The County of Orange held a groundbreaking ceremony last week for Common Good, a first-of-its-kind, publicly owned workforce reentry campus in Southern California.
Located in the City of Orange and spanning 4.6 acres, Common Good will offer vocational and workforce training, educational programs, an on-site retail center and short-term housing that will help former jail and prison inmates rebuild their lives through employment, education and supportive services.
Common Good’s programming will be operated by Hub for Integration, Reentry & Employment (HIRE), an Orange County-based nonprofit organization focused on helping people get employed as they reenter the community after incarceration, without age or conviction restrictions. HIRE will ensure program participants receive holistic support through workforce training, wraparound support, mentorship and employment-placement services.
“I am very encouraged that – after years of careful planning with our community partners as part of our OC Cares initiative – this campus will move forward with the intent of helping justice?involved individuals rebuild confidence and reenter the workforce with proven job skills,” said Chair Doug Chaffee, Fourth District. “The hands-on job training that they will receive will lead to employment opportunities and a viable career.”
The Common Good campus will feature an exciting new retail center with culinary options, and fitness and animal-care businesses that are open to the public. Many of the retail services will be provided by program participants and will help support onsite operations and programming.
A housing component will provide short-term, no-cost housing for up to 52 program participants, typically for six months to one year, enabling them to receive the job-readiness services they need and focus on skill-building and employment.
“Common Good offers justice-involved individuals stable housing, job training, mentorship and a reliable path to work,” said Vice Chair Katrina Foley, Fifth District. “When people can earn a paycheck, build skills and regain stability, they can move forward instead of falling back into the circumstances that led them into the justice system, while helping Orange County reduce recidivism, prevent homelessness and strengthen public safety.”
“I want everyone to be a successful member of our society, and this includes former inmates. This facility will go a long way toward helping them learn job skills with the ability to compete in the workforce,” said Supervisor Janet Nguyen, First District. “ All of this creates a safer community, and I’ll be excited to hear about all the accomplishments.”
“Stable employment and the programs needed to support the reentry into the workforce for justice-impacted individuals are critical in supporting individuals, but also their families and our communities,” said Supervisor Vicente Sarmiento, Second District. “This facility will be more than just a place to go for services and programs; it can be transformative in assisting individuals to continue their lives and live with dignity.”
“With Common Good, we have the opportunity to rebuild lives by offering a positive environment. Residents will feel heard and accepted by staff and their peers,” said Supervisor Donald P. Wagner, Third District. “This kind of connection, paired with essential job training and skills, will offer a genuine opportunity for successful workforce reentry.”
At the groundbreaking ceremony, county elected officials and leaders were joined by their partners, including HIRE, developer Griffin | Swinerton, contractor Swinerton Builders and architect LPA Design Studios along with Mayor Dan Slater from the City of Orange.
Recent Los Alamitos High graduate, Kasey Chu, will be heading to UCLA this fall, to begin her pursuit of a degree in microbiology. But aside from her interest in science, Kasey found another passion as a theater technician. More specifically, the young student found a talent for costume design and construction.
It was a passion that recently earned her two national championship awards at the International Thespian Festival. She had top scores from two Los Al High productions this past school year – Costume Design for the Great Gatsby and Costume Construction for The Addams Family.
Kasey initially found her interest in clothing design during the COVID lockdown. She discovered online videos, where people offered instruction in making their own clothes. Some of the videos showed intricate design ideas that caught her attention.
“I thought that would be a really cool thing to do,” Kasey said.
She found a program at Los Alamitos High, that offered classes in that vein, the theater technician class that prepares students for theater work behind the scenes. Set building, lighting design and costume design, among them.
She got involved in her freshman year and studied and worked in the program all four years.
She said she enjoyed researching and designing costumes, but the construction – seeing the costumes come to fruition – was always her favorite part of the process. She also said that being part of the many teams it takes to bring a production to the stage was a bonding experience.
“I made a lot of good friends in the department … and the environment was really fun, but also educational and it helped me grow a lot as a person,” Kasey said.
At UCLA, Kasey will be majoring in Microbiology, immunology and molecular genetics. Her eventual goal will be to work in research. Studying infectious diseases is something that picques her interest.
Kasey said that her decision to pursue a science degree came late in her high school career. She said the hands-on work that took place in her AP Biology class was particularly intriguing.
“That’s when I started to think, ‘this is really neat,’ and wanted to keep doing this,” she said. She expects her first year to be busy, and a big adjustment. But said that once she gets her footing as a college student, she might try getting involved in theater again. And why not? She’s shown a knack for it.
Last week, the City of Cypress recognized Target for its volunteer response following the emergency that impacted parts of Orange County after the Garden Grove chemical leak on May 21.
During a City Council meeting, Cypress Mayor Leo Medrano and City Council members David Burke, Kyle Chang, Bonnie Peat and Rachel Strong Carnahan presented Target representatives with a certificate honoring the company’s support of the community during the emergency.
Following the incident, nearly 50 Target team members volunteered their time to help coordinate donations from stores across the region for delivery to American Red Cross shelters.
Target’s Rialto distribution center also donated approximately $25,000 in essential supplies to the American Red Cross Orange County Chapter, including water, towels, pillows, pet supplies, baby wipes and other necessities. Target’s Cypress store at 6835 Katella Ave. was temporarily closed due to evacuation orders before safely reopening once the emergency had passed.
Although the Los Alamitos City Council approved body-worn cameras for police in December of 2025, police officials explained at a town hall on June 30 why the city’s police officers are still not wearing the devices.
Los Alamitos remains the only police department in Orange County to not utilize body-worn cameras in the field, though police officials acknowledge they are working out the details to deploy them soon.
In addition to body-worn cameras, Los Al Police Chief Michael Claborn had his department heads explain other top crime patterns in the city, hoping to prevent additional crimes of opportunity.
In addition to the body-worn camera discussion, Claborn said, “I’m going to cover some crime patterns to help prevent burglary, theft, fraud, and some of the best schemes.”
Claborn introduced Detective Luke South, who introduced Det. Sgt. Delana Lopez and Det. Joel Espinoza. Espinoza then explained two “crimes of opportunity” perpetrated on senior citizens in the community that robbed them of $100,000 in cash. South and Ezpinoza said they also work with Det. Oscar Perez, who was not present at the forum.
