\AQ

Lakewood

News

Community 30,000 delivered to Lakewood and portions of Long Beach

Official publication of the Greater Lakewood Chamber of Commerce

Volume 31 Number 7

www.lakewoodnews.org / www.lakewoodchamber.com

Celebrate July 4 safely! Don’t use illegal fireworks

July 2014

Vietnam Wall effort gets boost from Supv. Don Knabe

Lakewood groups are working to bring this traveling version of the Vietnam wall to town.

Summer evenings, hot dogs and July 4 celebrations are Lakewood staples. The evening of July 4 is also a time of steppedup Sheriff’s law enforcement to protect residents from the dangers of illegal fireworks.

Illegal fireworks are unsafe and

hazardous to users, crowds that gather, and nearby residents.

This July 4, the Lakewood Sheriff’s Station will put additional deputies in patrol cars with emergency lights flashing and a mandate that illegal fireworks and their users get

“zero tolerance.”

Residents are encouraged to do their part to keep Lakewood safe. Property owners should remember that they can be held responsible if illegal fireworks are used on their property or if illegal (Cont’d on pg. 3)

The effort by the Greater Lakewood Chamber of Commerce and local veteran’s groups to bring a traveling version of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall to the chamber’s “Summer Stampede” car show in Lakewood this August, got some big help—and a big challenge— from Los Angeles County Supervisor Don Knabe.

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 needed to pay the transportation and related costs of the wall, and to financially support the car show in general.

Supervisor Knabe, a Navy veteran, has pledged to match donations made by the public, dollar for dollar, up to a total of $5,000, and he has also made a direct donation of $1,000 to the effort.

“I want to give a huge thanks to Supervisor Knabe,” said chamber president, John Kelsall.

“I hope lots of Lakewood area residents and businesses will (Cont’d on pg. 9)

Two major park improvements coming to Lakewood The Veterans Memorial Plaza at the jet plane at Del Valle Park will be renovated and expanded in time for Memorial Day in 2015.

And a new pumpkin carriage and expanded Cinderella theme will come to the school-age playground at San Martin Park by the end of 2014.

Artist’s renderings of the redesigned Veterans Memorial Plaza were unveiled to applause at the city’s Memorial Day Ceremony on May 26. The expanded plaza will replicate the

Active Duty Military, Sheriff & Fire Officers: Bring in this coupon for an add’l 5% off!

Design for the new Veteran’s Memorial Plaza at Del Valle Park.

deck and superstructure of an aircraft carrier, to thematically match the history of the carrierbased Navy and Marine Corps Douglas F-3D jet fighter there.

The plane will be dramatically lit at night, as will the simulated carrier deck. The new plaza will prominently display the insignias of all branches of the military and the written material that has traditionally been on the memorial, such as the names of Lakewood’s fallen Vietnam servicemembers and the poem

FIREWORKS!

“The Boys of Del Valle Park.”

The redesign was initiated last year by the Lakewood City Council after two bronze plaques on the existing memorial were stolen, presumably by thieves seeking to sell the metal to recyclers. The new memorial will display the plaques’ written material through stone etching or other methods that are not vulnerable to theft.

At it’s meeting on May 27, the city council approved a contract (Cont’d on pg. 10)

10am to 10pm

Bring in this Coupon and

WE PAY THE SALES TAX!

Will honor other coupons up to 10%

(Valid July 1st - 4th Only!)

Coupon is ONLY redeemable at the Fireworks Booth located at:

2770 Carson St, Lakewood, 90712 (WalMart Parking Lot - Paramount/Carson)

Stop by and register at our booth for your chance to win a fireworks package valued at $100!

(Must purchase fireworks in order to be eligible.)

LakewoodToday

Page 2

How to stay more connected to your community

By Mayor Todd Rogers

Lakewood residents rightly take pride in a lot of good things we have going on in our town.

We’ve got a strong sense of community and neighborhood cohesiveness, which not every city has in the hustle and bustle of Southern California. We have lots of activities and special events for residents of all ages.

But a key to enjoying and taking advantage of what Lakewood has to offer is to stay informed and stay connected.

One of the best ways to do that is what you’re doing right now…reading the Lakewood Community News! You’ll always find lots of good information and news here about events and topics relating to Lakewood.

Second, consider subscribing to the City of Lakewood’s free Lakewood Connect eMagazine, which will get delivered to your email inbox every Wednesday.

Nearly 20,000 Lakewood residents already subscribe— growing by about 1,000 a year— giving Lakewood one of the largest e-subscription rates of any

city in our area. People clearly find it useful.

The eMagazine will alert you to fun and helpful events around town, new city services, holiday schedules for trash and street sweeping (always important), construction updates that will affect traffic, and nextday summaries of city council meetings.

You can read the current edition at www.lakewoodcity. org/emagazines.

Click the “Subscribe” button to give it a try.

If you later decide it’s not for you, just reply with “unsubscribe” and city staff will quickly remove you from the distribution list.

The city’s website at www. lakewoodcity.org is another great tool to stay connected and access city services and news about Lakewood. Find out about recreation programs (and sign up online) and learn about the rules for trash and recycling, street sweeping and parking.

New over the past two years are smartphone apps that let you quickly report situations that need attention, ask questions and give input. Links and information about the apps for iPhones and Android phones are at www. lakewoodcity.org/apps.

Prefer to speak to a live person for information? Lakewood prides itself on having a dedicated team of customer service staff ready to listen to your comments and act on your requests for service. Give them a call at 562-866-9771, extension 2140.

If you can’t call during regular business hours, that’s OK. Leave a message anytime, and it will be

July 2014

www.lakewoodnews.org

acted on the next business day. Or e-mail our customer service team at service1@lakewoodcity.org.

