December LCN by Greater Lakewood Chamber of Commerce

Volume 43 Number 12

December 2023

The Greater Lakewood Chamber of Commerce Welcomes New Chair, Vice Chair for 2024

Deena Henry, left, and Joanie Dixson, right, are ready to usher in the New Year as the Vice Chair and Chair of the Greater Lakewood Chamber of Commerce.

The Greater Lakewood Chamber of Commerce will usher in the New Year with Joanie Dixson, and Deena Henry, as Chair and Vice Chair, respectively. Dixson, who served as the GLCC's Vice Chair for 2023, has named Henry as Vice Chair of the Chamber's Executive Board, along with long-time Chamber Member Travis Jackson as Treasurer, and Sherry Daisey, as Secretary. "I am excited to lead our Chamber into 2024, it's going to be a great year," said Dixson. "This past year has been a year of growth for our Chamber on so many different levels, where I just see us doing

bigger, greater things for our members and our community." Joanie Dixson, who is First Vice President of the Lakewood branch of Farmers and Merchants Bank, is the Greater Lakewood Chamber of Commerce's first African-American to serve as its Chair. "Every New Year brings new ideas, new perspectives and newfound friendships and connections," Dixson said. "When you become a member of our Chamber, you become family and in our family, no one gets left behind." Deena Henry, is the Director of Property Management for Lakewood Center.

More Inside

Lakewood Center receives Award of Valor from City The Lakewood Center's Management Team was recently recognized by the City of Lakewood during its annual Award of Valor Luncheon, for their immediate response to a social media post announcing plans for 'youth mob' to descend onto the mall intended to create havoc and havoc. Back in September, a member of the Lakewood Center's Security received a tip about the 'youth mob' post naming the Lakewood Center as the point of arrival. The Sheriff's Department was immediately called and just as suspected, over 200 youth descended onto the Lakewood Center on that given Saturday. Lakewood City Manager extended his deep appreciation to the Sheriff's Department, to mall security and to the City's

Marking his first visit to the City of Lakewood, Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna joined Lakewood Mayor Ariel Pe to recognize the Lakewood Center's Management Team at the annual Award of Valor Ceremony last month.

Public Safety staff for teaming up to safeguard the Lakewood Center and eliminate the problem quickly and as safely as possible. "That teamwork makes Lakewood Center consistently one of the safest malls in our area, despite the challenges that shopping centers everywhere face," he said. Every year, the City honors local residents, deputies, firefighters and security personnel for their acts of courage and heroism. With over 300 people in attendance, including Sheriff Robert Luna, the City this year, recognized dozens of individuals with an Award of Valor.

Santa's Elves

Santa Claus arrived at the Lakewood Center with his elves in tow to conduct an Elf Academy in the mall's Center Court, where kids received their very own elf hat, and enjoyed an evening of holiday cookie making, face painting, dancing with the elves and photos with Santa. Santa will be at the Lakewood Center through Christmas before heading back to the North Pole.

Disclosure: Small children probably shouldn't read this feature.

Santa Claus lives in Lakewood

Did you know that Santa Claus lives in Lakewood? Surprisingly, Ed Hatz , a Lakewood resident for 22 years, says he's not even the only one - "there are others," he says. "I'm estimating there's three of us who live in Lakewood." But Lakewood is not alone. In fact, according to Hatz, Southern California has the highest population of real-bearded Santas in the county. "There's more than 5,000 of us in the United States, and surprisingly, most of us live here, in sunny SoCal." Hatz says it could be the weather, but the consensus amid other other Santa's, is that the clientele pool is much larger here in sunny California. "I'm originally (Cont'd. on Pg. 4)

Update: City Hall renovations, public counter is open during construction Lakewood’s Community Development and Public Works customer service counter at the north end of City Hall recently completed renovation. Work has begun on the next phase, which involves remodeling the Finance & Administrative Services counter nearby in the same portion of City Hall. As a result, the current temporary service process to assist residents will continue until early spring 2024. Once the remodeling is complete, residents will enjoy a more efficient and pleasant experience. As a reminder: •The north doors of City Hall will remain closed during the construc-

tion, so please enter from the south end of City Hall. •You will check in at the Public Information counter for service from the Community Development, Public Works, or Finance & Administrative Services departments. Staff from those departments will help you with mak(Cont'd. on Pg. 19)

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December 2023

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A FULL SERVICE CREDIT UNION

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with children. There will be food trucks, free games and falling snow! For more details, go to www.lakewoodcity.org/ TreeLighting or call 562-8669771, ext. 2408. Lakewood Center, the principal sponsor of this year’s Tree Lighting event, is a place where many Lakewood residents will spend some time during the holiday season. Lakewood is a community that’s proud of its history, and that includes being the birthplace of the modern American shopping mall. Lakewood Center was a bold and daring commercial innovation in 1952. Before then, large department stores and shopping centers existed only in the downtown center of major cities, not in the suburbs. But Lakewood Center started something new in suburban communities… and it was a huge success. It grew enormously in the 1950s and 1960s. It was actually

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munity for 20 years. It was one of 46 awards presented to Lakewood Deputy Sheriffs, Firefighters and civilians. Read more about the Award of Valor in the article elsewhere in this edition of the Lakewood Community News. I’m also grateful for all the Lakewood residents and businesses who help their neighbors in need through efforts such as Project Shepherd, Meals on Wheels and so many others. If you ever want to check out a Lakewood cause and a group of people to volunteer with or donate to, go to www.lakewoodcity.org/volunteer or call city staff at 562866-9771, ext. 2408 for ideas. This time of year, I’m also thankful for Lakewood’s Tree Lighting ceremony and community gathering. It’s happening this year in front of City Hall on Friday, Dec. 1 from 4:30 to 8:00 p.m. Santa Claus will be there talking

listed in the Guinness Book of World Records as the “world’s largest shopping center” for a number of years. Lakewood Center has evolved with the times. It developed a “Restaurant Row” in the decades after its founding, and became the home of the first-ever, mall-based Costco in 2009. Spread over a huge area that includes Albertsons and Home Depot, it’s still the second-largest shopping complex in Los Angeles County. Lakewood Center serves shoppers not just from Lakewood but from Long Beach, Bellflower, Paramount and many neighboring communities. The sales tax dollars from all those shoppers pay for a large portion of the city services that Lakewood residents enjoy. So, this holiday season, one way you can say “Thank You Lakewood” is by shopping or dining at Lakewood Center or at any of the other fine businesses in our community. As our local shopping motto goes: “Shop Lakewood--Stay Lakewood Loyal.” On behalf of my fellow Lakewood City Council Members, I wish you and your family a very happy and meaningful Thanksgiving and a wonderful…and thankful… holiday season ahead. And as I like to say: One Community, One Family. Live, Love, Lakewood. CHA

