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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 59 Volume 34
www.lakewoodnews.org / www.lakewoodchamber.com www.lakewoodchamber.com
September 2016 May 2017
It’s all about the performance and Mayfair High Choir proves they have the ‘wow factor!’ By Robin Vanderwerff Music in its totality, whether singing or performing, is what the kids that make up Mayfair High School Choir are all about. They wake up early, go to bed late, and practice until they hear the perfect pitch. They recently took their voices on the road; first stop, Los Alamitos High School for its annual singing ‘Extravaganza.’ Mayfair High competed with selected high schools in Southern California. The Mayfair Mariners (all girls group) sang their hearts out and took home 2nd place in the Intermediate Women Division. If that wasn’t enough to sing about, Mayfair High’s Showtime (mixed group) won Best Musical Performance Award, which is one of the highest honors you can receive. The combo band played a huge part in that honor since they are part of that group. The busy singing bees then flew to their second stop and landed in Vancouver, Canada. The students, both Mariners (all girls group) and Showtime (mixed group) made Lakewood proud by putting on outstanding performances. School is the central component of the learning process, and what better way to get a well rounded
Pictured is the entire Mayfair High Choir including chaperones taken at the famous Butchart Gardens in Vancouver. The two ladies in the middle front are holding a copy of the Lakewood Community News. educational experience then to take the kids out of the four walls of the classroom. That’s just what Mayfair High’s Show Choir does each year. These groups
take an annual concert tour to promote music education in schools around the country, and to perform in public venues; all while taking in the culture, sights
and sounds of each new location. The education that the students get in return is priceless. The Show Choir was excited to perform in five different
high schools and elementary schools throughout Vancouver. They had their well rehearsed, performances ready to go. On (Cont’d. on Pg. 4)
Lakewood residents are invited to join in the city’s annual tribute to the men and women who have sacrificed their lives while serving in the United States armed forces, as well as to honor the members of local veterans organizations who have died during the past year. The Memorial Day ceremony will take place on Monday, May 29 at 11am at the Lakewood Veterans Memorial Plaza at Del Valle Park. The memorial and Douglas jet fighter, both renovated in 2015, are located on Woodruff Avenue, between Henrilee Street and Arbor Road. (See page 9 for more details.)
So excited, just can’t hide it! Pan Am Fiesta is fun for the whole family The Pan American Fiesta returns to Mayfair Park with its classic mix of rides, attractions, food and music combined with Lakewood traditions. Mark your calendar for the Mother’s Day weekend of Thursday, May 11 through Sunday, May 14. Here are some of the features of the Pan Am Fiesta: • Food booths and trucks, with creative and popular menus. • Exhilarating attractions…and lots of carnival rides (for young kids all the way up to teens and adults). • Live music! On Friday night, listen and dance to “Stone Soul” playing Motown hits. Learn some new dance moves by watching the “Kick It Up Dance Studio” in action before Stone Soul. Saturday night features “Louie Cruz Beltran” (playing Latin
Jazz) followed by the ‘80s hits of “Knyght Ryder.” A complete schedule (including other performers) is at www. lakewoodcity.org/fiesta. With questions, call 562-866-9771, extension 2408. Lakewood community groups will host food booths and trucks
Friday evening and all day Saturday that include pizza, hamburgers, pastrami, meatball sandwiches and tacos. Specialty snacks such as Kettle Corn, shaved ice and ice cream will also be offered. More than 50 arts and crafts (Cont’d. on Pg. 4)
Lakewood business owner is honored as ‘Women of the Year’
Pictured left to right: Lakewood City Mayor, Diane DuBois, Senator Tony Mendoza, Dr. Michelle Litzinger and Lakewood City Councilmember, Ron Piazza.