If you see an after-hours emergency like a street signal outage or water main break, you can select a special feature at the city hall number above that will forward your message to our 24hour, on-call staff. Remember, if it’s a police or fire emergency, always call 911.

And if you ever need to contact my city council colleagues or me, you can do so by calling 562-8669771, extension 2103, emailing us at citycouncil@lakewoodcity. org, or sending us a letter to city hall at 5050 Clark Avenue, Lakewood, CA 90712.

One of the best things about living in Lakewood is all the convenient ways there are to stay connected to your community.

C i t y Spotlight Air conditioned facilities provide heat relief for seniors High humidity and tripledigit temperatures typically blanket Southern California each summer and into the fall.

The City of Lakewood wants to remind seniors that the airconditioned Weingart Senior Center is a comfortable oasis, especially during the hottest time of the day--from noon to 4pm.

Seniors can use the free DASH Transit service as transportation to Weingart if they can’t drive or don’t have a ride. For more information on DASH, call 562-

924-0149.

Weingart Senior Center is located at 5220 Oliva Avenue and can be reached at 562-6306141. Hours are Monday through Thursday, 9am to 5:30pm, Friday, 9am to 5pm and Saturday, 9am to 1:30pm. The facility is closed on Sundays.

Additional information and a list of other air conditioned centers are available at www. lakewoodcity.org/cooling.

Keep cool at the pool and wading pools Online swim registration is easy using the eCatalog at www. lakewoodcity.org/recreation and a special PDF on aquatics is at www.lakewoodcity.org/aquatics.

Swim session 2 lesson dates are July 7 to 18 and registration is going on now. Online registration begins Tuesday, July 1 at 7pm for session 3 (lesson dates are July 21 to August 1), or sign up online on Tuesday, July 15 at 7pm for session 4 (lesson dates are August 4 to 15).

For more information, call 562866-9771, extension 2408 for a copy of the aquatic schedule or pick one up at your neighborhood park.

Camps for kids this summer There are many choices of camps for kids this summer in Lakewood. A sampling is listed below and details can be found in the Summer Recreation Catalog.

For more information, call 562866-9771, extension 2408 or register online through eCatalog at www.lakewoodcity.org/ recreation.

• Summer Day Camp at Monte Verde Park (ages 6-12) – weekly through August 29 • Sports Camp at Mayfair Park (ages 8-13) – weekly through August 29 • Basketball Camp at Mayfair

High School (ages 8-13) – July 7-11, July 28-Aug. 1 and August 18-22.

• Creative Arts and Crafts Camp at The Centre (ages 5-12) – July 7-11 and July 28-Aug. 1 Picnics in the park The Lakewood Recreation and Community Services Department welcomes family picnics at city parks. Picnic shelters can be reserved by Lakewood residents; picnic tables with permanent barbecue grills are available on a firstcome, first-served basis.

Lakewood’s park rules and regulations are at www. lakewoodcity.org/recreation Lollipop Lane application available in July Craft vendors interested in selling at the 22nd annual Lollipop Lane Craft Boutique on October 18 can print an application and instructions from the city’s website at www. lakewoodcity.org/recreation starting in July.

For more information or to have an application mailed to you, please call the city’s Recreation and Community Services Department at 562866-9771, extension 2408.

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 a meal at one of the cafes. Please arrive at 5pm; the bus leaves promptly from Burns Community Center at 5:30pm.

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 Recreation and Community Services Department at 562866-9771, extension 2408.

Make sure to register early for all of our programs, as they do tend to fill.

www.lakewoodnews.org

July 2014

City helps businesses with health and environment ratings

managers have lots on their plate day to day. We want to make the most of their valuable time by giving them practical tips and information on the most effective ways to work with the county health department and other rules and environmental regulations. Our goal is to help them succeed and do well in Lakewood.”

The free program is July 15 at 2pm at the Lakewood City Council Chambers at 5000 Clark Avenue.

Businesses should RSVP to Karen Murray by email at service1@ lakewoodcity.org or at 562-8669771, extension 2125.

“We must always remember that America is a great nation today not because of what government did for people, but because of what people did for themselves and for one another.”

The City of Lakewood is organizing a free symposium on July 15 to help new and existing businesses navigate the environmental rules that govern many local companies. The seminar is intended for owners and managers of restaurants, convenience stores, grocery stores, coffee shops and other food service establishments.

Seminar topics include how to maintain an “A” food service rating, how to successfully get an Industrial

Your

Minding

Waste Permit dealing with fats, oils and grease (known as FOG in the food trade), and tips on working with California’s new requirement on commercial recycling. The seminar will also provide information on simple but effective steps to prevent contaminated storm water runoff from commercial property.

“Small business is important to Lakewood,” said Lisa Novotny, Lakewood’s assistant city manager.

“We know that business owners and

Business Page 3

“Fireworks”

(Cont’d. from pg. 1) fireworks are in the possession of others on their property. Fines are $1,000.

Lakewood has some of the strictest fireworks regulations in California, limiting the use of legal, Safe and Sane fireworks to one day only – the 4th of July – and only between 10am and 11pm.

Legal fireworks can be possessed in Lakewood only between July 1 and July 4. All fireworks are illegal to use or possess on all other days.

The only legal fireworks in Lakewood are those sold at a community organization stand.

(State and federal laws prohibit individuals from importing fireworks or selling them door-todoor.) If you know where illegal fireworks are being sold or used in Lakewood, call the tip hotline at 562-866-9771, extension SAFE (7233) to make a confidential report to the Lakewood Sheriff’s Station.

If you observe criminal activity on July 4, including the sale or use of illegal fireworks, call the Lakewood Sheriff’s Station at 562623-3500.

