LOS CERRITOS
Winner of Nineteen LA Press Club Awards from 2012-2021 Serving Cerritos and ten other surrounding communities • January 9, 2026 • Vol. 41, No. 3 • LOSCERRITOSNEWS.NET
Why an OpenAI Copyright Case Matters to Local Community Newsrooms
Artesia Advances Cannabis Funded Community Grant Program With Chamber Allocation Under Review
The outcome of the case may determine whether smaller newsrooms have any practical ability to defend their work in the age of artificial intelligence.
Cannabis operators would contribute at least $300,000 annually, with a portion reserved for nonprofits and the Artesia Chamber of Commerce.
By Brian Hews
By Brian Hews The City of Artesia is moving forward with a Community Benefits Grant Program funded by cannabis revenue, a policy designed to direct money from licensed operators into local nonprofits and economic development-related activities. Under the program, cannabis permit holders are required to contribute the greater of 1.1 percent of gross receipts or $100,000 annually. With three licensed operators, the structure is expected to generate a minimum of $300,000 per year. City policy allocates 55 percent [ See ARTESIA, page 7 ]
One-Stop Website Lets Californians Block Brokers From Selling Personal Information New state-run website lets Californians block data brokers, delete personal information, and reduce calls, texts, emails, and identity theft risks. By Brian Hews Californians now have a new, simple way to tell companies to stop selling their personal information online. Many companies called data brokers collect information about people as they use the internet. This can include email addresses, phone numbers, shopping habits, and other personal details. Most people do not even know this information is being collected or sold. Before, stopping this meant finding each company and asking them one by one to delete your data. That was hard and took a lot of time. Now, California has created one website where residents can make a single request. The site is run by the California Privacy Protection Agency and is called the Delete Request and Opt-Out Platform, or DROP. The website was created after a new law called the Delete Act was signed in 2023 by Gavin Newsom. The law requires data brokers to register with the state and follow the rules or pay fines. Using DROP is simple. Californians first prove they live in the state, then create a short profile with basic [ See BLOCK, page 7 ]
procurement, transparency, and conflicts of interest. By controlling the JPA’s operations, receiving bids, and managing public business through his own private infrastructure, Garza blurred — and in some cases erased — the legal separation required between a public agency and a private enterprise. That private control, combined with Garza’s renewal of his contract as the JPA’s executive director while simultaneously serving as an elected water official for Central Basin, has now placed his Central Basin Municipal Water District seat in legal peril. Part One documented how Garza used his personal Six Heron email, company cellphone, and Bellflower
As reported this week, lawyers representing The Orange County Register, the New York Daily News, and other publishers have asked a federal judge to sanction OpenAI over allegations that it deleted or substituted millions of ChatGPT conversation logs after judges ordered the company to preserve and produce them as evidence in a copyright lawsuit. The logs allegedly contain AI-generated outputs that news organizations believe were based on their journalists’ reporting. The dispute centers on a federal copyright lawsuit filed by the major news organizations against OpenAI, the company behind ChatGPT. The publishers allege that OpenAI unlawfully used their copyrighted journalism to train and generate AI responses that reproduce or closely mirror news reporting, often without permission, attribution, or compensation. They further claim that some AI-generated responses distort or inaccurately summarize their work, undermining both its value and credibility. As part of the case, a federal judge ordered OpenAI to preserve and produce tens of millions of ChatGPT conversation logs so publishers could assess whether their reporting was being reproduced in AI outputs. In recent filings, the news organizations argue that OpenAI failed to comply with those orders by deleting, substituting, or altering portions of the requested data.
[ See DIRTY WATER, page 12 ]
[ See LAWSUIT, page 14 ]
An exclusive five-part LCCN investigation revealing how Central Basin Director Juan Garza turned the Cardroom Cities’ Joint Powers Authority into his own operation — and the conflicts and liabilities he engineered for himself in the process. Part 4
The Law is Automatic. And the Central Basin Water Board Isn’t Acting. By Brian Hews Five weeks ago, Los Cerritos Community News launched High Stakes, Dirty Water, Red Flags, a multipart investigative series revealing that for years Central Basin District Four Director Juan Garza quietly operated the California Cities for Self-Reliance Joint Powers Authority (JPA), a taxpayerfunded agency, through Bellflower-based Six Heron, his privately owned publicrelations and government-relations firm. Garza’s decision to personally run a publicly funded joint powers authority through his private firm, which for years was not properly licensed with the city of Bellflower, raised immediate red flags under California law governing
California Contract Cities Calls for State Action Amid Deadly Rise in Street Racing and Takeovers By Brian Hews
ELECTED OFFICIALS from the cities of Artesia, Bellflower, Bell Gardens, Downey, El Monte, Lakewood, Norwalk, Paramount, Pico Rivera, San Fernando, Santa Fe Springs, and West Hollywood gathered at a California Contract Cities Association meeting to discuss statewide strategies aimed at curbing illegal street racing and street takeovers.
Sacramento, CA — The California Contract Cities Association called on state leaders to advance preventative, technology-based solutions to address the surge in illegal street racing and street takeovers, activities that have led to hundreds of crashes, severe injuries, and dozens of deaths across Southern California. Over recent years, Los Angeles County law enforcement agencies documented more than 1,000 street takeover events within an approximately 18-month period, highlighting the [ See RACING, page 7 ]
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Los Cerritos Community News • January 9, 2026
Marukan Cup of Culinary Excellence at Cerritos College
WINNERS of the eighth annual Marukan Cup of Culinary Excellence at Cerritos College are shown. First place went to Rodolfo “RJ” Garcia, who earned $1,000; second place was awarded to Yareli Yepez Maximi, who received $500; and third place went to Katherine Calderon, who won $250. LCCN Staff Report Culinary arts students at Cerritos College demonstrated job-ready skills while competing in the eighth annual Marukan Cup of Culinary Excellence, an industry-judged event designed to mirror the expectations of professional kitchens. Held in partnership with Marukan Vinegar (USA) Inc., the competition featured 16 top students preparing original entrées inspired by global cuisines. More than 200 spectators and culinary professionals observed as judges evaluated each dish using real-world industry criteria, including technique, creativity, and product knowledge. “This competition isn’t about memorizing recipes,” said Jesusita Lopez, assistant professor and chair of culinary arts. “It’s about readiness. Students work directly with industry partners, perform under pressure, and meet professional standards. That’s how they prepare for real careers.” This year’s winners reflected both technical skill and creative range. First place was awarded to Rodolfo “RJ” Garcia, who received a $1,000 prize for a Thai-inspired Nobu-style baked fish. Second place went to Yareli Yepez Maximi, earning $500 for her Ecuadorian dish, Seco de Carne, a traditional braised beef stew.
Senator Bob Archuleta Announces Reelection Bid LCCN Staff Report PICO RIVERA, Calif. – California State Sen. Bob Archuleta has announced he is seeking reelection to continue delivering resources and results for the 30th Senate District and advancing
Third place was claimed by Katherine Calderon, who received $250 for a Costa Rica-themed filet mignon paired with sautéed cabbage, salsa Lizano, corn purée, potato rosettes, and microgreens. The Marukan Cup highlights Cerritos College’s emphasis on hands-on, employer-connected education. Students gain experience working with industrygrade products, receive direct feedback from culinary professionals, and compete in settings that closely resemble modern workplace environments. The Cerritos College Culinary Arts Program prepares students for careers throughout the food service and hospitality industries, offering certificates and associate degrees in professional cooking, baking and pastry, culinary arts management, and hospitality management. Students may also pursue Associate Degrees for Transfer, creating a direct pathway to four-year programs at California State University, Long Beach or California State Polytechnic University, Pomona. By combining industry partnerships, competitive learning, and career-focused instruction, Cerritos College continues to graduate students who are prepared to enter the workforce with confidence, skill, and professional discipline.
policies that benefit communities across California. “It has been an honor to represent the 30th District, and I never take the public trust lightly,” Archuleta said. “I am committed to continuing this work on behalf of our families, veterans, seniors and working people.” A former law enforcement officer, U.S. Army veteran and former Obama appointee to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, Archuleta was first elected to the Senate in 2018. Since then, he has helped secure more than $100 million in state funding for local infrastructure projects, including libraries, parks and public safety facilities, while supporting education, veterans services, clean energy initiatives and first responders. Archuleta has been a leading advocate for veterans, seniors, working families, union labor and public safety, while promoting economic growth, environmental responsibility and good-paying local jobs. “I am grateful for the support of labor, veterans, educators, law enforcement, small businesses and community leaders throughout the district,” Archuleta said. “Together, we’ve made real progress, and there is more work ahead.” The 30th Senate District includes communities in Los Angeles and Orange counties. Archuleta currently serves as Chair of the Senate Committee on Military and Veterans Affairs and is a member of the several standing committees.
A New Flu Variant is Spreading Quickly. Here’s What to Know. Flu cases are rising fast across the United States, driven by a newly circulating strain of the virus. Health officials say infections are likely to keep increasing in the coming weeks. The variant, known as “subclade K,” has already caused early outbreaks in countries including the United Kingdom, Japan, and Canada. In the U.S., the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that more than half of states were experiencing high or very high levels of flu activity by late December. So far this flu season, the CDC estimates at least 7.5 million illnesses nationwide, along with 81,000 hospitalizations and more than 3,000 deaths. Those numbers include at least eight child deaths and are based on data collected before large holiday gatherings, meaning totals are likely to rise. Some states are seeing especially sharp spikes. In New York, health officials reported more than 71,000 flu cases in a single week in December — the highest weekly total the state has seen in more than 20 years.
What is the subclade K flu variant? The flu virus constantly changes, mutating into slightly different forms over time. Subclade K is a modified version of the H3N2 strain of influenza A, which has historically been associated with tougher flu seasons, particularly for older adults. While subclade K is not different enough to be considered an entirely new flu virus, it has changed enough to slip past some of the protection provided by this year’s vaccine. Does this mean people will get sicker? It’s still too early to know how severe this flu season will ultimately be. Flu seasons dominated by H3N2 strains tend to cause more infections and more serious illness overall, but experts say it will take time to determine whether subclade K spreads more easily, causes more severe disease, or both. Doctors also remind patients that prescription antiviral medications can help reduce the severity of flu illness, especially for people at higher risk. These treatments work best when started within the first day or two after symptoms appear. Is it still worth getting a flu shot? Yes. Health officials stress that it is not too late to get vaccinated. Although this year’s flu shot is not a perfect match for the subclade K strain, early data from overseas suggest it still offers partial protection and can lower the risk of hospitalization and severe illness. Despite that benefit, flu vaccination rates remain low. According to the CDC, only about 42 percent of adults and children received a flu shot last year. Who should be vaccinated? The CDC recommends flu vaccination for nearly everyone six months of age and older. The guidance has not changed. Flu can be especially dangerous for adults over 65, pregnant women, young children, and people with underlying conditions such as asthma, diabetes, heart disease, or weakened immune systems. This year’s vaccines are designed to protect against three strains of influenza. While concerns remain about the new H3N2 variant, the shots appear to be a good match for other strains that may circulate this season. Flu vaccines are available as shots for all age groups, and a nasal spray option is available for people ages 2 to 49. For the first time, some individuals may also be able to use the nasal spray version at home. Health officials say the bottom line is simple: vaccination, early treatment, and staying home when sick.
Los Cerritos Community News • Friday, January 9, 2026
Bellflower Launches New Community Safety and Outreach Team Auto Sales Slow as Prices Squeeze Buyers LCCN Staff Report
FLYING IN: Seven‑month‑old Samuel and his mother share a tender moment with the festive Pilots for Kids crew during their visit to Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital.
