2023 October LCN

CONGRATULATIONS BUSD BANDS!

Two local high school marching bands invited to Rose Parade

The Bellflower Unified School District is delighted to announce that our awardwinning Bellflower and Mayfair high school bands, in partnership with neighboring 605 freeway school districts, have received an invitation to participate in the 2025 Rose Parade.

Under the guidance of Tom Philips, the Director of the Mayfair High School Band, 407 students came together to form the 605 All Star band and submitted a Rose Parade

audition video. Mr. Philips is the driving force behind this collaboration, stating, “If you dream, you can. COVID-19 downsized us but I didn’t give up.”

Bellflower High School Band Director Omar Vidana, also remarked, “The Rose Parade receives hundreds of video auditions. This demonstrates that around here, there's quality education in our community.”

The 605 All Star Band proudly represents three distinct school districts: Bell-

'Thank a Servicemember' postcard contest winners announced; six designs selected

In celebration of the 10th anniversary of the City of Lakewood’s ‘Thank a Servicemember’ campaign, artists of all ages were invited to submit their patriotic designs for this year’s postcard.

Six designs were selected to adorn the cards that community members can pick up around the city this fall to write their messages of thanks.

Congratulations to the winning artists:

•Jamie T. painted the Veteran’s Memorial at Del Valle Park. Her uncle’s name appears on the memorial, a familiar sight to everyone who lives and grew up here.

That inspired her to capture the powerful elements and values the memorial embodies.

•Eddie V. was inspired by our servicemembers in the military. He included a soldier saluting as it is the best way to show respect and say thank you for your service. Eddie wanted to include the flag because it’s a symbol of the United States of America.

•Doug B. crafted this beautiful piece in memory of his grandfather, a Navy veteran who served in WWII. His grandfather purchased his home in 1960 and was a proud Lakewood resident for over 59 years.

•Elliana D. created her design

to remind people that it is important to acknowledge servicemembers that protect us and our country.

•Christopher M.’s design is

OCTOBER: National Women's Small Business Month

In case you didn't know, October is National Women’s Small Business Month, which means it’s time to recognize women-owned businesses everywhere, as well as the outstanding progress women have made over the years. According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, women-owned businesses have generated $1.9 trillion worth of revenue in our economy. The SBA also reported that since the total of women-owned businesses in the U.S. were first recorded at approximately 400,000 in 1972, this amount has skyrocketed to over 13 million. This outstanding milestone achieved by female entrepreneurs deserves to be acknowledged and celebrated. In honor of National Women’s Small Business month, you are invited to support a woman-owned business in your community.

based on the Star-Spangled Banner with the red and white stripes representing uniformity and the big blue star sym-

(Cont'd. on Pg. 11)

See Page 8 inside for a list of Women Small Business owners in our local community that you can support.

-National Organization for Women

Lakewood Sheriff's Department Saturates Mall, Preventing Looting and Dispersing Crowd

Malls across Southern California have been the subject of youth mobs in recent months, and unfortunately, Lakewood Center was the latest focus, with over 200 youth, most of them middle-school age, descending on the property Saturday with the purpose of creating havoc, shoplifting, and filming it for social media popularity. Many of the youth took public transportation or rode bikes to the mall.

for the evening.

"Our commitment is to provide the most enjoyable and pleasant shopping experience for all our guests," said Deena Henry, CSM, Director, Property Management for Lakewood Center. "While we always welcome younger shoppers and respect their important contributions to our retailers, they need to respect the Code of Conduct when on the property. We appreciate the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department and city public safety staff in supporting our on-mall security with handling the situation on Saturday."

Fortunately, the Lakewood Sheriff’s Station received advance notice of the youths’ plans and prepared with a very large contingent of Sheriff’s personnel from the Lakewood Station and several neighboring stations. Lakewood’s Sky Knight helicopter also provided a useful “eye in the sky” to provide intelligence and direct Sheriff’s personnel.

Deputy Sheriffs, with help from mall security and city public safety staff, prepared a plan in advance and dispersed the crowd. Several juveniles were detained.

There was no property damage, no thefts, and no injuries to mall patrons or staff.

Out of an abundance of caution, the mall closed early

“This is very disappointing and disturbing behavior that we are seeing from some youth in our society right now,” said Lakewood City Manager Thaddeus McCormack. “But Lakewood won’t tolerate it, and with the help of our longtime partners in the Sheriff’s Department, we will bring every resource to bear to deter these incidents, and stop them as quickly as possible if they do occur.

“I want to extend our city’s deep appreciation to the personnel of the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, mall security and our city public safety staff, for teaming up yesterday to safeguard Lakewood Center and eliminate the problem as quickly and safely as possible,” said McCormack.

