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Lakewood Community 30,000 delivered to every home in Lakewood - and portions of Long Beach
Official publication of the Greater Lakewood Chamber of Commerce
www.lakewoodchamber.com
Volume 31 Number 8
August 2014
Vietnam Wall, Classic Cars, and Community...Look out Mayfair Park, it's time for Summer Stampede!
One commonality all Americans share is their support for our troops, past and present. Who also doesn’t love baseball, apple pie and of course, classic cars? All of which are fixtures in American culture. The Lakewood Chamber of
Commerce and local veteran groups have worked together to bring the traveling version of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall to Mayfair Park in Lakewood. The Memorial Wall will be on display for four days from Thursday, August 14th until
Sunday, August 17th as part of the Chamber’s annual Summer Stampede Car Show that will be held on on Sunday, August 17th. The Chamber is bringing nostalgic cars together with our military in one fun-filled day at Mayfair Park.
The Chamber’s 17th Annual Summer Stampede Car Show is sure to be a crowd pleaser! This car enthusiast, commerceproducing, family-oriented event is free to the public and will be an event to be remembered. (Cont’d. on Pg. 7)
Mandatory water conservation comes to Lakewood
Because of the ongoing drought, the state government is requiring every water department in California, including Lakewood’s, to implement mandatory water conservation rules. At its July 22 meeting, the Lakewood City Council approved Lakewood Community News #24 Lakewood Center Mall Lakewood, CA 90712 (562) 531-9733
a plan to implement the state rules in Lakewood. The rules technically went into effect immediately after the council’s vote, but the city will enforce them gradually over the coming days as a public information campaign educates PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE
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residents about the changes. “We want to help our residents successfully learn and follow the rules, and not be too quick or heavy-handed in our enforcement,” said Jim Glancy, the director of Lakewood’s Water Resources Department. “But we all need to get on board with the new conservation program as soon as possible.” Here are the most important aspects of the new state-mandated rules as related to Lakewood residential customers: 1. The state’s new rules forbid the washing down of driveways and sidewalks in Lakewood. Driveways and sidewalks should now be swept with a broom or blower. The only exception that allows washing is to deal with a legitimate health or safety hazard, and only a maximum of twice a month. 2. The watering of lawns and gardens is now limited to two times a week for only ten minutes each time. For yards with multiple sprinkler zones, each zone can be watered for a maximum of ten minutes each time. Exceptions to this rule are described in item 4 below. 3. Watering can only be done in the evening and early morning (after 5pm and before 9am) which are the most efficient times for
water to be applied to avoid loss through evaporation. 4. Exceptions for the lawnwatering limits are made for residents who have installed (Cont’d. on Pg. 17)
Vietnam Wall fundraising ongoing, as August event nears
Grassroots fundraising efforts and donations by individual Lakewood residents are helping bring a traveling Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall to the city from August 14 to 17. Organizers stress that every little bit counts. “We’re so appreciative of this giving community. People have been very generous at the Civic Center Block Party and each week at Concerts in the Park. Those donations, be they $1, $10 or $100, are adding up,” said John Kelsall, president of the Greater Lakewood Chamber of Commerce, which is sponsoring the visit of the traveling Vietnam Wall. “And it’s so great that they will all be matched by L.A. County Supervisor Don Knabe.” Knabe, a Navy veteran, made his own donation of $1,000 and in addition pledged to match donations made by the public, dollar for dollar, up to a total of $5,000. Longtime Lakewood resident Jerry “Doc” Spulecki has been giving volunteer help to the chamber and its effort to bring the wall to (Cont’d. on Pg. 8)
LakewoodToday
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Ringing in the new “fiscal” year By Mayor Todd Rogers
I hope everyone is enjoying their summer and getting in some good Lakewood fun. The city’s two pools are open and getting lots of use, as are city parks and community centers. And we’ve had plenty of great summertime events. While it’s the middle of the calendar year, it’s the beginning of a new fiscal year for Lakewood city government. Like a lot of cities, Lakewood operates on a July 1 to June 30 fiscal cycle. In late June, my city council colleagues and I wrapped up several months of budget work with our city staff, closely assessing our financial condition and our community needs. What’s new in the Lakewood budget we passed on June 24? How about four major park projects? The city will build a new “pumpkin playground” at San Martin Park and an expanded Veterans Memorial Plaza at Del Valle Park, including a restoration of the jet plane there. Using grants from the state and L.A. County Supervisor Don Knabe, we’ll
add an extra half-mile to the San Gabriel River Nature Trail. And, in what is sure to become very popular, we have set aside funds to build a first-ever Lakewood dog park at the northern end of Rynerson Park once we receive final approval from Southern California Edison, which owns a portion of the land there. Lakewood’s residents take great pride in our parks, and these four projects will enhance our city for decades to come. Less visible than parks, but just as important for a wellrun community is having good infrastructure and good core services, such as with our water system, trash service and our streets. In 2013, we completed the 100% repaving of Lakewood’s residential streets—an accomplishment that few if any cities have achieved. In our new budget, we’ll keep repaving but we’ll now focus on our major streets, which need more frequent maintenance. In the year ahead, we’ll repave Woodruff Ave. and a portion of Del Amo Blvd. Lakewood’s water system was built largely in the 1950s, and key parts are wearing out. After much consideration, we approved a water rate increase to begin paying for two new wells, a new reservoir (to replace one built in 1951) and upgraded water mains so that we can keep safe and healthy drinking water flowing reliably to you in the future. The new rates will increase the average customer’s water bill by $2.61 a month. Those who use
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August 2014
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less will see a smaller increase, and we won’t increase the base rate at all, which means that those who use little water will see no increase. Our rates will remain in the middle of what’s charged by water utilities throughout the region. To cover higher dumping fees and an inflationary adjustment for our trash contractor, EDCO, we also approved a small 55 cents a month increase in trash rates. While the water and trash increases are modest, it pains me to raise rates, fees or taxes. I don’t like to see higher rates on my fellow residents or myself. But in the end I decided that people like living in Lakewood because we take care of our city. We do what’s needed to keep Lakewood working well for the long-term benefit of our residents—and we do so in the most fiscally responsible way possible. All in all, I’m upbeat as we start our new fiscal year. Lakewood continues to stand out as a fiscally sound and wellrun city, with beautiful parks and smooth streets, great community values, and lots of fun activities that bring people together, in the summer and throughout the year.
