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March 25.2025
3 Minutes Read

Catalina Island Marathon: A Family Journey Across Scenic Trails

A vibrant family running the rugged trails of Catalina Island, showcasing the local running community.


Trail Running Tradition on Catalina Island

The Catalina Island Marathon, renowned for its stunning vistas and challenging terrain, has become a beloved tradition for many local runners. This year, Seal Beach residents Joe and Margo Lazzari exemplified the enduring spirit of community and determination as they tackled this iconic race for yet another year. With Margo completing her 39th marathon and Joe his 34th, their dedication is truly inspiring.

A Family Affair: Running Together

This year's race was particularly special as they were joined by a larger family crew. Their team included their children Elizabeth and Damien, son-in-law Marcus Caldwell, and daughter-in-law Avanti Shinde, who completed her first marathon alongside them. The support and camaraderie they shared highlighted not only the joy of running but also the importance of family bonding through shared experiences.

The Challenge of Catalina's Terrain

Few marathons present the kind of unique challenges that the Catalina Island Marathon does. Runners navigate steep ascents, rugged trails, and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. Participants train for months to prepare for the grueling 26.2-mile course, which showcases the island's natural beauty while testing physical and mental endurance.

Community and Competition

The Lazzaris' long-standing participation in this marathon reflects a broader engagement within the Seal Beach community. Local races create a unique environment where friends, family, and strangers unite in the thrill of competition while fostering a sense of belonging. Events like these encourage not just the athletes but also spectators, turning them into a community of cheerleaders and supporters.

Inspirational Milestones: Avanti's First Marathon

For Avanti Shinde, running her first marathon was a significant personal achievement. Her experience on the Catalina course was filled with both excitement and nervous anticipation. It serves as a reminder of how the event fosters individual goals within the collective spirit of the community. Avanti's journey highlights a growing trend in sports where families share in each other's achievements, creating lasting memories that extend beyond the race.

Time to Celebrate: The Joy of Accomplishments

Crossing the finish line together is not just about completing a race; it symbolizes the culmination of hard work, perseverance, and the joy found in achieving personal and collective goals. Celebrating these milestones enhances community ties, emphasizing that while the journey may be personal, it is also woven into the fabric of community life.

Encouraging a New Generation of Runners

As Seal Beach locals witness the Lazzaris’ ongoing commitment to trail running, they are inspired to embrace their own challenges, be it through running, volunteering, or participating in other community events. Families and friends are encouraged to join in these adventures to foster connections and promote healthy, active lifestyles within the community.

Final Thoughts: More Than Just a Marathon

The Catalina Island Marathon is more than a race; it is a celebration of community spirit, resilience, and the bond between families. As local runners like Joe and Margo Lazzari continue their journey, they remind everyone of the importance of pursuing passions together and creating shared experiences that delight and inspire.

As we celebrate the successes of local runners and events, consider signing up for your own adventure, whether it’s a marathon or another local event. Who knows, perhaps you could also create unforgettable memories alongside family and friends while contributing to the vibrant community in Seal Beach.


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10.10.2025

Seal Beach Police's E-Bike Enforcement Operation: A New Era of Safety

Update Seal Beach Police Focus on E-Bike Safety On a sunny Sunday, September 28, from noon until the sun dipped below the horizon, the Seal Beach Police Department undertook a critical mission aimed at ensuring the safety of e-bike riders across the city. This coordinated e-bike enforcement operation was not just an exercise in law enforcement; it was an outreach initiative combining education with strict enforcement to promote community safety. The Mission: Balancing Enforcement and Education The Seal Beach Police made it clear: with the growing popularity of e-bikes comes an increasing concern for public safety. Chief Michael Henderson aptly summarized the city’s priorities, emphasizing the need to keep e-bike riders, pedestrians, and drivers safe: "Our priority is... helping our residents better understand the laws designed to protect them." The operation aimed to catch violations like improper classifications of e-bikes, unlicensed riders, and failure to adhere to safety equipment mandates. Key Outcomes from the Operation Results from the enforcement initiative revealed significant engagement. Officers conducted 22 enforcement stops, issued 8 citations for violations such as: Failure to wear a required helmet (CVC 27803) Riding in the wrong direction (CVC 21650.1) No motorcycle endorsement (CVC 12500(b)) No registration (CVC 4000(a)(1)) In addition to these stops, officers also arrested one individual and impounded three electric motorcycles. This comprehensive approach, combined with mobile units and drone surveillance, enabled the police to cover crucial areas, including Seal Beach Boulevard, school zones, and bike paths, where unsafe riding behaviors had been increasingly reported. Community Engagement: A Holistic Approach What sets this initiative apart is its commitment to education. Police officers didn't solely rely on tickets; they engaged directly with riders and distributed educational materials. By fostering a dialogue around the rules and regulations governing e-bikes, the police aimed to cultivate a safer riding culture. As the operation's success has shown, a blend of education and enforcement is necessary to address the challenges that come with e-bike integration into everyday commutes. The Bigger Picture: Implications for Local Roads The patterns observed during the enforcement operation underline a larger trend where communities must continually adapt to the evolving landscape of transportation. As e-bikes surge in popularity, cities face the dual challenge of respecting individual freedoms and maintaining public safety. Residents, pedestrians, and drivers alike are profoundly impacted; hence, the importance of ensuring clarity on relevant laws is paramount. A Collaborative Effort for Safer Streets This initiative was not an isolated effort; it was the result of collaboration across multiple policing agencies, including the Los Alamitos Police Department and California Highway Patrol. Working together amplified their outreach, ensuring that strategies were grounded in the principles of community-oriented policing. These partnerships prove that collective efforts can lead to effective policing and a shared commitment to ensuring community welfare. Future of E-Bike Safety in Seal Beach The Seal Beach Police Department plans to conduct similar operations periodically, recognizing that as e-bikes become an integral part of local travel, regular checks are essential to uphold safety standards. Residents are encouraged to stay informed and engage with police efforts that promote safe riding habits, such as helmet use and understanding traffic laws. Your Role: Stay Informed and Participative As part of this community, it’s crucial for residents to be proactive. Engage in local discussions about safety regulations and encourage safe e-riding practices. Understanding and adhering to the laws can prevent accidents and keep both riders and pedestrians safe on the roads. For further inquiries regarding e-bike regulations and safety, connect with Seal Beach Police Department’s Traffic Investigator James Dowdell at jdowdell@sealbeachca.gov.

