Lcn december 12pages

Lakewood

News

Community Official publication of the Greater Lakewood Chamber of Commerce

Volume 32 Number 12

www.lakewoodnews.org / www.lakewoodchamber.com

Fulfill the holiday wish of a local child in need

filled the Christmas wishes of 740 local kids in need last year. They did it by picking a little paper bear ornament off a “Teddy Bear Tree” and purchasing the affordable gift written on it.

The Teddy Bear Tree program has helped countless youngsters since 1995. Gifts go to individual children registered through Project Shepherd.

Without help, the children will probably go without gifts this holiday season.

Project Shepherd is operated by the Rotary Club of Lakewood and the City of Lakewood, and helped 400 families and 1,500 individuals last year through the organization’s holiday season efforts and year-round emergency food pantry. For more information about Project Shepherd, call 562-925-7512, or visit www. lakewoodcity.org/ProjectShepherd.

The opportunity to make a difference returns to Lakewood Center the weekend of December 5 and 6. While shopping for their own families, residents can fulfill the holiday wish of a child in need.

The wishes of dozens of local

kids will adorn a Teddy Bear Tree in the mall’s center court. Rotary Club of Lakewood volunteers, many of them Lakewood business and civic leaders, will help guests choose a paper bear from the tree.

Rotarians will be on hand to accept

the unwrapped gift items returned to the booth with their bear ornament.

Gifts can also be dropped off at most City of Lakewood facilities during business hours prior to Tuesday, December 8.

Caring Lakewood shoppers

December 2015

Christmas tree recycling and holiday trash Starting Monday, December 28, Lakewood residents can recycle their Christmas trees and get extra holiday trash hauled away with assistance from the city’s waste hauler, EDCO Waste and Recycling Services.

For two weeks after Christmas (from December 28 through January 8), EDCO will pick up discarded Christmas trees on your trash collection day.

Flocked trees are OK, but decorations, tinsel, and metal or plastic stands must be removed. Wooden tree stands can be left on the tree. The tree must not be in a bag. Trees over six feet tall must be cut in half.

Holiday-related trash For the week immediately following Christmas, from December 28 through January 2, EDCO will run an extra truck each trash day to help residents with added holiday-related trash. Residents should continue to use their existing carts as much as possible, but you can also leave up to 10 standard-size trash bags about two feet from your cart for pick-up. Holiday and appliance boxes may be left there as well. There is no charge for this extra service and no need to call EDCO in advance.

Light snowfall coming to Lakewood during tree lighting

Lakewood High School students honored to play at the Tournament of Roses Parade!

Lakewood’s tree lighting ceremony continues with an expanded evening program outside The Centre at Sycamore Plaza on Friday, December 4.

New this year will be falling snow, along with caroling sing-a-longs and

The Lakewood High School band students auditioned for the 2016 Tournament of Roses Parade “Honor Band” and were chosen out of hundreds of high school students in Southern California.

(Left to right in photo) Tre Adams is a senior and plays the snare drum. Nick Lobato, a sophomore, plays trumpet and Johnny Sanchez, senior, plays bass drum. All three boys are very passionate about music and are excited to be a part of the Tournament of Roses Honor Band. Look out for them on New Years Day marching down Colorado Boulevard!

Lakewood Community News #24 Lakewood Center Mall Lakewood, CA 90712 (562) 531-9733

carnival games.

The Civic Center Plaza along Clark Avenue at Hardwick Street will sparkle with other new features including food trucks, face painting and photo opportunities sponsored in part by Lakewood Center. Costumed PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE

PAID

Santa Fe Spgs, CA PERMIT NO. 29

characters will help with several holiday photo scenes, including one with Santa. Popular roving Dickens’ carolers will return.

Games and food trucks will open for guests at 5:30pm. Lakewood Mayor Jeff Wood will welcome the crowd at 6:30 pm, and the Lakewood City Council will join him in the official lighting of the decorated tree at that time.

No reservations are required.

Just come on down. Parking will be available in the rear Centre-City Hall parking lots. The parking lot in front of city hall will be closed as it will be used for the event.

From December 5 through January 3, the tree will be on display in the plaza between city hall and The Centre at Sycamore Plaza at 5000 Clark Avenue, providing an animated light show that changes colors to music continuously from 5pm until 10pm each night. Stop by and enjoy the splendor of the winter holidays!

