I’ve always appreciated the Clippers, not only for Donald Sterling’s pratfalls but the amazing turns of fortune like their turnaround with Blake Griffin, Chris Paul, DeAndre Jordan and Doc Rivers who arrived with the Donald still in charge.

Not that they ever got much credit for things when things went improbably right but that’s an idiosyncrasy of our market.

It’s not the Clippers’ fault that the Lakers hung the moon, setting the local standard … which the Lakers haven’t lived up to recently, either.

Nor is it appalling that the Clippers didn’t make the Western Conference finals while compiling the NBA’s No. 3 record the last five seasons in a loaded conference with the Warriors, Spurs and the Kevin Durant-Russell Westbrook Thunder to get through. It wasn’t a triumph, but it was a long way from failure.

Nevertheless, everything changed when Paul bolted last summer. I wrote that Rivers was “doomed” – back when they were 8-15 and it was easy to get carried away, which I did.

Not that Doc is sure to be back. He’s no longer the Indispensable Clipper he was in 2014 when Steve Ballmer paid $2 billion for the franchise that Doc had held together in the wake of the Sterling debacle.

Now they’re rebuilding. If Doc has one more year at $10 million on his contract, they could decide they want a new face they won’t have to pay that much after next season.

Then after the Griffin trade, I noted they were headed back for the old days – just “without the laughs.”

My bad. Rivers has done some of his best work here this season. The gritty team is on a 24-13 run without Patrick Beverly and usually Danilo Gallinari. That might not bring Doc back or get them to the playoffs but it’s remarkable for a team starting 18 players, including two from the G-League.

If Paul blamed Rivers, as insiders say he did, it was CP3 who personally recruited Doc in 2013 when the point guard virtually ran the franchise. Whatever you believe, it was time. Paul no longer believed he could beat the Warriors as a Clipper and went somewhere he deemed it possible.

As for where the team goes from here, who knows?

The Clippers are a vanity project under Ballmer as they were under Sterling. They don’t belong to a fan base as much as an owner. You know what fans expect. What owners want, or are capable of, varies.

Only Donald would have brought the Clippers here from San Diego to show he wouldn’t fail on the same level if they were closer to home.

(Snicker.)

With less competitive, more hospitable sites like Seattle yearning for teams, only Ballmer might keep them here to show they’re worth that $2 billion he paid.

(As if.)

Ballmer was at MIT’s Sloan Conference last week where sports management people compare new metrics, explaining they knew they were on the wrong track if one guy scored (Griffin), one assisted (CP3) and one rebounded (DJ). Ballmer is new to the game to be sharing insights but if there’s one thing he can do, it’s charm a modernity-worshiping audience.

Not that Ballmer, the former Microsoft CEO, was from the computer side of the business as much as the sales side.

“For a time in the mid-1980s, Steve Ballmer used to stop by my cubbyhole at Time Magazine on his visits to New York,” Fortune’s Philip Elmer-Dewitt wrote. “I was a struggling staff writer and he was Bill Gates’ oversized salesman but he didn’t impress me as a man with a vision or deep knowledge of computers and he did nothing during his 13½ years as Microsoft’s CEO to persuade me otherwise.”

Skepticism about Ballmer runs deep among computer geeks. Fortune quoted several when Ballmer retired in 2014 including MacDailyNews, noting “The luckiest dorm assignment in the history of the universe has finally run out of luck.”

Indeed, Ballmer and Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates became pals living down the hall from each other at Harvard. Five years after starting Microsoft, Gates made Ballmer the company’s 30th employee.

Ballmer rose to CEO, retiring with a fortune now projected at $39.9 billion by Forbes with a straight-forward blurb, noting that he ran Microsoft from 2000 to 2014, “a difficult time after the first dot.comcrash and through efforts to catch Google in search and Apple in mobile phones.”

Oh, right, phones.

Ballmer laughed at Apple’s belated entry with the costly, vendor-subsidized iPhone (“$500? Fully subsidized with a plan?” he said in 2007. “… We’re selling millions and millions and millions of phones a year. Apple is selling zero phones a year.”)

Ballmer was nothing if not committed to Microsoft, leaving with 332 million shares of stock – that led him to make  back the $2 billion he spent on the Clippers in less than two years in the market.

Wait, this just in!

“I didn’t pay much for the Clippers,” Ballmer informed Bloomberg News, the financial news wire, last week.

“Houston (just sold for) $2.1 billion. We’re $2 billion – and we’re in L.A. and they’re not!”

Well, they’re in L.A. at the moment but Ballmer keeps talking about moving into a new arena in Inglewood, which is where the Lakers came from.

No one has to worry that Ballmer can’t afford the Clippers. What they can afford, and where, and why, remains to be seen.

GLENDALE, Ariz. – Whatever role Tom Koehler was going to fill in the Dodgers’ bullpen, he won’t be filling it any time soon.

Koehler was diagnosed with a mild anterior capsule strain in his right shoulder and will be sidelined indefinitely.

“It all depends on how everything works,” Koehler said of the recovery time for his injury. “Could be weeks, could be months. Right now, it is a little bit of an unknown.”

Koehler said the injury is a “milder version” of the injury that left-hander Julio Urias underwent surgery for last summer. Urias had a tear in his shoulder capsule and will be sidelined for 12 to 14 months. Koehler said surgery was not raised as a possibility in his case.

“That word wasn’t even mentioned,” Koehler said. “I think that’s one of the reasons I’m kind of okay today, kind of upbeat. I don’t know how long it’s going to take. But the surgery option was not mentioned and I will be pitching again this year. I just don’t know when.”

The 31-year-old Koehler was signed by the Dodgers in December as a conversion candidate after spending six seasons in the majors with the Miami Marlins and Toronto Blue Jays primarily as a starting pitcher. He was expected to pitch high-leverage situations out of the bullpen for the Dodgers this season.

“It doesn’t change my goal for the season. It just delays it a little bit,” said Koehler who signed a one-year, $2 million contract. “I came here to help this team win the World Series. If that starts a little later in the season, so be it. Hopefully, the impact can be made on the back end or in the middle of the year. Hit the ground running because this is a good team here.

“They’re going to be able to pick up the slack for sure. My goal right now is to get back and contribute to winning that championship.”

Koehler said he felt fine when he entered Friday’s game in the third inning. He gave up a home run to the first batter he faced and began to feel discomfort in his biceps.

“I got in the game and threw a couple pitches and just wasn’t feeling right,” Koehler said. “But I’ve pitched for awhile and I’ve pitched through things before where it’s kind of one pitch you feel something then two pitches later it’s gone. This wasn’t the case. It’s like it just kind of progressively got a little bit worse.

“Originally, I was supposed to go two innings yesterday so in my head I was thinking, I’m just going to get through this one and then tell them, ‘Hey, something doesn’t feel right.’ But it got to the point where I knew I couldn’t keep going.”

He left the game after facing four batters and underwent an MRI that revealed the capsule strain. Koehler missed over a month of last season with bursitis in the same shoulder but said that was unrelated to this injury.

“It’s not the way I’d like my tenure as a Dodger to start, two weeks in,” Koehler said. “But (stuff) happens.”

Orange County Supervisor Todd Spitzer’s former aide who last year received a $150,000 settlement in a wrongful termination lawsuit against the county is suing her ex-boss again – this time for defamation.

Christine Richters alleges in her new lawsuit, filed Friday, March 2, that statements Spitzer made to the media about her during the earlier lawsuit were false and are hindering her attempt to get a new job.

Spitzer called the new suit a “political stunt,” pointing out that it was filed on behalf of Richters by a lawyer who is running against him in the upcoming race for District Attorney.

Richters, who worked as an executive assistant in Spitzer’s office from February 2013 to October 2016, sued the county and Spitzer last year, alleging that she was fired without cause, that he hadn’t paid her overtime, and that her health was damaged by the supervisor’s “raging temper.” The county and Richters settled in Sept. 2017 over the overtime claim, with Richters receiving $150,000.

But during the case, Spitzer issued a press release saying that Richters was let go some 44 months into her employment because she refused to learn “even the most fundamental computer skills.”

In her latest lawsuit, Richters said that she had taken computer classes, that Spitzer’s comments were false, and that his statements have made it difficult for her to find employment.

“Spitzer knew the statements were false when he said them,” the lawsuit stated. “As a result of Spitzer’s statements, plaintiff… believes that she is being prevented from being hired.”

Spitzer did not directly address the allegations in Richters’ newest suit. But he said it was filed based on the political motivations of Richters’ attorney, Lenore Albert, who has pulled papers to run for District Attorney against Spitzer. Albert previously ran for California’s 72nd Assembly District seat in 2016 but lost.

Albert dismissed Spitzer’s assertion, noting that Richters provided proof to back her allegations and submitted the lawsuit under penalty of perjury.

MAMMOTH MOUNTAIN   –  A major avalanche caused the closure of all lifts on Mammoth Mountain on Saturday. March 3.

At about 10:15 a.m., ski patrol was performing avalanche control mitigation when the avalanche released on the upper mountain traveling toward the High Five express chair.

Three individuals were partially buried in the avalanche and were able to free themselves, said Joni Lynch, senior director of brand marketing at the mountain.

“The first searches with transceivers, avalanche dogs and a RECCO search have not produced any results,” she said. “The third stage of the avalanche protocol involving a manual probe search is underway.”

All lifts stopped abruptly as first responders headed to the ski resort.

Lift operations at Mammoth will be halted for the remainder of the day to focus full efforts on the site.

A snow storm starting on Thursday dumped four feet at the base and more than six feet at the summit.

The area where avalanche control work was conducted had been closed for skiing at the time of the incident. Avalanche debris traveled toward the bottom of the lift and ultimately crossed into an area that was open to the public.

“We were in line and they shut down the lift,” said Talin Yepremian, 35, of Santa Barbara. “As someone not that skilled with these conditions today, it frightens me that it could have been me. It’s reassuring the response they had was so quick.”

Jason Gerard, 36, of San Diego said he was on Chair 10 heading toward Chair 5, which was closed. He and his friend, Sven Gierlichs, 42, of San Diego, decided to take Chair 10 again to wait for Chair 5 to open.

“When we came down lower Spook, adjacent ski run to where avalanche hit, and saw a bunch of sleds and snowmobiles.,” he said. “The liftees were screaming at us to stay away and take another run. ”

Gierlichs, who grew up in Germany and has snowboarded for more than 20 years throughout the Alps, thought he heard the avalanche when it broke.

“There was just this rumbling noise,” he said. “It sounded like ski patrol was doing it on purpose. It wouldn’t have crossed my mind that it was not on purpose.

“When I’m at a resort, it never occurs to me that I could end up in an avalanche,” said Gerard, a software engineer. “I’ve ridden slack(out of bounds) and always carry an avalanche beacon.

“They don’t know who’s under the snow,” he added. “I’m glad about how much response they had. It seems like they put everyone on it.”

This is a developing story. More to come.

1/2 At approximately 10:15AM on March 3, 2018, Mammoth Mountain Ski Patrol was performing avalanche hazard mitigation work when an avalanche released on the upper part of the mountain traveling towards the High Five Express [Chair 5] area. All rescue measures are in place and…

— MammothMountain (@MammothMountain) March 3, 2018

(3/3) There have been no reports of missing persons. If members of the public are aware of missing friends or family, please call 760-934-0611.

— MammothMountain (@MammothMountain) March 3, 2018

GLENDALE, Ariz. – There are relievers out there.

In fact, the long, cold winter for free agents has left more than usual unemployed at the mid-point of spring training. There are closers (Greg Holland), former closers (Huston Street, Koji Uehara) and an assortment of relievers of varying stripes (Tyler Clippard, Josh Collmenter, Robbie Ross, Chad Qualls and more of their ilk).

None have become more attractive to the Dodgers with right-hander Tom Koehler currently walking around their clubhouse with his right arm in a sling. Losing Koehler indefinitely to a mild anterior capsule strain in his pitching shoulder has not made the Dodgers any more motivated to go outside the organization for additional pitching help, Dodgers president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman said Saturday morning.

“No,” he said flatly.

“I don’t think it necessarily changes the thought process in terms of deals that made sense three days ago will still make sense. And I don’t think the opposite is true — I don’t think something is going to make more sense right now than it did three days ago. … It’s just no different than it was three days ago, so we’re viewing it similarly.”

The unknown length of Koehler’s absence does make it “more challenging” to assess the Dodgers’ needs, Friedman said. But he downplayed the role Koehler was expected to play in the 2018 bullpen. Characterizing Koehler as a replacement for Brandon Morrow is an oversimplification.

Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said Koehler was expected to pitch “in high-leverage situations” out of the bullpen this season but Friedman described Koehler as filling “an interesting niche role in our ‘pen” because of the variety he offered. Koehler relied heavily on his curveball and also gained some velocity on his fastball when he moved from starting to pitching in relief last season.

“Tom fit our ‘pen in a very specific way, just from a pitch-mix perspective that allowed different looks for Doc, Honey and Mark,” Friedman said, referring to Roberts, pitching coach Rick Honeycutt and first-year bullpen coach Mark Prior.

“He was one of six, seven guys who all were going to get important outs for us and kind of match up differently. That’s our big thing, having different looks and therefore giving Doc and Honey more of an opportunity to match up against different hitters.”

