Lakewood Community News

Lakewood

News

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

Official publication of the Greater Lakewood Chamber of Commerce

www.lakewoodnews.org

Volume 28 Number 11

November 2012

‘Black Friday’ midnight deals will woo Lakewood shoppers

The warm lullaby of family togetherness and turkey dinner becomes “Frenzied Black Friday” at 12:01am Friday morning, November 23. Stuffing and pumpkin pie will take a back seat to early-birds looking for deals as Lakewood Center opens its doors at midnight.

It is L.A. County’s second largest mall and it is right here in Lakewood. It offers the specialty features of traditional department stores like Macy’s and J.C. Penney, discount outlets like Nordstrom Rack and Forever 21, and family shopping destinations like Target, Big 5, Sports

Authority, Costco and over 100 other smaller retailers.

Check the mall’s website for news on deals and event information at www. shoplakewoodcenter.com.

It features a special page of specials and sales that includes both retail establishments and restaurants

along “Restaurant Row.” “Lakewood Center is primed for what we call ‘Day 1 of the holiday season.’ We really want shoppers to come out,” said Lakewood Center Spokesperson Annette Norwood. “We’re hoping special drawings and Black Friday deals will help our customers complete their holiday shopping list.”

Billed as “Midnight Madness,” there will even be a DJ in the center court along with coffee and pastries from Panera Bread.

All mall stores are expected to be open, including the Community Safety Center. Major destination retailers like Macy’s, Best Buy and Forever 21 will also be open.

Lakewood Center is also offering “no fees” on gift card purchases from midnight to 3:00 a.m. There will be hourly gift card giveaways with the WAVE radio station from midnight to 4:00 a.m.

Along with Black Friday deals from national chain stores, 29 Lakewood Center merchants are offering deals like free gifts and discounts of 15% to 50% off.

Deals vary and are listed at www. shoplakewoodcenter.com.

Special Events Santa’s Arrival

(Saturday, November 10, 9am at California Pizza Kitchen) Have breakfast with Santa and support Lakewood’s Project Shepherd Program. California Pizza Kitchen and Lakewood Center have teamed up to support our local food bank. Your $5 donation, along with a can good donation, goes to support local families in need. Your donation entitles you to a CPK goodie bag and one FREE 5x7 photo with the big guy! Please RSVP at 562-633-0437, by Monday, November 5.

Holiday Canned Food Drive

Help families in need this holiday by donating items that will benefit families in our community. Drop off can goods items at Guest Services from November 10 to December 11. All donations will go to support Project Shepherd.

(Cont’d. on Pg. 2)

Lakewood athlete takes the national California can do better than Prop 30 stage for Special Olympics

Dustin Plunkett battling at a recent Del Valle Park fundraising event, and (second from the left) joining former President Clinton to receive a major pledge to the Special Olympics Healthy Athletes Program.

In 2004, Lakewood Special Olympics athlete Dustin Plunkett found out he had oral cancer, but he found out in time to take corrective action. This September, Dustin stood on stage in New York at the opening of the 2012 Clinton Global Initiative to help Special Olympics receive a $12 million pledge from philanthropist and businessman Tom Golisano to expand the same Lakewood Community News #24 Lakewood Center Mall Lakewood, CA 90712 (562) 531-9733

“Healthy Athletes” program that diagnosed his cancer at a sports competition eight years earlier.

“The Healthy Athletes initiative is what saved my life,” said Dustin, at the Clinton Global Initiative event. “A volunteer screened my teeth and told me I had to go see a dentist in my area.

I was blessed to have my coach Chuck Martucci by my side. He called his personal dentist for me.

PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE

PAID

Santa Fe Spgs, CA PERMIT NO. 29

His dentist found out I had gum cancer in the upper left side of my mouth. If it wasn’t for them, I wouldn’t be here today. If I had been alone, I might not have followed up.”

Being on stage isn’t new to Dustin. He’s been a Lakewood Special Olympic athlete since 1996 and a Special Olympics “Global Messenger” spokesperson since 2007. He continues to compete in golf, speed skating, soccer, softball, basketball and even in bocce ball.

Lakewood’s program has helped residents with intellectual disabilities since 1992. Each year dozens of local athletes train and compete at Special Olympics events.

Potential participants can get more information at the Lakewood Youth Center at 4658 Woodruff Avenue, or by calling 562-429-7472. The city also trains Special Olympics coaches in basketball, softball, golf, soccer, bocce, tennis and gymnastics.

Much of the work is accomplished through the efforts of volunteers. Anyone interested in coaching a Special Olympics sport can pick up a volunteer application at the Lakewood Youth Center and can get more information at www.sosc.org/ volunteers. Volunteers are also needed to assist at one-day special events and sports tournaments.

By John Kelsall ~ Chairman, BizFed, Los Angeles County Business Federation

Governor Brown’s tricky Prop 30 campaign is using false threats with cuts to our education system if his $6-billion tax increase doesn’t pass. The trigger cuts are not in the proposition and are purely a creation of Sacramento – a way of threatening voters to vote yes for higher taxes. Prop 30 is another Sacramento budget gimmick shell game that would let Sacramento politicians collect taxes under one guise, but shift dollars and fund other programs. Sound familiar?

Worse still, Prop 30 doesn’t even guarantee any new funding for schools, despite the heart wrenching campaign ads. Politicians say Prop.

30’s money goes to schools, but the official Title and Summary of Prop 30 says the money can be used for “...paying for other spending commitments.” Most people want to support schools, but Prop 30 does not. It doesn’t require the money go to the classroom and it allows the politicians to spend it on things beside schools. We’ll never really know where the money is spent… it goes into that glutinous black hole

that Sacramento has generated.

Sucking in resources never to be seen again.

Most Californians agree that education should be a top priority, and the business community is strongly in favor of quality education. After all, we cannot grow our economy without an educated workforce.

That’s why it’s so distressing that Sacramento politicians are playing such games with our future. What Prop 30 proponents are not telling you is that this year’s state budget is actually $5 billion larger than last year’s. Unfortunately, rather than spend that money on education, Sacramento politicians put it elsewhere and wrote triggers to cut education if Prop 30 fails.

We deserve better than these kinds of games. When Prop 30 fails, the governor and the legislature can and should be required to immediately go back and correct the missing education funding with a majority vote. They just need the conscience and conviction to fix it and to make the tough decisions that we are paying them to do, instead of always turning to voters for higher taxes to refill the till.

The fact of the matter is, that the politicians and the governor can do better than Prop. 30’s gimmicks and slight of hand tricks. It’s time they decided to do what’s best for California, instead of what’s best for them! And they just might get the message, if we vote No on 30.

LakewoodToday

Page 2

www.lakewoodnews.org

What do you love about Lakewood?

