Sign Up toLa Receive FREE Chamber LOCAL COUPONS Sent to Your Email! www.YourCityCoupons.net Palma of Commerce Business News-See
L a
P a l m a
COMMUNITYNEWS COMMUNITY
pageYC4oou r C i t y upons Yo u r C C o u p o ni t y s Loc
sent toayl ocoupons ur email. www.y
ourcityco 11, 2009 Volume 1, Issue 1 • November upons.net
• La Palma’s Only Community • Delivered to 5,000 La Palma monthand • www.lapalmanews.net • January• www.lapalmanews.net 2009 • Vol. 1, Issue 3 • • Hand delivered monthly to 5,000Newspaper La Palma homes; direct mailed to over 1,000 homes La Palmaevery businesses Chamber of Commerce members
Grant funding approved for La Palma street sweeper The City of La Palma was recently notified that a $25,000 Clean Transportation Funding grant has been awarded from the Mobile Source Air Pollution Reduction Review Committee (MSRC) to partially fund the replacement of an aging street sweeper. At its meeting on March 17, 2009, the City Council authorized the replacement of the City’s 1987 Tymco Model 600 Street Sweeper with the newer generation
La Palma Kennedy Singers Annual Holiday Show
By Larry Caballero Ask any La Palma resident, and he knows someone who has attended or graduated from Steve Luther Elementary School, including Mayor Steve Shanahan who remembers his days as a student there and Mayor Pro-Tem Ralph Rodriguez who recently attended his daughter’s graduation. So when the Cypress School District Superintendent Sheri Lowenstein spoke at the Sept. 1 City Council meeting to talk about the possible closure of the school, no one in the room was happy about it. Nevertheless, they understood the realities of state budget cuts and declining enrollment that have impacted many school districts throughout the state and nation. Lowenstein began by sharing her own sadness about the possibility of any school closure and understood it was an emotional and sensitive issue for many. “We don’t take it lightly,” she said. The District has already had to close two schools recently, and all eight of the remaining schools were under consideration. Closing a school saves the District $400,000 per year in salaries alone, and enrollment at Luther had dropped from a high of 575 students in 2002 to 363 in 2009—a decline of 32%. Lowenstein informed the Council “it is not financially feasible to keep a school open when the enrollment is under 400.” The problem appears to be that fewer young families with children are moving into the area. Rodriguez asked if the students who can no longer attend a closed school still remain in the District, and Lowenstein said yes because parents know that the Academic Performance Index (API) test scores are very high in all of the District schools even with cuts in programs. The state goal is 800, and Luther’s API score was 857. As part of the Master Facilities Plan Process, the District had
25 TH A NNUAL L A P ALMA D AYS
By Larry Caballero
La Palma’s Kennedy High School Vocal Music Department presented its annual holiday show entitled “A Holiday with Friends’ performed by more than 300 singing and dancing students Dec. 10-11 at its Performing Arts Center. The Kennedy Jazz Band, Walker Junior High Choir and the Impact Dance Center’s dancers also performed. “We have invited our friends from the community to help share the music of the holidays with each and every one of you,” said Choral Director Sarah Anderson. “No holiday recollection seems to bring to mind the same passion as snow and evergreens of the Christmas season.” Kennedy High School’s
Perfect Harmony Booster Club Presidents Kelli Ranallo and Eve Wright-McLaughlin agreed, “What a wonderful time of year, getting together with family and friends, celebrating with old traditions and maybe creating some new ones.” ACT One began with the entire cast performing a breathtaking musical number entitled ‘Polar Express’ where singers not only took over every inch of the Performing Arts Center stage, but the Main Floor and balcony as well. Criselle Vasquez sang a beautiful ‘Where Are You Christmas?’ the Concert Choir sang a spectacular ‘Jingle Bells’ with soloists Cheyenne Paningsoro and Ryan Reid, and the Harmonic Fusion choral group sang a very moving ver-
THE “OFFICIAL VETERAN’S DAY PARADE OF ORANGE COUNTY”
Liquid Propane Gas (LPG) Tymco 600 sweeper, at a cost of $215,829.53. The street sweeper is used for cleaning streets of spills, blowing of sidewalks, event cleaning, storm drain cleaning, and emergency response. The new Tymco 600 LPG sweeper utilizes fuel that is 90% domestically produced, which reduces the dependence of imported fuel. In addition, the use of LPG provides the best balance of fuel economy, performance, and emissions. Other alternative clean fuel sweepers to the Tymco 600 LPG sweeper were considered, including a Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) sweeper. However, fueling stations for CNG are sparse and require several hours to fuel. LPG fueling stations are available at the City of Cypress, local stations, and other locations. The City continuously seeks to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions.
Residents elated that Luther Elementary will remain open
sion of ‘Christmas Auld Syne.’ Shalom Kang and Christine Lee sang a very entertaining ‘Baby, It’s Cold Outside’ and the Impact Dancers performed a cute ‘I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus’ routine. The entire cast returned for an inspirational holiday song ‘Light A Candle’ supported by soloists Alex Valdez and Sadie Lindsay. The Kennedy Jazz Band performed some wonderful renditions of ‘What Child Is This? ‘Deck the Halls’, ‘Jingle Bells’ and ‘We Wish You a Merry Christmas.’ It was an evening of entertainment to be remembered for many years to come by all who attended.
