News
Lakewood Community 30,000 delivered to Lakewood and portions of Long Beach
Official publication of the Greater Lakewood Chamber of Commerce
www.lakewoodnews.org
Volume 30 Number 4
Happy 60th Birthday Lakewood!
Lakewood’s 60th birthday cake gets cut by the city council at the anniversary gala on March 21st. A celebration of Lakewood’s history and ongoing traditions drew hundreds to the Lakewood Civic Center on Friday, March 21. Every room in the The Centre at Sycamore Plaza featured parts of a historic photo and video collection depicting 60 years of community life. Special slide
programs depicted the city through resident eyes. Residentdonated images honored local veterans and declared “What Lakewood Means to Me.” Jazz music and a choreographed “Dancing through the Decades” show by the Brockus:RED dance troupe played to a packed
Every 15 minutes someone dies from a drunk driver
This is a scene from the re-enactment...no one was hurt during this event.
Mayfair High School Juniors and seniors recently participated Lakewood Community News #24 Lakewood Center Mall Lakewood, CA 90712 (562) 531-9733
in an assembly presenting the consequences of poor decision PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
Santa Fe Spgs, CA PERMIT NO. 29
Weingart Ballroom. They then handed the microphone to Lakewood’s City Council who paid homage to residents in a five-part, slide-accompanied speech with each council member highlighting long-held Lakewood values: civic engagement, (Cont’d. on pg. 6)
making by drunk drivers and how it impacts not only the victim, but also the entire family unit. The Lakewood Rotary Club put on an entire two-day program that included a professional quality video showing the consequences for a young 17-year-old girl that decided to drive while drunk. The video started with a party. Then told the story of the accident, the jail cell, the hospital, the morgue, where two young people died. Lastly, to the courtroom sentence of 20 years plus $10,000 restitution for each family. There were two speakers. One was a young man who was paralyzed from the chest down. He was the drunk driver that killed his best friend. The second was an older man - a drunk driver who killed his younger brother. The program demonstrated very succinctly how one wrong decision to drink and drive can completely change the definition of a normal life – for the rest of your life! Congratulations to the Lakewood Rotary Club for taking the lead on this very valuable and impactful project. Remember, when you’re drinking alcohol, don’t drive. Period. It’s not worth risking ALL OUR LIVES!
April 2014
Lakewood teen participates in Youth Ambassador Training The National Tourette Syndrome Association, Inc. (TSA) recently hosted its seventh annual Tourette Syndrome (TS) Youth Ambassador Training in Washington D.C. for teens (with and without Tourette Syndrome) ages 13 to 17. After completing an application and submitting an essay regarding his intent and motivation to become a TSA Youth Ambassador, Benjamin Fisch, a 17-year-old junior at Millikan high school, from Lakewood, was selected to complete this elite training. Benjamin has returned to Lakewood, and is educating his peers and younger kids with accurate information, by going into classrooms, schools and clubs to teach understanding, sensitivity and tolerance of TS and its symptoms, while displacing the myths and stereotypes that are often attributed to and associated with this misunderstood and misdiagnosed disorder. Benjamin states,“ I applied to be a Youth Ambassador because I wanted to take something that has been affecting me my whole life and use it to help others.” TSA conducted a Youth Ambassador training for the first time in April 2008 and this training has become such a success that TSA makes it an annual program. Since the first training, this collective group of nearly 200 dedicated teens have completed over 750 activities including presentations, print and
Benjamin Fisch
TV media interviews, and training other Youth Ambassadors and have reached over 5 million people through their combined efforts. In addition to the comprehensive training, the newly trained Youth Ambassadors participated in a “Trip to the Hill” during which they met with their local elected officials on Capitol Hill, to inform them about how TS affects those living in their communities. Marked by involuntary vocal sounds and physical movements called tics, Tourette Syndrome is an inherited neurological condition frequently misunderstood and misdiagnosed. The TSA has a threepronged mission to identify the cause of, control the effects of, and to find a cure for Tourette Syndrome through education, research and service.