COMMERICAL SPACE FOR LEASE!

5445 Del Amo Blvd.

Lakewood, CA 90712 - In a nice area, on a busy street.

- Newer, well kept building with big parking lot.

- Walking distance to fast food/restaurants.

- Close to 91 and 605 freeways.

Call For More Information: 626.574.7900

&

Business Financial Page 4

www.lakewoodnews.org

Job search tips for new grads

By Jason Alderman

To the roughly 1.6 million college graduates in the class of 2014: You have my heartiest congratulations – and my sympathies. I graduated during the early 1990s recession when finding a decent job was very difficult, so I have an inkling of the challenges many of you now face.

Although the job-search technology available has changed considerably since then, as someone who is now on the other side of screening candidates, I can tell you many of the underlying principles for waging a successful search remain the same. Let me share a few: • Stand out from the crowd.

You’ll probably be competing with dozens, if not hundreds, of applicants for most jobs, so: - Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight education, skills and experience relevant to

the position – check out Monster. com’s Resume Center for writing tips.

- Have strong references – and make sure they’re willing

to speak or write a letter of recommendation on your behalf.

- Proofread everything carefully and ask a trusted acquaintance to review.

• Before applying, research the company to make sure it’s a good fit. If you do get called for an interview, kick it up a notch: - Make sure you understand the company’s products, services and customer base.

- Research competitors so you understand the business environment in which they operate.

- Investigate their social media presence for clues on how they interact with customers.

Employers are forced to do more with fewer resources, so they seek employees who are focused, polished and willing to work hard. I’ve spoken to numerous hiring managers who say many candidates they see don’t convey those qualities. A few tips: • Google yourself. Review your social media footprint and remove photos or other materials that portray you unprofessionally.

• Show up – on time – for interviews dressed appropriately, with copies of your resume, work samples and any requested materials.

• Be prepared to answer a barrage of questions about yourself and how you’d react in different situations. (Monster has a great list of potential interview questions.)

Landing a good job can take months or even years, so be persistent and tap all available resources.

Bottom line: You worked hard to earn your degree.

Unfortunately, you may have to work equally hard to get your career going, so take advantage of the available tools – and good luck.

July 2014 Lakewood Chamber’s

Invite you to the

Lakewood Country Club

3101 Carson Street Lakewood, 90712

Tuesday, July 8th 5:30 pm - ???

3101 Carson Street Lakewood, 90712 Clinic inc. lesson and 2 holes of golf - $15.00

Learn the game of golf and get on par with those who grow their business on the 19th hole!

Insurance Solutions for Healthcare

* Family & Individual Health Plans * Medicare Advantage & Supplement Plans Monica Segura * Dental & Vision Plans for all ages CA Lic #0C97294

www.insureyourhealthy.com

No Cost Consultation by Appointment (562) 400-0433 2725 Candlewood Street • Suite A • Lakewood, CA 90712 • (562) 400-0433

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

NOW HIRING!

News

Community

July 2014

www.lakewoodnews.org

Summer water safety essentials

rehydrate and reapply sunscreen before returning to the water for more fun.

Designate a meeting spot. Use a brightly colored towel to designate a meeting spot and establish regular times to check-in.

Page 5

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

As families start heading to local pools, lakes and beaches for warm weather fun, the staggering statistics around drowning risks take on renewed importance.

Drowning is the second leading cause of unintentional injury death for infants and young kids between the ages of one and 14 in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. It’s also the fifth leading cause for Americans of all ages.

The following tips will help ensure fun, safe swimming experiences this summer and beyond.

Invest in swim lessons. The safety of your kids - and yourself - is vital. Investing in swim lessons is the best way to ensure confidence and skill in the water. Starting kids young often leads to more success in the water but most programs, offer lessons through adulthood for all swimming abilities.

Maintain visual contact. A lifeguard is no substitute for maintaining visual contact and close proximity to your kids at all times. Never turn your back on a child when he or she is in the water, not even for a moment.

Don’t mistake water wings, flotation devices, life jackets or lifeguards for absolute safety.

Limit the non-swimmer to swimmer ratio to less than 3:1. Limiting the amount of non-swimmers to swimmers will directly impact your ability to better supervise each nonswimmer.

Get CPR certified. Take a class and learn how to perform CPR in case an emergency does occur.

Teach safety basics. Keep

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

children safe by teaching water safety basics such as: always wear a Coast Guard-approved life jacket, no running by the pool, no going into the water without an adult nearby and reach for a pole or line that has been thrown out

if you’re struggling in the water.

Strollers and car seats should be kept at least four feet from any body of water.

Take breaks at least every two hours. There’s a reason public pools have safety breaks. Rest,

ChamberNews Page 6

www.lakewoodnews.org

July 2014

Lakewood Chamber’s Softball League is in full swing!

League Champions from the Fall Season (Manager, Enrique Martinez) - The Lakewood Center Mallers

The Chamber Outsiders (Manager, Frank Cardiel)

The Bad Beats - Hawaiian Gardens Casino (Manager, Carolyn Uzeta)

On Deck - Hawaiian Gardens Casino (Manager, Carolyn Uzeta)

The Lakewood OUtback (Manager, Luis Torres)

The Lakewood best buy (Manager, Jeff Fowler & Ron Cratty)

Certificates were presented to the team members that were a part of our Fall Season Championship Game:

Lakewood Best Buy The Jawbreakers

(Lakewood Dental Arts)

LAKEWOOD BUFFALO WILD WINGS Lakewood center Mallers

Lakewood OUTBACK Steakhouse

The Lakewood Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce the start of the summer softball season. Everyone had such a great time last season that six teams have signed up to play against each other this season. The community is invited to come out and cheer their favorite team on, Wednesday evenings, at San Martin Park in Lakewood.