First, he said residents should always keep their residences locked to prevent themselves from “becoming easy victims” of property crimes.
“So as you guys can see, property claims, fraud scams, and fraud related crimes are on the rise, as well as crimes of opportunity like shoplifting, mail theft, bicycle theft, and things like that. Fraud and scam related claims continue to increase statewide, as you guys can see, and that you guys probably get tons of messages and calls a day as we all do,” said Espinoza. He went through a series of crimes but said fraud and identity type thefts are on the rise.
“You guys can really take quick, easy steps by locking your residences, make sure you lock your vehicles, make sure you don’t leave things in plain sight for individuals to take,” the detective said.
Also, he said, residents should certainly not leave their property out in plain sight for criminals “committing these crimes and affecting our communities.”
Moreover, Espinoza said residents, especially seniors, should be especially vigilant of phone calls from scammers seeking information and/or money. “It’s called the government impersonation scam,” he said.
Espinoza told the story of a resident who “got a call” from someone impersonating a police officer who would give them a call to arrange the payment,” Espinoza said.
“The defense attorney called back and gave him a number that kind of resembled a case number,” the detective said, and advised them to go to the bank. “So, he went and got $16,000 from the bank,” Espinoza said.
Then, the detective said, the couple was told the “woman driving the other car was pregnant, and her unborn child,” had both died in the accident so they would need an additional $35,000.
The Los Al man, said Espinoza, did as instructed, went to another bank to withdraw an additional $35,000, and the same thing, someone came to his house and he handed it over.
“He was out $50,000 in a span of a few hours,” the police detective said, urging residents to take a series of steps to protect themselves.
“And the best practice is always to hang up on suspicious callers, don’t even give them your voice if it’s a pending urgent matter,” he said.
In addition, said Espinoza, criminals are using digital recording devices to sample people’s voices over the phone to create fake recordings that can sound convincing. In addition, he said, scammers also claim to be from the Social Security Administration, Publisher’s Clearing House and others.
Police officials said residents should hang up and check with the police department.
“This is a community partnership,” he said, and “the sooner we get this information the sooner we can act on it,” he said. Regarding the body-worn cameras, Capt. Kain Gallaugher, a 20-year veteran of the department and currently the department’s longest-serving officer, gave a detailed overview of the technology and the rights demanded by its use.
With a degree in computer science, Gallaugher said he became a natural to investigate the body-worn cameras for the department and tried to explain to the attending residents what body-worn cameras are and what they are not.
Capt. Kain Gallaugher explains the body-worn cameras. Photo by David N. Young
“When people hear the word ‘body-worn camera,’ they often think it simply means strapping the camera on your chest and it is so much more than that,” said Gallaugher.
Citizens have no idea how much more is involved by the implications of a public recording technology.
“The reality is that implementing our camera program is a major undertaking involving technology, police policy, developmental evidence management, cyber security, privacy protections, training, public records acts compliance and accountability systems,” the veteran police captain said.
After extensive evaluation, he said, the Los Al Police Department has decided to go with the Axon body-worn devices, which, said Gallaugher, is widely recognized as the leader in the industry.
Actually, he said the camera itself worn by officers is only a small part of a massive system of interconnected internet platforms that will be automatically integrated with the Orange County District Attorney’s office.
“This will allow us to very safely streamline and save the evidence that is created or captured by this camera system that maintains a good chain of command,” said Gallaugher.
Today’s sophisticated cameras start rolling automatically when a taser is activated, and body-worn cameras have a 30-second pre-roll feature that starts recording before an incident to ensure nothing valuable is lost.
The cameras roll on their own, and the recording system uses a proprietary judicial platform that protects the recordings from any tampering.
Any actions on any previous videos are instantly recorded and double-checked, so that every action taken on a recorded video must be defensible and stand up to evidentiary scrutiny in court, said Gallaugher.
Moreover, he said body-worn cameras have a history of promoting field compliance among citizens, and the evidence they record “will protect the citizens as well as the police.”
“One of the most common misconceptions regarding body cameras is that the recording exists and everyone can get it.
California law is much more complex than people think. That’s why we have this wonderful attorney here to my left. While it is incredibly important to be transparent to the community and share with you guys the things we can, what is equally as important to us is your privacy. If you end up on one of the cameras, I’m sure you probably don’t want everyone seeing it,” he told the citizens.
“Actually, we live in a day and age,” said Gallaugher, “where this technology is so readily available that simply telling somebody what happens sometimes just isn’t enough,” said Gallaugher. “People want to see it. They want to hear it,” he said.
“The goal is transparency, not secrecy,” he said.
Part of the delay in implementing the cameras is developing a social use policy that encompasses every one of these protections, he said, and then that document must, by law, be ratified by the City Council.
Claborn said the department is hoping to be done by August, while Gallaugher said he hoped so, but that might be a bit optimistic.
According to Gallaugher, the wait is simply to get it right with a technology that is changing literally by the day. Deploying body-worn cameras implies much more than just fighting crime.
“It is about strengthening confidence between the Police Department and the community that we serve, as both a police captain and a parent whose family is deeply connected to this community, I believe this program represents a positive step forward for the department and the residents we proudly serve,” he said.
Editor’s Note: The police and residents also discussed a growing electric bike concern, but we will cover that in an upcoming issue.
The Segerstrom Center for the Arts is excited to announce the Costa Mesa premiere of the first ever touring production of HARRY POTTER AND THE CURSED CHILD. The six-time Tony® Award-winning production will play Segerstrom Center for the Arts for a limited engagement of three weeks only, July 11 through 25, 2026.
Tickets for HARRY POTTER AND THE CURSED CHILD, starting at $44, are available for purchase online at scfta.org, in person at 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, CA 92626, and by phone at 714.556.2787. For inquiries about group ticket discounts of 10 or more, call the Group Services offices at 714.755.0236.
Based on an original story by?J.K. Rowling,?Jack Thorne?and?John Tiffany,?HARRY POTTER AND THE CURSED CHILD is a play by?Jack Thorne, directed by?John Tiffany.??
