April 22 was a beautiful day at the SeaCliff Country Club private golf course in Huntington Beach, and the 100 golfers who came out to support the Paramount Chamber of Commerce at our Annual Golf Classic had a great time, ate great food, won great prizes and made this, the Chamber’s biggest fundraising event of the year, a great success.
We’re very grateful to our returning major sponsor Carlton Forge Works and our other generous sponsors shown below, as well as our invaluable vendors and volunteers.
Four local food businesses (see names below) provided “tasting tees” along the way to keep our golfers fortified.
The money we raised from the Golf Classic will make Chamber of Commerce memberships more affordable to local businesses and will help the Chamber keep providing so many valuable services including our Business Resource Center, free business counseling at the Chamber Office by the Small Business Development Center (SBDC), the Pulse Beat, our local Business Directory, access to referrals and numerous networking and educational events each year. All these Chamber connections help foster cooperation and collaboration and create a friendly atmosphere that makes Paramount a model city in which to live, work and do business.
Brenda Olmos of AppleCare Medical Management commented: “It was great to see the business community coming together again to network and support the Chamber golf tournament.”
Congratulations to all our skilled and lucky prize winners, and we hope everyone thoroughly enjoyed the day!
Our Sponsors:
Major Sponsor: Carlton Forge Works
Cart Sponsor: The Workout Lunch Sponsor: Transcom Communications
Long Drive & Closest to Pin Sponsor: City National Bank
Major Prize Sponsor: Ace Clearwater, Awards Sponsor: TechCoat Contractors
Gift Bag Sponsor: Spectra
Bar Cart Sponsor: Casa Camino, Beverage on the Green Sponsor: Max B. Martinez DDS Hole-in-One Sponsor: WaveFront Technology
Mystery ($400+) Prize Sponsor: World Energy Paramount Tasting Tees sponsored by Mariscos, Panaderia Texcoco, Cafe Corleone and Marukan Vinegar USA (Continued on page 14)
paramount chamber of commerce
Golf Classic
PULSE BEAT
SeaCliff Country Club, Huntington Beach
Congratulations to the winning team from Carlton Forge Works (above, left to right): Justin Smith, Tim Miller, Dan Delaney and Mike Willis. Second place went to CalMet Services (Bill Kalpakoff, Gabe Kalpakoff and Chris Stauritch), and third place went to WaveFront Technology (Billy Reyes, Ryan Bangsund, Brian Green and Jordan Franks). We hope to see everybody again next year!
City receives Green Leadership Award from County
The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors named Paramount a winner of its 11th Annual Green Leadership Awards during its April 23 meeting. These awards recognize outstanding efforts by individuals, cities, businesses, and public agencies that raise the bar in improving the County’s environmental sustainability through water conservation, expansion of urban forestry, infrastructure improvements, development and promotion of non-motorized transportation, and programs and initiatives that reduce reliance on fossil fuels and sustain the region’s rich biodiversity.
The City was recognized for “Growing the Urban Forest of Sustainable Paramount.”
In 2017, Paramount embarked upon our first citywide tree plantings throughout parks and public open spaces. This active expansion of the urban forest improves air quality by filtering emissions, and yearly planting events have created opportunities to engage the community as volunteers and educate them on the City’s other sustainability efforts. In the past two years, the City has planted more than 300 trees that are a welcome addition our lush urban forest of 8,000 trees.
“Whether it is discovering new ways to conserve water, planting trees, or utilizing renewable energy, this year’s winners inspire us to make every day Earth Day,” said Supervisor Janice Hahn.
Heritage Festival and Parade on June 1
The City’s 3rd Annual Heritage Festival will be held on Saturday, June 1, from noon to 4 p.m. at its new location in Downtown Paramount. For the last two years, it was held at Paramount Park.
The Festival will be preceded by the first Heritage Parade from 10 a.m. until noon. The route will go along Paramount Blvd. south from Rosecrans Ave. The parade renews a local tradition dating back to the 1960s and beyond.
A Producer of Renewable Fuels Using
Animal Fats and Vegetable Oils
For the Festival, Paramount Blvd. will be closed down for most of the day from Alondra to Harrison St. There will be a Kids’ Zone (including inflatables, a petting zoo, and cow-milking demonstrations), games and entertainment with local dance groups and musical performers (for a list of bands, please see CityScape on page 15 of this issue). There will also be food, including A Taste of Paramount, and a beer garden, all available for purchase.
Entrance to the festival is free.
For more information, please call 562-220-2121.
City of Paramount Summer Day Camp
The City’s Summer Day Camp is filled with activities, such as arts and crafts, board games, movies, sports, tournaments, teambuilding activities, relay races, recreation swimming, field trips and more for 5-to-12-year-olds.
