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 28 Number 9

Patriot Day in Lakewood...a time to reflect and give thanks

Patriot Day flag ceremony honors 9/11 victims. Patriot Day’s candle-lighting and moment of silence remembers 9/11 victims.

Lakewood’s 2012 Patriot Day commemoration will take place on Tuesday, September 11, at 6pm, in the concert grove at Del Valle Park (Woodruff Avenue at Arbor Road). This year’s concert features the Huntington Beach Concert

Band and commemorates the tragic events of September 11, 2001, and those lost in the terrorist attacks.

It also honors those public safety officers and military personnel who are still on the front lines in the struggle

against terrorism. Mark your calendars to attend this special community event.

The program includes a flag ceremony lead by Lakewood youth groups, a color guard lead by Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Explorers,

Lakewood Senior takes back life, passion and purpose

By Robin Vanderwerff

Wendy Ida Celebrating her 60th birthday this past May, Wendy Ida felt Lakewood Community News #24 Lakewood Center Mall Lakewood, CA 90712 (562) 531-9733

she had achieved a momentous milestone in her life. So much so, that she will be celebrating her PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE

PAID

Santa Fe Spgs, CA PERMIT NO. 29

birthday all year long!

Wendy traveled a long way, physically and emotionally, to make her roots in Lakewood. As a domestic violence survivor, there were times she didn’t think she would see the age of 43.

After summoning all her courage, she left the East Coast with her children, and the clothes on their backs, to make a fresh start in California.

Thankfully, Wendy did see the age of 43, and decided it was time for more changes. She left her accounting job and became enthralled with fitness. She says, “I eat, sleep, and drink fitness, it’s about inspiring other women to take back their lives.”

Wendy is all about testing her limits. She’s written a book about fitness, and has also participated in body building competitions… walking away with three trophies.

Wendy’s recent bucket list aspiration was to compete in the Ms. Senior California Pageant 2012.

After competing in six preliminary pageant’s, the top (Cont’d. on pg. 3)

and remarks by Lakewood Mayor Diane DuBois.

A special keynote address will be offered by Lieutenant Colonel John T. Giese, Jr., of the U.S. Marine Corps. Col. Giese is a veteran of the war in Iraq and currently serves as Engineer Branch Head, J-4 in the U.S. Marine Corps Forces Pacific.

A memorial candle-lighting and moment of silence – which have become Patriot Day traditions – will follow.

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.

Light dinner items and snacks will be sold by Mr. B’s Kettle Corn, Super Mex and Wienerschnitzel.

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

• Dogs and alcohol are prohibited at all city parks.

For more information, call Lakewood city staff members at 562-866-9771, extension 2408.

September 2012

Grants and fundraising makes schools better

As kids head back to school, the Lakewood Education Foundation (LEF) is readying for this year’s round of classroom grant submissions and its fall golf tournament fundraiser. The group is working to continue its nearly 10-year tradition of giving grants of up to $500 each to hundreds of classroom improvement projects in Lakewood.

Through generous donations from Lakewood residents and businesses, LEF supported 98 Lakewood school projects last year. Grants totaled $45,070 — a 30% increase over the prior year. The need is just as acute this year as school administrators struggle to keep classrooms well supplied amid a tight state budget.

LEF’s fundraising golf tournament is set for Columbus Day, Monday, October 8. To learn more, including about sponsorship opportunities, email LEF at tsrr@msn.com, or call 562-496-3559, or 562-866-9771, extension 2404.

LEF accepts donations year round.

You can donate by making out a check to the Lakewood Education Foundation and mailing it to the Lakewood Education Foundation, c/o Lakewood City Hall, 5050 Clark Avenue, Lakewood, CA 90712. Donations are tax deductible. The tax identification number is 26-2190892.

You can watch a Lakewood CityTV video about LEF at www.lakewoodcity. org/LEFvideo.

New street banners offer back-to-school tip

Shop Lakewood, Stay Lakewood Loyal is the message.

In the midst of the back-toschool buying season nearly 100 new street banners ask residents to “Shop Lakewood…Stay Lakewood Loyal.” Sporting the now familiar green and yellow logo, the banners remind us that Lakewood is home to some of the nation’s most popular and value-oriented back-to-school retailers including Costco, Target, Office Max, Walmart, Marshalls, Kohl’s, Forever 21, J.C. Penney, Macy’s, Nordstrom Rack, Big 5 and Sports Authority.

“Put your money where your house is” helps explain the benefits of shopping locally. Each time you

make a purchase at a Lakewood store, restaurant or gas station, a portion of the sales tax dollar stays right here in Lakewood. That pays for parks, roads, law enforcement and all the features that make for a good quality of life here..

The banners are placed at the city’s main entrance points and around major commercial centers such as Lakewood Center, Carwood, and South Street/Woodruff Avenue to help point out great local shopping opportunities.

This back-to-school season, keep your hometown in mind, and Shop Lakewood… Stay Lakewood Loyal.

LakewoodToday

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You can be a hero

By Mayor Diane DuBois

Heroes come in many forms.

On September 11, 2001, we saw overwhelming acts of courage and selflessness from hundreds of Americans. Firefighters and police officers, trained to perform heroically, did just that and ran into burning buildings to help with evacuations, risking, and in many cases, sacrificing their own lives in the process. Many average Americans, never trained to be heroes, also acted bravely.