Through the years, spring means Pan American Fiesta
Lakewood postcard from the 1950’s features Pan American Fiesta. This year a commemorative pin has been made for the event. Lakewood’s fiesta is the nation’s only community-wide celebration of Pan American culture outside of Washington, D.C.--and it’s coming back in May! It’s a great way for Lakewood residents to take part in one of the city’s longest-running traditions. The Pan American Fiesta begins its three-day, family-friendly celebration at Mayfair Park on Friday, May 9 at 5pm. The familyfriendly festival continues on Saturday and wraps up on Sunday. In honor of Lakewood’s 60th birthday, a special Pan Am Fiesta collector’s pin will be sold for $1. It’s part of a seven-pin collection that is being unveiled throughout
Lakewood’s anniversary year. More than 60 arts and crafts dealers will bring their wares to the fiesta. There will also be a demonstration by the Lakewood Artist Guild. In the Children’s Cultural Booth, kids can have a free, hands-on cultural experience featuring activities, arts and crafts from across the Americas. Organized activities will run from 11am to 3pm on Saturday and Sunday. For a complete schedule of fiesta events call 562-866-9771, extension 2408. Free shuttle and additional parking at Civic Center
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Lakewood Chamber is all about building relationships
By John Kelsall, President/CEO, Greater Lakewood Chamber of Commerce Relationships are important in the family unit between parents, parents and children, between siblings and the extended family, to provide harmony and support for each other and the group to survive, be happy and be productive. The same is true in business. If you have any part of the company that is in discord with the rest, it slows down the entire unit. Thus,
adding credence to the importance of the adage that the organization is only as strong as it’s weakest link. That link can either support or destroy the unit. We have lost an understanding of the importance of the kitchen table. We used to have dinner together, at the same time. We talked with each other about what is happening in our lives and even seeking advise. And sometimes learning new lessons about life and our family’s values. Then we moved to the TV dinner – but it was still around the kitchen table. Now we have dinner with the TV and never the dialogue shall be. My wife and I were having dinner at a nice family restaurant. Next to us was a handsome family of a father, mother, a teenage son and daughter. During that entire meal we noticed only two full sentences were exchanged among them all. The rest of the time it seemed to be a rush for all four of them to exercise their thumbs on their smart phones. We wondered
if they were texting each other? My wife doesn’t allow me to use my phone when we are eating or I get a shin kick. The philosophy of the Lakewood Chamber of Commerce is to bring us together again and re-energize the importance of building business relationships not only on a formal business level but as human beings as well. The Chamber is a place to get connected with other business leaders, where over time lasting professional, and individual, friendships will emerge and thrive. Face-to-face business networking is one of the most effective marketing, and prospecting tools you can use in your arsenal to grow your business. What is business networking all about? It is simply… building relationships. Searching out the people that you have a commonality with, and sharing your similar interests. Joining the Lakewood Chamber of Commerce is a great way to maximize your exposure in the community and to meet new friends. However, your Chamber is only as helpful as you allow. Meaning, the Chamber will not bring prospects to your door. You must be willing to put in the time and effort necessary to build the relationships, as the Chamber only provides the opportunity. If you are interested in learning more about the Lakewood Chamber give me a call at (562) 531-9733 or email john@ lakewoodchamber.com. And enjoy your kitchen table, and all the joy and wisdom it provides, again!
C i t y Spotlight Saint Pancratius Roman Catholic Church
3519 St. Pancratius Place, Lakewood (562) 634-6111 HOLY THURSDAY
8am - 3pm 3pm - 5pm 7:30pm
Church open for devotion Confessions Mass of the Lord’s Supper followed by procession to the altar of Repose and Adoration until midnight.
8am 12Noon 2pm
The Church will be open for private prayer Seven Last Words Service with the Adult Choir Good Friday Liturgy and Holy Communion with the Adult Choir Good Friday Liturgy and Holy Communion
7:30pm
GOOD FRIDAY
HOLY SATURDAY 8pm
Solemn Easter Vigil Mass with the Adult Choir
EASTER SUNDAY
6am Masses:
Sunrise Mass behind Parish Hall (Please bring your chairs) 6:30, 8:00, 9:30 (Spanish) and 11:00am
April 2014
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Daddy/Daughter Date Night The annual Daddy/Daughter Date Night is Saturday, April 5 from 6pm to 9pm at The Centre at Sycamore Plaza. This year’s theme is a Royal Ball. Dads and daughters age five and above will enjoy dinner, dancing and fun contests. Registration is $18 per person. Registration is open until Friday, March 28 or until filled. For more information or to
