LCN September 2016

Lakewood

News

Community

Official publication of the GreaterOfficial Lakewood Chamber of Commerce | 30,000 Circulation - Delivered to every home in Lakewood publication of the Greater Lakewood Chamber of Commerce

Volume 33 Number 9

www.lakewoodnews.org / www.lakewoodchamber.com www.lakewoodchamber.com

Patriot Day Concert - a time to reflect and give thanks

Youth groups provide a spectacular flag ceremony at Patriot Day. Lakewood has commemorated Patriot Day every year since the tragic events of 9/11/2001.

City residents stop to remember and honor those lost in the terrorist attacks on our nation and those public safety officers and military personnel who are still on the front lines in the struggle against terrorism.

This year’s Patriot Day commemoration will take place on Sunday, September 11, from 6pm to 8pm in the concert grove at Del Valle Park (Woodruff Avenue at Arbor Road).

Patriotic music will be performed by the 300th Army Band and the Golden Sands Chorus, Lakewood’s award-winning women’s chorus.

Remarks will be provided by Lakewood Mayor Ron Piazza and special keynote speaker Los Angeles County Sheriff Jim McDonnell.

Parking will be at a premium around Del Valle Park. Those who live near the park are encouraged to leave their car at home and walk to the event. Parking will be available at MacArthur Elementary School via Centralia Street.

• Bring a blanket or low-rise lawn chair for seating.

• Super Mex and Mr. B’s Kettle Corn will provide concessions throughout the program.

• Information on Lakewood’s Veterans History Project and Thank A Servicemember program will be available.

• Dogs and alcohol are prohibited at all city parks.

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

September 2016

Attention shoppers...store openings coming soon!

Many Lakewood residents have been anxiously awaiting the grand openings of several big-name retailers in town. From August to October, residents will see a flurry of ribbon cuttings here. Lakewood continues to attract many retailers, including those known for offering great value to shoppers.

• BevMo – the popular discount beverage retailer is remodeling the site of the former Tokyo Hibachi on Lakewood Center’s Restaurant Row on Candlewood Street. The company will open one of its newer-model stores that’s smaller in size (at 5,000 square feet) than its older warehouse style, but has higherend interior finishes. There will be weekly beer, wine and spirit tastings. BevMo expects to open up by late September.

• H&M – the trendy clothing retailer is progressing with an

$800,000 renovation of a large 20,000-square-foot space at Lakewood Center. The Swedishbased company with over 3,000 stores worldwide caters to women, men and children.

It’s expected to open up by late September.

• Hobby Lobby – this national superstore of home décor and arts and crafts is undertaking a major $1 million remodel of the old Vons off of Lakewood Boulevard to the west of Lakewood Center mall. They expect to open up in October.

• Tokyo Hibachi – not new to Lakewood, but many residents are thrilled that this longtime favorite Japanese teppan grill restaurant is returning after a one-year hiatus. Tokyo Hibachi is currently remodeling the building at 5503 Woodruff Avenue, just south of South Street, and expects to open by early fall. u

Pump the breaks while we drive by with a shout of thanks for an outstanding car show!

The August summer breeze blew in and the Greater Lakewood Chamber of Commerce hosted its 19th Annual Summer Stampede Car Show. The community came out in record numbers to check out all the beautiful classic cars and enjoy the kid-friendly activities at Mayfair Park. The kids enjoyed a fun Sunday afternoon running obstacle courses and competing in a watermelon eating contest.

The chamber prides itself on making this event one that the community will look forward to attending each year.

The show would not be possible without the help of all our sponsors that care about the community in which they serve.

Go to page 15 for a list of all the car show sponsors.

LakewoodToday

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The value of business to Lakewood

By Mayor Ron Piazza

One of Lakewood’s unique characteristics is that only 6% of our territory is zoned for commercial purposes.

That’s because Lakewood was designed in the 1950s to be largely residential. That’s great in terms of creating the big neighborhoods of houses we all like, along with long stretches of thoroughfares like Bellflower, Del Amo, South and Woodruff that are lined with trees, parkways and homes instead of wall-to-wall strip malls like you see in other cities.

But it makes for a challenge in generating the commercial sales tax revenue that every city needs to fund its parks, recreation services, roads and law enforcement.

Many neighboring cities have 10-20% of their territory zoned for commercial activities that generate sales tax dollars to fund their city governments.

So how does Lakewood meet the 6% challenge?

As a city, we can’t just snap our fingers and recruit the exact businesses that we want to come here. It’s up to those private businesses to make those determinations.

But by trying to be as businessfriendly as we possibly can and by creating good community conditions, we entice businesses to locate in Lakewood.

How are we doing?

Well, Lakewood community leaders over two decades dedicated the funds year-in and year-out to get 100% of our roads fully repaved and in top-notch condition. Very few cities have accomplished that.

