Photo by John Underwood
Above, Hamlet, perhaps the most identifiable and the most quoted character in all of Shakespeare’s classics is seen here holding the most referred to skull in history, that of his friend and court jester “Alas poor Yorick.“ This over two hour production of Hamlet was presented by the Shakespeare by the Sea actors recently at Rush Park in Rossmoor to a sunset crowd of over 300. If you missed this annual Summer Shakespeare event for Rossmoor and surrounding communities you can experience the performance as it was captured by producer John Underwood and crew on site, and presented on Los Al TV’s cable Channel 3 nightly on Los Al TV at 6pm. It can also be viewed online at losaltv.org.
Shakespeare by the Sea presents Hamlet on Los Al TV
Protect your pet during this summertime heatwaves
Summer is in full swing, and with that, temperatures across the country are reaching alarmingly high levels.
It’s hard to beat the heat even with easy access to air conditioning, icy drinks and refreshing swimming pools. And it can be just as hard for dogs and cats on these sweltering days.
To help pet owners keep their pets cool despite the rising temperatures, Best Friends Animal Society, a leading animal welfare organization working to end the killing of cats and dogs in America’s shelters by 2025, is offering the below tips:
• Exercise dogs during the cooler morning or evening hours, not in the intense afternoon heat.
• Keep pets indoors during the hottest parts of the day. Quick walks and bathroom breaks are fine in extreme heat but try to keep pets in the shade.
• Be aware of the temperature of the sidewalk, asphalt, sand, or even packed dirt as these can cause burns to your pet’s paw pads if they are too hot.
• If pets do spend time outside during the day, ensure that they have access to shade at all hours of the day.
• Dogs on tethers are especially vulnerable because they could become tangled out of reach of shade or water.
• Provide pets with fresh, cool water at all times as most dogs won’t drink hot water no matter how thirsty they are.
• Dogs who are older or overweight, have a thick coat or a pushed-in nose are especially at risk of overheating.
• Dogs with bald patches or minimal coats may need sunscreen. Consult a veterinarian.
Never leave your pet in a parked car when the outside temperature is above 70 degrees.
Many studies show that the temperature inside a car on a 70-degree day can rise to 89 degrees in ten minutes, and to 104 degrees in as little as a half hour.
Dogs and cats can’t sweat like humans, so they pant to lower their body temperature. If they’re inside a car, recycling hot air, panting gives no relief, and heat stroke can occur quickly.
“Heat stroke can occur when an animal’s temperature rises to a critical level,” says Dr. Erin Katribe, Medical Director, Best Friends Animal Society. “Normal body temperatures for dogs and cats range from 100 to 102.5 degrees. When a dog’s temperature rises to 108 degrees, or to 106 degrees for a cat, they can suffer irreparable organ damage, or worse.
According to Dr. Katribe, signs of heat stroke include heavy panting that does not resolve as the pet rests, increasing distress, a tongue color that is dark red to almost purple, weakness or collapse, hyper-salivation, vomiting and labored breathing.
If you suspect a dog or cat is suffering from heat stroke move him to a cooler environment immediately and apply cool water to the abdomen, ears, and footpads. Once they are stable, bring them to a veterinary clinic as quickly as possible. Katribe warns, things may be happening internally that are not obvious from the outside.
Best Friends Animal Society is a leading animal welfare organization working to end the killing of dogs and cats in America’s shelters by 2025. Founded in 1984, Best Friends is a pioneer in the no-kill movement and has helped reduce the number of animals killed in shelters from an estimated 17 million per year to around 378,000. Best Friends runs lifesaving programs across the country, as well as the nation’s largest no-kill animal sanctuary.
When a dog’s temperature rises to 108 degrees, or to 106 degrees for a cat, they can suffer irreparable organ damage, or worse.
Working collaboratively with a network of more than 4,300 animal welfare and shelter partners, and community members nationwide, Best Friends is working to Save Them All®. For more information, visit bestfriends.org.
Pageant of the Masters masterful creators tell their story
The Pageant of the Masters is brought to life by a team of visionary artists, skilled craftsmen, expert technicians, and talented individuals who are dedicated to their craft. The upcoming production, Art Colony: In the Company of Artists, showcases their artistic brilliance and collaborative spirit. To celebrate the Pageant’s 90th anniversary, the Festival of Arts is shining a spotlight on these exceptional individuals who create the magic of the Pageant that captivates audiences every summer.
“It starts with the imagination of Diane Challis Davy, Pageant Director, and her choice of theme, storyline, and artwork,” shared 38-year Pageant veteran and Technical Director, Richard “Butch” Hill. “Then, the seasoned, expert staff of artists and craftsmen collaborate closely to create the living art.”
Hill explains that while the creation starts as free form, everyone works together from day one. As Technical Director, Hill orchestrates grading the show’s artwork to human scale, designing and drafting scenery plans and lighting plots, and implementing equipment upgrades and stage maintenance. He also supervises the Tech Department’s production staff, hires and trains a seasonal crew of about 20 people, and manages the stage during the nightly performances.
Working closely with Hill, David Talbot implements the Technical Director’s designs, hand building each set with masterful carpentry skills. With 15-years of invaluable experience with the Pageant, Talbot has played an instrumental role as the Production Foreman for the last five years, overseeing the meticulous execution of the Pageant of the Masters. He and his team ensure the production departments are efficiently collaborating to create the smooth transition between cast members and set while keeping cast safe and comfortable.
“It becomes a well-oiled machine that can only be accomplished with the well-planned and collaborating efforts of all of the incredible people in production,” Talbot said. “We have some new young employees in production, including staff scenic carpenter Brian Vidales.
This is important because they are being trained to carry the torch of tradition. We are all just stewards of this thing that was here long before us, and will be here long after us. I am honored to be a part of this unique and historical production, if only for a moment.”
Now in his third season behind the scenes, Pageant Scenic Artist, W. Brad Elsberry, is one of the handful of Scenic Artists, who hand paint the masterpieces to the Pageant’s extraordinary, full-scale versions. Elsberry, also a long-time exhibitor at the Festival of Arts (2007-2019), has a fine art background, so he says he’s used to a lot of detail work. He’s also been a stage and mural painter in the past, so “painting big” is second nature to him.
“Each large set can take, on average, between two and three weeks to paint,” Elsberry explained. “The studio light is great here – all natural. I also jump in to paint costumes for the backgrounds I complete whenever I’m needed. And I love to do prop work – that’s probably my favorite.”
Previously a volunteer cast member and now in her third year as the Pageant’s Makeup Director, Michelle Pohl spends January through June creating a makeup design for each volunteer cast member in the show by painting coordinated designs onto styrofoam heads. Each design has a set of written instructions denoting implements, colors, placement, and application sequence for the volunteer makeup artists to reference.