C i t y Spotlight FUN-Tastic Family Nights continue Bring the whole family on Friday, August 22 from 6:30pm 8pm for “The Perfect Gentlemen” at The Centre at Sycamore Plaza. Talented entertainers will present a family-friendly variety show filled with great vocal harmony and plenty of humor. The fee is $8 per person ($5 for children age 3 and under) and includes a light dinner of BBQ chicken, mashed potatoes, lemonade and dessert prior to the show. Pre-registration is required. Call 562-866-9771, extension 2408 or register online using eCatalog at www. lakewoodcity.org/recreation. Parents, do you need a date night out? Then bring the kids to us! The highly qualified Youth
Center staff will supervise your children while parents get a much needed night out! Enjoy a meal at your favorite local restaurant or try a new one (and maybe even time for a movie!) while the kids have a pizza dinner, snacks, games and more! This cost of this event is $5 for children ages 3 and older (children must be potty trained). Pre-registration is required at www.lakewoodcity. org/eCatalog. Adult softball registration begins Monday, August 11 Adult softball leagues for the fall season will play from September 22 to December 1. Men’s Slow-pitch plays Sunday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday. Co-Ed Slowpitch plays Sunday, Monday, Tuesday and Thursday. There are no on-field umpire fees. Games are played at various Lakewood parks. Registration information packets are available in the recreation department inside Lakewood City Hall or at www. lakewoodcity.org/Sports. Fees and other details are available in the packet. Registration dates for teams are August 11 to 21. Tot Lot registration on August 1 and 15 Tot Lot is a parent cooperative program for 2-5 year olds and takes place during the school year. Registration for the program will be held on August 1 and 15, between 9am and 12noon at Del Valle and Mayfair Parks. Tot Lots meet Monday through Friday, 9:30am to 11:30am in the fenced, preschool play area of the two parks. Parents are responsible for each Tot Lot’s operation and members select activities and excursions. Up-to-date immunization cards, including TB tests and proof of age, are required at the time of registration. TB testing is mandatory for all new Tot Lot children and working adults. The registration fee is $45 for residents and $55 for non-residents. Members may register an additional child for $25. Insurance is $5 per person and is required for each participating child and volunteer worker. For more information, call 562-866-
9771, extension 2408. Free ‘Family Play Day’ at the parks Bring the entire family to the park for a free Family Play Day event on Saturday, August 9 from 10am to 1pm. Residents of all ages will enjoy the friendly competition of scheduled games and family activities at Mayfair, Bolivar, Palms and Del Valle parks. Participants can also enjoy a free barbecue lunch of hot dogs, chips and punch followed by more games in the afternoon. For those wanting to cool off, free recreation swim tickets will be given out during lunchtime. The passes will allow entry to Mayfair or McCormick pools on August 9 during the recreation swim hours of 1pm to 2:30pm or 2:45pm to 4:15pm. After lunch, the activities continue with basketball games, Slip-nSlide, a water balloon game and a refreshing popsicle treat. It’s a great opportunity to visit your neighborhood park, meet the staff and find something fun to do. ‘Hollywood U2’ coming to Del Valle Park The U2 Tribute band “Hollywood U2” comes to Del Valle Park as the community’s popular summer concert series comes to a close Thursday, August 7 at 6:30pm. Dinner and refreshments will be sold at the concert to support non-profit community groups, or attendees may bring their own picnic basket. Concerts in the Park are supported solely by area businesses and concert patrons. Lawn chairs and blankets are encouraged. Pets, barbeques or alcoholic beverages are prohibited. Youth Sports sign-ups at all city parks Lakewood youth can sign up for free sports leagues at their local park. The awardwinning Lakewood Youth Sports (LYS) program is offering Flag Football and Girls Volleytennis this fall. Sign-ups will take place August 16-23 at all Lakewood parks. Players must bring a birth certificate and signed registration form. There is no fee for Lakewood (Cont’d. on Pg. 14)
www.lakewoodchamber.com
August 2014
On the Road: DuBois Completes Term as MTA Chair
Diane DuBois, in her role as MTA Chair, being interviewed by CityTV Channel 31.
There’s nothing idle about Lakewood Council Member Diane DuBois. This longtime resident of more than five decades has been part of the Lakewood City Council since 2005, and has served as mayor twice during that stretch. Before that, she served on the city’s Planning and Environment Commission for 28 years. And she’s very active in community organizations and charitable efforts in Lakewood. In July 2013, DuBois took on the additional role of becoming chair of the Board of Directors of the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (also known as MTA or Metro). That was a first for a Lakewood representative or a representative of any city in the Gateway region of L.A. County. As her one-year term in that part-time, but very important, regional role came to a close recently, DuBois reflected on her experiences and some of the exciting projects she presided over while in the MTA driver’s seat. MTA is the third-largest public transportation agency in the United States, operating six subway and light-rail lines and 191 bus routes (with 2,200 buses) spread across the vast reaches of L.A. County. The agency also oversees billions of dollars in construction projects to improve roads and transportation systems throughout the region. “As MTA Chair and a member of the board, I worked with people I never thought I’d meet,” said DuBois, who has traveled with the MTA to Washington D.C. to meet with Senators Barbara Boxer and Diane Feinstein, among others. DuBois’ efforts helped secure grants from the federal government to the tune of $3 billion dollars benefitting the greater Los Angeles area. “I’m just a kid from Lakewood; I never expected to be able to do that!” While working on many projects as a member of the MTA board and as chair, here are just a few she is proud to have touched: The 710 corridor project to improve congestion, safety and health along the freeway and nearby communities. The project is still in its early stages, but it’s likely to add a general purpose or carpool lane and separate cars from freight trucks coming and going from the ports. Enforcement of zero- or low-emission trucks
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on the freeway will improve air quality. One of the busiest rail lines in the nation, the Metro Blue Line will receive a $1.2 billion dollar overhaul. Station enhancements, new tracks and cleaning efforts are already underway, as well as brand new vehicles and electronics upgrades. As part of Measure R, the extra half-cent sales tax for L.A. County to fund transportation projects, $3.3 million dollars will come to Lakewood for improvements at the traffic “hot spot” of Del Amo Blvd. and Lakewood Blvd. To reduce congestion, extra left turn lanes will be constructed, along with an expanded bridge over the nearby flood control channel. In a region known for bumper-
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to-bumper traffic, DuBois has presided over some serious progress as MTA’s Chair. She remains very optimistic of L.A. County’s transportation transformation. “It’s an exciting time,” she said, “not only for the people who ride transportation, but also for the people who work on it. All our projects are going to help with employment. We’re going to see people embrace the opportunity to be part of this community, not just in Lakewood, but throughout all of Los Angeles. It’s a fantastic time to be here and be involved in that.”
If you would like to advertise in the awardwinning Lakewood Community News, please contact us by phone or email: 562-531-9733 or advertise@lakewoodchamber.com.
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Cheese and the ‘Wiz’ at Monte Verde Park movie night
Teen Board members raise charity funds at movie night. The classic film “The Wizard of Oz” will be shown under the stars at Monte Verde Park Friday, August 8. The event will also feature The Grilled Cheese Truck, which will donate a percentage of their proceeds to support the Lakewood Teen Board’s volunteer efforts. Guests to this free, familyfriendly event are encouraged to participate in the pre-movie costume contest by coming dressed as their favorite character from the movie. Before the show, kids can win prizes by participating in fun activities. Attendees can bring chairs and a picnic dinner, or purchase dinner from The Grilled Cheese Truck
beginning at 7pm prior to the film. The movie will begin at 8:15pm. In addition, the Lakewood Teen Board will be selling drinks and candy. To help the city plan for the event, pre-registration is required at www.lakewoodcity.org/ eCatalog. The Lakewood Teen Board has been active at the Youth Center at Del Valle Park for the last 16 years. Members range in age from 12 to 18 and represent Lakewood-area high schools and middle schools. The program is open to all Lakewood area teens. For more information on this worthwhile program or any other teen activities, call 562-429-7472.
www.lakewoodchamber.com
Helping and healing active kids
Children and adults are different and so are their health care needs. Since kids are constantly growing they need a doctor specially trained in growing bodies, so that if damage does occur it won’t hinder their development. When kids have had breaks or injuries to bones, they need an orthopedic center exclusively for pediatrics. The Pediatric Orthopedic Center at Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital Long Beach is regionally known for providing total orthopedic care for kids, teens and young adults. The center specializes in a wide-range of sub-specialties including orthopedic trauma, hip reconstruction, limb deformity, congenital and acquired spinal cord, and hand and foot deformities. Miller Children’s also has a leading sports injury program that provides assessment, treatment and follow-up care to pediatric patients with sportsrelated injuries. Miller Children’s offers general clinics for congenital and acquired orthopedic problems, as well as specialty clinics for spine, hand, foot and scoliosis abnormalities. MillerChildrens.org/ortho I 562933-0249.
August 2014
Chamber’s Softball League holds their annual All-Star Game and Home Run Derby The Chamber’s Softball League held it’s annual Summer AllStar Game and Home Run Derby. We would like to thank the following businesses for their gift donations to the winners: YMCA (Two 3-month Membership Certificates, Outback Steakhouse (Two Gift Cards) and Hawaiian Gardens Casino (Four Dodgers Tickets, behind home plate) If you’re interested in the Chamber’s Softball League or promoting your business on the field, you can contact Frank Cardiel at 562-531-9733.