LCCN Staff Report The City of Bellflower has launched a new Bellflower Enforcement and Safety Team, known as BEAST, aimed at improving public safety, maintaining community standards, and expanding outreach to individuals experiencing homelessness. Introduced in January 2026, the BEAST team brings together public safety, public works, and law enforcement personnel into a coordinated unit designed to address encampments in public spaces while connecting individuals to available services. The team is made up of one public safety officer, two public works maintenance workers, and two Los Angeles County Sheriff’s deputies. City officials say the goal of the BEAST team is to provide consistent enforcement and cleanup in encampment areas while offering pathways to assistance, including access to the Bellflower New Hope shelter, the city’s 50-bed temporary supportive housing facility. The BEAST team patrols the city five days a week and engages directly with individuals experiencing homelessness. Team members work to connect those willing to accept help with established outreach providers while also ensuring that public spaces remain clean, accessible, and safe for the broader community. A central component of the program is its coordination with external service providers. The city works closely with organizations such as PATH, the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority, and Kingdom Causes Bellflower, along with internal city departments, to provide outreach, referrals, and follow-up support. City officials say having a dedicated
enforcement, cleanup, and outreach crew allows for more consistent responses to ongoing concerns. The BEAST team builds on Bellflower’s existing efforts to balance compassion and accountability, combining regular outreach with enforcement of city standards for public spaces. Through repeated engagement and coordinated services, the city aims to address both immediate quality-oflife issues and longer-term needs for individuals experiencing homelessness. Residents are encouraged to participate by using the My Bellflower app to report concerns, request cleanups, and submit outreach referrals. City officials say community feedback will help guide the program as it continues to develop. City officials emphasized that the BEAST team is designed to provide a sustained presence rather than short-term responses to complaints. By operating on a regular schedule and returning to the same locations, the team is able to build familiarity with individuals experiencing homelessness while also monitoring recurring problem areas. Officials say this continuity allows for better coordination with service providers and more effective follow-up when individuals express interest in shelter or other assistance. The approach is intended to reduce repeated displacement while reinforcing expectations for lawful and appropriate use of public spaces throughout the city. The BEAST team initiative is part of Bellflower’s 2025–27 Strategic Plan, aligning with the city’s goal to enhance public safety while maintaining clean and well-managed public spaces.
In a remarkable rebuke of Republican leadership, the House passed legislation yesterday, 230-196, that would extend expired health care subsidies for those who get coverage through the Affordable Care Act as renegade GOP lawmakers joined essentially all Democrats in voting for the measure. Forcing the issue to a vote came about after a handful of Republicans signed on to a so-called “discharge petition” to unlock debate, bypassing objections from House Speaker Mike Johnson. The bill now goes to the Senate, where pressure
Automakers may also respond by adjusting incentives if demand weakens. While inventory levels remain tighter than before the pandemic—reducing aggressive discounting—manufacturers retain flexibility to offer financing deals or rebates to maintain sales volume if conditions soften. Despite the headwinds, overall sales levels remain historically solid, suggesting continued activity at major dealership centers. For consumers in Cerritos and surrounding communities, the coming year is likely to present a split market: highpriced new vehicles competing for a smaller pool of buyers, alongside a growing and more competitive used-car segment that may attract budget-conscious shoppers.
Kick Off the New Year at the La Mirada Farmers Market Start the new year at the La Mirada Farmers Market, held every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. just west of the La Mirada Library. The weekly market features a rotating lineup of 20 to 25 vendors offering farm-fresh produce, specialty foods, baked goods, and handcrafted items ideal for healthy meals and gifts. Shoppers can browse seasonal fruits and vegetables, discover new food favorites, and support small businesses in a relaxed, community-focused setting. The La Mirada Farmers Market will be closed for the holidays on Saturday, December 27, and Saturday, January 3. Regular Saturday hours will resume the following week. Local businesses interested in joining the vendor lineup can contact VenaVer Events at venaverevents@gmail.com) for more information.
Monday thru Saturday 6 pm to 12 Midnight Doors open at 4pm
Sunday 2 pm to 9 pm Doors open at 12pm
3 SESSIONS PER DAY!!!
National News
House passes bill to extend health care subsidies in defiance of GOP leaders
A new report shows signs of car sales slowing as higher prices continue to push many middle-class buyers out of the market, a trend likely to be felt at large regional hubs such as Cerritos Auto Square. Analysts estimate U.S. auto sales will dip in 2026 after several years of postpandemic recovery. While total sales in 2025 are expected to finish above 16 million vehicles, momentum weakened toward the end of the year, and forecasts for 2026 range from roughly 15.8 million to 16 million units. If sales decline, it would mark the first annual drop since 2022. It’s a matter of affordability. Average new-vehicle prices have climbed dramatically over the past decade, rising from under $30,000 in 2010 to nearly $50,000 by the end of 2025 making monthly payments increasingly more difficult to manage. Sales patterns show a widening divide among buyers. Higher-income households have continued purchasing new vehicles, often opting for larger, more expensive models. Meanwhile, middle-income consumers are increasingly delaying purchases, shifting to used vehicles, or keeping their current cars longer. Entrylevel new cars have become scarcer as automakers have scaled back smaller, lower-margin models in favor of SUVs, trucks, and feature-heavy vehicles. For dealerships at Cerritos Auto Square, the trend could mean a greater focus on used inventory, certified pre-owned vehicles, and lease returns, which are expected to increase in 2026. As more leased vehicles cycle back into the market, used-car availability should improve, offering alternatives for buyers priced out of new models.
is building for a similar bipartisan compromise. Together, the rare political coalitions are rushing to resolve the standoff over the enhanced tax credits that were put in place during the COVID-19 crisis but expired late last year after no agreement was reached during the government shutdown. “The affordability crisis is not a ‘hoax,’ it is very real - despite what Donald Trump has had to say,” said House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries, invoking the president’s remarks. “Democrats made clear before the government was shut down that we were in this affordability fight until we win this affordability fight,” he said. “Today we have an opportunity to take a meaningful step forward.”
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Los Cerritos Community News • January 9, 2026
Elected Officials Attend Annual Sacramento Legislative Tour
Bellflower Launches Mobile App Bellflower residents now have a faster and easier way to connect with city services. The City of Bellflower has launched its new My Bellflower mobile app, giving community members a convenient all-in-one platform to access information and request services from their phones. To use the My Bellflower mobile app, scan the QR code below with your phone’s camera, follow the link to download the app, and open it to get started connecting with City of Bellflower services and information.
THE SACRAMENTO LEGISLATIVE TOUR is a advocacy event that brings city officials and local government leaders to the state Capitol at the start of the legislative year. The tour is designed to give local representatives direct access to lawmakers and state officials while key policy decisions are taking shape. During the multi-day visit, participants meet with state senators, assemblymembers, and administration officials to discuss issues affecting cities, including public safety, housing, transportation, infrastructure funding, and local control. Seen here is elected officials from Artesia with Assemblywoman Sharon Quirk-Silva. From (l-r) Councilmember Monica Manalo, Mayor Rene Trevino, Quirk-Silva, Councilmember Zeel Ahir and City Manage Abel Avalos.
700Credit Breach Notice Two Months Late, Leaves Consumers in Dark By Brian Hews A credit alert from 700Credit (to this publisher and others) arrived in mailboxes weeks after the incident it was meant to warn consumers about, transforming what should have been a timely heads-up into an exercise in after-the-fact notification. The letter, which references a data breach that reportedly occurred October 25, did not reach recipients until nearly two months later, long after any immediate steps to limit exposure would have been most effective. For a notice framed around urgency and vigilance, the timing was hard to ignore. The letter advises recipients to monitor their credit reports, consider placing fraud alerts, and stay alert for suspicious activity. All reasonable guidance—if it had arrived when the information was fresh. Instead, the delayed delivery raises an uncomfortable irony: consumers are being urged to act quickly based on information that moved at the speed of regular mail in an era when breaches are disclosed, discussed, and often exploited in real time. By the time the warning arrived, affected individuals had already spent weeks unknowingly exposed. Data breaches are serious matters, and credit alerts exist for a reason. When
personal information is compromised, the first days and weeks are often the most critical for preventing identity theft or fraudulent account activity. Fraud alerts, credit freezes, and increased monitoring are most effective when implemented immediately after a breach becomes known. A notification that shows up well after that window has passed may technically satisfy a disclosure requirement, but it does little to empower consumers to protect themselves in a meaningful way. The delay also highlights a broader issue with how breach notifications are handled. Companies routinely emphasize their commitment to consumer protection and transparency, yet notifications often arrive long after internal reviews, legal consultations, and compliance checks have run their course. While some lag may be unavoidable, a delay of several weeks— especially when electronic communication options exist—feels less like caution and more like inertia. For consumers, the result is the same: lost time and increased risk. 700Credit describes itself as a nationwide provider of credit reporting, compliance, and data-driven services, primarily serving auto dealerships, lenders, and other financial institutions. This episode also serves as a reminder for consumers not to rely solely on breach notifications to protect themselves. Regularly checking credit reports, using credit freezes when appropriate, and maintaining a general level of skepticism about unsolicited financial activity remain essential, regardless of whether a letter ever shows up. In a landscape where breaches are increasingly common, proactive monitoring is often more reliable than reactive alerts. Ultimately, the late-arriving credit alert does more than notify consumers of a past problem; it exposes a present one. When warnings about financial risk arrive long after the risk has materialized, they lose much of their value. A credit alert should function as an early warning system, not a historical footnote. In this case, the message may have been well-intentioned, but its timing turned urgency into irony— and left recipients wondering whether vigilance is being taken seriously on the other end of the mailbox.
Los Cerritos Center Sears Site Continues Toward Mixed-Use Redevelopment Discussions have been ongoing between the City of Cerritos and Los Cerritos Center property owner Macerich Inc. regarding the potential redevelopment of the former Sears parcel at the northwest portion of the mall. The site includes the vacant 277,500-square-foot former Sears store, its auto center, and associated parking areas. City officials have for some time explored a mixed-use redevelopment concept that would integrate retail, hotel accommodations, open space, and above-moderate housing into the existing Los Cerritos Center campus. The long-term vision is to transform the underused property into an upscale, walkable “lifestyle” destination where residential units, dining, shopping, and entertainment are designed to function as a cohesive environment. City staff continue to work with Macerich Inc., along with prospective hotel developers, as planning efforts move forward. Officials say that once a comprehensive design package is formally submitted, the city will initiate its design review process and coordinate closely with the property owner to advance the proposal through review.
Matcha With the Mayor Brings Community Conversation to Lakewood Coffee Shop Lakewood residents are invited to spend a relaxed morning connecting with city leadership during Matcha With the Mayor on Saturday, Jan. 10. The event runs from 9 to 11 a.m. at 5th Avenue Bagelry and Espresso, where community members can meet Cassandra Chase and talk informally about city issues, neighborhood concerns, and life in Lakewood. Complimentary matcha drinks will be available while supplies last, and all ages are welcome to attend. 5th Avenue Bagelry and Espresso is located at 4214 Woodruff Avenue. For more information, residents can call 562-866-9771, ext. 3123.
From the Mayor’s Desk: January 9, 2026 By Cerritos Mayor Frank Aurelio Yokoyama As we emerge from the holiday season and settle into 2026, we have a lot to look forward to in the City of Cerritos. This year, we will continue progressing in implementing our Strategic Plan goals, including enhanced community programming. In 2026, we’re proud to celebrate the 70th anniversary of our City’s incorporation. Cerritos’ birthday is Friday, April 24, and will be commemorated the following day, Saturday, April 25, with our annual Spring Fling and Fireworks Spectacular. As part of our 70th year, we’ll be dedicating new public artwork at the Cerritos Civic Center, which will include a series of new sculptures. Milking Time: A Tribute to Dairy Valley will feature a farmer, his son and daughter, the family dog, and—of course—a cow. This is a reflection of Cerritos’ agricultural roots and the enduring values of family and community. Later this month, we’ll unveil the chosen name of the cow sculpture. Ten finalist names have been selected and voting concludes on January 16 at cerritos.gov/cow.