We’ve now entered that wonderful time of the year where we have holidays and events designed to get us together with family and friends, but that also get us to slow down a bit to show appreciation for all the good around us. I know we all have people and things in our personal lives to be thankful for. And, living in Lakewood, we are also fortunate to be part of a good community for which we should also be appreciative. I have lived in Lakewood for over 50 years, and I am very thankful for the warm sense of community that I feel here, year after year. I love living in a community where the vast majority of people respect each other, are neighborly and helpful and kind to each other. At Lakewood’s recent annual Award of Valor luncheon, over 300 members of our community took the opportunity to show our thanks to the personnel of the Los Angeles County Fire Department and Sheriff’s Department who protect and serve us in Lakewood, as well as the citizen volunteers who help keep our community safe. It was a special, impactful event, full of stories about people helping people. Above, L.A. County Sheriff Robert Luna joins me in presenting the Distinguished Service Award to Lakewood Sheriff’s Detective Edward Castro, who has worked in our com-

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Taking Time to Give Thanks

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Mayor Ariel Pe

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Mayor's Monthly Report:

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Greater Lakewood CHAMBER OF COMMERCE The Lakewood Community News is an official publication of the Greater Lakewood Chamber of Commerce. Greater Lakewood Chamber of Commerce President & CEO Jose Solache 2023/24 GLCC Executive Board Chair Joanie Dixson Vice Chair Deena Henry Secretary Sherry Daisey Treasurer Travis Jackson Immediate Past President David Arellano Board Members Jonathan Byun Ulysses Carmona Glenn Curo Mike Hedges Erika Parada Glen Patrick Mike Segura Lakewood Community News Managing Editor Marisela Santana GLCC Director of Business Development & Member Value Administrative Assistants Kyle Henry Anthony Puente The Lakewood Community News is printed once a month and covers the City of Lakewood and surrounding communities, with a strong emphasis on the business community. Both the GLCC President/CEO and Managing Editor have exclusive authority over the content that is published. For advertising or story inquiries, email us at: lakewoodchamberinfo@gmail.com Call: (562) 531-9733

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For MEMBERSHIP Inquiries, please go to the Greater Lakewood Chamber of Commerce's website, at www.lakewoodchamber.com YOU CAN ALSO FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA

@lakewoodchamberofcommerce

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RETRACTION: Please note, 1that unbeknowst to the Lakewood Community News, an expired ad for First City 20230113 Lakewood Comm News ad Aug22.indd 1/20/23Credit 3:18 PM Union had been published since August 2021 with expired rates. We regret any error and inconvenience this may have caused. Please see the updated ad (above) for First City Credit Union as of December 2023. Thank you.

Greater Lakewood Chamber of Commerce

Greater Lakewood Chamber of Commerce 24 Lakewood Center Mall Lakewood, CA 90712

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December 2023

City Spotlight

Youth Hall of Fame seeks nominations The Lakewood Youth Sports Hall of Fame is seeking nominations for the 42nd annual sports awards program. The 2023 Athlete of the Year, Performers of the Year and Special Achievement awards will be selected based on data supplied in nominations. Nominations are due to the Recreation and Community Services Department by Dec. 1. Athletes must live or attend school in Lakewood to be eligible. The awards banquet will take place on Feb. 26, 2024. Call 562-866-9771, ext. 2408 for details. LYS Basketball Registration Sign-ups for Lakewood Youth Sports Basketball will be available online Nov. 25 – Dec. 9. Simply go to www.lakewoodcity.org/ecatalog and click on the “Sports” tab at the top of the page. The co-ed Rookie and Smurf Divisions, for ages 4 to 5 and 6 to 7, emphasizes instruction using a smaller ball and modified rules to promote fun and minimize competition. The Competitive Divisions are for ages 8 to 17. Boys and Girls divisions (ages 15-17) will play a 3-on-3 format. There is no registration fee for Lakewood residents. Non-resident registration

is $20. Players will be instructed to present a birth certificate to verify age classifications on Saturday, Jan. 6, from 9:30 a.m. – 12 p.m. Teams practice weekday evenings and Saturday mornings, beginning Dec. 26. League play begins Jan. 20 and concludes March 9. Playoffs will conclude by March 16. For more information, call Lakewood’s Recreation and Community Services Department at 562-866-9771, ext. 2408. Lakewood Youth Sports volunteer coaches needed Volunteer coaches are needed for basketball teams for the upcoming season at Lakewood parks. Although parents of players make great coaches, it’s not required to have a child playing to be a volunteer. Volunteering to coach is a rewarding experience. No coaching experience is necessary. Inquire at any Lakewood park for complete details or call 562-866-9771, ext. 2408. Winter Break Day Camp The “Winter Wonderland” Winter Break Day Camp is a program for children ages 6-12 that will be offered at Bolivar, Boyar, Mayfair and Palms Parks during the schools’ winter breaks, Dec. 26-29 and Jan. 2-5 from 7 a.m. – 6 p.m. The program will include

a variety of arts and crafts, outdoor sports, indoor games, and specialized activities. An excursion will take place each Wednesday, traveling to the Santa Ana Zoo the first week and Discovery Cube the second week. The cost of this program is $180 per week for residents and $195 per week for nonresidents. Register at www. lakewoodcity.org/ecatalog and search “camp” to find each park listing. For more information, call 562-866-9771, ext. 2408. Spring Recreation and Community Services Catalog available online The new Recreation and Community Services Spring Catalog will be posted online Friday, Jan. 12 at www.lakewoodcity.org/catalog. A limited number of hard copies of the catalog will be available for pick up at your local park, community center, and at Lakewood City Hall. The new catalog features activities for participants of all ages. As always, many classes are free or low cost. Residents can register for classes and programs online starting Jan. 12 and non-residents can register beginning Jan. 22 at www.lakewoodcity.org/ecatalog, or by calling City Hall at 562-866-9771, ext. 2408.

Photos with Santa at Lakewood Center

Lakewood Center offers the magic of the holiday season with a visit to Santa’s winter wonderland for “Photos with Santa” through Dec. 24. Santa will be located in the Center Court, near Macy’s. Visits with Santa are free, and photo packages are available for purchase. To save time and get more details, make an online reservation for a photo with Santa at www.lakewoodcity. org/SantaPhoto. SANTA'S PHOTO SCHEDULE Nov. 24 – 30: •Monday - Saturday: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. (breaks at 2-3 p.m. and 5-5:30 p.m.) •Sunday: 12 to 6 p.m. (break at 2-3 p.m.) Dec. 1-17: •Monday – Friday 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. (breaks at 2-3 p.m. and 5-5:30 p.m.) •Saturday – 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

(breaks as above) •Sunday – 12 to 6 p.m. (break from 2-3 p.m.)