Together with the men and women of the L.A. County Sheriff’s Department and the thousands of residents who are part of a large Neighborhood Watch network, our community has developed a strong reputation for public safety.

Lakewood government and residents have worked hard over many generations to create wonderful parks and a great community spirit that have earned us numerous awards, such as Sportstown USA, Tree City USA and Playful City USA. And because of our prompt and professional building permit process, Lakewood has been named one of the Most Business

Friendly Cities in L.A. County for several years.

Are businesses responding to these good community conditions by coming to Lakewood?

In the next few months, as just one example, several major retailers will open new stores in Lakewood. We’ll see ribboncuttings for BevMo, H&M and Hobby Lobby, following on the heels of H-Mart Supermarket, which opened in August. This fall will also see the return of longtime local favorite restaurant Tokyo Hibachi in a new Lakewood location. For details, see the article about new business openings elsewhere in this edition of the Lakewood Community News.

Just how important to Lakewood are the sales tax dollars from these and other businesses?

Nearly 30% of our city’s general fund that pays for recreation, law enforcement and other services comes from the sales taxes generated by shopping and commerce in Lakewood.

And nearly 50% of those sales taxes come from businesses located at Lakewood Center.

Lakewood Center has been at the economic heart of our community since the mall opened as America’s largest suburban shopping center in the 1950s.

As an article in the most recent Lakewood Living magazine points out, Lakewood Center has evolved a lot since then, developing a Restaurant Row on Candlewood Street, innovating with a first-ever mall-based Costco in 2009, and opening a Farmer’s Market just a few months ago.

Lakewood Center attracts shoppers from all over our region and remains extremely important to our community’s economic health.

So when you have a decision to make about where to do your shopping, if there’s a store at Lakewood Center or anywhere in Lakewood that might offer the product you want, give them a shot at your business. That includes the Lakewood auto dealers on Cherry Avenue. A portion of the money that you spend right here in Lakewood will come back to you in the form of good city services, jobs for local residents and overall economic vitality for our community. Thanks for shopping Lakewood! u

September 2016

C i t y Spotlight Fall Craft Festival Attention shoppers!

Lakewood’s 35th Annual Senior Fall Craft Festival will be on Saturday, September 24 from 10am to 3pm at the Weingart Senior Center, 5220 Oliva Ave. A variety of handmade items will be on sale at very reasonable prices. This is a great place to get a jump on your holiday shopping. Refreshments will be on sale. For more information, call 562-630-6141.

FUN-Tastic Family Night Barnyard Bonanza Why go to the farm when we can bring the farm to you? Join us at The Centre at Sycamore Plaza, 5000 Clark Ave., for a petting zoo on Friday, September 30 at 5pm.

Learn about and interact with farm friends including ducks, bunnies, chickens and goats. A light meal of bean and cheese burritos, Spanish rice, lemonade and dessert will be served prior to the show. Seating is on a firstcome basis and doors open at 4:30pm. Dinner will be served at 5pm with the show presentation beginning at 5:45pm. Please make note of the earlier start time. This event costs $8 per person, $5 for children 3 and under. Children under 1 are free.

Register at www.lakewoodcity. org/ecatalog using class #44205 or call 562-866-9771, extension 2408 for more information.

College Fair -- October 4 Lakewood’s annual College Fair will take place on Tuesday, October 4, from 6pm to 8pm, 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 information on admissions, testing, transcripts, transfers, enrollment registration, fees and deadlines. For more information,

call the Lakewood Youth Center at 562-429-7472.

Survive for 7 Disaster Preparedness Class A free, one-evening “Survive for 7” family preparedness workshop is set for Wednesday, October 5 at 6pm at Burns Community Center, 5510 Clark Ave. The workshop covers practical family disaster planning topics and needed supplies. Sign up at 562-8669771, extension 2408 or www. lakewoodcity.org/eCatalog using class #43459.

Sports Opportunities at Mayfair High School Gym Open-gym free-play volleyball and basketball will be offered this fall for both youth and adults at the Mayfair High School Gymnasium. Call 562866-9771, extension 2408 for more information.

Volleyball Free Play – Participants will enjoy a fantastic evening of fun and exciting volleyball action. Come alone or bring the whole team. Free for everyone. Recreation staff will monitor play. Adult free play takes place on Thursdays from 6:30pm to 9pm; teen free play is on Tuesdays from 6:30pm to 9pm. Registration is not required.

Basketball Free Play – Whether you can play like LeBron or have never set foot on a court, every skill level is welcome at the Mayfair High School Gym. Bring your friends and enjoy some free and friendly pickup basketball. Recreation staff will supervise games and insure everyone gets a shot. Free play for teens and adults takes place on Mondays from 6:30pm to 9pm and Saturdays from 5pm to 7pm. Pre-registration is not required but players will be required to sign in to help organize games. u

Report any scavenging you see

Scavenging through trash and recycling cans may lead to identity theft.