If your business wants to put together a softball team to play in the Chamber’s league give the Chamber a call at (562) 531-9733.

Green

www.lakewoodnews.org

July 2014

Dear EarthTalk: What are the environmental implications of the so-called “driverless car” that Google and others are working on right now? ~ April Jackman when they are free to stretch out, relax, read, videochat, text or even nap during their trips. He adds that driverless cars could lead to more urban sprawl as car commuting becomes more tolerable without the hassle of actually driving.

Today four U.S. states— Nevada, Florida, California and Michigan—allow driverless cars on their public roads for the purpose of testing.

Just a decade ago most of us wouldn’t have dreamed we’d live to see driverless cars whisking people around, but things are changing fast and analysts now think they will be common by 2020 and account for the majority of cars on the road by 2040. And with Google’s recent unveiling of its latest prototype—complete with no pedals or steering wheel—the future is indeed closer than we ever imagined.

Proponents argue that driverless cars—also called “autonomous cars”—are inherently more sustainable than their manned counterparts.

For one, they say, once they are widely available many of us will forego owning our own cars in favor of car-sharing, whereby the autonomous vehicle comes to you, charged and ready to go, as needed. Thus the result could be far fewer cars on the road than today.

The networked brains of these vehicles will also reduce inefficient routes and decrease overall driving time, leading

to better air quality and lower carbon emissions. Also, the increased safety of driverless vehicles—they obey speed limits, can sense people, bikes and other cars coming toward them, and accelerate and brake much more gradually than human drivers—will mean that the cars can be lighter and require far fewer resources in manufacturing, reducing their overall environmental impact even further.

On the flip side, the advent of driverless cars means that many of us now not able to drive because of age or physical handicaps will be able to use these cars to get around, potentially leading to an increase in the number of cars on the road. And Chandra Bhat of the Center for Transportation Research at the University of Texas points out that just because a car is driverless doesn’t mean we’ll want it to be smaller, lighter and more fuel-efficient.

He fears that driverless cars will engender a return to larger vehicles because people will want “more comfortable space”

‘Second Saturday’ drop-off event for hazardous and ewaste Every 2nd Saturday of the month from 9am to 2pm, Lakewood residents can take their hazardous and e-waste to EDCO’s large transfer facility at 2755 California Avenue in Signal Hill. The facility is only 10-15 minutes from the Lakewood Civic Center.

The next free event is Saturday, July 12 and will accept household toxics like paints, insecticides, chemicals, e-waste, sharps and used cooking and motor oil.

EDCO reminds Lakewood residents they are also entitled to six free bulky-item pickups a year at their home.

To schedule a pickup, call EDCO at 562-531-3054 by 3:30 p.m. the day before your normal trash pickup.

The bulky-item pickup program is intended for things like used furniture, appliances, mattresses, e-waste and broken-down boxes tied in twine, but not for building materials. Donating items to worthy causes is also strongly encouraged. A list of potential charities is online at www.lakewoodcity.org/ bulkystuff.

Living

Page 7

Awards given to three local elementary schools

Three ABCUSD elementary schools, Cerritos ES, Elliott ES, and Leal ES were recognized as 2014 California Distinguished Schools at the recent California Department of Education Luncheon held at the Westin LAX Hotel. Each school received a flag and plaque by the State Superintendent Tom Torlaksen. Superintendent of ABCUSDDr. Mary Sieu, Board Members-Armin Reyes, Celia Spitzer, and Dr. Cheryl BodgerDirector of Schools, joined the staff(s) in celebrating their new awards.

Corner

Cuddly Page 8

www.lakewoodnews.org

July 2014

Itch, scratch and bite....its flea season!

For California residents, it was a warm winter, warmer spring, and now summer is rearing its hot head. Unfortunately, the pest population multiplies rapidly when temperatures rise. This means pet owners are in for a

miserable never-ending battle with fleas!

Don’t get discouraged by your pets constant biting and scratching, there are steps a loving pet parent can take to minimize the effects of fleas.

First of all, the most effective way to defend your pet from fleas is to use a product that kills not only adult fleas, but also eggs and larvae to break the flea life cycle and prevent infestations. Make sure to visit your vet and ask what

flea preventative medication (oral or external) would be best for your pet.

It’s important to thoroughly wash and vacuum any area where your pet lounges or sleeps. This includes pet bedding, carpeting and crates. Properly vacuuming an area can remove up to one-quarter

of the flea larvae and over half the flea eggs. It also physically disturbs flea pupae, urging them to leave their cocoons.

The last step toward prevention involves treating your yard- a prime location for pests to seek refuge after being shed from the coat of your neighbor’s pet. First, start by mowing your grass, being sure to collect and dispose of all yard clippings. Then apply a special yard flea and tick spray designed to cover all areas of your lawn.

Take the time to prevent a fullblown flea infestation; your furry friend will thank you.

Don’t miss Bow Wow and Meow Days

Along with Bow Wow and Meow Days, SEAACA also offers pet adoption services.

Lakewood holds convenient pet licensing and vaccination clinics, known as Bow Wow and Meow Days, every summer. The next one is coming Saturday, July 19 from 9am to noon, at the usual location at the north-east 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.

www.lakewoodnews.org

July 2014

Caring for a family member with heart failure

By Bret A. Witter, MD, FACC, FACP

There are various types of heart failure. The most common form is congestive heart failure, which is characterized by shortness of breath and often is worse when lying down at night. It is also frequently associated with swelling in the legs. The condition is a challenge for the patient and family. There are physical limitations and significant emotional changes.

Four areas of support can substantially improve a patient’s outcome and quality of life.