“During the build season, I also assemble my summer team of makeup volunteers, and hold multiple training workshops to get any new volunteers up and running. There is a lot of organization, both on the creative end and the volunteer end, that goes into making everything run smoothly,” Pohl says. “Every piece in the show presents its own unique set of challenges, from costume design, to set design and construction, to set painting, to makeup, and to lighting. Each of the aforementioned brings their own set of talents to the table and do the work, collaborating where necessary.”
“We have stitchers who stitch all the material together for each individual cast member based on their measurements, and then each costume goes to the paint shop to create that illusion,” Foy shared. “This year, we have upwards of 110 still costumes to create, in addition to costuming the live actors who move around in the audience or in front of the paintings. Interacting with all the volunteers is so fun and seeing all of our work come together each year is rewarding.”
This summer’s Pageant of the Masters production is a celebration of artists who have wholeheartedly embraced the communities where they reside and work, serving as a source of inspiration for one another. The dedicated team behind the Pageant truly embodies the spirit of an art colony.
Performances of the 2023 Pageant of the Masters, Art Colony: In the Company of Artists, are nightly from July 7 – September 1, 2023. Advance tickets start at $35 per person. To stay up to date on all things Pageant of the Masters and Festival of Arts, follow the Festival at @FestivalPageant and visit www.foapom.com
It’s Beenie Von Weenie by – a long nose – at the Wiener Nationals
Nicolee Leonard’s Beenie Vonweenie of Fullerton, California got sweet redemption in the 2023 Wienerschnitzel Wiener Nationals, as he led from start to finish in route to winning the title of Fastest Wiener In the West in front of a huge crowd on Saturday night at Los Alamitos Race Course.
Racing from post number two, Beenie Vonweenie flew to a big lead early on, drifted outside to bump Cannonball Charlie and Rowdy, then barked at Penny G in mid run before focusing on the finish line to win the title by a long ear and tail. The German chocolate cake colored Beenie VonWeenie covered the 50-yard distance in 6.80 seconds in front of a crowd of around 7,000 weenie dog lovers to win the 26th running of the Wienerschnitzel Wiener Nationals.
The win was a year in the making after Beenie Vonweenie looked all but set to win the 2022 title before he stopped cold right before the finish line, turned sideways and once again bumped with both Cannonball Charlie and Rowdy. That allowed a doxie named Paisley to come flying late to claim the championship last year. There were no antics in the final yards this time around for the 2-year-old doxie Beenie Vonweenie, as he saved his best running for last as he ran to the arm of Nicolee at the other end of the finish line.
“We really focused on keeping him running straight and that was not an easy task,” Nicolee said. “He just started running straight when he was playing at the Brea dog park in the last three months. Last year he turned around. Now he’s the fastest weenie in the west.”
How does Leonard get him to cross the finish line now? Cookie treats? bacon bites? Mini Sausages? A tennis ball?
Photo by William Zuazo/ Los Alamitos Race Course Publicity
“My socks,” she said. “He loves my socks. Really exciting, I know.”
Beenie Vonweenie earned $1,000 for the win, a trophy crowning the Fastest Wiener In the West, a gold colored trophy blanket, and a yellow and red doghouse in the shape of a Wienerschnitzel restaurant. Ariana Gonzalez’s Burr of Cypress, California started slowly, avoided the crossing Cannonball Charlie and made up big ground in the final 20 yards to finish second. He earned $500 for running second.
Jenavi T’s Penny of Torrance, Lois and Luis Hernandez’s Kirby QT Pie of Ventura County, and Mark Kim’s Cannonball Charlie of Long Beach were all inches apart in a too close to call finish for third. Daniel Gomez’s Penny G of Long Beach finished sixth, Amy Long’s Bean also of Long Beach was seventh, and Ivan Cano and Kim Estrada’s Rowdy was eighth. Suzanne Yeager’s Wilbur of Yorba Linda and Erin Argot’s Frankie of Santa Fe Springs completed the field.
Total prize money in the final was $2,300. Three of the 10 finalists, Beenie VonWeenie, Cannonball Charlie, and Rowdy, were all returning finalists from last year. A total of 104 dachshunds raced in this year’s Wienerschnitzel Wiener Nationals. In the second running of the Diaper Dash for runners ages one and under, Dahlia Ordaz’s Vyenna, who came all the way from Fresno, California for the race, was the winner and will be one to watch in the main event next year.
The Wienerschnitzel Wiener Nationals is a fundraising event for the Seal Beach Animal Care Center, a non-kill shelter in Orange County. The Wiener Nationals and SBACC have raised around $300,000 over the years. Sign- ups for the 2024 Wiener Nationals have already begun at LosAlamitos.com.
Pacific Airshow to return with Thunderbirds, F-22 and Snowbirds
The Pacific Airshow has announced that the three-day spectacle in the sky will return to Huntington Beach, September 29 – October 1, 2023, with tickets already on sale.
Headlining the event are the world-renowned U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, Canadian Forces Snowbirds and, for the first time in Huntington Beach history, the F-22 Raptor Demonstration team, along with dozens of other military and civilian aviators from around the world.
Now in its seventh year, the three-day event is continuing its mantra of ‘redefining the airshow experience’ with visitors stretching along 5 miles of the California coastline.
Already the most attended airshow in the United States, this year’s event will feature an expanded General Admission (GA) area stretching nearly 1 mile from the Huntington Beach Pier to Beach Blvd. The larger GA area will allow for more enhanced hospitality offerings and new ticketing options for small groups, allowing more families to experience the action up close and personal.
Organizers say this year will be the most incredible show in its history.
“This year, 2023, will be our most incredible, most action-packed lineup of all time,” said Kevin Elliott, Pacific Airshow’s Executive Director.
“Every year our team tries to dial up the action, but this year’s lineup is simply mind-blowing. If you’ve ever planned to attend Pacific Airshow, this will be your year to attend,” he said.
Pacific Airshow announced it plans to remain in the City of Huntington Beach indefinitely, under the leadership of Mayor Tony Strickland, Mayor Pro Tempore Gracey Van Der Mark, Council Member Casey McKeon and Council Member Pat Burns.
“They played an instrumental role in keeping alive the event that delivers economic impact on par with major sporting events, such as the World Series, as well as global brand recognition for the City of Huntington Beach,” said Elliott.
“Our mission is clear, to set the City of Huntington Beach back on a path to success, and part of that success comes from the immense economic and marketing benefit that Pacific Airshow brings to our City,” said Tony Strickland, Mayor of Huntington Beach.
“Pacific Airshow is the biggest Airshow in the United States, a favorite event among our residents, it delivers more than $120 million in annual economic benefit to our community, it provides a huge lift to our destination marketing objectives and supports our military,” he said.
