May LCN

Making Graduation Season a Little Sweeter

When was the last time you had a specialty cupcake? Probably last week or last night at a community event, or at a wedding, right.

Well, it's no surprise. Not only are spring and summer prime seasons for weddings and outdoor community events where finger foods include cupcakes, but let's not forgeth, May is the start of graduation season, too.

Delish.com lists cupcakes in the top 40 things you should serve at a graduation party.

Why? Because they're fun, they're easy to serve, they can be specialized to reflect the graduate, and according to Krista Lopez, owner of Lakewood's Sugar from the Heart Bakeshop, cupcakes are like a "quick little piece of happiness."

Lopez, who owns Sugar from the Heart with her family, and was once on Cupcake Wars back in 2011, is already getting graduation orders.

A resident of Lakewood, Lopez said she remembers

the day when cupcakes became the new craze and replaced cakes at large family celebrations. Cakes are still ordered on a daily, but for large events, cupcakes "take the cake."

"It happened back in 2005 with the Sprinkles Cupcakes boom," Lopez said about cupcakes now being in high demand. "I remember the day clearly. We love it though, and our community loves cupcakes."

Having made it through the pandemic, Lopez said that she knows that the busi-

Celebrating 70 Years of Being Lakewood's 'Best Kept Secret'

Whenthey say nothing happens without women, they were probably talking about the Lakewood Women's Club.

The Lakewood Women's Club is one of the oldest clubs in the City of Lakewood. In fact it was federated exactly 70 years ago, in 1953, before the City of Lakewood was incorporated. Another little fact that surprises people, is that it was the Lakewood Women's Club who was very helpful in collecting the signatures needed to become a City.

In honor of Mother's Day this month, and celebrating the strong, caring, and giving spirit of moms and women everywhere, the Greater Lakewood Chamber of Commerce interviewed Terri Belch, 2023

president of the Lakewood Women's Club to talk about the Club's work, purpose and how she felt being named president during the Club's 70th Anniversary year.

recognized the Club for its 70th Anniversary in January, it was overwhelming."

Has being involved in a community organization like the Lakewood Women's Club everything that you have expected?

How did it feel when you realized you had been named President of the Club for the 2023-2024 year?

"I was scared at first, but I've loved every minute of it. I'm so proud to be a part of this purposeful club, and I'm so proud of all of the work that we do for our community. It has been an honor to serve my community. When the City

"Yes, and more. Before I got involved, I had heard about the club, but I didn't know of them out in the community. I didn't really know anything about the club. But fast forward to today, I'm proud of everything that we do, of all of the work. Everybody in this club steps up and helps with all of our programs. We encourage each other and we give back to our community as much as we can. I don't think people know about our club as much as they should, but when they learn about us,

Thank a Servicemember postcard design contest turns 10 years old

Each year, Lakewood residents, businesses and community groups offer greetings and well-wishes to U.S. military personnel overseas through the City of Lakewood's unique "Thank a Servicemember campaign."

In celebration of the 10th year anniversary of this program, the City of Lakewood invites residents to show their

patriotism and city pride by submitting a postcard design for the 2023 campaign.

The city will select designs to showcase on five versions of commemorative postcards available at pickup locations throughout the City of Lakewood this fall.

If you are interested in participating, please download a template with size specifica-

tions to create your design, take a photo of your art and upload it to the online form. Get the link to the form and details at www.lakewoodcity.

org/TASPostcardContest

Deadline for submissions is Friday, Aug. 11. The

Thank a Servicemember campaign featuring the winning postcard designs officially launches on Sept. 11.

HAPPINESS IS CONTAGIOUS! Lakewood Women's Club member Debbie Ruhlow was happy to win a raffle prize at the March Chamber Mixer hosted by Vida y Alma: House of Beauty co-owner Erika Parada, also a Women's Club member.

(Cont'd. on Pg. 15)

(Cont'd. on Pg. 11)

The Lakewood Women's Club

Nicole Green, owner of Coco's Lipsmacking Cupcakes

Krista Lopez owns Sugar from the Heart Bakeshop

Fun things to do in Lakewood

Awetwinter to remember seems to finally have run its course, and it’s time for a spring and summer of fun. And you can have a lot of fun right here in your hometown of Lakewood.

To kick things off, a springtime tradition returns with the Pan Am Fiesta. This is Lakewood’s oldest community event, dating back 78 years to 1945, before Lakewood was even a city. Over four days, May 11-14, there will be carnival rides and games, live music, craft vendors, and a variety of food trucks and food booths. Details and a schedule of activities are at www.lakewoodcity.org/PanAm or call City Hall at 562-866-9771, ext. 2408.

