Lcn october 20pages by Lakewood Community News

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

Official publication of the Greater Lakewood Chamber of Commerce

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Volume 29 Number 10

Lakewood soldier returns home to fanfare and family By Lakewood Resident, Dominque Ortiz

Pictured left: Lakewood resident MSG Ortiz surprises his son at band practice after a year’s deployment. Pictured right: MSG Ortiz was honored as his son played the National Anthem - solo. It was a year ago September that the 311th unit of the United States Army Reserves deployed soldiers to Afghanistan. Among them was Lakewood resident, Master Sergeant Steve Ortiz Jr., who has served in the military for 26 years. During the departure ceremony, he said his “see you soon” to his family. With reluctance, the Ortiz family watched their soldier line up for duty and prepare for his mission. While in Afghanistan, MSG Ortiz trained and ran ten separate 5Ks for charity. He received the Bronze Star for serving during wartime, the NATO medal, and the Afghanistan service medal. As part of the 311th, he would go on to complete their mission in Afghanistan after one year of overseas service. Finally, on September 18th, the

311th brought home their soldiers. The Ortiz family, among hundreds of other families, celebrated their soldier’s safe return. The Ortiz sons, however, were unable to attend the arrival of their father, due to prior engagements. Taking advantage of the situation, MSG Ortiz decided a surprise was in order. Antonio Ortiz and Steve Ortiz III were at marching band practice at Lakewood High School, when the high school’s band director, Ms. Burcham, arranged for the band to play the National Anthem. On the drum roll, MSG Ortiz walked out from beneath the bleachers...his sons were surprised to see him and embraced him, as the rest of the band cheered on. A few days later, the Lakewood High School Marching Band played

for the football game’s pre-game and halftime show. Ms. Burcham wanted to further celebrate MSG Ortiz’s return and arranged for him to be honored during their pregame performance. As the National Anthem began, Antonio Ortiz walked up to his father and played a solo in his father’s honor, making him the first sophomore to play the National Anthem solo. MSG Ortiz was truly surprised and immensely proud of his son. The Ortiz family not only celebrates the return of their own soldier, but also the safe return of the entire 311th ESC. They wish everyone a joyful reunion with their soldiers, and hope for the safe return of those soldiers still overseas.

Welcome Home, MSG Ortiz

Bring your ghosts and goblins to Lakewood parks for scary good time!

Lakewood Community News #24 Lakewood Center Mall Lakewood, CA 90712 (562) 531-9733

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Lakewood’s traditional Halloween Carnivals are getting set to offer fun and safety for youngsters on October’s scariest night. Special carnival activities are scheduled for Thursday, October 31, from 6pm to 8:30pm, at Biscailuz, Bloomfield, Bolivar, Boyar, Del Valle, Mayfair, Palms and San Martin parks. Halloween Carnivals feature food and game booths, special contests and prizes for the kids. Use the “Park Finder” at www. lakewoodcity.org/parkfinder to locate which Lakewood neighborhood park is closest to you. “Haunted houses” for little ghosts and goblins to venture inside will be available at Bolivar, Del Valle, Palms and San Martin parks. Volunteers are needed to run carnival booths and assist with the haunted houses. For more information, call city hall at 562866-9771, extension 2408.

October 2013

Turn your business the color of success at Lakewood Chamber’s Fall Business Expo Its no secret that small businesses are essential to the success of the economy. Given the challenges facing businesses in this current economic climate, its imperative that business owners take all opportunities to market themselves. On Saturday, October 12 from 10am to 2pm, the Greater Lakewood Chamber of Commerce will host its annual “Business Expo” in the exclusive Center Court at Lakewood Center. The 2013 Business Expo is a little different from any other Expo the Chamber has held…in the past, businesses were unable to sell their products or service in the mall. This year businesses will have the opportunity to sell. This is fantastic for both local businesses and consumers in the surrounding areas. The Expo is the only one of its kind to be supported and sponsored by Lakewood Center, and is an exclusive opportunity afforded only to the Greater Lakewood Chamber of Commerce. • Business Opportunities: Showcase and sell your

goods and/or services and reach an audience of hundreds! Businesses are invited to also educate consumers about what their company has to offer. By providing marketing materials such as brochures, flyers, business cards, etc. vendors can collect leads and referrals, which will stimulate the growth of local commerce in the Lakewood business community. • Consumer Opportunities: Why should residents attend the 2012 Business Expo? The Expo is a great opportunity to explore 20 – 30 local businesses while experiencing what goods and/ or services they have to offer. Space includes one six-foot table with two chairs and tablecloth the investment is only $150 for Lakewood Chamber Members, $200 for Non-Chamber Members. To register or for more information, contact the Lakewood Chamber of Commerce at (562) 5319733 or email us at info@ lakewoodchamber.com.

Walking down Lollipop Lane is a seasonal wonderland!

Themed crafts will cover Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays. Mayfair Park’s John Sanford Todd Community Center will come alive with over 100+ crafters offering handmade, affordable holiday gifts on Saturday, October 19 from 9am to 3pm. One of the first boutiques of the season in our region, the Lakewood event features a wide range of quality crafters and artists displaying Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas items. Jewelry, clothing, quilts, cards, gourds, gift bags, scarves, purses, wood crafts, paintings, candles, soaps, lotions and many other beautiful handcrafted items will be for sale. Event admission is free and each merchant will handle their

own sales. Shoppers should come prepared to purchase a variety of unique items. Refreshments, supporting Lakewood Meals on Wheels, will also be available for purchase throughout the day. Mayfair Park is located at 5720 Clark Avenue, at the corner of South Street. Parking for the event will be available at the park. Additional parking and a free shuttle will service the Lakewood City Hall east parking lot (5050 Clark Avenue). The shuttle will run every 15 minutes until 3:30pm. For more information, please call 562-866-9771, extension 2408, or 562-866-4776 the day of the event.

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A season for seniors...of many generations By Mayor Steve Croft

Its fall in Lakewood, and that means kids are back in school. Please remember to drive with extra care and alertness around campuses. Fall is also a time in Lakewood when we offer a lot of special programs for our older residents. Once again, I’m pleased that our city is presenting an Older Adults Benefits Information Fair. The event features representatives from different health and benefit plans and is timed to help older adults with decisions they may want to make during Medicare’s annual open enrollment period. The event will be held on Monday, October 14, from 10am to 12noon, at the Weingart Senior Center at 5220 Oliva Avenue. For more information, call Weingart staff at 562-630-6141. Also at Weingart, we’ll have

a free, walk-in flu-shot clinic, held in conjunction with the L.A. County Health Department, on November 12 from 1pm to 3pm. Lakewood has a new program for older residents this year. It’s designed with the large “baby boom generation” in mind. That population, born between 1945 and 1964, is getting close to the age of being called “seniors.” But they’re staying a very active bunch, and recreation specialists around the nation are finding that they need some new terminology to describe this group and the new programs being developed for them. The term we’ve landed on here in Lakewood to describe the baby boomers and our new programs is “Active Plus.” The phrase is a good one because it’s a reminder to older residents of all ages that it’s important to stay as active as you can for absolutely as long as you can. Active Plus programs are based out of the Burns Community Center. For details call 562-925-7512 or go to www. lakewoodcity.org/activeplus. Active Plus programs include: • A free Walking Club that heads out on healthy-paced strolls at 11am on Wednesdays. • Gardening classes offered for free at Burns from experts at the

Home Depot here in Lakewood. Gardening involves exercise and can be a great way to stay limber and fit. • Tech Talk, where you can bring your smartphone, iPad, etc. and get free, one-on-one help from experts, usually tech-savvy teens. • Head to Toe health series, also free, which features activities like Tai Chi and informational programs that answer special baby boomer health needs. Done in conjunction with Lakewood Regional Medical Center, it also looks at the challenges boomers face in caring for their older adult parents. For more information about the Head to Toe series call 800-813-4345 and hit “3” to register. • Nifty after Fifty, which continues to operate at Burns, with exercise equipment and trainers that can help you get fit and make the most of the years ahead. Lakewood residents get a special discount from Nifty. Whether you’re a baby boomer in your 50s or 60s, a member of the Greatest Generation in your 80s or 90s, or anywhere in between (…and we even have folks over 100 in our Lakewood senior programs), feel free to come on out and try these new and traditional ways to stay active and healthy in Lakewood.

