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La Palma pays respect to former Mayor Ed Byrne who passed away. He was 92.

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La Palma pays respect to former Mayor Ed Byrne who passed away. He was 92.

The City of La Palma is saddened to announce the passing of former Mayor Edward J. Byrne, a respected civic leader, accomplished engineer, and longtime public servant, who died on April 24, 2026, at the age of 92.

Edward J. Byrne devoted much of his adult life to professional excellence and public service, leaving a lasting imprint on both the City of La Palma and the aerospace industry. After serving four years in the United States Air Force, where he specialized in aircraft maintenance, he earned a degree in mechanical engineering from the Indiana Institute of Technology. He went on to a distinguished career at Rockwell, contributing to some of the nation’s most significant aerospace achievements, including the Apollo space missions in the 1960s and the development of the Space Shuttle program in the 1970s.

In 1971, Byrne began his 13-year tenure on the La Palma City Council, including serving as Mayor from 1972 to 1976 and again from 1983 to 1984. His leadership came during a formative period in the City’s growth, and he is widely recognized for his thoughtful and impactful role in guiding La Palma’s development.

Mayor Byrne played a pivotal role in shaping the City’s economic and recreational landscape. In 1972, he helped advance the development of the 35-acre industrial park on Fresca Drive, which remains a central hub of business and economic activity in La Palma. In 1984, he was instrumental in the groundbreaking of Centerpointe La Palma, then Orange County’s most innovative multi-use business park.

His contributions extended beyond economic development. Byrne was a strong advocate for community spaces and quality of life initiatives. He helped lead the development of La Palma’s Central Park, overseeing its groundbreaking and dedication in 1975. Today, the park continues to serve as a vital gathering place for recreation and community events.

Throughout his public service, Byrne was known for his forward-thinking approach, steady leadership, and dedication to building a thriving, family-oriented community. His legacy is visible in the City’s infrastructure, parks, and economic vitality.

La Palma Mayor Nitesh P. Patel reflected on Byrne’s legacy, stating, “Former Mayor Byrne was a visionary leader whose contributions helped shape the very foundation of our City. His commitment to thoughtful development, community spaces, and public service continues to benefit generations of La Palma residents. We are deeply grateful for his leadership and enduring impact.”

In addition to his civic and professional accomplishments, Byrne was a devoted husband and father. He is survived by his wife, Marilyn; his children, Margaret, Edward, and Jean Marie; six grandchildren; and one great-grandson.

The City of La Palma extends its heartfelt condolences to the Byrne family and honors former Mayor Byrne’s enduring legacy of leadership, service, and commitment to the community.

U.S. Army Reserve names winners of military top chef competition at JFTB

David N. Young
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U.S. Army Reserve names winners of military top chef competition at JFTB

Courtesy photo
After days of intense competition, skill-building, and nonstop execution during the past week at Joint Forces Training Base in Los Alamitos, the U.S. Army Reserve Culinarian of the Year results are in, according to Lt. Col. Dino De La Hoya, public information officer for the 79th Sustainment Command. “Our soldiers put their training to the test and raised the standard every step of the way,” the command said in a public statement. Here are the winners (L-R), Mystery Basket Challenge: 103rd Expeditionary Sustainment Command, and NCO Culinarian of the Year was Sgt. Alexander Clark. Runner-up was Sgt. Fabian Marshall. Soldier of the Year is SPC. Adam Coleson, while the runner-up Soldier of the Year is SPC Miguel Alvarez. All of the winners are attached to the 103rd Expeditionary Sustainment Command, military officials said. Overall, they said the 2nd annual culinary competition was exciting and well done. “A well-earned congratulations to all of our award winners for setting the standard and representing excellence at every level.”

U.S. Congressman Derek Tran, who has served the U.S. Army Reserve and was himself once military culinary chef, speaks to the contestants at Joint Forces Training Base in Los Alamitos.

Da’Hawaii Seniors Club enjoys singing and learning about history of Hula dancing

Edna Ethington
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Da’Hawaii Seniors Club enjoys singing and learning about history of Hula dancing

Members of Da’ Hawaii Seniors Club of Cerritos enjoyed singing songs, watching hula performances, and learning more about the History of Hula at their monthly meeting on Thursday, April 23, 2026, at the Cerritos Senior Center in Cerritos.

President Carmelita Tiongson started the meeting by welcoming members and guests and asking David Ethington to lead the Pledge of Allegiance. Members Winona Chang, Gloria Kunimoto, Glenda Ujiie, and Gladys Yoshii then led members in singing Hawai’i Pono’i.

Carmelita conducted the club’s business meeting and the secretary’s minutes were approved by members. Treasurer Ken Matsuda reported that the club account has $8,514.35, with 56% of its 110 members being Cerritos residents.

Ohana (Hawaiian for family) Care member Annie Kelly reported that Get Well cards were sent to four members and a Sympathy Card and a donation were sent to Rosita San Miguel.

Her husband, Ben San Miguel, recently passed away. Susan McCormick shared information about Ben and Rosita, who were married for 66 years and met in high school.

Hedy Anduha shared some memories about Ben and Rosita, who were members of DHSC for many years. Carmelita spent a few minutes for a silent prayer for Ben.

As part of Ohana, the club celebrates the birthdays of club members every month. Hedy Anduha led the club in singing “Happy Birthday” in English and Hawaiian to April birthday celebrants Aida Kull, Georgina Onaga, Carmelita Tiongson, and Glenda Ujiie.

Carmelita made announcements about the performances that members would be participating in in April, including La Palma’s Festival of Friendship on April 5, and City of Cerritos Talent Show telecast on Channel 3 on April 24-26. She asked for volunteers to continue to sign up for a time to help secure the club’s picnic date in September. She said that the club still had access to use the Maple Room on second Thursdays of the month, so Ann Kho asked for the Angklung Group to use it on July 9 and was approved.

She also said that she would be at the “Spring Cleaning and Inventory” of the ”Cage,” where the club’s supplies are stored, on May 14, with volunteers Frances McCormick, Helen Limbo, and Edna Ethington. Edna asked whether club members wanted to still serve coffee and tea at meetings. With no one volunteering to lead the Refreshment Committee there will be no snacks or drinks at meetings. Members are reminded to bring their own snacks, water, coffee, or tea for meetings.