It will be held for a total of eight weeks, Monday through Friday, June 17 to August 9 (except for July 4), 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., at the Paramount Park Gym, 14400 Paramount Blvd.
Registration starts for Paramount residents or PUSD families online on May 6 at paramountcity.com or at the Recreation Office (15300 Downey Ave.) on May 13. For nonParamount residents, registration begins May 27.
The cost for Paramount residents is $80 per week, per child. Non-residents pay $100 per week, per child. Additional fees apply when using an alternate form of payment, such as Cal Works.
Through a partnership with the Paramount Unified School District’s Nutrition Services Department, Day Camp participants will be given breakfast and lunch for weeks one through seven. Parents need to provide their child with breakfast and lunch during week eight and send a healthy snack and drink each week.
Positions for junior volunteers are available. Space is limited, so sign up early.
Call 562-220-2121 if you have any questions.
Swimming pool opens June 15; register early for YMCA swim lessons
Paramount Park pool will open for the season on June 15. The City has entered into a partnership with the YMCA to provide a variety of services at the pool. There are group and private lessons available for ages six months through adult. There is recreational swimming for all ages and splashball for kids six to 12 (teaching the basics of water polo).
Come to the special Summer Registration Day on Thursday, May 16, for priority swimming lesson sign ups. It will be at Progress Plaza, 15500 Downey Ave., from noon to 3 p.m. and 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.
To register, bring proof of Paramount residency (photo ID or current utility bill) or proof of PUSD enrollment (current-year school ID) along with proof of age.
For rates, times, and other details, and other locations and times to register, please visit paramountcity.com or lbymca.org. For information about recreational swimming costs and rules, also visit paramountcity.com
Discounted pet adoptions for spring
SEAACA (Southeast Area Animal Control Authority), which provides services to Paramount, has its latest special promotion going on now through June 1. Called “Spring on in to Adopt,” it offers reduced adoption fees for dogs five years and older ($55) and cats one year and older ($5).
Adoption fees include spay/neuter, micro-chip, first set of vaccines, and flea treatment. Some pets may require a refundable spay/neuter deposit. This promotion cannot be combined with other promotions and excludes the “Boutique Buddies” program.
Visit seaaca.org or call 562-803-3301 to learn more. The facility is located at 9777 Seaaca St. in Downey. They are closed on Sundays. (See the related story on page 9.)
Public Safety
Rules for business banners
Each year, as a code enforcement issue, Public Safety provides a review of the City’s ordinance that allows the use of hanging banners as a tool to help businesses with advertising.
Each business is permitted one banner, except for businesses located in corner suites, which can have two banners, and businesses occupying single-unit buildings, which can use four banners (one banner is permitted for each building side).
All banners must be professionally manufactured and need to be installed flat against the wall or facade and anchored at all four corners— they can’t hang in midair, be suspended only by the top edge, or be strung between buildings or trees. Businesses using banners need to get a no-fee permit (a simple, one-page form) from the City and renew it each year. This type of marketing can be of great benefit. However, there can be a downside: if not maintained, banners will wear out and create a bad visual image. Paramount and its businesses focus on creating an attractive cityscape, something a tattered, untended banner can compromise.
The banner ordinance in Paramount is meant to provide an effective, well-maintained advertising tool for local merchants. If these signs become damaged, or if they hang badly, it’s in everyone’s best interests to set them straight and make repairs.
If you have questions or need more information, please call 562-220-2036.
When to fly a ‘feather flag’
Another form of advertising that many businesses use is the “feather flag,” a temporary sign installed along street frontages. To prevent possible excessive saturation of these banners, the City has an ordinance pertaining to their use.
Feather flags may be displayed for up to 50 days per year with a no-fee permit needed from the City.
Days of display may be in blocks of dates and/or single-day periods. These time periods will be determined at the business owners’ discretion.
One feather flag is allowed per business, though a second flag is allowed for businesses located in a corner suite or in a single-pad building.
Feather flags must be maintained in good condition.
For more information about this topic, please call 562-220-2036.
Free property management tips at City seminar
The Good Neighbor Program (GNP) is a free seminar for Paramount rental property owners and managers. The next session will be held Saturday, May 11, from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Clearwater Building, 16401 Paramount Blvd., in the Civic Center.
GNP aims to enhance the quality of life for residents, create higher tenant satisfaction, remove unlawful tenants, and keep properties crime-free.
The workshop emphasizes landlord/tenant law. Topics covertenant screening, evicting problem tenants, developing effective rental agreements, and recognizing criminal activity.
This year’s training will also feature a look at new marijuana laws by personnel from the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department and the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office.