First, diet. Most forms of heart failure are sensitive to salt. The average American diet is very high in sodium. A conservative guide would be to consume less

“Vietnam Wall” (Cont’d. from pg. 1)

take advantage of his pledge offer.

Match it with your own donation of any size. They’ll all add up. The Knabe match could be the winning ticket that lets us successfully bring the wall here to Lakewood.”

The goal is to have the traveling Vietnam Wall at Mayfair Park in Lakewood from Thursday, August 14 until Sunday afternoon, August 17, as part of the chamber’s annual car show on that Sunday. The car show is an annual fundraising event for the chamber and it’s 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.

The American Veterans Traveling Tribute version of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall is 360 feet long and is an 80%-sized version of the original in Washington, DC. It lists the over 58,000 names of service personnel who gave their lives for our nation during the Vietnam War. 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.

Donations for the combined car show and visit of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall can be made out to: Greater Lakewood Chamber of Commerce, and can be mailed or dropped off at: 24 Lakewood Center Mall, Lakewood, CA 90712. For more information, contact chamber president John Kelsall at 562-5319733.

than 2000 mg of sodium a day and in some patients this restriction needs to be more severe. Having high salt foods around the house is very challenging to avoidespecially snack foods such as chips, salted nuts and cheese.

Many doctors recommend that patients weigh themselves daily to help monitor sodium and rapid water/salt retention. Early detection of water retention can prevent recurrent hospitalizations.

Secondly, medications are important. Many have been definitively shown to prolong life and reduce symptoms.

Heart failure is often evident in the elderly and in patients with multiple non-cardiac medications.

It can be very difficult to take medications properly even in the best of circumstances. Many heart failure patients need to be on at least four medications for their

heart alone. Pillboxes, which are set up one week in advance, can be very effective. It is common to forget if a medication has been taken without some effective reminder. It is a good idea to be aware of what medications affect blood pressure, heart rate and water retention.

Thirdly, regular physical activity is often beneficial and can improve heart failure symptoms.

This is usually encouraged, but only with the guidance of the patient’s personal physician.

In some types of heart failure, the early stages of an exercise program may be monitored in the hospital setting. Many patients are discouraged by a description of the heart being “weak”. Even if the heart strength does not improve, regular activity can improve the body’s ability to compensate and perform more

Shop Lakewood

Page 9

activities without symptoms.

Finally, emotional support is very important. It is common for cardiac patients to become depressed and focus on what they can no longer do. Often, it is beneficial to focus on what can still be done. Cardiac patients often have “good” and “bad days”. A goal should be to maximize the good days.

Heart failure is a challenging disease for patients and their families. Fortunately, even simple changes in lifestyle or medication can be a very effective in maximizing “good” days at home.

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.

Pathways celebrates 20 years of golfing

Pathways will host its 20th annual fundraising golf tournament Monday, August 18th to raise money for the much-needed bereavement, caregiving and hospice services that Pathways can provides.

What better way to start off the week than with a fantastic game of golf with friends and family, all for a great cause!

Organized by the Pathways Board, staff and volunteers, the golf tournament is part of the annual campaign to raise funds to promote and support all programs; to provide the best in compassionate care.

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.

Shop Lakewood Page 10

www.lakewoodnews.org

Lakewood Soroptimists making a difference

The ladies of Soroptimist of Lakewood/Long Beach celebrated their club’s success this year at their recent Annual Awards Luncheon at the Centre at Sycamore Plaza.

In the city of Lakewood there is a small, but mighty, group of women who work tirelessly and with cheerful hearts to raise money that they then put back into their community through donations to charitable organizations, and scholarships and grant monies given to deserving young women

and single mothers. They are the women of Soroptimist International of Lakewood/Long Beach (SI).

Since their club’s inception almost 60 years ago, the women of SI have had one goal: to improve the lives of women and girls, locally and throughout the world. Their club motto is: “Service is the rent we

pay for the space we occupy.”

For the past nine years, the partnership between SI and the Lakewood Sheriff’s Station has proven to be a fundraising success, as they have worked together to present the Lakewood Community Run. Twenty-four years ago, the run, then known as the Mug Run, started as a small event, open only to law enforcement participants as a preparation for their annual Baker to Vegas Run. Since the involvement of SI of Lakewood/ Long Beach, the Lakewood Community Run has grown into a community event, open to the public and to runners and walkers of all levels.

This year the Lakewood Community Run raised close to $50,000. The two groups shared the proceeds of this event, with the sheriff’s portion going to benefit “999 For Kids” and the Lakewood Station Employee Relief Fund. The Soroptimists’ share of the profit is

July 2014 put back into the community.

This year’s charitable donation recipients were the YMCA Gymnastics Program, Pathways Volunteer Hospice, Lakewood High School AVID Program, Lakewood Artist Guild, Mothers to Mothers International, Long Beach Junior Concert Band and the Ronald McDonald House Charities.

The ladies of SI of Lakewood/ Long Beach celebrated their club’s success this year at their recent Annual Awards Luncheon.

They were proud to announce that their club had received the Soroptimist Regional Governor’s

Award this year.

They also bestowed their own awards to several deserving recipients.

The Violet Richardson Award, for girls who donate their time and energy to social causes, went to Sarah Haley, a local senior at St. Joseph’s High School, who serves as President and Senior Leader of the Peer Helper Program at St. Joseph’s.

For information regarding membership in SI of Lakewood/ Long Beach, please contact Sharron Hillery at shillery@lakewoodcity. org or call (562) 866-9771 x2323.

Design for the new pumpkin playground at San Martin Park.

“Park Improvements” (Cont’d. from pg. 1)

with architect Randy Meyer to continue with the final redesign of the memorial. Construction is expected to start in late 2014 and be completed in time for Memorial Day in 2015.

