“The hardest part of applying to college isn’t filling out forms. It’s finding your voice and telling your story.” These words resonate deeply with students and families across our community, and they are the very inspiration behind The Youth Center’s new program, Write Your Future: College Essay Coaching.
Starting this August, The Youth Center is launching a free, 10-hour personalized college essay coaching program to assist high school seniors who are determined to apply to college but lack the financial means to access professional essay coaching. This new initiative provides expert guidance on crafting compelling essays for the Common App and UC applications, with an emphasis on authenticity and personal storytelling.
The program, valued at $2,000, is open to students with a minimum GPA of 3.5 who demonstrate motivation and enthusiasm for their college applications. Through this program, 18 students will be selected each year to receive one-on-one coaching at no cost, empowering them to craft essays that truly reflect who they are, what they value, and where they want to go.“Every student has a story worth telling, and this program gives them the tools to share it in the most compelling way possible,” says Lina Lumme, CEO of The Youth Center. “As a result, we’re not just helping them write essays—we’re helping them build confidence in their own voice, positioning them for success in the highly competitive world of college admissions.”
Bernie Glasser, a College Prep Coach with over 15 years of experience, will lead the program, offering students up to 10 hours of one-on-one coaching. Glasser has helped hundreds of students get into top colleges by focusing not only on strong writing skills but on helping students understand their own stories and express their true selves.
Reyna Rivera, right, the Youth Center intern and the first accepted student Kate Schumacher. Courtesy photo
Eric Frankenberg, Board President of The Youth Center, adds, “This program is about giving students who are determined to succeed the chance to truly stand out in the college admissions process. We believe that every student, regardless of their financial background, should have access to the tools and support needed to make their college dreams a reality.” The Write Your Future program kicked off in August for students applying for early admissions and will continue through December for all seniors. Registration is open now, and we are actively seeking students who are passionate about their college applications and who would benefit from individualized coaching and support.
For more information or to apply, please visit TheYouthCenter.org or call 562-493-4043
The Youth Center is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing youth and families with the tools and resources they need to succeed. Through educational programs, community-building initiatives, and career development services, The Youth Center strives to empower the next generation to reach their full potential and build a bright future. Reyna Rivera is an intern with The Youth Center
This school year, recess is getting an extra boost of connection and inclusion across the Los Alamitos Unified School District. Colorful, permanent communication boards are now a fixture on many elementary school playgrounds, with plans to bring them to every elementary site soon, according to Los Al Unified Public Information Officer Nichole Pichardo.
The interactive boards use pictures, symbols, and words to give students multiple ways to express themselves, whether they use verbal speech, Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) systems, or simply want to explore new ways of communicating with friends, she said.
“All of the district’s elementary campuses serve students with complex communication needs, making these boards a valuable addition across sites. On and off the playground, students of all abilities learn, play, and form friendships. The boards help ensure every child can join in games, share ideas, and connect with friends, no matter how they communicate,” she said.
The idea originated with district speech-language pathologist Katie Kolstasd, who saw the value of having inclusive communication tools available during unstructured playtime. Funding from an Innovation Grant through the Los Alamitos Education Foundation (LAEF) made it possible to purchase and install the boards, which are designed to be durable, accessible, and engaging.
“The playground should be a place where every child feels welcome and part of the fun,” said Kolstad. “These boards give all students, no matter how they communicate, a way to share ideas, join in play, and build friendships. Seeing kids use them together has been such a joyful reminder of the power of inclusion,” Kolstad said in a statement.
She said the project was developed after the Los Al Unified District officials told LAEF that all Los Alamitos Unified elementary campuses served students with diverse communication needs.
While several Los Al schools already have communication boards in place, plans are underway to bring them to every elementary site, said Pichardo in an email to ENE.
A Long Beach landmark with a history perhaps as rich as any other is making waves again, restored by a committee and now operated as a nonprofit seeking only to bring entertainment and information free of charge to residents.
The Long Beach Municipal Band Shell, located in Recreation Park, has a rich history, hosting a variety of events including concerts, theater, and even political speeches. In its early days, it was a popular venue for the Long Beach Municipal Band, according to Steve Pruitt, a guiding force behind the facility’s restoration.
Over its history, it has featured speeches by notable figures like then-President Herbert Hoover and candidate Richard Nixon spoke there as well.
More recently, the bandshell has been revitalized by the Friends of Recreation Park Bandshell (FORPBS), a non-profit organization, which has brought back events like Shakespeare by the Sea, bluegrass festivals, and high school band competitions.
The bandshell was envisioned during a period of growth and development in Long Beach, emphasizing outdoor performance spaces, similar to the Greek Theater in Los Angeles and the Hollywood Bowl. It was designed to accommodate a large audience with bench seating for 600 and additional space on the surrounding lawn.
With its 1929 historical marker firmly attached to a hidden bandshell in central Long Beach, Steve Pruitt is hoping to restore the glory of a little-known 600-seat venue, with shaded and grassy areas surrounding it giving it a capacity of as much as 1,500.
In an interview this week by ENE, Pruitt said the facility is now being marketed as the Live at the Shell, and “is a community resource seeking to regain its rightful place in the area’s rotation of recreation and entertainment.” Accordingly, the outdoor amphitheater-style facility has programmed a wide variety of entertainment options that it offers to the community for free.
For instance, the outdoor facility will present the Long Beach Gospel Music Festival on August 23 as the Shell winds down its entertainment offerings for the year.
He said a grant from the U.S. Navy has facilitated the complete renovation of the Shell’s huge stage and other partners allow them to present programs without charging for admission. “This is a beautiful facility,” said Pruitt
It is located at Recreation Park, 7th & Park Ave in Long Beach, across from Wilson HS. The Shell at Rec Park is Long Beach’s premier outdoor amphitheater, and he said admission is free for the Aug. 23 Gospel Music Festival.
An image from days gone by when the Long Beach Municipal Band gave weekly concernts. Courtesy photo
Beyond its role as an entertainment venue, Pruit said the Bandshell holds deep significance as a community gathering place. For decades, he said, families and friends have gathered on its expansive grounds for picnics, social outings, and leisurely afternoons, the open-air design fostering a sense of camaraderie among residents.
He said the Recreation Park Bandshell stands as both an architectural landmark and cultural touchstone, a Long Beach gem that for nearly a century has provided a beautiful stage for performances and community events.
Pruitt said the non-profit Friends of the Recreation Park Bandshell (FORPBS) was formed in 2022 to restore the bandshell and welcome back all manner of theater groups and musical acts to use the space, he added.
Performances include plays presented by Shakespeare By the Sea, concerts by the Camerata Singers, including a celebration of the music of Laurel Canyon. There will be jazz and bluegrass, rock and 80s tribute bands, all of it offering what FORPBS co-founder Steve Pruitt called a “return to the bandshell’s glory days.” For more information see: www.liveattheshell.org
The high school football season opens for most schools today. Los Alamitos heads to Hawaii after comeback win in their opener, while Kennedy looks to repeat their league championship.
Friday Kennedy vs Pacifica, 7 p.m. at Handel Stadium at Western High A season opening matchup of league champions looks potentially like a competitive showdown. Kennedy finished in a three-way tie for the Lambda League title with Beckman and Marina High. Pacifica won the Omicron League title with a 5-0 league record, but are looking to improve upon an 0-5 non-league slate. The Mariners have some senior leadership, especially on offense with QB James Anema, WR David Carlsson, and RB Ma’kai Brown. Kennedy will be led by seniors Derek Almazan, at QB, and Rocco Street WR.
Cypress vs Cerritos, 7 p.m. at Rants Stadium at Gahr High Cypress travels to Garh High to take on Cerritos in the season opener for both teams. Cypress is coming off an injury-riddled season that ended with a 2-8 record and 0-5 in the Delta League. Cerritos went 8-2 last year and won the 605 League, going 3-0 in league play. The Centurions return some key players, including senior running back Bryson Busbee, but faces a tough league race with several Delta League teams ranked in the top 50 of the section power rankings, led by Tustin High at No. 30.