Dec. 18-23 (Monday – Saturday) 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. (breaks at 2-3 p.m. and 5-5:30 p.m.) Sunday, Dec. 24 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. (break at 1-2 p.m.) PET PHOTOS WITH SANTA Capture Santa photos with your pets on Monday evenings, Nov. 27 and Dec. 4 from 4 to 7 p.m. SENSORY SANTA On Sunday, Dec. 3 from 10 to 11:30 a.m. in participation with Autism Speaks, Lakewood Center will host a sensory-friendly event especially for little ones with autism. RSVP is required. Learn about all the holiday activities at Lakewood Center by visiting shoplakewoodcenter.com/holiday.

HOLIDAY COLORING CONTEST!

December 2023

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Residents invited to annual

Tree Lighting, Snowfall, Food & Fun

Lakewood residents are cordially invited to join in the city’s annual tree lighting ceremony and community gathering on Friday, Dec. 1 outside The Centre at 5000 Clark Ave., next to City Hall. Carnival games and food trucks will be on the scene starting at 4:30 p.m. Santa will be ready to hear your children’s holiday wishes and take photos (with your own device) from 4:30 to 8 p.m. The official tree lighting program starts at 6:30 p.m. Festivities wrap up at 8 p.m. Fun features include: Lots of falling snow, as part of the tree lighting program at 6:30 p.m. Holiday musical entertainment, including the Artesia High School choral group.

Plenty of food trucks located in the parking lot behind City Hall where there is more room to spread out and relax. Wonderful and free fam-

ily holiday photo opportunities. Costumed characters will help with several holiday photo scenes, including one with Santa and two large sleighs. Parking will be available behind The Centre and in the large gravel parking lot at the corner of Del Amo Boulevard and

Clark Avenue. The parking lots immediately in front of and behind City Hall will be closed for use in the event. If there is rain on Dec. 1, some activities may be limited. For more information, including weather-related updates on Dec. 1, visit www.lakewoodcity.org/ treelighting or call city staff at 562-866-9771, ext. 2408. There will be plenty of other opportunities to enjoy good cheer around the Lakewood tree if you can’t make the tree lighting on Dec. 1. From Dec. 2 through Dec. 31, the tree will be on display in the plaza, providing an animated light show that changes colors to music continuously from 5 to 10 p.m. each night. Stop by and enjoy the splendor of the winter holidays!

Santa's North Pole is Lakewood (Continued from Pg. 1)

from uptown New York, so I would love to live near snow, I think all of us Santa's would love to live near snow, but the reality is, that work is hard to find in rural areas. So SoCal, you guys are stuck with us." Hatz moved to California when he was three-years-old and lived locally in Lynwood, before moving to Lakewood. He remembers working as a Santa back in high school. But never did he think he would be doing it as a career. Afterall, being a Santa is a business. Lucily, Hatz has a BS in Business Administration with a concentration on entrepreneurship from CSUDominguez Hills. Perfect for his new career. He also has an Associates Degree in Social & Behavioral Sciences. He's actually currently working on his fourth degree in Furniture Manufacturing Technology at Cerritos College. Asked how he would apply that degree to his Santa career, he said, "so that I can make toys." Hatz, who lives with his wife and three kids here in Lakewood, also attends Santa School every year. "It's pretty much mandatory," said Hatz. "There's a lot of things every year that Santa's need to learn and be prepared for, for example, we learn why Santa needs to wear white gloves and how to answer kids, when instead of asking for toys, they ask us to bring their grandmother's back. My degree in Social Behavioral Sciences helps me with that."

When your heart is in it, being Santa during the holidays is no easy task. Putting the 15 pound suit on is nothing compared to having to find the right words to say to kids when they ask for their grandparents back, over a toy. Hatz has actually only been dressing up professionally as Santa for five years, but he has never dressed up as Santa for an event here in the City of Lakewood. As a new member of the Greater Lakewood Chamber of Commerce, Hatz will be putting on his Santa suit for the Chamber's first Christmas Mixer & Tree Lighting Ceremony at F&M Bank on Dec. 4. "It will be the first time my family will get to see me doing a tree lighting LIVE right here in our hometown," said Hatz. "This will be my first appearance as Santa in Lakewood." Nonetheless, Hatz says, he doesn't have to be wearing his Santa suit for kids, and adults, to smile when they see him. "It's like they know," he said. "Being Santa is very rewarding; I enjoy the joy I see in people's faces, and seeing kid's faces light up. I don't have to be in my suit for people to smile, I could be in shorts and a T-shirt and kids will still see (Cont'd. on Pg. 14)

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‘Tis the season for Project Shepherd

As the holiday season approaches, we are reminded of those who are less fortunate. Over 1,500 people living in Lakewood, many of them children and seniors, will not able to enjoy the holidays without the food, gifts and toys that many of us have come to take for granted. W i t h your help, Project Shepherd will ensure there’s enough joy for everyone in Lakewood during the holiday season. Here are five ways you can contribute to the program: Make a donation by check Mail a check to Lakewood Project Shepherd, c/o Lakewood City Hall, 5050 Clark Ave., Lakewood, CA 90712. Or, put the check in an envelope addressed to Project Shepherd and drop it off in the utility payment box outside City Hall.

Fulfill a child’s wish on a Teddy Bear Tree See the Teddy Bear Trees displaying paper ornaments through Friday, Dec. 1 at the Burns Community Center, 5510 Clark Ave. and at Lakewood City Hall, 5050 Clark Ave. in the Recreation and Community Services Dept. Select a paper teddy bear ornament with a specific holiday wish for a child in need, purchase that gift, and return the ornament with the item to City Hall or Burns Center by Dec. 4.

December 2023

Or, visit the Rotary Club of Lakewood’s booth at Lakewood Center near Macy’s, on Saturday, Dec. 2, from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Shoppers can choose a teddy bear and purchase the specified gift for a child during their shopping trip. Visit Project Shepherd’s gift registry on Amazon to purchase a gift and have it sent directly to the program. Go to www.lakewoodcity.org/ PSAmazon. Support the Virtual Canned Food and Toy Drive Sponsor 1 to 35 canned goods for holiday meal baskets or donate to provide a toy for a child in need – or do both! It’s easy using the secure online form at www.lakewoodcity.org/PSholiday. Donate $10 Grocery Gift Cards Next time you’re at the market, pick up a $10 grocery gift card or two to donate. Please drop off gift cards at the Burns Community Center, 5510 Clark Ave. before Dec. 4. Project Shepherd is operated by the Rotary Club of Lakewood and the City of Lakewood. For more information about Project Shepherd, call 562-925-7512, or visit www. lakewoodcity.org/ProjectShepherd. Project Shepherd would like to thank our Platinum sponsors Macy’s, Golden State Water Company and the Lakewood Family YMCA for their generous support this holiday season.