In addition, there will be a speaker from PATH (People Assisting the Homeless) who will present different programs available to property owners who wish to provide housing to homeless or soon-to-be homeless people living in Paramount.
GNP increases a property’s long-term profitability, lowers maintenance costs, and establishes contact among the owner/manager, the City, and the Sheriff’s Department.
The seminar is hosted by the Paramount Public Safety Department in conjunction with the Apartment Association of California Southern Cities.
If you are a tenant, feel free to share this information with the landlord or manager of the property where you live.
Call 562-220-2002 to make a reservation. Lunch will be provided.
Scholarship Selection Committee’s hard work is much appreciated
The City and the Paramount Education Partnership’s Board of Directors thank the following for serving on this year’s PEP Scholarship Selection Committee:
• Lourdes Aguayo of Paramount High School
• Paula Coony of Paramount Iceland/Zamboni Merchandising
• Adrian Landa of Assemblymember Anthony Rendon’s Office
• Dr. Myrna Morales of Paramount Unified School District
• Dr. Manuel San Miguel of Paramount Unified School District
• Dr. Ryan D. Smith of Paramount Unified School District
• Dr. Deborah Stark of Paramount Unified School District
• Mandy Stevens, Paramount Resident
• Lourdes Talamantes of Paramount Unified School District
• Sandra Wychgel of Marukan Vinegar USA, Inc.
This group of volunteers spent many hours reviewing and rating 125 applications that were submitted this year, each of which was graded in a number of categories, including academic achievement, an essay, academic recommendations, extracurricular activities, and financial need.
Given the number of worthy applicants, the PEP Scholarship Selection Committee had quite a job that took a lot of time and dedication. Their efforts for the community are much appreciated.
Education Month celebrated in Paramount
The City of Paramount is again recognizing May as Education Month. Paramount Unified School District students and teachers were scheduled to be honored at the May 7 City Council meeting by the Council, the PUSD Governing Board, and members of the PEP Board of Directors.
A number of PEP recognitions were on the agenda as well. These included the latest recipients of the PEP college scholarships and the PUSD schools that contributed the most money during the “Pennies For PEP” fundraiser.
Look for photos and further details in the June issue of the Pulse Beat.
City Council
Girl Scouts lead Pledge of Allegiance
National Library Week
The Paramount City Council proclaimed April 7-13 as National Library Week with this year’s theme: “Libraries = Strong Communities.” Andrea Crow, Community Library Manager of the Paramount Branch, accepted the proclamation. From left: Vice Mayor Daryl Hofmeyer, Councilmember Laurie Guillen, Mayor Tom Hansen, Andrea Crow, Councilmember Diane J. Martinez, and Councilmember Peggy Lemons.
DMV/Donate Life Month
The City Council proclaimed April as DMV/Donate Life California Month in Paramount, which highlights the importance of organ, tissue, and blood donations. More than 100,000 people in America are waiting for an organ transplant, many of them in California. To become a donor, you can sign up when getting or renewing your driver’s license or ID card at the DMV. You can also do it online at donateLIFEcalifornia. org. Ambassador Paulina Guevara from the organization OneLegacy accepted the proclamation. From left: Vice Mayor Daryl Hofmeyer, Councilmember Laurie Guillen, Mayor Tom Hansen, Paulina Guevara, Councilmember Diane J. Martinez, and Councilmember Peggy Lemons.
Fair Housing Month proclaimed
April was Fair Housing Month throughout the United States, which recognizes the fact that everyone should be treated equally in the sale or rental of housing. The City Council stated its strong support for these anti-discrimination laws and proclaimed Fair Housing Month at its April 2 meeting. The City also expressed its appreciation for the Fair Housing Foundation, which provides many services for Paramount renters and property owners. These include mediation, counseling, and investigating discrimination in housing, as well as holding workshops, training, and community events. To learn more about the organization, visit FHFCA.org. Accepting the proclamation was Liz Castro of the Fair Housing Foundation. From left: Vice Mayor Daryl Hofmeyer, Councilmember Laurie Guillen, Mayor Tom Hansen, Liz Castro, Councilmember Diane J. Martinez, and Councilmember Peggy Lemons.
Women’s Club essay winners
The Paramount Women’s Club held an essay contest at Lincoln School for girls in the 4th and 5th grades on the subject: “Women Who Have Done Great Things.” Winners were recognized at the April 2 Paramount City Council meeting. Joining the Council were members of the Club and Lincoln Principal Topekia Jones. Winners were the following (not in order in the photo): 4th grade, 1st place: Isabella Godinez, writing about Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsberg; 2nd place: Teresa Medina about Rosa Parks; 3rd place: Audrie Razo about her teacher, Ms. Nunez; 5th grade, 1st place: Krisha Rayamajhi about Clara Barton; 2nd place, Andrea Altamirano about Princess Diana; 3rd place: Rosa Villa, Princess Diana.