If Koehler won’t be getting any of those important outs for the Dodgers any time soon and Friedman doesn’t feel any urgency to add to the current group of relievers, a spot opened for someone to open the season in the Dodgers’ bullpen.

Beyond closer Kenley Jansen, right-handers Pedro Baez, Yimi Garcia and Ross Stripling and left-handers Tony Cingrani and Scott Alexander appear set. Josh Fields, Adam Liberatore, Brock Stewart, Wilmer Font (a starter who is out of options), J.T. Chargois (recently acquired on waivers) and a host of others now have a little more daylight to make the roster.

“Things happen with injury and performance and right now there’s a lot of guys competing,” Roberts said. “It just gives guys opportunity to step up. We’ve talked about it from the beginning … we feel very good about our bullpen depth. Now it’s going to be an opportunity for different guys.”

SLOW RECOVERY

Several players are still recovering from the illness that depleted the Dodgers’ roster this week. Rob Segedin was anticipating being cleared to play in games this week after undergoing surgery to fuse two bones in his right hand last November. It was one of two surgeries Segedin had last season. He also had a related procedure during the summer to remove a bone spur from his right wrist.

But Segedin was hit hard by the virus that swept the clubhouse. He ran a fever of 104 degrees and wound up in the hospital receiving IV fluids.

Segedin is back in camp this weekend but is not back to full strength.

NOTES

Right-hander Kenta Maeda has recovered enough from his bout with illness to start against the San Francisco Giants in Scottsdale Sunday. … Roberts left camp Saturday and traveled back to San Diego to attend his daughter’s school play. Roberts is expected back in camp Sunday.

DOWNEY – Pacifica had the lead and the momentum late in the first half of its CIF Southern Section girls soccer title game Saturday morning, but a defensive lapse took away the Mariners’ advantage, and an injury extracted a heavier price.

Top-seeded Pacifica couldn’t overcome the loss of leading scorer Alexa Riddle just before the break, and No. 3 Flintridge Prep got two second-half goals and an assist from freshman Makenna Dominguez to claim the Division 3 championship with a 3-1 triumph at Warren High.

Dominguez sent the through ball that Helen Schaefer finished to pull the Rebels (24-4-2) even in the 36th minute, then got behind Pacifica’s backline to put away the winner in the 48th minute. She added an insurance strike, her 26th goal of the season, in the 76th.

“They’re very skillful, they’re very composed on the ball, but losing Alexa Riddle kind of hurt us,” said Mariners coach Mike Sutton, whose team hadn’t conceded more than two goals previously this season. “We couldn’t get in behind them, and it really kind of took us out of our game. Just a tough one to swallow.

“Long way to get here (to the final), but we got here. It sucks to leave without (the title).”

Riddle fired Pacifica (21-4-3) ahead in the 31st minute, finishing a ball from Keyla Fragoso into space on the left side of the Rebels’ box, but she went down as first-half stoppage time arrived after apparently tearing her hamstring while trying to backheel a ball.

The Mariners, behind Kaitlyn Fujimori and Kelly Lopez at the back and Aubree Stevens and Audree Campos in central midfield, did well in the first half to neutralize a Flintridge Prep attack that has scored 147 goals this season, but they were pinned in most of the second half.

The Rebels looked to play balls in behind, found the space to do so, and took advantage.

“They were quick on the ball, and they did a lot of rotating (in attack), so we got a little disorganized at times,” Fujimori said. “I think that’s where they found out weak spots when we were flat (on the backline), and they just capitalized on their goals.”

Flintridge Prep, which has won its last 17 games, was far more coherent in the attacking third and nearly had a fourth goal, but Mona Cesario’s shot hit the left post moments after Dominguez’s go-ahead goal.

Pacifica, which came into the game with nine-game winning and 16-game unbeaten streaks, was outshot 9-3 in the second half and 12-6 for the game.

“Our backline has been tremendous all year,” Sutton said. “Just today, they played balls over the top, and they’re faster than us. There’s nothing you can do.”

The following students have been named as nominees for the 2018 Artist of the Year in instrumental music. We received 81 nominations from teachers and private instructors at Orange County high schools and arts organizations.

This arts discipline has been divided into five specialties: piano and strings, winds and percussion, jazz music, commercial music, and world/cultural music. The semi-finalists will represent students in each specialty.

The nominees are listed with an endorsement from their nominating teacher and a link to the student’s work.

COMMERCIAL

Atreyu Adams-Meacham, electric bass guitar

“Atreyu is my top instrumentalist in our award winning program. I would pay him my highest compliment by hiring him as a college assistant  after he graduates high school, but Atreyu is planning on studying abroad at the Liverpool Institute for the Performing Arts.” – Jamie Knight, Huntington Beach APA (Huntington Beach High School)

Jack Hemphill, alto saxophone

“Jack is a natural leader amongst his peers with more heart than I think I’ve ever seen in another student. He has a real knack for helping other students with fingerings, rhythms, transpositions, anything.” – David Amrein, JSerra Catholic High School

Elle Inman, piano/keys

“Elle is one of the most dedicated and focused young artist I’ve ever had the pleasure of coming across. She is always evolving and working on her instrument and it shows in her performances, time and time again.” – Larry Boodman, School of Rock Huntington Beach

Cole Jackson, bass, guitar, cello, saxophone

“Cole is a cross between all things ‘old school’ and all things modern.  He enthusiastically approaches music as an adventure and truly embraces all styles.  He loves playing his baritone saxophone with the concert band, but is just as comfortable improvising on his tenor saxophone in the jazz band.” – Sandy Gilboe, Costa Mesa High School

Allen Pacheco, guitar

“I have never had a student take such a leadership role in rehearsals. His playing made others inspire to practice more and want to play to his level. To say Allen leads by example is truly an understatement.” – Victor de los Santos, Santa Ana High School

Andrew Pham, guitar and electric bass

“Our program refers to Andrew Pham as ‘the rock’ because he is known for his incredible work ethic, musicianship, and reliability.” – Rachel Kramer, Orange County School of the Arts

Julian Sanchez, tenor saxophone

“He will often be found in a practice room working with his tenor saxophone or picking up a new instrument. His last year, he picked up the clarinet for jazz band so that we could perform music that required woodwind doubling. He also plays vihuela in our mariachi ensemble.” – Victor de los Santos, Santa Ana High School

JAZZ

Keegan Clifford, saxophone

“He has been a key ensemble member of the school’s award winning jazz ensemble program since his sophomore year at school. As an artist, he has grown beyond just instrumental music and now works in the vocal music program, the school’s improvisation team, and most recently the drama department. With his wide range of knowledge of skills and knowledge in the arts, he is an excellent ensemble member in any and every capacity.” – Lisa Goins, Mission Viejo High School

James Day, alto saxophone

“He is the most versatile, and most gifted performer I’ve worked with in 16 years. A great musician , a great leader, and a tremendously giving performer.” – Tom Plunkett, Los Alamitos High School

Trevor English, tenor saxophone

“Trevor is a true inspiration for his peers and coaches. A diligent practitioner on both the tenor sax and euphonium, he always stands out when he performs on either instrument.” – Andrew Julian, Trabuco Hills High School

Jason Ezquerro, string bass, snare

“Jason has a sophistication beyond his years with a natural ability to interpret music of all genres making an emotional connection to his audience.” – Cathy Olinger, Tesoro High School

Michael Frelly, trumpet

“Michael is a one of a kind student. He is an incredible musician excelling in music performance, composition, and leadership.” – Bincins Garcia, Yorba Linda High School

Chris Lee, piano and tuba

“Chris is one of the rare students who has made our school a better place.  His love for jazz, love for music, passion for improvisation, and ability to share and communicate the process of learning makes him unique.” – Whitney Tavlarides, Northwood High School

Christopher Malkus, alto saxophone

“Chris is one of the most talent students I have worked with. He joined band not playing anything. He struggled with the keyboard for marching band. At the end of the year he said he wanted to learn saxophone. I hesitantly said yes – knowing his previous struggles. He came back in August and I was BLOWN AWAY!” – John McGilligan, Marina High School

Noah Myers, guitar

“Noah is an outstanding guitarist with strong musical, improvisational, and reading skills. His training has breadth, including classical, pop, and jazz styles, which sets him apart from many of his colleagues because of the diverse quality in his music.” – Dan St. Marseille, Orange County School of the Arts

Nicholas Ramos, trumpet

“Music is his first passion, and in many ways it has helped keep him focused through his high school experience.  A very strong trumpet player in every ensemble he’s in, his strongest contributions have been in the jazz bands.” – Gregg Gilboe, Huntington Beach APA (Huntington Beach High School)

Gunnar Steele, bass

“Gunnar is a full-time musician, balancing academics and multiple groups of performance. Gunnar plays stand up bass, bass guitar, and lead guitar in many various performances on campus.” – Samantha Sanford, Dana Hills High School

PIANO AND STRINGS

Alexander Behura, piano

“Alex is a four-year member of the Valencia High School jazz band and is an outstanding piano player, music composer and arranger. He is also an accomplished clarinetist performing with the school’s concert band and wind ensemble.” – RIchard King, Valencia High School

Parris Botts, cello

“Parris is a highly motivated and passionate musician. Despite not having as extensive background in her cello experience, she has progressed rapidly in a relatively short amount of time.” – Michael Whang, Santa Margarita Catholic High School

Ji Woo (Jessica) Choi, violin

“Ji Woo Choi, Jessica as we call her, is an exceptional violinist.  She has played with youth orchestras thru her years of studying the violin.  Upon enrollment into our school orchestra as a freshmen, she showed a willingness to grow and participate.” – Joseph Castillo, Troy High School

Nerissa Cons, violin

“She has completely molded the culture of our orchestra program because of her drive and character. I’ve only been at Godinez for two years, and during these past two years, Julie has essentially been the spirit of the orchestra.” – Mark Santos, Godinez Fundamental High School

Amber Correa, violin

“Amber plays with an excellent technique and wonderful musicality.  Also, I’ve rarely met a student that loves to perform as much as Amber.  In all settings, solo, chamber, orchestra, or something else, she lives for it.” – Christopher Russell, Orange County School of the Arts

William Dai, piano

“William is relied upon heavily to help our program run. He has stood out amongst his peers since his freshman year as being a talented performer. And, since then he has worked on his composing, transposing, arranging, and directing of ensembles.” – Samantha Sanford, Dana Hills High School

Bowei Deng, violin

“Bowei is an incredibly bright and talented student. He works hard in all areas of school and is a joy to have in class. He is an exceptional singer and violinist.” – Jonathan Pratt, Crean Lutheran High School

Umi Garrett, piano

“When playing the piano, Umi Garrett is a breath of fresh air. Her ability to draw in her audience while performing is not only astounding but inspiring.” – Laura Brown, Pacific Academy

Yonghun Heo, viola

“Yonghun a highly trained musician who has been a cornerstone of our orchestra. While his outward demeanor can make him out to be a bit of a class clown, or even cavalier,  the way he performs viola suggests a deeply passionate and highly analytical musician.” – Michael Whang, Santa Margarita Catholic High School

William Hirsh, cello

“William is a self-motivated, conscientious, and hard-working student. William has been the principal cellist for the past two years at San Clemente High School and continues to grow in professionalism and skill.” – Tony Soto, San Clemente High School

Lauren Huang, piano

“Artistically, Lauren is one of the most sophisticated musicians I have encountered for her age. She genuinely cares about her musical interpretation and the motives and intentions of the composer and the compositional period represented.” – Jim Kollias, Arnold O. Beckman High School

Megan Huff, cello and piano

“She is a calm and compassionate leader for the cello section, and makes clear effort to assist her less-advanced peers. Her strong sight-reading skills and exceptional collegiality have seen her invited (and hired) to perform with ensembles outside the school, most recently as a cellist playing side-by-side with advanced college instrumentalists for a collaborative concert with the Master Chorale of Saddleback Valley.” – Gene Wie, St. Margaret’s Episcopal School

SeEun Hyung, cello

“Annie is affable, gentle, unassuming, good natured, introspective, hard-working yet happy-go-lucky, serious about her craft but with a sense of humility.  Although she is certainly my top musician, she is also the hardest working student in our program.” – Jim Kollias, Arnold O. Beckman High School

Channing Lee, piano

“She is extremely coordinated and very musical.  Channing is one of my finest musicians.  I am so impressed with Channing’s abilities that she frequently plays for Connelly assemblies, several school functions on and off campus, and she leads her section in the advanced women’s choir.” – Jonathan Arnold, Cornelia Connelly High School

Sean Lee, piano

“During the past two years, I witnessed his tremendous growth and development. This development came not only in the area of musical and academic achievements, but in maturity and character as well.” – Judy Huang, Orange County School of the Arts

Danielle Liu, violin

“Whether she’s playing on campus or in the community, she loves to serve others with her music. From performing along with the Pacific Symphony to playing for people who are ill, she is always willing to share the gift of music with all who will listen.” – Jonathan Pratt, Crean Lutheran High School

Michelle Martono, violin and piano

“Michelle is an extremely talented violinist and pianist.  As a violinist, she has been the very finest sight-reader and time keeper of my career. She is confident when she plays, and all the students truly respect and like her.” – Albert Jeung, Aliso Niguel High School