After the business meeting, there was a special presentation by Susan McCormick about the History of Hula. Susan read two pages about how hula was seen in the 1800’s and following years. Before the missionaries came in 1820, hula was seen by native Hawaiians as a sacred tradition. However, the missionaries thought that the hula was a “heathen song and dance.” When Queen Ka’ahumanu became a Christian convert in 1830, she issued an edict that banned hula from public performances.

It became illegal to tell the story of Hawaiian history with hula chants and dances, but this did not stop the Hawaiian people. They kept practicing the sacred hula chants and dances in secret and passed it on to kumu hula (teachers of hula), and to their children and grandchildren.

When King David Kalakaua took the throne in 1874, he put hula at the center of his celebration of his coronation at Iolani Palace which lasted for two weeks. He asked elders from all the islands who knew the old dances to come and celebrate his coronation. King Kalakaua said: “Hula is the language of the heart, therefore the heartbeat of the Hawaiian people.”

When Kalakaua died in 1891, hula struggled again and became like a tourist sideshow.

However, in 1968, a festival was created in Kalakaua’s honor, but no one wanted to run it until Dottie Thompson and kumu hula George Na’ope begged kumu hula in Honolulu to bring their halau (hula houses) to the first hula competition at the Hilo Civic Auditorium in 1971. Nine halau came to the first Merrie Monarch Festival in 1971 and about 100 people came to watch.

Today, the Merrie Monarch Festival is one of the most prestigious hula competitions and as many as 4,000 people have come to Hilo for the festival. Dottie Thompson ran the festival until she died in 2010, but her daughter Luana and her granddaughter Kathy have worked to keep her legacy alive. The hula legacy is kept alive in the hearts of the dancers every April in Hilo at the Merrie Monarch Festival.

Members were treated to watching modern hulas performed by Na Ipo Hula (The Hula Sweethearts) as they danced the hulas “Sophisticated Hula,” “That’s the Hawaiian in Me,” and “Aloha Week Hula,” with ukulele and guitar accompaniment by the club’s Audio Tech Group.

After the hula dances, Program VP Loke Manetta presented eight members with raffle prizes of coupons to Trader Joe’s. The meeting ended at 4:00 p.m. with the singing of “Aloha O’e” and “Hawai’i Aloha” by members.

Members and guests are invited to come to the next meeting of Da’ Hawaii Seniors Club on Thursday, May 28, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at the Cerritos Senior Center in Cerritos. Ann Kho is preparing a special program to celebrate Disneyland’s 70th Anniversary and the Angklung Group will be performing. There will also be a sing-along and games to play.

Beachlovers in Sunset get a break. Project on hold till after summer.

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Beachlovers in Sunset get a break. Project on hold till after summer.

By Chris MacDonald

Beach lovers – are you ready for some good news? As required by the permit with The California Coastal Commission, no work on Sunset Beach’s sanitation project can be done between Memorial Day and Labor Day so the area will be covered and cleaned for Summer. Work will resume in early September and is expected to be completed in November. This includes restoring the Greenbelt Park to its original condition, replacing trees, sprinklers and sidewalks as well as the playground.

The project is approximately 2/3 complete. In addition, the parking lot area near Warner at Jack-in-the-Box has been base paved and is open for public parking. This week will include continued installation of pipe in open cut trenches, as well as the preparation of the area and traffic control for the upcoming Sunset Beach Art Festival being held this weekend. The Art Festival is expected to be extended from 10th Street to 19th Street with Broadways closed to traffic to allow safe pedestrian crossing during the festival.

To date, the contractor has installed 1,025’ of pipe in open trench and 960’ of pipe in micro-tunnelling in a few manholes.

Rossmoor Woman’s Club announces dates for annual Spring Garden Tour

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Rossmoor Woman’s Club announces dates for annual Spring Garden Tour

Spring Is Here! May 17, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. is the date and time of the annual 22nd Rossmoor Woman’s Club Spring Outdoor Living and Garden Tour. Six gardens and yards will be featured. Tickets for this community fundraiser are $20 and may be purchased through a club member, online at rossmoorwomansclub.org, or on the day of the event behind the Farmers & Merchants Bank at 12535 Seal Beach Blvd, Seal Beach.

Ticket holders may also attend the Outdoor Marketplace in the F&M Bank parking lot for complimentary refreshments, over 22 boutique vendor booths, an opportunity to purchase plants and gifts from the club’s craft booth, and raffle tickets for the assortment of gift baskets prepared by the club. All net proceeds of this fundraiser go to support local charities and college scholarships for Los Alamitos High School Students.

Come out and join the fun!

Merchants selling tickets are:
Brita’s Old Town Gardens, 225 Main St., Ste A, Seal Beach
Cinnamon Stik, 10641 Los Alamitos Blvd, Los Alamitos
FLAIRE (aka Flags with a Flair),10651 Los Alamitos Blvd, Los Alamitos
McNally Electric & Lighting, 10792 Los Alamitos Blvd, Los Alamitos
Prep Kitchen Essentials, 12207 Seal Beach Blvd, Seal Beach

Warsaw delivers emotional irony about decades long love story

David N. Young
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Warsaw delivers emotional irony about decades long love story

It’s not often that theater lovers get a chance to watch a world premiere play with the award-winning playwright in the house, but British playwright Paul Webb was on hand for Friday at the Beverly O’Neill Theatre in Long Beach for the opening of “Warsaw.”

Webb, is a former professor who wrote his first play after 50, following a career in teaching and several years in the oil industry. His first play, Four Nights in Knaresborough, was produced in London, enjoyed a national tour, and drew the attention of the film industry.

He was subsequently commissioned by Steven Spielberg, Michael Mann, and Ridley Scott, working closely with all three over a number of years. He wrote Selma, the 2014 film about the voting rights campaign in Alabama led by Dr. Martin Luther King. He later returned to theater, and Hold On! premiered at the St. Louis Black Rep in January 2024.

Warsaw, now receiving its world premiere at International City Theatre (ICT) in Long Beach, adds another chapter to a body of work defined by a fascination with history, moral consequence, and the individuals caught inside defining moments.

