Lakewood
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Official publication of the GreaterOfficial Lakewood Chamber of Commerce | 30,000 Circulation - Delivered to every home in Lakewood publication of the Greater Lakewood Chamber of Commerce
33 Number 79 Volume 34
www.lakewoodnews.org / www.lakewoodchamber.com www.lakewoodchamber.com
Tell Lakewood the story of your family’s veteran
Profiles of active-duty military and veterans are welcome for Lakewood’s Veterans History Project website. The City of Lakewood created the Veterans History Project website last year as a follow-up to the commemorative brick installation at Veterans Memorial Plaza in Del Valle Park. The website, www.lakewoodveterans.org, includes profile pages of Lakewood-connected veterans and active-duty military service members, including those whose names appear on the commemorative bricks at the Veterans Memorial Plaza. Each profile includes a photo, military service history and a brief personal story about the veteran’s experience. “On our website, which you can access from a computer at home or a smart phone while you’re at the memorial, the stories of our Lakewood veterans will be told for generations to come,” Mayor
Diane DuBois said. Commemorative veterans’ bricks are still available for purchase and are installed annually just prior to Memorial Day. Information on ordering a brick can be found on the website or at the Public Works counter at Lakewood City Hall. The public is invited to complete a short online form with details about their Lakewood-connected veteran’s service, a brief narrative and a photo. A web page will then be created on the website for each veteran’s story so visitors to the memorial can learn about the veterans honored there. To get started, visit the Veterans History Project website at www.lakewoodveterans.org and click on the “Submit a Story” tab. From there, complete the on-
line form and upload a photo, or download a flyer and worksheet to help gather the information needed. Flyers and worksheets are also available at the Public Information Department in city hall. Users without Internet access, or those in need of assistance, can schedule an appointment to bring in the information and photo to the Weingart Senior Center on pre-arranged dates and times. A volunteer will complete the online form and assist in scanning and uploading the photo. To find out about appointment dates and times or to inquire further about the Veterans History Project, please call Lakewood’s Community Relations Office at 562-866-9771, extension 3123. u
September 2016 July 2017
Keep it ‘safe and sane’ this Independence day The only fireworks that are legal in Lakewood are those rated “Safe and Sane.” Safe and Sane fireworks can be purchased from any authorized firework stand, including those in Lakewood. Be sure to look for the fireworks sale permit and State of California Fire Marshal’s seal that all stands are required to display. Fireworks bought in other states, over the Internet, or from any other source are illegal. The Lakewood Sheriff’s Station reminds residents to celebrate the Fourth of July safely by not using illegal fireworks and not tolerating those who do. Lakewood will continue to target violators this year by deploying extra deputies on July 4. The “zero tolerance” policy means everyone they catch violating the law will be cited. Most violations carry a fine of $1,000. As a reminder, homeowners or tenants can and will be held responsible for what occurs on their property. Legal fireworks may be discharged only on July 4, between 10 a.m. and 11 p.m. To support the Sheriff’s efforts in suppressing the use of illegal fireworks, problem locations may be re-
ported now. If there is a known person/ residence with a history of unruly/unsafe celebrations that are not in compliance with the law, please report it by calling the July 4th Tip Hotline at 562866-9771, extension SAFE (7233). Please provide as much information as possible about the person, location and violation. You can also email the information to service1@Lakewoodcity.org. Your information will remain confidential and the sooner you report this information, the better! If you observe the sale or use of illegal fireworks, call the Lakewood Sheriff’s Station at 562-623-3500 immediately. u
Last chance to register for Lakewood Chamber’s
China Trip! For more information, call us at:
562-531-9733
LakewoodToday
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It’s easy to stay connected to your community By Mayor Diane DuBois
People say to me, “Lakewood has so many wonderful community events. What’s the best way to hear about them and other news in town?” Well, reading the very newspaper you have in your hands—the Lakewood Community News—is one great way, either in print or online at www.lakewoodchamber.org. Another very good way to stay connected to your community is by subscribing for free to the City of Lakewood’s colorful eMagazine called “Lakewood Connect,” which can be delivered to your email inbox every Wednesday. More than 21,000 Lakewood residents subscribe—one of the largest subscription rates of any city in our region. Lakewood Connect will update you every week on fun and helpful events in town, new city services, and holiday scheduling changes for trash and street sweeping. It will also alert you to road construction projects that might affect your commute. You can read a recent edition at www.lakewoodcity.org/ emagazine. If you like it, click the “Subscribe” button to get it every
