March 6, 2026 Los Cerritos Community News

Santa Fe Springs Moves Forward on $6.4M Residential Street Improvement Project

By Brian Hews

Santa Fe Springs officials are preparing to move forward with a $6.4 million residential street improvement project that will resurface roads, upgrade sidewalks and improve accessibility features in several neighborhoods across the city.

The City Council reviewed the project during its March 3 meeting and is expected to authorize city engineers to advertise for construction bids for the work, which will become part of the city’s Capital Improvement Program.

City staff said the project

will include grinding existing pavement and applying new asphalt overlays along residential streets. Crews will also replace damaged driveway ramps, curbs and gutters, cross gutters and sidewalks. The improvements will include new ADA-compliant curb ramps and updated traffic control devices designed to improve pedestrian safety and extend the service life of the roadways.

The total estimated cost of the project is about $6.4 million. Construction work is expected to account for roughly $5.55 million of the total, with the re-

See STREETS Page 5

Big Bear’s Jackie and Shadow Lay New Eggs as World Watches Nest

By Laurie Hanson

By now the world knows about the famous bald eagle pair Jackie and Shadow, who

wide wildlife sensation thanks to a livestream camera that allows viewers to watch the nest around the clock.

The Friends of Big Bear Valley (FOBBV) closely

reside in Big Bear Valley. The well-known pair is once again in the spotlight after laying a second egg in what is their second clutch of the season. The pair has become a world-

monitors the pair, their breeding cycle and the expected arrival of their offspring. The nonprofit began as Friends of Fawnskin in 2001 and ex-

See HATCHLINGS Page 8

Pico Rivera Opens ‘Alebrije’ Dog Park

By Brian Hews

Pico Rivera officials this week cut the ribbon on Alebrije Dog Park, the city’s first dedicated dog park, located in the northwest section of the city near the intersection of Rosemead Boulevard and Gallatin Road.

The new park gives residents and their four-legged companions a place to gather, exercise, and socialize while also creating a potential economic boost for nearby businesses.

City leaders and community members attended the opening celebration, marking the completion of a project made possible through a $1 million grant from the California Natural Resources Agency combined with about $1.5 million in city funding using federal pandemic relief dollars placed into the city’s capital improvement program.

Designed with community input, the park includes walking and jogging paths, hydration stations for pets and owners, dog challenge and obstacle elements, and seating areas with interpretive exhibits. Natural play areas were also incorporated to create a comfortable environment for dogs and their owners.

The park features a colorful “alebrije” theme inspired by traditional Mexican folk art known for imaginative animal forms. The name reflects both the city’s cultural heritage and the park’s focus on animals and nature.

The word “alebrije” comes from a famous form of Mexican folk art that originated in the 1930s with artisan Pedro Linares in Mexico City. According to the widely told story, Linares fell gravely ill and during

See DOG PARK Page

La Mirada Approves Drone Patrols to Crack Down on Illegal Fireworks

By Brian Hews

A proposal to use drone technology to help track illegal fireworks has been approved by the City Council in a unanimous 5-0 vote, bringing a new enforcement tool to the battle against one of Southern California’s most persistent summer nuisances.

According to an administrative report presented to the council, the city will contract with a private drone service provider to assist with fireworks enforcement during major holidays when illegal fireworks activity typically spikes.

The concept is straightforward: deploy aerial drones to identify the source of illegal fireworks launches, track activity in real time, and help law enforcement officers pinpoint the exact location where fireworks are being discharged.

Illegal fireworks have become a growing concern across Los Angeles County communities, with residents frequently complaining about loud explosions, fires, and safety hazards during major holidays such

as the Fourth of July and New Year’s Eve.

Traditional enforcement methods often struggle to catch violators in the act. By the time police respond to a complaint, fireworks users have frequently stopped or moved to another location.

City officials say drones could help close that gap by providing a real-time aerial perspective.

Using thermal cameras and high-resolution video, drones can quickly scan neighborhoods and identify the origin point of fireworks launches, allowing officers on the ground to respond more effectively.

Cities across California have increasingly experimented with drone technology for law enforcement and emergency response, including searchand-rescue operations, accident reconstruction, and disaster assessment. Fireworks enforcement has emerged as one of the newer uses for the technology.

Supporters say drones could help reduce fires, injuries, and property damage caused by illegal fireworks while giving law enforcement a safer and more

See DRONE, Page 12

Lakewood Weighs Regional Stormwater Maintenance Contract for Mayfair and Bolivar Parks

By Brian Hews

Lakewood officials are preparing to hire a specialized contractor to help operate and maintain stormwater capture systems

tions and technical evaluation of the facilities. Although only two of the projects are located within Lakewood, the contract would cover a total of five stormwater capture sites operating across several Southeast Los Angeles

THE STORMWATER capture system installed at Mayfair Park in Lakewood. The facility is part of a multi-city stormwater management network now under review for long-term operations and maintenance.

located at Mayfair Park and Bolivar Park, part of a regional network of projects designed to reduce pollution and recharge local groundwater supplies.

The City Council is reviewing proposals from engineering firms that would oversee opera-

County cities as part of a regional watershed management program.

The Lakewood systems capture rainwater runoff during storms, filter pollutants and allow water to soak back into the ground rather than flowing

See WATER, Page 3

Solidarity Walk Vigil Honors Victims and Survivors of Human Trafficking

By Rosemary Lewallen

St. Irenaeus Catholic Church hosted a solidarity walk and prayer vigil February 3 honoring victims and survivors of human trafficking. About 57 community members attended the event organized by the parish’s Bridge of Light: Human Trafficking to Human Triumph Ministry. Cypress Mayor Pro Tem Kyle Chang and Cypress Police Chief Mark Lauderback were among those present. Organizers used the evening to highlight the scope of the problem. Displays noted that human trafficking is considered the second-largest and fastest-growing criminal enterprise in the United States and generates an estimated $236 billion annually worldwide. Sextortion of teens has increased by 149 percent. In Orange County, the average

age at which a youth is trafficked is 14, and the number of minor victims has increased from 36 percent to 50 percent.

Youth aging out of foster care are particularly vulnerable. Approximately 60 percent of foster youth become homeless after leaving the system, and between 60 and 70 percent of human trafficking victims were formerly involved in the child welfare system.

Emcee Dawn Gallagher described human trafficking as a form of modern-day slavery and reflected on the life of St. Josephine Bakhita, who was sold into slavery as a child before eventually gaining her freedom and becoming a Catholic nun. Gallagher said Bakhita’s story reminds people that identity is not defined by past suffering but by dignity and faith.

Participants also learned about the

history of the Presentation Sisters, who served St. Irenaeus Parish from 1963 to 2025. Their foundress, Nano Nagle, was recognized for her work helping the poor and marginalized. Parish members noted that the church’s Bridge of Light ministry began in 2017 to raise awareness about trafficking in Orange County and beyond.

A short educational film, “No Escape Room,” was also shown, illustrating how teens can become victims of online sextortion. Speakers noted that many victims initially believe they are communicating with a new friend online before being threatened or financially exploited.

Teens were encouraged to seek help from trusted adults and to understand that the abuse is not their fault.

The evening concluded with a candlelit procession led by Deacon Israel Rodriguez. Participants stopped at four prayer stations that addressed issues including online safety, child labor trafficking, and survivor recovery.

Chief Lauderback said local law enforcement has made progress in addressing trafficking and encouraged residents to report suspicious activity. “When you see something, say something,” he told the crowd, adding that trafficked individuals should be treated as victims, not suspects.

Organizers encouraged attendees to stay involved by supporting efforts to end child marriage, reporting suspected trafficking, and assisting vulnerable families in the community.

Anyone suspecting human trafficking can contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 800-373-7888.

For more information about the Bridge of Light ministry, contact Monica Kovach at 310-490-6113.

Cerritos Optimist Club Announces Essay Contest Winners

ABCUSD Superintendent Dr. Gina Zietlow helps celebrate this year’s Cerritos Optimist Club Essay Contest Winners, from (l-r) Jake Mok, Cerritos High, 2nd place; Viccheany Pann, Artesia High,1st place; Avery Updike, Cerritos High, 3rd place.

Each year, the Cerritos Optimist Club invites local students to participate in its annual Essay Contest, offering an opportunity for students to earn recognition and prizes while reflecting on important themes that impact their lives. This year’s theme, “How My Acts of Service Help Me Understand What My Community Means to Me,” inspired thoughtful submissions from students across ABC Unified School District high schools.

A total of 14 student essays were reviewed by a panel of judges, who selected the top three winners based on the strength of their writing, insight, and connection to the theme.

The Cerritos Optimist Club announced and celebrated this year’s winners during its February 26, 2026 meet-

ing.

First Place: Viccheany Pann, Artesia High; Second Place: Jake Mok, Cerritos High; Third Place: Avery Updike, Cerritos High.

Each student received a cash prize and a certificate of recognition. The first-place winner will advance to the regional competition, with the opportunity to continue on to statewide and national levels.

The Cerritos Optimist Club is the local chapter of Optimist International, a worldwide organization of more than 2,500 clubs dedicated to creating a more optimistic future for young people. Since 1970, the Cerritos Optimist Club has remained committed to supporting programs that bring out the best in children and strengthen the community.

La Mirada Crime Drops 13.6 Percent, Lowest Since 2014

Property crimes dominate totals as city records fewer incidents per capita and continued declines in crimes against persons.

By Brian Hews

La Mirada recorded its lowest Part 1 crime total in more than a decade in 2025, with overall serious offenses dropping 13.6 percent compared to the previous year.

The update was presented during a recent City Council study session, where city officials outlined year-overyear declines across multiple categories. According to the report, 95 percent of Part 1 crimes in 2025 were property-related offenses.

Crimes against persons also declined, falling from 43 incidents in 2024 to 39 in 2025. The city reported 163 crimes per 10,000 residents in 2025,

down from 189 per 10,000 residents the year before — a significant improvement in the city’s per capita crime rate.

The presentation included data on homicides, rapes, robberies, assaults, burglaries, automobile thefts, larceny incidents and arsons, along with response times and arrest totals.

City officials emphasized that property crimes — including thefts, burglaries and vehicle-related offenses — remain the primary focus. Deputies and Public Safety Officers are continuing visible patrols in residential neighborhoods and commercial corridors, along with proactive operations aimed at deterring repeat offenders.

Maintaining the city’s low crime rate remains a stated priority, with officials noting that community outreach and engagement efforts will continue alongside enforcement strategies.

The latest figures mark the lowest overall crime level recorded in La Mirada since 2014.

untreated into storm drains and eventually the ocean. By allowing water to infiltrate into underground aquifers, the projects also help replenish groundwater basins that supply drinking water across Los Angeles County.

Stormwater capture systems have become increasingly common throughout Southern California as cities attempt to comply with strict water-quality regulations while also looking for ways to increase local water supplies during periods of drought.