Companies that participated in the All Star Game: Lakewood Center (Mallers), Lakewood Outback Steakhouse, Lakewood Best Buy, Lakewood Chamber (Outsiders) Hawaiian Gardens Casino (Bad Beats & On Deck)
Home Run Derby Winners: (Left to right) MENS DERBY - Mr. Sanchez, Brad Jones, Vinnie Fayard. WOMEN’S DERBY - Gianna, Liz Cardiel-Duenas, Monica Sanchez
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August 2014
Preparing your child for surgery By Rita Goshert, Manager, Child Life Program, Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital of Long Beach
The thought of surgery can be worrisome for children and their parents. Preparing your child for any surgical procedure can make your child less anxious and help them tolerate surgery and anesthesia better. Tips to help prepare yourself and your child • Participate in a pre-surgical tour and discuss what happened on the tour later with your child. • Ask questions of your child’s surgeon, anesthesiologist and nursing team in order to better understand what your child will experience. This will give you confidence and enable you to talk calmly to your child. • Speak honestly with your child about what will happen. • Listen to your child’s concerns about surgery. • Encourage your child to participate in medical play (child life specialists are prepared to help young patients through this experience). • Use a play medical kit at home to familiarize your child with tools the care team may use, such as a stethoscope. • Include siblings in preparation and encourage them to ask questions too. • Remind your child that they will return home soon. • Read books about children being hospitalized. Children can
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often relate better to characters. Questions that children may ask about surgery These are questions that are commonly asked by children who are having a surgical procedure. Here are some examples of responses that parents can give to put their child’s mind at ease. Do I feel anything during the surgery? No. A medicine will be given to you that will help you fall asleep. The medicine tells your body it is time to sleep. This sleep is different than naps at home because you will not hear noises or feel any discomfort. When it is time to wake up, the medication is stopped and you slowly wake up. What will I look like in the operating room? You will look like you are sleeping. Your eyes will be closed and you will lie very still. You will be wearing your hospital pajamas and covered by a sheet except for the spot
that the doctor needs for your procedure. What do I have to do? Relax! Ask questions. Bring a stuffed animal or toy to hug. Listen carefully to the doctors and nurses. You don’t have to try to go to sleep, the medicine will tell your body to sleep. Who will be in the operating room? Generally, there are four people in the room including the nurse, surgeon, anesthesiologist and someone to help the surgeon. Will I be alone? Your mom or dad can be with you right until you fall asleep. Then you will have doctors and nurses with you during surgery. Then when it’s time to wake up you will have one of your parents with you in the “wake up” room. The more you help prepare your child for surgery, the more they will understand what is going to happen and reduce their anxiety about having surgery.
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Shop Lakewood and help Project Shepherd get kids back to school Lakewood Project Shepherd is collecting “Back to School” backpacks and school supplies for low-income families with school-age children in Lakewood through August 14. The start of school is only weeks away and many kids in the community could use some help. New backpacks and school supplies appropriate for all ages will be accepted at Lakewood City Hall during regular business hours or at the Burns Community Center at 5510 Clark Avenue from 7am to 7pm on weekdays, and 7am to noon on Saturdays. For more information about the program, call 562-925-7512. As you help Project Shepherd, consider that Lakewood has some of the nation’s most popular and value oriented back-to-school retailers…including Costco, Target, Office Max, Walmart, Marshalls, Kohl’s, Forever 21, JCPenney, Macy’s, Nordstrom Rack, Big 5 and Sports Authority. Did you know that as a Lakewood resident you benefit each time you make a purchase at a Lakewood store, restaurant or gas station? A portion of your sales tax dollar stays right here in Lakewood. That pays for parks, roads, law enforcement and all the features that make for a good quality of life here in our community. This back-to-school season, keep your hometown in mind,
and Shop Lakewood … Stay Lakewood Loyal. And check out Shop Lakewood’s new home on Facebook for coupons and updates at www.shoplakewood. org. (You don’t have to be signed up on Facebook to use the site.)
ChamberNews Page 6
August 2014
www.lakewoodchamber.com
Opportunit y Drawing for Lake wood Residents Only
EDCO Waste & Recycling Services and The Lakewood Chamber of Commerce are partnering together to further the fund raising efforts for the Traveling Vietnam Memorial Wall. As a Lakewood resident, you can take part in this opportunity by simply mailing in one (or more) of the coupons below with your $5.00 (or more) donation. EDCO would like to present to the First Place Winner residing within the City of Lakewood to receive one regular weekly collection residential service for free for one year. (Weekly service is defined as regular automated trash and manual collection based on the previous service rendered within the last billing period for the winning Lakewood resident) Second and Third Place Winners: The opportunity to order one Temporary Bin for a special clean up at your home located within the City of Lakewood. (Temporary bin service is defined as a three-yard commercial style bin being delivered to your home and within seven days being removed at no cost to the winner. All standard requirements of loading and material acceptance would apply.) The entry fee will be $5.00 per opportunity drawing ticket. You can mail your ticket to the Chamber office at: POB 160, Lakewood, CA 90714, or drop it off at #24 Lakewood Center Mall (outside next to See’s Candies). The winner will be drawn at the Summer Stampede Car Show on August 17, 2014, at approximately 12noon. (The winners need not be present at the time of drawing.) If the winner is not present at the Car Show, a phone call will be made by a member of the Chamber staff on Tuesday, August 19th. If a phone 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. OPPORTUNITY DRAWING TICKET
Name: Phone:
OPPORTUNITY DRAWING TICKET
Name:
(Please print clearly)
OPPORTUNITY DRAWING TICKET
Name:
Phone:
Phone:
(Please print clearly)
$5.00
$5.00
(Please print clearly)
$5.00
OPPORTUNITY DRAWING TICKET
Name: Phone:
(Please print clearly)
$5.00 OPPORTUNITY DRAWING TICKET
Name: Phone:
(Please print clearly)
$5.00
The Greater Lakewood Chamber of Commerce would like to sincerely thank the Lakewood Community who have so generously donated their time and talents in assisting us in bringing the Traveling Vietnam Memorial Wall to Lakewood. We would also like to thank Supervisor Don Knabe for putting the “Match Challenge” out to the community as well. Through the help of everyone mentioned, as well as those who wished to remain anonymous, we are able to bring this special memorial to Lakewood!
Flyers for Lake wood Chamber ’s
“Welcome to Lakewood” Mailing Due
August 28th!
(Call or email 562-5319733 / info@lakewoodchamber.com for more info)
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Community August 2014
New Sheriff’s Captain has Lakewood roots
New Lakewood Sheriff Station Commander, Keith Swensson Lakewood welcomed a new commander to the Sheriff’s Station on Clark Avenue on June 29. Captain Keith Swensson will command 314 sworn and civilian personnel who protect Lakewood and the four other cities served by the station. It’s not the first time that Swensson has worked at the Lakewood Station. Swensson’s first field assignment as a new Sheriff’s deputy in 1989 was at the station, where his duties included patrol, field-training officer, being a Sky Knight Observer and a Special Assignment Officer. He stayed in Lakewood for five years,
and then rotated to assignments at the training bureau and the legislative/executive planning council for a total of ten years. He returned to Lakewood as a Watch Commander and Field Sergeant. Later assignments included Field Lieutenant at the West Hollywood Station, second in command at Communications and Fleet Management, Executive Aide to the Assistant Sheriff and, most recently, as commander of the Cerritos Station. The Swensson family connection to Lakewood goes even deeper. Captain Swensson’s father, Deputy Ken Swensson, helped open the Lakewood Station in 1957. At the same time, his mother, Deputy Gloria Swensson helped open the Sybil Brand Institute for Women, where all female arrestees were incarcerated at the time. Ken worked most of his career at the Lakewood Station, eventually retiring as a lieutenant. Gloria retired from the Sheriff’s Department early to raise a family. “The Lakewood Station has been a special place for my family and me,” said Swensson. “I’ve always loved the community
www.lakewoodchamber.com pride and spirit that exist here, and the tremendous support that Lakewood residents and civic leaders give to Sheriff’s Department personnel. I’m looking forward to being part of the community again and helping the Sheriff’s Department provide the best possible service and protection to the people of Lakewood.” When you see Captain Swensson, you might ask him about his favorite music…and college football team. He (and his wife Eriko) played trombone in the USC Marching Band while he worked on his master’s degree in public administration. And his children play trombone too—quite the musical family! Swensson has “beach” roots also, having earned his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Cal State Long Beach. Please join the Lakewood City Council and your fellow residents in giving Sheriff’s Captain Keith Swensson a warm welcome back to Lakewood!
