over the Paciﬁc and currently closing in on Central California will reach the inland region by Thursday afternoon, generating sporadic rain, which is not predicted to be intense, according to the agency.

"Current forecast has the highest chances of rain in and west of the mountains Thursday and Friday, with lingering chances of precipitation into Saturday

morning," the NWS said in a statement. "Latest guidance is indicating hourly rainfall rates will range from 0.050.25 inches per hour. Rates at or near 0.25 per hour will be fairly isolated and most likely occur Friday."

Rainfall accumulations will be low in most places, meteorologists said. Snow levels will remain above 8,000 feet until Friday, when frozen precipitation may materialize around 6,500 feet, according to the Weather Service. The highest snowfall will occur at or above 7,000, with one or two inches of snow possible by Saturday. The trough will be gone by Sunday, followed by a ridge of high pressure that

will spur the return of more mild, dry weather, according to forecasters.

For Wednesday, daytime highs in the Riverside metropolitan area will edge into the mid 70s, with lows in the upper 40s. However, from Thursday to Sunday, highs will generally top out in the mid 60s, falling into the low to mid 40s during nighttime hours.

In the Coachella Valley, the mercury will make it into the mid to upper 70s Wednesday, with lows in the mid 50s. Thursday to Sunday, highs will hover in the low 70s, followed by overnight temps in the upper 40s.

The Temecula Valley's highs Wednesday will peak in the low 70s, with lows in the mid 40s. From Thursday to Sunday, daytime highs will hold in the low 60s, dropping into the

the NWS said.

4.3 earthquake shakes up areas near Indio Hills

The latest in a series of earthquakes and aftershocks in the Indio area struck at 12:30 a.m. Wednesday, nearly 6 miles northeast of Indio Hills with a preliminary magnitude of 4.3, according to the U.S. Geological Survey.

The aftershocks continued to strike the Indio area over the past 2 days after a magnitude-4.9 earthquake struck near Indio Hills on Monday.

A magnitude-3.6 aftershock was reported shortly before 11 a.m. Tuesday about 11.3 miles north of Indio, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. It was followed by two more an hour later with magnitudes of 3.2 and 2.8.

There were no immediate reports of injuries or damage Tuesday, and no such reports Monday either.

"At this time, the city of Indio has no reports of injuries

consequences, should not be categorized as an "accidental death," but victim of a criminal act.

"Deaths caused by drunk driving or the distribution of lethal drugs are not accidents," Lightner said. "They stem from reckless, dangerous and criminal behavior. How we classify these deaths matters — to families, to the justice system and to public policy. I have opposed the term 'accident' in impaireddriving crashes for decades.

My daughter's death was not an accident; it was a homicide. And that is what her death certiﬁcate should reﬂect."

Lightner, who now heads the nonproﬁt We Save Lives, lost her 13-year-old daughter

Cari when a drunk driver struck the girl on a Fair Oaks roadside in May 1980. The child's death motivated her grieving mother to establish MADD.

Capelouto lost his 20-year-old daughter Alex-

By City News Service

and no immediate reports of any visible road damage related to this evening's earthquake. Our water system is secure and stable," a city spokesperson said in a statement Monday.

The initial quake occurred at 5:56 p.m. Monday with a preliminary magnitude of 5.1, but was later downgraded to 4.9, and was followed about a minute later by the ﬁrst aftershock, the USGS said.

The ﬁrst shaker was centered about 5.5 miles northeast of Indio Hills, 12 miles north-northeast of Indio, 14.5 miles of Coachella and 16.5 miles northeast of Palm Desert. Its depth was just under two miles.

Reports indicated that shaking could be felt as far as Redlands, as well as in Palm Springs, Palm Desert and other areas in the Coachella Valley.

Death classiﬁcations

andra to fentanyl poisoning in December 2019. Like Lightner, he turned his grief into activism, seeking state legislation to establish criteria for charging drug dealers with homicide in instances where the use of controlled substances resulted in death. Despite repeated attempts in the last ﬁve years, the state Legislature has tabled proposals based on Capelouto's objectives.

Some district attorneys

statewide, following the lead of Riverside County District Attorney Mike Hestrin, have moved forward with drug death homicide prosecutions anyway. Additionally, the authors of Prop 36 included a "Watson advisement" provision in the measure for drug offenders. It's analogous to what convicted DUI offenders receive when they're notiﬁed during sentencing that they may be charged with second-degree murder if they cause a future DUI

crash that results in a fatality.

"With Alexandra's Law (in Prop 36), we made it clear that drug dealers must understand the lethal nature of their actions and that future deaths can lead to homicide or murder charges," Capelouto said. "These deaths are not accidents — they are homicides."

The Not An Accident campaign stresses the need for reforms, including the rewrite of death classiﬁcation standards, ensuring

that when there are criminal convictions in DUI or drug poisoning cases, death certiﬁcates clearly document that the victim's loss stemmed from a criminal act. The campaign also seeks upgrades to data collection and dissemination to conﬁrm when deaths were actually the result of accidents, and when they stemmed from criminal negligence. Further information about the campaign is available at notanaccident.info.

upper 30s at night,

| Photo courtesy of Pixabay (CCO 1.0)

| Map courtesy of the USGS