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PULSE BEAT

HCC offers high-quality job help, training and business services

If you’re starting off this new year by seeking a new job or job training, a great place to visit is Southeast Los Angeles America’s Job Center of California run by Hub Cities Consortium (HCC). Located nearby in Huntington Park, the job center serves the Southeast Los Angeles region, including the “hub cities” of Huntington Park, Paramount, South Gate, Bell Gardens, Cudahy, Lynwood, Maywood, Walnut Park and Florence Firestone.

The HCC mission is to provide high-quality employment assistance, job training and workforce development services to local job seekers and businesses with the goal of building a strong, vibrant regional economy.

While much HCC funding comes from Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) resources provided by the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors, the agency also seeks support from private and corporate sponsors to supplement services funded through public programs. The HCC target population includes (but is not limited to) low-income youth and adults, dislocated workers and veterans (who receive high priority) who have one or more barriers to employment or post-secondary education.

Our regional job center works with other job centers throughout California to offer consistent services through a single point of contact.

SERVICES FOR JOB SEEKERS

Each week, hundreds of job seekers from the region use computers, printers and other technology and information resources at the job center to explore careers and search for employment opportunities. For those who need additional support, Hub Cities offers comprehensive employment development assistance, including a broad array of intensive services ranging from vocational assessment to career counseling and planning and vocational training.

YOUTH PROGRAMS

HCC also provides a wide range of services to youth and young adults, ages 14-24, including those who are economically disadvantaged and face significant employment or educational barriers. For those still in school, services concentrate on academic preparation and completion. For those who have completed high school requirements or are otherwise no longer in school, Hub Cities services focus on building skills to facilitate employment or seeking higher education.

BUSINESS SERVICES

HCC business services support regional economic growth by developing a world-class workforce, by helping businesses meet current and future workforce needs and by providing valuable information and resources to the business community at large. HCC focuses on building long-term relationships with businesses in and around Los Angeles County, integrating workforce and economic development and serving both business customers and job seekers.

No-cost assistance for businesses includes job-posting services, needs assessments, access to the regional Business Resource Center, support in accessing employer tax credits and incentives, as well as services to help manage both company growth and downsizing.

For more information about Hub Cities Consortium and the Southeast Los Angeles America’s Job Center of California, call 323-586-4700, visit the HCC website at hubcities.org or see facebook.com/HubCities/

8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

PULSE BEAT

America’s Job Center of California

Computers and internet access available

Training session

Mayor’s Desk

Happy New Year, Paramount!

On behalf of my fellow City Council members and all of our City staff, I want to wish everyone a happy 2019. We hope it is a year of peace, prosperity and positivity for everyone in town.

Paramount is a special place, a strong community of various constituencies who always bond together to make this City the best it can be. We thank everyone for your involvement and support.

Now that the holidays have passed, residents can place their Christmas trees at curbside for pickup. The trees will be recycled into mulch.

Through January 18, CalMet Services will pick them up for free. Be sure to remove the stand and all decorations, lights and tinsel, and do not wrap the tree or enclose it in a plastic bag.

Single-family homes: If the tree is four-feet-tall or less, you can put it in

your green waste recycling barrel. For anything larger, set it curbside on your normal garbage collection day by 6 a.m. Flocked trees will also be picked up. After January 18, your tree can still be taken away by scheduling a bulky-item pickup.

Apartments/condominiums: Trees on the curb by 6 a.m. will be taken away for free on regular pickup days. If it’s necessary to drive onto the property, there will be a $5 charge per tree. In these latter cases, the service must be ordered 24 hours before the regular pickup day by the manager or owner who must have the account number for verification.

Businesses: You must call CalMet before placing a tree out for collection so that a green waste truck can visit the location.

If you have any questions, please call CalMet at 562-259-1239

Taking down your holiday lights

Here’s a friendly reminder that the City has an ordinance relating to the display of exterior winter holiday lights for residential properties. The law states that such lights must be removed by Jan. 15.

“Holiday lights” are defined as a string of lights commonly associated with the holiday season that contains multiple- or single-colored or clear light bulbs that are attached to a structure. Only residential properties are affected.

The ordinance was passed in response to concerns voiced by residents about keeping our neighborhoods attractive. The City appreciates everyone’s cooperation.

Paramount in motion!

The transit system in the City is moving in a new and better direction for our residents. All current forms of City-provided transit (except for the Medical Taxi Program) will end on Feb. 9. All replacement forms of transit will begin on Feb. 10.