By Mayor Diane DuBois

As the holiday season approaches, it’s a perfect time to stop and reflect a bit on all that we’re fortunate to have in our lives, including what we’re grateful for right here in Lakewood.

For the next several months, you’re going to have the

opportunity to hear what your neighbors and friends love about Lakewood. And, you’ll have your own chance to tell others what you value and appreciate about your community.

Tell us what you love about Lakewood on a heart-shaped form available at city hall or any city park center. Or tell us online at www.lakewoodcity.org/ ILoveLakewood. We’ll post lots of the hearts at city hall and online so that we can all smile and feel good about the many blessings we, as residents, enjoy here in Lakewood.

I’ll give it a start.

I love hearing the sounds of the Mayfair High School band from my front porch as they practice their marching songs in the morning. I love running into neighbors on Saturday at Costco and Target. I love going by the

parks, particularly in the evening to see all the kids out, learning new games. Lakewood’s really lucky that from our early days in the 1950’s and 60’s we’ve had so many neighborhood parks—and we still keep them looking great today!

I love the members of this community. We have residents of all ages who care about their neighbors and show their concern through countless hours of volunteer service for causes that make a real difference in people’s lives—causes like Lakewood Meals on Wheels, Pathways Volunteer Hospice, Friends of the Lakewood Libraries, Teens in Lakewood Care, Lakewood Neighborhood Watch and more.

During a difficult time recently, many Lakewood residents reached out to me with sympathy, compassion and love. It felt like they were putting a blanket around my shoulders to keep me warm.

That doesn’t happen everywhere.

But it happens in Lakewood.

I love that I feel safe in Lakewood, both in my neighborhood and when I’m shopping or dining out. Aren’t we fortunate to have public safety professionals from the Sheriff’s Department and Fire Department who show their courage, commitment and community pride

every day? I also love that we have so many Lakewood residents (and we could always use more) playing a helpful role in keeping us safe through their involvement with the Neighborhood Watch program on their block and their willingness to take the time to call in potential problems to the Sheriff’s Department or city hall.

Many in our community, our state and our nation are still struggling to overcome tough economic times. But as we hope and prepare for better days ahead, it makes sense to stop and smell the roses around us—and embrace and promote all the things we Lakewood residents have that make life so pleasant and enjoyable here.

I know that each of you has reasons for appreciating our town.

Let’s hear from you. What do you love about Lakewood?

C i t y Spotlight FUN-Tastic Family Nights on November 2 Enjoy an evening of family fun with Lakewood neighbors at the “Bubble Extravaganza” FUN-Tastic Family Night coming to The Centre at Sycamore Plaza. The Friday, November 2 program includes a light dinner of chicken fingers, mashed potatoes, lemonade and dessert served prior to the program.

The show is packed with an array of bubble tricks and sculptures. Volunteers from the audience will assist with experiments that include being placed inside a bubble.

It promises to be an aweinspiring night of laughs and surprises.

Seating is on a first come basis. Doors open at 5:45pm.

Registration is limited and must be received by October 30. The fee is $8 per person.

November 2012 To register, please call 562866-9771, extension 2408, or register online at www. lakewoodcity.org/recreation.

LYS Basketball Sign-ups Sign-ups for Lakewood Youth Sports Basketball run from November 24 to December 1 at all Lakewood parks. The co-ed Smurf Division, for ages 6 and 7, emphasizes instruction using a smaller ball and modified rules to promote fun and minimize competition.

The Competitive Division is for ages 8 to 17. Players must bring a birth certificate and submit a signed registration card. There is no registration fee for Lakewood residents, but proof of residency is required.

Non-resident registration is $20 and takes place at Palms, Del Valle, Mayfair and Bolivar parks on Saturday, November 24, from 9am to 1pm, Wednesday, November 28, from 5pm to 8pm, and Saturday, December 1, from 9am to 1pm.

Teams practice weekday evenings and Saturday mornings, beginning December 12. League play begins January 12 and concludes March 10.

For more information, please call Lakewood city staff at 562866-9771, extension 2408.

“Special Events” (Cont’d. from Pg. 1)

Photos with Santa

(From November 10 to December 24) The mall’s Center Court features a chance to visit Santa and create a lasting memory with a photo with Santa! Each child will receive a free gift with each visit.

Hours: Monday-Friday from 10am to 8pm, Sunday 11am to 7pm, Christmas Eve schedule: 10am to 5pm.

Adopt and Shop “Santa Paws”

Pet photo sessions with Santa

(Three Tuesdays: November 27, December 4 & 11, from 4pm to 8pm.)

Photos with Santa aren’t just for kids anymore! Bring your furry friend for special photo nights with Santa and receive a free goodie bag from Adopt & Shop!

CHIPS4Kids Toy Drive

The California Highway Patrol helps local kids in need each holiday. You can help by donating a new unwrapped toy that will go to local kids that could potentially not have toys this holiday if not for your help. Bring toys to the Lakewood Center Guest Services office located in the Center Court (near Macy’s).

Your

Minding

www.lakewoodnews.org

November 2012

Project Shepherd has been helping those in need for 40 years

Project Shepherd workers gather toys and food for distribution to families in need.

For 40 years Lakewood Project

DEADLINE FOR EDITORIAL: • The 15th of the month (PRIOR to the month you want it included.)

DEADLINE FOR ADS: • Camera-ready ads are due on the 20th of the month.

(PRIOR to the month you want it included.)

• If you need an ad created, all verbiage, graphics, logos, etc. are due by the 15th of the month. (PRIOR to the month you want it included.)

Lakewood

News

Community

...Since 1984

Publication Manager/Graphics Designer Jodee Kilroy Editor-in-Chief Robin Vanderwerff Sales Ruby Cure Published by the Greater Lakewood Chamber of Commerce #24 Lakewood Center Lakewood, CA 90712 P: (562) 531-9733 * F: (562) 531-9737 advertise@lakewoodchamber.com news@lakewoodchamber.com This publication is delivered to homes & businesses in Lakewood, and portions of Long Beach, with a circulation of 30,000.

SUBSCRIPTIONS: $20/yr in Orange & L.A. Counties; $25/yr in all other counties. Payable in advance.

Contents of the Lakewood Community News (“LCN”) may not be reproduced, in whole or in part, without written permission of the Publisher. The Publisher reserves the right to revise, edit, reject or suspend publication of any content germane to any addition without prior notice.

The LCN is not responsible nor liable for any claims offering for product availability that may be advertised.

SUBMISSION POLICY: The LCN encourages submission of letters to the Editor. Letters must be no more than 200 words, typed and double spaced, or sent electronically. Letters must be signed by the author and must include the author’s address and telephone number.