sign up for these events, call 562866-9771, extension 2408 or sign up through the eCatalog at www. lakewoodcity.org/recreation. Angels Game Lakewood’s travel program continues its tradition of offering fun, family-friendly excursions with a trip to Angels Stadium as the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim take on the New York Mets. The game is scheduled for Saturday, April 12 and costs $29. Register now at www. lakewoodcity.org/ecatalog and use #35100. Bus departs promptly at 5pm from the Burns Community Center. For more information call 562-866-9771, extension 2408. Spring vacation programs planned On Saturday, April 19, children under the age of 11 are invited to join the Easter Bunny for an outdoor egg hunt at city parks in Lakewood. Kids should bring their own Easter egg basket or come early to make a decorative bag with staff prior to the Easter Bunny’s visit. In addition to a fun day for the kids on April 19, Lakewood’s supervised parks will have programmed activities planned for the week of spring vacation. Mayfair Park will provide supervised recreation activities beginning Monday, April 14 through Friday, April 18. Bolivar, Biscailuz, San Martin, Del Valle, Boyar, Palms and Bloomfield Parks will coordinate fun activities from April 21 to April 25. All organized activities, including arts and crafts and indoor games, are designed for elementary school-aged children. The Spring Vacation Activity Schedule and scheduled times for each park’s egg hunt and Easter Bunny visit are available
at city hall, recreation facilities and at www.lakewoodcity.org/ recreation. Administrative staff at the Recreation Department can also provide more information at 562-866-9771, extension 2408. Track and Field Meet The City of Lakewood Youth Track & Field Meet will be held Thursday, April 24 at Lakewood High School. Check-in begins at 4:30pm with the first event starting promptly at 5pm. Children born in 1999 or later may compete in up to 3 events, which include both field events and running events. Field events include: softball throw, high jump, long jump and shot put. Running events include: 50M, 100M, 200M, 400M, 800M and 1600M. Ribbons will be presented for first place through fifth place finishers in each event in each division. Registration is taking place at all Lakewood parks. For more information, please call 562-8669771, extension 2408. Royal Family Fun with Mother/ Son Mayhem Mothers, grandmothers and aunts can invite their son(s) or special young men, ages five and older, to a fun night of mayhem at Monte Verde Park on Saturday, April 26 from 6pm to 9pm. This year’s event will be themed around the gallant knights of medieval lore. Join in on a jousting competition and other contests. Participants will receive a keepsake mother/son photo. Registration is $15 per person and must be received by April 3. Volunteer Day The City is holding its 18th Annual Volunteer Day on Saturday, April 26. If you are interested in volunteering at a project site, please contact the Burns Community Center at 562925-7512.
Your
Minding April 2014
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Teen job interview class, Job Fair and volunteer signups help youth succeed Several Lakewood Youth Center programs are set to help teens succeed in finding a job or a resume-building volunteer position. Efforts begin with “job interview prep” classes on Tuesday, April 1 and 8 from 4pm to 6pm. Teens will learn to sharpen their job interviewing skills by taking part in a mock interview process and other useful activities. Next up is the “Finding that Job” workshop on Friday, April 4
from 5pm at 6pm. It pays special attention to honing job-finding and preparation skills. For more information call the Youth Center at 562-429-7472, between 3pm and 7pm, Monday through Friday. The Youth Job Fair follows on Thursday, April 10 from 3pm to 5:30pm. Young residents between the ages of 16 and 22 can speak to local employers about part-time employment opportunities. This year’s fair features informative sessions on job search techniques,
April 2014 resume building and interviewing skills. The event will also feature sessions teaching youth how to use online tools for seeking jobs. For more information, visit www.lakewoodcity.org/volunteer or call the youth center after 3:00 p.m. on weekdays at 562429-7472 or city staff at 562866-9771, extension 2408. The Lakewood Youth Center is located at Woodruff Avenue and Arbor Road at 4658 Woodruff Avenue.
Get ready to shred!
The tax season is a time of pay slips, old tax forms and a potpourri of other sensitive personal documents. In the wrong hands, they can be a windfall to anyone wanting to steal your identity. The City of Lakewood and EDCO Waste Services are teaming up again to help. Residents are invited to safely dispose of documents containing sensitive information like old bank statements and tax records at “Lakewood Shreds!” on Saturday, April 26. The free shredding event has added “green” features like a mulch giveaway and e-waste drop off. The drive-through location will be behind the Angelo M. Iacoboni Library from 9am to 12noon. (Enter from Civic Center Way, off of Del Amo Boulevard or Candlewood Street. The exit for the event will be the driveway to Clark Avenue.) A number of freebies will be distributed, including containers for used oil and batteries. Also, each vehicle that brings material to shred will, in turn, get a free, sturdy Shop Lakewood…Stay Lakewood Loyal bag, while supplies last. This event is for Lakewood residents only. Be prepared to show proof of residency, either with a driver’s license or utility bill. For more information, please call EDCO at 562-5313054 or Lakewood City Hall at 562-866-9771, extension 2140.
April 23rd
April 2014
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Get your ‘Zumba on’
parks and fitness routes closest to home. See www.lakewoodcity. org/parkfinder and www. lakewoodcity.org/TrailFinder.
Zumba class participants with instructor Cindy Emami (in black) at The Centre at Sycamore Plaza.