Madeline McCanne, piano

“Her artistic and technical abilities are beyond her age. Not only she could interpret well, she goes beyond the notes and get closer to the composer’s attention as possible.” – Judy Huang, Orange County School of the Arts

Ryan Millares, violin

“It is unusual for me to see Ryan without his instrument; he is always practicing, practicing, practicing. As my principal 2nd violinist in our advanced symphony orchestra, he is very engaged in his performance and does an excellent job of leading his peers by example.” – Andrew Julian, Trabuco Hills High School

Ana Osborn, violin

“She is dedicated, hard-working, and talented. Although she is a choir student of mine, her primary area of musical study and accomplishment is in playing the violin. During the past two years, she has frequently accompanied the choirs, and, quite frankly, she has performed as well as most professionals that I have hired.” – Jason Harney, Aliso Niguel High School

Daniel Paik, cello

“He makes cross-disciplinary connections and both sees the power that music has to transcend words as well as his responsibility to use it for the benefit of others.” – Ben Case, Northwood High School

Justin Pham, violin

“I hope that my other students follow Justin’s footsteps in participating in outside groups as well as wanting to enhance his skills. Justin’s desire of music is a great representation of what I want all my music students to follow.” – Richie Sebastian, La Quinta High School

Catherine Reynolds, viola

“Catherine reaps the benefits of her tremendous effort and makes the subject come alive for herself in a way that she was personally invested in. Catherine composed her own orchestral work and has assisted me with conducting on occasion.” – Debora Wondercheck, Waldorf School of Orange County

Prueksarak Soonthornyanakij, violin

“Prueksarak (Adele) Soonthornyanakij has demonstrated, along with her talent and technique, an ability to show other students the joy and beauty of playing the violin.“ – Kathy Harris, Mission Viejo High School

Allison To, piano

“Allison is a wonderful student and has done an excellent job of balancing her school life with her commitments as a pianist outside of school. Her ability to capture her audience while performing difficult songs has really inspired so many students to explore their musical talents.” – Laura Brown, Pacific Academy

Ingrid Vu, violin

“Ingrid voluntarily performs solos on each concert with absolutely no fear. The confidence with which she tackles each piece creates stunning musical performances full of heart, using technique as a means only to get her message across.” – Suzanne Gindin, Canyon High School

Cayden Walters, viola

“Cayden is an overall great musician and an even better person.  Cayden has taken a leadership role within the orchestra, and he is respected amongst his peers.” – Dean McElroy, San Juan Hills High School

Gabriella Wilson, cello

“Gabby started in my program with very little experience. As in most cases, she may have struggled with the intricacies and challenge of learning advanced repertoire. But through her love for music and her sheer determination, Gabriella has proven that she has the capability and stamina of learning and mastering music at a highly developed level.” – Joseph Kaye, Santa Ana High School

Sungwon Woo, bass

“Daniel realizes the importance of repeatability as a musician, and models this each and every day. This consistency and patience has led to his remarkable improvement as a player and a leader over the years.” – Robert Avzaradel, Irvine High School

Edwina Xiong, viola

“Edwina Xiong, is one of the best viola players I’ve had the opportunity to have in our music program. Her ability to balance between instrumental music, dance, Girl Scouts, and keeping her grades up in the IB program, is amazing.” – Joseph Castillo, Troy High School

Ethan Yoshioka, piano

“Beyond the standard classical repertoire of Bach, Chopin, Liszt, and others that he performs with authority, he has made extensive journeys into improvisation, composition, and commercial music.” – Gene Wie, St. Margaret’s Episcopal School

Julia Yuan, violin and piano

“Julia is constantly exploring ways to improve as a musician as noted by her involvement each summer in the Montecito International Music Festival and her completion of her MTAC Certificate of Merit level 10.” – Bob Avzaradel, Irvine High School

Jacqueline Zhang, violin

“Jacqueline Zhang is a wonderful musician.  Her violin playing has added to the growth our music program here at Troy High School.  She came in as a freshmen already playing in the first violin section.” – Joseph Castillo, Troy High School

Shannon Zhuang, Violin

“I have had the extreme pleasure of knowing and working with Shannon Zhuang for the past 6 years.  Shannon was that quiet, tiny, incredibly talented  6th grade violinist who caught my attention with her  practice and performance ability on one of my visits to the local feeder middle school.  She played with sophistication, accuracy and poise years beyond her age.” – Cathy Olinger, Tesoro High School

WINDS AND PERCUSSION

Zaid Batarseh, clarinet

“Zaid is a wonderful musician, playing first chair clarinet in the concert band and in various small ensembles. The other students in the program respect and look up to him. He is more than willing to help out others and put in extra time.” – Sandy Gilboe, Costa Mesa High School

Patrick Beirne, bassoon

“Patrick has consistently demonstrated a great level of commitment, dedication and passion; not only in music, but also in his academic and social life. As much effort as he puts in himself, he is always looking out for others as well.” – Fernando Martinez, Mater Dei High School

Dante Catalasan, trombone

“Dante Catalasan is more than just a gifted artist, he is a dedicated musician who strives for not only personal excellence, but also reaches out to his fellow peers with encouragement and passion as they grow in their own musical adventure.” – Greg Grant, Laguna Hills High School

Alexis De Guzman, flute

“Alexis has always been a driven student who strives for excellence every day.  Her dedication and work ethic have earned her the position of drum major this year as well as the first chair flutist in the wind ensemble, Katella High School’s premier instrumental music ensemble.” – Dylan Harlan, Katella High School

Mitchell Garmany, French horn

“Mitchell’s talent and technique on the French horn are only exceeded by his passion and ability to interpret and express music, both as an instrumentalist and as a conductor. He is able to go beyond the notes and interpret the composers intent and play expressively, even when sight reading.” – Andy Magana, Tesoro High School

Remy Gilboe, trumpet

“Remy Gilboe is an emerging artist on the trumpet.  He has been so very focused on music through his high school career that I feel he has prepared himself well for college studies and beyond to a career in music.  His interests focus on classic orchestral music, but he is also an amazing jazz musician.” – Gregg Gilboe, Huntington Beach APA (Huntington Beach High School)

David Herbold, percussion

“David is an outstanding performer and student leader.  He is an amazing peer instructor and leads his section with understanding, sympathy but also with passion and drive.  He has lead his section to multiple first place awards but understands that the true goal is performing, entertaining and education for life.” – Al Nelson, Fountain Valley High School

Alison Huh, flute and piccolo

“What strikes me most about Alison is her seemingly-endless quest for self-improvement. She is among the most talented students I have encountered. But despite all of the recognitions, she constantly strives for that next step in her development.” – Ben Case, Northwood High School

Stephen Hwang, clarinet

“Whenever Stephen plays, you will find technical mastery and musical artistry all combined together. He doesn’t settle for mediocre and always plays his clarinet with exceptional tone.” – Jonathan Pratt, Crean Lutheran High School

Alona Kellick, clarinet

“Alona loves the opportunity of playing in honor groups, for the new perspectives she gains and the new people she gets to meet. She is inspired by beautiful clarinet or string lines from her favorite movie scores. The arts are a passion for Alona, a chance, she says, to de-stress and to “’ose yourself in another world.’“ – Len Montgomery, Brethren Christian High School

Mary La Blanc, classical percussion

“Mary is an exceptional performer on all aspects of percussion including timpani, mallet percussion, and battery percussion. Mary is an outstanding example of a student who treats the wind ensemble as a professional job.” – Anthony Mazzaferro, Orange County School of the Arts

Robert La Tourette, percussion

“He is talented at all areas of percussion including concert percussion, keyboard percussion, and drum set. He is always willing to step in and help musically or otherwise and is a joy to work with.” – Jonathan Pratt, Crean Lutheran High School

Eliana Leish, trombone

“Eliana has proven to me and our entire program that she is a sensitive, caring, hardworking individual that gives her all to our program and students.” – David Weinberg, Aliso Niguel High School

Kaeley Lenard, mallets

“The more challenging the music, the more heart Kaeley puts into it. I love watching her play and physically perform the music she loves. She leads her section by moving to the beat and modeling the music.” – Suzanne Gindin, Canyon High School

Jody Lin, alto saxophone

“She has that special gift to think ‘out of the box’ not only when it pertains to her art but to everyday occurrences.   I can recall numerous occasions she would come up with new ways of doing things we have done for years and putting a fresh spin on things.” – Brad Harris, Woodbridge High School

Sofia Martinez, B-flat clarinet

“During the past four years, Sofia has helped me more than any other student develop and grow our instrumental music program into what it is today. She is a very strong clarinetist who can play nearly anything I throw at her on any of the various clarinets.” – David Amrein, JSerra Catholic High School

Katelyn Mattison, alto saxophone

“In all my years, I have not witnessed a student who possessed a stronger combination of talent, intelligence, discipline, and upstanding character than Katy Mattison.” –John P. Combs, Ocean View High School

Sean McLendon, French horn

“Sean came into my program as a serious horn player, and continued to grow with his talents and experiences through his high school career. He has a great passion for music and expresses it by playing his French horn.” – Gregg Gilboe, Huntington Beach APA (Huntington Beach High School)

Angela Mendoza, alto saxophone

“Angie is probably one of the most talented band students I have ever come across. She is constantly hungry to learn new music on alto sax AND on mallets. In rehearsal, she is constantly working on making the entire ensemble better, and always has her ‘ears open.’” – Mark Santos, Godinez Fundamental High School

Han Nguyen, percussion

“Besides playing every percussion instrument in concert band and various small ensembles, drum set in jazz band and the pit orchestra for our musicals, tenor drums in competitive drumline, he is also exploring the solo marimba repertoire in his private lessons.” – Sandy Gilboe, Costa Mesa High School

Jovan Paredes, trumpet

“Jovan is constantly searching for new music to increase his knowledge with.  He is constantly asking questions about songs, artists, composers, soloists.  He brings new artists and ideas to the table when the chance is presented in class.  Jovan constantly takes on what hears and tries to apply it to his own playing.  He explores new techniques, solo and improvisational ideas through the music he seeks out.” – Sean Knight, Saddleback High School

Cole Quizon, saxophone

“In my 18 years as a high school music instructor, I have seen strong leaders, talented musicians, and wonderful human beings. There are a few occasions that a student embodies more than one of those qualities in high school. Cole Quizon is one of those few students.” – Aaron Zeiliunger, Orange Lutheran High School

Jenna Santa Maria, flute

“Unlike many students, she has taken to heart her abilities and their shortcomings, improved on them, and has become the stellar musician any music director would be proud to have in their program.” – Joseph Castillo, Troy High School

Douglass Torres, trumpet

“He consistently shows tremendous poise, talent and determination. I was most impressed with how he holds on to, processes and applies information. He is eager to share his musical gifts with his peers – often spending extra time with other students who are struggling with their material.” – Mark Aguero, Century High School

Megan Tracy, trumpet

“Megan has been a cornerstone of the brass section for the last four years. She has shown incredible grit and determination as a musician.” – Michael Whang, Santa Margarita Catholic High School

Madeline Yoshizaki, clarinet

“Madeline has truly been a positive and outstanding member of our instrumental music program. Over her first 2 and a half years she has demonstrated a high level of devotion and artistic musical talent.” – Fernando Martinez, Mater Dei High School

Faye Zou, French horn

“She has flourished as a horn player and has carried herself with incredible class and grace. I think every student in the program would find that Faye is one of the kindest people they have had chance to work with.” – Michael Whang, Santa Margarita Catholic High School

WORLD/CULTURAL

Roger Delgadillo, accordian and baritone saxophone

“Roger has always been a musical leader even as a freshman in high school and has continued to improve to be the drum major of the band his senior year. Outside of school, Roger also performs in a mariachi band with his friends and family.” – Dylan Harlan, Katella High School

Luis Jimenez, violin

“Luis Jimenez has studied in my orchestra program, music theory, and mariachi classes for the last four years. During that time I have witnessed a very bright young man show a substantial amount of growth both in his musical aptitude, maturity and commitment.” – Joseph Kaye, Santa Ana High School

Erandi Sanchez, violin and alto sax

“Erandi Sanchez is a remarkable person all around.  As a member of multiple mariachi ensembles, she desires to see mariachi music become accepted and enjoyed by a more widespread audience.” – Joshua Parsons, John F. Kennedy High School

The following students have been named as nominees for the 2018 Artist of the Year in film/animation. We received 147 nominations from teachers and private instructors at Orange County high schools and arts organizations.

This arts discipline has been divided into four specialties: animation and visual effects, directing, editing, and cinematography. The semi-finalists will represent students in each specialty.

The nominees are listed with an endorsement from their nominating teacher. We have not included links to students’ films because some film festivals, into which the students may submit their films, request that the films not be posted online.