Most of the Easy Rider shuttle’s fixed routes will be replaced by newly expanded Long Beach Transit bus routes.

The College Bound shuttle will be replaced by a Transit Access Pass (TAP) for Long Beach Transit and Metro bus routes.

Dial-A-Ride buses will be replaced by Fiesta/Ride Yellow Dial-A-Ride taxis.

The Elderly Nutrition bus will be replaced by Fiesta/Ride Yellow Elderly Nutrition taxis.

A Producer of Renewable Fuels Using

Animal Fats and Vegetable Oils

All of these changes will greatly improve service for residents and expand local and regional accessibility.

To learn more details, visit ParamountInMotion.org or call 562-220-2121

Purifier and filter rebates for residents

Rebates are still available to help Paramount residents buy certain indoor air purifiers and heating and air conditioning (HVAC) filters. The City established this program due to Paramount’s location near freeways, railways and the ports of Long Beach and Los Angeles, all of which produce diesel particulate matter.

Air purifiers must be “True HEPA” room-based units. Reimbursement will be up to $100. Household HVAC filters must have a MERV value of 13. Reimbursement will be up to $50.

A one-time rebate is available per household for an air purifier unit or an HVAC filter.

An online application must be submitted with a copy of the receipt within 60 days of purchase. There is a story on the news page at paramountcity.com with a link to the application. You can also call 562-220-2036 with questions.

Cleaner electricity coming to Paramount

The Clean Power Alliance (CPA) is coming to Paramount to provide cleaner electricity from renewable sources for the community at competitive rates.

All Paramount electricity customers will be enrolled automatically with CPA through Southern California Edison (SCE) in early 2019. CPA began mailing information explaining the program to Paramount addresses in December.

In a nutshell, CPA buys the cleaner electricity and hands it over to Edison, who then delivers it to you over their existing utility lines. Nothing else changes. You still get a bill from SCE and deal with them on service issues.

The biggest difference is that a percentage of the power will come from renewable sources, and there may be a subsequent savings on your monthly bill from SCE.

This is just one more way that the City is doing its part to make Paramount as environmentally friendly as possible.

Have questions? Visit cleanpoweralliance.org, contact customerservice@ cleanpoweralliance.org or call 888-585-3788

Now that the holidays are over, you might be thinking of moving some of your old stuff to make room for your new stuff.

If you are selling or buying between private parties through an online site or phone app, remember that you can meet at the Safe Internet Purchase Exchange Zone for these transactions at the Paramount Sheriff’s Station. This zone is available all year long.

There is a designated parking space in the public parking lot open from 7:30 a.m. to 9 p.m., Monday through Sunday, and 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on holidays.

Though deputies will not validate transactions, the space is directly in front of the station and located in a well-lit area with surveillance cameras in place, making these exchanges safer for residents.

The Station is located at 15001 Paramount Blvd. Call 562-220-2002 if you have any questions.

Most who utilize these sales venues are honest people. But meeting a complete stranger to exchange money for items could pose inherent risks. If you cannot set up your meeting at the Paramount Sheriff’s Station, consider the following suggestions:

• Meet at a reasonable time of day, preferably during daylight.

• Do not meet alone or with children present. Have someone accompany you.

• Avoid meeting in your home. If you must meet at your home due to the large size of an item, consider placing the item in the garage or on the porch or entry way.

• If the other party is not willing to meet you in a place where you feel safe, do not meet.

• When purchasing items, inspect them for accuracy and be sure you are getting what you want. It is okay to change your mind and not purchase the item. If a deal seems too good to be true, it usually is. Lots of stolen items are sold online. Drug users often sell things at extremely discounted prices so they can get money for a fast high. Contact your local law enforcement if you think something is stolen.

• Consider having the exact amount of money agreed upon in a specific pocket.

• When purchasing online, use credit cards or secure payment services instead of debit cards.

• When making online purchases in public, use your mobile phone network instead of Wi-Fi.

Chamber holds welcome mixer for Sam Katob of New York Life

The Paramount Chamber of Commerce held a Welcome Mixer for new chamber member Sam Kotob of New York Life on the evening of Dec. 13 at the Chamber office, 15357 Paramount Blvd. Guests enjoyed refreshments and a holiday ambiance as they wished Sam and his family good luck and good business in the new year.