Directed by ICT artistic director caryn desai (sic), Warsaw is a confident and emotionally precise world premiere, the kind of regional theater work that reminds you why small houses still matter in today’s entertainment-centric world.

The small stage simultaneously allows and compels the actors to focus on their craft. No dazzling special effects, just the raw emotion of an old black-and-white movie as the complex story unfolds.

Suzanne Ford plays Krystyna, the woman fighting for her life. Anna Van Valin plays the doctor. Elias Scoufaras plays the doctor’s estranged fiancé. Spencer Del Carmen plays the truck driver. Bruce Nozick plays the priestly hospital volunteer who believes he once knew Krystyna long ago in Warsaw.

The play neatly holds a war, a love story, and a critique of the American health system in the same quiet room, and it does so with the economy of a talented playwright who knows that restraint, applied correctly, is the most powerful tool in the theater.

Webb has written a particular kind of story that uses a single, suspended moment, a body hovering between life and death, to excavate decades of buried history. Warsaw is a haunting new drama that is quiet on the surface, though seismic underneath, perhaps a chamber piece that uses the confined intimacy of a hospital suite to ask large, uncomfortable questions about capitalism, survival, love, and what we owe the people history forces us to leave behind.

The play evolves around Krystyna, a 72-year-old woman fighting for her life in a Brooklyn hospital following a car accident in the days just after September 11, 2001. As she lies in a medically-induced coma, four very different people are drawn to her bedside: a doctor, the doctor’s estranged (businessman) fiancé, a truck driver (who hit Krystyna after seeing a plane hit the World Trade Center), and a hospital volunteer who believes he once knew her long ago during WWII.

Webb’s unique technique unfolds the story in a marvelous sequential layering that unravels the impact Krystyna’s life has on each of them as they await the outcome of her medical predicament.

The playwright frames the power of love both as modern consequence in the way he resolves the dispute between the doctor and her fiancé and the powerful reunion between the older couple who had not seen each other since 1945.

According to Broadway World, Webb’s “Warsaw” wisely poses the question of whether choices made under duress, occupation, and terror, under impossible circumstances, can ever truly be forgiven or fully understood by those who were not there.

“Warsaw” runs through May 17.

Former Los Al girls basketball standout earns college honors

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Former Los Al girls basketball standout earns college honors

by Patrick J. Kennedy

Former Los Alamitos High girls basketball standout center Kassidy Beach has been selected to the Orange Empire Conference First Team and the All-State Third Team following her impressive sophomore season at Saddleback College.

Beach also recently signed a scholarship to play at NCAA D-II Cal State Dominguez Hills where she will enter as a junior and play both forward and center while majoring in Business.

At Saddleback, the 6’1” Beach played in all 31 games and led the community college team in scoring with an average of 14.9 points and 9.7 rebounds per game. During 12 games of OEC play, Beach averaged 15.2 points and 9.1 rebounds per game.

She scored a career-high 32 points on January 30, in a victory over Fullerton in which she made 12 out of 21 shots, was a perfect 8 for 8 from the free throw line, and also grabbed 13 rebounds.

Beach helped lead Saddleback (22-9) to its best season in years, as the team finished tied for second in the OEC and for the first time in 9 years made the playoffs. After winning two playoff games, the Bobcats made it to the regional finals for the first time in 23 years, where they lost 67-51 to Mt. San Antonio. In that game, Beach had 12 points, on 6 out of 13 shooting, 11 rebounds, and two blocked shots.

Beach said that she recently had an opportunity to scrimmage with her future Dominguez Hills teammates and likes what she sees.

“They can hoop,” she said. “And I can’t wait to see what we can accomplish together. I’m very excited to be at Dominguez.”

As a high school senior at Los Alamitos in 2024, Beach was selected, along with teammate Kayli Liew, as the Surf League co-MVP. For the season, she averaged 12 points and 10.4 rebounds per game and helped lead the Griffins to a 24-6 season and a Surf League championship.

Coming out of high school, Beach initially attended Westcliff University. She played in 18 games at the NAIA school and was honored as “Cal Pac Newcomer of the Year” after averaging 6.2 rebounds and 5.3 points in conference games. Following that season, she transferred to Saddleback College.

Her former coach at Los Alamitos, Maya De Anda, said she is not surprised by Beach’s success at the college level.

“Kassidy works hard, and she improved every year at Los Alamitos,” De Anda said. “I knew she would do well in college, and I’m very happy for her.”

Knights of Columbus conduct record drive to support people with intellectual disabilities

Irv Cuevas
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Knights of Columbus conduct record drive to support people with intellectual disabilities

It was a record-setting year for St. Irenaeus Knights of Columbus Council 8599 in its long-running support of persons dealing with intellectual disabilities.

Final tabulations just released show the Knights’ 2026 Drive brought in nearly $8,700 including online donations. K of C Knights made collections following eight St. Irenaeus Masses the weekend of February 28-March 1.

Knights’ drive coordinator Rick Tkach said this record amount exceeds last year’s drive by more than $800. “This can be attributedm,” added Tkach, “to the overwhelming support of St. Irenaeus parishioners and the many donors.”

According to Tkach, “the amount collected goes to vetted organizations that support individuals with disabilities such as Special Olympics of Southern California.”

This was the Knights’ 15th annual Drive for individuals with disabilities. It’s estimated to have provided numerous services and support for thousands of people each year. On behalf of St. Irenaeus Knights of Columbus, Tkach extends sincere gratitude to all donors and volunteer workers.

Pageant of the Masters offers “a mom’s masterpiece” for Mother’s Day

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Pageant of the Masters offers “a mom’s masterpiece” for Mother’s Day

Give Mom a living masterpiece this Mother’s Day. The Pageant of the Masters, a one-of-a-kind, only-in-Laguna Beach experience, is offering a limited-time opportunity to save 15% on tickets to its highly anticipated 2026 summer production, The Greatest of All Time (G.O.A.T.). Available now through May 10, 2026, guests can take advantage of this special offer using promo code BESTMOM26 at www.foapom.com/pageant-of-the-masters/mom-2026/ or by calling 800-487-3378. Offer valid on select dates and seating.

