News
Lakewood
Community
30,000 delivered to every home in Lakewood - and portions of Long Beach Official publication of the Greater Lakewood Chamber of Commerce
Volume 33 Number 4
www.lakewoodnews.org / www.lakewoodchamber.com
Mayfair High Choir proved heart, soul and a whole lotta class makes you a winner! By Gina Holcomb Mayfair High School Music
concert tour to promote music education in schools and perform at public venues, and take in all of the culture and sight seeing each place has to offer. Some of the trips have included; Washington D.C., Boston, Massachusetts, Honolulu, Hawaii, Vancouver, Canada, Santa Fe, New Mexico, and Nashville, Tennessee. Members of these groups have also performed in the Macy’s
The Fiesta gets a makeover
A public opinion survey recently asked what parts of the long-running Pan American Fiesta Lakewood residents wanted to keep…and what new activities they wanted to add. Lakewood Community News #24 Lakewood Center Mall Lakewood, CA 90712 (562) 531-9733
With resident preferences in mind, the city has redesigned The Fiesta, keeping many longtime traditions, but adding some fun new elements. New and expanded features coming to The Fiesta at Mayfair Park on May 5-8 include: • More food trucks, with creative and popular menus. Residents increasingly love these. • Exhilarating attractions like mechanical bull-riding and rock climbing. Residents love to take part…and watch others take a PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE
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Santa Fe Spgs, CA PERMIT NO. 29
Thanksgiving Day Parade and the Rose Parade. Every year we perform for several civic groups such as the Kiwanis, Lions Clubs, Women’s Clubs, City of Bellflower, City of Lakewood, PTA, national conventions, California Distinguished Schools ceremonies, and they also perform at the Veteran’s hospital in Long Beach whenever possible. All students fund-raise money good challenge. • More live music. All new is live music on Friday night (with the popular 80s band Knyght Ryder) and on Saturday night (with the L.A. All Stars, a favorite from many Lakewood Civic Center Block Parties). • Bring your blankets, low back chairs and enjoy the free concerts. Bring a picnic or, better yet, enjoy the expanded variety of food for sale this year. There will be additional live entertainment on Saturday throughout the day. • A complete schedule is at www. lakewoodcity.org/fiesta Traditional elements of The Fiesta that will remain include the flag presentation ceremony of the United States and the countries of the Americas, children’s cultural booth, plenty of arts and crafts dealers offering unique gifts, and lots of fun carnival rides for all ages. The Fiesta starts on Thursday, (Cont’d. on Pg. 2)
Ron Piazza named mayor by city council
to go on each trip, or pay out of their own pocket. These trips are an experience of a lifetime and teach valuable life skills such as; budgeting your own money, coordinating with three roommates for a week, being responsible for your self, time management, group responsibilities, and so much more.
The Lakewood City Council completed its annual reorganization on March 22, selecting Ron Piazza to serve as Lakewood’s mayor from March 22, 2016 to March 28, 2017, and naming Diane DuBois as vice mayor for the same time period. The tradition in Lakewood and many cities of its size is for mayoral duties to rotate annually among the five members of the city council. The mayor has the same vote as any other council member in meetings, but chairs the meetings and serves as the city’s main spokesperson at public events. This will be the first term as mayor for Ron Piazza, who was originally appointed to the council in December 2012 following the death of longtime Council Member Larry Van Nostran. Diane DuBois has been on the city council since 2005 and has previously served as mayor and vice mayor twice. The council’s annual
(Cont’d. on Pg. 5)
(Cont’d. on Pg. 4)
Mayfair High Mariners took home the coveted Best Musical Performance Award. If you haven’t heard about Mayfair High School’s very talented choir, you’re in for a real treat! Pull up a chair, poor a glass of iced tea and read on… Mayfair High School has two top ranked show choirs called Showtime (mixed group) and Mariners (all girls group). They are accompanied by an all high school student band called Combo. Each year these groups take a
April 2016
We’re driving back to Mayfair Park!!!
