Paramount heritage abounds with parade
Along a mighty length of Paramount Blvd. on June 1, the City’s past and present were in full bloom as the Third Annual Heritage Festival was preceded by the first-ever Paramount Heritage Parade.
The Festival celebrates Paramount’s history from the hay and dairy days to the vibrant, attractive community of today. Part of that history for many years included a variety of parades down Paramount Blvd. But it’s been a long time since these kinds of processions have been held—until now.
A creative and enthusiastic group of residents came together early this year with the idea of producing a parade once again to celebrate Paramount. They decided to hold it in conjunction with the City’s festival. Completely starting from scratch, these 12 determined people gave themselves about six months to pull it off. And they hit it out of the park.
There were over 60 entries with marching bands, horseback riders, vintage vehicles, dancing groups and more.
Committee members were Isabel Aguayo, Johnny Alcarez, Margaret Garcia, Rebecca Guillen, Cynthia Guillen-Nelson, Mike McKown, Miriam Mercado, Margaret Mondragon, Brenda Olmos, Karla Rodriquez-Picasso, Dora Sanchez and Vilma Stallings-Cuellar. They all deserve a special round of applause. All this hard work paid off with a wonderful display that exceeded all their hopes—none of which would have been possible without 14 gracious sponsors (see page 16 for a special acknowledgment to these sponsors.)
At the Festival, entertainment was provided by performers from Paramount High, the Mokler Folklorico and dancers with the Latinas Arts Foundation, plus special performances at the Hay Tree and by Rolling Stones, Mana and Caifanes tribute bands.
Paramount High School students with the highest grade point averages this year in the 9th, 10th and 11th grades were recognized by the City Council and Assemblymember Anthony Rendon (see PEP Talk on page 4 for details).
There was also a Kids Zone (including inflatables, a petting zoo, and cowmilking demonstrations), games, A Taste of Paramount and a beer garden.
It was a big day of Paramount pride and a continuation of vintage traditions.
[ Please see many more photos from the parade and festival on page 14. ]
The Paramount Chamber of Commerce recognized outstanding local businesses and individuals and swore in a new slate of officers at its annual Installation and Awards Luncheon on June 27 at Progress Park Plaza.
Ben Berg of Transcom Telecommunications (at left) became our new Chamber President. He brings “Southern country-boy” charm to the office and comes in with enthusiasm and a list of goals to make the next 12 months productive and exciting. As a board member, Ben has already shown how much he enjoys reaching out to the community and networking with Chamber members and residents.
Outgoing President Jon Tanklage of Marukan USA (at left) was recognized by Mayor Tom Hansen and other government officials in attendance, as well as his fellow Chamber members, for his outstanding leadership and for great strides that the Chamber has made during the past year, including the well-received “Meet Your Los Angeles County Leaders Luncheon” last November.
The Paramount Chamber of Commerce serves as a valuable bridge between businesses and the community by
PULSE BEAT
providing services and events that help bring people together and build a stronger local economy. Since this could not be done without our members, volunteers and sponsors, each year the Chamber offers special recognition to companies, organizations and individuals that have sponsored events, provided services and made other distinct contributions to the well-being and growth of our organization and our community throughout the year.
Award of Excellence WaveFront Technology, Inc., won this annual award for their ongoing support of the City and the Chamber. Over the last few years, WFT has consistently gone the extra mile, sponsoring the Annual Job Fair here in Paramount, coaching job seekers, supporting Paramount High School sports programs, donating science equipment to Williams Elementary School, providing scholarships to six annual winners at the Institute of Arts, Music & Science, and sponsoring the annual Paramount Heritage Parade, as well as the Chamber’s Annual Golf Classic and Annual Poker Tournament. WaveFront Technology has set an exemplary standard for community service.
[ Please see Chamber Awards Luncheon on page 8.]
Young dancers from Latinas Art Foundation (see page 7).
Ben Berg and Jon Tanklage
Mayor’s Desk
Mayor’s annual award goes to Zamboni Company
At the Paramount Chamber of Commerce’s Installation and Awards
Luncheon in June, it was my pleasure to present the annual Mayor’s Award for Business of the Year to Richard Zamboni and the Frank J. Zamboni Co.
The Zamboni Company is certainly a unique enterprise of which the City has been proud for a long, long time. In many ways, they have put Paramount on the map. Few cities our size that can claim to be the home of such a unique global phenomenon whose name is instantly recognized by millions of people worldwide.