Workers in the World Trade Center slowed down their own escape and risked their lives to assist disabled colleagues down long flights of stairs. And the passengers of Flight 93 made the heroic decision to fight back against the terrorists to regain control of their plane.

In the years since that horrific day, we have watched our U.S.

Armed Forces bravely battle determined foes around the world, and we have lost thousands of our young men and women in the process.

Two of those brave heroes were especially close to Lakewood. At this time last year, our community was grieving the recent loss of 30 Americans, many of them Navy SEALs and other special operations personnel, whose helicopter had been shot down over Afghanistan.

One of those killed, 33-yearold Navy SEAL Lieutenant Commander Jonas Kelsall, was the son of John Kelsall, the president and CEO of the Greater Lakewood Chamber of Commerce. Also on that doomed helicopter was Air Force Special Operations Staff Sergeant Andrew Harvell, a 26-year-old from Long Beach.

Andrew graduated from nearby Millikan High School and had many friends in Lakewood.

As Patriot Day approaches, I urge Lakewood residents to remember these two young American heroes and the thousands of other men and women who have given the ultimate sacrifice to keep us safe.

Many of you may wonder, “how can I be a hero? I can’t fight in the war on terror. I can’t save a life by rescuing someone from catastrophe.”

But guess what? We can ALL be heroes. And many of you already are!

September 2012

www.lakewoodnews.org One way to be a hero is to do what you can to make your community and your nation stronger and better.

Give something back. Help out in whatever way you can. That is a great way to honor and thank our military heroes who’ve made the ultimate sacrifice for us.

Right here in Lakewood, there are lots of opportunities for volunteering and making our community better and stronger.

Consider joining a service club and raising scholarship money for local students. Think about helping to make sandwiches or deliver meals for the homebound through Lakewood Meals on Wheels.

Offer to become a caregiver for a neighbor who is frail or ill. Join the Friends of the Lakewood Libraries and promote literacy in our community. Donate to Pathways Hospice or Project Shepherd during their annual holiday drives.

Bring cans of food to the Project Shepherd food pantry at the Burns Community Center or to the Project Shepherd donation boxes that the American Association of Retired People (AARP) will have at many locations in Lakewood on September 11.

For more ideas on volunteering, donating and being a local hero, go to www.lakewoodcity.org/ volunteer or call Lakewood staff at 562-866-9771, extension 2408.

You see, the opportunities to be a hero for someone in need are literally endless. Like the brave men and women who are defending our nation around the world, you

may never meet the person you are saving. But your contribution to their safety and security is real, and it has an impact on your community, your nation and your world.

C i t y Spotlight September swim information Did you know that there are still great things happening at Mayfair Pool throughout September? It’s not too late to get fit at the pool!

• Shallow Water Aerobics – Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6:30pm to 7:30pm, and Saturdays from 10am to 11am.

• Deep Water Aerobics – Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6:30pm to 7:30pm.

• Recreational Swimming – weekends through September 30.

See: www.lakewoodcity.org/ aquatics or call 562-8669771, extension 2408.

Fall/winter recreation registration begins Watch for the new fall/ winter catalog of recreation and community services that will be arriving in early September in Lakewood homes. Are you committed to PLAY? Lakewood’s “Playful City USA” distinction signified Lakewood’s commitment to PLAY. The new catalog is packed full

of fun, playful programs and activities to make life better for all ages.

You can register for classes and programs online starting September 1 using eCatalog at www.lakewoodcity.org/ recreation, or by calling city hall at 562-866-9771, extension 2408, starting September 17.

Over 500 classes are being offered this season, with many old favorites and lots of new classes.

‘After School Activity Zone’ = Positive Spaces Lakewood’s “After-School Activity Zone” is a FREE drop-in program for schoolage children and preteens.

City parks offer after-school activities Monday to Friday from 3pm to 5pm beginning September 4.

Each Lakewood park has its own schedule of programs and activities. Program schedules can be found at Lakewood City Hall, all Lakewood parks and at www.lakewoodcity. org/recreation.

The After-School Activity Zone closes at 5pm weekdays.

But there is supervision at all city parks, beginning on September 4, on weekdays from 3pm to 6pm, on Saturdays from 9am to 6pm, and on Sundays and school holidays from 12pm to 6pm.

Fall Craft Festival Attention all shoppers!

Lakewood’s 31st Annual Senior Fall Craft Festival will be on Saturday, September 29 from 10am to 3pm at the Weingart Senior Center, 5220 Oliva Avenue. A variety of handmade items will be on sale at reasonable prices. This is a great place to get a jump on your holiday shopping.

Refreshments will be on sale too. For more information, please call the Weingart Senior Center at 562-6306141.

Sports opportunities at Mayfair High School gym A variety of sports activities will take place this fall for youth and adults at the Mayfair High School Gymnasium.

Call 562- 866-9771, extension 2408, for more information.

Tot Lot Registration continues Tot Lot, a parent cooperative program for 2 to 5 year olds, is held at Del Valle and Mayfair parks this fall. Although the exact days may vary at some parks, most Tot Lots meet Monday to Friday from 9:30am to 11:30am in the fenced preschool play area of each park. Parents are responsible for Tot Lot operations, and members select activities and excursions.