Joining Sam were his wife Paulina Kotob and son Adam Kotob (see photo above). Adam has joined the business with Sam.

Presentations were made by Adrian Landa from Assemblyman Anthony Rendon’s office, Tonya Martin from California State Senator Ricardo Lara’s Office and Barbara Crowson from the Paramount Chamber of Commerce. Sam also received a certificate of welcome from the City of Paramount.

Surveillance cameras make exchanges safer.

City Council

Planning Commissioner Hollie Enriquez thanked

Former Planning Commissioner Hollie Enriquez was recognized at the Dec. 11 Paramount City Council meeting for her work, commitment and time spent on the Commission. From

Vice Mayor Tom Hansen, Councilmember Laurie Guillen, Hollie Enriquez, Mayor Diane J.

Councilmember Peggy Lemons and Councilmember Daryl Hofmeyer.

City once again earns financial reporting award

The City of Paramount received an award for its Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR) from the Government Finance Officers Association at the Dec. 11 Paramount City Council meeting. The report is created by the Finance Department to explain Paramount’s financial profile. The CAFR has won the Association’s award for more than three decades, an acknowledgement of its continual excellence, precision and professionalism. From left: Vice Mayor Tom Hansen, Councilmember Laurie Guillen, Senior Accountant Jaime de Guzman, Mayor Diane J. Martinez, Finance Director Karina Liu, Renita Dukes from the Government Finance Officers Association, Assistant Finance Director Clyde Alexander, Councilmember Peggy Lemons and Councilmember Daryl Hofmeyer.

City event volunteers recognized

Community members who volunteered or donated at recent City events were recognized at the Dec. 11 Paramount City Council meeting. For the Halloween Festival and Haunted

from Paramount

the

Paramount Chamber of Commerce 19th Annual

& Community Fair Saturday, March 9, 2019 • 9 a.m. to Noon Paramount Park, 14400 Paramount Blvd. Free admission & parking

• This annual event brings in a wide variety of job seekers ready for hire, saving you time and money. Continental breakfast served. Registration includes two breakfasts, six-foot display table with cover and two chairs, and tabletop sign with your company name. Private room available for on-the-spot interviews with job candidates. Resource information from federal, state and county agencies.

• Event cost: Chamber members: $30, non-Chamber members: $45, government agencies: no charge. Also see Calendar on page 7.

and advisor Lourdes Aguayo,

Name: Corrine Galbez

Company: World Energy Paramount, 14700 Downey Ave., Paramount, CA 90723

Office phone: 562-748-4790

Major product: Renewable diesel Why did you join the Chamber? World Energy wants to be part of the community.

Birthplace: Long Beach, California Education/training? LBCC

Favorite saying: We can do it!

Latest accomplishment: Bought a vacation home.

Philosophy: Faith and family are #1.

Three wishes: 1) Family always healthy and happy. 2) People to be kind to each other. 3) To hear people laughing and enjoying themselves.

left:

Martinez,

Maze,

High School:

Cheer Team

JROTC and advisor Col. Robert Guild, the AVID Club with advisor Frank Bignami, the Interact Club with advisor Meghann Hernandez, the Leo Club and advisor Joe Lopez and the Soccer Team with coach Hector Rodriguez. For the Veterans Day Breakfast and Fair: from PHS, the Cheer Team, the Leo Club, JROTC, and the Corsairs Club with advisor Andrea Guerrero, along with the Paramount IHOP restaurant for donating the food. And at the 38th annual Seniors Thanksgiving Luncheon, the Corsairs Club for serving the meal and AppleCare for their substantial financial contribution.

Paramount Education Partnership

PEP Talk

Promote your business while also supporting education

Remember to support education in Paramount this year while promoting your business by sponsoring or making a donation to the Paramount Education Partnership’s 16th Annual College Scholarship program.

All donations are made to the PEP 501c3 non-profit entity and are tax deductible.

The generosity of the Paramount business community has helped make dreams of college become a reality for many local students. Over the years, more than $1 million has gone to Paramount kids attending a university, community college or trade school.

For some of these students, it has made the difference in whether or not they could continue their educations. For all recipients, it has been important assistance.

Donor businesses will receive publicity in a variety of venues.

If you are interested in sponsorships or other contributions, please call 562-220-2121. Please see additional details at the right.