Opinions expressed in the letter do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Greater Lakewood Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, members, staff or the LCN. The LCN reserves the right to refuse or edit editorial content, without notice, for the reasons of, but not limited to, length, grammar, clarity or for the potentially libelous statements.

SPACE RESERVATIONS & AD DEADLINES: The 15th of every preceding month for ads to be designed or current ads requiring changes. The 20th of every preceding month for camera-ready art furnished by advertiser.

EDITORIAL DEADLINES: The 10th of every preceding month.

(There is no guarantee for insertion.)

PHOTOGRAPHS: There is no guarantee of return of photographs. © 2012 Greater Lakewood Chamber of Commerce All rights reserved. Contents may not be reproduced or transmitted - by any means - without the publisher’s written permission

Shepherd has been helping residents in need, largely through the generosity of Lakewood residents.

Last year 536

Lakewood families were helped during the holiday season. That included over 2,000 individuals, many of them children, who were able to enjoy the holidays due to the kindness of the community providing food, gifts and toys -things many of us take for granted.

Project Shepherd’s holiday efforts are well known and sometimes eclipse their everyday mission of maintaining a year-round emergency food pantry. All year long, they provide emergency assistance for a limited number of families in very tough circumstances.

Simple things (like canned meat and fish, canned fruit, pasta, rice and cereal, peanut butter, and canned soup) make a huge difference. Toilet paper, laundry detergent and toothpaste are also welcomed.

As the holiday season

approaches and we’re reminded of those who are less fortunate, Project Shepherd continues to offer a way to help those in need.

Donations of non-perishable food items and toys, participation in the Project Shepherd Teddy Bear Tree program, and Project Shepherd volunteering are all needed.

They are coordinated by the Burns Community Center at 562- 925-7512, and service1@ lakewoodcity.org. Food and toys can be dropped off at city hall, 5050 Clark Avenue, the Burns Community Center at 5510 Clark Avenue, and most park facilities.

If you would like to make a financial contribution, please send your check to: Lakewood Project Shepherd, c/o Rotary Club of Lakewood, 5050 Clark Avenue, Lakewood, 90712.

Since 1972, Project Shepherd has been a locally-organized way for Lakewood residents to help

Business Page 3

their neighbors in need. Project Shepherd is sponsored by the Rotary Club of Lakewood and the City of Lakewood, and combines the efforts of individuals, businesses, churches, schools and civic organizations throughout the community who volunteer their time and make donations.

With your help, Project Shepherd will ensure there’s joy for everyone in Lakewood during this holiday season.

&

Business Financial Page 4

Linda Sánchez names Lakewood man “Veteran of the Month”

www.lakewoodnews.org

Get ready for Medicare open enrollment

By Jason Alderman

In continuing her work to recognize local veterans for their service, Congresswoman Linda Sánchez (CA-39) has named United States Navy veteran and Lakewood resident Alfonso Garcia as the 39th Congressional District’s “Veteran of the Month” for September 2012.

Alfonso Garcia is a World War II veteran and served in the U.S. Navy from 1945 to 1946. Mr. Garcia served as a Seaman First Class aboard the U.S.S. Barnstable, taking part in missions in the AsiaPacific theatre. Mr. Garcia participated in the Philippines Liberation campaign and saw action after Okinawa was occupied by Allied Forces. He was honorably discharged in 1946.

November 2012

For senior citizens, the most important decision you will make this fall comes in the form of choosing the most appropriate Medicare coverage options for next year.

Medicare’s 2013 open enrollment period runs from October 15 to December 7, 2012.

For most current enrollees, that’s the only time to make coverage changes for the coming calendar year (exceptions are made if you later move outside your plan’s service area, qualify for financial assistance or a few other situations).

Several changes to Medicare take effect in 2013, including: Medicare Part D participants who reach the so-called doughnut hole coverage gap will begin receiving a 52.5 percent discount on brand-name prescription drugs and a 21 percent discount on generics, compared to 2012’s 50/14 percent rates.

Medicare will begin covering additional preventive and screening services, including assessments and counseling for depression, alcohol misuse, cardiovascular disease and obesity.

A redesigned Medicare Summary Notice, which explains what your doctor/ provider billed

for, the Medicare-approved amount, what Medicare paid, and what you must pay.

Medicare also recently overhauled its website (www. medicare.gov), adding many new features and simplifying the language and site navigation. For example: • The homepage now provides direct links for common tasks like applying for Medicare, changing plans, calculating costs, researching what different plans cover and more.

• Search for whether a specific test, item or service is covered under Original Medicare (Parts A and B).

• Quick links to replace a lost Medicare card, find a Medicare Advantage (Part C) or prescription drug plan (Part D).

• Find doctors and other health professionals, nursing homes, hospitals, home health services and health/drug plans, and make side-by-side comparisons of costs and care provided.

• It can be accessed on mobile devices like tablets and smartphones, so you can seek information anywhere, anytime.

Briefly, Medicare provides health care benefits to people age 65 and older and those under 65 with certain disabilities or end-

stage renal disease. For most people, the initial enrollment period is the seven-month period that begins three months before the month they turn 65. If you miss that window, you may enroll for the first time between January 1 and March 31 each year, although your coverage won’t begin until July 1. To apply for Medicare online, visit www.ssa. gov/medicareonly.

Understanding and choosing the right Medicare options can be complicated and time-consuming.

For assistance, call 1-800-6334227.

How to register for Project Shepherd assistance

With the economy still in difficult straits, the 2012 holiday season will be tough for some Lakewood households, including those who have faced unemployment or underemployment for many months.

If you are a Lakewood resident facing tough economic times, your Lakewood neighbors want to help. The registration period to receive help from Project Shepherd runs from November 5 to November 18 at the Burns Community Center and Palms Park Community Center. Registered families will be notified in December of the time and place to pick up assistance.

Eligibility is for: • Lakewood residents only.

• Those who are low income, unemployed or on public assistance.

To register, bring the following: • A current utility bill and a valid driver’s license or government award letter.

• Identification for each person in the household.

Registration hours at the Burns Community Center, 5510 Clark Avenue, are Monday through Friday 10am to 6:30pm, and Saturday 8am to 11am. Closed Sunday.

Registration hours at the Palms Park Community Center, 12350 E. 207th Street, are Monday through Friday, 2pm to 5pm, Saturday, 1pm to 5pm, and Sunday, 1pm to 5pm.

For more information, call the Burns Community Center at 562-925-7512, or Palms Park Community Center at 562-8656414.

November 2012

Holiday service alerts: Veterans Day and Thanksgiving

Lakewood City Hall will be closed Monday, November 12, for Veterans Day. DASH Transit, trash and street sweeping services will not be interrupted by the holiday.