Los Alamitos (1-0) vs Kapolei (2-0), 7 p.m. at Kapolei, Hawaii The Griffins opened the season with a 20-12 win over Inglewood High on Friday. After falling behind 12-0, the Griffins responded with 20 unanswered points to get the win. Senior tight end Beckham Hofland hauled in a touchdown pass from senior Colin Creason just before halftime to cut the lead to 12-7. Junior running back Kamden Tillis extended the lead to 13-12 with a 15-yard touchdown run in the third quarter and a blocked punt in the fourth quarter set up a two -yard touchdown run by senior running back Lenny Ibarra for the final score. Head coach Ray Fenton said the team showed a lot of integrity when the first half started shaky for them. “The team unity and offseason commitment is what carried us through the second half to win,” Fenton said. The Griffins head to Hawaii to take on a Kapolei Hurricanes team that is two games into their season and have scored a combined 98 points in their two wins.
Across the world, many governmental, philanthropic, cultural, and civic leaders share a common thread. Their extraordinary careers began with a prestigious Fulbright Scholarship.
This week, the United States Fulbright Scholar Program has announced that Arielle Hardy, a 2008 graduate of Los Al High School has been awarded a Fulbright Scholar Program Award from the U.S. Department of State and the Fulbright Foreign Scholarship Board.
She is a graduate of Cubberley Elementary School in Long Beach, McAuliffe Middle School and Los Alamitos High School. Following LAHS, Arielle has excelled in post graduate studies at several colleges and universities.
Since 1946, the Fulbright program has provided over 400,000 talented and accomplished students, scholars, teachers, artists, and professionals of all backgrounds with the opportunity to study, teach, and conduct research abroad.
Hardy’s Fulbright Award will cover the 2025 – 2026 academic year and will be hosted by the National Kapodistrian University of Athens, Greece, the American School of Classical Studies. also of Athens, and Koç University in Istanbul, Turkey.
Once there, Arielle will contribute work on her dissertation, which is centered around Hellenistic altars as its focus. Hardy, who is participating in an archeological dig this week in Athens, said in a statement relayed by her mom that she was excited about the opportunities presented by the Fulbright scholarship.
Her mom, Caroline, told ENE that she was “super proud” of her daughter’s dedication and hard work. “She’s rubbing elbows with some super smart people that have gone to Ivy League schools since they were little, and she’s not one of them,” said Caroline Hardy, her mom.
“She is just a local girl who worked hard. She wasn’t a superstar in high school or anything but she just kept working hard,” Mrs. Hardy said.
Prior to receiving the Fulbright award miss Hardy earned a dual BA in Art History and Classical Civilizations from UCLA, a master’s degree in Art History from the University of California, Davis and a Masters in Classics from the University at Boulder, Colorado.
Through her academic career she has experienced teaching college students, museum work, archaeological excavation, art exhibition curation, presentation and publication of academic conference papers, learning various levels of seven foreign languages and participation in speaking engagements and broadcast interviews.
Fulbright recipients exchange ideas, build people-to-people relationships and collaborate to address complex global challenges. Notable Fulbright scholarship recipients include 62 Nobel laureates, 93 Pulitzer Prize winners, 82 MacArthur fellows, 44 heads of state or government and thousands of accomplished professionals and elected leaders across nonprofit, private, and public sectors
In addition, Arielle’s perseverance has earned her several certifications, grants and awards along the way. She is currently pursuing a Ph. D. degree in Art and Archaeology of the Mediterranean World at the University of Pennsylvania.“We are so proud of her,” her mom said. proud, her mom said
For all southern rock fans across southern California, the Blue Byrdes band is perhaps not an unknown name. But for many in the Sunset Beach area, it will be their first exposure to this “young rock band with old souls” who play classic rock but specialize in the long form sweet soul made famous by the Hall of Fame southern band, The Allman Brothers Band. The band was founded in Anaheim Hills, according to their site.
The Blue Byrdes draw their musical inspiration from legends like the Allman Brothers, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Eric Clapton, Jimi Hendrix, and many others. They take the timeless sounds of classic rock and infuse them with a fresh, modern edge, creating music that’s both rooted in tradition and uniquely their own.
The band features Tyler Kearney on keyboards and vocals, Gavin Woodrum and Michael Turner on guitars, Lucas Petrus on bass, Handark Lozano on percussion, and Ethan Mather on drums. Together, they deliver powerful performances and dynamic arrangements, blending soulful melodies with electrifying energy.
It’s rare in today’s era to hear two guitars playing accompanying leads like the Allman’s, but Woodrum and Turner slide in an out of every song with such precision you just know the late masters Dickey Betts and Duane Allman would be proud. “With their distinctive style and passion for honoring the greats while pushing boundaries, The Blue Byrdes are redefining what it means to be a modern rock band,” claims the group.
Barbara D’Angelo, the organizer of the 19-year-old festival, said, “I’ve not heard anything like them,” she said. “They are seamless, stylish, and smooth,” she said.
“I was so happy they accepted my offer to perform at this year’s event,” she said.
For the 19th year in a row, music lovers and those who want to support the community will gather in Sunset Beach to enjoy the 19th annual Electric Magic Classic Rock Beachfest, now scheduled for Saturday, Aug. 16.
For the past two decades, the event has provided an opportunity for the community to come together to enjoy Led Zepland, the popular Led Zeppelin tribute band, featuring SoCal’s own Shawn Kelly singing the Zeppelin lyrics as though Robert Plant were instead on stage.
DeAngelo said the music and fun will again bring people together to raise funds for the Sunset Beach Community Association.
She said the festival has only skipped one year, and that was due to the global pandemic in 2020.
In addition, said DeAngelo, in another first, there will be a disc jockey spinning tunes between the acts.
“I want people to have a great time every moment they are there,” she said.
“This is the first time ever I have had a DJ,” she said, noting that she thinks it will make the 12 – 5 p.m. event lively from beginning to end.
“I want music playing the entire time. I don’t want any dead time, no dead space. And then when you come to the show, you will now be able to enjoy it the entire time,” said DeAngelo.
During the event, she said they will raffle off a 65-inch digital television to help raise money for the community center.
All proceeds from the event will again be donated to the Sunset Beach Community Association, DeAngelo said. Over the past 18 years, DeAngelo estimated the event has produced between $50 – $75,000 in donations for the community association.
“Get ready, Sunset Beach, because Led Zepland and the Bluebyrds promise an unforgettable afternoon of classic rock and roll for a very good cause,” she said.
Tickets cost $40 and are available by calling 562-260-7131. The event will Aug. 16 from noon until 5 p.m. at the old Fire Station on Pacific Coast Highway in Sunset Beach.
Just as ENE reported several weeks ago, the Joint Forces Training Base will slowly return to its pre-federalization buildup in the coming weeks.
Base Commander Lt. Col. Dan Fox said as much in an interview two weeks ago and he confirmed it in an address to the Los Alamitos Chamber on Friday.
“A small contingent will remain,” he said at last Friday’s Chamber meeting, noting that nearly all the 4,000 National Guard troops and other federal authorities have been withdrawn.
Over the past three months, the once tranquil base has become a major hubbub of activity, immediately following President Donald J. Trump’s order to federalize 4,000 National Guard troops to protect federal buildings and installations in the greater Los Angeles area.
There were approximately 500 Marines federalized as well, and while they too were trained in the area (Seal Beach Naval Weapons Station), they were housed at several facilities.
With most of the troops now processed and back to their other state Guard duties, JFTB officials issued a memo this week a a copyu of which was obtained by ENE thanking the hundreds of other operations on the base for being patient during the heightened alert.
“First off, thank you for your patience during the past two months,” began a memo from First Sgt. Lance E. Fuller, which has presumably been sent to the hundreds of private and military contractors that operate on the grounds of the base. “If you have not heard already, the installation is open for normal business. Veterans, Retirees, and spouses are allowed back on post. The PX is open, the pool will be opening for normal business (11AUG), Fiddler’s Green is again open to civilians,” it said.
“If during this time, there has been any issues that were not already brought up to JFTB Operations, please feel to reach out directly to myself or 1SG Kent,” said Sgt. Fuller.
Meanwhile, California Gov. Gavin Newsom this week issued a demand for the federal government to account for the overall cost of the “Emergency Operations Center, throughout the ordeal (see related story). Massive tents were erected throughout the vast ground, meals were brought in, training regimes were constructed, and there were significant additions to the base.
Throughout the ordeal, the base was closed off to unauthorized personnel while the base activity, which did include some activity from the Immigration and Customs Enforcement Division of the Department of Homeland Security, drew significant protests as well.
If you notice a new face at the Sunset Beach Post Office, it’s because Postmaster Grace Romo is retiring after a more than 40-year career with the postal service and Marisol Rivas is taking her place. Rivas started working for the postal service in 1998 as a letter carrier in Covina, and after 10 years she became a Supervisor. She transferred to Buena Park, then Bell Gardens in 2022 where she was promoted to Postmaster.
