LCN March 2015 final

News

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

Official publication of the Greater Lakewood Chamber of Commerce

www.lakewoodnews.org

Volume 32 Number 3

March 2015

Join the Lakewood Chamber as they shed Youth Hall of Fame honors light on the current business climate Lakewood athletes

Complete List of Awards: 34th Annual Lakewood Youth Hall of Fame 2014 Award Recipients:

Athlete of the Year

• DANIEL McARTHUR, Lakewood High School – Swimming

Performers of the Year

Brian McArthur

Mark Wilbur

The Greater Lakewood Chamber of Commerce and the City of Lakewood will host the 2015 Economic Forecast Luncheon on Wednesday, March 25, at The Centre at Sycamore Plaza, 5000 Clark Avenue, Lakewood. Registration and networking will begin at 11:30am, and the program will start promptly at noon. The event

Sonia Southwell

Robert Kleinhenz

will conclude by 1:30pm.

The informative program will offer business executives and community members a review of economic forecast data, insight from notable guest speakers, and essential information to help navigate the ever-changing California business climate.

The keynote speaker will be Mark Wilbur – President CEO

Employers Group. Mark joined Employers Group in 2007 as the youngest CEO in the association’s 116-year history. Mark will discuss; Employer Trends, Risks, & Opportunities for 2015.

The program will also include remarks by Dr. Robert Kleinhenz – Chief Economist at the Los Angeles County (Cont’d on pg. 15)

Buy a brick at new Veterans Memorial Plaza

Lakewood residents and others now have the opportunity to buy a commemorative brick to Lakewood Community News #24 Lakewood Center Mall Lakewood, CA 90712 (562) 531-9733

honor military service members, their family and the Lakewood community at the new Veterans PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE

PAID

Santa Fe Spgs, CA PERMIT NO. 29

Memorial Plaza, being built this spring at Del Valle Park.

The Lakewood City Council approved the commemorative brick program at its February 10 council meeting. The new memorial and bricks will be dedicated at Lakewood’s Memorial Day ceremony on May 25.

“This is a unique opportunity to be part of a lasting legacy in our community,” said Mayor Todd Rogers. “Lakewood has so many residents who are grateful for our nation’s veterans and for our community. I’m sure a lot of people will want to be a part of this new memorial.”

Bricks engraved with the name of a military veteran can be purchased and placed along the sides of the new memorial’s aircraft carrier runway. Separate bricks engraved with the name of community members and nonprofit community groups can (Cont’d on Pg. 9)

Daniel McArthur was honored as the 2014 Lakewood Youth Hall of Fame Athlete of the Year on Monday, February 23 at The Centre at Sycamore Plaza. An audience including hundreds of athletes, family and friends from many local high schools filled the Weingart Ballroom.

McArthur is a Lakewood High School swimmer and had an outstanding year, being recognized as the Swimmer of the Year by the Long Beach Press-Telegram, Century Club and the Moore League. En route to becoming a member of the Press-Telegram Dream Team, Daniel was a C.I.F. Champion in the 200 Individual Medley, 100 Backstroke and 200 Medley Relay.

He was also undefeated in Moore League races this season, being a champion in the 200 Medley Relay, 100 Backstroke and 400 Freestyle Relay. Daniel holds all Lakewood High School records in swimming except for the 50 freestyle.

Baseball • Austin Colvin, Lakewood High School Basketball • Kendall Small, Mayfair High School Cross Country • Hector Peralta, Lakewood High School Football • David Zavala, Lakewood High School Golf • Ali Morallos, Long Beach Wilson High School Gymnastics • Marissa Martinez, Saint Joseph High School Soccer • Savannah Demelo, Saint Joseph High School Softball • Jessica Scroggins, Lakewood High School Swimming • Ariel Burns, Artesia High School Track and Field • Ellis Newton, Mayfair High School Volleyball • Storm Fa’Agata, Lakewood High School (Cont’d on Pg. 8)

Girl Scouts make a heart felt donation

Local Girl Scout cadets recently donated a bookshelf and books to the Lakewood Sheriff’s Department for those children waiting at the station to have access to reading materials. The girls, Annika, Caitlyn and Vivianna, worked over 150 hours to secure, refinish and paint the bookcase, and stock it with age appropriate reading materials for children. The project allows the girls to earn a Silver Award, the highest honor available to girls at this level of Girl Scouts.

LakewoodToday

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My year as mayor

By Mayor Todd Rogers

It’s been an honor for me to serve as your mayor for the past year. As is the tradition in Lakewood and most cities our size, mayoral duties will now rotate to someone else on our city council for a year, and I will continue as a member of the council.

This year as mayor has been a busy one for me and for Lakewood.

We had one of our most active periods ever for improvements to Lakewood parks. We opened our dog park, renovated our pumpkin playground at San Martin Park, started the restoration of our Del Valle Park jet plane and veterans memorial, and constructed the final phase of our nature trail along the San Gabriel River, which we’ll be opening in April.

Since our early days in the 1950s, one of Lakewood’s wonderful defining features has been our neighborhood parks spread across the city. I’m very

proud that over the past year we took bold steps to enhance our park system in a way that will benefit Lakewood for years and years to come.

This was also a busy year in terms of celebrating our 60th anniversary as a city. We had a community-wide open house at The Centre, galleries of historic photos from residents and the city archives, 60th themes at lots of city events and nostalgic collector’s pins. And we capped off the year with a tree lighting night at city hall.

Lakewood maintained its reputation as a well-run city on solid financial ground with good, consistent services for residents. We continued to make the necessary investments in public safety to remain one of the safest communities in the region.

And crime continued its longterm decline in Lakewood, with burglaries and auto thefts among the leading indicators trending down.