In observance of Thanksgiving, city hall will be closed Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, November 22, and Friday, November 23. There will be no DASH Transit service either day. DASH resumes service on Monday, November 26. There will be no trash service on Thanksgiving Day. Those trash pick-ups will occur on Friday, November 23. Regular Friday trash pick-ups will move to Saturday, November 24.

EDCO Waste Disposal Services will be open on Friday, November 23, for questions regarding trash and disposal services call 562-531-3054.

There will be no street sweeping on Thanksgiving Day, or Friday, November 23, and there will not be a makeup sweep. Street sweeping will resume as regularly scheduled on Monday, November 26.

When city hall is closed, residents can still make emergency city service requests for things like downed tree limbs or water main leaks by calling 562-866-9771 and following the recorded instructions for paging a city emergency staff member.

Residents can make nonemergency service requests while city hall is closed by calling city hall at 562-8669771, and leaving a message at extension 2140. Service requests made there and at www. lakewoodcity.org/service will be reviewed the next business day.

When city hall is closed, RV/ Trailer permits can be requested at Lakewood Sheriff’s Safety Center at 562-623-3583, and online at www.lakewoodcity. org/parkingpermits. The safety center is in the mall’s Target wing and is open during normal mall hours.

Tell us what you would like to read in the Lakewood Community News. Email your ideas to: news@lakewoodchamber. com, or mail to P.O. Box 160, Lakewood, CA 90714.

News

Community www.lakewoodnews.org

Page 5

Light up a life this holiday season

By Allison Brammer

The holiday season can be a particularly difficult time of year for many families when they have lost a loved one.

Lakewood has a wonderful way to remember someone who is missing from your life through a local program and ceremony called “Light up a Life” offered by the Lakewood non-profit, Pathways Volunteer Hospice organization.

“Light up a Life” is a signature program traditionally promoted by hospices across the U.S. A donation of $20 provides a light on the “Light Up a Life” holiday tree. Additionally, the name of the person being honored or memorialized is listed on the “Light up a Life” scrolls displayed by the trees during the month of December at libraries in Lakewood, Cerritos and Long Beach.

On Monday, December 3 from 7 – 8 p.m. a meaningful tree lighting ceremony will take place at The Centre at Sycamore Plaza.

This touching ceremony provides an opportunity to honor and remember those we love and those who have passed on. It’s open to anyone who would like to attend and no reservation is required.

This year one of the lights

passionate support to grieving families and individuals. All of their services are free.

For more information on their services, or how you can participate in the “Light Up a Life” program, call 562531-3031 or contact Vickie at Vickie@pathwayshospice.org or visit the website at www. pathwayshospice.org.

The “Light up a Life” tree lighting ceremony will take place on Monday, December 3rd, from 7-8pm at the Centre at Sycamore Plaza.

I will be purchasing will be for my colleague of 17 years, Debra Humphrey, who passed away this past September, too early in her young life.

With one phone call and an hour’s notice, Pathways grief counselors arrived at our workplace and provided a listening ear and comfort to many of the employees who were in shock at her sudden death.

Grief can often throw us into deep despair and many of us are caught off guard and we don’t know how to handle it. We don’t know if how we are feeling is “normal” or we wonder how long it will last, or if we will we ever be the same again. One of the

many services that Pathways Volunteer Hospice provides is

ChamberNews Page 6

www.lakewoodnews.org

November 2012

Welcome New Members!

Bellflower Beauty College of Lakewood 4170 Woodruff Avenue Lakewood, CA 90713 (562) 421-1700 Bel Tooren Villa ~ Convalescent Hospital 16910 Woodruff Avenue Bellflower, CA 90706 (562) 867-1761 Lakewood Smiles 5220 Clark Avenue, #435 Lakewood, CA 90712 (562) 866-0406

Member Renewals

57 Years The Gas Company

3 Years Costco Wholesale

31 Years Lakewood Country Club

1 Year Lakewood Car Wash

Measure G

The Lakewood Chamber of Commerce is endorsing Measure G on the November ballot. Measure G would provide Cerritos College with $350 million in bond funds for the continuing renovation of the college campus. New and renovated buildings are a part of the facilities master plan that calls for major work to be done over the next decade continuing the work that was paid for by a 2004 bond for $210 million.

The nearly sixty year-old campus is heavily used by over 22,000 students each semester. Labs, shops and classrooms are worn out and technology supporting instruction is old. The state does not adequately fund the upkeep of school facilities so the college’s Board of Trustee’s is asking local voters for the approval of Measure G. Specifically, Measure G would fund building and classroom renovations for $20 million. New construction at $264 million would include buildings for business education/language arts, computer information science/mathematics, a new child development center, a cosmetology building, the Falcon Center which would include the bookstore, admissions, counseling, and student activities, a health and wellness complex and provide funds for the new performing arts center. Additional projects for $67 million would include campus signage, site improvements, ADA upgrades for accessibility, and infrastructure improvements.

The bonds will be funded at a maximum rate of $25 for every $100,000 of a home’s assessed value (not the market value). A home worth $400,000 would be assessed $100 per year. Bond funds are used only for facilities renovation, new construction, and the replacement of technology and not for salaries or benefits for employees at the college.

Cerritos College works closely with business and industry throughout the region providing trained employees for jobs. The college is recognized for its high quality career and technical programs and partnerships. The college has numerous transfer agreements with colleges and universities throughout the region for students seeking higher degrees.

For more information on Measure G and the success of the previous bond go to: www.cerritos.edu/bond.

2012-2013 Greater Lakewood Chamber of Commerce Officers and Board of Directors

John Kelsall President/CEO Greater Lakewood Chamber of Commerce 24 Lakewood Center Mall Lakewood, CA 90712 562-531-9733 Fax 562-531-9737 John@lakewoodchamber.com www.lakewoodchamber.com www.lakewoodnews.org

Mark Perumean ~ Chairman EDCO Waste & Recycling Services P.O. Box 398 Buena Park, CA 90621 714-522-3577 mperumean@edcodisposal.com

Patrick Houston Lakewood Regional Medical Center P.O. Box 6070 Lakewood, CA 90712 562-602-0083 Patrick.Houston@tenethealth.com

Doug Roscoe Lakewood Center 500 Lakewood Center Lakewood, CA 90712 562-633-0437 Fax 562-633-1452 Doug.Roscoe@macerich.com

Mike Segura Farmers Insurance 2725 Candlewood Street Lakewood, CA 90712 562-531-4980 msegura@farmersagent.com

Joy Janes Behavior Safety Associates 5710 Harvey Way Lakewood, CA 90713 562-531-9733 Fax 562-531-9737 Joyjanes@yahoo.com

Glen Patrick Weingart-Lakewood Family YMCA 5835 Carson Street Lakewood, CA 90713 562-425-7431 Glen.Patrick@lbymca.org

Larry Kirk F&M Bank 5101 Lakewood Blvd.