SAVE THE DATE! Sunday, Aug. 14th
Summer STampede Car Show Call or email us for sponsorship & vendor opportunities:
562-531-9733/info@lakewoodchamber.com
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Thanks for the memories! By John Kelsall
Pictured from left to right: Jodee Kilroy, Production Manager-Lakewood Community News; Robin Vanderwerff, Editor-Lakewood Community News; John Kelsall; Joshua Castellanosnew Chamber President/CEO; Jeff Wood-City Councilmember; Allison Castellanos-Allison Tutoring; Jalesia Anderson Duran-Miss Greater Lakewood
While reflecting upon my memories over the past ten years as President & CEO of the Lakewood Chamber of Commerce, it has been a wonderful journey for me. I look forward to retiring, and am ready to embark on some new adventures in my life with the Jonas Project. However, it’s difficult to move on from the wonderful team at the Chamber who take great pride in both the Lakewood Chamber and our community. I’m very proud of the role the Chamber has played in bringing businesses and the community together. If you’re a Lakewood resident and an old car enthusiast then I’m sure you’ve attended the Chambers Annual Summer
Stampede Car Show held at Mayfair Park. In 2014 the Lakewood Chamber brought the Vietnam Wall to Mayfair Park. The Shop Lakewood program “Shop Lakewood… Stay Lakewood Loyal” was started by the Chamber and rapidly became a joint collaboration with the City of Lakewood. Local businesses can post coupons on the Shop Lakewood site for free! The Chamber of Commerce had a hand in bringing the Farmers Market to the Lakewood The residents will have the opportunity this month to enjoy Lakewood’s first Farmers Market at the Lakewood Center! The Chamber started several Business Councils to bring business professionals together to share ideas; The Women in Business Council, Young
Professionals, and Home Based Business Council. They meet monthly and we’re excited about the positive feedback from each group. The Chamber’s Softball League is celebrating its 10th year. Chamber Members have the opportunity to put a team together, and let off some steam after work, in a business friendly, good sportsmanship environment. The Lakewood Chamber has published the Lakewood Community News for 30 years as of October 30, 2016. The newspaper is delivered monthly to every home in Lakewood with bulk drops to area businesses. Residents enjoy reading the paper to find out all about what’s happening around Lakewood. All these elements, working together, create an environment in Lakewood that improves people’s lives and allows business to grow. The challenges of doing business today are more prevalent than ever before. Extraordinary technological innovations are announced on a daily basis. It’s difficult to keep up. There remains only one constant, the face of business. Entrepreneurs are the people who make a difference. The people are what have made my ten years as Chamber President the most memorable. It’s been an honor to serve the community through political action, governmental affairs,
April 2016 business development, community development, and membership services. Thank you for your membership and trust. You are why we exist. It’s been a pleasure and an honor!
C i t y Spotlight Whale Watching Trip The City of Lakewood offers affordable, family-friendly local travel programs, with the next trip providing a chance to get up close to one of California’s biggest residents: the Gray Whale. Taking place on Saturday, April 23, enjoy a day out on the Pacific while on the lookout for these majestic creatures. The trip is perfect for the entire family. The cost is $30, which includes bus and boat transportation. Arrive at Burns Community Center by 8:00 a.m. Bus leaves promptly at 8:30 a.m. for a 10:00 a.m. cruise. Adults must accompany children of all ages. Register at www.lakewoodcity. org/ecatalog using class #41680. For further information, please contact city recreation staff at 562-866-9771, extension 2408. Make sure to register early as programs tend to fill. Last day to register is April 11. Adult Softball, Kickball and Volleytennis signups Signups for Lakewood’s Adult Softball, Kickball and Volleytennis summer league will take place May 2-13. Softball leagues play on various evenings (M-F) and Sunday afternoons. Kickball is offered on Tuesday evenings and Sat/Sun afternoons. Volleytennis plays Monday evenings. All ability levels are encouraged. Signups are taken at city hall. Registration packets including fees and further information are available now at www.lakewoodcity.org/sports or by calling 562-866-9771, extension 2408. Newsies at Segerstrom Center for the Performing Arts Trip On Thursday, May 19, travelers can visit the Segerstrom Center for the Performing Arts to
see the winner of the 2012 Tony Awards for Best Score and Best Choreography, “Newsies.” This high-energy explosion of song and dance is not to be missed. Now touring North America, “Newsies” is at the Segerstrom Center for the Performing Arts in Costa Mesa for a limited engagement. The cost of this trip is $55, which includes bus transportation to the event location. Please arrive at Burns Community Center by 5:30pm; bus leaves promptly at 6pm. Adults must accompany children of all ages. Register at www. lakewoodcity.org/ecatalog and use class #41758. For further information, please contact the Recreation and Community Services Department at 562-866-9771, ext. 2408. Make sure to register early for all of our programs, as they do tend to fill. Last day to register is May 9.