One of our most powerful resources for safe neighborhoods is our residents, who take the “See Something, Say Something” message to heart. Many residents were honored this past year for calling the Sheriff’s Department to report unusual activity that led to the arrest of suspects for burglaries or other crimes.

A related, timeless feature of Lakewood is the cohesiveness that you feel in our neighborhoods.

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March 2015

www.lakewoodnews.org Lakewood remains one of those friendly communities where people get to know their neighbors and look out for each other. That’s something I love about our city.

In spending this past year as mayor, I got to speak at a lot of community events, talk with lots of residents, and once again see in an up-close way all the good things that happen in Lakewood, both at the neighborhood and citywide level. It was a great reminder of how nice a community we are fortunate enough to live in.

As I wrap up my year as mayor, I’d like to say thank you to all our wonderful residents, our dedicated city staff, and my colleagues on the city council.

I was honored to play my part as mayor this past year working with all of you to preserve what continues to be great about Lakewood and to keep us on a good path for the future. Thank you Lakewood!

C i t y Spotlight March Madness Hoops Tourney On Saturday, March 21 teens are invited to Bloomfield Park at 21420 Pioneer Boulevard for the annual “Three-onThree March Madness Hoops Tournament.” This free event starts at 2pm and teams will be placed in middle or high school divisions.

Boys and girls can come out with their own teams or just register as a single player and be put on a team when they arrive at the event. Snacks will be available for all participants and prizes will be given out to division winners. Call 562-8651717 for more information.

Lakewood Youth Center versus Teen Resource Center video game battle and pizza party On Saturday, March 28 from 7pm to 10pm, teens are invited to the TRC at Bloomfield Park at 21420 Pioneer Boulevard to join Recreation Leaders from the Lakewood Youth Center and Teen Resource Center.

Participants are in for a fun night of video game tournaments, pizza and beverages!

Teams will be made and will compete against each other to crown the Lakewood’s “Teen Video Game Kings.”

Call 562-865-1717 for more information.

Mother/Son Mayhem Beware me buckos: ‘X’ marks the spot where fun will be found, so chart yer course!

Mothers, grandmothers and aunts can invite their son(s) or special young men, ages five and older, to a fun night of mayhem at Monte Verde Park on Saturday, March 28 from 5pm to 8pm. A young lad and queen will be crowned and all participants will receive a keepsake mother/son photo.

Registration is $15 per person, but will not be taken at the door. Register by calling 562866-9771, extension 2408 or at www.lakewoodcity.org/ eCatalog.

Whale Watching The city’s family-friendly travel program continues with a chance to get up close to one of California’s biggest residents: the Gray Whale.

The event is set for Saturday, March 21. Visitors will enjoy

a day out on the Pacific Ocean while on the lookout for these majestic creatures. The cost of the trip is $30 and includes bus transportation and boat travel.

Please arrive at Burns Community Center by 8am.

The bus leaves promptly at 8:30am for the 10am cruise.

Adults must accompany children of all ages. Register at www.lakewoodcity.org/ eCatalog or 562-866-9771, extension 2408. Make sure to register early, as programs tend to fill. Last day to register is March 2. For further information, please visit www.lakewoodcity.org/ travelprograms.

March 8th

www.lakewoodnews.org

March 2015

Easy ways businesses can reduce employee absenteeism An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure - especially for small businesses grappling with the high costs of worker absenteeism.

Employee time lost to health issues costs American businesses $84 billion a year. For U.S. businesses, helping workers stay healthy costs far less than the financial impact of having them miss work for illness or injury.

With cold and flu season in full swing, HR directors and other business leaders should take steps to help employees stay healthy and on the job. Here are some steps your small company can take to help reduce worker absenteeism: Encourage healthful habits.

Simple factors such as getting enough sleep and frequent hand washing can go a long way toward keeping people healthy. While you can’t make workers get seven to eight hours of sleep, you can spread the word on how it’s done.

Key tricks? Turn off the electronic devices an hour before bedtime, avoid caffeine and alcohol, and go to bed at the same time every night.

Reward well-being actions.

Sometimes inertia is all that stands between employees and improved health. You can inspire employees to be healthier by offering, say, an exercise class at lunch. Health incentive programs such as reimbursement for gym memberships, health challenges for most miles walked in a month, insurance premium reimbursements, or rewards points (good for merchandise) for healthful habits have seen marked increases in engagement and significant health risk migration for those rewarded for their healthy choices.

De-stress the workplace.

Stress is part of having a job, but you can help workers stay healthy and be more productive by helping them manage that stress. Give them chances to get up from their desk - how about making that next meeting a walking one? Offer a workshop on relaxation techniques, and have a de-stress zone in the office.

Provide auxiliary benefits.

Auxiliary benefits such as dental or vision coverage support employees’ overall health maintenance and value-adds such as partnerships with local farms for vegetables, dry-cleaning drop-off service, and onsite fitness classes

6 Degree Fitness to host a Change of Heart Event Get Fit at 6 Degree Fitness is hosting a Change of Heart Event on March 1st, 2015. Change of Heart is a grass roots fitness program, presented by SELF, that was created to educate women about heart disease in support of the American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women movement.

The day’s activities will be from 9am to 1pm on March 1st at 6757 Carson St. in Lakewood. There is a $20 fee to participate. For further information about the 6 Degree Fitness Change of Heart Event, contact Guy at 562-4254800

Your

Minding

create a convenience factor that encourages healthy engagement.

Tell them to stay home.

Despite their best efforts, employees will get sick. When that happens, it may be best to encourage them to stay home.

Workers suffering with a virus like the flu or a bad cold could spread

the illness throughout the office if they come to work when sick.

And those with non-communicable illness or injuries may extend the total amount of time they miss from work if they push themselves to return too soon or don’t take the time they need to make a full recovery.