Captain Swensson
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“Car Show” (Cont’d. from Pg. 1) We also have big plans for all the old car buffs in the community! Mayfair Park will be full of beautiful, shiny, classy cars to feast your eyes upon. There will be plenty of food trucks at the park to choose from, so grab a bite to eat, and enjoy music by DJ Ken. Every year Summer Stampede brings thousands of community members, car show aficionados and business to the City of Lakewood, and while presented by the Chamber, this event would not be possible without the involvement of our Chamber Members.
This year’s sponsors are:
Major Sponsors ($1,000 and over): Supervisor Don Knabe, City of Lakewood, Ron and Nancy Piazza, Lakewood High School Alumni Association, EDCO Waste & Recycling Services and Cerritos College. Silver Sponsor ($500 - $999): Howard Chambers, Lakewood Pan American Association, VFW Post 7243, Ron Crossley, Jack and Kathy Hinsche, Windes, Inc., American Legion #496, Vietnam Veterans of America #756, Robert Goodis and Nate Weiner, Haggerty Insurance, Central Basin Water District and SoCal Gas Company.
We can’t thank them enough for their contributions!
Vendor booths are still available, along with raffle or goodie bag donations. Also, there are still sponsorship opportunities available. For more information call (562) 531-9733.
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City approves two-year budget; includes four park projects The Lakewood City Council approved a $68.9 million budget for the 2014-15 fiscal year and a $66.5 million budget for fiscal year 2015-16 at their June 24 meeting. The two-year budget maintains full funding for all city services, including recreation programs and sheriff’s law enforcement. The budget also makes important infrastructure investments for parks, streets and the city water system. The 2014-15 fiscal year started on July 1, 2014. With the new budget, the city returned to a two-year budget cycle, which was traditional in Lakewood prior to the onset of the recession in 2007 when the city transitioned temporarily to one-year budgets. The complete city budget is online at www.lakewoodcity.org/budget. “Lakewood’s parks do especially well in this budget,” said City Manager Howard L. Chambers.
“Usually we do one or maybe two big park projects. But it’s four this time, which knocks my socks off! The work on parks that will get done will prove why Lakewood consistently gets chosen as a ‘Playful City USA.’ And it should make the people who rated us as
California’s ‘Most Boring City’ a few months ago rethink their findings.” See park improvement details below. Lakewood will also keep its public safety programs at their traditional full strength, including
August 2014 Sky Knight helicopter protection and a team of Sheriff’s Special Assignment Officers who handle hot spot issues. The city will also maintain its neighborhood preservation programs, including tree planting and trimming, sidewalk repair and code enforcement problem-solving team. Capital Improvement Projects in FY14-16 Lakewood budget: $4.7 million is dedicated to street maintenance projects, including the repaving of Woodruff Ave. and Del Amo Blvd. between Clark Ave. and Downey Ave. $2.1 million is slated for park improvements, including a new “pumpkin playground” for San Martin Park, a renovated Veterans Memorial Plaza at Del Valle Park, an expansion of the San Gabriel River Nature Trail and a firstever Lakewood dog park at the northwest corner of Rynerson Park. $5.7 million in water system upgrades will include constructing a new well and enlarging neighborhood water mains.
“Vietnam Memorial Wall” (Cont’d. from pg. 1)
Lakewood. Spulecki served as a medic in Vietnam from May 1967 to May 1968. “As a combat vet of the Vietnam War, I am proud and humbled that our Chamber of Commerce is bringing the traveling Vietnam Memorial Wall to Lakewood. It honors the 58,286 men and women who paid the ultimate price for our country.” Spulecki has volunteered as a docent on traveling wall showings numerous times across the nation. Seeing the wall is described as an extremely moving experience that heightens one’s patriotism and appreciation for the service and sacrifice of our Vietnam-era military veterans. The American Veterans Traveling Tribute version of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall is 360 feet long and is an 80%-sized replica of the original wall in Washington, DC. It costs money and takes a small army of volunteers to staff the traveling Vietnam Veterans wall while it’s on location. Local veterans and others have stepped up to provide the volunteers, but funds are still needed to pay the transportation and related costs of the wall and to financially support the chamber’s Summer Stampede Car Show, where the wall will be featured. The goal is to have the traveling Vietnam Wall at Mayfair Park in Lakewood from Thursday, August 14 until Sunday afternoon, August 17. The chamber’s car show takes place on that Sunday. The car show is an annual fundraising event for the chamber and its activities to help with business growth in Lakewood. The car show has incorporated a military support and appreciation theme for the past several years. Kelsall’s son, Jonas, was a Navy SEAL Lieutenant Commander killed in Afghanistan in 2011. Donations for the combined car show and visit of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall can be made to: the Greater Lakewood Chamber of Commerce, 24 Lakewood Center Mall, Lakewood, CA 90712. For more information, contact chamber president John Kelsall at 562-5319733.
August 2014
That’s not possible! Just watch me, I can do it!
The story of Lakewood resident, Luis Nieves. The story of a Lakewood resident that beat the odds and said to himself and everyone else… I will do it! Laying in a bed at Rancho Los Amigos Rehabilitation Center in Downey, with a spinal cord injury, Lakewood resident, Luis Nieves was given the devastating news that he would never walk again, or have the use of his arms and hands. Nieves was paralyzed from his neck down. But Nieves had determined within himself that he would one day walk again. After a long time of rehabilitation, Nieves told the doctor that he had moved his toes. The doctor advised him that was impossible, and that he was imagining it. The truth was, Nieves had moved his toes. He continued working on moving his toes, day after day, little by little, until he could move a finger as well. When he told the doctor he was moving a little bit, the doctor again told him that it was not possible. At that point, Nieves told the doctor, “One of these days I am going to walk into your office and show you.” The doctor shrugged off what he had said, but continued to take excellent care of him at Rancho Los Amigos Rehabilitation Center. After eight years, Nieves, in his wheelchair, went to see the doctor in his office. The doctor was in disbelief and amazed at what this man had done. At that point, Nieves stood up and walked across the room and said, “I told you I was going to do it!” These days, you will see Luis walking up and down Candlewood Street to the restaurants and stores. At the Rancho Los Amigos reunion, Luis came in second in the walking race. Nieves currently lives at Candlewood Park in Lakewood and is the joy of the other residents there. Luis tells funny stories and keeps his friends laughing with his infectious laughter. Everyone can learn a lesson from Luis, no matter what your situation, always remember to stay positive, and tell yourselves “I can do it!”
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Don’t let back-to-school tasks sneak up on you By Jason Alderman
Parents, if this is your first time at the back-to-school rodeo, let me share a few lessons my wife and I have learned the hard way. Chances are you’ll be spending the next few weeks filling out piles of preenrollment paperwork, lining up carpools and, of course, taking the dreaded shopping excursions for clothes and school supplies. If you’re a first-timer or simply need a back-to-school refresher course, here are a few suggestions that can help you save time, money and sanity: Get organized. Maintain a correspondence file from your kid’s school for things like registration requirements, report cards, permission slips, required vaccinations, school policies, teacher and parent contact information, etc. Ask whether the school has a website, online calendar or email list you can join. Also, create a family master calendar. Back-to-school shopping. Between
new clothes, classroom supplies and extracurricular activity fees and equipment, many parents end up spending hundreds of dollars per child. Ideally, you’ve been setting money aside all year. If not, you’ll need to determine what you can afford to spend without blowing your overall budget. Here are a few organizational and money-saving tips: • Before you shop, make a comprehensive list for each child. Use previous years’ expenses as a guide and compare notes with other parents and school officials. • Engage your kids in the budgeting process. Share how much money is available to spend and get them involved in prioritizing expenses between “needs” and “wants.” • Go through your kids’ closets and have them try on everything. Make an inventory of items that fit and are in good shape, and take it when shopping so you don’t accidentally buy duplicates. (While you’re at it, share, sell or donate unneeded
items.) • Review the school’s dress code so you don’t waste money on inappropriate clothing. • Ask which school supplies you’re expected to buy. Go in with other families to take advantage of volume discounts and sales. • Find out how much extracurricular activities (athletics, music, art, etc.) cost. Account for uniforms, membership dues, private lessons, field trips, snacks, etc.