Tot Lot registration is accepted throughout the year (as space permits). Tot Lot is in session only during the school year. For more information, contact a city park where Tot Lot is scheduled or call 562866-9771, extension 2408.

September 2012

Local Piazza Family McDonald’s will ring in the school year with free oatmeal for students

To help children start the new school year with great momentum, and stress the importance of children eating a wholesome breakfast every day, Lakewood’s Piazza Family McDonalds restaurants will offer one free fullsize Fruit & Maple Oatmeal to students in kindergarten through eighth grade on Tuesday, Sept. 4, from 6-9am, while supplies last.

To take advantage of this oneday offer, students are required to be accompanied by an adult when visiting the McDonald’s restaurant.

“As a member of this community, I’m thrilled to be a part of opportunities that contribute to our children’s growth development and school readiness,” said Ron Piazza, McDonald’s owner/operator in the City of Lakewood. “We look forward to welcoming the children of Lakewood on September 4 to help them get a head start this new school year with a wholesome oatmeal breakfast.”

Lakewood

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...Since 1984

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Your

Minding

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“Lakewood Senior” (Cont’d. from Pg. 1)

two finalists from each pageant advanced to participate in the August 25 State Pageant. There will be twelve contestants competing for the title. Wendy Ida will be among them as the youngest in the competition at age 60.

The pageant allows women who have reached the “Age of

Elegance” (60 years and older) to step into the spotlight of grace and dignity and accept the recognition they deserve.

Wendy has enjoyed the ride so far; she loves the energy of all the women competing, and tries to inspire them to treat life as an adventure.

Wendy has certainly come along way, she has made Lakewood her home for the past 20 years, and found the

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city a place of refuge. She has remarried, raised her children and still finds Lakewood a serene place to recharge; she wouldn’t want to be anywhere else.

Wendy’s mantra is, “The power of fitness will set you free, age is not a factor.”

The Lakewood Community News went into production before the State Pageant. We will update readers as to the winner in the October issue.

&

Business Financial Page 4

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September 2012

AARP recognizes Project Shepherd food drive

Kicking off AARP’s food drive for Project Shepherd are U.S. Congresswoman Linda Sanchez, Mayor Diane DuBois, Vice Mayor Steve Croft, Council Member Jeff Wood and officials from AARP and Walgreen’s.

As part of AARP’s nationwide Drive to End Hunger campaign, the well-known national senior organization has chosen to help Project Shepherd in Lakewood

by organizing and staffing a series of food collection sites throughout the city on Tuesday, September 11.

Non-perishable food

donations will be used for Project Shepherd’s year-round food pantry for unemployed and low-income Lakewood residents. Canned food (such as tuna, meat and soup), peanut butter, cereal, rice and pasta are examples of non-perishable items. So far this year, over 600 Lakewood residents have received food assistance from Project Shepherd’s year-round pantry.

“I want to thank AARP for organizing this extra food drive for Project Shepherd,” said Lakewood Mayor Diane DuBois at a kick-off announcement made at the Weingart Senior Center. “It’s been a rough few years for many families all over the United States, including in Lakewood. Thankfully, we have a home-grown safety net here in our city. Project Shepherd is Lakewood residents helping their fellow residents when they find themselves facing a particularly tough time. Project Shepherd’s yearround food bank could use the extra help right now, and so we’re particularly grateful that AARP is encouraging people to donate.”

As an organization dedicated to people age 50 and over,

AARP launched its Drive to End Hunger campaign because of the growing number of older Americans facing hunger and malnutrition.

Project Shepherd, now in its 40th year in Lakewood, helps seniors and residents of all ages who are unemployed or of low-income.

September 11 non-perishable food drop-off sites (all sites are staffed from 10am to 2pm.): F & M Bank - 5101 Lakewood Boulevard at Hardwick Street Lakewood Center – Costco Plaza and the Center Court Walgreens - 5829 Lakewood Boulevard at South Street Walgreens - 5913 Carson Street at Woodruff Avenue Walmart - 2770 Carson Street at Paramount Boulevard In addition to the special September 11 drop-off sites above, Lakewood residents can donate non-perishable food for Project Shepherd at the Weingart Senior Center (5220 Oliva Avenue), the Burns Community Center (5510 Clark Avenue), or any city facility during regular work hours throughout the year.

Long time Lakewood resident turns 94 years young!

Lorraine Ann Castle first moved to town in the early sixties with her high school love and husband, George Castle.

George was the head engineer at McDonnell Douglas, while Lorraine was a stay-at-home mother to her two sons, Donald and James. Their sons went on to live successful lives, as Lorraine encouraged both sons in their endeavors.

George, living two blocks from McDonnell Douglas, rode his bicycle every day to work with other engineers who lived in the neighborhood. At that time, this was the way of life for the Castles.

George passed away some years ago but is survived by his wife Lorraine, of 50+ years, his two sons, grandchildren, and greatgrandchildren.

Lorraine is still an active member of the community and resides in the same home she and her husband worked so hard to afford when they first moved to Lakewood. With instilled traditional values, she and her family are a true example of the foundation in which the city is based.

To Lorraine Ann Castle: Happy 94th Birthday! The community acknowledges you, your life, and your contribution to the city of Lakewood.

HAS MOVED!

