Starlight Cinemas open soon We are family

is rare to find a movie theater nowadays with this many seats. On top of it all, Lakewood is a destination for families, for good restaurants, for beautiful parks, for new families, and for shopping. The only thing that has been missing is its theater. But not anymore."

Starlight Cinemas is also open in Costa Mesa, Rancho Palos Verdes, Garden Grove, Corona, Whittier, and soon in Rancho Cucamonga. The Lakewood site will be the seventh theater for Akarakian.

The theater started off with one screen in 1968, but today, it has a total of 16 screens. Asked what is going to set Starlight Cinemas apart from other movie theaters, Lee said that Starlight will offer moviegoers both contemporary films, along with classic films - all at affordable prices. "We're even going to show operas, alternative content, live sporting events and concerts," Lee said. "Dan [Akarakian] believes that everyone should be able to afford to go to the movies. Ticket prices will start at $5."

Moreso, Lee added, Starlight Cinemas only allows for reserved seating in order to keep the movie-going experience respectful and fun.

With families closer together." ago.

Akarakian said he also takes his family to see movies at his theaters, the last being "Avatar: The Way of Water."

"There's just something about watching a movie on the big screen that you can't get from watching on a small screen," he said. "All the details, and colors and the overall experience of being in a theater with other people you don't know and you're all laughing at the same thing, or even shedding tears over the same thing. There's nothing like the movie-going experience."

The movie theater business actually runs in Akarakian's family. His father was a projectionist at the Warner Grand Theater in San Pedro back in 1971, and when it closed down, his father bought the theater. Akarakian said he bought his first theater in 1987, but it wasn't until 2002 that he formed the Starlight Cinemas.

"I think it's been my life's purpose to create a safe-moviegoing experience for families, as an outlet away from their daily routines, and helps bring

Deena Henry, Director of Property Management at the Lakewood Center, said, "We are ecstatic that Starlight Cinemas are re-opening the theater. Starlight has been great to work with and we are looking forward to bringing movie-goers back to the Lakewood Center."

The Starlight Cinemas have also signed up in June as new members of the Greater Lakewood Chamber of Commerce.

"Starlight Cinemas isn't just going to be a new business in the City of Lakewood, we are here to be a part of the community of Lakewood, we are looking forward to being a part of the Lakewood family," said Akarakian.

Jalesia Duran represents the Class of 2023: Proud of all of you!

Donate Backpacks and School Supplies for Lakewood Students

Name:

How to register for the Project Shepherd Backpack Program

Lakewood residents who have school-age children (preschool to 12th grade) may register to receive a free backpack with school supplies for the upcoming school year.

The registration period to receive help from Project Shepherd continues through Tuesday, Aug. 1. Visit www.lakewoodcity.org/PSbackpack for additional information.

Eligibility requirements:

• Lakewood residents only.

•Those who are low-income, unemployed, or facing economic hardship

To register, call the Burns Community Center at 562-

925-7512.

*Burns Community Center hours are Monday to Friday, 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.

*A current utility bill (water, gas, electric) or government award letter must be shown upon pickup to receive a backpack.

Project Shepherd would like to thank our platinum sponsor Golden State Water Co. for their generous contribution towards the program.

Lakewood Project Shepherd is currently collecting “Back to School” backpacks and school supplies for low- income families with schoolage children in Lakewood through Monday, July 31.

As you help Project Shepherd, consider that Lakewood has some of the nation’s most popular and value-oriented back-toschool retailers, including: Costco, Marshalls, Home Goods, Target, Dollar Tree, 99¢ Only Stores, Walmart, Kohl’s, Forever 21, JCPenney, Macy’s and Big 5.

For those wanting to make a donation from the comfort of home, visit www.lakewoodcity.org/ backpackwishlist for an Amazon Wish List of items needed.

New backpacks and school supplies appropriate for all ages will be accepted at Lakewood City Hall during regular business hours or at the Burns Community Center at 5510 Clark Ave. from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekdays.

Please deliver your donation no later than Monday, July 31. For more information, call 562-925- 7512 or see the flyer at www.lakewoodcity.org/PSbackpack.