PEP scholarship applications available

PEP scholarships of $1,000 are awarded to students attending a community college, and $3,000 scholarships are available to students attending an accredited four-year state university within the U.S, including vocational, trade and technical schools. The scholarship jumps to $4,000 if the student is attending a University of California campus or a private four-year university in the U.S.

This year, a total of 46 scholarships will be given out, with 10 of those specifically set aside for community college students or “momentum” students; the latter have a GPA under 2.0 and can demonstrate they’ve improved academically for two consecutive years.

Here are the requirements for applying:

• Must be a City of Paramount resident and/or a PUSD student.

• Have a high school diploma or GED.

• Enroll in an accredited program.

• Possess a minimum cumulative high school GPA of 2.0.

• Submit a copy of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid Report.

• Dream Act AB 540 students are welcome to apply.

Hard copies of the PEP scholarship application are available at Paramount City Hall, the Paramount City Yard/Recreation Office and the Paramount Chamber of Commerce. Copies can also be downloaded on the City of Paramount website: paramountcity.com

Finished applications need to be turned into Paramount City Hall or the Paramount City Yard/Recreation Office by the end of the day on Feb. 14.

• PEP provides 36 college scholarships each year to Paramount High School students or to Paramount residents already attending college.

• PEP provides funds for universities, community colleges and trade schools.

• 100% of your donations go to scholarships.

• All donations are tax-deductible.

For more information about PEP and how to get involved with fundraising, please call the City of Paramount at 562-220-2121 or visit us at paramountcity.com/pep.

BARTENDER

Part-time position. Must have evenings and weekends available. Contact Leroy at 562-634-9001

SKILLED LABOR OPPORTUNITIES

SkillsetGroup currently has positions available for first, second and third shifts. Come in and apply today! SkillsetGroup actualmente tiene aperturas para puestos disponibles para Primer, Segundo y Tercer turno. ¡Ven y aplica hoy!

Machine operator Sanitation Loading/unloading Forklift driver Production line Order pulling Call us at 866-375-3094 or use Instagram (@skillsetgroup) or Facebook for weekly updates. 7300 Alondra Blvd., Suite 202, Paramount, CA 90723.

STATE FARM AGENT

Take control and keep perspective. State Farm Agents grow a business designed to help customers protect what’s important to them while making time to give back to their neighborhood. Make a decision you can be proud of and take your career to a better state. Contact David Maciel at 562-305-2111.

FULL-TIME SEAMSTRESS

5-Star Interior Services, Inc., has a job for a full-time seamstress with drapery experience. Contact Leroy at 818-845-4518

place an Employment Opportunities ad, please call

OPEN HOUSE Paramount Elks Club 1804

Thursday, January 17, 2019, from 5 to 7 p.m. 8108 Alondra Blvd., Paramount

Open to the public • Food & beverages

Great networking opportunity • Raffles

Come and meet your local Paramount Elks Club members and see what Elks are doing for the community. RSVP: 562-634-3980

State of the City

ANNUAL ADDRESS

Thursday, February 7, 2019

Progress Park Plaza • 15500 Downey Avenue • Paramount

Get acquainted: 11 to 11:30 a.m. • Luncheon program begins promptly at 11:30 a.m. Chamber members: $63 • Non-Chamber members: $78

Table Sponsor–8 reserved seats: Chamber members: $550 • Non-Chamber members: $675 Make reservations online at ParamountChamber.com.

SPEAKERS

r r

Jon Tanklage, Chamber President

Dr. Ruth Perez, PUSD Superintendent

TSix crucial steps you must include in your marketing strategy in 2019

he world is all about fast-paced change, enabling innovation to become the lifeblood of every business and the key driver of success. For some brands, this means that their inherent ability to create and bring new solutions to the world will put them at the forefront of their industry. For others, however, that means they will need to step up their game to scale their operations and gain more visibility.

This is where the latest and the most effective marketing strategies step in to save the day. As of 2019, we’ll see many an ingenious solution for the over-competitive market, but the following six will stand out. Use them as areas of continuous improvement for your business and let your brand soar despite the overwhelming tempo of progress.

1. Content remains king

Inbound marketing has always been, and always will be, a vital segment of every business. It’s in the very fabric of your brand, delivering language and imagery that not only gives value to your customer but also builds your reputation. As a staggering number of people implement ad blockers, your brand can no longer rely on advertisements to sell—but on educational content.