The Pacific Airshow is also set for its expansion to Gold Coast, Australia with the inaugural Pacific Airshow Gold Coast set to take to the skies down under from August 18-20 of this year.
The show is set to be the largest Airshow to ever take place in Australia and the only Airshow in the world to ever boast two editions in two countries, the organization said in its statement.
For more information, or to purchase tickets, please visit www.pacificairshow.com or follow Pacific Airshow on social media @pacificairshow.
Residents, city get first glimpse of reimagined Arnold Cypress Park
The Cypress City Council voted to accept recommendations for the “reimagined” conceptual design of Arnold Cypress Park at the meeting last week.
City officials, who have been working for the past few years with ideas from the public and planners to “reimagine” the decades old city park, held a joint meeting with the city’s Recreation and Community Services Commission to approve the new plan.
Cypress Park was initially constructed in 1949, then in 1970 was renamed Arnold Cypress Park to honor Alfred E. “Pat” Arnold, a founding city Council member and former president of the Orange County Board of Education. The park has since been known as Arnold Cypress Park.
In addition to this city park, Arnold also has an elementary school in Cypress named in his honor.
Jeffrey Draper, Director of the Cypress Recreation and Community Services, presented the concept plan to the Council at their most recent city Council meeting, saying the 14.5-acre park “now packs a lot of amenities.”
“The biggest change to the park is a more efficient layout,” Draper told the Council, noting that Arnold Cypress Park will be home to the three synthetic turf ballfields, two of which will have 200-foot homerun fences while the other will have a 225-foot fence, sufficient to host a college softball game.
Draper said later that the reimagined park will remain home to Cypress Girls Softball leagues.
He said there will be a smaller, natural turf field in the corner of the property, with batting cages where younger players can develop their hitting skills.
The park is conveniently designed with concession stands in the center, with restrooms, and areas that can be used for fundraising events. Also, there is a relaxing courtyard in the center from which onlookers can see all three fields.
“Even if you have multiple kids playing, you can see them all,” he said.
There are two picnic pavilions nearby, one of which is next to a green open space.
Draper said there is playground equipment in one area for kids 2-5 years old and in another area, there is playground equipment for kids 5-12.
In other areas of the park, Draper said there are eight (8) lighted pickleball courts, and other fitness/workout equipment.
In addition, the new park will have eight (8) lighted pickleball courts, a lighted basketball court, a lighted volleyball court and outdoor fitness equipment.
Draper and Public Works Director Doug Dancs confirmed that the park will contain new age LED lighting, which is designed to have as little impact as possible on nearby residents.
Draper said there is a half-mile walking trail throughout the park that connects all of the interior venues.
Draper also showed the Council a video “fly-through” that used animation and imagery to give residents a more realistic idea of what the park will eventually look like once complete.
Draper said he was not exactly sure of the terms and conditions of the loan from the city, directing questions to Matt Burton, the city’s Finance Director.
Finally, Draper said they have made arrangements with Cypress College to utilize basketball courts that have been re-striped for pickleball until construction is complete.
“After many years, I’m so pleased to see the designs coming to fruition,” said Cypress Mayor Anne Hertz Mallari.
Other members of the Council expressed concern about the financing arrangements, yet the motion to approve the plans passed on an 8-1-1 vote.
Council member David Burke abstained from voting and Council member Frances Marquez voted against approval.
Draper said the vote will allow his team to move forward with the project, soliciting bids and otherwise moving forward with the new plan.
The city plans to loan to the Recreation and Community Services District the $27.5 million necessary to re-construct the park, which Draper estimated could take between 14-15 months.
Once construction gets underway, “we’re looking to re-open the park in early 2025,” with the new configuration, he said.
Transition in Motherhood to celebrate 3rd Anniversary
On August 19th from 11a.m. – 1 p.m, Transitions in Motherhood will celebrate its three-year anniversary, the local organization announced in a press release.
Transitions in Motherhood is a Los Al nonprofit dedicated to supporting moms and families through the multiple transitions that life brings during pregnancy and parenthood. We started the drive through during the pandemic because we knew so many families were impacted with the challenges of meeting basic needs.
Courtesy photo
Even going to a store was challenging (especially with a baby and/or young children), so we created a contactless drive through where anyone could receive clothing, food, diapers, wipes, and a lunch, said Tara Farajian, LCSW, Executive Director of the nonprofit.
She said Transitions in Motherhood runs 100% from the service of others in our community. We have an amazing team of volunteers that make everything happen. At the same time all items are donated from our local community.
“The beauty of our amazing community runs through everything we do. We want to thank everyone who has donated their time and items to make us thrive for three years. We celebrate you. Can’t wait to see how much more we can do together. We hope to see everyone on Sat., Aug. 19,” said Farajian.
Knights of Columbus Blood Drive at St. Irenaeus
Yet again, the Knights of Columbus Council 8599 of St. Irenaeus Parish in Cypress is giving people the opportunity of helping save lives by donating blood.
All blood types are needed, and donors can do so at the St. Irenaeus Church Hall 5202 Evergreen Avenue in Cypress on Tuesday August 1st from 12:30 p.m. to 7p.m.
Knight Rolly Arenz, blood drive coordinator says you can schedule your appointment in advance by signing up online at RedCrossBlood.org, and enter the Sponsor Code: SICC, or call (800) 733-2767.
And according to Arenz, you can streamline your donation experience up to 15 minutes by visiting RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass to complete your pre-donation and health history questions needed on the day of your appointment.
Grand Knight Christopher Nsor said “hosting a blood drive coincides with one of the council’s missions of ‘leave no neighbor behind’ by giving back to the local community, and the short time it takes to donate can mean a lifetime to a patient with a serious medical condition”.
And bottom line, according to Nsor, “donating blood and helping others is a rewarding experience for both donors and recipients who are in need”.
Reincarnate gives Baffert his 7th Los Al Derby Win
By Bob Mierszerski
Another year, another victory in the $125,000 Los Alamitos Derby for Hall of Fame trainer Bob Baffert.
Reincarnate, the even-money favorite in the field of five after the scratch of Yellow Brick, controlled things up front Saturday under jockey Juan Hernandez, giving Baffert his seventh win in a row in the Derby and his eighth in the last nine years.
The victory also completed a stakes sweep at the Los Angeles County Fair meet for a second consecutive year for Hernandez.
Earlier he had won the $100,000 Bertrando with Kings River Knight June 24, then teamed with Baffert July 4 to take the Grade II, $202,000 Great Lady M. Stakes with Eda.
A year before Hernandez swept the Bertrando, Great Lady M. and Los Alamitos Derby with, respectively, Desmond Doss, Becca Taylor and High Connection.