Bellflower's Photo Competition 1st Place Winner is from BHS

CONGRATULATIONS to BHS Senior Juan Diego Martinez. His photograph, “Sunset Light,” was selected as the first place winner in the City of Bellflower photo competition. Juan Diego was recognized at city hall by Bellflower Mayor Sonny Santa Ines, Council Members Victor Sanchez and Wendi Morse. Juan’s family and his Photo 1 teacher, Ms. Gamboa, were in attendance.

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Lakewood's Thank a Servicemember postcard campaign ends December 1

Lakewood’s 2023 Thank a Servicemember campaign ends on Friday, Dec. 1. It’s easy to help…simply write a message on a free Lakewood commemorative postcard available at City Hall, or create your own holiday greeting card or letter of thanks to U.S. troops deployed overseas. There are six postcard designs to choose from, thanks to the artistic efforts of Lakewood residents who entered the city’s contest in honor of the campaign’s 10th anniversary this year. You may drop off your postcard, card, letter or drawing (please, no envelopes and no glitter) to the Public Information Office at City Hall or

at any partner locations listed at www. lakewoodcity.org/TASpartners by Friday, Dec. 1. The city will send all submissions collected to U.S. servicemembers overseas through the military support group, Operation Gratitude. “It’s time to remember that there are those who are away from their families working hard to protect us and our freedoms," said Lakewood Mayor Ariel Pe. "Let them know you appreciate the sacrifices and risks that they endure.” To learn more, including tips on what to write, visit www.lakewoodcity.org/TAS.

Jui-Jitsu Royalty visits Lakewood

Rigan Machado, the world-famous 8th degree red and white belt Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Master, recently visited Lakewood's DM Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy to see his former student, owner and head instructor, Demitrious Mavraganis teach a class. Professor Mavraganis is among Master Rigan's most dedicated students and received his purple belt under him. Master Rigan is a living legend in the world of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and it was a "great honor to welcome him to Lakewood," said Lakewood Mayor Ariel Pe, who is a student of Professor Mavraganis. DM Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy offers classes for adults, women and children, and is located at 5543 Woodruff Ave., Lakewood, CA 90713. Call (310) 800-5878 for more information.

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October 15 - December 7

Get in touch with Mike Segura for a FREE and CONFIDENTIAL consultation. If you or someone you know needs guidance, call your local Farmers Insurance agent, Mike Segura at (562) 531-4980.

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MEDICARE 2024

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Greater Lakewood CHAMBER OF COMMERCE PROUD MEMBER

Michael Segura

2725 Candlewood St., Suite A Lakewood, CA 90712

(562) 531-4980

December 2023

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Have ‘Cocoa with a Deputy’ and support Project Shepherd’s toy drive

Join the City of Lakewood’s Public Safety Department for their annual Cocoa with a Deputy and Project Shepherd Toy Drive on Friday, Dec. 8 at 6 p.m. at Panera Bread at Lakewood Center, featuring: Free hot cocoa and coffee. Free cookie decorating.

Free crafts for kids.

Meet Deputy Sheriffs from the Lakewood Sheriff Station and Lakewood’s Public Safety Team, who will answer questions about public safety, offer crime prevention tips, or just say "hello" and “happy holidays.”

For those who are able to, please bring an unwrapped toy to be donated to Lakewood Project Shepherd for local Lakewood children enrolled in the holiday program. Panera Bread is located at 135A Lakewood Center (south of Target on the Lakewood Blvd. side).

Remind Holiday Visitors of Street-Sweeping Days

Family and friends visiting Lakewood over the holidays may be unfamiliar with Lakewood’s parking and street-sweeping schedules and regulations that help keep neighborhoods clean and safe for everyone. Help your visitors enjoy a joyful celebration by sharing these tips:

Share the street-sweeping schedule in advance. Street sweeping will be as usual on Dec. 18-22, Dec. 26-29 and Jan. 2-5, but there will be no street sweeping on Dec. 25 or Jan. 1, and no makeup sweeps. There will be no streetsweeping related parking enforcement from Dec. 25 through Jan. 5. As sweeping continues Dec. 26-29 and Jan. 2-5, please ask visitors to park vehicles off the street, if possible, to allow for a clean sweep of the street. Sweeping and enforcement will resume on Monday, Jan. 8, 2024. Parking enforcement will continue during the holiday period for non-street-sweeping related violations, such as parking in red zones or blocking sidewalks. On your street-sweeping day only, parking is allowed on the

front and side lawns. Any day, parking is allowed on the apron, which is the sloped area between the street and the sidewalk leading up to your driveway, as long as the vehicle does not overhang the sidewalk. Don’t obstruct or overhang onto the sidewalk. When parking in your driveway or on the apron any day of the week, including street-sweeping day, it is important to NOT obstruct or overhang the sidewalk. That creates a dangerous obstruction for pedestrians and violates the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and state parking laws. Street-sweeping is cancelled when city staff determines it is raining enough that water is pooling or flowing in gutters throughout a neighborhood,

which prevents effective sweeping. (Sweeping still occurs during a light sprinkle.) In the case of a rain cancellation, sweeping in that neighborhood is postponed until the regular sweeping day the following week. For example, the cancellation of a Friday sweep means the next sweep in that neighborhood is the following Friday. No sweeping-related parking citations are issued on rain cancellation days. Check the city’s website, call or email customer service to verify if sweeping has been cancelled due to rain. If you have any questions, please contact Lakewood customer service staff at 562-8669771, ext. 2140 or at service1@ lakewoodcity.org.

From our family to yours ...

Happy Holidays NGUYEN

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December 2023

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December 2023

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Santa’s h s a W r e t n i W Can d Lany Can e e

Elf Ave Rein Roadeer d

Join us at Santa's Winter Wash for an unforgettable, interactive adventure, filled with festive fun and holiday cheer – perfect for the whole family! This unique experience combines the magic of the holidays with a real car wash! Making your spirits and your vehicle shine bright.

DECEMBER 2023 5PM-8PM

7th-10th 13th-17th 20th-23rd

2729 E CARSON ST. LAKEWOOD, CA

FOR TICKETS & MORE INFO VISIT CARWOODCARWASH.COM

New Buzz Around Town

The Mayor and Councilmembers joined the owners of Bobuzz for their Grand Opening last month. Also in attendance for the celebration was Speaker Emeritus Anthony Rendon. Welcome to Lakewood, Bobuzz! After trying your boba teas, we now know what all the BUZZ is all about!