ACTIVITIES
La Palma’s history in good hands with the Mac Ivers By Larry Caballero Ron and Elfriede Mac Iver have lived in La Palma longer than most residents—45 years—and they remember when the city was called Dairyland. After raising a family of five, the Mac Ivers began researching their family history and soon were collecting information on the early history of La Palma. This project led to their book being published in 2008 and entitled Images of America LA PALMA, consisting of chapters on the early years, the birth of
HISTORICAL PRESERVATION & CULTURAL AWARENESS PROJEC
See HISTORY CON'T ON 2
1ST La MARINE Palma Intercommunity DIVISION BAND Hospital
00254.110909
7901 walker street
We are a full service, general acute care • 24-Hour Emergency Services • Behavioral Medicine hospital and have been • Maternity Services Wound Care a part of the •• Comprehensive Cardiac Catheterization community since 1972. Laboratory
|
la palma, ca 90623
(714) 670-7400
MILITARY HISTORY
See LUTHER CON'T ON 7
2 LA PALMA COMMUNITY NEWS • JANUARY 2009
TO ADVERTISE CALL 800-901-7211
COMMUNITY NEWS his father’s profession as a race rider and trainer of thoroughbred horses. He does Continued from page 1 remember one year when he enrolled in nine different schools. As a child he was already interested the city, today’s La Palma and city pride. in history and was fascinated to hear his La Palma is the smallest city in great grandparents tell stories about their Orange County in terms of land size at experiences as traders with the Blackfoot 1.8 square miles, evolved out of the Los Indians of South Dakota. He and his wife Coyotes land grand, and later was carved even learned Native American Dancing. into ranchos and family farms. At 17, Mac Iver enlisted in the military Unable to halt tract building, the dairy as a Marine and spent one year in Korea farmers continued their forward-thinking in 1953. In time, he would also visit initiatives for the renamed “La Palma” Okinawa, Formosa and Tai Pei where he in 1965 by packed and creating repaired artila Master lery weapons. Plan that He spent most included the of his working first underyears in aviaground utilition before ties in the retiring and country. dedicating The Mac himself and Ivers take his wife to bepride in ing the official knowing all historians for of the city the City. pioneers Elfriede from the Mac Iver 1960’s and grew up in Ron Mac Iver receives gifts of appreciation from Jong-Pil today’s city Choi, President of the Korean War Veterans Association. New York officials, before and they are moving very familiar with her with city family in statistics including the year the City was 1950 to California where her father had incorporated—1955. The population at been employed as a tool and dye maker. that time was 500; by 1964, there were She met Ron at a USO dance where the 642 residents and 18,000 by 1975. Today, girls were only allowed to have conthere are over 16,000 residents who call versation and to dance with the boys in La Palma their home. uniform, and nothing else. Going home Ron Mac Iver doesn’t remember, howwith them was forbidden. Even so, they ever, many of the places he called home got to know one another well enough as a child since his family would move to marry and start their lives in several several times each year to accommodate
HISTORY
Southern California cities before settling in La Palma. She was a housewife, homemaker and mother while Ron worked, but the couple still had time to get involved in the city. It helped that a mayor and police chief lived on their street. “We became active by accident,” said Elfriede Mac Iver. The Mac Ivers are seen at most city events including the recent welcoming of representatives from Korea who came to celebrate their city of Hanam becoming La Palma’s sister city. In September, 2009, Ron Mac Iver was invited along with former Mayor Mark Waldman and
City Councilman Henry Charoen to visit Hanam as their guests. Mac Iver was asked because of his military assignment in Korea, and he was presented with a proclamation and gifts from Jong-Pil Choi, President of the Korean War Association. Currently, the Mac Ivers are members of the La Palma Recreation and Community Services and are working diligently on the La Palma Historical Preservation Project, consisting of hundreds of pages of historical documents and photos. It will be on display in the Chamber Office for all the residents to enjoy.
Moskowitz Foundation (Bingo Club/Casino) donates $25,000 to Haiti Relief Fund
Sal Flores representing the Irving I. Moskowitz Foundation presents a $25,000 check to American Red Cross Grants Officer Carol McDonough for the organization’s International Relief Fund to assist the earthquake victims in Haiti. The Moskowitz family owns, among other things, the Hawaiian Gardens Bingo Club and Casino. They also operate the local food bank in Hawaiian Gardens.
The Newspaper for Active Seniors Healthy Living is the only area newspaper dedicated to the interests and lifestyles of active seniors residing in Los Angeles and Orange Counties.
You can find Healthy Living in community and senior centers, active senior living residences, VFW & American Legion Posts, city halls, bookstores, public libraries, pharmacies, select CVS, Walgreens, retail outlets, restaurants, banks, the waiting rooms of doctors offices, and more. Active seniors represent a growing and powerful segment of the American population, and as such, they deserve their own locally-oriented publication. You will find articles on travel, fitness, self diagnosis techniques, finances, legislation, where to dine out, healthy recipes, and more.
Healthy Living will also spotlight and applaud active seniors
who serve others and their communities.