10.03.2025

Hurricane Narda Sparks Thrilling Surf Championships in Seal Beach

Experience the excitement of the Seal Beach Surfing Championships, fueled by Hurricane Narda and community spirit.

09.24.2025

How Naval Weapons Station Commander Motivates Local Citizens to Unite

Update Inspiration from the Naval Weapons Station Commander In a world increasingly divided, the leadership of the Naval Weapons Station (NWS) in Seal Beach is a heartwarming reminder of the profound impact one dedicated individual can have on their community. Commander John Williams has not only fostered a robust military operation but has also emerged as an inspiring figure for local residents, creating a bridge between the military and civilian communities that inspires everyday citizens to come together and thrive. Building Connections Beyond the Base The NWS Commander’s efforts to engage with local residents have led to various outreach initiatives and community events. These initiatives are geared toward opening dialogues, breaking down barriers, and integrating military families with local citizens. Numerous community members have expressed they feel a renewed sense of pride in their area, thanks to Commander Williams’ commitment. One resident, Jane Foster, noted, “It’s refreshing to see our military leaders so involved in community life. It makes us feel like we’re part of something bigger.” The Power of Community Engagement One of the standout initiatives led by Commander Williams is the “Community Connect” program, which invites local citizens to partake in fun activities at the station – ranging from family days to volunteer opportunities. These events showcase the everyday activities of military life while promoting a spirit of unity. As Williams puts it, “It’s vital for us to connect with our neighbors; we share the same goals of safety, prosperity, and community spirit.” Challenges and Triumphs of Community Leadership Commander Williams' dedication to community integration wasn’t always straightforward. Early in his tenure, he faced skepticism from both military personnel and community members. “People were unsure about how to mix military life with civilian life,” he recalls. Nevertheless, he persevered, believing in the potential for healing and understanding that comes through personal interaction. His journey reflects a profound lesson about resilience – sometimes initiatives take time, but the rewards for fostering relationships are immeasurable. Local Heroes: Profiles of Inspiring Community Members This bridging of gaps between the NWS and Civic community is also enriched by the contributions of local citizens. Many residents have taken it upon themselves to volunteer alongside military families, promoting shared values of community service. For instance, the “Adopt a Soldier” program pairs local families with military personnel to support their transition to civilian life. It’s an initiative filled with heartwarming moments, as families share meals and experiences, creating lasting friendships. Looking Ahead: Future Initiatives and Insights As the NWS continues to evolve, Commander Williams has exciting plans on the horizon. Expansion of educational programs for military children and participation in local environmental initiatives are both targeted. “My vision for the future is one where we also contribute positively to our shared environment,” he mentioned during a recent town hall meeting. These forward-thinking opportunities not only enhance the military’s role but further foster commitment to the local community. Why Community Matters: The Broader Implication As illustrated by Commander Williams’ story, community engagement is more important than ever. It invites resilience, celebrates diversity, and strengthens community bonds. In these uncertain times, understanding the struggles and triumphs of those around us can empower any citizen to become a champion of change. By actively participating in local initiatives, residents of Seal Beach are not just spectators but active catalysts for a shared future. In conclusion, the path that Commander John Williams has forged stands as a testament to the effectiveness of leadership when blended with compassion and community spirit. His approach encourages us all to engage and contribute in meaningful ways, crafting a community that values every single person’s role. For those inspired by the initiatives at the Naval Weapons Station, consider volunteering or participating in upcoming community events. Together, we can continue to shape the Seal Beach we love, fostering connections that will inspire generations to come.

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