“The Fiesta”
(Cont’d. from Pg. 1) May 5 with discounted carnival rides for just $1 from 5 to 9pm, along with games and concessions. Friday, the food trucks arrive, along with food booths and carnival rides from 5 to 10pm. The live music starts at 6pm. Saturday hours are 11am to 10pm, again with food trucks, food booths, carnival rides, and live music and entertainment all day long until 9:30pm! Sunday hours are 11am to 10pm, with an emphasis on carnival rides, games and amusements. Residents are encouraged to consider the popular Mother’s Day Brunch at The Centre at Sycamore Plaza--see the article on that event elsewhere in the Lakewood Community News. Then come to The Fiesta afterwards. On Sunday, there won’t be food trucks, food booths, or live music at The Fiesta. And no pancake breakfast because attendance at that had been declining. But there will be plenty of excitement with popular rides and games all day long! With lots of input from Lakewood residents, the all-new Fiesta is designed to be fun for all ages. If you haven’t been in recent years, come out this year and give the new Fiesta a try. For details and schedules, call 562-866-9771, extension 2408 or go to www.lakewoodcity.org/fiesta.
April 2016
Putting together a great wedding on a budget
Will a modern wedding endanger your finances? It doesn’t have to. With the average price of an American wedding over $31,000, the big day can impose financial stress for those who don’t have savings in place. It’s important to remember that these numbers indicate greater trends – not suggested spending patterns. Before discussion about a ceremony or reception even begins, it’s smart for couples to have a frank talk about money issues in general. Share financial information such as current spending, savings, investment and credit status. While this conversation may not seem terribly romantic, honesty about respective finances is the first step to responsible financial planning and compatibility. Once you’ve chosen a desired wedding date, set a savings target with a realistic budget. If you want to get married fairly soon, realize you’ll have less time to build a wedding fund. Start by making a general list of everything you might want in a wedding, and then adjust your vision to what will be in the bank by your desired date. As the numbers start looking real to you, determine what can be purchased or done inexpensively and others that will require professional help. Take a look at the guest list and see if you can make some cuts. Consider a handheld music player hooked up to a great speaker system instead of a live band. Are you content with your brother’s photo and video skills, or is it a better idea to hire a professional team? Consider off-dates, off-times and off-venues. Though wedding season is more year-round than
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Minding
it’s ever been, wedding prices still tend to be highest throughout the warm months. Explore winter dates and more obscure venues. What about having the wedding at home? It’s free space and, depending on the talents of friends and family, homemade food and decorations can also keep expenses to a minimum. But remember that the home or property owner may need a special insurance rider to cover any potential damage or liability, particularly if liquor is being served. And finally, consider a “surprise” wedding. Planning a party or gathering where a wedding breaks out can provide money-saving advantages to guests and bridal party alike. Having a wedding at a party – especially a regular holiday party you host where family and friends already know to gather – requires
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little more than a legal officiant and whatever food, beverage, entertainment and insurance costs you need to consider. An unannounced wedding eliminates all pre-wedding costs related to invitations, showers and parties, and you can give your guests a break on gifts. Bottom line: Flashy weddings aren’t worth jeopardizing your finances for years to come. Make creative, affordable wedding planning part of your love story.
“Kind hearts are the gardens; kind thoughts are the roots; kind words are the flowers; kind deeds are the fruits.” ~
English Proverb
Business Page 3
ABC Superintendent selected 2016 Woman of the Year
Dr. Mary Sieu, Superintendent of the ABC Unified School District was recently honored as the 32nd Senate District 2016 Woman of the Year in the area of Education. State Senator Tony Mendoza recognized eight prominent women who made outstanding contributions in their fields and are community leaders in the 32nd Senate District. The other women recognized included Ani Samuelian, Vinita Vineet, Rebecca Cline, Carmen Miller, Sergeant Maria Ingram, Brenda Sandoval and Dr. Nina Smart.
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“Ron Piazza” (Cont’d. from Pg. 1)
reorganization night started with a community gathering where expressions of thanks and appreciation were made to Jeff Wood for his 2015-2016 mayoral term. After being selected as the new mayor, Piazza presented remarks to about 150 people gathered in the city council chambers. Mayor Piazza spoke of how special a community Lakewood is to grow up in. He expressed appreciation for all that Lakewood and its residents have provided him over the years, including many personal and professional mentors. “I want to thank my fellow residents,” said Piazza. “You are the key ingredient that makes this city the wonderful place that it is. Lakewood is blessed to still have many residents who have lived here since our founding in 1954. Not many communities can
say that. We are also fortunate to have new residents—and businesses—that continue to move to Lakewood, looking for a safe, well run, and family friendly community to call home. “I am honored to serve as your mayor for this next year,” said Piazza. “I pledge to do my best, working with my council colleagues, our city staff, and all our residents and businesses community members to keep Lakewood the great place that it’s been.” The complete text of Mayor Piazza’s remarks is available at www.lakewoodcity.org/ newmayorsremarks.