It’s also a great place to take a family holiday photo.

If it is raining the late afternoon and early evening of December 4, the event will be cancelled, but city council members will still light the tree at 6:30pm. If any rains stops by 3pm, the event will go on, although some activities may be limited. For more information, including weatherrelated updates on December 4, visit www.lakewoodcity.org/treelighting or call city staff at 562-866-9771, extension 2140. Call extension 3123 on December 4.

The Lakewood Chamber of Commerce and the Lakewood Community News would like to wish you peace, prosperity, health & great happiness this joyous holiday season and during the year ahead.

LakewoodToday

Page 2

Lots to be thankful for in Lakewood

By Mayor Jeff Wood

The holiday season is officially upon us now. Amidst all the shopping, decorating, and getting together with family and friends, it’s also a good time to do some quiet reflecting on all that we have to be grateful for.

In a world that too often is full of chaos, violence and trouble, I know I feel very fortunate to live in a community like Lakewood where there is stability, comfort and many, many caring residents.

We have a lot to be thankful for here.

We live in a city that’s developed many wonderful traditions over the years that provide opportunities for residents to come together in a spirit of community and express their support for important and enduring values.

Just a few days ago, we celebrated one of our longest running traditions, the Award

of Valor Luncheon, where we honored 40 sheriff’s deputies, firefighters and local residents who carried out noteworthy acts of public safety service to our community this past year.

In December, hundreds of Lakewood residents and businesses will volunteer to help their neighbors in need through the Project Shepherd program.

I know from seeing the grateful faces and smiles of recipient families just how meaningful it is to realize that your neighbors care about you, especially during the tough times.

I’m thankful for all the great volunteer work that takes place year-round in Lakewood. It happens through churches, youth groups and community organizations. For ideas on how you can volunteer on a Lakewood project or cause, go to www. lakewoodcity.org/volunteer or call 562-866-9771, extension 2408.

We’re also fortunate in Lakewood to have many businesses that give back to our community. In the months ahead, we’ll be providing some public attention and appreciation to those businesses. If you know of one, let us know at www. lakewoodcity.org/GiveBack or call city staff at 562-866-9771, extension 3123.

I’m very happy that two new holiday-season traditions are starting to take hold in Lakewood.

December 2015

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On Friday, December 4, Lakewood’s community tree lighting tradition will return for the second year with a special, expanded program outside The Centre at Sycamore Plaza. This year, no reservations are needed.

Just show up. Games and food trucks will be open for guests starting at 5:30pm. The city council will officially light the tree at 6:30pm. New features this year will include sing-a-longs… and snow!!!

The “Thank a Soldier” program is also becoming a Lakewood tradition, which is fitting for a community founded by returning veterans from World War II and Korea. There are still a few more days to fill out a holiday greeting that will be sent to a U.S. service member who is overseas during the holidays. Fill out a Lakewood holiday card (or bring your own) to city hall or do the same at a special table at the December 4 tree-lighting event.

We certainly have a lot of great holiday traditions in Lakewood that were created by many generations over the years—with new traditions still being created today. These traditions remind us why we’re fortunate to live in a wonderful, family-friendly community that’s strong and caring.

On behalf of my Lakewood City Council colleagues, I want to wish you and your family the very best for the holiday season ahead.

C i t y Spotlight Lakewood Hall of Fame seeks nominations The Lakewood Youth Sports Hall of Fame is seeking nominations for the 35th annual sports awards program. The 2015 Athlete of the Year, Performers of the Year and Special Achievement awards will be selected based on data supplied in nominations. Nominations are due to the Recreation and Community Services Department at city hall by December 3.

Athletes must live in or attend a school in Lakewood to be eligible. The awards banquet will take place on February 29, 2016.

Call 562-866-9771, extension 2408 for details.

Volunteer youth sports coaches needed Lakewood Youth Sports basketball teams need coaches.

Teams practice and play league games on weekday evenings and Saturday mornings beginning December 7. The season concludes March 5. Coaches volunteer an average of 3-4 hours per week. There are 1-2 practices and 1-2 games per week.

Check with your local park for details on how to get involved, or call 562-866-9771, extension 2408.