ANIMATION AND VISUAL EFFECTS

Drew Denny

“It’s been inspiring to observe Drew continually push her limits and absolutely gratifying to see her fully discover herself within the work. In the last four years, she has confidently pursued an artistic space where she can explore her unique vision.” – Patrick Williams, Orange County School of the Arts

Annie Hiranprasitikul

“Her work is so individually hers from the ideas to the finishing touches, Annie’s fingerprints and stylistic choices are everywhere. She has a looseness and freeness to her work that is not common in students her age, and a certain tendency to taking the challenges of an assignment into someplace completely creative and new.” – Patrick Williams, Orange County School of the Arts

Max Kozik

“His work taps into emotions like the best of the Pixar films.  Funny, touching, painful, and revelatory.  Every time he creates a new ‘thing,’ all the students clamor to see what he has done.” – Michael Simmons, Huntington Beach APA (Huntington Beach High School)

Francisco Romero

“He is an amazing editor who is in constant demand on our campus to bring sporting, social, and other events to life with his dynamic visual effects style.” – Jeff Numainville, Katella High School

Christian Zazueta

“Christian Zazueta is known for his continuous involvement in activities at Century High School. His ability to juggle coursework and student activities while maintaining a competitive GPA is a true testament to his focus and determination.” – Steven Ramirez, Century High School

Gary Zeri

“Mr. Zeri not only excels in his classroom projects but also takes the initiative to work beyond the classroom when he initiated the Century High interactive gaming program.” – Steven Ramirez, Century High School

CINEMATOGRAPHY

Cooper Lichacz

“Junior year, ‘Cooper the DP’ exploded onto the scene. He began shooting some of his classes big projects… . He showed versatility and became proficient on our RED cameras. Cooper found his voice as an artist and is now one of our best DPs.” – Aaron Orullian, Orange County School of the Arts

Ethan Lindner

“Where some students get by on their ‘eye,’ their dialog, their stories, or their temerity, Ethan stands out because of his absolutely ironclad commitment to excellence.” – Michael Simmons, Huntington Beach APA (Huntington Beach High School)

Matthew Masamori

“I nominated Matthew because of the high production value his work possesses.  He has a vast understanding of electronic cinematography and continues to grow and learn more as the year progresses.  His work is well composed and visually striking.” – Jeff Baldo, Servite High School

Madison Schmidt

“She was the light of the class, always asking great questions, smiling and laughing. Her sophomore year we continued to talk photography and began to explore videography. I started noticing that all of our school videos had grown in quality and interest… then I realized it was Madison that was behind it.” – Anna Bloomfield, Crean Lutheran High School

Eli Spotts

“He listened and learned and never stopped trying to improve his skills through all the projects that he worked on. He ended up behind the camera more than he felt comfortable with at first, but it was this opportunity to grow that changed his vision. This opportunity to be the cinematographer helped his artistic vision and influenced his on-set decision making.” – Chris Price, Foothill High School

Jacob Tomin

“His use of practical lighting, oners, and other techniques have led a signature style. You know when you are watching a Jacob Tomin production. He embraces the concept of ‘every frame a painting.’” – Ryan Hayes, Edison High School

Anthony Verde

“Anthony wows everyone who sees his work. There is a certain excitement when they are finished viewing anything he shows. Anthony is fairly quiet, but his films immediately spark conversations among many students who are aware of his prowess as a young filmmaker.” – Chris Price, Foothill High School

DIRECTING

Anahita Amirshahi

“Anahita loves telling a story that reaches the depths of human emotion.  Her words inspire and make the viewer think. She has an undeniable empathetic spirit and thirst to be the best version of herself as both a filmmaker and a person.” – Hali Kessler, University High School

Aubrey Burch

“Aubrey’s work on her short film projects like ‘Blueberries’ and music videos is subtle, and so beautiful. She captures images that blur the lines between fantasy and reality and edits with precision to give her films a rare look.” – Chris Price, Foothill High School

Caleb Clark

“He thinks like a real filmmaker, where themes and subtext matter as much as the words in the script or the images on the screen.  Caleb Clark is the genuine article.” – Michael Simmons, Huntington Beach APA (Huntington Beach High School)

Adrian Delcan

“Aside from being a great collaborator and solid filmmaker (he could easily be an industry director with his ability to spearhead large productions and crews), Adrian is also a considerate human being. You like being around him. He isn’t loud or demonstrative but gets the job done and does it well.” – Aaron Orullian, Orange County School of the Arts

Abigail Dooley

“At the same time that Abbey explores difficult topics, her work doesn’t sugarcoat, glamorize, or sulk in the kind of darkness that she is familiar with as a young adult… but it stares these issues down and looks at them with cinematic curiosity and beauty.” – Alex Graham, Canyon High School

Nicholas Franklyn

“He is very skilled with all of the equipment and software, and he also has wonderfully creative ideas for short films and always comes though with his deadlines.” – Richard Cadra, Yorba Linda High School

Alyssa Goh

“Her classmates are fully aware of her talent and are finally seeing what I always did…the creative genius of a polite, respectful young leader.” – Jim Falletta, Troy High School

Ethan Hammock

“Ethan is a very impressive young man.  He challenges himself with every project, in every area of the filmmaking process. Ethan brings a positive attitude to class and to set every day.” – John Hall, Orange County School of the Arts

Drake Heidler

“Drake Heidler enjoys a lucid artistic vision and has the responsibility and maturity to see it through.  He has the intelligent confidence to believe in all his projects, but takes criticism well and wisely. Furthermore, he has no problem playing a secondary role or assistant role in any project.” – Vicki Mull, El Modena High School

Kendall Huff

“She is the model of an advanced collaborator.  Kendall possesses a fine eye for aesthetic details.  While working as the production designer and costumer for our large format production class, Kendall assessed the script’s design needs while collaborating with her director and producer, shaped a producible budget, and executed it with a sophistication far beyond her young years.” – michael brown, Orange County School of the Arts

Jeremy Kemp

“Jeremy has grown dramatically as a filmmaker over the last two years and has become the one I go to for quality representation for the program this year. He’s got a very solid work ethic and is willing to do the hard work of preproduction that most students ignore or think that they can do without.” – Craig Landino, Capistrano Valley High School

Brian Kluver

“He is enormously creative, unique and inventive in his writing, filmmaking and musical composition.  Brian’s work is anything but ordinary.  He goes out of his way to avoid cliche stories and characters.  His work definitely stands out.” – Mark Switzer, El Dorado High School

Jacob Kravitz

“Jacob has repeatedly expressed in interest to me this about entering his videos into video festivals or competitions (and participating in the) 2018 Art of the Year competition will be the push that Jacob needs to take the next step of getting his work seen by a larger audience.” – Jon Ohnstad, Aliso Niguel High School

Brandon Layman

“Brandon Layman is an extremely hard working young man.  He looks for any opportunity to help his classmates film their projects.  He understands the experience he gains from each project will help him develop as a filmmaker.” – John Hall, Orange County School of the Arts

Alexandra Lee

“Alex is equally comfortable in front of as well as behind the camera and editing in post-production. She has served as one of our anchors of our broadcast two years in a row.” – Richard Cadra, Yorba Linda High School

Isabel Mansour

“Isabel is that unique student who has the ability to think abstractly and humorously with the playfulness of a child, and simultaneously the responsibility and resourcefulness needed to produce our daily school’s news cast and our large format project class.” – Michael Brown, Orange County School of the Arts

Ashley Martinez

“As a filmmaker, I have seen Ashley excel on all of our broadcast projects and in the field of documentary filmmaking.  Her recent film, ‘Passionfruit’ is a story about a her great uncle, who is an avocado farmer, community activist, who struggled after being diagnosed with Parkinson’s.  Her film is beautiful, engaging and ultimately very personal.” – Mark Switzer, El Dorado High School

Revelstoke Sanz

“In terms of his vision, Revelstoke has a firm connection with new ideas that reflect contemporary times, but also has a strong link with the past. He can easily connect ‘AHard Day’s Night’ or any Beatles tune with a new idea for a live action movie.” – Vicki Mull, El Modena High School

Elise Schatz

“Her eye for cinematography is obvious in her work; her use and understanding of color is rare for filmmakers at her age. She also understands the importance of producing and production design, as well as the power of editing.” – Nathan Boice, Arnold O. Beckman High School

Blake Sepe

“What makes him special is the way that he inspires other students with his passion. This includes multiple projects with film students from other schools.” – Ryan Hayes, Edison High School

Matthew Shaffar

“Matt has created many wonderful films this year.  His passion and creativity as a filmmaker is what sets him apart from many others who delve into the world of films and television in high school.” – Steve Sellwood, Northwood High School

Jessica Stossel

“The last couple of years Jessica has shown herself to be a natural and effective leader. Not only is she one of the few students in my program whom I feel will always follow through with any project given to her, she also has the ability to seemingly stack on infinite responsibility without wavering.” – Nathan Boice, Arnold O. Beckman High School

Braden Swope

“While Braden Swope’s characters tilt at windmills, he aims for the stars. He’s one of our visionaries, tried hard, and has the talent to be a great director.” – Aaron Orullian, Orange County School of the Arts

Charlie Zehner

“Charlie is well organized and does not waste any time. To be able to film on the schedule he filmed on requires him to be at his best. Charlie is very focused and controls the set better than anyone I have ever seen. Charlie gets full commitment from other filmmakers on his projects, because they know what comes out in the end will be special.” – Chris Price, Foothill High School

EDITING

Sonali Chugani

“She is great with shifting lenses to accommodate her shots. She is a great leader on set, one who is able to direct her cast and crew in meaningful ways; however, she also possesses a great deal of intangibles that truly set her apart.” – Jim Falletta, Troy High School

Brockton Foose

“Brock Foose is one of the most interesting students I have met. His work is exciting, challenging, weird, interesting, vibrant, and strong. Brock’s vision in the editing room helps to pace the films he works on in a way that reveals character and story simultaneously.” – Chris Price, Foothill High School

Devon Hunt

“I am choosing Devon to represent out Santa Margarita Catholic High School for his passion, his determination, his creativity, and his natural talent.  If his editing is impressive, one should see his cinematography.” – Corey Lindabury, Santa Margarita Catholic High School

Citlalli Jimenez

“In the last two years she has really honed her craft and her artistic vision.  It resonates from a deep passion for all the arts.” – Jeff Numainville, Katella High School

Miguel Mendoza

“Miguel goes above and beyond creating various films through different processes of film production. He takes time to research innovative ways to use equipment, editing styles, and approaches to the film industry.” – Sofia Cuevas, Santa Ana High School

Daniel Morris

“Daniel’s natural curiosity led him to go beyond the work of his peers. He spends countless hours in the editing lab with his attention to detail and his desire to wow the film community with his work. Daniel’s best work is usually done finishing a film in the countless hours he spends on color correction.” – Chris Price, Foothill High School

Katherine Romero

“Katherine is the epitome of what I consider to be a film artist.  While she is technically savvy, there is so much of her heart and soul in her work that it elevates the films to the level of art.” – Jeff Numainville, Katella High School

The identity of a driver who died after his Chevrolet Impala crashed into the tanker of a semi truck that was parked along the side of the 91 Freeway has been released by the Orange County Coroner’s office.

The California Highway Patrol reported Saturday that the driver was heading eastbound, west of Imperial Highway, in one of the left lanes on Friday at 11:40 p.m.

It was not clear why he swerved to the right and drove onto the dirt shoulder.

He then corrected and began driving on the shoulder, before colliding with the tanker, the CHP said in a news release.

The truck had been parked on the right side of the 91, partially in the dirt and partially on the asphalt shoulder, the CHP said. The semi driver, identified as Martin Buckley, 64, was in the rear portion of the truck and was not hurt, according to the report.

The following students have been named as nominees for the 2018 Artist of the Year in dance. We received 94 nominations from teachers and private instructors at Orange County high schools and arts organizations.

This arts discipline has been divided into four specialties: concert dance, commercial dance, street dance, and world/cultural dance. The semi-finalists will represent students in each specialty.

The nominees are listed with an endorsement from their nominating teacher and a link to the student’s work.