December 2023

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STARLIGHT LAKEWOOD CENTER THEATRES are located at Lakewood Center Mall at 5200 Faculty Ave, Lakewood, CA 90712, off of Candlewood Street and Clark Avenue, next to Costco.

Classic Christmas films play for $5 on Starlight Lakewood's Giant 70' Screen

Newly re-opened movie theater in Lakewood Center Mall celebrates with beloved holiday films for a limited time This December, Starlight Lakewood Center Theatres presents classic Christmas movies playing in its premier 70-foot-screen auditorium for only $5 admission. Guests can watch timeless holiday films The Polar Express, Elf, White Christmas, and It’s a Wonderful Life in breathtaking theatrical format for an affordable price, as Starlight Cinemas celebrates the reopening of this landmark community movie theater. 2003’s whimsical Elf, the 2003 Will Ferrell comedy, will play on December

6th at 4:40 PM, 7:00 PM, & 9:20 PM. Irving Berlin's 1954 musical White Christmas will play on December 13th at 4:15 PM, 7:00 PM, & 9:45 PM. It’s a Wonderful Life, the 1946 film considered one of the greatest movies ever made, will play on December 20th at 4:10 PM, 7:00 PM, & 9:50 PM. Tickets are available to purchase now at StarlightCinemas.com or at the theater box office. Starlight Lakewood Center Theatres is now open and playing the latest film releases every week. Starlight Cin-

emas, a community-focused theater business with 7 total locations all in Southern California, rebranded and re-opened the enormous 16-plex Lakewood Shopping Center building in August of this year, restoring much of the interior with more improvements coming soon. The company hopes that families will join them in this extended opening celebration by bringing loved ones to experience iconic holiday films on the big screen for a low price. Starlight Lakewood Center Theatres, like its 6 sister theaters, features

$5 Bargain Days every week. Bargain Days are Tuesdays all day, and Sundays before 6 p.m.; during these times guests can see any movie, including brand new films, for only $5 admission (with small exceptions to this pricing for special events). With free refills on large popcorn and large drinks, and a free membership program with passively earned rewards, Starlight Cinemas aims to cement itself as the best local movie theater experience for your buck in the Lakewood, California area.

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Meet Some Of

Our Members Big Brian's Meats Catering Sugar from the Heart Bakeshop

bigbriansmeats@gmail.com (805) 428-1463

4328 South St., Lakewood 90712 (562) 633-6300

Nurse Adam Healthcare

5150 Candlewood St., Lakewood 90712 (310) 975-4191

Str8 Up Tacos

20900 Pioneer Blvd., Lakewood 90715 (562) 263-6040

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5241 Paramount Blvd., Lakewood 90712 (424) 785-4212

n honor of an amazing year, the Greater Lakewood Chamber of Commerce is joining F&M Bank this year to host a Christmas Mixer & Tree Lighting Ceremony on Monday, December 4, where, together, with the help of the City of Lakewood, they will celebrate and honor restaurants in Lakewood. "We couldn't imagine a more perfect time to honor restaurants for their dedication to our community, especially those that survived the pandemic and those that opened after the pandemic," said Jose Solache, President/CEO of the Greater Lakewood Chamber of Commerce. "It isn't easy owning your own business, and it's even harder to own a restaurant." Joanie Dixson, who was recently named new Chair of the Greater Lakewood Chamber of Commerce, is looking forward to celebrating Lakewood restaurants and the very people who put their blood, sweat and tears into keeping their doors open, their employees paid and keeping up with inflation. "It takes tenacity and strength to be a business owner nowadays," Dixson said. "Not just anybody can be a business owner, you have to be resilient and dedicated to your business."

D OO

Smakk'd Refreshers & Teas

Lighting Ceremony, Dec. 4 I

R OF COM

With over 130 invitations mailed out to restaurants, bakeries and coffee shops within the City of Lakewood over the last two months, this year's Christmas Mixer & Tree Lighting Ceremony will bring together the business community to celebrate restaurants and their owners for their hard work and perseverance over the years. "The pandemic hurt the restaurant industry across the county, especially, our small business/restaurant segment," said Marisela Santana, the GLCC's Director of Business Development. "And despite inflation, and every challenge that has been thrown their way, new restaurants continue to rise up; it is only fitting for us to celebrate restaurants as we usher in a new year full of possibilities, and growth." Set to take place at Farmers & Merchants Bank, located at 4909 Lakewood Blvd., in Lakewood, the Christmas Mixer & Tree Lighting Ceremony will feature carolers, a countdown, photos with Santa, hot apple cider, and light appetizer menu items donated by the Outback Steakhouse, Cane's Chicken Fingers, Foggias Italian Market & Deli, and by Big Brian's Meats Catering. Please note, that only restaurants who RSVP'd for this event will be recognized at this event on Dec. 4. Thank you.

The Greater Lakewood

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

CHA

Chamber Partners with F&M Bank to host Christmas Mixer & Tree

GR E

ER LAKEW AT

D OO

GR E

December 2023

FARMERS & MERCHANTS BANK

Christmas Mixer & present our

American Legion, Post 496

5938 Parkcrest St., Long Beach 90808 (562) 420-1014

Seahawk Cocktail Lounge

4103 Candlewood St., Lakewood 90712 (562) 630-2649

UC Design Studio

Tree Lighting

Monday,5:30December 4, 2023 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. JOIN US FOR A CHRISTMAS GATHERING TO

(562) 252-6903

HONOR RESTAURANTS

FOR THEIR YEARS OF SERVING LAKEWOOD Nostalgia Gorditas Restaurant

Andy's Carwash

5835 Bellflower Blvd., Lakewood 90713 (562) 202-9638

6741 E. Carson St., Lakewood, 90713 (562) 420-6711

Farmers & Merchants Bank 4909 Lakewood Blvd., Lakewood, CA 90712

Restaurant Honorees

SEND RSVP TO: LAKEWOODCHAMBERINFO@GMAIL.COM deadline for entries is November 17, 2023

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CALL (562) 531-9733

Piazza McDonald's Piazza Family Restaurants (562) 497-0055

Pete's Plumbing

3099 E. Pacific Coast Highway, Signal Hill (800) 214-7383

Community

Business & Family Friendly

Appetizers & Raffles

Santa Claus

Project Shepherd Toy Drive (optional)

Carolers & Crafts

December 2023

Page 13

Happy Holidays

Dear Friends of the Greater Lakewood Chamber of Commerce, Only 31 more days until we ring in the New Year! But first, we'd like to take this opportunity to THANK all of our Members, from Lakewood and surrounding cities, to the City of Lakewood, and everyone who chose to advertise in the Lakewood Community News, for all of your support throughout 2023 - a year focused on growth and sustainability. From growing our membership, to increasing our footprint on social media and rebranding our newspaper, 2024 shines brighter than ever. We are looking forward to all the great things 2024 has to offer us, individually and as a family. With a new Executive Board in tow for 2024, including Joanie Dixson as Chair, and Deena Henry, as Vice Chair, the Greater Lakewood Chamber of Commerce THANKS you all for your support, encouragement and entrusting us to be an integral part of your growth as a business. We are beyond excited to say that we are closing 2023 on a high note, and are ecstatic to see what 2024 brings all of us. ON BEHALF OF THE GREATER LAKEWOOD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE'S 2023 BOARD, WE WISH YOU A VERY, MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR! See you all next year! Sincerely, Your 2024 GREATER LAKEWOOD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE'S NEW EXECUTIVE BOARD

Join us for our 1st Mixer of 2024!