Also in January, celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. during our annual ceremony. As the popularity of this event has grown significantly in recent years, we’ve moved the event into our main theater at the Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts (CCPA). Join us on Monday, January 19, beginning at 10 a.m. Guests at the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day ceremony are encouraged to bring a canned food item for donation. The City’s annual Festival of Friendship has also moved to the CCPA to give more guests the chance to enjoy this long-running program. The 27th annual Festival of Friendship celebrates the City’s rich cultural diversity. The event will be held on Saturday, February 7, beginning at 11 a.m. at the CCPA. These events are just a few examples of how the City of Cerritos is enhancing community programming in 2026. To streamline our event coordination, the Cerritos City Council is scheduled at its January 12 meeting to consider the adoption of an ordinance establishing a City Celebrations Committee. If approved, the committee would provide guidance to staff on several events throughout the year, including Festival of Friendship, Spring Fling, Let Freedom Ring Celebration, Halloween Festival, and Santa’s Sleigh Day at the CCPA, among others. We look forward to joining with our residents, businesses, and visitors for a variety of celebrations in 2026.
Hawaiian Gardens’ The Gardens Casino Helps Keep Kids Off the Streets and on the Pitch By Cristian RodriguezFormer Hall of Fame Rugby Player, Alternative to Gang Membership Alumni and current Neighborhood Counselor for Hawaiian Gardens. Many people see local cardrooms as a place to enjoy gaming, live music, or special events. I see them differently, especially now, as proposed regulations threaten the very community programs these cardrooms help sustain. Growing up in Hawaiian Gardens, I learned firsthand that places like the Gardens Casino are a critical part of our community, helping fund programs that keep kids engaged, active, and away from gangs. I first got involved with rugby through the Hawaiian Gardens Eagles Youth Rugby Program, part of the city’s Alternative to Gang Membership (ATGM) initiative. ATGM provides elementary, junior high, and high school students with alternatives to gang involvement. Through sports, field trips, homework assistance, and educational excursions, students learn the value of healthy choices, education, and community. The rugby program started in 2006, founded by now Councilmember Ernie Vargas as a simple way to keep kids off the streets and onto the pitch. I am proud to be one of the program’s alumni and now its coach. Playing rugby through ATGM changed my life. I earned a scholarship to Lindenwood University, helping lead the team to three consecutive USA Rugby Collegiate Sevens titles and back-to-back Collegiate Rugby Championship titles. The Gardens Casino has been instrumental in making experiences like mine possible for today’s youth. Beyond contributing to the city’s general fund, the casino directly sponsors our rugby team, covering trips and special events. Recent trips to Utah, funded by the casino, allowed
many of our players to leave California for the first time, attend a large tournament, and even enjoy a steakhouse meal, experiences that opened their eyes to possibilities beyond their neighborhood. Thanks to Ernie Vargas’ vision and the Garden’s support, the program has grown to serve over 75 youth, in boys’ and girls’ divisions from under-12 to under-18. The city covers registration fees for participants, but the sponsorship from the Gardens Casino allows us to expand opportunities, reward hard work, and give kids something to strive for. It’s important to recognize that programs like ATGM are vulnerable. Harmful regulations aimed at cardrooms could dramatically reduce the funding that keeps these programs alive. Without the revenue from the Gardens Casino, we could lose the ability to sponsor trips, pay for uniforms, cover registration fees, and provide enriching experiences that give kids a reason to stay in school and out of gangs. What might seem like a small regulatory change could have a ripple effect, limiting opportunities for the very youth these programs are meant to serve. Cardrooms may be entertainment to some, but in Hawaiian Gardens, they are a lifeline for programs that keep kids engaged and off the streets. Without the Gardens Casino helping support our rugby program, we could not provide the experiences, trips, and opportunities that shape our youth into leaders, athletes, and positive contributors to the community. I am grateful for the partnership between our city, Ernie Vargas, and the Gardens Casino. It has given countless kids a reason to stay on the pitch, in school, and out of gangs. Protecting this partnership is critical to ensuring the next generation of Hawaiian Gardens youth has the same opportunities I did.
Los Cerritos Community News • Friday, January 9, 2026
What’s With All the Grass, Cerritos? I’m writing this from Scottsdale, Arizona, as the new year gets underway, where lawns appear to have been phased out sometime around the Nixon administration. If something could be grass here, it isn’t. It’s river rock. And if there’s a plant, it’s a cactus sitting there quietly, minding its own business, demanding exactly zero gallons of water and absolutely no weekly haircut from a landscaping crew. Which brings me back to Cerritos. Cerritos, for reasons that feel increasingly outdated, continues to carpet medians, parkways, and public spaces with grass like water is still cheap, infrastructure lasts forever, and budgets magically balance themselves. It’s a lovely look — if you’re judging cities in a 1987 Better Homes brochure — but it makes less and less sense in 2026. This is not an abstract concern. Cerritos is in the middle of a very real budget squeeze, one made worse by decades of city councils — many of them proudly Republican and proudly allergic to longterm planning — that ignored basic water and sewer infrastructure. The bill for that neglect is now arriving, with interest. Just weeks ago, one of the city’s groundwater wells suffered a catastrophic failure. The repair alone will run about $600,000. In the meantime, Cerritos will spend roughly $2.2 million importing water to make up for the loss. That is not a rounding error. That is real money leaving the city’s budget because systems were allowed to age quietly until they broke loudly. Yes, the city uses recycled water to irrigate much of its grass. That’s better than potable water, but it’s not free. Recycled water still costs money to treat, transport, and distribute. And grass doesn’t just drink water — it demands labor. Crews have to
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mow it, edge it, blow it, and haul away clippings week after week, year after year. All of that shows up in contracts, payroll, fuel costs, and equipment replacement. Meanwhile, cities like Scottsdale made a simple decision long ago: grass is decorative, not essential. Rocks don’t grow. Cactus doesn’t complain. And desert landscaping doesn’t send you a maintenance invoice every thirty days. This isn’t about turning Cerritos into Mars or banning green space where it actually serves a purpose. Parks, sports fields, and shaded community areas matter. But miles of ornamental grass lining medians and roadways don’t improve public safety, don’t improve mobility, and don’t improve quality of life in any measurable way. They just quietly drain money — until the city suddenly needs millions for emergency water purchases. The irony is hard to miss. Residents are being told to brace for higher water and sewer rates because infrastructure is old and expensive to maintain, while the city continues to maintain landscaping choices that assume water and maintenance are cheap and unlimited. You can’t run a conservation lecture with one hand and a lawnmower with the other. Scottsdale didn’t become a rock-andcactus city because it hates grass. It did it because water is precious, maintenance is expensive, and budgets are real. Cerritos is learning those same lessons the hard way — through broken wells, imported water, and growing fiscal pressure. So here’s the question worth asking, with just a touch of humor and a lot of seriousness: what’s with all the grass, Cerritos? And more importantly, how long can the city afford to keep pretending it’s still 1990? Brian Hews~Editor and Publisher
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Los Cerritos Community News • January 9, 2026
Cerritos Announces January Events, Programs, and City Services Updates LCCN Staff Report Martin Luther King Jr. Day Ceremony Set for January 19 Cerritos will host its annual Martin Luther King Jr. Day Ceremony on Monday, January 19, at 10 a.m. The event will take place inside the main theater at the Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts, located at 18000 Park Plaza Drive. The ceremony will include remarks from the Cerritos City Council along with musical performances. Light refreshments will be served. Residents attending the event are encouraged to bring a canned food item to donate to a local food pantry. Student Art and Writing Contests at Cerritos Library As part of the MLK Day celebration, the Cerritos Library is sponsoring art and writing contests for students. The art contest is open to students in kindergarten through grade 12 and allows one submission per student, with artwork no larger than 12 by 18 inches. The writing contest is open to students in grades 7 through 12. Submissions may be a poem or essay of up to 300 words. Entries for both contests must be dropped off at the Cerritos Library by 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, January 7. Leadership Academy Applications Close January 9 Applications for Cerritos’ new civic leadership program, L.E.A.D. Cerritos, close Friday, January 9. The
free program consists of seven sessions designed to help residents better understand city government operations, decision-making, and community priorities. Participants must be at least 18 years old and able to attend all sessions, which begin January 22 and are typically held on the third Thursday of each month. Up to 60 applicants will be selected, with priority given to current advisory board members. Christmas Tree Recycling Continues Through January 16 Residents in single-family homes may recycle natural Christmas trees through Friday, January 16, by placing them at the curb on regular trash collection days before 7 a.m. Trees must be free of decorations, lights, stands, and bags. Trees taller than six feet should be cut in half. Artificial and flocked trees will not be accepted. Apartment and condominium residents may place trees next to their trash bins for collection. City Asks Residents to Report Potholes Following recent storms, Cerritos is asking residents to help identify potholes and street damage. Temporary cold-mix repairs are being used after storms, with permanent repairs scheduled after the rainy season. Potholes can be reported through the city’s GoRequest webpage, mobile app, or by calling the Public Works Department at 562-916-1220. Coyote Awareness and Safety Tips Cerritos reminds residents that coyote sightings remain rare but advises taking precautions such as feeding pets indoors, clearing thick vegetation, and securing the bottoms of decks and porches.
Find our FREE paper at these convenient locations: AAA 18642 S. Gridley ABC Adult School 12254 Cuesta Dr. ABC District Office 17215 Studebaker Road Suite 290 Cerritos, CA 90703 ABCFT 19444 Norwalk Blvd. Aikan Sushi 12155 South St All Cerritos Parks IHOP Towne Center 12741 Towne Ctr. Dr. Artesia City Hall 18747 Clarkdale Ave. Artesia Library 18801 Elaine Avenue Artesia Cemetery 11142 Artesia Blvd. Artesia Christian Home 11614 183rd St, Artesia Artesia Senior Apts 10427 Artesia, Bellflower Ave. 3 12612 South Street Bellflower City Hall Bellflower Terrace Apts. 9920 Flora Vista Belmont Place Apts. 9830 Belmont St., Bellflower Ramona Senior Ctr. 9843 Ramona St. Bellflower Bellflower Friendship Manor 9550 Oak St. Cassidy’s Cafe 15010 La Mirada Blvd Cerritos Chamber 13259 South St. Cerritos College Cerritos City Hall Sheriff’s/Community Center Cerritos Library 18125 Bloomfield Ave Cerritos Park East 13234 E 166th St. Cerritos Medical Center 11911 Artesia Blvd.
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Cerritos Senior Center 12340 South St. Cevitas Coffee 14218 Rosecrans Ave CTA Travel 12750 Center Ct Dr S. ContunEM 6430 South St Don Knabe Park At the Tennis Center Foggia Deli 5522 Del Amo Blvd. Grocery Outlet 15745 Imperial Hwy, Grove at Cerritos 11000 New Falcon Way Goodyear Auto 19404 Norwalk Blvd. Gardens Casino 11871 E Carson St. Hawaiian Gardens City Hall, Rec. Center, Library 21815 Pioneer Heritage Park 18600 Bloomfield Holy Family Church, Artesia 18708 Clarkdale IHop La Mirada 15140 La Mirada Blvd Imperial Healthcare Center 11926 La Mirada Blvd Kindred Hospital 14900 Imperial Hwy. Kristens Beauty Salon 13952 Valley View Ave La Casa de Concinera 15711 Imperial Hwy, UCI/Lakewood Regional 3700 South St. La Mirada City Hall, Library, Resource Center, Sheriff’s Splash! La Mirada 13700 La Mirada Blvd LA Nails 13239 South St La Palma City Hall 7822 Walker St
La Palma Community Center 7822 Walker St La Palma Intercomm. Hospital Liberty Park 9211 Studebaker Rd, Long Beach Memorial 2801 Atlantic Ave. Massage & Stone 13247 South St. Medipost 13299 E South Street Norwalk Arts/Sports 13000 Clarkdale Norwalk SR. Center 14040 San Antonio Dr. Norwalk City Hall 12700 Norwalk Blvd, Olive Lawn 13926 La Mirada Blvd 11832 E Carson St Pico Rivera Chamber 5016 Passons Blvd Pico River City Hall and Sheriffs 6615 Passons Blvd Rosewoods 10769 South St. State Farm 12616 South St LAFD Station 30 19030 Pioneer Blvd Santa Fe Springs City Hall Silverlake Ramen 11103 183rd St Sophia Hair Salon 13243 South St. Tacos San Pedro 11832 E Carson St Tour Le Jour 13359 South St VI Pharmacy 12610 South Street WRD 4040 Paramount
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Residents encountering a coyote are advised to make noise, wave their arms, and slowly back away. Additional information is available on the city’s website. January Lineup at Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts The Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts continues its 202526 season with a variety of shows in January, including music, comedy, theater, and family entertainment. Performances include The Screwtape Letters on January 10, Jay Leno on January 24, The Canine Stars Stunt Dog Show on January 25, and The Simon &
Garfunkel Story on January 29 and 30. Tickets and additional information are available through the CCPA box office or at cerritoscenter.com. Community Calendar Highlights Upcoming January events include the Cerritos Certified Farmers Market on January 10 and 17, City Council meeting on January 12, Economic Development Commission meeting on January 14, and Planning Commission meeting on January 15. Residents can find additional updates and full event listings at cerritos.gov/ news.