“I love the the atmosphere in Sunset Beach and was excited when I was offered the position of Postmaster a month ago,” Rivas said. “I couldn’t be happier! I am looking forward to meeting the Sunset Beach community and all who come here.” Sunset Beach has no direct mail delivery, so residents are required to obtain PO boxes at the Sunset Beach office to receive their mail.
The Los Alamitos Education Foundation (LAEF) was proud to donate $82,056 to fund Student Wellness for the 2025-26 school year. This amount includes stipends for 6.5 counseling interns and funds for each school site to stock and maintain its Well Space. With the popularity of the Well Spaces and the frequent traffic from students in these spaces, LAEF is committed to helping to make sure they are ready to welcome students this year.
The counseling interns work closely with Los Alamitos Unified Wellness Counselors at each school site. Los Alamitos USD has five Wellness Counselors providing curriculum and counseling support in school Well Spaces – Stacy Eatmon at Los Alamitos and Lee Elementary Schools, Tina Heeren at McGaugh and Rossmoor Elementary Schools, Stacy Schmitz at Hopkinson and Weaver Elementary Schools, Dr. Kirsten Jensen at McAuliffe and Oak Middle Schools and Emily Ledterman at Los Alamitos High School. The Wellness counselors strive to make the spaces inviting and engaging for students to relax, reset and receive needed support.
LAEF remains dedicated to partnering with the district to ensure Well Spaces and Wellness counselors are supporting students year after year. “We’re proud to continue providing additional resources for our Well Spaces,” said LAEF Executive Director Carrie Logue. “The impact of the counseling interns the past two years clearly demonstrates how valuable they are to both our schools and our students.” “On behalf of the Board of Education, we are deeply thankful for the generous support and partnership with the Los Alamitos Education Foundation,” said Los Alamitos Unified School District Superintendent, Dr. Andrew Pulver. “This donation reflects our shared ongoing commitment to student well-being and strengthens our ability to invest directly into the mental health and wellness of our students.”
This marks the tenth consecutive year that LAEF has made funding student wellness a top priority. In total, LAEF has invested $722,287 since 2017 to build, furnish and stock Well Spaces district-wide and support the salaries of Los Alamitos Unified’s mental health counselors. These donations are possible because of LAEF’s major donor group: the Los Al Leadership Circle (LALC). LALC members are distinguished, significant supporters who commit to donating a minimum of $1,000 annually to LAEF’s visionary work. To learn more, please visit LAEF4Kids.org/LALC.
LAEF is the non-profit partner of Los Alamitos Unified School District. LAEF enhances educational excellence by providing after-school and summer enrichment programs to children in grades Pre-K to 12. LAEF impacts all students by providing significant funding for mental health, STEAM/Innovation, and program scholarships, as well as igniting new programs and providing valuable resources. For more information, visit LAEF4Kids.org or call (562) 799-4700 Extension 80424.
Casa Youth Shelter continues to see an increase in the demand for shelter, counseling and support services for youth in crisis. Casa Youth Shelter’s Residential Shelter Care Program has a bold mission – to prevent and end youth homelessness. The nonprofit’s dynamic program ensures that youth transition into safe and stable housing, establish lasting connections with supportive individuals, experience improved social and emotional well-being, and develop effective future plans for long-term success and independence. All Residential Shelter Care Program services are available on-site at Casa Youth Shelter’s location in Los Alamitos and thanks to generous community partners like the Decorative Arts Society, all services and support are free for all youth who are in need.
The Decorative Arts Society (DARTS) was founded by a small group of enthusiastic and passionate women over 30 years ago. Under the leadership of Mary Anna Jeppe, the group was formed not only as an opportunity to fuel their passion for education in the Decorative Arts – but also as a means of supporting non-profits in Orange County dedicated to women, families and children. Since its inception, DARTS has given back almost $5 million dollars to several OC Non-Profits in need.
“Community partners like the Decorative Arts Society and their generosity are vital to our programming. Thanks to their loyal support, we are able to serve more youth in need year over year at no cost to the youth. Together, we are helping create brighter futures.” -Lupita Gutierrez, Executive Director, Casa Youth Shelter
Three members of the Cypress City Council gathered in the executive board room at the City Hall on Thursday for a special meeting ostensibly empaneled to discuss the status of City Manager Peter Grant.
Just outside of Grant’s office at 2 p.m. on a workday, a standing room only throng of citizens gathered within the executive conference room along with Mayor David Burke, Mayor Pro-tem Leo Medrano, and Council member Kyle Chang and city attorney Fred Galante for the special session called within the two-day notice requirement.
The meeting agenda said the closed session was called for a “Public Employee Performance Evaluation pursuant to Government Code Section 54957 Title: City Manager.” Council members Bonnie Peat and Scott Minikus did not attend.
“I think a lot of people have expressed complete uncertainty about why this meeting was called,” said Burke, who hinted there could be confidential information that could not yet be disclosed to the public, yet required “closed session” discussion.
“As you know, we’re very constrained in the extent to which we can discuss closed session matters,” said Burke.
“I can tell you there is a very good reason I called this meeting, and I’m hoping that maybe in the future I can figure out, within the legal constraints, a way to convey what that is,” the mayor said to a hushed room.
“I will say that we all certainly believe in being open with you about the reasons we’re doing what we do,” said Burke.
Concerned citizens gather in the Executive Board Room to express their feelings before the room was vacated for the closed session. Courtesy photo
While the public was locked out of the actual closed session discussion, the assembled public included many of Grant’s supporters, including three former Mayors, on hand to make sure the three Council members understood how they felt about the city manager.
While there was no overt implication of Grant in the Mayor’s remarks, the testimony from a room full of supporters made it clear that the residents believe there could be trouble amiss at city hall and they wanted no part of it.
Neither Grant nor has the city yet made any statements about the assertion by former Director of Public Works Doug Dancs that Grant should be fired for cause, citing his witnessing of unspecified “unlawful acts of misconduct” by the City Manager.
The city has instead paid Dancs his remaining salary for 2024, plus a settlement of $183,000. Dancs is now retired and has made no public statement since suggesting in open session that Grant be fired
Nevertheless, at least one of Grant’s supporters made it clear to the three Council members gathered for the special session Thursday that they see Dancs as little more than a disgruntled employee who is no longer employed by the city and the affair now over.
Before the closed session began, the public was given a chance to speak during the open communications section of the meeting.
“What happened last year between the Director of Public Works and the City Manager, I consider that a closed matter,” said Brooke Nafarrete.
She suggested the $183,000 settlement, paid with taxpayer funds, was just a pittance of 1.23 percent of his salary if considered as a “severance” payment, given his many years of service to the city.
“In the private sector, we consider that ($183,000) nuisance money,” she said. Nafarrete said she trusts the prior council, saying, “had it (Grant’s offense) been super serious, I know they would have done the right thing.”
Many of Grant’s allies simply pointed to accomplishments by the city manager as evidence of his efficiency.
“I just don’t get it,” said former Mayor Paulo Morales. “Show me the evidence,” he said, “show me where the problem is.”
He said under Grant’s tenure, the city’s budget has expanded by 20 percent, and the city’s financial reserve is now $215 million.
“It is the city manager who oversees the directors that he hires,” said Morales, noting that even during the COVID-19 pandemic, Cypress, under Grant’s leadership, managed to deliver services to residents.
Former Council member Frances Marque asked if the meeting was being recorded. “This meeting should be recorded,” she said. City officials said there is no recording facility in the executive conference room.
Since all the items dealt with closed session items, they were not recorded, they said.
“When I couldn’t make special meetings, and the Council knew it that I couldn’t make the meeting and moved on with the meeting anyway,” she said.
In a Facebook message posted by Peat that was addressed to Burke, Medrano and Council member Kyle Chang, she said, among things, the date for the Grant evaluation had already been set.
“At our July 14 meeting, the council agreed to discuss this agenda topic at a closed door session on August 25,” said Peat in the post. Peat also informed the public she and Minikus could not attend the special meeting because of “prior commitments.”
Interestingly, the date mentioned in Peat’s Facebook post had not been publicly revealed, suggested resident Marilyn Reames.