Mother’s Day often comes with familiar traditions, but the Pageant of the Masters offers a different kind of gift: an evening built around time together, shared experience, and art brought to life in an outdoor setting along the Laguna Beach coastline.

“This special offer is all about creating meaningful moments,” said Sharbie Higuchi, Marketing and Public Relations Director for the Festival of Arts. “The Pageant has a way of bringing people together through art and storytelling, making it a thoughtful and memorable gift for moms, grandmothers, and the mother-figures who mean so much to us.”

This summer’s production, The Greatest of All Time (G.O.A.T.), features re-creations of works by artists including Monet, Picasso, van Gogh, Kahlo, Rockwell, and others, brought to life onstage with live performers, elaborate sets, and theatrical illusion. Presented under the summer sky, the Pageant blends art, music, and storytelling into a live interpretation of some of history’s most recognizable works.

Begin the evening at the Festival of Arts Fine Art Show, where more than 100 Orange County top artists exhibit work across painting, sculpture, photography, and mixed media. Walk the open-air grounds, view original works, listen to live music, and connect with artists. As the sun sets, audiences take their seats in the Irvine Bowl for the Pageant of the Masters, where art comes to life through the Pageant’s signature “living pictures.”

“This is the kind of experience that stays with people,” Higuchi said. “You’re sharing time, creativity, and something that’s unique to this place and this tradition.”

The Pageant of the Masters 2026 production runs nightly from July 9 through September 4, 2026, at the Festival of Arts in Laguna Beach. A Pageant ticket also includes same-day admission to the Festival of Arts Fine Art Show, creating a combined cultural experience.

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.

Family fun and STEM too as Segerstrom Center transforms into Arts & Science Festival

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Family fun and STEM too as Segerstrom Center transforms into Arts & Science Festival

Join the fun as Segerstrom Center for the Arts transforms into a vibrant playground of discovery for its fifth annual Beckman Arts & Science Family Festival on Saturday, May 16, 2026, from 11:30 pm – 2:30 pm.

 The event will be held within the Julianne and George Argyros Plaza and is a free event, no tickets required, the SCFTA said in a statement. 

This fan-favorite community festival brings together the world of art and science, inviting Orange County families to explore live performances, hands-on experiments, interactive art-making, and engaging exhibits presented in partnership with over 20 local organizations.

Young explorers and lifelong learners can dive into engaging workshops, experience science in motion, and witness how art and technology come together in surprising and inspiring ways. Designed to ignite a passion for both disciplines, the festival offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity to learn, play, and create. Don’t miss out on this family outing perfect for all ages!

“At Segerstrom Center for the Arts, we are proud to produce the Beckman Arts and Science Family Festival and welcome families to explore the powerful connection between creativity and discovery,” said Lisa Morabito Petersen, Vice President of Education and Engagement at Segerstrom Center for the Arts,

The arts, like science, are rooted in experimentation, she said, pushing boundaries, testing new ideas, and sharing those discoveries with the world. Our partnership with the Arnold and Mabel Beckman Foundation reflects a shared commitment to curiosity, innovation, and learning.

“Together, we celebrate how the intersection of arts and sciences enriches the human experience and deepens our understanding of the world around us,” said Peterson.

Participating community organizations will include the Arnold and Mabel Beckman Foundation, Bionerds, Inc., Brain Builders STEM Education, Inc., Bytes and Bots, Child Creativity Lab, Club SciKidz Orange County and South Bay, Crystal Cove Conservancy, Environmental Nature Center, Girls IN Focus, Girls Inc. of Orange County, Inside the Outdoors (OC Dept. of Education), Kaiser Permanente, Laguna Ocean Foundation, Orange Coast College Astronomy, Orange County 4-H, Orange County Coastkeeper, Orange County Science and Engineering Fair, Play-well TEKnologies, Rolling Robots, Santa Ana Zoo, Science Heads Inc., STEAM for All, S.T.E.A.M. Race to Space Reading Challenge,and Urban Workshop.

This year’s lineup adds even more excitement, featuring the comedic, science-fueled antics of Alex Zerbe “The Zaniac,” interactive percussion group DrumatiX, vocal favorites The Alley Cats, and the gravity-defying circus artistry of Circo Etereo—bringing together entertainment and education in a way that’s both accessible and inspiring.

In addition to the exciting lineup of performers, blending entertainment with creativity and discovery, food and beverages will be available for purchase at George’s Café and local food trucks.

 Attendees are also welcome to bring their own refreshments; outside alcohol, glass containers, tables, barbecues, and food preparation will not be permitted on the Plaza, the Segerstrom announced.

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“The League” in Cypress is college softball like you’ve never seen – or heard – before

David N. Young
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“The League” in Cypress is college softball like you’ve never seen – or heard – before

Two of the top five world softball teams are headed to Cypress in July, and they will play a team from a start-up league in Cypress that, after six seasons, is exploding in popularity and deciding what songs they will use to settle disputes when the season starts.

Yes, in this league, on close plays, umpires allow the girls to have a “dance-off,” among other things, to decide if the runner was safe or out.

The girls “dance off” at home plate to win the decision. The ump still makes the call.
Courtesy photo

According to Lou Simon, who founded the league, the games around this college-aged softball league are similar to non-conventional, and perhaps better known, “banana ball,” but this is real softball, even though it is “a load of fun.”

“I got a call from a coach who told me that some of his college-aged players were depressed, since the pandemic limited their activities and that (then), there were no summer softball leagues for college girls.

Simon, a coach, organizer and motivator, said he got the idea for “The League” sitting in a hotel room “watching the softball field at Oregon State, where my daughter attended.”

The umpire watches closely as the players face off with a session of rock, paper, scissors to try to win the call.
Courtesy photo

“Well, ‘The League’ is a summer league that I put together during the pandemic, where a lot of girls, and people in general, were going through a very difficult time,” he said.

Simon said he stumbled upon a group of student athletes bored during the pandemic. “It was really difficult on their mental state,” he said.

“So, I formed a summer league that would not only make the game (softball) challenging, but also make it fun,” said Simon.

“They’re making some great plays,” he laughs, “but they’re also doing some dancing, creating some trick plays, all within seven innings,” said Simon.

