La Mirada Blog
Articles by City News Service
Local running team recognized for undefeated season
The La Mirada City Council recognized the West Coast Warriors Cross Country Running Team for its achievements at the 2022 USATF National Junior Olympic Cross Country Champions at the January 24 City Council meeting.
West Coast Warriors is a running team for youth ages 6 to 14 who train and compete in track and cross-country events. The team includes athletes from La Mirada and surrounding cities. The 9-10 age division boys completed its 2022 season undefeated in all competitions. The team placed first in the USA Track and Field (USATF) Southern California Association Cross Country Championships in Santa Clarita and the USATF Region 15 Junior Olympic Championships in Las Vegas. (more)
Independence Day celebration returns to Regional Park
Celebrate our nation with family, friends, and the community as the popular Independence Day Celebration returns after a two-year COVID-19 hiatus on Sunday, July 3 from 4 to 9 p.m. at La Mirada Regional Park.
Enjoy live music with pop hits from Dance Dance Evolution and country tunes from the Kelley Boyz as local organizations sell a variety of food and treats. (more)
City and School District Collaborate on College Banner Project After Student Proposal
La Mirada residents will notice new street banners along Adelfa Drive in front of La Mirada High School. The new banners were created as part of a College Banner Program to honor La Mirada High School students who recently graduated and plan to continue their education at a college or university the following year. The banners feature a photo of the graduate, the graduate’s name, a noteworthy achievement, as well as the college or university they plan to attend. The class of 2018 is the first graduating class to participate in this new program.
The idea for the college banners was developed and proposed by the Youth in Government students at the February 27 City Council meeting. Through the Youth in Government program, La Mirada High School students have an opportunity to learn about local government and recommend programs to enhance the community.
The College Banner Program was approved by the City Council and implemented this year in collaboration with the Norwalk-La Mirada Unified School District.
“We are extremely proud to highlight the achievements of our La Mirada High School graduates with this new College Banner Program,” says Assistant City Manager Anne Haraksin. “We hope these banners serve as an inspiration and encouragement for other high school students to pursue a college education or trade.”
Similar to the “Presidential Portraits” banners and the military banners, college banners are installed on light poles along Adelfa Drive between Foster Road and Alicante Road. The college banners will be replaced every year with new La Mirada High School graduates.
For additional information on the College Banner Program, call Community Services at (562) 943-7277.
New La Mirada History Book Now Available for Purchase
La Mirada residents can now own a piece of La Mirada history by purchasing La Mirada: Three Decades of Change and Challenge, Stability and Achievement, History Book today! The 60-page hardcover book chronicles the City’s rich history from 1986 through 2016. The history book details historical events, project initiatives, and challenges though images that tell the story of La Mirada.
The new history book was written by author Allen Carden, who arrived in La Mirada in 1965 and is a graduate of La Mirada High School and Biola University.
Residents can purchase La Mirada: Three Decades of Change and Challenge, Stability and Achievement for $24.95 plus tax. However, for a limited time only, residents have the option of purchasing a Book Bundle, which includes The City of La Mirada: A Silver Anniversary History, 1960-1985 and La Mirada: Three Decades of Change and Challenge, Stability and Achievement, 1986-2016 for $39.95 plus tax.
“These history books truly capture the rich heritage of the La Mirada community,” says Community Services Director Lori Thompson.
History books are available for purchase at the La Mirada Resource Center and Activity Center. For additional information or questions, call (562) 902-3160.
Latest La Mirada Crime Report
The following is the La Mirada crime report as reported by the City of La Mirada Feb. 26. - Mar. 04, 2018.
Notable Arrests-Ten suspects were arrested throughout La Mirada for various warrants and narcotics violations.
Residential Burglary-Several credit cards were reported stolen during a daytime burglary on the 12300 block of Bristol Dr.
Other Structure Burglary-An early morning window smash burglary was reported on the 14800 block of Telegraph Rd. The exact loss is yet to be determined.
Vehicle Burglary-A daytime window smash burglary was reported on the 13300 block of Beach Blvd. The exact loss is yet to be reported.
Grand Theft- Several personal items were reported stolen from two unlocked vehicles on the 14700 block of Excelsior Dr. A package was stolen from a residence on the 13100 block of San Felipe St.
Grand Theft Vehicle-A sedan was reported stolen on the 14800 block of Telegraph Rd. A SUV was reported stolen on the 14400 block of San Ardo Dr. The vehicle has since been recovered by Norwalk Sheriff's. A sedan was reported stolen on the 15900 block of Imperial Hwy. A stolen sedan was recovered on the 14700 block of Beach Blvd. The vehicle was reported stolen out Fullerton PD's area.
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Pee Wee Blue Team Recognized and Other City News Bites
La Mirada Pop Warner Pee Wee Blue Team Recognized For Achievements
The La Mirada City Council recognized the La Mirada Pop Warner Pee Wee Blue team for its Athletic achievements while competing at local and championship levels.