Concerts in the Park returns June 15 for eight Thursdays in a row starting at 6:30 p.m. under the trees at Del Valle Park. There will be Top 40, country, a Beatles tribute band, two R&B/Motown nights, and new this year…the Creedence Clearwater Revival tribute band “Fortunate Son.” Dinner and refreshments will be sold each night, or bring a picnic. Details are at www.lakewoodcity.org/Concerts. And, to cap off the summer, go see the Selena Tribute Band, playing “in the outfield” at Palms Park on Friday, Sept. 8, at 6:30 p.m. For details on that and

other Palms Park events go to www.lakewoodcity.org/Play -

AtPalms

The single biggest event of the year happens on Saturday, June 24 with the Lakewood Civic Center Block Party on

Monday, Wednesday and Fridays from 9-11 a.m. (and Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6 to 8 p.m.) at the Mayfair Park basketball courts, and Wednesdays and Fridays from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Bolivar Park basketball courts. Meet friendly staff and people of all ages to play advanced games or to play for the first time (the city even provides paddles and balls).

Honoring the fallen on Memorial Day

Clark Ave. between Del Amo Blvd. and Hardwick St. Starting at 4 p.m., there will be food, carnival rides, live music and then at 9:15 p.m. a spectacular, professional fireworks show wraps up the day. Details are at www.lakewoodcity.org/

BlockParty

There will also be dozens of other opportunities for fun, classes and activities for all ages.

The popular Finally It’s Friday series of events returns with Movie Night Under the Stars, Parents Night Out/Kids Night In, Family Scavenger Hunt and more for the entire family.

America’s fastest growing sport of pickleball continues to expand in Lakewood this summer. You can now play five days a week at city parks.

At the Weingart Senior Center, there are fitness classes from Chair Exercise, to Low Impact Aerobics, to Cardio Salsa offered weekday mornings…and lots of opportunities for other activities, lunch and meeting new people. The Senior Health Fair, with healthrelated information and free screenings, will be held there on June 16 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. For details about Weingart activities, call 562-6306141 or go to www.lakewoodcity.org/seniors

For a long list of other classes and activities, be sure to watch for the Lakewood Summer Recreation and Community Services Catalog available online beginning Thursday, May 25 at www.lakewoodcity. org/catalog

And be sure to join your Lakewood neighbors and take advantage of the many opportunities for fun and rewarding experiences in our community this spring and summer. ♦

Lakewood residents are invited to join in the city’s annual tribute to the men and women who have sacrificed their lives while serving in the United States armed forces, as well as to honor the members of local veterans organizations who have died during the past year.

The Memorial Day ceremony will take place on Monday, May 29 at 11 a.m. at the Lakewood Veterans Memorial Plaza at Del Valle Park, located at Woodruff Avenue and Henrilee Street.

The nationally recognized Lakewood High School Naval Junior Reserve Offcers Training Corps will present our nation’s flag and the Golden Sands Chorus will provide a musical tribute. A stirring rendition of “Taps” will be performed live, along with a bagpiper playing “Amazing Grace” as the ceremony concludes.

The reading of Dennis Lander’s poem, “The Boys

City Hall will be closed on May 29 in observance of Memorial Day.

of Del Valle Park,” will be done by Captain Don McMackin, U.S. Navy (Ret.), a veteran of Afghanistan and the former senior instructor of the Lakewood High School Naval JROTC.

The event is sponsored by the City of Lakewood in conjunction with American Legion Post 496, Disabled American Veterans Chapter 19 and Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 756.

Parking will be available around the park, with disabled parking on the Woodruff Avenue service road immediately adjacent to the memorial. Neighboring residents are encouraged to walk to the park.

In addition to a large tent with chairs, there is ample space for guests to bring their own lawn chairs.

This event is free and open to the public. ♦

Veterans honoring the fallen at Lakewood’s Memorial Day

Mayor Steve Croft

Family-friendly Pan Am Fiesta returns

ThePan American Fiesta returns to Mayfair Park with its classic mix of rides, attractions, food and music combined with Lakewood traditions.

Mark your calendar for the Mother's Day weekend of Thursday, May 11 through Sunday, May 14 for a day at the Festival filled with lots of entertainment, a great community and lots of family fun.

Here are some of the features of the 2023 Pan Am Fiesta:

• Food trucks and food booths, with creative and popular menus.

• Exhilarating attractions… and lots of carnival rides (for young kids all the way up to teens and adults).

• Live music! On Friday night, see and dance to the Susie

Hansen Latin Band. Saturday night features Savor The Band (Santana Tribute) followed by Knyght Ryder (‘80s).

• A complete schedule (including other performers) is available at www.lakewoodc-

ity.org/fiesta. With questions, call 562-866-9771, extension 2408.

Admission to the Pan Am Fiesta is free; tickets are required for the carnival rides. Pre-sale discount ride tickets

Starting on Monday, May 1 through Wednesday, May 10, you can buy discount ride tickets from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Recreation and Community Services Department in Lakewood City Hall.