week. If you decide later that it’s not for you, you can always “unsubscribe” and our city staff will remove you from the distribution list quickly. The city’s award-winning 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 and schedules for trash and recycling, street sweeping and parking (and get a short-term RV parking pass online). There’s a “How Do I?” menu at the top of the main page that takes you to the most askedfor city services and questions. Want to watch a fun video about Lakewood…and learn about city history or city services at the same time? Go to www. lakewoodcity.org/CityTV and find lots of creative choices. Prefer to speak to a city staff member? 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. Lakewood City Hall customer service staff are available on the phone or in person for extended hours from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Monday through Thursday and 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on alternate Fridays. City Hall is closed every other Friday. If you can’t reach City Hall by phone or in person during the day, that’s OK. E-mail our customer service team at service1@lakewoodcity.org. You can also leave a phone message at 562-8669771, extension 2140, which will
www.lakewoodchamber.com be acted on the next business day. Residents can now report an issue, ask a question or give input to the city anytime using a custom Lakewood app on their smart phones. Links to the apps are at www.lakewoodcity.org/mobileapp. If you have a service emergency like a street signal outage or water main break, you can select a special feature that will forward your message to our 24-hour, on-call staff. Remember, if it’s a police or fire emergency, always call 9-1-1. If it’s a non-emergency law enforcement matter, you can call the Lakewood Sheriff’s Station business line 24 hours a day at 562-623-3500. There are lots of ways to stay connected to your community and take full advantage of the customer-friendly service for residents that is an enduring value and tradition here in Lakewood. So call, click or come on in to Lakewood City Hall! u
C i t y Spotlight Lakewood’s Summer Fair A free children’s fair (ages 8-13) featuring carnival games, inflatable attractions and face painting will be offered at San Martin Park on Friday, July 7 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. There will also be pizza, juice and sno-cones for participants, while supplies last. There is no need to sign up, just come to the park and get ready to have some fun! Keep cool at the pool Mayfair Pool and McCormick Pools are now fully open, with instructional programs for all ages and daily public swim sessions. Online swim registration is easy at www.lakewoodcity.org/ ecatalog and the daily swim schedule is at www.lakewoodcity.org/aquatics. Online registration begins July 8 at 7 p.m. for session 3 (lesson dates are July 17-28), or sign up online beginning July 22 at 7 p.m. for session 4 (lesson dates are July 31- August 11). For more information, call 562-866-9771, extension 2408. Teen Summer Adventure Series Teens ages 12-17 can get a breath of fresh air and get heart rates up by participating in the six-part Summer Adventure Series. Trips vary from hikes,
July 2017 to archery and rock climbing. Most events are free and many include transportation. The complete schedule is located on the Teen Scene pages of the Summer Catalog, which can be picked up at any Lakewood park or library, or visit www.lakewoodcity.org/recreation for a printable version. Registration is required. Call the Lakewood Youth Center at 562-429-7472 for more information. Lollipop Lane application available in July Craft vendors interested in selling at the 25th annual Lollipop Lane Craft Boutique on October 21 can print an application and instructions from the city’s website at www.lakewoodcity.org/LollipopLane starting in July. For more information or to have an application mailed, call 562-866-9771, 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 10. Featuring a host of great classical and contemporary works of art recreated by real people, this year’s performance is themed “The Grand Tour.” Bring binoculars and a jacket, a small picnic cooler or purchase lunch at one of the cafes. Please arrive at 5 p.m., the bus leaves promptly from Burns Community Center at 5:30 p.m. Children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult. The cost of the trip is $55 and those interested can register at www.lakewoodcity. org/ecatalog by July 31 using class #7247. For further information, please visit www.lakewoodcity.org/travelprograms or contact the Recreation and Community Services Department at 562-866-9771, extension 2408. Make sure to register early for all of our programs as they do tend to fill. u
Your
Minding
July 2017
www.lakewoodchamber.com
Business Page 3
Combs brings the “real deal” to this year’s car show By Daniel Van Hoosier, Contributing Editor
“The world’s fastest woman on four wheels” will soon bring her unique talent and empowering message to Lakewood’s Summer Stampede Car Show,
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Want to be a member of the Lakewood Chamber of Commerce? Go to www.lakewoodchamber. com, or call us at 562-531.9733 R OF COM
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Greater Lakewood CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
which celebrates its 20th anniversary and will be hosted by the Chamber of Commerce on August 27. Jessi Combs, lifelong motor-
sport enthusiast, is much more than a racer. She builds countless vehicles, including cars, trucks and motorcycles, from the ground up and prides herself on her ability to break gender barriers both within her industry and in the eyes of the world. While her work in the garage continues to be as fast-paced as ever, one of Combs’ latest accomplishments is the development of “The Real Deal,” a project she co-founded along-
side fellow lover of all things automotive, Theresa Contreras. The mission of “The Real Deal” is to help set apart women (and men) in the industry who have the drive and passion necessary to not only succeed, but set new standards along the way, breaking the confines of gender. Iamtherealdeal.com states: “It is their mission to motivate others in a way that breeds self-confidence, breaking stereotypes, healthy decisions, hands-on training, creative development, positive images and community involvement.” Combs’ love for all things “extreme” began with her upbringing in South Dakota, where she was able to race and ride freely. She later decided to forgo a scholarship opportunity