Senator Tony Mendoza recently honored Dr. Michelle Litzinger, Owner of Back to Life Chiropractic in Lakewood as the 32nd Senate District 2017 Women of the Year in the area of Health. Lakewood City Councilman Ron Piazza nominated Dr. Litzinger for her work as Soroptimist Chairperson as well as her involvement with the annual Lakewood Run. Dr. Litzinger says, “I’m incredibly honored to be recognized by the City of Lakewood.” She added, “Women should keep working hard at what they love doing and you’ll make a difference in some aspect.” u
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Keeping Lakewood special
I can to highlight the good work of our volunteer organizations…and highlight the opportunities that exist for more Lakewood residents of all ages to get involved with them. When you look at the news these days, you realize how much turmoil and sadness goes on around our world…and how many people do not have the fortune to live or work in a community as tranquil and comfortable as Lakewood. Our city founders and city councils before us made good choices that got us pointed in the positive direction we’re still benefitting from today. As mayor, as members of the city council, and as residents, it’s our duty to maintain and build on that legacy. We will face challenges. We always have. But I am confident that we will approach those challenges in a positive and collegial way where we look out for the best interests of our residents. And I am certain that in the end, we will keep Lakewood a wonderful place to live and work. I look forward to a great year working with you for the benefit of our community. u
By Mayor Diane DuBois
I’m Diane DuBois, and I’m very honored to be starting a one-year term serving my fellow residents as Lakewood’s mayor. In Lakewood, as in most California cities our size, city council members alternate as mayor on an annual basis. I am very grateful to have been nominated and approved by my council colleagues to serve as Lakewood’s mayor until March 27, 2018. During this next year, you’ll see me speaking at lots of city events, chairing city council meetings and performing other city functions. I’ve lived in Lakewood for many years, raised my children here with my late husband Bruce, and greatly enjoyed building and living a life in this wonderful community. I’ve been active as a volunteer in Lakewood and been on the city council since 2005. This will be my third time as mayor, and each time it’s been a great honor to serve my fellow residents in this capacity. We all have a long list of things that we love about Lakewood. My list includes: • Our beautiful parks…and our recreation programs for all ages. • Our smooth, tree-lined streets.
• And, the great public safety service that we get from the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department and Fire Department. I’m going to do the best that I can as mayor to preserve and enhance these wonderful features…and all that is special and good about our community. It’s a team effort in Lakewood, and I know I won’t be alone in working hard to keep our community great. I have my colleagues on the city council. We all hear about cities where council members bicker and fight amongst each other. I’m so glad that we don’t have that here in Lakewood. I think that says something about our city. Residents and neighbors here generally get along with each other. That’s another part of what makes Lakewood a special community. Lakewood is blessed to have so many residents who care about and look out after their homes, their neighbors and their community as a whole. They also volunteer and help out in many ways. A big symbol of that volunteer, helping spirit was shown on Saturday, April 22--Volunteer Day in Lakewood. Over 500 residents fanned out across our city on repair and cleanup projects at the homes of elderly, disabled or lowincome residents who weren’t able to do the work themselves. In many ways, every day is Volunteer Day in Lakewood thanks to the good work of residents volunteering with so many organizations and causes. During this past year, thanks to the leadership of then-Mayor Ron Piazza, our city did a great job acknowledging the many residents who make a difference in Lakewood. In my year as mayor, I’m going to build on that effort and do all that
C i t y Spotlight Lakewood Travel Trip: Ramona Pageant in San Jacinto The City of Lakewood offers affordable, family-friendly local travel programs, with the next trip heading to the Ramona Bowl in the hills of San Jacinto to see the longest running outdoor play in the United States, the Ramona Pageant, on Saturday, May 6. The cost is $45, which includes bus transportation. Please arrive at Burns Community Center by 12:15pm. Bus leaves promptly at 12:30pm. for a 3:30pm show. Adults must accompany children of all ages. Register at www.lakewoodcity.org/ ecatalog using activity #6236. For further information, please contact Recreation and Community Services staff at 562-866-9771, extension 2408. Make sure to register early as programs tend to fill. Lakewood Travel Trip: “Jersey Boys” at the Ahmanson Theatre See the critically acclaimed
May 2017 production of Jersey Boys--a musical biography of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons— the no-hassle way with Lakewood’s Travel Program on Thursday, June 22. The cost is $45, which includes bus transportation. Please arrive at Burns Community Center, 5510 Clark Ave., by 5:30pm. Bus leaves promptly at 6pm for an 8pm show. Register at www. lakewoodcity.org/ecatalog using activity #6791. For further information, please contact Recreation and Community Services staff at 562-866-9771, extension 2408. Make sure to register early as programs tend to fill. Last day to register is June 12 or until filled. LYS baseball/softball/T-ball signups Signups for Lakewood Youth Sports baseball, softball and T-ball teams will take place at all Lakewood parks between May 13 and 20. T-ball teams are for boys and girls ages 6-7 and baseball and softball teams are for boys ages 8-15 and girls ages 8-17. There are no team fees for Lakewood residents and proof of residency is required. The non-resident registration fee is $20. Birth certificates are required. For more information call 562-8669771, extension 2408. Lakewood Youth Sports volunteer coaches needed Volunteer coaches are needed for baseball, softball and T-ball teams for the summer season at Lakewood parks. Although moms and dads of players make great coaches, it’s not necessary to have a child playing to enjoy the volunteer experience. No coaching experience is necessary. City staff will provide the appropriate training. Inquire at any Lakewood park for complete details or call 562866-9771, extension 2408. Family Camp Parents and children, ages