Business Page 3

&

Business Financial Page 4

www.lakewoodnews.org

March 2015

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March 2015

Lakewood trades boring for unBRAKEable!

Brian Nutter, lead guitarist for Keith Urban, is used to playing in front of crowds of tens of thousands. But in launching his new duo with wife, Blake Gray, he decided to scale it down a little (think Bluebird style intimacy) and launched what they call a “Home Invasion Tour” around the United States. Lakewood was stop #25!

Brian and Blake, known as unBRAKEable, decided to build a fan base and launch their first album by “invading” peoples’ homes and connecting on a much more personal level. They left their home in Nashville and headed west, winding up in Lakewood on Super Bowl Sunday.

Afraid the turn out was going to be pitiful given the events of the day, they were pleasantly surprised to see a crowd of almost

Feeling happy is a choice!

There’s a popular belief out there that the more you have— be it money, toys, jewelry, etc.—the happier you are. I hate to break it to you, but that’s an Urban Legend. Happiness is not about having a lot of things.

Happiness is generated from within, regardless of what you have, or don’t have. Having stuff might make you “happy” for a spell, but that will wear off when the next bright, shiny object catches your eye.

You can choose to be happy, regardless of what’s going on in your life. Your happiness typically has to do with your perception—how you look at things. There’s always more than one way to look at something. For instance, you go to your favorite restaurant to celebrate your anniversary and are told there’s a 30-minute wait. You can either say, “This sucks! I hate waiting!!” Or, “Okay. This gives us some extra time to talk while we wait.” It’s all in how you look at it, folks.

Next time something unpleasant happens; try looking at it from another point of view. Find the possible good in the situation.

Then see what happens. You might surprise yourself.

Submitted by Rossana Snee, MFT. Follow her on Twitter @Askjoshsmom, Askjoshsmom.com, and https://www. facebook.com/askjoshsmom. She is available in a therapeutic capacity, and also for speaking engagements. Ask about An Afternoon with Josh’s Mom!

News

Community

Brian Nutter and wife Blake Gray, rocked the house of a long-time Lakewood resident in an amazing musical visit.

40 at the home of Bryan and Deanna Stedman of Lakewood (the most boring city...NOT)!

They rocked the long time

Lakewood residents’ home for over 2 hours with even the neighbors getting in on the action via a front porch view!

Brian Nutter with Deanna Stedman of Lakewood’s daughter, Grace.

Page 5

ChamberNews Page 6

www.lakewoodnews.org

Income Tax help for free

Volunteers are available at Weingart Senior Center to assist low-income families, individuals and seniors in preparing their basic tax returns. Appointments are for Mondays and Thursdays through April 13.

Reservations are required.

Call 562-630-6141 to make an

Stoppages

appointment. If you are filing a joint return, both husband and wife must come to the appointment.

The Weingart Senior Center is located at 5220 Oliva Avenue in Lakewood.

Individuals with appointments should be prepared to bring in their tax information (W-2 or 1099

License #: 971888

“Welcome to Lakewood” FLYERS DUE MARCH 11th

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forms) and last year’s tax return.

The returns generally take about two hours to prepare, and every return is reviewed by a second tax preparer before they’re filed.

The service is a nationwide AARP Foundation program called “Tax-Aide.” Through a cadre of trained volunteers, Tax-Aide has helped low- to moderate-income individuals for more than 40 years across the nation.

The program helps taxpayers receive applicable tax credits and deductions. Tax-Aide is free to taxpayers with low and moderate income, with special attention to those age 60 and older. For more information, visit www.aarp.org/ taxaide.

Free Estimates

(562) 881-5557

Want to know a great way to reach “new” Lakewood residents? You supply 275 flyers/ coupons for your business & we do the rest! (Cost is $100) Call 562-531-9733 for more info

Live Life Optical Celebrates One Year Anniversary in Lakewood Live Life Optical, an independent optical shop since December 8, 2013, just celebrated their one-year anniversary.

The Eye Care Professionals at Live Life Optical is professional, friendly, knowledgeable, and provides exceptional service to residents in Lakewood. Live Life Optical works with most insurance plans, to help maximize the customer’s benefits and minimize their out of pocket expenses and on lens options. Next door to the optical shop is an Independent Doctor of Optometry to provide comprehensive eye exams, for the customers to have a full customer experience in one visit.

Live Life Optical offers 1 hour service for most single vision prescriptions, fast turnaround for eyeglasses with upgraded lens options, repairs and adjustments. The optical shop carries a large inventory of the best and most sought after brands for all ages, as well as a variety of generic frames to fulfill any customer’s budget. Besides eyeglasses, Live Life Optical also provides a wide a selection of contact lens brands and types that suit the customer’s visual needs and lifestyle.

Live Life Optical’s convenient business hours are Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday 9:30am-5:30pm, and Tuesday and Thursday 1:00pm-7:00pm. For more information on Live Life Optical, call (562)860-4590 or visit http://www.livelifeoptical. com. Follow Live Life Optical on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and find them on Yelp, Foursquare, and GoogleMaps, for special promotions and coupons. Come visit the team at Live Life Optical, and you will be treated like family!

March 2015

Want to travel in 2015?

Lakewood Chamber can help!

Call or email us for further information, or to have a trip brochure mailed (or emailed) to you: (562) 531-9733 / info@lakewoodchamber.com.