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April 2016
Local veteran nearing the end of his journey is honored Optimal Hospice, in partnership with Mom & Dad’s House, a Residential Care Facility for the Elderly located in Lakewood, honored Mr. Kenneth Norsworthy with a Certificate of Appreciation for his service in the U.S. Navy during the Korean War. Through the Veteran-to-Veteran Volunteer Program, Optimal Hospice offers a unique support system designed to pair veteran volunteers with patients with past military history, giving the patient an opportunity to communicate with others with similar life experiences. By recognizing the unique needs of America’s veterans and their families, community providers, in partnership with VA staff, will learn how to accompany and guide them through their life stories toward a more peaceful ending. Optimal Hospice is always in need of compassionate individuals that are or have been members of
Local hospice care resident, Mr. Kenneth Norsworthy was honored with a Certificate of Appreciation for his service in the U.S. Navy during the Korean War. the armed forces, to provide care and support for other veterans in hospice. For more information in volunteering opportunities, please call Anne Jansen (562) 494-7687. Mom and Dad’s House is a quaint assisted living home
NEW PATIENT SPECIALS
• Cleaning, x-rays and exam $75 (reg. $203, over 60% off) • Teeth Whitening $25 (reg. $195) with Cleaning, X-Rays & Exam • Now using Digital X-Rays!
situated in Lakewood. It offers loving, thoughtful care for older seniors in a family-styled homelike atmosphere. Servicing residents from Lakewood, Los Alamitos, Seal Beach, Long Beach, Cerritos, and Downey.
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April 2016 (Cont’d. from Pg. 1)
Mayfair High Showtime places 2nd in their division.
Mayfair High Combo Band
How calls to sheriff’s station are handled
In a new, educational Lakewood CityTV video, you’ll learn how 9-1-1 operators in Lakewood often direct deputies to a crime scene by computer immediately when you call, even as they continue to ask you for important additional information. You’ll also learn the key identification info operators will ask when you call that helps deputies locate suspects or victims. View the video at www.lakewoodcity.org/stationvideo1. For more public safety tips, and to learn how to be part of Neighborhood Watch on your block, go to www.lakewoodcity. org/publicsafety or call Lakewood’s crime prevention office at 562-866-9771, extension 2114.
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Don’t let your sensitivity get stolen!
“Mayfair High Choir”
On Friday, March 18th, Showtime, Mariners and Combo competed at the Los Alamitos Show Choir Extravaganza competition in the Intermediate Division. My groups only compete maybe once a year, and only every 3-4 years in a national competition like this one. There are big schools with big programs and big budgets that we competed against. They rolled up with a semi-truck full of equipment, elaborate costumes and professional musicians for their band. We rolled up with a pick-up truck and a SUV and our all high school student band, Combo. There are online prefestival polls for this festival that has odds for each groups winning. Mayfair showed a 5% chance of winning their division. Our kids performed their hearts out and pulled off an upset in the show choir world! Showtime placed 2nd in their division and Mariners placed 1st in their division, taking the coveted Best Musical performance award. We were the little engine that could, and everyone was talking about Mayfair by the end of the competition. My kids are committed, responsible,
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compassionate, driven and classy on a day-to-day basis. One word they do not use in my presence is “can’t.” I don’t allow it to be said or considered. We are a “yes we can” kind of group! I have been teaching at Mayfair for the past 30 years, and I still feel like my best work is ahead of me. I get to work with amazing kids and enjoy terrific parent and administrative support. Our program has been excellent since Mayfair opened, and I try to continue that tradition.
Have you ever been minding your own business, feeling happy, like the world is your oyster? Then someone walks into the room, their energy— toxic & negative, spilling from their person. Sound familiar? It’s happened to most people, including myself. We can’t help how other people behave or how their negativity consumes them, but we can prevent it from rubbing off on us. Here are some tips: • Learn to recognize these people. You’ll know it by the way your body reacts in their presence, and how your energy starts to drop almost immediately. • Limit contact with said person. • Find a way to avoid being in their negative space. Their negativity is constant. Rarely will you see them have a “sunny day.” It’s always stormy in their world.
• Don’t get sucked into their drama. It may be tempting to hear them out; their story might sound interesting. STOP! Don’t let yourself be sucked in. Once you step into their storm, you’re going to get drenched. Just pull out your umbrella and walk away. • Never allow your positive energy to be drained by emotional vampires. Their need for feeding is never-ending.
Don’t become their main meal! Submitted by Rossana Snee, MFT. Follow her on Twitter @askjoshsmom, Periscope.com and https://www. facebook.com/askjoshsmom. She is available in a therapeutic capacity, and also for speaking engagements.