Every Kid Healthy Week
At its April 16 meeting, the City Council proclaimed April 22 through 26 as Every Kid Healthy Week in town. The observance celebrates the great efforts that schools are making to improve the health and wellness of our students and the strong link among nutrition, physical activity, and learning. The Council recognized the City’s STAR afterschool program and also the Paramount-Tepic Sister Cities organization for its annual Children’s Day / Dia del Niño. Members of the Sister Cities joined the Council for the presentation.
Please see other City of Paramount and City Council stories on pages 6, 8 and 9, as well as CityScape on page 15.
Scout Troop 70753 opened the April 2 Paramount City Council meeting by leading the Council Chambers in the Pledge of Allegiance.
Deputy Scott Simpkins recognized
Deputy Scott Simpkins was acknowledged at the April 2 City Council meeting for his excellent law enforcement work that led to a number of recent arrests. From left: Vice Mayor Daryl Hofmeyer, Councilmember Laurie Guillen, Mayor Tom Hansen, Deputy Simpkins, Councilmember Diane J. Martinez, Councilmember Peggy Lemons, and Acting Captain David Sprengel.
NETWORKING LUNCH
Join us May 16 for our next Paramount Chamber Networking
Lunch at Alondra Hot Wings (‘BestWings in Town’ plus pizza, burgers, salads and lots of other great American food).
Bring a handful of your business cards and prepare to have some enlightening conversations with your business colleagues.
Lunch, raffles and networking
Alondra Hot Wings, 8411 Alondra Blvd. 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
To register, call 562-634-3980 or visit Paramountchamber.com
OUR SPONSORS FOR THIS EVENT:
Pathways honors volunteers and donors and presents its special ‘Heart of Hospice’ award
The great British author Charles Dickens once said: “No one is useless in this world who lightens the burdens of another.” Pathways volunteers have lightened the burdens of many in the Greater Lakewood/Long Beach area for the past 34 years and continue to be the heart and soul of the Pathways organization, which provides compassionate care to families living with illness and loss. “We have some of the most caring and compassionate people working to help those in need of support,” said Tammie Ottenad, Pathways Program Manager. “Whether it is the frail or elderly, hospice patients or children and families in grief, Pathways volunteers are there to help!”
• All parade entries must either reside or work in Paramount.
• We recommend decorated floats, music or dance to show Paramount pride!
• Entries are subject to Heritage Parade Committee review and approval.
For more information, contact Dora at MoraDora2650@yahoo.com, Michael at Mike.McKown@erc.la, Rebecca at RGuillenz65@gmail.com or Brenda at OlmosB@aol.com. We welcome your participation!
BARTENDER
Part-time. Must have evenings and weekends available. Contact Leroy at 562-634-9001.
SKILLED LABOR OPPORTUNITIES
In March, Pathways honored their volunteers and donors during National Volunteer Month. At a 1950s-themed dinner at the Grand in Long Beach, guests were treated to a burger and ice cream bar and live entertainment by saxophonist Ruben Cantu. “Our volunteers are the most incredible people who selflessly give of themselves to make a difference in others’ lives,” said Cindy Skovgard, Pathways Executive Director. “Coupled with very generous donors who make our work possible, our volunteers make a huge impact in communities we serve.”
A special distinction at this year’s event was the awarding of the “Heart of Hospice,” a recognition that is only presented every few years. Recipients honored this year were Pathways board member Jeff Green and Pathways donor Debbie Underwood.
Jeff joined the Pathways board after being introduced to the organization in 2012 when a crisis hit his high school campus. At the time, Jeff was serving as principal of Cerritos High School, and he will never forget the phone call he received to tell him that one of his students had been killed in an automobile accident while on a cross-country team trip to Mammoth. “I had never even heard of Pathways when this happened,” Jeff said. “But ever since, I have been incredibly grateful for the services they brought to our campus and the care and compassion they showed our students, parents and entire campus family.”
Since that time, Jeff has been a champion of Pathways. He has served as board chairperson, finance officer and co-chairperson of the Annual Pathways Charity Golf Tournament. He selflessly and tirelessly works behind the scenes to support the Pathways staff and enthusiastically helps with all Pathways activities and fundraising events.
It was Jeff who recruited Debbie Underwood to get involved with Pathways, and she has become a generous donor to the organization through her work at Geiger Promotional Products. Pathways is proud to recognize Jeff Green and Debbie Underwood as our 2019 recipients of the Pathways “Heart of Hospice” award.
Pathways is a non-profit, 501(c)3 organization. If you would like to know more about Pathways activities or learn how to become a Pathways volunteer, please call Tina Hernandez at 562-531-3031
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.