with a focus in interior design, instead attending WyoTech and receiving a degree in Custom Automotive Fabrication, finishing atop her class. Her fastest woman status came in 2013 when she set world land speed record by traveling 440 miles per hour in a wingless exmilitary jet in the Alvord Desert in Oregon. The previous record was 398 MPH and stood for 48 years. She has since made attempts to break the record for fastest woman on three wheels as well. Combs has been featured on television shows including Overhaulin’, All Girls Garage and TruckU, and also hosted Xtreme 4x4 for four years. Her work on the tracks includes racing in Ultra4’s King (Cont’d. on Pg. 10)
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Speaker Rendon honors Lakewood resident as Veteran of the Year
2017 Veteran of the Year Sam Sachs with Speaker Rendon
Assembly Speaker Anthony Rendon (D-Lakewood) honored World War II veteran and Lakewood resident Sam Sachs as the 2017 Veteran of the Year for the 63rd Assembly District. “Sam helped the world fend off tyranny, then came back home to impact the lives of hundreds of young people as a public school teacher,” Speaker Rendon said. “Now in his second century, Sam’s bravery, love of his country, and sense of humor continue to be on display for all to see.” Sachs, who recently celebrated his 102nd birthday, joined the U.S. Army at age 17 and served in the 325th Glider Infantry of the 2nd Airborne, which was also known as the Flying Coffins. He landed in Normandy on D-Day and was instrumental in the planning of the invasion with the glider force, overseeing logistics for men, ammunition, food, and transportation. As they moved into Germany, Sachs took part in liberating a concentration camp. After completing his service with the Army, Sachs became a school teacher in Southern California. u
www.lakewoodchamber.com
July 2017
Lakewood’s CityTV wins three awards People love to watch videos… for fun and to learn. Lakewood is fortunate to have a city TV crew that, for more than 30 years, has produced award-winning videos that inform, educate and entertain Lakewood residents about city services, history and events. The Lakewood team won top honors this year for three videos at the regional meeting of the National Association of Telecommunication Officers. There were 45 categories in competition with more than 300 entries. Lakewood’s winning videos were: • 2016 Lakewood Annual Report Video: “Tour Bus Transformation,” which humorously informs residents of what the city accomplished in 2016 and what’s coming in 2017. The video was a creative parody of the “Men In Black” movie series. You can see it at www.lakewoodcity.org/annualreportvideo. • “Random Act of Helpfulness” highlights a teacher and an instructional aide at Cleveland Elementary School in Lakewood who have made a big difference in the lives of hundreds of local deaf and hard of hearing students. The educators were recently honored by the Southern California Helpful Honda Dealers. You can watch the video at www.lakewoodcity.org/Ran-
Award-winning “Random Act of Helpfulness” video.
domActTeachervideo. • Garnering a special award for a “Teen or Youth Audience” was the video entitled “Teaching Young Minds A Health Care Pathway.” The video, available at www.lakewoodcity.org/MedicalOutreachvideo, focuses on a unique program that helps local high school students explore careers in the medical field. “Congratulations to our CityTV team for their creative work in producing these award-winning videos and for all the videos they
Stoppages
do every year,” Mayor Diane DuBois said. “You can see all the great videos about Lakewood, including wonderful historical pieces, at www.lakewoodcity. org/CityTV.” u
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July 2017
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Keep your furry friend safe this Independence Day
Independence Day means lots of unusual noise and resulting agitation and fear for many animals. This can make July 5 the busiest day of the year for animal control professionals. •Place identification on pets. Micro-chipping is a good idea for those pets that seem to always escape from their collars. The Lakewood area’s animal control agency, SEAACA, offers low-cost microchipping for pets. Their information will be registered in a national database so no matter where pet owners travel, their pets can be identified. • Keep pets indoors with a radio or television playing in the background. This can serve as a distraction and offer a sense of comfort. • Additionally, sedatives can be prescribed by veterinarians for those highly excitable pets likely to suffer extreme anxiety from the
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fireworks. • DO NOT take pets to a fireworks show or even a neighborhood gathering. They are safer at home. • Parents should supervise children. They are not likely to understand the adverse effects that fireworks have on pets and may accidentally let the family pet out. •If a pet turns up missing, visit SEAACA the very next day. If the pet is not there, keep looking. They may have strayed quite far trying to escape the fireworks. Additionally, increased staff will be on duty at SEAACA immediately following the holiday to help rescue any lost pets. Call SEAACA at 562-803-3301 for assistance and to report any loose dogs. Any acts of animal cruelty should also be reported to SEAACA immediately. u
2017 Lakewood Transit Guide available now
Every summer, the City of Lakewood produces a Transit Guide to give residents updated information on bus, metro rail, bike and other options for commuting without driving. The guide also includes information about Lakewood’s free DASH transit bus for seniors and disabled residents. This year’s new Lakewood Transit Guide is available at www.lakewoodcity.org/Transit or by calling city staff at 562866-9771, extension 2140. u
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You know it’s summer when you hear music in the park!