Winter vacation programs— December 19 to December 31 Holiday activities at Lakewood parks will be featured throughout the two weeks of school vacation from Saturday, December 19,

through Thursday, December 31. Special activity flyers are available at Lakewood City Hall and Lakewood parks. Santa will make an early appearance on Saturday, December 19 at each of the parks, followed by a candy cane hunt.

For more information, call 562-866-9771, extension 2408.

Super Saturday tournament at the TRC Head out to the Teen Resource Center at Bloomfield Park, 21420 Pioneer Blvd., on Saturday, December 19th for some holiday fun for middle and high school teens. For more information call Bloomfield Park at 562-8651717.

California Science Center On January 9, travel to the California Science Center in Los Angeles to enjoy fun and informative exhibits presented in interactive worlds. Enhance your experience with a viewing of a movie at the IMAX Theater and special viewing of the Space Shuttle Endeavour. The bus leaves from Burns Community Center promptly at 9am, so guests should plan to arrive by 8:30am for check in. An adult must accompany children of all ages.

Register at www.lakewoodcity. org/eCatalog using class #40851.

Last day to register is Monday, December 28 or until filled.

For further information, please visit www.lakewoodcity. org/travelprograms or contact the Recreation and Community Services Department at 562-8669771, extension 2408.

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December 2015

El Niño: Tips for getting ready

If the expected rainy season turns out to be the “Godzilla of El Niños,” the City of Lakewood has residents covered with a collection of helpful tips at www. lakewoodcity.org/ElNino.

“The key is getting prepared AHEAD of time,” says Lakewood emergency preparedness coordinator Nancy Hitt. “Common-sense things like updating your car’s wiper blades and brakes, and getting your rain gutters in good shape will count a lot during wet weather.”

The Lakewood website features other tips, including information on the free empty sandbags at Lakewood fire stations, where to get sand, and ways to get the most out of sandbags.

Residents should also remember the city’s radio station 1620 AM in case of a serious emergency like a long-lasting power outage that could result from a major storm or earthquake. In the case of a long-lasting electrical outage, city staff using emergency power backups will broadcast Lakewood-specific information directly to residents. Residents can use a car or a battery-powered radio to monitor 1620 AM. Getting batteries for flashlights and a radio are another key part of El Niño preparations.

Lakewood

News

Community

...Since 1984

Publication Manager/Graphics Designer Jodee Kilroy Editor-in-Chief Robin Vanderwerff Published by the Greater Lakewood Chamber of Commerce #24 Lakewood Center Lakewood, CA 90712 P: (562) 531-9733 * F: (562) 531-9737 advertise@lakewoodchamber.com news@lakewoodchamber.com Contents of the Lakewood Community News (“LCN”) may not be reproduced, in whole or in part, without written permission of the Publisher. The Publisher reserves the right to revise, edit, reject or suspend publication of any content germane to any addition without prior notice.

The LCN is not responsible nor liable for any claims offering for product availability that may be advertised.

SUBMISSION POLICY: Editorial must be no more than 200 words, and be submitted by the 15th of the preceding month you want the editorial published.

SPACE RESERVATIONS & AD DEADLINES: The 15th of every preceding month for ads to be designed or current ads requiring changes. The 20th of every preceding month for camera-ready art furnished by advertiser.

Business Page 3

‘Tis the season for Project Shepherd The Lakewood community’s commitment to caring is obvious when the Youth Center at Del Valle Park transforms into the “Project Shepherd Warehouse.”

Teddy Bear Tree toys are gathered and the makings for family holiday meals are assembled.

A small army of volunteers and city staff makes lists and checks them twice to help an expected 300+ Lakewood families in economic need have a brighter holiday season. They’ll be continuing Project Shepherd’s 43-year commitment of helping residents in need during the holiday season, along with a yearround mission of maintaining an emergency food pantry.

New volunteers are welcome to join in the work starting December 8. If you are interested in volunteering please go to the websites below to sign up for a shift, or call the Burns Community Center at 562-925-7512.

Adult Volunteers – http://vols. pt/2015PS_adultvolunteer Teen Volunteers – http://vols. pt/2015PS_teenvolunteer Monetary help is still needed, as are toys and simple food staples like canned meat and fish, canned fruit, pasta, rice and cereal, peanut butter and canned soup.