Membership RENEWALS
We’re pleased and grateful to report that the businesses listed below have renewed their Paramount Chamber of Commerce memberships. Their support makes the valuable services of our Chamber and Business Resource Center possible.
Mission Stucco Co., Inc..................................44 years 7751 70th St., Paramount CA 90723
Garfield Animal Hospital..............................35 years 16301 Garfield Ave., Paramount CA 90723
Duke & Associates 35 years 8202 E. Alondra Blvd., Paramount CA 90723
Max B. Martinez, DDS, FAGD, FACD...........29 years 16299 S. Paramount Blvd., Paramount CA 90723
Paramount Women’s Club.............................28 years
American Construction Service Inc............27 years 7811 Jefferson St., Paramount CA 90723
Clearwater Christian Center 25 years 16215 Orizaba Ave., Paramount CA 90723
Cafe Camellia...................................................18 years 16916 Bellflower Blvd., Paramount CA 90706
Iden Cosmetics, Inc. ......................................17 years 15500 Texaco Ave., Paramount CA 90723
Busby-Stone Risk Management, (Acrisure Agency Partner)............................................................11 years 9201 Camino Media, Suite 250, Bakersfield CA 93311
Roa’s Flooring ............................................10 years 37 Montecillo Drive, Rolling Hill Estates, CA 90274
Blue Shield of CA Promise Health Plan 7 years 601 Potrero Grande, Monterey Park CA 91755
Elite Restoration...............................................7 years 14833 Lakewood Blvd., Unit D, Paramount CA 90723
Antojitos Mexicanos Restaurant ...................5 years 15526 Paramount Blvd., Suite J, Paramount CA 90723
CNP Performance 2 years 16376 Downey Ave., Paramount CA 90723
Cate’s Ice Cream..................................................1 year
8400 Alondra Blvd, Paramount CA 90723
May 4 (3 p.m.-10 p.m.) & May 5 (7 a.m.–7 p.m.)
Our Lady of the Rosary Fiesta
At 14815 Paramount Blvd., Paramount. Rides, food, music, booths and so much fun! Call OLR for more information: 562-633-1126.
May 15 • 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m.
Ribbon-cutting for Personalized Staffing
At their location, 15134 Paramount Blvd., Paramount. Lunch and networking. RSVP at 562-634-3980 or Paramountchamber.com. See ad on page 11.
May 16 • 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m.
Networking Lunch at Alondra Hot Wings
Join us at Alondra Hot Wings, 8411 Alondra Blvd., Paramount. Lunch, raffles and networking. Sponsored by AppleCare Medical Management & World Energy Paramount. Bring a generous supply of your business cards. Register by calling 562-634-3980 or visiting Paramountchamber.com. See ad on page 6.
May 21 • 10 a.m.–1:30 p.m.
Women in Business & Leadership Luncheon
At Progress Park Plaza, 15500 Downey Ave., Paramount. Sponsored by Weber Metals. See ad on page 16 for details.
May 23 • 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m.
Ribbon-cutting for Azul Home Care Partners
At their location, 7625 Rosecrans #3, Paramount. Lunch and networking. RSVP at 562-634-3980 or Paramountchamber.com. See ad on page 11.
May 29 • 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m.
Ribbon-cutting for La Espiga
At their location, 7351 Rosecrans Ave. #C, Paramount. Lunch and networking. RSVP at 562-634-3980 or Paramountchamber.com. See ad on page 11.
June 5 • 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m.
Ribbon-cutting for 2rue Beauty Salon
At their location, 15975 Paramount #B, Paramount. Lunch and networking. RSVP at 562-634-3980 or Paramountchamber.com.
June 6 • 5 p.m.–7 p.m.
Networking Mixer with Latinoamericana
Join us at their location 8055 Rosecrans Ave. Suite # 106., Paramount. Light eats, drinks and networking. RSVP at 562-634-3980 or Paramountchamber.com.
June 12 • 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m.
Ribbon-cutting for Oportun
At their location, 15737 Downey, Paramount. Lunch, and networking. RSVP at 562-634-3980 or Paramountchamber.com.
June 18 • 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m.
Ribbon-cutting for Paramount Dental
At their location, 8524 Rosecrans Ave., #1/2, Paramount. Lunch, and networking. RSVP at 562-634-3980 or Paramountchamber.com.
City’s Second Annual Eco-Friendly Fair brings a healthy turnout
t
who attended, as well as vendors who shared information about how to make the world a more eco-friendly, sustainable place.