Lakewood’s Concerts in the Park series continues every Thursday evening in July and through August 10 at Del Valle Park from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Visiting gourmet food trucks will offer creative menu items at each concert. Lawn chairs, blankets and picnics are encouraged. Pets, barbeques and alcoholic beverages are prohibited. For a schedule of bands, food trucks and other details, go to www.lakewoodcity.org/concerts or call 562-866-9771, extension 2408. Concerts in the Park are solely supported by generous area businesses and concert patrons, including: Platinum Sponsors: Concert Schedule: Glory Days Sports Grill, Kenny’s Auto June 22 – The Answer Body-Towing, Marisa Perez—Cerritos (Classic Rock) College Trustee, Pan American June 29 – Hard Days Night Association, Piazza Family (Beatles Tribute) McDonald’s Restaurants July 6 – Knyght Ryder (80s) July 13 – Doo Wah Riders Gold Sponsors: (Country) Allen Tire Company, Mr. B’s Kettle July 20 – Stone Soul (Motown) Corn, Rotary Club of Lakewood, The July 27 – Wanted Rinks, Water Replenishment District (Bon Jovi Tribute) Silver Sponsors: August 3 – Gold Rush (Country) EDCO August 10 – Escape Bronze Sponsors: (Journey Tribute) In Memory of Mrs. Linda G. Plooster, TGIS Catering
www.lakewoodchamber.com
July 2017
Lakewood Education Foundation remains dedicated to helping kids and teachers
Lakewood High School teachers with LEF President Todd Rogers (at left) and LBUSD Board Member Diana Craighead and LEF Vice President Steve Croft (at right). Thanks to generous donations from Lakewood residents and businesses, the Lakewood Education Foundation (LEF) has been able to provide grants for hundreds of classroom improvement projects in Lakewood schools since 2003. This shows the importance that Lakewood residents and businesses place on local schools, as well as the trust they place in LEF to select worthy projects. In 2016, 111 Lakewood school projects received grants totaling
$51,830. The grants went to classroom projects in schools throughout Lakewood. LEF is a non-profit agency run by Lakewood residents. An annual fireworks stand, Columbus Day golf tournament, and lots of individual donations raise the annual support funding. After very modest expenses, 100% of donations reach kids in Lakewood classrooms. The number one request this past year for classroom grants
was for extra books, proving that some teaching tools never go out of fashion. Following close behind were requests for science and lab equipment, educational field trips, and classroom technology such as Apple TVs and iPads. Donating is easy. Just make out a separate check to the Lakewood Education Foundation and enclose it with the completed form below. See a video and learn more about LEF at www.lakewoodcity. org/LEFvideo. u
Green July 2017
www.lakewoodchamber.com
Construction back to full speed for Bolivar Park’s reservoir
Construction of the 300-foot long reservoir under Bolivar Park. The work to build an environmentally-friendly, water conservation project is continuing at Bolivar Park, but so is the fun at Bolivar this summer. As has happened to many construction projects in California this year, heavy winter rains caused some early delays, but work crews have been proceeding at full speed for several months now and are making major progress. The construction project is expected to be finalized by March 2018. Large mounds of dirt along the Del Amo Boulevard side of Bolivar Park are an indication of the huge 300-foot-long, 20-foot-deep reservoir that has been dug under the park. When completed, Bolivar’s irrigation system will transition from using potable (drinking) water to using non-potable stormwater that is treated and pumped from a nearby flood control channel and then
stored in the new reservoir under the park. The Bolivar system will also infiltrate water back down into the aquifer deep beneath Lakewood, replenishing our groundwater supply. Lakewood won special state funding to fully pay for the innovative system—one of the first of its kind. When completed, Bolivar Park will also receive all-new picnic shelters, an updated irrigation system, and new turf that will completely hide the reservoir underground. During construction, most of Bolivar Park remains open, including the ballfields, swimming pool (during normal summer hours) and the two new playgrounds (including the 75-foot zipline). Here are some of the fun happenings at Bolivar this summer: • The pool will open full-time from Saturday, June 17 through Monday, September 4, with recreational swim sessions every day from 1 to 2:30 p.m. and 2:45 to 4:45 p.m.
• Get more details on pool activities and swim lessons at Bolivar and Mayfair parks at www.lakewoodcity.org/aquatics. • There will be “Family Friday Nights” at McCormick Pool at Bolivar every Friday night from June 22 through August 25 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. The special events—open to Lakewood residents only—will cost just $3 per person and allow families to enjoy evening swim sessions with entertainment. Be sure to swing by and enjoy Bolivar Park, its playgrounds and the pool this summer. For more information on any of the fun recreational opportunities in Lakewood, call the city recreation staff at 562-866-9771, ext. 2408. u
Living
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Dear EarthTalk: What can we do to solve the e-waste problem caused by so many of us tossing our cell phones out and getting new ones every two years? As more and more of the world develops—and smartphones become ubiquitous—electronic waste (AKA “e-waste”) is a more significant problem than ever. Around the world, people generate some 50 million tons of e-waste every year, much of which ends up improperly disposed of in landfills where toxins common in electronics like lead, mercury and cadmium can leach out and contaminate surrounding soils and groundwater. Much of the remaining e-waste gets shipped off to developing countries happy to profit from taking others’ trash despite the environmental consequences, or, even worse, it’s just dumped illegally into the ocean. Old cell phones can leak all kinds of hazardous elements into soils around landfills and potentially contaminate nearby groundwater supplies. But thanks to consumer pressure to do the right thing, most major electronics manufacturers have started to pay attention to the problem and take action to reduce the flow of e-waste. Apple, for instance, long targeted by Greenpeace and others for lack of concern about the environmental and health impacts of its sourcing and production processes, has made great strides
in the last five years in recovering customers’ old products and reusing the constituent parts in new products. But most of us upgrade our smartphones every two years, so that means that even today’s greener iPhones still contribute to the e-waste problem. That’s where Europe’s Fairphone comes to the rescue. By incorporating long-lasting design and fair-traded materials, ensuring good working conditions and making products that are fully recyclable, easy-to-fix and reusable, Fairphone hopes to revolutionize the smartphone market with its eco-conscious products. Choosing carefully when it comes to selecting a new smartphone and recycling the old one for free at BestBuy or through its manufacturer are important first steps in becoming part of the solution to the growing problem of e-waste. Becoming an advocate by encouraging others to do the same is another way to greatly expand positive impact. The non-profit e-Stewards program is dedicated to teaching people how to deal with used electronics—and individuals can pledge to become one of the program’s Envoys to help spread the word about the importance of reducing e-waste. u
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Last opportunity for low-cost pet services
Lakewood’s pet-friendly summer tradition, Bow Wow and Meow Day, returns Sunday, July 30 from 9 a.m. to noon along Civic Center Way, behind The Centre at Sycamore Plaza at 5000 Clark Ave. The one-stop event offers required rabies vaccinations at only $6 each. Other products and services offered include dog licensing on site, individual vaccines and discounted vaccination packs, micro-chipping, nail trimming, physical exams and flea control products. Information regarding low-cost spaying/neutering and health care for dogs and cats will be available. Cash, checks and credit cards are accepted. Dogs must be on leashes and cats in secure carriers. Residents may purchase a dog license from License Inspectors at the clinic. Go to www.lakewoodcity.org/pets for more information about pet services and pet adoption. u
www.lakewoodchamber.com.