Owned by a partnership that includes SF Racing LLC, Starlight Racing, Madaket Stables LLC, Robert Masterson, Stonestreet Stables LLC, Jay Schoenfarber, Waves Edge Capital and Catherine Donovan, Reincarnate prevailed by 2 ½ lengths over 6-5 choice Skinner in 1:48.72 for the 1 1/8 miles.
A son of Good Magic and the Scat Daddy mare Allanah, Reincarnate, who had been idle since finishing 13th in the Kentucky Derby May 6 at Churchill Downs, is now 3-for-9 lifetime with earnings of $420,650.
The win was the first for the gray, who was purchased for $775,000 at the Keeneland September sale in 2021, since he scored a 16-1 upset in the Grade III Sham Jan. 8 at Santa Anita.
“I told (Hernandez) that he was back to how he was when he last won,’’ said Baffert. “It was very important to get the win especially when you know how good Skinner is.
“This race always comes up tough and it was a big win for the team.’’
Hernandez, who is now 2-for-3 in tandem with Reincarnate as he was also aboard for the Sham Score, was impressed Saturday.
“(Baffert) had him ready today,’’ he said. “I loved his race. He broke really sharp and was comfortable all the way.
“He looked like he was waiting for company because he put his ears up. When the company came around the three-eighths pole, I asked him and he picked it up really well. In the stretch he switched leads and he opened up again.’’
Reincarnate paid $4 and $2.40. There was no show wagering.
Skinner, who was making his first start since finishing a close third in the Santa Anita Derby three months ago, returned $2.40 while finishing 2 ½ lengths in front of 23-1 shot Prince Abu Dhabi.
Abeliefinthislivin and High Mo, Skinner’s stablemate and 5-1 third choice, completed the order of finish.
Heading into the final day of the LACF season, jockey Ramon Vazquez, who won all three riding titles here in 2022, holds a 9-7 lead over Abel Cedillo.
Baffert tops the trainers with five wins, one more than Peter Miller, Jesus Uranga, Milton Pineda and Hector Palma.
Sen. Janet Nguyen to present update to Cypress Chamber
The Cypress Chamber of Commerce will host State Senator Janet Nguyen as our guest speaker at the August Networking Breakfast. Our event will be held Tuesday, August 8th at the Residence Inn by Marriott at 4931 Katella Avenue, Cypress/Los Alamitos starting at 7:30 a.m. Senator Janet Nguyen was elected to represent the 36th Senate District in 2022 and her district comprises cities from San Clemente to Cerritos. At our networking breakfast she will share an update on legislation that was completed during this recent legislative session and how it might impact the business community. Every year hundreds of bills are passed that can have an effect on how companies conduct business and understanding them is often a challenge. Janet will help to explain many of the bills that passed and that she worked on in 2023.
As a state legislator, Janet Nguyen was named Legislator of the Year by the American Legion, the Association of the United States Army and the Vietnam Veterans of America. She is a small-business owner, former State Senator for the 34th Senate District, former State Assemblywoman for the 72nd District, and a former Orange County Supervisor. She is the former Vice-President of Government and Public Affairs for a local Chamber of Commerce. When first elected to the State Senate, she became the highest-ranking Vietnamese-American elected official in California and the highest ranking Vietnamese-American woman elected official in the United States. Janet also served on the Garden Grove City Council where she was the first woman Councilmember elected in nearly 35 years and the youngest member ever elected.
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 welcome to bring along a door prize to promote their product or service. The program will include time for live networking, self-introductions, a breakfast buffet, our guest speaker and a question and answer session if time permits.
The Chamber networking breakfasts, which are open to the public, are held on the second Tuesday of every month. Space will be limited. To assure your seat, pre-register on the chamber website: cypresschamber.org/events/details/august-networking-breakfast-2023-2684
Youth Center celebrates Night Among the Stars
By Katie Arnoult
The Youth Center held its 10th annual A Night Among the Stars ceremony, awarding 14 student nominees for their dedication in community service, volunteerism, and philanthropy. Specific nominees received a Stellar Volunteer scholarship of $500.
During the ceremony, each nominee was introduced by a member of the organization that nominated them, and they spoke about the student’s volunteer work. The students received certificates of recognition from the U.S. Senate and the Los Alamitos City of Commerce. The scholarship recipients were announced shortly after; scholarship recipients received a trophy and a check for $500.
The nominees and the organizations that nominated them are listed below.
Alex Phillips – The Youth Center Camp SHARK
Bella Kim – The Youth Center, the Griffin Gazette
Elias Rae-Maristela – Summer Harvest Food for Kids, Inc
Hayley Dunn – Casa Youth Shelter
Khloe Tran – Los Alamitos Unified School District (LAUSD), The Youth Center Leadership Council, Los Alamitos High School (LAHS) Emerging Leaders club
Lexi Blankenstein – Los Alamitos Education Foundation (LAEF)
Marisa Barlin – The Youth Center Camp SHARK
Rhyann Diaz – Los Alamitos Ballet Theatre
Riley Silverman – The Youth Center Camp SHARK
Rylee Robles – Rotary Club of Los Alamitos/Seal Beach
Sanaya Bose – Rotary Club of Los Alamitos/Seal Beach
Sarah Saadeh – LAHS, Girls in STEM
Sophia Fettkether – National Charity League (NCL)
Una O’Farrell – The Youth Center Camp SHARK
All the Stellar Volunteer scholarship recipients and the organizations that provided their scholarships are listed below.
Rossmoor Homeowners Association: Lexi Blankenstein
Rossmoor Woman’s Club: Hayley Dunn
Rossmoor Woman’s Club: Una O’Farrell
Rotary Award: Bella Kim
S.E.T.H. Scholarship: Sarah Saadeh
“As a female student with an interest in STEM, I was aware of the difficulties of pursuing a degree in a male-dominated field,” said Sarah Saadeh, a senior at LAHS. Inspired by this situation, Saadeh created Girls in STEM, a camp for young girls to inspire the next generation of female engineers and scientists. Working with The Youth Center, Saadeh built a curriculum for the seven-week-long program and watched her dream come to life.
“In just a few weeks, I witnessed a timid group of girls transform into the future generation of aspiring female scientists and engineers,” she said. “After completing two sessions of Girls in STEM, I am very thankful and humbled to have received the S.E.T.H. Scholarship from the Seal Beach Lions Club.”
Bella Kim, a sophomore at LAHS, was nominated for A.N.A.T.S. by The Youth Center and the Griffin Gazette, the LAHS school newspaper. She was awarded her scholarship by the Rotary Club of Los Alamitos/Seal Beach. As the marketing intern for The Youth Center, Kim creates social media posts and writes press releases that are published in local newspapers such as the Event-News Enterprise and Sun Newspapers.