After five seasons, they have begun to draw a crowd to Arnold Cypress Park in the summertime. So much so that this year, there will be softball royalty on the field, as all-star teams from Japan and Mexico will be in town July 6 – 8, he said.

“It’s huge. These are two, top-five world-ranked teams, so it’s truly an amazing opportunity for the players and the community,” he said. Simon said the Japanese will pick their summer Olympics team from the National team that is coming here to play.

“The college-aged girls have a blast,” he said, while getting some good practice in over the summer.
Last year, Simon’s league drew 10, 14-member teams, and he expects at least as many this year, especially with the international teams coming in July.

The no nonense, plenty nonsense philosophy has led to some incredible games and a whole lot of practice mixed in with fun, organizer Lou Simon says.
Courtesy photo

“We play by the same rules as the NCAA, so you’re allowed two challenges per team. If you win a challenge, then that does not count against you. You get that challenge back. So in other words, if there is a photo finish through first base and you thought someone was safe, but the umpire called out, you can challenge that play,” said Simon.

“And so that’s when you come out with a challenge, and both teams come out, and it’s a dance off,” he said. “We don’t have instant replay,” said Simon, “that’s way too expensive.”

On the dance-offs, the umpire “makes the call,” he said. Not only that, umpires eat ice cream during the game and when a teammate hits home run, the entire team has the right to run the bases with the slugger. Girls also often square off using the popular rock, paper, scissors, game to decide disputes.

Also, said Simon, the league’s scoring is a bit different as well.

“Well, we score it, we have a scoring system,” he said.

“They have a diving catch; they get a point. And to steal a base, they get a point. If they get caught stealing, the other team gets a point. If you rob a home run, you get two points,” said Simon, noting every major scoring achievement is rewarded with one to three points.

“Dancing counts,” he said, “but only to win the challenge.”

“It’s not banana ball, but people want to start associating it with banana ball. It’s just called the league. That’s the name of our league. It’s called the league, okay, but we don’t want to get a call from the banana ball league because we are not that, we’re just the league.

Simon said he doesn’t know much about “banana ball,” which he thinks is built more on an entertainment model. What his League plays is fun, for sure, he said, but make no mistake, these girls play serious NCAA softball.

“You’d be surprised at the quality of athletes we get,” said Simon. The league has drawn players from local schools, of course, said Simon, but also from Notre Dame, Oregon, Yale, Florida, Fullerton, and many other places.

“These are some of the best athletes in the U.S., said Simon, who marveled at the growing permanence of his made-up pandemic league.

“These girls are not out here rehearsing,” said Simon. “For the most part, they are coming out to play,” he added. It’s a format that keeps the game fun, but flowing, and, said Simon, “it is real softball.”

He said all games are played at Arnold Cypress park. The season begins June 20 and runs through July 25.
For more info on the League, visit www.gamereadyenterprises.com

Editor’s note: This post has been edited since the print edition to reflect Oregon State University rather the University of Oregon.

LAEF celebrates Los Al Unified Teachers of the Year

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LAEF celebrates Los Al Unified Teachers of the Year

The Los Alamitos Education Foundation (LAEF) hosted a special event at Old Ranch Country Club on April 22 to recognize and celebrate the Los Alamitos Unified School District’s top teachers of the year. The event was attended by teachers, their family and friends, principals, school board members, LAEF staff and board members, corporate partners and district cabinet members.

A total of eleven outstanding Los Al faculty were honored at the event, one teacher from each of our district schools, along with the District’s Teacher of the Year and Employee of the Year. Honorees included Karen Yoshihara-Ha (Los Alamitos High School), Amanda Lozolla, Ph.D. (Oak Middle School), Jen LeTourneau (McAuliffe Middle School), Elizabeth Chinavare (Weaver Elementary), Trent Vierra (Rossmoor Elementary), Tayler Martin (McGaugh Elementary), Alexander Ordonez (Los Alamitos Elementary), Charlyn Medina (Lee Elementary), Erica Chung (Hopkinson Elementary), Megan Avalos (District Teacher of the Year) and Jennifer Bain (District Employee of the Year). Each teacher was recognized for their dedication, creativity, and passion for their students.

Principals from each of the honorees’ schools spoke about their exceptional contributions and the positive impact they have had on their students and school communities. In addition, Rossmoor Principal, Amy Coltey spoke about the District’s teacher of the year and Grace Delk, Director of Special Education spoke about the District’s employee of the year and their unwavering commitment and heartfelt support for students, as well as the lasting influence they’ve had on the district.

“We are honored to recognize these outstanding teachers and celebrate their achievements,” said LAEF Executive Director Carrie Logue. “Their dedication goes far beyond the classroom as they inspire their students, spark creativity, and make a meaningful, lasting impact on our community. We are deeply grateful for their commitment and proud to sponsor this awards dinner for the fourth consecutive year.”

LAEF staff with Erickson-Hall Construction representatives.
Pictured left to right: LAEF Donor Development & Relations Manager Lauren DeNinno, Erickson-Hall Construction Manager Edgar Mendoza, Erickson-Hall Vice President, Business Development and Government Affairs Scott Hammond and LAEF Community Outreach Specialist Amelia Nicholls. Courtesy photo

LAEF was thrilled to partner with Cherished Memories Photography who provided on-site portraits to honorees and guests. Additionally, LAEF was excited to welcome Erickson-Hall Construction as a new partner this year. Erickson-Hall, a long-time LAEF supporter, sponsored the awards and gifts for each of the honorees this year.

LAEF is committed to supporting the education and enrichment of students in the Los Alamitos Unified School District, and events like this help to foster a strong sense of community and collaboration within the district. LAEF is proud to host an evening celebrating such wonderful teachers in our district. Congratulations to all the honorees!

LAEF is the non-profit partner of Los Alamitos Unified School District. LAEF enhances educational excellence by providing after-school and summer enrichment programs to children in grades Pre-K to 12. LAEF impacts all students by providing significant funding for student mental health/wellness, STEAM instruction, Innovation Grants as well as igniting new programs and providing valuable resources. For more information, visit www.LAEF4kids.org or call (562) 799-4700 Extension 80424 today.