Those vendors were Amigos de los Rios, Air Quality Management District (AQMD), Aquarium of the Pacific, CalMet/ Maria Angel, Central Basin Municipal Water District, Charge Point, Clean Power Alliance, Clearwater Community Garden, COP Community Development, Dake Luna, Discovery Science Foundation, Energy Upgrade California, Fiesta Taxi, GRID Alternatives, HB Wetlands Conservancy, Hunter & Associates, LA County Fire Department, and LA County Metropolitan Transportation Authority.
Also supporting the event were Long Beach Conservation Corps, the Office of Assemblymember Anthony Rendon, the Office of Congresswoman Lucille RoyalAllard, Paramount High School Green Club, Paramount Unified School District, Southern California Edison, The Gas Company, University of California Master Gardeners, Wetlands & Wildlife Care Center, World Energy Paramount and Pitch In, Paramount.
Special thanks go to West Coast Arborist for donating fruit trees given away to
residents, to Mezcala Nursery for handing out free succulents and to Starbucks for providing free coffee—and, of course, to the Easter Bunny for hanging out with kids during the Fair.
The City also raffled off a variety of free gifts, including an adult
bike, two kids’ bikes, an organic women’s bath kit, an organic men’s bath kit, an organic laundry kit, a gardening kit, a ladybug books basket, two LA River and four Oceans giveaway baskets, a rain barrel and two Brita water containers. We’ll see everyone next year!
Kids got a chance to win prizes while learning how to protect our ecosystem.
Mayor Tom Hansen (left) handed out prizes.
Free trees from West Coast Arborist!
Paramount City Council celebrates Student Art Show winners
For many years, the Traditional Artists Guild held an annual Paramount student art competition that was run by John Nowlin with assistance from Jeanette Larson. Sadly, Mr. Nowlin passed away earlier this year.
Instead of losing the opportunity for local students to take part in such a fine and inspiring event, the Paramount Unified School District graciously stepped in and held a similar show this year.
The Paramount Student Art Show was for students in kindergarten through high school. First-place and Special Award winners in a variety of categories were recognized at the April 2 City Council meeting attended not only by councilmembers, but also by members of the Paramount Unified School District Governing Board and district staff.
Ms. Larson, representing the Traditional Artists Guild, was a special guest at this event that celebrated student creativity.
Congratulations were offered to all the talented First-place winners (their schools are shown after their names): Transitional kindergarten and kindergarten: Sofía Campos (Lincoln),1st grade: Allison Hernandez (Roosevelt), 2nd grade: Zuri Jordan (Lincoln), 3rd grade: Alejandro Vega (Mokler), 4th grade: Mariel Vega (Mokler), 5th grade: Hailey Benitez (Mokler), 6th grade: Evelyn Garcia (Paramount Park), 7th grade: Charlize Bernal (Hollydale), 8th grade: Yasdell Rios (Zamboni), 9th grade: Honey Robinson (Odyssey), 10th grade: Daniela Campos (Paramount High School), 11th grade: Giselle Covarrubias (Paramount High School) and 12th grade: Giselle Guevara (Paramount High School). Special Award winners were: Paramount Chamber of Commerce Award: Ariana Zepeda (Zamboni), Community Art Award: Jaqueline Lopez (Paramount High School), John Nowlin Award: Jesús Medellin (Paramount Park), Mayor’s Award: Jazlyn Gamino (Roosevelt), and Superintendent’s Award: Eden Chan (Paramount Park). (See the related story in the May PUSD Education News, page E2.)
‘Spring
on
in
to Adopt’ Discounted pet adoptions from SEAACA
From now through June 1, the Southeast Area Animal Control Authority (SEAACA), which provides services to Paramount, is offering reduced adoption fees for dogs and cats. It’s a great chance to find a new buddy to share the spring and summer days to come!
• For dogs five years and older, the adoption fee is $55
• For cats one year and older, the adoption fee is $5
Fees include spay and neuter costs, micro-chipping identification, the first set of vaccines and a flea treatment—in other words, your new pet will be protected and ready to go!
Some pets may require a refundable spay/neuter deposit. This promotion cannot be combined with other promotions and excludes “Boutique Buddies.”
Call SEAACA at 562-803-3301 or visit seaaca.org to learn more about this limited-time adoption opportunity.
Photo: Jen LeBarge
Ribbon-cutting Celebration • April 10 7922 Rosecrans Ave., Suite M, Paramount, California
Ribbon-cutting Celebration • April 18 7359 Rosecrans Ave., Suite A, Paramount, California
Ribbon-cutting Celebration • April 24 8009 Somerset Blvd., Paramount, California
More Chamber of Commerce ribbon-cutting ceremonies coming up in May:
PERSONALIZED STAFFING SOLUTIONS
Ribbon-cutting Celebration • May 15 • 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.
RSVP to Paramount Chamber of Commerce at 562-634-3980
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.