Basics like toilet paper, laundry detergent and toothpaste are also welcome. Project Shepherd also needs $15 grocery gift cards from

served, helping 1,503 individuals living in Lakewood, many of them children. They were able to enjoy the holidays when they otherwise lacked the food, gifts and toys that many of us take for granted.

any local grocery store. These gift cards are given to families so they can purchase a ham or turkey to complete their holiday meal.

With your help, Project Shepherd will ensure there’s enough joy for everyone in Lakewood during this holiday season. Financial contributions can be made by check to: Lakewood Project Shepherd, 5050 Clark Avenue, Lakewood, 90712.

Donations can also be made online at www.lakewoodcity.org/ GiveProjectShepherd.

Donations of non-perishable food and grocery staples can be made at most city parks and facilities. Suggested drop-off locations are: • Burns Community Center at 5510 Clark Avenue • Lakewood City Hall at 5050 Clark Avenue

• Weingart Senior Center at 5220 Oliva Avenue • Palms Park Community Center at 12305 207th Street near Del Amo Boulevard and Norwalk Boulevard.

Last year 396 families were

&Financial

Business Page 4

Lakewood surpassing goals in water conservation!

Earlier this year, the State of California set a goal for Lakewood of saving at least 20% from 2013 water use levels. Lakewood residents, businesses and the city itself have stepped up to the task in earnest and have saved over 28% so far. That extra 8% margin of water savings is one of the best in our region.

The city recently installed a new banner (shown here) at the corner of Clark Avenue and Del Amo Boulevard to congratulate Lakewood residents on the great work.

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December 2015

Parking tips for street-sweeping day...and every day “Street-sweeping and parking rules are one of those necessities for creating a safe, orderly and enjoyable life in a community,” said Paolo Beltran, Lakewood’s customer service manager. “I grew up in Lakewood, and I really don’t want our residents to get parking tickets. Our residents generally do very well with parking and street sweeping. But hopefully, the more we communicate what the rules are, we can really minimize the number of residents who violate the rules and get tickets.

“Below are some tips for avoiding tickets,” said Beltran, “and the reasons behind the city’s street sweeping and parking rules.”

• The reason Lakewood sweeps both sides of a street on the same day is that it provides a cleaner sweep of the street. When only one side of a street is swept on one day, it allows trash and leaves on the dirty side to blow over to the clean side of the street and escape pick up. Sweeping

on alternate days on alternate sides of the streets also would require the costly installation of hundreds of visually-unappealing signs in every neighborhood.

• To make street-sweeping day easier for residents who have more cars than can fit in their driveway and garage, Lakewood has the following parking rules: - Parking is allowed on the front and

side lawns on street-sweeping day only.

- Parking (on any day) is allowed on the apron, which is the sloped area between the street and the sidewalk leading up to your driveway. Your vehicle can overhang onto the parkway at either end of the apron, but not the sidewalk.

- Citations are only issued when a vehicle is immediately in the way of the sweeper. (Citation-writing cars follow directly behind the sweeper). That means you can park on the street before and after the sweeper passes your home, even if you are parked during the hours listed on the no-parking signs in your neighborhood.

• Don’t block or overhang onto the sidewalk. When parking in your driveway or the apron on any day of the week, including street-sweeping day, it is important to not block or overhang onto the sidewalk. That creates a dangerous obstruction for pedestrians and violates the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and state parking laws.

• Street-sweeping is cancelled when city staff determines it is raining enough that water is pooling or flowing in gutters throughout a neighborhood, which prevents effective sweeping. (Sweeping still occurs during a light sprinkle.) In the case of a rain cancelation, sweeping in that neighborhood is postponed until the regular sweeping day the following week. For example, the cancelation of a Friday sweep means the next sweep in that neighborhood is the following Friday. No sweeping-related parking citations are issued on rain cancelation days.

If you have any questions, please contact Lakewood customer service staff at 562-866-9771, extension 2140 or at service1@lakewoodcity. org.

Tree Lighting (Cont.d from Pg. 1)

can’t make the tree lighting on December 4. From December 5 through January 3, the tree will be on display in the plaza between city hall and The Centre at Sycamore Plaza at 5000 Clark Avenue, providing an animated light show that changes colors to music continuously from 5pm until 10pm each night. Stop by and enjoy the splendor of the winter holidays! It’s also a great place to take a family holiday photo.