COMMERCIAL

Hana Adams

“She is able to detect nuance within choreography and bring her special touch to the movement without changing it from the original. In performance, she is always finding ways to capture the audience and invite them in to see her dancing in a vulnerable and beautiful way.” – Kirsten Harvey, St. Margaret’s Episcopal School

Josh Alvarez

“He is unbelievably talented when it comes to dance and choreography. Josh has play an invaluable role in our choir department as a lead choreographer for all of our major productions. Not only does he create dance routines for our choirs but he gives of his time and energy with smaller groups, duets, and solo acts.” – Kari Galeener, Garden Grove High School

Alexa Ayala

“She is grateful that she has been given much: her talent, her intelligence, her life. And she cares to show the world that you must work hard and build upon what you have been given. If anything, this informs her creativity in dance.” – Sandra Corr, Saddleback High School

Kate Ayala

“Kate has been dancing for almost 13 years and has a burning passion for it. It’s always been her escape and her way to express herself when words weren’t enough.” – Claire Keeley, El Modena High School

Chloe Baker

“As a technician she is exquisite, she has impeccable musicality and dynamics that gives the viewer the feeling of watching music come to life. Chloe is also a great choreographer and is interested in the use of technology  with movement to create multi disciplinary works.” – Andrea Taylor, Huntington Beach APA (Huntington Beach High School)

Nikki Baker

“She is naturally gifted and doesn’t take it for granted. She trains everyday and takes every opportunity given to her and dives herself in whole heartedly.” – Kristine calder, San Juan Hills High School

Jonathan Banh

“Jonathan is always up for a challenge, has a positive attitude and work ethic that is inspirational. He shines on stage and performs with a sense of strength and style.” – Judy Scialpi, Northwood High School

Brooke Bice

“Brooke Bice is an all-around dancer who strengthens in jazz, hip hop and tap. She comes from a studio-trained background and years of dance competition, but throughout her years at Brea she has become more confident of a choreographer, teammate and leader.” – Missy Burns, Brea Olinda High School

Hannah Butler

“She has been a fantastic choreographer.  She is able to come up with movement on the spot.  She is very kind, patient, and fair when teaching and setting places.  Hannah is always able to get the best out of the dancers.” – Teri Ross, La Habra High School

Madeline Butler

“She is fluid and can move her body in ways that is aesthetically pleasing to the eyes and explores space around her. Her solid foundation in her technical training from a young age has helped her establish the artist she is today.” – Kristine Calder, San Juan Hills High School

Lauren Campos

“As an artist, Lauren is always trying to learn and become a better dancer. She always wants to soak up all the information being provided by the teacher.” – Lissy Lex Burboa, Rosary Academy

Vanessa Carroll

“Vanessa is highly organized and attends to every detail. She is a solid technical dance with beautiful legs extension.” – Claire Keeley, El Modena High School

Mackenzie Carron

“She was a different, her work ethic, her passion and her style, she has something very unique about her that is genuine and authentic both in and out of the classroom. On stage you can’t miss her, your eyes immediately go to her and she has that ‘it’ factor that you cannot teach.” – Andrea Taylor, Huntington Beach APA (Huntington Beach High School)

Adriana Chavez

“Seeing her grow artistically has been the biggest factor in me nominating her. I have seen her explore different dimensions in her performances, as well as open up more to the audience.” – Andrea Oberlander, Whittier Christian High School

Nina Choi

“Nina wants to evolve by taking risks and always pushing her out of her comfort zone. She loves powerful strong movements, being rhythmically sound and having precision amongst the dancers.” – Andrea Greene, Canyon High School

Samantha Corteal

“Samantha has demonstrated extend knowledge in modern/contemporary movement, especially in choreography. Her choreography is unique, dynamic and classical. I enjoy watching her creative process, as well as her teaching process.” – Missy Burns, Brea Olinda High School

Zaria Davies

“Zaria is an incredibly talented dancer and choreographer.  Her infections stage presence and effortless transitions make Zaria of crowd favorite on our stage.” – Taylor Finnerty, Trabuco Hills High School

Collette Duran

“She has not only grown tremendously in her technique, but has budded into a talented choreographer as well. In each piece, she has either choreographed solely or in a group. She has found ways to express her emotions and tell a story.” – Andrea Oberlander, Whittier Christian High School

Anna Ellwein

“Anna dances with clean lines, always sharp and consistent during competitions and class. She pays attention to details when learning a new piece, and never gives up on herself.” – Christina Papandrea, Crean Lutheran High School

Isabelle Erlanson

“Before and after dance class, Isabelle never wastes a moment to get creative with her own choreography or strengthen her body. She always challenges herself as an artist and dancer, always hungry to learn more through her body and movement.” – Christina Papandrea, Crean Lutheran High School

Kayley Estrada

“As Kayley has grown and progressed, her performances have an increasingly emotional maturity that moves her audiences.” – Lori Murphy, Pacific Dance

Mia Ford

“Her performances showed that she has the rare ability to create work that is well developed, thought provoking, and authentically creative.  Mia is currently in the process of choreographing a group dance piece that explores the different emotions of life constantly changing and moving forward.” – Arielle Kalina, Santa Margarita Catholic High School

Kathryn Gazsi

“Her movement is dynamic and intriguing, with superior ballet technique to back it up.  She has a beautiful fluidity, she she contrasts with a robotic sharpness.  She loves to improvise and choreograph, and is particularly enamored by older pop music from the 70s and 80s.” – Taryn Chavez, Avanti Dance Company

Madison Gill

“Maddy is a versatile performer and commands the stage with technique that includes pointe, acro, hip hop and contemporary dance styles. Maddy’s natural talent gives her a huge advantage when it comes to discovering her artistic voice.” – Amber Case, Momentum Dance and Performing Arts Center

Sarah Glick

“Sarah Glick is a true stand out. As a junior, she is frequently leaned on and has been our choreographer for both musicals this year. She also has been a performer in both musicals as featured dance ensemble and is teaching choreography to students with a variety of dance backgrounds” – Samantha Sanford, Dana Hills High School

Maxcy Grasso

“She understands the universality of dance and how it can be embraced by all. I’ve watched Maxcy work with a variety of outside professional choreographers, and she is often featured.” – Estee Carrizosa, Laguna Beach High School

Natlie Guerrero

“What distinguished Natalie from the rest is her passion: for life, for people, for the world. It is apparent in her every move and one leaves her every performance having been made better as a result of the experience.” – Sandra Corr, Saddleback High School

Addisyn Harris

“Her creativity as a choreographer is driven by her unique modern style and willingness to be open to movement outside of the box. Addisyn specializes in shapes and fluid content throughout her movement phrases. She’s creative and dynamic in her dancing abilities.” – Missy Burns, Brea Olinda High School

Corrina Hofer

“Corrina Hofer is truly a special artist.  The quality of her movement, her style, her strength, and her ability to emote make her an exceptional dancer – one that draws the audience in and captivates them.  She is also an incredible choreographer and improv artist.” – Rikki Jones, Los Alamitos High School

Cassandra Lambros

“With or without music or voice, Cassandra Lambros speaks volumes. With intricate movements, stylized pictures on stage, and innovative choreography, Cassandra is able to express a wide range of story-telling with her dance.” – Brittany Casey, Dana Hills High School

Crystal Leung

“She is a beautiful, artistic, and technical dancer that has won many competition awards for both her solo and group dances.” – Lori Murphy, Pacific Dance

Nancy Lim

“To see Nancy dance is to know her.  Nancy’s passion and light for life shine through her movements and you can’t help but smile.  Beyond her talents in dance she is an excellent student and citizen.” – Maile Leonard, Western High School

Abigail Llorens

“Abby’s technique is exemplary, but it’s her artistic expression of a dance that takes your breath away.” – Shan Lawson, El Dorado High School

Matthew Matusiewicz

“While he is a fantastic performer and artistically inclined dancer, he has so many other wonderful qualities.  He is incredibly gifted with intelligence and determination to succeed academically.” – Emily Williams, Odyssey Dance Academy

Kaila Melanson

“Not only is she incredibly talented, but her work ethic, passion for the art of dance and amazing stage presence make her an absolute standout in the dance world.” – Kara Fleming, Stage One Dance Studio

Hannah Mendoza

“Her technique has always been there, but her new found confidence has allowed her to to become a very expressive dancer.  She can carry the audience on a journey through her emotional movement and facials.” – Teri Ross, La Habra High School

Isabella Mendoza

“Isabella is a dancer that works to her best ability 100 percent of the time.  Whether she is in class, practice, or a performance, her true passion and love for dance is visibly apparent.  Isabella has a unique modern/contemporary style that is unlike most dancers her age.  She is constantly taking risks, and diving into whatever is asked of her.” – Arielle Kalina, Santa Margarita Catholic High School

Katelyn Midgley

“Katelyn has this incredible ability to put criticism and judgment from others aside and stay focused on her personal journey – a quality that doesn’t come easily to many teens. Even though Katelyn has had to overcome some bumps in her training including a back injury, she has taken it all in stride. She has matured as an artist through these different seasons and has developed a deeper understanding of her body as well as a stronger love for dance.” – Kaitlin Wright, Momentum Dance and Performing Arts Center

Hannah April Miller

“Hannah takes great pride in being a member of her high school dance team. She values the traditions that have been set before her from previous team members and creates new ones as well.” – Monica Pena, Valencia High School

Kayla Morgan

“Kayla is a quadrupal threat because she dances, sings, acts and is a strong leader.” – Kathy Harris, Mission Viejo High School

Jarely Olmos

“Jarely possesses an innate talent for dance in a variety of forms. Her complex personality provides her the wherewithal from which she has developed her genuine and unique artistry. Jarely dances with a sense of purpose, a bold confidence that demonstrates her strong sense of self – an attribute many peers admire in her.” – Kristina Marquez, Mater Dei High School

Natalie Patrick

“She has demonstrated growth in her technique and has continued to dance despite some injuries last year. She has been a role model for underclassmen to look up to as a kind and patient leader.” – Kathy Harris, Mission Viejo High School

Shelby Patterson

“Her love of dancing and the arts is infectious and she has an incredible ability to inspire other dancers to do their best. She approaches her dancing intelligently yet takes risks that set her spiraling above other dancers, drawing discerning eyes to watch her next move. T” – Jim Kolb, Orange County School of the Arts

Danielle Puckett

“Danielle was born to be on the stage. She has grown as an artist and as a person these past years. Danielle believes in the team and understands that as an individual dancer you need the support of your teammates to elevate your performance to the next level.” – Ann-Marie Desiano, Aliso Niguel High School

Katrina Reinart

“Katrina Reinart is one of those dancers who you encounter once in a lifetime.  She can do any step, turn, acro trick, while also expressing herself artistically.” – Ann-Marie McClellan, JSerra Catholic High School

Morgan Robinson

“Morgan is a very talented choreographer. She thinks outside the box and is extremely creative regardless of style of dance. Morgan is talented, hard working, and most of all enjoyable to watch perform.” – Ann-Marie Desiano, Aliso Niguel High School

Cobe Romero

“Cobe is the type of student that will never stop pushing himself physically, and will never stop practicing until he feels he has achieved his goals.  He is constantly growing.  As a senior in high school, he enrolled himself in a local dance studio in order to start competing.  He wanted to learn and grow more.” – Lauren McNair, Fullerton Union High School

Isabella Schilter

“Isabella Schilter is an extremely creative choreographer with a strong artistic vision. Performing in every musical production, choreographing at every given opportunity, Isabella has taken full advantage of the visual and performing arts program.” – Judy Scialpi, Northwood High School

Austin Schulte

“As a dancer Austin has exquisite technique that transcends through multiple dance genres including ballet, modern, jazz, contemporary and hip hop. Onstage Austin has ability to communicate to the audience when he performs and captivate his viewers with his dynamic quality and interpretation.” – Andrea Taylor, Huntington Beach APA (Huntington Beach High School)

Katherine Sele

“Katherine is a talented leader, dancer, performer, and choreographer. Her choreography is always well organized and exciting to perform for the dancer as well as watch for the viewer.” – Kirsten Harvey, St. Margaret’s Episcopal School

Hannah Severance

“On first impression, Hannah is quiet and reserved, but dance is a good outlet for her because it gives her the opportunity to express herself in various ways. Her excellence as a young artist is supported by her talent and technique and enhanced by her passion for arts in general.” – Amber Case, Momentum Dance and Performing Arts Center

Iris Sewell

“What I love about Iris is that she is a talented dancer and a talented teacher. She is able to communicate and demonstrate her expectations to her peers. She is kind, patient, and intelligent.” – Estee Carrizosa, Laguna Beach High School

Hannah Shaw

“Hannah is a diamond in the rough and anyone who gets the chance to work with her will never be disappointed.” – Amanda Cathey, Corona del Mar High School

Shelby Soto

“As an artist, she has a great eye for dance and choreography. She is very determined. If she feels she is weaker in an area, she will work until she achieves her goal.” – Danielle Calta Darwazeh, Tesoro High School

Camryn Sparrevohn

“Camryn is one of those students who was born to dance.  Her passion for her art is tangible in her incredible work ethic and dedication. Her strength, flexibility, and technique is mind-boggling. She performs technical moves that most dancers can only dream of doing, and she does it with ease.” – Rikki Jones, Los Alamitos High School

Allison Stay

“Ally Stay has been nominated for her passion of creating and composing dance on film. She has a unique style that speaks to all audiences. She is not only talented as a choreographer and videographer, but she is a beautiful dancer as well.” – Lauren Peterson, San Clemente High School

Reese Valeriano

“She has been dancing at a very high level of technique for many years and has competed in many competitions.  Her routines are always soulful and expressive, not to mention filled with incredible movement invention and technical prowess.” – Ann-Marie McClellan, JSerra Catholic High School

Luz Vazquez

“Luz is hard working and dedicated to everything she takes on.  She is a passionate dancer and choreographer who works tirelessly at her craft.  Luz is always willing to help other dancers improve and grow.” – Maile Leonard, Western High School

Rebecca Wayne

“Becca is a true student of dance in the purest form.  She can adapt her personal style as necessary to fit the tone of a piece with ease and elegance.” – Taylor Finnerty, Trabuco Hills High School

Sarah Zhong

“Her choreography pushes her dancers to think in new and challenging ways.  She is constantly trying new approaches, formations, tempo, timing, style.  Each piece she choreographs is different from the last and shows the depth of her artistic and choreographic ability.” – Sheryl Sloate, Irvine High School

CONCERT

Callie Arcand

“She is an extremely passionate performer with a strong sense of detail to her movement.  Callie has never missed an opportunity to choreograph, she is committed and dedicated.” – Judy Scialpi, Northwood High School

