News
Lakewood Community 30,000 delivered to Lakewood and portions of Long Beach
Official publication of the Greater Lakewood Chamber of Commerce
www.lakewoodnews.org
Volume 32 Number 1
January 2015
Lakewood Chamber’s Year in Review! Networking… From lunch in the afternoon to appetizers and cocktails in the evening, a variety of networking opportunities are available for busy Chamber Members. Business Connections… The Chamber also hosts several special events that bring together community leaders as well as business professionals. The Annual Business Forecast Luncheon addresses issues that are most likely to affect the business community. The Business Expo brings the business community together at the Lakewood Center. Businesses are given the opportunity to display and sell their products and services to the public. The Chamber also assists new local businesses with Ribbon Cutting Ceremonies in order to help get the word out about their new business within the community. For the sports enthusiasts in your organization the Chamber hosts it’s own Softball League. Events… Aside from networking opportunities, in 2014, the Lakewood Chamber held many great events such as the muchanticipated Annual Summer (Cont’d on Pg. 4)
Got a news idea?
The Lakewood Community News wants to know…“What’s going on?” As a Lakewood resident, if you have something noteworthy to share with the community, we want to hear about it. E-mail any thoughts, suggestions, or ideas to: news@lakewoodchamber.com or mail to P.O. Box 160, Lakewood, CA 90714. Lakewood Community News #24 Lakewood Center Mall Lakewood, CA 90712 (562) 531-9733
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New Year’s resolutions made easy
Volunteer coaches get trained with Lakewood Youth Sports.
“Resolution season” has many looking inward with hopes of losing weight, getting more organized or paying down their debt. In Lakewood there are also lots of opportunities for looking outward. Consider adopting resolutions like “giving back to the community” and “volunteering.” Options in Lakewood range from spending one morning
joining with hundreds of neighbors this spring at Volunteer Day to spending a few evenings a month on the parks coaching neighborhood kids or getting active on your own street in Neighborhood Watch. The deep tradition in Lakewood of volunteering and donating to those in need or to the community at large makes keeping these (Cont’d on Pg. 5)
State of the City tickets on sale now Lakewood’s annual State of the City Luncheon is set for Monday, January 26 from 12 noon to 1:30pm at The Centre at Sycamore Plaza. Attendees will hear what Lakewood’s leaders are saying about the city’s upcoming opportunities and challenges. This annual event is sponsored by the City of Lakewood, the Rotary Club of Lakewood, and the Greater Lakewood Chamber of Commerce. Tickets are for sale online now at a cost of $25 at www.lakewoodcity.org/sotc. The program will review the accomplishments of the past year and feature the first showing of Lakewood’s always informative and entertaining annual report video, which will be played in the weeks following the event on CityTV Channel 31. The deadline to make reservations is Tuesday, January 20. For more information, call or email Nanette Davis at 562-8669771, extension 3123; ndavis@lakewoodcity.org.
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Reflections on the year past By Mayor Todd Rogers
Many of us spend some time during these final days of December reflecting on what’s happened in our lives personally and what we’d like to accomplish (or try to) in the year ahead. As Lakewood’s mayor, I wanted to take some time to also reflect on what the outgoing and incoming year mean for our community. First off, Lakewood started and ended 2014 in a big way celebrating our 60th anniversary as a city. We held a communitywide celebration early in the year and added 60th themes to events throughout the year, culminating in December celebrations around our new Lakewood Holiday Tree at the civic center. Next, you could call 2014 the “Year of the Park” in Lakewood.
Usually, our city might upgrade one park facility a year. But in 2014, because of the needs that arose and the opportunities that presented themselves, we undertook not one—but four major projects! We opened our first-ever dog park; we modernized “pumpkin playground” at San Martin Park; we embarked on the renovation and redesign of our Veterans Memorial Plaza at Del Valle Park; and we extended the nature trail along the San Gabriel River, to be opened up in the spring of 2015 when the new plants have taken root. Public safety has also been a consistent priority for Lakewood residents. In 2014, we continued to devote the resources necessary to be one of the safest communities in our region. One of our best investments is Neighborhood Watch and other efforts to encourage our residents to be “eyes and ears” looking out for unusual activity that our Sheriff’s deputies should investigate. Thank you Lakewood residents for being such good partners in keeping our community safe. The year 2014 was notable for several special tributes that Lakewood made to our nation’s military veterans. In August, a traveling version of the Vietnam
Veterans Memorial Wall visited Mayfair Park for four days. Thousands of Lakewood area residents came out to pay their respects. Hats off to the Greater Lakewood Chamber of Commerce, local veterans, city staff and community volunteers for all the work that went into the wall’s visit and for the stirring reminder of the sacrifices our Vietnam veterans made in service to our nation many decades ago. Then, over the past couple of months, the city organized the “Thank a Soldier” campaign in which over 3,000 Lakewood residents sent holiday postcards and letters of appreciation to American troops serving our nation far from their homes. This past year was also notable for two accolades our city received. Lakewood was named one of the ten “Most Business Friendly Cities” in L.A. County by the prestigious Economic Development Corporation. Lakewood got the honor for its top-notch customer service in dealing with businesses and residents seeking permits and licenses and for its low property and utility taxes and permit fees. Lakewood got another “honor,” that I put in quotes, because lots of us aren’t quite sure we want or deserve the distinction. Earlier
January 2015 this year, a real estate website that does offbeat and unusual rankings of cities named Lakewood “the most boring city in California.” Their rankings were based on factors like how many nightclubs and bars a community has. Many Lakewood residents were just fine being considered “boring” on that scale. However, when I consider all the projects that our city undertook in 2014, I can’t believe that anyone who looked at the full picture of Lakewood could consider us boring. The year 2014 was very exciting for a city that values its family-friendly parks, safe neighborhoods and community events. And I know there will be plenty more excitement and good times in the year ahead. On behalf of all my colleagues on the Lakewood City Council, best wishes to you and your family for a happy, healthy and exciting new year.