If it is raining the late afternoon and early evening of December 4, the event will be cancelled, but city council members will still light the tree at 6:30pm. If any rains stops by 3pm, the event will go on, although some activities may be limited. For more information, including weather-related updates on December 4, visit www. lakewoodcity.org/treelighting or call city staff at 562-866-9771, extension 2140.

Call extension 3123 on December 4.

News

Community

December 2015

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Page 5

Christmas...a double- City service changes for December/ edged sword?

New Year

The holidays are upon us. And for many it’s a double-edged sword.

On the one hand it’s fun to get together with family and friends.

On the other hand it’s hard to get together with family and friends.

A lot of you have great families that you look forward to seeing and spending time with. But not everyone is that fortunate.

Some of you don’t have families nearby, and if you do, maybe not everyone gets along, and the gettogethers become a time of stress.

Perhaps you’ve lost someone recently, making this a difficult period in your life. Add to that the stress of shopping, cooking, and the extra demands on your time.

Despite the challenges of the holiday season, there is the other more joyful and uplifting side.

This time of year can be used for reflection, for giving, for focusing on the hidden gems of your life, and for the small joys that make you smile— the happiness of children, the beautiful decorations, eggnog, and cozy winter nights.

Let’s focus this holiday season

Congregation Shir Chadash celebrates Hanukkah

Congregation Shir Chadash of Lakewood will hold their annual “Latkapalooza” dinner and latka (Pototo pancakes) feast on Wednesday, December 9 at 5:30pm at 6440 E. Del Amo Blvd.

Lakewood.

Everyone is welcome.

Those attending may also bring their Chanukah Menorahs (holiday candelabras) and take part in lighting the 4th candle of this 8-day holiday, which goes from December 7-14 this year.

Adults are $7.50, children free. RSVP’s may be made by calling the Temple office at (562) 429-0715.

on the goodness that exists.

Because it does!

Lakewood City Hall will be closed on Thursday, 12/24; Friday, 12/25; Thursday 12/31 and Friday 1/1. Special trash pickup, street sweeping and parking rules will be in force. DASH Transit service will not be available 12/24 and 12/25.

DASH will also be closed on 12/31 and New Year’s Day 1/1.

For trash pick-up and sweeping the following schedule applies for the two weeks of December 21 and December 28: • Trash pick-up AND residential street sweeping will occur as normal Monday through Thursday (December 21-24 and December 2831).

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• No trash pick-up AND no residential street sweeping will occur on Friday (December 25 and January 1).

• Trash pick-up for Friday will be delayed by one day and occur on Saturday.

There will be no make-up day for the missed day of sweeping on Friday; no residential street sweeping will occur on Saturday.

Trash and street sweeping will return to normal on Monday, January 4, 2016.

Chamber News Page 6

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Advertise in the Lakewood Community News. Call or email us at: (562) 531-9733 / advertise@lakewoodchamber.com.

December 2015

The Gift T’was the night before Christmas, He lived all alone, In a one bedroom house made of plaster and stone.

I had come down the chimney with presents to give, and to see just who in this home did live.

I looked all about, A strange sight I did see, No Tinsel, No presents, Not even a tree.

No stocking by the mantle, Just boots filled with sand, On the wall hung pictures of far distant lands.

With medals and badges, Awards of all kinds, A sober thought came through my mind.

For this house was different, It was dark and dreary, I found the home of a soldier, Once I could see clearly.

The soldier lay sleeping, silent, alone, Curled up on the floor in this one bedroom home.

The face was so gentle, The room in such disorder, Not how I pictured a United States Soldier.

Was this hero of whom I’d just read?

Curled up on a poncho, the floor for a bed?

I realized the families that I saw this night, Owed their lives to these soldiers Who were willing to fight.

Soon round the world, The children would play, And grownups would celebrate A bright Christmas Day. They all enjoyed freedom each month of the year.

Because of the soldiers, Like the one lying here.

I couldn’t help wonder How many lay alone, On a cold Christmas Eve In a land far from home.

The very thought brought a tear to my eye, I dropped to my knees And started to cry.

The soldier awakened And I heard a rough voice, “Santa don’t cry, This life is my choice; I fight for freedom, I don’t ask for more, My life is my God, My Country, My Corps.”

The soldier rolled over And soon drifted to sleep, I couldn’t control it, I continued to weep.