Aquarium of the Pacific adds three species to its Marine Report Card

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Aquarium of the Pacific adds three species to its Marine Report Card

The Aquarium of the Pacific added three new marine species found in Southern California to its Marine Species Report Card to engage the public in ocean conservation. This first of its kind, digital, and free public resource combines the work of scientists, researchers, government agencies, and others from more than a dozen institutions to assess the status of now thirty-three key California coastal species.

“People are an integral part of conservation, and with greater awareness comes more possibility for stewardship. The Report Card is one of many tools the Aquarium is using to activate stewardship in our community, benefiting the conservation of our marine species,” said Jeff Flocken, Aquarium of the Pacific president and CEO.

The Aquarium gathered leading experts from across the state to develop this tool, which can serve as a resource and guide for action and ongoing research on the state of California’s marine species.

The list now includes new species accounts on the cabezon (fish), horn shark, and sheep crab. Each animal’s account includes photos, facts about the species, information on the threats they face in the wild, and an arrow icon that indicates the population trend of each animal in the state of California and whether it is increasing, declining, or stable. All three newly added species are showing a stable-with-fluctuations population trend.

Cabezon is also now part of the Marine Specials Report, Aquarium officials said. Courtesy photo

For most species, the accounts provide stories on conservation actions. The Aquarium has been working to help many of these marine mammals, birds, invertebrates (animals without backbones), fish, kelp, and more. Some of its conservation projects include growing and outplanting endangered white abalone for restoration efforts in the wild, preserving bull kelp, helping rescued southern sea otters, monitoring and rehabilitating green sea turtles, documenting local whale populations through the photo I.D. program, raising baby sunflower sea stars, and contributing to the community science initiative, Spotting Giant Sea Bass.

The Aquarium also offers opportunities for the public to help SoCal marine life, including its monthly wetlands habitat restoration, beach cleanups, and other volunteering opportunities.

“The Report Card provides an entry point for our community to learn more about their ocean neighbors,” said Jennie Dean, Aquarium of the Pacific vice president of education and conservation. “We enhance connection to the species we have onsite at key exhibits with signage and distribution of limited-edition trading cards.”
When visiting the Aquarium, the public can see more than a dozen species listed on the report card, including the cabezon, horn shark, and sheep crab. The Aquarium also offers daily harbor tours and whale watches aboard Harbor Breeze Cruises, which provide the chance for the public to see and learn about other species listed on the report card, including eastern north Pacific gray whales, brown pelicans, harbor seals, California sea lions, and giant kelp.

The horn shark has been added to the Marine Species Report Card. Photo by Ken Kurtis

To assess changes to populations of species, long-term monitoring programs are vital as are programs to restore California’s coastal ecosystems. To learn more, you can visit pacific.to/msrc to access the Marine Species Report Card online, which launched in 2025 and now includes three new species.

The non-profit Aquarium of the Pacific is a community gathering place dedicated to connecting people to and conserving nature. The Aquarium’s vision is to foster an inclusive community that works together to create our sustainable future. Home to more than 12,000 animals, Aquarium exhibits include Stars of the Sea featuring Our Living Coastline, the Southern California Gallery, Pacific Visions, and Shark Lagoon. Beyond its animal exhibits, the Aquarium offers educational programs for people of all ages, including First Wednesdays featuring a variety of guest speakers.

The Aquarium offers memberships with unlimited FREE admission for twelve months and other special benefits. To make a donation to help support the Aquarium, please visit the donation webpage. To visit, reservations are required for everyone and can be made at aquariumofpacific.org or by calling (562) 590-3100.

Near miss of JFTB Black Hawk draws Congressional interest

David N. Young
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Near miss of JFTB Black Hawk draws Congressional interest

Area members of Congress are apparently concerned enough about a recent near-miss regarding a Black Hawk helicopter that they have asked the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Transportation for an “in-person” meeting to discuss the investigation.

Area members of Congress including Dave Min, Derek T. Tran, J. Luis Correra, Mike Levin and Linda T. Sanchez signed a joint Congressional letter this past week seeking a meeting to discuss the incident, which occurred over the Southern California skies on March 24.

“As members of Orange County’s congressional delegation, we write to express serious concerns about a recent near-miss incident involving a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter and a United Airlines Boeing 737 approaching John Wayne Airport,” the letter said.

“We support the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) decision to investigate this incident and request a timely member-level briefing to ensure that our congressional delegation and constituents have full confidence in the safety protocols governing our regional airspace,” it continued.

The Members of Congress expressed “serious concerns” over the recent near-miss incident “between a California National Guard Black Hawk helicopter and a commercial passenger aircraft approaching John Wayne Airport.”

A visitor eyes a California National Guard Black Hawk helicopter inside the hanger at JFTB in Los Alamitos. Photo by David N. Young

The members requested a briefing from the U.S. Department of Transportation and the Federal Aviation Administration about the ongoing investigation.

On that date, a California National Guard Black Hawk entered the flight path of a United Airlines Boeing 737 on final approach to John Wayne Airport. The commercial aircraft was forced to halt its descent and level off to avoid a collision, passing within approximately 500 feet of the helicopter.

In the letter, members say millions of SoCal residents would be at risk in the event of a crash so they want a personal meeting with Federal Aviation Administration administrators to learn more about safety procedures.
“John Wayne Airport is one of the busiest airports in the country, serving one of the most densely populated regions in America. The surrounding communities are home to millions of residents who would be directly at risk in the event of a crash, in addition to the tens of thousands of passengers flying through this airspace every day,” wrote the members, according to a letter they released.

“Every traveler and every person living beneath these flight paths deserves to feel safe, which is why the coordination of military and civilian flight operations in this region must be managed with the highest standards of safety, precision, and communication.”

Representative Tran’s district is home to Joint Forces Training Base in Los Al, the base from which the Black Hawk flight originated.

The letter also requested clarification on whether recently adopted FAA procedures governing visual separation between aircraft and helicopters were in effect at the time of the incident. This measure was adopted in response to the tragic January 2025 crash near Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport that killed 67 people.

The members requested an in-person or virtual briefing within 60 days, including updates on the FAA’s investigation, preliminary findings, and any corrective measures under consideration.