HARRY POTTER AND THE CURSED CHILD features movement by?Steven?Hoggett, set by?Christine Jones, costumes by?Katrina Lindsay, music & arrangements by?Imogen Heap, lighting by?Neil Austin, sound by?Gareth Fry, illusions & magic by?Jamie Harrison, music supervision & arrangements by?Martin Lowe. US Casting by?Jim Carnahan, CSA.
HARRY POTTER AND THE CURSED CHILD is produced by Sonia Friedman Productions, Colin Callender and Harry Potter Theatrical Productions.
From the moment eleven-year-old Harry Potter met Rubeus Hagrid, Keeper of Keys and Grounds at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, his adventures have left an indelible mark on popular culture. Today, over 25 years later, the Harry Potter phenomenon thrives as one of the most successful and best-loved entertainment properties in history.
Harry Potter and the Cursed Child North American Tour (L-r) David Fine as Scorpius Malfoy, Mackenzie Lesser-Roy as Moaning Myrtle, Adam Grant Morrison as Albus Potter Photo by Evan Zimmerman
J.K. Rowling’s best-selling Harry Potter novels have been brought to life in an ever-evolving, interconnected universe which is loved by millions of fans worldwide. Eight blockbuster Harry Potter films and three epic Fantastic Beasts films bring the spellbinding action to life on screen, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child mesmerizes on stage, and state-of-the-art video and mobile games from Portkey Games allow players to experience the wizarding world like never before.
Fans can proudly showcase their passion through innovative consumer products, and thrill at spectacular location-based experiences – including five theme park lands at Universal Studios locations around the world.
This expanding portfolio of Warner Bros. Discovery-owned Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts offerings includes ground-breaking touring experiences and events, each developed to celebrate special moments and locations that fans cherish, as well as the Platform 9 3?4 retail shops and iconic flagship store – Harry Potter New York. Wizards, Witches and Muggles alike can also discover something new as they explore behind-the-scenes secrets at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter and Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo – The Making of Harry Potter.
With a new HBO Original TV series based on the Harry Potter books on the way, this extended world continues to provide the community with fresh and exciting ways to interact. For its global fans, and for generations to come, it invites everyone in to find the magic for themselves.
For the latest Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts news and features, visit https://link.edgepilot.com/s/904010c0/UZhZhwXVk0q0IvkCuiWvdg?u=http://www.harrypotter.com/.
The show run from July 11 – 25, and ticket prices start at $44. More information is available at (714) 556-2787, and tickets are available at scfta.org.
Rossmoor Community Service District officials sprung into action quickly to fix a gash in a neighborhood “signature” wall on June 29 after a Jeep apparently plowed into it at the corner of Los Alamitos Blvd and Orangewood.
RCSD General Manager Sharon Landers said a quick-thinking witness was able to get the vehicle license plate. “We are hopeful the California Highway Patrol and local police are able to track down the driver,” she said.
Residents discuss strategy to fix a massive hole in the brick wall outside the Rosssmoor Community. Courtesy photo
The district, without a police force of its own, must rely on CHP for most of its highway enforcement issues.
Fortunately, although it is a heavily used sidewalk, no one was there at the time, so there were no injuries.
RCSD has taken immediate action to repair the wall. “We contracted with a masonry company that has worked for the District previously. They have removed the damaged areas of the wall and have started rebuilding,” she said.
The completed repair. Courtesy photo
“We had some of the bricks we needed stockpiled, but additional ones are likely to be needed and had to be custom ordered, which we have done,” said Landers.“If we are short bricks, the wall can be fully completed when the custom ordered bricks arrive in about 10 weeks. Everything will be power washed so the bricks will blend better,” said Landers. So the wall is fixed, no one was hurt and a new stockpile of bricks is on the way in case something else happens in the future, the general manager said.
Sometimes the most meaningful gifts are the ones that quietly serve others every single day.
For more than 30 years, The Youth Center and the Rossmoor Community Services District (RCSD) have worked side by side to provide thousands of local children and families with safe, affordable, and enriching after-school and summer programs at Rossmoor Park. This year, that long-standing partnership has created another lasting gift to the community, a beautiful new drinking fountain that will serve generations to come.
Replacing an aging fountain that had faithfully served the park for decades, the new hydration station offers fresh drinking water for children, families, athletes, walkers, and even four-legged visitors with its built-in pet fountain. Every year, thousands of residents gather at Rossmoor Park to play sports, attend community events, enjoy family outings, and participate in Youth Center programs. Now, whether a child is refilling a water bottle after softball practice, a Camp SHARK camper is cooling off on a warm afternoon, or a neighbor is walking their dog, everyone can enjoy this new community resource.
The project became possible through an extraordinary collaboration.
A generous anonymous supporter stepped forward to purchase the entire fountain with one simple request, not recognition, but that the gift simply serve the community. Their message, now engraved on the fountain, says it all:
(L-R) Rossmoor Community Services District General Manager Sharon Landers, Lina Lumme, Executive Director of the Youth Center and Jo Shade, President of the RCSD Board of Directors.
“May This Fountain Remind Us That One Person’s Kindness Can Change Many Lives.” — Anonymous Donor of The Youth Center & RCSD That generosity inspired another remarkable act of giving.
When The Family Plumber learned about the project, owner and Youth Center Board President Mike Prencavage Jr. immediately donated the installation. Known by many as the trusted plumber for local families, Mike and his team once again proved they are also the community’s plumber, donating their expertise to help improve a park enjoyed by thousands of residents each year.
“This project is a beautiful reminder that when a community comes together, amazing things happen,” said Lina Lumme, CEO of The Youth Center. “We are deeply grateful to our anonymous donor for making this gift possible and to Mike Prencavage Jr. and The Family Plumber for donating the installation. Their generosity will benefit thousands of children and families for years to come. Every child who fills a water bottle, every family enjoying the park, and every visitor who stops for a drink will experience the impact of their kindness.”
The fountain also represents the strength of the partnership between The Youth Center and RCSD. For three decades, RCSD has provided the space where The Youth Center delivers year-round educational, recreational, and enrichment programs, while The Youth Center works with generous donors to provide scholarships and opportunities so every child can participate, regardless of financial circumstances. Together, they have built more than programs—they have built a stronger, healthier, and more connected community.