July 2017
Air-conditioned facilities provide important heat relief for seniors High humidity and triple-digit temperatures can hit Lakewood during the summer and early fall. Older residents can feel more distress from heat and humidity and often have fewer options for beating the heat. The City of Lakewood reminds seniors that the air-conditioned Weingart Senior Center is a comfortable oasis, especially during the hottest time of the day--from noon to 4:00 p.m. Lakewood 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 562-630-6141. Hours are Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Saturday, 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. The facility is closed on Sundays. Additional information and a list of other air conditioned centers are available at www.lakewoodcity.org/cooling. Several other city facilities offer relief from the heat during busi-
ness hours: • Bloomfield Park Community Center, 21420 Pioneer Boulevard, 562-865-1717 • Mae Boyar Park Community Center, 6701 Del Amo Boulevard, 562-925-6912 • Burns Community Center, 5510 Clark Avenue, 562-925-7512 • The Centre at Sycamore Plaza, 5000 Clark Avenue, 562-8669771, extension 2800 • Lakewood Youth Center, 4658 Woodruff Avenue, 562-429-7472 • Mayfair Park Community Center, 5720 Clark Avenue, 562-8664776 • Palms Park and Community Center, 12305 207th Street, 562865-6414 Beating the heat: Prevention is the key Getting out of the heat is a healthy decision. Elderly residents who live alone and infants are at highest risk for getting heat-related illness caused by overheating and dehydration. Suggestions for staying cooler: • Stay in the shade and out of direct sunlight.
• Apply sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher 30 minutes before going outside. Sunburns affect your body’s ability to cool itself and cause a loss of fluids. • Take a slightly cool bath or shower. • Put cool, damp towels on your body. • Use fans to keep air circulating. • Avoid strenuous activities. If engaging in strenuous activities, pace yourself and rest frequently. • Wear light-colored, lightweight, loose clothing made out of a material that allows sweat to evaporate, such as cotton. Avoid synthetic materials like polyester. • Protect your head and neck when outside by wearing a widebrimmed hat or using an umbrella. • Drink frequently to replace fluids lost by sweating. Avoid fluids containing alcohol, caffeine or salt. • Avoid hot foods and heavy meals, since it adds heat to your body. If you use a stove, try to cook during cooler times of the day. • If you live alone, ask a friend or relative to check on you at least twice a day. • Don’t ignore the warning signs of heat stress. • Contact a doctor or other health care provider if the mild signs of heat stress continue for a prolonged period after taking these actions. • Contact a physician immediately if you are experiencing any of the following serious symptoms of heat stress: breathing problems, chest pain, muscle cramps, diarrhea, dizziness, dry skin (no sweating), great weakness, mental changes, confusion, nausea, rapid heartbeat, throbbing headache, extremely high body temperature (above 103 degrees Fahrenheit when taken orally) and/or vomiting. u
July 2017
Four things you can do to protect your drinking water (BPT) - Water is something many of us tend to devote little time thinking about, not because it is unimportant but because we take our clean, safe drinking water for granted. That is, until something occurs that shifts our focus and shows us how potentially fragile our water infrastructure really is. News headlines from across North America have brought the threat of poor drinking water to the forefront and caused many people to be curious about their own water. Research from Culligan International shows that 75 percent of survey respondents said they were worried about the water they drink, while 73 percent had never had their water tested. “For years we’ve taken the safety of our water for granted,” says Rick Cook, manager of industry and regulatory affairs for Culligan. “But our aging infrastructure has heightened the risks of harmful impurities such as lead and iron contaminating our water supply.” Preserving safe drinking water is not something that can be left to chance. To protect yourself and your family and to ensure the water running in your home is safe to drink, Cook offers these tips. * Know where water contamination can occur. Water impurities are not just limited to the water source. They can also occur in the distribution system. While many naturally occurring chemicals and impurities can be filtered at the source, it’s still possible for unsafe amounts of lead to enter your water. These issues are more common in older homes - those built before 1986 - which commonly feature lead pipes and fixtures. * Educate yourself on the filtration system currently in place at your home. Water treatment solutions, including water softeners, reverse osmosis systems and specialty filters, can eliminate specific impurities in your water. However, charcoal pitchers and refrigerator cartridges cannot. * Pay attention to the warning signs. Corroded plumbing fixtures, unpleasant