Studio Cie has moved to a new location! They are now located in the Carson and Woodruff plaza near Sprouts, Smart & Final and the soon to be opened Marshalls and Home Goods. For further details on services and business hours call (562) 421-9200 or visit www. studiociewellnessspa.com.

September 2012

Can’t stop her “fire”

Junior Olympian, Lauren Rain Williams, an 8th grade straight A student at Newcomb Academy, had a stand out season of track and field this year. Lauren had a lot of pressure entering in to the Junior Olympics this season.

Last season she earned a record 9 Gold Medals and National Championships, she was featured as one of Sports Illustrated top 10 Kid Athletes of the Year. This year, she was the cover girl of the Track and field Magazine Youth Runner, and then in the June edition of ESPN Magazine she was featured in the article Beyond IX as one of the “33 Women Who Will Change The Way Sports Are Played.”

Midsummer is always a very busy time for Lauren, this is her 6th Junior Olympic travel season and she has never returned empty handed. Lauren did not disappoint and made a big splash on the track. Lauren was poised for a great competitive season being undefeated in two years and earning to date 18 gold medals in five competitive seasons of Junior

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Community Olympics.

This year was her toughest season yet, and once again, she brings home top three or better spot medals.

In Baltimore, Maryland the USATF JO, the competition age groups are in two year increments, Lauren’s age group is the Youth Division 1314, year of birth 1999 and 1998.

In a field of 53 athletes in her division, Lauren earned her way in the 100m a bronze and also ran a personal best of 11.79 during the competition, and in the 200m another bronze medal with a time of 24.08. Lauren was the only 13 year-old in the top 3 position, and she will return next season as a Youth Division one more time before she is off to High School.

Immediately following that competition she began her final stop continuing on to Houston, Texas. The field was much larger in both the 100m and 200m.

The 100m had 100 athletes and the 200m, 103 athletes. Lauren

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attend USC and later become a sports physician, then have a family with at least four kids.

When she sets her mind to something, she usually does it.

We will all be looking forward to Brazil in 2016.

continued her winning through the rounds and all the way to the finals. Winning not only the 100m but the 200m as well. All and all a great season for the Long Beach born Junior Olympian.

Lauren aspires to make the Youth World Team in 2015 and in 2016 run fast enough to make the Olympic trials and maybe even the team. Her sports dream is to run on the 4x400m relay with Gold Medalist Allyson Felix (200m) and Sonya RichardsRoss (400m). Lauren’s favorite volunteer activity is working with the Vets at the VA Hospital (Sepulveda). Lauren wants to

Tell us what you would like to read in the Lakewood Community News.

Email your ideas to: news@lakewoodchamber.com or send it by mail to: P.O. Box 160, Lakewood, CA 90714

Page 5

It’s “BACK TO OUTBACK” for Networking Fun! Thursday, September 13th 5:30 - 7:00 PM

Outback Steakhouse 5305 Clark Ave. Lakewood, 90712

$5 @ the Door Bring your business cards!

Call or email for more info: 562.531.9733 info@lakewoodchamber.com

ChamberNews Page 6

Welcome New Members!

Royal Garden Restaurant Thomas Hua 11828 South Street Cerritos, CA 90703 (562) 809-1812

The Gold King

Marcos Orozco 2706 E. Del Amo Blvd.

Lakewood, CA 90712 (562) 234-3362

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September 2012

A Big THANK YOU To All Of Our Sponsors!

George

Thank You!

Company Allen Tire

Green

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September 2012

Greening your home: Start at the tap

In today’s environmentally conscious times, it seems we’re surrounded by the need to shop, act and live “green.” Some of our choices are easy and small, while others can be big and costly. But one thing is for sure - each choice can make a significant difference.

By following these tips you can immediately start conserving water (and save money) in your home: • Replace older toilets (1992

Trio of hazardous waste/e-waste events

Over the next three months Lakewood residents have three chances to safely rid themselves of household hazardous waste and e-waste. They can do it in an environmentally friendly manner in nearby Carson, Long Beach and Bellflower at convenient drive-through events. It takes only a few minutes for participants to drive through and they often don’t even have to get out of their car.

All three events run from 9am to 3pm.

Three events:

• City of Carson on Saturday, September 22, at the Joint Water Pollution Control Plant, West Maintenance Building Parking Lot at 24501 South Figueroa Street.

• City of Long Beach at Veterans Stadium on Saturday, October 6, at Clark Avenue and Conant Street, enter from Conant Street.

• City of Bellflower at John S. Simms’s Park on Saturday, November 3, at 16614 S. Clark Avenue at Clark Avenue and Oak Street. Enter from Clark Avenue.

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

Lakewood residents can also take their electronic waste to the new full-service EDCO dump transfer station in Signal Hill.

The phone number is 562-9971122.

or earlier) with newer, high efficiency toilets (HETs). They operate at 1.28 gallons per flush and could save 11 gallons of water per toilet per day.

• Be sure to turn off the tap when brushing your teeth - it could save nearly 3,000 gallons of water per year.

• Update your bathrooms with newer WaterSense certified lavatory faucets. According to the Environmental Protection Agency WaterSense program, if every household in the U.S. installed these water-saving lavatory faucets, more than $350 million in water utility bills and more than 60 billion gallons of water annually would be saved, plus $600 million in energy costs for heating the water.