3-11, can enjoy an outdoor experience together and spend a night out under the stars at Monte Verde Park May 20 and 21. The cost of this fun family outing is $17 per couple, $8 for each additional person. A $16 per-couple materials fee for meals is due to the instructor at camp ($8 for each additional person). Camp begins on Saturday, May 20 at 1pm and ends at noon on Sunday, May 21. A “what to bring” list will be mailed to each family before camp. Register at www. lakewoodcity.org/ecatalog using activity #5878 or call 562-866-9771 extension 2408 for more information. Mayfair Pool offers presummer swim opportunities Swim Lessons: Mayfair Pool pre-summer swim lessons will take place Tuesday, May 30 to June 9. Online priority registration for residents begins May 20 at 7pm. Non-residents may register online beginning May 23 at 7pm. Walk-in registration will take place from 1pm to 4pm on Saturday, May 27. Participants may sign up at www.lakewoodcity.org/ ecatalog. Recreation Swim: Pre-summer recreation swim will take place at Mayfair Pool and McCormick Pool Memorial Weekend only, May 27-29 from 1pm to 2:30pm and 2:45pm to 4:15pm. Daily summer recreation swim begins June 17. Resident fees are $1 for children and $1.50 for adults (age 18+). Non-resident fees are $2 for children and $3 for adults (age 18+). Water Aerobics: Shallow Water Aerobics classes will take place on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6pm to 7pm beginning May 30 at Mayfair Pool. Register at www.lakewoodcity. org/eCatalog using activity #6503. Mayfair Pool is located at 5720 Clark Ave. For complete information, please call 562866-9771, extension 2408. u
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Minding May 2017
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Lakewood family named Ambassadors for Ronald McDonald’s “Walk for Kids” event of brain cancer. The disease has only 30 cases per year, and happens to every three in one million babies. Doctors estimated she only had a 10% chance of survival. Victoria’s rigorous treatment included 5 rounds of chemotherapy, 28 rounds of focal radiation, and multiple trips to the ICU. For nine months, Brad and Amanda found comfort and care at the Long Beach Ronald McDonald House while their daughter received lifesaving treatment. “For our family, RMH provided meals most evenings, and a quiet room to let the tears and tension from the day fall away.” Victoria has now been cancerfree for 2 years, and she and her family were thrilled for the opportunity to give back to the House that helped them heal in their time of need. u Brad Crihfield ‘Walking for kids’ with Victoria. Ronald McDonald House Charities of Southern California (RMHCSC) and local residents recently joined together in support of critically ill children and their families at the 6th annual Long Beach Walk for Kids at Shoreline Park, a family-friendly 5k pledge event that raises awareness and funds for the life-changing services provided by RMHCSC. All 100% of the funds raised will directly benefit families in the local community, helping to provide a “home away from home” for families to stay near their hospitalized child at little to no cost. Over 40% of children served by Long Beach Ronald McDonald House are babies in the NICU. One such family is the parents of Victoria Crihfield, Brad and Amanda Crihfield, who reside in Lakewood. They participated as the official Ambassador Family for the Long Beach Walk for Kids.
Victoria’s Story: At 3-months old, Victoria went in for a routine checkup at the doctor’s office when doctors discovered a tumor in her brain. The doctors were able to quickly have the tumor removed, but ultimately, she was diagnosed with Childhood AT/RT – Atypical Teratoid Rhabdoid Tumor – a rare, aggressive form
Brad, Amanda and Victoria at Ronald McDonald’s “Walk for Kids” event.
Victoria Crihfield.
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Community Page 4
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“Mayfair High School Choir” (Cont’d. from Pg. 1)
stage, they sang to various pop tunes just like old pros. The combo band performed beautifully, the upbeat tempo with the Mariners and Showtime Show Choir groups put all their talent out on the stage! Mrs. Gina Holcomb, Mayfair High School’s Music Director, has been leading her committed, responsible, and passionate,
students on tour for the last 31 years. She is the mirror her students look through for educational success. As one might imagine, going on these tours can be expensive, but each student has fund raising events to raise the money they need. Gina Holcomb uses the experiences to teach valuable life skills. Students learn how to budget their money
wisely, time management, as well as respect and good manners. Students are also responsible for setting up sound equipment, such as soundboard, microphones/ stands, speakers, all associated wiring, and monitors. To understand the value of hard work, they pack and unpack everything. Each student is given a responsibility and they have to see that through until it’s completed. One word the students never use in the presence of their teacher, Mrs. Holcomb, is “can’t.” They are a “yes we can’ kind of group. It seems clear who is behind the success of Mayfair High’s Choir. It takes a dedicated teacher to instill worthwhile qualities in young impressionable students. Gina Holcomb is just the inspiration that gives wings to these amazing kids! u
May 2017
Job preparation is the key that opens the door to that perfect job!