C i t y Spotlight Spring recreation catalogs are ‘in the mail’ Resident mail-in registration and online registration starts when catalogs arrive in the mail late in December. General registration for the public, including phone-in and walk-in registration, begins Monday, January 12 at 7:30am at city hall. Most classes and activities begin the week of Monday, February 2. Online registration is fast, easy and convenient at www. lakewoodcity.org/eCatalog. For additional information call 562866-9771, extension 2408. Afterschool Activity Zone begins in January Lakewood parks offer free after-school activities beginning the week of January 5. Activities include homework help, crafts and sports instruction. Students will have a variety of things to participate in while parents can be assured that their children are properly supervised in a safe and creative environment. Program schedules are available online at www.lakewoodcity. org/recreation/forms and can be picked up at Lakewood City Hall, all parks and city libraries. Hours of supervision at all city parks beginning on January 5 are: • Monday to Friday: 3pm to 5pm • Saturdays: 9am to 5pm • Sundays and holidays: 12noon to 5pm Parks are open additional hours for scheduled programs and permits. Call your local park for more information regarding supervision hours and the Activity ZONE program. Park phone numbers are at www. lakewoodcity.org/recreation. Youth Sports Hall Tickets for the 34th annual Lakewood Youth Sports Hall of Fame banquet will be on sale at Lakewood City Hall starting February 2. The awards banquet is scheduled for Monday, February 23 at 6:30pm at The Centre at Sycamore Plaza and will honor the 2014 Athlete of the Year and more than 25 other deserving athletes and coaches.
If purchased by February 10, discounted tickets are $28 for adults and $18 for students. If purchased between February 11 and 17, ticket prices are $34 and $24 respectively. Call 562-8669771, extension 2408 for more information or to purchase tickets. Adult sports registration Adult sports information packets and roster forms will be available starting January 5 at Lakewood City Hall. Call 562866-9771, extension 2408 for more information. They are also online at www.lakewoodcity.org/ sports. • Adult Softball, Men’s Slow Pitch, Men’s Fast Pitch, Women’s Slow Pitch, Ko-Rec Slow Pitch and Senior Slow Pitch: registration dates for the spring season are January 5-15. League dates are March 1 to May 22. Summer registration begins May 4. • Women’s Volleytennis is on Monday nights. Registration dates are January 5 to January 15 and league dates are February 23 to May 4. • Adult Kickball for Co-Ed and Women will play on Tuesday nights and weekend afternoons. Registration dates are January 5-15, 2015 and league dates will be February 24 to May 22. • Teen and adult free play volleyball at Mayfair High School Gym is ongoing and is offered on Thursdays for teens from 6:30pm to 9pm and on Tuesdays for adults from 6:30pm to 9pm. • Adult basketball free play at Mayfair High School Gym is ongoing, offered Mondays from 6:30pm to 9pm. Nixon Presidential Library and Museum Trip Travel to Yorba Linda on Saturday, February 21 to visit the Nixon Presidential Library and Museum, which is home to vintage campaign films, news footage, images and artifacts related to President Nixon’s career and family life. Special features include a replica of the Lincoln Sitting Room in the White House’s family quarters as it was decorated during President Nixon’s terms. Exploration of the space program during the Nixon presidency includes an astronaut’s space suit, the telephone President Nixon used to call Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin on the moon and an actual moon rock. The 1967 Lincoln Continental limousine used by Presidents Johnson, Nixon, and Ford is on site, as is a reconstruction of President Nixon’s postpresidential office in his home in Park Ridge, New Jersey along with a replica of the East Room of the White House and President Nixon’s helicopter. Learn more at www.nixonlibrary.gov. Sign up at www.lakewoodcity. org/eCatalog or call 562-8669771 extension 2408. The cost of this trip is $30 per person and the last day to register is Monday, February 9 (or until filled); class # 37628. Attendees should arrive at the Burns Community Center at 9am for check in. The bus will leave promptly at 9:30am. An adult must accompany children of all ages.
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January 2015
Business Page 3
Small businesses: Are you ready for 2015 filing deadlines? For small businesses, January’s arrival usually brings one very important task: issuing W-2s and 1099 forms to employees and independent contractors. The good news is this year, due to the typical filing date of Jan. 31 falling on a weekend, businesses have a builtin buffer and a couple extra days to complete these tax reporting documents. February 2, 2015, is the date to remember when preparing your business’ tax reporting forms this season. But don’t forget, even with the additional days, getting a head start on cutoff dates can protect you and your company harsh consequences, wasted time and unneeded hassle. According to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), businesses must send their employees’ W-2s by Feb. 2 and provide all W-2s and the transmittal Form W-3 to the Social Security
Administration (SSA) by March 2, 2015. This has also been extended because the normal due date falls on a weekend. In the event that an employee does not receive a W-2 from their employer on time or at all, they can contact the IRS for assistance. Even with the extended reporting date for businesses, the IRS requests that employees wait until at least Feb. 14, allowing for slow mail delivery and other varying factors. After Feb. 14, the IRS will contact the employer for the employee, request the missing form, and send the employee Form 4852 to complete, which is a substitute for the original W-2. The payer will be notified of the penalties if it fails to comply with government regulations, which
can include significant fines. The same applies to issuing 1099s, used for reporting company payments to freelance and contract workers or other non-employees. In general, businesses need to supply workers with a copy of their 1099 form by Feb. 2. Employers who unintentionally misclassify workers also run the risk of significant penalties and interest, so being overly cautious never hurts. What’s more, if a small business fails to file a W-2 or 1099, it can be fined up to $500,000, which can accrue interest if it remains unpaid. Estimates are that 30 percent of businesses misclassify workers; so make sure your business knows how to correctly report your workers when issuing W-2 and 1099 forms.