odors, disagreeable taste, discolored water and even shortened appliance lifespan are all signs that something is wrong with your water. If you notice any or all of these occurring in your home, it’s time to get your water tested. * Schedule a test to identify impurities in your water. Because water contamination can happen unexpectedly, through a municipality, your own well or your own pipes, it’s important to have your water tested by a water expert who can determine what harmful impurities - if any - are present and how to eliminate them. While testing can be done at any time, be sure to schedule a water test after you move into a new house, if you have appliances that are burning out or if you notice a change in the taste, odor or appearance of your water. If you have well water you should also have it tested whenever the water becomes cloudy or changes in taste or smell. u
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There’s plenty of ‘family-friendly fun’ in Lakewood Lakewood’s long-standing commitment to family fun continues through July. “Finally It’s Friday,” “FUN-Tastic Family Night” and “Family Night Swim” events offer free or affordably priced evenings from July 7 through July 28. Registration is required for most events. Sign up at www. lakewoodcity.org/ecatalog or call 562-866-9771, extension 2408. • July 7- Itty Bitty Beach Party at Mayfair and McCormick Pools, for ages 6 months to 6 years, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. $3 per person, adult ID and proof of Lakewood residency required. Parents must accompany children. • July 7- Lakewood’s Summer Fair at San Martin Park from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. This free event is recommended for children ages 8-13. No registration required. • July 14- Teen Scene at Mayfair and McCormick Pools from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. $3 per person,
Lakewood’s Summer Fair offers lots of fun activities. adult ID and proof of Lakewood residency required. Teens ages 12-17, come enjoy the pool with your friends. Pool staff will play an assortment of popular music. • July 14 - Shakespeare by the Sea featuring “The Taming of the Shrew” from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. at Monte Verde Park. Free. No registration required.
• July 15- Save a Life Event at Mayfair Pool from 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. This free two-hour event is designed to emphasize safety around water for children and parents. All ages are encouraged to attend. Free 30-minute swim lessons are scheduled for 9:30, 10:00 and 10:30 a.m. Visit www.lakewoodcity.org/ecatalog
to register for these lessons. • July 21 - FUN-Tastic Family Night featuring Wild Wonders animal show at The Centre at Sycamore Plaza, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. $8 per person includes dinner and show ($5 for children 3-1, children under 1 are free). Advance registration is required. • July 21- Sundae Fun Day at Mayfair and McCormick Pools from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. $3 per person, adult ID and proof of Lakewood residency required. Free sundaes to the first 100 swimmers. • July 28 - Family Game Night at the Lakewood Youth Center from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Free. Pre-registration is required. • July 28- Float with Friends at Mayfair and McCormick Pools from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. $3 per person, adult ID and proof of Lakewood residency required. u
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Shop Lakewood...
Help support the Lakewood Chamber of Commerce
Jessi Combs’ “The Real Deal” (Cont’d. from Pg. 3)
It is their mission to motivate others in a way that breeds self-confidence.
of the Hammers in 2010, 2012 and 2013. In 2014 she became nd 2013. In 2014 she became the first female to ever place in an Ultra4 event. She has also competed – and finished on the podium on numerous occasions – in the Baja 1000, the Rallye Aicha des Gazelles (a nine-day all-female rally race which uses handdrawn maps and a compass), The Race of Gentleman (Combs is the first woman to compete in the carnival event, a race with a 1913 Model T traveling on the beach) and many more. For more information, visit www.iamtherealdeal.com and www.lakewoodchamber.com. u
...Stay Lakewood Loyal
July 2017
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Shop Lakewood...
Sephora’s grand re-opening ribbon cutting was a hit!
Mayor Diane DuBois and Vice Mayor Steve Croft join in the ribbon-cutting to open up the newly renovated French chain of cosmetics and beauty products.
Sephora store inside JCPenney’s at Lakewood Center gets a major upgrade! They celebrated with a Grand Re-opening Ribbon Cutting Ceremony, with Mayor Diane DuBois, Vice Mayor Steve Croft, Lakewood Chamber President/CEO Joshua Castellanos, and Lakewood Chamber Board Members Ariel Pe and Joe Ung. and hundreds of residents joined in the fun. There were prizes and giveaways, and For information call (562) 634-7000. u
ATTENTION LAKEWOOD BUSINESS OWNERS! Interested in getting your coupons/specials posted on the “Shop Lakewood” Facebook Page? Email them to info@lakewoodchamber.com.