It’s also a violation of the Lakewood municipal code, subject to a fine and citation from the Sheriff’s Department.

If you see scavenging in progress, please call the Lakewood Sheriff’s Station at 562-623-3500. If you have seen people going through your trash in the past, report it by calling city staff at 562-866-9771, extension 2140 or using the online form at: www.lakewoodcity.org/services/forms/ scavenger.asp. u

September 2016

Your

Minding

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Lakewood business celebrates their Don’t keep it a secret!

Share your story idea...

Grand Opening Ceremony

The Lakewood Community News wants to know…“What’s going on?” As a Lakewood resident, if you have something noteworthy to share with the community, we want to hear about it! E-mail any thoughts, suggestions, or ideas to: news@lakewoodchamber. com, or mail to P. O. Box 160 Lakewood, CA 90714. u

Fit Body Boot Camp, located at 4154 Woodruff Avenue in Lakewood, recently celebrated their Grand Opening.

Fit Body Boot Camp is a personal trainer-designed workout in a fun, safe, high intensity group training workout program. With hundreds of Fit Body Boot Camp locations worldwide, their mission is focused on their “2020 vision” which is to expose and engage 20 percent of the world’s population to a healthy and fit lifestyle by the year 2020.

When you visit the Fit Body Boot Camp’s Lakewood location, you can expect a clean, friendly, high-energy workout environment that’s not only a place to get fit and healthy, but also a place to make friends with others in the community.

Stop by 4154 Woodruff Ave, or call Fit Body Boot Camp at (562) 395-3258 and welcome them to the neighborhood! u

New opportunities to learn in Lakewood

The new Fall/Winter Catalog of recreation and community services arrives Labor Day weekend at Lakewood homes. The new catalog is packed full of fun programs and activities to make life better for all ages.

You can register for classes and programs online starting September 3 by going to: www.lakewoodcity.org/ecatalog, or by calling city hall at 562-866-9771 extension 2408.

Over 500 classes will be offered, with many old favorites and lots of new classes. Fall recreation programs will begin on Monday, September 26 and run through January 2017. u

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Keeping safe while having fun on the playground

By John Hajaliloo, M.D., pediatric orthopedic surgeon, Pediatric Orthopedic Center, Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital of Long Beach

Play is incredibly important to a child’s social, emotional, cognitive and physical development.

Playgrounds provide children a place to have fun, explore, imagine and make new friends while spending time outdoors and away from electronics. Of course, playground accidents do happen and bone injuries are some of the most common injuries seen on the playground.

Each year in the United States, emergency departments treat more than 200,000 children ages 14 and younger for playgroundrelated injuries. The most common orthopedic injuries that occur on the playground are fractures and dislocations of the elbows, wrists, forearms, legs and ankles.

Identifying a minor injury from a more serious injury can be difficult if there are no obvious signs of serious injury – such as a bone sticking out. If your child has limited range of motion or cannot bear weight on the injury, it may be a more serious injury. Range of motion, ability to bear weight and minimal pain or swelling can indicate a minor injury.

No matter what the injury – major or minor – visiting the nearest emergency room or urgent care is always a smart choice. However, you may want to consider choosing a center that specializes in children’s orthopedics.

Bones heal differently in children than adults – especially if an injury requires surgery.

Because kids are constantly growing and developing, they need specialized pediatric orthopedic care if injured.

Going to anyone other than a pediatric orthopedic doctor can cause further damage to a child’s growing bones. The pediatric orthopedic surgeons at Miller Children’s & Women’s Hospital Long Beach specialize in children’s bones and growth – including the treatment of playground injuries.

For more information about the Pediatric Orthopedic Center at Miller Children’s, visit MillerChildrens.org/Ortho or call 800-MEMORIAL. u

September 2016

September 2016

LEF charity golf helps Lakewood kids

Sign-ups for this year’s Lakewood Education Foundation (LEF) charity golf tournament are underway. Proceeds directly support classroom improvement projects at Lakewood schools.

Thanks to generous donations from Lakewood residents and businesses, LEF has funded hundreds of improvements in Lakewood schools since 2003 through grants of up to $500.

However, almost 70 grant applications last year could not be funded because there weren’t enough donations to fulfill them.

That’s why your support would be so welcome this year.

For information about the LEF golf tournament to be held on Columbus Day, Monday, October 10 at the Lakewood Country Club, including sponsorship opportunities, call LEF at 562-496-3559 or 562866-9771, extension 2408. The tournament brochure is online at www.lakewoodeducation.org.

You can also donate directly by

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Community

making out a check to the Lakewood Education Foundation and mailing it to LEF, c/o Lakewood City Hall, 5050 Clark Avenue, Lakewood, CA 90712. Donations are tax deductible. It’s also easy to donate online at www.lakewoodcity.org/ DonateLEF. In 2015, 104 Lakewood school projects received grants totaling $40,429. They went to classroom projects in each of the public school districts in Lakewood as well as St. Pancratius School and Bethany Lutheran School.

