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September 11.2025
3 Minutes Read

LAHS Students Lead the Charge for Mental Health Awareness and Courage

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Shining a Light on Mental Health

September is National Suicide Prevention Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about mental health struggles that many encounter, particularly among youth. In a heartfelt initiative, students from Los Alamitos High School (LAHS) are using their creativity to address this critical issue through the Directing Change: Youth Creating Change program. These talented youths produced a compelling 30-second public service announcement (PSA) that highlights the mental health challenges faced by athletes and encourages open conversations to break the stigma surrounding these struggles.

The Power of Youth Creativity

The impact of this initiative cannot be understated. The students, passionate about making a difference, crafted a message that resonates not only within their school but also across the community. Their PSA was recognized as the winner of a countywide competition, showcasing the importance of student voice in advocacy efforts. The students’ work exemplifies the idea that young people can lead the way in creating understanding and support around mental health.

Spotlight on Athletes

The PSA specifically targets the mental health challenges that athletes face—pressure to perform, fear of failure, and the need for support. This focus is crucial, considering that athletes often experience severe mental health concerns, which can be overlooked due to the stigma surrounding mental fitness and toughness. The film serves as a reminder that athletes, like anyone else, can struggle and need supportive conversations to thrive.

A Night to Remember at Angel Stadium

On September 5, the students were celebrated at Angel Stadium in a momentous occasion. The recognition included a special panel discussion including Angels catcher Logan O’Hoppe and pitcher Ben Joyce, who shared their own mental health journeys. This instilled hope and the importance of openness among youth, promoting a culture where discussing mental wellness is normalized. The PSA premiered on the Jumbotron during a live Angels game, engaging thousands of fans in a conversation about mental health.

Community Support Makes a Difference

The presence of over 100 Los Alamitos Unified staff members at the game symbolizes the community's commitment to supporting mental health initiatives. This collective effort reinforces the notion that mental health is not just an individual concern but a community responsibility. The strong backing illustrates the impact that support can have on amplifying youth voices when it comes to tackling critical topics like mental health.

Continuing the Conversation

Through efforts like the PSA and the community’s backing, a path toward greater awareness of mental health has been formed. This acknowledgment is critical, especially as youth often hesitate to speak out about their struggles. Conversations sparked by events such as this serve as a catalyst for change, encouraging others to share their stories and to seek help when needed.

Empowering Future Generations

The students at LAHS are proving that courage is not just about facing physical challenges on the field, but also addressing emotional and mental health hurdles. As they continue to share their message, they inspire others to find the strength to confront their own challenges. The celebration of their work and the power of youth to create change illustrates a hopeful future where mental health is openly discussed and supported.

In conclusion, as we reflect on the efforts made by these students during National Suicide Prevention Month, let us remember the significance of mental health awareness and the importance of fostering environments where young people feel comfortable to share their struggles. If we honor their courage, we can create meaningful change in our community.

For more uplifting stories and how you can get involved in supporting local youth programs, please explore your local community events. Each initiative adds to the growing movement towards understanding and nurturing mental health.

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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

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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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