Rent or buy used sporting equipment or musical instruments until you’re sure they’ll stick with an activity. Know when to spend more for higher quality. Cheaper notebook paper shouldn’t matter, but don’t buy poorly made shoes that might hamper proper physical development. Bottom line: If you get organized before setting out on back-to-school shopping, you can save money, time and aggravation.
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Nothing beats the nutritional value of a homegrown garden It’s a well-known fact that not many people actually get the recommended daily dose of vitamins. Many turn to over-thecounter supplements to fill in nutritional gaps. But wouldn’t it be better - not to mention tastier - to get needed nutrients from what you eat? This season, why not turn your vegetable and herb garden into a “vitamin garden?” Fortunately, many vitaminpacked vegetables and herbs are easy to grow. Studies show that gardeners tend to eat more fruits and vegetables than nongardeners. In addition to the many health benefits gardening delivers, such as gentle exercise, fresh air and sunshine, growing your own vegetables can help ensure you meet vitamin requirements. While gardening is great
August 2014 exercise, starting a garden is actually an easy task. With just an hour a day, you can start a small backyard garden, or even grow your own vegetables in pots. Just start with transplants, instead of seed; they’ll save time and effort, and provide you with an earlier harvest. Choose a sunny spot with good drainage, and make sure the soil is in shape to receive plants by soilkit testing, and amending when necessary. Feed your food plants, water regularly and don’t forget to patrol for pests. Ready for your garden? Try these gardener-friendly, highpowered vegetables and herbs that can ensure your diet is full of flavorful, vitamin-rich foods: Herbs • Basil - Low in calories and cholesterol-free, basil is a rich source of many essential nutrients, minerals and vitamins. It contains exceptionally high levels of beta-carotene and vitamin A. • Oregano - High in antioxidants,
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oregano has both antibacterial and antifungal properties. • Rosemary - Another antioxidant herb, rosemary is used to fight inflammation. It’s a good source of vitamin A, thiamin and magnesium. Veggies • Spinach - Spinach contains more than half the recommended daily value of vitamin A and is high in vitamins C, K , E, folate, manganese, magnesium, iron and potassium. • Tomatoes - Considered a super food, tomatoes deliver high doses of vitamins C, A, K and B6, and minerals such as potassium and lycopene. • Peppers - Another versatile veggie available in a wealth of varieties, peppers deliver fiber, folate, manganese, potassium, copper and vitamins A, C, K and B6. • Squash - Popular and prolific varieties like zucchini and yellow squash require minimal care to produce hefty harvests. Green zucchini deliver vitamins C, K and B6, as well as folate, manganese and potassium. • Yellow squash either crookneck or straight neck - are easy to grow, early to mature and particularly high in vitamin C. Added to the vitamin value of veggies and herbs are the exercise and relaxation that derive from gardening. This summer, why not focus on growing your vitamins rather than getting them from a bottle? They’ll taste better than anything that comes from the pharmacy, plus you’ll reap health, wellness, and the many mental and physical benefits of gardening.
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Stroke Prevention By Bret A. Witter, MD, FACC, FACP
A stroke is a common and feared medical problem. Many people are more afraid of stroke than death. Perhaps you know of someone who has recently experienced a stroke. This is a motivating factor for many patients to get educated regarding stroke prevention. Fortunately, many strokes are preventable. Strokes are generally caused by a blocked artery, bleeding in the head or from a blood clot from the neck or heart. Many simple lifestyle changes can help prevent stroke— especially blocked artery/ bleeding related strokes. For example, regular exercise, low sodium / low fat diets, and smoking cessation are very effective. Blood pressure control is very important. Guidelines suggest blood pressure should be less than 140/90 at rest most of the time or even lower (130/80) if you have higher risk features including diabetes. Many times, hypertension is unavoidable if you have a strong family history. More commonly, the disease is evident or accelerated by overweight status and high salt intake. High cholesterol also has an impact on stroke incidence. Again, there is a strong family component for many people. Diet still plays a strong role. Obesity is epidemic in America. Blood pressure, cholesterol status and being overweight are strongly impacted by diet. Shifting to a diet that is lower in sodium and fat can control these risk factors without medication. For those who still have problems, there are many medications that are effective with minimal side effects. Atrial fibrillation (irregular heart beats) is associated with stroke. When the heart is beating erratically, blood clots can form and break off/travel to the head. This is especially important to people older than 75 years of age. Risk factors for this include excessive alcohol, caffeine intake and sleep apnea. Stroke is now treated as an emergency. In an effort to be more responsive and timely many hospitals have established stroke centers to so that treatment can be administrated within the first three hours following an event. The symptoms of stroke include weakness or numbness on one side of the body, or a sudden change in speech or comprehension. These symptoms should be treated as an emergency. Call 911 if you or someone you know experiences these symptoms. Stroke does not have to be as common or as feared as in years past. Simple lifestyle changes, basic health care and sometimes medications can help make stroke preventable. Being aware of early signs and symptoms of stroke can also lead to early treatment/less disability in the event of a stroke. There are a number of websites devoted to educating the public
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Living
Dear EarthTalk: With summer officially here now, what can you tell us about which sunscreen are safe and which are not? ~ Clara Rosen, New York, NY
on stroke and stroke prevention. Two good places to start are www.heart.org and www.stroke. org.
About the Author: Dr. Bret A. Witter is board certified in Internal Medicine, Cardiovascular Diseases and Cardiac Echocardiography. In addition to his full-time duties as a cardiologist at Los Alamitos Cardiovascular, Dr. Witter is Assistant Clinical Professor at the David Geffen School of Medicine University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). Learn more about Dr. Witter and the other cardiologists at Los Alamitos Cardiovascular by visiting www.losalcardio.com.
The 2014 Healthy Living Conference for Seniors & Caregivers hosted by North Star Alliances is a free, one-day event, held on Saturday August 16 from 8am to 4pm to provide seniors, caregivers, healthcare professionals, and advocates with valuable information and resources. Conference highlights include: Expert presenters, with breakout sessions in English and Spanish, on topics such as: Social Security Benefits, Medicare and Medi-Cal, Memory Loss, Hospice & Palliative Care, Driving As We Age, and Senior and Caregiver Programs. Expo featuring more than 60 sponsors and exhibitors providing free information, activities, bingo, & health screenings. The event will be held at: Cerritos Sheraton 12725 Center Court Drive S. Cerritos, CA 90703. For more information on the event, please see the website at: http://www.healthylivingconference.com/.
Skin cancer is by far the most common form of cancer in the United States, with more new cases each year than breast, prostate, lung and colon cancers combined. And the rate of newly diagnosed cases of the most deadly skin cancer, melanoma, has tripled over the last three decades. But many of the sunscreens on the market do not provide enough protection from the sun’s damaging rays. Also, some of them contain chemicals that can also cause health problems in their own right. According to the non-profit Environmental Working Group (EWG), which assessed the safety and effectiveness of more than 1,400 “SPF” (sun protection factor) products for its 2014
Guide to Sunscreens, only one in three sunscreens for sale on the shelves of American stores offer good skin protection and are free
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of ingredients with links to health issues. “That means two-thirds of the sunscreens in our analysis don’t work well enough or contain ingredients that may be toxic,” reports the group. A big part of the problem is the lack of tougher rules from the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA). “The FDA’s first major set of sunscreen regulations, 36 years in the making, took effect in December 2012 and proved far too weak to transform the market,” reports EWG. While the FDA is currently reassessing its stance on sunscreens, EWG warns it may be a while before new rules address these and other concerns, especially given push-back from regulatory-averse members of Congress and some manufacturers.
2014 Healthy Living Conference For Seniors & Caregivers August 16 8am - 4pm
Cerritos Sheraton
Come to a FREE conference that includes free health screenings, educational sessions, activities, bingo, prizes, & more! For more information & to register, visit: www.HealthyLiving-Conference.com
All educational seminars will be offered in Spanish.
Services we currently provide are: • 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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Cuddly Page 12
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Enjoy the Lazy Dog Days of Summer!