C i t y Spotlight Fall/winter recreation classes begin The City of Lakewood’s fall/ winter recreation classes begin the week of September 30. If you have not received your copy of the popular catalog in the mail, look online at www. lakewoodcity.org/Catalog. Or, stop by any Lakewood park, community center, library or

October 2013

Lakewood Sheriff’s Station becomes “Haunted Jail”

On Friday, October 25th, from 4pm to 10pm, our local Sheriff’s station will be transformed into “The Haunted Jail.” The scary jail is built and hosted by station volunteers, Explorer Scouts and Deputies donating their time. Along with a scary jail for visitors 12 and older, there is also a less scary version for younger children. The event includes public displays from various Sheriff’s Department units. Visitors will be treated to refreshments, treats and glow sticks for sale. All proceeds will benefit the Lakewood Station Fund. Enter the Haunted Jail on foot through the rear gate of the Lakewood Sheriff’s Station (5130 Clark Avenue) from Civic Center Drive. Parking is best on the south end of Civic Center Drive, on or near the vacant lot and Angelo M. Iacoboni Library. city hall to pick one up. Call 562-866-9771, extension 2408 to request a catalog by mail. The new catalog lists over 625 classes and activities offered for area residents. FUN-Tastic Family Nights Join your Lakewood neighbors and friends at The Centre for FUN-tastic Family Nights. This series of family evenings is affordable and fun. Each event offers a light dinner and entertainment. On Friday, October 18, from 6:30pm to 8pm, experience the “Buster BOO’lloon Show.” Participants will enjoy how Buster Balloon transforms his wildly POP’ular balloon show into an inflatable extravaganza of hilariously spooky comedy and fun just in time for Halloween. Dinner of chicken penne pasta, salad, rolls,

Lakewood's 21st Annual FREE

Craft Boutique

Featuring the work of over 100 quality artists and crafters

Saturday, October 19 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Mayfair Park, 5720 N. Clark Ave. (Corner of South & Clark)

Free Parking - A shuttle service will be available from 9 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. and will run every 15 minutes from City Hall’s east parking lot (5050 N. Clark Ave.) to Mayfair Park.

www.lakewoodcity.org For more information, please call 562-866-9771, ext. 2408 or 562-866-4776 the day of the event.

lemonade and a dessert will be served prior to the start of the show. Cost is $8 per person ($5 for ages 3 and younger). Register by October 15 by calling 562866-9771, extension 2408 or you may register online at www. lakewoodcity.org/recreation. Family overnight camp in Lakewood Bring your children, ages 3 to 8, and have a fun overnight campout “under the stars” October 1920 at Monte Verde. Participate in games, crafts, nature walks, roasting marshmallows and singing around the campfire. All meals and snacks are prepared so parents can sit back, relax and enjoy nature. A “what to bring” list will be mailed before camp. Only $17 per couple (an $8 per person materials fee for meals is payable to the instructor at camp. Call to register at 562866-9771, extension 2408 or you may register through the eCatalog at www.lakewoodcity. org/eCatalog. Saturday Night Lights Flag Football Tournament Lakewood teens can compete in the Saturday Night Lights Flag Football Tournament on Saturday, October 19th from 5 to 9pm at Bloomfield Park (21420 Pioneer Blvd). This free sports extravaganza will offer three competitive divisions: boys ages12-14 and 15-18; and a Powder-Puff division for girls ages 12-18. Tournament games will be officiated by recreation staff and rules of good sportsmanship will be enforced. Refreshments will be provided for all those who participate along with prizes for the championship teams in each division. Bus transportation to Bloomfield Park is available from the Lakewood Youth Center. Call 562-865-1717 for more details about the tournament and event transportation.

October 2013

Your

Minding

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Be part of Lakewood history

Monday, October 21

6:30 - 8:30 PM FREE SCREENING FOR STUDENTS AND PARENTS SPONSORED BY

Soroptimist International of Lakewood / Long Beach Lakewood High School Lakewood Service Unit-Los Angeles Area Girl Scouts Weingart-Lakewood Family YMCA Gymnastics Program Lakewood Teen Board Soroptimist International of Long Beach

Parents need to know that this documentary offers a powerful, uncompromising look at how the media trivializes and sexualizes women. It's informative and enlightening and will be a total eye-opener for teens and their parents. View the trailer at https://vimeo.com/18985647.

Lakewood High School Auditorium 4400 Briercrest Avenue - Lakewood For more information call: (562) 396-5691 Rated TV-14 DL Not appropriate for children under 14

October 2013

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In 2014, Lakewood will celebrate its 60th anniversary of incorporation as a city, starting with a communitywide birthday event early in the year. As the old saying goes, “a picture is worth a thousand words.” You can help Lakewood tell its story--with pictures--at the city’s 60th birthday party by sharing copies of Lakewoodrelated photographs from your personal collection. Help tell your part of the Lakewood story by submitting scanned copies of your photos to www.lakewoodcity.org/60th or on CDs sent to city hall to the Community Relations Office, 5050 Clark Ave., Lakewood, CA 90712. Photos can be scanned for free at the Weingart Senior Center on Wednesday, October 23. Helpful techs will scan resident photos between 1pm to 5pm to make it easy for residents to make their photos part of the project. Reservations are required for the scanning day. Call 562866-9771 extension 3123 to schedule an appointment to have up to three photos per category scanned. Photos will be shown in three

displays: “What Lakewood Means To Me” “Honoring Lakewood’s Military Members and Veterans” “Original Homeowners” Deadline to submit is November 1, 2013. Send a maximum of three photos per category per person submitting. With questions, call 562-8669771, extension 3123 or email 60th@lakewoodcity.org. “What Lakewood Means To Me” can include photos such as a birthday party in your backyard, a day at a Lakewood park or pool, or when your family first moved into your Lakewood home…whether that was 1953 or 2013. We’re looking for a variety of images from the past and present that tell the story of why you love living in Lakewood. For the display entitled “Honoring Lakewood’s Military Members and Veterans,” the city is seeking images of Lakewood residents in military uniform and military settings over the years, from World War II through Iraq and Afghanistan. Lakewood

was founded in 1954 largely by World War II and Korean War veterans and their families. Appreciation for the service and sacrifice of our military veterans remains an enduring Lakewood value. Residents are invited to submit electronic copies of up to three photos from each of the two categories. Photographic portraits are also being sought from those original homeowners who were living here when Lakewood became a city in 1954. The portraits will become part of the city’s permanent historical collection and be shown during 60th anniversary events. If you would be willing to have such a portrait taken at your home at no charge by a city photographer, please contact Nanette Davis at city hall at 562-866-9771, extension 3123 by November 1 to schedule an appointment. Instructions about how to submit copies of your photos to the Lakewood historic photo exhibit are at www. lakewoodcity.org/60th. Details about the 2014 communitywide anniversary event will be announced early next year.