Affordable fitness and recreation programs for all ages and condition levels are available in Lakewood most days. “Zumba with Cindy” is one of hundreds of classes happening each week in Lakewood. Like many programs, several multi-session classes occur each season and they’re offered at a variety of times. Trying Zumba, or jumping into a fitness or sports activity that fits your interests, is made convenient by their being held at Lakewood’s many neighborhood parks. “The most important part of being healthy is keeping moving and keeping a positive mindset. My classes, and lots of others, do exactly that,” said certified instructor Cindy Emami. “Facilities close to home make it even easier.” More information on Cindy’s Zumba classes is available online at www.lakewoodcity.org/ Catalog. Browsing the complete recreation catalog of over 600 classes can be done online by reviewing a printable PDF or using the advance search tools in the eCatalog registration system. Classes in the system can be searched by location and sorted by time. The city website offers “Park Finder” and “Trail Finder” pages to help residents learn about
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Income tax help at Weingart Senior Center Volunteers are available at Weingart Senior Center to assist low-income families, individuals and seniors in preparing their basic tax returns. Appointments are for Mondays and Thursdays, through April 10. Reservations are required. Call 562-630-6141 to make an appointment. If you are filing a joint return, both husband and wife must come to the appointment. The Weingart Senior Center is located at 5220 Oliva Avenue in Lakewood. Individuals with appointments should be prepared to bring in their tax information (W-2 or 1099 forms) and last year’s tax return. The returns generally take about two hours to prepare, and every return is reviewed by a second tax preparer before they’re filed.
SKIPTHE ER WAITING ROOM GO to LakewoodER.com select a designated time Complete online forms Arrive at the ER at your designated time. Be seen by a Triage Nurse within 15 minutes of your projected treatment time**
D WNLOAD OUR FREE APP Go to
www.LakewoodER.com To Hold Your Place in Line
For a Medical Emergency Dial 911
SCAN THIS QR CODE WITH YOUR SMART PHONE BARCODE READER
(562) 531-2550 3700 E South Street, Lakewood Located on the corner of South Street and Downey Avenue in the city of Lakewood ** If conditions allow - meaning there are not emergent or critical patients requiring care first.
ChamberNews Page 6
Kenneth Anderson
1/11/28 ~ 3/5/14 Age: 86
Kenneth Kermit Anderson, of Greeley, CO (formerly of Lakewood, CA), passed away March 5, 2014 at Fairacres Manor in Greeley. He was born in Bell, CA to Kermit & Leila (Low) Anderson. On December 15, 1951, he married Dorothy Harris in Las Vegas, NV. Kenneth worked for and later owned Anderson Furniture Refinishing in Gardena, CA for numerous years. He is survived by his wife Dorothy; Daughter, Teresa Russell; Granddaugthters, Jenna Galich, Lauren Russell and soon to be Great-Grandson Ryan Galich; Sister Jean Weis and Brother, Larry Anderson. No services are scheduled at this time. To extend condolences to the family, go to adamsonchapels.com.
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April 2014
Lakewo od Cha mber Softball Leag ue Kicks Off Its Spri ng Season
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Pictured: City Councilman, Ron Piazza poses with the “Buffalo Wild Wings” Team.
Pictured: City Councilman, Ron Piazza poses with the “Foggia’s Grinders” Team (Foggia’s Italian Market & Deli).
Pictured: City Councilman, Ron Piazza poses with the “Outsiders” Team (Lakewood Chamber).
Pictured: City Councilman, Ron Piazza poses with the “Mallers” Team (Lakewood Center).
Pictured: City Councilman, Ron Piazza poses with the “Jawbreakers” Team (Lakewood Dental Arts).
Pictured: City Councilman, Ron Piazza poses with the “Outback Steakhouse” Team.
Pictured: City Councilman, Ron Piazza poses with the Best Buy Team
A special THANK YOU to Foggia’s Italian Market & Deli and Buffalo Wild Wings for the yummy food during our opening ceremonies! The Lakewood Chamber’s softball league is a great way for businesses to network in a healthy competitive game of softball. If anyone is interested in putting together a team for the upcoming summer league, call Frank Cardiel, Chamber Ambassador, at (562) 531-9733, or email us at info@lakewoodchamber.com. Lakewood’s “60th Anniversary” (Cont’d from Pg. 1)
4943 Paramount Blvd, Lakewood
(562) 634-2500
(Between CVS & Social Security)
public safety, family recreation, economic development and quality of life. Following their remarks, the city council treated visitors to a three-tiered “Happy Birthday Lakewood” cake and joined residents in singing Happy Birthday to the 60-year-old city. The sold-out gathering also included the announcement that two names will
be added to the Legends of Lakewood program that was started in 2004. The first to be honored will be the late Lakewoodarea Assembly Member Joe A. Gonsalves, who was a staunch advocate in Sacramento for the rights of cities to contract with private businesses and county agencies for municipal services. Gonsalves’ efforts helped secure the “Lakewood Plan” as a successful form of local government, which has since been replicated in over 150 cities nationwide.