Cerritos 1st CEB Meritorious Marine for December
HONORED: from (l-r) Elpidio Andrion, Daisy Lagasca, Gregg and Jeri Florence (Quilts of Valor), L/Cpl Lockward and L/Cpl Stephenson, Councilmember Jennifer Hong, Assistant City Manager Kathy Matsumoto, George Ray (VP Adoption Committee), and Laurie Forward (Secretary Adoption Committee)
Pico Rivera Businessman to Receive Ellis Island Medal of Honor LCCN Staff Report PICO RIVERA — Michael Amini, founder, chairman, and CEO of AICO/ Amini Innovation Corp., a globally recognized home furnishings company headquartered in Pico Rivera, has been selected to receive the Ellis Island Medal of Honor in 2026, one of the nation’s most prestigious civic awards. The honor, awarded by the Ellis Island Honors Society, recognizes individuals whose accomplishments reflect a commitment to opportunity, service, and the ideals that define the American experience. Recipients are chosen by the organization’s board of directors, and the award is officially recognized by both the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives, with each year’s honorees entered into the Congressional Record. Amini’s selection places him among a distinguished group of past recipients that includes U.S. presidents, Nobel Prize winners, military leaders, and cultural icons. The award ceremony will be held during a formal gala in the Great Hall on Ellis Island, a historic site that once served as the primary entry point for more than 12 million immigrants to the United States. Representatives from all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces traditionally participate in the event. Founded in Pico Rivera, AICO/Amini Innovation Corp. has grown from a local business into an international brand, designing and distributing furniture collections sold worldwide. Despite its global reach, the company has maintained its headquarters and significant operations in Pico Rivera, contributing to the city’s
Michael Amini local economy through employment, logistics, and design operations. City leaders and business observers have long cited AICO as an example of how locally based companies can compete on a global scale while remaining rooted in Southeast Los Angeles County. Amini’s recognition highlights the role immigrantfounded and family-led businesses play in the region’s economic landscape. The Ellis Island Honors Society was established in 1986 to celebrate America’s diversity and to recognize individuals who have made significant contributions to the nation while honoring their heritage. The award’s emphasis on immigration, entrepreneurship, and civic contribution closely mirrors the history of many families and businesses in Pico Rivera. Amini Innovation Corp. continues to operate from its Pico Rivera headquarters, serving retailers and consumers worldwide while maintaining a visible presence in the local business community. The Ellis Island Medal of Honor ceremony is scheduled for 2026, with final details to be announced by the Honors Society. Pico Rivera Gustavo Camacho commented, “I congratulate business owner Michael Amini on this well-deserved and prestigious award. His leadership, vision, and continued investment in Pico Rivera strengthen our local economy and reflect a genuine commitment to our community’s future.”
Los Cerritos Community News • Friday, January 9, 2026
By Melinda Meyers
Impatiens’ easy-care nature, season-long bloom, and shade tolerance made it one of the most popular garden annuals. The introduction of downy mildew-resistant varieties has helped it maintain this status. For these reasons as well as its butterfly and hummingbird appeal the National Garden Bureau has declared 2026 Year of the Impatiens. The name impatiens is Latin for impatient. It refers to the fact that the seeds abruptly exit the ripe seed pods. Orange jewelweed (Impatiens capensis) and yellow jewelweed (Impatiens pallida) are also known by the common name touchme-not since their ripe seed pods burst at a slight touch. These two North American native plants attract and support bumblebees, other long-tongued bees, butterflies and hummingbirds. Some impatiens species’ flowers undergo a sex change as they mature known as sequential hermaphroditism. Their flowers start as male and after the pollen sheds, they morph into a female. Most gardeners are familiar with Impatiens walleriana, also known as Busy Lizzie, and have grown them in containers, hanging baskets and garden beds. You will find a variety of colors and double-flowered varieties like Musica®, Silhouette series, Glimmer™ and Fiesta. Look for Beacon®, Glimmer™, and Imara XDR which are resistant to downy mildew disease that devastated many plantings of impatiens starting in 2011. New Guinea impatiens (Impatiens hawkeri) is resistant to downy mildew, grows 12 to 15 inches tall and prefers partial shade. Introduced to the United States in the 1970s, you’ll find cultivars with dark green, bronze and variegated leaves and large white, pink, red, orange and violet flowers. Look for the flower color and plant size that best fits your container or
ARTESIA from page 1 of that amount to nonprofit community grants, while 10 percent, approximately $30,000 in 2026, is designated for the Artesia Chamber of Commerce. City records show that the Chamber allocation has already been the subject of prior council discussion. According to previously approved City Council minutes, the council had earlier pulled the Chamber-specific portion of the policy for separate consideration while approving the broader Community Benefits Grant Program. The council directed that the Chamber section be reviewed further, while leaving the 10 percent allocation unchanged. Documents indicate that the Chamber’s eligibility for funding is tied to several governance and reporting requirements. These include adopting formal bylaws, providing documentation on the use of funds, and expanding its board to include the City Manager or a city designee as a voting member. City staff described these provisions as safeguards intended to ensure accountability in the use of cannabis-derived public funds. The structure reflects a common challenge cities face when distributing cannabis revenue. While the funds provide a new source of support for community programs without raising taxes, decisions about how that money is divided can draw attention, particularly when a portion is reserved for a specific organization rather than distributed through a competitive grant process. At the December 15 City Council
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A MIX of Perennial Plant of the Year winners and past standouts fills the garden bed, showcasing ornamental grasses, flowering perennials, and shade-loving foliage plants chosen for their reliability, low maintenance, and multi-season color in home landscapes.
meeting, the revised Community Benefits Grant Program policy moved forward administratively, reflecting decisions previously shaped by council direction. In other news, the City Council approved an amendment to its street sweeping contract with Joe’s Sweeping, doing business as Nationwide Environmental Services. The amendment increases the agreement by $414,000, bringing the contract’s not-to-exceed amount to $1.975 million. The item was approved as part of the consent calendar. The council also approved an amendment to City Manager Abel Avalos’ employment agreement, increasing his annual salary by $12,946 to $268,678 annually. The action was paired with adoption of a citywide salary schedule required for CalPERS reporting.
BLOCK from page 1 information like their name and email. After that, they submit a request asking all registered data brokers to delete their personal information and stop selling it. Starting August 1, data brokers must delete the information they have collected about you within 90 days. They also must keep checking for new requests and follow the law going forward. Most people may not notice big changes right away. But over time, they may get fewer spam calls, texts, and emails. There may also be less risk of identity theft or online scams. The new system gives Californians more control over their personal information and makes it harder for companies to quietly profit from people’s data.
RACING from page 1 scope and persistence of the problem. Statewide data linked street racing and takeover activity to at least 264 crashes, 124 serious injuries, and 30 fatalities. “These were not isolated incidents or quality-of-life complaints—they were predictable, preventable tragedies,” said Marcel Rodarte, Executive Director of the California Contract Cities Association. He described the situation as a countywide public safety emergency, noting that cities were being asked to confront a fast-moving, regional threat using enforcement tools designed for a different era. Recent incidents across Los Angeles County illustrated the severity of the issue. In Compton and Willowbrook, street takeovers escalated into fatal crashes and violence near crowded intersections. In Pomona, an illegal street race resulted in the death of a pedestrian. In West Compton, a highspeed racing crash killed vehicle occupants and injured firefighters responding to an emergency. Cities also reported extensive secondary impacts, including damaged road infrastructure, vandalized business corridors, repeated street closures, increased public safety costs, and longterm economic harm to neighborhoods frequently targeted for takeovers. “At the local level, this issue arrived after tragedy—after the crash, after the sirens, after families were permanently changed,” said Brenda Olmos, President of the association and Vice Mayor of Paramount. She said residents deserved preventative laws and tools rather than responses limited to cleanup and
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garden design. Interspecific hybrid impatiens were bred by crossing two different species of impatiens for some adaptability or aesthetic benefit. Bounce, and Spectra® grow well in part sun to shady locations while Solarscape® XL and Sunpatiens thrive in a full or half day of direct sunlight. All are downy mildew resistant. For something different try growing a few Garden Balsams (Impatiens balsamina). Popular during the Victorian era, its cup-shaped flowers grow by the leaves all along the upright stems. The peppermint stick garden balsam cultivar has red and white flowers that are spotted, striped and ruffled. Camellia balsam impatiens have large double flowers reminiscent of the flowers on a camellia shrub. Keep the soil consistently moist for healthy and attractive impatiens. Spread a layer of leaves, evergreen needles or other organic mulch over the soil surface to help retain moisture and suppress weeds. Regular fertilization according to label directions will help you maximize the floral display. Pinch back leggy impatiens plants as needed. Use a sharp bypass pruner or snips to reduce the plants by up to one half their height. Make the cut just above a set of leaves or node to encourage more compact growth and a better-looking plant in just a couple of weeks. With the many color choices and their adaptability, you are sure to find the right impatiens for your containers and garden beds. Melinda Myers has written more than 20 gardening books, including the Midwest Gardener’s Handbook, 2nd Edition and Small Space Gardening. She hosts The Great Courses “How to Grow Anything” streaming courses and the nationally syndicated Melinda’s Garden Moment radio program.
enforcement after incidents occurred. Association leaders emphasized that enforcement alone had not been sufficient. Street racing and takeovers were often coordinated through social media, moved rapidly across jurisdictional boundaries, and created safety risks that limited traditional enforcement responses. Victims’ advocates echoed the call for prevention-focused approaches. Lili Trujillo-Puckett, founder of Street Racing Kills, said the deaths associated with illegal racing were foreseeable and therefore unacceptable, adding that families were seeking accountability and prevention rather than condolences after lives were lost. The association urged the Legislature and Governor to pursue a comprehensive statewide framework that included stronger accountability for repeat offenders and organizers, technology-enabled tools to identify and disrupt dangerous behavior before crashes occur, and targeted state investment in prevention infrastructure such as intersection hardening, trafficcalming measures, rapid repair funding, and data-driven hotspot mitigation. “This problem crossed city lines in minutes and demanded a statewide solution,” said Gustavo Camacho, Legislative Chair of the association and Mayor of Pico Rivera. He said cities were prepared to act but needed modern tools from state leaders to better protect lives. The association said it would continue working with state officials, public safety partners, and community advocates to advance solutions focused on prevention, accountability, and public safety on California’s streets.
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Los Cerritos Community News • January 9, 2026
LBS Financial Credit Union Makes Holiday Donation
SPARK: Sean Hardeman, LBS Financial President and CEO, Will Nash, LBFD Firefighter/Spark of Love Coordinator, Heather Summers, LBS Financial Chief Marketing Officer, and Jason Hosea, LBFD Deputy Chief of Fire Prevention/Fire Marshall.
LCCN Staff Report LBS Financial Credit Union employees donated hundreds of toys, books, clothing, and gift cards on December 10th to the Long Beach Fire Department’s “Spark of Love” Toy Drive. This donation is part of the Credit Union’s cherished tradition during its annual holiday breakfast. The Long Beach “Spark of Love” Toy Drive began around 1955 when Long Beach Fire Department (LBFD) Firefighter Murray Cohn started collecting toys for kids in need. Since then, LBFD continues to carry on this annual toy drive and delivers to families and community organizations during the holiday season. “Through the combined generosity of Long Beach businesses and residents, each year the toy drive is able to provide
gifts to approximately 400 families and over 20 different youth-based community groups,” said Will Nash, firefighter and toy drive coordinator. “I believe this builds goodwill within our community and provides kids with positive role models.” “The Long Beach Fire Department’s commitment to the community is inspiring,” said LBS Financial Credit Union President & CEO, Sean Hardeman. “LBS Financial Credit Union is proud to support Long Beach first responders through this year’s toy drive as part of our ongoing tradition of donating to local nonprofits. Thanks to our employees for their kindness this holiday season.” The holiday gifts were collected by Long Beach Fire Department firefighters and were distributed to children and families in the Long Beach area.