This is a special year for them—their 70th anniversary.
Brothers Frank and Lawrence Zamboni moved to Hynes in 1920. They started an electrical contracting company and then built an ice-producing plant on California near Jackson in 1927. This led to the opening of the Iceland skating rink in 1940. Nine years later, Frank invented his innovative marvel: the Zamboni iceresurfacing machine.
Things are going stronger than ever these seven decades later. (See more about the history of the company on page 14 of the June 2019 issue of Pulse Beat.)
Throughout the years, the Zambonis have stayed committed to their roots in Paramount. In fact, Frank played a
A Producer of Renewable Fuels Using
Animal Fats and Vegetable Oils
major role in the creation of Paramount. He was instrumental in the unification campaign that combined Hynes and Clearwater under our current name in 1948. He even went to Washington, D.C., to discuss the matter with their congressman and the Postmaster General. It was the consolidation of the Hynes and Clearwater post offices under Paramount that made the change official.
Frank was also very involved with the Paramount Chamber of Commerce in those early years, including serving as president. His son, Richard, who runs the company today, served as Chamber president, too.
The family and the company have also been firm supporters of the community. For instance, they have been actively involved with the Paramount Education Partnership since day one.
With all of this in mind—and as a well-deserved birthday present—we felt it was the perfect year to recognize the Frank J. Zamboni Co. with the Mayor’s Award as Business of the Year.
Enjoy free summer music in Paramount!
Blue Breeze Band will play Motown sounds on July 11.
This summer there will once again be a series of free concerts on Thursdays in Progress Park. Come out and enjoy the evening air under the canopy of trees, tapping your toes to a variety of musical genres from July 11 through August 15. The music plays from 6:30 - 8 p.m. It’s festival-style seating, so bring a lawn chair or blanket.
There will be food trucks as well, with food for purchase starting at 6 p.m.
Here’s the line-up:
• Thursday, July 11: Blue Breeze Band (Motown)
• Thursday, July 18: Saved by the 90s (’90s covers)
• Thursday, July 25: Nubes (Caifanes Tribute)
• Thursday, August 1: Escape (Journey Tribute)
• Thursday, August 8: Rob Staley Band (Country)
• Thursday, August 15: Los Pinguos (Latin Rhythm) Come join in the fun!
And thank you to our sponsors: World Energy Paramount, Wavefront Technology, T-Mobile Paramount, Los Angeles County Arts Commission, Iceland, Assemblymember Anthony Rendon, New York Life-Sammy T. Kotob, Pizza Press, Horchateria Rio Luna, Clínica Medica Hispana and Downey Federal Credit Union. Progress Park is located at 15500 Downey Ave. (Also see CityScape on page 15.)
SNAP offers free meals and activities for kids
Here’s a reminder that the Paramount Unified School District and the City of Paramount are once again providing a free Summer Nutrition and Activity Program (SNAP) for local kids.
The federally funded program offers activities and meals Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. for children 18 and younger at all elementary and middle schools in the District (except for Jackson). It runs until July 26.
SNAP is walk-in with no registration. Children can come and go any time during operating hours.
A free breakfast is served from 9 to 9:45 a.m. Staff members lead physical fitness activities and arts and crafts from 9:30 a.m. to noon. A free lunch is served from noon to 12:30 p.m.
SNAP gives the kids of Paramount a place to have fun and enjoy some delicious meals during the summer break—all at no cost.
For more information, please call 562-220-2121.
Low-cost pet vaccinations
The City’s second “Vaccine-A-Thon” this summer for all dogs and cats in the community will be on Wednesday, July 17, from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Paramount Park, 14410 Paramount Blvd.
Rabies vaccinations (required for all dogs under California law) will be priced at $7 each (plus a $2 medical waste-disposal fee). This is a $10-$15 savings over traditional prices.
A complete selection of other pet vaccinations will be available at discounted prices, with special combination packs to allow pet owners even greater savings when they purchase multiple vaccinations.
You can get general health exams and services at discounted prices. (A list of these services and their costs can be found online at vetcarepetclinic.com or on flyers available at City Hall.)
Flea control products Comfortis, Trifexis, Bravecto and NexGard may be purchased at special prices.