YOU ARE INVITED TO THE

Greater Lakewood Chamber of Commerce’s

JANUARY Networking Mixer THURSDAY, JANUARY 11, 2024 CE

CHA

D OO

ER LAKEW AT

The Lakewood Center's November Mixer kicked off the holiday season with a Celebration of Gratitude, Friendships, Networking and great food, by Super Mex, and desserts by Doll Babee Cheesecakes and Cookie Plug. With background music by Rudy the Saxophonist, Lakewood Center's first November Mixer brought together businesses from across the City, elected officials and residents, as the Mall unveiled their beautiful, new Santa Chalet for the holiday season. Thank you Lakewood Center for reminding us to usher in the holidays with a grateful spirit.

GR E

GRATEFUL FOR 2023

R OF COM

FROM 6 TO 8 P.M.

Greater Lakewood Chamber of Commerce Office 24 Lakewood Center Mall, Lakewood, CA 90712

Join us as we usher in the NEW YEAR with an evening designed to help you

MAKE NEW CONNECTIONS to GROW YOUR BUSINESS! Don’t forget to bring your business cards.

For GLCC Membership Inquiries, call (562) 531-9733.

December 2023

Page 14

Holiday trash pickup and city services for Dec. 25-Jan. 5 Lakewood City Hall will be closed the week of Dec. 25-29 and on Jan. 1. •Trash service pickup for the holiday weeks of Dec. 25 and Jan. 1 will be delayed one day all week, as Christmas and New Year’s Day fall on Mondays. •Street sweeping in residential areas will occur as normal from Dec. 26-29 and Jan. 2-5. •No street sweeping on Dec. 25 and Jan. 1, and no makeup sweeps for those two days. •There will be NO street sweeping-related parking enforcement during the weeks of Dec. 25-29 and Jan. 1-5. However, if you can, please move your vehicles off the

Santa Loves Lakewood

(Continued from Pg. 4)

SUPPORT

Wash for YMCA Kids 50% Of Your Proceeds Will Go To This Organization Support Wash for YMCA Kids! Buy A Car Wash and Help Us Reach Our Fundraising Goals. SEE DETAILS BELOW.

GRAB A DIAMOND FUSION EXPRESS WASH FOR ONLY

Or Scan The Code

VISIT THIS LINK

https://wlink.live/2023_YMCA

street during street-sweeping hours to help your street get the cleanest possible sweep. •Parking enforcement will continue for non-streetsweeping related violations, such as parking in red zones or blocking sidewalks. •DASH Transit Service will not be available on Dec. 25 and Jan. 1. When City Hall is closed, here is how you can report a non-emergency issue: •Call and leave a message

for the customer service staff at 562866-9771, ext. 2140 or send an email to service1@lakewoodcity.org. They will answer messages on the next business day. •Submit a nonemergency service request online at www.lakewoodcity. org/service. •Use the Lakewood Connect app for your smartphone to report an issue, ask a question or give input to the City of Lakewood. The app is available for free from both the Apple App Store and the Google Play Store. For emergency city service requests, like downed tree limbs or water main leaks, please phone 562-866-9771 and follow the recorded instructions to page a 24-hour city emergency staff worker.

Use Your Phone’s Camera

me as Santa." Hatz said he never thought he would love being Santa as much as he does. When he worked as Santa in high school, he said he remembers hating it. But one day, about six years ago, his wife asked him to dress up to surprise the senior citizens at her job as a skilled nursing facility. "Three people started crying, they said it made them relive their childhoods," he said. "After that, I realized that being a professional Santa was my calling." A real Santa will have a Santa heart, Hatz said. "They teach us that in Santa School," he added. "A real Santa will emote joy wherever he is, it's part of the Christmas magic. You have to have a Santa Heart to be Santa, and you have to have the right mindset if you want people to believe you're the real Santa. It's true, anybody can put a Santa suit on, but if you don't have a true Santa heart to make people happy, people can tell, and kids, yeah, they will know, too."

Lakewood Run registration is now open for 2024 Page 15

December 2023

Registration is now open for the 33rd annual Lakewood Run where you will be “Running with Heart, Rocking with Soul,” on Saturday, March 2, 2024. Deputy Sheriffs, recreational runners, families and kids will gather at the starting line in front of the Lakewood Sheriff’s Station to walk, roll, ruck or run the event’s 5K Run/Walk/Ruck or the 10K Run course for time. Runners of all levels are welcome, from seasoned runners to beginners. Whether you’re aiming for a personal

best or just want to have fun, the Lakewood Run caters to all. Lakewood’s tree-lined residential streets offer a flat, “runner friendly” course that is fast for practiced runners and comfortable for fitness fans and family members. Professional timing will be used. Medals will be awarded to 1st, 2nd and 3rd place finishers in each category of the 5K and 10K running events. All finishers for the 5K/10K will receive finisher medals. For participants and specta-

Advertise in the Lakewood Community News - Reach 27,000 homes! Looking to join our Chamber of Commerce? Call us at (310) 387-6639 Email us at: lakewoodchamberinfo@gmail.com

tors, the day includes a fitness expo and displays of public safety equipment and programs. There is also live entertainment, food trucks and special giveaways from Lakewood-area businesses, plus a scavenger hunt and rock star costume contest. All participants will be supporting Soroptimist International of Lakewood/Long Beach and Lakewood Sheriff’s Station charity efforts while they pursue their personal best in the 5K/10K event for time

or just for fun in this familyfriendly event. Check out the Lakewood Run website and register online now at www.lakewood-

run.com. To inquire about group rate entries or to get more event information, email info@lakewoodrun.com.

KATHY “APPLES” Berkshire Hathaway H.S.C.P

Call or Text (562) 884-1863 Email Kathy at kathyapples@gmail.com

Visit Us anytime at: www.ApplesTeam.

284 Park St., Long Beach ▪ 3 Bedrooms, 2 Baths ▪ Belmont Heights Beauty ▪ Plus a 1 bedroom, 1 bath ADU ▪ Detached oversized garage, as well 5902 Elkport Ave., Lakewood ▪ Classic Lakewood Corner House ▪ With detached garage

$1,200,000

NEW LISTING!