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April 2016
Green
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April 2016
Take advantage of Lakewood’s free shredding event
The City of Lakewood and EDCO Waste Services are teaming up again to help battle identity theft with the next free “Lakewood Shreds!” service day. On Saturday, April 2, Lakewood residents are invited to the Lakewood Civic Center to safely dispose of documents containing personal information like old bank statements and tax records. The free professional shredding service has added “green” features like a mulch giveaway and e-waste drop off. The drive-through drop-off location will be behind the Iacoboni Library from 9am to 12noon on April 2. (Enter from Civic Center Way, off Del Amo Boulevard or Candlewood Street. The exit for the event will be the driveway to Clark Avenue.) Lakewood residents can dispose of up to three “bankers”-style boxes of documents, which will be safely and securely shredded on-site by a professional shredding company. No CDs, DVDs, diskettes or other media can be accepted for shredding. 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.
Living
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Lakewood kids get visit from Star Wars characters Arbor Week was celebrated in Lakewood the week of March 14, with city recreation staff putting on a fun, educational program about the value of trees at 13 schools and parks. Always picking a creative theme, recreation staff this year played superheroes from the new Star Wars movie, along with Lakewood’s perennial “Woody the Talking Tree” character, all in an effort to teach children about one of the city’s most important resources—its trees. Lakewood has been selected once again as a Tree City USA—this time for the 32nd year—by the National Arbor Day Foundation in recognition of the
city’s 27,000 trees and its tree care program. Keeping Lakewood’s trees healthy is a big job. The city has a certified arborist on staff to oversee tree care, and the city responds quickly to emergency conditions and removes limbs and trees if they’re brought down by wind and rain. A contract with West Coast Arborists gets city trees along streets, parks and parkways trimmed on a regular schedule. Street trees are trimmed about every four years (sometimes more often, depending on growing conditions and tree species).
City recreation staff dressed as Star Wars characters to educate children about trees.
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Foggia’s & Pathways team up for the community
Pictured left to right: Lesley Tello, Ethan Costin, Denise Kokot, Valerie Capella, Katie Hoffer. During the month of February, Pathways Volunteer Hospice partnered with Foggia Italian Market
& Deli as part of their Have A Heart Campaign. Their goal was to spread the word about Pathways’ programs
April 2016
www.lakewoodnews.org and services that are offered free of charge to the community and to encourage donations to support their good work … all while enjoying great food! All those donating on-line to Pathways were entered into a drawing for a $50 gift card to Foggia. Valerie Cappela of Lakewood was the big winner! She was especially excited to win because she reportedly eats at Foggia once or twice a month. Her favorite dish is the grilled chicken salad. “We love this opportunity every February to draw attention to some serious subjects that affect everyone of us, and hopefully make some new friends and donors in the process,” stated Cindy Skovgard, Pathways Executive Director. Foggia owners Bob and Linda Quarto have been long time supporters of Pathways, not only with the Have a Heart Campaign, but with many other programs as well. To learn more about Pathways Volunteer Hospice please call 562-531-3031, or visit www. pathwayshospice.org for more information on their programs and volunteer opportunities.
Stoppages
Foggia Italian Market & Deli is located at 5522 Del Amo Boulevard. Call them at 562-627-0987, or www. foggiadeli.com.
Lakewood business initiates new program Saylor Insurance Agency, a full service insurance firm in Lakewood, introduces a ingenious way to increase referrals and grow business while raising funds and creating awareness for a local worthy cause in the community. The campaign is part of its recently launched community involvement program, raising funds for Long Beach Ronald McDonald House. To reach their goal of $600, Saylor Insurance donates $10 to RMH for each and every referral they receive for an insurance quote, with no purchase necessary. The dedicated experts at Saylor Insurance may be reached by calling (800) 655-3922.
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Mother’s Day Champagne Brunch
Show mom how much you appreciate her with an unforgettable, all-you-can-eat Mother’s Day brunch experience provided by TGIS Catering at The Centre at Sycamore Plaza in Lakewood on Sunday, May 8, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The Centre’s highly acclaimed, in-house caterer is one of the premier catering and event-planning teams in Southern California. In addition to a delightful brunch buffet, there will be live entertainment, a complimentary photo booth, and gift bags for moms. Guests can also surprise their mother with a special personalized greeting that will be displayed on the big screen during the brunch. TGIS’s Mother’s Day menu includes: • Custom Crepe Station • Carving Station • International Food Stations • Chocolate Fantasy Fountain • Bottomless Champagne • And much more! The Centre at Sycamore Plaza is Lakewood’s leading location for community banquets, meetings, events, weddings and receptions for every season of the year. Bring your family to celebrate this special occasion honoring our amazing moms! Space is limited, so reservations must be made early. Contact TGIS Catering at 562-804-4434 or tgiscatering@lakewoodcity.org. The cost is $33.95 for adults, $27.95 for seniors age 60+ and $18.95 for children age 10 years and younger.