While many of these projects are constructed using outside grant funding, cities are typically responsible for long-term operations and maintenance once the systems are built. The contractor under consideration would provide specialized services such as inspecting infiltration wells, maintaining treatment chambers, removing sediment and debris and monitoring system performance.

The facilities at Mayfair Park and Bolivar Park are part of a larger regional network of stormwater capture projects that operate across multiple cities. Because runoff flows across watershed boundaries, the systems are evaluated and managed collectively to ensure they continue meeting environmental regulations and water-quality standards.

City documents indicate the contractor would also prepare monitoring reports and technical evaluations required by environmental regulators to demonstrate that the systems are operating effectively and preventing polluted runoff from entering local waterways.

Lakewood officials say hiring a contractor with specialized expertise will help ensure the facilities remain functional and compliant with environmental requirements.

Cerritos Council Recognized Students, Educators and Community Leaders

for “Name the Cow” contest winners, Whitney and Cerritos High School principals, the Whitney Young Black Scholars and the Cerritos Area Alumnae

LCCN Staff Report

The Cerritos City Council presented a series of recognitions at its recent meeting, honoring student leaders, educators and community organizations for their contributions to the community.

The evening began with recognition of the winners of the City’s “Name the Cow” contest. Mayor Frank Aurelio Yokoyama previously announced that the name “Bessie” received the highest number of votes. Cerritos residents SiuLee Chang, Mason Hampden, Anthony Hoang, Melissa Snyder and Stewart Shen were recognized for submitting the winning name and were awarded commemorative City keepsakes.

In observance of Black History Month, the City formally recognized the cultural, historical and social contributions of African Americans who have helped shape the nation and the Cerritos community.

Whitney High School Principal Dr. Tuesday Stoffers was honored for her leadership and service in the ABC Unified School District. Now in her fourth year as principal, Dr. Stoffers guided Whitney High School to numerous academic and institutional achievements, including earning the National Blue Ribbon School Award in 2024. The school also received California Distinguished Schools recognition, an AP Access Award and a California Green Ribbon Award. Under her leadership, Whitney celebrated its first California State Girls Basketball Championship and marked its 50th anniversary with a milestone graduation ceremony at the Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts.

The Council also recognized the

Whitney High School Young Black Scholars, a student-led organization dedicated to uplifting and educating the school community about the historical contributions and diverse cultures of the Black diaspora. The group founded a Black Parent Association to strengthen family engagement, established a Black Alumni Network mentorship program and hosted State Deputy Superintendent of Public Instruction William McGee to discuss statewide efforts to support Black student achievement and civic involvement.

Cerritos High School Principal Dr. Crechena Wise was also honored for her contributions to the community. Dr. Wise, who holds advanced degrees from Pepperdine University and the University of Southern California, has served nearly two decades in the ABC Unified School District in a variety of leadership roles. She has been recognized for her work in curriculum development, instructional leadership and promoting culturally responsive teaching practices.

The Cerritos Area Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. also received recognition for its longstanding service in Cerritos and surrounding cities including Artesia, Bellflower, Downey, Hawaiian Gardens, Norwalk, La Mirada, Santa Fe Springs and Whittier. Chartered in 1999, the chapter has grown to more than 100 members and has awarded over $167,000 in scholarships to high school seniors in the ABC Unified School District and neighboring communities. The organization also hosted book drives and community education programs focused on voting rights and youth engagement.

La Palma-Cerritos AAUW Branch Celebrates Women’s History Month

By Edna Ethington

The La Palma-Cerritos Branch of the American Association of University Women (AAUW) will celebrate Women’s History Month at their meeting on Thursday, March 19, 2026, at the ABCUSD Adult School Auditorium at 20122 Cabrillo Lane in Cerritos. Program Facilitator Christine Taxier will be presenting information about women who made history in America but were not recognized for their contributions to American history in their time. There will be a social time at 6:30 p.m., followed by the Women’s History program from 7:00 to 8:00 p.m., and a branch business meeting. The meeting is open to the public and members and guests are invited to come and learn more about these outstanding women and their

achievements.

Taxier did research and took three online classes about remarkable women who made important contributions in America during four periods of time: 1) The American Revolution; 2) Pre-Civil War and Mid-19th Century Reform Movement; 3) Civil War and Mid-19th Century; and 4) End of 19th Century through the 20th Century. She has prepared a page of information and will be asking members and guests to test their knowledge by matching the names of the women with their achievements. She asks members and guests to come prepared with a pen to participate in the activity and looks forward to seeing everyone at the meeting.

For more information, contact the branch website at http://lapalma-cerritos -ca-aauw.net, or call 562-924-5227.

Consumer Caution Corner:

Massive Frozen Food Recall Over Possible Glass Contamination

By Brian Hews

This week millions of pounds of frozen food sold at major grocery chains are being pulled from store shelves after reports that some products may contain glass.

Federal food safety officials say a massive recall involving frozen rice dishes, dumplings and ramen products has expanded across several major grocery brands including Trader Joe’s, Kroger, Tai Pei, Ling Ling and Ajinomoto.

The problem first surfaced when Trader Joe’s recalled certain packages of its private-label chicken fried rice after customers reported possible glass fragments in the food. Those products carried best-by dates between September 8 and November 17.

Since then the recall has widened significantly.

Trader Joe’s has now added several additional products to the list, including vegetable fried rice with best-by dates between February 28 and November 19, Japanese-style fried rice with best-by dates between February 28 and November 14, and chicken shu mai with bestby dates between March 13 and October 23. Additional batches of chicken fried rice have also been included, with bestby dates ranging from March 4 through February 10, 2027.

The products were manufactured by Ajinomoto Foods North America, which produces frozen meals for several grocery brands sold across the United States.

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service, the issue came to light after the company received multiple consumer

complaints about foreign material in the food. Investigators later determined the likely source was a vegetable ingredient — specifically carrots — that may have contained small fragments of glass.

In total, nearly 37 million pounds of frozen food have now been recalled.

The products were distributed nationwide and some shipments were exported to Canada and Mexico. In addition to fried rice and dumplings, certain frozen ramen products have also been included in the recall.

Several grocery chains have issued their own alerts tied to the recall.

Costco members who purchased Ajinomoto “yakitori chicken with Japanese-style fried rice” with best-by dates between November 8, 2025 and January 12, 2027 are advised to discard the product or return it to Costco for a refund.

Ralphs customers who purchased Kroger-brand chicken or vegetable fried rice with best-by dates between March 10, 2025 and March 4, 2026 are also advised not to eat the product.

Consumers who have the affected items in their freezer are urged not to eat them. The products should either be thrown away or returned to the store where they were purchased for a full refund.

Auto Insurance Rates Keep Climbing in California

By Brian Hews

Auto insurance premiums in California have jumped sharply over the last three years, and drivers are feeling it.

The state’s top insurers were approved to raise rates an average of 6% last year, following increases of 15.4% in 2024 and 13% in 2023. Altogether, premiums for companies covering roughly 85% of California drivers have risen more than one-third since 2023.

A driver who paid about $1,087 in 2022 is now paying hundreds more — even without accidents or tickets.

The increases are driven by higher repair costs, rising vehicle prices and more expensive parts. The average cost of collision repair reached $4,768 last year, up from under $3,300 in 2019. New cars now average more than $50,000, compared with less than $40,000 in early 2020.

Vehicles are also heavier, more powerful and more complex. Advanced electronics, turbocharged engines, all-wheel

drive systems and electric vehicle batteries make repairs costlier. Electric vehicles in particular are more expensive to fix after collisions.

California drivers are feeling the hikes more acutely because regulators held down rates during the COVID-19 pandemic and required insurers to issue refunds. Once driving resumed and claims surged, insurers sought multiple increases to catch up.

A 2024 state law also raised minimum liability coverage requirements, increasing premiums further, particularly for lower-income drivers.

Tariffs affecting vehicle parts and supply chains have added additional cost pressure.

There are signs increases may be slowing. Geico has held rates steady this year, and State Farm recently filed for a 6.2% rate decrease in California while announcing it would return $5 billion to customers nationwide.

Still, industry analysts say higher premiums are likely to remain the norm.

Friends of Signal Hill Library Spring Book Sale

Book lovers looking for a bargain — and a good excuse to add a few more titles to their shelves — will have a chance later this month when the Friends of the Signal Hill Library host their annual gently used Book Sale.

The event is scheduled for Friday, March 27 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. inside the Signal Hill Library, located at 1800 East Hill Street near Cherry Avenue. Organizers say free parking will be available for visitors attending the sale.

Shoppers will be able to fill an entire bag of books for just $5, with bags provided at the event. Payment will be

accepted in cash only. Rare and specialty titles will be priced separately.

The sale will feature a wide variety of categories including adventure, biograpahy, classics, cookbooks, diet and health titles, fiction, history, hobbies, children’s books, novels, spirituality, self-help, teen and young adult books, textbooks, travel titles and audio books.

All proceeds from the event will go toward enhancing reading and literacy programs connected to the Signal Hill Library.For more information about the event, residents can contact the Signal Hill Library at 562-989-7423.

Daylight Saving Time Returns:

How the Time Change Can Disrupt Your Health

Kaiser Family Foundation

On Sunday, March 8, most of the United States — including California — will once again “spring forward,” moving clocks ahead one hour at 2 a.m. to mark the start of daylight saving time (DST).

The shift brings longer daylight in the evenings, but it also means darker mornings and the loss of one hour of sleep — a change that may feel minor but can have real effects on your health and daily functioning.

Dr. Alexander Cho, a Sleep Medicine physician with Kaiser Permanente Southern California, warned that even a one-hour disruption can throw off your internal clock, leaving many people feeling sluggish, unfocused and irritable in the days that follow.

According to Dr. Cho, research has linked the transition into DST with several short-term health and safety concerns:

1. Disrupted Sleep Patterns

The sudden one-hour shift can interfere with your circadian rhythm, making it harder to fall asleep or wake up on time. Many people experience grogginess, reduced concentration and slower reaction times.

2. Increased Cardiovascular Risks

Studies have found a temporary rise in heart attacks and strokes in the days immediately following the switch to DST. The stress of sleep loss and circadian misalignment may contribute to inflammation and cardiovascular strain.

3. Higher Accident Rates

Fatigue and reduced alertness can

lead to more traffic collisions. Research shows a roughly 6% increase in fatal car accidents in the days after the spring time change.

4. Impact on Mental Health

DST can worsen symptoms of depression and anxiety, particularly for those already sensitive to sleep disruptions. Mood changes and irritability are also common.

5. Reduced Performance and Productivity

The adjustment period often brings general fatigue, slower cognitive processing, and decreased productivity at work or school.