Many grants were for tablets that allow teachers to control slide presentations while they interact with students. Grants also covered science and lab equipment, such as microscopes; books of all kinds and reading levels; art and physical education supplies; occupational therapy manipulatives for special needs students, graphing calculators and a variety of classroom technology, such as Apple TV and microphones.

LEF is a non-profit agency run

by Lakewood residents. An annual fireworks stand, the golf tournament and dozens of individual donations raise the annual funding. The group is operated solely by volunteers and therefore has very low overhead costs.

You can watch a video to learn more about LEF at www. lakewoodcity.org/LEFvideo. u

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Join us at our next meeting:

“Having It All...

Juggling Your Life”

Frantone’s Restaurant 10808 Alondra Blvd (Across from Cerritos College)

Cost: $20 Inc. Lunch & Tip Cash Only at the Door Must RSVP by emailing: info@lakewoodchamber.com OR ceo@norwalkchamber.com

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September 2016

Don’t get rolled over when buying your next car

By Nathan Sillin

Looking for an eco-friendly subcompact or the thrills that come with a sports car? Perhaps the practicality of a sedan or a spacious SUV better fits your needs? No matter what type of vehicle is calling your name, planning your purchase can help you save as

much money as possible.

Consider these savings tips while shopping for your next car.

Whether you’re concerned about upfront, monthly or long-term costs, there’s something here that can help you.

Look for a fuel-efficient car.

Buying a hybrid or all-electric

vehicle rather than a gas guzzler could help you save money on long-run fuel costs. Plus, state and federal tax credits might give you some additional upfront savings.

Compare the long-term costs of different cars. In addition to fuel, consider the long-term costs of maintenance, repairs, insurance, taxes, depreciation, fees and financing.

Buy a “new-to-you” car.

Buying a used car rather than the equivalent brand-new model can usually save you money. However, you’ll want to look at each used car on an individual basis. Consider how it feels during a test drive and its history if you can access it.With the right deal on a used

car, you might be able to buy the car outright instead of financing the purchase. By paying cash, you avoid accruing interest, making monthly payments and worrying about loan-origination fees.

Negotiate the purchase. Most people don’t enjoy haggling with a car salesperson, but even nonconfrontational negotiating tactics can help you save money.

A helpful resource is negotiation services like Authority Auto, which negotiates competitive prices on new and pre-owned cars. For a fee, the online service negotiates each part of the process to get you a better

deal and take some of the stress out of the car-buying experience and only charge a percentage of what they save you.

Consider leasing instead of purchasing. Taking out a lease is similar to purchasing a long-term rental. You’ll have to return or buy the car at the end of the lease, and you may have to pay fees if you drive too many miles or damage the vehicle.

Use alternative means of transportation. Forgoing the purchase of a car altogether might not work for everyone, but it’s worth considering if you live in a city or don’t regularly drive long distances. Instead of owning a car, you could get around with a mix of carpooling, public transportation, walking and biking. You could also still have access to a car if you join a car-sharing program or use a ridesharing app or taxi service.

Green

September 2016

Local credit union lends a helping hand to clean up the coastline

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Labor Day city services

Lakewood City Hall will be closed on Monday, September 5 in observance of Labor Day. Trash service will continue without interruption. However, there will be no street sweeping and no makeup sweep. DASH Transit service will also not be available.

Although city hall will be closed for the Labor Day holiday, residents may leave a non-emergency message with the customer service department at 562-866-9771, extension 2140. Residents can also make non-emergency service requests online at www.lakewoodcity.org/service or email service1@lakewoodcity.org. Messages will be answered on the next business day.

For emergency service requests, like downed tree limbs or water main leaks, please phone 562-866-9771 and follow the recorded instructions to page a 24-hour city emergency staff member.

To obtain an RV/Trailer permit, contact the Lakewood Sheriff’s Safety Center at 562-623-3583. For questions or requests regarding trash and disposal services, contact EDCO Disposal at 562-531-3054. u

Advertise in the Award-Winning Lakewood Community News!

Call us at (562) 531-9733, or email: advertise@lakewoodchamber.com.

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No need to zone out after school, Lakewood’s got the activities to keep your kids busy!

LBS Financial Credit Union’s recent beach cleanup team.

Over 100 LBS Financial Credit Union employees, friends and family members volunteered more than 200 combined hours of their time to clean up a portion of the Long Beach coastline at several beach cleanups in 2016.

Volunteers that attended the most recent beach cleanup commented that the sand was littered with Styrofoam, cigarette butts and bottle caps.

These items are detrimental to the safety of wild life and beach goers in the area.