She also represented the Griffin Gazette; as both a staff writer and editor, Kim has put in extra hours outside of class to publish articles, bringing her love of writing and leadership skills to the journalism program.
“I’m really grateful to The Youth Center for nominating me for this award and to the Rotary Club for providing me with this scholarship,” she said. “I hope to continue working with The Youth Center and Rotary International in the future.”
Una O’Farrell, a senior at LAHS, has been volunteering at The Youth Center and Camp SHARK for five years. Camp SHARK stands for “Science, Hand-On, Art, Recreation and Knowledge,” and it’s a summer camp for elementary school students that The Youth Center offers. O’Farrell has helped with crafts, games, and other activities at the camp, as well as going on field trips every week.
O’Farrell shared how, as someone who has grown up within LAUSD, volunteering is important to her because she has seen how impactful it can be. For her, volunteering is a way she can give back to the community, learn and gain experience, and impact others in a positive way.
“The Youth Center has become like my second family, and I was so honored to have been nominated by them for A Night Among the Stars and to receive a scholarship from the Rossmoor Women’s Club,” O’Farrell said.
Janae Roberts, the Youth Programs Supervisor and organizer of the A.N.A.T.S. event, said that it is important to recognize those who have put in the extra dedication of community service, so those individuals can continue to spread goodness to others.
“My hope is that more organizations become aware of this amazing event,” Roberts said. “That way, we have a larger variety of youth that are nominated. I hope that more youth who are selflessly devoting their time to others are able to be recognized for their work.”
For information about The Youth Center or A Night Among the Stars, please visit TheYouthCenter.org.
Camp Shark Attendees get to see Angels play
By Katie Arnoult
On June 22, The Youth Center’s Camp S.H.A.R.K (Science, Hands-On, Art, Recreation, and Knowledge) students and staff attended an Angels baseball game. The tickets were provided by the Angels Community Ticket Program, an association that donates free home game tickets to non-profit organizations in California by request.
For many campers who attended the game, it was their first time going to an event like this. “I’ve never been to a professional sports game before, so I’m really excited!” said S.H.A.R.K. camper Aidan before the game started.
“A lot of them were so busy taking in the stadium with wide eyes that they stopped while we were walking to look around and see what everything was,” said Amanda Hernandez, the field trip lead. “I could tell the kids were super excited about how big the stadium was.” While Camp S.H.A.R.K could not stay for the entire game, Hernandez said that the kids loved every minute of being there.
“I enjoyed seeing [the kids] cheer for the team and try and catch the ball. It was fun for [them], and I know they had a good time,” said Kyle Corbin, another staff lead for the field trip. He added that, after seeing a professional team play, many of the campers became more interested in playing sports and participating in sports activities at camp.
“It was fun to watch,” said Daniel, a camper.
“[My favorite part was that] the Angels hit a home run,” said Caleb, another camper. He added that this was his first time going to an Angels game.
The trip would not have been possible without the Angels’ support. The Youth Center provided bus transport, supervision, and Angels hats for all the campers. For many, this opportunity creates a lasting effect, as spending time with friends and making memories at the game is something that they look forward to each year. Thanks to the Angels, campers also have a special keepsake to remember the day by.
“It’s extremely rewarding to see kids have a great time,” said Janae Roberts, the camp supervisor. “It warms my heart to know that what we are doing has a direct positive impact.”
Los Al gets $2.5 million for Civic Center renovation from state allocation
With a hole in its roof and its civic center complex needing other repairs, the city of Los Alamitos welcomed the news of Senator Janet Nguyen’s one-time appropriation of $2.5 million with open arms this week.
Senator Nguyen announced this week that she has secured a significant investment of $2.5 million through the budget process for critical upgrades and repairs to the beloved Los Alamitos Civic Center Complex.
“I am proud to announce the allocation of $2.5 million for critical upgrades to the Los Alamitos Civic Center Complex,” said Senator Nguyen in a statement.
“This investment will enhance the City’s ability to serve its residents, modernize emergency response capabilities, and ensure a flourishing hub for community engagement. Together, we are investing in the future of Los Alamitos, empowering our community to thrive and ensuring a better quality of life for all,” she added.
The city is currently experiencing a significant turnaround, buoyed by the passage during the pandemic of an additional 1.5 percent sales tax, which has allowed the city to experience growth and is somewhat hemmed in by an aging civic center on Katella.
The Los Alamitos Civic Center Complex has long been the heart of the vibrant city, fostering a sense of belonging and providing essential services to residents, Nguyen said.
“This central civic complex, housing the community center, police department, and fire department, has served as a cornerstone of the community for decades. Its impact extends far beyond the city’s borders, attracting individuals from neighboring areas who participate in an array of programs, classes, and community initiatives,” said Nguyen in securing the funds.
In addition, she said the improvements made through the allocation will serve thousands of residents who rely on the Los Alamitos Civic Center each week.
Among other programs, Nguyen was referring to a broad expansion of programs now being offered by the revamped Los Al Recreation Department which brings diverse groups of citizens, of all ages, into the civic center complex.
“These citizens are taking advantage of the diverse range of classes, day camps, programs for older adults, and various community service offerings available year-round, Nguyen said.
“Moreover, during times of crisis, this facility, alongside the Los Alamitos Police Department, serves as the emergency operations center and acts as the designated point of distribution for food and other essential resources,” she said.
In her statement, Nguyen acknowledged problems with the aging center, like roofing problems and other issues.
“Like many of Los Alamitos’ infrastructure assets, the Civic Center and the Police and Fire Departments have remained largely unchanged since their construction in the 1970s,” the Senator said.
“As the city continues to grow and evolve, it is imperative that we modernize these facilities to meet the increasing demand for services and ensure the safety and well-being of our residents,” she said.
“This funding brings much-needed relief and support to the City of Los Alamitos. The allocated funds will be utilized to address recent storm damage that has affected the Civic Center and other facilities, enabling necessary repairs and upgrades,” said Nguyen.
“This investment will empower the community to continue its mission of serving the community effectively during normal operations and emergencies alike,” she said.
For city officials, the state’s investment is much needed and confirmation of Mayor Tanya Doby’s oft-stated quest to get “every dollar available” for the “small, but mighty city” of Los Alamitos.
“We want to thank Senator Janet Nguyen for her steadfast support for our city,” said Los Alamitos Mayor Tanya Doby. “Senator Nguyen has been an ally for our small but mighty city since her first days in higher office,” said Doby in a statement.
“Due to her background as an advocate for the underdog and the little guy, she has always had a soft spot for Los Alamitos and our particular needs,” the mayor said.
“Our views and values naturally align which has made making the requests for our growing city much easier to communicate to her and her staff. Soliciting and securing $2.5M for our residents is just the latest in a long line of ways the Senator has shown her dedication to our city over the course of our relationship with her as a diligent advocate for Los Alamitos,” she added.