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The second honoree was the Sky Knight helicopter program, which was developed in Lakewood in 1966 as the nation’s first aerial law enforcement patrol service and which continues to operate, serving Lakewood and Cerritos jointly today. The galleries of photos remain viewable at www.lakewoodcity.org/60thPhotos and some are expected to be part of upcoming Pan American Fiesta displays the weekend of May 10.
• Patrol on Premises • Security/Staffing of Premises • Security Consulting Services • Security Training • Client-directed Investigations Part-Time, Full-Time, On-Call & Rovers • Unarmed Personal Protection Services Candidates licensed & registered in CA. Interested parties should forward a copy of a cover let- • Security Surveys/Risk Assessments ter, resume and their guard registration card & license to:info@ozonevoprotection.com or mail a copy to: • Event Security Planning 11441 E. 216th St., #23, Lakewood, CA 90715 • Fire Watch Services Tel: (562) 340-6386 • Security & Enforcement of Private www.ozonevoprotection.com / PPO Lic#: 17572 Parking Lots/Structures
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April 2014
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Living
A family’s journey to Another chance to be a hero serve authentic Mexican food to Lakewood By John Rey
The Reys opened a Chronic Tacos in Lakewood in late 2012; John’s kids attend college part-time while running the restaurant alongside their mom, Lupe, while John continues his work as a real estate broker.
After being the contractor for two Chronic Tacos locations, I was instantly attracted to the authenticity of the fast-casual concept and started looking into local franchise opportunities. With my parents migrating from Argentina and my wife being born in Mexico, I knew that Chronic Taco’s full menu of third generation recipes served at a fast-food pace would offer consumers in Lakewood something new and different than the mainstream chains in the area. I also recognized that although the citizens of Lakewood love Mexican food, the north part of the city has a limited amount of restaurants choices so opening a local Chronic Tacos was a perfect fit. Outside of the restaurant, I used to be active in the Lakewood community as a volunteer for the Sheriff’s Department before I became a Reserve Deputy myself. Currently, my taco shop participates in the “Taste of Lakewood” every July, as well as contributes to fundraising events for the local schools and community college. In the future, I’d like to boost my restaurant’s community involvement, and as a personal goal, I’d love to open another Chronic Tacos location in Orange County.
Spring cleaning help for hazardous and e-waste
Every 2nd Saturday of the month from 9am to 2pm, Lakewood residents can take their hazardous and e-waste to EDCO’s large transfer facility at 2755 California Avenue in Signal Hill. The facility is only 10-15 minutes from the Lakewood Civic Center. The next free event is Saturday, April 12 and will accept household toxics like paints, insecticides, chemicals, e-waste, sharps and used cooking and motor oil. To assist “spring cleaners,” EDCO reminds Lakewood residents they are also entitled to six free bulky-item pickups a year at their home. To schedule a pickup, call EDCO at (562) 531-3054 by 3:30pm the day before your normal trash pickup.
Residents have another chance to give back to their community by donating blood this spring. The American Red Cross, in cooperation with the Lakewood Sheriff’s Community Safety Center, has a blood drive coming to the safety center at Lakewood Center mall on Thursday, April 17 from 12noon to 6:15pm. Donations take about an hour. Participants are encouraged to drink plenty of water and eat a nutritious meal ahead of time and bring a photo ID. The Lakewood Sheriff’s Community Safety Center is located near Target at 15 Lakewood Center Mall. Walk-in donors are welcome, but RSVPs are appreciated. Appointments can be easily scheduled online at www. redcrossblood.org, sponsor code LWSheriff, or call 714-427-2605.