In addition, Rep. Tran is an original co-sponsor of H.R. 7613, the ALERT Act, which aims to reduce collision risk by strengthening aviation safety and transparency requirements in U.S. airspace operations. The ALERT Act passed the House by a vote of 396-10.

“We request an in-person or virtual briefing no later than 60 days after receipt of this letter, providing an update of the FAA’s investigation into the incident, along with any preliminary findings or updates on corrective measures undertaken,” they concluded.

“Thank you for your attention to this serious matter.”

2nd Annual Rancho Art Crawl returns to Los Al neighborhood

Ted Apodaca
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2nd Annual Rancho Art Crawl returns to Los Al neighborhood

In a small neighborhood in Long Beach, tucked away between El Dorado Golf Course and El Dorado Park, a group of residents is opening up their homes and studios and welcoming visitors. Attendees can view art, watch artists engage in their craft and enjoy an afternoon of music, food and raffles, all while visiting unique homes.

The second annual Rancho Art Crawl is returning. Residents who live in the neighborhood had envisioned the event and put that plan into action. The Rancho Art Crawl came to life and in its first coming, organizers said it was a bigger draw than expected. An estimated 500 visitors walked through the neighborhood and experienced art of all kinds by an estimated 50 artists who opened their homes to share with guests.
“It’s essentially an open studio tour,” Realtor Ben Fisher, one of the organizers, said.

The homes in the neighborhood were designed by Building Designer Cliff May. May has been called the “father of the ranch house,” and designed many of the ranch-style homes in Southern California, from San Diego to Los Angeles, from the 1930s through the 1950s.

The sprawling one-story homes usually included an interior courtyard and connections to the outdoors. It was a design that attracted artists, who could set up a work studio in the home. The homes themselves have become a kind of collectors item. The Rancho neighborhood is one of the largest set of May homes and many well-known artists have settled there.

“They’ve bonded together and become sort of a creative community,” Fisher said.

This year’s event is expected to draw even more visitors. There will be food trucks and music acts at various locations along the streets. Artists who open their home will be sowing art and some will even be demonstrating their crafts

This year’s event will take place on May 16, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, visit ranchoartcrawl.com.

From pantry to plate, Cypress High opens Comfort Kitchen to all students

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From pantry to plate, Cypress High opens Comfort Kitchen to all students

By Lauren Kimura

In March, Cypress High School celebrated the official opening of the student-led Comfort Kitchen. This on-campus pantry, located in the media center, provides various nutritious meals that are free and accessible to all students.

Put in motion by Senior Parsmi Rajput and teacher Shelley Hawkins, this kitchen aims to “make sure that nutrition or food insecurity doesn’t get in a student’s way of being able to thrive at school,” said Rajput. With the support of the Bezos Scholars Program, a year-long leadership program for high-school students and educators, they were given the ability to launch the “Community Change Project” that became Cypress’ Comfort Kitchen.

“After spending a couple months with my educator and community members, researching what issue would be the best to tackle for our community, we realized a lot of things fell into place regarding food insecurity,” Rajput described, realizing just how important this issue was to Cypress’ community.

In a similar way, this problem was also acknowledged by Sophomore and club President Amelia Dinh, who decided to start the Pantry Project. “I noticed that none of the clubs on campus focused on food specifically, so I wanted to fill in that gap because I knew food was a struggle for many people,” Dinh said. She described the Pantry Project as a club that, “raises awareness, hosts events, and offers volunteer hours that are all related to food with the main objective of improving people’s lives and helping in any way we can.”

Principal Jennifer Brown, Ms. Shelley Hawkins and Parsmi Rajput are excited to bring free nutritious meals to students in need. (photo by Yearbook)

Dinh emphasized how important it is to bring light to this issue, encouraging students to donate and participate in their events with the greater goal of expanding this club to schools across the country. For now, they are increasing their presence at Cypress High School with a combination of social media posts and on-campus advertising as well as a partnership with Rajput and Hawkins. Together, the Pantry Project helps keep the Comfort Kitchen stocked– a collaboration built from the shared commitment of addressing food inequalities.

In addition to the support from the Pantry Project and Bezos Foundation, the Comfort Kitchen also received a second grant from the food company, Sodexo. With this additional fund, the Comfort Kitchen is expanding to not only provide packaged goods but also fresh produce. Hawkins described how they used this second grant to partner with Cypress’ Green Tech classes, run by teacher Matthew Bidwell. “His students are going to build hydroponic grow towers… so we can start growing fresh produce that kids can actually take home with them,” Hawkins stated.

Set to complete the garden before the end of the school year, the Comfort Kitchen looks to bring to Cypress a new era of change where no student goes hungry.

Chasing gold: Oxford Academy’s HOSA Club proudly competes in State Leadership Conference

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Chasing gold: Oxford Academy’s HOSA Club proudly competes in State Leadership Conference

By Audrey Lee

Oxford Academy Health Occupation Students of America, HOSA, one of the biggest clubs on campus, competed in their annual California-HOSA SLC (State Leadership Conference) during the spring break from March 26 to 28. Hosted in Ontario, California, Cal-HOSA SLC 2026 saw over 5,000 students, alumni, and professionals gathered to compete and celebrate the 40th anniversary of California HOSA and the 50th anniversary of HOSA. OA HOSA celebrated its own 20th anniversary with their participation in the leadership conference.

OA HOSA, which is split into two different divisions, Middle division (grades 7-8) and Secondary division (grades 9-12), competed in a total of 349 events and swept the competition at SLC once again with an unofficial total number of 194 medals and placements. Further placements for additional events held at the conference have yet to be confirmed.

Besides just medals, OA HOSA made its presence known through different showcases: sophomore Joelle Kim sang the national anthem during the open ceremony, and sophomore Niha Goel won the pin design, getting a chance to have her pins be worn by every competitor at the conference. Junior Regan Rebultan, too, won the separate advisors’ pin design competition.

“I’m very happy about the accomplishments. There were years where we polarized on certain categories but this year we are well-rounded [in the wins], so it’s very nice,” Mr. Jun Cuenca, Oxford’s Biotechnology pathway teacher and HOSA advisor, said.