15 Years Servicing Lakewood Family Owned and Operated FREE Estimates

(562) 881-5557

10% off with this ad License #: 971888

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October 2013

Home Depot helps out locally offering free classes

when they Shop Lakewood,” said Lakewood Home Depot store manager Jaime Ramirez. The courses are part of a growing list of “ActivePlus” activities being developed for the city’s large “baby boomer” population. But, they’re open to all ages. This is a walk-in program with no RSVP required. To learn more about future classes call 562-9257512. OCTOBER COURSE SCHEDULE: “How to decorate your garden” (Hands-on activity)

“Team Depot” pitched in at 2013 Volunteer Day: Brad Litchfield, Alison Durham and Dennis Donahue. Lakewood’s Home Depot is presenting a series of free classes for Lakewood homeowners on how to keep their gardens beautiful in the fall. Some classes include hands-on activities. All are free and held in the large classroom space at the Burns Community Center. Helping out locally isn’t new to “Team Depot.” Earlier this year they joined in with hundreds of residents and community groups in the city’s annual Volunteer Day. Employees showed up with doors, hardware and tools needed to install them. “We think giving back to the community is important. Lakewood residents are huge when it comes to taking pride in their homes and their neighborhoods. Helping with

Lakewood

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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.

Volunteer Day and doing classes is a way to show them we’re part of the community and we really value their business. We want them to know there’s extra value

Wednesday, October 2nd from 3:30-5:00 pm

“Composting 101” (Demonstration)

Wednesday, October 16th from 3:30-4:30 pm

“Gardening with the Seasons” (Demonstration)

Wednesday, October 30th from 3:30-4:30 pm

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Kids start school with brand new backpacks

The ABC Education Foundation distributed 662 backpacks this year to 29 schools in the ABC Unified School District for students who are homeless or who are very low income. As part of the Foundation’s second annual backpack drive, school supplies and backpacks were purchased from the Foundation’s fundraising efforts. Schools were able to order the number of backpacks for very low income and homeless students at their school. “This initiative really describes the Education Foundation’s vision statement -- that every ABC student, every school succeeds,” states Dr. Mary Sieu, Superintendent. “The Foundation is committed to ensuring that every student has the basic tools for academic success.”

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October 2013

Thanks and a big Hoorah to all that helped make the Chamber’s Car Show a success! THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS! The Lakewood Chamber of Commerce recently hosted its 16th Annual Summer Stampede Car Show. This show produced so much eye candy for the vintage car enthusiasts, that they left feeling fully satisfied! Every year Summer Stampede brings thousands of community members, car show aficionados and business to the City of Lakewood, and while presented

by the Chamber, this event would not be possible without the involvement of our Chamber Members. We can’t thank them enough for their contributions! We would also like to thank our military and veterans, as this show was dedicated to those that put their lives in harms way to protect and preserve the freedoms we enjoy everyday.

A Great Time Had By All...

...at the Summer Stampede Car Show Knott’s Scary Farm Trip Participants ages 11 to 14 will be transported from the Lakewood Youth Center to Knott’s, where they will enjoy Southern California’s largest Halloween event held at a theme park. Price includes transportation and admission only. Bring extra

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

money for food, snacks, games and souvenirs. A special event permission slip must be signed by a parent or legal guardian. Permission slips will be mailed to registrants and must be turned in to recreation staff prior to boarding the bus. Please arrive

at 5:45pm. Buses will leave promptly at 6 p.m. - Please be familiar with trip refund policy in the Travel Section. Space is limited, so register online now for class number 33589 at www.lakewoodcity.org/ catalog. Cost is $39 for residents.

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

News

Community October 2013

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LEF golf tourney Local Credit Union donates school supplies to three School Districts LBS Financial Credit Union directly with the superintendent’s helps Lakewood partnered with three local office to create a wish list this teachers/students school districts this summer year. Lisbeth Monroe, assistant

Thanks to generous donations from Lakewood residents and businesses, the Lakewood Education Foundation (LEF) was able to give grants totaling $41,498 to 88 Lakewood school projects last year. The annual LEF golf tournament is a major part of the fundraising for the effort, including for the new 2013-14 school year. This year, the LEF tournament is set for Columbus Day, Monday, October 14 at Lakewood Country Club. The tournament features a four-person scramble format. Registration is at 11am with a shotgun start at 1pm. Dinner and awards follow at 6pm. The $100 participant entry fee will include green fees, cart, contests, awards and dinner. Sponsor commitments at press time include the City of Lakewood, L.A. County Supervisor Don Knabe, EDCO Waste Services, Lakewood Lions Club, CARE Ambulance, City Light and Power and Willdan Engineering. Additional sponsor opportunities are available, and individual golfers are still welcome. Entry and sponsor forms may be downloaded at www.lakewoodcity.org/LEF, or send your name, address and phone number with check made payable to Lakewood Education Foundation, care of City of Lakewood, 5050 Clark Avenue, Lakewood CA 90712. For more information, call Lakewood Education Foundation at 562496-3559 or 562-866-9771, extension 2404. Donations are tax deductible. The tax identification number is 26-2190892. Even if you don’t golf, a donation to LEF would be extremely welcome and would help with Lakewood classroom improvement projects!

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.

to collect school supplies for the 2013-2014 school year. The Credit Union worked with ABC Unified School District, Bellflower Unified School District and Long Beach Unified School District for its third annual Adopt-a-School Program to select a school and identify specific needs for each school. Long Beach Unified School District The Long Beach Education Foundation was instrumental in supporting the program and helped the Credit Union select Jordan Plus in Long Beach to participate for 2013. Jordan Plus is located on Bort Street in North Long Beach. The school provided a wish list of items needed. Bellflower Unified School District The Credit Union worked

to the superintendent and Dr. Brian Jacobs, superintendent, selected Las Flores Educational Center, a school focused on supporting home schooling families, to receive the supplies. ABC Unified School District The Credit Union partnered with Ann Griffo, coordinator of school & community partnerships for ABC Unified School District to select Haskell STEM Academy as the 2013 recipient of donations. Camille Lewis, principal of Haskell STEM Academy, provided a wish list for the school that included items for their classrooms and school supplies.

School supply delivery to Jordan Plus in Long Beach on September 12, 2013. From left to right: Judy Seal, executive director, LBUSD; Lew Kerns, principal of Jordan Plus; Jennifer Marine, business development specialist, LBS Financial; Heather Summers, senior vice president, marketing, LBS Financial; and Rosalina Vergara, marketing manager, LBS Financial.

Don’t miss out on the next “WELCOME TO LAKEWOOD” mailing! Deliver 325 of your flyers to the Chamber office by October 15th, and we will include it in the next mailing (scheduled for October 16th). Call or email for more info: (562) 531.9733 or info@lakewoodchamber.com.

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Compelling reasons to make changes to your Medicare Plan for 2014

Each year, Medicare open enrollment brings with it changes that can affect nearly 50 million people. The limited enrollment timeframe of just 54 days - Oct. 15 to Dec. 7 - gives all Medicare beneficiaries the opportunity to change their Medicare plans for the coming year to better match their needs and potentially save on health care costs. This includes

anyone using original Medicare, Medicare Advantage or Part D prescription drug plans. If your Medicare coverage worked well during the previous year, it may seem simple to continue with those existing Medicare plans. There are several reasons why this annual enrollment season should grab the attention of

Medicare beneficiaries. Below are some compelling reasons to take the time to review your plans: Your health situation has changed. Perhaps you have developed a health condition in the previous 12 months that requires a new prescription drug or ongoing visits to a specialist. It’s important to know whether the plan you have, or decide to purchase, covers these health needs. Your health care provider situation has changed. Physicians may retire or relocate, and medical facilities may change their terms. A number of developments could lead your plans to no longer include the doctors you see or the medical center you visit. Your coverage changes. Plans can alter the drugs, procedures and conditions they cover. For

October 2013 example, your prescription drug Part D plan may no longer cover the prescription drugs you need to purchase in the coming year, or put restrictions on how and where you purchase them. Your plan premiums, co-pays or deductibles are increasing. Price changes occur year to year, so examine the prices you have been paying and what you can expect to pay in the coming year. You have moved or are planning to move. It’s important to consider your Medicare plans when moving because you may leave the plan’s service area or have additional options. Your current plan no longer will be available. In these instances, beneficiaries must select a new plan, or they may default to another plan chosen by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. The City of Lakewood is presenting an Older Adults Benefits Information Fair. The event features representatives from different health and benefit plans and is timed to help older

adults with decisions they may want to make during Medicare’s annual open enrollment period. The event will be held on Monday, October 14, from 10am to 12noon, at the Weingart Senior Center at 5220 Oliva Avenue. For more information, call Weingart staff at 562-630-6141.