Teens from the ages of 12 to 17 can take advantage of the free Career Builder Series at the Lakewood Youth Center, 4658 Woodruff Ave. Teens can learn what it takes to successfully secure a job, from interviewing to building a resume to searching for the right job. Sessions are held Tuesdays and Thursdays from May 9 through May 18 from 5pm to 6pm. No pre-registration required.
The topics covered are: • Tuesday, May 9 -- Interview Prep: Learn the do’s and don’ts of the interview process. • Thursday, May 11 -- Mock Interviews: Put your new knowledge to the test and develop your interview skills. • Tuesday, May 16 -- Resume Building: Learn how to build a resume that sets you apart from the competition. • Thursday, May 18 -- Finding that Job: You’ve done the prep; now find the job that’s right for you! For more information, call the Lakewood Youth Center at 562429-7472. u
News
Community May 2017
www.lakewoodchamber.com
Farmers Market celebrates one year in Lakewood
A longtime dream of many Lakewood residents came true a year ago when a Farmers Market opened up at Lakewood Center. On Saturday, May 27 from 8am to 1pm, Lakewood Center will celebrate the one-year anniversary of the Farmers Market with a
What we resist
When negative emotions come up, our tendency is to resist them. We fight them tooth and nail, resulting in feelings of anxiety, worry, anger, and a host of other feelings. We distract ourselves with a number of coping mechanisms such as, shopping, drugs, sex, work, alcohol, etc. This only makes things worse. Feeling the feelings, however, is the true way out; the way that will bring us peace. Next time an emotion shows up, sit down in a quiet place. Let it come in. Where are you feeling it? Sit with it. Don’t get up to eat, order something on EBay, or have a drink. Sit with it. And let it pass. More than likely you’ll feel it in waves. The feelings will come, go, come back. Eventually, however, they will just be gone. Think about all the feelings you’ve ever had. Do you still have them? Look back as far as you can go. What happened to the feelings you had in high school? College? When you were married to your Ex? I’m sure you’ve moved on to new feelings. This takes work, so practice. You know what they say, it makes perfect. u Submitted by Rossana Snee, MFT. 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.
special day featuring: • Hourly giveaways, including
Farmer’s Market-inspired goodie baskets and gift cards
• Kid-friendly activities like face painting and a balloon artist • Live entertainment from the Matt Stone Band Every Saturday from 8am to 1pm, the Lakewood Farmers Market features over 20 farmers and vendors selling fresh fish and California-grown produce, bread, honey, and other wholesome foods. The Farmers’ Market is located in the Lakewood Center parking
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lot to the west of Target, near the corner of Lakewood Boulevard and Candlewood Street. Target opens at 8am and other mall stores open at 10am, making for a convenient one-stop shopping trip for a Saturday. The Farmers’ Market is collaboration between Lakewood Center and So Cal Farmers’ Markets. For news on the latest vendors, visit www. shoplakewoodcenter.com/Events. u
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Chamber Page 6
May 2017
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With the pass of the gavel the Lakewood Chamber welcomes their new Chairman of the Board
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Greater Lakewood CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
There’s always fun AFTER the game! Special thanks to Paul St. Bernard/Buffalo Wild Wings and Mike Dimmitt/Eastside Mario’s for hosting the after-game party.
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Thank you to all the businesses that participated and helped to make this season fun for all! The West Division defeated the East Divison by a score of 15 to 14. Thanks to both managers - West Division: Ezekiel Kahn and East Division: Ron Cratty. If you’re interested in joining our summer league, call Frank Cardiel at (562) 531-9733.