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April 2014
Lakewood’s hometown New moms guide to going back to work hero trains the U.S. Air Force future missileer’s
Captain Matthew McCraw, 532nd Training Squadron Intercontinental Ballistic Missile Emergency War Instructor, recently posed for a photo in a missile procedure trainer room at Vandenberg Air Force Base, CA. The 532nd TRS train and educate more than 180 missileer graduates every year. Captain McCraw graduated from Mayfair High School in 2002 and was commissioned through the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs in 2007. He enjoyed playing basketball at both institutions. His parents continue to live Lakewood. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Jonathon Syder/RELEASED)
Going back to work for new moms can be challenging. Learning to balance work and family while facing many new stressors can be overwhelming. Below are a few tips to help make the process a little easier: Plan ahead: After working a full day and driving to daycare to pick up your baby, the last thing you’re going to feel like doing is cooking dinner. My advice is to embrace the wonder of the crockpot by letting the machine fill your home with the scent of a freshly cooked meal while you’re miles away at work. Another time-saving tip is to lay out all your clothes for the week on Sunday to avoid that moment of tearing apart your closet when you should already be in the car. Also, always charge your cellphone overnight. Celebrate the benefits: No, not the dental and vision plans, silly - the benefits you’ve been missing the last few months: Having a conversation that doesn’t revolve around the consistency or color of poop, being able to go to an actual restaurant
over your lunch break, writing TGIF as your Facebook status update and appreciating that you know what day it is. Go shopping: Chances are you won’t be fitting perfectly into your pre-pregnancy wardrobe by the time you head back to work, leaving you with two choices: 1. Rock the maternity outfits your co-workers saw you in all those months ago or 2. Wear your mom uniform of stained, black yoga pants and an oversized
shirt to the office. However, there is a third choice and that is to go shopping. Getting new clothes that actually fit will do wonders for your self-esteem. Just be sure to check your shoulders before you leave the house, as spit up can be more prominent on a black business suit than a ratty old T-shirt. Give yourself a break: Whether you’re missing your baby, not missing your baby or missing one of your baby’s milestones, allow yourself to have an outburst every now and then. Just remember to pick yourself up and get back to work. Feeling guilty is a useless emotion that isn’t going to help you focus on your job, or get you home sooner to cuddle that baby of yours!
The Vietnam Memorial Wall is coming to Lakewood The Greater Lakewood Chamber of Commerce is proud to be bringing an 80% replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall to their 17th Annual Summer Stampede Car Show to be held at Mayfair Park on August 17, 2014. Community businesses and residents have a unique opportunity to be a part of this amazing event by sponsoring the memorial wall. There are many sponsorship opportunities available… together we can make this a memorable time for everyone! For more information, please call John Kelsall at (562) 531-9733.
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April 2014
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Lakewood All Stars Should you buy pet insurance? By Jason Alderman
The boys in the under 10 All Star division of AYSO for Lakewood won every game and, are the section 11 champions which stretches from Chula Vista to Montebello, CA. They were honored to play in the State Championships and took 3rd place. Pictured are: Back row: Coach Mike Kilroy, Assistant coach Mark Garcia. Middle row: Max Thomas, Damian Rodriguez, Isaiah Garcia, Adrian Malagon, Josiah Alvarez. Front row: Josue Navarro, Landon Vander Meulen, Coner Kilroy, Dominic Allen, and Isaac Romero.
One topic I’ve learned to avoid with new acquaintances until I know them better (along with politics and religion) is where they stand on the treatment of pets. Some people, when their dog gets sick or badly injured, say, “It’s an animal – that’s just part of the circle of life.” Others consider Rover a close family member and would take out a second mortgage to save his life. Pet owners from both camps probably see the barrage of ads for pet insurance and wonder whether it’s worth the expense, which might be several thousand dollars over the life of your pet. I did some research and the best answer I can come up with is, it depends. Here are some basic facts about pet insurance that may help you decide whether it’s right for you: Pet insurance shares many features with human health insurance: Policies typically have annual deductibles, copayments and exclusions, and some limit which veterinarians, clinics and hospitals you can use. But there are numerous differences as well. For example, pet insurers are allowed to
apples. There are about a dozen carriers in the U.S. Each offers a variety of plans with varying deductible, copayment and maximum coverage amounts, as well as different covered benefits and exclusions. You can go directly to their websites for plan details and to request a quote, or use an independent comparison website to pull quotes from multiple carriers. I’d recommend creating a spreadsheet to compare benefits and costs side by side, just as you would when shopping for auto insurance.
refuse coverage for preexisting conditions and to set annual and lifetime payout limits Perhaps the biggest challenge when choosing pet insurance is trying to compare plans, apples to
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The Cuddly Corner
Elect Professor Gregory Slaughter
Long Beach City College Board of Trustees, District 5 Endorsed by: Greater Lakewood Chamber of Commerce
Association of Los Angeles Deputy Sheriffs (ALADS) Supported by Teachers
EXPERIENCED LEADERSHIP THAT COUNTS CO-CHAIR for TASTE OF LAKEWOOD BOARD MEMBER for FRIENDS OF LAKEWOOD LIBRARIES
Vote for Gregory Slaughter on April 8th!