...Stay Lakewood Loyal
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Understanding the link between salt and health
(BPT) - The news lately is full of articles about salt and health. Everyone seems to be getting ei-
ther too much salt or not enough. So which is it? Part of the problem is with how we study the connec-
tion. Fortunately, researchers on both sides of the issue are starting to agree on how best to proceed and may soon have a better answer for all of us. That answer may be that for most of us, there is no need to eat less salt than we do now.
The European Heart Journal recently published a report by researchers from the World Heart Federation, the European Society of Hypertension and the European Public Health Association that clarified that eating more than 5 grams of sodium per day increases the risk of heart disease, but there was little evidence that eating less than 2 grams per day had any health benefits. They recommended a safe range of between 3 and 5 grams of daily sodium. The good news is that the average American eats about 3.4 grams of sodium per day, an amount that has stayed the same for the last 50 years. Of course more research is needed, but also better research. In the past, many studies only looked at the effect of salt on blood pressure. Today more doctors and scientists are looking at the effect salt has on your total health. The researchers agreed that your overall diet is more important to your health than a single nutrient. It’s true that a lowsalt diet can lower your blood pressure slightly, but it can also place stress on other parts of your body, and that can increase the risk of bad
outcomes like diabetes. Another way research into salt and health is being improved is in the way the results are collected. In the past, people whose salt levels were being studied provided only one urine sample, but your salt levels vary throughout the day and from day to day. Everyone agrees that we need salt to live and that it is an essential nutrient, but getting the right amount is important. The fact is that a small percentage of people are salt sensitive and are affected by salt more than others. These individuals may benefit from less salt, but the rest of us may be put at risk from that same low-salt diet. Every person has different health needs and should follow the advice of their doctor. Placing the entire country on a low-salt diet, as some have suggested, may do more harm than good. u
Food Finders 7th Annual “Summer to End Hunger” School’s Out Doesn’t Have to Mean Hunger is In Local nonprofit food rescue organization Food Finders launched its annual “Summer to End Hunger” Summer Food Drive on May 1, collecting food for families with children. The summer food drive runs through Aug. 31. During the summer it has been reported that only 19 percent of children participate in a summer meal program, but programs like this Food Drive are helping increase that number so that fewer children go hungry once school is out. Food Finders encourages everyone to get involved, including businesses, clubs, scout groups and neighborhoods. Participants can receive a collection bin and signage in support of the food drive, and donated nonperishable food items will also be accepted at the office in Lakewood, located at 3744 N. Industry Ave, #401. Volunteers can sign up to help during the summer to sort and box the donated food for delivery to Food Finders’ partner agencies in need, such as Boys and Girls clubs, youth centers, shelters and pantries that serve primarily families with children. “Programs like this and others, available through parks or other nonprofits, have an extensive impact. They often help ensure parents aren’t forced to seek additional employment, which would require childcare, an expense they might not be able to afford in addition to more groceries,” said Patti Larson, Executive Director of Food Finders, adding, “bottom line is, nobody should be without food, especially our kids.” Anyone interested in supporting this drive to reduce summer hunger, please contact Diana Lara at (562) 283-1400 x101 or dlara@foodfinders.org for more information. A complete list of needed items can be found at www.foodfinders.org on the homepage under Upcoming Events/ Summer to End Hunger Food Drive or can be faxed directly to the interested parties. u
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Community July 2017
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Lakewood graduate goes on to author two books By Linda Maurstad Peterson
his first book, The Equilibrium Objective, he takes you on a wild ride of thinking you know “who done it,” but surprise, you’re so wrong! When I got a hold of Dennis to tell him how I thoroughly enjoyed his book, he told me his second book was out - The Judgment Crossing. I could hardly wait to get it! Dennis’ second book was just
Linda Maurstad Peterson with Dennis Mann attending the Lakewood High School Reunion at Del Valle Park in July, 2015, When I first heard that my childhood friend, Dennis, had written not one, but two books, I thought to myself, really? Both Dennis and I are the children of original owners in Lakewood, with our parents purchasing our homes in early 1952. With 16 kids in 6 of the homes on Iroquois Street, it was a great street to grow up on. We were all within just a few years of each other, and we were later to be known as the “Kids of Iroquois Street.” The Maurstads, Manns, Lists, Cosgroves, Gibsons, and Howells, all grew up together, and many of us are still lifelong friends to this day. First, you should know a bit about Dennis. He was the youngest of 3 who graduated with me from Lakewood High School in 1969. Dennis was the guy who never had a bad day… and if you were having a bad day, somehow he made your day better. He was a big guy with an even bigger heart! His hysterical sense of humor and laughter just added to his charm. Shortly after we graduated, he joined the Navy and was stationed on the carrier USS Midway during the Vietnam War. I remember one of the first pictures that I got from Dennis; he had a full beard and was leaning back in a chair with that great big smile! It did not surprise me to know that his job on the ship was public affairs, which included keeping morale up during those long months out at sea, and also by broadcasting on the ship’s network radio as either the music DJ, or reporting the news. He went that extra mile to ensure that all 4,500 men on the ship had articles written in their hometown newspapers. Like many of the guys who we grew up with, when he returned home from his time in the military, he went back to school, worked a 9-5 job, married his wife Kathy, raised his children and even welcomed grandchildren. But there was still something missing. Dennis, with encouragement from his wife, decided to start his own murder mystery company: Three M Productions. The company ran for 16 years and performed over 100 weekends. If that was not enough, he also had a short-lived career as a stand up
comedian, where he quickly learned that “Stuttering is okay on the page, but not on the stage!”