• 10 rides for $35 (each credit is good for any one ride on Friday, Saturday or Sunday).

• Pre-sale Promotional Wristband for $35 – unlimited rides on Friday, Saturday or Sunday from opening until 30 minutes before closing each night. See

carnival hours.

Event day prices (Thursday –Sunday)

On Thursday, May 11, the Fiesta kicks off with $2 rides from 5 to 9 p.m.

At the Pan Am Fiesta on Friday through Sunday, you can purchase “credits” to use for rides, food and games. The number of credits needed for each ride vary, from nine to 15. Credits are available in quantities from 36 to 156, ranging from $18 to $78.

You can also purchase a promotional wristband for $40, which provides unlimited rides from opening until 30 minutes before closing each night.

See the complete event schedule at www.lakewoodcity.org/fiesta

For more information on this event call Lakewood City Hall at 562-866-9771, ext. 2408. ♦

Knyght Ryder

Susie Hansen Latin Band

Savor: The Band

Mother’s Day Brunch

Showmom how much you appreciate her with an unforgettable, all-you-can-eat Mother’s Day brunch experience provided by TGIS Catering at The Centre in Lakewood on Sunday, May 14 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The Centre’s highly acclaimed, in-house caterer is one of the premier cuisine and event-planning teams in Southern California.

In addition to a brunch buffet, there will be a complimentary photo booth, and gift bags for moms. Guests can also surprise their mother with a special personalized greeting that will be displayed on the big screen during the brunch.

TGIS’ Mother’s Day Menu Includes:

• Bottomless Champagne and Mimosas

• Chocolate Fantasy Fountain

• Traditional Breakfast Buffet

• Waffle Station

• Southern Comfort Station

• And much more!

Menu subject to change without prior notice.

The Centre is Lakewood’s leading location for community banquets, meetings, events, weddings and receptions for every season of the year. Bring your family to celebrate this special occasion honoring our amazing moms! Space is limited, so reservations must be made early. Contact TGIS Catering at 562-804-4434 or events@lakewoodcity.org.

The cost is $46.95 plus sales tax for adults, $41.95 plus sales tax for seniors age 60+ plus sales tax, and $31.95 for children age 10 and younger plus sales tax. Pricing is subject to change without prior notice. A 10% gratuity and 3% credit card convenience fee will be added to all parties/reservations. ♦

City Spotlight

Mayfair Pool offers pre-summer swim opportunities

Swim Lessons: Mayfair Pool pre-summer swim lessons will take place Tuesday, May 30 to Friday, June 9. Online swim lesson priority registration for residents begins May 20 at 7 p.m. Non-residents may register online beginning May 23 at 7 p.m. Participants may sign up at www.lakewoodcity.org/ecatalog. Pre-registration is required. Be sure to read the Pool Rules. Water Aerobics: Get a head start on your summer fitness with a splash! Shallow Water Aerobics classes will take place on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6:40 to 7:30 p.m. from May 30 to June 15 at Mayfair Pool. Register at www.lakewoodcity.org/eCatalog using activity #24727. Mayfair Pool is located at 5720 Clark Ave. For more information, call 562-866-9771, ext. 2408.

call City Hall at 562-866-9771, ext. 2408.

Adult Softball and Volleytennis signups

Registration for Lakewood’s Adult Softball and Volleytennis summer league will take place May 1-19. Softball leagues play on various evenings (M-F) and Sunday afternoons. Volleytennis plays Monday evenings. All ability levels are encouraged. Team registration is available online at www. lakewoodcity.org/ecatalog, under activities-sports league.

Registration packets including fees and further information are available at www.lakewoodcity. org/sports or by calling 562-8669771, ext. 2408.

FUN-Tastic Family Night featuring Jedi

Your child can learn the ways of the force when “Jedi” comes to The Centre, 5000 Clark Ave. on Friday, June 16 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Jedi performers will teach the young padawans how to unleash their inner Jedi powers and defeat the evil of the universe through training and games!

LYS baseball/softball /T-ball signups

Signups for Lakewood Youth Sports baseball, softball and T-ball teams will take place between April 29 and May 13. T-ball teams are for boys and

Spring Car Show Series at Palms Park

Bring the entire family out to Palms Park, 12305 207th St., for the Spring Car Show on Friday, June 9, from 6 to 9 p.m. A variety of cars will be displayed along with a food truck, vendors and a family fun zone. All cars are welcomed and no entry fee is required. This is a free event to the public. To register a vehicle, visit www.lakewoodcity.org/carshowregistration For more information on this event

The cost of the show is $15 per person, $12 for children one year old to three years old (children under 1 are free) and includes a meal of orange chicken, rice, lemonade and a dessert. Doors open at 6 p.m. and seating is on a first come basis.