Inaugural edition publishing February 2010. For information call 562.407.3873
TO ADVERTISE CALL 800-901-7211
LA PALMA COMMUNITY NEWS • JANUARY, 2009
3
COMMUNITY NEWS
La Palma families entertained at Kennedy High Performing Arts Center
Rep. Royce to host Second Annual Women's Conference
Mast and her husband George had both visited Japan on several occasions, and both knew the basic greetings and how to count to at least ten in Japanese. “I was honored to have been chosen to conduct the band,” said Mast. The audience clapped their hands many times to Rep. Ed Royce (R-CA) announced the music, but never more than when the his Second Annual Women's Conference band members played the patriotic “The By Larry Caballero Stars and Stripes Forever March, and they will be held in conjunction with Cal State Fullerton's Women and Philanthropy were in awe to hear the musical numbers When La Palma families were asked Network at CSUF's Titan Student Union from Andrew Lloyd Webber’s haunting to volunteer their homes with students Center on Saturday, March 27, 2010. “The Phantom of the Opera.” from southern Japan, many were eager "I look forward to hosting my 2nd When the band played its final to do it. After all, the students were no Annual Women's Conference this March. number, Michael Jackson’s “We Are The ordinary students but members of the inLast year's conference was a huge success World,” members of the band left the ternationally renown Kansai Honor Green and I thank all the women who came out stage to find their adopted families in the Band that had been invited to perform for our first event of its kind. I believe audience. There wasn’t a dry eye in the in the Rose Bowl Parade on New Year’s this year's keynote speaker, Lisa Ling, house while the families and band memDay. will have a lasting impact on the attendbers hugged one another, knowing that The Band was deeply saddened by the ees," said Royce. Lisa is probably best they would probably be a part for a very deaths of firefighters and the devastation known for her roles as former co-host of long time. caused by the recent fires in Southern The View. Jackson’s music was remembered California. It is the custom of the Band The Women's Conference will include again when the band played their popular to perform benefit concerts in the areas rendition of “Thriller” that had excited the the following breakout seminars: they tour, with the proceeds to be donated "Stress Management: Achieving the crowd at the parade route the day before. to a worthy cause, typically to victims of Work/Life Balance" The families and guests began waving a natural disaster. With this in mind, the This seminar explores the causes of their arms to the beat and were impressed Los Angeles County Firefighters Memostress and its impact on both our personal with the professionalism of the group. rial Widows and Orphans Fund was seand work lives. Issues discussed include Families were encouraged to consider lected to receive the donations on behalf ways to identify stressors, manage stress adopting a student next year when the of wildfire victims and their families. band members will be returning to South- effectively and adapt a pattern of behavAgain this year, the students didn’t let ern California again in the end of Decem- iors and attitudes that help reduce the their adopted families down when they development of stress. ber to perform another benefit concert. performed a Benefit Concert Jan. 2 for the "Financial Literacy 1.0: Beginners Before the Kansai Honor Green Band widows and orphans of Station FirefightGuide to Money Management" performed, the Daion Taiko Drummers ers. The band played the very popular “A Like any tool, credit can help or hurt took the stage toSUN entertain. Celebrating its Disneyland Celebration” which all of the ROOM your financial future depending on how 30th Anniversary, the group was formed children and the young at heart enjoyed $8995 you use it. This interactive seminar will in 1978 at the Orange County Buddhist 10X14 before the fast moving “Radetzky March” focus on financial basics including credit Church as an alternative form of studyby Johann Strauss where audience partici•BEST PRICES IN LA/OC •LIFETIME WARRANTY of Jodo scores and practical ways to protect you ing and teaching the principles pation was encouraged. from identity theft. Shinshu Buddhism. •NO TERMITES, NO PAINTING, NO MAINTENANCE Long-time La Palma resident Barbara •BEST PRICES IN LA/OC •LIFETIME WARRANTY "Financial Literacy Make Your “Daion” in Japanese means “Great Mast, who had opened her home a couple •NO TERMITES, NO PAINTING,2.0: NO MAINTENANCE •30 YEARS EXPERIENCE •FREE ESTIMATES Retirement Work for You" Sound of Enlightenment” or just “Big of years ago to four members, volun•30 YEARS EXPERIENCE •FREE ESTIMATES Learn how to make your money work Sound.” The group is madeLicense up of about teered to conduct the band to the delight License for you and how you can avoid 833734 outliving 833734 40 members who played a blending mix of all who were in attendance, including your retirement. of traditional Japanese rhythms with conthe band members when she was able "Eating Right to Look and Feel Your temporary western world music. to communicate with them in Japanese.
PATIO COVERS & SUN ROOMS
PATIO DEPOT (562) 787-4802
PATIO COVERS & SUN ROOMS
PATIO DEPOT (562) 787-4802
Best: A Woman's Guide to Nutrition" Eating well is one of the best ways you can take care of yourself and those who depend on you. Did you know your body requires different nutrients based on different stages in life? Learn about maintaining a healthy diet. "Keeping up With the 21st Century Digital Kids" Addressing issues like sexting, online romances, bullying, social networking, cyber stalking, online predators and more -- this seminar provides information on how to prepare young people to be their own first line of defense so they can safely explore the Internet. To RSVP for the Women's Conference fill out an electronic form on Royce's website at www.royce.house.gov/womensconference.