There’s a new sheriff in town
Jim McDonnell was sworn in as the new Sheriff of Los Angeles County on December 1. For nearly three decades, McDonnell held numerous positions at the Los Angeles Police Department, including First Assistant Chief and second in command to the Police Chief, before serving as the Chief of Police for the Long Beach Police Department for four years. Sheriff McDonnell is dedicated to preventing crime at its roots, and he works with numerous nonprofit organizations that focus on furthering the interests of youth. He also embraces the concept of community-oriented policing, which is a deeply rooted value in Lakewood. He is an expert on community policing strategies and plans to have a close partnership with community and business leaders throughout Los Angeles County. The new sheriff recently attended and spoke at Lakewood’s Award of Valor celebration and was impressed with our city’s commitment to recognizing our law and fire personnel for their bravery and also recognizing our civilians for their involvement in reporting and preventing crime. Lakewood officials are looking forward to a new relationship with Sheriff McDonnell and working with him over the years. They are excited to welcome a new leader who embraces the values and concerns of the Lakewood community.
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Year-In-Review (Cont’d. from Pg. 1)
Stampede Car Show. A new element was added to the show, a tribute to all veterans past and present. The Chamber and local veteran groups worked together to bring the traveling version of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall to Mayfair Park, and the Chamber hosted a P51 Mustang flyover in recognition of all our military veterans. Car lovers from all over California came together to display their old cars for the community to admire. The Chamber also provided the opportunity for the community to attend a trip to Ireland, Tuscany, Mexico, Austria-Germany, Cuba and an Alaska Cruise. The start of a New Year is the perfect opportunity to get involved, what are you waiting for? Become a member of the Lakewood Chamber of Commerce. Give us a call at (562) 531-9733 to learn more about how your local Chamber of Commerce can help your business grow and prosper.
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Lakewood residents ‘Thank a Soldier’ in big way
The Lakewood City Council looks over the 3,400 cards and letters for Thank A Soldier.
Lakewood was founded in the 1950s largely by young World War II and Korean War veterans and their families, and an appreciation for military service has been a continuing value in the city for decades since. Thus, it should come as no surprise that Lakewood residents gave a big positive response to the call of Mayor
Todd Rogers to join the city’s “Thank a Soldier” holiday postcard and letterwriting campaign. The effort was designed to send a brief note of appreciation and thanks during the holidays to American troops serving far from home. The city designed a special nostalgic Lakewood postcard that could be
used, and people could also write their own card or letter. Schools, businesses, churches and community groups joined the city in encouraging their members to take part, and in the end 3,400 cards and letters were written and brought to Lakewood City Hall. The city got them all packaged up and sent off in early December to U.S. troops overseas through the military support group, Operation Gratitude. “Thank you to all the Lakewood residents and business people who took the time to write a card or letter,” said Rogers. “My city council colleagues and I saw all 3,400 of them spread out on several tables at city hall, and wow, were we impressed! I know those cards and letters are going to make a nice impact when they arrive at American military bases overseas.”
January 2015
Lakewood Regional Medical Center appoints new Chief Operating Officer
Lakewood Regional Medical Center recently appointed Lani Dickinson as Chief Operating Officer. An experienced health care professional, Ms. Dickinson served as Chief Nursing Officer of Doctors Medical Center of Modesto, a 465bed, multi-specialty hospital located in Modesto, CA. Tenet Health is the parent company of Doctors Medical Center of Modesto. Ms. Dickinson also served as associate administrator, director of clinical quality and director of patient care services for the cardiovascular service line. “Lani is an experienced leader with exceptional results throughout her career,” said Ron Galonsky, Chief Executive Officer at Lakewood Regional Medical Center. “She will fit well with our strong leadership team as we continue our capital improvement project and further expand services to meet the patient and physician needs of the central Los Angeles County region.” Ms. Dickinson received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from California State University-Stanislaus, Master of Business Administration from the University of San Francisco - School of Management, and is working towards a Doctorate from the University of Pittsburgh.
Welcome to Lakewood!
January 2015
New Year’s Resolutions (Cont’d. from Pg. 1)
resolutions a cinch! Residents pitching in have improved the quality of life in Lakewood for 60 years. If you want to help but don’t know what’s the right fit for you, visit www.lakewoodcity.org/ volunteer or call 562-866-9771, extension 2408. City staff can help match your interests with over 35 activities and community groups. Meals On Wheels The Lakewood Meals On Wheels program (MOW) has been making life easier for elderly residents and shut-ins of all ages since 1975. MOW volunteers range in age from teens to seniors and help with everything from making sandwiches and packaging meals to driving and delivering meals to dozens of Lakewood clients. The nutritional meals are important, of course, but daily contact with a caring volunteer is just as important. Meals On Wheels is a non-profit community agency sponsored by the members of Lakewood/Long Beach Soroptimist Club and the City of Lakewood. How to help: More information is at www.lakewoodcity.or/MOW. To volunteer, call 562-925-8747. Volunteer Day On Saturday, April 18, 2015, hundreds of Lakewood residents will fan out across the city to spruce up the yard or home exterior of fellow Lakewood residents in need. This will be the 19th year that Volunteer Day has been making a positive difference in Lakewood. Individuals and teams of volunteers from scout troops, schools, businesses, clubs and religious congregations assist residents in need who are unable to maintain their properties themselves. How to help: Suggestions for sites and offers to volunteer can be made online at www.lakewoodcity. org/volunteerday or by calling Lakewood’s Burns Community Center at 562-925-7512. Project Shepherd This homegrown Lakewood effort was founded in 1973 and has operated successfully ever since, providing help during the holiday season to residents suffering economic hardship. Assistance includes food deliveries and toys for children who would otherwise go without during the holidays. Project Shepherd also provides a limited amount of assistance outside of the holiday season for emergency household hardships. How to help: To donate or volunteer, please contact Lakewood’s Burns Community Center at 562-925-7512 or e-mail service1@lakewoodcity.org.. Additional volunteer opportunities include:
Lakewood Youth Sports Coaching Weingart Senior Center Pathways Volunteer Hospice Friends of the Lakewood Library Neighborhood Watch Lakewood Education Foundation
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Lakewood student receives scholarship
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Happy New Year! Carol Otters
Financial Advisor .