Los Cerritos Community News • Friday, January 9, 2026
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Pageant of the Masters Opens Casting Call and Family Fun Fest in Laguna Beach
REHEARSAL Laguna Beach residents and visitors will have a chance this weekend to step inside one of Southern California’s most iconic art traditions as the Pageant of the Masters hosts its annual Open Casting Call along with a two-day Family Fun Fest. The Casting Call runs January 9 through 11 at the Festival of Arts grounds, 650 Laguna Canyon
Road, and invites volunteers of all ages to sign up for onstage and backstage roles in the 2026 Pageant production, titled The Greatest of All Time. The upcoming season will run from July 9 through September 4, 2026. On-stage volunteers pose in live re-creations of famous works of art, while backstage participants assist with makeup, costumes,
headpieces, and set support. No experience is required, and training is provided. During the Casting Call, participants will have photos taken, measurements recorded, and can preview artwork planned for the 2026 show. No appointment is necessary to attend. Casting Call hours are Friday, January 9, from 7 to 9 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday, January 10
and 11, from 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday also coincide with the return of the Family Fun Fest. Visitors can also explore behind the scenes with up-close looks at Pageant sets, photo opportunities, snacks, and the Bizarre Bazaar, which features Pageant props, artwork, costumes, and unique items for sale. Proceeds from the Bazaar support scholarships and
arts programming at the Festival of Arts. Those interested in volunteering but unable to attend this weekend’s Casting Call can schedule a private appointment by calling the Casting Department at (949) 494-3663 or email: casting@foapom.com. More information is available at foapom.com/volunteer
LIVE TABLEAU From Rehearsal to Live Tableau, Pageant of the Masters volunteers come together as a family, supporting one another behind the scenes before transforming into a single living work of art on stage, united by trust, teamwork, and shared tradition together.
Give the Gift of Life! We need your help!
You can make a difference in the lives of those who need it most. Make your appointment to donate blood or platelets directly to the patient of Memorial Care’s Long Beach Medical Center and Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital Long Beach today.
10 Los Cerritos Community News • January 9, 2026
MID-CITIES BASKETBALL
Norwalk soars over Firebaugh in league opener behind Sanchez, Zazueta By Loren Kopff @LorenKopff on X
Norwalk High boys basketball head coach Jim Webster is hoping last Friday’s Mid-Cities League opening win over Firebaugh High is the beginning of something good over the next month. The winningest head coach in the program’s history with 171 wins in 16 seasons over two stints was denied a trip to the CIF-Southern Section playoffs last season despite the Lancers finishing with a 16-11 overall record, but fourth in the league. Norwalk was 4-2 last January to begin league but ended up 5-5 and was not given an at-large bid despite finishing five games above .500. While it’s not automatic, a team must finish the regular season with at least a .500 record to be considered an at-large representative. So, when the Lancers scored the first 14 points against the Falcons, things were looking good to get one of the necessary four wins to assure themselves of a winning season. But Webster isn’t thinking of an atlarge berth; he has something better on his mind. “That’s got to be the goal; league championship is always the first goal and competing every game,” he said. “If we can do that. I’m sure we’ll take care of business in some matter one way or another getting in [the playoffs]. But 14 [wins] is no guarantee, which we found out last year. So, we’ll keep playing one game at a time.”
Webster told his team that the first four minutes of a game are important; that it sets the tone because he knew Firebaugh had some guys who can make some shots if they get going. Sure enough, those 14 points came within the first 3:09 of the contest and the hosts cruised to a 66-45 victory. Firebaugh had entered the game with a 1-10 record with six losses coming by at least 22 points. Four of the five starters scored at least a point and after Nate Torres hit a threepointer to get Firebaugh on the board with 3:26 left in the quarter, the Lancers closed out the stanza with a 7-0 run. Seniors Jesus Sanchez and David Zazueta, and sophomore Bhavya Verma all scored half a dozen points in the quarter as Norwalk was comfortably ahead 21-3 after the first eight minutes. “He’s got to be the one who’s going to make the three’s,” said Webster of Verma. “We do try to get him open and get him some shots. Hopefully, he can shoot 40 percent, which would be great.” While the Lancers (11-7, 1-0) connected on six of 13 shots in the second quarter, Verma has been a
pleasant spark in his first season on the varsity squad. He was three of four from downtown in the half and ended the game with 11 points. In the first 18 games of the season, he has scored 11 points or more nine times, including the first four of the season. But the leader of the team has been Zazueta, who posted a game-high 21 points, the third time he has reached at least 20 points this season while Sanchez added 15 points. All three also had five rebounds and a pair of assists. Joining the party off the bench was sophomore Noah Correa, who contributed with 10 points and six rebounds. “Him and [Verma] usually change spots for each other depending on foul trouble,” Webster said of Correa. “But they usually come in for each other, and they can score.” Even though the Falcons have been struggling this season, they showed flashes here and there as Jaelyn Miller hit a pair of three-pointers in the second quarter, the second making it a 31-17 contest with 2:09 left in the half. Then Miller and Phillip Prince, who came off the bench, each scored half a dozen points in the third quarter,
accounting for all but two points Firebaugh would score in the stanza. Prince ended the night with 17 points while Miller added 16, and Webster believes those two will be different players when the teams meet on Jan. 21 at Firebaugh. “I think we were prepared to play, which was evident in all phases,” said Webster. “I know they seemed to be a little off as far as their starters with some of the guys coming in who didn’t start.” “They played a tough [non-league] schedule, and they’ve had some personnel issues probably just with guys hurt,” he later said. “But the players they have back; some of them are good shooters. They can drive and they can make some plays, and they’re going to be tough to guard when they get a full staff. We just have to make sure we have a little bit of a different plan next time.” Norwalk has won at least 11 games in the past four seasons and have won at least 10 games 15 times since the 2006-2007 season with nine coming under Webster’s watch and the other six with former head coach Brent Campanelli at the helm. But the Lancers have advanced to the playoffs eight times since the 2008-2009 season. And Webster’s team entered the league opener coming off a 2-2 performance in the Oxford Academy Douglas Uselton Memorial D5 Challenge Tournament. [ See NORWALK , page 12 ]
Los Cerritos Community News • Friday, January 9, 2026 11
605 LEAGUE BASKETBALL
NEWS AND NOTES FROM PRESS ROW:
Cerritos squads too fast for John Glenn, soar past Eagles in league opener
Area teams in their ‘second season’ as league play is underway
By Loren Kopff @LorenKopff on X
The first game of the final 605 League season in its current format began this past Tuesday with Cerritos High, winners of a combined seven boys and girls basketball league titles since its inception in the 2018-2019 school year, visiting John Glenn High. The boys game featured the veteran head coach of 24 seasons, Jonathan Watanabe, against first-year head coach Sam Saatzer, who is Glenn’s fourth head coach in as many seasons and fifth in the past six seasons. As one would expect, there would be no rookie surprises in this game as the Dons scored the first 21 points of the game and cruised to a 77-31 victory, improving to 9-10 overall. But the game wasn’t entirely about the final score. While it’s still a learning experience for Saatzer and the seniors, who have to learn a new system once again, Cerritos had a season-high 11 players score, indicating that little by little, Watanabe is getting his injured players back. “It’s nice to see guys back,” said Watanabe. “This is [junior] Isaiah DelaCruz’ first game back; he had a
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broken tibia, and it was bad. This was in the spring and just to see him get back on the court is amazing. But seeing him play like he used to play is a sight to see. It’s hard not to root for that kid.” DelaCruz scored four points and grabbed three rebounds, all in the final half of the third quarter as the Dons scored the last 12 points of the stanza to lead 64-18. Junior Jeremiah Ju, who had started the previous seven games and 14 of the last 16, came off the bench to score a team-high 11 points, grab three rebounds and have three steals while starting juniors Noah Edwards and Noah Lai and freshman Jace Ribac, all scored 10 points as did sophomore Anay Patel, who came off the bench. On the other side of the court, it’s been a difficult season for the Eagles (48), who are just trying to get some wins to change the culture and attitude that they can compete and that they can win. But Glenn was facing a team that was just too fast, and it showed as the Dons had scoring runs of 21-0, 10-0 and 16-0. Glenn was able to record consecutive points three times. “I don’t know what they were expecting,” said Saatzer. “We’ve had a mindset where I think there’s been a lot [ See CERRITOS, page 12 ]
By Loren Kopff @LorenKopff on X
The first week of league action provided very few surprises as the area basketball and soccer teams of the 605 League, Gateway League and MidCities League begin jockeying for not only playoff position, but for their fate for next season and what leagues they will be put in as the new 20-school unnamed conference begins. Note: The girls soccer teams of the 605 League play at the opposite sites as the boys and girls basketball teams and the boys soccer teams. The V.C. boys soccer team plays on the opposite site as the other V.C. winter teams in Olympic League action. BOYS BASKETBALL Artesia High was stunned by Pioneer High 66-52 this past Tuesday in the 605 League opener as the Titans snapped a nine-game losing streak to the Pioneers. Since the 605 League began, Artesia (7-9, 0-1) is now 12-3 against Pioneer. Artesia hosts Oxford Academy on Friday, travels to Whitney High on Monday and Cerritos High on Wednesday. Gahr High (10-5) began Gateway League action at Mayfair High this past Wednesday and will host Dominguez High on Friday and Huntington Park High on Saturday in a non-league contest. The Gladiators will then go to Bellflower High on Wednesday. La Mirada High has won four straight games to improve to 12-6, 1-0 entering its road encounter with Bellflower this past Wednesday as the Matadores will host Mayfair on Friday in Gateway League action. They will step out of league on Saturday when they face Weston Ranch High. Valley Christian High fell to Maranatha High 69-27 last Friday in the Olympic League opener, then defeated Newport Christian High 80-56 this past Tuesday in a non-league game. The Defenders (10-8) will go to Village Christian High on Friday and Whittier Christian High on Tuesday while Whitney defeated longtime rival Oxford Academy 60-50 this past Tuesday to improve to 7-12 as the Wildcats will visit Cerritos on Friday. GIRLS BASKETBALL Despite scoring the second most points against Pioneer since the 605 League was formed, Artesia still has not defeated the Titans, falling 61-45 this past Tuesday to remain winless in nine games. In Gateway League action, Gahr fell to Paramount High this past Wednesday to drop to 7-11 as it will host Downey High on Friday before travelling to Lynwood High on Wednesday. La Mirada fell to Downey 68-36 in the Mid-Cities League opener this past Monday to fall to 2-9. The Matadores, after visiting Lynwood this past Wednesday, will host Paramount on Friday and Bellflower on Monday. V.C. (12-4) opened Olympic League action with a 55-47 win over Maranatha last Friday, then dropped a 44-38 decision to Long Beach Wilson High
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LOREN KOPFF’S NEWS AND NOTES FROM PRESS ROW this past Monday while Whitney eased past Oxford Academy 57-28 to improve to 9-6. BOYS SOCCER Artesia improved to 14-2 lifetime against Pioneer since the beginning of the 605 League with a 1-0 win this past Tuesday, improving to 6-8-0 on the season while Cerritos fell to John Glenn High 3-1 this past Tuesday. The Dons are 4-4-2 and will entertain Whitney on Friday before going to Pioneer on Monday while the Eagles improved to 3-5-3 and will host Pioneer on Friday before visiting Oxford Academy and Whitney on Monday and Wednesday, respectively. Gahr has dropped consecutive 2-1 decisions to Lynwood and Paramount in Gateway League action to fall to 5-5-2 as it went to Warren on Jan. 8 and will welcome Downey on Thursday. In Mid-Cities League play, La Mirada was shutout by Norwalk 2-0 this past Tuesday and was 2-8-0, 0-2-0 as it visited Firebaugh on Jan. 8 and will go to Dominguez on Tuesday before hosting Bellflower on Thursday. Norwalk (3-5-1, 1-1-0) hosted Bellflower on Jan. 8 in Mid-Cities League action and will travel to Mayfair and Dominguez on Tuesday and Thursday, respectively while V.C. (8-2-1) got past Maranatha 2-1 last Friday. GIRLS SOCCER One of the hottest teams in the area is Artesia, which moved to 9-1-3 following a 3-0 win over Pioneer this past Tuesday. The Pioneers have won five straight over the Titans and are 11-2-1 against them since the league was formed. Gahr snapped an eight-game slide with a 1-0 win at Norwalk High this past Tuesday in Mid-Cities League action. The Gladiators (2-10-0, 1-1-0) hosted Firebaugh on Jan. 8 and will host Dominguez on Tuesday before going to Bellflower on Thursday. La Mirada was edged by Paramount 2-1 this past Tuesday in the Gateway League opener. The Matadores (3-5-3, 0-1-0) hosted Warren High on Jan. 8 and will welcome Lynwood on Saturday before going to Downey on Thursday. Norwalk (2-9-1, 0-2-0) went to Bellflower on Jan. 8 in a Mid-Cities League contest and will host Mayfair on Tuesday and Dominguez on Thursday. V.C. (12-3-2) blanked Maranatha 5-0 last Friday and defeated California High 2-1 this past Tuesday.