• Always turn the water off between tasks. Letting your faucet run for five minutes uses about as

much energy as letting a 60-watt light bulb run for 14 hours.

• Make sure to wash only full loads of laundry. Using a highefficiency washing machine is ideal, as they use about 28 gallons of water per load, versus an average machine that uses 41 gallons.

• Take a shower rather than a

Living

bath. A full bathtub requires up to 70 gallons of water, while taking a five-minute shower uses 10 to 25 gallons. Want to be even more efficient? Switch your showerhead to a water-saving option.

• Fix those leaks. Most leaky faucets can waste more than 3,000 gallons of water each year.

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If all the water-saving green choices still have you overwhelmed, select one tip at a time and incorporate it into your family’s daily lives.

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Project Shepherd offers thanks to the community Lakewood Project Shepherd would like to thank the many donors who helped during the recent backto-school backpack drive. Over 100 backpacks were received along with a wealth of school supplies from the community at large. That translates to over 100 Lakewood children in need receiving backpacks and school supplies prior to school beginning.

“Individuals, groups, Lakewood Center and other businesses answered the call for assistance by making donations,” said Lakewood Community Services Coordinator Phyllis Clark. “It’s this type of generous outpouring of giving that makes Lakewood a great one in which to live and work.”

September 2012

Good friends make great medicine

Is it possible that having close connections with good friends, old and new, is good for your health?

Research suggests that if you cultivate a strong inner circle of friends, people you can count on through thick and thin, you may indeed gain an abundance of health benefits.

Not only do strong friendships

make you feel happy and close to other people, these connections have several built- in health pluses.

Beyond the emotional connections and good vibes that quality friendships offer, strong social connections can reduce stress, boost our immunity, and ward off memory loss and depression.

Buddy System Benefits Scientists have found that those positive feelings you have after hanging out with your best friends are not just emotionally based.

Good friendships also affect your serotonin, a neurotransmitter that sends signals from one area of the brain to another.

Although serotonin is manufactured in the brain where it performs its primary functions, some 90% of our serotonin supply is found in the digestive tract and in blood platelets. Of our approximately 40 million brain cells, most are influenced either directly or indirectly by serotonin.

When you interact with friends, serotonin is believed to influence your mood, behavior, sleep, memory and learning.

Longevity Link Strong friendships have another interesting benefit. Can friends help you live longer? Turns out they can do just that. Studies have shown that strong social networks can give you a 50 percent better chance of living a long life regardless of your age or gender. That conclusion was based on a study that followed 300,000 people for more than seven and a half years.

As you would expect, there’s a lot of excitement over studies like this because they suggest you can modify your life and tap into similar health benefits. The message is clear: If you have good friends, you can boost your health.

Quality versus Quantity Is there such a thing as having the “right” amount of friends? If you have 3,000 friends on Facebook does that count as having a strong social network?

Studies have suggested that it’s not the number of people who have befriended you or like you on the Internet or you see on a regular basis that counts when it comes to health benefits. What is important is quality over quantity.

Some psychologists have suggested that friends from different backgrounds, with varying hobbies and life-interests, actually give us an increased number of health benefits.

In terms of brain fitness that makes sense. Our brains need to be challenged. We need to stimulate our minds with a variety of experiences, especially as we age.

Find friends that you can have insightful conversations with, friends who enjoy similar books, art and movies. Like any muscle, the brain needs regular exercise to remain strong. A diverse set of friends will help your mind stay active and enjoy learning late into life.

September 2012

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Shop Lakewood Page 9

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September 2012

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24 Hour Fitness opens large “Super Sport” facility at Lakewood Center

Lakewood City Council Members help cut the ribbon to open the new 24 Hour Fitness.

Lakewood City Council Members, 24 Hour Fitness executives and hundreds of Lakewood area residents celebrated the opening of 24 Hour

Fitness’ new “Super Sport” club at Lakewood Center on August 11.

Tours were featured throughout the day following opening ceremonies.

In honor of the grand opening,

Lakewood Mayor Diane DuBois and the city council declared August 11 as “Healthy Lakewood Day.” The new Lakewood location, one of 24 Hour Fitness’ largest facilities, boasts 45,000 square feet of space with popular amenities and equipment. It is a major upgrade from the old mall location and features a full-sized basketball court, racquetball court, indoor lap pool, whirlpool, steam room, sauna and personal training area.

In addition, the club offers an extensive list of group exercise classes.

The facility’s management welcomes interested residents to stop by for a tour of the new multifloor fitness center and get a 3-day trial pass.

24 Hour Fitness operates more than 400 clubs throughout the U.S., with three different types of clubs in the surrounding area – Active, Sport & Super Sport. Each club type offers different monthly rates, ranging from $36.99 to $59.99, depending on whether you sign up for a single club or all-club membership.

Check them out online at www.24hourfitness.com, or visit the 24 Hour Fitness location next to Sports Authority at Lakewood Center, near Clark Avenue at 4821 Del Amo Boulevard. For additional information call 562-630-2668.

Seniors can find relief from heat in Lakewood

High temperatures blanket Southern California each summer and into the fall. Older residents can feel more distress from heat and humidity and often have fewer options for beating the heat. The City of Lakewood wants to remind seniors that the airconditioned Weingart Senior Center is a comfortable oasis, especially during the hottest time of the day--from noon to 4pm.