I kept watch for hours, So silent and still And we both shivered From the cold night’s chill.

I didn’t want to leave On that cold, dark, night, This guardian of freedom So willing to fight.

Then the soldier rolled over, With a voice soft and pure, Whispered, “Carry on Santa, It’s Christmas Day, all is secure.”

One look at my watch, and I knew he was right.

“Merry Christmas my friend, And to all a good night.”

Green

www.lakewoodnews.org

December 2015

Make some memories with family traditions As we get older, it seems that the holidays arrive earlier with each passing year. One after the other, like a whirlwind, the fall and winter seasons fly by in a sea of chaos.

Time spent truly enjoying all that the holiday season brings is limited.

Somehow we’ve veered off course, and have become so wrapped up in the commercialism of it all, that we’ve lost site of the special meaning of the holidays.

Holiday traditions are so important for a family because they build strong bonds that give children a strong sense of security.

What does tradition mean? It is defined as “the handing down of information, beliefs and customs by word of mouth, or by example from one generation to another without written instruction.”

This is the season to do some of the things you’ve done every year, like making grandmas dressing

Home fire danger peaks during holiday season

As the holiday season approaches and families gear up for decorating their homes and hosting large gatherings of friends and family, the fire and water restoration professionals at SERVPRO® in the Lakewood area remind homeowners to take note of some sobering statistics about home fire safety from the National Fire Prevention Association: • Cooking equipment is the leading cause of home structure fires. The three peak days for home cooking fires are Thanksgiving, Christmas Day and Christmas Eve. • Candles fires peak in December. The top three days for candles fires are Christmas Day, Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve. These statistics are a serious reminder of how the excitement of holiday entertaining can quickly turn into a life-altering fire or even a tragic injury or death. While glowing candles and elaborate meals set the stage for a great holiday get-together, homeowners need to exercise extra care in controlling the dangerous potential for fires.

or serving the turkey on great grandmas silver tray. Some people may fill shoeboxes with toys and clothes for needy children through their church and others may get involved in their community programs such as Lakewood’s Project Shepherd. It doesn’t matter what the tradition, it is just important to have them.

These days, when so much

around us is constantly changing, we may need traditions more then ever. It might have something to do with our mortality and handing down traditions and memories to our children and their children is something that will outlast us. So slow down this Christmas season and don’t get too exhausted to make some new memories and enjoy the traditions of the past.

Living

Page 7

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December 2015

Shop Lakewood...

Get your rebate and be prepared for El Niño Tbe Rinks celebrates a All Lakewood and surrounding city residents who pay a water bill currently qualify for a Rain Barrel Rebate of $75.00 per barrel.

The limit is 4 rain barrels per household with one submission allowed. This offer is being sponsored by the Metropolitan Water District and information about the program can be found at www.SoCalWaterSmart.com.

The costs of the rain barrels is $85.00 per barrel and a Rain Barrel Truckload Sale will be hosted in the community on Sunday, December 13th from 8am

to 10am at Mr. K’s Donuts, 4831 Paramount Blvd., Lakewood.

The rain barrels must be preordered by Friday, December 11th at www.RainBarrelsIntl.com under the EVENTS tab – click on Mr. K’s Donuts.

Rain Barrels Intl. believes that by capturing rainwater you prevent flooding, erosion and ocean pollution not to mention using it in your garden too!

For more information about the program contact info@ RainBarrelsIntl.com.

Pick up your rain barrel, learn

how to get your rebate and help keep your home and neighborhood healthy and beautiful.

Become a member of the Lakewood Chamber of Commerce, call or email: (562) 531-9733

Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

The Rinks – Lakewood ICE located at 3975 Pixie Ave. recently celebrated a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for their brand new sheet of ice. They’re happy to announce it’s up and running on Rink C! Bring the kids, and enjoy some Public Skating!

info@lakewoodchamber.com

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...Stay Lakewood Loyal

December 2015

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Shop Lakewood...

Bring the kids to the Lakewood Preschool Information and Family Fair

The MOMS ClubÂŽ of Lakewood, CA (MOMS Club) will host its annual Preschool Information and Family Fair on Saturday, February 20, 2016 from 9am to 12noon at the Youth Center at Del Valle park (4658

Woodruff Ave., Lakewood, CA 90713). Registration is open for local preschools, community programs, vendors, and sponsors.