As The Youth Center approaches its 75th anniversary of serving local youth, this fountain stands as more than a place to grab a drink of water. It is a lasting symbol of what can happen when public agencies, nonprofits, local businesses, and generous neighbors unite around a shared purpose: making our community better for everyone.
The greatest legacy isn’t always having your name on something. Sometimes it’s knowing that, for generations to come, children will pause between games, families will gather at the park, neighbors will fill their water bottles, and even beloved pets will stop for a drink, all because one act of kindness inspired many others.
About The Youth Center Founded in 1952, The Youth Center has been empowering children and strengthening families for nearly 75 years through affordable after-school programs, summer camps, music education, leadership development, STEM education, scholarships, and family support services. Today, the nonprofit serves more than 3,500 children annually throughout the greater Los Alamitos area and surrounding communities.
The City of Los Alamitos and OC Animal Care are pleased to announce a new partnership that will provide comprehensive animal care and control services to Los Alamitos residents beginning July 1, 2026. Through this agreement, residents will benefit from expanded resources, enhanced public safety services, and access to one of the region’s most comprehensive animal care programs.
Under this agreement, residents will have access to a full range of high-quality services, including pet licensing, adoptions, lost and found resources, field services, and emergency animal response that promotes both animal welfare and community safety. Animals in need will receive compassionate sheltering, medical care, rehabilitation, and placement opportunities at OC Animal Care’s 10-acre shelter campus in Tustin.
Beyond expanded services, this partnership provides Los Alamitos residents with access to a broader network of programs and resources that support responsible pet ownership and strengthen the community. OC Animal Care looks forward to welcoming Los Alamitos residents into its established network of volunteer and foster opportunities, community education programs, monthly low-cost vaccination and microchipping clinics, pet pantry services, and other outreach initiatives designed to promote pet health, safety, and well-being. As one of the region’s largest and most comprehensive animal care agencies, OC Animal Care is committed to delivering exceptional service, innovative programs, and compassionate care while protecting both animals and the communities it serves.
With this agreement, Los Alamitos joins 14 other Orange County cities, along with the Unincorporated Areas of Orange County, that partner with OC Animal Care for comprehensive animal services. This partnership reflects a shared commitment between the City of Los Alamitos and OC Animal Care to providing responsive, compassionate, and professional animal care services. By combining local service with regional expertise, expanded resources, and a state-of-the-art facility, the partnership enhances the level of care available to Los Alamitos residents and their pets while strengthening public safety throughout the community.
For more information about animal care services in Los Alamitos, including local resources and service information, visit cityoflosalamitos.org/AnimalCare or contact the Neighborhood Preservation Department at the City of Los Alamitos at (562) 431-3538.
For pet licensing, adoptions, lost and found pets, volunteer and foster opportunities, or other OC Animal Care services, visit ocpetinfo.com, call (714) 935-6848 daily from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. or after-hours (714) 259-1122 from 5 p.m. – 8 a.m., or visit the OC Animal Care shelter located at 1630 Victory Road, Tustin, CA 92782.
Gum’s Mall of Antiques & Collectibles is going all out this year to celebrate our nation’s 250th Birthday with a special event on Saturday, July 25th. We’re asking our customers to drive their classic car to our mall to enjoy our daylong festivities.
Local vendors like Tim and Linda Keenan of Cypress will be among the many sellers of truly unique merchandise.
Gum’s is also hosting a holiday pie baking contest (enter to be crowned best pie maker) and a watermelon seed spitting contest. You can wear your best vintage clothing to enter our vintage clothing contest, enjoy a free outdoor Bar-B-Que, live music, and a reading of portions of the Declaration of Independence.
To top it all off, a $250.00 Gum’s gift certificate will be drawn and announced on Sunday, August 1st. No need to be present to win. Opportunities to win other prizes will run throughout the month of July. Saturday hours are 10:00am-5:00pm.
Now celebrating 29 years in the vintage business, Gum’s Vintage Mall is located at 21330 Norwalk Avenue in Hawaiian Gardens. This mall is the perfect place to find traces of our nation’s more than 250 -year history.
The dealers at Gum’s are decorating the 13,000 square foot store with red, white, and blue for the month of July. Look for special in-store celebration discounts all month long. Among our 50 plus dealers you can find vintage telephones and technology, mid-century furniture, historic dolls and toys, vintage American flags, vintage china, military memorabilia, vintage clothing of all types. Plus one can find lots of other traces of our American past throughout the store.
Unleash the excitement! The most anticipated, adorable, and delightfully zany event of the summer is back. On Saturday night, July 11, 2026, Los Alamitos Race Course will play host to the 29th Running of the Wienerschnitzel Wiener Nationals. The action kicks off at 6:30 p.m., bringing together more than 100 fast and furious dachshunds to race for a fantastic cause.
All proceeds from this event directly benefit the Seal Beach Animal Care Center, a premier non-profit organization dedicated to finding loving homes for stray and abandoned animals throughout the Orange County area. Small Legs, Big Stakes
The track belongs to everyone on this special night. The Wienerschnitzel Wiener Nationals features a series of high-stakes, 50-yard dashes running right alongside the track’s regular live, quarter horse racing action. A literal string of sausage-shaped speedsters will compete in thrilling heats throughout the evening, giving fans a chance to see these low-rolling athletes conquer the exact same historic dirt track as the horses. While the doxies are chasing fun cash prizes, they all have their eyes on the ultimate title: the coveted “Fastest Wiener in the West.”
A Packed Roster of Canine Competitors The night features more than 100 doxies competing across 10 distinct races, including a trio of crowd-pleasing special events:
The Diaper Dash: The ever-popular, unpredictable sprint for puppies under one year old.
Long in the Tail: A legendary showcase for veteran doggos over the age of eight.
The “Tweeners”: A brand-new category featuring prime-aged 6-to-7-year-old racers.
The Superstars Race: A clash of titans featuring past champions and fan favorites.
This year’s star-studded lineup features incredible local talent, including Beenie VonWeenie (Fullerton), Burr (Cypress), Cannonball Charlie (Long Beach), and Paisley (Moreno Valley). All eyes will be on defending champion Winnie (Huntington Beach) and fierce runner-up Avi (La Habra), easily spotted by her signature pink-tipped ear, as they renew their friendly rivalry.