For the past two regular seasons, the Pee Wee Blue team has gone undefeated. The team has won the Orange Empire Conference and Southern California River Bowl Conference, which include teams from across Southern California.
After earning the championship title in both conferences, the Pee Wee Blue team advanced to the Wescon Conference where they competed against teams from throughout California. Through their dedication and hard work, the team earned the California Wescon Championship.
The team composed of players ages 11 and 12 includes 18 boys and one girl. Players are also taught the importance of academics; each player is required to maintain a 3.0 grade point average. The majority of players maintain a 3.8 grade point average or higher. Two players, Justin Contreras and Larissa Robles, have earned the All American title, which is the highest scholar athlete acknowledgement within Pop Warner National.
“La Mirada is proud to be represented by a phenomenal team that excels both on and off the field,” says Community Services Director Lori Thompson. “The young talent combined with the amazing work of the coaches and parents create an environment of success for these athletes.”
A Night of Memories at the Father-Daughter Dance
The popular Father-Daughter candy-themed dance will be held on Friday, February 9 from 7 to 9 p.m. at the La Mirada Community Gymnasium. This special event provides the perfect opportunity for fathers to bond with their daughters and enjoy a memorable night out.
Fathers and daughters will be in for a night of dancing and creating memories. In addition to music and dancing, there will also be crafts, refreshments, and fun activities for all to enjoy.
Guests are encouraged to dress in their favorite party attire. A photo booth will also be available for souvenir photos to commemorate the event. The cost is $37 per couple with the cost of each additional daughter set at $17. All girls are encouraged to attend the dance with their fathers and dance the night away.
For additional information or to sign up, contact Community Services at (562) 943-7277.
Latest City News Bites
Volunteers Sought for Homeless Count
The City of La Mirada is seeking volunteers to assist with the 2018 Homeless Count. Each year, the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA) coordinates a count of homeless persons in the region to estimate the homeless population in Los Angeles County. This year’s Count will be held on Wednesday, January 24 from 8 to 11 p.m.
The Homeless Count involves volunteers canvassing predetermined areas and tallying homeless and transient persons from a distance. Volunteers are not allowed to engage with the homeless.
Volunteers will receive training at a briefing prior to the Count and should expect to assist in La Mirada from 8 to 11 p.m. on Wednesday, January 24. Volunteers are needed to participate as drivers using personal vehicles, navigators, team leaders, and counters. Participants must be over 18 years of age.
For more information or to sign-up, contact the La Mirada Resource Center at (562) 943-7277.
Supervisor Hahn Presents New Mobile Stroke Unit
On Monday, January 8, Los Angeles County Fourth District Supervisor Janice Hahn hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony at LA County Fire Station #30 in Cerritos to mark the launch of a Mobile Stroke Unit in the southeastern region of the county.
The Mobile Stroke Unit is equipped with a portable CT scanner that allows UCLA medical professionals to diagnose and treat stroke victims. The Mobile Stroke Unit was developed to eliminate delays in treatment and meet the specialized needs of stroke victims in the fields. Mobile Stroke Units can save lives and prevent or reduce the long-term brain damage and disability associated with strokes. The technology is new and this particular unit is the first in the Western United States.
The Mobile Stroke Unit is part of a pilot program launched by UCLA Health and funded by both the philanthropic efforts of the Arlene and Henry Gluck Foundation and the County of Los Angeles. Six months ago the county Board of Supervisors agreed to fund the pilot program by passing a motion authored by Supervisor Hahn to provide $1.5 million to fund and expand this pilot program.
This Mobile Stroke Unit is now available to respond to stroke-related emergency calls in the cities of Artesia, Bellflower, Cerritos, Hawaiian Gardens, Lakewood, La Mirada, Norwalk, Paramount, and Signal Hill, as well as the area of unincorporated Whitter.
La Mirada Offers AARP Tax Assistance Program
The City of La Mirada offers residents the opportunity to receive free tax assistance with the AARP Tax Assistance Program at the La Mirada Activity Center. With this program, free federal and state income tax assistance is offered to seniors and low-income community members.
Taxpayers are asked to bring driver’s license or California ID, records of income and deductions including forms W-2, W2P, and 1099’s, statements showing interest and dividends, a copy of last year’s return, affordable health care statements, and any other pertinent records.
Income tax assistance for seniors will be held on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 9 a.m. to noon in the Activity Center and low-income tax assistance will be held on Fridays from 9 a.m. to noon. This program will begin on February 6 through April 13.
Appointments are highly encouraged. Walk-ins are taken on a first-come, first served basis. Space is limited. The Activity Center is located at 13810 La Mirada Boulevard.
For additional information, call the La Mirada Activity Center at (562) 902-3160.
La Mirada Welcomes LA County Sheriff’s Lieutenant Jeff Dusky
The La Mirada City Council recently introduced Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Lieutenant Jeff Dusky, who will serve as the new La Mirada Service Area Lieutenant.