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Lakewood Chamber hosts their 21st All-Star Game
Woodwards of Lakewood RentAll for their donations and hands on help with various events. Many volunteers and ambassadors were also honored. Michael Farmer, of Lakewood’s Michael Farmer Photography, showed his skill and keen eye for just the right shot. It makes those who were unable to attend feel as if they were there. Check out the photos at www. lakewoodchamber.com. At the end of the day, The Chamber is all about people helping people. That may sound cliché, but behind each business is a person that’s reaching out with
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everyone feel important to her.” The Lakewood Chamber may have a small town feel, but that’s the secret to its success. Every Chamber Members business is important, and the opportunity to recognize some of the faces behind the business names was what made the evening so exciting. Lakewood Regional Medical Center, Piazza McDonalds and Weingart-Lakewood YMCA were all honored for their contributions that have been pivotal to the growth and support of the Chamber. The coveted Woody Smith Award was given to Mick
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over 2 million constituents and communities, stretching from Marina Del Rey to Diamond Bar. As a former member of congress, Supervisor Hahn understands the impact of government on local business owners. She appreciates the benefits of a strong local economy, and graciously balances the demands of her diverse constituency on a daily basis. Joshua Castellanos, President & CEO of the Lakewood Chamber says, “Janice Hahn came to the event as a Supervisor, but left as a friend.” He added, “She takes the time to recognize people and she has the amazing ability to make
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The evening began as the sun set, with a beautiful view overlooking the city lights of the Greater Lakewood area. The Lakewood Chamber of Commerce’s recent Installation Event was held at the Holiday Inn’s fully renovated rooftop Vue Restaurant and Bar. Outgoing Chairman of the Board, Joy Janes, passed the gavel to incoming Board Chair, Ariel Pe. In a lively ceremony of music, laughter and cheers, L.A County Supervisor Janice Hahn took her position behind the podium and conducted the official swearing in of the officers. Supervisor Janice Hahn serves 26 cities and
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a product or service to another person in need of that product or service. It’s really as simple as that. The Chamber just helps facilitate that partnership. With their time, energy and professionalism, the Chamber does the hard work of bringing people together. With a handshake and the pass of a business card; relationships are formed. That’s the Lakewood Chamber’s sweet spot. If you’re interested in checking out how you can get involved, go to www. lakewoodchamber.com, or give them a call at (562) 531-9733. u
Greater Lakewood CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Board of Directors Joshua Castellanos
Mark Dameron
President/CEO
Secretary/Treasurer
Ariel Pé
Ruben Austria
Chairman of the Board
Vice Chairman
Brad Crihfield
Scott Marshall
Board Member
Board Member
Monica Goel
Glen Patrick
Board Member
Board Member
Mike Hedges
Mark Perumean
Board Member
Board Member
Deena Henry
Mike Segura
Board Member
Board Member
Travis Jackson
Emilio Sosa
Board Member
Board Member
Joy Janes
Joe Ung
Board Member
Board Member
Lynda Johnson Board Member
Many thanks to our dedicated board members that volunteer their time and resources to help the Chamber achieve their vision of “creating a healthy environment for the business community.”
Green May 2017
www.lakewoodchamber.com
Share the road...safely
• have reflectors and lighting equipment if used at night and be visible at all times • wear a helmet when riding a bicycle, scooter, skateboard or skates (it’s the law for children under 18). Just as a vehicle is required to have valid registration, bicycles are also required to have a license. Having a license help reduce bicycle thefts and aids in identifying and recovering bicycles, which are lost or stolen. The license issued by the City of Lakewood is a state bicycle license and is valid throughout California. It costs $3.00 and includes two decals: the license number decal and the renewal decal. The renewal decal tells you how long you have before the license needs to be renewed, which in most cases is three years. To obtain a bicycle license application and directions on how
May is Bicycle Safety Month, which reminds us that bicyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as automobile drivers and are required to obey the same rules of the road. Motorists must: • allow at least 3 feet of clearance when passing a bicyclist • only drive in the bike lane when
Surprise mom with a special brunch
Have you made Mother’s Day plans yet? Show mom how much you appreciate her with an unforgettable, all-you-can-eat brunch experience in Lakewood provided by TGIS Catering at The Centre at Sycamore Plaza on Sunday, May 14 from 10am to 2pm. The Centre’s highly acclaimed, in-house caterer is one of the premier catering and eventplanning teams in Southern California. There will be live entertainment, complimentary photo booth and gift bags for moms. Guests can also surprise their mother with a special personalized greeting that will be displayed on the big screen during the brunch. TGIS’s Mother’s Day menu includes: • Bottomless champagne and mimosas • Chocolate Fantasy Fountain Maple Bacon Waffles • Carving Station • Poke Station • And much more! The Centre at Sycamore Plaza is Lakewood’s leading location for community banquets, meetings, events, weddings and receptions for every season of the year. Bring your family to celebrate this special occasion honoring our amazing moms! Space is limited, so reservations are a must. Contact TGIS Catering at 562-804-4434 or tgiscatering@ lakewoodcity.org. The cost is $33.95 for adults, $28.95for seniors age 60+ and $19.95 for children age 10 and younger, and free for guests under 3. u