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April 2016
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Lakewood families are invited to Services for kids under 3 with developmental delays YMCA’s Healthy Kids Day and exclusive membership and enrollment specials to motivate and teach families how to develop healthy living routines and prepare children for an active, exciting and engaging summer at the Y. YMCA’s Healthy Kids Day takes place at the Lakewood Family YMCA located at 5835 E. Carson Street, on the corner of Woodruff and Carson. For more information, call (562) 425-7431 or visit http://www.lbymca.org/ lakewood/
On Saturday, April 16, from 11am to 1pm, the Lakewood Family YMCA is holding a free community event to inspire more kids to keep their minds and bodies active. Lakewood Family YMCA’s
Healthy Kids Day is the Y’s national initiative to improve health and well-being for kids and families, and features activities such as face painting, bike helmet giveaways, fitness class demonstrations, free information
Kids with vision, hearing and other impairments can get free help. If you have concerns about the development of your young child (birth to age 3), the California Early Start Program can help. Sponsored locally by the L.A. County Office of Education, Early
Start provides in-home special services to infants and toddlers who may have a developmental delay or disability. The goal is to help children obtain their full potential by reaching them during the all-important first 3 years of life. Services are free to eligible children and families. School districts in Lakewood provide Early Start services for infants and toddlers who have vision, hearing and orthopedic impairments or a combination of these disabilities. For a referral to your school district’s free program, contact California Early Start at 800-515-BABY (2229) or request a referral at http://www.lacoe.edu/ EarlyLearning/EarlyStart.aspx.
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April 2016
Shop Lakewood...
Extreme-value Grocery Outlet comes to Lakewood
Lakewood community members and Grocery Outlet staff at the store’s March 10th ribbon cutting. With over 200 stores nationwide, Grocery Outlet is known as America’s largest
extreme-value grocery retailer. Their special advantage: they’re expert at buying name-
brand products going through packaging changes, overruns, and surplus inventories, bringing their customers deep discounts, up to 60%. They also have the basics (meat, dairy and eggs) always available, but sourced traditionally like other grocery stores. The discounts on those items may not be as deep, but Grocery Outlet pledges to always price them at--or below-the lowest cost in town. Give Grocery Outlet a try, at the northwest corner of Woodruff Avenue and South Street (at the site of the old Fresh & Easy). They’re open every day from 7am to 10pm. Call them at (562) 920-2900 or visit them at www. groceryoutlet.com. Hundreds of Lakewood residents visited the store when they opened on March 12. And
Seahawk Cocktail Lounge
Grocery Outlet expressed its appreciation to the Lakewood community by donating a $1,000 pallet of food to Project Shepherd and a $1,000 check to Lakewood Meals on Wheels.
Another unique feature of Grocery Outlet: every store is operated independently by a locally based family. The Lakewood store is operated by Scott and Kelli Wiggins.
Welcome to Lakewood Results Nutrition!
Results Nutrition located at 5546 South Street in Lakewood, recently celebrated their Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony. Community members, Management, staff, and friends were on hand to give them a warm welcome to the neighborhood! If your looking for a nutrition club that also provides customized personal training, give them a call at (562) 283-5334. Visit the Shop Lakewood page for more great deals & coupons:
www.shoplakewood.org
Happy Hour Weekdays
4-7:00PM $2 Domestic Bottles and $2 Well Drinks!
Full Bar Pool & Darts Internet Juke Free Wi-Fi
OPEN DAILY 8AM - 2AM 4103 Candlewood St. Lakewood, 90712
Support DET Michelle Diaz in the Police Unity Tour as she rides for those who have died and support the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund
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Join us for food, raffles & prizes! Saturday April 9th at 6pm Seahawk Cocktail Lounge 4103 Candlewood St. Lakewood, CA 90712
This year Michelle will be riding in memory of Officer Ricardo Galvez of Downey Police Department
For donations go to www.socalput.com and select rider Michelle Diaz
...Stay Lakewood Loyal
April 2016
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Shop Lakewood... Grocery Outlet shoppers have to say...
Cheri Chi - Lakewood Resident “I shopped at Fresh & Easy and am thrilled with the high quality and organic selection at Grocery Outlet. Just came by to look, but ended up purchasing a whole basket!”