Lt. Dusky is a 31-year veteran of the County of Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department. He has worked on a variety of assignments at Norwalk, Firestone, and Lynwood Sheriff’s Station and Field Operations Support Services from 1989 to 2000. During those years in Field Operations, he was a member of La Mirada’s Special Assignment Officers (SAO) team for four years.
Since 2000, Lt. Dusky has held the ranks of Narcotic Detective, Sergeant, Chief’s Aide, and Lieutenant, which he promoted to in 2015. Lieutenant Dusky is looking forward to continuing to enhance law enforcement in La Mirada.
“I am proud and honored to return to the City of La Mirada as the Service Area Lieutenant and serve its residents once again,” said Dusky. “La Mirada has a team of dedicated deputies working together to keep the community safe and the City Council and residents are supportive of the team’s efforts.”
Latest News From The Hall
Extra Revenue is Always a Good Thing
The City Council recently reviewed its annual mid-year budget report. The report showed an improving economy as key revenue sources remain stable with some expected to exceed budget estimates. Overall, General Fund operating revenues for the current year are expected to reach $43.8 million, which is $2.1 million over the budgeted amount. General Fund operating expenditures are projected at $30.9 million, which is slightly below the budget. These figures do not include fund transfers for capital improvement projects. The estimates reflect ongoing efforts to manage costs even with conservative budgeting.
The mid-year report also emphasized the City’s continued commitment to maintaining public safety as a top priority and ongoing investment in local infrastructure. At mid-year, Measure I revenues were $2.22 million. Revenues are projected to reach $6.10 million at year end, an increase of $425,000 or 7.48 percent above the conservative budget estimate. This funding source is used for neighborhood infrastructure repairs, and the third phase of improvements is currently in progress. The one percent Measure I sales tax ends on March 31, 2018.
Work Continues on City’s Aggressive Street Improvement Program
Phase 3 of the Measure I neighbored street improvements will soon be underway in La Mirada. The City Council awarded RJ Noble, which submitted the lowest qualified bid, to complete the project at its November 22, 2016 Council meeting.
Street improvements in Phase 3 are planned for the neighborhood streets bounded by Stage Road, Alondra Boulevard, Dalmatian Avenue, Barnwall Street, Ocaso Avenue, La Mirada Boulevard, Rosecrans Avenue, and the east City limit. Not included in this project are Stage Road, Alondra Boulevard, La Mirada Boulevard, Rosecrans Avenue, and Santa Gertrudes Avenue.
Improvements include resurfacing of street pavement, installation of curb access ramps, rehabilitation of storm drains, and removal and replacement of damaged curbs, gutters and sidewalks.
Phase 3 is scheduled for completion in summer 2017. Phase 4 of Measure I is under design and is scheduled to begin construction by summer 2017. The first two phases of the Measure I neighborhood street improvements were completed in fall 2015 and spring 2016.
“We are continuing to meet the objectives of the City’s robust Capital Improvement Projects program,” says Public Works Director/ City Engineer Mark Stowell. “Phases 3 and 4 are proceeding as planned and will provide updated infrastructure in the affected neighborhoods.”
As construction approaches for capital improvement projects, the City strives to notify residents and businesses in advance of the work. To identify projects funded by Measure I, signs are posted in the area where a Measure I project is in progress.
For more information on La Mirada’s capital improvement projects, call the City’s Public Works Department at (562) 902-2385.
La Mirada Pearl Harbor Survivor to be Honored at Veterans Event
The City of La Mirada will host its annual Salute to Veterans event this Monday, November 7 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts, 14900 La Mirada Blvd. The public is invited to attend this worthwhile event which pays tribute to veterans and those currently serving in our military.
This year, the City is honored to welcome Mr. Lauren Bruner as its special guest. Mr. Bruner is a WWII Veteran, Pearl Harbor survivor, and La Mirada resident of more than 50 years. Mr. Bruner was the second to last soldier to leave the USS Arizona on the day of the Pearl Harbor attacks in 1941. Mr. Bruner will be releasing his historical novel, Second to the Last to Leave USS Arizona 12.7.41, on December 1, 2016. Signed copies of the book will be available for pre-order during the event. The City is honored to welcome Mr. Bruner to share his story during the event.
Wounded Warrior Project's National Speaker Mary Tallouzi will serve as this year’s key note speaker. Mary will tell her heartfelt story of a single mother who lost her son former Sgt. Daniel Tallouzi, following trauma suffered while serving our country in Iraq.
The City and community members will have an opportunity to honor La Mirada veterans who have returned home. Military street banners will be retired and presented to veterans and his or her family members during the ceremony on stage. Many veterans will be on hand to display memorabilia and talk to guests about their service. A video presentation showcasing photos submitted from local veterans will also be shown.
For more information about the event, contact the City’s Community Services Department at (562) 942-7277.
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