Health Care Actrequired notices due Oct. 1st

Although the employer mandate provision has been delayed, October 1, 2013 is still the deadline for notices required by the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA). Before October 1, all employers covered by the Fair Labor Standards Act are required to provide current employees with notices regarding new health insurance marketplace coverage options—in California, that’s Covered California. The notices inform the employee of the existence of the marketplace, a description of services, how to contact the marketplace and other required information. Also starting October 1, employers must provide the notices to each new hire within 14 days of the employee beginning work. Californians without access to affordable health insurance through their employer can purchase health coverage through Covered California. Enrollment begins this October for coverage starting January 1, 2014.

October 2013

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Great deals at Friends of Lakewood Libraries book sale

From romance novels to largeformat books, visitors will find surprisingly low-priced deals on used books at the Friends of the Lakewood Libraries (FOLL) sale on Saturday, October 5, from 9am to 2pm. Sale items include hardback books for $1 and up, textbooks, encyclopedias, computer materials, children’s books, a ‘Teacher’s Table,’ unusual books, cassettes and videos. Proceeds support Lakewood’s two local libraries. FOLL “Members only” sales are scheduled for Thursday, October 3, from 5pm to 6:30pm, and Friday, October 4, from 10am to 4:30pm. Those interested in becoming members at the presale can take advantage of the widest selection before the public sale. Memberships start as low as $5 for seniors, $10 for individuals and $15 for a family membership. “Members only” times are also open to disabled patrons. FOLL memberships may be purchased at the door for non-member shoppers interested in attending. Shoppers are encouraged to bring their own shopping bags to the event at the Angelo M. Iacoboni Library at 4990 Clark Avenue in the Lakewood Civic Center.

Frankenstein & Dracula had a match...who won?

Frankenstein, because Dracula sucks!

Anyone wanting to volunteer to help support the program or be an event volunteer should call Book Sale Chairperson Sharon Roder at 562-531-9641. Book donations are welcome. They should be brought to the Iacoboni Library at least a week prior to the event so that they can be processed for the sale. For questions, call 562866-1777.

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Lakewood YMCA announces expansion project In early 2014, the WeingartLakewood Family YMCA will break ground to expand and renovate its location at Woodruff Avenue and Carson Boulevard in Lakewood. The anticipated nine month project will feature a new building design and layout that will increase the visibility and accessibility of all program areas and member gathering places. The branch will be open during construction and will continue to serve members during the renovation. Tania Whiteleather, Chair of the Weingart-Lakewood Family YMCA Board of Managers, announced the plans for a new design that will renovate the existing 25,000 square feet and add approximately 10,000 square feet with two additional group exercise rooms, a new Family Adventure Center, new family changing areas, doubled kids’ club space and increased space for cardio and strength training equipment.

Whiteleather added, “This updated design will allow our Y to expand its impact on our members and program participants in Lakewood, Long Beach, and Hawaiian Gardens. Our YMCA remains focused on youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.” The project will be funded in part from a bequest from Julie Ibbetson Zilinskas and through the Weingart-

Lakewood Family YMCA Board of Managers fundraising campaign. The “Building Tomorrow Today” campaign creates charitable opportunities for individuals, corporations and foundations to invest in the project with room naming opportunities, and a community campaign to raise the needed funds to complete the project.

ShopLakewood Page 10

Burns Center is hub for the “young at heart” boomers

Tai Chi (shown) and Walking Club are new “Active+” activities at the Burns Community Center.

The Burns Community Center is becoming Lakewood’s healthyactivity hub for the “baby boomer generation.” There are a whole lot of baby boomers, and they don’t fit traditional stereotypes for “seniors.” They’re more likely to listen to “Bennie and the Jets” than Benny Goodman. Many are “children of the 60’s” who hardly acknowledge they’re “turning 60.” “Following national norms, Lakewood boomers are more active than their predecessors,” says Lakewood Community Services Supervisor Nancy Hitt. “To meet their needs, we’re offering fitness and special interest activities in our new ‘Active+’ program. These include things like a walking club, “tech talk”

sessions and a special gardening series done in conjunction with Home Depot here in Lakewood. And, we’re still very proud to offer the well-equipped and staffed Nifty after Fifty fitness center.” Additionally, the ongoing “Head to Toe” health series continues at Burns through December. It features activities like Tai Chi and informational programs that answer special boomer health needs. Done in conjunction with Lakewood Regional Medical Center it also looks at the challenges boomers face in caring for their older adult parents. “It’s all about being proactive to keep residents healthy and treating and screening for possible chronic conditions. It’s the right thing to do. We like to think of ourselves as

www.lakewoodchamber.com an integral part of the community that we serve,” said Patrick Houston, Manager of Community Relations at Lakewood Regional Medical Center. “Events like the series help us to get to know our neighbors and help them to get to know us. One thing for sure, events like this would not be possible if it was not for our partnership with the Burns Community Center and Independent Physicians of Lakewood.” Series events are held at the Burns Community Center from 10am to 11am on the second and fourth Wednesday of the month in September and October. November and December dates will vary. “Partnering with Lakewood Regional, Home Depot and other organizations and businesses enable us to offer programs that resonate with our residents. Staying active physically and mentally are keys to good health,” says Lisa Litzinger, Director of Recreation and Community Services. “With more and more baby boomers over the age of 50, we are trying to offer interesting activities and programs that are either free or low cost to participants.” For more information about the Head to Toe series call 800813-4345 and hit “3” to register. Information about all the Active+ programs at Burns Community Center is available at www. lakew oodcity.org/A ctiveP lus and by calling 562-925-7512. Registration for most programs can be done online at www. lakewoodcity.org/eCatalog.

October 2013

Large pet supply store opening in Lakewood

This October, residents will get another way to “Shop Lakewood” for pet products when the 14th location of family-owned and operated Centinela Feed & Pet Supplies opens at the Carwood West Shopping Center. Located at Woodruff Avenue and Carson Street, the 8,500 square-foot store is situated between HomeGoods and Smart & Final Extra! The Grand Opening Weekend runs from Friday, October 11 through Sunday, October 13. Special features on October 11 include a Guide Dogs of America Meet & Greet from 11:30am to 2pm and a ribbon cutting ceremony with the Greater Lakewood Chamber of Commerce at 12noon. Vendor samples and giveaways will be held throughout the day and refreshments will be available. Fun on October 12 will include an ice cream social for people and dogs between 12noon and 2pm. The KLOS “Cool Patrol” will be on site with a concert ticket give-away, raffle prizes and fun. October 13 will feature a

Halloween pet costume photo contest and dancers from the Kick It Up Dance Studio. Since 1974, Centinela Feed has been known for high-quality organic pet foods such as Lotus natural foods and a broad range of pet supplies for dogs, cats, birds and small animals. Stores also sponsor pet adoption events and training classes. Centinela Feed & Pet Supplies earned a Los Angeles Times Readers’ Choice award in 2010, 2011 and 2012. Times voters rated the store number one citing a wide variety of products and ongoing support for pet adoption. The company website at www. centinelafeed.com features monthly specials ranging from 20% off special items to several dollars off staples like pet foods and anti-flea products. They list special offers and information about new products and a monthly newsletter that includes coupons. Centinela stresses continual training and high levels of service and works to have its knowledgeable staff assist pet owners with the best dietary products and supplies for pet needs. Some locations also offer a battery of dog training classes from beginning to advanced levels, with topics like “household manners” and agility training. Some trainers even provide private lessons and topics like tricks and pet first aid. Centinela also offers low-cost vaccination clinics in line with their strong support for pet adoption.