Lindsay Backer

“She spends timeless hours training each week and manages to keep her grades excellent. She is actively involved in our modern conservatory program and excels in it.” – Kristine Calder, San Juan Hills High School

Erin Blair

“Her performances are very mature and full of character and style. As a genuine person, she is highly respected by her peers and has a natural sense about her that acts as a catalyst in bringing out the best in others.” – Charles Maple, Maple Conservatory of Dance

Anafe Ysabella Calderon

“Watching her performances, her passion jumps off the stage. She paints a story with her technique and makes every performance memorable.” – Laura Nguyen Brown, Pacific Academy

Anna de la Rosa

“Anna is a multi-talented and highly gifted student. Anna not only works to better her own talents and gifts but she has also worked with younger dancers, helping to build their confidence.” – Pamela Toomey, Cornelia Connelly High School

Ava Garrett

“Ava has beautiful technique and a subtle grace to her dancing ability.  She is an asset to any company and will be a true ambassador for the art of dance and teaching wherever she goes.” – Amanda Cathey, Corona del Mar High School

Giulia Ghidoli

“Giulia specializes in classical ballet technique and performance, but if you ask her to dance in any style or genre, she can do it beautifully.  She is at the studio daily, taking every class possible to enhance her already stellar technique.” – Ann-Marie McClellan, Pacific Ballet Conservatory

Esther Jeong

“Artistically, her passion, technique and connection are incredible. She is an inquisitive person, constantly asking questions, seeking advice and listening with intent and consideration. She supports friends and peers and is able to express herself in ways that make her vulnerable.” – Leiana Volen, Sunny Hills High School

Amber Ludden

“Amber is an incredibly talented dancer and choreographer.  The fluidity and effortless movements of her dancing makes you forget that you are watching a high school dancer and makes you feel like you are in the presence of a professional.” – Taylor Finnerty, Trabuco Hills High School

Melia Masumoto

“She has attracted other wonderful dancers to our new school because of her ability to impact people on stage and her kind heart for others. She is consistently leading with her positive attitude, creativity in her choreography, technical skills, and beautiful presence on stage.” – Alyssa Jones, Crean Lutheran High School

Fatima Montelongo

“She’s elegant yet strong at the same time, and brings inspiration to those around her when she performs. What impresses me most with Fatima is that she is involved with multiple sports, and is extremely successful in them.” – Andrea Oberlander, Whittier Christian High School

Sophia Ortega

“She is always searching for inspiration and new ways to push her mind and body.  When challenges present themselves, she rises up and becomes stronger!” – Taryn Chavez, Avanti Dance Company

Yesenia Palacios

“Yesenia has found her voice through the art of dance.  She is curious, loves to take artistic risks, and is eager to explore new challenges.  For someone who never danced until three years ago, she has grown by leaps and bounds, turning into a true artist!” – Barbara Noel, Santa Ana High School

Jolie Russell

“Jolie Russell tells a sparkling story onstage using her beautiful ballet technique and vivid onstage persona.  Her enthusiasm is evident through the amount of energy she puts into her performance.” – Kimberly McEachern, Huntington Academy of Dance

Olivia Sanchez

“Olivia’s character stands alone. She is loyal to her team/studio/family/friends and one of the most unselfish teenagers I have ever worked with in my 27 years of teaching. She has a strong work ethic and is always striving to be better.” – Ann-Marie Desiano, Aliso Niguel High School

Jenna Schoen

“Jenna is a quiet person yet a powerful performer. She has grown artistically over the past three years as a versatile dancer, someone that we can rely on to perform multiple styles.” – Ann-Marie Desiano, Aliso Niguel High School

Jordan Taft

“Although humble, she is fierce when she performs. Her strength is impressive and her lines are beautiful.” – Andrea Oberlander, Whittier Christian High School

Shirley Tang

“Shirley Tang’s performances bring tenderness and grace to the stage.  Her ballet technique is exquisite and is enriched by her study of traditional Chinese folk dancing.  She also plays several classical Chinese instruments at an advanced level.” – Kimberly McEachern, Huntington Academy of Dance

Madison Tanguay

“Madison’s unique vision is to continue to explore the connection between thought and emotion and how that evolves into inspiring works of art, building human connection.” – Steven B. Hyde, Orange County School of the Arts

Kayla Thiede

“Dance for her is not an extra curricular activity, it is a lifestyle choice.  Always having a smile, or an encouraging word for the beginners, Kayla exemplifies the image of dancer/artist.” – Ann-Marie McClellan, JSerra Catholic High School

Tivoli Treloar

“She typically performs ballet but this year, I witnessed her create some incredible choreography and was blown away. Her vision as an artist is pushing boundaries and discovering new things about herself as a dancer.” – Alyssa Jones, Crean Lutheran High School

Ariel Vidrio

“Ariel’s demeanor as a humble intellectual is deceptively different as a dancer. Her metamorphosis develops dynamically with intent focus and fearlessness, materializing into her unique voice as a dancer and choreographer.” – Steven B. Hyde, Orange County School of the Arts

STREET

William Castro

“William is constantly growing as an artist. His work ethic, style and talent have a pervasive influence upon the school’s hip hop team.” – Sandra Corr, Saddleback High School

Xingying (Caroline) Ren

“She works very hard and pushes herself and others to the limit. She is very eager to learn new things inside my class as well in her education.” – Erik Sandoval, Crean Lutheran High School

Mia Vasquez

“She excels in hip hop as a dancer and choreographer. Her efforts in technique classes have brought her dancing to a new level this year and she works hard in all classes.” – Claire Keeley, El Modena High School

LinYue Zhang

“She is a natural born hip hop dancer. Her pick up and body movement speaks volumes when she is doing any type of choreography. She is patient and consistent with herself – a very mature young woman.” – Erik Sandoval, Crean Lutheran High School

WORLD/CULTURAL

Leilani Alexander

“From very young Leilani embodied what it is to be of Hawai’ian descent and knows the importance it is to preserve her culture. Hawai’ians call this kuliana which means responsibility. We as Hawai’ians have a responsibility to ourselves and our ancestors to perpetuate our culture for generations to come.” – Tiana Price, Troy High School

Lindsay Berneking

“I have watched Lindsay grow into a well-rounded and conscientious artist. As a high nationally ranking ballroom dancer and a Junior Olympic Gold Medalist, Lindsay is often among a group of dancers who are less successful and have less training than she does, but she never has an ego, and she often takes time and effort to help those around her improve.” – Robert Porch, Orange County School of the Arts

Anushka Bharwani

“Although she is not our most advanced dancer, we recognize her drive and commitment  to bettering herself as an artist. We can always count on Anushka to participate in our studio events such as master classes, auditions, and volunteer work.” – Cathy Lozano, Momentum Dance and Performing Arts Center

Simar Boparai

“Simar’s joy of dancing is infectious and she has a passion for performing her artform. Simar is a young lady of generous spirit and has shared her talents through choreographing her peers this past fall.” – Kathy Harris, Mission Viejo High School

Marilyn Flores

“Marilyn is an incredibly talented dancer and choreographer. Not only is she adept at world dances, such as Polynesian, which is her specialty, and Latin dance, but she is also an amazing street dancer.” – Sandra Corr, Saddleback High School

Miranda Murillo

“Her love for her culture plays an important role in her life but she also explores other dance forms such as ballet and modern with equal passion. Because of her talent in both cultural and modern dance forms she wants to earn her degree in dance eventually dancing professionally.” – Marlene Peña-Marin, Orange County School of the Arts

Ruth Nair

“Ruth Nair is a nominee for Artist of the Year because of her study and performance of Indian classical dance called mudra. Mudras are specific actions by which the dancer expresses, consciously or unconsciously, states of mind, emotions, intentions. She brings with her a study of her cultural heritage and shares her heart.” – Kathy Harris, Mission Viejo High School

Yi (Apple) Zhao

“Apple Zhao is a kind and humble student who loves to share her passion for dance with those around her. In China, she studied traditional Chinese dance for seven years and since moving to California, she has explored various styles such as ballet, tap, jazz, musical theater and contemporary.” – Megan Morphis, Crean Lutheran High School

Newport Harbor girls water polo coach Brian Melstrom, who recently guided the Sailors to the CIF-SS Division 2 crown with a dramatic victory over Santa Barbara, said Sunday that he has retired.

He called it a personal decision.

“I have retired from coaching,” Melstrom said in a text message. “I will be finishing this swim season (as girls coach) and then retiring from all duties as aquatics coach at NHHS.”

In his third season as head coach, Melstrom helped Newport Harbor recover from an early-season loss against league rival Los Alamitos to finish the season strong. The Sailors reached the consolation final of the Irvine SoCal Championships, earned the No. 2 seed for the playoffs and won the sixth CIF-SS title in program history.

The sixth crown ties Newport Harbor for the most in Orange County history.

Melstrom is the heavy favorite to be announced as the CIF Division 2 coach of the year when the Southern Section announces its postseason awards.

He was the longtime assistant under legendary Bill Barnett, who retired after the 2015 season.

DOWNEY – Caltrans officials plan new freeway lane closures in the Downey area that may last into the morning rush hour the week of March 5, as overnight work will leave just one lane open on sections of the Santa Ana (5) Freeway starting Wednesday southeast of Los Angeles.

And with continued total freeway closures further south, the 5 Freeway might be best to be entirely avoided at night between the Long Beach (710) Freeway near East Los Angeles and the Riverside (91) Freeway in Orange County all week, a traffic reporter might say.

The $1.7 million in new roadwork is in Downey and City of Commerce, north of the 605, where 60-year-old concrete will be dug out in sections, and replaced. Work will start Wednesday through Friday evenings at 9 p.m., with one lane open in either direction.

The work should wrap by 5 a.m. Thursdays, but on Fridays the work will last until 8 a.m., and on Saturdays, until 10 a.m., the state warns in its news statement.

And south of the 605, a major rebuilding of the 5 Freeway will continue to require complete overnight freeway closures next week. A series of four major projects is reconstructing and widening nearly all of the freeway between the 605 and Beach Boulevard.

South of the 605, the 5 will be totally closed to traffic heading towards Orange County starting at 11 p.m. Sun. March 4, and every night through Wednesday or Thursday. Traffic heading towards Los Angeles will have only one lane Sunday night, but will be closed completely Monday through Wednesday or Thursday nights, depending on the weather and how fast the work gets done.

The slab replacement was announced by Caltrans as the state agency is anxious to show that recently-approved, increased gas taxes are being put to work.

The repaving project is possible due to Senate Bill 1, the controversial gas tax increase. Republican party activists hope voters will repeal the tax increase, but business interests have supported the tax as necessary to keep cargo moving.

New Caltrans Director Laurie Berman said the gas tax “is addressing the backlog of repairs needed across the state highway system to keep people and freight moving.”

The gas tax will pay to replace 17,000 miles of pavement across the state and 563 lane miles in Los Angeles and Ventura counties, Caltrans officials said.

Caltrans will close the three right lanes of either the north- or southbound 5 Freeway starting at 9 p.m. Wednesdays and Thursdays, until 5 a.m. the next days.

And on Fridays, the lane closures may be in effect from midnight until 8 a.m. Saturdays, the state warns the freeway may be one lane only until 9 a.m.

By MARK MAZZETTI, DAVID D. KIRKPATRICK and MAGGIE HABERMAN
The New York Times

\WASHINGTON — George Nader, a Lebanese-American businessman, has hovered on the fringes of international diplomacy for three decades. He was a back-channel negotiator with Syria during the Clinton administration, reinvented himself as an adviser to the de facto ruler of the United Arab Emirates and last year was a frequent visitor to President Donald Trump’s White House.

Nader is now a focus of the investigation by Robert Mueller, the special counsel. In recent weeks, Mueller’s investigators have questioned Nader and have pressed witnesses for information about any possible attempts by the Emiratis to buy political influence by directing money to support Trump during the presidential campaign, according to people with knowledge of the discussions.

The investigators have also asked about Nader’s role in White House policymaking, those people said, suggesting that the special counsel investigation has broadened beyond Russian election meddling to include Emirati influence on the Trump administration. The focus on Nader could also prompt an examination of how money from multiple countries has flowed through and influenced Washington during the Trump era.

How much this line of inquiry is connected to Mueller’s original task of investigating contacts between Trump’s campaign and Russia is unclear. The examination of the UAE comes amid a flurry of recent activity by Mueller.

Last month, investigators negotiated a plea agreement with Rick Gates, Trump’s deputy campaign manager, and indicted 13 Russians on charges related to a scheme to incite political discord in the United States before the 2016 election.

In one example of Nader’s influential connections, which has not been previously reported, last fall he received a detailed report from a top Trump fundraiser, Elliott Broidy, about a private meeting with the president in the Oval Office.

Broidy owns a private security company with hundreds of millions of dollars in contracts with the United Arab Emirates, and he extolled to Trump a paramilitary force that his company was developing for the country. He also lobbied the president to meet privately “in an informal setting” with the Emirates’ military commander and de facto ruler, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan; to back the UAE’s hawkish policies in the region; and to fire Secretary of State Rex Tillerson.

A copy of Broidy’s memorandum about the meeting was provided to The New York Times by someone critical of the Emirati influence in Washington.