“Losing even one hour of sleep can leave many people feeling fatigued,” said Dr. Cho. “This can affect your ability to perform tasks safely and effectively. Children may struggle even more, experiencing difficulty in school or changes in behavior.”

How to Prepare Your Body for the Time Change

To help ease the transition, Dr. Cho recommends taking proactive steps in the days leading up to the switch:

1. Shift Your Sleep Gradually

Go to bed 10–15 minutes earlier each night for several days before DST begins. This slow adjustment helps your body adapt more naturally.

2. Keep a Consistent Sleep Schedule

Wake up and go to bed at the same time every day — weekends included. Consistency reinforces your internal clock.

3. Get Morning Sunlight

Exposure to natural light early in the day helps reset your circadian rhythm and makes waking up easier.

4. Reduce Evening Light

Limit screen time and bright indoor lighting before bed. Dimmer light signals your body that it’s time to wind

THE SPRING SWITCH to Daylight Saving Time may mean longer evenings, but health experts say the lost hour of sleep can disrupt circadian rhythms and leave people feeling sluggish for days. Household pets, meanwhile, remain unimpressed.

down.

5. Create a Sleep-Friendly Environment

Keep your bedroom cool, dark, and quiet. Blackout curtains, white noise machines, or eye masks can help improve sleep quality.

6. Avoid Stimulants Late in the Day Caffeine and alcohol can interfere with falling asleep and staying asleep. Try to limit them in the afternoon and evening.

7. Give Yourself Time Your body may need a few days to

fully adjust — and that’s normal.

“There’s little doubt that losing an hour of sleep will be difficult for many at first,” Dr. Cho said. “But with the right mindset and healthy habits, you can minimize the impact.”

Looking Ahead

Daylight saving time will remain in effect until Nov. 2, when clocks “fall back” one hour and the nation returns to standard time.

For more guidance on improving your sleep year-round, Kaiser Permanente offers additional resources and expert advice.

Bellflower’s El Riqui Restaurant to Continue Patio Seating, City Awards $93,700 Oak Street Cleanup Contract

By Brian Hews

La Palma Community Center

South St.

Rosecrans

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

cerritosnews.bsky.social

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

South St.

13359 South St

VI Pharmacy

12610 South Street

WRD

4040 Paramount

The Bellflower City Council is set to approve two routine but notable items involving a new restaurant along Bellflower Boulevard and the continued development of future park space on Oak Street.

The first item would authorize the City Manager to execute a five-year license agreement allowing El Riqui, operated by Modern Vegan Cuisine LLC, to continue using an existing outdoor seating area and decorative railing that encroaches into the public right-of-way south of 16641 Bellflower Blvd.

The patio area was previously used by Johnny Rebs under a similar agreement approved in 2014.

Under the new agreement, the restaurant will pay a $500 deposit and $500 per year for use of the space. El Riqui will also be responsible for maintaining the seating area, including trash removal and graffiti cleanup. City staff

STREETS from page 1

mainder covering engineering, design, inspection and contingency costs.

Funding for the project will come from several transportation-related sources, including about $969,000 in SB1 road repair funds, about $538,000 in gas tax revenues, about $152,000 from Measure

noted that similar license agreements are in place for other businesses along Bellflower Boulevard.

In a separate item, the Council is expected to award a $93,700 contract to Integrated Demolition and Remediation, Inc. for abatement, demolition and cleanup of a City-owned property at 9526 Oak Street.

The property was purchased in 2025 using Measure A funds with the intention of converting the site into future park space.

Funding for the Oak Street project is part of a $1.3 million capital allocation, with approximately $416,000 remaining after acquisition costs.

Following demolition and site cleanup, Public Works staff will maintain the property until development of the park moves forward.

Both items are scheduled for consideration at the Council’s upcoming meeting.

R and about $340,000 from Measure M. The city is also expected to allocate about $4.4 million from its Capital Improvement Reserve Fund to complete the project.

According to city staff, the work will focus on renewing the service life of existing pavement while reducing future maintenance costs for the city. The improvements are expected to address aging road surfaces and worn pedestrian infrastructure in several residential areas.

Because the project involves repairs and improvements to existing streets rather than new development, it qualifies for a categorical exemption under the California Environmental Quality Act.

If approved, city staff will begin the competitive bidding process for construction contractors, after which the council will return to consider awarding the construction contract.

By Brian Hews

Crowded Fields and Political Games: Sacramento’s Governor Race Is Learning a Lesson From Local Politics

The warning coming from Democratic Party leadership about California’s crowded governor’s race should sound familiar to anyone who has watched local politics in California.

I’ve seen this playbook before— right here in Cerritos.

For years, political operatives around former Cerritos Mayor Carol Chen and her allies understood something many voters don’t immediately notice: elections are often decided not just by who runs, but by how many people run.

In local city council races, obscure or little-known candidates would suddenly appear on the ballot. They often had little campaign infrastructure, minimal fundraising and virtually no chance of winning. Yet their presence could still serve a strategic purpose— pulling votes away from competing candidates and splitting the opposition.

When multiple candidates divide a similar voter base, the math can work in favor of the person with the most organized support.

That same dynamic is now playing out on a statewide stage.

California Democrats hold nearly every lever of political power in the state. They dominate voter registration, control the Legislature by overwhelming margins and have held the gover-

nor’s office for nearly two decades.

Yet thanks to the state’s top-two primary system—and a dangerously crowded field of Democratic candidates—the party could stumble into a political nightmare of its own making.

Under California’s election rules, all candidates appear on the same primary ballot regardless of party. Only the two candidates receiving the most votes advance to the November election.

In a typical year, that system produces a Democrat-versus-Democrat or Democrat-versus-Republican runoff. But this year something far more unusual is possible: two Republicans advancing to November in one of the most Democratic states in America.

The math is not complicated.

Republicans appear to be consolidating their vote behind two candidates, Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco and conservative commentator Steve Hilton. Meanwhile Democrats are scattering their support across a crowded field.

When one side unites behind two candidates and the other divides its vote among eight or nine, strange things can happen.

California Democratic Party Chair Rusty Hicks recently sounded the alarm, urging candidates with no viable path to the general election to reconsider their campaigns. Some critics immediately cried foul, accusing party

From the Mayor’s Desk: March 6, 2026

From our beautiful parks and stateof-the-art amenities to numerous events, the City of Cerritos is proud to provide spaces where public gatherings and cultural engagement can thrive. For over 20 years, the City has partnered with local school districts for our Arts Education Program (AEP) at the Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts (CCPA). Serving Kindergarten-11th grade, the AEP’s core mission is to enhance education through high-quality arts experiences. Funded by donations through the CCPA Endowment Fund, patron support has enabled diverse programming to be presented to thousands of students over the years.

This year’s AEP lineup has offered age-appropriate programming featuring The Magic School Bus: Lost in the Solar System, The Great Race: The Story of the Chinese Zodiac, and adaptive performances based on children’s

leaders of trying to control the race.

But Hicks isn’t wrong.

This isn’t about silencing voices or shutting down debate. It’s about recognizing basic political reality.

Several Democratic candidates are running serious campaigns and have the fundraising, recognition and support to compete statewide. Katie Porter, Eric Swalwell and Tom Steyer have demonstrated the ability to reach voters and build viable coalitions.

But there are others in the race who, at least so far, simply do not have a realistic path to the top two.

Former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio “Villar” Villaraigosa and former U.S. Health Secretary Xavier Becerra are polling only in the mid-single digits, a warning sign that the Democratic vote is already spreading dangerously thin.

Meanwhile Tony Thurmond, Betty Yee, Matt Mahan and Ian Calderon are barely registering with voters — currently polling somewhere between “undecided” and “wait, who’s that?”

At this point, the message should be blunt: if you’re stuck at the bottom of the polls with no realistic path to the top two, it’s time to step aside before political ego hands Republicans a November runoff.

Every percentage point these campaigns pull from the Democratic vote only increases the possibility that Republicans slip into the top two positions. In a system where finishing third

is the same as finishing last, that risk is not theoretical.

Democrats should not lose the governorship because too many candidates wanted to make a statement.

If candidates truly care about the direction of California—and about preventing an accidental Republican sweep into November—they need to take a hard look at the numbers.

Villar, Becerra, Thurmond, Yee, Mahan and Calderon should do the responsible thing and step aside.

Elections are about ideas, but they are also about strategy. And right now, the strategy for Democrats should be clear. Clear the field before the field clears you.

If Democrats insist on running half the phone book for governor, they shouldn’t be surprised if the voters send two Republicans to November.

Anyone who has watched local politics long enough knows exactly how this works. In Cerritos, former Mayor Carol Chen and her political allies were famous for encouraging obscure candidates to jump into city council races, splitting the vote just enough to tip the outcome. The strategy wasn’t complicated — divide the opposition and win with the math.

Sacramento is now staring at the same lesson.

The difference is the stakes are a lot higher than a Cerritos council seat.

stories Wind in the Willows and Hare and Tortoise. Later this month, Latin Grammy-winning duo 123 Andrés will perform. Attendees from ABC Unified School District and beyond are treated to immersive arts experiences while learning themes such as teamwork, history, storytelling, friendship, and diverse cultures.

My City Council colleagues and I are thankful for these service opportunities and gratified by the lessons our students are learning. The CCPA is a source of community, entertainment, and inspiration for all ages. It’s home to City events and world-class entertainment, and serves as a rental venue for weddings, conferences, and more. CCPA staff also provide technical support at popular City events such as the Spring Fling & Fireworks Spectacular, Memorial Day Ceremony, Concerts in the Park, Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, and more. With your support, we’ll continue to enhance our services in support of Strategic Goal #8: Continued Excellence in Community Recreation and Community Programming.

By Norma V. Williamson, CADEM Delegate

Three days after civil rights icon Rev. Jesse Jackson passed away at the age of 84, the 2026 California Democratic Party Convention convened at the Moscone Center in San Francisco from February 20–22. Had he been able to attend, he likely would have smiled to see that his legacy of the “Rainbow Coalition” was alive and well.

It was at this very same venue that Rev. Jackson sought the California Democratic Party’s endorsement for the U.S. presidency on July 17, 1984, becoming the first African American to mount a major national campaign for the highest office in the land. He finished third behind Gary Hart with 12% of the delegates’ votes, while former Vice President Walter Mondale won first place.

Even though he lost his party’s nomination, he nevertheless made history and will forever be remembered for his stirring speech on that day:

“This is not a perfect party. We are not a perfect people. Yet we are called to a perfect mission. Our mission: to feed the hungry; to clothe the naked; to house the homeless; to teach the illiterate; to provide jobs for the jobless; and to choose the human race over the nuclear race” (his paraphrasing of Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount, Matthew 25:31-45).