PATIO COVERS & SUN ROOMS
•BEST PRICES IN LA/OC •LIFETIME WARRANTY •NO TERMITES, NO PAINTING, NO MAINTENANCE •30 YEARS EXPERIENCE •FREE ESTIMATES License PATIO DEPOT 833734 (562) 787-4802
Hand delivered to 5,000 La Palma homes (15,000 readers) every month and Direct mailed to over 700 La Palma businesses! L a
P a l m a
COMMUNITYNEWS COMMUNITY
• La Palma’s Only Community Newspaper • Delivered to 5,000 La Palma Homes Every Month • www.lapalmanews.net • December 2009 • Vol. 1, Issue 2
Publishing the second Friday of every month. For information call 562.407.3873
www.lapalmanews.net
4 LA PALMA COMMUNITY NEWS • JANUARY 2009
TO ADVERTISE CALL 800-901-7211
Chamber of Commerce Newsletter • JANUARY 2010 • www. lapalmachamberofcommerce.com • VOL 1 • ISSUE 3 • November 2009 • www. lapalmachamberofcommerce.com •
President’s Message The La Palma Chamber kicks off 2010 with something for everyone! Take advantage of the networking opportunities! Be Informed! Sharpen your skills! Give Back! And have FUN! Get involved and showcase your business regardless of your interest this year the Chamber is working to provide you opportunities to find something that works for you. • The Wok Experience Grand Opening • Multi-City Biz2Biz Expo & Mixer • Women In Business Wine & Cheese Reception • Wine Dinner at A’Roma’s • Car Show • Relay for Life • Casino Night Just to mention a few. Our membership now offers you a Bronze, Silver and Gold Membership as well as Corporate and Community membership. In today’s economy you couldn’t find a better investment than to join your local Chamber of Commerce. I will see you on February 2 at The Wok Experience. Ric Maurice President
Give your kid a “boost” with child passenger safety By Charlene Hatakeyama State Farm® agent As parents, grandparents or caregivers, we always want to do the best thing for our child's health and safety. We make sure that they don't eat too much candy. We teach them to look both ways before crossing the street. But when our kids are riding in the car, are we making sure they are buckled up correctly? Even though experts for years have stressed the importance of child safety seats, the number one killer in the United States for children ages 2-14 is car crashes. Partners for Child Passenger Safety (PCPS) is a joint effort between State Farm Insurance and The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia®. The partnership is dedicated to understanding how and why children are injured or killed in auto crashes. PCPS began in 1997 and continues to be the largest study of its kind, having recently been expanded to include crashes in Texas. One of the earliest findings of the study was that children ages 2 to 5 who use adult seat belts are 3.5 times more likely to suffer significant injury than those correctly restrained in a child safety seat or belt-positioning booster seat. In 2004, PCPS data showed more than 61 percent of children ages 4 to 8 were not optimally restrained and were often using only a seat belt. Seat belts are designed to fit adults, not children. A belt-positioning booster seat, which is the next step
“Made From The Heart evolved about six years ago. I frequent boutiques, something I personally
Made from the Heart
About three years Barbara was introduced to the La Palma Chamber thru a past board member. Living outside of La Palma she didn’t think she could become a member of the La Palma Chamber. That
ss e in s u enjoy, and noticed that people were r B ght always lined up for purchase e b tli chocolates, baked goods m and other goodies. I had o a for the past 12 years had Ch Sp my own business selling handmade dolls, pillows and other gift items in Southern California and Nevada. My items had been sold to Sav-on Stores who had begun purchasing their gift items overseas. The timing couldn’t have been more perfect and I came up with Made From The Heart Sweet Treats and More”. As a Home Based business Barbara bakes her goods in a commercial kitchen. Her good are prepackaged and ready for sale. Barbara is proud of her creations and it is evident in detail and presentation of her product.
was quickly cleared up and joined. Shortly after the Chamber was going thru a transition period and she was asked to jump in as acting President of the Board of Directors. “I had no idea what I was getting into but I was willing and haven’t regretted it for a moment”. “I didn’t know much about the Chamber of Commerce so I began to attend the Mixers, the Biz2Biz Expo and every Chamber event there is”. Barbara cannot say enough about the networking opportunities and how
after a child has completely outgrown a child safety seat, gives kids a lift so that a lap and shoulder belt fits them properly. Besides emphasizing the need for the intermediate step of the belt-positioning booster seat, findings from the PCPS study show that boosters reduce the risk of injury for 4 to 7 year-olds by 59 percent compared to those using only adult safety belts. Another recent discovery by PCPS researcher is children are 40 percent less likely to be injured in a crash if they are seated in the rear seat versus the front seat. This supports the recommendation of the American Academy of Pediatrics that all children under age 13 should ride in the back seat. Based on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s recommendations, the following tips are critical to help ensure the safety of children riding in vehicles.
If the Child is: A newborn up to at least 1 year and at least 20 pounds: Use a rear-facing infant seat or rearfacing convertible seat. Keep the child in the rear-facing seat until he or she has completely outgrown the seat. Never place a rear-facing infant in the front seat with an airbag. Follow the child safety seat and vehicle manufacturers’ instructions on correct restraint use and installation. Over at least 1 year and over at least 20 pounds, up to 40 pounds: Use a forward-facing convertible seat or forward-facing combination seat with harness straps. Keep the child in the forward-facing child safety seat until he or she has completely outgrown it. Follow the child safety seat and vehicle manufacturers’ instructions on
they have paid off. In addition to an increase in her business she tells us she has met some really great people who have offered a hand, shared their experiences and also bought her goods. This past year she was asked if she offered fundraisers and without hesitation said yes. She now offers Candy Apples with different toppings and has concentrated a major part of her business to fundraising. Her fundraising business has come from schools, sports organizations such as soccer, water polo, baseball, basketball, softball and just finished a very successful fundraiser for Cypress winter ball. Barbara is currently Vice-President of the La Palma Chamber Board of Directors. Barbara has stepped up the plate to chair the Car Show event scheduled in May of this year. “My husband and I enjoy attending Car Shows and I thought why doesn’t the Chamber put on a Car Show? I am willing, determined and with everyone working together there is nothing we cannot accomplish. It’s a team effort.”
correct restraint use and installation. Over 40 pounds and up to at least age 8, unless 4’9” tall Use a belt-positioning booster seat with lap and shoulder seat belt. Follow the child safety seat and vehicle manufacturers’ instructions on correct restraint use and installation. Over age 8 or 4’9” tall Use a lap and shoulder safety belt. Follow vehicle manufacturers’ instructions on correct restraint use. If you would like to learn more about the correct way children should be seated in a car or about the Partners for Child Passenger Safety study, visit www.statefarm.com/learning/child_ safety/kidsafety.asp
Car insurance with personal service.
No extra charge.