It just seems logical that his next endeavor would be to write not one, but two murder mysteries. In
as much of a “gotcha” book as the first! I can say this, you will never look at taking a cruise the same way again! So to Dennis, my Iroquois Street buddy, I say thank you for not one, but two great reads. You’ve really done the “Kids of Iroquois Street” proud! u
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Stepping out of the “Me, me, me-mentality!”
There’s an epidemic going around that is affecting many people. It’s not contagious, but it is certainly destructive. It’s the Me, Me, Me-Mentality—an obsession with the self. It has become commonplace to have more for self and less for others. It is a form of narcissism affecting young and old alike,
mostly the young. This shows up in many ways. Here are a few examples: Sports: No matter how bad you do, don’t worry; you’ll get a trophy. Internet: The forum in which you can become a celebrity, no matter what you do, or what little talent you may have. Instant Credit: You want a boat? Why wait? Use your credit card. This gives the illusion of wealth. It’s an easy way to “keep up with the Joneses.” While getting a trophy, celebritizing yourself online, or buying a boat aren’t bad things, it is the intent behind it that’s troublesome. As long as the Me, Me, Me-
Mentality continues, we are not putting ourselves to good use. In fact, we are removing the opportunity of receiving goodness ourselves. Being of service to others is the key to getting what we want. Good begets good. u Submitted by Rossana Snee, MFT, author of The Healing Alphabet, 26 Empowering Ways to Enrich Your Life, available now on Amazon. com and Barnesandnoble.com. Follow her on Twitter @askjoshsmom, Periscope.com, and https://www. facebook.com/askjoshsmom. She is available in a therapeutic capacity, and also for speaking engagements.
Are you & your family prepared to ‘Survive for 7?’ Periodic earthquakes in California are a reminder to get homes and families prepared for disasters that can strike locally. To help, Lakewood’s “Survive for 7” program returns with a one-evening “jump start” for emergency preparedness efforts. The workshop educates residents about actions they can take to protect their family and teaches skills needed to survive in the first week following a catastrophe. Learn more at www.lakewoodcity. org/7days. The next free program is
Register at www.lakewoodcity.org/ecatalog using course #7333, or call the Recreation and Community Services Department at 562-866-9771, extension 2408 for additional information. u
scheduled for Tuesday, July 11 from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Lakewood Youth Center, 4658 Woodruff Ave., Lakewood.
Sponsorship packages & vendor booths still available. Call or email the Lakewood Chamber for more information: (562) 531-9733 / info@lakewoodchamber.com
It’s time to put your brain to work!
Congratulations to Jorge & Martha Del Toro they were the lucky winners of the June Sudoku contest! To be eligible, print your name, address and phone number on a letter size (8½ x 11) piece of paper, and then tape the puzzle onto the paper. Mail entries to: Lakewood Community News, P.O. Box 160, Lakewood, CA 90714. Or drop it by the Chamber office at 4111 South St. in Lakewood. The winners are drawn by random. One entry per household; the answers must be postmarked no later than Thursday, July 20, 2017. The winners will be drawn on Friday, July 21, 2017, 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 winner will be published in the August issue of the paper, along with a new Sudoku Puzzle. u
Thank You to our Generous Sudoku Sponsor!
News
Community July 2017
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Save-a-life event ... be a ‘water watcher’
Keep children safe with a designated ‘water watcher.’ Swimming is the most popular summer activity, but unsupervised water play can lead to tragedy. A child can drown in a matter of seconds without mak-
1st Annual
Make up & Mimosas Networking Event with guest speaker
Toyia Parker from “The Elite Briefcase” speaking on impactful knowledge of FUNDING your purposes.
Saturday, August 5 12:00-5:00PM at the
For the Love of Beauty Makeup Studio
3315 Artesia Blvd. Long Beach, 90805
Lunch will be provided, with bottomless mimosas
• First 10 people to arrive will get a makeover • First 20 people to arrive will get a makeover goodie bag • Enter the raffle for special prizes
Register on Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite. com/e/makeup-mimosas-networking-tickets-34648558772
ing a sound. Whether at a public pool or at home, it’s important for everyone in the family to learn about water safety. On Saturday, July 15 from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Mayfair Pool, the free ‘Save a Life’ event will teach participants how to keep children safe in and around the water. Features include: • Free swimming lessons for kids • Water safety/CPR demonstrations • Lifejacket fittings • Activity stations
• Free ‘water watcher’ card and whistle The ‘water watcher’ card is a great tool to remind a designated adult (the ‘Water Watcher’) of their responsibility to watch kids in or near the pool. The Water Watcher wears the tag and is only relieved of duty by another adult Water Watcher. Register for lessons online at www.lakewoodcity.org/ecatalog under Save a Life, or call Mayfair Pool at 562-804-4256 for more information. Pre-registration is required for swim lessons, however it is not required for the event. For more information on the ‘Save a Life’ event, call 562-8669771, extension 2408. Visit www.lakewoodcity.org/ watersafety for more tips and resources. u
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