5932 Eastbrook Ave. • 3 Bedrooms, 2 Baths • Family room home • Plus a converted garage with kitchenette and bathroom

sold

$729,000

$869,800

(562) 884-1863

Join us for our monthly “In Person COFFEE CHAT” on Saturday, December 9th, 2023 at Granny’s Donuts, 5550 Woodruff Ave., from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. and enjoy FREE COFFEE and GOODIES!

“Like” us on

December 2023

Page 16

JOIN UNIFY and earn up to

$250!

For details visit our Branch below or UnifyFCU.com 4637 Candlewood Street • Lakewood, CA 90712 * Promotion available as of 11/1/2023, is subject to change without notice and may end at any time. New members who open a qualifying UNIFY checking account with a Visa® Debit Card receive a $150 bonus to the checking account following the first statement cycle. Earn a $50 bonus by establishing a recurring ACH Direct Deposit of at least $500 aggregate each month, which must be posted within 60 days of account opening. Receive up to $50 by earning $1 for each purchase made with new UNIFY Visa Debit Card that exceeds $5 within 60 days of account opening. Direct Deposit and Debit Card usage bonus credited to the checking account in the statement cycle following the 60th day. All bonuses limited to one per member and account. Members with multiple accounts or accounts with multiple owners will not receive multiple bonuses. Member responsible for applicable taxes and must be in good standing to receive any bonus. Membership eligibility and qualification requirements apply, which include opening a membership savings of at least $5. Minimum of $25 required to open most checking accounts. Members cannot have had a UNIFY Account within the last three (3) years. To be eligible for this offer, you must reside in Orange, Ventura, or Los Angeles County, CA. Not valid with any other offers. UNIFY employees, volunteers, and family members not eligible. Visa® is a registered trademark of VISA U.S.A. Inc.

Insured by NCUA.

Vice Mayor Todd Rogers and Councilmember Jeff Wood, joined the Greater Lakewood Chamber of Commerce's Chair Joanie Dixson and Vice Chair Deena Henry, for Cookie Plug's Grand Opening & Ribbon Cutting earlier this month.

Opens at Lakewood Center

New Chamber Member, the Cookie Plug, celebrated their GRAND OPENING earlier this month at the Lakewood Center. Owners, Julie and Lee Meng, plan to open five locations, with this being their first one, and the second one opening in Long

Beach. The menu features 12 different flavors of the popular cookies, also known as Phatties, Cookie Stacks, Sacks and Plug Poppers. Julie said she doesn't just want to own a business in Lake-

wood, but also wants to be a part of the Lakewood family, and get to know the community. Welcome to Lakewood, Cookie Plug! We already LOVE your cookies! They are a perfect addition to Lakewood Center's Food Court!

Page 17

December 2023

Registration open for the 2024 Lakewood Leadership Academy

The Lakewood Leadership Academy (LLA) is accepting applications for its second cohort, the class of 2024, now through Jan. 8, 2024. Sponsored by the City of Lakewood and the Greater Lakewood Chamber of Commerce, the LLA aims to educate and develop effective community leaders to play an active role in the Lakewood community in the years ahead. The program will: •Educate attendees about the depth and breadth of city government and community-based organizations that serve Lakewood. •Teach attendees how to balance work/personal life demands, develop effective communication skills, build teams, and value the importance of diversity, equity and inclusion in the workplace. •Encourage attendees to serve the community in leadership roles. •Expand and enhance networking and relationships. Participants meet monthly for nine sessions (from 5 - 9 p.m.) covering different topics each session. Dinner will be provided. The format includes a combination of lectures, panel discussions and hands-on activities relevant to that session’s topic. Experts on the top-

ics addressed will share their insights and views. The Academy is open to people at least 21 years old who live or work in Lakewood. Upon acceptance, there is a nominal program fee of $100. The City of Lakewood is accepting applications now until Jan. 8, 2024 with the first session of the program slated to start Jan. 31, 2024. The Lakewood Leadership Academy began as a collaborative effort between the City of Lakewood, the Greater Lakewood Chamber of Commerce and Los Angeles County Supervisor Janice Hahn to build new leaders within the City of Lakewood. Lakewood Mayor Ariel Pe said, "One of my goals as mayor—and I know my city council colleagues share it—is mentoring and developing the next generation of Lakewood community leaders. That’s key to making sure Lakewood remains a great community to live in, for generations to come. That’s the goal behind the Lakewood Leadership Academy." The program not only helps individuals develop leadership skills, but it also creates new friendships between people from Lakewood, for Lakewood. For more information, visit www. lakewoodcity.org/LLA.

Accepting Applications! Join other working professionals in this

opportunity to learn about the City of

Lakewood as well as develop and improve leadership skills.

Participants meet monthly for nine 4-hour

Lakewood Leadership Academy Building a stronger Lakewood

Program Goals: ▪ Educate attendees about the depth and breadth of the city government and community-based organizations that serve the Lakewood community. ▪ Teach attendees how to balance work and personal life demands, develop effective communication skills, build great teams and value the importance of diversity, inclusion and tolerance in their workplaces.

sessions covering the program goals. If you

▪ Encourage attendees to serve the community in leadership roles.

can apply to this nine-month leadership

▪ Expand and enhance networking and relationships.

are 21+ and live or work in Lakewood, you development program!

For application & more information visit:

www.lakewoodcity.org/LLA or call 562-866-9771, ext. 2125

Sponsored by the City of Lakewood and the Greater Lakewood Chamber of Commerce.

December 2023

Page 18

Lakewood’s State of the City event is coming

Christmas tree and holiday trash pickup

Lakewood residents can easily recycle their Christmas trees and get extra holiday trash hauled away by EDCO Waste Disposal Co., for the weeks of Dec. 25 and Jan. 1. Christmas tree disposal: EDCO will pick up discarded Christmas trees left on your parkway or next to the curb on your trash collection day between Dec. 26 and Jan. 6. Remember that trash pickup days are delayed by one day the weeks of Dec. 25 and Jan. 1. (Normal Monday pickups will be picked up on Tuesday, etc.). Flocked trees are OK, but decorations, tinsel, and metal or plastic stands must be removed. Wooden tree stands can be left on the tree. The tree must not be in a bag. Trees over six feet tall must be cut in half. Beginning Jan. 8, trees can be disposed of in this manner: •Cut up your tree in 4-foot or smaller lengths and place it in the green cart (if unflocked) so it fits with the lid closed. •Flocked trees must be cut

and placed in the regular trash cart, as they can’t be recycled. •Or, both kinds of trees may be left curbside but only if they are cut to 4’ in length and bundled and tied together (not loose). Extra trash service: For the week immediately following Christmas, from Dec. 26-30, EDCO will pick up extra holiday trash on your trash day (with the one-day delay). You should continue to use your existing carts as much as possible, but you can also leave up to 10 standard-size trash bags about two feet from your cart for pickup. Holiday and appliance boxes may be left there as well. There is no charge for this extra service and no need to call EDCO in advance. No bulky item pickup service from Dec. 26 to Jan. 6. The service starts again on Monday, Jan. 8. To use it, call EDCO at 562-531-3054 by 3:30 p.m. at least one day before your normal trash day.