Trump has closely allied himself with the Emiratis, embracing their strong support for the new heir to the throne in Saudi Arabia, as well as their confrontational approaches toward Iran and their neighbor Qatar. In the case of Qatar, which is the host to a major U.S. military base, Trump’s endorsement of an Emirati- and Saudi-led blockade against that country has put him openly at odds with his secretary of state — as well as with years of U.S. policy.

Nader, 58, made frequent trips to the White House during the early months of the Trump administration, meeting with Steve Bannon and Jared Kushner to discuss U.S. policy toward the Persian Gulf states in advance of Trump’s trip to Saudi Arabia in May 2017, according to people familiar with the meetings. By some accounts, it was Bannon who pushed for him to gain access to White House policymakers. Others said Kushner backed him.

Reached by phone last month, Nader said he had dinner guests and would call back. He did not, and attempts to reach him over several weeks were unsuccessful. Nader’s lawyer did not respond to messages seeking comment.

The White House also did not respond to requests for comment. In a statement, a spokesman for Broidy said his memorandum had been stolen through sophisticated hacking.

“We have reason to believe this hack was sponsored and carried out by registered and unregistered agents of Qatar seeking to punish Mr. Broidy for his strong opposition to state-sponsored terrorism,” said the spokesman, adding that Broidy had also made the accusation in a letter to the Qatari ambassador in Washington.

Yousef al-Otaiba, the Emirati ambassador to the United States, declined to comment. Axios first reported Mueller’s questioning of Nader.

Nader has long been a mysterious figure. In the 1990s, he presided over an unusual Washington magazine, Middle East Insight, which sometimes provided a platform for Arab, Israeli and Iranian officials to express their views to a Washington audience.

Late in that decade, Nader convinced the Clinton administration that he had valuable contacts in the Syrian government and took on a secretive role trying to broker a peace deal between Israel and Syria. Working with Ronald S. Lauder, the U.S. cosmetics magnate and prominent donor to Jewish causes, Nader shuttled between Damascus and Jerusalem, using his contacts in both capitals to try to negotiate a truce.

“In the 1990s, George was a very effective under-the-radar operator in the peace process,” said Martin S. Indyk, a former U.S. ambassador to Israel and a member of a team put together by President Bill Clinton to negotiate peace deals between Israel and its neighbors.

“Then, he disappeared.”

Indeed, a man with a once very public profile in Washington effectively vanished from the capital’s policy scene, and his magazine ceased publication in 2002.

During the middle part of the last decade, Nader appears to have spent most of his time in the Middle East, especially in Iraq after the 2003 invasion. He developed close ties to national security officials in the Bush White House.

At the beginning of the Obama era, Nader tried to parlay his ties to the Syrian government into access to senior members of President Barack Obama’s foreign policy team, while also seeking to advance business deals with former advisers to President George W. Bush.

By the time of the 2016 election, he had become an adviser to Mohammed of the UAE. According to people familiar with the relationship, it was around Trump’s inauguration that Nader first met Broidy, the Republican fundraiser, who is a California-based investor with a strong interest in the Middle East.

Broidy’s security company, Circinus, provides services to both U.S. agencies and foreign governments. Run by former U.S. military officers, Circinus promises on its website that it “can employ personnel worldwide to provide physical force protection to individuals, groups or facilities within austere, hostile environments” as well as conducting “specialized operations, infrastructure protection and training.”

Broidy, 60, had once stumbled into legal trouble over payments to a political figure. In 2009, he agreed to plead guilty to a misdemeanor charge for providing $1 million in illegal gifts to New York state pension authorities, including trips, payouts and a secret investment in a film called “Chooch” that was produced by an official’s brother. In exchange for the gifts, the state pension fund invested $250 million with an Israeli-based investment management firm that Broidy had founded. He reimbursed the pension fund for $18 million in fees.

After the inauguration, Nader became friendly with Broidy and introduced him to Mohammed. Circinus then signed contracts with the United Arab Emirates worth several hundred million dollars, according to people familiar with the arrangement.

By Oct. 6, Broidy had evidently become close enough to both the prince and Nader to send a detailed memorandum to an encrypted email address used by Nader recounting his advocacy on the UAE’s behalf during the meeting with Trump in the Oval Office amid an afternoon of stops throughout the White House.

An ally of the White House involved in one of the initiatives discussed — a counterterrorism task force — said Broidy sent the memorandum because he had been asked by the crown prince to seek the president’s views on the idea. Broidy believed that the creation of the task force would aid U.S. security, this person said.

According to the memo, Broidy repeatedly pressed Trump to meet privately with Mohammed, preferably in an informal setting outside the White House.

“I offered that MBZ is available to come to the U.S. very soon and preferred a quiet meeting in New York or New Jersey,” Broidy wrote to Nader, using the crown prince’s initials. “President Trump agreed that a meeting with MBZ was a good idea.”
Broidy wrote that he had twice told Lt. Gen. H.R. McMaster, the national security adviser, that the crown prince “preferred an informal setting to meet one on one with President Trump.” But McMaster resisted. “LTG McMaster smiled and replied that heads of state usually meet in the White House,” as “protocol dictates.”

In his memorandum, Broidy recounted that he had told Trump that he had recently returned from meeting with the crown prince about Circinus work for the UAE. Broidy had explained “the exciting and transformational plan being constructed by MBZ to develop a counterterrorism task force,” which Broidy told the president was “inspired” by his speech at a conference in Riyadh.

Broidy was harshly critical of the crown prince’s neighbor and nemesis, Qatar. The UAE has accused Qatar, a U.S. ally, of using its satellite network Al-Jazeera to promote political Islam, among other allegations.

Trump also asked about Tillerson — who had publicly criticized the isolation of Qatar — and Broidy said that the secretary of state should be fired. “Rex was performing poorly,” Broidy said, according to the memorandum.

In between the discussions of diplomacy, business and statecraft, Broidy wrote, he and the president “spoke for several minutes about politics and the fundraising efforts for the midterm elections as well as the state of affairs at the RNC,” or the Republican National Committee.

BREA – A pedestrian was hit by a car on Imperial Highway in Brea on Sunday, March 4 and rushed to a trauma center.

A second person also needed hospital care from the crash on Imperial Highway at South Puente Street, according to a Brea Fire Department dispatcher. That person’s condition was not immediately known, and it was not clear if that person had been a pedestrian or was inside the car.

Firefighters and paramedics were dispatched to the crash at 10:21 a.m, he said.

All lanes were closed on westbound Imperial Highway at Puente Street while police investigated the crash.

Giddy children filled the air with energy and laughter during Fountain Valley’s Little League Opening Day on Saturday. But one much loved, blue-eyed 6-year-old t-ball player — part of the excitement just last season — was missing.

His mom and dad, Tim and Jamie Ankeny, and his grandma, Sharon Jurgens, from Washington State, watched the parade of children enter the field as rain sprinkled down.

Carter Ankeny, the family’s “ball of light,” died Oct. 8th of complications from treatment for leukemia.

Jurgens and her husband Dennis wanted to do something special to honor Carter’s memory and his love for baseball, so she teamed up with the Fountain Valley league and created the Carter Ankeny Inspirational Player Award. It will carry a small cash prize that will be given to one child in each of the league’s divisions at the end of the season.

The award was announced as a surprise to Tim and Jamie when they were called up to the microphone during the March 3 ceremonies.

It was an emotional moment for the couple, who thought their son was being honored with a CarterStrong Forever baseball banner.

Diana Mordin, who advocates for families experiencing issues related to cancer, has become a close friend of the pair and helped Jurgens come up with the idea.

“It will be given to someone who works really hard, is dedicated and has the passion and spirit and love of the game that Carter had. He was magical,” Mordin said.

Tim, who coached Carter last year when he was on the Cubs, said no one could tell his son was sick. Even in remission, he was on “maintenance treatments” including chemotherapy, and he occasionally took up to 14 pills a day.

Carter was one of the biggest and strongest kids on the team, Tim said. “He threw really fast and was always afraid of hitting kids in the chest.”

Jamie remembers the goofy and ever-growing routine Carter would run through before hitting the t-ball.

“He would tap dirt off his cleats, pat the plate with the bat and swing. And then miss,” she joked. “He always had dirty pants and a big smile because he had to slide into every base.”

Then on July 7, 2017, Carter’s parents got the devastating news that he had relapsed. As a school project the 6-year-old had to create a bucket list of things he wanted to do over the summer. The family fast-forwarded that process to accomplish the items on his list in one week, before he started treatment again.

Carter ate pineapple popsicles, picnicked in the park, was surprised with a trip to Legoland (“good, great, grand wonderful,” he said when he was told of his surprise), stayed up late, watched movies, read lots of books, and of course played baseball — three 6-year-olds against two adults, and the 6-year-olds won.

They made up the rules as they went along, Jamie said, and then declared themselves the winners with high-fives. And Carter never wanted it to end. “You need to eat,” Jamie pleaded with him.

Then the family prepared to go through in-patient treatment again. Only this time their bright, energetic, life-loving little boy would not come home.

He died cancer-free. His death was caused by complications from the treatments, Jamie said.

Jamie chronicles her struggles on a private Facebook page, CarterStrong Forever: Remembering Carter Ankeny, dedicated to her son with more than 1,600 members. She counts each day she has lived without him and wonders how she will continue.

“We stay busy, we stay distracted, but then when things quiet down, when there’s not as much to ‘do,’ the memories take over, the grief stifling, and it gets hard to propel forward,” the family says on Facebook.

Said Tim: “Our biggest fear is that people will forget him.”

COSTA MESA — Two lanes on the southbound 55 freeway are shut down at Mesa Drive for at least an hour after a vehicle overturned into the center divider, Sunday, March 4.

The SigAlert, which closed the Nos. 1 and 2 lanes, was issued at 1:09 p.m. as California Highway Patrol officials worked the scene of the overturned vehicle – possibly a Volkswagen van.

The CHP received an initial call of a multiple vehicle crash involving three or four vehicles, officials said.

Minor injuries were reported as a result of the crash, but no further information was immediately available.

Qualcomm Inc. postponed a key investor vote in the hostile takeover battle with rival chipmaker Broadcom Ltd., after the powerful Committee on Foreign Investment in the U.S. started investigating the proposed combination and ordered a delay.

The meeting, scheduled for Tuesday, will be pushed back for at least 30 days, Qualcomm said. That throws up a major roadblock for Broadcom’s $117 billion bid, since shareholders were scheduled to vote on six director nominees proposed by the Singapore-based company, potentially giving it a majority on Qualcomm’s board.

Qualcomm Inc. shareholder T. Rowe Price Group Inc. submitted an early vote in favor of Broadcom Ltd.’s board nominees, according to a person familiar with the investor’s action.

T. Rowe voted for all six of Broadcom’s nominations, a move which, if followed by enough other shareholders, would give the bidder control of the 11-person Qualcomm board that has so-far shunned the approach. T. Rowe’s vote and stance could change in the run-up to a meeting, said the person who declined to be identified because the voting is not yet public.

The order for a delay by the government panel is unusual, since CFIUS doesn’t usually investigate before a merger is agreed. But deals involving foreign companies, especially those of sensitive U.S. technology like semiconductors, have come increasingly under the spotlight recently. Broadcom’s ties to China’s largest telecom equipment maker, Huawei Technologies Co., has already raised concerns (although Qualcomm also works with Huawei.)

President Donald Trump last year blocked a Chinese-backed takeover of Lattice Semiconductor Corp. because of the importance of semiconductors to the U.S. government and China’s role in the proposed acquisition.

Broadcom slammed Qualcomm’s decision to “secretly” file a voluntary request with CFIUS to start an investigation, labeling it a “blatant, desperate act” to entrench its incumbent board of directors. Qualcomm shot back that Broadcom’s claims that the CFIUS inquiry was a surprise to them has “no basis in fact.” Broadcom has been interacting with CFIUS for weeks and made two written submissions, Qualcomm said.

Qualcomm shares were down 1.2 percent to $63.95 at 12:36 p.m. in New York. Broadcom was little changed at $250.

“Time is up for Qualcomm and it’s a question of when,” said Nomura Instinet analyst Romit Shah, speaking on Bloomberg TV. “When this vote ultimately comes through I think the holders are going to replace this board.”

CFIUS, which conducts its reviews far from the public eye, was split on whether to review Broadcom’s increasingly hostile effort to win control of its rival, Bloomberg reported last week. San Diego-based Qualcomm, fighting to stay independent, has repeatedly warned an acquisition would face regulatory scrutiny.

Qualcomm and Broadcom are two of the biggest makers of components that are crucial to modern communications systems, including fixed-line and mobile. Qualcomm’s technology is in every smartphone and Broadcom makes a crucial part of machines that direct the flow of information in data centers making their capabilities an area of interest for security.

Hock Tan, Broadcom’s chief executive officer, joined Trump in the White House last year to announce he was moving Broadcom’s headquarters to the U.S. from Singapore ” a move that appeared designed to appease U.S. officials and facilitate future acquisitions.

Once Broadcom re-domiciles ” currently planned for no later than May 6 ” the takeover would not be a CFIUS covered transaction, Broadcom said in the statement.

Shahin Vosough jokes that if you called his parents right now and told them you were on your way to their Irvine home, there would be pastries and fresh fruit on the table by the time you arrived. And their first question would be: “What can I make you to eat?”