Looking down on the 4,000 delegates of all colors, ethnicities and faith traditions, he most likely would have been proud of the diversity of the 2026 California gubernatorial candidates: Black, Asian, White, Latino, Male, Female. He most assuredly would have thrilled at the sight and sound of singer Ms. Sara Williams belting out a rousing rendition of the Black National Anthem, “Lift Every Voice and Sing” which was composed in 1900 by the African American Johnson brothers to celebrate the birthday of President Abraham Lincoln:

“Sing a song full of the faith that the dark past has taught us, Sing a song full of the hope that the

present has brought us;

Facing the rising sun of our new day begun,

Let us march on ’til victory is won”.

Had Rev. Jackson been with us, he most likely would have advocated for, voted for and praised the 2026 Democratic Party Platform (an ever evolving political document that expresses the principles that guide the Democratic Party to legislative action), that reflects the “the perfect mission” that he referred to back on July 17, 1984 – 50 pages that encapsulate his Christian social justice values: Anti-Human Trafficking, Crime Survivors Support, Disability Civil Rights, Economic Justice, Environmental Justice for Disadvantaged Communities, Fairness for the Accused and Rehabilitation of Offenders, Gun Violence Prevention, Health Care and Housing for ALL, Improving the Child Welfare System, Universal Education for ALL, World Peace, Young Adults Access to Opportunities and finally LGBTQ+ Rights, a topic that Rev. Jackson was the first to talk about on a major political party stage in 1984: “lesbian and gays… make up the American Quilt”.

And to those law abiding, essential immigrant workers hiding today in the shadows and to their fearless allies defending them from ICE detentions, he probably would have said:

“We must never surrender!! America WILL get better. Keep hope alive. Keep hope alive”.

Over 20 members of the local Los Cerritos Democratic Club (chartered by the Los Angeles County Democratic Party) attended the CADEM Convention, including Cerritos Councilmember and former Mayor Mark Pulido who shared: “I first met Reverend Jesse Jackson in 1988 during my freshman year at UCLA. I am proud that I volunteered for his campaign for President. I thanked him for his advocacy, service, and leadership when I last spoke with him on the floor of the 2024 Democratic National Convention in Chicago.”

Cerritos Deputies Celebrate Read Across America at Wittmann ES

stories to students and promoting the importance of literacy.

LCCN Staff Report

Students at Wittmann Elementary School in Cerritos received a special visit from Cerritos Sheriff’s deputies and community volunteers during the school’s annual Read Across America celebration.

The event brought deputies and volunteers into classrooms where they read stories to students and encouraged the importance of reading and education. The nationwide Read Across America program, traditionally held around the

birthday of Dr. Seuss, promotes literacy and a lifelong love of books among young readers.

Teachers and staff at Wittmann Elementary welcomed the visitors as students gathered to listen to stories and interact with the deputies, who took time to answer questions and share their own experiences about the value of education.

The event is part of an ongoing community effort that brings local law enforcement and volunteers into schools to promote literacy and positive engagement with students.

Cerritos Auto Square Could Feel Impact of

By Brian Hews

For local buyers shopping at Cerritos Auto Square, a looming microchip shortage may not show up as empty lots — but it could quietly reshape pricing, availability, and incentives in the months ahead. Industry analysts warn that supply pressure on key memory chips used in advanced driver systems and infotainment could mean longer delivery timelines for certain trims, higher MSRPs on tech-heavy models, and growing differences in availability between brands.

Automotive analysts are forecasting that another semiconductor crunch could develop later this year, this time centered on dynamic random-access memory, or DRAM chips. Unlike the COVIDera shortage that halted production and stripped vehicles of features, this potential disruption is tied to booming demand from artificial intelligence data centers competing for the same memory components used in modern vehicles.

Today’s cars — especially electric vehicles and premium trims — rely heavily on advanced driver-assistance systems, large digital displays, and centralized computing platforms. Those systems depend on memory chips to function. As chipmakers shift production capacity toward higher-margin AI applications, automakers could face tighter supply and higher component costs.

Manufacturers including General Motors and Ford have already warned investors that rising DRAM prices, along

New Microchip Shortage

with commodity and tariff pressures, could add billions in costs this year. While analysts do not expect a full industrywide shutdown, they do see selective pressure on certain models, particularly EVs and tech-heavy vehicles.

For Cerritos Auto Square, one of the largest auto retail centers in the nation, that means the impact may vary by brand. Dealers representing a broad mix of manufacturers may benefit from diversification, but specific triams — especially those packed with driver-assist features and upgraded infotainment packages — could become harder to source or more expensive.

Consumers who remember the pandemic-era vehicle shortage may recall long waitlists and prices climbing above sticker. Analysts say the coming situation would likely be more targeted, affecting specific chip-dependent configurations rather than entire production lines. Still, even selective supply constraints can shift showroom dynamics.

For shoppers, the message is simple: if you find the vehicle and configuration you want at a reasonable price, waiting could carry more risk than usual.

As artificial intelligence reshapes global demand for advanced semiconductors, the effects may once again ripple down to local car lots — including right here in Cerritos.

Cerritos’ Free Document Shredding and Compost Event

The City of Cerritos is offering a free paper shredding and compost event from 8 a.m. to noon on Saturday, March 14. The event will be held in the parking lot of the Cerritos Senior Center at Pat Nixon Park located at 12340 South Street.

Community members may bring up to two banker-sized (12” wide, 15” long and 9.5” deep) boxes of paper documents to be shredded at no charge. Staples and paper clips may be left on documents, but paperwork should not contain any binder

Artesia to Host Free Community Health Fair at AJ Padelford

Park

LCCN Staff Report

Residents looking for a health checkup or information about local services will have an opportunity when Artesia hosts a Community Health Fair at AJ Padelford Park. on Friday, March 20 from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. The event is free.

Organizers plan to offer several free screenings and services, including glucose screenings, blood pressure testing, cholesterol testing, and vaccinations.

Attendees will also be able to learn more about Covered California health insurance programs and other available healthcare resources.

In addition to medical screenings, the event will include fitness demonstrations and information about mental health services, providing residents with a broader look at preventive health and wellness support available in the community.

Local healthcare providers, nonprofit organizations, and community groups are expected to participate by offering informational booths and guidance on topics such as nutrition, physical activity, and managing chronic health conditions. Representatives from local agencies will also be available to answer questions about available programs and services. Officials say events like the health fair help residents connect with resources that can improve long-term wellness and encourage preventive care.

For more information about the event, residents can call (562) 407-1723.

LCCN Staff Report

The Friends of the Cerritos Library will present its third annual Writers Festival from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, March 28, in the Library’s Skyline Room.

The event features a high tea experience, and an author panel discussion followed by a book signing.

Registration is $65 for members of the Friends of the Cerritos Library and $75 for non-members.

Featured authors include Nikki Erlick (“The Poppy Fields”), Joss Richard (“It’s Different This Time”), Nayantara Roy (“The Magnificent Ruins”), Zahida Sherman (“Writer’s Block”), and Soo Jin Lee and Linda Yoon (“Where I Belong”).

Guests can register online at friendsofthecerritoslibrary.eventbrite.com or by mailing a check to Friends of the Cerritos Library at P.O. Box 3876, Cerritos, CA 90703.

Proceeds from this event will support the Friends of the Cerritos Library’s mission to promote the library in the community and raise funds for library programs and services.

clips or three-ring binders. Documents will be shredded on-site at the program. This is a secure way to dispose of paperwork that contains private information.

In addition to the shredding event, each participating resident will have the option to obtain free fresh compost. Residents must bring their own rigid container, no larger than 35 gallons, to hold the compost.

For more information, call the Community Services Division at (562) 8658101.

Monday thru Saturday6 pm to 12 Midnight

Doors open at 4pm Sunday 2 pm to 9 pm

Doors open at 12pm

Handel’s Ice Cream Shop Coming to Arteisa

during a public hearing scheduled for March 17 at Artesia City Hall. If approved, the project would bring the popular national ice cream chain to a location next to Pep Boys along South Street.

By Brian Hews

A popular national ice cream chain could soon be opening in Artesia as the city’s Planning Commission prepares to review exterior design changes for a new Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream location on South Street.

City officials will consider a design review request during a public hearing scheduled for 7 p.m. Tuesday, March 17, at Artesia City Hall, 18747 Clarkdale Avenue.

The proposal involves modifying the exterior façade of an existing 2,088-square-foot retail space at 11940 South Street, Unit A, where Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream plans to open a new store. For reference the location is next to the Pep Boys on South St. The building would undergo exterior im-

provements as part of the brand’s storefront design.

The application was submitted by Greg Flaherty of Long Beach, who is representing the project.

City planning staff determined the proposal qualifies for a categorical exemption under the California Environmental Quality Act because the project consists of exterior alterations to an existing commercial building.

Members of the public may attend the hearing and provide comments before the Planning Commission considers the request.

For additional information about the project, residents may contact Assistant Planner Devan Wells at 562-865-6262, extension 238, or by email at dwells@ cityofartesia.us

panded its efforts over the years. Since 2015, the group has provided live video feeds of the eagles’ nest, allowing viewers around the world to watch Jackie and Shadow raise their young and defend their territory.

“Jackie is believed to have been the first bald eagle chick hatched in Big Bear in 2012,” said Jenny Voisard, media manager for Friends of Big Bear Valley for the past three years. “We believe it was Jackie that took over the nest tree in 2016.”

Shadow arrived at the nest in the summer of 2018, and he and Jackie became a mated pair that fall after Shadow drove away her previous mate, Mr. B. The pair has remained the resident eagle couple ever since and has successfully raised several eaglets over the years.

Recently, Jackie laid her second egg of the new clutch. The first egg was laid Feb. 24 and the second on Feb. 27, according to Voisard.

“The first clutch was lost when one egg cracked and attracted ravens to the nest while Jackie and Shadow were away for an extended period of time,” Voisard explained. Ravens and crows are known to raid eagle nests when the adult birds leave them unattended.

Bald eagles in the wild typically live between 20 and 30 years, though some have been known to reach 38 years. Jackie is currently about 14 years old, roughly two years older than Shadow.

This is not the first time Jackie and Shadow have produced offspring. They have successfully raised eaglets in previous seasons, though the young birds were not tagged and their current loca-

tions are unknown.

“Young bald eagles are wanderers and can travel great distances,” Voisard said. “The Big Bear area has seen visiting eagles from other parts of Southern California and even Arizona.”

Eagle eggs typically take about 35 days to hatch, though incubation in Big Bear Valley often lasts closer to 40 days due to colder mountain temperatures.

After hatching, chicks remain in the nest for about 10 to 14 weeks before fledging. Their growth is rapid, and by nine weeks they are nearly full-sized. During this time the parents take turns hunting and guarding the nest.

Since the nest camera was first installed in 2015, millions of people around the world have been able to observe Jackie and Shadow thanks to the efforts of the late FOBBV Executive Director Sandy Steers, who helped turn the nest camera into an educational program used by classrooms nationwide.