If you’d like to submit a pet-related story to the Lakewood Community News, you can send it to us at: PO Box 160, Lakewood, CA 90714, or email your story (and a picture of the pet) to: news@lakewoodchamber.com. We would love to hear about him/her!
August 2014
Pets get another Bow Wow and Meow Day
The Cuddly Corner
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 Daphne or Riley, please contact Phillip Robb, Store Manager of Adopt & Shop at (562) 531-2871.
Daphne
Hi I’m Daphne and I’m a 4 month-old tuxedo kitten. I get along well with other cats, kids & dogs. I have a sweet & playful personality - but I also like my quiet time. I am spayed, microchipped and current on all vaccinations. Come down to the shop and meet me!
Adopt Me!
RILEY
Hi I’m Riley and I’m a 1 year-old male terrier mix. I am a high energy, outgoing fellow...and at just 7 lbs., I’m full grown! I get along well with other dogs, cats & kids. I am neutered, crate-trained, microchipped and current on all my vaccinations. I hope to meet you soon!
Bow Wow and Meow Days: a family affair and Lakewood tradition. The city’s convenient pet licensing and vaccination program has added an August date. Bow Wow and Meow Days returns Saturday, August 16 from 9am to 11am at the usual location at the northeast corner lot at Clark
Avenue and Del Amo Boulevard near the Lakewood Civic Center. This is an easy one-stop event for pet licensing, vaccinations at a discount, and micro chipping. Flea control products and information regarding low-cost spaying/ neutering and health care for dogs and cats will also be available. Cash, checks and credit cards are accepted for vaccination services and products —cash and check only for dog licensing. Dogs must be on leashes and cats in secure carriers. The event is a convenient opportunity to receive maximum health care protection for animal companions at affordable prices. Pet owners get savings on required rabies vaccinations, priced at $6 each. (Additional vaccinations are available for a fee.) Dog owners who have current licenses may purchase a new license at the clinic. Click www. lakewoodcity.org/pets for more information about pet services and pet adoption.
A Pet’s Prayer
If it should be, that I grow frail & weak, And pain should keep me from my sleep, Then, you must do what must be done For this, the last battle, can’t be won. Don’t let your grief stay your hand, For this day more than the rest, Your love and friendship stand the test. We’ve had so many years, What is to come can hold no fear. You’d not want me to suffer, so When the time comes, please let me go. Take me where my needs they’ll tend, Only, stay with me to the end And hold me firm and speak to me Until my eyes no longer see. I know in time you’ll see it is a kindness you do for me, Although my tail its last has waved, From pain and suffering I’ve been saved. Don’t grieve it should be you who this thing decides to do. We’ve been so close, we two, these years, Don’t let your heart hold tears. Smile, for we walked together for a while.
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Community August 2014
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‘Vacation Check Program’ puts more “Summer splash event” eyes on your home for peace of mind to be less wet
Lakewood Station Commander Keith Swensson is encouraging residents to call the station to report anything unusual. “The ‘See Something, Say Something’ effort is huge in helping us stop property crimes like home burglaries and car thefts,” says Swensson. “Residents should call the
Lakewood Sheriff Station’s 24hour business line at 562-6233500 without hesitation to report anything out of the ordinary.” Swensson also wants residents to call to use the station’s “vacation check” program. “Letting the station know you’ll be gone and what patrol staff should look for is another key way to keep your home and property safe.” “Giving the station commonsense telltale signs like how many cars should be in the driveway, and which lights should be on helps deputies and Volunteers on Patrol know if something is out of place,” says Natascha Martin, who helps coordinate Lakewood’s Neighborhood Watch program. “Keeping your block captain and close neighbors in the loop
is important, too,” says Martin. “They can all be on the lookout for suspicious activity around your home while you’re away. And, they’ll be especially sensitive to what’s normal on your block.” Making your home look occupied is a key to vacation preparation. Put timers on interior lights and a radio on a talk station, request a stop on your mail and newspapers, or have a friend or a trusted neighbor pick them up. Consider having a friend or family member “house sit” if you are gone for more than a few days. The city’s crime prevention unit has brochures on how to harden your home to thwart burglars. For additional information, call them at 562-866-9771, extension 2114.
In support of California’s water conservation efforts, this year’s Summer Splash event in Lakewood has been re-imagined to become the “Lakewood Summer Fair” with no water activities but lots of carnival games, inflatable amusements, face painting and free pizza and snow cones. The fun happens at San Martin Park on Friday, August 15 from 11am to 2pm. McCormick Pool in Bolivar Park offers “Enchantment Under the Sea” family swim night on Friday, August 1 from 7pm to 9pm for Lakewood residents.
The cost is only $3 per person which includes a hot dog dinner at the facility at the corner of Downey Avenue and Del Amo Boulevard. Swim lessons continue at both Mayfair and McCormick Pools throughout August. Classes are held Monday through Friday for two-week sessions of 30 minutes each day. Session 4 lessons take place August 4 to 15. For residents planning ahead for Session 5, lessons are Monday through Friday, August 18 to 29. Registration may be completed online at www.lakewoodcity. org/eCatalog through August 11. For complete aquatics information, call Mayfair Pool at 562-804-4256, or McCormick Pool at 562-421-3343, or go to www.lakewoodcity.org/ Aquatics.
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Community Page 14
Is your classic car properly insured? By John Diatalevi
I’m always surprised when someone tells me they have their cherished classic car insured by the same company their everyday car is insured with. It’s usually because the difference between a standard auto policy and a classic auto policy was never explained to them. This article explains the difference. Liability (bodily injury) and property damage works the same on both classic and standard auto policies. It’s the comprehensive and collision coverage that’s different. That’s the part of the policy that covers your classic car and determines how much you are paid in the event of a loss. There are three different bases that an insurance company can use to value an insured auto. Let’s first look at the one that almost everyone has on a typical auto insurance policy:
Actual Cash Value (ACV) ACV translated means “What its worth in cash, today.” After your accident, an insurance company adjustor will go out to the tow yard and look over your vehicle. After that, using sources of their choosing, they will look up what the typical value should be for your car, and this will be their settlement offer. Agreed (guaranteed) Value If ACV is a problem, Agreed Value is the solution. If you have a classic insurance policy - from a dedicated company that only issues this sort of policy - this should be the kind of coverage you have. Instead of the above scenario with ACV, what happens instead is, you and the insurance company agree on the vehicle value when you sign up - before the policy is issued and any money changes hands. In the event of a disaster, the insurance company guarantees to pay the
www.lakewoodchamber.com value that the two of you agreed upon. No ifs, ands or buts. This “should” be the kind of coverage you have, although you might not. To find out for sure, look in the physical damage section of your policy. Somewhere in there it will say what is going to happen if your classic car is a total loss. The exact statement should be very close to this: In the event of theft or a total loss we will pay the Agreed Value. That’s it. Short and sweet. No wiggle room. No more words. Agreed Value is a simple idea and if the coverage is what it claims to be it should be written up simply in the policy. Stated Value Your typical big auto insurance companies sell policies that pay out on an ACV basis. Remember the short and sweet payout clause for an Agreed Value? This is what Stated Value says about a total loss: “In the event of theft or a total loss we will pay the Stated Value or the Actual Cash Value, whichever is less.” Stated Value has an escape clause that lets the insurance company fall back to ACV. Chances are that’s not what you had in mind when you paid for
August 2014
the Stated Value endorsement. So is Stated Value designed to rip people off? No. It can be a good thing in some narrow circumstances... the kind that likely will never do you any good. • Stated Value exists to decide
how much premium you pay. Not how much you get paid. • Stated Value lets you insure the car for less than what it is really worth in exchange for a lower premium. If you want to guarantee yourself the value you expect on your classic car, refuse to settle for anything less than an Agreed Value on a classic insurance policy.