Dr. Max B. Martinez named Paramount Elk of the Year
Dr. Max B. Martinez was recently named Elk of the Year, the highest honor a member of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks can receive from an Elks Lodge. He received the award in recognition of his many contributions to both the 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 of service as chairperson of the lodge’s Student of the Month program, which helps Paramount students attend college. The award also cited his many and varied services to the Paramount community over a multi-year period.
“Dr. Max,” the name by which he is widely known in Paramount, is both a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) and a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry (FAGD), which signifies that he has been recognized by other general dentists as a leader who exemplifies the importance of high-quality continuing dental education. In addition to his local practice, he volunteers his skills each year to provide free oral healthcare in clinics for those in need (see the December 2018 Pulse Beat, page 13).
Paramount American Legion
Post #134
O Serving our veterans since 1923 O Business meeting every second Tuesday of the month at 6 p.m.
SPECIAL THANKS
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
EServing 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.
Joinusforlunch:2nd&4thThursdays 12:30-1:30 p.m.
Clearwater Building 16401 Paramount Blvd. Paramount Lions Club LionsParamount@gmail.com
BUSINESS CORNER By
Thomas Smale , founder of
Tips for better email marketing performance
mail is one of the most effective ways for businesses to advertise their services.
While many businesses still use direct mail, their budgets might be better spent on email marketing. According to a partnership study conducted by the Data and Marketing Association and United States Postal Service, more than half (57 percent) of mail being sent at the time of the study was still direct mail.
Email Marketing
Studies
But this strategy, the researchers said, produced a return on investment of just 7 percent. In comparison, email marketing offered an ROI of 28.5 percent. In terms of value, studies have found that email marketing offers businesses $44 for every $1 spent. Still, some businesses fail to realize email marketing’s full benefits, so to convince them, here are five of the best ways for any business to improve its email campaigns.
1. Personalize your email content.
Most marketers are aware of the benefits of personalization, but many don’t take it seriously. Personalized email content is by far one of the best ways to increase email marketing effectiveness. According to statistics, personalized emails offer six times higher transaction rates than emails without any personalization. Other studies have shown clickthrough rates are 14 percent higher and conversion rates are 10 percent higher when personalization is part of the general email content.
However, personalization for many businesses means they’re just including the name of the contact in the content. This is far from perfect as a strategy, and many subscribers are now fully aware of this tactic. Instead, personalization needs to be taken to the next level.
One way of doing this is to segment your audience into groups. Then you can send more relevant content to each group. A wedding specialist website that attempted this asked one question: Are you shopping as the couple or for the couple? This simple question split the website’s audience into two groups, but the results showed a 244 percent increase in open rates and a 161 percent increase in click-through rates.
2. Avoid certain “spammer” words. Spam filters are there to stop malicious emails from
reaching audiences. Of course, spammers usually use words that businesses themselves would like to use. So filters are growing more sophisticated and allowing more genuine content to gain access into inboxes. Still, there are times when your email might be mistaken for something malicious.
Therefore, you need to minimize the use of certain words that are considered spam by these filters. For instance, words like “bargain,” “50 percent off” and similar keywords will likely send your email to the spam folder.
When you do want to use a typical spam word because it is relevant to your content, be inventive with your subject lines. Also restrict yourself to just one highlevel spam word per email within the content and email subject line. This will reduce the chance of your emails being blacklisted.
3. Change times you send your emails.
The aim here is to catch people who are just about to check their inboxes or are in the process of doing so. This will put your email close to the top of an inbox. The more time between your sending it and customers checking it, the less likely it will be that your email will be read.
You also don’t want to be sending your promotional content at the same time as everyone else, so sending your emails on the weekend might be the best option. Research has shown that many businessesdon’tstart campaigns on weekends, so you’ll have lesscompetition, and more people are checking their emails on weekends now than ever before.
4. build an engaged email list.
It is often the pride of some entrepreneurs to promote how many people they have on their email lists. However,
long lists mean nothing if those people aren’t actually engaged with your message.
There are many ways to ensure that your list is engaged. It requires removing old and inactive subscribers, but in the end, it will help you achieve more profitable campaigns. The first thing is to check for addresses that have bounced three or more times. Ensure that a simple typo, such as .con instead of .com, is not responsible for the error.
You can also use email verification services. Those services will identify emails that bounce or are inactive, and they can help to remove spam traps: old emails that internet service providers (ISPs) use as a tool to identify businesses that send spam.
5. Optimize emails for mobile devices. The number of people who open emails on their mobiles varies depending on the study being cited. One study said that 46 percent of people opened emails on their mobiles, while another found that 59 percent of emails were being opened on these devices. Very few people actually use a desktop mail client to open emails (15 to 18 percent).