The Ultimate Prize & Event Details The stakes have never been higher. The winning owner will take home a cool $1,000 cash prize, while the champion wiener walks away with a custom doghouse shaped like a Wienerschnitzel restaurant, plus the iconic “Fastest Wiener in the West” trophy.
In addition to the dachshund drama, fans will enjoy a full night of live horse racing, making this an action-packed, wild night out for the whole family. When: Saturday, July 11, 2026. Gates open early; racing begins at 6:30 p.m. Where: Los Alamitos Race Course (Free general parking included!) Admission: General Admission tickets are just $3 per person on the day of the event. Children 17 and under are admitted FREE.
VIP Experience: Premium VIP seating is available to enjoy the event in style. Reserve your seats by calling 714-820-2681. For more information on the 29th Annual Wienerschnitzel Wiener Nationals, please visit losalamitos.com or call 714-820-2690.
Far from his mountaintop Monticello, 33-year-old Thomas Jefferson sat in a hot and humid rented room at 700 Market Street 250 years ago this week. He was charged with the monumental responsibility of crafting thoughts capable of governing a nation.
The 2nd Continental Congress had actually appointed a “Committee of Five” to draft the Declaration of Independence, including Jefferson, Benjamin Franklin, John Adams, Roger Sherman, and Robert Livingston.
Historians say Adams and Franklin knew Jefferson was an accomplished writer, so they mostly edited the drafts while Livingston and Sherman were there as observers from crucial states, New York and Connecticut, respectively.
Franklin, while old enough to be Jefferson’s dad, admired the mind of young Jefferson, the Virginian. Adams already knew Jefferson was the man to draft the document so while he pushed incessantly for independence inside the Continental Congress, he made sure Jefferson was appointed to draft the Declaration.
Franklin, at that point in history, was perhaps the most famous man in the world. Frankly, it made him wise enough to let Jefferson’s prose soar on its own, only making minor changes.
Franklin’s substantive contribution was a small change in a key line that has immeasurable impact. He replaced Jefferson’s original phrase “sacred and undeniable” with “self-evident” in the final draft.
David N. Young, courtesy photo
Though the entire draft is 1,320 words long, its overriding principal is set in these immortal words.
“When in the course of human events, it becomes necessary for one people to dissolve the political bands which have connected them with another…they should declare the causes which impel them to separation.”
“We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness,” it proclaimed.
“That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed, that whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to affect their Safety and Happiness.”
The resolution passed with approvals from 12 of the 13 colonies. New York abstained but eventually signed on. A total of 56 men eventually signed the document, though not all were in Philadelphia that day.
Revolutions are hard. Transforming them into republics is even harder. The brilliance in Jefferson’s words, however, are their bedrock nature and timeless value.
From the guiding principles of the Declaration came the debates over the next decade as our Constitution took shape. And on July 4, we will together celebrate a framework that has withstood war, protest, woman’s suffrage, racial segregation and today, a government that has never been so divided.
Yes, we are a divided nation, perhaps more than ever before in our history. Scattered outrage only makes it worse.
Yet, our framework holds. As disappointing as the torn fabric of our society may be, we can be reassured that the wisdom of the nation’s silent majority will continue to guide us back to the center like the framers designed it to do 250 years ago.
“Without freedom of thought there can be no such thing as wisdom; and no such thing as public liberty, without freedom of speech,” said Franklin. Even then, the great Franklin knew the blessing of this nation was the inherit wisdom and its power to default to the collective good.
Our American Revolution is alive today as much as it was in 1776. Our nation changes by the day and our government must change with it.
Government, then, as now, is not some finite set of rules; it is an ever-changing, living document of self-governance that only WE have the power to change.
“These are the times that try men’s souls. The summer soldier and the sunshine patriot will, in this crisis, shrink from the service of his country; but he that stands it now, deserves the love and thanks of man and woman,” wrote Thomas Paine, rallying the colonies in 1776.
Fast forward 250 years and little has changed. Though problems exist and technology has advanced, the American citizen still seeks the same as Jefferson. He sat, with pen in hand, in a tiny room in the humid conditions on Market Street in Philadelphia to make lives better.
In fact, Jefferson bought his first thermometer while writing the declaration and kept a detailed weather journal thereafter.
From Jefferson, we know it was 68 degrees on July 4, 1776 when these brave men first celebrated America’s independence. The Declaration was approved on July 2, but the Continental Congress did not receive it from the printer to be signed until July 4.
Adams argued for a July 2 holiday, but he was overridden. Adams and Jefferson, nonetheless, continued their correspondence and ironically, if providentially, both passed away on July 4, 1826.
While each of us have our own opinions about the state of America on its 250th Anniversary, that’s exactly the way it should be. The deep thoughts of brave and learned men in that small room on Market Street gave us a dynamic framework for life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness for generations to come.
If only we could collectively understand that, in a way, the debates that began in the humidity of Philadelphia in 1776, still rage today, as they should, and we, as citizens have every right and a responsibility to lend our voices towards the creation of an even better nation now and 250 years from today.
The Los Alamitos Chief of Police announced the city’s “Citizen’s Academy” 2026 graduating class at the City Council’s most recent meeting, saying the program is advancing so quickly that perhaps a graduate of the class may soon facilitate the growing program.
“The Academy gives residents a first-hand look at the professionalism, accountability and dedication that defines our department,” Police Chief Michael Claborn told the Council.
He introduced Bruce Murphy, one of the department’s VIP’s, whom he said, along with others, helped facilitate this year’s program.
“Our program has been an amazing program,” said Claborn, “and it is about building understanding, strengthening trust, and continuing the partnership that keeps Los Alamitos safe,” the police chief said.
“Our program has grown since its inception,” he said, “and has now reached the point where they are actually able to facilitate the delivery of this course to our community, which, I’m not aware of is being done anywhere else in the country,” he added. The program, introduced in 2025, gives everyday citizens a chance to look deep inside the city’s police department and get a look at city operations as well.
Claborn introduced Jenna Bloom, who spoke for this year’s graduating class.
“When I first joined the Citizens Academy, I wasn’t sure what to expect,” said Bloom. “As the weeks went on, before I knew it, I was looking forward to it. There wasn’t a single week that wasn’t engaging and informative,” she said.