Michelle Reed - Lakewood Resident Joy Janes - Lakewood Resident “Good prices and big selection. They don’t have “A great new addition to grocery shopping everything, but they’re clean and organized. options in Lakewood...Great prices!” Happy to have Grocery Outlet in the city!”
Jennifer Martinez - Downey Resident “Love the coupons and savings! Great shopping experience, friendly staff and the inexpensive prices we need today!”
Welcome to Lakewood, Grocery Outlet!
Bring this coupon for
$5 off
any service! Call to schedule an appt:
(310) 897-7734 11126 Del Amo Blvd. Lakewood, 90713
...Stay Lakewood Loyal
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Spring is the season to prepare for warm weather water safety As the weather gets warmer, you can’t help but stare at your backyard pool, anxious to begin a new season of memories with friends and family. No matter the season, pool safety should always be top of mind where children are concerned. With safety barriers - or layers of protection - in place between the home and the pool, you can experience the pleasures of backyard swimming pools and feel confident that children, grandchildren and visitors will be safeguarded from pool accidents. It’s impossible to watch your children every second of every day. There are times when a parent or caregiver is distracted
by answering the phone or door, household tasks or checking email. Unfortunately, accidents tend to happen very quickly. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, drowning is the second leading cause of accidental death in children ages 1 to 14. The CDC reports that in most cases, the children involved were out of their parents’ sight for less than five minutes. If you have a pool, you have a responsibility to safeguard it. There is no substitute for vigilant supervision. But there are additional steps you can and should take to keep everyone safe - including these: • Never prop a gate open for
April 2016
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Record set in Lakewood Run!
convenience or during pool parties. It’s simply not worth the risk. • Ensure children in the home learn how to swim, and that adults know CPR. CPR can make the difference between full recovery and brain damage or death. If anyone else will be supervising kids in the pool, make sure they learn it, too. Impress upon babysitters that they must follow your safety rules.
• When children are in the pool, designate a “water watcher” to maintain uninterrupted supervision of children in the pool at all times. • When not in use, keep toys and other objects out of the pool area, and don’t use chlorine dispensers that look like animals or toys that will attract children. By following some pool safety precautions, you can give your family great memories that will last a lifetime!
The women of Soroptimist International of Lakewood/ Long Beach and the women and men of the Lakewood Sheriff’s Station are expressing a huge “thank you” to the runners and volunteers who turned out in force on March 5 for the 2016 Lakewood Run. Last year, 800 runners participated, but this year a record number of 1,055 people participated—a 32% increase! When all donations are tallied it’s also expected that a record-setting amount of support can be provided to the local charities that benefit from the run. Photos of the run can be viewed at www.lakewoodcity. org/communitygallery.
Call or email us at: (562) 531-9733 advertise@ lakewoodchamber.com
Retraction
The article in last month’s edition titled “Chamber-backed farmer’s market...” incorrectly stated that the city council held a closed session to work out the details of zoning changes at Lakewood Center that will allow a farmers market in the near future. In fact, the city council held an open session, in conjunction with the city’s Planning and Environmental Commission. The open, joint meeting expedited the decision-making process for the farmers market. We regret any confusion from the article. The error was entirely by the Lakewood Community News. (The farmers market is expected to debut on Saturday, April 30th at Lakewood Center.)
April 2016
Holding on to your youth is easier than you think
“Youth is wasted on the young,” George Bernard Shaw once said. True or not, a youthful appearance is certainly more cherished among people who are... well, less young. Though fashion magazines and makeover shows imply that the Fountain of Youth is actually a syringe filled with Botox, there are many ways to defy the aging process without medical intervention. Signs of aging are not limited to the over-30 set. In fact, it is the habits that are established in adolescence that determine how quickly a person ages. And the sooner good habits are acquired, the more likely an age revelation down the road will elicit gasps of admiration. Who, man or woman -wouldn’t like to hear someone say, “Really?! You’re 50? You must be kidding-you don’t look a day over 40!” Here’s how to get started. Avoid the sun. No one, male or female, should leave the house without sunblock of at least SPF 15. Moisturize. Skin dries out as it ages, so moisturizing your face on a daily basis will help prevent premature wrinkles and fine lines. Don’t smoke. At all. It leeches all the moisture from skin and leads to early wrinkling, especially around the mouth. This is a change - Drink lots of water. Hydration prevents the shriveled look. Get lots of sleep. Sleep-deprived people are cranky people who frown a lot. Frowning leads to wrinkles. Eat reasonably. Portion control is a magic piece of the anti-aging puzzle, since excess weight can add years to your face. Restaurant servings and oversized dinner plates have tripled portion expectations. Fight back by serving meals on dessert/appetizer plates; the meat portion should be about the size of a deck of cards, the pasta or rice about the size of a tennis ball. Get moving. The best way to stave off aging is to keep fit and flexible. Select a fitness regimen that’s easy to stick to regardless of climate. Home exercise equipment is a sound investment for those who are committed to staying fit. The final key to aging gracefully is reducing stress in your life. It’s easy to find calm through simple actions such as a walk in the park, a warm bath or just sitting and staring out the window. Blood pressure slows, brows unfurrow- and aging becomes something that happens to other people.