You can have a microchip registration done for identification purposes (if your pet is ever lost) for $30 and nail trimming for $15.
Pet licensing is available on site. Checks and cash only will be accepted for licensing. Checks, card and credit cards will be accepted for veterinarian services. Please remember: Dogs must be on leashes and cats must be in carriers.
All services are provided by licensed veterinarians from Vet Care Vaccination Services, Inc., in conjunction with South East Area Animal Control Authority (SEAACA). For more information, please call 562-220-2018.
First Zamboni machine in 1949
Public Safety
Paramount’s efforts to help the homeless
The Los Angeles County homeless count has been completed, and results show that Paramount has 115 homeless neighbors in 2019, a slight increase from last year’s 102. In light of this annual undertaking, this is an appropriate time to share some of the actions the City is taking to address homelessness.
This issue now touches every city and everyone in some manner. Solutions are not simple, but when we help those in need, we help ourselves and our entire community. Sympathy and compassion are central to the hard work that lies ahead.
Paramount is not alone in working on solutions to eliminate these numbers. Many neighboring cities are committed to helping individuals who find themselves living on the street or in vehicles. The City, working with Bellflower and the non-profit organization People Assisting The Homeless (PATH), developed a “Plan to Prevent and Combat Homelessness.”
Creating the plan was a collaborative process with residents and experts and included a public forum where those attending shared thoughts during a positive discussion.
Goals involve public education, increasing access to services and preventing Paramount residents from becoming homeless. Here are some ways the City of Paramount is trying to help:
There is a full-time staff member who dedicates approximately 50% of daily work time to addressing homeless issues.
Members of the Special Assignment Team and Public Safety Department, along with representatives from non-profits, talk regularly with homeless neighbors. Various forms of assistance are offered to them:
• Transportation to a shelter with the assistance of the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority team.
• Onsite medical treatment from nurses with the Homeless Outreach Program Integrated Care System (HOPICS).
• Making social services or mental health appointments.
• Giving DMV vouchers to get identification cards.
• Providing medical transportation vouchers to pick up prescription medications.
Service providers from HOPICS are at the Paramount Community Center quarterly to engage with anyone experiencing or nearing homelessness in Paramount.
Staff members toured the Behavioral Health Urgent Care Center in Long Beach to gain information about this County facility that has walk-in clinical services and 24/7 crisis intervention support for our homeless population. The details were then supplied to Sheriff’s deputies and other city staff for them to have as a resource for residents experiencing mental health issues.
Staff members attend meetings for Service Planning Areas created by the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health to provide more relevant services for the specific health needs of residents.
The City recently received a $154,000 grant from the Los Angeles County Homeless Initiative, which was developed from the Measure H sales tax. This will fund the City’s proposed Safe Storage Program (putting storage sheds at a City-owned vacant lot for homeless individuals to use on a temporary basis), the Shelter Bed Program (reserving two beds at a nearby shelter to be used exclusively by Paramount homeless individuals) and a Rental Assistance Program.
The Rental Assistance Program grant will provide one-time monetary assistance, topping at $2,000, for Paramount residents who are past due on their rents with the goal of keeping them in their homes. The non-profit organization Kingdom Causes will administer the program, as they do for Norwalk and Bellflower, screening participants via an application process and providing case management, credit counseling and financial mentoring.
Other services in the plan include increasing accessibility to hygiene resources like showers, bathrooms and laundry facilities; funding motel vouchers; forming a Paramount Homeless Coalition; encouraging local landlords to rent vacant units to people leaving homelessness; and identifying underutilized lots or buildings that could become sites of affordable housing.
The ongoing mission in Paramount is to combine resources from all outreach providers to locate, identify and offer aid to all individuals experiencing homelessness in town. The City is doing its part to attain these objectives and help end this problem. - Photo by Brigitte Werner (Pixabay)
Top-performing PHS students recognized at Heritage Festival
Paramount High School students who earned the highest grade point averages (GPAs) during the past year were recognized on June 1 at the annual Paramount Heritage Festival.
Members of the Paramount City Council and the Paramount Unified School District Governing Board, the PUSD Superintendent and a representative from Assemblymember Anthony Rendon’s office congratulated students from the 9th, 10th and 11th grades.
Here are photos and names of these outstanding students who reflect the excellence of the Paramount school system, the community and their families:
Register for the STAR afterschool program
STAR is a great afterschool program offered by the City and PUSD at all Paramount K-8 schools.