She recalled the city attorney’s report out of a closed session on July 14 that included no such information that was in the Facebook post issued by Peat the night before last Thursday’s meeting. Reames recalled a closed session item on July 14, saying “there were two items, one being litigation and the other was listed as “employee performance evaluation…city manager. I went back and printed everything and listened to the city attorney’s report at the meeting but could not find any mention of the Aug. 25 date,” she said.
“That was it, all there was,” she said, “so I got to wondering why it’s getting disseminated in a public Facebook post,” she wondered.
“I don’t understand it,” said Reames, “in my little world, this shouldn’t even have been put out there, we shouldn’t even have known about this if this was discussed at a closed session.” “I guess I don’t get it, but it is concerning to me,” she said.
Kelly Kay said, “I’m a young mother and I could be anywhere in the country or the state to live, but I choose Cypress because it’s such a wonderful place to live. “
“I don’t understand these serious attacks against him (Grant),” she said, “it seems to be so manufactured. I’m concerned because I don’t know what kind of individual could possibly replace Peter Grant,” she said.
“I think he is doing an amazing job,” she said.
In addition to Morales, three other former mayors showed up in the executive conference room to defend Grant, including Anne Hertz Mallari, Rob Johnson and Mariellen Yarc.
“Tonight’s item is listed as a performance evaluation of the city manager,” she said, “but it is no secret that this could be a vote to terminate his employee,” she said.
“That possibility, especially at a special meeting with only three members present, deserves serious scrutiny,” said Mallari. “This process puts the city at risk legally, financially and reputationally,” the former Mayor said.
“He’s not a perfect guy but one thing he is smart,” said Yarc, “and he is successful with his projects and with what he does.”
Yarc stopped short of questioning the three council members, but said “I am questioning some motives, but mostly because you are new and that this meeting was supposed to happen after the summer break, when everyone will be here.”
Yarc said the meeting was called with only a two-day notice, and after serving eight years on the Council, “I can’t think of ever having a two-day notice, and we had some big things going on.” “We’re going to fire or give him money or whatever knowing that two of the council members who are not usually on their side are not available, I think that is wrong,” she said.
“I urge you guys to reconsider,” said Johnson, noting that the council earlier had given Grant a golden parachute if terminated, including at least one full year’s salary.If Grant is fired, “that’s $400,000 you’re going to have to pay him, plus who knows if anything on top of that,” he said. He too expressed concern at the two-day notice of the meeting, saying with his experience as Mayor, Chairman of the Cypress Festival Committee, AYSO, Chamber of Commerce and other organizations, “I’ve never had a meeting where we’ve had a two-day notice, especially without my full board present.”
Several other citizens like Vanessa Burtle expressed support of Grant, saying in multiple ways that the city was doing fine under Grant, so why change?
“It’s not broken,” said Burtle, “and I just want to make sure to remind you that there’s nothing wrong with our city.”
Though she did not name a Council member, Burtle said “I told him when he was running that all I ask it to keep the interests of Cypress first so I really hope this has nothing to do with any personal agenda.”
Cypress Finance Director addresses the Council during the special session. Courtesy photo
Matt Burton, Director of Finance and 24-year management executive, said he had sent an email earlier in the day to the City Council on behalf of the employees explaining why “we fully support Peter Grant.”
He asked the Council to revisit recent surveys and other criteria “before making any decisions on this matter.”
“We hear you, we appreciate you, and I hope we can find a way to provide more clarity in the future,” said Mayor Burke.
With that said, residents were asked to leave so that the Council could hold its executive session, after which the city attorney the Council had taken no action and the discussion would resume on August 25 in closed session.
The Los Alamitos Chamber of Commerce on Friday gave an honorary sendoff to the commander of the Joint Forces Training Base at their regular July networking breakfast.
Lt. Col. Dan Fox, who began his tenure as commander of the base with a speech to the Chamber, and had since invited Chamber members to the base for social networking events was given a hero’s sendoff.
All of that occurred, of course, before the recent rash of unexpected activity at the base that somewhat unexpectedly brought thousands of troops to the base.
Nevertheless, Co-Chairman of the Chamber Dr. Andrew Pulver, Supt. of the Los Al Unified School District, said since Fox is leaving for a new assignment in September and that the regular September meeting of the Chamber will be the annual Heroes Luncheon, the Chamber decided it was time to honor Fox this month.
“I’ve been in this school district for 27 years, and I can’t say I’ve known the base commander for all 27 of those years,” said Pulver.
“I can tell you that in those years, I’ve not seen any of them more committed to really making us feel like part of a community,” he said.
Moreover, Pulver said Fox’s open-door policy made many “see how the Armed Forces can really be a part of the community and how the Joint Forces Training Base can serve the community in a myriad of ways.”
“He (Commander Fox) really emulates services to the nth degree,” said Pulver.
“I think this community loves being part of and having a military base within our community because we know how they give of themselves to protect and provide safety for all of us,” he added.Pulver said the business community was “beyond grateful for the many strategic partnerships and other activities” inspired by his tenure.
“We just want to recognize your exceptional leadership. We know your leadership will continue wherever you’re going next and that community is blessed beyond measure,” he said. “God has definitely graced us with you,” he said.
Emily Hibard, a member of the Los Alamitos City Council and whose district she represents is geographically adjacent to the base, thanked Lt. Col. Fox for his personal intervention to make things happen for her constituents who live near the base.
“We’re sad and we’re happy at the same time,” she told Fox, reminding him of the situation when someone connected to the base hit a neighbor’s block wall in Parkwood and they had to pay for the renovations themselves…until she asked Fox to intervene.
Lt. Col. Fox said “here’s my cell phone number,” said Hibard and then proceeded to get the residents reimbursed. Hibard also told a similar story of a resident in her district having an issue with a base drainage ditch before Fox immediately ordered heavy equipment dispatched to fix the problem.
“It truly made a difference for us and the residents,” she told Fox, “so thank you.” Before Fox began to speak, other governmental entities and representatives wanted to join in, as officials representing the City of Los Alamitos, Supervisor Janet Nguyen, Senator Tony Strickland, Assemblymember Tri Ta, Congressman Derek Tran, and the Chamber presented Fox with certificates and plaques in appreciation of his work.
Lt. Col. Dan Fox
Courtesy photo
Fox began by saying the warm community feeling was mutual yet was quick to point out that the actual praise goes to the overall military ecosystem that brought him to the community in the first place.
“Before I leave, I want to pass on to you what I’ve gotten from all of you. It’s a tremendous honor, of course, to just have the job that I have, more importantly, that I had the opportunity to interact with the community leadership and community membership at all,” said Fox.
“I do appreciate the recognition,” he said, and “I take that as a great compliment to the base, the military, the DOD (U.S. Department of Defense), the state, and everyone that we’ve worked with and for. It’s all about the community,” said Fox.
“It’s not about me. I’m the guy in the job. Yeah, great, whatever. Congratulations. But it’s the soldiers, Airmen, Marines, Navy, Space guardians, and most importantly, that we do it for you, the citizenry,” the base commander told the Chamber.
“This is about and for you,” he emphasized.“As a National Guardsman, I take an oath to the state of California, as well as to the Constitution of the United States, and we obey the orders of the governor and the president,” said Fox.
The base commander also made it clear that his job was to follow orders, not set policy.
“It was fortuitous, and I got to say that right before we had this operation that’s going on right now. I don’t give a damn about the political charge in this. That’s a new word. I do what I’m told. It’s up to me to interpret and get stuff done, to make sure that my orders are followed and that my orders are legal,” Lt. Col. Fox told the Chamber.
Courtesy file photo Lt. Col. Dan Fox, right, addresses a “mixer” meeting of the Los Al Chamber held last year on the back patio of “Fiddlers Green” at Joint Forces Training Base in Los Alamitos.
“I appreciate all the support that we’ve received,” he said, “to the equivalent of hundreds of thousands of dollars in donations,” which he said was donated by the public to support the deployed soldiers.
Finally, Fox commented on the protestors who have frequently shown up at the base to express their concern with the National Guard being used in the streets of Los Angeles and against the tactics being used by the Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers.
“I was talking to the city manager (Chet Simmons) the other day about the protests we got at the base. I wish that every city in the country had those kinds of protests. Professional people came through to support those soldiers,” he said.
“People put their politics aside. The protests that we got at that base. People that came to the base. They expressed their opinion. I love it. Express your opinions all day long. There was no violence,” said Fox.
Fox said while the base has seen a hubbub of activity, it is now winding down back to normal, which he said will be a “steady state of operations.” While a contingent will remain, the community will be invited to return to the base, even the swimmers (who use the base pool).