City Spotlight (Cont’d. from pg. 2)
resident registration fee of $20 is payable at registration. The Flag Football program will offer two divisions. The Competitive Division is for youth ages 8-15 and the Smurf Division, for ages 6-7, offers boys and girls a fun introduction to flag football fundamentals using a Nerf football and modified rules for fun with minimal competition. Teams practice and play league games on weekday evenings and Saturday mornings from September 2 – November 8. The Girls Volleytennis program is a fast-moving game played like volleyball with a modified format. Girls ages 8-17 are assigned to park teams in four divisions for league play and city championships. Teams practice and play on weekday evenings and Saturday mornings from September 2 – November 8. Playoffs for both programs conclude by November 15. Pageant of the Masters Where art comes to life! Join us for a most unique annual outdoor show in Laguna Beach on August 14. You’ll see a host of great classical and contemporary works of art recreated by real people. This year’s performance is themed “The Art Detective.” Bring binoculars and a jacket, a small picnic cooler or purchase lunch at one of the cafes. The Lakewood bus leaves promptly from the Burns Community Center at 5510 Clark Avenue at 5:30pm. (please arrive by 5pm to check in). Children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult. The cost of the trip is $50 and you can register at www. lakewoodcity.org/eCatalog by August 4 using class #35251. For further information, please visit www.lakewoodcity. org/TravelPrograms or contact the city’s recreation staff at 562-866-9771, extension 2408. Make sure to register early, as this program tends to fill up.
News
Community August 2014
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Your legacy Helping the port find highly skilled candidates is in your hands
Submitted by Carol Otters ~ Edward Jones Financial, Lakewood
Unless you keep close track of obscure holidays and observances, you probably didn’t know that August is “What Will Be Your Legacy? Month.” Still, you might want to use this particular month as a useful reminder to take action on what could be one of your most important financial goals: leaving a meaningful legacy. A legacy isn’t simply a document or a bunch of numbers — it’s what you will be remembered for, and what you have left behind that will be remembered. It’s essentially your chance to contribute positively to the future, whether that means providing financial resources for the next generation, helping those charitable organizations whose work you support, or a combination of both. To create your legacy, you’ll need to do some planning. And you can start by asking yourself a couple of key questions: What are your goals? When you think about leaving a legacy, what comes to mind? First and foremost, you may well want to leave enough money to help your own grown children meet their financial goals. After that, you probably have other things you’d like to accomplish. Perhaps you want to provide resources for your grandchildren to attend college? Or set up a scholarship at your own alma mater? Give financial support to a cultural, social, religious or scientific group? By thinking about your goals and putting them on paper, even in an informal sense, you’ll be taking the important first step in leaving the legacy you desire. How can you turn your goals into reality? If you don’t take some concrete steps, your legacy just won’t materialize. And the most important step you need to take is to create a comprehensive estate plan. Your estate plan can be quite involved, because it may involve several legal documents, such as a will, living trust, health care power of attorney, and so on. In creating these materials, you will need to work with your legal and tax advisors because estate planning is definitely not a “do-it-yourself” endeavor. You probably shouldn’t wait until you are deep into retirement to take action on your estate plan because developing the necessary documents and arrangements can take a fair amount of time — and you’ll want to make these preparations when you’re in good mental and physical health. By identifying your goals, working with the appropriate professionals to create an effective estate plan, and communicating regularly with your family members and other “key players” in your life, you can go a long way toward leaving the legacy you desire. So, do what it takes to launch that legacy.
Helping businesses find highly qualified candidates for their open positions is what SELACO WIB does on a regular basis. Helping businesses fill high level positions is a new and exciting venture. We believe we are up to the task and offer professional leadership to both candidates and business. Despite the fact that millions of people remain unemployed, businesses often find it difficult to fill their open positions. The skilled trades are the most difficult positions to fill, which includes carpenters, plumbers, electricians and other tool-wielding professionals and engineers. Employers are also having trouble filling positions in information technology, accounting and nursing. As an organization that assists job seekers and businesses find the right match we realize that job seekers are also responsible for their career opportunities. It is essential that young people complete high school
and pursue additional training. Even more importantly, mid-career individuals need to have a training mentality, continually sharpening and expanding their skill sets to increase their employability. Currently SELACO WIB is looking for job seekers interested in working in container handling and being part of one of the world’s most technologically advanced facilities in the world. This type of business needs job seekers with experience in marine terminal operations, strong leadership and exceptional problem solving and critical thinking skills. As with all employers, the ports are looking for candidates with excellent written and verbal communication, plan and supervise projects and proficient in all computer applications. If you would like to know more about SELACO WIB, contact Marjean Clements at marjeanc@ selaco.com.
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Community Page 16
Senior Plus Program
The Senior Plus program at Long Beach Memorial offers great services to adults 55 and older. When paying the $25 annual membership fee, older adults obtain free parking at Long Beach Memorial, as well as other free health services. Once you are a member you are eligible to receive transportation to medical appointments at Long Beach Memorial, Community Hospital Long Beach and the Memorial Care Medical Group. This great service also offers a bi-monthly postcard/enewsletter informing members of all the upcoming events at the medical centers. These events are geared at educating older adults about their overall health, such as what to ask your primary doctor when making an appointment. This great service has enabled older adults in the community to be more proactive in their own health.
Senior Plus at Long Beach Memorial 2801 Atlantic Ave. Long Beach, CA 90806
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Would you like to become a MEMBER of the Greater Lakewood Chamber of Commerce? Call us at 562-531-9733, or email us at : info@lakewoodchamber.com.
August 2014
Seniors looking for the fountain of youth should get moving!
If you are an older adult, exercise is one of the best things you can do for your physical and mental health. According to the Centers for Disease Control, older adults should exercise for 150 minutes a week, with a good mix of cardio and strength training. Unfortunately, many people don’t get enough exercise to keep them healthy and strong as they age. Not only does exercise help individuals stay healthy and reduce the risk of disability and disease, it has been proven to reduce the cost of care for individuals and their families. If you’re wondering where to get started…Lakewood’s own Weingart Senior Center, is the perfect place to start. Centrally located near the corner of Lakewood and Candlewood, it offers tons of activities and services for seniors. You must
be at least 50 years of age to participate in the recreational activities. Additional programs for seniors are also offered through the center. The Senior Center is open Monday through Friday, 8:30am to 5pm and Saturday, 8:30am to 1pm. For more information call The Weingart Senior Center at 562630-6141.
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Community August 2014
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Water Conservation in Lakewood
submitting a ‘Shop Lakewood’ coupon afterwards with your rebate request. Information on all these aspects of the rebate program, including which rotor sprinklers and drip irrigators are high-efficiency, is at www. lakewoodcity.org/waterrebates or by calling the city at 562-8669771, extension 2140.” The state restrictions will affect Lakewood public property too, with many parks and other public spaces going on a restricted watering schedule. Fortunately, many parks and other public spaces east of Clark Avenue don’t use drinking water for irrigation. They are on a “recycled water” system that is not restricted by the state rules. (Recycled water is wastewater that has been treated to levels clean enough to safely use for irrigation.) Thanks to the recycled water system, many parks, street medians and public areas east of Clark Avenue should stay green throughout the
(Cont’d. from pg. 1)
modern, low-water-use “rotor sprinklers” that meet a 70% efficiency standard. Exceptions for the watering of flower gardens and planters are allowed if done with a drip irrigation system with emitters producing no more than two gallons per hour or with a hose utilizing an automatic shut-off nozzle. Likewise, hand watering of a lawn is exempted from the twice-per-week rule if done with a hose utilizing a shut-off nozzle. (See below for information on rebate programs to help with the purchase of rotor sprinklers, drip irrigation systems and other water efficiency devices). 5. Sprinklers (and all types of watering) must be adjusted to prevent runoff to sidewalks, gutters and other hardscape. 6. The washing of cars and other equipment can only be done with water from a bucket or hose with an automatic shut-off nozzle. (Note: Commercial car washes
are already required to recycle most of their water and will be able to continue operations under the new conservation rules.) 7. The state rules require local enforcement mechanisms. For a first violation, there will be a written warning from the city with no penalty. A second violation will bring a citation of $100, with further citations bringing more fines and the potential for flow restrictors being installed at the residence. Rebates from Lakewood’s water department can help customers purchase highefficiency rotor sprinklers and drip irrigation systems. “This could be a great time to make the modest investment to update your irrigation system,” said Glancy. “High-efficiency rotor sprinkler heads cost about $3-$5 each after the city rebate, and you can save even more buying your irrigation supplies in Lakewood and
The Chamber is now offering THREE trips! Austria & Germany - 7 nights, departs 9/22
Treasures of Ireland - 9 days, departs 11/3
Colonial Cities of Cuba - 9 days, departs 11/29
Call or email us to request a brochure for any of these trips (562) 531-9733 info@lakewoodchamber.com
drought. “Lakewood has thousands of sprinklers in its parks and street medians,” said Glancy. “We can always use the public’s help in identifying any that appear to be broken or malfunctioning. If you spot a malfunctioning sprinkler at a park or along a roadway, contact city staff at 562-8669771, extension 2140 or by email at service1@lakewoodcity.org.” Further information will be mailed to each Lakewood water department customer shortly and is available at www.lakewoodcity. org/water or by calling the city at 562-866-9771, extension 2140. These conservation rules directly apply to residents of Lakewood who live west of the San Gabriel River, which is the portion of Lakewood served by the city’s Water Resources Department. The portion of Lakewood that is east of the San Gabriel River is served by the Golden State Water Company, which is also required to implement mandatory water conservation measures. If you live in that area of Lakewood, you can expect to receive information shortly from Golden State, and you can feel free to contact them at 800-999-4033 or www.gswater. com. “Lakewood has been through droughts like this before,” added Glancy. “It’s important to remember that most people will be trying their best to adapt to this. Let’s take a helpful, courteous attitude toward each other and our community, and we’ll get through this together.”