5536 South Street Lakewood, CA 90713 562-804-7994
Member SIPC
Retired Norwalk Superior Court Judge Dan Pratt recently presented Michael Melindo of Lakewood with the $1,800 Carmen Solis Pratt Scholarship at the Cerritos College Foundation’s board meeting. Judge Pratt established the Carmen Solis Pratt Re-Entry Scholarship in 2001 in memory of his mother who valued education, but was never able to attend college herself. Each year, a recipient is selected among applicants who are re-entry students at Cerritos College and are 35 years of age or older. Melindo is a first-year student enrolled in the nursing program. He developed an interest in the medical field as a teenager and is excited to be pursuing his goals at Cerritos College. Melindo loves connecting with patients and being able to provide quality care. Once he earns his associate’s degree, Michael plans to transfer to California State University, Long Beach for his bachelor’s degree in nursing. “Michael was selected as the recipient because he reflects my mother’s sense of initiative and drive and I am certain he’ll accomplish his educational goals,” said Pratt.
ChamberNews Page 6
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January 2015
Lakewood Chamber Members Want to to wish you a
Accommodations-Hotel Holiday Inn-Long Beach Airport (562) 597-4401 Animal Care Found Animals Foundation (310) 574-5794 Your Lucky Pet Sitter (562) 682-8954 Automobile - General Lakewood Car Wash (562) 634-9020 Orozco’s Auto Service (562) 427-4256 Automobile-Dealer George Chevrolet (562) 925-2500 Automobile-Parts & Supplies Hap’s Auto Parts (562) 422-1201 Transamerican Wholesale (310) 900-5567 Automobile-Tires Allen Tire Company (562) 420-2269 Banking Institutions AmericanWest Bank (562) 627-9804 NuVision Federal Credit Union (562) 375-8327 Beauty Salons & Spa Bellflower Beauty College (562) 421-1700 Broadcasting Hosana Broadcasting (310) 348-9188 Carpet B&B Carpets (562) 428-7589 Catering/Banquet Hall Lakewood Country Club (562) 421-0550 TGIS (Thank Goodness its Sofia) (562) 804-4434 Check Cashing Cash America Payday Advance (562) 630-8500 Child Development - Day Care ChildNet Youth & Family Services (562) 498-5000 Long Beach Day Nursery (562) 591-0509 Churches Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (562) 496-2319 Lakewood First United Methodist Church (562) 425-1219 Lakewood Christ Presbyterian Church (562) 633-0749 Life Center Assembly of God (562) 866-9078 Contractors
K.E.Y. Design (562) 292-1217 Consulting Technical Writing & Consulting (562) 881-6375 Dentistry-Orthodontics Brodsky Orthodontics (562) 496-2000 Candlewood Smiles (562) 634-5042 Lakewood Modern Dentistry (562) 920-9050 Nguyen Dental (562) 634-2500 Raymond Manigigian D.D.S. (562) 429-2459 Education-Schools & Colleges ABC Unified School District (562) 926-5566 Allison Tutoring (562) 822-6488 Bellflower Unified School District (562) 866-9011 Bethany Lutheran School (562) 420-7783 Cerritos College (562) 860-2451 Irvine University College of Law, Inc. (562) 865-7111 Long Beach Unified School District (562) 997-8242 Saint Joseph High School (562) 925-5073 Electricians Power Electric (562) 833-7603 West Coast Electric (310) 612-9449 Employment Development SELACO WIB (562) 402-9336 Entertainment Round One Bowling & Amusement (562) 408-2937 Seahawk Cocktail Lounge (562) 630-2649 The Rinks – Lakewood Ice (562) 429-1805 Equipment Rental Lakewood Rent-All (562) 421-4714 Escrow Services Appraisal Pacific Inc. (562) 377-1000 Castlehead, Inc. Escrows (562) 809-7772 Teamwork Escrow (562) 920-9611 Financial Advisors & Services Edward Jones Investments (562) 804-7994
Happy New Year!