Adopt & Shop, located in Lakewood Center, is an innovative retail pet adoption center. Built by the Los Angeles-based nonprofit group, Found Animals Foundation, Adopt & Shop features cats, dogs, rabbits and other animals available for adoption, along with basic pet supplies and specialty items. All of the pets are sterilized, vaccinated and microchipped before adoption. If you’re interested in adopting THORNE or THISTLE, please contact Phillip Robb, Store Manager of Adopt & Shop at (562) 531-2871.
thistle
THORNE
Hi I’m Thorne and I’m a male, high-energy dog that needs lots of exercise & stimulation. I enjoy long walks and would benefit from an obedience class. I would be a great companion & protector to whomever adopts me! I’m neutered, microchipped & current on my vaccinations.
Dr. Jose E. Arambulo, DVM
Adopt Me!
Hi I’m Thistle and I’m a 1.5 year-old gray cat. I’m a friendly guy and get along well with other cats. I would be a great addition to any family. I’m super soft and love my play time. I’m neutered, microchipped and current on all my vaccinations. Hope to see you!
Dr. Jeanne Rickey, DVM
FULL SERVICE VETERINARY HOSPITAL EcoFriendly
• Quality, Reliable & Affordable Vet Care for Over 25 Years • Comprehensive Dental • Vaccinations/Spay/Neuter • Digital X-Rays • Pet Grooming • Laser Therapy
Since September, 2011, we have donated over 2,000 lbs. of pet food to the Lakewood Meals on Wheels for the “Pets of the Homeless,” a non-profit group that helps with vet care & pet food for their furry friends. Any help would be appreciated. We accept both dry & canned food for cats & dogs. Thank You!
Office Hours: Monday-Friday 8:30am-1:00pm 3:00pm-5:30pm Saturday 8:00am-2:30pm
Please Call for an Appointment:
(562) 402-9717
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Cassidy’s Corner Café opens to the community
Cassidy’s Corner Café located at 11132 Del Amo Blvd. in Lakewood, recently celebrated their Grand Opening & Ribbon Cutting Ceremony. Lakewood resident and owner, Joe Ung, was happy to celebrate with Lakewood city officials, Cassidy’s Corner Café staff, friend’s and family. The community should make it a point to stop by and welcome them to the neighborhood… and while you’re at it try one of their delicious home made bagels, you’ll be back for more!
www.lakewoodnews.org
April 2014
You fumigate the bugs, LASD will catch the thugs Just like bugs, home-burglary pests don’t ever seem to completely go away. Last year the Lakewood Sheriff’s Station reported an odd new crime trend. Homes tented for fumigation were attracting burglars who knew the right time when pesticide amounts had dropped below harmful levels. The Lakewood Sheriff’s Station has now acquired “fume alert” devices that can be placed, at no charge to residents, inside a home to nail burglars. “See Something, Say Something” resident reports of suspicious activity also help identify possible burglars. Homeowners are encouraged to notify the Sheriff’s Department before they fumigate. “Anyone planning on having their home fumigated should let the Lakewood Station know, just like they would about needing ‘vacation checks’ when they plan to be away on a
Tented homes are now a potential burglary target. trip,” said Lakewood Deputy City Manager Carol Flynn Jacoby. “The city has partnered with the Sheriff’s Department to provide fume alert devices that will notify law enforcement if someone enters a home while it’s tented.”
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Call 562-623-3500 immediately after scheduling a fumigation date to request this service. Give deputies and Volunteers On Patrol a chance to give the home some added attention. Ask trusted neighbors to keep watch for unusual activity seen or heard near fumigation-tented homes, especially at night, and to call 911 while it is happening.
Helping children, families through their grief
Parents and other caregivers often want to “protect” children from death, and the grief it produces. In reality, however, the best “protection” for kids is allowing then to experience their grief while adults admit the reality of its pain. Experience shows that a supportive network – involving family, school, faith group, and community working together - is the best environment to provide this protection. Changes combines a unique team of grief professionals and volunteers to help children and adolescents realize they are not alone in their grief and that their experiences are normal. The next group starts Tuesday, April 22 and meets for 7 weeks. Children 6-18 meet in age appropriate groups while their surviving parent or caregiver meets concurrently. For more information about Changes group and other services, please call Pathways office at (562) 531-3031.