“All of that has always happened, that again, that’s not about me. That’s because of the leadership that I’ve had the honor to serve and the citizenry that I’ve had the opportunity to work with and for,” said Fox.A native of San Pedro, Fox will remain in his JFTB post until September.
While Weaver Elementary has already opened in Rossmoor, concerns over a growing e-bike population and other traffic concerns have prompted the California Highway Patrol to step up patrols throughout the Rossmoor community as the new school year officially begins Aug. 13. Rossmoor is home to four of the six elementary schools within the Los Alamitos Unified School District, and the e-bike concern adds to a growing Rossmoor vehicular traffic concern that officials continue to study.
Earlier this year, Rossmoor held an intensive discussion with Officer Zeferino Valdovinos of the California Highway Patrol seeking answers to what communities throughout the area have done to address the electric bicycle (e-bike) boom.
An e-bike is classified as a bike with pedals with an electric motor of not greater than 750 watts, Valdovinos told the Rossmoor Community Service District’s Board at their July meeting. “Anything greater is considered a motorcycle,” he said, “which must be registered and have a valid driver’s license,” he told the Board. “So, if you’re driving one of those big e-bikes,” the CHP officer said, “just understand that you could get stopped,” he warned.
With e-bikes buzzing and traffic mushrooming with parents dropping off kids for schools, Valdovinos assured the Board of Directors for the Rossmoor Community Services District that they would be in the community when the other three elementary schools begin classes on Aug.13. Valdovinos said with the remainder of the schools, Hopkinson, Lee and Rossmoor Elementary resuming classes on Aug. 13, “you will see me out there for the first couple of weeks, probably in the mornings.”
Without its own police force, Rossmoor is dependent on the CHP for traffic enforcement throughout its community.
He said the CHP will also try to be out there in the afternoon doing school safety enforcement. “Just a reminder,” he said, “don’t park in the drop-off and pick-up zones. It’s just for drop off and pick up, so you are not allowed to get out of your car,” Valdovinos said. “It’s kind of like at the airport,” he added.
“Also, for the red zones, please don’t park in those because it will be hectic. It always is the first couple of weeks of school.”
Regarding the enforcement of e-bike safety, Officer Zeferino brought safety pamphlets that he gave to the Rossmoor administration to distribute to parents to help out in creating rules for safe e-bike usage.
“Just don’t buy your kids an e-bike and send them on their way,” he said, “Try and have them go through the training and be like, ‘oh wow, these can be dangerous,’” he told the board. Director Tony Demarco asked Valdovinos about e-bike regulations for unincorporated areas. “You mentioned ordinances cracking down on e-bikes by the Supervisors, and a lot of cities are cracking down on e-bikes, so I’m just wondering what is the unincorporated areas of Orange County missing,” asked Demarco?
“What would you want in terms of an ordinance that is not already in place,” he wondered openly to Valdovinos?
“As you guys know, Huntington Beach, Seal Beach they can confiscate your e-bikes if you have too many violations, or the violation is so egregious, they can impound your e-bike, so it gets expensive,” Valdovinos said.
“If you make the fees high (for violations), it’s sometimes not even worth it (to retrieve the e-bike), as they are seeing a downtick in their activity,” the CHP official told the Board. Valdovinos told the RCSD Board that “it could be helpful” if they developed ordinances that mirror what other local cities are doing to combat their growing e-bike problems.
“I get lots of calls,” said Director Jo Shade, “people calling me, residents calling me. If I get a call about an e-biker, would you be the one to call?” she asked.
Valdovinos said yes and told directors that when there are reports of e-bike problems, try to get photos. “Pictures help,” he said.
“Kids are constantly, you know, doing crazy stuff so if you could take a picture and send it to me, that helps me with my management team,” he said.
On another matter, Officer Zeferino wrapped up by telling the board the CHP will likely do another DUI checkpoint in August.
In other news, Interim General Manager Sharon Landers introduced Ryder Kono to the Board, a Rossmoor Boy Scout on the threshold of achieving prestigious Eagle Scout recognition. She told the board that, with the help of his friends, Ryder had built a beautiful butterfly garden in Rossmoor.
Landers shared photos of Kono and his friends planning then constructing the project. “His organization, creativity, and leadership throughout the planning and execution of this project were truly impressive,” she said.
Board President Nathan Searles asked Kono to describe the project, which Kono described as an eight-foot by ten-foot planter, constructed of redwood, “with a couple of inches of rock in there for drainage and some soil on top of it.”
In addition, the scout said, “I was able to install some plants in it that are known to attract butterflies.”
“Once you become an Eagle Scout, you will always be an Eagle Scout,” said Director Michael Maynard, himself a former Eagle Scout.
“We’re so proud of you for everything you’ve done,” said Shade. “You will remember this for the rest of your days. This is a huge accomplishment for you.”
“When you get ready to embark on your Eagle Scout Project, remember Rossmoor and thank you,” Director Mary Ann Rement. She also thanked his troop and the scouts who helped.
The Directors then discussed the district’s upcoming new fiscal year budget with their financial advisors, expecting to finally adopt it at their meeting in August,
Event: Festival of Arts Fine Art Show Step into the vibrant open-air art scene at the Festival of Arts, an acclaimed juried fine art show featuring over 100 award-winning artists from Orange County. Explore a diverse range of art styles and mediums—from stunning paintings and unique ceramics to eye-catching glass and photography— all available for purchase straight from the artists themselves. Beyond the art, enjoy live art demos, music performances, art classes, special events, and more—perfect for collectors and casual visitors alike! Plus, it’s just a few blocks from the beach and regularly ranked as one of the top things to do in Orange County. The Festival of Arts is sponsored by Volvo Cars, City of Hope Orange County, Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & Club, and KOST Radio 103.5.
Date: July 2 thru August 29, 2025 Time: Monday thru Thursday 4:00 – 8:00pm, Friday thru Sunday 12noon – 8:00pm Cost: Free with Festival admission, additional fee applies to ceramics Information: https://www.foapom.com/summer-art-show/art-workshops-lectures/
Event: Workshops at the Festival Art Center Drop by the Festival’s Art Center and create your own masterpiece with ceramics, printmaking, and multimedia art. The Art Center, sponsored by Bank of America, is open daily- Monday through Thursday from 4 to 8pm, and Friday through Sunday from 12noon to 8pm. Please note it will be closed on Saturday, August 23, 2025. For groups of six or more, contact artcenter@foapom.com. Date: July 5 thru August 29, 2025 Time: 8:30 – 10:30pm Cost: Ticket prices vary, see website Information: https://www.foapom.com/pageant-of-the-masters/
Event: Pageant of the Masters “Gold Coast: Treasures of California” Get ready for a one-of-a-kind experience with the 2025 Pageant of the Masters, “Gold Coast: Treasures of California.” This epic show takes you on an unforgettable journey along California’s coast, showcasing masterpieces from world-class museums like the Getty, LACMA, Laguna Art Museum, De Young, Timken Museum of Art, and more, plus iconic monuments from some of the state’s most famous cities. With living pictures, original music, and captivating storytelling, the Pageant brings California’s rich legacy to life in a way you won’t want to miss. Highlights include Edgar Degas’ “Little Dancer, Aged Fourteen” from the Norton Simon Museum in Pasadena and Millard Sheets’ “Pleasures Along the Beach” from the Hilbert Museum of California Art at Chapman University. Performances run nightly from July 5 to August 29, 2025. The Pageant of the Masters is sponsored by Volvo Cars, City of Hope Orange County, Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & Club, and KOST Radio 103.5. Special Events Date: Sunday, August 10, 2025 Time: 12:00 – 2:00pm Cost: Guaranteed seating is available by purchasing a ticket in the reserved section. This ticket includes admission to the Festival of Arts Fine Art Show and the concert. Limited free seating is available for each concert with $15 Festival Admission. Information: https://www.foapom.com/event/festival-fashion-show/
Event: Festival Runway Fashion Show The Festival Runway Fashion Show is a not-to-be missed event! This event features Festival exhibitors who step out of their artistic medium and into the world of fashion. The result will blow your mind with over-the-top creative couture with the twist of all being made out of recycled, reused and reclaimed materials. Festival artists start months in advance in hopes of taking home the top prize and bragging rights. This event never disappoints, our Festival artists’ creativity and ingenuity keeps it fresh with many surprises!