Lakewood, CA 90712 562-602-8378 Fax 562-633-3012 larry.kirk@fmb.com

Green

www.lakewoodnews.org

November 2012

Dear EarthTalk: I’ve always suspected that perfumes and colognes must not be too healthy simply because of the way the smell of most of them bothers me. Am I correct? Is there information available on this issue? ~ Lucinda Barry

Fair Packaging and Labeling Act of 1973, which requires companies to list cosmetics ingredients on the product labels but explicitly exempts fragrance,” reports EWG. As such, the cosmetics industry has kept the public in the dark about fragrance ingredients, “even those that present potential health risks or build up in people’s bodies.”

For more information, check out EWG’s May 2010 “Not So Sexy” report, available on the group’s website. Also, EWG’s SkinDeep database serves as an evolving source of information on the ingredients (and their health risks) in thousands of cosmetics and related products widely available on store shelves.

November 4th

Ahhh...the sweet smell of petrochemicals!

The Environmental Working Group (EWG) reports that, while many popular perfumes, colognes and body sprays contain trace amounts of natural essences, they also typically contain a dozen or more potentially hazardous synthetic chemicals, some of which are derived from petroleum. To protect trade secrets, makers are allowed to withhold fragrance ingredients, so consumers can’t rely on labels to know what hazards may lurk inside that new bottle of perfume.

“A rose may be a rose,” reports EWG. “But that rose-like fragrance in your perfume may be something else entirely, concocted from any number of the fragrance industry’s 3,100 stock chemical ingredients, the blend of which is almost always kept hidden from the consumer.”

The Campaign for Safe Cosmetics, a coalition of over 100 groups seeking transparency about chemicals in cosmetics, commissioned independent laboratory tests that revealed 38 secret chemicals in 17 leading fragrances. The top offenders: American Eagle Seventy Seven topped the list with 24, followed by Chanel Coco with 18 and Britney Spears Curious and Giorgio Armani Acqua Di Gio each with 17.

“The average fragrance product tested contained 14 secret chemicals not listed on the label,” reports EWG, which analyzed the Campaign’s data. “Among them are chemicals associated with hormone disruption and allergic reactions, and many substances that have not been assessed for safety in personal care products.” EWG adds that some of the undisclosed ingredients are chemicals “with troubling hazardous properties or with a propensity to accumulate in human tissues.” Examples include diethyl phthalate, a chemical found in 97 percent of Americans and linked to sperm damage in human epidemiological studies, and musk ketone, which concentrates in human fat tissue and breast milk.

EWG explains that ingredients not in a product’s “hidden fragrance mixture” must be listed on the label, so makers disclose some chemicals but “lump others together in the generic category of ‘fragrance’.”

EWG blames the U.S. government in part, pointing out that the Food and Drug

Administration “has not assessed the safety of the vast majority” of secret chemicals used in sprayon products such as fragrances.

“Fragrance secrecy is legal due to a giant loophole in the Federal

F a l l Ba c k 1 Ho u r !

Living

Page 7

Hazardous and e-waste event comes to Bellflower There’s an easy way to safely get rid of household hazardous waste and e-waste on November 3. The convenient drive-through event should take only a few minutes, and participants often don’t even have to get out of their car.

The drop-off collection is at Bellflower’s Simms Park from 9am to 3pm, at 16614 Clark Avenue (corner of Oak Street). Enter from Clark Avenue.

For more information, call the Los Angeles County Sanitation Districts at 800-238-0172.

Participants should leave chemicals in their original container, place them in a cardboard box and drive to the collection site. No explosive or radioactive materials, tires or waste from businesses will be accepted. Please do not mix chemicals together in the same bottle. Technicians will empty car trunks and truck beds of chemicals like motor oil, paint or pesticides.

News

Community Page 8

It may be time to transform the traditional holiday meal

If preparing the holiday feast falls upon you, the pressure is on to get it just right. Whether you’re faithfully replicating treasured family recipes, or want to put a new creative spin on seasonal

culinary customs, achieving success with the food you offer can define a happy holiday experience for all.

Want to try a menu item that’s completely new? Don’t choose

November 2012

www.lakewoodnews.org

the morning of your gathering to attempt replacing everyone’s favorite pumpkin pie with that new pumpkin creme brulee recipe.

Make sure you’ve mastered any new dish before springing it on your guests. If you’re going to create a new tradition, you need to be prepared to knock it out of the park.

If food that’s entirely new and unexpected is too risky for you to attempt, or just not acceptable for the traditionalists around your table, you might try livening up classic standbys in a subtle, yet transformative way.

Try something a little different from the classic recipes that everyone loves: • Transform turkey with an herbed basting butter, or use ready-made spice blends such as curry, barbecue, or southwest

Ants * Fleas * Bees Rats * Termites * Bed Bugs ...and more!

chili seasoning as dry rubs, or for adding stealth-flavor updates to your gravy.

• Roast your meat entree on a bed of seasonal vegetables including carrots, parsnips, shallots and fall mushrooms - this will add moisture and flavor that may rival hours of traditional butter-basting.

When the meat is done, puree the roasted vegetables to create a healthier take on traditional gravy, or try serving them whole right along your entree as a timeand oven-space-saving side dish.

• Elevate the flavor of plain white russet potatoes by including buttery turnips, creamy-textured celery root, sweet fennel bulb, nutty cauliflower and seasonings such as parsley, garlic and chives in the mash-up.

• For dessert, use a bit of pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon and sugar or a dusting of clove, nutmeg and sugar to create a flavored whipped cream for the traditional pumpkin pie.

All traditions evolve, but if something derivative is still too

extreme, slip in a subtle twist that improves upon the original.

Every traditional food or recipe has likely gone through many incremental changes, even to the point that the dish has probably changed substantially over time.

It makes perfect sense to question old-school preparation techniques or unhealthy ingredients, so don’t be afraid to slip in your own subtle twists to any time-worn recipes.

Play the Kris Kringle Golf Tournament

The annual Kris Kringle Golf Tournament, supporting Project Shepherd, will tee off at the Lakewood Country Club on Friday, November 30, with a 12noon shotgun start. A tournament banquet immediately follows at 4:30pm. This year’s tournament is honoring EDCO Recycling and Waste Services for their longtime support of Project Shepherd.

The tournament fee is $100 and includes green fees, specialty holes, contests, prizes, range balls, golf cart, foursome photo, box lunch and dinner. Players will be in two-player teams playing a Scotch--alternate shot--“Fastest Format.” Sponsor opportunities are available for $1,000 - $2,500.

Tee signs are $100.