Lack of zip may be overtaxing some Rossmoor residents
A Rossmoor Community Services District Director, who is also an online merchant, says he thinks the lack of Rossmoor having its own zip code is costing residents between $150 -200,000 per year.
Director Michael Maynard announced at the RCSD’s June meeting that he will personally be reaching out to the U.S. Post Office and Congresswoman Michelle Steel to fix a growing problem of Rossmoor residents being forced to pay Los Al’s 1.5 percent sales tax when they purchase goods online.
During the personal comment section of the Board of Directors’ June meeting, he announced to his fellow Directors and the public to say, “I have a plan that I think would work.”
Maynard, who owns a “direct to consumer” brand, said he will be doing the project not as an RCSD Director, but “this is Michael as a consumer.”
Rossmoor residents once had their own zip code, 90721, said Maynard, but “back in the ’80s, with its own post office somewhere near the parking lot of Farmers & Merchants Bank.
“At one point in the 80s, the post office said we don’t need both (zip codes), so it went away, and the post office began pushing everything to 90720, the general Los Alamitos zip code, which is next door.
Fast forward to 2023, and while most Rossmoor residents are lumped into the 90720-zip code, they are now being charged the 1.5 sales tax now effective in the City of Los Alamitos.
Maynard, who said he is associated with the Shopify corporation, said most online purchases made from Rossmoor are automatically, and wrongfully charged the Los Al sales tax because they are in that zip code, even though technically, they live in Rossmoor and should not be charged.
Some of the Amazon computers are more sophisticated and able to tell the difference, he estimated that at least 50 percent of the Amazon customers in Rossmoor are also wrongfully charged the sales tax.
“I am doing this because I think it is wrong,” said Maynard, estimating Rossmoor residents are wrongfully charged between $150 – 200,000 per year. Maynard did not explain his rationale for the estimation but said “I think there is a fix for it.”
He hinted that his plan could result in the reactivation of the former Rossmoor zip code, 90721, but it will take some work with Steel’s office and the USPS, “because it is a post office thing.”
By the way, the Rossmoor zip code still works, he said, if residents use it.
RCSD President Tony DeMarco asked the district’s attorney Tarquin Preziosi whether the district or its residents would have any leverage with Los Al to have improperly assessed sales taxes refunded.
Maynard’s suggestion “has merit,” said Preziosi, however, he suggested that the matter would likely be determined to be “a private matter” between the merchant and the wrongly taxed residents.
“Changing the zip code may fix that glitch, so to speak,” he said, noting “it is a complicated question.”
Director Jo Shade, a real estate professional, said “in our industry, that is something we stress. You should also use Rossmoor in everything you fill out to avoid that issue,” she said.
“It is a very interesting discussion,” said DeMarco.
In other action, the Directors discussed making changes to its budget procedures so that a final vote on its fiscal year budget occurs before July. The RCSD is expected to approve its fiscal year budget at its next meeting in July.
In executive session, the board voted 4-0 to approve a one-time performance pay raise of $7,500 for General Manager Joe Mendoza and they approved bonuses for district employees not to exceed $9,100 as a special committee will work out the details and amounts for each employee.
The Rocket’s red glare
By Rosemary Lewallen
Martial music is played as a prelude
to the boom of exploding fire,
sparkling in varied colors that twinkle
like stars in the inky night.
We celebrate the birthday of our nation,
partying with family and friends,
sharing a meal and music,
watching fireworks light up the sky.
We proclaim that freedom has a cost.
People have died to give us liberty.
We may not agree on politics,
but we unite as Americans on this day.
This is the “land of the free
because of the brave.”
We must remain vigilant
to keep it that way.
We dress in red, white, and blue
on the Fourth of July.
Even babies and pets are decorated.
Is that all there is to patriotism?
Every day we see veterans living on the streets,
many with mental illness and drug addiction.
Do we really honor all those who
have served our country in the military?
On July Fourth families get together to feast,
passing out sandwiches, potato chips and sweets,
moments of precious generational bonding,
dancing to the beat of democracy.
Let us not forget our history
or those who sacrificed to keep us free.
May we always support our veterans
no matter the date of the year.
Los Al Wiener dog to run for the title
Among a field of approximately 100 dogs, several local pups will be looking to claim this year’s title of “Fastest Wiener in the West” at the 26th Annual Wienerschnitzel Wiener Nationals on Saturday at Los Alamitos Race Course. The annual event will again benefit the Seal Beach Animal Care Center.
Los Alamitos resident Jennifer Davenport and her young racer, Tony, will be among the field of racers. Tony, a seven-month-old dachshund is making his first appearance in the race. Like many of the competitors, Tony has some speed, but as a young pup, will be challenged to stay focused as he barrels down the track with about seven other dogs in his heat.
Davenport said they have practiced a little and they were on hand for a practice session on Monday at the race course. For the most part, Davenport said they are just going to “wing it.” Tony will have plenty of support, Davenport said, as Tony has a lot of friends and family planning to attend.
“He will have a full section of fans,” Davenport said.
The event has racers from all over Southern California, as far away as places like Bakersfield, Moreno Valley and Ventura. Also scheduled to be among the field will be Burr, who lives in Cypress with his human Ariana Gonzalez and Buddy of La Palma, who lives with Michelle Almazan.
Two Seal Beach dogs are also slated to participate; George (with CJ and Emmy Jacobs) and Sisi (with Jason Ghareebo and Kiley Majeski). Sisi is among the older dogs racing at 12 years of age. Another 12-year-old racer is also from Seal Beach. Wheezy a rescue dog who had overcome a severe weight gain but was able to get back down to a healthy weight and ran last year as an 11-year old. Wheezy will be returning this year.
The Wienerschnitzel Wiener Nationals will get underway at 6:30 p.m. The dogs compete in 50-yard dashes over the racetrack at Los Alamitos, the same one where the horses run. The field will be whittled down to a championship field that is scheduled to run at 9:15 p.m.
The winner takes home a $1,000 prize, a trophy and a custom doghouse shaped like a Wienerschnitzel restaurant.
Live horse racing will also be held in addition to the dachshund races. VIP seating to enjoy the event is available by calling 714-820-2681. General Admission tickets on the day of the event at Los Alamitos are $3 per person. Children 17 and under are admitted free. Los Alamitos Race Course features free general parking.
Cypress dance studio presents “The Princess and the Frog,” southern style
A dance studio from Cypress has staged its 16th annual recital featuring multiple performances of “The Princess and the Frog” over the past weekend in Long Beach.
Strong Dance Studios even gave the show a touch of some down home southern hospitality by adding scenes of New Orleans and swamplands in a nod to the owner’s Cajun heritage.