Alaska Inside Passage - 8 Days/7 Nights • Departs 7/12/15 - Roundtrip Airfare from LAX - All Port Charges & Gov’t. Taxes - Prices starting from $2299 per double

Switzerland, Austria & Bavaria - 10 Days • 12 Meals • Departs 9/16/15 - Roundtrip Airfare from LAX - Air Taxes & Fees/Surcharges, Hotel Transfers - $3,949 per double/$4,249 single

Spain & Sunny Costa del Sol

- Departs 10/21/15 - Roundtrip Airfare • Airline Taxes & Fees - 13 meals • Professional Tour Manager - Prices starting from $2899 per double

Venice & the Italian Lakes

- 9 Days • Departs 11/2/15 - Roundtrip Airfare from LAX - 10 Meals • Admissions per Itinerary - Prices starting from $3445 per double

A Taste of the South Pacific

- 13 Days • Departs 2/1/16 - Roundtrip Airfare from LAX/Fees - Hotel Transfers - Prices starting from $4799 per double

Sunny Portugal

- 10 Days • Departs 3/11/16 - Roundtrip Airfare from LAX/Fees & Taxes - 14 Meals (8 Breakfasts, 6 Dinners) - Prices starting from $3249 per double

20% Off Complete Pair of Glasses (Frame & Lenses) Cannot be combined with insurance plans.

Some restrictions may apply.

Live Life Optical • 11421 E. Carson St, #D, Lakewood • 562.860.4590

Green

www.lakewoodnews.org

March 2015

Lakewood Shreds! returns for tax season

Tax season is a time of pay slips, receipts, account summaries and a potpourri of other sensitive personal documents. In the wrong hands, they can be a windfall to anyone wanting to steal your identity.

The City of Lakewood and EDCO Waste Services are teaming up again to help.

Residents are invited to safely dispose of documents containing sensitive information like old bank statements and tax records at “Lakewood Shreds!” on Saturday, April 18. The free shredding event has added “green” features like a mulch giveaway and e-waste drop off. Proof of residency may be requested.

The drive-through drop-off location will be behind the Angelo M. Iacoboni Library from 9am to 12noon. (Enter from Civic Center Way off of Del Amo Boulevard or Candlewood Street).

You can dispose of up to three banker-sized boxes of documents, which will be safely and securely shredded on site by a professional shredding company. No CDs, DVDs, diskettes or other media can be accepted for shredding.

A number of freebies will be distributed, including a used oil container and battery box. Each vehicle that brings material to shred will, in turn, get a free, sturdy Shop Lakewood…Stay Lakewood Loyal bag, while supplies last.

Household batteries and electronic waste, such as TVs, computers, keyboards, printers and cell phones, will be collected for disposal.

However, hazardous waste will not be accepted.

Residents interested in mulch can get up to two 30lb. bags free, while supplies last. As a courtesy, Lakewood employees will shovel the mulch, but residents must bring their own bags or cans.

This event is for Lakewood residents only. Be prepared to show proof of residency, either with a driver’s license or utility bill. For more information, please call EDCO at 562-5313054 or Lakewood City Hall at 562-866-9771, extension 2140.

Learn how to keep the earth beautiful and protected

Lakewood’s free Earth Walk event returns with an interactive experience for kids and adults on Saturday, March 14, from 10am to 1pm. The event will be held at rustic Monte Verde Park, which is the trailhead to over three miles

of landscaped walking trails and the San Gabriel River Parkway.

Activities will move into the park’s S. Mark Taper Lodge or under canopies if there’s rain.

Monte Verde Park is located at 4626 N. Shadeway Road.

Participants will learn what they can do to help keep the earth beautiful and protected.

Adults and children are invited to take a nature walk, plant seeds, create nature-themed crafts, make s’mores and learn about recycling. The park features many California native plants.

“Woody the Tree,” Lakewood’s Tree City, U.S.A. mascot, will be in attendance. He will help teach visitors about Lakewood’s urban forest.

Participants can visit the

Living

stations along the trail and get their passport stamped with specialty Earth Walk stamps.

With a completed passport, participants will receive a special Earth Walk gift. This free event is a fun and educational day for family members of all ages.

For more information, call 562-866-9771, extension 2408, or go to www.lakewoodcity.org/ GreenLiving.

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News

Community Page 8

March 2015

www.lakewoodnews.org

Students help set world record for a great cause

Students in the Cerritos College New Product Development Program helped make history as they participated in a print-a-thon event that printed hundreds of prosthetic hands for people in need while setting a new Guinness World Record.

The recent charity event hosted

by AirWolf3D, a Costa Mesa based 3D printer manufacturer, printed 201 prosthetic hands using 170 3D printers, setting the Guinness World Record for the most machines simultaneously 3D printing in a single location.

The students brought the New Product Development program’s six 3D printers to the event, and helped set up and calibrate them under the direction of Program Chair Miodrag “Mickey” Micic. “The students had first-hand experience in setting up, programming, and operating the production in a real-world 3D printing cluster environment,” said Micic. “I’m proud of the students that successfully demonstrated their 3D printing skills.”

The event was also a debut for Astanark, Inc., a company founded by three students in the New Product Development program. Elias Lopez, Luis Mendez, and Jonathan Valdivia started the business to provide technical support, maintenance and setup service to the emerging 3D printing community.

Youth Hall of Fame (Cont’d. from Pg. 1)

Volleyball (Cont’d.)