Go to www.lakewoodcity.org/ ecatalog to register and use activity #24620. The last day to register is June 8 or until filled. Call 562-866-9771, ext. 2408 for more information.

girls ages 4-5 and coach pitch teams are for children ages 6-7. Baseball and slow-pitch softball teams are for boys and girls ages 8-17.

Registration is available online at www.lakewoodcity. org/ecatalog, under activitiessports league. There are no registration fees for Lakewood residents. Proof of residency is required. The non-resident registration fee is $20. Birth certificates must be presented to the office of the park you register for before the start of play. For information, call 562-866-9771, ext. 2408.

Lakewood Youth Sports volunteer coaches needed Volunteer coaches are needed for baseball, softball and T-ball teams for the summer season at Lakewood parks. Although moms and dads of players make great coaches, it’s not necessary to have a child playing to enjoy the volunteer experience.

No coaching experience is necessary. City staff will provide the appropriate training. Inquire at any Lakewood park for complete details or call 562866-9771, ext. 2408.♦

70 years in Lakewood... and still going strong

Threeiconic Lakewood organizations are celebrating their 70th anniversary this year…and Lakewood’s award-winning CityTV team has produced warm, nostalgic videos to honor them.

This spring, the Lakewood Little League celebrates its 70th season of play, and on Opening Day on March 11 they honored this year’s young players along with a special recognition for the heroes of the 1960 Lakewood Little League All-Star team that went on a victorious streak all

the way to the Little League World Series in Williamsport, Pennsylvania. The 1960 team finished third in that World Series and became known as one of the most famous sports teams in Lakewood’s history –no small feat in a city named “Sportstown USA” by Sports Illustrated magazine. See the CityTV video that honors them at www.lakewoodcity. org/1960LittleLeagueTeam

Also this year, the Lakewood Women’s Club and Golden Sands Chorus are celebrating their 70th anniversaries in the

Don't Miss Out!

community. The Lakewood Women’s Club has a storied local history supporting the city’s original incorporation in 1954 and supporting numerous community building efforts in the decades since.

The Golden Sands Chorus is an award-winning acapella

Place an ad in the JUNE quarterly, Shop Local, Shop Lakewood LCN Edition

As you can see, great changes are happening to the Lakewood Community News. The GLCC's second edition of its Shop Local, Shop Lakewood quarterly special advertising edition is scheduled for June. As part of the special, ads in this edition will be half-page ads, or 5x6 ads, and will be accompanied by a Business Spotlight feature story. This quarterly Special seeks to increase readership for the LCN and aims to highlight the business community. Interested advertisers, may call (562) 531-9733 for ad rates. Deadline is May 19th.

women’s singing group that performs throughout California and the nation, and is wellknown in Lakewood for performing annually at the city’s Memorial Day ceremony at Veterans Memorial Plaza at Del Valle Park. They’ll be performing there again this year

at 11 a.m. on Monday, May 29.

See the CityTV video highlighting the contributions of both women’s organizations, including interviews with longtime members, at www. lakewoodcity.org/WomensClubGoldenSands. ♦

Mayfair High School beats

Bellflower in first Halo Classic

The first-ever Halo Classic was a oncein-a-lifetime opportunity for our baseball teams to compete in a rivalry game at Angel Stadium. Congratulations to Mayfair on their thrilling 4-1 victory over Bellflower on Tuesday.

The game was tied 1-1 when Nathan Baca knocked in an RBI single to take the lead. Stellar pitching performances from Nolan Fox, Joel Dawson, and Michael Corrales kept Mayfair on top. BHS senior Chris Guillen’s RBI single scored Bellfower’s only run.

The atmosphere was electric throughout the stands. It was an incredible experience for the players, coaches, and the community.

Walk for Kids Returns June 4

The 12th annual Ronald McDonald House Charities Walk for Kids is coming to the City of Long Beach once again this summer and is looking for walkers.

Walk for Kids, led by the RMHC Chapter in Long Beach, is an annual 5k fundraising event that supports children and families who rely on the lifechanging services and programs provided by the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Southern California.

The annual Walk for Kids, which is held in different counties throughout the year, has helped over 10,000 families over the last 12 years.

This fun, family-friendly event calls on volunteers, companies, and donors to participate in the annual Walk for Kids. By participating in one of the many walks held throughout Southern California, one can help create a community where children and their families can embrace life and healing with a sense of hope, enthusiasm, courage and joy.

Walk for Kids' purpose is

to provide resources, such as housing and support services to families who have to travel away from their homes in order to access long-term health resources for their children.

The Lakewood Rotary Club is among the RMHC's biggest fundraisers in the Long Beach/ Lakewood area. Ranked in the Top 10 Teams, the Lakewood Rotary Club has set a goal for $1,000 and so far, they have raised $1,275.