Free and open to the public, the fair is a community event that offers parents in Lakewood and surrounding areas a forum to receive information about local preschools and arts, education, and sports programs for kids. Families can ask questions of school and program representatives, and sign up for classes and tours. Kids will enjoy a wide variety of entertainment and crafts sponsored by local businesses, including face painting, parachute play, performances and demos.

The fair also will feature door prizes/raffles and child- and

family-oriented vendors, with the proceeds benefitting Children Today, a local charity that provides free services and education to homeless families. The discounted, early bird registration deadline is December 11, 2015 and the final deadline is January 22, 2016.

MOMS Club of Lakewood recognizes that, once you have decided your child is ready, choosing the right preschool can seem daunting. It is important to weigh each aspect of the preschool and make a decision that is good for you and your child. They hope that this fair will assist families in understanding their options, in what is known as the first step in a child’s academic journey.

To obtain more information about the free Preschool Information and Family Fair or to be a sponsor, please contact Catherine Liu at cmchao@ hotmail.com or 562-618-2298.

...Stay Lakewood Loyal

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December 2015

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December 2015

Page 11

“Light Up a Life” Remembering those you love

GOOD LUCK!

Pick up your pencil and lets play Sudoku!

Congratulations to Michael Naylor and Janice Harman! They are the lucky winners of the November 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 Friday, December 18th, 2015. The winners will be drawn on Monday, December 21, 2015, 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 January issue, along with a new Sudoku Puzzle.

Around Town in December Lakewood • Mr. K’s Donuts & Rain Barrels Intl. has joined efforts to host the 4th annual Helping Hand Hygiene Collection.

During the holiday season, through December 15, Lakewood residents can donate their unused hygiene items by putting them in the rain barrel collection drop off at Mr. K’s Donuts, 4831 Paramount Blvd., Lakewood.

All items will be packed by local high school students into gallon size storage bags and will be distributed by the St. Joseph Parrish to low income families in need. For more information contact Rain Barrels Intl. at info@RainBarrelsIntl.com.

• The Lakewood Women’s Club will hold it’s monthly meeting on Tuesday, December 15 at Monte Verde Park, 4626 N. Shadeway Road, Lakewood.

Social gathering will be at 10:30am, Meeting at 11am, Lunch at 12noon and Program at 1pm.

The speaker this month will be Sally Rogers for the Lakewood Education Foundation and members will be bringing food and gifts to be donated to their “Adopted Lakewood Family” for Christmas.

For reservations for lunch, call Arlene Roos, 863-4933, one week ahead, by Monday, December 7.

Bellflower • Come share with the Bellflower

Civic Chorus that special feeling of love generated by the music of Christmas as they present their annual Christmas concert, “Joyous Yuletide.”

Concert dates are set for Friday, December 11, at 7pm, Saturday and Sunday, December 12, and 13 both at 2:30pm at the William Bristol Auditorium. For further information call (562) 866-4664.

“Light Up a Life” is a signature tree lighting program traditionally promoted by hospices across the U.S. A small donation of $20 provides one light on the holiday tree in memory or in honor of someone you love. Additionally, the name of the person being honored or memorialized is listed on the “Light up a Life” scrolls displayed by the trees during the month of December at various libraries throughout the community.

This very special event will take place Monday December 7, 2015 from 7-8pm at the Centre at Sycamore Plaza in Lakewood, and then again on Thursday December 10, 2015 from 7-8pm at the Recreation Park Golf Course Gazebo in Long Beach. Both ceremonies will be held outdoors so bring your coats and mittens!

All donations benefit Pathways’

Looking to travel?

Lakewood Chamber wants to help. We’re currently offering the following trips: • Feb. 1st / A Taste of the South Pacific • Mar. 14th / Timeless Amalfi • Mar. 16th / The Essence of Eastern Europe • Mar. 29th / Paris to Normandy (Seine River Cruise) Call or email us for a brochure: 562-531-9733/info@lakewoodchamber.com

programs and services which are provided free of charge.

For more information on Pathways services or how you can participate in the “Light Up a Life” program, please call Vickie Kaefer at 562-531-3031 or email Vickie@pathwayshospice.org.

Visit the Pathways website at www. pathwayshospice.org.

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www.lakewoodnews.org

December 2015