OA HOSA competed in a myriad of different events, including the Health Literacy Ambassador event. This event required completion of a health presentation and media flyer for recognition, something that all biotechnology students were required to do in their Oxford classes. Through this efficient integration, OA HOSA was able to sweep numerous awards through this event.

Other notable wins included a gold medal in HOSA Bowl, a buzzer-style game between teams regarding medical trivia. Numerous bronze, silver, and gold medals were also awarded to both groups and individuals competing in events like Mental Health Promotion, Health Education, and Public Health, to name a few.
Juniors Annie Gao and Claire Kim, whose participation in OA HOSA originated in their 7th grade, led the conference as part of the state board, Gao as Secretary and Kim as Vice President.

“SLC was one of the best experiences that I’ll forever carry in my heart because despite all of the hardships and obstacles, I am constantly reminded by why I love this community,” said Kim.
At the conference, Kim was elected as the upcoming 26-27 year’s California-HOSA President as well, continuing her leadership in HOSA.

“[Next year] I hope to accomplish more member engagement and especially promote HOSA to smaller chapters. This year we created the Golden Hearts Initiative, aiming to uplift the spirits of children in pediatric hospitals and clinical settings, and we are able to raise 1919 kits. I’m hoping to expand projects like these,” Kim said.

OA HOSA represented itself at SLC with numerous medals, leaders, and a community that other schools admired.

“OA HOSA is a big chapter filled with many members who have different journeys. It could get overwhelming, but know that everyone is there to support you. HOSA is one big family and its never too late to start your HOSA journey,” Kim said.

Unforgettable time at Los Al Summer Day Camp

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Unforgettable time at Los Al Summer Day Camp

Summer fun is officially underway, and registration is now open for the exciting Los Alamitos Summer Day Camp, welcoming children ages 5 to 10! Running from June 8 through August 21, this action-packed program offers 11 weeks of adventure, creativity, and nonstop fun.

Each week brings a brand-new theme to life, with campers enjoying a variety of engaging activities including indoor and outdoor games, arts and crafts, and special Friday events. For those looking to add even more excitement, 9 of the 11 camp weeks feature two optional excursions, giving campers the chance to explore popular destinations like Wild Rivers, Urban Adventure Park, Sky Zone, American Ninja Warrior Adventure Park, and Knott’s Soak City.

Spots fill quickly, so early registration is highly encouraged to secure your child’s place in this popular summer program.

Families can also enhance their camp experience with optional specialty classes offered as add-ons. These include sports clinics and themed classes that align with each week’s activities such as Aqua Adventure, Into the Jungle, and Star Seekers, providing even more opportunities for learning and fun.

Conveniently located at the Los Alamitos Community Center (10911 Oak Street), the camp runs Monday through Friday, with standard hours from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Extended care is available from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. to accommodate busy schedules.

Be sure to check out the Summer Day Camp flyer for a full overview of weekly themes, excursions, pricing, and additional details.

Don’t miss out! Join us for a summer full of fun, friendship, and unforgettable memories at the Los Alamitos Summer Day Camp!

For additional information, please visit the Recreation & Community Services website at www.cityoflosalamitos.org/recreation or contact the Los Alamitos Recreation and Community Services Department at (562) 430-1073.

Ladies Auxiliary of the Knights of Columbus and are from both churches, St. Vincent de Paul and St. Bonaventure

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Ladies Auxiliary of the Knights of Columbus and are from both churches, St. Vincent de Paul and St. Bonaventure

By Chris MacDonald

Recently there was a special “buzz” when you drove by a Chick-fil-A, where there’s often a line of cars waiting at the drive-thru to purchase the iconic chicken sandwiches, nuggets, soups and other tasty foods sold at the Huntington Beach & Westminster locations. That’s because customers could eat to support their favorite cause.

The North Orange County Chick-fil-A locations participated in a community fundraiser, donating 20% of proceeds to The St. Bonaventure Church Knights of Columbus Woman’s Auxilary when the customers mentioned “Knights.”

“We raised $200 to support local charities by our friends and families mentioning our group when they ordered a delicious meal,” said Barbara Gonzales, club finanical officer. “The money benefits Horizon Pregnancy Center, Precious Life, Mercy House, Intellectual Disability, Robyn’s Nest and Waymakers.”
Club member Marie Murphy said: “While our dedicated volunteers normally fix great meals for the men’s group, Knights of Columbus, they enjoyed raising money by someone else doing the cooking. What a treat!”
“Giving back to the community is a core part of who we are,” said Chick fil-A franchise owner Blake Wohlgemuth. “At our two locations, we’re always looking for meaningful ways to serve beyond our restaurant walls with a focus on education, hunger and those experiencing homelessness.” He said local nonprofit organizations are invited to apply for partnership opportunities.

“Whether it’s supporting schools, nonprofits and local events, our goal is to create opportunities that make a real tangible difference,” he said. “If you have an orginization interested in partnering with us you can log on to: http://www.cfabeachblvd.com and complete our request form. We’re excited to connect and find new ways to serve our community.”

Step up to the plate with Los Al Sports

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Step up to the plate with Los Al Sports

The Los Alamitos Recreation and Community Services Department is excited to offer a variety of youth sports programs for the 2026 summer season, providing young participants with fun and engaging opportunities to stay active.

Start your Saturday mornings off right with Parent & Me T-Ball (ages 2–3) and Jr. Pee Wee Baseball (ages 4–6). These five-week, clinic-style programs introduce children to the fundamentals of baseball, including catching, hitting, and base running, in a supportive and energetic environment. Parent participation is required for the Parent & Me T-Ball program.

All programs will take place at Little Cottonwood Park (4000 Farquhar Ave.) and include an award for each participant at the conclusion of the session.
Program Schedule:

Saturdays, June 13 – July 18, 2026 (No class on July 4)

  • Parent & Me T-Ball: 9:00 a.m. – 9:45 a.m.
  • Jr. Pee Wee Baseball: 10:00 a.m. – 10:45 a.m.
  • Registration opens on Monday, May 4, and closes on Wednesday, June 10.
    For additional information, please visit the Recreation & Community Services website at www.cityoflosalamitos.org/recreation or contact the Los Alamitos Recreation and Community Services Department at (562) 430-1073.
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