The June 4 Walk for Kids is set to take place at Shorline Village. You can register at walkforkids.org, form a team or you can make a donation to one of the teams already registered, such as the Lakewood Rotary Team. The event opens at 7 a.m., and starts at 8 a.m.

Kids Versus Parents

Meet your neighbors at a night of family fun on Wednesday, May 3 at 6 p.m. at your local Lakewood park!

Kids versus parents, family versus family, trivia, charades and more, are sure to make this an action-packed evening of fun!

Light refreshments will be served. Pre-registration is required. Go to www.lakewoodcity.org/ecatalog and search for “Family Game Night,” then select your local park and register. ♦

Four Coaches Presented with the Joe Esquivel Coach of the Year award

Atthe 2023 Lakewood Youth Hall of Fame event, the first ever Joe Esquivel Coach of the Year award was presented to not one, but four honorees:

Mayfair High School Wrestling Coach Ibee Atalla led the Monsoons to league and CIF championships, their tenth consecutive league title and fourth CIF championship in the past seven years.

Lakewood High School Football Coach Justin Utupo guided the Lancers through a rocky season start of 1-4 to finish the season 8-4, leading them all the way to the CIF finals, where they hosted their first CIF football final in school history.

Saint Joseph High School Soccer Coach Isaac Ayala guided the Jesters soccer team to the CIF state division four championship and was named the division four coach of the year. Isaac is also invested in his play-

ers’ academic performance, reflected in the fact that the Jesters on his team had a team GPA of 3.78.

Under the tutelage of Artesia High Boys Basketball Coach Jeff Myles, the Pioneers had their most wins, 26, and secured their first league title since 2007, advancing to the first round of the state tour-

nament.

The Joe Esquivel Coach of the Year award was created to recognize coaches whose passion and dedication sets them apart, and whose tireless effort helps to guide and shape the futures of young athletes in the community.

Joe Esquivel, who passed away in 2022, was a longtime

Lakewood City Council Member and an original member of Lakewood Youth Hall of Fame Board of Electors.

And he coached in Lakewood youth sports for 18 seasons, which he called one of the most rewarding parts of his life and public service in Lakewood.

The coaching award in his name honors that legacy. ♦

The award was named in honor of former Council Member Joe Esquivel (left) and was presented by Council Member Todd Rogers to coaches Ibee Atalla, Justin Utupo, Isaac Ayala and Jeff Myles.

Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month

May is Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, and the City of Lakewood joins the federal and state governments and hundreds of public and private organizations in paying tribute to this important commemoration.

There are more than 23 million people of Asian or Pacific Islander descent in the United States, and in less than 50 years, nearly one of every ten people in America will trace his or her heritage to Asia and the Pacific--a region that covers more than one third of the earth. This diverse and growing population makes up about 7 percent of the total U.S. population, and at least 15% of Lakewood residents are of

Asian/Pacific Islander descent.

A key element of Lakewood’s Community Dialogue on Race, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion is celebrating the diversity of cultures and people in Lakewood.

On behalf of the Lakewood City Council, Mayor Steve Croft has issued a proclamation in recognition of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, which can be viewed at www.lakewoodcity. org

Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders have played vital roles in shaping the United States—from building the Transcontinental Railroad to advocating for labor law changes to fighting to defend our nation in multiple wars.

They made these contributions while also facing persistent discrimination and violence throughout U.S. history.

Most recently, the COVID-19 pandemic led to a rise in hate crimes against AsianAmericans. They have long been perceived as outsiders, despite the Chinese being the first Asian immigrants arriving in the United States in significant numbers over 150 years ago in the mid-nineteenth century.

The Smithsonian Asian Pacific American Center (APAC) has sought to showcase the resiliency and strength of this community in presenting Bravespace (smithsonianapa.

org/bravespace), a compilation of original songs, sounds and meditations created by Asian American women and non-binary artists and musicians. Commissioned at the beginning of the COVID-19 lockdown in 2020, APAC spent almost three years collaborating with these musicians, artists and cultural practitioners to capture how an intensely challenging moment could lead to personal discovery and collective healing. The compilation is available on multiple streaming options.

The Los Angeles County Public Library has a wealth of resources at www.lacountylibrary.org/asian-pacific-amer-

ican-heritage-month, including booklists for adults, teens and kids. The library’s Asian Pacific Resource Center Facebook page is also continuously updated with AAPI news, programs and useful resources for everyone to enjoy.

The Iacoboni Library has two programs that are related to AAPI Heritage month:

Baby Band Practice

Dates: Thursdays May 18 & May 25 @ 10 a.m.