Florists Melinda McCoy’s Flowers (562) 424-0901 White House Florist (562) 925-1238 Grocery/Market Milk Barn (562) 425-3745 Health & Fitness Crossfit BPM (562) 633-6164 The Sweat Shop Gym (562) 673-7641 Vital Fitness (562) 716-7064 Healthcare Bel Tooren Villa Convalescent (562) 867-1761 CareMore Medical Group (866) 622-2820 Coast Healthcare Mgmt. (562) 602-1563 Conrad Cox M.D. Inc. (562) 461-8584 Hart 2 Heart Medical (213) 247-1233 Healthcare Partners (562) 361-5650 Immediate Medical Center (562) 802-0208 Lakewood Primary Care (562) 630-3105 Hospitals Lakewood Regional Medical Center (562) 531-2550 Insurance Services Aflac – Katonya Gross, Agent (562) 303-8216 Farmers Insurance-Mike Segura (562) 531-9199 Farmers Insurance-Tony Sanchez (562) 354-6789 Gotz Insurance Agency, Inc. (562) 424-0726 Insurance Solutions for Healthcare (562) 400-0433 Right at Home Insurance (310) 480-7350 Saylor Insurance Agency (562) 602-0421 Manufacturer The Boeing Company (562) 593-2937 Orion Metal & Trading Co. (562) 633-2350 Mortgage & Lending Prime Lending (562) 206-7105 Non-Profit Organization American Cancer Society (562) 437-0792 Marcedes Lewis Foundation (562) 841-5455
Oil/Gas Industry Kuster Company (562) 595-0661 Optometrists Live Life Optical (562) 860-4590 Organizations & Clubs Bellflower Soroptomist (562) 866-8899 Bible Believers (562) 921-1980 Boy Scouts of America (562) 427-0911 Lakewood Jaycees (562) 822-4985 Lakewood Artist Guild (562) 421-8212 Lakewood Women’s Club (562) 925-4405 Lakewood Knights of Columbus (562) 431-7703 Lakewood Meals on Wheels (562) 925-8747 Lakewood Pan American Association (562) 421-0676 National Pacific Islander Education Network (562) 496-2319 Pathways Volunteer Hospice (562) 531-3031 Rotary Club of Lakewood (562) 421-1213 Su Casa-Ending Domestic Violence (562) 303-1030 Picture Framing Andazola’s Gallery (562) 427-3100 Plumbing and A/C Services Downey Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning (866) 204-4068 G&A Heating & Air Conditioning (562) 533-7933 Pete’s Plumbing (562) 425-2373 Printing/Mail/ Shipping Services Norwalk Printing (562) 864-3216 The UPS Store (562) 860-6001 Property Management O.B. Phillips Jr. & Co. (714) 904-8127 Real Estate / Rentals Allison Van Wig-Keller Williams Realty (562) 882-1581 Cogburn Miller Realty (562) 397-7481 Coldwell Banker/Star Realty (562) 804-1385 My Realty-Yvonne Dowland (562) 865-7600 Nick Andromidas-Realtor (562) 788-3403 VB Realty Group (562) 881-9416 Recycling EDCO/BZ Waste & Recycling (562) 423-8161 Good Earth Recycling Center (562) 490-0072 Restaurants Chick Fil A (562) 924-9408 Denny’s Restaurant (818) 364-5635 Domino’s Pizza (562) 496-3333 East Side Mario’s (562) 630-7600
Foggia Italian Market & Deli (562) 627-0987 Fuddrucker’s (562) 408-1555 George’s Greek Café (562) 529-5800 Honeybaked Ham (562) 634-9711 Outback Steakhouse (562) 634-0353 Piazza McDonald’s (562) 497-0055 Pieology (562) 634-2625 Souplantation & Sweet Tomatoes (562) 531-6778 Wienerschnitzel (562) 425-2535 Retail BookOff (562) 531-6707 Costco Wholesale (562) 630-2391 Lakewood Center Mall (562) 633-0437 Office Max (562) 790-8188 Sam’s Club (562) 425-0662 Wal-Mart 2609 (562) 429-6239 Waves of Attire (Mobile Boutique)
(657) 200-5503 Road Services R.F. Dickson Company, Inc. (562) 923-5441 Security Services Ozonevo Protection Services (562) 340-6386 Self Storage Lakewood Self Storage (562) 627-1888 Tax Services Miller Tax Services (562) 424-2411 Telecommunications AT&T (213) 743-7003 Transcom Telecommunications (562) 633-2034 Utilities SCE/Southern California Edison (800) 655-4555 Southern California Gas Co. (562) 803-7575 Vacation Planners Cruise Planners (562) 452-6555 Water Services Central Basin Municipal Water District (323) 201-5527 Coast Water Technologies (562) 420-8157 Golden State Water Co. (562) 907-9200 Water Replenishment District of Southern California (562) 921-5521
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Green
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January 2015 Dear EarthTalk: What are the potential health and environmental impacts of so many genetically engineered organisms in our food supply?
Proponents of genetic engineering (GE)—whereby DNA from unrelated species is combined to produce improved or novel organisms— insist that the benefits of increased crop yields and less agricultural waste outweigh the potential risks, but many environmental and public health advocates aren’t convinced. According to the Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS), one risk of GE is that our new “frankencrops” could become invasive, toxic to wildlife, or dangerous in other asyet unknown ways. “But the most damaging impact of GE in agriculture so far is the phenomenon of pesticide resistance,” reports UCS, adding that millions of acres of American farmland are infested by weeds that have become resistant to Monsanto’s popular herbicide glyphosate (known to most by its trade name Roundup). “Overuse of Monsanto’s ‘Roundup Ready’ trait, which is engineered to tolerate the herbicide, has promoted the accelerated development of resistance in several weed species.” As a result, farmers are now turning to older, more toxic herbicides— and agribusiness companies are responding in kind with new rounds of GE crops engineered to tolerate these older chemicals. UCS worries that the process repeating itself is only leading us down the path of plants evolving quickly to overcome our defenses however technically brilliant they may be. As for health risks, UCS acknowledges that eating refined products derived from GE crops is unlikely to cause health problems, but maintains that inserting a gene from one organism into another could still have unintended health consequences. For example, those with food-borne allergies could be at increased risk for reactions given the combination of genes in what looks like any other vegetable or piece of fruit. “This phenomenon was documented in 1996, as soybeans with a Brazil nut gene—added to improve their value as animal feed— produced an allergic response in test subjects with Brazil nut allergies,” reports UCS. Given these risks, some 21 countries and the European Union (EU) have instituted policies requiring foods created with GE technology to be labeled as such so consumers can know what they are buying and putting into their mouths. EU rules mandate that if any ingredient in a food has 0.9 percent or higher of genetically modified organisms, it must be marked accordingly on its packaging. Environmentalists in the U.S. would like to see the federal government put in place a similar policy—research from the nonprofit Just Label It found nine in 10 Americans to be in favor of mandated GE labeling—but lobbying interests from agricultural states with a vested interest in selling more GE products still hold lots of sway over elected officials. So for now, Americans concerned about what’s in their food will need to do their own homework regarding what’s safe to put on their dinner tables.