Green www.lakewoodchamber.com

October 2013

Three free events help Lakewood stay green

EDCO’s free “2nd Saturday” hazardous waste/e-waste dropoff events continue on Saturday, October 12 and November 9. From 9am to 2pm the transfer facility at 2755 California Avenue in Signal Hill will be open for Lakewood residents to drop off their paints, toxic chemicals, e-waste, sharps, and used cooking and motor oil. “Lakewood Shreds!” returns to the Civic Center on Saturday, November 23 from 9am to 12noon. The City of Lakewood and EDCO Waste Services will help Lakewood residents safely and effectively dispose of documents containing sensitive information like old bank statements and tax records. Visitors can dispose of up to three boxes of documents, which will be safely and securely shredded on-site by a professional shredding company. No CDs, DVDs, diskettes or other media can be accepted for shredding. Lakewood Shreds! has added “green” features like a mulch giveaway and e-waste drop off. Household batteries and electronic waste like TVs, computers, keyboards, printers and cell phones, will be collected for earth-friendly disposal. Hazardous waste will not be accepted. Freebies will be distributed including used oil containers and battery collection boxes. The drive-through drop-off location will be behind the Iacoboni Library. (Enter from Civic Center Way off of Del Amo Boulevard or Candlewood Street. The exit for the event will be the driveway to Clark Avenue.) This event is for Lakewood residents only. Be prepared to show proof of residency, either with a driver’s license or utility bill. For more information, please call EDCO at 562-5313054 or Lakewood City Hall at 562-866-9771, extension 2140.

What kind of pants do ghosts wear?

“BOO” Jeans!

Living

Page 11

Outback Steakhouse takes the Summer League Championship The Greater Lakewood Chamber of Commerce, along with Chamber Ambassador, Frank Cardiel, have rallied local businesses for the 7th Summer Season of the Chamber’s Softball League, and everyone had a ball! Congratulations to Outback Steakhouse for taking home the championship trohpy! The Lakewood Chamber Outsiders are the Lake Division Champions and Best Buy took the Wood Division Championship. If your business wants to put a team together, or if you’d like to advertise on the field next season, give the Chamber a call at (562) 5319733. If you would like to check out the scores and cheer for your local business, visit www. munisports.com.

Thank you to our other participating businesses!

OUTBACK STEAKHOUSE League Champions - Summer 2013 SOFTBALL EXECUTIVE BOARD

LAKEWOOD CHAMBER OUTSIDERS Lake Division Champs, Summer 2013

• Frank Cardiel Commissioner • Enrique Martinez Commissioner • Erica Mejia Commissioner • Araceli Cardiel Commissioner FIELD COMMISSIONERS • Chris Salazar • Kenny Castaneda

CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL!

South Coast Storytellers Guild Rancho Los Cerritos Historic Site, in conjunction with the South Coast Storytellers Guild, presents “A Harvest of Stories,” a Family Festival on Saturday, October 26, between 1-4 p.m. Guild members will offer storytelling workshops designed for educators, families, museum docents, singers, actors and all who love stories. To register, call the Rancho at (562) 570-1755.

Hair Salon

ADULT CUT

$14

w/ FREE Shampoo

Long & thicker hair extra Limit One (1) Per Coupon

OPEN 7 DAYS! M-F 9am - 7pm Sat 9am - 6pm Sun 10am - 5pm

5137 Candlewood St, Lakewood 562.925.7267 Expires 10/31/13

LAKEWOOD BEST BUY

Wood Division Champs, Summer 2013

Corner

Cuddly Page 12

Baby turtle breaks out of her shell

www.lakewoodchamber.com

Halloween safety tips for your pet Keep halloween candy out of reach. Chocolate, especially dark chocolate, is dangerous for pets.

October 2013

Helping families and pets prepare for the ‘Big One’

Candles in pumpkins can be a fire hazard with fourlegged friends running around.

Pictured is a baby 3-Toed Box Turtle, that was just hatching out of its egg shell. Its egg sac is still attached to the bottom of the shell and will be adsorbed into the baby turtle over the next few days. It was born in a turtle pen where a female turtle dug a hole and laid her eggs. The eggs hatch around 90 days. For more Turtle information visit: Turtle & Tortoise Care Society Chapter of the California Turtle & Tortoise Club at www. tortoise.org for meeting times and address.

Dr. Jose E. Arambulo, DVM

The doorbell ringing constantly and the commotion of halloween parties can all cause anxiety for pets. Make sure your pet has a comfortable place to rest away from all the commotion. Make sure your pet is equipped with an ID or microchip. It’s best to be prepared if your pet manages to slip out the door.

Dr. Jeanne Rickey, DVM

FULL SERVICE VETERINARY HOSPITAL EcoFriendly

• Quality, Reliable & Affordable Vet Care for Over 25 Years • Comprehensive Dental • Vaccinations/Spay/Neuter • Digital X-Rays • Pet Grooming

Since September, 2011, we have donated over 2,000 lbs. of pet food to the Lakewood Meals on Wheels for the “Pets of the Homeless,” a non-profit group that helps with vet care & pet food for their furry friends. Any help would be appreciated. We accept both dry & canned food for cats & dogs. Thank You!

Office Hours: Monday-Friday 8:30am-1:00pm 3:00pm-5:30pm Saturday 8:00am-2:30pm

Please Call for an Appointment:

(562) 402-9717

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20927 Norwalk Blvd. Lakewood, CA 90715 www.bloomfieldvet.com

The next free “Survive for 7” disaster preparedness workshop is Tuesday, October 1 at 6pm. Two weeks later comes “The Great California ShakeOut,” a statewide drill that offers a chance to put into practice what residents learn in Survive for 7. The 1-hour Survive for 7 program educates families about emergency preparedness and teaches skills needed to survive in the first week following a catastrophe. The class will be held at the Lakewood Youth Center. Register at www. lakewoodcity.org/eCatalog or call 562-866-9771, extension 2408. “The Great California ShakeOut,” touted as the world’s largest disaster prep exercise, returns at 10:17am. on Thursday, October 17 (www.shakeout.org/california/). “We hope families will attend our workshop and apply what they’ve learned during the ShakeOut drill,” said Karen Plantz, Lakewood’s disaster preparedness coordinator. “Along with preparing people, we want to remind residents with

pets there are actions they should take before a crisis. And, there are resources to help them and their pets after a major disaster.” Lakewood’s animal control agency, SEACCA, offers a detailed pet-focused checklist for disasterplanning at www.lakewoodcity. org/petsprep. They encourage pet licensing and micro chipping along with range of practical suggestions for pet “emergency kits” that include pet snacks, meds and a sturdy carrier. To assist in the aftermath of a major disaster, the City of Lakewood has a standing contract with “RedRover.” The Sacramento-based nonprofit operates emergency animal shelters and coordinates veterinary care following disasters. They will assist the city in helping residents and their pets.

The Cuddly Corner Cameron Hi, my name is Cameron! I am a super sweet little boy who would be content to just sit on your lap all day. But don’t let my calm demeanor fool you, I also love to play with toys, my doggie friends or you! I would be a great pet for a first-time owner because I am low maintenenace and even-tempered. All I need is someone to cuddle with, play with and love; then I’ll be a happy boy. So ask to meet me today, and who knows, maybe I will be the next addition to your family!