Despite harsh winter conditions in Big Bear, Jackie and Shadow are well adapted to survive.

“They are built for winter and have more than 7,000 interconnected waterproof feathers,” Voisard said. “As the resident pair, they do not migrate.”

Friends of Big Bear Valley is currently raising funds to protect the eagles’ foraging area located less than a mile from their nest.

Those interested in helping can donate or learn more at www.savemooncamp.org.

Additional information about Jackie and Shadow and the organization’s live nest cameras is available at friendsofbigbearvalley.org.

By Lydia E. Ringwald

The spectacular and lavish American Ballet Theater production of choreographer Frederick Ashton’s “Sylvia” visits the Segerstrom Center stage from April 9 – April 12, 2026.

The full-length classical ballet, based on Ashton’s original choreography for the Royal Ballet, spins into dance to tell the story of Sylvia, the chaste devotee of the Goddess Diana who falls in love with the shepherd Aminta, a man smitten by her independence and beauty.

In the opening scenes in a sacred forest, Sylvia, as the huntress, dances with her retinue of nymphs, armed with bows and arrows, and there meets the shepherd Aminta. She at first resists his advances and wounds him, but then relents with compassion for the wounded man.

The story unfolds with her abduction by the brutal Orion, her plea for rescue to the God Eros, and eventually her reunion in the gentle arms of Aminta, who truly loves and cares for her.

Originally derived from the 1573 play “Aminta” by the Renaissance poet Torquato Tasso, the story has experi -

American Ballet Theater’s ‘Sylvia’ Illuminates The Segerstrom Center Stage

enced various incarnations in ballet productions over more than 150 years since its premiere as “Sylvia, ou la Nymphe de Diane” at the Garnier Theater in Paris in 1876.

The original Paris Opera Ballet choreography by Louis Alexandre Mérante, with sets designed by Jules Chéret and costumes by Lacoste, was danced to a musical composition by Léo Delibes. At the time, Delibes’ music received such acclaim that even Tchaikovsky reportedly praised the score, suggesting that parts of it surpassed his own work.

In 1901, the Russian Imperial Ballet presented a version, and later the ballet

ORION’S CAVE SCENE, one of the most visually dramatic moments in the ballet.

was also performed in St. Petersburg at the Mariinsky Theater. On an individual tour, the famed Russian ballerina Anna Pavlova performed excerpts from the ballet that later inspired Frederick Ashton to choreograph his celebrated version in 1952 for the Royal Ballet, featuring intricate and demanding choreography performed by the legendary ballerina Margot Fonteyn.

American Ballet Theater’s “Sylvia” revives the Frederick Ashton production in celebration of the choreographer’s enduring legacy as part of a worldwide 2024–2028 festival honoring Ashton’s contributions to ballet.

It’s intriguing to note that when the story is stripped of its sentimental romance, the dramatic plight of a proud and independent woman who ultimately accepts love reveals deeper insights into

the psyche of the modern woman, who often balances independence with partnership.

The chaste and independent Sylvia ultimately must reconcile her independence with the vulnerability required for love and connection. Her journey reflects a search for balance between strength and compassion.

At first, Sylvia confronts aggressive, domineering male energy when she is abducted by force by Orion. She is then released from his domination by Eros into a redeeming union with Aminta’s gentle love.

Sylvia ultimately balances her independence and power with the forces of love and union, arriving at a fuller human experience that embraces both autonomy and emotional connection.

The ballet dances the emotional truths embedded in its mythological story. “Sylvia” reveals insights into the conflicts and resolutions of the human psyche that continue to resonate with modern audiences.

American Ballet Theater presents “Sylvia” April 9 – April 12 at Segerstrom Center.

Please visit scfta.org for tickets and further information.

SYLVIA Presented by American Ballet Theatre

Segerstrom Center for the Arts, 600 Town Center Dr., Costa Mesa

April 9 – April 12, 2026

Performances: Thursday and Friday at 7:30 p.m.; Saturday at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.; Sunday matinee at 1 p.m.

Tickets: Available at www.scfta.org

Top-Seeded La Mirada Sees Big Second Quarter Lead Slip Away in Upset Loss to Mater Dei

done a good job of winning those games.”

By Loren Kopff @LorenKopff on X

When La Mirada High lost to Harvard-Westlake High in the CIF-Southern Section Open Division on Feb. 24, head coach Randy Oronoz and his team did not know where it would be seeded in the CIF State Southern California Regionals. There was hope that the Matadores would get a chance to host a playoff game for the first time since 2024 as they had been on the road for eight straight Open Division playoff games the past two seasons.

As it turned out, La Mirada was rewarded this past Sunday as the top seed in Division I and drew Mater Dei High in this past Tuesday’s first round. The Matadores were game for the mighty Monarchs and built a pair of 17-point leads in the second quarter, the last coming with 5:01 left in the half. But Mater Dei, led by the trio of Luke Barnett, Zain Majeed and Richie Ramirez, dominated the final 21 minutes of the game and upset the host Matadores 88-79, ending their season at 24-9.

“We weren’t tough enough; we missed a lot of blown assignments,” said Oronoz. “They didn’t do anything that we didn’t know was going to happen. We were quiet; we didn’t communicate enough. Unfortunately, they were hot, and we didn’t respond with the toughness that we’ve had all year. It’s an unfortunate way to lose because up 17 in the first half, even up by nine [at the half], we’ve

Mater Dei went on a 14-6 run to end the half and carried that momentum into the second half even though the Matadores were up 54-49 with 3:30 left in the third quarter.

But as hot as La Mirada’s shooting was in the first half, it was hotter for the Monarchs in the second half. Held to seven points in the first half, Majeed was on fire in the third quarter, connecting on the team’s first three shots and five of six in the stanza while Barnett sank three perimeter shots, the last one giving the Monarchs their first lead since the 5:11 mark of the first quarter.

The lead would change hands eight times over the next four minutes and when Najeed scored with 5:33 left in the game, Mater Dei had its biggest lead at 73-70. That was the second basket in what would be a 12-0 run. In fact, the Monarchs ended the game by hitting on 13 of their last 19 shots from the field.

La Mirada started strong as all five starters scored in the opening quarter and combined to shoot 60 percent from the field. That trend continued in the second quarter as the Matadores missed five shots from the field. When it was halftime, La Mirada was shooting 59 percent and had two stretches of making five and six straight baskets, respectively. Even with that, Oronoz wasn’t completely satisfied.

“I thought we settled a lot,” said Oronoz. “I thought we were shooting a bunch

of threes. The plan was to attack; guys didn’t want to listen and attack the hole to try and get positive…get to the free throw line, get guys in foul trouble. We settled early, and if we’re not going to listen to the scheme, then we give them opportunities to make runs to get back in the games, and that’s what happened.”

Junior Jordyn Houston was pacing La Mirada with a dozen points while senior Andrew Castro and juniors Cisco Munoz and Gene Roebuck all had eight points in the first half. But it continued to be the Ramirez show before halftime with Barnett and Majeed joining the party in the second half.

Those three accounted for all but seven points with Ramirez leading everyone with 29 points and the other two each scoring 26 points.

Another component that hurt the Matadores was the rebounding, in which they collected just 19, including two on the offensive end, both by Houston. Roebuck led the Matadores with 19 points, eight rebounds and four assists while Houston had 17 points and five rebounds. Senior King-Riley Owens also scored 17 points and added four assists.

“We don’t crash the [offensive] boards; we want to put more of an emphasis on transition defense,” said Oronoz. “So all year, we haven’t offensive rebounded well, especially against a team like this. If you send two or three to the glass, and they get to the ball, they’re pretty fast and

NEWS AND NOTES FROM PRESS ROW:

will be able to get shooters wide open.

“Unfortunately, like I said, when those shots are falling it wasn’t an issue,” he continued. “But when we’re missing shots, we needed extra opportunities, and we just didn’t come out with them.”

Since at least the early 2000s, this was the first time La Mirada had faced Mater Dei. During the regular season, the Matadores faced only one CIF-SS Division I team, and that was Rancho Christian High, a 76-65 victory. Mater Dei was a Division 2 team and had a 20-15 record entering last Tuesday.

“[Mater Dei head coach] Gary [McKnight] has won like 1,000 more games than me, or whatever the number is,” joked Oronoz. “He’s done a great job at Mater Dei and he’s still doing it, and they did a good job. It was cool to have Mater Dei come to La Mirada to compete.

Unfortunately, we might have played better on the road. But we loved that we were able to give the community a home game and shout out to Mater Dei for being a little tougher than us today, making more shots. It’s a tough way to go out but hats off to them.”

As a side note, this was the fifth home loss for the Matadores since their gymnasium was renovated, and all of them have come in the playoffs.

La Mirada lost to San Juan Hills High in the 2022 CIF-SS Division 2A finals, the 2023 2A finals to Rancho Christian High, the 2023 Division II Southern California Regionals to Oxnard High and a 2024 Division 1 first round game to St. Bernard High.

Artesia’s Offense, Defense Doesn’t Give Lugo Enough Support in Home Loss

was a combination of bad baseball.

By Loren Kopff @LorenKopff on X

t’s a recurring theme for the Artesia High baseball team and head coach Jose Serrano is searching for anything that he hopes will get the program over the hump before the season is over.

When the Pioneers hosted Los Amigos High last Friday, they failed to get the timely hits when they needed to despite outhitting the Lobos, and the defense couldn’t allow senior pitcher Josue Lugo to get out of innings.

The result was a 6-2 loss, sending the Pioneers to a 1-2 start to the season. Artesia would then drop a 7-6 decision to Maywood CES the next day.

“It’s going to be a struggle for us this year offensive-wise,” said Serrano. “It’s just new guys in new spots; I think new guys coming up from last year to this year…it’s just the timely hitting. But I knew it was going to be a struggle this year with some of these guys. just for them getting experience and getting the games in right now…hopefully we’ll get that one hit here or there and kind of change some things around. That’s all it takes.”

Artesia grabbed a 1-0 lead in the bottom of the first inning as junior second baseman Michael Nava singled to right and stole second.

Damien Dominguez would then walk senior center fielder Emmanuel Rocha and with two outs, senior third baseman Adrian Romero’s single brought in Rocha.

That early momentum was nullified when Los Amigos scored twice in the second and third innings, both times with two outs.

First, it was an error that allowed Dominguez and Alex Plaza to touch home. Then it was a bases loaded single from Adrian De La Riva that made the score 4-1.

If that wasn’t bad enough, the fifth run, which came in the sixth inning,

Alex Munoz led off by reaching on the second error of the game, stole second and advanced to third on a wild pitch.

Senior pitcher Cameron Garrison, who had replaced Lugo after he loaded the bases with none out in the third, walked De La Riva before Plaza singled to center, making it 5-1.