• Tyler Jackson, California

State University, Long Beach (Lakewood HS)

Wrestling • David Zavala, Lakewood High School Distinguished Nominees Basketball • Aissha Baldwin, Mayfair High School • Allyson Painter, Saint Joseph High School Cross Country • Jakob Geiger, Valley Christian High School Football • Querale Hall, Mayfair High School • Jonathan Nicholson, Valley Christian High School • Cristian Rodriguez, Artesia High School Golf • Danielle Nhem, Lakewood High School • Jacqueline Wang, Saint Joseph High School Soccer • Ari Claro, Artesia High School • Tiffany Castillo, Artesia High School • Natalie Deleon, Saint Joseph High School • Natalie Ramirez, Saint

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Joseph High School Softball • Montana Dixon, Lakewood High School • Allyson Painter, Saint Joseph High School Tennis • Kawani Stanley, Lakewood High School • Ellee Vikram, Lakewood High School Track and Field • Kala Kopecek, Saint Joseph High School • Dawaun Lucas, Lakewood High School Volleyball • Megann Delgado, Lakewood High School • Megan Kruidhof, Lakewood High School • Sarah Miller, Lakewood High School • Alex Winfield, Fullerton College (Lakewood HS) • Niki Withers, California State University, Fullerton Water Polo • Ariel Burns, Artesia High School • Ryan Dorris, Lakewood High School • Adam Harris, Artesia High School • Emma Noble, Saint Joseph High School Wrestling • Josh Aguilar, Mayfair High School • Khalid Tamu, Lakewood High School Special Achievement Awards Scholar Athlete of the Year • James Rodriguez, Artesia High School • Noah Reid, Lakewood High School • Monique Awanyai, Mayfair High School Most Outstanding High School Career • Jessica Scroggins, Lakewood High School All-Round Performer • Allyson Painter, Saint Joseph High School Outstanding Youth Team • 49ers – Basketball, Lakewood Special Olympics High Division • Annoying Oranges – Bocce, Lakewood Special Olympics Mid Division Special Olympics Athlete of the Year • Scott Griffin, Lakewood Special Olympics McDonald’s Press-On Award • Cristian Rodriguez, Artesia High School • Onica Yu, Artesia High School High School Varsity League Champions • Lakewood High School Softball • Lakewood High School Girls Volleyball • Mayfair High School Boys Basketball • Mayfair High School Girls Basketball • Mayfair High School Wrestling • Saint Joseph High School Girls Swimming • Saint Joseph High School Girls Track and Field CIF Champions • Lakewood High School Boys Swimming 200 Medley Relay

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March 2015

Lakewood young lady Wait for it...there’s a competes for the Miss new playground coming to Del Valle Park Teen title

Jaleyn Brown of Lakewood was recently selected to participate in the 2015 Miss Teen Anaheim pageant competition that will take place on Sunday March 1, 2015.

Jaleyn learned of her acceptance into this year’s competition when the pageant announced their selections following interviewing in the local Anaheim area. Jaleyn submitted an application and took part in an interview session that was conducted by this year’s Anaheim Pageant Coordinator.

Jaleyn will be competing, for her share of thousands of dollars in prizes and specialty gifts that will be distributed to contestants.

She will be competing in the Miss Teen division, one of four divisions that will have young ladies ages of 7 through 19 competing in modeling routines, which include casual wear and formal wear. Most important, Jaleyn will display her personality and interviewing skills while interviewing with this year’s Anaheim judging panel. Personality is the number one aspect that each contestant is judged on during all phases of competition.

If Jaleyn were to win the title of Miss Teen Anaheim, she would represent Anaheim and the surrounding communities at the National Competition that will take place in Orlando, Florida. Over $30,000.00 in prizes and awards

Last chance to get in on the Lakewood Run!

On Saturday, March 14, 2015, Sheriff’s deputies, recreational runners, families and kids will gather at the starting line in front of the Lakewood Sheriff’s Station for the Lakewood Run’s annual 5K/10K run or 5K walk, or to do the 1K “Fun Run.” Go to www.lakewoodrun.com/ registration to register. Email info@ lakewoodrun.com for additional information.

Professional timing will be used, and online registration is open now. Early registration is $30 if completed prior to March 6. The cost is $35 for those who register after March 6, including the race day. Packet pickup is set for the evening prior to the event on Friday, March 13 between 5pm and 8pm at Lakewood Center at the Lakewood Sheriff’s Community Safety Center.

On the day of the event, registration begins at 6:30am. The 5K and 10K run and walk start at 8am. The Fun Run begins at 9:30am and is only $15.

will be presented at the National Competition while each winner enjoys this expense paid trip of five nights and six days in Orlando, Florida.

Community businesses, organizations, and private individuals will assist Jaleyn in participating in this year’s competition by becoming an official sponsor to her. Through sponsorship, each contestant receives all the necessary training, rehearsals, and financial support, which will allow Jaleyn to become a very confident and well-prepared contestant in this year’s Anaheim Pageant.

Any business, organization, or private individual who may be interested in becoming a sponsor to Jaleyn may contact the Miss Teen Anaheim pageant coordinator, at 1-877-403-6678.

Construction fencing has gone up around the old playground at Del Valle Park near the corner of Henrilee Street and Woodruff Avenue. In its place will be coming a fun, new playground with an airplane theme to match the nearby renovated jet plane and Veterans Memorial Plaza.

The new playground is expected to open by the end of this summer. While the old playground is closed for construction, feel free to visit other fun Lakewood playgrounds, including the new pumpkin-themed playground at San Martin Park (Candlewood St. and Dunrobin Ave.) or lots of other Lakewood playgrounds you can find at www.lakewoodcity.org/parkfinder or by calling 562-866-9771, extension 2408.

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Veterans Memorial Plaza (Cont’d. from Pg. 1)

be purchased and installed on a walkway leading to the memorial.

The bricks cost $100 each, which covers the bricks’ purchase, engraving and installation and assists with the long-term maintenance of the memorial. You can also purchase a replica copy of your brick to take home at a cost of $75.

The deadline for ordering bricks is April 1, 2015 at 5pm in order to be installed by Memorial Day. Bricks can be purchased after April 1 but will be installed at a later date. Bricks can be purchased by Lakewood residents or anyone wishing to honor veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces as well as support the new veterans memorial.