preparing to make a turn within 200 feet from an intersection • look carefully for bicyclists before opening doors next to moving traffic. Bicyclists must: • ride in the same direction as traffic • stop at stop signs and signals
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to submit completed applications, please visit www.lakewoodcity. org/bikesafety or call the Lakewood Sheriff’s Community Safety Center at 562-623-3583. National Bike Month’s Biketo-Work Week is from May 1519, and Bike-to-Work Day is on Friday, May 19. If you live within cycling distance to work, this would be a great way to get some exercise, have fun, and be active in the community! u
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Safe disposal of drugs Drop-off “mailboxes” sit near the front entrance to the Lakewood Sheriff’s Station. But they’re not for mail. Residents can safely and anonymously use them to dispose of old prescription medications, illegal drugs, syringes and other medical “sharps” as they can’t be put in the trash or flushed down the drain. Items should be placed in a closed container or plastic bag and dropped in the correct box. The disposal boxes are not for commercial use. u
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Community Page 8
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May 2017
Big “THANK YOU” for Volunteer Day
“Pan Am Fiesta”
“On behalf of my city council colleagues and the residents of Lakewood, I want to thank everyone who helped out on this year’s Volunteer Day on April 22,” said Mayor Diane DuBois. “The volunteer spirit in Lakewood is a big part of what makes us a strong, caring community.” Those helped by the volunteers included disabled, senior and
dealers will bring their wares to the Pan Am Fiesta on Saturday from 11am to 9pm. In the Children’s Cultural Booth, kids can have a free, hands-on cultural experience featuring activities and arts and crafts from across the Americas. Organized activities will run from 11am to 5pm on Saturday. Other traditional elements of the Pan Am Fiesta include the flag presentation ceremony of the United States and all the countries of the Americas, and the Pan Am Fiesta historical display. Discount tickets go on sale at Lakewood City Hall beginning May 1 and at Mayfair Park beginning May 8: • 10 tickets for $25 (one ticket good for one ride on Friday, Saturday or Sunday) • Promotional Wristband for $30 – unlimited rides on Sunday from 11am - 8pm. Event day prices are: • Thursday - $1 rides • Fri/Sat/Sun – Tickets are $1.25 each, $20 for 20 tickets, or $40 for 50 tickets (With these tickets, the number of tickets required for each ride will vary.) • Promotional Wristband for $35 – unlimited rides on Sunday from 11am – 8pm. Residents are encouraged to consider the popular Mother’s Day Brunch at The Centre at Sycamore Plaza. Reservations are required. Contact TGIS Catering at 562-804-4434 or tgiscatering@lakewoodcity.org. Then come to the Pan Am Fiesta afterwards for carnival rides and games. Summary of festival hours May 11-14 at Mayfair Park, 5720 Clark Ave: • Thursday, 5pm to 9pm. – Discounted $1 carnival rides, plus games & concessions • Friday, 5pm to 10pm. – Food trucks, food booths, entertainment, rides, games & concessions • Saturday, 11am to 10pm. – Food trucks, food booths, entertainment, rides, games & concessions • Sunday, 11am to 9pm. – Rides, games & concessions The festival dates back to 1945 as a program to foster good relations with Lakewood’s Latin American neighbors. Lakewood’s tradition in that area was enhanced when the city named three city parks that were opened on the same day in 1957 after Latin American heroes (Simon Bolivar, Jose Del Valle and Jose San Martin). Today, Lakewood’s fiesta is the nation’s only community-wide celebration of the Pan-American culture outside Washington, DC. u
other Lakewood neighbors who because of physical or economic hardship were unable to take care of the difficult circumstances their property faced. Volunteers ranged in age from six to 66. Helping out were an estimated 500 people, including members from community organizations, churches, school teams, scouts, business people, and
volunteer city crews. See photos from Volunteer Day at www.lakewoodcity.org/ VolDayGallery. The 33 volunteer groups contributed time and energy to improving 25 private homes and four public sites, including the garden area of Monroe Elementary School and one of the Little League fields at Rynerson Park. The industrious volunteers planted,
weeded and cleaned. They removed overgrown vegetation and trimmed trees. They replanted flowerbeds, painted porches and windowsills, and generally assisted Lakewood homeowners in need. DuBois and other council members toured various sites throughout the morning, thanking individuals and groups. The city sponsored a picnic at the end of the morning for all the volunteers. u
(Cont’d. from Pg. 1)
News
Community May 2017
www.lakewoodchamber.com
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A time of remembrance at Lakewood’s Changes to paid employee Memorial Day ceremony sick leave coming soon
Lakewood High School Junior ROTC honor guard. The Memorial Day ceremony will take place on Monday, May 29 at 11am at the Lakewood Veterans Memorial Plaza at Del Valle Park. The memorial and Douglas jet fighter, both renovated in 2015, are located on Woodruff Avenue, between Henrilee Street and Arbor Road. The ceremony includes the laying of wreaths at the memorial as well as remarks from keynote speaker Lieutenant Colonel (CA) Carl Fabrizio, Jr. and Mayor
Diane DuBois. The annual reading of the poem “The Boys of Del Valle Park” will be done by Bob Pierce, Lakewood High School class of 1967 and Marine Corps veteran of Vietnam. The Golden Sands Chorus will provide a musical tribute to those who have served in the armed forces, and a stirring performance of “Taps” will be performed. The nationally recognized Lakewood High School Naval Junior ROTC will present our nation’s flag.