“That teamwork,” said McCormack, “makes Lakewood Center consistently one of the safest malls in our area, despite the challenges that shopping centers everywhere face. And the daily teamwork between the Sheriff’s Department and our city makes Lakewood one of the safest communities in our region.”

(Cont'd. on Pg. 5)

Along with a long-stem rose, members of the Mayfair High School Band were surprised with the announcement via a personal video from Ed Morales, President of the Tournament of Roses Parade for every school.

Mayor Ariel Pe

Fall Fun in Lakewood

Fall is one of the busiest…and I think coolest…times of the year in Lakewood.

It’s when a lot of our city’s traditional and favorite activities take place…but also some new ones too.

Let’s start with the traditional.

The Lollipop Lane craft boutique has been a popular Lakewood event for decades…and for good reason. Mayfair Park comes alive with over 100 crafters offering handmade, affordable items—many perfect for holiday gifts—on Saturday, Oct. 21 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Then on the scariest night of the year, Oct. 31, Lakewood’s Halloween Carnivals once again will light up eight Lakewood parks for safe fun for youngsters and families from 6 to 8:30 p.m. There will be free games and contests at each park (with candy for kids), and it’s a great place to see what creative costumes Lakewood kids and families have come up with.

Speaking of Halloween, at the City of Lakewood we want to do everything we can to promote safety on that evening.

Drivers: Please remember that children may be running unexpectedly across streets, so drive extra cautiously.

Parents: Please remind your children to be careful crossing streets. Always do so only at crosswalks…not in the middle of a street…and only after checking both directions carefully. And give your children a flash light or something to illuminate them when crossing streets.

For something new this fall, check out the online version of the city’s recreation catalog at www.lakewoodcity.org/catalog. There are over 500 classes and

programs offered, including new adult pickleball classes during the day at the beginning, intermediate and advanced levels. There’s also a new Conversational Spanish class, and for kids there will be “Winter Wonderland” Winter Break Day Camps at Bolivar, Boyar, Mayfair and Palms parks, with excursions to the Santa Ana Zoo and Discovery Cube. And for something still pretty

Of-All yet, I encourage you to try it out and enjoy the interesting food, music and dance, and have fun hanging out with your fellow Lakewood residents.

As much as I love cool and fun things to do, life has its serious sides too. And that includes our mental health and that of our friends, family and community members.

Sadly, over 50% of people who

setting up your appointment, all at no charge, and with total confidentiality. Care Solace is there to take the hassle and difficulty out of getting mental health care.

Even if you don’t have insurance, Care Solace will get you an appointment with a mental health professional at little or no cost to you.

Lakewood residents can access Care Solace for free at 888-5157881. A Care Companion will help you every step of the way to research options, secure appointments and follow up to make sure it is a good fit. Or access Care Solace anonymously at www.caresolace.com/LakewoodCA

Fall is also the time when Lakewood extends holiday wishes and appreciation to U.S. military personnel serving overseas by writing postcards and letters in the city’s Thank a Servicemember program. This year, Lakewood residents of all ages entered the contest to design the postcards our residents will use.

The Lakewood Community News is an official publication of the Greater Lakewood Chamber of Commerce.

Greater Lakewood Chamber of Commerce President & CEO

Jose L. Solache

2023 GLCC Executive Board

Chair

David Arellano

Vice Chair

Joanie Dixson

Secretary

Sherry Daisey

Treasurer Mark Dameron

Immediate Past President

Brad Crihfield

Board Members

Travis Jackson

Mike Segura

Deena Henry

new in Lakewood, there will be our city’s third annual Fest-OfAll on Saturday, Oct. 14 from 2 to 8 p.m. outside Lakewood Center mall, with music, food and dance representing some of the many cultures and ethnicities that our city is proud to be home to.

Lakewood is now one of the most broadly diverse communities in California, but it’s a diversity where we are all united by important community values that have brought us all here over the years: beautiful parks, quiet and friendly residential neighborhoods, well-maintained city streets and infrastructure, and one of the safest communities in our region.

If you haven’t been to a Fest-

have mental health issues don’t ever get help. A big reason is that accessing the mental health care system and getting seen by a professional can be very cumbersome and complicated, even when you have insurance or an HMO.

To help, the City of Lakewood has decided to contract on a trial basis with a nationally respected firm called Care Solace, which has a 24/7/365 hotline and website that Lakewood community members can contact--for free-to get a list of mental health professionals who accept their insurance and specialize in the issues they are facing.

Care Solace will even contact those professionals and assist in

Three adults and three youth submitted winning designs. I recently saw two of our young winning postcard designers at a community event, and got a chance to thank them in person. See the photo above.

To learn how you can send postcards to our military personnel this holiday season, go to www.lakewoodcity.org/TAS.