Registration is now open for the 2019-20 school year. Kids have fun while getting plenty of healthy physical activity, and they receive homework help while working on iPads and MacBooks. Snacks are provided.
Space is limited, so sign up today at the Recreation Office, 15300 Downey Ave.; call 562-220-2121. There is a one-time $10 annual registration fee per student.
9th grade 4.67 gpa : Diana Aguirre and Luis Ruiz; 4.5 gpa : Gabriel Ayala, Adrian Bocanegra, Francisco Botello, Teresa Bowen, Nancy Carrillo, Ava Guevara, Anthony Guzman, Disleiry Hernandez, Ariana Jerez, Henessy Ochoa, Janea Tan and Brandon Tress.
10th grade 4.55 gpa : Desiree Mariscal and Melissa Munoz; 4.53 gpa : MacGyver Chau, Emily Lizarraga and Valerie Machado; 4.5 gpa : Beatriz Bazua and Valerie Hernandez; 4.48 gpa: Karen Melendez, Quetzalli Orta and Melanie Rodarte.
11th grade 4.61 gpa : Fatima Larios; 4.56 gpa : Christopher Lopez; 4.53 gpa : Angel Gutierrez; 4.52 gpa : Austin Garcia; 4.48 gpa : Juan Madrid, Isabella Villalobos-Arriaga, Erika Guerrero and Arlin Moreno; 4.47 gpa : Ashley Valencia.
City Council
Paramount HS FCCLA club recognized
At the June 4 Paramount City Council meeting, members of the Family, Career and Community Leaders of America Club from Paramount High School were recognized for their successes in regional, state and national competitions. Four students qualified for the nationals this year. Also, Aileen Tanimoto was honored for being club advisor for 40 years at PHS; she is the longest-serving FCCLA advisor in California. The Council provided 300 city pins for the students to trade with their fellow competitors. From left, back row: Adrian Landa (representing Assemblymember Anthony Rendon), Councilmember Laurie Guillen, Councilmember Diane J. Martinez, Mayor Tom Hansen, Councilmember Peggy Lemons and Vice Mayor Daryl Hofmeyer. From left, front row: students MacGyver Chau, Gisselle Rios, Kiana Ceballos and Maximillian Chau and advisors Tanimoto and Juliette Bell.
Assemblymember Rendon’s art winners
Assemblymember Anthony Rendon’s first Assembly District 63 Art Competition for high school students was held as part of the community outreach efforts for the AB 530 Lower Los Angeles River Revitalization Plan. Three of the four winners were from Paramount High School: Giselle Guevara (second place), Bryan Huizar (third place) and Tatiana Nuñez (Speaker’s Choice). They were recognized at the June 4 City Council meeting. From left: Adrian Landa (representing Assemblymember Rendon), Councilmember Laurie Guillen, Councilmember Diane J. Martinez, Mayor Tom Hansen, Tatiana Nuñez, Giselle Guevara, Councilmember Peggy Lemons and Vice Mayor Daryl Hofmeyer.
Traditional Artists Guild recognized
The Traditional Artists Guild, a
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Gaines kindergarten students lead pledge
Uriarte family, GRID Alternatives recognized
The City of Paramount’s partnership with GRID Alternatives, a non-profit organization that provides free home solar service to underserved communities, was featured on the PBS documentary series “Earth Focus” in June. The show included interviews with the Uriarte family of Paramount who have used GRID’s services. The family was recognized at the June 4 City Council meeting, along with Stella Ursua of GRID.
PULSE BEAT
A monthly publication of the Paramount Chamber of Commerce 15357 Paramount Boulevard Paramount, CA 90273 562-634-3980 • paramountchamber.com
Executive Director: Barbara Crowson
Executive Assistant: Dora Sanchez
since
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Distributed and read by more than 20,000 residents and business owners in Paramount.
Layout & design: Danmark Associates Printing: Reed Printing
Delivery: Great Western Distributors
Kindergarten students from Gaines Elementary School who are in the STAR afterschool program led the Pledge of Allegiance at the June 4 Paramount City Council meeting.