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Lakewood resident receives award
The University of California, Irvine Extension recently had its 2014 graduation ceremony recognizing 1,874 students for completing various continuing education programs. Lakewood resident, Rochelle Uhlenkott, was presented with the Student Achievement Award for demonstrating extraordinary commitment to her field of study. Uhlenkott has earned a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Physics as well as an Optical Engineering Certificate. She also has recently accepted a position to be a UCI Extension instructor.
Around
Town
with Robin
Vanderwerff
www.lakewoodchamber.com
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Thank you to our SUDOKU Sponsors!
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Let’s play Sudoku!
Congratulations to Lily Bernal and Gailya Shaw! They are the lucky winners of the July 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 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 Wednesday, August 20th 2014. The winners will be drawn on Thursday, August 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 September issue, along with a new Sudoku Puzzle.
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Around Town in August Lakewood
• Spanish for teens/tweens oneweek summer intensive will he held the last week of August 25 -29 for kids ages 12 to 17. This half-day class is designed to prepare your scholars to return to their Spanish language training school. For more information call Amy Berger at (562) 833-3115.
Long Beach • Pathways will host its 20th annual fundraising golf tournament on Monday, August 18 to raise money for much needed bereavement, caregiving and hospice services. The event will be held at Recreation Park Golf Course. Registration begins at 11am and tee off is at 12:30pm. For more information on the golf tournament, or for more information about Pathways’ services call the main office at 562-531-3031 or visit pathwayshospice.org. • “Consider the Match,” A Play written and directed by
Long Beach artists, is a series of vignettes tied together by similar themes. Making use of the absurd, surreal, and awkward. The show will be held on Friday & Saturday, August 1 & 2, 8pm; Sunday Matinee, August 3, 2:30pm at The Founder Theatre, 599 Long Beach Blvd. For reservations call (562) 433-3363.
Norwalk • Miniature Golf Tournament benefiting The National Pacific Islander Educator Network (NPIEN) annual sustaining membership fund will be held on Friday, August 22 from 6-8pm at Golf N’ Stuff 10555 E. Firestone Blvd. For more information visit www.npien.com.
Time to take West Nile precautions Summer’s longer days and warmer nights mean more outdoor activities for you and your family. It also means more exposure to mosquitoes potentially carrying the West Nile virus. The normal seasonal uptick in West Nile occurrences has reached the Lakewood region according to the Greater Los Angeles County Vector Control District (GLACVD). They urge residents to follow normal precautions against mosquito bites. GLACVD, www.glacvcd.org, urges residents to follow customary precautions to protect against West Nile virus: • Install or repair window and door screens so that mosquitoes cannot get indoors. • Clear the yard of containers (even the smallest) that might hold water where mosquitoes can breed. • Drain kids’ pools, and check pool and vehicle covers that might hold water for excessive periods of time. • Wear long-sleeve shirts and pants when engaging in outdoor activities at dawn and during sunset, which is when mosquitoes are most prevalent. • When outside at that time, considering applying approved insect repellents containing active ingredients such as DEET, Picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Untreated swimming pools can be reported to Lakewood City Hall by calling 562-866-9771, extension 2140, or emailing service1@lakewoodcity.org.
News
Community August 2014
Keep your kids healthy this school season
While you and your family have enjoyed relaxing vacations and amazing weather these last few months, it’s time to prepare for the hustle and bustle of another school year. A new school year also means your family’s mornings will return to that more familiar, hectic pace. Keeping your kids healthy allows them to take full advantage of the opportunities they will encounter, such as the first day of school, the first slumber party - even the first soccer tournament or piano recital. So how do you ward off illness? You can’t control what your child is exposed to at school or away from home, but you can control your home’s cleanliness. Keep your house clean and improve your children’s chances of staying healthy with these easy tips. Wash your hands. Surely you’ve heard this from your own mother over and over again as you were growing up. But this classic tip is as relevant today as it was back then. Did you know that washing your hands can reduce your risk of respiratory infections by 16 percent, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention? We place our hands in bacteria-filled areas every day - especially as children - and when we then touch our faces, the risk of spreading bacteria increases. Washing your hands for just 20 seconds dramatically reduces this risk, and making hand sanitizer available is also a great way to ward off bacteria. Target common areas. Even during the laziest summer days, you still don’t have the time to clean your home as often as you’d like. So how can you maximize your time and reduce your family’s risk of getting sick? Target common surfaces and make them the focus of your cleaning and sanitizing efforts. While all surfaces have bacteria, cleaning efforts should focus on commonly used items, including remote controls, door knobs and kitchen counters. Dirty sponges, meanwhile, can make
a bacteria breeding ground worse, cross-contaminating your countertops when you think you are cleaning. Ditch the dirty sponge and use paper towels and disinfectant for a quick, efficient solution.
www.lakewoodchamber.com Leave your shoes at the door. Merely taking your shoes off at the door can reduce your exposure to allergens, toxins, pesticides and dust, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. It also keeps floors cleaner and reduces the wear and tear on carpets or rugs. The professional cleaning industry estimates that 85 percent of all dirt tracked into homes comes in on our shoes and the feet of our pets. Sneeze appropriately. Teaching your child the proper way to cover their mouth when they cough or sneeze is a simple, effective way to prevent the spread of germs. Medical experts say coughing or sneezing into a tissue or towel is preferred, while using the crux of your elbow is the second choice. Coughing or sneezing into a person’s hands should be a last resort, and children who
do should wash their hands immediately afterwards. This will prevent germs and bacteria from spreading to door knobs and other surfaces the child touches. A new school year means nine months on the go, as well as your children’s increased exposure to colds and flu. While you can’t be with your kids every moment of every day, parents can help make sure that the home they come back to each day is as clean as possible.
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Tell us what you would like to read in the Lakewood Community News. Email your ideas to news@lakewoodchamber.com or send it by mail to: P.O. Box 160, Lakewood, CA 90714
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August 2014
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Page 20
Opportunity Drawing Donation Form
The Lakewood Chamber is currently seeking businesses that would like to promote their goods/services at our Summer Stampede Car Show by submitting an item into the Driver Goodie Bags. If you’re interested, simply fill out this form and bring it by (#24 Lakewood Center Mall, outside next to See’s Candies) with your items, or give us a call and we’d be happy to pick them up! (562-531-9733) Business Name: Address: Contact: Acknowledgement should be in the name of:
I will donate a cash prize
I will donate 250 items for the “Driver Goodie Bags”
Description of Goods/Services:
SIGNATURE: CONDITIONS OR RESTRICTIONS: