One of the best family musicals ever penned!” Chicago Tribune has opened at Segerstrom Center for the Arts for a “short run” from Feb. 18 – 23, according to the organization’s press office.
=Holding onto hope when times are tough can take an awful lot of determination, and sometimes, an awful lot of determination comes in a surprisingly small package. Little Orphan Annie has reminded generations of theatergoers that sunshine is always right around the corner, and now the best-loved musical of all time is set to return in a new production – just as you remember it and just when we need it most.
This time around they have an experienced youth actress in the role of the Depression-era waif with the curly coif and empty eyes – Hazel Vogel.
HAZEL VOGEL (Annie) is thrilled to bring this inspirational character to life. Her credits include Les Misérables (US Tour), Newsies (STAGES St. Louis), Miracle on 34th Street (Toby’s).
They also have cute, trained dog Kevin, appearing as Sandy, with an on cue “Arf!” with which to enliven the performance.
And his trainer, KEVIN (Sandy) Kevin is a 7yr old labradoodle who can’t wait to jump back into the role of Sandy.
When Kevin is not touring with Annie, he is an animal actor preforming in many TV and film roles. He lives with his trainer in Georgia.
CHARLOTTE WOERTLER (Dog Trainer) A proud graduate of The Teaching Zoo at Moorpark College, just north of Los Angeles. Charlotte has been training animals for the stage and screen for over 20 yrs.
Her favorite projects include Clifford the Big Red Dog, Lady and the Tramp, Where the Crawdads Sing, & Treasure Buddies.
Also the musical includs Stefani Londino as Miss Hannigan, Christopher Swan as Warlocks,
Annie, directed by Jenn Thompson, features the iconic book and score, written by Tony Award®-winners Thomas Meehan, Charles Strouse and Martin Charnin. This celebration of family, optimism and the American spirit remains the ultimate cure for all the hard knocks life throws your way.
Recommended for ages 5+
Tickets start at $44 and are avaiable 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Directions Monday–Friday: 10am to 5pm(714) 556-2787
On Saturdays and Sundays when we have a performance, we will be open beginning 2 hours before the first performance until 30 minutes after the latest performance time. When there is no performance, we are closed.
Box Office: Monday: 10am to 2pm Tuesday–Friday: 12pm to 5pm Saturday and Sunday: Closed
Feel Good, Do Good with our Broadway Donation Drive Leapin lizards, we are holding a new toy and book drive benefitting CHOC during our Annie engagement. Help us make Tomorrow a brighter day by bringing in coloring/craft books, crayons, Hot Wheels, Play-doh, Barbies (and Kens), and other action figures for children in our community! Please drop them off in the designated bins on the Plaza and Orchestra levels and we thank you in advance for your generosity!
The Bay Theatre in Seal Beach was filled to standing room only this week as Lucie Arnaz brought the unvarnished truth about her famous mom to the screen, then held back a little in a discussion with fans afterward.
Arnaz, the daughter of Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz, came to screen a copy of the Emmy Award-winning documentary, “Lucy and Desi: A Home Movie.” In addition, her husband, Larry Luckinbill, a legendary actor on Broadway, came with Arnaz and also answered questions after the film.
“I can’t believe this. This is like a dream,” said an emotional Raji Ahsan, Los Al High School graduate who has enjoyed some starring roles in New York. He has returned to Los Al to raise money for a short film he hopes to make with Arnaz.
The crowd was standing room only in the newly refurbished theatre.
Ahsan recounted his mother, Manal, immigrating to the U.S. while still pregnant with him. They ended up in Los Alamitos and the kindness and generosity of a woman named Joyce gave young Raji Ahsan a stable place to grow up.
With little money and a baby on the way, New Life Beginnings in Long Beach took the mom in and assisted in Raji’s birth, he said. Then God sent a Los Alamitos woman named Joyce to the shelter and invited Raji and his mom into her home.
Raji’s mom, an immigrant from Cairo, could only clean other people’s homes to earn money while Raji began school and grew up. They lived with Susan Drake a few months before moving in with Joyce, he said.
Once there, he said Joyce had a television “and one of Joyce’s favorite shows was “I Love Lucy,” the comedy show that put CBS on the television map and made her parents superstars of the day.
Raji Ahsan, a graduate of Los Al High School, gets emotional when recounting his mother arriving in Amerca pregnant and alone. Photo by David N. Young
He and Joyce would watch together, he said. “I fell in love with ‘I Love Lucy,’” said Ahsan.
With his voice choking a bit on the memories, Ahsan said he wrote a letter to Paramount at 12, including a headshot. Soon enough, he was on the lot. Then at 16, he managed to see a batch of Lucille Ball interviews and was fascinated with Lucie Arnaz.
Studying in New York, he searched for links to Lucie. He found one, invited her to an interview on his early talk show, and they have become close friends in the years since.
When they first met, Ahsan said he told Arnaz, “I feel like I’ve known you my whole life.”
“I love this woman,” said Ahsan of Arnaz.
Arnaz said when Ahsan asked her to come down to help raise money for the film, “I said why not?” Ahsan said portions of the money raised would go to the New Life Beginnings Shelter which did so much for him and his mom two decades ago.
The 90-minute home movie included a frank look at Lucy and Desi’s family dynamic, using reels and reels of home movies taken by Desi throughout their marriage, said Arnaz.
“It is respectful but real,” she said.
The movie explores the complex personal and professional lives of Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz. It highlights their rise from challenging beginnings to becoming entertainment icons, while also delving into the emotional struggles that fractured their family.
Lucille Ball’s difficult childhood, marked by abandonment, shaped her fierce independence but also repeated in her parenting, as she relied on others to raise her children.
Desi Arnaz, a talented but flawed man, struggled with infidelity and alcoholism, which strained their marriage.
Their fiery relationship was driven by deep love but marred by personal and professional pressures. Despite divorcing in 1960 after 20 years of marriage, they maintained a strong connection and mutual admiration until Desi’s death.
“I’m not sure they ever found the happiness they sought in their relationship,” said Arnaz, but she said they ironically found absolute true happiness in their work.
The film poignantly contrasts their early romantic bond with later years of regret and loss. It reveals the toll of fame on their family dynamics, particularly on their children, Lucie and Desi Jr., who faced emotional challenges due to their parents’ demanding careers and separation.
Lucie, with five children and three grandchildren, looks back and sees much of herself in the struggles her mother went through.
She also recalled the rare times her mother could indeed act as a homemaker, cooking chicken and dumplings while acknowledging much of her life was shaped by others charged with their daily care.
“She (Lucille) struggled to find ways to simply sit and connect with her kids,” said Lucie.
Despite her parents’ rocky marriage and ultimate divorce, there was love until the end.
The Bay Theatre crowd was standing room only for the film “Lucy and Desi: A Home Movie as Lucie Arnaz after the movie suggested at the end of the day, their family endured the trials and tribulations of any other family, even one with iconic parents. Photo by David N. Young
“When Desi died, my mother lost a piece of herself. She died of a broken heart. It physically broke.”
“Because she had fame, that did not make her life that much easier – or luckier. I doubt she would have traded what she had but it wasn’t that easy,” said Arnaz.
Luckinbill, who recently published his autobiography, “Affective Memories. How Chance and the Theatre Saved My Life,” spoke about having Lucy and Desi as in laws.
Lucie’s fans came from throughout Southern California to see her.
“I was just so excited when I heard this was going to be happening, and I’ve always wanted to come to this theatre,” said Debbie Jacobs, of Long Beach. “I was brought up with Lucy, and watched it over and over again,” she said.
“The event itself was inspirational, offering a glimpse into the life of a beloved figure through close family friends and intimate interviews highlighting the importance of family reconciliation,” said Phil Ellis of Huntington Beach. “The film and event served as a powerful reminder that forgiveness and healing are possible for any family, regardless of their circumstances,” he said.
Annie Rojas, of Downey, said “Lucie is so iconic. Her mother is ingrained in our childhood so to be here and hear her memories firsthand is a dream. It’s just wonderful and heartwarming to be here,” she said.
Yolanda Sierra, of Long Beach, said “We all loved ‘I Love Lucy.’ And we loved Ricky (Desi’s character on the show). Our hearts are beating because we all grew up watching the show with our families.“
Sierra had gone out to purchase a large heart that she presented to Arnaz after the show.
Editor’s note: This story includes additional quotes from moviegoers that could not be included in the printed edition of the Sun.
With former State Sen. Janet Nguyen now sworn in as First District Supervisor on the Orange County Board of Directors, State Senate District 36 voters will now go to the polls to fill the vacant Senate seat. The office of OC Registrar of Voters’ Bob Page said this week that four candidates have qualified to run in the special election called for Feb. 25.
To qualify for the election, candidates must be a citizen of the USA, be registered to vote, have served not more than 12 years in the State Senate and not be convicted of a felony related to bribery, embezzlement, or similar crimes, according to information released by the Registrar.
State Senate District 36 includes all or portions of the following communities, Cypress, Buena Park, Dana Point, Fountain Valley, Garden Grove, Huntington Beach, Los Alamitos, Laguna Beach, Newport Beach, Santa Ana, Seal Beach, San Clemente, Stanton and Westminster.
The candidates include two Democrats and two Republicans. They are:
Julie Diep, an Advocate and registered Democrat.
Jimmy D. Pham, attorney, business owner, and a registered Democrat.
John Briscoe, a broker and business owner is a registered Republican.
Troy Strickland, business owner and currently serving on the Huntington Beach City Council, a registered Republican.
According to OC Vote, the district has about 550,000 voters currently registered as follows:
29.8% -Democratic.
49.5% -Republican.
20.7% -No party preference. The special election winner will serve the remainder of Nguyen’s Senate term, which ends in December of 2026, the Registrar’s Office said.
Neuro-diverse students, some of whom rarely get the chance to venture into new experiences came together recently in Cypress to enjoy a “Taste of Asia” event that provided a chance to get a taste of life in a much different way prepared by kids their own age.
The Beach Cities Chapter of Autism Peer 1 on 1 organized a “Taste of Asia” event to welcome the Lunar New Year for neuro-diverse students from throughout the region, said Alistair Wu, a freshman student at Oxford Academy in Cypress. He said the Lunar New Year celebration featured Asian snacks (from Korea, China and Vietnam), creating Asian crafts such as paper lanterns, watercolor card making, lantern making, and some fun and games.” Dr. Kyle Chang, the first Council member elected in the newly carved out District 3, a majority Asian District, was the guest speaker for the event.
“It is an honor for me to be here today,” said Chang, “not just as a city council member, but as someone who once volunteered with children who were neurodivergent back when I was in college.”
Courtesy Photo Alistair Wu (right) with 12-year-old Lucas Wang at the “Taste of Asia” event in Cypress to celebrate the Lunar New Year.
“It’s remarkable the progress we’ve made as a society since then, not just in our willingness to talk about mental health issues, but also the initiative and advocacy we’re seeing from the next generation,” he said.
Chang praised the nonprofit group for pairing volunteers “with their peers, fostering relationships that enrich both lives.” According to information provided by Autism Peer 1 on 1, that’s exactly why the organization was founded.
Autism Peer 1on1 empowers individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) by fostering meaningful connections, creating supportive environments for personal growth and building a more inclusive society.
By educating neurotypical teenagers, Peer 1 on 1 encourages innovative solutions and prepares them to advocate for supportive policies and practices, it said.
“I know how important it is for community programs to get support from their community. Whether you volunteer, donate, or simply spread the word, you’re helping ensure these programs continue to change lives,” said Chang.
“Together, I sincerely believe we’re making a more welcoming and inclusive community for everyone,” he said. The Beach Cities Branch of Peer 1 on 1 is made up of all student volunteers, said Wu, including Mason Ghose, Marketing Director, Arts & Activities Director Katelin Tang, and a host of student volunteers.
“Peer 1 on 1 is an organization that supports in your diverse children with special and special needs children in general. So, for our branch, we mostly focus on our and STEM related activities. So, this event, specifically is to promote awareness about social issues regarding neuro-diverse children, as well as promote Asian culture,” said Wu.
“This is a way for neurotypical and neuro-diverse children to be able to interact more with others, since usually there tends to be like a barrier,” said Marketing Director Ghose.
Dr. Yuping Mao, the adult volunteer of the Beach Cities Branch, said 10 special needs families participated and that approximately 20 local Peer students had volunteered to help.
In addition, Mao said “neuro-diverse” is a relatively new term adopted to refer to those on formerly called “autistic” or on the Autism spectrum.
Erni and John Wang are the parents of 12-year-old Lucas. In an interview with ENE, the parents said their son’s participation in Peer1 on 1 “has been a blessing.”
Courtesy Photo Pictured, L-R Zhanqi Cheng, Founder and Director of Peer 1 on 1, Dr. Yuping Mao, Adult leader of the Beach Cities Branch, Erni Wang, special needs mother and Erica Baweek, high school volunteer mother. They were photographed at the Cypress event.
Lucas is highly functioning, yet on the spectrum, they said his mom, Erni. She said activities sponsored by Peer 1 on 1 have truly induced progress in Lucas’ ability to communicate.
She said Lucas enjoyed the Cypress event, but a tennis program sponsored by Peer 1 on 1 has given Lucas a chance to learn the sport and helped him communicate.
“I can see the growth in him and his tennis skills,” said Erni, saying they “way they teach him is calm, patient, and very effective.”
John Wang, Lucas’ dad, said the fact that these student volunteers are closer to his age makes a huge difference.
They understand that there’s going to be some limitations, yet they are very understanding like the people that they’re supporting,” said Gray. “That is really refreshing to be in an environment where they’re nurtured to do what they want to do and explore their creativity.”
Information provided by Mao indicated that collaborations with youth organizations have expanded our reach, and generous grants from Autism Speaks, the California Department of Developmental Services, and corporate sponsors like Qualcomm and Boeing have allowed us to enhance the Peer 1 on 1 program.
Students work together on projects and get a “Taste of Asia” during Peer 1 on 1 event in Cypress. Courtesy photo
“Our primary focus is providing social and recreational activities for youth with autism, helping them build friendships and develop critical social skills in a supportive, peer-based environment,” she said.
Recognizing the limited services available after individuals age out of public school, the program offers affected families a variety of additional services and programs.
Autism Peer 1 on 1 seeks to empower individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder by fostering meaningful connections by creating supportive environments for personal growth, and the “Taste of Asia” event in Cypress was a great example of the organizational impact of the effort.
he Los Alamitos Recreation and Community Services Department is proud to announce that the Universal Waste Systems (UWS) Race on the Base is back! The ever-popular Reverse Sprint Triathlon and 5K Run/Walk will occur on Saturday, March 1, at the Los Alamitos Joint Forces Training Base (11200 Lexington Dr., Los Alamitos).
The Reverse Sprint Triathlon consists of a 5K Run, a 13-mile bike, and a 200-meter swim. Registration is now open at www.raceonthebaselosal.com with the 5K Run/Walk priced at $45.99, the Reverse Sprint Triathlon at $106.48, and the Relay-Reverse Sprint Triathlon at $139.48.
After February 23, prices will continue to increase as the event draws near. On-site registration will be available during packet pick-up times on Friday and Saturday. For military, police, and fire personnel, please use the discount code “HERO2025” for a $10 discount during registration. Military, police, or fire identification will be required at packet pick-up. Gather your friends and family and join us for what is going to be a fun-filled day. According to the city, here is the event information.
Race on the Base coming soon to JFTB. Courtesy photo
Date” Event Information. Friday, February 28, 2025 Bib Pick-Up/Registration/Packet Pick-Up The Joint Forces Training Base (11200 Lexington Dr, Los Alamitos, CA 90720) 3:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Saturday, March 1, 2024 5:30 a.m. – Bib Pick-Up/Registration/Packet Pick-Up 5:30 a.m. – Transition Area Open 7:00 a.m. – Reverse Triathlon Wave 1 Starts 7:15 a.m. – 5K Run/Walk Start 8:30 a.m. – Reverse Triathlon Wave 2 Start For more information, please visit www.cityoflosalamitos.org/recreation or contact the Recreation and Community Services Department at (562) 430 – 1073.
Get ready to wine down and say cheese! On Saturday, February 15, 2025, the Festival of Arts invites guests to “Tasting with the Masters,” a one-of-a-kind wine and cheese experience held on the iconic Pageant of the Masters stage. This special event is presented by The Da Vinci Guild, with proceeds supporting the arts and programming at the Festival of Arts and Pageant of the Masters. Space is limited and tickets are available to purchase online at www.foapom.com/tasting.Taking place during the long Valentine’s Day and President’s Day weekend, this event offers attendees the rare opportunity to step onto the Pageant of the Masters stage for a behind-the-scenes look at set pieces and sculptures that will be used in the upcoming summer production, “Gold Coast: Treasures of California.” With only 50 spots available, “Tasting with the Masters” is the perfect outing for couples, friends, or anyone seeking a memorable and arts-inspired event. From 3:30pm to 6pm, guests will indulge in perfectly paired wines and artisanal cheeses while soaking up the magic of the artistic ambiance.
“This is an extraordinary chance to enjoy a fun afternoon on the Pageant stage while supporting the arts,” said Sharbie Higuchi, Marketing and PR Director for the Festival of Arts. “Not only will you enjoy exceptional wine and cheese, but you’ll also have the rare opportunity to meet the talented people behind the Pageant, including our esteemed Pageant Director, Diane Challis Davy.”
Tickets for “Tasting with the Masters” are $150 per person, with Festival of Arts members receiving a discounted rate of $125 per person. Festival membership starts at just $60 per year, offering perks such as early ticket access, free admission to the Fine Art Show, and exclusive invitations. To learn more about joining membership, visit foapom.com/membership. This event is presented by The Da Vinci Guild, a philanthropic club founded by the Pageant volunteers in spring 2021 to produce fundraising events in support of the Festival of Arts of Laguna Beach and Pageant of the Masters. This philanthropic club’s activities are independent from and not affiliated with the Pageant or Festival management. 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. \
PThe Festival of Arts, a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization, has long been a cornerstone of Laguna Beach’s cultural landscape, fostering both community growth and artistic expression. Founded in 1932, its mission is to promote, produce, and support events that celebrate the arts through appreciation, education, and performance. For over 90 years, the Festival of Arts has proudly hosted two premier events: the Festival of Arts Fine Art Show and the Pageant of the Masters. Together, these iconic shows draw more than 200,000 visitors to Laguna Beach each year. For more information, visit www.LagunaFestivalofArts.org or call (949) 494-1145.
The Queen Mary is proud to announce Roots & Rhythm: Honoring the Past, Celebrating the Future, an inaugural Black History Month celebration taking place on Sunday, February 23, 2025, at the iconic ship. For the first time ever, The Queen Mary will bring the vibrant culture of Leimert Park to life, transforming it into a hub celebrating the profound influence of Black artistry and storytelling. From visual arts to spoken word performances, guests will experience the creativity and resilience that define Black culture in Los Angeles and beyond.
“We invite everyone to come together to celebrate the roots, rhythms, and stories that define and shape Long Beach’s diverse community,” said Steve Caloca, Managing Director of the Queen Mary. “This event reflects our deep commitment to honoring the rich history of the past while elevating the artists, innovators, and changemakers who are building the future.” As part of the ongoing Queen Mary Cultural Events Series, this immersive event will highlight the history, art, and cultural significance of Leimert Park, a landmark of African American creativity and activism in Los Angeles. Guests will have the opportunity to experience live performances, including spoken word, music, and dance, that showcase both traditional and contemporary expressions of Black artistry on board the historic ocean liner. Attendees can also visit local vendors and artisans offering handcrafted goods, artwork, and products from Black-owned businesses, further enriching the cultural experience.
In addition to artistic showcases, Roots & Rhythm: Honoring the Past, Celebrating the Future will foster community dialogue through discussions and storytelling sessions that explore the lasting impact of African American heritage and its influence on culture today. More details, including a full lineup of performers and featured artists, will be announced soon. Caloca adds, “This celebration is a powerful opportunity to honor the creativity, resilience, and rich contributions of the African American community while fostering connection and unity.”
Those interested in participating as vendors or performing artists are encouraged to reach out to Hayley Myles at Hayley.Myles@queenmary.com for more information.
Roots & Rhythm: Honoring the Past, Celebrating the Future is 11am PST to 6pm PST. Tickets are $15 per person for ages 3 and up. For more information on the Queen Mary, Roots & Rhythm: Honoring the Past, Celebrating the Future, upcoming events, programming, and more visit www.queenmary.com/seasonal-events.htm and queenmary.com/whatsondeck, or connect with us on social @TheQueenMary.
Located in the Port of Long Beach, the Queen Mary features a rich maritime history, authentic Art Deco décor, and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and Long Beach city skyline. At the time of her maiden voyage in May of 1936, she was considered the grandest ocean liner ever built.
There is always something happening at the Queen Mary, be sure to visit queenmary.com/whatsondeck to learn about all their upcoming programming. The Queen Mary’s signature restaurants include the Promenade Café and Chelsea Chowder House & Bar, as well as a weekly Royal Sunday Brunch served in the ship’s Grand Salon. History buffs and visitors of all ages can explore the ship’s museum, tours, and exhibits. The Queen Mary features event space in 14 remarkable Art Deco salons and award winning staff to create innovative banquets for groups ranging from 10 to 5,000. The Queen Mary boasts 250 staterooms including nine full suites. For more information or for reservations, see www.queenmary.com or call(888) 217-1153. The Queen Mary is located at 1126 Queens Highway in Long Beach, California.
The Los Alamitos High girls basketball team will go into the playoffs as a Sunset League Champion, but will be joined by Fountain Valley High, after the Griffins suffered a 43-40 loss to the Barons on Monday night. The Griffins had set themselves up to take the title outright, when they held off Marina High, 56-35 on Saturday at Marina High. The game with the Vikings was a defensive battle in the first quarter, but the Griffins started to pull away in the second.
Marina fought back, but could only get within about 10 points before the Griffins put the game away. Junior guard Tam Yoshida led the Griffins with game-high 21 points and fellow Junior guard Maya Asumbrado knocked down a trio of three-pointers and finished with 11 points.
“I think we executed really well as a team tonight,” Griffins Head Coach Maya De Anda said. The Griffins finished the regular season at 19-8 overall and 9-3 in Sunset League play. Fountain Valley is also 9-3 in league and 18-9 overall. The two may also have to share the league title with Corona del Mar, should the Sea Kings defeat Newport Harbor in a game that was played on Tuesday night (past ENE press time). Either way, all three await the playoff pairings which are scheduled to be released on Saturday.
Marina was led by Senior guard, Maria Tejada, with 12 points and Junior guard, Rylee Bradley, who added nine. The Vikings will await a playoff spot as the fourth place team, or could share third place with CdM, should the Sea Kings fall to rival Newport Harbor.
The change from using precinct in-person voting (schools, club houses, homes) to vote centers occurred in the 2020 elections. In-person voting sites went from 984 to 181(81% reduction). Additionally, 121 drop boxes were added with only 40% having security cameras nearby. In 2022, knowing that the COVID-19 restrictions were lifted, I expected precinct voting to return. Seeing the vote centers and drop boxes still there, I began to investigate through local elected official contacts, website reviews, and Public Records Act requests. The following is what I found.
The California legislature passed SB 450, the Voter’s Choice Act (VCA) in 2016 which allowed counties to change from precinct voting to vote centers and drop boxes. The operative word is allowed. There was no mandate for Orange County to move from precinct voting. To date, 50% of California’s counties still have precinct voting.
Orange County’s Board of Supervisor’s (OC BOS) initially voted in 2017 to not adopt VCA and remain with precinct voting. However, in 2019, the Board of Supervisors with one new member and one vacant position voted to adopt the Voter’s Choice Act. There was also a heavy push from the California Secretary of State.
I was still confused as to why I didn’t receive notices from the Registrar of Voters (ROV) regarding this dramatic change in how I vote. With several ROV Public Records Act submittals, I found out that the only way I would have known about the change was being connected to the OC ROV’s Facebook page, checking the OC ROV’s website and/or checking the OC BOS’s website. This lack of outreach resulted in only 44 OC voters attending the public meeting in August 2019 when Orange County had approximately 1.2 million voters. Two years later, in August 2021, there was another public meeting to review the VCA after its use in 2020. Again, due to the lack of outreach, only 23 people attended, 3 in-person and 20 online. The next review of Orange County’s VCA is going to occur this year, 2025. The Orange County Board of Supervisors can decide to opt out of the vote center model and return to precinct voting. The following are reasons to return to precinct voting:
Security
Increased Security and Integrity in Elections a. Precinct voting uses paper voter rosters; vote centers use electronic poll books which require network connection (routers, wifi) which is also a violation of California’s election code. b. Precinct voting has poll workers that manually check the voter in and have the voter sign the voter roster and put his/her address. c. Reduced use of vote by mail drop boxes which are unmanned and only 40% have security cameras. Costs
Comparison of 2018 and 2022 General Midterm costs show the VCA costs up 25% from the Precinct Voting. a. VCA requires seasonal staffing of 181 vote centers for 4 and 11 days and daily ballot retrieval for 29 days from the 121 VBM dropboxes. b. A comparison of ROV budgets from 2018 to 2022 show an increase of 2.5 million in employee expenses beginning with the 2019/20 budget. Although a Public Records Request was submitted for the costs associated with the 2024 Presidential General Election, the ROV responded that they have 9 months to get that information to the State. Advantages to Precinct Voting
Neighborhood precincts are closer to home, easier and quicker to get to than centralized vote centers. Precincts are usually limited to approximately 1000 -2000 voters max, not 50,000. Orange County has 20% of their vote centers open for 11 days mapped for 50,000 voters with the rest of the centers open for 4 days and mapped for 10,000 voters.
Provable chain of custody (to the voter and from the voter) to the precinct ballot box, one voter, one ballot.
Small number of election workers needed at small precincts, so it’s easier to manage and live stream.
Easy to audit ballots cast in the voter’s precinct. In order to get information about the VCA Registrar of Voters public meetings, please sign up for meeting notices with this link: https://ocvote.gov/voting/election-administration-plan You can also contact Board of Supervisor Janet Nguyen at (714) 834-3110 or Janet.Nguyen@ocgov.com
MAGA’s fuss over diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) occupies fragile space between our ears, leaving many of us scratching our heads wondering, “Why is respecting DEI such a bad thing?” Isn’t DEI the cornerstone of American democracy, equality, and individualism? Blatant attacks on DEI appear to contradict everything Americans represent and value, bewildering even the most intellectual among us.
However, such anti-DEI campaigns may, in fact, prove less contradictory when viewed through MAGA’s transformative socioeconomic goals. Believe it or not, MAGA respects DEI! Just not in the way we’ve been conditioned to appreciate it. Perhaps our concerns are misplaced, frantically attempting to reconcile DEI attacks with democratic values rather than wondering how dismantling DEI initiatives corresponds to the MAGA regime’s objectives.
Some background perspective should bolster my point. Believe it or not, the U.S. economy is anti-democratic and authoritarian. To test this proposition, ask yourself whether you have a voice in developing workplace policies, procedures, resource distribution, and monetary allocation. Not only is your participation in these matters likely overlooked, but plausibly, merely one or a handful of people make all business decisions, including your salary, benefits, working hours, time off, etc. This is anti-democratic authoritarianism at work. U.S. society’s acceptance of social democracy and economic authoritarianism is vital to the neoliberal project unfolding over the past five decades.
However, people are sick of the residual inequities neoliberalism fosters. Unions and labor movements work tirelessly, advocating democratic workplace standards complimentary to social democracy, but historically, wealth and power win out, snubbing any sense of democratic momentum. Similarly, MAGA seeks socioeconomic harmony, not through democracy, but by complementing anti-democratic authoritarian economic standards and a social order that matches our current anti-democratic working conditions. Do you see where this is heading? This highlights the relevance of abandoning DEI initiatives.
MAGA’s populist approach aims to dismantle neoliberal standards while retaining many of its pro-market values. It’s a transformative neoliberal face-lift, mirroring current German ordoliberal ambitions (see the AfD party and Musk’s involvement) of a government-controlled, stratified socioeconomic hierarchy celebrating inequalities to achieve economic success. In this way, MAGA endeavors to prioritize a social paradigm that compliments a modern anti-democratic economy, celebrating anti-democratic inequality in and out of the workplace! As noted, current DEI initiatives assume social unity under a democratic order guided by equitable and individualistic values! However, MAGA’s dismantling of DEI programs is more of an attack on democracy, equality, and freedom than DEI.
Indeed, establishing a controlled, stratified socioeconomic hierarchy that relies on inequalities to function must respect DEI as a prerequisite to entering the game. In other words, equitable inclusion of a diverse population in a stratified socioeconomic system guarantees the inequalities required by U.S. ordoliberalism. MAGA loves diversity, equity, and inclusion so long as inclusion means participating in an authoritarian socioeconomic paradigm that inevitably excludes “others” from participating in governmental decisions—a genuine work/life balance.
The Cypress City Council has agreed to replace the Council member serving as its representative on the Orange County Fire Authority, but not before a bit of confusion and some consternation.
In the first meeting since the Council’s reorganization, former Mayor Pro-tem Bonnie Peat was replaced by Mayor David Burke as the city’s representative on the OCFA Advisory Board.
Despite recommendations from the Orange County Fire Authority and several residents, Burke recommended himself as the most appropriate representative.
“I’m a big believer in having principles in my decision-making,” said Burke, explaining his recommendations for various local boards and commissions, saying he was trying to lead to fair and consistent outcomes.
“And so there were a few principles I tried to rely on in making these assignments. First, I tried to listen to my colleagues and pair them with assignments they were interested in. Second, I tried to maintain continuity to the extent possible, out of respect for the functioning of these boards and committees,” he said.
Burke acknowledged “These are challenging decisions, and we are lucky we have a number of qualified candidates on the council to serve in these different roles.”
Cypress Mayor David Burke.
Courtesy photo
Peat was the city’s representative on the OCFA Board until this meeting. The city acknowledged receiving two letters of recommendation for Peat’s retention on the OCFA Board, one from the union and another from the Chairman. In addition, local citizens turned up to support Peat.
Rob Johnson, twice Mayor and who served eight years on the Council said “I believe Bonnie Peat, who I’ve known for 12 years, would be a good representative for Cypress serving on the OCFA Board. She can handle difficult assignments,” he said.
Another former Mayor, Anne Hertz Mallari said “it’s critical to assign the most qualified who has the most experience” to the post, she said.
Former Mayor Scott Minikus said personal relations were an asset while recommending Peat. “I think that learning about, and getting to know the people on a very personal level on the Orange County Fire Authorityis helpful. With that, I would ask my colleagues to recommend that council member Peat remain on the Orange County Fire Authority. Thank you.”
Pearl Bolter told the Council that she thought Peat was “the right choice” to represent Cypress on the OCFA. “It makes common sense to maintain the people that are on the board instead of replacing them.”
“I’m hoping that 2025 will finally see an end to the decades of cronyism that have existed on this council, so I support Mayor Burke as a fresh new voice on the OCFA. The gentleman is an attorney, a very knowledgeable man, a very smart man, and I think that OCFA would be served well by the Mayor,” he said.
Peat made her case for the re-appointment to OCFA.
The former Mayor Pro-tem resigned from the Vector Control commission (mosquitos) and said she let the mayor, and other city officials, know of her interest to remain as the city’s OCFA representative.
Cypress Council member Bonnie Peat. Courtesy photo
“I did meet with the mayor, letting him know of my interest,” she said “and it had nothing to do with a crony type of attitude,” said Peat.
“So I want to make sure that’s clear, any one of these committees or boards is really for our residents. What’s in the best interests of our residents? It has nothing to do with should I be on this one,” she said.
“Yes, I resigned from Vector Control,” she said, and “I had told the mayor that I’d be willing to do that, and I did do it last week. I served the last two years.”
“So as I go through and I look atthis, and I look at experience and knowledge. I’m sorry, but I’m going to come down. I’m the best choice,” she said. “I want to be on it, and I think it’s in the residents’ best interest,” she said, All of the appointments, she said are “about the residents we are representing.”
Burke said public safety is his top priority and he believed public safety was also the top priority of residents. “I think public safety is my top priority, and if you look at that vision statement on the wall. It’s our city’s top priority. And I think all my colleagues are committed to that,” said Burke.
“I wanted to personally ensure that our city has great representation on Orange County Fire Authority,” he said. At that point, Burke made the motion to approve the appointments, as Peat made a substitute motion to separate the OCFA appointment to her. Her substitute motion was seconded by Council member Scott Minikus.
On Peat’s substitute motion, Minkus and Peat voted yes, while Chang and Mayor Burke voted no. Mayor Pro-tem Leo Medrano, abstained, giving the victory to Peat under the city’s municipal code.
Medrano protested, saying he was told under the city’s code, the abstained vote would count in the affirmative. Fred Galante, the city’s legal advisor, said the city’s municipal code is clear.
This is not the standard from Robert’s Rules of Order or Rosenberg Rules of Order, but it does state in the municipal code that an excused disqualification and abstentions shall be counted by the city clerk as a vote in favor of the particular motion, so that that seems fairly straightforward, and I think that the city clerk had it correct,” said Galante.
City manager Peter Grant, who apparently misread the city’s municipal code, admitting the vote should be taken over because asked earlier, had ill advised the Mayor Pro-tem about an abstention.
“Council member Medrano asked me that question before the vote, and I did not give him the correct answer,” acknowledged Peat. “Mr. Mayor, that was my fault. I apologize, and would suggest that the appropriate thing to do, if council member Medrano desires, would be to take that vote again. That’s my responsibility. I apologize,” he said.
Therefore, on the second vote, Peat and Minikus remained in the affirmative, while Burke, Medrano, and Chang voted no. On the original motion, all the council members voted yes except Peat, who voted no.
Burke will represent the city of Cypress on the OCFA Board.
Jim Klisanin, a businessman and philanthropic pillar of this community, has died. He was 90. Klisanin was a man who left his hardscrabble past in steel country to come out West Coast seeking a better life. He found a community he loved that loved him back.
He was so beloved that he could have been the defacto mayor of Main Street for decades, passed away quietly at home last Friday, according to his family.
Klisanin was a man of old-school values always with an eye to the future whose soft, sometimes scratchy voice was unmistakable and his smile irresistible. His daughter Shana said Jim was sick a bit over the holidays, but it took a turn for the worse and he passed away peacefully on Jan. 17.
Klisanin had over the past couple of years had problems with his heart, and even confided to close friends that he understood his health was deteriorating.
“Daddy was sick over the holidays, then when he declined, we took him home and if it’s your time to go, there’s not a better way,” she said. “He was surrounded by his family in a room full of love,” she said.
She said plans are being finalized for a “Celebration of Life” ceremony at Grace Seacoast Church.
“We’re busy making the arrangements and will let everyone know when it’s planned,” his daughter said.
“Jim Klisanin was a larger-than-life figure in Seal Beach,” said Scott Newton, President of the Seal Beach Lions Club who once said Jim mentored him and asked him to join the Lions Club.
“It was hard to say no to Jim Klisanin,” he said.
“His community involvement and generosity were second to none for more than 40 years. He brought me into the Lions Club, became my mentor, and was a genuine friend,” said Newton.
“He will surely be missed but his legacy will live on,” the Lions Club President said.
In addition to the Lions Club, Klisanin often helped raise funds for numerous youth organizations and projects, including major fundraisers for The Youth Center in Los Alamitos.
“Jim Klisanin’s generosity and leadership have left an indelible mark on our community,” said Lina Lumme, Executive Director of the Youth Center.
“From his dedication to the local Lion’s Club to spearheading The Youth Center’s campaign that raised over $150,000, Jim was a beacon of selflessness and support for our youth. He always had a story to share, spreading warmth and wisdom to those around him. His impact will not be forgotten, and he will be deeply missed,” she said.
“His love for his community was unparalleled. For years, he hosted a cherished annual gathering during the Seal Beach Christmas Parade, inviting over 200 friends and family members to celebrate together,” said Lumme.
“Jim not only fed everyone but also hired bands, creating a lively and welcoming atmosphere that embodied a true sense of community and pride. His generosity and ability to bring people together were a testament to his remarkable spirit and the deep connections he fostered. He will be profoundly missed for sure,”
What brought Klisanin to Seal Beach was a quest for a better life.
Klisanin willed himself to a spot on the Wichita State college team, where he was a standout running back. He headed into coaching and eventually came out West. He first coached at Oak Junior High School in Los Alamitos and found Seal Beach, where he settled in for the rest of his life.
Klisanin founded Baytown Realty 40 years ago and while his daughter took over the business a few years ago, Jim was still as active as possible.
He loved dogs. He loved people. He loved life. Jim never lost touch with those he touched. Recently, Jim had lunch in Los Alamitos with players he coached decades ago at Oak Junior High.
Those boys were now men, some nearing retirement themselves, but they never forgot how Jim Klisanin inspired them. Klisanin truly lived the American Dream. So much so, that he would personally drive his golf cart around town on July 4 to have flags installed around town. He’d give them to friends of people he just met. You could hardly meet Jim without becoming his friend.
At its Jan. 14, meeting, the La Palma City Council recognized Dani Hernandez, administrative secretary for the Police Department, as the 2024 Employee of the Year and Jason Hong, recreation coordinator in the Community Services Department, as the 2024 Supervisor/Professional Employee of the Year.
Hernandez joined the Police Department in 2015 as the administrative secretary. During her tenure she has provided vital administrative support to ensure the smooth functioning of daily departmental operations. She expertly manages the administrative side of the Police Department, keeping command staff organized and on track with their duties, meetings, and deadlines. With her cheerful attitude, unwavering dedication, and strong work ethic, Hernandez is essential to the Police Department’s success and excellent reputation. Beyond her reliability and intelligence, Hernandez brings joy and camaraderie to the workplace by celebrating employee birthdays and accomplishments.
Hong joined the City’s Community Services Department in 2023 as a senior recreation leader and quickly advanced to recreation coordinator. He has become an essential leader on the recreation and community events team, driving innovation in events like the Festival of Nations, Halloween Carnival, and the annual Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony. Hong leads by example, inspiring staff and fostering collaboration. His creativity and proactive problem-solving skills have contributed to the success of numerous events. Moreover, Hong’s dedication enhances the division’s reputation and motivates his team, making him a valuable asset to the department and the community.
Courtesy Photo Jason Hong, (L) with Mayor Pro-tem Nitesh Patel.
The City of La Palma’s Employee of the Year program honors individuals who demonstrate exceptional job performance, make significant contributions to the work environment, and uphold high standards of personal conduct. Each year, City staff select two individuals who consistently exemplify these high standards. The City of La Palma thanks and commends these dedicated City employees for their service and contributions to making La Palma one of the best places to live and work!
Ironically, during a discussion of a “Code of Conduct” now adopted by the La Palma City Council, Mayor Mark Walden arbitrarily shut down the debate during its January meeting because he apparently thought one Council member was giving the public too much of an inside look.
Council member Janet Keo Conlin was taking issue with a “Code of Conduct” for the City Council that forces two members of the Council to agree to put any item on the city’s public meeting agenda for discussion.
Since being elected, Keo Conklin has lost several 4-1 votes, repeatedly calling for more transparency from city officials. Even before discussing the Code of Conduct, Keo Conklin again asked the City Council to consider using some of the technology funding they just approved to provide video and audio access.
She read a letter from a Stanton resident who read about the city’s recent refusal to provide such transparency after reading about it in the Voice of OC.
“I am not a resident of La Palma, but I have been following the news coverage,” the resident wrote.
“It is very important to have an accurate and assessable record of the business conducted by the city,” the resident said, adding that “we are at the point technologically that the barriers to have accurate recording and streaming of city council members is no longer burdensome from a technical or financial perspective.”
La Palma is only one of the two OC cities that refuse to provide video access. Even though the city recently spent $50,000 for new microphones, quality still suffers during discussions where residents who do listen cannot see who is speaking. “The residents of La Palma should not be left in the dark,” they wrote.
After a detailed appeal from Keo Conklin to consider using part of the technology funding to add video to the audio access, her motion died for the lack of a second.
So when it came to the Code of Conduct, she suggested that the 4-1 requirement was little more than a provision to silence her vote, similar to what the Council has done in Cypress to politically neuter former Council member Frances Marquez. “Council member Baker takes it upon herself to rewrite a whole Council manifesto,” said Keo Conklin, “and this is not right.” “While it is not okay for one Councilmember to put any item on the agenda, why is it okay for a single Council member to write a Code of Conduct,” suggested Keo Conklin.
“There’s a lot of redlining in here,” she said.
When City Manager Conal McNamara asked for public comment on the Code of Conduct, Keo Conklin asked how residents’ could possibly comment if they hadn’t read it.
No residents commented.
McNamara said it was posted as part of the agenda to the city’s website at least 72 hours before the meeting “required by law.”
Mayor Pro-tem Nitesh Patel argued a Code of Conduct requiring two namely to support any item being added to the agenda was being used in other places, including Cypress.
He tried to explain to Keo Conklin that the new Code was simply meant to force Council members to work together. “That’s what Council members are supposed to do,” he said, “is to talk amongst each other so we don’t have another incident similar to what you brought us with the Chamber of Commerce,” directed Patel.
“You brought a Chamber of Commerce in here and wanted money to be pushed to yourself (to the Chamber) which would have been a lot of trouble for us and a conflict of interest,” he added.
“It would have been better to discuss it with the other Council members, so they have given you that same feedback,” the Mayor Pro-tem said. “We’re not doing anything outside the norm.”
Cypress is being sued in federal court by Marquez over the treatment she received while on the Council. Keo Conklin was undaunted and continued.
“So what the Code of Conduct is saying is this,” she said, “is that, as you can see, I was outnumbered 4-1 because they don’t agree to transparency and accountability, so when I make my requests, my freedom is being taken away because another Council member has to approve this.”
“This Code of Conduct is a result of a situation when one council member decides to take it upon herself to be punitive,” said Keo Conklin.
“So they (other Council members) say ‘this other person is showboating,’ so we are going to find ways to sequester their voice.”
Keo Conklin argued that she was elected city-wide with a third of the city’s vote, representing thousands of residents and should not need any other Council member’s permission to put any issue on the city’s public agenda.
“Let’s go back to ethics right Lhere, and I don’t want to point fingers, but what are we hiding? All four of them say we do not want transparency and accountability. I find that ludicrous.
“If you don’t fall in line, they’re going to find ways to write a new rule book to control your behavior so they don’t want transparency or accountability,” said Keo Conklin.
When she tried to restate the fact that the Council just passed up another opportunity to provide livestreaming, Walden stepped in.
“Council member Conklin, that issue passed,” he said trying to dissuade her.
“As you can see, the Mayor is on their side,” she said, “what is wrong with video streaming, now I put my…..” Waldman stopped her mid-statement, and said “I’m going to declare a five-minute recess.“
When they finally returned to the dias, Waldman said “Councilmember Keo Conklin, you have the floor.”
“I don’t have anything else to say. Thank you.” The Council adopted the Code of Conduct 4-1. Keo Conklin voted no.
The Cypress Chamber of Commerce will host the President of Cypress College, Scott Thayer, as our guest speaker at the February Networking Breakfast. Our event will be held Tuesday, February 11 at the Residence Inn by Marriott at 4931 Katella Avenue, Cypress/Los Alamitos starting at 7:30 a.m. Dr. Thayer will share an update on his tenure at the college this past year, plus some of the unique initiatives he has begun to undertake at Cypress College. He’ll give a quick overview of the State of the College and the Cypress College Foundation, current enrollment, wellness and other accomplishments. He will also take questions from the audience, time permitting.
Dr. Scott W. Thayer is the 13th President of Cypress College and has served since January, 2024. Dr. Thayer has 24 years of higher education experience in a variety of administrative roles. Prior to his selection as Cypress College’s president, he served as the Vice President of Student Services at San Bernardino Valley College from 2017-2023, where he also served as Interim President. He has a doctorate from USC and a Master of Arts in Counseling and Guidance degree from Point Loma Nazarene University in California, a B.A. from Rollins College in Florida, and an A.A. from Normandale Community College in Minnesota.
Throughout his career, Dr. Thayer has advocated for equity in higher education. He has served as a Strategic Enrollment Management coach through the state Chancellor’s Office Institutional Effectiveness Partnership Initiative and as a member of the Partnership Resource Teams that provide technical assistance in support of student access, retention, K-20 partnerships and equity and success initiatives. He is an established grant writer and has secured over $15M in TRIO grant and Hispanic Serving Institution funding to assist students in their pursuit of a higher education. He and his wife Maria are proud parents of their daughters Maya Xochitl and Marisol.
Each Chamber breakfast attendee will also have an opportunity to stand to introduce themselves and share a little about their business before the program begins.
Reservations are highly recommended to secure your spot for the monthly breakfasts and can be made online. Cost of the breakfast is $25.00. Early Bird Registration is $20.00. Attendees are also encouraged to bring a door prize to promote their product or service. The program will include time for live networking, self-introductions, a breakfast buffet, as well as our guest speaker.
The Chamber networking breakfasts, which are open to the public, are held on the second Tuesday of every month. Space at these events is limited. To assure your seat, pre-register on the chamber website: https://www.cypresschamber.org/events/details/2025-february-networking-breakfast-2743.
On Saturday, February 22, 2025, the Long Beach Arena will come alive with the electrifying sounds of female artists who defined rock and pop music, powered by the instrumental brilliance of Long Beach Symphony. Celebrate Valentine’s season at the Pops with an unforgettable evening of music, dinner, and dancing!
Audiences will enjoy the vibrant dance floors flanking the stage as they groove to the music of legends like Tina Turner, Pat Benatar, Heart, Carole King, Janis Joplin, Holly Knight, Aretha Franklin, Minnie Riperton, and more. Women of Rock pays tribute to the powerful female performers and songwriters who forever changed the landscape of Pop and Rock & Roll. Featured hits include I Feel the Earth Move, What’s Love Got to Do With It, Proud Mary, Hit Me With Your Best Shot, Freeway of Love, (You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman, and many more.
Long Beach Symphony, now celebrating its 90th season, is thrilled to welcome back to the Pops stage guest conductor Susie Seiter, a renowned orchestrator and conductor for film, television, video games, and live concerts. Joining her are three powerhouse vocalists: Broadway and solo artist Shayna Steele, film and television soundtrack star Kelly Levesque, and Broadway sensation Katrina Rose. This concert promises a mix of high-energy dance hits, heartfelt ballads, and nostalgic classics brought to life by the Symphony’s dynamic brass, strings, and percussion and the amazing female performers. The Long Beach Symphony Pops is known for its lively, party-vibe atmosphere that encourages patrons to bring their picnic baskets, libations, and dancing shoes. Dinner can also be pre-ordered and delivered directly to tables.
“We’re thrilled to bring Women of Rock to the stage,” said Kelly Ruggirello, President of Long Beach Symphony. “We will be celebrating Valentines’ month at the Pops and our 90th season celebration with music that uplifts, empowers, and speaks to and for us. Patrons will feel inspired and energized by their symphony and the legacy of these legendary artists and timeless songs.” Event Details Date: Saturday, February 22, 2025 Time: Doors open at 6:00 PM for indoor picnicking; concert begins at 7:30 PM Dining: Bring your own food and drinks or pre-order dinner for table delivery at longbeachsymphony.org/dining Dance Floors: Located on either side of the stage—don’t forget your dancing shoes! Location: Long Beach Arena, 300 E Ocean Blvd, Long Beach, CA 90802 Tickets: Individual tickets start at $35. Visit Ticket Link Subscriptions: Partial subscription packages are still available at Subscription Link Learn More: longbeachsymphony.org
Members of Da’ Hawaii Seniors Club of Cerritos were treated to few surprises at their first meeting on January 23, 2025. The Chinese Lunar Year of the Snake will start on January 29, 2025, and will end on February 16, 2026. In anticipation of the start of the Lunar Year of the Snake, Ann Kho and her Angklung Group of Cerritos performed the Chinese song, Gong XI, an Indonesian song with drums, and other songs with their bamboo Angklungs. Frances McCormick and Ping Chen later sang a Chinese New Year Blessing Song in Mandarin.
Pictured at the January 23, 2025, meeting of Da’ Hawaii Seniors Club at the Cerritos Senior Center are the Angklung Group of Cerritos at left, and Director Ann Kho, in front of the board, pointing out note numbers for the Angklung Group to play. Photo by Edna Ethington
According to Wikipedia, people born in the Chinese Lunar Year of the Snake are considered by the Chinese to be lucky, because just as snakes shed their skin and emerge stronger. Year of the Snake people are associated with intelligence, intuition, wisdom, transformation, and renewal.
Club members joined Hedy Anduha as she led the singing of Happy Birthday in Hawaiian and English to the January birthday celebrants who were present at the meeting. The lucky celebrants included Meling Agcaoili, Annette Clary, Lucio Forte, Helen Limbo, Karen Richards, and Patsy Tsuda.
As part of the meeting, the Refreshment Committee provided Mandarin oranges, almond cookies, and a special Indonesian dish with beef, vegetables and noodles. The noodle dish was generously donated by Anne Kho with wishes for long life for everyone. Refreshment Committee members Bette Kurihara, Frances McCormick, and Anne Ohara plan and serve some refreshments that are paid by the club at monthly club meetings. They also serve other refreshments that members donate and want to share.
Since President Carmelita Tiongson was ill and not able to be present, Program VP Rosaria Loke Manetta served as President Pro Tem. “Loke” in Hawaiian means “rose.” Loke invited Larry Anduha to lead the Pledge of Allegiance at the beginning of the meeting and asked John Yanagihara to lead the singing of Hawaii Ponoi. She later conducted the business meeting and received reports from VP of Membership Myrna Matsuno, Treasurer Ken Matsuno, and other board members. Loke then introduced the fun program for the night, free Bingo games, with a chance to win prizes. Irene Perry helped to call the Bingo numbers and members were delighted to win gift certificates and other donated prizes.
Pictured at the meeting of Da’ Hawaii Seniors Club on January 23, 2025, at the Cerritos Senior Center are the January Birthday Celebrants, left to right, Annette Clary, Patsy Tsuda, Helen Limbo, Meling Agcaoili, Karen Richards, and Lucio Fonte. Photo by Edna Ethington
The meeting ended with members gathering in a circle and singing Hawaii Aloha and Aloha O’e , as they joined in singing the songs that were led by Hedy Anduha.
Recording Secretary Helen Limbo later sent a flyer to remind members to go to the Festival of Friendship at the Los Cerritos Center on Saturday, February 1, from noon to 4 p.m. to see different cultures presented in dance and music. She asked members to support club members by going to the Sears Stage at 1 p.m. to see the Da’ Hawaii Seniors Club’s Na Kupuna Wahine O’ Cerritos, and the Angklung Group of Cerritos at 3 p.m. At 2:25 p.m, the club’s members of Na’ Ipo Hula will be performing at the Forever 21 Stage.