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great service to the young people in town with the annual student competition. Due to a number of factors, including the death of longtime leader John Nowlin, TAG has disbanded. The City Council recognized the organization’s contributions to Paramount by presenting TAG representative Jeanette Larson with a plaque at the June 4 meeting. From left: Councilmember Laurie Guillen, Councilmember Diane J. Martinez, Jeanette Larsen, Mayor Tom Hansen, Councilmember Peggy Lemons and Vice Mayor Daryl Hofmeyer.
Membership RENEWALS
We’re very grateful that the businesses below have renewed their Paramount Chamber of Commerce memberships. Their support makes our valuable services and Business Resource Center possible.
Carlton Forge Works 52 years
7743 E. Adams St., Paramount, CA 90723
Paramount Iceland, Inc. 52 years
8041 Jackson St., Paramount, CA 90723
The R. M. Cool Company
39 years
7201 Rosecrans Ave., Paramount, CA 90723
Anchor Pacifica 33 years
7520 Alondra Blvd., Paramount, CA 90723
Clinica Medica Hispana.....................................25 years
14906 Paramount Blvd., Paramount, CA 90723
Domino’s Pizza................................................24 years 15500 Paramount Blvd., Paramount, CA 90723
Paramount Elks Lodge BPOE #1804............23 years 4071 Greystone Dr., Ontario, CA 91761
Emmanuel Reformed Church.......................22 years 15718 Paramount Blvd., Suite B, Paramount, CA 90723
Tam’s Burgers #22...........................................21 years 8454 Alondra Blvd., Paramount, CA 90723
Southern California Edison..........................17 years
2800 E. Willow St., Paramount, CA 90723
Town Center Terrace......................................17 years 162 Vermont Ave., Paramount, CA 90723
Penta Pacific Properties.................................16 years 9500 Norwalk Blvd., Paramount, CA 90723
Southern California Immediate Medical Center...16 years 7300 Alondra Blvd. Ste #108, Paramount, CA 90723
Kimberly’s Dance Studio 15 years 8527 Alondra Blvd., Ste. 145, Paramount, CA 90723
W.H. Plumbing Heating & Air Conditioning 12 years
16306 Atlantic Pl., Paramount, CA 90723
Chapel of Change Christian Fellowship 7 years 6701 Alondra Blvd., Paramount, CA 90723
Kindred Hospital Paramount 6 years 16453 S. Colorado Ave., Paramount, CA 90723
Mr J’s 6 years
7824 E. Alondra Blvd., Paramount, CA 90723
Paramount Metal & Supply Co.......................5 years 8140 Rosecrans Ave., Paramount, CA 90723
In Motion Design..............................................5 years 7314 Madison Ave., Paramount, CA 90723
Kenny’s Auto Body & Towing..........................5 years
17406 Woodruff Ave., Paramount, CA 90723
Advocates for Family Unity.............................4 years
For appointment, email spk2lt@aol.com or call 562-254-0881
Grocery Outlet...................................................2 years
15719 Downey Ave., Paramount, CA 90723
Somerset Homes...............................................2 years
16323 Atlantic Place, Paramount, CA 90723
C alendar of E vents
July 25 • 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m. Networking Breakfast
At Progress Park Mariposa Building, 15500 Downey Ave., Paramount. Raffles, networking. Take advantage of the opportunity to display a table from your company (included with your entrance fee). We will hear from Navin Gupta of CMIT Solutions about “Cyber Security” for small and medium-sized businesses. Call 562-634-3980 or visit Paramountchamber.com to reserve your spot. See ad on page 7 for costs and details.
July 19 • 5 p.m.–7 p.m.
Latinas Art Festival
At Paramount Park, 14400 Paramount Blvd., Paramount. The Festival will celebrate cultural artistic beauty and serve as a cultural exchange via art. For more information about attendance, vendor tables, food vendors, etc., visit latinasartfoundation.org. See the story on page 7.
July 20-21 • 8:30 a.m.–5 p.m.
International Dance Convention
Held in conjunction with the Latinas Art Festival (see above). At Paramount Park, 14400 Paramount Blvd., Paramount. Each participant or observer must register and purchase a pass, which includes a festival shirt and two-day access to unlimited workshops. Visit latinasartfoundation.org to see all classes and workshops and to register. See the story on page 7.
August 13 • 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m.
Ribbon-cutting for Family Cutz
At their location, 8807 Alondra Blvd., Paramount. Lunch and networking. RSVP at 562-634-3980 or Paramountchamber.com. Also see page 11.
BARTENDER
Part-time. 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.