As Google gets more challenging with their algorithm changes and requirements, your brand has to come up with truly authentic storytelling pieces to get more traction. With more competitors to face and a quickly advancing tech world, every business needs to diversify its content production in order to deliver on its promise.

2. Automation through chatbots

Dealing with a multitude of users also means that you need peoplepower to tackle the numbers. This positive growth in communication, especially via social media, allows brands to get a closer look at what their customers want and how they can optimize their CX (customer experience). Enter: chatbots! With the help of this nifty invention, brands can now simplify their communications with customers. Automated, simple to use and very reliable, chatbots are helping brands get the needed customer insight, guide their users through any setbacks in their shopping journey and establish a connection with the audience through platforms such as Facebook’s own Messenger.

3. Video content surges in popularity

Among all forms of content now in demand, video is by far the most appealing for the

modern-day consumer in a constant hurry. “Instagram Stories” emerged as a response to this growing trend, while Snapchat, YouTube and Facebook also base a huge portion of their views and likes precisely on this type of content.

For brands that are still in their early stages of development, this is one of the best ways to get up-close and personal with your audience: invite them to make short clips using your product, post your own sneak-peeks of your brand’s life, introduce live-streaming and the like. Diversify by using videos with subtitles for people who prefer to watch with sound off and videos with no language whatsoever—some music is always a good idea, but keep it muted unless the user chooses to listen.

4. Search engine optimization reigns

There’s no way to overemphasize the importance of being liked by Google and other search engines, as well as their pursuit of more refined ways to rank businesses in the SERPs (search engine results pages). In order for your website to deserve Google’s love and the firstpage throne, you need always to update your pages according to the latest search engine needs—and keep in mind that 94% of your organic website visits come from Google.

To be able to meet the growing requirements of search engines, more brands are relying on SEO services to be able to focus on other aspects of their business growth. The SEO game has become a very intricate one, combining on-site optimization, paid ads, continuous keyword research and the like. For brands wanting to stay at the top of their games, it pays to know what search engines appreciate and how to stay a few steps ahead of the competition.

5. Influencers front and center

You already understand that your business is worth very little without the support of its audience. In the modern climate, however, this support expands to include social media

influencers as well. Not limited to celebrities alone, any modern business needs to find a way to build relationships with people who have a significant impact on your niche. If you’re in the fashion business and there’s a local girl whose Instagram profile counts followers in thousands, it’s time to make friends.

Genuine reviews, brand ambassador contracts, images of these popular people using and advertising your brand—it all provides a real-life context for your brand in the eyes of your customers. They will be far more likely to consider your offer if they see that you are in business with an Instagram star they adore. It doesn’t have to be a supermodel or a movie star; it’s more than enough to start with microinfluencers that have access to your target audience.

6. Feedback in the spotlight

Just like the word of your social media stars carries a certain level of significance, the same goes for your previous customers. Not all of them might be inclined or accustomed to leaving public reviews on Google, Yelp or social media, but with a bit of encouragement from you, they might be happy to support you publicly. After all, if positive reviews can lead to a 133% increase in conversions, wouldn’t you say this is a worthy investment for your 2019 marketing strategy?

Don’t shy away from criticism as well, because these bits of negativity can serve as a perfect source of information on how to improve your service. However, don’t let it remain at soliciting feedback, but take action and let your customers know what steps you’ve taken to accommodate their needs—they will appreciate your effort, and the negative review might just turn into a positive one.

Every day, the world is richer by more companies trying to make their way to the top and novel strategies to grant them this wish. As you face your fierce competition, you can utilize these methods to maximize your growth potential and make the most of your marketing efforts in the upcoming year.

This article originally appeared on smallbizdaily.com on December 18, 2018.

Chatbots simplify your customer communications.

Remember that 94% of your organic website visits come from Google.

Make friends with Instagram stars.

California Testing & Inspections profiled in new Stanford study

California Testing & Inspections (caltestinspection.com ) and its President and Chief Executive Officer Fabiola Jaque-Diaz were recently profiled in a newly published, comprehensive study titled Latino-owned Businesses: Shining a Light on National Trends. The Stanford University Business School Latino Enterprise Initiative conducted the study in collaboration with Interise, a U.S.-based nonprofit organization that provides small business owners with entrepreneurial education, new networks and access to markets.

California Testing & Inspections provides site exploration, materials testing, field inspections, quality assurance and quality control for many different kinds of construction projects. The company works with public agencies, school districts, private companies, general contractors and, according to Fabiola: “anybody building any challenging project.” Based in Paramount, the company also has a location in San Diego County.