Adopt & Shop, located in Lakewood Center, is an innovative retail pet adoption center that showcases shelter animals in a bright, fun, one-stop-shop for potential pet owners. Adopt & Shop features cats, dogs, rabbits and other animals available for adoption, along with basic pet supplies and specialty items. All of the pets come from one of Adopt & Shop’s shelter partners, the Southeast Area Animal Control Authority (SEAACA) in Downey and are sterilized, vaccinated and microchipped before adoption. If you’re interested in adopting either CAMERON or JULIET, please contact Phillip Robb, Store Manager of Adopt & Shop at (562) 531-2871.

Juliet Hello, my name is Juliet. As you can see, I am one very adorable little girl. I love giving you all my attention and will never leave your side. Snuggling in your lap will be one of my absolute favorite pastimes! I am a sweet girl who is super loving, calm and quiet. I am the perfect cuddle buddy for you! And I’m already house-broken. Does your home seem like it needs a girl like me?

News

Community October 2013

www.lakewoodchamber.com

‘Award of Valor’ Luncheon honors Lakewood heroes, sharp-eyed citizens

Page 13

Tickets are $25 each and tables of nine are available for $225 each. Checks should be made payable to the City of Lakewood and mailed to: Lakewood City Hall, c/o Community Relations Office, 5050 Clark Avenue, Lakewood, California 90712. Tickets can also be purchased online at www.lakewoodcity. org/aovtickets. Contact Lakewood’s Community Relations Office at 562-8669771, extension 3123, for more information.

A Lakewood tradition, the annual Award of Valor Luncheon, will recognize Sheriff’s deputies, firefighters, paramedics and Lakewood residents who have demonstrated heroism and outstanding service to the Lakewood community over the past year. The event will take place on Thursday, November 7, at 12noon, at The Centre at Sycamore Plaza. The RSVP deadline is Thursday, October 24. A new award this year will recognize more than 15 individuals for their keen observations and sharp instincts. The “Be On the Lookout” Award, BOLO, will be presented to citizens who noticed unusual activity in their neighborhood, called deputies and were credited with stopping a crime in progress. The much-anticipated annual luncheon brings together more than 400 people, including Lakewood civic and business leaders, public safety professionals, block captains, Sheriff’s Station volunteers, Volunteers on Patrol and residents. Los Angeles County Sheriff Lee Baca and Los Angeles County Fire Chief Daryl L. Osby will serve as keynote speakers and will join the Lakewood community in a show of support and appreciation

for Lakewood’s public safety personnel. KOCE-TV news anchor Ed Arnold will serve as Master of Ceremonies. Reservations are required.

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE INVITING INTERESTED CONTRACTORS FOR THE 2014 FORMAL BID LIST Cerritos Community College District (“District”) is inviting all interested licensed contractors who wish to formally bid construction projects at the District to be prequalified for select trades. The District will consider for prequalification contractors and subcontractors who submit the required prequalification package and materials. Category/Trade Lic.# Lic Classification Description Gen. Contractor Driller/Piers

Landscaping Plumbing/Site Utilities Structural/Site Concrete

B D-30 A, C-12 / C-21 C-27 C-36 C-8

General Bldg Contractor Pile Driving Contractor Earthwork & Paving Contractor Building/Moving Demo Contractor Landscaping Contractor Plumbing Contractor Concrete Contractor

Structural Steel Roofing

C-51 C-39

Casework/Lab Casework

C-6

C-17 C-33

Structural Steel Contractor Roofing Contractor Cabinet/Millwork/Finish Carpentry Contractor Drywall Contractor Lathing & Plastering Contractor Glazing Contractor Painting & Decorating Contractor

C-43

Sheet Metal Contractor

C-16

Fire Protection Contractor Warm-Air Heating, Ventilating, & Air Conditioning Contractor Electrical Contractor Low Voltage Systems Contractor

Grading/Paving/Demo

Metal Stud/Drywall/ Plaster Glass & Glazing Painting Sheet Metal Flashing & Trim Fire Sprinkler

C-9 / C-35

HVAC (Wet/Dry)

C-20

Electrical (line voltage) Low Voltage

C-10 C-7

Contractors may download a copy of the formal bid prequalification package from the District website at www.cerritos.edu/purchasing/formal-bid-prequalification and send the completed package to the following address no later than Friday, October 11, 2013: Cerritos College, Attn: Purchasing Department, 11110 Alondra Blvd., Norwalk, CA 90650 562-860-2451 x 2243

The formal bid prequalification period will be for calendar year 2014. The District is interested in local business participation for their bond construction projects. Cerritos College, with the assistance of its program manager Tilden-Coil Constructors, Inc., will be hosting three contractor outreach seminars in 2013. The seminar will be a workshop to assist contractors on key points in turning in a successful prequalification package. The outreach seminars will be held at Cerritos College in the Teleconference Center (LC155). The Contractor outreach events are scheduled as follows: Friday, 10/25 • Thursday, 10/31 • Friday, 11/15 from 10:00 – 11:30 am

News

Community Page 14

www.lakewoodchamber.com

Keep YOUR home from becoming ‘burglar bait’

Watch out for your neighbor’s homes too, “See something, Say something.” Lakewood Station deputies are urging residents to take an active role in keeping their homes from being successful burglary targets. They’re offering a free class to help residents take action. “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure,” said Maricela Montenegro, a member of Lakewood’s crime prevention team. “The class is called ‘Preventing Residential Burglaries’ and is taught by a

L.A. County Sheriff’s Deputy with years on the job. He’ll focus on simple, practical things homeowners can do that really make a difference in hardening homes against burglars.” An explanation of what thieves look for when casing homes will be paired with cost-effective techniques to beat them. Practical strategies regarding locks, lighting and landscaping will be covered along with discussion of

ongoing crime trends. One new trend targets homes undergoing fumigation. “Knock-knock” and distraction burglaries are on the look-out list, too. Knock-knock burglars rap on doors looking for unoccupied homes. “Distraction burglars” take this a step further. They hope to get your attention in front while a partner sneaks into the back of your home or garage to make a quick snatch of valuables. “Along with the day-to-day prudence of ‘See Something, Say Something’ reporting, we want to give residents the facts they need to ‘do something’ too,” said Lakewood Station Commander Merrill Ladenheim. The program will be held on Tuesday, November 5 from 6:30 to 8pm at Lakewood Sheriff’s Community Safety Center, course number 33543. Call 562-623-3583 to register or go online at www.lakewoodcity. org/eCatalog. A printable PDF of upcoming classes is online at www.lakewoodcity.org/ SafetyClasses.

October 2013

College Fair returns to Mayfair Park

Lakewood’s annual College Fair will take place on Tuesday, October 8, from 6pm to 8:30pm, at Mayfair Park (corner of Clark and South). Participants (ages 15-22) will have the opportunity to speak to representatives from colleges and universities, and get the information needed on admission, testing, transcripts, transfers, enrollment registration, fees and deadlines. For more information, call the Lakewood Youth Center at 562-429-7472.