MAINTENANCE WORKER
Part-time, entry-level or skilled. Painting, locksmith work, lighting, general maintenance, minor or major plumbing repairs, upkeep and repairs in a senior citizen’s facility. Email Gaby at gaby@immpco.com or call 562-408-0801 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
OFFICE ASSISTANT
Will train. Light office administration, data entry, materials and tools reports, filing, maintain warehouse. Long-term 20+ hours. Report in person or contact Jessica Gonzalez: 562-529-5700 at TECHCOAT, 15720 Garfield Ave. Paramount, CA 90723; M-Th 8:30 a.m.–3 p.m.
CREW WORKER
Specialty construction. Will train. Usage of mechanical mechanical equipment, painting, grinding, industrial floor coating. Long-term: 30+ hours per week, including some weekends. Report in person at TECHCOAT, 15720 Garfield Ave. Paramount, CA 90723; M-Th 8:30 a.m.–3 p.m.
To place an Employment Opportunities ad, please call the Chamber of Commerce office at 562-634-3980.
Paramount Chamber of Commerce
Thursday, July 25 • 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m. Progress Park Mariposa Building 15500 Downey Avenue, Paramount
Special guest: Navin Gupta of CMIT Solutions will discuss “Cyber Security for Your Business”
Cost: Chamber member with reservation: $15
Prepaid non-member: $20
Admittance without reservation: Member: $25, non-member: $30
Display a table for your business at no additional cost!
Reservation deadline: July 22
RSVP at 562-634-3980 or Paramountchamber.org
Event sponsors: AppleCare Medical Management (OptumCare), Real Estate Homes & Investments
Latinas Art Foundation to hold Art Festival & International Dance Convention July 19, 20 & 21
Colorful skirts swirling in a fast-paced folklorico dance, guitarists playing intricate melodies, groups moving to rhythms of hip-hop and ballet music, artists creating beautiful paintings and sculptures—the Latinas Art Foundation teaches all this and more to Latina girls and women who want to learn about and personally engage in Latino culture and fine arts.
On Friday, July 19, the foundation will hold its Latinas Art Festival from 5 to 7 p.m. at Paramount Park, 14400 Paramount Blvd. The festival will be a celebration of artistic beauty as well as a venue for cultural exchange. A variety of vendors will be on hand, and a selection of excellent food will be available.
Then on Saturday and Sunday, July 20 and 21, the foundation will sponsor its International Dance Convention each day from 8:30 a.m. until 5 p.m., also at Paramount Park.
To participate, you will need to register and purchase a pass, for which you will receive a festival shirt and access both days to a broad selection of dance workshops taught by topnotch instructors.
A highlight of the event will be a Vaqueriada performance open to all folklorico dance groups. Dancers from all over are invited to participate in the largest Calabaceado group performance in the Los Angeles County area.
The dance of the Calabaceado, which originated in Baja California, is a lively mix of northern Mexican music, rapid and complex huapango steps, jumps, turns and kicks.
Participants will learn special Calabaceado choreography from an expert: Professor Juan Gil Tadeo Martinez from Baja California. Free to all participants, this joyous event will delight both dancers and spectators and help educate the community about this traditional type of folk dance.
To register and get information about all art and dance activities, please visit latinasartfoundation.org.
More about the foundation: Latinas Art Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that supports arts education and encourages study and appreciation of Latino fine arts and culture. The foundation supports scholarship programs, research, conservation activities, exhibitions and events, often in collaboration with institutions and other non-profit organizations.
The foundation’s goals are to empower women and young girls, as well as to provide the community with education and exposure to Latino arts and culture.
Beautifully costumed dancers from Latinas Arts Foundation participated in the Paramount Heritage Parade and Festival on June 1 (see photos on pages 1 and 14).
Chamber Awards Luncheon (continued
from page 1)
Officers (from left): Jon Tanklage (Marukan Vinegar), Past President; Dr. Max Martinez, Treasurer; Alicia Valadez (Northgate Gonzalez Markets), Senior Vice President; Steve Willis (Carlton Forge Works); Vicky Uisprapassorn (Vicky’s Professional Services), Ben Berg (Transcom Telecommunications), President; Queen Ucheckwe (Weber Metals); Erin Donnette (World Energy Paramount); Leonard Crespo (Total-Western); Jasmine Guiao (SC Fuels); and Chris Rich (WaveFront Technology), Vice President.