Tournament entry forms are available at Lakewood City Hall or by calling 562-866-9771, extension 2408. You can also go to www.lakewoodcity.org/sports for a tournament entry form.

Proceeds from the event will support the Lakewood Project Shepherd Holiday Assistance Program, which provides food and gifts to over 500 Lakewood families in need each holiday season.

At Grandma’s House

I like the taste of turkey, Any time throughout the year, But it never seems to taste as good as when Thanksgiving’s here.

It could be all the trimmings That are cooked with it to eat, But I think it’s eating at Grandma’s house, that makes it such a treat!

November 2012

www.lakewoodnews.org

Shop Lakewood Page 9

Shop Lakewood Page 10

Marshalls opening attacts hundreds; Home Goods store is next

Lakewood Mayor Diane DuBois officially opens Lakewood’s new Marshalls store.

November 2012

www.lakewoodnews.org

Joined by 200 eager Marshalls fans, Lakewood’s Mayor Diane DuBois cut a ceremonial blue ribbon opening the new store at Woodruff Avenue and Carson Street. The scene is expected to repeat itself in late February at the opening of an adjacent Home Goods store. Construction of the new Home Goods at the Carwood West Shopping Center is set to begin in November.

The Marshalls grand opening festivities welcomed shoppers with giveaways, gift cards and prizes. At 28,230 square feet, the new store is larger than the previous Marshalls (at Woodruff Avenue and South Street), which has now closed.

“On behalf of the Lakewood City Council, I want to give a big welcome to the staff and management of Marshalls,” said Mayor DuBois. “I think you’ve made a great decision to expand in

Lakewood, and we look forward to you having a great home here for many, many years to come.”

With 880 stores in 43 states and Puerto Rico, the new Lakewood store is expected to provide 60 full- and part-time jobs to the area.

“The new Lakewood store will be stocked with a new, fresh assortment of designer and brand name merchandise that shoppers love, every single week,” said Richard Sherr, President of Marshalls. “Our buyers are fashion experts with a keen sense of style and are passionate about finding the most coveted merchandise for our shoppers for so much less!”

Over 10,000 new items are slated to arrive at the Lakewood store each week providing shoppers a wide variety of choices with each visit. Marshalls works with more than 15,000 vendors annually in over 60 countries to offer a mix of top-quality pieces and designer brands as well as unexpected unique items.

New tot lot and picnic shelter coming to Bloomfield Park

Artist’s rendering of new Bloomfield Park.

The Lakewood City Council has approved funding to install a new picnic shelter and barbeques at Bloomfield Park to go along with a tot lot playground for children ages 2-5 years that is already under construction at the park.

The tot lot is expected to open by the end of December.

It will feature swings, slides, interactive play panels, jumping pods and spring riders. All are designed to be fun and promote communication and social interaction and engage the senses.

Parents will enjoy their time at the playground too, with a nice seating area.

The new picnic shelter and barbeques are expected to open by April 2013, along with improved landscaping and irrigation.

Bloomfield Park is a 15-acre site located at 21420 Pioneer Boulevard, near 215th Street.

‘Smart gardening’ classes; discounted compost bins

Two free “smart gardening” educational programs continue this November with sessions in or close to Lakewood.

Homeowners with “green thumbs” can get help with planning, managing and irrigating their landscape and learn water-wise methods.

The Water Replenishment District hosts “Sustainable Garden Care” at their offices (4040 Paramount Boulevard, Lakewood) on Saturday, November 10, from 9am to 12noon. It is part of their popular “Eco Gardener” series.

On Saturday, November 17, the county’s “Smart Gardener” program returns to the Lakewood area (Birney Elementary School, 710 W. Spring Street, Long Beach).

The session runs from 9:30am to 11am.

County workshops provide hands-on instruction on composting, worm composting, grasscycling and water-wise gardening. Residents can purchase a backyard or worm composting bin at the class at a discount.

See www.lakewoodcity.org/ smartgardener for information on the Eco Gardener and Smart Gardener programs and ways to purchase home composting units for an affordable price.

News

Community

www.lakewoodnews.org

November 2012

Page 11

New members join Soroptimist Free flu shot clinic at Weingart Senior Center The clinic is geared toward of Lakewood/Long Beach adults over age 50, but anyone age

New members of Soroptimist of Lakewood/Long Beach, Sharron Hillery and Kiera Garnreiter, are welcomed to the club by President, Joy Janes.

At the beginning of their 20122013 club year, Soroptimist of Lakewood/Long Beach (SI) is pleased to welcome two new club members from our local community - Sharron Hillery, Executive Director of Fair Housing Consultants and Kiera Garnreiter, Administrative Manager for Foggia Italian Market & Deli. Sharron and Kiera proudly join the women of Soroptimist, whose mission is to improve the lives of women and girls, locally and throughout the world.

Each year, the women of SI of Lakewood/Long Beach work tirelessly, and with cheerful hearts to raise money. They then put the money back into their community through donations to charitable organizations. They also give scholarships and grant monies to deserving young women and single mothers.

The organization believes in the potential of dreams, and the collective power of women working together. Soroptimist means “best for women,” and this is what the organization strives to be - women at their best, helping other women to be their best.

SI’s upcoming November Program Meeting is on Tuesday, November 20th at 12noon.

Prospective members are invited to attend a buffet lunch at the Sycamore Center in Lakewood.

The club welcomes Vicky Doolittle, Executive Director of Su Casa, as the Program Speaker for that day.

The topic will be “Ending Domestic Violence”. For more information, or to RSVP, contact: Pam Hyland at

SAVE THE DATE!

6th Annual China Trip March 24 - April 1, 2013

$2,100 per person Orientation Dates: Nov. 5th, Nov. 19th & Dec. 10th

Call/Email the Chamber Office for more info: 562.531.9733/ info@lakewoodchamber. com

(562) 866-9771 x 2211 no later than November 16th.

Anyone interested in joining or seeking more information about the club may contact: Dr. Michelle Litzinger at (562) 408-1140.

6 months and older may receive a shot, while supplies last. The event is free and is organized in conjunction with the Los Angeles County Health Department.

Check with your physician if you have medical questions.

The walk-in program will be held on Tuesday, November 6, from 1pm to 4pm, at the Weingart Senior Center at 5220 Oliva Avenue. For more information call the center at 562-630-6141.

Who should get a flu shot?

The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health recommends flu shots for all persons 6 months of age and over, including healthy adults. It is especially important to get a flu vaccine if you are: • 6 months through 18 years of age • 50 years and older • Pregnant or just had a baby • Morbidly obese

• Living in a nursing home or long-term care home • Living with a weakened immune system or chronic medical condition (diabetes, heart or lung disease) • Living with or caring for someone who is more likely to

have flu complications • A healthcare provider It takes two weeks after a vaccination for your body to develop an immune response.