Charlene Hatakeyama 714-527-8897 charlene@charlenehatakeyama.com
I’M THERE™
State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company (Not in NJ), State Farm Indemnity Company (NJ) – Bloomington, IL • statefarm.com®
P080250 07/08
TO ADVERTISE CALL 800-901-7211
LA PALMA COMMUNITY NEWS • JANUARY, 2009
5
Chamber of Commerce Newsletter • JANUARY 2010 • www. lapalmachamberofcommerce.com • VOL 1 • ISSUE 3 • November 2009 • www. lapalmachamberofcommerce.com •
La Palma Chamber of Commerce
La Palma Professional Center 7872 Walker St., Suite 107 La Palma, CA. 90623 Telephone: 714.228.1214 Fax: 714.228.1218 info@lapalmachamberofcommerce.com
Board of Directors Ric Maurice
Maurice Construction President
Barbara Rincon
Made From the Heart Sweet Treats and More
Vice-President
Kristina Truong UCLA Secretary
Amanda Rincon
Orange County Superior Court Treasurer
The real value of joining and being involved in a local Chamber of Commerce A Research Study by the Shapiro Group. Right now our nation is faced with untold economic challenges. While there are aspects of the economy outside out control, there are a few things that we business can do to continue to achieve success. When volatility hits our markets, it causes anxiety as well as a lack of consumer confidence and when the economy starts to slow, consumers and business start to pull back and begin to re-evaluate what expenses going out the door are really necessary to do business. Many times memberships in organizations, marketing/advertising and employee education are the first
to be cut – not realizing that - times of instability should be one of the most valuable times for business to promote themselves to consumers and the community as a whole. 1. Most consumers (59%) think that being active in the local chamber of commerce is an effective business strategy overall. 2. If a company shows that it is highly involved in its local chamber (e.g. sits on the chamber board) consumers are 12% more likely to think that its products stack up better against the competition. 3. When a consumer thinks that a company’s products stack up better against the competition because the company is highly involved in it local Chamber of Commerce, it is because
Royce aide guest speaker at La Palma Chamber Breakfast
Noel Lew Events
Ismile Noorbaksh John Sciacca Cypress College
Eloisa Velasquez
Resident/Past President
La Palma Chamber Jr. Ambassadors
FBLA (Kennedy High School Future Business Leaders of America)
Staff:
Executive Director
Bill Meil, Ryan Kushi/FBLA Office Volunteers
The La Palma Chamber of Commerce now offers its members Business Services. As a Chamber member you have access to the fax, printer, scanner and internet services at the Chamber office at a nominal price. As a member you also have access to the Conference Room for meeting with clients, organization or club. Notary Services are now offered at the Chamber office. Please call the office to make an appointment.
LA PALMA COMMUNITY NEWS 562.407.3873 www. lapalmanews.net email: lapalmanews@gmail.com Publishing the third Friday of every month.
The Gas Company offers help with post-holiday utility bills Customers urged to enroll in assistance, energy-efficiency programs.
Membership
Esther De Leon Hernandez
he or she infers that the company is trustworthy, involved in the community and an industry leader. 4. When consumers know that a small business is a member of the chamber of commerce, they are 44% more likely to think favorable of it and 63% are more likely to purchase goods or services from the company in the future. Now, more than ever, is the time that business needs to understand the value of a Chamber membership and why it is so important to be part of this organization that advocates for business. We encourage businesses to promote the value of your chamber membership and use the resources that come when belonging to your local chamber of commerce.
Shown (l-r) Chamber President Ric Maurice, Secretary Amanda Rincon, Vice-President Barbara Rincon, Holmes, Cypress College representative John Sciacca, Executive Director Esther DeLeon Hernandez, Representative Kathleen Moran from Supervisor John Moorlach's Office, and Board Member Nowella Lew. Holmes was asked by the Chamber to speak about the happenings in Washington, D.C. and updates on the Health Reform Bills. The meeting was held at La Palma Community Hospital.
As post-holiday bills arrive in mailboxes this month, some families will be faced with tough financial decisions, struggling to make payments in a difficult economy. Southern California Gas Co. (The Gas Company) urges customers to take advantage of the utility’s assistance programs -programs that can help reduce winter heating bills and increase energy efficiency. “We are trying to help our customers in need, including those who are unemployed and those having difficulty paying their bills,” said Hal D. Snyder, vice president of customer
See SAVE CON'T ON 7
Mercury OFFers sOMe OF THe lOWesT raTes in caliFOrnia FOr FaMilies WiTH Teen DriVers. HOW DOes yOur insurance cOMPare? For a fast, free quote contact your local Mercury Agent:
(714) 739-3177 Vicencia & buckley ins. sVc. 20 Centerpointe Drive, Ste. 100 La Palma, CA 90623 CA License: 0578496
La Palma (90623)
Artesia (90701)
Cerritos (90703)
Mercury Insurance
$1,362
$1,470
$1,470
Progressive Insurance
$2,410
$2,550
$2,541
State Farm Insurance
$2,339
$2,300
$2,300
21st Century Insurance
$2,225
$2,167
$2,335
Travelers Insurance
$2,108
$2,315
$2,303
Allstate Insurance
$1,946
$2,199
$1,978
Geico Insurance
$1,888
$1,911
$2,213
Rate comparison criteria: Six month premium; married couple; 45/43; no accidents or citations; and a female teen driver, 16, with a good student discount; driving a 2006 Toyota Camry and a 2007 Ford Edge SE with 12,000 annual miles each. Coverages: BI-PD 100/300/50; UMBI 100/300; CDW; $5,000 Med Pay; $500 comprehensive deductible; and $500 collision deductible. Quotes obtained June 2009 from sources we believe are reliable, but we cannot guarantee their accuracy. Rates do not reflect any changes that may have been made after these quotes were obtained. All rates reflect full payment of premium at time of purchase.