Owner Rachel Strong of Strong Dance Studios, said various sets and bits about New Orleans were performed in tribute to her late dad Joe Strong, who they found out shared a bit of Louisiana and Texas Cajun heritage.
Her dance company performed over the weekend at the Woodrow Wilson High School performing arts center with multimedia sound and professional costuming.
On Sunday, Strong introduced the dance performance with a tribute to her late father, Joe, an engineer, who she said, “always had an unstoppable work ethic and an absolute love for life, which translated into a love for children.”
Moreover, she said they later found out after his passing that “among these gifts, he also passed down sort of our ethnic background, and when we would ask him about it, he would say, well, we’re mostly Irish, and maybe a little bit French.”
Strong said her dad had always attended every production her company staged and she even had a chair still reserved for him with his name on it. “He had a wonderful sense of humor, which largely revolved around being able to laugh at himself,” she said.
Turns out, said Strong, “he was from the region of East Texas/West Louisiana, “and so we got curious after he passed away.” Strong said they turned to an ancestry website to find out more, “and we found some surprises, right? Well,” she told the audience, “we’re a little bit French.”
Strong said it turns out she’s almost “half French,” so there were many acts in the play that depicted the Cajuns, including street scenes from New Orleans and a swamp scene, including the Cypress tree stumps.
“The Cajun people are really interesting people. They obviously have healthy egos because, hey, French! They love the big-time, they can throw a party with very little provocation. They love to sing and dance and love spicy food,” she said.
“So, after learning all of that, it became obvious that this particular show is going to be meaningful to me because it really celebrates the the heritage of my people,” said Strong.
“So, as a nod to them, we tried to put as many authentic aspects of their culture in front of you as possible. including a lot of live, loud and lovely music and some treats from the swamp. I hope you enjoy tonight’s show,” said Strong before it began.
“My goal is to try to make our production very crowd friendly so that anyone wanting to see a professional, wholesome local production would want to come,” she added.
She said more than 300 dancers, artists and volunteers worked together to stage the weekend productions, said Strong. The company even found a 10-piece New Orleans style jazz band that calls itself “Blow,” that played a role in the production, even leading a “second-line” procession off the stage as the show ended.
Strong said she wishes to thank all her performers, and what she calls the extended “Strong Family” and congratulate them on yet another successful season of artistry and confidence.
Rossmoor Woman’s Club awards 60k in grants to local nonprofits
Representatives of the Rossmoor Woman’s Club recently visited several local charities to present them with monetary donations ranging up to $2,500 each.
In Los Alamitos, the group visited the Youth Center, which provides after-school and summer activities, homework help and music lessons for children and teens; Precious Life Shelter which aids expectant and new mothers and babies; We Care, which helps families facing emergency financial hardship; and St. Isidore Plaza, a community heritage site and cultural center. While at St. Isidore, the group also presented a check for the Los Alamitos Museum to Marilyn Poe, who is on the boards of both organizations. In addition, the group visited Lydia House, a Long Beach shelter for homeless women.
The money is part of more than $59,000 the Rossmoor Woman’s club donated in the 2022-2023 fiscal year to more than 20 local charities and used to provide college scholarships through Los Alamitos High School and the Youth Center. The club raised the money through its two major annual fundraisers, the Rossmoor Spring Garden Tour in May and Holiday Home Tour last December.
“We want to thank everyone who attended the holiday home tour and garden tour,” said Rossmoor Woman’s Club President Sue Goldberg. “Thanks to you, we could make these donations to help improve the lives of so many in our community.”
Besides fund-raising for charity, the women’s club also participates in various hands-on volunteer efforts, such as cooking for the Ronald McDonald House in Long Beach, packing boxes for Food Finders in Los Alamitos and crocheting or knitting hats and scarves for the homeless.
The club, affiliated with the international General Federation of Women’s Clubs, was formed in Rossmoor in 1958, but members do not have to live in Rossmoor.
West Coast premiere of Alexei Ratmansky’s Giselle: The United Ukrainian Ballet with Pacific Symphony
By Malini Nagpal, BC-DMT, Ph.D.
To be honest, I didn’t know what to expect from this performance. I felt a sense of restlessness when I entered the theater. I knew that traditionally Giselle is a story of a peasant girl who goes mad and dies from the betrayal of an aristocrat whom she loves (1st act). Then, in the afterlife (2nd act), she becomes a “Will,” a spirit in white who forces her aristocrat lover to dance until he dies. As such, I was preparing my heart and mind for the ultimate demise of love. To my surprise, this did not happen. Rather I was taken on a divine journey where the future is rooted in hope and driven by love.
“Make dance not war” and a message of hope was the key to the success of Giselle, beautifully performed by the United Ukrainian Ballet at the Segerstrom Center for the Arts on June 29. The opening night was sheer poetry. United Ukrainian Ballet Company, brought together by the tragedy of war, nonetheless resolute in hope, is comprised of sixty professional artists in exile. I can’t even imagine the story each artist has about their journey to safety. What was exquisitely clear was their unyielding connection to the power of dance. Aside from the beautiful lines and shapes that define ballet, the emotional connection of the artists to the message and the audience was breathtaking.
For centuries, dance has been shown to heal the hearts, minds, and bodies of its people, and this is exactly what unfolded on the opening night of Giselle. It is known that performing ‘Giselle’ is demanding for any dancer. Still, the message of hope and love through such a demanding piece was truly inspiring. Through the poignant choreography of Alexei Ratmansky and flawless execution by the dancers of the United Ukrainian Ballet, the audience “gasped” in “awe.” We were emotionally touched, physically moved, and soulfully connected. This powerful wave of experiences carried into the end surprise performance by former Ukrainian soldier, Oleksandr Teren, and members of the United Ukrainian Ballet.
Teren lost both his legs in the Russian war, commanded the stage, and danced beautifully; moving the audience to tears, the audience rose up into a roaring standing ovation. It was pure inspiration and resolute hope.
The message of hope extended into raising funds for lifesaving humanitarian aid for victims of the Russian invasion of Ukrainian. The proceeds from ticket sales benefited BlueCheck. Created to vet, verify, and fund Ukrainian-led local and grassroots frontline organizations providing lifesaving humanitarian aid to victims of the Russian invasion.
The healing and communicative power in dance must not be underestimated. This performance is clear evidence of that. At its very nature, the human psyche is constructed by a gradual layering of movement choreography from the moment of conception to death, however long that may be. The meaning of this choreography is unique to its people and evolves with time. The United Ukrainian Ballet artists deeply touched the hearts and souls of the audience. When it was desired the most, this performance of Giselle ignited a much-needed change in the human psyche.