“Our new Veterans Memorial Plaza will provide a dramatic and powerful expression for park visitors and travelers on Woodruff Avenue that Lakewood honors all those who have fought for our freedom,” said Mayor Todd Rogers at the Memorial Day Ceremony.”

The plaza will celebrate the values we come here to remember and will remind future generations for years to come of the courage, commitment and patriotism of our military service members and veterans.”

San Martin Park’s pumpkin carriages and Cinderella-themed playground have been a Lakewood favorite for nearly 50 years. That’s a very long time for playground equipment to effectively stay in use. Safety concerns for children from aging parts on one pumpkin were the reason that it was removed by the city last summer. A second pumpkin is in better shape but is not expected to last much longer.

“I’m pleased to announce,” said Lakewood Mayor Todd Rogers, “that over the past year, the city council and our staff have worked on a new playground design that will maintain—and even enhance— our city’s historic Cinderella and pumpkin theme at San Martin. I think it will be a wonderful way to carry Lakewood’s past on into the future.

The new playground will have a new pumpkin carriage, several small pumpkins for children to play in, and an expanded Cinderella and castle theme. I’m hoping that Lakewood’s children will get many wonderful decades of use out of this new pumpkin playground, just as thousands of Lakewood children did in past decades from our first pumpkin playground.”

At its May 27 meeting, the city council appropriated $427,000 for the new San Martin playground equipment, play surfaces, walkways and related improvements.

Construction is expected to be completed by the end of the year.

News

Community

July 2014

Precautions for West Nile virus this summer

Summer’s longer days and warmer nights mean more outdoor activities for you and your family…and more exposure to mosquitoes potentially carrying the West Nile virus. West Nile testing is ongoing throughout the region and some positive mosquito samples have been reported this year.

As of mid-June, no human case had been reported this year, but agencies advise continued caution.

Although the West Nile disease isn’t severe in healthy individuals, often passing unnoticed, those with weakened immune systems and the chronically sick can be hit with a devastating illness.

The Greater Los Angeles County Vector Control District, www.glacvcd.org, urges residents to follow normal 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 after the sun sets, 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.

The statewide website following the topic is www. westnile.ca.gov. Published by the California Department of Public Health, the site notes this year’s incidence of West Nile. Residents finding any dead birds or squirrels can report them on their website or call the West Nile Virus Dead Bird Hotline at 877-968-2473.

West Nile precautions also include being mindful how you water. Stagnant water accumulating in ditches, drains, gutters and backyard containers and pools is ideal for mosquito breeding. Untreated swimming pools can be reported to Lakewood City Hall by calling 562-8669771, extension 2140, or emailing service1@lakewoodcity.org.

www.lakewoodnews.org

Page 11

Deadline’s approaching for Lakewood Beautiful Do you have a neighbor who has taken extra steps to beautify their home and yard? Wouldn’t it be nice to say thanks or good job by nominating them for a Lakewood Beautiful Home Award?

There’s still time to do it, as the submission deadline has been extended to Sunday, July 13.

Nominate a deserving home quickly online at www.lakewoodcity.org/ homenomination or by leaving a message 24 hours a day at the Community Relations Office message line at Lakewood City Hall at 562-866-9771, extension 2160. If you don’t know the name of the neighbor, that’s OK. Just give city hall the address and they’ll take care of the rest. You can even nominate your own home!

If you’d like to find out what it takes to be a Lakewood Beautiful honoree, read more about the program at www.lakewoodcity. org/lakewoodbeautiful where you can also see examples of award-winning homes.

Stoppages

License #: 971888

Water Heaters

Garbage Disposal

Sewers & Drains

Slab Leaks

Wall Furnace

Copper Re-pipes

Floor Furnace

Gas Lines

Remodels

15 Years Serving Lakewood

Video Inspections www.DBplumber.com

Free Estimates

(562) 881-5557

News

Community Page 12

Local Credit Union awards 33 student scholarships

At the close of the 2014 school year, LBS Financial Credit Union awarded scholarships to 33 students in Long Beach, Lakewood, Cerritos and surrounding communities.

Each year LBS Financial encourages local area high schools, adult schools and community colleges to participate in their scholarship program by recommending students for an award. This year, 28 high school, 2 college and 2 adult school students were awarded scholarships. The credit union works directly with each school counselor to receive their recommendation for a worthy student recipient each year.

The credit union also offers a $1,000 scholarship each year that could be applied for by any LBS Financial member in their final year of high school or first three years of college. One winner for the $1,000 scholarship is selected by a credit union employee committee. Connor Johnson of Long Beach, is the 2014 LBS Financial Credit Union Scholarship winner and a graduate of Millikan High School. Connor is attending University of California, Irvine.

July 2014

www.lakewoodnews.org

New Applebee’s restaurant is open at Lakewood Center

Applebee’s Lakewood Center eatery brings 150 jobs to the city.

A new eatery has joined Lakewood Center and nearby Restaurant Row’s list of dining

establishments. Applebee’s, a national casual dining restaurant, opened Monday, June 23 on the

Making Real Estate Real Easy.™

STAR REALTY

$100 off

Sewer Line

Replacements

$79 Service Call

Expires 7-31-14

11829 Downey Ave Downey, CA 90241 (562) 861-1234 info@downeyplumbing.com

www.downeyplumbing.com

Expect the Best!

An Independently Owned and Operated Member of Coldwell Banker Real Estate Corporation

ONLINE

www.coldwellbankerstar.com Top Listing Associate of the Month

Top Selling Associate of the Month

Carol O’Connor

Russell Johnson

Expires 7-31-14

Call

NOW! We Accept

4916 Palo Verde Avenue, Lakewood (562) 804-1385 or (714) 761-2533

Del Amo Boulevard-facing side of the mall at the site of the old Arby’s restaurant.