Seniors can use the free DASH Transit service as transportation to Weingart if they can’t drive or don’t have a ride. For more information on DASH call 562-924-0149.

Weingart Senior Center is located at 5220 Oliva Avenue and can be reached at 562-630-6141. Its hours are Monday through Thursday, 9am to 5:30pm, Friday, 9am to 5pm and Saturday, 9am to 1:30pm. The facility is closed on Sundays.

The Community is invited to join Marshalls Dept. Store located at 4141 Woodruff Ave. in Lakewood, in celebrating their Grand Opening & Ribbon Cutting Ceremony on Thursday, October 4th at 8am.

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September 2012

How to Save on Backto-School Shopping

By Jason Alderman

On the fun-o-meter, I’d probably rank back-to-school shopping right above getting a flu shot and preparing income taxes. Never mind the hassle of figuring out what our kids need for the coming school year and dragging them to the mall, it’s just so expensive.

Many years ago my wife and I learned our lesson and started setting aside money each month for the inevitable – and unexpected – expenses that crop up each fall. By trial and error – and sound advice from fellow parents – we’ve developed a back-to-school budgeting checklist: First, calculate how much you can afford to spend on school-related expenses without blowing your overall budget or racking up debt. Scoring bargains won’t help your bottom line if you end up paying interest on unpaid balances.

Next, make a comprehensive list of anticipated expenses for each child and build in a cushion for unexpected costs. Try these strategies: Examine previous years’ bills and compare notes with other, more experienced parents.

Ask the school which supplies they expect you to buy. Spread clothing purchases throughout the year so your kids won’t outgrow everything at once; plus you can take advantage of off-season sales.

Review school dress codes so you don’t waste money on inappropriate clothing.

Find out how much extracurricular activities (athletics, music, art, etc.) cost. Account for uniforms, membership dues, private lessons, field trips, snacks, etc.

Compare the cost, convenience and nutritional value of school lunches and snacks versus food you prepare yourself.

Learn your school’s policy on immunizations and see what’s covered by your insurance – or which ones you can access free at health fairs or community clinics.

Factor in public transportation, school bus or carpool expenses.

Although shopping online can save money, time and gas, don’t forget shipping and return costs, which could undo any

net savings. If your kids are old enough, put them in charge of online comparison-shopping.

Some parents wrestle over whether or not to take their kids on shopping trips. I think it’s worth the effort so they can

hear and absorb your decisionmaking process and understand what’s available to spend. My kids are probably sick of hearing me say, “I’m going to buy this brand of underwear because it’s cheaper, which will give us more money to buy a better-quality jacket.”

Bottom line: Back-to-school shopping can be tedious, but if you plan carefully, you can save time, money and aggravation.

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Back to School -Straighten up

By Steven Weiniger

Before back-to-school slumps your child back into the “backpack hunch,” build his/her posture awareness and document their growing, changing body with a posture picture. Annual posture pictures are a great idea to keep a visual record of how kids look and stand. While kids ignore a parent’s nagging to “straighten up”, seeing an image of their own body hunched over makes a big impact.

Upon seeing their posture picture, the first question people, kids included, usually ask is “How’s my posture?” This is

followed quickly by a series of reasons why this particular picture doesn’t count and why it should be retaken. It always amazes me how completely unaware people are of what their posture looks like! I have heard thousands of people say they know they have poor posture, but nevertheless maintain that they can stand straight “when they want to.”

From kids to adults, people are surprised to see themselves standing with obviously distorted posture, despite their best efforts to stand tall. Plus, the posture distortions of today’s

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kids, who spend hours slumped in front of TVs, crouched over video games, and folded over computer keyboards, are likely to be worse than their parents as they get older. This is why it is important for you, the parent, to build your child’s posture consciousness and help him to make changes to avoid having the dreaded “hunchback” later in life.

Taking your Child’s Posture Picture Get a camera (the one on your phone is fine) and have your child stand in front of a wall or a door, facing you. When you are ready to take the picture, say these words to your child: -Stand normally.

-Look straight ahead.

-Relax, take a deep breath in and let it out -Now, show me your best posture.

Using these words makes your child form a mental note of their “best” posture. Kids (and adults) often experience a moment of uncertainty as they try to find exactly how their “best posture” feels…and that is part of the goal of this exercise. After you’ve taken a picture from the front, repeat the process for a back and side view picture. Print out the pictures, one to a sheet, and note how their posture looks.

Use a pen and ruler to perform a basic assessment of your child’s postural alignment. On the front and back view pictures, simply draw a line from the middle of their head to the middle of the space between their feet. If your child has good posture alignment it should be absolutely vertical.

On the side view picture, draw a line from the ear to the ankle.

This line should also be vertical if they have good alignment. If the pictures look significantly out of balance or uneven from left to right, consult a Certified Posture Exercise Professional (CPEP), chiropractor, therapist or other posture specialized clinician for an in-depth evaluation.

Making kids aware of their posture is the first step to encouraging them to maintain strong posture. If nothing else, from a teen’s point of view, stronger posture equates to looking more attractive, having more confidence, and performing better at sports. They may still ignore your advice (as children and teens are bound to do), but by establishing their baseline posture, they will remember how they look now, and you’ll have a good comparison to review next year when it’s time for their annual posture picture.