Bricks can be purchased online at www. lakewoodcity.org/memorialbricks or at Lakewood City Hall. There is also an order form on the website that can be printed out for those wishing to pay by check. With questions or to request an order form by mail, please contact Lakewood city staff at service1@lakewoodcity.org or at 562-8669771, extension 2140.

ShopLakewood Page 10

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March 2015

Shop Lakewood...

The Easter Bunny will hop into Lakewood Center on March 14th.

Bring the kids and have some fun doing an Easter Craft at Center Court from 10am to 1pm.

Lakewood business helps with Volunteer Day

“Team Walgreens” in front of a recent Volunteer Day project site.

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Yuji’s Yakiniku Bowl Spicy Tuna Bowl Chicken w/ Curry Aioli SanSai Chicken Katsu Steak w/ Tokyo Salsa Salmon w/ Cilantro Aioli Salmon w/ Kale Tartar

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LUNCH COMBO INCLUDES WHITE OR BROWN RICE (+$.50) SALAD OR MISO SOUP, SODA OR ICED TEA

Chicken & Cali Roll Chicken & Spring Roll Steak & Chicken Shrimp & Chicken INCLUDES: CHOICE OF PROTEIN WHITE OR BROWN RICE (+.$50)

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SAN-SIDES Spring Roll Edamame Fiery Edamame Tokyo Fried Chicken Potstickers

$2.50 $2.50 $4.50 $5.00 $2.95

DRINKS Soft Drink $1.95 Homemade Nectar

Entree w/ Chicken Breast w/ Steak w/ Salmon Seared Ahi Tuna Spicy Sashimi Side Salad

$6.95 $7.95 $8.95 $10.95 $11.95 $10.95 $3.00

SUSHI ROLLS $8.95 $8.95 $9.95 $10.95

RICE BOWL Chicken Tokyo Fried Chicken Steak

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“Shop Walgreens” and thank them for their support!

The month of March has just blown in, to say that spring will soon begin.

March roars in like a lion, with a bluster and a slam.

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Salmon (2 pcs.)

Tuna (2 pcs.)

Sushi Lovers

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NOODLES & SOUP $1.95 $2.75

Lakewood’s Volunteer Day program is looking for project homes for the Saturday, April 18 community-wide cleanup and fixup event. You can help over 500 volunteers throughout the city by suggesting Lakewood locations that can use their assistance.

Recipients of Volunteer Day aid can be seniors or persons of any age who, because of a disability or limited means, need some neighborly help to make their Lakewood yard or home exterior a little nicer. Work can include gardening, yard cleanup or minor painting.

The proposed project sites are reviewed by city staff for eligibility and suitability. If you or someone you know can benefit from a Volunteer Day cleanup project and meet the selection criteria, please submit an application online at www. lakewoodcity.org/volunteer day or call the Burns Community Center at 562-925-7512.

Also consider volunteering a morning’s work and joining in to help neighbors in need. Teams of volunteers from scout troops, schools, clubs, businesses and religious congregations will assist residents who are unable to maintain their properties themselves. For more information, call the Burns Community Center at the number above.

Miso Soup $1.95 Udon Chicken Soup $7.95

Yakisoba Chicken (Stir Fried) $8.95 Tonkotsu (Pork) Ramen $8.95

...Stay Lakewood Loyal

And then tiptoes out gently, like a quiet little lamb.

March 2015

www.lakewoodnews.org

ShopLakewood Page 11

Shop Lakewood...

Lakewood welcomes sweet Captain Vic’s to the neighborhood!

Captain Vic’s Coffee and Ice Cream has officially opened in Lakewood, at the corners of Paramount and Carson Street to serve the community the boldest coffee and tastiest ice cream.

It was a six-month process to get the nautical themed coffee and ice cream shop up to the standards that the owners wanted before opening its doors.

Local residents Captain Vic and Gloria Laragione bring the best of both worlds together in one. The love of coffee and ice cream.

They proudly serve organic coffee roasted locally for the freshest taste alongside good old-fashioned Dreyer’s Ice Cream. Their menu includes real fruit smoothies, chocolate dipped cheesecake, bananas, and ice cream bars. A favorite on the menu is the Affogato; A shot of espresso over your choice of ice cream.

If you were wondering if Captain Vic is a true Captain, the answer is a resounding yes.

Captain Vic has been around boats his whole life. Captain Vic served in the U.S. Navy as a medic and then afterwards working in the Gulf of Mexico on supply boats. He then brought his talents west to the Pacific Ocean where he has been the Captain on many large boats from all over Southern California in addition to sailing his own personal vessel.

His wife Gloria is from Mexico City and brings to Captain Vic’s an eye for detail. She worked tirelessly making sure the nautical theme was adhered to throughout the design process for Captain Vic’s Coffee and Ice Cream. She has brought nautical memorabilia to set the mood of Captain Vic’s, from ocean charts on the tables to the nautical memorabilia on the walls and counters.

Free Wi-Fi is available for all Captain Vic’s Coffee and Ice Cream customers and is open 6am to 9pm Monday through Thursday, Friday 6am to 10pm, Saturday 8am to 10pm and Sunday 8am to 9:30pm.

Call or email us to place an ad on our new “SHOP LAKEWOOD” pages!

(562) 531-9733/advertise@lakewoodchamber.com

Captain Vic’s Coffee Ice Cream Bring in this coupon for 10% off!

Captain Vic’s Coffee and Ice Cream located at 2700 Carson Street in Lakewood.

2700 Carson St • Lakewood • 90712 • (562) 303-9915

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**

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(562) 531-2550 Visit the Shop Lakewood page for more great deals & coupons: www.shoplakewood. org

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.

...Stay Lakewood Loyal

News

Community Page 12

Pathways guides community through JOURNEYS

After a loved one dies, taking the first step into healing can be overwhelming. In maneuvering through this journey one day at a time, with all the varying feelings that come with that, we try to sort through them while looking for a new sense of normal.