“That’s your worst nightmare,” said Serrano. “Any time you give up a two-out [hit], especially two runs, not just one run…like I said, they did the right thing and hit at the right moment, something that we couldn’t do. But that’s the game of baseball.”

Woodbridge High this past Monday before getting past Lakewood High this past Wednesday to go to 3-1. The Dons hosted Long Beach Poly High on Feb. 5 and will host St. Anthony High on Monday and Poly again on Wednesday.

Gahr High has won its first three games of the season, the last coming last Friday in a 1-0 decision against El Dorado High. The Gladiators, who have outscored their first their first three opponents 23-4, dropped a 1-0 decision to Harvard-Westlake High this past Wednesday in a makeup game and will go to St. John Bosco High on Friday and Norco High on Wednesday.

on Friday and Compton on Saturday before hosting Westminster High on Monday. SOFTBALL

The second Artesia run came in the bottom of the sixth when junior first baseman Jorge Vidal doubled down the left field line, was sacrificed to third and came home two batters later when freshman left fielder Jaco Moreno singled to shallow left.

Lost in the mix offensively was senior shortstop Devon Torrez, who collected a pair of hits.

On the mound, Garrison did all he could to keep the Pioneers in the game, going four innings, allowing two hits and an unearned run.

“I think he did amazing,” said Serrano. “He came in with runners on and don’t get me wrong, they got the timely hit with two outs. But he was one pitch away from getting out of the inning with nobody scoring. But he’s a good kid; he can pitch, and I think he’s going to be a guy coming out of the pen. He’s very, very savvy and he goes out there throwing strikes.”

The Pioneers will travel to Anaheim High on Friday before hosting Bolsa Grande High on Tuesday.

In other baseball action, Cerritos High defeated Ocean View High 7-1 last Thursday, then dropped a 5-0 decision to

John Glenn High was blanked by Paramount High 8-0 last Thursday before edging Compton High 1-0 this past Tuesday for its first win of the season. The Eagles will visit Magnolia High on Friday, host Saddleback High on Tuesday and travel to Tustin High on Thursday.

La Mirada High is off to a 4-1 start after whitewashing Trabuco Hills High 9-0 last Saturday in the Perfect Game Southern California Showdown, then blasting Garfield High 13-0 this past Tuesday. The Matadores went to South Hills High on Feb. 5 for their last scheduled game until Mar. 13.

Norwalk High, which dropped a 5-2 affair to St. Paul High last Saturday, will visit Mayfair High on Friday in Mid-Cities League action, then go to Paramount High on Tuesday before welcoming Kennedy High on Thursday.

Valley Christian High (1-3) lost to Poly 7-1 this past Monday and will Campbell Hall High on Saturday while Whitney High doubled up La Puente High 8-4 this past Monday for its first win of the season in four games. The Wildcats then shutout Workman High 15-0 this past Wednesday and will go to Calvary Chapel Downey High

After an opening-season win over Firebaugh High, Artesia has dropped three straight games, the latest being a 16-4 setback to Norwalk this past Tuesday. The Pioneers will face Capistrano Valley Christian High on Friday in the Ocean View Tournament, host Bellflower on Tuesday and go to Paramount on Thursday. Cerritos evened its record to 2-2 after a dominating 14-4 win over Loara High this past Wednesday. The Dons will be off until Thursday when they go to North Torrance High. Glenn fell to Firebaugh 22-1 this past Tuesday to fall to 0-3, having been outscored 62-13. The Eagles will host Samueli Academy on Tuesday while Norwalk improved to 3-1 with the win over Artesia. The Lancers hosted Wilson High on Mar. 5 and participate in the Santa Fe Tournament on Saturday before hosting Whittier High on Thursday. Finally, V.C. lost to Long Beach Poly 8-1 this past Tuesday to see its mark go to 2-2. The Defenders will host San Leandro High on Friday. BOYS BASKETBALL

Gahr, which has not played since losing to Aliso Niguel 66-59 in a CIF-Southern Section Division 3 semifinal game on Feb. 20, was granted the top seed in the Division III state playoffs where it knocked off Narbonne High 67-51 this past Tuesday. The Gladiators (22-10) hosted eighth-seeded Shalhevet High on Mar. 5 with the winner facing either #13 Atascadero High or #5 Colony High on Saturday in a Southern California Regional semifinal game. This is Gahr’s best record since the 2014-2015 team went 26-8.

By Loren Kopff @LorenKopff on X

HUNTINGTON BEACH-The Gahr

High softball team began the season on a hot start, shutting out Foothill High 12-0, then defeating Pacifica High 7-3 on Feb. 21 in the opening games of the First Pitch Challenge Classic. But things have gone south in a heartbeat over the past three games spanning three days.

Following a narrow 5-4 win over Valley Christian High on Feb. 24, the Gladiators have lost three straight games, getting outscored 40-13 with the last two contests coming last Saturday night to wrap up the First Pitch Challenge Classic. Gahr lost to Los Altos High 5-2 in eight innings, then were blown away by Chino Hills High 14-4.

In the opener, the Gladiators rallied for a pair of runs in the bottom of the fifth inning to tie the game. Sophomore center fielder Megan Wong led off with a walk on a full count and scored Gahr’s first run on a triple down the left field line from sophomore shortstop Hazel Anglo, who was also facing a full count.

Kaylahni Duenas would then hit junior designated player Cierra Contreras and three pitches later, a single from sophomore third baseman Mylah Burrowes plated Anglo with the tying score.

While junior pitcher Bella Gonzalez stranded a runner at second in the top of the seventh, Gahr could only get a twoout double from Contreras in the bottom half of the frame. But in the eighth inning with Duenas standing at second base per international tiebreaker rules, she scored on a first pitch double from Jasmine Campos. Following a sacrifice from Esme Soto, Melanie Vallin roped a double to the right field gap to make it 4-2.

An infield single from Hannah Vargas and a sacrifice fly from Alliyah Lara would complete the scoring as the Gladiators went down quietly in the bottom of the eighth inning as Burrowes could only get to third on a groundout from senior first baseman Maryah McElroy. Gahr would strand nine runners in the contest, including the bases loaded in the first inning and runners at second and third with none out in the third.

“Their pitcher did a nice job of executing some pitches, but we have to be in that position to want to have those pressure RBI’s.” said Gahr head coach Rey Sanchez. “Those are called pressure RBI’s; be the one to get a big hit with runners on, and we did leave some runners on earlier in the game.”

After Gonzalez struck out two straight batters to end the top of the first, Duenas walked Anglo with one out and yielded a two-out base hit to Burrowes before McElroy reached on an error to load the bases in the bottom of the frame. But a pop-up in foul territory ended that threat. Gahr would get four runners on base over the first four innings while Los Altos got its first two runs in the third inning.

With one out, Payton Godinez reached on an infield single and Gonzalez hit Alliyah Zamano. Then with two outs, Gonzalez walked Duenas before Campos came up with a two-run single to center.

“As a hitter, you have to be the one to want to hit and be in that moment,” said Sanchez. “We didn’t take advantage of the clutch hitting. I know down the road, looking forward, we have a solid team; I know we’re going to be right there. But those are situations to learn from.”

Anglo and Contreras each went two for three, however the bottom four in the lineup combined to go hitless in 13 at-bats. Gonzalez tossed 116 pitches and struck out seven while walking one. She is the only returning pitcher with

Banged Up Gahr Swept In Final Two Games of Early Season tournament

extensive experience. Junior Leah Magana is a returning pitcher but is currently injured and the team had to call up freshman Zara Gortarez from the junior varsity team for the tournament.

The lack of pitching depth would have a bearing on the outcome of the second game as the Gladiators gave Gonzalez a 1-0 lead after the first inning. But the Huskies erupted for six runs in the top of the second inning and cruised from that point on as Gonzalez left before the inning was over because of a groin injury.

“Bella did a hell of a job [in the first game] and I think what happened with her is she told me she has a little bit of a groin injury,” said Sanchez. “She felt a pull, and that’s why I decided to take her out of this game. We’re going to see if we can nurse that groin injury. She wanted to gut it out, of course. [She said she has] one more and finally I decided it’s not worth it. It’s too early in the year and she’s too valuable to us.”

Wong doubled on the third pitch of the bottom of the first and scored on a sacrifice fly from Burrowes. Gahr would score again in the third on another double from Wong and a double from Contreras. In the fifth, and with the score 14-2, sophomore pinch hitter Maya Moreau singled to left field with a one-out single and was replaced by Wong, who stole second. That was followed by a double from Magana on the next pitch. Three batters later, McElroy brought in Anglo, who was running for Magana, for the last run of the game. Again, the bottom four of the lineup struggled, going hitless in five at-bats while the top five accounted for all seven hits the team produced.

“It comes down to pitching and defense, and we didn’t have defense,” said Sanchez. “We were a little sloppy on defense today, and we have to clean that up.”

Gahr began the week with road games against California High and La Serna High and will travel to Cypress High on Monday, La Habra High on Tuesday and Huntington Beach High on Wednesday. While Gateway League action isn’t until Mar. 26, the Gladiators need to get their injured players healthy in the next week or two.

“There are decisions that we have to make early on in these games,” said Sanchez. “The number one rule for us is player safety. I’ve got to get them healthy and that’s what we just talked about [after the game]. I said, ‘hey, we’re dinged up a little bit’. There’s a good five kids that have an issue, and of course, when you’re limited depth-wise…right now our commitment is to get these girls as healthy as we can. That’s what it comes down to.

“It’s not going to be easy,” he later said on the upcoming schedule. “La Serna really took it to us last year; we were able to get a win against Cal last year. We’ve gotten [Cal] the last two times, and one of them was for a [CIF-Southern Section] title. So I know they want to get even with us, for sure. But it’s definitely going to be tough. We have to have a good day at practice on Monday and get ourselves as healthy as we can and then go on and compete. That’s all I ask the girls to do.”

Earlier in the day at La Mirada, the host Matadores shook off a rusty top of the first inning against Foothill and cruised to a 14-0 win over the Knights. That was followed by a 7-0 win over El Segundo High as the Matadores improved to 6-1, outscoring their last five opponents 45-4 including three straight shutouts.

In the top of the first, senior Bet -

tie Mae Acevedo loaded the bases with two outs by giving up a leadoff single to Brooklyn Austin and walking a pair of batters. But on the second straight 3-1 count, she got Kai Nguyen to fly out to freshman left fielder Alanna Adams to end the threat. Acevedo threw 32 pitches in the inning and reached a three-ball count to five straight batters after Austin’s base hit.

La Mirada responded in typical fashion in its half of the frame by scoring five runs, none bigger than a grand slam from sophomore first baseman Juliana Rivera with one out. Two batters later, freshman second baseman Fatima Serna doubled, junior designated player Megan Avila singled and freshman center fielder Milani Cruz, all on a combined four pitches. In the next inning, Acevedo gave up two more singles but stranded both runners paving the way to more offensive production by her teammates.