Nightly Music Schedule Date: Sunday, August 10, 2025 Time: 5:30 – 7:00pm Cost: Guaranteed seating is available by purchasing a ticket in the reserved section (“Nightclub” VIP seating). This ticket includes admission to the Festival of Arts Fine Art Show and the concert. Limited free seating is available for each concert with $15 Festival Admission. Information: https://www.foapom.com/event/lady-parts/
Event: Soulful Sundays with Lady Parts Soulful Sundays, a music series dedicated to rich melodies, heartfelt lyrics, and the power of emotion through song. From bluesy ballads to gospel grooves, each performance is a journey through the depth of soul, jazz, and R&B. Come enjoy the music that moves you! On Sunday, August 10, enjoy the music of Lady Parts. Lady Parts features three of the hottest female jazz vocalists on the West Coast: Lia Booth, Crystal Lewis, and Adryon De Leon. These artists pay tribute to iconic girl groups that inspired their music. Lia Booth is known for her sultry, dynamic vocals; Crystal Lewis for her rich, soulful sound; and Adryon De Leon for her energetic performances. Together, they create a harmonious blend showcasing three-part harmony, talent, and charisma. Their show includes timeless classics and modern jazz interpretations, promising a night of mesmerizing melodies and captivating rhythms. Date: Monday, August 11, 2025 Time: 5:30 – 7:00pm Cost: Guaranteed seating is available by purchasing a ticket in the reserved section (“Nightclub” VIP seating). This ticket includes admission to the Festival of Arts Fine Art Show and the concert. Limited free seating is available for each concert with $10 Festival Admission. Information: https://www.foapom.com/event/joshnelson/
Event: Josh Nelson On Monday, August 11, enjoy the music of Josh Nelson. Pianist, composer, and recording artist Josh Nelson has performed and recorded with jazz greats like Natalie Cole, Ivan Lins, Anthony Wilson, George Mraz, Jeff Hamilton, and Michael Bublé. His albums Anticipation (2004) and Let it Go (2007) received international acclaim. Discoveries (2011) paired music with classic sci-fi film footage, while Exploring Mars (2015) featured NASA video. His album The Sky Remains (2017) was featured on NPR’s Jazz Night in America. Josh toured six years with Natalie Cole and continues touring and arranging for Kenny Washington, Sinne Eeg, Gaby Moreno, and others. Date: Tuesday, August 12, 2025 Time: 5:30 – 7:00pm Cost: Guaranteed seating is available by purchasing a ticket in the reserved section (“Nightclub” VIP seating). This ticket includes admission to the Festival of Arts Fine Art Show and the concert. Limited free seating is available for each concert with $10 Festival Admission. Information: https://www.foapom.com/event/taylor-wollman/
Event: Melanie Taylor and Terry Wollman On Tuesday, August 12, enjoy the music of Melanie Taylor and Terry Wollman. Melanie Taylor, born in New Orleans to a classical pianist mother, draws inspiration from artists like Joni Mitchell, Billie Holiday, Stevie Wonder, and poets e.e. cummings and Rumi. She was a Harlette for nearly a decade, appearing in the Emmy-winning HBO special Diva Las Vegas and at Radio City Music Hall. Melanie has toured and performed with artists including David Foster, Stevie Wonder, Barry Manilow, Billy Joel, Elton John, Aerosmith, and many more. Terry Wollman is a producer, composer, and musician who has toured and recorded with Billy Preston, Wilson Phillips, Joe Walsh, Keb’ Mo’, and Gerald Albright. His 25-year retrospective album Silver Collection features top musicians like Joe Sample, Michael McDonald, and Dave Koz.
The Czapeiwski Family of Long Beach lost their home recently in a devestating fire. The family was gone less than an hour to their granddaughter’s swimming lessons and when they returned tragedy had occurred. While they lost their beloved family cat, Bella, in the fire, David Czapeiwski believes that it could have been worse had they been home instead of doing their daily activities.
“Bella wasn’t just a pet, she was a soft, steady presence in our lives,” said Andrea & Kelly Armstrong, David’s daughter and son-in-law. “She brought comfort and love in the ways that words can’t fully capture.” Kelly, who is the Superintendent of Beach Maintenance for the City of Long Beach, said they are trying to help rebuild the lives of the Czapeiwski’s but it will be a long road to recovery.
The Czapeiwski family are humbly asking for financial support to help get into a new place as quick as possible. “Living paycheck to paycheck makes it challenging to start from the ground up when you’re in your 60s,” said daughter, Andrea. “They’ve lost their home, their pet and all the irreplaceable memories collected over a lifetime. If you can’t donate, please pray for them.” You can help the Family in going to their go fund me page at: https://www.gofundme.com/f/cyqgm4-support-andreas-family-after-devastating-fire
Seventy-two members and guests of Da’ Hawaii Seniors Club gathered at Liberty Park in Cerritos on August 2, 2025, to enjoy the club’s Annual Potluck Picnic from 11:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The club’s President, Carmelita Tiongson, welcomed members and guests at 11:10 a.m. and asked David Ethington to lead the Pledge of Allegiance. Danny Chang and Calvin Kunimoto then led the singing of Hawaii Pono’I, and Edna Ethington read the names of August Birthday Celebrants. Edna led members in singing Happy Birthday in English and Hawaiian Birthday Celebrants David Ethington and Frances McCormick who were present.
Program Vice-President Loke Manetta invited members and guests to start the potluck lunch by going to the three tables that were filled with main dishes, salads, side dishes of sushi, and desserts that were prepared by members. While everyone was enjoying their lunch selections, the Raffle Committee, led by Liberty Santiago and Anne Ohara, presented drawing prizes to winners. There was so much food prepared that members took home leftovers at the end of the day! After everyone had finished their lunches, Program V.P. Loke introduced the musically talented groups and individuals who had volunteered to provide entertainment for the day.
The first group to perform was the Hanabi Taiko Drum Group, led by Julie Koga. Hanabi Taiko has been together for six years and did an outstanding job of demonstrating three different styles of precision drumming with two, four, or all six members at different times. The group posed for a picture after their performance.
Other groups that performed were club members of Na’ Kupunawahine who performed two hulas, Papalina Lahi Lahi and God Bless the USA. Members of the Angklung Group of Cerritos used their bamboo instruments to perform songs in Indonesian and in English, directed by their leader, Ann Kho. Ann also performed a solo singing the song Circle of Life.
Photo by Edna Ethington Pictured are the Hanabi Taiko Drum Group showing their performance uniforms after their performance at Da’ Hawaii Seniors’ Club Potluck Picnic on August 2, 2025.
President Carmelita said a prayer of thanks to God and to all who donated food and drinks for the Potluck Picnic. She also asked all Picnic Committee members and people who helped to decorate the tables with tablecloths, plumeria, hibiscus flowers, and other decorations, to come to the stage. Carmelita thanked everyone for their help and presented 35 lottery tickets to members and guests, courtesy of Da’ Hawaii Seniors Club.
Carmelita reminded everyone that, instead of a club meeting on August 21, there will be a special meeting on Thursday, August 28, 2025, at the Cerritos Senior Center from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m. There will be a guest speaker who will present information about Long Term Care with MEDI-CAL, which is different from MEDI-MEDI. It is an asset protection for those who qualify for Long Term Care. People who are interested in this meeting must make a reservation with Carmelita by calling 562-305-7995.
The American Ballet Theatre William J. Gillespie School at Segerstrom Center for the Arts proudly celebrates its 10th year of providing world class ballet training for aspiring young dancers in Orange County. Established in September of 2015, the Gillespie School has provided a plethora of educational and performance opportunities including its comprehensive year-round program rooted in the ABT National Training Curriculum, as well as master classes, artist lectures, and the chance to perform with prestigious touring ballet companies.
Susan Brooker, Artistic Director of the ABT William J. Gillespie School shares “celebrating the 10th anniversary of the ABT Gillespie School is both a joyful milestone and a meaningful reflection of what can be achieved through passion, partnership, and purpose. What began as a shared vision with American Ballet Theatre has grown into a vibrant community where young dancers thrive under the highest standards of classical ballet. Over the past decade, we’ve watched our students grow not only as dancers, but as confident, creative individuals inspired by the discipline and beauty of one of the most expressive art forms. We are truly grateful to our students, families, faculty, partners and patrons for making this milestone possible. Together, we’ve built something truly special, and we look forward to continuing this legacy for generations to come.” Many ABT Gillespie students have gone on to dance professionally both nationally and at global dance companies. Recently, former student Lucas Matzkin was selected by Julio Bocco, the new Artistic Director of Teatro Colon in Buenos Aires, to join the company. Other alumni have put their dance knowledge to good use at esteemed arts organizations and other creative endeavors. Former student Kendall Bottjer is now the Associate for Creative Enterprise at The Julliard School and is the founder of Supper Club Dance, a company that brings together choreography and fine dining to create unique performance experiences.