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12 Los Cerritos Community News • January 9, 2026
CERRITOS from page 11 of losing at this school and the history of this school, and it’s trying to teach these kids that there’s a reason why we play these games. That’s why there’s no wins or losses on paper. I think we’re going to be okay; I think this is a team, a speed that we have not played this year, and I think they were shocked by it. “We’ve played a lot of teams that don’t want to play as fast as Cerritos and all credit to them,” he continued. “They have a lot of fast guys on [their team]. We would make a bucket, and they would beat us down the floor immediately before we could set our defense. And that’s just a lack of hustle on our part, and that’s something we’re going to cleanup.” “We’re not big, so we have to be fast,” said Watanabe. “That’s part of the trade-off. I told them [and] I speak from experience; if you’re smaller than the team [you’re playing], you better be faster than them. So we do practice to try to play at a fast pace, and I think some of it though is the competition we play. We play a heavy schedule early; we play teams who are faster than us. So we are forced to pick our speed up to a level.” Glenn turned the ball over nine times just in the first quarter alone as the Dons would have 15 steals in the game, six coming from Ribac and four coming from Lai. But more discouraging than the ball handling was the ineffectiveness of senior Bundana Adams, the go-to player of the past one and a half seasons for the Eagles. Adams was held to a season-low five points and was two of 15 from the field. While Adams was struggling, Saatzer, who was Glenn’s junior varsity head coach last season and an assistant on the varsity team, was impressed with the play of senior Jonathan Lara. The second leading scorer for the Eagles this season scored 11 points, had seven rebounds, three blocks, an assist and a steal. Senior Jesse Caldwell added 10 points with a pair of assists, a block and a steal. “Jonathan was the only one that really seemed like he was ready to play,” said Saatzer. “He was busting his butt the whole game getting rebounds and getting putbacks. He scored almost half of our points and had probably 50 percent of our rebounds. Effort-wise, this was his best game. I’ll say out of everyone, he was the only one that didn’t make me angry tonight.” With nine more league games plus six non-league games scheduled, the Eagles still have time to reach the win output of last season, eight, and even exceed it. The program had three straight seasons of at least 11 wins before last season, but the program has also been to the playoffs three times in the past 26 seasons. “We’ve talked about what it would take to get into the playoffs,” said Saatzer. “We’re not in a place that we thought we would be record-wise at this point in the season. So, the league matters even more than we even thought it would. I’m hoping this is a wake-up call for them to be like ‘this the speed of every game that we’re going to play; this is the skill of every game that we’re going to play’.” “Sam is doing a great job with them,” said Watanabe. “We were watching them on film, and I didn’t realize he was their j.v. coach last year. But he’s stepped in, and you can tell, they are competing. He is holding them accountable on every possession, and you’ve seen some of the subbing’s he made. He’s trying to build a culture, and that’s what it takes. “I remember back in 2001 or 2002, we were kind of in the same boat trying to get that same type culture built, and
it takes time,” he continued. “They’ve had a hard time with the transition of different coaches year after year. So, it’s hard to establish that culture. But hopefully he stays with it. With what they’re doing and what they’re starting, it’s definitely good for the school and it’s definitely good for the program.” Glenn will visit Pioneer High on Friday, Rancho Alamitos High on Saturday, Oxford Academy on Monday and Whitney High on Wednesday while the Dons have a big game against Whitney on Friday for its home opener before going to Pioneer on Monday. Cerritos comes back home on Wednesday to face Artesia High. “It’s something that I naively thought I could do in a couple of months, and I’ve been rudely awaken that that’s not possible to do,” said Saatzer of changing the culture. “It’s going to be a long term thing, and I want to be here for at least the next few years, hopefully long term to build something because there hasn’t been someone consistently here for a very long time.” “It’s just the next big game,” said Watanabe of facing Whitney. “We’re just taking it one game at a time. Every single game that comes up next is our next big one. So, we took care of business tonight and Friday against Whitney will be a big one.” Prior to the game, the Cerritos girls spotted the Eagles a 2-0 lead before scoring the next 21 points on their way to an 84-11 victory. All 11 points came in the first half as the Dons led 50-11 at the break and all 12 players who saw action for Cerritos scored at least two points. Senior Cameron Lacorte scored 20 points, connecting on six of eight three-pointers, and had three steals while sophomore Leah Lopez came off the bench to score a season-high 15 points with three perimeter baskets. Senior Camille Mangahis and junior Kianna Rangel each added 10 points with the former getting three of her five rebounds on the offensive end. All five Glenn starters accounted for all the points with senior Michelle Marin and sophomore Jay Curl each adding three points to their season totals. Curl also pulled down 11 rebounds.
NORWALK from page 10 “The good thing was we started playing better the last three games of that tournament,” said Webster. “Even though we lost to Pacifica, we were 29-29 at one point, and then [Pacifica] went on a run that kind of opened it, and we couldn’t keep up. But we did see a good improvement on our defense and just overall, kind of some cohesion on defense and playing a little stingier and filling in those gaps.” Norwalk will host Lynwood High on Friday and go to Warren High on Wednesday. Prior to the boys game, the Norwalk girls barely broke a sweat against the winless Falcons in a 76-4 victory. The Lancers scored the first 43 points of the game, taking advantage of poor ball handling. Firebaugh turned the ball over 28 times in the first half, 17 of which went for osteals. Meanwhile, Firebaugh’s first shot attempt didn’t come until there was 1:54 remaining in the first quarter, its first point was a free throw with 2:06 left in the first half and its only basket was a three-pointer from Frida Franco with just over a minute before halftime. For the Lancers, who improved to 9-0 all time against Firebaugh, all 11 players who were suited up had at least
a steal and five players scored at least 11 points. Sophomore Aleeah Lopez and six-foot freshman Isha Morales each scored 15 points with Morales grabbing eight rebounds and Lopez picking up four steals. Sophomore Connie Esquival had 14 points, eight rebounds, five steals and three assists while senior Monica Ruiz came off the bench to add a dozen points, five steals and three rebounds to the stat sheet. As a team, the Lancers (8-6, 1-0), who will entertain Bellflower High on Friday and travel to Warren on Wednesday, had 37 rebounds, 25 steals and 13 assists while the Falcons attempted only seven shots in the first half.
DIRTY WATER from page 1 P.O. Box as the JPA’s operational and procurement pipeline, effectively turning a public agency into a one-man operation. Part Two exposed how that private control of the JPA collided directly with Garza’s elected authority at the Central Basin Municipal Water District, where he votes on water rates, infrastructure, and policies affecting the very cities that fund his JPA executive-director salary, including Hawaiian Gardens, a JPA member city within his own Central Basin division. Part Three moved from conflicts to consequences. It examined the legal trigger created by Garza’s JPA arrangement and repeated contract renewals. Garza has served as Executive Director of the California Cities for Self-Reliance Joint Powers Authority since March 2020 and joined the Central Basin Municipal Water District board in December 2020. Since taking office, he has renewed his paid JPA employment contract while simultaneously serving as a Central Basin director and as Central Basin’s delegate to the Metropolitan Water District. Government Code 1099 is automatic. When a public official assumes or renews a second public office that is incompatible with the first, the first office is deemed vacated by operation of law, without any vote or finding of misconduct. The statute turns solely on whether the duties of the positions create divided loyalty or overlapping authority. Here, that overlap is direct. The JPA Garza runs represents Bell Gardens, Commerce, Compton, and Hawaiian Gardens — all Central Basin customer cities, including one within his own division — while Garza votes on water rates, infrastructure, and wholesale water decisions affecting those same cities through Central Basin and MWD. Attorney General opinions make clear that incompatibility is evaluated based on real-world duties, not job titles, and that executive roles involving public funds, contracts, and advocacy do not qualify as exempt employment. Garza has identified no statute or Attorney General opinion expressly authorizing this dual service. Under established law, if the JPA role is deemed a public office, forfeiture of his Central Basin seat would have occurred automatically upon renewal of the contract, with consequences extending to his MWD seat and to subsequent board actions taken during that period. Now comes Part Four, which puts the spotlight on Central Basin’s inaction after the law triggered automatic consequences — and what happens when the law operates automatically and
the agency does nothing. Government Code 1099 does not require a board vote, a review, a finding of wrongdoing, or a declaration of misconduct. When incompatibility exists, forfeiture occurs by operation of law. Whether the official agrees is irrelevant. Whether the board acknowledges it is irrelevant. That distinction matters because Central Basin has taken no public action to determine whether Garza’s repeated renewal of his paid executive role with a lobbying JPA triggered an automatic vacancy — despite LCCN’s reporting and repeated questions highlighting the conflict. With Victor Ponto serving as General Counsel, the district has not requested an independent legal review, has not referred the matter to an enforcement authority, and has not addressed whether votes cast during that period remain legally valid. Instead, Central Basin President Nem Ochoa, Vice President Gary Mendez, and Directors Joanna Moreno and Juan Garza — over the vociferous objections of Directors Art Chacon, Jim Crawford, and Leticia Vasquez — have continued to operate as if the issue does not exist. Under California law, disputes over whether an individual lawfully holds a public office are resolved through quo warranto proceedings — civil actions brought in the name of the People of the State of California. Such actions are initiated by the Attorney General or by a private party granted permission by the Attorney General to proceed. Quo warranto answers a single question: does the individual lawfully hold the office, or has it already been forfeited by operation of law. Attorney General opinions addressing incompatible offices repeatedly identify quo warranto as the proper mechanism for resolving automatic-forfeiture disputes under Government Code 1099. When incompatibility exists, courts are asked to confirm whether forfeiture has already occurred — not whether it should occur. That process carries significant implications for Central Basin. During the period in question, the board terminated General Manager Alex Rojas, hired General Manager Elaine Jeng, and approved contracts, legal expenditures, and policy decisions with Garza participating as a seated director. If Garza’s Central Basin seat was forfeited upon renewal of his JPA contract, any board actions taken with his participation are subject to challenge, and his votes carry no legal force after forfeiture occurred. Despite those high stakes, Central Basin leaders have offered no public explanation, taken no action to correct the issue, and made no move to involve any enforcement authority. Central Basin is acting as though state law can be put on hold by doing nothing. Every vote taken without resolving a director’s legal status deepens the consequences. The law is clear: Government Code 1099 applies. What remains uncertain is whether Central Basin’s majority will enforce it — and whether Director Garza will continue serving without resolving the incompatibility now clearly documented. High Stakes, Dirty Water, Red Flags continues toward its conclusion.