The public is invited to come to the Festival of Friendship on February 1, from noon to 4 p.m. at the Los Cerritos Center to enjoy the multicultural performances in music and dance.
Cypress College is one of the top 100 community colleges in the nation, according to the U.S. Department of Education. As part of the agency’s new Raise the Bar Initiative, Cypress College has been recognized for excellence. Selection is based on student success metrics — highlighting both the work of students and the work of employees who deliver instruction and support students along their journey.
“In preparing our application, I saw the best of Cypress College,” Dr. Scott Thayer said. The Department of Education’s Postsecondary Success Recognition Program launched in April 2024 and colleges were notified of their eligibility for the award in October. The program uses data and evidence to identify institutional exemplars of inclusive excellence across the country.
“The purpose of this program is to recognize institutions that serve as engines of economic mobility by supporting all students to complete affordable credentials of value that prepare them well to participate in the workforce, their communities, and our democracy,” said Dr. Nasser Paydar, Assistant Secretary for Postsecondary Education.
“Imagine a world where schools with the most Pell Grant recipients are ranked highest in U.S. News and World Report, where ‘prestige’ is defined by preparing graduates well to enter the workforce and lead fulfilling lives and careers—sometimes right in their own communities,” U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona said in announcing the program. “Instead of giving schools high marks for the number of students they turn down, we want to recognize schools doing the most to lift students up.”
“The first group of colleges selected to apply were picked based on several metrics, including access, completion and postgraduation outcomes,” Inside Higher Education wrote. Of the 200 colleges, half are community colleges, while the other 100 predominantly grant bachelor’s degrees. A majority of the institutions are either minority-serving or serve a large proportion of low-income students.”
It it’s ACCJC Connect newsletter, the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges noted that the Department of Education looks for data-driven decision making. The Department focuses on four key tactics that institutions can consider using to promote data-driven inquiry and continuous improvement on their campuses:
Creating a culture and capacity for data-driven improvement
Using the metrics that matter for increasing student success
Conducting key analyses to identify and remove barriers to student success
Using data to select and evaluate success strategies.
On February 8, 2025, Segerstrom Center for the Arts has announced it will host the world premiere of The Musicians of Bremen Live!, a vibrant new family show inspired by Grimm’s Fairy Tale. It’s a co-production between Segerstrom Center and Cahoots NI, the renowned Northern Irish theater company known for creating captivating productions for children and families.
Set in the American Southwest, the story follows four animals on an epic journey across the desert as they strive to become a famous musical band. This production celebrates imagination, adventure, and the power of collaboration, making it perfect for families seeking memorable experiences.
This premiere would make for an exciting story, not just for its enchanting narrative, but also in highlighting the artistic collaboration behind it. It underscores Segerstrom Center’s commitment to commissioning original family programming and creating opportunities for Orange County families to experience world-class theater close to home.
About the Show: The Musicians of Bremen Live! follows Ruffles, a hen with a voice powerful enough to stop a freight train. Lost in the desert, she teams up with Mule, Bobcat, and Coyote. Together, they embark on a journey full of music, mischief, and surprises, aiming for stardom in the big city. With live music, storytelling, and song, this modern retelling of the beloved fairy tale promises to captivate audiences of all ages.
Inspiration: Based on the Brothers Grimm’s tale The Musicians of Bremen, the original story highlights four aging animals who, mistreated by their owners, decide to reinvent themselves as musicians. This new production brings a fresh spin, blending the classic narrative with the warmth of the Southwest.
The Rossmoor Community Services District Board of Directors has elected Nathan Searles to serve as President for the coming year.
The district held its reorganization at its meeting in January.
The election of Searles came only after an unsuccessful nomination by outgoing Board President Michael Maynard of Director Tony DeMarco.
Maynard had earlier given a very optimistic “State of District” report, adding that “we have a lot of challenges ahead of us. This year, we have a new general manager coming in, a new accountant, and a new accounting company,” he said.
“We have had a succession of leadership that I stand by so I would like to first nominate First Vice President Tony DeMarco.”
The motion died for the lack of a second. Demarco then nominated Jo Shade as President, a motion that also died for the lack of a second.
Director Jo Shade then nominated Searles as president, and the motion passed by a vote of 5-0. Following Searles election, newly elected Director Mary Ann Remnet was elected first vice president, and Shade was elected 2nd vice president.
Searles then presented a plaque and resolution to Maynard for his more than a decade of service to the RCSD, including five of those years as president. “Michael helped guide the district to a strong financial outlook,” said Searles. “Our reserves have increased to approximately one year’s operating expenses in reserve,” he said.
“The district earned a clean and unmodified audit report with no material weaknesses,” said Searles.
“President Maynard advocated on behalf of Rossmoor residents regarding many community traffic and county road issues,” he continued, along with “street sweeping changes, zip code issues and collaborated with elected officials for many improvements in the district’s parks and facilities.”
“By this proclamation, we acknowledge and commend outgoing President Michael Maynard for demonstrating outstanding leadership and dedicated service to the Rossmoor Community Services District,” said Searles.
During the meeting, the board also heard from Lina Lumme, the Executive Director of The Youth Center, a nonprofit organization with which the district has become a strategic partner for many programs.
She thanked General Manager Joe Mendoza and Recreation Manager Chris Argueta and others for being so cooperative with the Center.
“They are always there for us,” she told the Board, who she thanked “for allowing us to serve this community. Not just during the summer but all year long,” said Lumme.
The Youth Center sponsors several programs that collaborate with local schools to provide creative activities and learning opportunities for children and students.
In other action, during the oral communications section, local resident Michele Fieldson took issue with the General Manager’s assertion in the staff report about the District’s new tennis court resurfacing project “boasting that Rossmoor’s $61,000 project was more resourceful than the $183,000 effort by Los Alamitos.”
“His (Mendoza’s) comparison is misleading and unfairly maligns our neighbors (Los Al),” she said. said.
Fieldson said the funds spent by Rossmoor were “towards resurfacing courts that had three to five years of life remaining and did not need immediate attention.”
“Meanwhile, critical projects like Rossmoor Parks playground have reached the end of its useful life in 2022, yet remain deferred,” she said.
“Likewise, a shade canopy promised in 2019 is still unfinished,” she added.
Fieldson said the Los Al project “was not a simple resurfacing project. It involved major repairs, fencing and amenities.” In short, “comparing these two projects is apples to oranges,” she said. Fieldson said “Mr. Mendoza provided only his summary of the bids for review, which raises serious ethical questions,” she added.
Others, including residents Susan and Robert Kaplan, also were critical of the general manager’s assertion over the issue.”
“I am floored, frankly, that Mr. Mendoza would want to draw attention to it, because by comparison, Los Alamitos did a masterful job,” said Susan Kaplan. She gave detailed listings of why the Los Alamitos project cost more, and when Searles nudged her away from the microphone with the 3-minute limit, her husband Robert jumped up to finish reading the blistering comparison using his three minutes.
In other action, Searles asked the district to tighten up the practices of using one of the District’s credit cards.
Editor’s note: This article has been edited to reflect more accurate reporting of the process of the election of officers and to delete a reporting error that asserted that President Maynard’s motion to nominate Tony Demarco failed on a a 3-2 vote. There was no vote because the motion died from the lack of second. The ENE regrets the error.