To support your efforts, ensure that your campaigns are optimized for these devices. If your campaigns don’t look good on a mobile device, people aren’t going to read them and take action. Therefore, check to make sure you have great mobile templates. A few quick tips:
• Have short subject lines.
• Use one-column email designs.
• Keep your email design under 600 pixels.
• Use a larger font (13 or 14 pixels).
Conclusion. Email marketing could be the best way to make your business grow. For over a decade now, it has remained the most profitable form of digital marketing. Yet too many businesses are failing to optimize their campaigns to maximize potential revenue. So ensure that you’re personalizing your emails as much as possible and make sure you avoid traps your competitors are falling into. Most of these changes can be made without too much disruption to your current campaigns. So, why not implement them right away?
Golf Classic
Continued from Page 1
Our Sponsors
Platinum Sponsors—Carlton Forge Works, Marukan Vinegar USA, Weber Metals: an Otto Fuchs Company and WaveFront Technology, Inc.
Gold Sponsors AppleCare Medical Management (Part of OptumCare) and SC Fuels.
Silver Sponsors—CalMet Services, Inc., Huntington Beach Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, Total-Western Inc., Transcom Telecommunications, The Workout and World Energy Paramount.
Bronze Sponsors—Press Forge Company and Rush Truck Center.
Super Tee Sponsors—Busby-Stone Risk Management (an Acrisure Agency Partner), Charlie Lyons Properties, Domino’s, Northgate Gonzalez Markets and Tripepi Smith.
Tee Sign Sponsors—Chang Orthodontic, Demaria Electric Motor Services, DigiCal, Clinica Medica Hispana, Enterprise Fleet Management, Garfield Pacific\ Bendetti Co., GM Properties, Mattco Forge, Paramount Unfied School District, Phillips Steel, O & D Plumbing & Heating, Romberg Milling Inc., Thomas Hansen D.C., Ward Properties and West Coast Arborists, Inc.
Vendor Tables—SoCal Immediate Medical Center and DeLucia Gastro Pub.
Silent Auction & Raffle Donations—Alondra Hot Wings, Berg Catering, Casa Gamino Mexican Restaurant, City of Paramount, Frank J. Zamboni & Company Inc., Gus’ Deli, Herald’s Garage, In Motion Design, SeaCliff Country Club and Ruby Vega Jewelry Store.
Networking Breakfast: great way to start the day
Our Paramount Chamber of Commerce Networking Breakfasts are a great way to start the day by getting better acquainted with people from other businesses in the area, exchanging cards and sharing insights about customers and the community.
We also have some fun with business card bingo and other games!
Our latest well-attended breakfast meeting took place on April 25 at Progress Park Plaza. Our event sponsors were AppleCare Medical Management (Part of OptumCare) and World Energy Paramount. Berg Catering provided food. Watch the Pulse Beat for announcements about our upcoming breakfast gatherings.
PARAMOUNT Chamber of Commerce
Self-introductions
Our breakfast gatherings are a good opportunity to catch up with old colleagues and get acquainted with new ones.
Chamber President Jon Tanklage (Marukan USA) was MC for the event.
Ruby Vega won a cash prize for her jewelry display.
5/02/19 - 6:00PM
5/07/19 - 6:00PM
5/14/19 - 6:00PM
5/15/19 - 6:00PM
5/21/19 - 5:00PM
5/28/19 - 6:00PM
May 21, 2019, 11 am - 1:30 pm
Progress Park, 15500 Downey Ave., Paramount, CA
Be a part of our 2nd annual Women in Business & Leadership Luncheon as we celebrate pursuing your dreams. We will have an emphasis on encouragement and empowerment for the next generation of women in business and leadership. The luncheon will begin at 11:30 am and host a panel of dynamic career women in four very different fields. See our website for more details and registration availability. Consider being a sponsor to some of our high school young ladies. Sponsor a table of 8 and bring 4, and we will put 4 high school girls at the table with you.
PresentingSponsor
Moderator Brenda Olmos
Past President of the Paramount Chamber of Commerce, Director of Business Development, AppleCare Medical Management, Part of Optum Care.
Tickets available at www.paramountchamber.com/events/wibl/ Chamber Members: $40.00 Non Members: $60.00 Student Interaction Table Sponsor $350.00 Table Sponsor $375.00
Dr. Ruchi Sareen
Medical Director with AppleCare Medical, Hospitalists, Remote and Onsite Inpatient Teams, SNF and Long Term Care Programs.
Dep. Lina Pimentel BA in psychology and social behavior and criminology. Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department.
Robin Thorne Owner, Chief Executive Officer of CTI Environmental, Inc., construction and safety consulting firm.
Hon. Connie R. Quinones Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge.