“Throughout the course, we were given a deeper look into the police department operations,” she said, noting that she was “especially impressed by the professionalism demonstrated by the officer” she had a chance to ride with on patrol, and others experienced during the program.
“It’s difficult to choose a favorite week, because every topic highlighted a different but essential part of law enforcement. We learned about the coroner’s office, SWAT operations, the narcotics division, canine unit, crime lab, shoot/don’t shoot scenarios, domestic violence situations, de-escalation tactics, the coordination between agencies that help keep our communities safe, and more,” said Bloom.
“Over the eight-week course, we also had the opportunity to meet and become friends with people from many different backgrounds and professions,” she said.
Though this year’s class was diverse, she said they had one thing in common.
“Despite our differences, we all shared one thing in common: our genuine love and care for the city of Los Alamitos,” she said, “and the people who work every day to protect it. I want to sincerely thank Michael Claborn, Captain Luke South, Support Services Manager Robert Acosta, VIP Murphy, VIP Kathy Gardner, Media Coordinator Alexandra Van Voris, and Coordinator Lizet Salinas,” she said.
This year’s class included Bloom, Angela Bittbauer, Troy Butcher, Leonor Carter, Meryl Cohn, Kristin DiMiceli, Glen MacCloud, Miriam Espejo, Jason Morales, Susan Morales, Veronica Orrick, Clayton Sierra and Gary Loe.
Participating VIPS were Art Remnet, Anna Bilyk, Bruce Murphy, Gardner, Daniel Patz, Karl Meyers, Debbie Charland, Randy Smith, Van Voris and Lizet Salinas.
Claborn also announced the promotion of two officers, Corporal Stephen Smith and Corporal Matthew Merzada.
Following its sold-out Los Angeles Premiere at the Dances With Films Festival, Cabali and the Tiki Mug Obsession will continue its Southern California run with a special screening event at The Bay Theatre in Seal Beach on Saturday, July 18, featuring the film, a post-screening Q&A, and a live performance by legendary Southern California lounge and exotica band The Martini Kings. The event offers audiences an opportunity to experience the acclaimed documentary before transitioning into an evening of live music and community celebration inspired by the culture explored in the film.
Event Schedule The Bay Theatre 340 Main Street Seal Beach, CA 90740 5:00 PM – Cabali and the Tiki Mug Obsession Screening 6:35 PM – Film Concludes 6:35 PM – 6:55 PM – Audience Q&A (20 Minutes) 7:30 PM – Live Performance by The Martini Kings Guests are encouraged to arrive early and visit a special merchandise area located in the theatre lobby featuring film merchandise and other Tiki-inspired items.
Ticket Information Film Screening + Q&A: $25 Senior Admission: $20 Live Concert Event: $25 Senior Concert Admission: $20
Directed by Josh Dragotta, Cabali and the Tiki Mug Obsession explores the history, artistry, and enduring appeal of Tiki culture through the world of collectible Tiki mugs and the passionate community that helped preserve the movement when many believed it had faded into history.
The documentary follows Doug “Fini” Finical, whose decades-long fascination with Tiki mugs ultimately inspired the creation of Cabali, a modern speakeasy-style Tiki bar in Oro Valley, Arizona. Through Finical’s story and the voices of artists, collectors, historians, musicians, and enthusiasts, the film examines how a niche collecting hobby evolved into a thriving international community.
The film features appearances by actress and comedian Kate Flannery (The Office), Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Todd Rundgren, and numerous artists and cultural figures connected to the modern Tiki movement.
The addition of The Martini Kings makes the Seal Beach engagement particularly fitting. Long celebrated for their blend of swing, lounge, surf, exotica, and vintage American music, the band has become a staple of Southern California’s Tiki and retro culture communities, helping keep the sounds and spirit of the era alive for contemporary audiences.
Following the enthusiastic response to the film’s sold-out Hollywood premiere, the Seal Beach event offers another opportunity for audiences to experience both the documentary and the vibrant culture that inspired it. Tickets can be purchased by visiting: https://www.baytheatre.com/event-details/cabali-and-the-tiki-mug-obsession For further film information go to: https://www.cabalidoc.com
It was huge loss when long time community trailblazer Dave Appling passed away in March, followed by his beloved wife Diane not long thereafter.
Dave and Diana Appling. Courtesy photo
A few hundred of David and Diane Appling’s closest friends gathered recently at the Eagles Nest dining hall in Cypress to celebrate the lives of this couple who held their community and friends in a lifelong embrace of caring and public service. Closest of close friends Dave Barnes urged all in the hall to, as Dave Appling’s parting salutation always left us with, “keep smiling.”
Dave and Diane Appling: 1942-2026, passed away within one month of each other. They gave so much to the community and for a brief moment, the community took the opportunity to say thanks.
Students from Cypress High School earned top honors in the Streets, Art, SAFE Traffic Safety Competition for their creative work promoting safer roads. Brandon Vargas won Silver for Pedaling Towards a Greener Future and received Gold awards for Encouragement, Originality & Creativity, and Headline/Copywriting. James Carvell earned Best Safe Driving Poster for Safety Starts With a Seatbelt, while Joshua Yang received the AAA Pedestrian Safety Special Award Gold for Stand Out. Teacher Sunny Chang was recognized with a $450 discretionary award for her guidance and support.
In less than one month, audiences will once again witness one of the most extraordinary theatrical experiences in the world as the Pageant of the Masters returns to Laguna Beach’s Festival of Arts with its highly anticipated 2026 production of “The Greatest of All Time.”
Running nightly from July 9 through September 4, 2026, the Pageant of the Masters will transform famous works of art into breathtaking living pictures, with real people posed on stage to re-create masterpieces with astonishing accuracy. This year’s production celebrates some of the most iconic artists, artworks, and creative achievements in history, inviting audiences to explore the stories, innovations, and enduring influence behind the world’s greatest artistic accomplishments.
“This year’s production celebrates the artists and artworks that have stood the test of time and continue to inspire generations,” said Diane Challis Davy, Director of the Pageant of the Masters. “Whether you’re an art lover, a first-time visitor, or someone who has attended for decades, ‘The Greatest of All Time’ offers a chance to experience these masterpieces in an entirely new way.”