Celebrate AAPI Heritage Month with a special playlist of music! Build your child’s pre-literacy, social skills and motor skills through song and rhyme! For ages 0 - 24 months and their caregivers. Registration required.

Polka Dot Art

Date: Tuesday, May 9 @ 4 p.m.

Create your own polka dot art inspired by Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama. Canvas, markers, and polka dot making tips will be provided. For ages 13 –17. Registration required. Register for either event here: https://lacountylibrary. org/angelo-m-iacoboni-library/. ♦

Celebrations make life SWEETER

(Cont'd. from Pg. 1) nesses who survived, are blessed. "We are grateful for the community's support through the pandemic," she said. "We wouldn't be here if it wasn't for the community's support, and their love of cupcakes."

Sugar from the Heart, she said, bakes about 300 cupcakes every day.

Nicole Green, also known as Coco, owner of Coco's Lipsmacking Cupcakes in Lakewood, has been making cupcakes from scratch since she was a little girl, and said she's always ready to take on large orders.

While both Sugar from the

Support Local Bakeries

Coco's Lipsmacking Cupcakes

Sugar from the Heart Bakeshop

Doll Babee Cheesecakes

Tous les Jours

Miss Priss Cupcakes & Such Susie Cakes

Martin's Bakery

Fantasy Cakes Bakery

Heart and Coco's Lipsmacking Cupcakes make cakes, cookies, brownies, and more, cupcakes are their biggest sellers.

"People love ordering large orders at the last minute," said Coco. "They can have the invites, the location and the decor ready, but they always wait until the last minute to order their cake or cupcakes. With the return of family gatherings and celebrations, cupcakes are on demand and we're here for it."

Within a week, Coco said that she and her team will make close to 1,000 cupcakes.

Cakes, she said she makes about three every week, but cupcakes, she loses count.

What's wonderful about making cupcakes also, is that they are easy to deliver for catering jobs. On average, every year, over 800 million cupcakes are consumed in the United States every year, according to National Today. Bakeries that provide catering services or specialize in special events for large crowds often see an increase in volume during the Spring and

Summer.

Coco, who got her start before the pandemic, said she appreciates the community's support over the last couple of years and like everyone else, is happy that family gatherings and celebrations are making a comeback.

"I love it when people order my cakes, but I understand why cupcakes are the new 'it,'" she said. "Cupcakes are a tiny version of a cake, and there's no cutting and serving, you can just place them on a tower and invite people to grab one, cupcakes are the easiest and sweetest dessert to serve large crowds."

Coco's biggest sellers are her Red Velvet Cupcake and her Double Chocolate Cupcake. All of her cupcakes have different names and different ingredients, and just like she says, the taste of her cupcakes lives up to the Lipsmacking name. "I'm looking forward to our cupcakes being a part of family gatherings and celebrations this year," Coco said. "Family gatherings and graduation parties this year are making a come-back. It would be an honor to celebrate 2023 graduates in the sweetest way."

Lopez said she doesn't see family parties going away anytime soon. "Graduation par-

ties, especially, they will be non-stop until at least July," she said, adding that she's been getting orders for three weeks already. "Families are excited to celebrate their graduates, but so are we."

Sugar from the Heart's lead cupcake is the Zucchini and Brown Butter, and everybody's favorite, the Almond Ricotta Cupcake, which she only makes on Fridays and Saturdays.

While cupcakes are the new trend, for these two bakers, Lopez and Coco, are still small business owners in Lakewood who give back to their community, either through sponsorships or by donating some of their sweet baked goods or cupcakes. Small businesses continuously need the support of their community to succeed

Have a Sweet Graduation & Wedding Season! Support Local!

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY TO MOMS EVERYWHERE

GLCC President Jose Luis Solache, pictured here with his beloved Mom, Maria de Luz Solache, wishes moms everywhere a very HAPPY 2023 MOTHER'S DAY, which falls on Sunday, May 14th this year.

Lakewood recreation catalog coming soon

The 2023 Lakewood Summer Recreation Catalog will be featured online starting Thursday, May 25. Additionally, a limited number of hard copies of the catalog will be available for pick up at Lakewood parks, community centers and City Hall. The catalog offers many fun, family-friendly opportunities along with information on special events and programs such as Block Party, Concerts in the Park, summer camps and the aquatics program.

Priority mail-in registration and online registration for Lakewood residents be-

Rotary Seeks donations for Camp Pendleton Families

The Lakewood Rotary Club is seeking donations from the community to help Camp Pendleton Young Marine Families.

Jon Gotz, current president of the Lakewood Rotary Club, said this will be the first time that the Lakewood Rotary Club adds this program to their roster of community activities.

gins Thursday, May 25. Online registration is fast, easy and convenient.