“My parents are the people who taught me about hospitality,” he says. “It’s hereditary. It is in my blood.”

Starting when he was a boy growing up in Tehran, he loved to help his parents, then headmaster and headmistress at a private school, entertain.

So he can’t believe his luck that now he gets to play host for a living. And what’s more, his “guests” are many of Orange County’s movers and shakers.

Vosough is the general manager of Center Club Orange County, the prestigious private social club founded by Henry T. Segerstrom and located in the shadow of the Segerstrom Center for the Arts.

Looking dapper in a custom navy wool suit, mustard tie and wood cuff links (he has a cedar walk-in closet at home), he slipped through the club on a recent day, nodding warmly to members and studying their faces for any sign of discomfort or need, like a jollier version of Mr. Carson on “Downton Abbey.”

“Yes is the answer, what is the question?” he says. “I ask my staff to be problem-solvers. If a member wants a cake, we need to come up with a way to say, ‘Yes, chef will bake a cake.’ If the chef doesn’t have enough time to bake, then we will buy a cake.”

But memorizing which club member likes only one ice cube in his or her whiskey and which likes no ice cubes is only a small part of the job.

“The club is a real-life LinkedIn,” Vosough says. “The club is about relationships. I enjoy building relationships.”

Every job he ever had prepared him for this moment, starting with a dishwashing stint at Marriott Hot Shoppes when he was 15, two years after his parents moved the family from Iran to the Washington, D.C., area.

Later he managed a bar while studying business at Texas A&M. By the time he arrived in Orange County in 1986, he was ready to sharpen his skills at Dove Canyon Golf Club in Trabuco Canyon, Pacific Golf & Country Club in San Clemente and Coto de Caza Golf & Racquet Club.

Leading the Center Club is his Mount Everest.

“I lose myself when I’m in the club,” he says. “The club becomes my identity.”

My sanctuary: My backyard. I have a very comfortable seating area and a gazebo overlooking a view of the hills, facing west. I like to just sit there and enjoy the beautiful sunset.

If I could play hooky: I think what I would do is go and see movies. I would go for a double feature. I like comedies and action movies. “Rocket Gibraltar,” “Parenthood” and “Young Frankenstein,” if I had to give you my top three.

Red or white: Red. In my house I have a closet where I store my wines, and over the closet there is a sign that says “Wine Makes Everything Better.” A key necessity to wine is to share it with friends. Friends always make the wine taste better.

Favorite dive: Paul’s Coffee Shop in Fountain Valley. It was featured on “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.” It’s a little cafe in a strip center. No frills. It’s owned by an ex-Marine. They have chicken-fried steak and eggs that comes on two plates!

Angels or Dodgers: Angels.

On my nightstand: Bottled water, phone chargers, two phones and a TV remote. Now that you ask, I wish I had a book on it.

What I learned from my kids: I connected with them through the music they liked at the time. Now I listem to Fall Out Boy. Snow Patrol. Gomez.

Best celebrity meet-up: I had the good fortune of meeting Bill Murray. He was a guest at my club (Pacific Golf & Country Club) for a fundraiser tournament. He was a very nice guy and just as funny in person as he is in his movies.

My guilty pleasure: Yoo-hoo. I still drink Yoo-hoo. I have Yoo-hoo in my refrigerator right now. I have studied the ingredient list; there’s not a single good thing in there. But I still love it.

My favorite thing about Orange County: It’s a very diverse county and has representation from every race and nationality – which translates into great food. There are so many great restaurants.

I take out-of-town visitors: To Trabuco Oaks Steakhouse. It’s in an old house and has an oak tree in the middle of the building. There are still fried mushrooms and zucchini on the menu. It’s like a throwback to the ’70s.

When I’m not working: I’m with my family. My daughter and her husband live in Scottsdale. My son lives in New York City. I visit my parents once or twice a week. They live in Irvine. My dad is 93. My mom is 84. Every day is a gift.

So is what we’re seeing out of the Ducks these days real? Or are we being fooled once again?

This year’s version does a good job of toying with a diehard’s emotions. Steps taken forward toward significance have been followed by stretches where their errors physical and mental drive them back to another starting point.

Now that the Ducks no longer have any excuses for being inconsistent, they’re back at the brink of showing what kind of Stanley Cup playoff threat they can be – provided that they lock down the spot they’re currently in. Most of the cast is rested and healthy, or as healthy as they’re going to get.

They’re 6-1-1 over their last eight games and 10-2-2 over their last 12. This is precisely that time of the year to put together those types of runs over a two-week or three-week stretch. The most important players are delivering and that’s critical in order to deal with the best in the West.

We’ll see how real the Ducks are this week when they host Washington before playing at Nashville and Dallas to finish out three games in four nights. Riding along with them gets bumpy but it is never boring. (Records in parentheses are as of Sunday’s games):

1T. Predators (42-14-9). Calle Jarnkrok and Filip Forsberg deliver overtime goals in back-to-back games as Nashville’s win streak is at eight, a franchise record. Ten wins have come beyond regulation. (3)

1T. Lightning (45-17-4). Steven Stamkos is no longer a 50-goal scorer but his five-point game in Saturday’s wild 7-6 shootout win over Philadelphia shows he’s still leading man material. (1)

3. Bruins (40-15-8). They’ll be tested with Patrice Bergeron (broken foot) out and Charlie McAvoy (lower body) now hurt but Rick Nash has re-energized David Krejci, who had a hat trick against Pittsburgh. (6)

4. Jets (39-17-9). Hang around Patrik Laine long enough and you may get burned. Winger has three two-goal games in his last four and 10 goals in his last eight to push him up to 35 for the year. (4)

5. Golden Knights (42-18-5). Tomas Tatar makes his first goal with Vegas count as it proves decisive Sunday in a win at New Jersey to start a road trip and stop a three-game losing streak. (2)

6. Maple Leafs (39-21-7). There’s no reason to panic with a three-game losing streak, especially when only one was in regulation. But it is hockey-mad Toronto, so any loss is cause for overreaction. (5)

7. Wild (37-22-7). Quite the up-and-down week as an 8-3 thumping of St. Louis is followed with losses at Arizona and Colorado, the latter a 7-1 beatdown. But it ends with solid home win over Detroit. (7)

8. Capitals (37-21-7). Convincing outdoor win over Leafs at the U.S. Naval Academy puts them back atop Metropolitan Division. Now will Alex Ovechkin get his 600th goal out in California? (11)

9. Penguins (37-25-4). Maligned at times over his 12-year career, Phil Kessel became the sixth American-born player to rack up 400 assists. Chew on that. (8)

10. Sharks (35-22-9). Evander Kane got his first goal since arriving in San Jose and the winger should help prop up their lagging numbers at even strength. They’re just 16th in that department. (9)

11. Stars (37-23-5). It is looking more and more like a first-round matchup with Vegas as overtime win over St. Louis strengthens grip on West’s first wild-card spot. (12)

12. Ducks (33-21-12). In their last three games, Rickard Rakell has five goals, Ryan Getzlaf has a goal and six assists and Corey Perry has two goals and four assists. The big boys are showing up. (13)

13. Kings (36-25-5). Losing their way in third-period meltdown against Chicago took a little steam out of an otherwise strong week with back-to-back triumphs over Vegas and a win over Columbus. (14)

14. Avalanche (35-24-6). Even with eight games missed, Nathan MacKinnon is still on pace to get his first 100-point season. Already blown past the 63 he had as a Calder Trophy-winning rookie. (15)

15. Flyers (34-21-11). Nolan Patrick hasn’t put up big numbers but the brain trust likes how last summer’s No. 2 overall pick is progressing after making the leap from junior hockey. (10)

16. Blues (35-26-5). Have four days to prepare for critical three-game California trip that could be make-or-break for this outfit that’s trying to move beyond seven-game losing streak. (16)

17. Panthers (32-25-6). Aleksander Barkov, Aaron Ekblad and Roberto Luongo are leading a big-time push toward a playoff spot. Six straight wins to blow past Carolina and now Columbus is on notice. (20)

18. Devils (33-25-8). Can a Hart Trophy be given to a player that doesn’t reach the postseason? Taylor Hall (30 goals, 42 assists) making his case with points in the last 25 games that he has played in. (17)

19. Blue Jackets (33-28-5). Artemi Panarin (20 goals, 35 assists) isn’t playing with Patrick Kane any more but he is still showing how lopsided that deal with Chicago for Brandon Saad has become. (18)

20. Hurricanes (29-26-11). Carolina captain Jordan Staal trying to play while he and his wife, Heather, bravely deal with the death of their stillborn infant daughter Hannah. (22)

21. Flames (32-25-9). Didn’t see them being a Stanley Cup contender like others, but didn’t see them missing the playoffs, which can happen. Defenseman TJ Brodie is a minus-33 over last two seasons. (19)

22. Rangers (30-30-6). Not the best idea to give the captaincy to a goalie but Henrik Lundqvist would get some votes. Delivers historic back-to-back 50-save outings to win games in what’s a lost season. (27)

23. Islanders (29-29-8). If it wasn’t for the slow crawl that is the Eastern Conference wild-card race, this team would be done. Currently on an 0-4-2 run and just six wins in last 21. (21)

24. Canadiens (25-29-11). Well, there is a draft with a first-round pick and four second-round selections to look forward to. And the hope that potential monster UFA John Tavares makes it to July 1. (24)

25. Blackhawks (28-30-8). This is the time for youngsters like Nick Schmaltz, Alex DeBrincat and Vinnie Hinostroza to show whether they can carry this proud franchise forward. The great 2008-17 run is over. (25)

26. Red Wings (26-29-10). They’re not any good. They’re not horrible. They’re just irrelevant. And that’s a bad spot to be in today’s NHL. (But the Michigan transplants still come out in droves). (23)

27. Oilers (27-34-4). Milan Lucic has not scored a goal since Dec. 23. Every team has a hard-to-digest contract but nine goals for $8 million this season is tough to stomach. (26)

28. Senators (22-32-10). Unless you’re in Canada, Mark Stone (60 points in 55 games) doesn’t come right to mind when you think about terrific players. Even then, he’s not that well-known up there. (28)

29. Canucks (24-32-9). Some roster work still needs to be done but Travis Green is keeping them competitive. Brock Boeser, who’s fighting through a wrist injury, is knocking on the 30-goal door. (29)

30. Coyotes (20-34-10). Arizona is 8-2-1 over its past 11 games. A strong finish might bring renewed hope when September arrives. (31)

31. Sabres (20-34-11). Back-to-back wins over league powers Boston and Tampa Bay will help a team get through the task of playing out the string. (30)

In their ideal offseason world, the Rams already would have signed safety Lamarcus Joyner and receiver Sammy Watkins to new contracts. Now it seems they might have to make a choice.

The NFL’s deadline for applying a “tag” to a player will take place at 1 p.m. Tuesday, and the Rams are expected to utilize that option, likely on one of two players who otherwise might leave via free agency.

If the Rams apply the exclusive-rights tag, it guarantees that player will stay with the team in 2018. A non-exclusive tag is another option, but that would allow the player to sign an offer sheet with another team, and the Rams would have the right to match the terms of that offer sheet.

Given the circumstances, an exclusive tag seems more likely, but will it be applied to Joyner or Watkins?

Any pending free agent who isn’t tagged still can be signed to a new contract before (or after) the signing period opens on March 14, but the tag is a way to guarantee a player comes back. Given the importance of both players, it’s likely not an easy decision for the Rams’ front office.

At the end of last season, it seemed more likely that the Rams would sign Joyner to a new, multi-year contract and use the tag on Watkins. That’s based on how 2017 worked out for both players.

Joyner, who struggled to find a role under the Rams’ previous coaching staff, thrived under defensive coordinator Wade Phillips. Joyner, in his fourth NFL season, moved from nickelback to free safety, started a career-high 12 games and recorded the first three interceptions of his NFL career.

So while Joyner exceeded expectations, Watkins never really got going. He arrived during training camp, in August, after a trade that sent cornerback E.J. Gaines and a second-round draft pick to Buffalo.

Watkins, a former 1,000-yard receiver, seemed slow to develop a connection with quarterback Jared Goff and finished fourth on the team with 39 receptions and 593 yards, but he did catch eight touchdowns.

It wasn’t all about the stats, though. Watkins’ field-stretching speed forced opponents to account for him at all times, which opened up the field for other offensive threats. The Rams also believe that, with a full offseason, they could better incorporate Watkins into their offense.

The question of which player to tag might depend on who the Rams believe is less replaceable, either internally, through the draft or on the free-agent market. The Rams are deeper at receiver than at safety, but lack players who have the specific skill set to replace either Joyner or Watkins.

A tagged player is in line to receive a one-year, guaranteed contract. Last season, a tagged receiver made approximately $15.6 million while a tagged safety made almost $10.9 million. This year’s values will depend on the NFL’s 2018 salary cap, which has yet to be announced.

Teams also can continue to negotiate with their tagged players. So if Joyner or Watkins is tagged, the Rams have until July 16 to complete a new deal that would override the franchise-tag contract.

The Rams used an exclusive tag on cornerback Trumaine Johnson in 2016 and 2017, but per league rules cannot use it on him again this year. Johnson is expected to leave this month as a free agent.