At Pathways there are people like Joseph Johnson, who stumbled upon Pathways Volunteer Hospice while conducting an internet search

on caregiving organizations to become a volunteer, and encountered a much more rewarding and profound experience.

“I would have to say I would equate it to winning the lottery.

It’s a chance you take and the possibilities are endless,” he says on becoming a Pathways volunteer. “I was really thankful and eager to become a part of and take in what Pathways has to offer.”

www.lakewoodnews.org Johnson not only volunteer’s as a caregiving companion but he is also a bereavement facilitator for the JOURNEYS grief support group. Johnson highlights that meeting with those who have gone through a significant loss has changed his perspective on life in many ways.

Although Pathways is a relatively small organization it is greater than its size based on the dedication of the phenomenal staff in conjunction with equally dedicated volunteers.

Pathways is much more than just an organization— it’s an extension of community made up of compassionate people helping others live and adapt to changes in their lives.

The new 10-week session of JOURNEYS begins April 8. Be sure to call the Pathways office to find out more about Pathways services at 562-531-3031 or visit www.pathwayshospice. org.

Workshop helps businesses get tax credits

March 2015

ABC Education Foundation Awards night

Left to right, ABC Education Foundation boardmember Chris Apodaca from Broadview Mortgage, Artesia High Student Andres Vasquez, Principal Sergio Garcia, board member and attorney Joseph Porter III and ABC Superintendent Dr. Mary Sieu at the recent ABC Education Foundation Teacher Grant Awards night.

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Lakewood area businesses are encouraged to attend a Monday, March 2 workshop in Lakewood presented by the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development.

The free program is intended to help small, medium and large businesses learn how to apply for millions of dollars in tax credits from the State of California.

Register at www.lakewoodcity. org/biztaxes. The event will be held in the Lakewood City Council Chambers at 5000 Clark Avenue on Monday, March 2 from 2pm to 3pm.

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March 2015

www.lakewoodnews.org

What’s the deal with sugar and my heart?

By Bret A. Witter, MD, FACC, FACP

In my cardiology practice, patients often ask me questions like: How does sugar consumption affect my cardiovascular health?

Is it really bad for me? Well, most of us know that the consumption of sugar-laden foods can come with plenty of unwanted consequences, but we still want to know if sugar can be part of a healthy diet. Can we have our cake and eat it too?

So, what is the deal with sugar? There does appear to be mounting scientific and medical evidence that sugar consumption contributes to an increase in inflammation in the arteries.

Simply stated, blockages are formed in areas of inflammation, so it makes sense to avoid inflammation. Multiple indirect studies link high sugar levels with markers of inflammation and resistance to insulin. Insulin is the body’s way of counteracting high sugar. Obesity is also linked with markers of inflammation. There definitely is an association with obesity and diabetes, both of which increase heart risk. It is not clear if sugar is the direct culprit, but where there is smoke (sugar) there is likely fire.

More and more foods can be found promoting lower fat content, but be mindful that those foods are frequently endowed with plenty of added sugars to help tickle our taste buds. The foods with added sugars are generally less healthy than others, and products containing sugar and corn syrup--like candy and soda-are less healthy than their natural sugar counterparts. As many of us have learned, regular food label inspections are essential to a healthy diet. Yet, even if armed with the best intentions, it can be difficult to calculate added sugars based on labeling information, alone, so here are some tips: Read the label to look for other names of sugar. Sugar names usually end with the letters “-ose.”

Some popular examples you’ll see are: fructose, glucose, lactose, maltose and sucrose. Your watch list should also contain: highfructose corn syrup, fruit juice concentrate, honey, malt sugar, molasses, raw sugar, sugar, syrup.

Most of my patients don’t want to be bothered calculating calories. If that sounds like you, here’s another way of looking at your diet:

News

Community

amounts of sugar.

I hope all of you will be encouraged to go easy on your sugar consumption and keep your hearts strong and your lives naturally sweet through healthy diet, regular exercise and the best sweetener of all—much laughter.

Plant-based foods should make up a significant portion of the diet.

If it looks like it did when it came from the ground, it is probably good for you.

Fresh fruits and vegetables are generally healthy, but remember many fruits do contain excessive

About the Author: Dr. Bret A. Witter is board certified in Internal Medicine, Cardiovascular Diseases and Cardiac Echocardiography.

You can learn more about Dr. Witter and the other cardiologists at Los Alamitos Cardiovascular by visiting www. losalcardio.com.

Page 13

Greater Lakewood Chamber & Norwalk Chamber

Women in Business Council Join Us For A March Makeover!

Mae Boyar Park

6701 Del Amo Blvd, Lakewood 90713 (Corner of Del Amo & Studebaker inside residential area)

RSVP To: Norwalk Chamber 562.864.7785 Lakewood Chamber 562.531.9733

Town

Around

March 2015

www.lakewoodnews.org

Page 14

Bring the family to a fun balloon comedy show

Sudoku

Let’s play Sudoku!

Thanks to our FEBRUA RY Sudoku Sponsors!

1 4 3 6 7 8 8

Lakewood’s Fun-Tastic Family Night continues Friday, March 6 with Annie Banannie’s one-of-a-kind comedy experience. The program combines comedy, storytelling and extraordinary balloon twisting.

Audience volunteers will help Annie tell fabulous stories with lots of balloon surprises along the way.

Held at The Centre at Sycamore Plaza, this family-friendly and affordable event includes dinner and entertainment for all ages.

Register online at www.lakewoodcity.org/eCatalog or call 562-8669771, extension 2408. Use class # 37634. Pre-registration by March 3 (or until sell-out) is required. So, be sure to register early!