In the United States, influenza season usually begins in October and can last until May.

News

Community Page 12

www.lakewoodnews.org

Voters get ready, there’s a plethora of Propositions to research Listed below are the Propositions in the order they will appear to voters on November 6th. Take them one by one, do your research and get ready to vote: Proposition 30: Temporary Taxes to Fund Education.

(Governor Brown’s tax package.)

• Increases personal income tax on annual earnings over $250,000 for seven years.

• Increases sales and use tax by 1⁄4 cent for four years.

• Allocates temporary tax revenues, 89% to K–12 schools and 11% to community colleges.

• Bars use of funds for administrative costs, but provides local school governing boards discretion to decide, in open meetings, and subject to annual audit, how funds are to be spent.

Proposition 31: State Budget.

State and Local Government.

• Establishes two-year state budget cycle.

• Prohibits Legislature from creating expenditures of more than $25 million, unless offsetting revenues or spending cuts are identified.

• Permits Governor to cut budget unilaterally during declared fiscal

emergencies if Legislature fails to act.

• Requires performance reviews of all state programs.

• Allows local governments to alter how laws governing state-funded programs apply to them, unless Legislature or state agency vetoes change within 60 days.

Proposition 32: Political Contributions by Payroll Deduction. Contributions to Candidates.

• Prohibits unions from using payroll-deducted funds for political purposes.

Applies same use prohibition to payroll deductions, if any, by corporations or government contractors.

• Permits voluntary employee contributions to employersponsored committee or union if authorized yearly, in writing.

• Prohibits unions and corporations from contributing directly or indirectly to candidates and candidatecontrolled committees.

• Other political expenditures remain unrestricted, including corporate expenditures from available resources not limited by

payroll deduction prohibition.

Proposition 33: Auto Insurance Companies. Prices Based on Driver’s History of Insurance Coverage.

• Changes current law to allow insurance companies to set prices based on whether the driver previously carried auto insurance with any insurance company.

• Allows insurance companies to give proportional discounts to drivers with some history of prior insurance coverage.

• Will allow insurance companies to increase cost of insurance to drivers who have not maintained continuous coverage.

Proposition 34: Death Penalty.

• Repeals death penalty as maximum punishment for persons found guilty of murder and replaces it with life imprisonment without possibility of parole.

• Applies retroactively to persons already sentenced to death.

• States that persons found guilty of murder must work while in prison as prescribed by the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, with their wages subject to deductions to be applied to any victim restitution fines or orders against them.

• Directs $100 million to law enforcement agencies for investigations of homicide and rape cases.

Proposition 35: Human Trafficking. Penalties.

• Increases criminal penalties for human trafficking, including prison sentences up to 15-yearsto-life and fines up to $1,500,000.

• Fines collected to be used for victim services and law enforcement.

• Requires person convicted of trafficking to register as sex offender.

• Requires human trafficking training for police officers.

Proposition 36: Three Strikes Law. Repeat Felony Offenders.

November 2012 Penalties.

• Revises three strikes law to impose life sentence only when new felony conviction is serious or violent.

• Authorizes re-sentencing for offenders currently serving life sentences if third strike conviction was not serious or violent and judge determines sentence does not pose unreasonable risk to public safety.

• Continues to impose life sentence penalty if third strike conviction was for certain nonserious, non-violent sex or drug offenses or involved firearm possession.

Proposition 37: Genetically Engineered Foods. Labeling.

• Requires labeling on raw or processed food offered for sale to consumers if made from plants or animals with genetic material changed in specified ways.

• Prohibits labeling or advertising such food, or other processed food, as “natural.”

Proposition 38: Tax to Fund Education and Early Childhood Programs. (Molly Munger’s tax.)

• Increases personal income tax rates on annual earnings over $7,316 using sliding scale from .4% for lowest individual earners to 2.2% for individuals earning over $2.5 million, for twelve years.

• During first four years, allocates 60% of revenues to K–12 schools, 30% to repaying state debt, and 10% to early childhood programs.

Thereafter, allocates 85% of revenues to K–12 schools, 15% to early childhood programs.

• Provides K–12 funds on school-specific, per-pupil basis, subject to local control, audits, and public input.

• Prohibits state from directing new funds.

Proposition 39: Tax Treatment for Multistate Businesses. Clean Energy and Energy Efficiency Funding.

• Requires multistate businesses to calculate their California income tax liability based on the percentage of their sales in California.

• Repeals existing law giving multistate businesses an option to choose a tax liability formula that provides favorable tax treatment for businesses with property and payroll outside California.

• Dedicates $550 million annually for five years from anticipated increase in revenue for the purpose of funding projects that create energy efficiency and clean energy jobs in California.

Proposition 40: Redistricting State Senate Districts.

• A “Yes” vote approves, and a “No” vote rejects, new State Senate districts drawn by the Citizens Redistricting Commission.

News

Community

November 2012

www.lakewoodnews.org

Page 13

Don’t play politics with Lakewood Beautiful honors 114 homes your investment decisions Submitted by Marjorie Anderson, Edward Jones Financial While the election season heats up, you will hear more and more promises, claims and counterclaims from the candidates. As a citizen, you may or may not enjoy this “political theater,” but as an investor, you might be concerned over all the talk about taxes, Social Security, Medicare and other financial topics. Will you need to adjust your savings and investment strategies? If so, how?

Before you think about adjusting your investment strategy in anticipation of any actions coming from Washington, keep a couple of facts in mind. First, few campaign promises become reality. And second, due to our system of government, radical shifts in direction are difficult to implement — which is why so few of them occur.

Still, we may see some smaller-scale — yet not insignificant — changes in the near future. In light of this possibility, what investment decisions should you make?

Here are a few suggestions: • Consider owning investments that are taxed in different ways. No one can predict what will happen with income tax rates or the tax rates that are applied to capital gains and dividends. Consequently, it may be a good idea to seek “tax diversification” by owning investments that are taxed in different ways. For example, when you sell appreciated stocks, you pay capital gains taxes, whereas interest payments from bonds will be taxed at your individual tax rate. And it’s always a good idea to take advantage of tax-advantaged vehicles, such as an IRA and your 401(k) or other employersponsored retirement plan.

• Stick with quality. It’s a good idea, when owning stocks, to invest in quality companies with diversified businesses.

These companies are usually less dependent on a particular government program, and they typically have a global reach, so they may be better able to handle any changes implemented in Washington.

• Stay focused on your longterm goals. Politicians come and go, and our political parties seem to take turns holding the reins of power. Yet your longterm goals — such as college for your children, a comfortable retirement and the ability to leave a legacy to your family — don’t really change — no matter what’s happening in Washington.