Luckily some natural foods retailers are making it easier for consumers intent on avoiding GE foods. Whole Foods, for one, is working toward full disclosure via labeling in regard to which of the foods on its store shelves contain GE ingredients. While Whole Foods may be a pioneer in this regard, environmentalists are hoping other U.S. grocery store chains will follow suit so that Americans can decide for themselves whether or not to take the risk of eating GE foods.
Living
Christmas trees, Styrofoam and ‘bulky items’ Until Friday, January 2, EDCO runs an extra truck each trash day to help residents with the added refuse that is typical during the holidays. Residents should continue to use their existing carts as much as possible, but can also leave up to 10 standard-size trash bags about two feet from your cart for pickup. 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. Also, pesky Styrofoam that’s so much a part of holiday packaging can always be put
into the blue recycling cart. Christmas tree recycling pickups continue through Friday, January 9. As in past years, trees should be left curbside on your regular trash day-not put into blue recycling or gray trash carts. The collection of trees for recycling is free and continues on your regular trash day.
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Lakewood’s Bulky Item Pickup program starts anew for 2015 on Monday, January 12. Residents are encouraged to use the free program to get rid of old appliances, electronics and furniture. Call EDCO, the city’s trash contractor, at (562) 531-3054 before 3:30pm, one day in advance of your regular trash collection day and ask for a bulky item pickup. The program allows six free pickups per household each year.
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Happy New Year!
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Lakewood preschool and information fair
The MOMS Club® of Lakewood (MOMS Club) will host its annual Preschool Information and Family Fair on Saturday, February 28, 2015 from 9am 12noon at the Youth Center at Del Valle park. Registration is open for local preschools, community programs, and vendors. Free and open to the public, the fair is a community event that offers parents in Lakewood, Long Beach, Bellflower, Cerritos and surrounding areas a forum to receive information
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Seahawk Cocktail Lounge
Happy Hour Weekdays
4-7:00PM $2 Domestic Bottles and $2 Well Drinks!
Full Bar Pool & Darts Internet Juke Free Wi-Fi
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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 final registration deadline is January 23, 2015. To obtain more information about the free Preschool Information and Family Fair or to be a sponsor, please contact Kali Hocking at kali. hocking@gmail.com or (562) 2666171.
January 2015
Start the New Year with your “New” pet!
SEAACA is making it easier and less expensive to adopt dogs and cats one year and older this holiday season. The special discounts run until January 2, 2015. The dogs and cats will be spayed/neutered, microchipped and given a first set of vaccinations as well as a flea treatment. This is your chance to give a pet their new “furr-ever” home. Visit SEAACA, located at 9777 SEAACA St. in nearby Downey Tuesday through Friday from 11am to 6pm and Saturdays from 1pm to 5pm. For more information contact SEAACA at 562-803-3301. www.seaaca.org.
January 2015
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Volunteer Day originator earns lifetime achievement award
Phyllis Clark in front of the Burns Community Center, a social service hub in Lakewood.
Long-time Lakewood resident Phyllis Clark recently received a Lifetime Achievement award from the Long Beach Press-Telegram as part of the newspaper’s “Amazing Women” event. Phyllis’ 41 years of human services work for the City of Lakewood and her passion for volunteering with community groups focused on social services earned her the prestigious recognition. In his letter nominating Phyllis for this award, Lakewood Mayor Todd Rogers said: “They say not to mix business with pleasure, but, when it came to helping others, Phyllis proved it not only worked but it allowed her to do what she was passionate about every day. She lived and breathed helping others, on and off the clock.” Phyllis started Lakewood’s Volunteer Day program and the Teens in Lakewood Care program. For 18 years, Volunteer Day has brought together hundreds of Lakewood residents, adults and kids each spring to fan out across the city to fix and clean up the yards and homes of
Get ready for the Lakewood Run!
The Lakewood Run returns on Saturday, March 14, 2015 when Sheriff’s deputies, recreational runners, families and kids will gather at the starting line in front of the Lakewood Sheriff’s Station to run the event’s 5K/10K run or 5K walk course for time, or do the 1K “Fun Run.” The run homepage is www.lakewoodrun.com/ registration and is open for online registration. Email info@lakewoodrun.com for additional information.
those who can’t do it themselves. For many years, Phyllis worked with nonprofits like the Rotary Club to help with Project Shepherd, a program started in 1973 to help struggling families and seniors with food and other items during the holidays. Phyllis has also been very active with Meals on Wheels, Mothers at Work, Nifty After Fifty, Community Family Guidance Center and Su Casa Crisis Center. After more than 40 years of working with volunteer programs Phyllis made a simple, yet insightful observation: “You realize that it does not take very much effort to make a positive impact on someone’s life. Everyone can do something to help, no matter your age, gender, or your health. Model positive behavior—your children, friends and neighbors are watching.”
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Dropping the ball!
Every New Year’s Eve thousands gather in New York City at Time Square to witness the “ball drop.” It descends at 141 feet/minute, starting at 11:59pm and coming to rest at Midnight. The ball, composed of 2,688 Waterford Crystal triangles, weighs 11,000 pounds. That’s quite a heavy load. This got me thinking about the load/ball all of us carry, all the time, not just on New Year’s Eve. This ball and chain weighs us down with fear, worry, doubt, selfconsciousness, anxiety, etc. But we’re so used to this extra weight, we don’t realize how
much of a burden it is on us. We don’t have to hang on to this heavy load. And we don’t have to wait until New Year’s Eve to drop it. January is the perfect month to drop our “balls”— to let go, to release anything that is weighing us down. Let’s start 2015 off right by
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righting our wrongs, releasing regrets, deleting our stress. It’s possible! With our load gone, we’ll feel lighter, more energetic. Imagine all we can achieve. Let’s do it! 10, 9, 8 . . . Submitted by Rossana Snee, MFT. Follow her on Twitter @askjoshsmom, Askjoshsmom.com, and https://www. facebook.com/askjoshsmom. She is available in a therapeutic capacity, and also for speaking engagements. Ask about An Afternoon with Josh’s Mom!