6 LA PALMA COMMUNITY NEWS • JANUARY 2009
TO ADVERTISE CALL 800-901-7211
Chamber of Commerce Newsletter • JANUARY 2010 • www. lapalmachamberofcommerce.com • VOL 1 • ISSUE 3 • November 2009 • www. lapalmachamberofcommerce.com •
Upcoming Chamber Events February 2
February 9 WOMEN IN BUSINESS MIXER
THE WOK EXPERIENCE
Grand Opening/Ribbon Cutting 7961 Valley View Street (next to Walgreens) La Palma, CA 90623 5:30 – 7p.m. February 3
Wine & Cheese Reception La Palma Chamber Office 6 p.m.
February 11 MULTI-CITY BIZ2BIZ EXPO & MIXER
TOASTMASTER’S INTERNATIONAL Weekly
Knotts Berry Farm Resort Hotel Buena Park, CA 4:30 -7 p.m.
La Palma Community Center 7901 Walker Street La Palma, CA 90623
February 17 FEDERAL/STATE BASIC PAYROLL TAX SEMINAR La Palma Community Center 7821 Walker Street La Palma, CA 90623 9 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
March 6 WINE DINNER
A’Roma Ristorante 30 Centerpointe Drive, #1 La Palma, CA 90623
7:30 – 8:30 a.m.
October 20 QUARTERLY NETWORKING BREAKFAST
May 22 CAR SHOW Central Park La Palma, Ca
Hosted by: La Palma Intercommunity Hospital 7901 Walker Street La Palma, CA 90623 7:30 – 8:30 a.m.
June 5 thru Jun 6 RELAY FOR LIFE
2010 Buena Park/La Palma Sat. 10 a.m. Opening Buena Park Jr. High Track 6931 West Orangethorpe Ave. Buena Park, CA 90620
December 18 CHRISTMAS FOOD & TOY DRIVE
July 21 QUARTERLY NETWORKING BREAKFAST
Hosted by: La Palma Intercommunity Hospital 7901 Walker Street La Palma, CA 90623 7:30 – 8:30 a.m.
August LEGISLATIVE MIXER October CASINO NIGHT
April 21 QUARTERLY NETWORKING BREAKFAST
Hosted by: La Palma Intercommunity Hospital 7901 Walker Street La Palma, CA 90623
Get it
October 12 CANDIDATES NIGHT La Palma Community Center 7901 Walker Street La Palma, CA 90623
Sponsors:
Right from the Start
Federal / State Basic Payroll Tax Seminar
February 17, 2010 9 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. La Palma Community Center 7821 Walker Street La Palma, CA 90623
Where Members Unite to Create a Strong Local Economy
Date: Thursday, February 11, 2010 Time: 4:30 to 7:00 p.m. Knott’s Berry Farm Resort Hotel 7675 Crescent Avenue Buena Park
No Charge
There is no charge for this seminar. To make reservations, use the Internet: www.edd.ca.gov/Payroll_Tax_Seminars/ or call (866) 873-6082.
About independent contractor reporting requirements
n
Electronic filing and payment requirements and options
n
Federal payroll reporting requirements: Forms 940, 941, 1099, W-2, W-4, W-9, and alternative filing
Non-Member Exhibitor cost - $225 SPONSORSHIPS AVAILABLE $300 – includes all of the above plus your business name as a sponsor on all Expo mailings and signage. $500 – includes all of the above plus premium location, logo prominently placed on promotional ads, your business name on sponsorship banner and a business card ad in all four Chamber newsletters and websites!
Hosted by:
The program includes: networking opportunities, raffle & door prizes, DJ, food, refreshments and a no-host bar. FREE admission to the public! _________________________________________________________ Multi-City Expo Exhibitor/Sponsor Sign-up for La Palma Chamber Member Return form with payment to: La Palma Chamber of Commerce 7872 Walker Street, Suite 107 La Palma, CA 90623 or fax to: (714) 228-1218
For additional seminar dates, times, locations, and subjects, please check EDD’s Web site at www.edd.ca.gov/Payroll_Tax_Seminars/ or call (888) 745-3886. EDD is an equal opportunity employer/program. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities. Requests for services, aids, and/or alternate formats need to be made prior to the event by calling (866) 873-6082 (voice), or TTY (800) 547-9565. DE 221A Rev. 3 (12-08)
Chamber Member Exhibitor cost - $125 Includes: 6-ft. table w/tablecloth, 2 chairs, program listing, and exposure to members of FOUR Chambers.
California payroll reporting requirements: forms, employer obligations, reporting, and payment requirements
n
Assists the director in the coordination of events, networking functions, sends invitations, and arranges decorations and other details as needed. Advises on proper etiquette, current events and appointments. Reads and answers routine correspondence, using typewriter or in own handwriting as situation demands. This position requires someone who enjoys making telephone calls, sending cards setting up appointments.
3rd Annual Business 2 Business Expo and Monthly Mixer
You will learn: n
(This is a part-time volunteer position)
Save this date to “SHOWCASE YOUR BUSINESS” at the
Presented by:
You are invited to attend the...