Los Cerritos Community News • Friday, January 9, 2026 13
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14 Los Cerritos Community News • January 9, 2026
LAWSUIT from page 1 For local and community newspapers like LCCN, this case is not just a fight between big media companies and a tech firm. It affects whether local reporting can survive when its work is taken, reused, and shared by artificial intelligence without clear credit or payment. Unlike large national newspapers that have many subscribers and licensing deals, community papers depend almost entirely on the original stories they report to stay in business. Reporting on city councils, school boards, water districts, courts, and local elections is labor-intensive and expensive. It requires reporters to attend meetings, review public records, develop sources, and build subject-matter expertise that cannot be automated. That work is also highly localized and rarely scalable. When AI systems generate answers that draw from that reporting without directing readers back to the original source, local publishers argue it diverts readership, advertising value, and public recognition away from the journalism that keeps local government transparent and accountable. The discovery fight now playing out in federal court carries particular significance for smaller publishers. If AI-generated use of local reporting cannot be traced because records are incomplete, altered, or unavailable, community newspapers face a higher barrier to proving how their work is being used. For many local outlets operating on thin margins, prolonged litigation is not a realistic option. The outcome of
this case may determine whether smaller newsrooms have any practical ability to defend their work in the age of artificial intelligence. There is also a broader transparency issue at stake. Local journalism depends on records: agendas, contracts, emails, public statements, and court filings. When a major technology company is accused of failing to preserve its own records after a court order, it raises concerns about accountability that extend beyond copyright law. Readers expect public agencies and private corporations alike to follow the same rules when evidence preservation is required. The publishers also allege that OpenAI heavily redacted portions of the material it did produce, including the names of news outlets and bylines, information they argue is essential to determining whether copyrighted journalism was used. In a case centered on attribution and originality, the ability to identify the source of content is fundamental. While the court has yet to decide whether sanctions are warranted, the case has already become a bellwether for the future relationship between artificial intelligence platforms and journalism. For local newspapers, the stakes are especially high. Original community reporting is not interchangeable content; it exists because someone shows up, asks questions, and documents decisions that directly affect residents’ daily lives. How this case is resolved will help determine whether local journalism is treated as protected civic infrastructure or as disposable input for technology platforms operating far removed from the communities those stories serve.
NOTICE OF INTENT TO ADOPT A MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION Notice is hereby given that the City of Bellflower has prepared an Environmental Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration for the following project and location: PROJECT:
Flower Street Specific Plan Initial Study (IS) and Mitigated Negative Declaration No. MND 25-01
LOCATION:
9855, 9903, and 9915 Flower Street, Bellflower, California 90706
PROJECT DESCRIPTION: The IS and MND 25-01 evaluates potential environmental impacts resulting with the Flower Street Specific Plan (FSSP), which includes three parcels totaling 1.99 acres, for future Mixed Use development. The parcel on 9903 Flower Street is proposed as a 32-unit townhome residential development. The other two parcels (9855 and 9915 Flower Street) will allow potential residential development at 50 units/ acre; however, currently, actual designs have not yet been prepared for these two parcels. The 32-unit townhome project will include two design plans, garage parking for tenants, common open spaces, and private deck spaces. The overall project requires approval of: (a) a General Plan Amendment from Commercial to Mixed Use; (b) a Zone Change from Transit Oriented Development Specific Plan (TODSP) to FSSP; (c) the FSSP which provides the development and design standards for the three parcels; (d) a Development Agreement between the applicant and the City; (e) a Tentative Tract Map to allow for condominium use on 9903 Flower Street; and (f) a Development Review to approve the design of the 32-unit townhome project. APPLICANT: Bellflower 5 Investment, LLC Based on the environmental information gathered and analyzed for the project during the IS process, the City of Bellflower has determined that there is no substantial evidence, in light of the whole record, that the project may have a significant effect on the environment. Therefore, the IS and MND 25-01 has been prepared to analyze the project pursuant to the requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). The 30-day public review period for this document begins on January 9, 2026 and expires on February 9, 2026. The IS and MND are available online (www.bellflower.org/departments/planning/planning_ division/environmental_documents_and_information.php) and may be reviewed by the public during normal business hours at: 1) City of Bellflower - Planning Division located at 16600 Civic Center Drive, Bellflower, CA 90706, and 2) Los Angeles County Library in the City of Bellflower located at 9945 E. Flower Street, Bellflower, CA 90706. The City Council of the City of Bellflower will conduct a public hearing to consider the proposed IS and MND at a future date. When scheduled, the City Council public hearing will be held at 7:00 pm or as soon thereafter as possible, in the Bellflower City Council Chambers, City Hall, 16600 Civic Center Drive, Bellflower, CA 90706. Please address all public comments (before the close of the environmental review period noted above) to: City of Bellflower, Attn: James Atkins, Senior Planner, 16600 Civic Center Drive, Bellflower, CA 90706, (562) 804-1424, ext. 2248, jatkins@bellflower.ca.gov. Published at Los Cerritos Comunity News 1/9/26 CITY OF SANTA FE SPRINGS NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING & CEQA EXEMPTION A ZONING CODE AMENDMENT TO AMEND SECTIONS 155.175.2 (USES), 155.175.4 (DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS), AND 155.637 (MINI-WAREHOUSES) WITHIN TITLE 15 (LAND USE), CHAPTER 155 (ZONING), OF THE SANTA FE SPRINGS MUNICIPAL CODE
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT the Planning Commission of the City of Artesia will hold a Public Hearing in the City Council Chambers of Artesia City Hall located at 18747 Clarkdale Avenue, Artesia, California at 7:00 pm on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, to conduct a public hearing to solicit additional public comment on the Housing Element Update prior to review by the City Council. The City Council previously held a public hearing on June 9, 2025, but additional edits were necessary, per the State Department of Housing and Community Development, to bring the draft Housing Element into compliance with State housing laws since the last hearing. APPLICANT: City of Artesia LOCATION: The proposed Housing Element Update (General Plan Amendment) would be effective citywide. PROPOSAL: An amendment to the 6th Cycle Housing Element of the Artesia General Plan for the 2021-2029 period. The Housing Element includes analysis of the community’s housing needs, resources, opportunities and constraints, as well as goals, policies, programs and objectives to facilitate the construction, rehabilitation, and preservation of housing for all economic segments of the community. Revised Housing Element: https://cityofartesia.us/DocumentCenter/View/8662 ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW: Staff has determined that this project is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) because it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that this amendment may have a significant adverse effect on the environment. Adoption of the Housing Element would not approve any development project or other physical change to the environment. Therefore, this amendment is exempt from the requirements of CEQA pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3) of the CEQA Guidelines. PLEASE ADDRESS YOUR COMMENTS TO: City of Artesia Attn: Paul Bollier, Community Development Director 18747 Clarksdale Ave. Artesia, CA 90701 Phone: (562) 865-6262 ext. 227 E-Mail: planning@cityofartesia.us ALL PERSONS INTERESTED are invited to be present at the public hearing. Additional information regarding this project is available for public review at the City of Artesia City Clerk’s Office, 18747 Clarksdale Ave., Artesia, CA 90701, during the following hours: Monday thru Thursday from 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Friday 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. City Hall is closed on alternating Fridays. Information regarding this project may be obtained from Paul Bollier, Community Development Director at the above listed Publish January 9, 2026 Published at Los Cerritos Comunity News 1/9/26
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City Council of the City of Santa Fe Springs will hold a Public Hearing to consider the following: PROJECT: A Zoning Code Amendment (ZCA) to amend Sections 155.175.2 (Uses), 155.175.4 (Development Standards), and 155.637 (Mini-Warehouses) within Title 15 (Land Use), Chapter 155 (Zoning), of the Santa Fe Springs Municipal Code to allow Miniwarehouses subject to Conditional Use Permit. PROJECT LOCATION: Applicable to Mixed-Use Transit-Oriented Development (MU-TOD) Zone District, Santa Fe Springs, CA 90670 APPLICANT: City of Santa Fe Springs CEQA STATUS: The Zoning Code Amendment is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) in accordance with State CEQA Guidelines, Section 15061(b)(3) (Common Sense Exemption). THE HEARING will be held before the City Council of the City of Santa Fe Springs in the Council Chambers of the City Hall, 11710 Telegraph Road, Santa Fe Springs, on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. ALL INTERESTED PERSONS are invited to participate in the Public Hearing and express their opinion on the item listed above. Please note that if you challenge the item in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues raised at the Public Hearing, or in written correspondence to the office of the Council at, or prior to the Public Hearing. PUBLIC COMMENTS may be submitted in writing to the City Clerk at cityclerk@ santafesprings.gov. Please submit your written comments by 12:00 p.m. on the day of the City Council meeting. You may also contact the City Clerk’s Office at (562) 868-0511. FURTHER INFORMATION on this item may be obtained from Laurel Reimer, Planning Consultant, via e-mail at laurelreimer@santafesprings.gov or by phone at: (562) 868-0511 ext. 7354. Published at Los Cerritos Comunity News 1/9/26 Extra Space Storage, on behalf of itself or its affiliates, Life Storage or Storage Express, will hold a public auction to sell personal property described below belonging to those individuals listed below at location indicated: 17701 Ibbetson Ave. Bellflower, Ca. 90706 on January 21, 2026, at 12:30 p.m. Curtis Killingsworth The auction will be listed and advertised on www.storagetreasures.com. Purchases must be made with cash only and paid at the above referenced facility in order to complete the transaction. Extra Space Storage may refuse any bid and may rescind any purchase until the winning bidder takes possession of the personal property. Published at LCCN 1/9/26
Los Cerritos Community News • Friday, January 9, 2026 15 NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Cerritos Planning Commission will conduct a public hearing at a special meeting on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. on the following matter: Review and consideration to waive full reading of and adopt A RESOLUTION OF THE CERRITOS PLANNING COMMISSION RECOMMENDING THAT THE CERRITOS CITY COUNCIL APPROVE DEVELOPMENT CODE AMENDMENT 20261, A REQUEST TO AMEND TITLE 22 OF THE CERRITOS MUNICIPAL CODE, RELATED TO LOCATION AND PERMITTING CRITERIA FOR BODY ART BUSINESSES.**Pursuant to Section 15301 of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines, this project is categorically exempt from CEQA review. This public hearing will be conducted in person in the Cerritos City Council Chamber, 18125 Bloomfield Avenue, Cerritos, California, 90703. The public hearing will also air live on Cerritos TV3 and will be streamed over the City of Cerritos website at www. cerritos.gov. A copy of the related agenda report will be available for download from the website on the Thursday prior to the public hearing. Public comments can be provided during the meeting or via email to planning@cerritos.gov or by hard copy to the Department of Community Development no later than 3:00 p.m. on the day of the meeting. Please identify the agenda item number in the subject line of the email or hard copy document. All written correspondence received by the 3:00 p.m. deadline will be distributed to the legislative body prior to the meeting and the document(s) will be retained with the public record of the meeting. If you challenge the above-mentioned item and related actions in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the public hearing described in this notice, or in written correspondence emailed to the Department of Community Development by the submission deadline, prior to the public hearing. Any person interested in this matter may contact the Department of Community Development at (562) 916-1201 for additional information and/or appear at the hearing in person or by agent and be heard. /s/Ryan Carey, Deputy City Manager/Acting Director of Community Development Published at Los Cerritos Community News 1/9/26 NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING NOTICIA PARA UNA AUDIENCIA PUBLICA CITY OF HAWAIIAN GARDENS CITY COUNCIL Notice is hereby given that the City Council of the City of Hawaiian Gardens will conduct a public hearing pertaining to the following item: HEARING BODY:
Hawaiian Gardens City Council
DATE OF HEARING:
January 28, 2026
TIME OF HEARING:
6:00 P.M., or soon thereafter.