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January 2015
CERT emergency training returns Lakewood residents wanting advanced disaster-prep training should join FEMA-certified instructors and Los Angeles County Fire Department personnel this January for “CERT” training. It’s an indepth 21-hour program over three days. It’s part of the
county-wide Community Emergency Response Team effort. The course runs on 1/10, 1/17 and 1/24 at the Weingart Senior Center. CERT educates residents about disaster preparedness and disaster-response skills for dealing with serious crisis
situations. The goal is to help residents become more selfreliant and better prepared for the aftermath of a serious emergency like a major earthquake. Topics include search and rescue, triage, fire safety, team organization, disaster medical
The UPS Store
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CERT educates residents about disaster preparedness and disaster-response skills for dealing with serious crisis situations.
operations
and
orientation
about working with public safety personnel during a major crisis. Pre-registration is required. Call 562-866-9771, extension 2408 for additional information. Participants must attend all three sessions to receive certification. Participants must be at least 18 years old and pre-registration is required. Register online at www. lakewoodcity.org/eCatalog using course number 37430. The program is part of the Lakewood’s “Survive for 7” efforts. Disaster guides and how-to checklists are online at www.lakewoodcity.org/7days.
Photos/video show fun at holiday tree lighting The Lakewood City Council joined with hundreds of Lakewood residents on December 5 to celebrate the inaugural lighting of the city’s new 26-foot-tall holiday tree. Carolers, dressed in Dickens’ costumes, filled the civic center with “Deck the Halls” to kick off the event. A community photo gallery and video feature on the event from CityTV are at www. lakewoodcity.org/HolidayTree.
January 2015
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When it comes to healthy resolutions, just KIS(S) IT! By Stuart Fischer, MD, FACC, FACP, FSCAI
Most resolutions involve losing weight, dieting and getting more exercise—all of which happily contribute to better heart health. Unfortunately, a few months after making those “new you” promises, many of us are left wondering what went wrong. Though medical interventions abound, the personal steps we take toward our own cardiovascular wellbeing can be key to living longer and healthier lives. That’s why making those resolutions a reality is so important to us all and our loved ones. Oddly enough, what seems to work best in helping my patients get the right results from their fitness resolutions is not something I learned in medical school, but rather out on the baseball field. In my cardiovascular practice I frequently see patients who are overweight with significant hypertension not controlled by standard medications. Often those patients are also very sedentary. Improvements to their health are contingent upon personal resolve and an understanding that their poorly controlled hypertension is related to controllable environmental factors such as overeating and lack of exercise. In counseling them, I use an approach given to me by former Brooklyn-LA Dodger, Duke Snyder. A few years ago my wife enrolled me in Dodger fantasy camp, and Duke was my coach. During batting practice he would yell out, “Fischer KISS the ball. KISS IT!” Since I was hitting the ball, I did not completely understand what he meant by “KISS IT!” He finally explained, “Just Keep It Simple Stupid.” Coach Snyder wanted me to simplify my approach to hitting, and, of course, he was correct. As it turns out, the “KISS IT” approach (minus the last “s”) works extremely well for a lot of life’s challenges—like one’s health, diet and exercise. By combining the goals of weight loss, healthy eating and exercise into one resolution, it’s much easier for any one of us to achieve a satisfying measure of success. In working with those overweight, hypertensive patients, we Keep It Simple, by not discussing diets or exercise programs, but by focusing on
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living a healthy lifestyle. We frequently discuss modes of exercise and changes in eating habits that should lead to weight loss. When those patients begin to “move their bodies,” lose weight and eat healthier, we often see their blood pressure comes under better control. Consequently,
the patient may be able to lower and possibly discontinue their medications, entirely. We discuss moving their bodies by walking, swimming, and, yes, if possible, joining a gym. We talk about healthy eating, not dieting. It is a slightly different approach, but one that I have seen work many times, and as a physician, there is nothing more rewarding than seeing a patient take responsibility for their healthcare by living a healthier life. About the Author: Stuart Fischer, MD, FACC, FACP, FSCAI is board certified in Interventional Cardiology, Cardiovascular Disease and Internal Medicine. He also holds a special certification in Cardiac Pacing. Dr. Fischer is co-founder of Los Alamitos Cardiovascular, which has been caring for patients in Lakewood, Long Beach and their neighboring communities for over thirty-five years. Learn more about Dr. Fischer and the other cardiologists at Los Alamitos Cardiovascular by visiting www.losalcardio.com.
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Make this a year of new and exciting travel experiences!
The Greater Lakewood Chamber of Commerce is offering the following trips for 2015 & 2016. Sign up early and reserve your spot!
Departure Date: 4/14/15 4/14/15 7/12/15 7/18/15 10/20/15 10/21/15 11/2/15 2/10/16 3/11/16
Location: #Days Tulip Cruise Netherland & Belgium River Cruise 9 China - Featuring Beijing & Shanghai 10 Alaska Inside Passage 8 Switzerland, Austria & Bavaria 8 Blue Danube Adventure Budapest & Nuremburg 9 Spain & Sunny Costa Del Sol 8 Venice & the Italian Lakes 9 A Taste of the South Pacific, New Zealand & Fiji 9 Sunny Portugal Estoril Coast, Alentejo & Algarve 9
Fare* $3,599 $2,395 $2,299 $3,949 $3,849* $3,799 $2,999 $2,799* $3,445 $3,345* $4,799 $4,649* $3,249 $3,149*
*Discount for Chamber members & their families. Call or email the chamber office for further information on the trips, or to have us send you a trip brochure.