Mayor’s Award—Mayor Tom Hansen presented his special award to the Frank J. Zamboni Company and Richard Zamboni (see photo at right), who runs the company today, for their long-standing, strong community presence and their contributions to the history and positive public image of Paramount. The award was especially timely since the company is celebrating its 70th anniversary this year. Here in Paramount in 1949, Frank Zamboni invented his famous ice-resurfacing machine and founded the company that has made the Zamboni name known throughout the world. Even before that, Frank and his brother Lawrence founded an electrical contracting business in Hynes in 1920— so the family’s involvement in the local community actually dates back 99 years. Frank became very dedicated to the Hynes/Clearwater community and played a significant role in the unification campaign that combined the two towns under the name Paramount in 1948. It is also noteworthy that Frank and his son Richard both served as Chamber of Commerce presidents. Presenting the award, the mayor acknowledged the City’s most famous brand name and sincerely thanked the Zamboni company and family for their steadfast commitment to the community for nearly a century. (To learn more, see From the Mayor’s Desk on page 3 of this issue and page 14 of the June 2019 Pulse Beat.)
President’s Award—Outgoing Chamber President Jon Tanklage bestowed his own special award on one of Paramount’s most-recognized “hometown boys,” Dr. Max B. Martinez, who has been a practicing dentist in Paramount for more than 30 years. Dr. Max (as everyone calls him) is a member of the American Dental Association, a member and trustee of the California Dental Association and a member of many other professional boards and organizations. He received the Distinguished Alumni Award, the highest alumni honor, from his alma mater, California State University, Long Beach. Last March he was honored as Elk of the Year, the highest honor a member of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks can receive. He earned the award for making many contributions both to his lodge and the Paramount community, including serving as chairperson both for the club’s Citizen of the Year award and for Civic Night, which honored community leaders. He was also recognized for his many years as chairperson of the Student of the Month program, which helps Paramount students attend college. Dr. Max proudly participates on a Paramount Education Partnership (PEP) program team that has awarded over $1,000,000 in scholarship funds to date. He annually volunteers in several free clinics for those in need and runs his own one-day free dental clinic each year for patients—primarily children and adolescents—here in Paramount. He is also Treasurer of the Chamber.
The Paramount Chamber of Commerce offers very special thanks to Weber Metals (an Otto Fuchs Company), our major event sponsor for this year’s Awards and Installation Luncheon.
The officers of the Chamber also express their gratitude to all the businesses, service organizations and individuals that do so much every year to make Paramount a wonderful place in which to live and work.
The Paramount Chamber of Commerce congratulates all our 2019 award winners and welcomes our new slate of officers for the coming year. We also offer our sincere thanks to our hard-working Chamber Ambassadors and to all our members who support our events and programs that benefit the Paramount community.
Chamber Ambassadors (shown here with their recognition awards) spend their valuable time helping with Chamber activities and representing the Chamber at events all year long. From left: Ibn Johnson, Erika Estudillo, Tim Hickok, Patty Avila, Corrine Galbez, Sam Kotob, Rudy Sandoval, Dr. Linda Timmons and Matt Wagner.
Officers of the Paramount Chamber of Commerce are sworn in for another year of service to the Paramount community.
Chamber
Richard Zamboni accepting the Mayor's Award on behalf of his family and company.
Mayor Tom Hansen (left) with outgoing Chamber President Jon Tanklage
Zamboni family
Paramount Chamber of Commerce
See upcoming ceremonies at right and in the Calendar of Events on page 6.
Ribbon-cutting Ceremonies
Ribbon-cutting Ceremony • May 29 7351 Rosecrans Avenue, Paramount La Espiga (smoothies, juice & food)
2rue Beauty Salon
Ribbon-cutting Ceremony • June 5 15975 Paramount Blvd. #B, Paramount
Affordable loans that help build a better future
Oportun Loans
Ribbon-cutting Ceremony • June 12 15737 Downey Avenue, Paramount
Another Paramount Chamber of Commerce ribbon-cutting ceremony coming up:
Family Cutz
Family Cutz (haircuts for all ages)
Ribbon-cutting Ceremony • August 13 • 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. 8807 Alondra Blvd., Paramount • Lunch & networking RSVP to Paramount Chamber of Commerce at 562-634-3980
member-to-member discounts Paramount Chamber of Commerce
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): Fivenight 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.