Other companies our students have gone on to dance at include: Oklahoma City Ballet (Kellan Hayag), Kansas City Ballet (Isabella Martino), Dutch National Ballet (Anabelle Eubanks), imperfect Dancers (Mariana Vargas), New Orleans Ballet Theater (Sterling Waterfield), Ballet Met (Mallory Sweeney). Our students have gone on to train at: American Ballet Theatre Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis School, School of the National Ballet of Canada, Julliard, and Joffrey Ballet Academy. As part of one of the nation’s premier dance institutions, students of the Gillespie School benefit from unparalleled access to the Segerstrom Center’s renowned dance series, regularly sharing the stage with some of the world’s most celebrated ballet companies.
Our students have performed in major productions including: ABT’s Sleeping Beauty, ABT’s Nutcracker, ABT’s Harlequinade, ABT’s Whipped Cream, Mariinsky’s Bayadere, ABT’s Of Love and Rage, ABT’s Woolf Works, ABT’s The Winter’s Tale, Miami City Ballet’s Swan Lake, and Pacific Symphony Orchestra’s Nutcracker for Kids. Students at the Gillespie School also benefit from its Master Class program, which provides our Pre-Professional students with direct access to some of the most accomplished teaching and performing artists in the world. Students regularly engage with internationally recognized artists who are in residence with major touring productions and dance companies. These Master Classes not only supplement students’ technical training, but also offer rare insight into the diverse styles, repertoire, and philosophies that define today’s professional dance landscape.
Since the school opened, ABT William J. Gillespie students have attended Master Classes with artists and artistic directors from the following companies: American Ballet Theatre, Alonzo King LINES Ballet, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, Complexions Contemporary Ballet, Eifman Ballet, Houston Ballet, Joffrey
Ballet, Les Ballet de Monte Carlo, Los Angeles Dance Project, Mariinsky Ballet, Mikhailovsky Ballet, Monte Carlo Ballet, New York City Ballet, Parsons Dance Company, Royal Ballet, San Francisco Ballet, and Sergio Bernal Dance Company.
The mission of the Gillespie School is to cultivate the future of dance by fostering both aspiring professionals and lifelong appreciators of the art form. Our students have gone on to attend prestigious ballet training programs, top universities, and even professional dance companies. Regardless of the path they choose, all students benefit from the foundational skills instilled through their training — discipline, time management, perseverance, and a deep respect for the artistic process.
In celebration of our tenth anniversary season, the school will be expanding its Sunday Master Class Series to span four weekends, featuring some of the most influential figures from the past decade with several high-profile guests, including former ABT Artistic Director, Kevin Mckenzie. Additionally, we plan to welcome back alumni who have gone on to join professional companies, inviting them to perform in our year-end showcase, which will conclude with a special reception.
There is little doubt about how committed the community of Rossmoor is to delicately caring for its urban forest of more than 5,000 trees.
So seriously, in fact, that its Board of Directors often must act as a Jury of sorts, hearing evidence most recently from residents who cut down a 50-year-old tree without permission, even if it had begun to cause problems.
Homeowners Mark and Sharon OberJuerge, who own the home in question along Davenport Drive, have long since moved to nearby Long Beach. They allow their adult daughter to live in the home, they testified to the Rossmoor Board of Directors at their July meeting.
They appeared before the board to appeal a fine of more than $6,000 for cutting down a mature Jacaranda Mimosifolia tree earlier this year without permission,
Arborist Mary Kingman, who literally maintains and double-checks a database of every tree in this urban forest and monitors it regularly, noticed it was missing earlier this year.
“It was during a routine inspection of the block that I discovered that the tree was not there,” she told the board at the meeting.
“Of course, I have an inventory on my phone of all the trees, so when I go through each tree, I can see the history of the tree and see the tree where they’re supposed to be,” Kingman said.
She and Interim General Manager Sharon Landers then proceeded to fill in the board about the series of citation and events that led to the OberJuerges appearance before the Board.
“This tree was removed, and so they did receive the citation for the removal. That was the administrative citation according to the Rossmoor tree policy,” said Landers
Photo supplied by Rossmoor CSD of post cutting view from a different angle.
The homeowners, Mark and Sharon OberJuerge did receive a citation for $1,000 for violating our tree policy, said Landers, which they contested, she said.
“They live in a different city, so they were not aware, according to their testimony, of the rules regarding the tree policy,” Landers told the board. Under the policy, the citizen has the right to appeal the $1,000 citation, which they did, she said.
Following a formal appeal on June 17, hearing officer Mark Raneses affirmed the $1,000 fine as valid under the Rossmoor code,” Landers told the board.
“But there’s a second fine that has been issued,” said Landers, “which is for the value of the tree that was removed, which is $6,080 and that appeal comes to the board,” said Landers.
“So it’s up to this board to make a determination,” she said, “if the board will uphold the full amount or consider some lesser amounts the resident may want to address you to give their view of the situation,” the Interarm GM said.
“There may be some facts that you would want to consider that would cause you to address the additional $6,080 fine,” said Landers.
The couple then presented their evidence to the RCSD Board.
“I lived there for 41 years, and that tree had been there for 41 years,” Sharon OberJuerge told the board. She said before the tree was cut, it had already claimed more than 4 inches of the sidewalk, a problem that had to be fixed by the Orange County Public Works department.
She hinted that the aged Jacaranda tree was grandfathered in before the rules, providing examples of other trees taken out where “nothing was done.”
Moreover, however, Mrs. OberJuerge appealed to the common sense of the Board for relief. She said they understood the citation, but charging homeowners $6,000 for a tree?
“I think $1,000 is way more appropriate,” OberJuerge said, “if that’s what you want to do by spanking our hands. But $6,000, c’mon, we’re not going to make this budget by fining the people of Rossmoor,” she said to the Board.
“We develop policies to protect the trees but I’m just going to come out and ask, what do you want from us,” the director asked OberJuerge.
Mark OberJuerge said while the $1,000 policy citation hearing was “cut and dry,” but he pleaded that the value of the tree hearing is different.
“We are asking the Rossmoor Community Service District’s Board of Directors to rescind or substantially reduce the demand to pay damages,” he said.
“The tree was not planted by the Rossmoor CSD, it was planted by my deceased mother-in-law close to 50 years ago. Life expectancy of a Jacaranda tree is 50 years. We believed this was our tree and our responsibility,” he said to the board.
“We’re willing to donate a couple of trees, or three, to rectify this,” he said. “We’re not anti-tree, we were just anti this Jacaranda tree, which was causing some major damage and causing a problem,” he said.
Director Tony Demarco, a longtime member of the community’s tree district committee, said the district invests heavily in its urban forest to provide excellent quality of life for all residents.
“We talk about it at this on the board, and we have an Arborist, and we spend, you know, over $100,000 taking care of our trees and stuff like that,” said Demarco.
“We know you’ve already paid the $1000 fine,” said Demarco. “I’ve been on this tree committee a long time, but every situation is different, okay?”
“And certainly, I understand the particulars here and its (tree) not going to be replaced. However, it was a tree that again, that we have maintained,” Demarco told the couple, asking Arborist Mary Kingman for an opinion.
She explained that there was some difficulty in determining and locating the owners of the property, since it was a rental, and that the financial value of the tree was determined by industry standards developed by the International Society of Agriculture and the American National Standards Institute (ANSI).
“There are circumstances,” acknowledged Demarco. “What if I just threw out a number like $1000, and again, I don’t know who up here is with me, but I’m just trying to cut to the chase here.’
“I see the cut and dry, the $1,000 fine,” said Director Mary Ann Remnet. “The fine is there. You didn’t know,” she said to the homeowners, “it’s okay.”
When I look at the $6,000 value of the tree, that really is $6,000 less in our asset inventory for trees, but it was an accident,” she said.
“It was kind of like when the neighbor’s kid breaks your window. It’s an accident, but there’s still damage. So I can see doing something,” said Remnet, as the board began to coalesce behind Demarco’s proposal of a $1,000 fine, allowing a $5,080 reduction
RCSD President Nathan Searles said, “my comment would echo those to the board. I would say, thank you for coming in tonight. Currently, we can see you have rapport with Mary, and that makes it a lot easier,” he said.