For more information on the Adopt-a-Beach program, contact Brooke Davis with the City of Long Beach, Department of Parks, Recreations and Marine at (562) 570-4876. u

Living

Kids getting homework done at the Activity Zone.

Lakewood’s After-School Activity Zone is a free drop-in program for school-age children and preteens. City parks offer the supervised after-school activities Monday to Friday from 3pm to 5pm beginning Tuesday, September 6.

Kids are provided with playground games, arts and crafts, and homework help. Parents can be assured that their children are properly supervised in a safe and creative environment.

Each Lakewood park has its own schedule of programs and activities.

Teens have the option of using the Lakewood Youth Center at Del Valle Park or the Teen Resource Center at Bloomfield Park as their afternoon hangout. Both centers have computers, filtered Internet access for homework, game tables and video game systems.

Program schedules can be picked up at Lakewood City Hall, at all Lakewood parks and at www.lakewoodcity.org/ recreation. For more information, call city hall at 562-866-9771, extension 2408. u

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September 2016

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Lakewood residents cool off with Simon says...get up from your desk and move! some free ice cream! turn to try the yummy treats. The truck also stopped by Rynerson Park, both adults and children enjoyed their ice cream!

Truck locations are chosen at random but social media followers are welcome to let the them know where they want to see the truck this summer – whether it’s a birthday party, a family reunion, a volunteer event, or a company BBQ, the Helpful Honda Ice Cream Truck may just show up around Lakewood again before the fun comes to an end on Labor Day. u

The community was thrilled with free ice cream at Rynerson Park!

The SoCal Honda Dealers have spent the summer sending out their Helpful Honda Free Ice Cream Truck filled with tasty frozen treats for everyone in

various communities.

The ice cream truck recently made its way to Lakewood and stopped by Mayfair pool.

Residents lined up to wait their

Lakewood residents line up for free ice cream at Mayfair pool.

We’re sitting too much and it’s dangerous. The average person spends more than seven hours sitting every day, and the more time you sit, the higher your risk of serious, potentially life-threatening health problems such as obesity, type 2 diabetes and heart disease. So, what can you do about it?

Fortunately, there are simple changes you can make during

the day - anywhere, even at the work place - to improve your wellness and reduce your risk of type 2 diabetes.

• Get up and move around the office once every 90 minutes.

When you’re nose-deep in work, it’s easy to lose track of time. Set up reminders on your phone or email every 6090 minutes to get up and do a quick lap around the office. You can use this time to fill up your water bottle, go to the bathroom or catch up with coworkers.

• Ask questions and discuss issues face-to-face. Rather than sending an email every time you have a question, go to your coworker’s office to discuss the issue face-to-face. This gives you a good excuse to get moving and a chance to more effectively hash out solutions in person.

• Use your lunch break to move around outside. So many employees today work through their lunch break. When possible, take advantage of this time to walk outside and soak in the nice weather. Fresh air and vitamin D are often all you need to stay focused and push through the afternoon slump.

• Stand up and stretch. If you don’t have time to walk around the office every 90 minutes, use the opportunity to stand up and stretch instead. Stretching is a great way to increase energy levels, reduce muscle tension and get your body moving.

• Pace around the office during conference calls. Conference calls are the perfect time to be active. Put clients and coworkers on speaker, or use your mobile phone during meetings to move around without any trouble.

• Do chair exercises at your desk. When you need a break, do a few reps of chair sits. You can even alternate between chair exercises and push ups!

• Hold standing or walking meetings. Many coworkers will welcome the opportunity to stand and stretch their legs for a moment. If you have a twoperson meeting, consider going for a walk.

• Fidget when you work. Small movements and quick exercise breaks add up, especially in a sedentary work place, so challenge yourself to stand, stretch or even tap a foot to bring motion into otherwise still parts of your day. Just remember to keep it professional! u

September 2016

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Thank a Servicemember campaign returns - and you can help

More than 10,000 cards and letters were sent overseas last year.

For the third year, the City of Lakewood is joining with residents, schools, businesses and organizations to send holiday postcards and letters of appreciation to thousands of our nation’s troops deployed overseas.

“You can help,” said Lakewood Mayor Ron Piazza. “If your school, youth group, nonprofit organization or business would like to be a part of this meaningful project, please visit lakewoodcity.org/ ThankAServicemember. Or call

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562-866-9771, extension 3123.

We’ll get you all the details.”

At several locations around the city, people will be able to fill out a Lakewood commemorative postcard available there or drop off their own letter or card. The city will send all submissions to U.S. servicemembers overseas through the military support group, Operation Gratitude.

“We may not know their faces or their names, but we should take every opportunity to thank our

military personnel for all they do for us,” said Piazza. “As the holidays approach, it’s time to remember that there are those who are away from their families working hard to protect us and our freedoms.

Let them know you appreciate the sacrifices and the risks that they endure.” u

Seahawk Cocktail Lounge Happy Hour Weekdays

4-7:00PM $2 Domestic Bottles and $2 Well Drinks!