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How permits and building inspections help homeowners The City of Lakewood has developed a new program called Lakewood Home & Garden to provide helpful tips to homeowners on subjects like creatively using landscaping areas, exterior painting ideas and…for this month...how getting city permits and building inspections for home improvements can benefit homeowners and save them from big problems down the road. Permits are the way that a community ensures that construction and building improvements are safe for current and future homeowners, visitors and neighbors. By law, the permit fee covers just the cost of reviewing and administering the permit and the cost of an expert, professional inspection. Fees do not generate any extra revenue for a city. The benefits of getting permits for your home improvement project include: • Peace of mind that your construction work was done safely and properly according to national and state standards and codes. You don’t want hazards to result in your home because of work done unsafely and not to code. • Higher re-sale value for your home. Many buyers and real estate
agents will not consider homes that have unpermitted work. (Buyers can see what permits are on file at city hall, even from 60 years ago.) • Lakewood requires a professional inspection of most construction work, which helps ensure your work was done properly and safely. • Unpermitted work is a violation of the law, and can result in the homeowner being fined, charged higher permit fees, and required to redo the work properly at the homeowner’s expense. In Lakewood, construction plans and permits are required before most construction or remodeling jobs can begin. Residents should contact the Building and Safety division at City Hall before starting any construction or remodeling job. (Contact information below.) Examples of projects that require a permit include: - Room additions - Bathroom and kitchen remodeling - HVAC (heater/air conditioning) installation - Drywall replacement - Electrical and plumbing installation/replacement - Pools/spas - Fences over six feet in height, block walls over 42” in height, and most retaining walls - Patio covers and enclosures
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Lakewood inspectors review new and remodeled construction. - Roofing/re-roofing - Water heater installations - Window installations (new or replacement) - Solar panels Note: No permit is required to install a home alarm system. Lakewood city staff is ready to help you through the permitting and inspection process. Come visit in person during Lakewood’s extended business hours, which for Building and Safety are Monday
through Thursday from 7am to 5:30pm, and on alternate Fridays from 7am to 5pm (City hall is closed every other Friday.) For a schedule, go to: www.lakewoodcity.org/ calendar/holidays.asp. Or call 562866-9771, extension 2350. For more information on making your home improvement project a success, go to www.lakewoodcity. org/services/planning.
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World Tai Chi day
Every year in April the world celebrates the many benefits of Tai Chi. Lakewood is no exception, for the last 2 years Sifu Richard Mieir-
King has hosted a free gathering here commemorating World Tai Chi Day. This year on April 30th, Saturday, this free event will take place again. This event is not just a demonstration but also instruction in Tai Chi Chuan, various health forms, and more. And there will be featured guest instructors. All of this is done entirely free and is open to the public. This year’s event will be from 9 am to 1 pm at Del Valle park. You can find more information at www.KingsTaiChi. com. Come join us for a great time!
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April 2016
Pick up your pencil and lets play Sudoku!
Congratulations to Cyril Culton and Becky Temple! They are the lucky winner’s 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, then tape the puzzle 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 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 22, 2016. The winners will be drawn on Monday, April 25, 2016, 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.
We’re happy to announce another new Sudoku Sponsor!
Winner Winner, Foggia Dinner!
It PAYS TO PLAY the Sudoku Challenge with the Lakewood Community News. This wonderful couple, Cyril and Kathleen Culton, were randomly chosen to win the $25 gift card to Foggia Italian Market & Deli, simply for completing and turning in their Sudoku puzzle to the Chamber. (A new winner is drawn every month!)
It’s not too late to get some tax help! members/horton/vita/#. The VITA program is open to anyone and includes free help in determining whether a taxpayer can qualify for the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC). Every year, over $2 billion goes
Trained volunteers who can help you file your taxes are available through the free IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. The filing program is coordinated with state Board of Equalization Chairman Jerome Horton, who represents Lakewood and other communities in the region. To find a location and register, call 866-9109559 or go to http://www.boe.ca.gov/
unclaimed by taxpayers who are eligible but don’t file for the EITC. When registering, you will learn what schedules and forms you can be helped with. In general, it is basic tax returns.
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April 2016