The event is sponsored by the City of Lakewood in conjunction with American Legion Post 496, Veterans of Foreign Wars Memorial Post 8615, Disabled American Veterans Chapter 19 and Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 756. Parking will be available on Arbor Road and the MacArthur
As part of the minimum wage ordinance passed by the City of Los Angeles last year, a mandatory paid sick leave (PSL) law will begin to apply to employers with 25 or fewer employees. Employers with businesses in a city with a local PSL ordinance need to comply with both the state and the local law. For each provision, protection or benefit, employers will need to provide whichever is more generous to the employee. The PSL rules took effect for employers with 26 or more
employees on July 1, 2016. From an employer perspective, one of the toughest challenges of these local PSL ordinances is that the rules can change at any time. That is precisely what happened with the Los Angeles ordinance when the city recently revised the rules and regulations relating to this ordinance. For more information on the Los Angeles minimum wage ordinance can be found on the Office of Wage Standard website, wagesla.lacity.org. u
Elementary School playground (enter from Centralia Street). Parking for persons with disabilities will be available on Henrilee Street just east of Woodruff Avenue. Neighboring residents are encouraged to walk
or ride their bikes to the park. In addition to a large tent with chairs, there is ample space for guests to bring their own lawn chairs. This event is free and open to the public. u
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May 2017
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Lakewood World War II Veteran celebrates his 102nd birthday
World War II veteran, Sam Sachs in his Army uniform. A big birthday bash was recently held for Sam Sachs at Mom & Dad’s House, an Elderly Home in Lakewood where he resides, surrounded by family, friends, and even some local leaders. Members from American Legion Post 716 (Los Alamitos) and 496 (Lakewood) saluted Sam as he walked into his party. The American Legion presented Sam with a certificate of Honor for his services in World War II and an
Honorary Life Member Certificate. In addition, the Regional Military Affairs Committee of the Joint Forces Training Base of Los Alamitos presented him with a Certificate of Appreciation for his services. City of Lakewood Council Member Todd Rogers and his wife also attended the festivities. Mr. Rogers gave Sam a city proclamation signed by City of Lakewood Mayor Diane DuBois.
More than 75 people partied in style with an award ceremony, cake, and live music. Sam told the crowd how happy he was to have family, friends, and even his physician and dentist accompanying him during this special day. He repeatedly mentioned how grateful he is for being able to find Mom & Dad’s House, the Elderly Home where he currently resides. A new opportunity has been given to him to have a balanced life with three homemade meals, loving care and socialization, which he was not having previously to moving to this wonderful Elderly Home. His mental sharpness and physical fitness is incomparable. When he was asked what the secret was, his answer was, live life in balance and take care of your body and mind at a young age. Sam is a U.S World War II Army veteran who was an active part of the invasion at Normandy with the combat glider unit, a.k.a The Flying Coffins. Mom and Dad’s House is a
Sam (center) with members of the Lakewood and Los Alamitos American Legion. Premium Senior Living Home situated in Lakewood, California. It offers loving, thoughtful care for seniors in a family-styled, home-like
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atmosphere. For more information, contact Ivonne Meader at 949-381-1792. www.mndhouse.com. u
May 2017
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Home is where the heart is...add a pet and fill it with love
Shelters fill with animals in the spring, making it a great time to consider pet adoption. Over 25,000 animals per year go through the animal care center of the Southeast Area Animal Control Authority (SEAACA) in Downey, which provides animal care and control services to Lakewood and other cities in our region. The spring and summer months offer more daylight hours and
better weather for you and your new pet to get to know one another.
...Stay Lakewood Loyal
At www.seaaca.org, you can view photos of pets available for adoption. In addition, Lakewood’s CityTV runs a monthly feature highlighting SEAACA pets for adoption at www.youtube/ CityTVLakewoodCa. You can adopt animals at SEAACA headquarters at 9777 Seaaca Street in nearby Downey. If you’re unable to adopt a pet but would like to help shelter animals, you can volunteer with or donate to SEAACA by calling 562-803-3301, extension 264 or visiting www.seaaca.org. u
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Community Page 12
To My Mother...
For all the times you gently picke d me up when I fell do w n, for all the tim e s yo u tie d my shoe s an d tucke d m e into be d, or nee de d so m ething but put m e first instea d. For eve r ything we share d, the dreams, the laug hte r, An d the tears, I lo ve yo u w ith a “Special Lo ve” That deepens eve r y year.
May 2017
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NBA playoffs feature a Lakewood Hall of Famer
~ Author Unkn o w n
James Harden playing for the Houston Rockets.