Applebee’s menu includes steaks, fish, creative salads (like strawberry, avocado and grilled chicken), and value meals like “one appetizer and two entrees for $20.”

Check out their menu at www. applebees.com.

The new restaurant was built from the ground up to seat 198 diners. It’s expected to employ 150 employees, with at least 75 working 30 hours or more per week.

The Lakewood operator, Apple American Group, LLC, owns over 470 Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill and Bar restaurants in 23 states and has annualized sales of over $1.2 billion. It employs over 31,000 people. They are the largest Applebee’s franchisee and one of the two largest franchises of any concept in the United States.

Family Fun headlines summer events

Lakewood’s long-standing commitment to family fun continues through July.

Popular “Finally It’s Friday” and “FUNTastic Family Night” events offer four free or affordably priced evenings from July 11 through July 25. Four additional programs happen in August.

Registration is required for most events.

Sign up at www.lakewoodcity.org/eCatalog or call 562-866-9771, extension 2408.

July 11 - Family Swim Night: Under Water Sock Hop from 7 to 9pm at McCormick Pool at Bolivar Park. Fee is $3 to be paid at the pool on July 11 (Lakewood residents only).

July 11 - Family Game Night at the Lakewood Youth Center in Del Valle Park from 6 to 10pm. Free. Pre-registration is required.

July 18 - Shakespeare by the Sea featuring “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” from 7 to 9pm at Monte Verde Park. Free.

No registration required.

July 25 - FUN-Tastic Family Night featuring “Street Beat-Repurposed Percussion” - at The Centre at Sycamore Plaza, from 6:30pm to 8pm $8 per person includes dinner and show ($5 for children 3 and under). Advance registration is required by 7/22.

News

Community www.lakewoodnews.org

July 2014

What can vacations teach you about investing Submitted by Carol Otters ~ Edward Jones Financial, Lakewood

Summer is almost here — which means it’s officially vacation season. You may be looking forward to “getting away from it all,” but, as you know, vacations actually require a fair amount of planning. And it might surprise you to learn that some of the efforts required for successful vacations can impart some valuable lessons in other areas of your life — such as investing.

Here are some vacation-related moves that you may want to transfer to the investment and financial arenas: Secure your home. If you’re going on vacation for a week or so, you may need to take some steps to safeguard your home: stopping your mail and newspaper, putting on a timer to turn on lights, alerting your neighbors that you’ll be out of town, and so on. But while it’s important to secure your home today, you will also want to help ensure it will be there for your family in the future, should anything happen to you. That’s why you’ll want to maintain adequate life and disability insurance.

Know your route. If you are driving to your vacation destination, you will want to plan your route beforehand, so that you can avoid time-consuming delays and detours. And to reach your financial goals, such as a comfortable retirement, you will also want to chart your course — by creating an investment strategy that is designed to help you work towards those goals based on your specific risk tolerance, investment preferences and time horizon.

Keep enough gas in the tank. As you set out on a road trip, you need a full tank of gas in your car, and you’ll have to keep refueling along the way. And to “go the distance” in pursuing your financial goals, you will need to have sufficient “fuel” in the form of investments with reasonable growth potential.

Without a reasonable amount of growth-oriented vehicles in your portfolio, you could lose ground to inflation and potentially fall short of your objectives — so, over time, you may need to “refuel” by reviewing your portfolio and rebalancing if necessary.

Protect yourself from getting burned. If your vacation plans include a stay at the beach, you’ll need to protect yourself and your family from the hot sun — so make sure you’re all using sunscreen.

When you invest, you can also get “burned” if you are not careful — especially if you are inclined to chase after “hot” investments. By the time you hear about these so-

called sizzlers, they may already be cooling off, and, even more importantly, they just might not be appropriate for your goals and risk tolerance. Instead of becoming a “heat-seeking” investor, focus your efforts on building a diversified array of quality investments appropriate for your needs. If you only own one type of financial asset, and a downturn hits that asset class, your portfolio could take a big hit. But by diversifying your holdings, you can help reduce the effects of volatility. Keep in mind, though, that diversification, by itself, can’t guarantee profits or protect against loss.

As we’ve seen, some of the same principles that apply to creating a vacation may also be applicable to your investing habits. So, put these principles to work to enjoy a pleasant vacation — and a potentially rewarding investment experience.

Page 13

Prepare for minimum wage increase California’s minimum wage will soon go up one dollar to $9 an hour. It will eventually go to $10 an hour in 2016. The new law goes into effect July 1, 2014.

4943 Paramount Blvd, Lakewood

(562) 634-2500

(Between CVS & Social Security)

AREAS IN DENTISTRY:

Implants, Invisalign Ortho, Root Canal, Mini-implants, Gum Treatment, Cosmetics, Denture / Partial, Crowns / Bridge, Extraction, Pediatric

X-rays & Exam: $35 (new patients only) Call us for details - Free Bleaching Nguyen Dental

Open Saturdays - Early & Late Hours Nguyen Dental is a family-run dental office.

We use the latest digital technology and provide quality dentistry at an affordable price.

Around

Town

with Robin Vanderwerff

Page 14

Around Town in July Lakewood • The Lakewood Women’s Club will hold their Annual 4th of July Fireworks sale from July 1-4 at Del Amo Blvd. and Paramount Blvd., (south-east corner near Carl’s Jr.,) from 9am – 9pm, to raise funds for many philanthropies that they

support during the year. They encourage the use of only “Safe and Sane” Fireworks approved by the California State Fire Marshal and urge residents not to buy or use illegal fireworks, which will result in fines or other penalties. The fireworks booths in Lakewood sell only the approved “Safe and Sane” fireworks.

www.lakewoodnews.org

Sudoku

Bellflower • The Bellflower Civic Chorus will be having auditions until the end of the year. They rehearse at Simms Park, every Tuesday evening from 6pm to 8pm. Visit one of their rehearsals to learn more about the chorus and chat with the members. They are looking for men and women who love to sing, enjoy good music, and relax in a friendly atmosphere.