Audiences will be astonished as iconic masterpieces and monumental works of art are transformed into living pictures before their eyes, including Rome’s Trevi Fountain, designed by architect Nicola Salvi, and the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C., featuring Daniel Chester French’s monumental sculpture of Abraham Lincoln. The production also brings to life celebrated works by legendary artists, including Claude Monet, Johannes Vermeer, Norman Rockwell, Vincent van Gogh, Frida Kahlo, Pablo Picasso, and more, showcasing the creativity, innovation, and vision that have shaped the art world for generations. More than a celebration of art history, “The Greatest of All Time” invites audiences to consider their own picks for the G.O.A.T.s of the art world as they experience some of history’s most influential works brought to life on stage.
The “Greatest of All Time” will run nightly July 9 – September 4, 2026. To purchase tickets or for more information, visit www.foapom.com or call (800) 487-3378. To stay up to date on all things Pageant of the Masters and Fine Arts Show visit www.foapom.com or follow @FestivalPageant on social media. To support the Festival of Arts, please visit www.foapom.com/supportnow.
The Festival of Arts is sponsored in part by Volvo Cars, City of Hope Orange County, Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & Club, and KOST Radio 103.5. A separate ticket is required to attend the Pageant of the Masters and may be purchased at PageantTickets.com.
The Cypress School District Board of Trustees is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Grant Litfin as the district’s next Superintendent, according to a press release issued by the district.
Ann Silavs, the district’s long-time Supt. resigned suddenly during the recent discussions over the district’s sagging finances. Former Asst. Supt. for Business Services, Tim McLellan had been appointed acting Supt. to fill the void.
Dr. Litfin brings more than two decades of distinguished educational experience and a proven record of strengthening school communities, advancing student achievement, fostering innovation, and building collaborative partnerships.
Dr. Grant Litfin, newly appointed Superintendent of the Cypress Elementary School District. Courtesy photo
He currently serves as Assistant Superintendent of Administrative Services for Tustin Unified School District, where he has been a member of the district leadership team since 2012.
Following a comprehensive search process that included extensive input from teachers, classified staff, administrators, parents, and community members, the Board unanimously selected Dr. Litfin as the leader best suited to guide Cypress School District into its next chapter of excellence, Cypress School District board members said.
“The Board sought a superintendent who would place students at the center of every decision, build strong relationships throughout our community, support our employees, and provide exceptional leadership for the future of our district,” said Dr. Lydia Sondhi, President of the Cypress School District Board of Trustees.
“Dr. Litfin embodies those qualities. His experience, vision, integrity, and commitment to collaboration make him an outstanding choice to serve the students, families, and staff of Cypress School District.”
Dr. Litfin’s career reflects a deep commitment to public education and student success. Beginning with student teaching in an elementary school classroom, he has served as a classroom teacher, middle school administrator, high school principal, and district administrator.
Prior to joining Tustin Unified School District, he served as principal of Los Alamitos High School and previously held administrative and teaching positions in Torrance Unified School District.
Known as a visionary educational leader and program builder, Dr. Litfin has successfully led initiatives that have positively impacted student achievement across all grade levels, from transitional kindergarten through high school. His leadership experience encompasses curriculum and instruction, district operations, technology, facilities, student support services, fiscal management, and organizational development.
Dr. Litfin is a strong advocate for research-based instructional practices that ensure every student has access to high-quality learning opportunities. He understands the critical importance of early literacy and mathematics instruction and supports evidence-based approaches grounded in the Science of Reading, Cognitively Guided Instruction (CGI), and problem-based learning.
Throughout his career, Dr. Litfin has demonstrated a commitment to innovation and resource stewardship. He has played a key role in securing more than $40 million in grant funding for technology, safety, and facilities improvements, helping create enhanced learning environments that directly benefit students and staff.
In 2019, Dr. Litfin was recognized as the California Administrator of the Year by the Association of California School Administrators (ACSA). He earned his Doctorate in Educational Leadership from the University of Southern California.
“I am honored to serve as the next Superintendent of Cypress School District,” said Dr. Litfin. “I am excited to join a community that values strong relationships, educational excellence, and student success. I look forward to working collaboratively with the Board of Trustees, staff, families, and community partners to build upon the district’s strengths, establish a shared vision, and create a clear path forward that supports every student and ensures long-term success.”
The Board expressed confidence that Dr. Litfin’s leadership style aligns closely with the priorities identified throughout the community engagement process, including strengthening trust and communication, supporting student learning, enhancing special education services, maintaining fiscal stability, and fostering a positive culture where students and employees thrive.
Dr. Litfin will assume his duties as Superintendent on July 1, 2026.
Whether next door or around the world, business owners should understand that “powerful impressions” are the basis that will keep their customers wanting more of their products or services, a local consultant said on Thursday.
“You are the one who has the most control over how you make them feel about you and your business,” said Michelle Boos-Stone of the Long Beach – based Five Elements Consulting Group, LLC during the Los Alamitos Chamber of Commerce’s regular meeting.
At the heart of every positive customer relationship lies a powerful customer impression, Boos-Stone said to the Chamber on Thursday during the June meeting, held at the Epson America conference center in Los Alamitos.
“It is very personal,” she added, “and it’s all about consistently delivering quality experiences and services, being consistent with quality and making people feel cared for.”
Boos-Stone, best known for her unique ability to illustrate thoughts with written words and sketched images during live discussions, gave Chamber members a taste of the flavor she has experienced around the world.
She defined customer impressions as an “overall opinion” a customer has about a brand, production, service or experience “that is 100 percent formed by their own interaction or experiences.”
Boos-Stone, who has traveled the globe with her business, built a small matrix with customer service examples from New York to Peru from Spain to Japan and many places in between.
Another speaker, Robert Acosta, of the Los Alamitos Police Department, announced that the city would be having a Town Hall event June 30 to discuss the city’s efforts to get body-worn cameras for its police department.
The city of Los Alamitos is currently the only Orange County police department that are not yet wearing the devices. While the Council voted back in December to acquire the devices, Acosta said “the technology has been around a while but requires a large investment of time and money.
“For a department our size, it’s a pretty significant investment through capital outlay and our budget, so we had to work towards it,” Acosta told the Chamber. “We’re excited about it,” he said.
The town hall meeting, originally scheduled for June 2, will be held from 5:30 – 7 p.m. and it will be held at the City Council Chambers in Los Alamitos, said Acosta.