LOCATION OF HEARING: City Hall, Council Chambers City of Hawaiian Gardens 21815 Pioneer Boulevard Hawaiian Gardens, CA 90716 PUBLIC HEARING: Consideration of Ordinance No. 2026-623 amending Section 18.90.080 of Title 18 (Zoning) of the Hawaiian Gardens Municipal Code to comply with recent changes to state law that impose new limits on local authority to regulate Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) and Junior Accessory Dwelling Units (JADUs). At its December 17, 2025 meeting, the Planning Commission recommended that the City Council adopt this ordinance. CEQA DETERMINATION: Adoption of the ordinance is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Public Resources Code section 21080.17. Further information may be obtained by contacting the Hawaiian Gardens Community Development Department at (562) 420-2641 Ext. 248. Si desea obtener mas informacion, llame al Departamento de Desarrollo de la Comunidad al (562) 420-2641 Ext 244. ALL INTERESTED PERSONS are invited to attend said hearing and express opinions or submit evidence for or against the applications as outlined above. If you challenge the City Council’s action in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the public hearing described in this notice, or in written correspondence delivered to the City at, or prior to, the public hearing. Elise McCaleb, Community Development Director Published: Los Cerritos Community News 01/09/26 Published at Los Cerritos Community News 1/9/26 ABC UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT NOTICE CALLING FOR BID NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the ABC Unified School District will receive up to but not later than 2:00 PM on the 24th day of February 2026 Bids for: ABC Bid # 1691 Hawaiian Elementary School Modernization All bids shall be made and presented on a form furnished by the District. Bids submitted shall conform to the terms and conditions stated on said form. Bids shall be received in the office of the Purchasing Department at 16700 Norwalk Blvd., Cerritos, CA 90703 and shall be opened and publicly read aloud at the above-stated time and place. There will be a mandatory jobwalk meeting on January 20, 2026 at 11:00 AM sharp at the front of Administration building at Hawaiian ES 12350 E 226th St. Hawaiian Gardens, CA 90716. To prequalify to bid, bidders and subcontractors with contractor license class of A, B, C-4, C-7C-10, C-16, C-20, C-34, C-36, C-38, C-42, C-43 or C-46 must submit Prequalification package no later than February 12, 2026 . Prequalification Package is available to enter and submit at the PQ Website https://pqbids.com/abc-usd-ab2031/ All public works are subject to prevailing wage payments, Valid License valid Class B Contractor's License and DIR Registration will be required. Los Cerritos News
January 9, 2026 January 16, 2026
Published at Los Cerritos Community News 1/9 and 1/16/26
PUZZLE SOLUTION: APPLIANCES
NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S SALE T.S. No. 24-02341-US-CA Title No. DEF-648888 A.P.N. 7050-005-027 YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF TRUST DATED 01/11/2022. UNLESS YOU TAKE ACTION TO PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY, IT MAY BE SOLD AT A PUBLIC SALE. IF YOU NEED AN EXPLANATION OF THE NATURE OF THE PROCEEDING AGAINST YOU, YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LAWYER. A public auction sale to the highest bidder for cash, cashier’s check(s) drawn on a state or national bank must be made payable to National Default Servicing Corporation, a check drawn by a state or federal credit union, or a check drawn by a state or federal savings and loan association, savings association, or savings bank specified in Section 5102 of the Financial Code and authorized to do business in this state; will be held by the duly appointed trustee as shown below, of all right, title, and interest conveyed to and now held by the trustee in the hereinafter described property under and pursuant to a Deed of Trust described below. The sale will be made in an “as is” condition, but without covenant or warranty, expressed or implied, regarding title, possession, or encumbrances, to pay the remaining principal sum of the note(s) secured by the Deed of Trust, with interest and late charges thereon, as provided in the note(s), advances, under the terms of the Deed of Trust, interest thereon, fees, charges and expenses of the Trustee for the total amount (at the time of the initial publication of the Notice of Sale) reasonably estimated to be set forth below. The amount may be greater on the day of sale. Trustor: Cleodis Howell, unmarried Duly Appointed Trustee: National Default Servicing Corporation Recorded 01/27/2022 as Instrument No. 20220108837 (or Book, Page) of the Official Records of Los Angeles County, California. Date of Sale: : 02/05/2026 at 9:00 AM Place of Sale: Doubletree Hotel Los Angeles-Norwalk, Vineyard Ballroom, 13111 Sycamore Drive, Norwalk, CA 90650 Estimated amount of unpaid balance and other charges: $138,464.17 Street Address or other common designation of real property: 11248 Bertha St, Cerritos, CA 90703 A.P.N.: 7050-005-027 The undersigned Trustee disclaims any liability for any incorrectness of the street address or other common designation, if any, shown above. If no street address or other common designation is shown, directions to the location of the property may be obtained by sending a written request to the beneficiary within 10 days of the date of first publication of this Notice of Sale. If the Trustee is unable to convey title for any reason, the successful bidder’s sole and exclusive remedy shall be the return of monies paid to the Trustee, and the successful bidder shall have no further recourse. The requirements of California Civil Code Section 2923.5(b)/2923.55(c) were fulfilled when the Notice of Default was recorded. NOTICE TO POTENTIAL BIDDERS: If you are considering bidding on this property lien, you should understand that there are risks involved in bidding at a trustee auction. You will be bidding on a lien, not on the property itself. Placing the highest bid at a trustee auction does not automatically entitle you to free and clear ownership of the property. You should also be aware that the lien being auctioned off may be a junior lien. If you are the highest bidder at the auction, you are or may be responsible for paying off all liens senior to the lien being auctioned off, before you can receive clear title to the property. You are encouraged to investigate the existence, priority, and size of outstanding liens that may exist on this property by contacting the county recorder’s office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge you a fee for this information. If you consult either of these resources, you should be aware that the same lender may hold more than one mortgage or deed of trust on the property. NOTICE TO PROPERTY OWNER: The sale date shown on this notice of sale may be postponed one or more times by the mortgagee, beneficiary, trustee, or a court, pursuant to Section 2924g of the California Civil Code. The law requires that information about trustee sale postponements be made available to you and to the public, as a courtesy to those not present at the sale. If you wish to learn whether your sale date has been postponed, and, if applicable, the rescheduled time and date for the sale of this property, you may call 800-280-2832 or visit this internet website www.ndscorp.com/sales, using the file number assigned to this case 24-02341-US-CA. Information about postponements that are very short in duration or that occur close in time to the scheduled sale may not immediately be reflected in the telephone information or on the internet website. The best way to verify postponement information is to attend the scheduled sale. NOTICE TO TENANT*: You may have a right to purchase this property after the trustee auction pursuant to Section 2924m of the California Civil Code. If you are a “representative of all eligible tenant buyers” you may be able to purchase the property if you match the last and highest bid placed at the trustee auction. If you are an “eligible bidder,” you may be able to purchase the property if you exceed the last and highest bid placed at the trustee auction. There are three steps to exercising this right of purchase. First, 48 hours after the date of the trustee sale, you can call 888-264-4010, or visit this internet website www.ndscorp.com, using the file number assigned to this case 24-02341-US-CA to find the date on which the trustee’s sale was held, the amount of the last and highest bid, and the address of the trustee. Second, you must send a written notice of intent to place a bid so that the trustee receives it no more than 15 days after the trustee’s sale. Third, you must submit a bid so that the trustee receives it no more than 45 days after the trustee’s sale. If you think you may qualify as a “representative of all eligible tenant buyers” or “eligible bidder,” you should consider contacting an attorney or appropriate real estate professional immediately for advice regarding this potential right to purchase. *Pursuant to Section 2924m of the California Civil Code, the potential rights described herein shall apply only to public auctions taking place on or after January 1, 2021, through December 31, 2025, unless later extended. Date: 12/17/2025 National Default Servicing Corporation c/o Tiffany and Bosco, P.A., its agent, 1455 Frazee Road, Suite 820 San Diego, CA 92108 Toll Free Phone: 888-264-4010 Sales Line 800-280-2832; Sales Website: www.ndscorp.com Deandre Garland, Trustee Sales Representative A-4861115 12/26/2025, 01/02/2026, 01/09/2026
NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ES-TATE OF TERUO SAKODA Case No. 25STPB14013 To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be inter-ested in the will or estate, or both, of TERUO SAKODA A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by Diane Shibata and Joyce Ochiai in the Superior Court of California, County of LOS ANGELES. THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that Diane Shibata and Joyce Ochiai be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent. THE PETITION requests the decedent’s will and codicils, if any, be admitted to probate. The will and any codicils are available for examination in the file kept by the court. THE PETITION requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority. A HEARING on the petition will be held on January 15, 2026 at 8:30 AM in Dept. No. 62 located at 111 N. Hill St., Los Angeles, CA 90012. IF YOU OBJECT to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney. IF YOU ARE A CREDITOR or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code. Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law. YOU MAY EXAMINE the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk. Attorney for petitioner: STACI TOJI ESQ SBN 299385 TOJI LAW APC 3655 TORRANCE BLVD STE 300 TORRANCE CA 90503 CN123051 SAKODA Dec 26, 2025, Jan 2,9, 2026
ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME CASE NO. 25NWCP00556 TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: Petitioner Rebeca Jasmine Garcia filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: Rebeca Jasmine Garcia to Rebeca Jasmine Garcia-Vega. THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant a petition without a hearing. Court date March 13, 2026, at the SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES, 12720 NORWALK BLVD., NORWALK, CA 90650. A HEARING will be held MARCH 13, 2026 at 8:30 AM., DEPT. C, ROOM 312. Published at Los Cerritos Community Newspaper 12/19, 12/26, 1/2, 1/9/25 FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT File Number 2025284244. THE FOLLOWING PERSON(S) IS (ARE) DOING BUSINESS AS: SOMATIC SLEUTH MASSAGE THERAPY 2263 N LAKEWOOD BLVD, LONG BEACH CA., 90815, LOS ANGELES COUNTY; Registered Owner:ALYSSA MARIA GRANT, 8431 HOLDER STREET, BUENA PARK, CA 90620. THIS BUSINESS IS CONDUCTED AS AN INDIVIDUAL. The date registrant started to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above: N/A. I declare that all the information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true any material matter pursuant to Section 17913 of the Business and Professions Code that the registrant knows to be false is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000).) /S/ SOMATIC SLEUTH MASSAGE THERAPY ; Owner; ALYSSA GRANT. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Los Angeles on 12/04/2025. In accordance with Subdivision (a) of Section 17920, a Fictitious Name Statement generally expires at the end of five years from the date on which it was filed in the of notice of the County Clerk, except, as provided in Subdivision (b) of Section 17920, where it expires 40 days after any change in the facts set forth in the statement pursuant to Section 17913 other than a change in the residence address of a registered owner. A new Fictitious Business Name Statement must be filed before the expiration. Effective January 1, 2014, the Fictitious Business Name Statement must be accompanied by the affidavit of identity form. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a Fictitious Business Name in violation of the rights of another under Federal, State or Common Law (see Section 14411 et seq., Business and Professions Code). LCCN 1/9, 1/16, 1/23, 1/30/26
ABC UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT NOTICE CALLING FOR BID NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the ABC Unified School District will receive up to but not later than 2:00 PM on the 24th day of February 2026 Bids for: ABC Bid # 1691 Hawaiian Elementary School Modernization All bids shall be made and presented on a form furnished by the District. Bids submitted shall conform to the terms and conditions stated on said form. Bids shall be received in the office of the Purchasing Department at 16700 Norwalk Blvd., Cerritos, CA 90703 and shall be opened and publicly read aloud at the above-stated time and place. There will be a mandatory jobwalk meeting on January 20, 2026 at 11:00 AM sharp at the front of Administration building at Hawaiian ES 12350 E 226th St. Hawaiian Gardens, CA 90716. To prequalify to bid, bidders and subcontractors with contractor license class of A, B, C-4, C-7C-10, C-16, C-20, C-34, C-36, C-38, C-42, C-43 or C-46 must submit Prequalification package no later than February 12, 2026 . Prequalification Package is available to enter and submit at the PQ Website https://pqbids.com/abc-usd-ab2031/ All public works are subject to prevailing wage payments, Valid License valid Class B Contractor's License and DIR Registration will be required. Los Cerritos News
January 9, 2026 January 16, 2026
Published at Los Cerritos Community News 1/9 and 1/16/26
16 Los Cerritos Community News • January 9, 2026