Although I walked into the theater feeling restless and was prepared for the ultimate demise of love, I walked out inspired and determined in courage.
Roz White “born” for role of Tina Turner’s complicated mom in “Tina, The Tina Turner Musical” now at Segerstrom
For some, even the vaulted word “iconic” falls short when referring to the late Tina Turner, the “Queen of Rock and Roll,” whose rise to superstardom is now one for the ages.
Though Turner passed away in May, the touring version of the award-winning Broadway musical that portrays her epic story of triumph rolls into Segerstrom this week with “mind-blowing and life-changing” reviews.
Tina Turner’s story is so breathtaking, and the energy on stage is so frenetic, producers say the play literally requires two major stage stars playing the role of Tina as they rotate shows to replicate the energy this superstar left in her wake.
The North American tour of TINA–THE TINA TURNER MUSICAL is one of eight productions that have opened around the world since the show began in London’s West End in 2018.
“This is testimony to Tina’s extraordinary legacy,” claim the producers, Tali Pelman from Stage Entertainment and Jimmy Nederlander.
“We can’t wait for America to see the two-megawatt superstars—Naomi Rodgers and Zurin Villanueva—who share the role of Tina, Roderick Lawrence in the role of Ike, and the incredibly talented company who are on the road in this tour.”
Tina Turner first became a household name in the 70s with the Ike and Tina Turner Revue. Methodically, Turner began to break barriers after first breaking with Ike in 1976. She went public in 1981 with allegations of abuse.
“I spent 16 years with a man I knew I would never be happy with,” Turner contemporarily told PEOPLE Magazine, according to the HBO Documentary “Tina.”
“I was living a life of death. I did not exist,” says Tina, “but I survived it. And when I walked out, I walked out.”
Born Anna Mae Bullock in 1937 on a sharecropping farm where they picked cotton, the complicated life of the late entertainer who ultimately became Tina Turner is an inspiring story of a woman who truly overcame seemingly insurmountable odds to become one of the most admired entertainers of our time.
So says singer and actress Roz White, a native of Washington, D.C., the woman whose own life makes her believe she was born to play the role of Zelma Bullock, Tina’s mom, in the touring production.
Turner (Anna Mae) was abandoned by her mother as a child and left with her grandmother to be raised. On stage, White says she has come to understand why Zelma left her daughter behind.
“A lot of people are not going to understand why [Zelma left]. And, you know, to this day, people still come up to me and say I realized that I didn’t realize that the relationship was like that. But you know, we’re on the outside looking in and so, you know, those moves have to be made,” said White in an interview.
“So what I bring to the role is the real in this real-life experience, and a sympathy for a woman like Zelma, who has given birth to someone so strong and her role and making sure that that person, that spirit, gets to do everything that it’s supposed to do on the earth,” she said.
“I think she [Zelma] succeeded,” said White, “because we got Tina Turner, and she’s an icon, and we’ll never forget her. Zelma was part of that,” she added, “whether it was the greatest times or not, she was a catalyst for her daughter’s success.”
The North American touring cast is led by Naomi Rodgers (Frozen) and Zurin Villanueva (The Lion King, Mean Girls, Shuffle Along, The Book of Mormon) who will evenly share the role of Tina Turner, each playing four (of eight) performances a week. Also starring are Roderick Lawrence as Ike Turner, White as Zelma Bullock, Carla R. Stewart as Gran Georgeanna and Lael Van Keuren as Rhonda.
Photo by Matthew Murphy for Murphy Made.
The musical is set to the pulse-pounding soundtrack of her most beloved hits, this electrifying sensation that is sending audiences “soaring to the rafters.” But there are tender moments, which reflect Tina’s relationship with her mother, Zelma.
“I think Zelma was not allowed to be a soft woman. And women just weren’t allowed in that situation. That was Tennessee, picking cotton. And she had already had three children by the time Anna Mae came around. It just was a life that did not provide a space to be soft and to be very feminine. So you had to kind of be rough, and she was looking for a better life,” says White of Zelma Bullock.
“And so she chose to move to a different place. And unfortunately, Anna Mae (Tina) was left behind because someone just didn’t know how to love a gifted and energetic child, you know, a child that we would label today as ADHD or some title,” she adds.
As a child, she said Tina was jumping up and down and running out to the field playing and wouldn’t sit down when told to sit down. There was also a little bit of jealousy because her father seemed to favor Anna Mae over the other daughter and so Zelma said, ‘well, if you want to choose, I’m gonna choose.’
White called Bullock a “very layered woman.” In many ways, says White, the role reminds her, “in ways my grandmother and my mother, had a tug of war over me, I believe, during my mom’s passing and how that affected me and gave me some of the emphasis that I have to do to pursue my dreams.”
“But there’s so many layers and ways that I relate to them, but I really believe his role was built especially for me to play. I just do it moment by moment.”
Unfortunately, Tina and her mom were not able to reconcile before her death, yet White believes Bullock played a huge role in Tina’s life.
The Broadway version of the play won 12 Tony Awards, ironically, the same number of Grammy® Awards won by Turner during her career.
Turner would eventually overcome her childhood, abuse, and other crises to touch areas of superstardom reached by few rivals. Turner is one of the best-selling artists of all time and her live shows were indeed iconic and seen by hundreds of millions of fans.
Featuring her much-loved songs, TINA–THE TINA TURNER MUSICAL is written by Pulitzer Prize-winning Katori Hall and directed by the internationally acclaimed Phyllida Lloyd.
When she was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in October 2021, Tina Turner became one of only three women in the institution’s history to be inducted twice (she was initially inducted in 1991, alongside Ike).
TINA–THE TINA TURNER MUSICAL is directed by Tony Award nominee Phyllida Lloyd with choreography by Tony Award nominee Anthony van Laast, set and costume designs by Tony Award nominee Mark Thompson, music supervision, arrangements & incidental music by Nicholas Skilbeck, lighting by Tony Award nominee Bruno Poet, sound by Tony Award nominee Nevin Steinberg, projection design by Tony Award nominee Jeff Sugg, orchestrations by Tony Award nominee Ethan Popp, wigs, hair and makeup design by Drama Desk Award winner Campbell Young Associates, and casting by The Telsey Office
Produced by Stage Entertainment, James L. Nederlander and Tali Pelman, in association with Tina Turner, the musical was written by Tony Award nominee and Pulitzer Prize winner Katori Hall with Frank Ketelaar and Kees Prins.
TINA-THE TINA TURNER MUSICAL runs from July 11-23 at Segerstrom Center for the Arts in Costa Mesa.
Performances are Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays at 7:30 pm , Saturdays at 2 and 7:30 and Sundays at 1 and 6:30 pm. Tickets start at $29. For info or tickets, visit scfta.org or call (714) 556-2787.