Fabiola opened California Testing & Inspections in 2008 during the Great Recession. After several difficult years, the company is now growing and becoming more stable due to its focus on quality control, customer service and maintaining good jobs for the company’s employees.

Labor laetitia nostra, the Latin slogan on the company’s logo, means “Work is our joy,” and Fabiola and her strong team of staff engineers attempt to live up to that slogan by providing customers excellent technical and personalized services. The company offers professional development and makes a concerted effort to keep its staff fully employed.

The company is especially focused on transportation and building projects in Los Angeles County and San Diego County, and Fabiola hopes that in five years, California Testing & Inspections will be the “go-to-company” for construction inspection and related testing services.

Paramount Chamber of Commerce

member-to-member disc o unts

As a member, these discounts are extended to you by your fellow members. Visit the following businesses to receive the discounts listed below. But remember, these offers are available only to members of the Paramount Chamber of Commerce!

Advertising & Marketing

Advertise Smart, Not Hard (323-247-0938): Five-night Cancún accommodation for subscribing to any of our products.

Attorney & Legal Services

Lerma Law Office (562-272-4353): 15% discount on initial retainer fee or flat-rate service.

Automotive

Herald’s Garage (562-633-2136): 15% discount on labor and free engine light reset.

Cleaners

Alert Cleaners (562-634-4602): 10% discount on any dry cleaning.

Communications

Transcom Telecommunications (562-630-1200, ext. 221): 10% off equipment (business phone services).

Contractors

Jones Scaffold Co. (800-266-3864): 10% off net rental of scaffold equipment.

Data Base Services

NEXTSTEP (877-305-6932): Free needs analysis and special member discount rate.

Financial Services

SG Tax Services (562-630-4004): $25 off tax preparation for members and their employees.

Vicky Professional Services (562-634-1178): 20% off bookkeeping and accounting service. United Credit Education Services (424-298-1726): $50 off $99 enrollment fee.

Hotels & Motels

Embassy Suites Hotel (562-861-1900): 15% off best available room rate (subject to availability). Ask for “Chamber Rate.”

Medical

Clínica Médica Hispana (562-630-1991): 25% discount.

Hansen, Thomas D. C. – Chiropractor (562-634-0985): 25% off initial visit.

Plumbing & Heating

Downey Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning (562-861-1234): 10% off HydroJet service and/or 10% off material.

Printers

Source Graphics, Inc. (562-408-2734): 10% discount.

Real Estate

GM Properties (562-696-0200): 5% of gross commissions on closed deals will be sent to the charity of our choice in your name. Call and ask for Matt.

The R.M. Cool Company (562-630-6000): Call and ask about our preferred pricing for Chamber members.

Penta Pacific Properties (562-699-1922): Free opinions of market value of commercial and industrial properties.

Real Estate Homes & Investments (562-200-1164): 20% discount. Call and ask about preferred pricing for Paramount Chamber of Commerce members.

Restaurants

Antojitos Mexicanos Restaurant (562-712-5292): 10% discount on all food orders over $10.

Café Corleone (562-408-6100): 10% discount on all food purchases.

Café Camellia (562/866-2824): 10% discount on food purchases.

Casa Gamino (562-634-6225): 10% discount on food purchases.

El Compa Restaurant (562-630-1068): 10% discount on all food purchases.

Mariscos El Parihuete (562-408-1661): 10% discount on all food purchases over $10.

Mariscos Mi Lindo Sinaloa #1 (562-529-5110): 10% discount on food purchases.

Pika Tortas Ahogadas (562-529-5787): 10% discount on all regular-priced food items (excludes combo deals).

Skating Rink

Paramount Iceland (562-633-1171): 10% off admission and skate rental.

Wholesalers & Distributors

Rayvern Lighting Supply, Inc. (562-634-7020): 5% off fixtures and ballast orders (electrical supplies).

If you have questions or you’d like to learn more about this discount program, please call the Chamber of Commerce office at 562-634-3980

Paramount Women’s Club

Serving our community since 1927

Club members recently gathered at Casa Gamino Restaurant for their annual Christmas Exchange Party.