Full Bar Pool & Darts Internet Juke Free Wi-Fi

OPEN DAILY 8AM - 2AM 4103 Candlewood St. Lakewood, 90712

facebook.com/seahawkcocktails

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Keep swimming in September!

There are still great things happening at Mayfair Pool throughout September. It’s not too late to get fit and have fun at the pool.

• Shallow Water Aerobics – Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6pm to 7pm.

• Aqua Zumba – Mondays and Wednesdays from 6:30pm to 7:30pm.

• Recreational Swimming / Adult Lap Swim / Parent-Child Swim Lesson and Play Time –

weekends through September 25. Contact the website or phone number below for times.

The last day for daily swim activities at McCormick Pool in Bolivar Park is August 28, but the pool will be open for recreational swimming on the Labor Day weekend of September 3-5. For details on both pools, call 562-866-9771 extension 2408 or go to www. lakewoodcity.org/aquatics. u

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September 2016

Shop Lakewood...

New supermarket brings Snip, snip, hooray! tasty options to town

Lakewood’s newest supermarket is at located on Pioneer & Del Amo Boulevards.

Jeff Sutton (standing) is pictured with long time customer Jim. After being closed for repairs, Suttons Barbershop has reopened for business. Whatever your hair cut style of choice… undercut, fade, crew cut, pompadour, or your own creation, Suttons Barbershop owner, Jeff Sutton, has the skills to give you that good old-fashioned cut and shave. Stop by 5448 E. Del Amo Blvd (at Bellflower Blvd), or give them a call at (562) 425-9056. Walk-ins are welcome too! u

A fast-growing Asianinspired national supermarket chain opened its newest store in Lakewood on August 17, filling the space left by Ralphs when it closed at Pioneer and Del Amo boulevards.

Hmart, based in New Jersey, has traditional supermarket items, with lots of additional Korean, Chinese and other Asian products. Shoppers at the Lakewood store have commented on the wonderful fresh fruits and vegetables, and the many Asian foods and goods previously

unavailable in Lakewood.

Shoppers are also pleased that a major supermarket will now remain in that part of town.

Hmart invested over $600,000 in its remodel of the former Ralphs supermarket, and completed its work in very quick time, opening up ahead of schedule.

Stop by and give this new grocery store a try…and welcome them to Lakewood! u

“LIKE” the Shop Lakewood Page on Facebook for more Coupons & Great Deals!

FACEBOOK.COM/SHOPLAKEWOOD

...Stay Lakewood Loyal

September 2016

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ShopLakewood Page 11

Shop Lakewood...

Smiles, styles and savings...

Lakewood’s got it all

Tracking the latest bargains for Lakewood shoppers is what ShopLakewood.org is all about.

ShopLakewood.org is a fun Facebook page offering moneysaving coupons, promotions, grand-opening announcements about new businesses…and prizewinning contests.

Recent postings have included Buy One/Get One lunches, grand opening announcements, and coupons for Michael’s, Macy’s, Payless and Kohl’s. For fans of the page, ShopLakewood holds several contests throughout the year to win prizes such as Lakewood insignia items and gift

cards to local businesses.

While ShopLakewood.org is a Facebook page, it’s not necessary to join Facebook to view it.

Facebook members are urged

to “like” the page so they can participate in special contests.

Did you know that as a Lakewood resident you benefit each time you make a purchase at a Lakewood store, restaurant or gas station? A portion of your sales tax dollar stays right here in Lakewood.

Run by the Greater Lakewood Chamber of Commerce in conjunction with the City of Lakewood, the Shop Lakewood program highlights both large chains and local mom-and-pop shops, and professional services.

Shop Lakewood…Stay Lakewood Loyal! Check out Shop Lakewood’s new home on Facebook for coupons and updates at www.shoplakewood.org. You don’t have to be signed up on Facebook to use the site. u

Kids eat free at IHOP!

Summer is almost over and books and backpacks are on the brain. With back to school season

...Stay Lakewood Loyal

drawing near, IHOP is here to help make the shift from summer to school a bit easier by bringing back the popular Kids Eat Free Deal! Families can come together and enjoy quality, fresh, made to order dishes from the regular menu and kids twelve and under can enjoy some of their favorites.

The Kids Eat Free offer is available through September 25th from 4pm to 10pm daily so head over to IHOP located at 5316 Lakewood Blvd in Lakewood and bring the whole family! u

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Scenic Oak Glen trip offers old-fashioned country fun

www.lakewoodnews.org Back by popular demand, Lakewood’s affordable travel program is heading to Oak Glen on Saturday, October 8 from 8:30am to 5pm.