Employment Social Secretary
GA 901D/CU
For More Information: Call Esther(714) 228-1214 or email:
staff@lapalmachamberofcommerce.com
website: www.lapalmachamberofcommerce.com
Name:
Company:
Address:
City & Zip:
Phone:
Fax:
Email:
Participate As: Method of Payment: Card # Name on Card: Signature:
Check
Exhibitor
Credit Card
Sponsor
Exp. Date: Billing Zip Code:
Total $
ance. clinical trials on hypertension. The program is based on the late In 1976, she migrated to the United PALMA NEWS • knowledge JANUARY, 2009 7 scientific and patients ar States and passed her entryLAexam toCOMMUNITY be a Long-time resident and community her Doctor of Medicine degree in 1973. for a 12-month period. The program is asked to buy any pills or food or nu doctor. For ten years, she was an assistant activist Ulla Herman could talk for hours InternalHeart Medicine, and in Nor“We help you to change your lifesty surgeon was at Sacred Hospital about her many accomplishments and Her residency described in one of her web pages: www. she contemplated specializing in thoracic assist to limit the damage due to ex ristown, Pennsylvania. When she and her good deeds as a Meals on Wheels driver,or open-heart surgery while conducting lapalmaweightlossprogram.com. husband moved to California in 1986, she or her work for the American Cancer clinical trials on hypertension. By Larry Caballero toshe pass both the written and oral exSociety’s Relay for Life, or her philanInhad 1976, migrated to the United Shah’s office is in the Peppertree Cenorder practice and in passed hertoentry examinternal to be a medicine. thropy. Yet Statesams Foropened ten years, she was an She a practice in asCypress inter 1990 at 7851 Walker Street, Suite 102. The the Longwife of Citydoctor. time resident sistant surgeon at Sacred Heart Hospital as an urgent care physician, but became Councilmember and commuoffice phone number is 714-994-2273. in Norristown, When interestedPennsylvania. in the services of she a traveling Larry Herman and her nity activist husband moved to California in that traveled throughout Southern You can learn more about her practice at would rather 1986,clinic Ulla Herman she had to pass both the written and California specializing in workers comcouldabout talk for talk La oral exams in order to practice internal hours about pensation and personal injuries. www.lapalmafamilycare.com. She opened Palma’s Urgentmedicine. herFamily many Carea practiceShe in Cypress in to open a medical office decided & accomplish1990 as an urgent care in La Palma in 2007 and now serves more Dr. Mahmunir ments and physician, but became Shah. good deeds interested in the servicas a“She Mealsis suches of a traveling clinic Dr. Mahmunir Shah aoncaring Wheelspersonthat traveled throughout Hamlet H. Ong, DDS driver, or her isSouthern California and the love she shows for her patients work for the American Cancer Socispecializing in workwonderful.” ety’s Relay for Life, or her philanthropy. General, ers compensation and La Palma Kiwanis President Abe Yet the wife of City Councilmember personal injuries. Waheed also praises Dr. Shah as a very Larry Herman would rather talk about Family, and She decided to open special person who loves what La Palma’s Urgent & Family Care she Dr. does. a medical office in La Lite for Life Saving Cert Cosmetic Mahmunir Shah. “We are very lucky to have her practicingPalma in 2007 and “She is such a caring person and the medicine in our city.” now serves more than Dentistry loveShah she shows for her wonder- 340 patients. Walk-ins $ was born inpatients Quetta,isPakistan, ful.” are encouraged. She and lived there with her family until they We accept Indemnity, PPO & HMO La Palma Kiwanis President Abe off the regular program fe moved a larger Karachi, when sheoffers a 12-month free Waheedto also praisescity, Dr. Shah as a very weight lossInsurance. program forFinancing Available. was three. Atwho age loves 7, thewhat family moved topatients suffering from 8 week or longer reducin special person she does. England where shetolearned “We are very lucky have her“British practicingEng-any medical compli• White Fillings medicine in our New clients only. Limit 1 offe lish” along withcity.” Farsi (Persian), her first cations due to excess • Porcelain Veneers Shah was bornparents in Quetta, Pakistan, Expir weight and who• carry a language. Both were born in Iran. Bleaching (1 HR. Zoom!) andHer livedfirst there with herwere familynuns untilatthey teachers the St.valid health insurance. moved to a larger city, Karachi, when she The program• is Crowns & Bridgework Jesus and Mary Convent in Karachi. To was three. At age 7, the family moved to • Periodontal Therapy based on the latest this day, where she loves reading the Bible, England she learned “British Eng- andscientific knowledge • Dentures & Partials “I follow Ten Commandments to a and patients are not lish” alongthe with Farsi (Persian), her first • Root Canal Therapy Get a free N.Y. Cheesecake ju language. parents were born in Iran. tee.” She Both attributes the compassion she asked to buy any pills with our Lite for Life Nutrition Herher firstpatients teachers to were at the St. shows thenuns Christian teach-or food or nutrients. 17906 S. Pioneer Blvd. Suite 100 Teresa Estabrook, M Jesus and Mary Convent in Karachi. To “We help you to change ing she received as a child. this day, she loves reading the Bible, and Artesia, Ca. 90701 your lifestyle and assist Limit 1 per person, please, expir She attended the Dow Medical “I follow the Ten Commandments to a Col- to limit the damage due lege Karachi, where there were (562)-860-9612 tee.” inShe attributes the compassion sheonly to excess weight,” said By Larry Caballero
TO ADVERTISE CALL 800-901-7211
SAVE
Continued from page 5 solutions for The Gas Company. Customers are encouraged to call The Gas Company before their account is overdue and learn about the available assistance programs. A Gas Company representative will work with customers to set up a payment plan that meets their needs. The Gas Company offers a wide range of assistance programs for qualifying customers on a limited income or with special medical needs. • The California Alternate Rate for Energy (CARE) program • The Direct Assistance Program (DAP) • Medical Baseline Allowance program • The Gas Assistance Fund • For all customers, The Gas Company also offers hundreds of dollars in rebates for the purchase of energy-efficient appliances and can provide customers with a free energyand water-saving kit. The kit includes three faucet aerators and a low-flow showerhead to help customers save energy and water. These devices allow air to enter into the water stream, maintaining a high-pressure flow while reducing water usage – ultimately saving money. Customers can enroll in the assistance programs or request payment arrangements by visiting The Gas Company’s Web site, www.socalgas. com/extrahelp, or calling The Gas Company toll-free, web: www.socalgas.com/energyefficiency.