News

Community

October 2013

www.lakewoodchamber.com

Healthcare advice for the men in our lives

One truism of most modern Western societies is that men die at higher rates than women for all the top ten causes of death, as compiled by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Perhaps it should come as no surprise then that – on average – men also tend to die younger than women. Are men “stuck” because of their genetics, or can they take steps that will help them to be healthier? The good news is that many of the top causes of death and disease are preventable – and they can be treated proactively if they are discovered soon enough. In order to help men (and women) increase their knowledge of health issues, Nicholas “dr. Nick” Yphantides, M.D., M.P.H., Medical Editor for TOPS Club, Inc, the nonprofit weight-loss support organization, briefly examines things that everyone should know about heart disease, stroke, lung cancer, and prostate cancer. Guard Your Heart Early Although heart disease is the leading killer of both men and women, almost twice as many males die of conditions that affect the cardiovascular system. Heart disease is thought to begin in men about ten years earlier than it does in women. This means that men have a shorter time to prevent the development of the underlying causes of heart disease. While men are more likely to make their health a priority later in life, by that time—it may be too late. Men need to be more decisive and intentional earlier. Some risk factors for heart disease include gender, family history, and age. Modifying your lifestyle to regularly eat right, stay active, avoid or quit using tobacco products, and get early medical screenings for high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes are all proactive things to do. Manage Your Blood Pressure Strokes are the third leading killer of men after heart disease and all forms of cancer. While the

rate of strokes in men is higher than it is for women, differences between the sexes are not as significant as people get older. The key risk factor in predicting a stroke is high blood pressure. Behaviors that can reduce the risk of stroke are almost identical to those that can reduce the risk of heart disease. Breathe Easy and Breathe Clean Lung cancer remains the leading cancer killer of men and women. Each year, it claims more lives than prostate, colon, and breast cancer combined. Fortunately, rates of lung cancer have been dropping since the 1980s. In men, this trend is directly related to drops in the consumption of tobacco products in the wake of negative attention tobacco use received in the 1960s. Beyond personal smoking, additional risk factors for lung cancer include exposure to secondhand smoke, asbestos,

radon, and air pollution. If you are concerned about possible exposure to carcinogens, ask your doctor. Pay Attention to Your Prostate Prostate cancer is the most common cancer found in men, and the second leading cause of cancer death in men. Not enough is yet known about the causes of prostate cancer to be able to prevent it. Treatment options for prostate cancer are much better if the disease is found while in its earlier stages, though. Part of the challenge with prostate cancer is that it shows no symptoms until cancerous cells have spread to other parts of the body. Starting at age 50, all men – and especially men who are at higher risk (those with a family history of the disease and AfricanAmerican men) should get an annual physical exam and blood tests. The prostate is a small organ in the body, but ignoring it can result in major consequences.

Page 15

Don’t miss the Senior Benefits Information Fair

In addition to congregate meals, fitness classes, travel programs and DASH Transit support, the Weingart Senior Center is inviting Lakewood’s seniors to attend the 5th Annual Older Adult Benefits Fair. Participants will be able to pick up health insurance and benefitrelated materials and speak with company representatives. The special program will be held Monday, October 14, from 10am to 12noon, at the Weingart Senior Center at 5220 Oliva Avenue. For more information, call the Weingart Senior Center at 562-630-6141.

SKIPTHE ER WAITING ROOM GO to LakewoodER.com select a designated time Complete online forms Arrive at the ER at your designated time. Be seen by a Triage Nurse within 15 minutes of your projected treatment time**

D WNLOAD OUR FREE APP Go to

www.LakewoodER.com To Hold Your Place in Line

For a Medical Emergency Dial 911

SCAN THIS QR CODE WITH YOUR SMART PHONE BARCODE READER

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

News

Community Page 16

FREE Kustom Pizza

www.lakewoodnews.org

October 2013

Recycle your clothing into cash!

w/ purchase of a regularly priced pizza

(one coupon per customer) Expires Dec. 31, 2013

Plato’s Closet is located at 12145 E. Carson St. in Hawaiian Gardens. It’s the cycle of fashion - trends are always recycling, returning and changing. What teenager hasn’t bought a new, brand-name piece of clothing and decided a year or so later that they were bored of it, so it sits in the back of the closet collecting dust. Now you have an option, recycle the clothing into cash. Introducing Plato’s Closet a unique national recycling retail chain that specializes in clothing and accessories for teens and twenty-somethings. The hip trendy clothing store buys and sells guys and girls gently used, brand name clothing and accessories including: shoes,

belts, purses, and jewelry, among other items. This isn’t your typical consignment store, you can come right in with the clothing you would like to sell, no appointment is necessary, and they pay cash on the spot for all purchases. Plato’s Closet recently opened in nearby Hawaiian Gardens, and they have all kinds of brand- name clothing at great prices. What a unique idea, give someone else the opportunity to look cool in (as well as afford) something you’ve grown tired of. Take a look through your closet, then head over to Plato’s Closet at 12145 E. Carson St. and recycle, reuse, and look fabulous!

Take a stand against drugs during Red Ribbon Week Red Ribbon Week, October 23-31, promotes activities that encourage young people to avoid drug and alcohol use. Lakewood elementary schools participate in a city-sponsored “drug free” themed mural contest. They will receive recognition at the October 22 Lakewood Celebrates reception

where the murals will be on display. Wearing red during Red Ribbon Week is an ideal way for people to unite and take a visible stand against drugs. Show your commitment to a drug-free lifestyle by decorating the front of your home with red ribbons. The National Family Partnership, which coordinates Red Ribbon activities nationally, estimates that over 80 million Americans participate in Red Ribbon events.

Lakewood Toastmasters Open House OPEN TO THE PUBLIC. Tuesday, October 8th, 6:30pm at San Martin Park in the Community Center (along Candlewood St.), 5231 Ocana Ave., Lakewood. Come & see how Toastmasters can help you with public speaking & leadership training.

News

Community October 2013

All Aboard! The Station is now open

www.lakewoodchamber.com

Local residents may be familiar with the old Cirivelloâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s that was located off Bellflower and Carson. It was recently renovated and has now been morphed into The Station, that has opened in its place. This family-friendly sports bar and grill boasts over 11,000 square feet with three distinct zones to service the entire family. In the under twenty-one zone, kids can have the time of their lives playing on a wide array of video and ticket producing games while parents can enjoy watching their favorite sporting events on one of the many new flat screen TVâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s. In the adultâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s zone, a full service bar and staff is waiting to quench your wildest thirst. If your team isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t winning, you can still put a W in your win column by challenging a friend to a quick game of billiards. The NFL package and the Pac 12 network will be playing all weekend long. And coming soon: Live Music! The Stationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s menu ranges from customizable pizzas, pastas, burgers, chicken wings and more. A taste that everyone can love, games to keep everyone entertained, and a family-friendly atmosphere that will have everyone wanting to come back for more. The Station: How the Family of the West has fun.

Help the Red Cross at Lakewoodâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Safety Center The American Red Cross, in cooperation with the Lakewood Sheriffâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Community Safety Center, is holding a blood drive on Tuesday, October 1, from 12noon to 6pm. All participating donors will receive two complimentary VIP tickets to the Laugh Factory. The Lakewood Sheriffâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Community Safety Center is located near Target at 15 Lakewood Center Mall. Walkin donors are welcome, but RSVPs are appreciated. Appointments can be easily scheduled online at www. redcrossblood.org, sponsor code LWSheriff, or call 714-427-2605. Donations take about an hour. Participants are encouraged to drink plenty of water and eat a nutritious meal ahead of time and bring a photo ID. Residents unable to make the scheduled events can easily find other blood drives using easy search tools at the Red Cross website. Additional information on donations and volunteer opportunities at www.redcrossblood. org/volunteer are there as well.

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Pumpkin Time!

Quilters by the Sea Presents

2013 Quilt Show

October is pumpkin time, The nicest time of year. When all the pumpkins light their eyes, and grin from ear to ear. Because they know at Halloween, Theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll have lots of fun. Peeking through the window panes, and watching people run!

Sat., Oct. 26th ~ 9:30am-5:00pm Sun., Oct. 27th ~ 10:00am-4:00pm

Long Beach National Guard Armory 2200 Redondo Ave., Long Beach

* 100+ Quilts * Boutiques FREE

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* Vendor Mall * Raffles & Door Prizes

Donation: $10.00

Auction -Sunday 1:00pm

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WE ARE BEAUTY PROFESSIONALS in pursuit of a high art and natural beauty

Page 17

OFF

Tuesday Only, $20 Off entire bill when you book !4,!.4)# !6% s ,/.' "%!#( s 2 hair services. Cannot be combined with other offer. /0%. $!93 s SALONMEDUSALB COM

â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Heels Have Itâ&#x20AC;?