“I would support the recommended $1,000 assessment,” said Searles.
“But that said, I think $1,000 would be enough to deter anyone from willfully doing it, just to do it, but at the same time, knowing your circumstances diminishes that greatly,” the board President said.
After a bit of legal wrangling between Demarco, Landers and legal counsel Tarquin Preziosi to work out the language and technicalities off the reduced fine, the board unanimously voted to reduce the tree value to $1,000, which will be dedicated to planting three additional trees in Rossmoor’s Urban Forest.
Editor’s note, This story has been changed from the print edition. At one point in the story, the number “5” appeared before the fine instead of a character “$” which made it appear as though the fine could have been $6,000. The fine was otherwise correctly presented throughout the remainder of the story but the inadvertent error could have caused confusion by making the fine to appear to be 56,000 at one point instead of $6,000, which is correct. The ENE apologies for the typesetting error.
For the 19th year in a row, music lovers and those who want to support the community will gather in Sunset Beach to enjoy the 19th annual Electric Magic Classic Rock Beachfest, which has now been scheduled for Saturday, Aug. 16.
For the past two decades, the event has provided an opportunity for the community to come together to enjoy Led Zepland, the popular Led Zeppelin tribute band, featuring Shawn Kelly singing with his spellbinding voice like Robert Plant, along with a spectacular tribute band as an opening act.
Organizer Barbara DeAngelo announced this week that the event, for the very first time, will also feature the sweet, southern soul sound of the “Bluebyrdes,” a popular tribute band featuring the music of the Allman Brothers Band.
Southern rock “BlueByrdes” to open for Led Zepland. Courtesy photo
In addition, the Bluebyrdes pay tribute to the general folk/rock music genre. Two of the quintessential bands of the genre are Buffalo Springfield and The Byrds. One of the Buffalo Springfield’s biggest hits was “Bluebird.” The band’s name is a play on that song title with a “y” as a nod to The Byrds, according to their website.
DeAngelo said the music and fun will again bring people together to raise funds for the Sunset Beach Community Association. She said the festival has only missed one year, and that was due to the global pandemic in 2020.
In addition, said DeAngelo, in another first, there will be a disc jockey spinning tunes between the acts.
“I want people to have a great time every moment they are there,” she said.
“This is the first time ever I have had a DJ,” she said, noting that she thinks it will make the 12 – 5 p.m. event lively from beginning to end.
“I want music playing the entire time. I don’t want any dead time, no dead space. And then when you come to the show, you will now be able to enjoy it the entire time,” said DeAngelo.
During the event, she said they will raffle off a 65-inch digital television to help raise money for the community center.
All proceeds from the event will again be donated to the Sunset Beach Community Association, DeAngelo said. Over the past 18 years, DeAngelo estimated the event has produced between $50 – $75,000 in donations for the community association.
“Get ready, Sunset Beach, because Led Zepland and the Bluebyrds promise an unforgettable afternoon of classic rock and roll for a very good cause,” she said.
Tickets cost $40 and are available by calling 562-260-7131. The event will Aug. 16 from noon until 5 p.m. at the old Fire Station on Pacific Coast Highway in Sunset Beach.
he Cypress City Council has voted unanimously to hire a consulting firm to conduct a “performance review” on the city’s much-discussed contract worth $100 million with waste hauler Valley Vista Services.
Through a series of extensions and rate increases, the city is now saddled to the waste hauler until the year 2037. The solid waste hauler has enjoyed somewhat of a charmed relationship with Cypress since a proposal presented by George S. Briggeman, Jr. resulted in landing Valley Vista its first 10-year, competitively bid contract with the city in 2014.
Briggeman was fined $15,000 in 2015 by the state’s Fair Political Practices Commission for improper campaign contributions made to several candidates, two of whom were elected and voted on that agreement. Some thought they should have recused themselves because of the contributions.
Just three years later, in 2017, the waste hauler came back to the Council seeking an “Extraordinary Adjustment” worth $776,000 in additional revenue, citing “extraordinary expenses.”
A consulting firm retained by the city did find some valid extraordinary expenses, but not to the level requested by the company, according to their June 15, 2017 analysis presented to the Council.
Although Valley Vista, at that time, shared significant financial data to the city attempting to justify its request, the consulting firm hired by the city said they could find no basis to approve the request.
In a detailed analysis presented to the Council, R3 Consulting Group, Inc. concluded that “the collector (Valley Vista) was not able to demonstrate how the items it cited in support of its extraordinary adjustment warrant the levels of adjustment to the residential, commercial and roll-off rates that it has requested.”
Nevertheless, the City Council approved the rate hike. The vote was not unanimous. In addition, the Council extended the Valley Vista Franchise Agreement an additional two years, then making it valid through 2027.
According to the city’s staff report, the Council again intervened in the agreement in 2021 in order “to comply with new, unfunded State mandates, the City Council was required to direct VVS to implement organics recycling programs.”
The staff report, approved by city manager Peter Grant, said the Council extended the Valley Vista Franchise Agreement’s term to 2037 “to amortize the start-up cost of the new programs” required by the state.
While in popular nomenclature some citizens termed it a “no-bid” contract, the city staff has another view.
“This action is often mischaracterized as the City having awarded a ‘no-bid’ Franchise Agreement extension to VVS,” said the staff report, “when this approach to expanding the services is part of the original, competitively bid Agreement.”
Former Mayor Jon Peat has aggressively defended the action, even publishing his own white paper defending the city’s actions.
Other than price, there have been few complaints about the service provided by the firm, at least in public meetings. Now, the city wants to retain another consulting firm, this one to conduct a “performance review” of the entire agreement and investigate and assess how the firm has performed under their agreements.
“The purpose of this review,” said Public Works Director Nick,”Mangkalakiri at the Council’s most recent meeting, “is to ensure compliance with the franchise agreement by both Valley Vista and the city, to verify financial reporting and payments, check service performance and diversion targets. ‘
Mayor David Burke asked about the potential of adding additional questions about finances and how the firm was stacking up against other cities and some generalized industry standards.
“My thinking is, if we’re going to do it, we might as well try and get as much information as we can. So would it be possible to include comparing the performance to industry benchmarks, and then the financial audit of annual profit or loss,” said Burke.
“We can add that,” said Mangkalakiri, however, “I would like to perhaps invite up the Valley Vista CEO to make sure they agree with that,” he said.
With Valley Vista CEO David Perez walking up to the podium, Council member Bonnie Peat made it clear she would not support requiring any non-standard financial information.
“Personally, I think if it is not required, I am not comfortable asking for something they are not required to provide,” she said.
While the company is willing to provide some financial information, the competitive nature of the waste hauling industry is cause for concern, said Perez once he reached the podium.
“Industry standards are nebulous,” Perez told the Council.
“There’s national standards, local standards, and there are all kinds of things, but, but we would welcome any comparison to any sort of other haulers or any sort of other contract,” he said.
“I think we’re performing very well in this contract. I think we would welcome any sort of comparison with regards to financials as a comport to this contract, to a degree, obviously, we’re willing to disclose,” said Perez.
“You know, the rates. You can see the billings. You can see the franchise fees paid, so you can get a feeling for what our net earnings are, I mean net, but as far as profitability, that’s a dangerous thing, because all of this is public record, and we’re in a very competitive field,” he said.
The company could be damaged if their financials were released, Perez told the Council. Regarding the industry standards, Council member Kyle Chang said he would appreciate seeing some benchmark comparisons, and signaled he was okay with a regional 25-mile look at waste-hauler comparisons, given the divergent technologies employed by waste haulers nationwide.
Grant told Burke there will be other opportunities to resolve financial questions as the process moves forward.
“If the council moves forward with this, we could work with the consultant that we ultimately recommend developing as comprehensive and broad a look at those financial agreements as Valley Vista is comfortable with and is consistent with the way that these reviews are conducted across the industry,” said Grant.
“If the City Council approves the recommended scope of work, a Request for Qualifications will be issued in July/August with the expectation that a firm to conduct the performance review will be recommended to the City Council in September,” Grant said.
“It is anticipated the performance review will be complete in the first quarter of 2026,” according to the staff report. In addition, Grant said Valley Vista has already agreed to reimburse the city for the entire cost of the firm’s performance review.