• Review your strategy regularly. With the possible approach of changes in tax policies and in government programs that can affect your retirement security, you’ll want

residences—the highest number of nominations in recent memory!

Homes were evaluated on landscaping, property maintenance and overall appearance.

The top honor of Distinguished Recognition was given to 26 homes; 88 homes received the distinction of Honorable Mention.

Eight homes also received a Water Wise Award for utilizing efficient irrigation and/or landscaping with drought-tolerant plants.

See www.lakewoodcity.org/ LakewoodHomes for a photo gallery of homes.

to review your investment strategy regularly to make sure it’s still on track toward helping you meet your objectives.

Aside from voting for the candidates who best represent your interests, you may not have much influence over what goes on in Washington.

But by “electing” the right moves to help meet your goals, you can have plenty of control over your investment strategy.

Homeowner Natasha Fernandez receives award from Lakewood Mayor Diane DuBois.

The Lakewood Beautiful and home maintenance.

The 114 winning homes were Home Awards Program marked its 31st year in late September chosen from 365 nominated with Lakewood residents and city council members gathering at Monte Verde Park to recognize the program’s 2012 winners for their accomplishments in landscaping

Congrats!

Around

Town

with Robin Vanderwerff

Page 14

Around Town in November Lakewood

• SSS Good Samaritan Association will have their 5th annual Thanks Giving for Hope and Food Bank for the families in the community who are going through hard times. The event will be held on Saturday, November 17 from 9am to 1pm at the Calvary Church parking lot at 5035 Hedda St, in Lakewood.

A full Thanksgiving meal will be served at a first come, first serve basis. Numbers will be given as well to receive nonperishable food baskets. For more information call Fay at 562-6078750.

• Lakewood Garden Club

November 2012

www.lakewoodnews.org

will be meeting on Thursday, November 15 at the Youth Center at Del Valle Park at 11am. There will be a mystery guest speaker.

• The Lakewood Women’s Club General Membership will meet on Tuesday, November 20 in Ballroom B in the Centre at Sycamore Plaza. This is the club’s annual reciprocity meeting and will host the Los Cerritos District President, and the Presidents from the eleven clubs, which also belong to Los Cerritos District. Registration and social time start at 10:30am, meeting 11am followed by a buffet luncheon. For reservations, please call Arlene at 562-8634933 by November 13.

• SPAY4LA mobile clinic will be at Adopt & Shop to provide low-cost spay/neuter surgeries and vaccinations. The clinic will be held on Saturday, November 10 from 7am to 5pm at 353 Lakewood Center Mall. Call now to reserve your spot 424-2146320.

TRIVIA Mayonnaise is said to be the invention of the French chef of the Duke de Richelieu in 1756. While the Duke was defeating the British at Port Mahon, his chef was creating a victory feast that included a sauce made of cream and eggs.

When the chef realized that there was no cream in the kitchen, he improvised, substituting olive oil for the cream.

A new culinary masterpiece was born, and the chef named it “Mahonnaise” in honor of the Duke’s victory.

Thanks to our OCTOBER Sudoku Sponsors Outback Steakhouse Foggia’s Italian Market & Deli Souplantation

10:00 am

Play Sudoku and you could be the next winner C O N G R AT U L AT I O N S to Richard Eveland, Larry Wells, and Marilyn Hummel!

They are the lucky winners of the October Sudoku. Out of 128 entries submitted, they were chosen and have won a free meal. Richard Eveland, will enjoy Outback Steakhouse, Larry Wells, Foggia Italian Market and Deli and Marilyn Hummel will enjoy The Souplantation. What are you waiting for? Pick up your pencil and put your brain to work!

To be eligible, print your name, address and phone number on a letter size (8 ½ x 11) piece of paper, tape the puzzle cut out from the newspaper with all the answer boxes completed 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 Sees Candies).

The winners are drawn by random, so if you’ve been a previous winner, continue to play and you just might win again.

One entry per household; the answers must be postmarked no later than Monday, November 19, 2012.

The winners will be drawn Tuesday the 20th; 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 (2 business days) or a new winner will be chosen.

The name of the winners will be published in the December issue, along with a new Sudoku Puzzle.

News

Community November 2012

www.lakewoodnews.org

At risk for Lakewood dentist helping kidney stones? area families Don’t drink

by Dr. Nancy William, DDS As the healthcare debate rages this... nationally, one Lakewood dentist

by Dr. Larry Omo, D.C.

According to Loyola University Health System, do not drink iced tea if you have a history of kidney stones. Iced tea contains high concentrations of oxalate, one of the key chemicals that lead to the formation of kidney stones, a common disorder of the urinary tract that affects about 10 percent of the population in the United States.

Oxalates are naturally-occurring substances found in humans, plants and in animals and they belong to a group of molecules called organic acids. Our bodies always contain oxalates, and our cells routinely convert other substances into oxalates.

Though hot tea also contains oxalate, it isn’t as easy to consume a quantity large enough to encourage the formation of stones. “For many people, iced tea is potentially one of the worst things they can drink,” said Dr. John Milner, Assistant Professor, Department of Urology, Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine, Maywood, IL. “For people who have a tendency to form kidney stones, it’s definitely one of the worst things you can drink.”

What should you drink to stay properly hydrated? WATER.

Women in Business Council Networking, Networking, & More Networking!

Wednesday November 14th 4:30 ~ 6:30PM Location:

Studio Cie Wellness Spa 4117 Woodruff Ave. Lakewood, 90713 Call Marjean for more information: (562) 402-9336 x1252

has decided to do something tangible to help individuals and families afford quality dental care. “Statistically speaking, more than 60% of Americans don’t have dental insurance,” said Dr. Nancy William from her dental practice building on Clark Ave. in Lakewood. “This means that a large majority of people here locally delay dental procedures, which is not good for dental health or overall healthcare.” A recent report by CBS News cited by Dr. William indicated dental decay as a contributing factor in many seemingly unrelated problems... including employment problems, heart disease and childhood school absences.

“I sat down with my front office team and saw how much money was going to insurance companies, claim forms administration and collections costs. We also calculated how many hundreds of extra dollars families were spending by not catching potential problems that we could have found during a simple annual dental exam. When I began

Dr. Nancy William, Lakewood Smiles Dentistry to run these numbers with other dentists around America... we found that we could offer our patients free initial exams, free exam x-rays, free teeth cleanings and as much as 20% off our usual fee structure simply by creating our own in-house dental savings plan.” The result was QDP... and Dr. William is quite proud of what she and the other dentists have created. “This one simple step has allowed us to eliminate the insurance company middle man... and those savings are going right back into the pockets of folks here locally. I’m really proud to be part of this forward-looking cost-savings movement. This is a great system for dental care everywhere.”

Page 15

Page 16

www.lakewoodnews.org

November 2012