Blog

 Remembering Martin Warren and His Enduring Musical Legacy.

It is with deep sadness and shock that we share the sudden and unexpected passing of Martin Warren, a dear friend and the dedicated chairman of Costanzi Consort. His loss has left us all reeling, struggling to come to terms with the absence of someone who meant so much to so many.

Our hearts are especially with his beloved wife, Adele Warren, as well as with our conductor Peter and his wife Suzie, who shared a long and cherished friendship with Martin. The sorrow felt across our choir and community is immeasurable.

Yet even in this grief, we find comfort in recent memories. Just one week ago, Martin stood among us, singing with joy and passion during our concert. His powerful bass voice filled the room again during our first rehearsal of the Mozart Requiem—music he was so looking forward to performing. Our June concert will now carry a profound emotional weight, as we dedicate it to him and hold his spirit in every note.

Martin was instrumental in building Costanzi Consort from the ground up. He believed in the choir before it even began and worked tirelessly to support its growth and success. As one member beautifully shared, he was the “beating heart” of the choir.

Known for his wit and humor, Martin brought laughter wherever he went. His legacy will live on in music, memories, and the lives he touched.

Remembering Matt Jacobs and the Memories That Shaped a Lifetime.

The sudden, tragic loss of a good friend is a gut punch that’s hard to put into words. Matt Jacobs, I love you, brother. I’m beyond grateful for our friendship and the countless memories we shared. You had a way of leaving a lasting imprint on people’s lives—mine included.

I met Matt back in 1988 when he was living in Lakewood with his mom and stepdad. The garage he shared with his brother Jason was our hangout spot—loud, chaotic, smoke-filled, and full of life. Matt blasting his stereo, Jason shredding on his electric guitar… those were the days. We clicked instantly, and from that moment on, it was nothing but unforgettable times.

In 1990, when my Malibu broke down, I sold it for scrap and used the money to buy 12 lawn tickets to see Rush on their Presto tour at Irvine Meadows. Matt and Jay were there, along with a crew of friends—it was one of those nights you never forget. Then in 1991, Matt returned the favor, taking me, his girlfriend Angela, and her friend Jessica to see the Red Hot Chili Peppers at the Los Angeles Sports Arena, with Pearl Jam and Nirvana opening. Truly one of the most epic concerts ever.

Through Matt, I met people who changed my life—including my wife. That’s just who he was—a connector, a light, a friend.

Please keep his family in your thoughts. Matt, thank you for everything. I love you, and I’ll miss you always.

Honoring Vlasta’s Life, Legacy, and Unwavering Kindness.

Such a sad day as we come to terms with the loss of Vlasta—a truly genuine and beautiful man who was always smiling and ready to lend a hand. His passing has left an emptiness that words simply cannot fill, not only for those closest to him, but for the entire South Coast community that he helped shape in so many meaningful ways.

Vlasta was more than a familiar face—he was a pillar. A devoted family man, he loved deeply and wholeheartedly, especially his partner Leah Krejcir and his beautiful boys, who meant everything to him. The love he had for his family was evident in everything he did, and that bond will forever remain a part of his legacy.

Within the community, Vlasta’s impact was far-reaching. As a valued life member and Port label recipient of Mud ‘N’ Tars MCC, he dedicated years of service, taking on many roles within the club and contributing with passion and pride. He wasn’t just involved—he was invested. A surfing guru and local legend, Vlasta carried a spirit that embodied freedom, joy, and connection to the ocean and those around him.

Today, we don’t just mourn—we remember. We remember his laughter, his kindness, and the way he brought people together. And now, more than ever, it’s time to rally around his family and show them just how much he meant to us all.

Vlasta will never be forgotten—his spirit will live on in every wave, every memory, and every heart he touched. ❤️

A Life of Faith, Service, and Enduring Love, Remembering Ernest Martin Chamberlain Jr.

Our beloved father and grandfather, Ernest Martin Chamberlain Jr., passed away peacefully in his sleep on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, at the age of 86, following an extended and courageous battle with Parkinson’s disease. His life was one marked by devotion—to his faith, his family, and a lifetime of service that touched countless hearts.

Born on March 20, 1940, in Salt Lake City, Martin was the eldest of five children. After graduating from Olympus High School in 1958, he served eight years in the U.S. Army Reserves, where he developed a deep sense of discipline and duty that guided him throughout his life. Following a 30-month mission in France and Belgium, he met his eternal companion, Genene Ann Fowler. They were married in the Manti Temple in 1963 and built a life centered on faith, sacrifice, and love while raising six children together.

Martin’s passion for learning was evident in all he did. He earned a Ph.D. in biochemistry from the University of Utah in 1973 and carried that same dedication into his spiritual life. Whether serving as a vice president at Ballard Medical Products or as a bishop, he led with humility and compassion.

He is survived by his six children, 36 grandchildren, and 16 great-grandchildren. Though he is deeply missed, his legacy of faith, wisdom, and love will continue to live on in all who knew him.

Barry Keith Cooper Fatally Stabbed After Gathering, “Laughing One Minute, Gone the Next”.