First, you’ll enjoy a morning of apple, pumpkin or berry picking at local orchards and farms. After your bags are filled with delicious farmfresh goods, your next stop is Oak Tree Village, which offers 14 acres of family fun. The entire family will enjoy the crisp, clean air while taking in the local sights, sounds and tastes.

Please arrive at Burns Community Center, 5510 Clark Ave., Lakewood, at 8:30am for check-in. The bus will leave promptly at 9am and is scheduled to return to Burns Community Center at 5pm.

The cost of this trip is $21 per person. An adult must accompany children of all ages. Last day to register is Monday, September 26 or until filled.

Advanced registration is required, through eCatalog at www. lakewoodcity.org/eCatalog using class #44199. u

September 2016

Stories welcome for Veterans History Project

Help tell the stories behind the names on the bricks at the Del Valle Veterans Memorial Plaza.

As a follow-up to the commemorative brick installation at Veterans Memorial Plaza in Del Valle Park, the City of Lakewood recently created the Veterans History Project website, now live at www.lakewoodveterans.org.

“On our website, which you can access from a computer or even a smartphone while you’re

at the memorial, the stories of our Lakewood veterans will be told for generations to come,” said Mayor Ron Piazza.

The website’s purpose is to show a photo, military service history and a personal story about Lakewood-connected veterans and active-duty military service members, including those whose names appear on the commemorative bricks at the Veterans Memorial Plaza.

Commemorative veterans bricks are still available for purchase.

Information on ordering a brick can be found on the website above or at the Public Works counter at city hall.

There is also a page on the site dedicated to “The Boys of Del Valle Park,” including the poem, a video, and the photos and personal history of the young people of early Lakewood who gave their lives during the Vietnam War. The public is invited to complete a short online form with details about their veteran’s service, a brief narrative, and a photo. A website page will then be created for each veteran’s story so visitors to the memorial can learn about the veterans honored there.

To get started, visit the Veterans History Project website at www. lakewoodveterans.org and click on the “Submit a Story” tab, or first browse the stories posted there. You can also download a flyer and worksheet at that page for details on the information you need to prepare, and guidelines for selecting and scanning a photo of your veteran. Flyers and worksheets are also available at the Public Information Department in city hall.

If you don’t have Internet access, or need assistance, help is available. You can schedule an appointment to bring your information and photo to the Weingart Senior Center on pre-arranged dates and times.

A volunteer will complete the online form for you and scan and upload the photo.

To find out about appointment dates and times or with other questions about the Veterans History Project, please call Joanne Teran in Lakewood’s Community Relations Office at 562-866-9771, extension 3123 or email her at jteran@ lakewoodcity.org. u

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Community www.lakewoodnews.org

September 2016

New video looks at West Nile and Zika prevention

Just as in every recent summer, West Nile virus mosquitoes have been found again in Lakewood and dozens of other Southern California cities.

Lakewood CityTV has created a new video to explain what you can do to protect yourself. The video also includes an interview with a Lakewood resident who contracted West Nile virus from a mosquito bite. Watch it at www.lakewoodcity.org/ WestNileVideo.

It only takes one bite to be exposed to West Nile virus. The transmission time period spans from July through October, with cases picking up later in the summer and into early fall, so staying vigilant is important.

West Nile virus symptoms include fever, headache, muscle aches, joint pains, vomiting, diarrhea or rash. Although the West Nile disease isn’t severe in healthy individuals, often passing unnoticed, those with weakened immune systems and the chronically sick can be hit with a devastating illness.

New to North America, the Zika virus, transmitted by the smaller Aedes mosquito, has serious repercussions for pregnant women.

Remember the “3 Ds” to protect yourself and your family: 1-DEET: Use insect repellant containing DEET, Picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus to keep mosquitoes away. Prevent mosquitoes from invading your home by ensuring window screens are intact.

2-Dawn & Dusk: Dawn and dusk are the most active time for most mosquitoes. If you must be outdoors at those times, wear long-sleeve shirts and pants and insect repellant. NOTE: The Aedes mosquito is active during the day.

3-Drain: Clear your yard of any standing water. Also, check toys or other small items left standing in water and wash them thoroughly if kept. Mosquito eggs laid in cracks are hard to detect and can live for up to a year.

West Nile precautions also include being mindful how you water. Stagnant water accumulating in ditches, drains, gutters and backyard containers and pools is ideal for mosquito breeding. Untreated swimming pools can be reported to Lakewood City Hall by

calling 562-866-9771, extension 2140, or emailing service1@ lakewoodcity.org.

The statewide website following the topic is www. westnile.ca.gov.

Residents finding any dead birds or squirrels can report them on that website or call the West Nile Virus Dead Bird Hotline at 877-968-2473. u

I’m just super busy!

Everyone is running around, faces fixed in strict concentration; not seeing. People are hurrying there.

Then there!

Then somewhere else. They’re doing this, then that, filling up their days to overflow. When asked how they are, the typical answer is, “Doing great, just really, really busy!”