“Hugs” not drugs?

By Dr. Larry Omo, D.C.

The healing power of touch has been written about since close to the dawn of civilization.

To many, there was no scientific evidence to back it up and so it had no place in the healing arts.

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

The truth of the matter is, there are many things that happen that we simply cannot measure.

Just because science has not yet “proven” something does not mean it is not true or does not exist.

Here’s what WebMd says about “Touch Therapy:” “Emerging research suggests that touch therapy works. In one landmark study, 16 happily married women were subjected to the threat of a mild electric shock; touching their husband’s hands brought immediate relief from the resulting anxiety. Even a stranger’s touch was somewhat calming.” “We know that anxiety decreases immune function and makes you get sick more often,” says study author Jim Coan, Ph.D., a Neuroscientist at the University of Virginia. “If touch can help you be less anxious, you’re more likely to stay well.”

Chiropractors (and others in the medical and healing arts) have known for a long time there is something wonderful about touch.

Patients get better, with or without scientific studies published in peer review journals.

Thankfully, now science is shedding light on what Chiropractors have known for over 100 years. There is no doubt more research will open more healing doors and help more people stay healthy and pain free.

Dr. Larry Omo, D.C. is a doctor of chiropractic specializing in neck and back pain relief care for 30 years in Lakewood. His office is located at 5220 Clark Ave. #210 and he can be reached at 562-867-0993.

September 2012

Journaling isn’t just for students

The school year is approaching, and soon many students will be asked to write about their summer vacations or academic goals.

Journaling doesn’t have to be reserved just for the classroom.

Many people choose to keep a food journal to help them monitor their eating habits and reach healthy lifestyle goals. Whether you’re trying to lose or maintain your weight, journals can help you slow down and take a serious look at the details of your diet.

Reasons to Journal A food journal is an effective tool to keep track of how much you’re consuming and what you’re eating. For instance, you may notice you don’t consume enough calories at lunch or tend to eat junk food primarily at night. Once you draw these conclusions, you can take the information to form a food plan, adjust habits, acknowledge areas that need improvement, and identify activities or emotions that derail healthy habits.

Food journals can also raise awareness and accountability.

People may think, “One hot fudge sundae won’t hurt,” but once they review their food choices for the day or week, it soon becomes obvious how it all adds up. It can help individuals make informed, mindful decisions when temptations arise or they’re deciding what to eat.

What to Record Whether you use a notebook or computer to log your food and beverage choices, it’s important to include as much information as possible throughout the day. This will give you a complete snapshot of your habits and situation.

• Include your goals. Write down your ultimate goal. Then break it down into manageable pieces, including monthly, weekly, and daily objectives. Read them often to serve as a reminder and help you stay focused. Also, use S.M.A.R.T. goals (specific, measurable, attainable, realistic, and timely), such as “I will eat two cups of raw vegetables each day.”

• Record everything you eat and drink immediately.

Be honest. No one is going to see it but you. When logging your food and drinks, make sure to include sauces, gravies, salad dressings, and other condiments.

It’s also important to write down the information right away because you may forget what you consumed later, or you may be less likely to continue journaling.

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• Write down the time of day you eat and the activities you’re

www.lakewoodnews.org doing. Keeping track of when you eat helps you understand how much time you typically have between meals, how often you eat, and if you’re consuming latenight snacks. It’s also beneficial to note what you’re doing when you eat or drink – driving, watching television, or sitting at your desk.

This will help you identify patterns and types of food associated with activities, and create a plan to combat bad habits.

• Describe your thoughts and feelings. Are you feeling bored, tired, sad, happy, or nervous before or while you’re eating?

How do you feel after you eat – full of energy or sluggish?

Monitoring how you feel before, during, and after will help you determine moods that trigger

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emotional eating and how your eating tendencies make you feel after. It’s helpful to understand how food affects you physically and mentally.

• Reflect on your challenges and successes. Jotting down notes about difficult situations or areas where you’re struggling will help

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you identify what the problem is and how you have been dealing with it (i.e. eating). Then, if the situation occurs again, you’ll be prepared to react in a healthy way. Along with challenges, write down successes, big or small. You can revisit these successes for inspiration and motivation.

Around

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with Robin Vanderwerff

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Around Town in September Lakewood

• The 2nd Annual Lakewood Manor Reunion will be held on Sunday, September 30 from 12noon to 3pm at the Mae Boyar Park Picnic Shelter. Anyone who lived in the Lakewood Manor area from 1962 on, are invited to attend. For more information call Fran Itkoff at (562) 925-4405.

• Portal Languages is ready for a Fantastic Fall Semester! Their Spanish classes will be held Saturday mornings for kids ages 2.5 to 5. Also, beginning and intermediate Spanish classes for 6 to 11 year olds, Middle School programs and College Prep

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www.lakewoodnews.org Spanish. For more information call (562) 833-3115.

• The Lakewood Women’s Club will meet on Tuesday, September 18 in Ballroom B, the Centre at Sycamore Plaza. Meeting begins at 11am followed by lunch. Guest speaker will be Lakewood Mayor Diane DuBois. Reservations must be made by September 11 by calling Arlene at (562) 863-4933.