Lakewood's annual State of the City Luncheon is set for Tuesday, Jan. 30 from noon to 1:30 p.m. at The Centre. Attendees will hear what Lakewood's leaders are saying about the City. This annual event is sponsored by the Rotary Club of Lakewood, Greater Lakewood Chamber of Commerce and by the City of Lakewood. Tickets for the luncheon event will go on sale in January. Residents who do not wish to purchase the catered lunch may still attend, at no charge, but are requested to reserve a seat. The program will review the accomplishments of the past year, the challenges ahead, and feature the first showing of Lakewood CityTV's always informative and entertaining annual report video. For more information, call the city’s Community Relations Office at 562866-9771, ext. 3123.

Lakewood Little League

Spring Registration Opens October 1st

CO-ED | Ages: 3-12 QUICKBALL COACH PITCH FARM MINOR B MINOR A MAJORS www.lakewoodlittleleague.org

Ages 3-5 Ages 4-5 Ages 6-7 Ages 8-9 Ages 9-11 Ages 11-12

lakewoodlittleleague

Page 19

December 2023

KTLA-5’s Ginger Chan helps honor Lakewood heroes

Every November, Lakewood honors the brave acts of heroism demonstrated by the men and women of the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s and Fire departments, as well as good Samaritans and volunteers from Lakewood who protect and serve our community. Ginger Chan, from KTLA-5’s morning news and the “On-Air with Ryan Seacrest” KIIS-FM team, hosted the Nov. 7 Award of Valor luncheon at The Centre in Lakewood with over 300 people in attendance. Forty-five residents and Sheriff’s and Fire personnel were honored by the Lakewood City Council, L.A. County Sheriff Robert Luna and L.A. County Fire Chief Anthony Marrone.

Among those honored were:

•Four L.A. County firefighters from Fire Station 94 in Lakewood who responded to a serious three vehicle collision, with multiple injuries and one victim trapped inside a car and in cardiac arrest. Fighting against time as the trapped victim’s condition deteriorated, the firefighters used their training and skill to quickly but carefully remove her from the vehicle. They successfully stabilized her and got her safely ready for transport to a trauma center hospital for intensive care. •A security guard from Lakewood’s nighttime Southwest Security patrol who noticed two men walking suspiciously

down a Lakewood street late at night. When the guard asked a resident further down the block if he had noticed the men doing anything odd or out of the ordinary, the resident confirmed that he had and suggested the guard look under a nearby van. There, the Southwest Security guard found two hand guns. He called Deputy Sheriffs who responded and took the guns, which were loaded and unregistered, into possession, likely thwarting their later use in a crime. •A Lakewood resident who quickly reported a man trying to break into his truck in his driveway and posted Ring video of the incident to the Ring social media app, including video of the attempted thief’s

City Hall public counter will stay open during construction (Continued from Page 1)

ing payments for trash, water or parking citations, or with planning or building or public works service. •If you just need to drop off a water or trash payment, you can still use the drop-box for payments outside of the northwest door of City Hall. •Service is available between normal business hours of 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Monday through Thursday, and 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on al-

ternating Fridays. In December, City Hall is closed Dec. 8, Dec. 22, and Dec. 25-29. •No building permits will be issued after 4:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday or after 4 p.m. on alternating Fridays, due to the complexity and time needed for the verification process. •Many city services are available at the city’s website, lakewoodcity.org, or by calling 562-866-9771, ext. 2140 for help.

getaway vehicle. A Lakewood Deputy Sheriff who regularly monitors Ring social media quickly responded to the neighborhood and saw the get-away vehicle. When he pulled it over, the two men inside had car theft tools inside. One man was even on probation for a previous car theft. Both men were arrested. See photos of this year’s Award of Valor event at www.lakewoodcity.org/AOV. In mid-December, look for a special Lakewood Connect eMagazine that will feature video of the full Award of Valor event and short clips of some of the honoree highlights. ADVERTORIAL

Why the Living Trust is so IMPORTANT

Living Trusts are an efficient and effective way to transfer property, at your death, to the relatives, friends or charities you’ve chosen. Essentially, a Living Trust performs the same function as a Will, with the important difference that property left by a Will must go through the probate court process. In probate, a public court proceeding, the deceased’s debts are paid. Then after a year or more at tremendous expense to your heirs, the remaining property is finally distributed to them. By contrast, property left by a Living Trust can go promptly, privately and directly to your heirs. Living Trusts are created while you’re alive and are “revocable.” You can revoke or change them at any time, for any reason. You can abolish the Trust, alter its terms or change the beneficiaries. As the original trustee, you can do whatever you wish with your assets - manage them, sell them, or give them away. Upon your death, the successor trustee takes over the estate immediately without going through probate, then distributes the assets and terminates the Trust.

For more information, contact

Want to Join Our Chamber Membership, call us at (310) 387-6639 Want to Join Our E-Blast Mailing List? Email us at: lakewoodchamberinfo@gmail.com

Elizabeth Vozzella Attorney at Law

(562) 426-9876

www.vozzella4law.com

December 2023

Page 20

Nominations for the 2024 Lakewood Youth Hall of Fame are now being accepted Award Categories Include: Athlete of the Year Performer’s of the Year Larry Van Nostran Rookie of the Year Outstanding High School Achievement ...and More Basic qualifications for nomination include that the nominated athlete must be 25 years old or younger and live in Lakewood or attend school in Lakewood. Nominations should include only accomplishments by the athlete for seasons ending in the 2023 calendar year (i.e. Basketball 20222023). Nomination forms may be found at www.lakewoodcity.org/HallOfFame, or by calling (562) 866-9771, ext. 2408 to request a copy sent via mail or to your email.

Mia Escandon (Saint Joseph HS) and Fatima Hall (Lakewood HS) were the 2022 Co-Athletes of the Year in the sports of Soccer and Volleyball respectively.

For reservations to the 42nd Annual Hall of Fame Banquet on Monday, February 26, 2024 call 562-866-9771, ext. 2408.

Visit the McDonald’s Hall of Fame Gallery at 4848 Woodruff Ave., Lakewood This space paid for by Piazza Family McDonald’s Restaurants