A shocking act of violence has left a community grieving after Barry Keith Cooper, 47, was fatally stabbed in what neighbors described as a sudden and devastating turn of events. The incident occurred around 12:18 p.m. on April 3, 2026, at a home along Maynard Boulevard, where a casual gathering had been taking place.

Witnesses said the atmosphere had been light and friendly, with laughter filling the yard—until everything changed in an instant. “They were laughing one minute, and someone was dying the next,” one neighbor shared, capturing the shock and disbelief felt by those nearby.

Cooper was found in the yard suffering from severe stab wounds. Emergency responders rushed him to a nearby hospital, but despite their efforts, he later succumbed to his injuries. His sudden death has left family, friends, and neighbors struggling to process the loss.

Authorities with the Onslow County Sheriff’s Office quickly secured the scene and began their investigation. By early afternoon, 19-year-old Shakim Zion Bullock was arrested without incident. He has been charged with murder and assault with a deadly weapon and is currently being held without bond pending a court appearance.

Investigators have not yet released a motive, and the case remains active as officials continue gathering details.

In the meantime, a growing memorial of candles and flowers now marks the place where Cooper lost his life. As loved ones mourn, the community stands together, offering condolences and remembering a life taken far too suddenly.

A Coach, A Mentor, A Legacy That Runs On, Remembering John Cochrane’s Lasting Impact at Truman State.

Truman State University Athletics mourns the passing of John Cochrane, a beloved and dedicated coach whose influence shaped generations of student-athletes. Serving as Head Track & Field and Cross Country Coach from 1980 to 2013, Cochrane’s life was defined by commitment, humility, and a genuine passion for helping others succeed—both on and off the track.

A 1968 graduate of Iowa State University, Cochrane later earned his master’s degree from Truman State University, where he would go on to build a remarkable legacy. Over more than four decades in coaching, including 33 years at Truman, he led both the women’s and men’s programs to extraordinary achievements, producing national champions, dozens of All-Americans, and multiple conference titles.

Yet, his success was never measured solely by medals or records. Cochrane took immense pride in the academic accomplishments of his athletes, mentoring 14 Academic All-Americans and fostering teams that consistently excelled in the classroom. His philosophy was simple—develop strong athletes, but even stronger individuals.

He was known for his hands-on approach, from writing personalized workouts on brightly colored paper to driving alongside runners during training. He invested not only his time, but often his own resources, ensuring his athletes had what they needed to succeed.

Those who knew him remember a man who didn’t seek recognition, only impact. And that impact is undeniable. John Cochrane’s legacy will live on in every runner he coached, every life he touched, and every mile run in his memory.

Suspect Cordell Wilson Identified in Shocking Case.

A deeply disturbing case has emerged as authorities confirm an arrest in connection with the death of 85-year-old Ina Balch, who was found tied up and murdered inside her home. The tragic discovery, which dates back to December 9, has left the community shaken and searching for answers.

According to the Oklahoma City Police Department, 33-year-old Cordell Wilson has been identified as the suspect. Officials say Wilson was already in custody on unrelated charges at the time he was formally charged in connection with this case. He now faces multiple serious charges, including first- and second-degree murder, as well as rape and burglary.

Officers initially responded to a home on Northwest 9th Street near Indiana Avenue, where Balch was found deceased under horrifying circumstances. Court records reveal that she had been bound with clothing items tied behind her back—bindings that restricted her movement and made it impossible for her to escape.

The victim’s son made the heartbreaking discovery after noticing the back door of the house was open. What he found inside was a scene no family member should ever have to witness.

Investigators have continued working to piece together the events leading up to the crime, as the brutality of the case has raised serious concerns throughout the community.

As the legal process unfolds, many are mourning the loss of Ina Balch—a vulnerable elderly woman whose life ended in such a tragic and violent way. Justice is now being pursued in her name.

Tony Sylvester Remembered: A Legacy of Vision, Warmth, and Community That Will Never Fade.

Tony Sylvester’s passing has left a profound emptiness in the hearts of all who knew him, but his legacy is one that will continue to live on through the countless lives he touched. It is with heavy hearts that we remember and honor a man whose vision, kindness, and generosity went far beyond the ordinary—creating not just spaces, but a true sense of belonging for everyone around him.

Tony was the kind of person who made people feel welcome the moment they met him. His warmth was genuine, his laughter contagious, and his presence comforting. Whether you knew him for years or just a short time, he had a way of leaving a lasting impression. He didn’t just build things—he built connections, friendships, and a community rooted in care and togetherness.

What made Tony truly special was his ability to see potential where others might not. He believed in people, encouraged them, and supported them in ways that often went unseen but never unnoticed. His generosity wasn’t just in what he gave, but in how he gave it—with sincerity, humility, and love.

Now, as the community he helped shape comes together to grieve, there is also a shared sense of gratitude. Gratitude for the memories, for the laughter, and for the impact he made in so many lives.

Though his absence is deeply felt, Tony Sylvester’s spirit will continue to guide and inspire. The place he built—and the love he shared—will never be forgotten.