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January 2015
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Simple steps to a healthier 2015
Another year is upon us, leaving plenty of time to reflect on what went well (and not so well) in 2014. Before you start outlining your self-improvement plan for 2015, consider this: only 8 percent of people who make new year’s resolutions actually stick to them. Control the urge to recycle annual resolutions that you know you’ll never keep. Instead, identify new opportunities to keep your body fresh and your mind focused. Here are simple steps to a happier, healthier 2015.
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• Schedule a few “mental health days” - We spend a lot of time at the office. And if you’re clocking more than 10 hours a day, it’s likely too much. Scientists often link overtime to everything from depression to cardiovascular issues. It’s no secret that we all count down the days until that next holiday vacation or summer road trip. But why wait? Don’t put off precious time away from the daily grind. Instead, avoid burnout by planning a few long weekends every year that help you recharge and refocus. Whether you’re sleeping in and catching up on your DVR or connecting with old college roommates, a little R&R will do wonders for your morale. • Clean out your closets - If you’re like most, you’re probably hanging on to one too many items that you’ve outgrown or no longer use. Free up hangers and closet space by taking inventory of any items you haven’t worn in several months. Holding on to jeans in the hopes you’ll fit into them? Donate them to someone who can wear them now and treat yourself to a new pair. Stockpiling old bridesmaid dresses? Have them altered into the ideal cocktail dress. Hoarding fashion jewelry and accessories that are no longer in style? Create a dress-up box for nieces, young cousins or students. Not only will you make more space for things you do need, de-cluttering creates feelings of happiness and accomplishment. • Try something new - If “learn to cook” and “lose 10 pounds” have been on your to-do list for years, it’s probably time to mix things up a bit. Be more specific when outlining goals. For example, instead of focusing on weight loss, why not focus on new classes to try out? From cardio kickboxing to spin class to ZUMBA and yoga, there are endless opportunities to get your heart rate (and your spirits) up. Check out your local gym and pledge to try something new every quarter until something sticks. As for cooking, turn it into a date night with your spouse by enrolling in a cooking class together. Or, buy a cookbook and take turns selecting new meals to prepare. Keep in mind that you won’t do yourself any favors by shrugging off goals or not planning in advance. Set up reminders and calendar invites to help keep you on track. Better yet, outline at least one shared resolution and invite friends or family members to join in.
January 2015
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Volunteer Day seeks project sites in Lakewood One of Lakewood’s enduring traditions is Volunteer Day, where residents help their neighbors in need and make their community a better place. The Volunteer Day program is looking for project sites for its Saturday, April 18 cleanup and fix-up event. On this day, more than 500 volunteers will fan out to locations throughout Lakewood to donate a morning’s work to help their neighbors in need. Teams of volunteer workers from scout troops, schools, clubs, businesses, organizations and religious congregations will assist residents who are unable to maintain their properties themselves. Recipients of Volunteer Day aid can be seniors or persons of any age who, because of a disability or limited means, need some neighborly help to make their Lakewood yard or home exterior a little nicer. Work can include gardening, yard cleanup
The top five advances against cancer The American Society of Clinical Oncology, the world’s leading professional organization representing physicians who care for people with cancer, announced the “Top 5 Advances in 50 Years of Modern Oncology,” based on results of worldwide voting on CancerProgress.Net—ASCO’s interactive website documenting the history of progress against cancer. The “Top 5 in 50” results identify pivotal discoveries in chemo therapy, prevention, molecularly targeted therapy and supportive care that have stood the test of time, and upon which further discoveries have since been based. The “Top 5 Advances” were: • The first chemotherapy treatment that cured advanced Hodgkin’s lymphoma, called MOPP, discovered in 1965, paving the way to 90 percent cure rates for patients with this disease today. • The HPV vaccine, Gardasil, approved to prevent cervical cancer in 2006. • The targeted drug imatinib (Gleevec), approved in 2001 to treat chronic myelogenous leukemia. • A three-drug combination, PVB, developed in 1977 that led to the cure of advanced testicular cancer. The 1991 approval of the antinausea drug ondansetron (Zofran) that dramatically improved many patients’ quality of life while going through cancer treatment.
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Hundreds of Lakewood residents pitch in each year. or minor painting. The proposed project sites are reviewed by city staff for eligibility and suitability. If you, or someone you know, can benefit from a Volunteer Day cleanup project and meet the selection criteria, please fill out the form below and return it in the envelope provided, or go to www. lakewoodcity.org/volunteerday to submit an application online. For more information, call the Burns Community Center at 562-9257512.
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Around
Town
with Robin Vanderwerff
Page 14
January 2015
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Around Town in January
Lakewood
• The Lakewood Women’s Club will hold it’s 62nd Birthday Celebration Luncheon on Tuesday, January 20 at Sycamore Centre. Social gathering will be at 10:30am; meeting 11am; lunch 12noon and program at 1pm. The program will be honoring the Club’s Past Presidents and the
Let’s play Sudoku! Thanks to our DECEMBER Sudoku Sponsors!
Congratulations to Sammy Frontera and Cyndy Wolfe! They are the lucky winners of the December 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, January 21, 2015. The winners will be drawn on Thursday, January 22nd, 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 February issue, along with a new Sudoku Puzzle.
Club’s special birthday month with special presentations and musical entertainment by Dianne Chavarria. Any women wishing to help in local civic projects and help improve the lives of those in this area are welcome to join us. For reservations for lunch, call Arlene Roos, 863-4933, one week ahead, by Monday, January 12. • Super Saturday Spanish for
Kids™ will be held on January 10 to March 7, 2015 10am to 11am on Saturdays $160 for 8 classes; $25 workbook. Note: Spanish Homework Helper Workshop™ for Kinders and First Graders also coming in January 2015! For questions or to request a Registration Form please contact: Academic Learning and Languages; Amyberger@ca.rr. com; (562) 833-3115.
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January 2015