Cost is $8 per person and $5 for children 3 and under. Children under 1 are free. Doors open at 5:45pm. The show begins at 6:30pm. The evening’s meal is bean and cheese burritos, Spanish rice, lemonade and a dessert served prior to the show.

Congratulations to Lee Durham and Patricia Rankin! They are the lucky winners of the February Sudoku contest.

To be eligible, print your name, address and phone number on a letter size (8½” x 11”) piece of paper, cut the finished puzzle from the newspaper, and tape onto the paper. Mail entries to: Lakewood Community News, P.O. Box 160, Lakewood, CA 90714. Or drop it by the Chamber office at #24 Lakewood Center Mall (right next to See’s Candies). The winners are drawn by random.

One entry per household; the answers must be postmarked no later than Friday, March 20, 2015.

The winners will be drawn on Monday, March 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 April issue, along with a new Sudoku Puzzle.

2 7 9 6 8

7

1

2

7 4 1 8

6

3 1 4 5 7 8

Around Town in March

Lakewood

• Join Seahawk Cocktail Lounge on Saturday, March 28th at 6pm as they support DET Michelle Diaz in the Police Unity Tour. She will ride for those who have died and support the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund. For donations go to www.socalput.com and select rider Michelle Diaz.

• The Lakewood Garden Club will be meeting on Thursday, March 26 at 11am at Del Valle Park at the Youth Center. The club is having potluck lunch with a large boutique sale. This is a yearly event. For more information call (562) 867-0516.

• The Lakewood Women’s Club will hold its March luncheon meeting on Tuesday, March 17 at Sycamore Centre. Reception is at 10:30am, meeting at 11am, luncheon at 12noon, followed by the program at 1pm.

For lunch reservations, call Arlene Roos, (562) 863-4933 by March 9.

• Free Lip Reading classes are offered on Mondays and Wednesdays.

Monday classes are: March 2, 9, 16, 23, and 30, 10am to 12noon.

Wednesday classes are: March 4, 11, 18 and 25, 9:30 to 11:30am. The classes are offered through the Hearing Loss Association of America at the Weingart Senior Center, 5220 Oliva Ave. For more information, call 562-438-0597.

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If your target market is the city of Lakewood, then the Lakewood Community news is your advertising venue.

The Lakewood Community News prints 30,000 copies monthly and distributes to every home in Lakewood and surrounding Long Beach neighborhoods. For more information, please call (562) 531-9733, and ask about a 20% discount off your first month of advertising.

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Since September, 2011, we have donated over 2,000 lbs. of pet food to the Lakewood Meals on Wheels for the “Pets of the Homeless,” a non-profit group that helps with vet care & pet food for their furry friends.

Any help would be appreciated. We accept both dry & canned food for cats & dogs.

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M-F 10-7 Sat 10-5 Sun 10-3 (562) 443-8066 or (562) 354-6304

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Community March 2015

www.lakewoodnews.org

Women may face extra challenges in seeking financial security Sunmitted by Carol Otters, Edward Jones Financial, Lakewood

On March 8, we observe International Women’s Day. On this occasion, thousands of events across the world will honor the cultural, political and social achievements of women.

Of course, in many countries, women still face significant economic challenges. And even here in the United States, women encounter more obstacles than men in the pursuit of financial security, particularly in seeking a comfortable retirement lifestyle.

So if you are a woman — regardless of your marital status — you will need to be aware of these challenges and take steps to overcome them.

Let’s consider a few of these challenges and some possible solutions: Challenge: Women spend more time out of the workforce and accumulate less money in 401(k) plans.

Women spend an average of 12 years out of the workforce caring for children or elderly parents, compared with less than two years for men, according to the Social Security Administration. This time away from work can translate into less money in retirement plans —

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in fact, women’s average 401(k) balance is only about two-thirds as large as men’s, according to a study by Fidelity Investments.

Potential solution: Take full advantage of your

401(k) and IRA. Your care-giving obligations are an issue to be decided by you, your spouse and perhaps other family members. But while you are working, contribute as much as you possibly can to your 401(k) or similar employer-sponsored plan.

Also, try to fully fund your IRA each year.

Challenge: Women typically live more years in retirement and depend more heavily on Social Security.

Women reaching age 65 are expected to live, on average, an additional 21.6 years, compared with 19.3 years for men, according to the Social Security Administration, which also reports that the average annual Social Security income received by women 65 years and older was about $12,500. Furthermore,

Social Security comprises about 50% of the total income for unmarried women age 65 and older, compared to just 36% for elderly men.

Potential solution: To become less dependent on Social Security, create a sustainable withdrawal strategy for your investment portfolio.

Social Security was designed to supplement one’s retirement income, not replace it.

Consequently, it’s essential that you make full use of your other sources of income, such as your 401(k), IRA and other investment accounts. To make this money last, you’ll need to create a sustainable withdrawal strategy early in your retirement — and stick to it.

These aren’t the only financial issues facing women, but they do give you a good idea of what you may be facing. So, be proactive in meeting these challenges — because there’s actually a lot you can do.

Page 15

Economic Forecast Luncheon (Cont’d. from Pg. 1)

Economic Development Corporation, regarding his Economic Predications for 2015.

Also Lakewood Community Development Director Sonia Southwell will present the City of Lakewood’s Latest Projects & Development Opportunities.

Glen Patrick from Goldstar Manner will serve as the master of ceremonies for this annual event.

Tickets are available through the Greater Lakewood Chamber of Commerce. The luncheon price is $35 for chamber members and $45 for non-members.

Sponsorship and marketing opportunities are available to promote your business. For more information, please visit www. lakewoodchamber.com. Call the chamber at 562-531-9733 for additional information.

Page 16

www.lakewoodnews.org

March 2015