“She’s done a great job for us, obviously just getting us through our time right now,” said La Mirada head coach Brent Tuttle of Acevedo. “If [junior pitcher] Allison [Ortega] will tell you, these are Allison’s starts but Bettie Mae goes out there and all three of her starts-the Mater Dei game, the Great Oak game and this one-she gets stronger as the game goes. But defensively, we’ve been able to bail her out. She knows if she goes 3-0 [in the count], she’ll make them swing and hopefully our defense will make some plays. We know we’re not asking Bettie Mae, and then our next pitcher Lily to strike out girls. We’re just asking them to trust

the defense, hit you spots, get us some ground balls and get the routine outs.”

La Mirada added three runs in the second inning with freshman third baseman Rylee Thurmond belting her first home run of the season. The Matadores kept the hitting going in the third as they batted around, plus three more, collecting five more hits and two walks. Junior shortstop Reese Hilliard, a Stanford University commit and her sister, junior catcher Riley Hilliard, a University of Oklahoma commit, had back to back run-scoring doubles. When the dust had settled, La Mirada had a season-high 15 hits, and every starter had at least one hit. Reese Hilliard went three for three and drove in a pair while sophomore right fielder Elizabeth Biado, a transfer from Ayala High, Cruz and Thurmond all went two for two.

“You could see it; our hitters hit,” said Tuttle. “Julie hit one out and now you see why we have the freshmen starting and the freshmen are doing a great job at the plate. One had a triple, one had the home run, one had a bunt single. Alanna got on, so all the freshmen are doing good things. They’re contributing right away.”

In the second game against El Segundo, it was a 13-hit attack that began in the top of the first inning when the hosts scored four runs. Riley Hilliard, who was playing third base in this game, went four for four. Through the first seven games, she has 16 hits in 21 at-bats. Adams went two for three and has nine hits in 22 at-bats.

After losing 11 seniors from last season’s team, the Matadores have started as many as five freshmen in any game. And even with Ortega, the team’s top pitcher when the season began, battling through some shoulder

DOG PARK from page 1

a fever dream saw strange, brightly colored creatures made from combinations of animals—such as winged donkeys, horned roosters, and other fantastical figures—shouting the word “alebrije.” After recovering, he began recreating the creatures as papier-mâché sculptures painted with vivid colors and intricate patterns. The art form later spread to Oaxaca, where artisans began carving the imaginative animals from wood. Today alebrijes are recognized worldwide as vibrant symbols of Mexican creativity, imagination, and cultural heritage.

“This celebration represents more than the opening of Alebrije Dog Park — it reflects the power of partnership and investment in our community,” Pico Rivera Mayor Gustavo Camacho said. “Thanks to the leadership of Assemblymember Lisa Calderon in securing $1 million in state funding, along with additional City support, we brought Pico Rivera’s first dog park to life. We fully expect our residents will flock to the new park with their four-legged family members.”

City officials say the park is more than a recreational amenity — it can also serve as a small economic driver. Across the country, dog parks have increasingly become neighborhood hubs that bring steady foot traffic into surrounding areas. Dog owners often visit parks several times a week, and those visits frequently translate into spending at nearby coffee shops, restaurants, pet stores, and other local businesses.

Pico Rivera officials also plan to incorporate local artwork into the park and are exploring partnerships with the Los Angeles County Department of Animal Care and Control to host adoption events, vaccination clinics, and spay and neuter services.

Pico Rivera City Manager Steve Carmona said the project demonstrates how collaboration between state funding and local planning can create new community assets.

“Delivering Alebrije Dog Park shows what’s possible when we blend community vision with strong partnerships and strategic funding,” Carmona said. “We also thank our design collaborators and partners whose efforts helped bring the vibrant alebrije theme and community-focused programming to this new park.”

With the opening of Alebrije Dog Park, Pico Rivera now joins the growing list of Southern California cities recognizing that dog parks are not only popular recreational amenities but can also strengthen neighborhoods and support local economic activity.

soreness, Acevedo and freshman Liliana Larios have picked up the slack as if they were four-year varsity members.

“We reload and you just have to get the kids to buy into it one way,” said Tuttle. “We only do things one way, and one you get them to buy into it…there’s only one way to play the game. They buy into the culture, and this freshmen group is really buying into it. But they were talented coming in, and it’s the product of the La Mirada community. I’m just lucky to be coaching them.”

La Mirada will play five games in three days in the 30th Annual Dave Kops Tournament of Champions in Bullhead City, a yearly trip Tuttle makes with his teams. The first game will be against either South Torrance High or Brea Olinda High with a pair of games slated for Friday and Saturday.

“What I do like, not that Allison is hurt, but if Allison is 100 percent going into Bullhead, now we’ve gotten our other two pitchers some experience that they may not have eaten some of these innings,” said Tuttle. “Because you figure Alison would have pitched two or three games, and now those three games are going to Lily and Bettie Mae, getting them some more experience at the varsity level heading into Bullhead. Now we know we can navigate games with them, which in Bullhead, you’re going to have to because it’s five games in three days.”

When the Matadores come back from the desert, they will be off until Mar. 17 when they welcome Segerstrom High.

DRONE from page 1

efficient way to monitor activity.

However, the program may also raise questions among some residents about privacy and surveillance. Drone use by government agencies has been a topic of debate in many communities, particularly when aircraft operate over residential neighborhoods.

City officials noted that the plan involves contracting with a drone operator rather than purchasing equipment outright, allowing the city to deploy the technology during high-risk events without committing to a permanent program.

The drone patrols are expected to be used primarily during major holidays such as the Fourth of July, when illegal fireworks activity typically reaches its peak. With the council’s approval, the drone program will now move forward as part of the city’s strategy to reduce illegal fireworks activity and improve public safety during holiday celebrations.

Notice Inviting Quotes/Bids City of Santa Fe Springs Request for Quotes No. 26 - 1 Mobile LED Screen Display

The City of Santa Fe Springs invites quotes/bids from qualified vendors to provide two (2) mobile LED screen displays, following the terms and conditions of Request for Qutoes (RFQ) No. 26 - 1.

To view the complete proposal package and associated documents, visit https://pbsystem. planetbids.com/portal/65093/portal-home and click “Bid Opportunities” or https://vendors. planetbids.com/portal/65093/bo/bo-detail/138900 to access the project directly. You can also visit the City’s website and find the link on the “Bids & Proposals” webpage.

Questions/inquiries regarding this opportunity must be submitted via the PlanetBids Portal by Tuesday, March 10, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. Pacific. The City will not respond to any questions/inquiries submitted after this deadline.

Please review all related documents in their entirety before submitting a response.

Responses must be submitted electronically via the City’s PlanetBids Portal by Thursday, March 19, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. Pacific. Any proposals received after this deadline will be deemed non-responsive, and the City reserves the right to reject them.

Responses to this request will be evaluated to determine the most qualified and responsive vendor/contractor. Responses must adhere to the format and content described in the solicitation documents. Responses will only be evaluated if all parts requested are submitted in a complete package.

Published at Los Cerritos Community News 3/6/26

Classified Listings

ANNOUNCEMENTS

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LEGAL NOTICES-YOUR RIGHT TO KNOW!

Notice Inviting Proposals

City of Santa Fe Springs Request for Bids No. 26 - 2 Pest Control Services

The City of Santa Fe Springs invites bid proposals from qualified contractors for pest control services, following the terms and conditions of Request for Proposals (RFP) No. 26 - 2.

To view the complete proposal package and associated documents, visit https://pbsystem. planetbids.com/portal/65093/portal-home and click “Bid Opportunities” or https://vendors. planetbids.com/portal/65093/bo/bo-detail/138562 access the project directly. You can also visit the City’s website and find the link on the “Bids & Proposals” webpage.

Questions/inquiries regarding this opportunity must be submitted via the PlanetBids Portal by Thursday, March 5, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. Pacific. The City will not respond to any questions/inquiries submitted after this deadline.

Please review all related documents in their entirety before submitting a response.

Responses must be submitted electronically via the City’s PlanetBids Portal by Tuesday, March 24, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. Pacific. Any proposals received after this deadline will be deemed non-responsive, and the City reserves the right to reject them.

Responses to this request will be evaluated to determine the most qualified and responsive contractor. Responses must adhere to the format and content described in the RFB. Responses will only be evaluated if all parts requested are submitted in a complete package.

Published at Los Cerritos Community News 3/6/26

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

TIME EXTENSION REQUEST FOR TENATIVE PARCEL MAP NO. 84116 AND DEVELOPMENT PLAN APPROVAL CASE NOS. 1000 & 1001

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

PROJECT DESCRIPTION: Orbis Real Estate Partners, the applicant, requests an extension of Tentative Parcel Map No. 84116 and Development Plan Approval Case Nos. 1000 & 1001, originally granted on August 14, 2023, for the subject site located at 10845 Norwalk Boulevard (APN: 8009-023-027). The entitlement extension request pertains to subdividing an existing ±7.32-acre parcel into two parcels and constructing a new ±69,500 sq. ft. industrial building on Parcel 1 and a new ±75,050 sq. ft. industrial building on Parcel 2.

ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW: This action is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) per State CEQA Guidelines, Section 15061(b)(3) (Common Sense Exemption).

HEARING DATE AND LOCATION: The hearing will be held before the Planning Commission of the City of Santa Fe Springs in the Council Chambers at City Hall, 11710 Telegraph Road, Santa Fe Springs, on Monday, March 16, 2026, at 6:00 p.m.

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

PUBLIC COMMENTS may be submitted in writing to the Community Development Department at City Hall, 11710 Telegraph Road, Santa Fe Springs, CA 90670, or via e-mail to the Planning Commission Secretary at esmeraldaelise@santafesprings.gov. Please submit your written comments by 12:00 p.m. on the day of the Planning Commission hearing. You may also contact the Community Development Department at (562) 409-7550.

FURTHER INFORMATION on this item may be obtained from Vince Velasco, Asst. Director of Community Development, via e-mail at: VinceVelasco@santafesprings.gov or otherwise by phone at: (562) 868-0511 ext. 7353.

Published at Los Cerritos Community News 3/6/26

CITY OF SANTA FE SPRINGS

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

ALCOHOL SALES CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT CASE NO. 92

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

ALCOHOL SALES CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT CASE NO. 92 – To allow the operation and maintenance of an alcohol beverage distribution and warehousing facility, property located at 13533 Alondra Boulevard, within the M-2, Heavy Manufacturing, Zone.

PROJECT LOCATION/APPLICANT: 13533 Alondra Boulevard (APN: 7005-014-041) / ABS Wholesale Inc.

THE HEARING will be held before the Planning Commission of the City of Santa Fe Springs in the Council Chambers of the City Hall, 11710 Telegraph Road, Santa Fe Springs, on Monday, March 16, 2026, at 6:00 p.m.