Please contact (562) 866-4664 for more information.

Long Beach • Questing Heirs Genealogical Society is holding their monthly meeting on Sunday July 20 at 1pm.

The meeting will be held at Resurrection Lutheran Church Parrish Hall. For more information call Liz Myers – (562) 598-3027.

• Trinity United Methodist Church is having a BBQ TriTip Dinner on Saturday, July 12, from 4:30-6:30pm. Tickets are $10.00 per meal and are being sold in advance. Tickets can be purchased by calling the church office at 562-8679892.

3 2 7

5

4

1 3 9

July 2014

2

8 9 5 6 7 4 1 9 5 6 7 4 8 2

Thanks to our MAY Sudoku Sponsors!

Let’s play Sudoku!

Congratulations to Brian Takamiyashiro and Lynette Roxas! They are the lucky winners of the June Sudoku contest.

To be eligible in the next contest, 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 Tuesday, July 22, 2014. The winners will be drawn on Wednesday, July 23rd, 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 August issue, along with a new Sudoku Puzzle.

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

OPEN DAILY 8AM - 2AM 4103 Candlewood St. Lakewood, 90712

facebook.com/seahawkcocktails

News

Community July 2014

“Giganta” is commemorated in special 60th anniversary pin.

If you see something, say something

One of the most valuable tools the Sheriff’s Department has to keep Lakewood safe is the eyes and ears of Lakewood residents looking out for their neighborhood. If you see unusual activity in your neighborhood, call the Sheriff’s Station. Their business line, which is perfect for reporting unusual activity, is staffed 24 hours a day at 562623-3500. And, if it’s a crime in progress, always call 9-1-1.

Maybe it’s a business solicitor going door to door.

(Sometimes those turn out to be knock-knock burglars who find unoccupied homes and then go around back to try to break in.)

Maybe it’s people who appear to be utility workers with vests or hard hats, but without official vehicles or ID. (They, too, may end up going around the back of a house, or sneaking past the front door while the owner walks into the back yard with another “worker.”)

Maybe it’s just something in your neighborhood that is unusual and has you worried.

Lakewood Sheriff’s Captain Merrill Ladenheim urges residents to give the Sheriff’s Department a call and they’ll send a Deputy to see what’s happening.

If you see something, say something. Keep Lakewood and your neighborhood safe!

Farmer’s Market Field Trip Weingart-Lakewood Family YMCA is offering a field trip to the Los Angeles Farmers Market on Friday, July 25th, from 9am-2pm. Price is $10 per person, and you may bring your lunch or purchase lunch from one of 34 delicious fares around the world. Call the Y for more info: 562.425.7431.

www.lakewoodnews.org

Summer concert series has 60th anniversary theme Summer concerts are filling the grove at Del Valle Park with “music from across the decades” every Thursday evening at 6:30pm through August 7. To help celebrate the city’s 60th Anniversary, collector’s pins are available for a modest cost, including a special pin of Giganta, the playground robot that was a Lakewood park favorite for decades. Recently released pins depicting “Airplane Park’s” veteran’s memorial and another celebrating Sky Knight will also

Page 15

Concerts in the Park Schedule

be on hand.

Dinner and refreshments are sold at each concert, or attendees may bring a picnic. Lawn chairs and blankets are encouraged.

Pets, barbeques and alcoholic beverages are prohibited. For more information, call 562-8669771, extension 2408 or go to www.lakewoodcity.org/concerts.

Concerts run Thursdays from 6:30pm to 8pm Del Valle Park is located at Woodruff Avenue at Arbor Road.

June 26th

July 24th

Stone Soul (60’s)

Doo Wah Riders (Country)

July 3rd

July 31st

Jungle Boogie (70’s)

The Answer (Classic Rock)

July 10th

August 7th

Knyght Ryder (80’s)

July 17th

In the Mixx (90’s)

Hollywood U2 (U2 Tribute Band)

Concert Schedule may change without notice.

Advertise in the AWARD-WINNING Lakewood Community News.

Call (562) 531-9733 or email advertise@lakewoodchamber.com

SKIPTHE ER WAITING ROOM GO to LakewoodER.com select a designated time Complete online forms Arrive at the ER at your designated time.

Be seen by a Triage Nurse within 15 minutes of your projected treatment time**

D WNLOAD OUR FREE APP Go to

www.LakewoodER.com To Hold Your Place in Line

For a Medical Emergency Dial 911

SCAN THIS QR CODE WITH YOUR SMART PHONE BARCODE READER

(562) 531-2550 3700 E South Street, Lakewood Located on the corner of South Street and Downey Avenue in the city of Lakewood ** If conditions allow - meaning there are not emergent or critical patients requiring care first.

Page 16

www.lakewoodnews.org

SAVE THE DATE! SAVE THE DATE!

to 9am 2pm

FOOD TRUCK S!

CALL THE CHAMBER OFFICE FOR CAR SHOW VENDOR/DRIVER INFORMATION, OR IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS ABOUT THE VIETNAM MEMORIAL WALL. 562.531.9733 - THANK YOU! The Vietnam Memorial Wall is coming to Lakewood!

Thursday, August 14 - Sunday, August 17th DONATIONS NOW BEING ACCEPTED!

A Candlelight Vigil will be held for our veterans & their families on Thursday, Aug. 14th, 6PM.

July 2014