On June 28, 1927, a civicminded lady named Hattie Flint called a meeting to organize a women’s group that would serve the community—and 16 ladies attended. Thus was the Clearwater-Hynes Women’s Club founded. The name was changed to Paramount Women’s Club in 1948 when the two cities merged. Over the years, the club has been involved in many community improvement projects. Today they focus broadly on the arts, conservation, education, home life and health, international affairs (especially outreach to children), public affairs (including crime prevention and issue awareness) and special projects and programs addressing various timely needs of the Paramount community.

Dues are $35 per year. The club meets on the third Wednesday of each non-summer month at 11:30 a.m. for a potluck luncheon that features music, speakers or performing artists. Meetings are at Progress Park Plaza, 15500 Downey Ave. in Paramount. They also hold special luncheons and field trips. For more information, please call 562-634-3980 or drop by the Chamber office and pick up the club’s brochure.

O Serving our veterans since 1923 O Business meeting every second Tuesday of the month at 6 p.m.

To all our firefighters, lawenforcement professionals and search-and-rescue volunteers for their dedicated service.

7550 Somerset Blvd., Paramount, CA “Canteena” open daily at 1 p.m. Hall for rent call for a quote at: 562-788-7352 Post #134

Serving the community since 1946, the Paramount Lions have been actively participating in and providing donations to support local programs such as PEP (Paramount Education Partnership), Relay for Life, City of Hope, youth sports, food banks, and eye care for families in need. Come join our dedicated members as we build friendships and partnerships with a common goal of giving back to the community.

Join us for lunch: 2nd & 4th Thursdays 12:30-1:30 p.m. Clearwater Building 16401 Paramount Blvd. Paramount Lions Club LionsParamount@gmail.com

A few words about service clubs...

Service clubs and organizations in the United States are voluntary groups that meet regularly to perform beneficial charitable works, including sponsoring fundraising events for various social causes, disaster relief, medical assistance and other services for people in need.

A number of today’s service organizations started in the early 20th century as social clubs and venues for business networking and then evolved into groups devoted to community service. Clubs usually meet regularly on a recurring day and time, often for lunch or dinner. Service clubs encourage community involvement, networking and personal growth among their members. In the USA, many of these organizations have tax-exempt 501(c)(3) nonprofit status. Some USA-based service organizations, including the Lions Club and Rotary Club, have become large worldwide movements officially recognized by the United Nations and governments of various countries as legitimate non-governmental organizations (NGOs).

Some organizations are dedicated to serving the interests of particular groups, such as the American Legion’s focus on U.S. military veterans.

If you would like to add your service club to those shown here, please contact the Paramount Chamber of Commerce at 562-634-3980.

On Dec.15, American Legion Post 134 held their Holiday Pot Luck and collected toys for the Fire Department “Spark of Love” drive. They also adopted a family to whom they gave Walmart gift cards. Shown (left to right): Post 134 Commander Joe Valdez with Torres family members Jesus, Alejandro and Ivan (not shown: Vivian and Lisa).

TChamber Holiday Mixer

hey sang and danced, they played games, they ate and drank, they won prizes, and they made merry! Our thanks go to all those who turned out for our annual Paramount Chamber of Commerce Holiday Mixer on Dec. 7 at Progress Park Plaza.

We are especially grateful to Farmers & Merchants Bank, which sponsored the event, and to all the local eateries that contributed food for the holiday feast: Alondra Hot Wings, Amapola Deli & Market, Antojitos Mexicanos Restaurant, Cafe Coreleone Italian Restaurant, Casa Adelita Tacos Y Mariscos, Casa Camino, DeLucia Cerveteca Gastropub, Domino’s, Donas Donut Shop, DoublZ, El Compa Restaurante, El Perihuete Seafood Restaurant, Enrique’s Mexican Restaurant, Horchateria, IHOP, Marisco’s Mi Lindo Sinaloa, Northgate Market, Papa John’s Pizza and Subway.

We also thank those who donated raffle prizes: Bayfront Youth & Family Services, City of Paramount, Domino’s, First Capital Lending, Fobi Comprehensive Pharmacy, In Motion Design, Lifegate Church, Mattco Forge, Inc., New York Life, Real Estate Homes and Investments, Southern California Immediate Medical Center, Total-Western, Inc., W.H. Plumbing Heating & Air Conditioning, and World Energy Paramount.

We thank our event sponsor:

TAKE YOUR SHOT !

WINTER YOUTH BASKETBALL

WINTER YOUTH BASKETBALL Join a TEAM!