Los Alamitos officials also announced upcoming events in the city, including a black-tie Mayor’s Ball on August 22 and a complete lineup of summer concerts and the July 3 fireworks spectacular at the Joint Forces Training Base.
The Chamber honored Monica Salmon from Farmers Insurance as the Member of the Month. Chamber President Richie Barnes thanked Salmon for being among the members of the Chamber who welcomed him initially into the Chamber and whose embrace “allowed me to become President.”
Barnes also announced that the Los Al Chamber would again team up with the Seal Beach Chamber and the Cypress Chamber for its own celebration of the 250th Anniversary of America.
For this event, he said the Chambers have planned an event at the Joint Forces Training Base in Los Alamitos on July 15, from 5 – 7:30 p.m. He said the event will be held at the patio of Fiddler’s Green, the pub at the base.
He said the public is invited to attend and more information is available at losalchamber.org.
The Orange County Press Club celebrated excellence in local journalism during its 2026 Excellence in Journalism Awards, the organization’s largest event of the year. The evening recognized outstanding reporting, photography, writing, and communications professionals from across the region while also unveiling the organization’s new logo as part of a broader modernization initiative.
“The Excellence in Journalism Awards are one of my favorite nights of the year because they bring together some of the most talented journalists, photographers, communicators and storytellers in Orange County,” said Destiny Torres, president of the Orange County Press Club.
“We celebrate the work, passion and perseverance behind the stories that keep our communities informed. The unveiling of our new logo makes this evening even more special as we honor our past while looking ahead to an exciting future for the Press Club,” she said.
David N. Young, Editor of the Event-News Enterprise, was named this year’s recipient of the Dave McQuay Award for Best Columnist. Courtesy photo
David N. Young, from The Event News Enterprise was awarded the “David McQuay Award for Best Columnist,” winning the category after being a finalist for the previous two years. L.A. Times Columnist Gustavo Arellano, one of the award’s presenters, read from the judges’ comments from the winning column. “Young’s rare ability to blend wit and wisdom, the satirical portraits of the Founders on social media are genuinely clever yet serve a serious civic argument rather than existing as cheap laughs,” he said, citing Young’s column, “If Hamilton had a hashtag.”
“Most importantly, it (the column) refuses easy partisan finger-pointing and issues a challenge to everyone, making it the kind of patriotic writing that actually unites rather than divides,” he said.
The Orange County Press Club also recognized two distinguished journalism leaders. Christopher Trela received the Sky Dunlap Award, the organization’s highest honor for lifetime achievement and community service, recognizing his more than three decades of contributions to Orange County journalism, arts advocacy, education and community leadership.
Jill Replogle was named Journalist of the Year for her outstanding reporting and commitment to informing and serving Orange County communities through impactful journalism.
The evening also celebrated the next generation of journalists through the Press Club’s annual scholarship program. Scholarships were awarded to Sathya Chaib, Maximo Santana, Caleb Otte and Priscilla Preciado. In addition, Betty Kaldas received the Larry Welborn Scholarship, which will support her attendance at the California Scholastic Press Association’s annual workshop.
(L-R) David N. Young, Cathy Fagen, Public Relations Chair, Rossmoor Woman’s Club, Sue Denley, President, Rossmoor Woman’s Club, and Andrew Turner, The Daily Pilot (Scholarship Committee). The Rossmoor Woman’s Club donated a $500 journalism scholarship during this year’s gala. Photo by Erika Taylor
The scholarship program was made possible through the generosity of event sponsors and donors, including Carrie Freitas of KTM Agency; Norberto Santana Jr. of Voice of OC; Scott Rogers of Parenting OC, Fountain Valley Living and Huntington Beach Living; Rossmoor Women’s Club; Christopher Trela; Andrew Turner; and Carol Cormaci.
The evening also marked the public debut of the Orange County Press Club’s new logo. The refreshed visual identity reflects the Board of Directors’ ongoing efforts to modernize the organization while honoring its longstanding commitment to supporting journalists, communications professionals and students throughout Orange County.
Entries in the Press Club’s annual Excellence in Journalism contest were judged by members of the Press Club of Cleveland, Florida Press Club, Idaho Press Club, Milwaukee Press Club, Press Club of New Orleans, Press Club of Southeast Texas and Syracuse Press Club, ensuring an independent and impartial review process.
Also attending the event were Rossmoor Woman’s Club President Sue Denley and Public Relations Chair Cathy Fagen. For the first time ever, RWC donated $500 that was awarded as a scholarship to budding journalist.
The event concluded with the presentation of awards across dozens of categories recognizing excellence in print, digital, broadcast, photography, public relations and communications.
The Labyrinth Walk on June 15th celebrated its 20th Anniversary. It was a powerful spiritual event that touched the hearts of the 40 participants who attended. The evening started with a welcome by Monica Kovach, Chair of the Labyrinth Ministry. Then, a brief film was shown which explained the history of the labyrinth in the church and how it can be used as a tool for contemplative prayer. Next, Father Romeo Ascan, AM, offered a prayer and blessing of the labyrinth. Afterwards, the participants walked the labyrinth in hushed reverence.
The church was beautifully decorated for the 20th Anniversary. Photo by Terry Arenz.
The theme of this labyrinth was a quote from St. Irenaeus, the patron saint of our parish. “It is not you that shapes God, God shapes you. You are the work of God. Await the hand of the artist who does all things in due season. Offer God your heart, soft and pliable; and keep the form in which the Artist has fashioned you. Let your clay be moist lest you grow hard and lose the imprint of God’s fingers.” (St. Irenaeus) Each participant was encouraged to place their thumbprint in soft clay, provided by St. Irenaeus Health Ministry, which will be made into a commemorative plaque to remember this special day. This will serve as a reminder that we need to keep our hearts soft and pliable to be ready to receive God’s imprint upon them.
A small gift bag that included the St. Irenaeus quote and a tiny red heart was given to participants. There were also free handmade prayer shawls, made by the Shawl Ministry. Each stitch was created with a prayer. If you are interested in joining or supporting the Labyrinth Ministry or the Shawl Ministry, contact Health Ministry Co-Facilitator, Nurse Jennifer Dagarag, at 714-826-0760.