Keep your eye on Artesia High School grad, James Harden, as he leads the Houston Rockets into the first round of the NBA playoffs this week against the Oklahoma Thunder. James was the Lakewood Youth Hall of Fame’s Athlete of the Year in 2008. In his senior year for Artesia he led the Pioneers to a state championship...and he’s
continued to excel ever since. A five-time NBA All Star, James had a great season with Houston this year, averaging a career-high 29 points per game. James is another example of how the Lakewood community has nurtured young athletes and youth of all talents into successful careers for many years. u
News
Community May 2017
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Page 13
Local residents receive Original resident celebrates 104th birthday Human Service Award Original Lakewood resident Freda Mandel recently celebrated her 104th birthday at the Weingart Senior Center, surrounded by friends and family. Council Members Jeff Wood, Todd Rogers and Diane DuBois were among the well-wishers sharing warm congratulations from the city. Freda still lives in the Lakewood home she and her husband purchased in 1952. u
During a recent award ceremony, Mr. Roger Kobata of Cerritos and Mrs. Cheryl Morse of Lakewood were presented with the 2017 Kimi Sugiyama Human Service Award, an award named after the late Kimi Sugiyama, a pioneering member of the Japanese Presbyterian Church (now Grace First Presbyterian Church) in Long Beach, who was a pivotal figure in the early years of the Japanese American community in the Long Beach area. In the 1920s, Mrs. Sugiyama was a volunteer translator and committed advocate for labor and human rights of Japanese workers who had little or no understanding of the English language or American labor rights.u
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May 2017
It’s time to put your brain to work! Congratulations to Norman Fournier, he’s the winner of the April 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 (Upstairs). The winners are drawn by random. One entry per household; the answers must be postmarked no later than Tuesday May 23, 2017. The winners will be drawn on Wednesday, May 24, 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 June issue, along with a new Sudoku Puzzle. u
Tragedy is only a heartbeat away by the pool
As summer approaches, it’s important to keep in mind that unsupervised water play can lead to tragedy. A child can drown in a matter of seconds without making a sound. Whether at a public pool or at home, here are some tips to keep children safe: • Learn to swim! Both you and your child should register for swim classes if you don’t know how. Mayfair Pool pre-summer swim lessons will take place Tuesday, May 30 to June 9. Online priority registration for residents begins May 20 at 7pm. Non-residents may register online beginning May 23 at 7pm. Walk-in registration will take place from 1pm to 4pm on Saturday, May 27. Sign up at www.lakewoodcity.org/ecatalog. • Teach children what to do in a water emergency, such as yell for help, throw life-saving equipment in the pool, call 9-1-1, etc. • Weak or non-swimmers should wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket. • Never leave a child unsupervised around water. Assign an adult or responsible teen to serve as “water watcher” to maintain constant line of sight and supervision around any water environment, including a pool, tub, toilet or even a bucket of water. Visit www.lakewoodcity.org/ watersafety for more tips and resources for pool safety. u
Lakewood Women’s Club The May Luncheon meeting of the Lakewood Women’s Club will be Tuesday, May 16 at Sycamore Centre, 5000 Clark Ave., Lakewood. Social gathering is at 10:30am, meeting 11am, luncheon 12pm, and program 1pm. This will be Member Appreciation Day and special entertainment will be by “E Mele Hana, The Music Makers”, a Ukulele Band. For reservations for lunch, call Arlene Roos, 863-4933, one week ahead, by Monday, May 8. u
News
Community May 2017
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Mouthwash may be harmful to your child’s health
linked to serious health problems. Many ingredients in some commercial mouthwashes are of questionable benefit and some are just plain bad for you. Here is a look at some of the harmful substances that may be found in our children’s mouthwash products: Sodium Lauryl Sulfate. This harsh detergent leads to canker sores and causes microscopic damage and shedding of vital oral tissue. Because it dries out the mouth, it can also allow for the rapid reproduction of bad breath bacteria. Saccharin. This sweetener is found in drinks, candy, cookies and medicines. It has also been shown to cause bladder cancer when tested on laboratory rats. In humans, it can cause allergyrelated symptoms, skin disorders, nausea and diarrhea. Artificial Colors and Flavors. Studies by leading health researchers have found a link between children’s use of artificial colors and flavors with learning disabilities and hyperkinesis (hyperactivity and inability to concentrate). Parents should take the time to read labels and understand whats going into their children’s bodies. Spending a few minutes reading these labels, and understanding what the substances are could be a life-saving decision. u
Many people have become increasingly aware of the hidden toxins in foods, beverages as well as eating and drinking utensils. They avoid high fat and high sodium foods, sulfates in their personal care products, aerosol
sprays and toxic chemicals in their household cleaners. Yet, when it comes to mouthwash, they will let their children take a product that contains harsh substances – some of which have been shown to
Tell us what you would like to read in the Lakewood Community News. Email your ideas to news@lakewoodchamber. com or send it by mail to: P.O. Box 160,
Lakewood, CA 90714
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May 2017