• Hearing Loss Association will meet on Thursday, September 13 at the Weingart Senior Center at 7pm. For more information call (562) 438-0597.

• Lakewood Sheriff’s Station Ride Against Cancer & Casino Night will be held on Saturday, September 22.

Escorted motorcycle ride – departing at 11am. For more information visit www.lakewoodbenefitride.net.

Bellflower • St. Bernard Church located at 9647 E. Beach St. In Bellflower will be holding their Autumn Festival on September 29 from 12noon to 9pm and September 30 from 8am to 8pm. Everyone is welcome. For more information call (562) 867-2337.

Whittier • The Office of Congresswoman Linda Sanchez U.S. Service Academy Night will be held on Saturday, September 15 from 10am to 12noon at Whittier Police Department Community Room 13230 Penn St. For more information call (562) 860-5050.

Play Sudoku and you could be the next winner Thanks to our AUGUST Sudoku Sponsors Outback Steakhouse Foggia’s Italian Market & Deli Souplantation

Congratulations to Jim Tanner, Warren Roche, and Geraldine Mills! They are the lucky winners of the August Sudoku. Out of 106 entries, they won a meal. Jim Tanner, will enjoy Outback Steakhouse, Warren Roche, Foggia Italian Market and Deli and Geraldine Mills will enjoy The Souplantation.

What are you waiting for? Pick up your pencil and put your brain to work!

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

Mail entries to: Lakewood Community

News P.O. Box 160, Lakewood, CA 90714. Or drop it by the Chamber office at 24 Lakewood Center Mall (right next to Sees Candies) The winners are drawn by random, so if you’ve been a previous winner, continue to play, you just might win again.

One entry per household; the answers must be postmarked no later than Tuesday, September 18, 2012. The winners will be drawn Wednesday the 19th; 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 (business days) or a new winner will be chosen.

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

Rynerson Park: Bike trailhead to the sea Lakewood is only seven trafficfree miles from the ocean. Starting at scenic Rynerson Park, it’s a straight shot to the sea for serious cyclists and family-fun riders.

Recently renovated, the San Gabriel River Bike Trail takes bikers from the park at Del Amo Boulevard and Studebaker Road past Pacific Coast Highway to Alamitos Bay and Seal Beach.

See the map at: http://tinyurl.com/ bmo58du.

The 12-foot-wide trail’s facelift happened between 2009 and 2012 and included repaving with rubberized asphalt, restriping, new signage and realignment at the Del Amo Boulevard underpass. Two phases of work in Lakewood and Cerritos cost $373,139 that was a part of Supervisor Knabe’s Fourth District Capital Projects effort.

Safety and rideablity were also improved in trail sections in Long Beach and Seal Beach from Carson Avenue to south of Pacific Coast Highway in Seal Beach. The joint project between Seal Beach and Long Beach cost $687,657 in grant funds. Seal Beach’s $200,000 share came from grants from the Rivers and Mountains Conservancy, while $375,000 of Long Beach’s share came from state Measure R sales tax revenue for transportation projects.

The final $112,657 came from a Transportation Development Act grant.

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School has started, help get ‘em there - SAFELY “Learning is a treasure that will follow its owner everywhere.”

Lakewood crossing guard Sandra Endsley has helped keep kids safe since 2006.

Watch out drivers! Lakewood’s 15,000+ students have already started back to school. Paramount Unified students began on August 22, and Bellflower, Long Beach and ABC Unified School District follow in early September.

Getting Lakewood kids back to school safely each fall is a big job that the city has assisted since the 1950s. Lakewood’s back-to-school effort has four elements: the city’s Suggested Route to School maps, classroom instruction, Sheriff’s traffic enforcement, and safety reminders for the public.

Suggested Route to School maps show the location of traffic signals, stop signs and crossing guards. Lakewood is fortunate to have experienced crossing guards, some of whom have been working for the city for over 20 years. Suggested Route to School maps and other safety tips for students are at www. lakewoodcity.org/backtoschool.

Parents should spend time going over the route with their children, pointing out the crosswalks and intersections they’ll encounter on the way to school. Even better, parents should walk the route with their children.

Safety tips for children: • Always stop, look all four ways and listen before crossing the street.

• Cross the street only at corners and crosswalks, not between parked cars.

• Walk or ride with a group of people; there is safety in numbers.

When walking on sidewalks, look out for cars pulling out of driveways.

• Always wait for a crossing guard to control traffic before starting to cross the street.

• Bicycles must be ridden on the right side of the road, in the direction of traffic.

• Wear a secure-fitting, safetyapproved helmet when riding a bicycle, skateboard, scooter, or skates. It’s for your safety…and it’s the law!

Safety tips for drivers: • Don’t let your children exit a car on the traffic side of your vehicle. Be aware, drivers can be cited for unsafely loading or unloading children near schools.

• Double-parking for a quick drop-off is very hazardous for small children, who are invisible behind an SUV or a van until they dart in front of oncoming traffic.

• The only safe way to drop off your youngsters is to pull up to the curb in front of the school or at a safe location where youngsters can walk to the end of the block and cross to school through an intersection controlled by a stop sign, signal or crossing guard.

• Reduce vehicle speed to 25 mph or slower when driving in school zones.

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