Healthcare
Azul Homecare Partners (562-862-9249): 10% off medical supplies (call Giselle Ortegon).
Clínica Médica Hispana (562-630-1991): 25% discount.
Hansen, Thomas D. C. – Chiropractor (562-634-0985): 25% off initial visit.
Hotels & Motels
Embassy Suites Hotel (562-861-1900): 15% off best available room rate (subject to availability). Ask for “Chamber Rate.”
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 Chamber 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 Adelita (562-408-2360): 10% off (not combined with other specials).
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).
Shakey's Paramount (562-630-6090): 10% off regular-price large or medium pizza. Ice Skating
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).
To learn more about this discount program, please call the Chamber of Commerce office at 562-634-3980
Portuguese community holds 96th annual celebration and parade
Paramount’s Portuguese community held its 96th annual celebration, including a parade up Colorado to Somerset, then over to Paramount Blvd. This celebration is part of the traditional Festa do Divino Espirito Santo, which honors the Portuguese Queen Isabel for her piety and her generosity to the poor, especially during a famine in the early 1300s. To celebrate the end of the famine, Queen Isabel chose a peasant girl and had a bishop place the royal scepter in her hands and royal crown on her head. This tradition has continued to this day, as the photos above show. This year’s Senior Queen is Molly Barcelos (in the center of left photo) with her Senior Aides Emily (left) and Citlali Barcelos. This year’s Junior Queen is Ava Jones (in the center of the right photo), and her two Junior Aides are Madison Serrano (left) and Sage Muench. (Photos by
of
BUSINESS CORNER
IPhotography)
Two things people want from their leaders
By Steve
have met with many employees through the years and asked them what they want from their leaders. The lists varied from person to person, but two phrases kept popping up on the majority of lists. These two phrases may actually surprise you!
The first phrase is BE DIRECT. Most people do not like vagueness, especially in the workplace. They want to know exactly what is expected of them. They want specific input from their leaders and clear directions on what they are supposed to be doing.
Here is a key principle: It is always better to be too direct rather than to be vague. I do not know how many times I have heard from employees: “If he/she would just tell me what they want, I would do it!” or “If they didn’t like it, why didn’t they just tell me?”
Do not underestimate the willingness of the people who follow you to accept directness from you as their leader. If you want something done, state it clearly. If you like or do not like something, say it. If you have a goal or plan, communicate it clearly and concisely.
The second phrase is BE DECISIVE. Employees have a basic expectation that their leaders will make decisions. This is so fundamental that it seems silly to have to say it. Decision-making is the one action that all followers expect from their leaders. However, the sad reality is that many leaders avoid decision-making at all costs! Reasons are varied as to why leaders are indecisive. You would be amazed at how many times I have heard
To all our firefighters, lawenforcement professionals and
an employee say: “Why can’t they just make a decision?”
This reminds me of a common discussion that happens every day in the workplace, socially and at home. It revolves around eating. The conversation usually goes like this:
“What do you feel like eating?”
“I don’t know, what sounds good to you?”
“I don’t care, whatever sounds good to you.”
“What type food sounds good to you?”
“I don’t know, how about you?”
This conversation can go on for quite a while until someone finally says, “Just make a decision!” So here is another key principle: People who follow you usually do not care what decision you make as long as you make one.
The majority of people do not keep tabs on how many good or bad decisions you make, but they will remember if you are decisive. As leaders, we all make wrong decisions. But fortunately our employees and other people who follow us are very forgiving of poor decisions, especially if we are direct about it and then make a good decision to put us back on track.
Being direct and decisive demands a level of self-confidence as opposed to self-worry. You cannot think too much about what others will think of your directness or decisiveness. Much like the Nike ad: Just do it! You’ll be glad you did!
Richardson , Business Advisor at Long Beach SBDC and author of the book Become a Better Leader in 30 Days (Web Bow Press)
Robert Braga
Braga
(Continued from page 1)
The Paramount City Council and our organizing committees for the Heritage Parade and Festival thank everyone who came out for a day of family fun and a chance to learn about the unique history of our community and the wide variety of opportunities available in Paramount.
PHS Valedictorian Jasmine Gomez (left) and Salutatorian Jaime Perez leading the 2019 Paramount Heritage Parade.
Jacinto,