Most classes and activities begin the week of June 19. For more information call 562-866-9771, ext. 2408. Register online at www. lakewoodcity.org/ecatalog. ♦

"The Lakewood Rotary Club hasn't coordinated this program in the past, but when I learned that it will help our young military families, it struck a chord in me that said we need to be helping the families of our service men and women," said Gotz. "These are our men and women out there defending our country, donating items that they need is the least we can do to help them."

The Lakewood Rotary Club currently has about 40 active members and was founded in 1954, the same year that the City of Lakewood was incorporated.

Aside from asking the community to come forward and donate, Richard Chavarria, a member of the Lakewood Rotary Club, is also looking for other local non-profit organizations to contribute to the collection for the young families.

"We would like to provide needed items for young families at Camp Pendleton," said Chavarria. "There are over 70,000

Marines at Camp Pendleton and 10,000 children under the age of five. More than 160 babies are born there each month. Most families of younger Marines arrive with whatever they can fit in their car. With a relatively low income (for Southern California), most do not have everything they need for newborns and small children. They also need to furnish an apartment and set up a kitchen."

Chavarria added that the Rotary Club would like to collect new and gently used baby, child, and household items for the young families.

"Upon the completion of the collection, families will select what they need from our contributions 'Warrior Warehouse,' operated by

the Camp Pendleton Rotary Club. Suggested items are diapers, diapers and more diapers, baby and young children’s clothing, toys, books, bathtubs, strollers, cribs, dishes cookware, meal preparation tools, bedding, and gift cards ($25) from Target and Walmart.

Monetary donations (tax deductible) can be coordinated by contacting Chavarria at (562) 253-6090.

The Lakewood Rotary Club will be collecting donations for one day only, June 10 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Lakewood City Hall parking lot., at Clark Avenue and Del Amo Boulevard. For more information, call Gotz at (562) 400-5098.

DONATIONS TO CAMP PENDLETON FOR MILITARY FAMILIES AND CHILDREN

There are over 70,000 Marines at Camp Pendleton and 10,000 children under the age of 5. More than 160 babies are born at the base each month. Most families arrive at base with only what they managed to fit into their car and are challenged to furnish a small apartment. With very low incomes, most families do not have essential needs for their newborns and small children.

THE ROTARY CLUB OF LAKEWOOD WANTS TO HELP and has organized a collection of new and gently used items to support our military families.

ITEMS OF GREATEST NEED ARE:

Diapers, Diapers and More Diapers

Infant, toddler, and children’s clothing

Toys

Children’s books

Infant bathtubs

Strollers

Cribs

Dishes, cookware, and meal preparation

tools

Bedding

Gift cards for Walmart and Target

No furniture will be accepted at this event. The families will select what they need from our contributions at the “Warrior Warehouse” on Camp Pendleton.

Donations accepted on Saturday, June 10, 2023 from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Lakewood City Hall off Civic Center Drive Parking Lot

(Behind the Farmer’s Market at Clark Avenue and Del Amo Blvd.)

For more information, contact Rotary Club of Lakewood Members Richard Chavarria, 562-253-6090 Or Jon Gotz, 562-400-5098

David Henseler of the South Bay Sunrise Rotary Club is the local Co-Chair for this program. Off-duty Marines volunteer to unload trucks.

Celebrating Groundwater

The Water Replenishment District is excited to announce the return of its popular Groundwater Festival on Saturday, May 6th from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at their headquarters in Lakewood.

Festival attendees can visit several booths with giveaways and information on groundwater and environmental sustainability. The event will also feature face painting, raffles, pet adoption opportunities, and live animal demonstrations.

Free food will be available while supplies last.

WRD will also recognize local leaders as groundwater advocates.

Congresswoman Linda T. Sanchez, Senator Steven Bradford, Senator Lena A. Gonza-

lez, Supervisor Janice Hahn, and Chuck Shaich from the Torrance Department of Public Works will be recognized as local leaders who have contributed to WRD’s vision of a sustainable water future.

“The Groundwater Festival is an opportunity for people of all ages to come and learn about the important role WRD plays in our

region’s water system,” said WRD Board President John Allen. “We look forward to celebrating groundwater with our community.”

The Groundwater Festival is made possible by the generous support of several sponsors including Perc Water, Tetra Tech, Dakota Communications, the Los Angeles County Sanitation Districts, Jacobs Engineering, The West Basin Municipal Water District, Pacific Atlantic Partners, the Los Angeles County Department of Public Works, and others.

The 13th Annual Groundwater Festival will be held at WRD Headquarters located at 4040 Paramount Blvd., Lakewood, CA 90712 on May 6, 2023 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Free shredding event

TheCity of Lakewood and EDCO Waste Services are teaming up again to sponsor a FREE shredding event to help you prevent identity theft by securely shredding sensitive documents as well as to safely dispose of unwanted e-waste.