Age Groups

• Winners Division:5-6 yrs

Youth Basketball Program

Our Youth Basketball Program allows boys and girls to learn the game while building on necessary character skills and teamwork.

*ALL PUSD STUDENTS ARE INCLUDED IN THE RESIDENT RATE Registration

Our Youth Basketball Program allows boys and girls to learn the game while building on necessary character skills and teamwork.

• Now through 01/29/19

• Paramount *Residents: $70

*ALL PUSD STUDENTS ARE INCLUDED IN THE RESIDENT RATE Registration

Age Groups

• Rookies Division: 7-8 yrs

Age Groups

• Winners Division:5-6 yrs

• Champions Division: 9-10 yrs

• Winners Division:5-6 yrs

*ALL PUSD STUDENTS ARE INCLUDED IN THE RESIDENT RATE Registration

 All-Star Division: 11-13 yrs

• Rookies Division: 7-8 yrs

• Champions Division: 9-10 yrs

Your Community Needs You

 All-Star Division: 11-13 yrs

Your Community Needs You

If you or someone you know is interested in a volunteer coaching position that will make a positive and lasting impact on the children in your community, please contact our office and speak to Alex Magnall.

Financial Assistance

As a community based organization, the YMCA offers financial assistance to families who cannot pay the full price of the program. Please contact our office for more details.

Financial Assistance

As a community based organization, the YMCA offers financial assistance to families who cannot pay the full price of the program. Please contact our office for more details.

• Now through 01/29/19

• Non-Residents: $90

• Now through 01/29/19

• Paramount *Residents: $70

Pre-Season Details

• Non-Residents: $90

Pre-Season Details

• Early Assessment & Onsite Registration: Wednesday Dec.12th from 6-8pm

Age Groups

Pre-Season Details

• Early Assessment & Onsite Registration: Wednesday Dec.12th from 6-8pm

• Assessment & Onsite Registration: Wednesday January 16th from 6-8pm

• Winners Division:5-6 yrs

• Early Assessment & Onsite Registration: Wednesday Dec.12th from 6-8pm

• Rookies Division: 7-8 yrs

• Assessment & Onsite Registration: Wednesday January 16th from 6-8pm

• Location: All assessments and onsite registrations will take place in the Paramount Park Gym, located at 14400 Paramount Boulevard, Paramount CA

• Champions Division: 9-10 yrs

• Assessment & Onsite Registration: Wednesday January 16th from 6-8pm

Season Details

 All-Star Division: 11-13 yrs

• Location: All assessments and onsite registrations will take place in the Paramount Park Gym, located at 14400 Paramount Boulevard, Paramount CA

Your Community Needs You

 Season Dates: 02/03/19 - 03/24/19

Season Details

• Location: All assessments and onsite registrations will take place in the Paramount Park Gym, located at 14400 Paramount Boulevard, Paramount CA

 Season Dates: 02/03/19 - 03/24/19

 Games: Saturdays beginning 02/09/19. Season includes 7 games.

Season Details

Practices: Mondays or Wednesdays, beginning the week of 02/03/19

 Games: Saturdays beginning 02/09/19. Season includes 7 games.

 Season Dates: 02/03/19 - 03/24/19

 Practices: Mondays or Wednesdays, beginning the week of 02/03/19

Location: All games and practices will take place in the Paramount Park Gym, located at 14400 Paramount Boulevard, Paramount CA 90723

Financial Assistance

 Games: Saturdays beginning 02/09/19. Season includes 7 games.

To register, please visit www.lbymca.org or contact the Los Cerritos YMCA.

 Location: All games and practices will take place in the Paramount Park Gym, located at 14400 Paramount Boulevard, Paramount CA 90723

 Practices: Mondays or Wednesdays, beginning the week of 02/03/19

As a community based organization, the YMCA offers financial assistance to families who cannot pay the full price of the program. Please contact our office for more details.

To register, please visit www.lbymca.org or contact the Los Cerritos YMCA. 562.925.1292 | Monday - Friday | 9:00am - 6:00pm

562.925.1292 | Monday - Friday | 9:00am - 6:00pm

 Location: All games and practices will take place in the Paramount Park Gym, located at 14400 Paramount Boulevard, Paramount CA 90723

To register, please visit www.lbymca.org or contact the Los Cerritos YMCA. 562.925.1292 | Monday - Friday | 9:00am - 6:00pm

To register, please or contact

562.925.1292 | Monday

Los Cerritos YMCA