CEQA STATUS: The Planning Commission will consider a determination that the project is categorically exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Section 15301 of the CEQA Guidelines – Class 1 (Existing Facilities). If the Planning Commission determines that the project is exempt from CEQA, a Notice of Exemption will be filed.

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

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

FURTHER INFORMATION on this item may be obtained from Alejandro De Loera, Associate Planner, via e-mail at: AlejandroDeLoera@santafesprings.gov or otherwise by phone at: (562) 868-0511 ext. 7358.

Published at Los Cerritos Community News 3/6/26

CITY OF LA MIRADA NOTICE INVITING BIDS

CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECT NO. 2025-07 CITY HALL EXTERIOR PAINT

Notice is hereby given that the City of La Mirada, California invites sealed bids for the furnishing of all labor, materials, equipment, and services for Capital Improvement Project No. 2025-07, City Hall Exterior Paint. Work includes preparation, painting and finishing of all specified exterior surfaces of La Mirada City Hall, located at 13700 La Mirada Boulevard in the City of La Mirada.

Project Documents are available online from American Reprographics Company (ARC). Bidders may obtain free copies of the Plans, Specifications and other Contract Documents online by visiting the ARC Southern California website: https://customer.e-arc.com/ arcEOC/PWELL_Main.asp?mem=29. Look under PUBLIC PLANROOM and click GO, then search for City of La Mirada from the dropdown list titled “in all company”. You can also contact ARC at (949) 660-1150 or costamesa.planwell@e-arc.com to request Plans and Specifications.

Sealed bids shall be delivered to the City Clerk at or before 11 a.m. on April 2, 2026. Bids must be submitted on the blank forms, prepared and furnished for that purpose and included in the Plans and Specifications. The City reserves the right to reject any and all bids, or delete portions of any or all bids, or waive any informality or irregularity in the bid or the bid procedures.

Leticia Revilla, City Clerk

Published at La Mirada Lamplighter Newspaper 3/6 and 3/13/26

CITY OF COMMERCE

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

SITE PLAN REVIEW NO. 24-05

CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT NO. 25-07

TENTATIVE PARCEL MAP NO. 85085 4000 UNION PACIFIC AVENUE

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Planning Commission of the City of Commerce will conduct a public hearing to consider a request by Ryan Gautereaux of Dedeaux Properties for Site Plan Review No. 24-05, Conditional Use Permit No. 25-07, and Tentative Parcel Map No. 85085 (collectively, the “Project”) for the property located at 4000 Union Pacific Avenue, Commerce, CA 90040 (“Property”), within the M-2 (Heavy Industrial) zoning district.

The Project proposes demolition of three existing industrial buildings totaling approximately 1,203,730 square feet on a 33.9-acre site and construction of two new warehouse buildings totaling approximately 732,500 square feet. The Tentative Parcel Map would reconfigure six parcels into four parcels and includes the proposed vacation of Hicks Avenue. One parcel under the jurisdiction of the City of Los Angeles is proposed for parking, and one parcel would remain vacant for future development.

PURSUANT to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA; Public Resources Code §21000 et seq.) pursuant to Section 15302, Class 2 (Replacement or Reconstruction) of the CEQA Guidelines, the proposed Project is categorically exempt. Class 2 exemptions apply to the replacement or reconstruction of existing structures on the same site where the new construction will not result in a significant increase in size, capacity, or potential environmental effects.

Said public hearing will be held before the Planning Commission of the City of Commerce in the Council Chambers, 5655 Jillson Street, Commerce, CA, 90040, on Wednesday, March 18, 2026 at 6:30 p.m., at which time proponents and opponents of the proposed Project will be heard. Any comments, objections, or other information may be offered in person at the time of the hearing or in writing, prior to the hearing. We encourage submittal of written comments supporting, opposing, or otherwise commenting on an agenda item, for distribution to the Planning Commission prior to the meeting. Send emails to planning-division@commerceca.gov; written correspondence may be sent to:

City of Commerce – Community Development Department 2535 Commerce Way Commerce, California 90040 Phone: (323) 722-4805

Per Government Code Section 65009, if you challenge this SPR, 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 Planning Commission at, or prior to, the public hearing.

THE PLANNING COMMISSION

Jessica Serrano

Published at Los Cerritos Community News 3/6/26

NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF:

MARY ANN MUSSAW CASE NO. 26STPB01840 To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the WILL or estate, or both of MARY ANN MUSSAW.

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

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

A HEARING on the petition will be held in this court as follows: 03/25/26 at 8:30AM in Dept. 9 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

JASON M. STONE -

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that on February 24, 2026, the City Council of the City of Commerce by the following vote: AYES: Mayor Kevin Lainez; Mayor Pro Tem Mireya Garcia; Councilmember Ivan Altamirano; Councilmember Hugo Argumedo; Councilmember Oralia Rebollo; NOES: None; ABSENT: None; adopted a resolution submitting the following ordinance to the voters of the City of Commerce at the June 2, 2026 Statewide Municipal Election entitled:

ORDINANCE NO. 831

AN ORDINANCE OF THE PEOPLE OF THE CITY OF COMMERCE, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING TITLE 3 OF THE COMMERCE MUNICIPAL CODE TO REPEAL AND REPLACE THE PROVISIONS OF CHAPTER 3.09 WITH THE PROVISIONS OF THIS ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE ENACTMENT OF A ONE-QUARTER CENT (.25¢) GENERAL SALES TAX UNDER THE TRANSACTIONS AND USE TAX LAW, AS SET FORTH IN REVENUE AND TAXATION CODE SECTIONS 7251 - 7279.6 AND 7285.9 - 7285.92 TO BE ADMINISTERED BY THE CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF TAX AND FEE ADMINISTRATION ON BEHALF OF THE CITY OF COMMERCE

The proposed ordinance would place before the voters of the City of Commerce a measure to approve an additional one-quarter cent (0.25%) transactions and use tax, increasing the City’s total transactions and use tax rate to one percent (1%). If approved by the voters, the measure is estimated to generate approximately $4.5 million annually in locally controlled revenue to support general municipal services.

A certified copy of the full text of this ordinance is available at the office of the City Clerk, 2535 Commerce Way, Commerce, CA 90040, during regular business hours.

Pat Jacquez-Nares, Interim City Clerk City of Commerce

Published on March 6, 2026 – Los Cerritos News

Published at Los Cerritos Community News 3/6/26

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT the Planning Commission of the City of Artesia will hold a Public Hearing in the City Council Chambers of Artesia City Hall, located at 18747 Clarkdale Avenue, Artesia, California, at 7:00PM on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, to consider the following:

Project Description: A Design Review request to modify the exterior façade of an existing 2,088-square-foot commercial retail space in conjunction with the opening of a Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream location.

Case Number: 2026-01

Project Location: 11940 South Street, Unit A (Assessor’s Identification Number 7054003-037), Artesia, CA 90701.

Applicant: Greg Flaherty, of 4201 McGowen Street, Suite 200, Long Beach, CA 90808

CEQA: Pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), Planning Division Staff have determined that, as proposed, the project is categorically exempt from the requirements of CEQA and the City of Artesia’s own CEQA Guidelines. The project qualifies as categorically exempt to Section 15301, Class 1(a) , which consists of interior or exterior alterations to existing facilities.

If you challenge any of these proposals in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the public hearing described in the notice, or in written correspondence delivered to the City of Artesia Planning Commission at or prior to the public hearing. All interested persons are invited to attend this hearing and express their opinion on the matters listed above. For more information, please contact the project planner, Devan A. Wells, Assistant Planner, at 562-865-6262, ext. 238, or via email at dwells@cityofartesia.us.

Published at Los Cerritos Community News 3/6/26

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 March 18, 2026, at 12:30 p.m.

John Smith

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 3/6/26

EMPLOYMENT

Business Analyst – Builders Genius Inc. (DBA: B&F Cabinet). Analyze supply chain operations; build forecasts, track KPIs, assess risks & recommend process improvements to increase efficiency & reduce costs. Job location: Commerce, CA. Email resume to Sales@bfcabinet.com.

CITY OF BELLFLOWER 16600 CIVIC CENTER DRIVE, BELLFLOWER, CA 90706

Take Notice that the City of Bellflower is holding funds as set forth below. If funds are not claimed by May 5, 2026, these funds will become the property of the City of Bellflower in accordance with Government Code § 50052.

Take Notice that the City of Bellflower is holding funds as set forth below. If funds are not claimed by May 5, 2026, these funds will become the property of the City of Bellflower in accordance with Government Code § 50052.

Funds may be released to the depositor, their heir, beneficiary, or duly appointed representative provided a claim form is completed with the necessary information. The required information is as follows:

Funds may be released to the depositor, their heir, beneficiary, or duly appointed representative provided a claim form is completed with the necessary information. The required information is as follows:

• Name, address, and telephone number.

• Proof of identity such as a copy of driver’s license, passport, permanent resident card or birth certificate with another form of photo ID.

• Name, address, and telephone number.

• Proof of identity such as a copy of driver’s license, passport, permanent resident card or birth certificate with another form of photo ID.

• If the owner is deceased, a copy of the legal document authorizing the transfer of funds to the legal custodian / trustee / heir such as trust documents or probate court order with a copy of the death certificate.

• Amount of claim.

• If the owner is deceased, a copy of the legal document authorizing the transfer of funds to the legal custodian / trustee / heir such as trust documents or probate court order with a copy of the death certificate.

• Grounds on which claim is founded.

• Amount of claim.

• Grounds on which claim is founded.

The Unclaimed Money Claim Form is available at the City of Bellflower Finance Department, located at 16600 Civic Center Drive, on the 2nd Floor.

The Unclaimed Money Claim Form is available at the City of Bellflower Finance Department, located at 16600 Civic Center Drive, on the 2nd Floor.

Funds on deposit for over 3 years are:

Funds on deposit for over 3 years are: OUTSTANDING CHECKS

OUTSTANDING CHECKS

You are encouraged to investigate

you can receive clear

to the

existence, priority, and size of outstanding liens that may exist on this property by contacting the county recorder’s office or a

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(S): The sale date shown on this notice of sale may be postponed one or more times by the mortgagee, beneficiary, trustee, or

pursuant to Section 2924g of the California Civil Code. The

requires

information about trustee sale postponements be made available to you and to the public, as a courtesy to

present at

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 (866-684-2727) or visit the website http://www .servicelinkasap.com, using the file number assigned to this case 25-313946. 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 Web site. The best way to verify postponement information is to attend the scheduled sale. NOTICE TO TENANT(S): Effective January 1, 2021, you may have a right to purchase this property after the trustee auction pursuant to California Civil Code Section 2924m. If you are an “eligible tenant buyer,” you can 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 (866-684-2727) or