Town
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Around Town in April Lakewood • Free lip reading classes offered through the Hearing Loss Association of America Long Beach/Lakewood Chapter, 9:30-11:30am at Weingart Senior Center, 5220 Oliva Avenue. The class meets each Wednesday all year except July, August, and Christmas to New Years. Beginning lessons are repeated each January but beginners are welcome at any time. The Wednesday class is the “teaching” class. There is a practice session on Mondays, 10am-noon. For more information, call 562-4380597. • Lakewood Women’s Club monthly luncheon and meeting will be held on Tuesday, April 15, at Sycamore Centre, 5000 Clark Ave. Social gathering will be at 10:30am; meeting, 11am; luncheon 12noon; and program at 1pm. This will be the Club’s Annual Flower Show sponsored by the Garden Groomers Section. Many varieties of flowers and arrangements will be on display, from the members’ own gardens, and ribbons will be given for awards. To attend this meeting and for reservations for lunch, call Arlene Roos, (562) 8634933, one week ahead, by April 7. • Trinity United Methodist Church is hosting a We-U Craft Fair on Saturday, April 12, 9am to 3pm at 5730 South St. Great place to pick up Easter or Mother’s Day gifts or to learn how to make them yourself. • Spring Break - Academic Learning and Languages will hold a Half Day Spanish Cooking Camp on April 21 (morning) from 9am to 12noon. April 25 (afternoon) 1pm to 4pm. This unique camp will bring the Spanish language alive by means of games, songs, art and Latinbased recipes. For ages 6 to 11years. For more information call Amy Berger at (562) 8333115. The Lakewood Garden Club will be meeting on April 24 at 11:30am at Del Valle Park. The program will be on Cottage Garden selections. Join them for an interesting program. A plant sale will follow. For more information call (562) 867-0516.
Cerritos • Come see the Wonder of Dinosaurs at the Los Cerritos Center through April 27, featuring over 100 robotic and static dinosaurs. In addition to the Dinosaur Expedition, there will be fun dinosaur activities, including dinosaur themed inflatable obstacle courses, mini golf, maze and more.
Long Beach • Millikan High School with its Orch-a-Band parent booster club, is hosting the 19th annual Long Beach Schools Jazz Showcase on Wednesday, April 2 from 3 to 9pm. It will be held I the auditorium, 2800 Snowden Ave.
Entrance fee is $4.00 per person and children under 5 are free. For more information call (562) 4257441 ext. 4142. • Long Beach Ronald McDonald House will have their signature fundraising event, Walk for Kids Sunday, April 6 at Shoreline Village. The WFK Shoreline Park Walkers and Teams will enjoy a scenic 5K course surrounded by beach trails and views of the city’s iconic Queen Mary. With live music and entertainment, a Walker Village with booths filled with food and giveaways from various businesses, and the popular Kid’s Zone featuring fun interactive games this upcoming year’s Walk for Kids is a “can’t miss” event! Get the fun going register today! - See more at: www.walkforkids.org. • The Presbyterian Women of Covenant Presbyterian Church will present their Spring Gathering, called the Flower, Arts and Crafts Luncheon, on Saturday, April 5, from 11am to 2pm. This event will take place in the Fellowship Hall, 607 E. 3rd St. Ticket price is $15 per person. For more information call Jo Sutton at (562) 424-3035.
www.lakewoodnews.org
Great deals at Lakewood book sale 1 5 8 3
From romance novels to large-format books, visitors will find surprisingly lowpriced deals on used books at the Friends of the Lakewood Libraries (FOLL) sale on Saturday, April 5 from 9am to 2pm. Sale items include hardback books for $1 and up, textbooks, encyclopedias, computer materials, children’s books, a ‘Teacher’s Table,’ unusual books, cassettes and videos. Proceeds support Lakewood’s two local libraries. Shoppers are encouraged to bring their own shopping bags to the event at the Angelo M. Iacoboni Library at 4990 Clark Avenue in the Lakewood Civic Center. Anyone wanting to volunteer to help support the program or be an event volunteer should call Book Sale Chairperson Sharon Roder at 562-5319641. Book donations are welcome. They should be brought to the Iacoboni Library at least a week prior to the event so that they can be processed for the sale. For questions, call 562-866-1777.
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Sudoku 9 2
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with Robin Vanderwerff
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Let’s play Sudoku! Congratulations to Rick Skoglie and Eric Shrum! They are the lucky winners of the March Sudoku contest. To be eligible, print your name, address and phone number on a letter size (8½ x 11) piece of paper, cut the finished puzzle from the newspaper and tape onto the paper. Mail entries to: Lakewood Community News P.O. Box 160, Lakewood, CA 90714. Or drop it by the Chamber office at #24 Lakewood
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April 2014
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Center Mall (right next to See’s Candies). The winners are drawn by random. One entry per household; the answers must be postmarked no later than Friday, April 18th 2014. The winners will be drawn on Monday, April 21st and the call to the winners will be made the same day. If a message is left, the prize must be claimed by return phone call within 48 hours (two business days) or a new winner will be chosen. The name of the winners will be published in the May issue, along with a new Sudoku Puzzle.
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www.lakewoodnews.org
April 2014