On Saturday, May 20 from 9 a.m. to noon, Lakewood residents can take advantage of easy drive-through shredding and recycling services in the parking lot behind City Hall and the Iacoboni Library.

Residents will enter the parking lot behind Iacoboni Library off of Civic Center Way and drive through to access these services:

• Shredding: Bring up to three bankers-style boxes (10” x 12” x 15”) per household of sensitive documents such as bank statements and tax records for free shredding on site. No CDs, DVDs, diskettes or other media.

• Battery disposal: Bring used household batteries (no car batteries).

• E-waste disposal: Bring TVs, monitors, computer CPUs, keyboards, printers and cell phones for environmen-

tally safe disposal.

• Mulch: Bring bags or containers to get up to 3 cans/ bags per vehicle. As a courtesy, Lakewood employees will shovel the mulch. If you plan to haul your mulch in an open truck or trailer, please remember to bring a tarp to cover your material.

Please do NOT bring these items to the event, as they are hazardous waste:

• No lightbulbs of any sort.

• No household toxics like paint, insecticides, chemicals.

• No expired medications or sharps.

Hazardous waste and ewaste are accepted on the second and fourth Saturdays of each month at EDCO’s large transfer facility located at 2755 California Ave. in Signal Hill at no charge to Lakewood residents.

This event is for Lakewood residents only. The line will close promptly at noon. Be prepared to show proof of residency, with either a driver’s license or utility bill. For more information, please call 562866-9771, ext. 2140. ♦

Women

(Cont'd. from Pg. 1) they realize that the Lakewood Women's Club is Lakewood's best-kept secret, because when there's a need, the Lakewood Women's Club is there. The community knows who we are now."

How many members are in the club, and what does the club do for the community?

"Right now we have about 62 members. The number goes up and down. We are a philanthropic non-profit and we fundraise to give back to the community. We are one of the most active clubs in the region. We have a Fireworks booth that's been stationed at the corner of Del Amo and Carson for 30 years, we host a Quartermania Auction, and we help with Assemblyman Anthony Rendon's annual toy drive.

Everyone loves the 4th of July fireworks booth, but what's your favorite Club activity?

"I have to say our Valentine's Day grams. The club gets togther and sends out 250 Valentine's Day grams to veteran's hospitals, nursing homes and we take them to the Lakewood Senior Center. Some people say that they never received a Valentine's Day card before getting one from us, it's very rewarding. Since Covid, we don't get to visit some of these places anymore, but hopefully, soon we can get back to doing that. Our visits would make a lot of folks happy."

What is one thing that you'd like to share with the community that you think they should know about the Lakewood Women's Club?

"That we love giving back to the community. Another amazing thing is that one of our members, who recently moved to Washington, is turning 98 years old on June 10. Elsie Rash has been a member of the club for 60 years. She is our longest sitting member, and I'm certain that the work that we do everyday is part of the legacy, work and dedication that she helped to plant in this community 60 years ago."

Lakewood prepared to combat illegal fireworks

The problem of illegal fireworks use has grown in recent years throughout California and the nation.

“It doesn’t matter whether a community allows or disallows the use of safe-and-sane fireworks. The problem of illegal fireworks is the same in both types of communities,” said Lakewood City Manager Thaddeus McCormack.

“But Lakewood is known throughout Southern California as a city that does everything it can to deter the use of illegal fireworks,” said McCormack. “We hire and deploy one of the region’s largest teams of Deputy Sheriffs around July 4th. We do undercover sting operations in ad-

vance, targeting the purchase and sale of illegal fireworks, and we impose large fines on those with illegal fireworks, with total penalties exceeding $2,000. We also look for new and innovative ways each year to combat the problem.”

“Here’s how Lakewood residents can do their part to help,” said McCormack • If you see or hear illegal fireworks currently in use, call the

Lakewood Sheriff’s Station at 562-623-3500.

• If illegal fireworks are not currently in use, but you know the address where they are repeatedly being used, the best way to report it is by using the Lakewood Connect App. Get ready by downloading the app to your smartphone in advance (at the Apple App store or Google Play). Lakewood public safety personnel can then put that address on their patrol list.

• Or, you can report known addresses of repeat illegal fireworks users by calling City Hall’s customer service team during business hours at 562866-9771, ext. 2140.

If after hours, leave a message with as much information as possible, including the address or cross streets of the location.

REMINDER :

If a firework does not have a CA State Fire Marshal “Safe and Sane” approved seal on the packaging, that firework is classified as dangerous and is prohibited in Lakewood or anywhere in California.

Safe and Sane fireworks do not explode and go in the air, and their sound does not travel far. The use of Safe and Sane fireworks are ONLY legal on July 4 from 10am-11pm. ALL fireworks, including Safe and Sane, are considered illegal before or after July 4. ♦