LUTHER
Continued from page 1 been meeting with interested parties— parents, teachers, classified employees and administrators to discuss the school closure process. “Enrollment and geographic location need to be considered,” said Lowenstein. “Our goal is to have six fabulous schools for the future.” Formal action of closing and configuration of the six remaining schools by the Board of Trustees was scheduled for Jan. 12. As was expected, a packed house of more than 300 concerned parents and friends attended the special Board meeting to hear the decision. Brian Nakamura was one of the elated parents to hear that Luther would remain open. “The Board understood that the facts we presented supported keeping our school open, and it was a smart financial decision.” Luther Principal M.J. Beatty emailed to congratulate the parents. “I don’t even know how to put into words how thankful I am to work with such a wonderful community. I have said over and over and over that the parents and the La Palma City Council saved Luther School. You were and always are to quote board member, David Giese, a CLASS ACT. Your tireless efforts and support were beyond exemplary. Thank you from the bottom of my heart, and I know I speak for everyone on the staff. I hope you are as proud of yourselves as I am of all of you. Here’s to a wonderful future for the Luther Lions. Long Live LION PRIDE!!!!” Nakamura wrote, “I would personally like to take the time and thank everyone for their support and dedication. This "Thanks" go out to the City of La Palma and all of its officials, Steve Luther Elementary and its entire staff, and the Luther parents. Everyone's involvement to save Luther made the difference.” Parent Kari Singer said, “This has been such a great experience for me. A night that started out as a concerned
La Palma doctor praised by residents
Weight Lo
SAVE 1
FREE CHEESEC
shows her patients to the Christian teaching she received as a child. She attended the Dow Medical College in Karachi, where there were only nine openings for women, and she earned
group in the M/P room ended in a terrific demonstration of teamwork and networking. The whole time working together in a controlled, organized and respectful fashion was great. I do feel that everyone connected to Luther will need to step up to help demonstrate why this was the right decision, and I have no doubts that will happen. As for me, I will do whatever I can to make the transition as smooth, welcoming and friendly as possible.” Parent Steve Hwangbo said, “I, too, would like to congratulate everyone. I saw students, graduates, parents, grandparents, former Luther parents, the city and other community members all working together doing what each can do to save Luther, and we pulled it off. It was indeed a community effort, and that is why we are proud of our community and choose to live in it.” Whether the District can continue to retain students when program cuts continue is a question that no one can answer, but it’s apparent that the District is hurting financially. “In 2009, we needed to cut two million dollars from our budget—it would have been three million if it were not for federal stimulus money,” said Lowenstein. She is projecting a potential cut of $1,800,000 in 2010/11 that could mean larger class sizes, eliminating music programs and laying off teachers.
Sign up to receive local coupons in your e-mail box! Go to:
lapalmanews.net Click on: Your City Coupons
Shah. For patients not suffering any complications due to weight, the program costs $1200
You Haven’t Won
BIG
NOW OPEN! The Newspaper for Active Sen Until You’ve Won At
THE NEW BINGO CLUB
21900 NORWALK BLVD. HAWAIIAN GARDENS, CA. 90716
Healthy Living is the
the interests and lifestyl Angeles and Orange C
You can find Healthy Liv active senior living resid Posts, city halls, books select CVS, Walgreens $500 MUST GO DRAWING theNIGHTLY: waiting rooms of do TWICE
Mon. thru Thurs. 9 pm and 12 am Fri. 10:30 pm & 2 am Active seniors represen Sat. 7:30 pm & 2 am of the American popula Sunday 6:30 pm & 12 am
✪ SEVEN NIGHTS A WEEK ✪ own locally-oriented pu ✪ All Games Pay $250!! ✪ ✪ WE PLAY JACKPOT BINGO PULLTABS ✪travel, fitness, self diagno where to dine out, healt ✪ 2 Lucky Winners Receive 7 Nights FREE Play ✪
Mon. - Thur. Friday Saturday Sunday
6 pm - 12 am 6 pm - 2 am 6 pm - 2 am 2 pm - 12:00 am
21900 Norwalk Blvd., Healthy Living will also Hawaiian Gardens (562) 402-6769 who serve others and th DOORS OPEN MONDAY THRU FRIDAY 4 pm SATURDAY 4 pm SUNDAY 12 pm
Inaugural edition p For informatio
The Bingo Club is a function of and operated by The Irving I. Moskowitz Foundation. A Non-Profit Public Charitable Organization.
8 LA PALMA COMMUNITY NEWS • JANUARY 2009
TO ADVERTISE CALL 800-901-7211
CITY OF LA PALMA Community Meeting On Proposed Water Rates
Tuesday, February 9, 6:30 p.m. La Palma Community Center - Royal Palm Room 7821 Walker Street, La Palma, CA 90623 The City of La Palma is considering an increase in water and sewer rates for the first time since 2005, while implementing a tiered water rate structure to encourage conservation. This meeting is intended to help explain the proposed alternatives. The new rates are being proposed due to increased costs to import water and to provide necessary funding to repair aging infrastructure. More information is available at: www.cityoflapalma.org/water
The Newspaper for Active Seniors Healthy Living is the only area newspaper dedicated to the interests and lifestyles of active seniors residing in Los Angeles and Orange Counties.
You can find Healthy Living in community and senior centers, active senior living residences, VFW & American Legion Posts, city halls, bookstores, public libraries, pharmacies, select CVS, Walgreens, retail outlets, restaurants, banks, the waiting rooms of doctors offices, and more. Active seniors represent a growing and powerful segment of the American population, and as such, they deserve their own locally-oriented publication. You will find articles on travel, fitness, self diagnosis techniques, finances, legislation, where to dine out, healthy recipes, and more.
Healthy Living will also spotlight and applaud active seniors
who serve others and their communities.
Inaugural edition publishing February 2010. For information call 562.407.3873