3rd Annual State of Women in Business Luncheon Wednesday, October 9, 2013 10:30am - 1:00pm

Lakewood Country Club 3101 E. Carson Street Lakewood, 90712

Event Pricing: $30.00 Lakewood & Norwalk Chamber Members (Includes Table) $40.00 Non-Chamber Members (Includes Table) $50.00 Non-Chamber Members (Includes Table AND Lunch)

For further information, or to RSVP: Marjean Clements (714) 737-8750 email: marjean.clements@ymail.com

Christina Vicencia (714) 739-3177 x 204 email: nvicencia@vicencia.com

Around

Town

with Robin Vanderwerff

Page 18

www.lakewoodchamber.com

Around Town in October Lakewood

• The Lakewood Garden Club will be meeting on Thursday, October 24 at 11:30am at Del Valle Park. They will be having a potluck lunch and a white elephant sale. For more information call (562) 867-0516. • The Lakewood Women’s Club will hold it’s next luncheon meeting on Tuesday, October 15 at Sycamore Center. Social gathering is at 10:30am, meeting, 11:00am, luncheon 12noon, followed by the program at 1pm. The Club will be collecting school supplies for Project Shepherd and usable clothing and other items for New Life Beginnings this month. For lunch reservations, call Arleen Roos, (562) 8634933, by October 7. • Friends of the Lakewood Libraries will have their Book Sale on Saturday, October 6, from 9am to 2pm at Angelo M. Iacoboni Library. There will be a large selection of fiction, mystery, romance, non fiction, etc. Please bring your own bags. • The Lakewood Artist Guild Fall Open Art Show and awards program is accepting entries for their Friday, October 11 evening from 5pm to 7pm, through Saturday October 12, 9am to 11am with the show on Sunday, October 13 at Palms Park. Entries can range from ages 5 to adult. The show is open to the public Sunday from 1pm to 4pm. There is an awards ceremony on Sunday at 3 p.m. For registration information go to www.lakewoodartistguild. com, or contact them at 562-4218212. • Come shop for the holidays! Craft Fair at Lakewood Christ Presbyterian Church will be held on Saturday, October 12 from 9am – 3pm at 5225 Hayter Ave. Space also available for Crafters and Venders. Applications at: www: cpclakewood.com. For more information call (562) 633-0749. • Trinity United Methodist Church at 5730 South St. will be having a We-U Craft Fair on October 12, from 9am to 4pm. For more information call Darlene Hom at (562) 633-9485.

Sudoku

Bellflower • St. Bernard Church located at 9647 E. Beach St. will be holding their Annual Festival on Saturday, October 5, at 12noon to 9pm, and Sunday, October 6, from 8am to 8pm. Come enjoy warm hospitality with great food, games and live entertainment. For more information call (562) 867-2337.

Artesia • ABC Unified School District will host a Superintendent’s Community Forum “What Every Parent Needs to Know About the Common Core State Standards and New State Tests” on October 3, from 6pm to 7:30pm at Ross Middle School 17707 Elaine Ave. Presenters: Dr. Mary Sieu, Superintendent and Valencia Mayfield, Assistant Superintendent.

Long Beach • Millikan High School “Rams Baseball Boosters” Annual Car Wash; E-Waste Drop-Off; Document Shredding and Can Food Collection” a ALL IN ONE fundraiser will be held on Saturday, November 2 from 8am to 1pm. For more information call (562) 499-9438. • St. Joseph Elementary will hold their Fall Fundraisers, Friday October 18 with a Golf Tournament at El Dorado Golf Course. On Saturday October 19, an Oktoberfest Dinner prepared by Head Chef of Gladstone’s of Long Beach, Chef Pete Lehmar, with live band Lance Jackson and Friends, and an auction will take place starting at 5:30pm. For more information, please call Tera Kaufman at (562)212-8429 or Jeff Machan at (562) 619-3504.

Thank you to our September Sudoku Sponsors:

October 2013

2 3 5 4 2 6 7 9 Get your pencils ready! You will now have FOUR chances to win! Pieology has thrown a free meal into the mix, so get busy Lakewood! Congratulations to Holly Jenkinson, Pat Busby and Russ Hoekman! They are the lucky winners of the September Sudoku contest. Out of the entries received this month, they won a gift card. To be eligible, print your name, address and phone number on a letter size (8½ x 11) piece of paper, along with the completed Sudoku puzzle and mail your entry to: Lakewood Community News, P.O. Box 160, Lakewood, CA 90714. Or drop it by the Chamber office at #24 Lakewood Center Mall (right next to See’s Candies.) The winners are drawn by random. One entry per household; the answers must be postmarked no later than Monday, October 18, 2013. The winners will be drawn on Tuesday, October 22, and a call to the winners will be made the same day. If a message is left, the prize must be claimed by

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return phone call within 48 hours (business days), or a new winner will be chosen. The name of the

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winners will be published in the November issue, along with a new Sudoku Puzzle.

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Community October 2013

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Stop the spread of cold and flu viruses this school year

A new school year has begun, and as exciting as that is for both kids and parents, the reality is students will likely bring home more than their homework. Many catch cold and flu viruses from their classmates, which can then spread to other family members at home. When kids are sick, they miss out on valuable learning experiences and social interactions in the classroom. On average, elementary school children get eight to 12

What do you call candy corn?

Pumpkin poop!!

colds or cases of the flu each school year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). For the older kids, it is about half that. That’s why it’s important that parents, teachers and kids work together to stop the spread of germs in the classroom. Everyone can follow these simple steps to help prevent the spread of germs that can cause cold and flu viruses this school year: • Stay home when sick: If at all possible, keep kids home

from school when they are sick to help prevent teachers and classmates from catching their illness. • Sing and scrub: Make sure kids wash their hands the right way. They should wash frequently with warm water and soap for at least 20 seconds (the time it takes to sing the “Happy Birthday” song twice). • Do the elbow cough: Teach kids to cough into elbows, not hands, since hands are more likely to spread bacteria and viruses through touch. • Disinfect germ hot spots: Disinfect frequently touched surfaces or objects when someone has a runny nose or cough. In the classroom teachers can use a disinfectant approved to kill cold and flu viruses on desks, computer mice and doorknobs. Parents play a vital role in keeping the spread of germs at bay, and can also lend a hand to teachers by reinforcing healthy lessons at home.

Free flu shot clinic coming soon A walk-in, flu shot clinic will be held on Tuesday, November 12 from 1pm to 3pm at the Weingart Senior Center at 5220 Oliva Avenue in Lakewood. The clinic is free, and is sponsored by the Los Angeles County Health Department and the City of Lakewood. It is geared toward adults over age 50, but anyone age six months and older may receive a shot, while supplies last. For more information, call the Weingart Senior Center at 562-630-6141.

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To become a MEMBER of the Lakewood Chamber of Commerce, call or email us at: 562.531.9733 / info@lakewoodchamber.com.

Greater Lakewood Chamber of Commerce’s

Fall Business Expo Saturday, October 12, 2013 10AM ~ 2PM

Lakewood Center - Centre Court (In front of Macy’s)

Now!

A great opportunity to promote and “SELL” your go ods and/or services , and reach an audience of thousands!

Exhibitor Fee Information:

Exhibitor Fee and two chairs) (All booths include one table, tablecloth Information: - $150/Chamber Members - $200/Non Chamber Members

(All booths include one table, tablecloth and two chairs)

- $150/Chamber Members($15 fee for electricity) - $200/Non Chamber Members

A one-day expo designed to stimulate the growth of local commerce that serves the Lakewood and surrounding business community.