I’m guilty of this very thing; filling my days up with very “important” things. But I’m wondering how truly important these things are in the big scheme of life. I’m not saying that what we all do is not something that ought not be done; what I’m asking is, what will happen if it’s not done once or twice? I’m betting the answer is: nothing.

Most of us create our own “busyness,” then complain when we don’t have more time.

Why not make time? Why not change things around a bit? Why feel bad or guilty for sitting and reading a book, or just hanging out

doing nothing?

We need to stop. Breathe.

Start remembering what’s really important. No one job is so pressing that we should forget about our personal needs and those of others.

Nothing is!

Let’s look at our busy lives and pick out the parts that really matter to us.

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Submitted by Rossana Snee, MFT. Follow her on Twitter @askjoshsmom, Periscope.com, and https://www. facebook.com/askjoshsmom. She is available in a therapeutic capacity, and also for speaking engagements. u

Town

Around Page 14

Rummage Sale

Long Beach Boy Scout Troop 212 is hosting their Annual Enormous Parking Lot Rummage Sale & FREE Business / Residential Electronic Waste Drop-off (to include working or not TV’s, Computers, Printers, Loose Electrical Cords, etc.. NO Batteries / NO Light Bulbs) Saturday, September 10th, 7am 2pm at Grace First Presbyterian Church, 3955 Studebaker Road, Long Beach, 90808. Donations are welcome on Friday, September 9th at time of set-up after 10am. (NO Shredding).

Questions? Contact 562-799-4009 for a Scout Parent. u

www.lakewoodnews.org

September 2016

Lakewood Women’s Club The Lakewood Women's Club will meet on September 20 at the Centre at Sycamore Plaza.

Meeting will begin at 11:00am, with lunch being served at 12Noon. Lunch will be followed by guest speaker: Regional Manager of Farmers & Merchants Bank, Lakewood Branch, Jason Bennett. For more information, contact Ms. Ruby Cure at (562) 818-3137. u

Lakewood Garden Club

The Lakewood Garden Club will be meeting on Thursday September 22 at the Youth Center at Del Valle Park in Lakewood.

The business meeting begins at 11am. At 12:30pm Bob Popp, a member, will be speaking on dahlias, above and below ground. A plant sale will follow.

For more information call Gwen Travis at (562) 867-0516. u

Pick up your pencil and lets play Sudoku!

THANK YOU to our Sudoku sponsors!

Congratulations to Patty Faustner - one of this month’s Sudoku winners!

Congratulations to Fred Ferrari, Caitlin Henriquez, and Patty Faustner! They are the lucky winners of the August Sudoku contest.

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

One entry per household; the answers must be postmarked no later than Friday, September 23, 2016. The winners will be drawn on Monday September 26, 2016, and the call to the winners will be made the same day. If a message is left, the prize must be claimed by return phone call within 48 hours (two business days) or a new winner will be chosen. The name of the winners will be published in the October issue, along with a new Sudoku Puzzle. u

News

Community September 2016

www.lakewoodnews.org

Financial tips for single parents

A BIG Thank You to all of the Summer Stampede Sponsors!

Submitted by Carol Otters ~ Edward Jones Financial, Lakewood

Parenting is never an easy job – and, unfortunately, it can be especially difficult if you’re doing it on your own. As a single parent, you face many challenges, not the least of which are the financial ones. But by following the suggestions below, you may be able to make life easier – for you and your children.

Create a “safety net.” On any given day, you could incur an unexpected – and unexpectedly large – expense, such as major car repair, a new furnace or a toothache-inducing bill from your dentist. Your daily cash flow may not be enough to cover these bills, and you won’t want to tap into some of your longterm investments or retirement accounts. So you’ll need to build a “safety net,” or emergency fund, containing three to six months’ worth of living expenses, held in a liquid, lowrisk account.

Purchase adequate life insurance. With sufficient life insurance, you can provide your survivors with a level of comfort and security. You might have heard that you require coverage worth seven or eight times your annual earnings, but there’s really no one “right” answer for everyone. A financial professional can assess your situation and recommend an appropriate amount, and type, of life insurance.

Establish your estate plans.

All parents need to develop their estate plans – but it may be even more essential for single parents.

Your estate plans should include at least these three documents: a will, a power of attorney and a health care power of attorney.

A will allows you to name a guardian for your children and specifies how you will pass your assets on to them. A power of attorney gives someone the legal authority to make financial and other decisions for you, while a health care power of attorney authorizes someone to make medical decisions on your behalf if you become incapacitated. You may also need to create other arrangements – such as a living trust– but in any case, you will need to work with your tax and legal professionals to develop comprehensive estate plans.

Single parenthood can offer every bit as much joy as any other family situation, but it will require you to plan carefully and take advantage of every opportunity to help ensure financial stability for your children and financial freedom for yourself. u

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September 2016