Many people find fall to be their favorite season in Lakewood. On the Lakewood City Council, we look for a good variety of traditional and new ideas for familyfriendly fun in our community, and we hope you find your share of fun and meaningful activities this fall in Lakewood. Enjoy the season ahead!

Mike Hedges

Glenn Curo

Glen Patrick

Erika Parada

Jonathan Byun

Lakewood Community News

Managing Editor

Marisela Santana

GLCC Director of Business Development & Member Value

Administrative Assistant

Kyle Henry

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

For MEMBERSHIP Inquiries, please go to the Greater Lakewood Chamber of Commerce's website, at www.lakewoodchamber.com

@lakewoodchamberofcommerce

'Fest-of-All'

Food & Music Festival set for Oct. 14

The third annual multicultural food and music festival called Lakewood’s Fest-Of-All will be held on Saturday, Oct. 14 from 2-8 p.m. at Lakewood Center in the large parking area south of El Torito and west of Target.

Representing the wide variety of cultures which Lakewood is proud to have in the community, Lakewood’s FestOf-All will include the following fun features:

•Two entertainment stages—with a wide variety of musical and dance acts

•Multicultural Food Court

•Family Fun Zone with inflatable attractions

•Craft Village

•Children's Cultural Booth

•Art and Poetry Showcase

•Passport Around the World Lakewood Center and H&H Nursery are the Diamond Sponsors of this event.

Fest-Of-All Entertainment Schedule is as follows:

2:00 p.m. Event Begins

2:05 – 2:30 p.m. Hanabi Taiko (Japanese Taiko Drummers)

2:35 – 3:00 p.m. JD Dance Company (Award-Winning All-Ages Latin, Ball-

Hits)

8:00 p.m. Event Ends

Multicultural food court of booths and food trucks including:

•Big C BBQ (American BBQ & Brazilian)

•Smile’s Jamaican Grill (Jamaican)

•Crazy Delights La Michoacana (Mexican Treats)

•Stinkin Crawfish of Lakewood (Cajun)

•The Berlin Truck (German)

•Cali Sweets Dessert Truck (French Fusion)

•Rice Balls of Fire (Korean/ Hawaiian Fusion)

•Scooter’s Italian Ice (Italian)

•Smile Hot Dogs (Korean style street food)

How to Register for Project Shepherd

The holiday season can be tough for some Lakewood households, including those who have faced unemployment or underemployment for many months.

If you are a Lakewood resident facing tough economic times, your Lakewood neighbors want to help. The registration period to receive help from Project Shepherd for Thanksgiving and the December holiday runs from Wednesday, Nov. 1 to Wednesday, Nov. 15.

Visit www.lakewoodcity.org/PSRegistration for additional information.

Eligibility requirements:

•Lakewood residents only.

•Those who are low-income, unemployed or on public assistance.

To register, bring the following:

•A current utility bill (water, gas, electric) or government award letter.

Fusion Entertainment (Arabic Zaffa)

3:30 – 5:00 p.m. Caribbean Dynamics (Caribbean/Latin)

5:05 – 5:30 p.m. Lyons Academy of Irish Dance (Irish)

5:35 – 6:20 p.m. Hoku Mae’ole Polynesia (Polynesian/Hula)

6:20 – 6:30 p.m. Words from the City Council

6:30– 8:00 p.m. Suave (R&B/Latin

A free shuttle will run every 15 minutes from 1:30 to 8:30 p.m. from Lakewood City Hall’s east parking lot (Clark/Del Amo) to the Fest-OfAll entrance.

For more information and updates, visit www.lakewoodcity.org/Fest-OfAll or call 562-866-9771, ext. 2408.

•Identification for each person in the household, including children.

Call to make an appointment starting Monday, Oct. 16. For an appointment time, call the Burns Community Center Monday through Friday between 7 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. at 562925-7512.

Project Shepherd would like to thank our platinum sponsors Macy’s, Lakewood Family YMCA and Golden State Water for their generous support this holiday season.

Lakewood parks community focus group

The City of Lakewood's Recreation and Community Services Department is seeking the community’s opinion on Lakewood recreation facilities, parks, recreation programs and classes, and community events.

Share your opinions at a focus group meeting of the greater Lakewood community on Friday, Oct. 6 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at Palms Park Community Center.

City staff will serve pizza, salad, drinks and dessert. There will be supervised activities for children so that they can participate as well.

For planning purposes, reservations are requested. You can RSVP online via the City's website at www.lakewoodcity.org.

Palms Park is located at 12305 207th Street, Lakewood, CA 90715.

October is Disability Awareness Month

In honoring Disability Awareness month, all Americans are encouraged to take the opportunity to recognize the accomplishments of Americans with disabilities, and reaffirm their commitment to ensure equal opportunity for all citizens.

Unfortunately, people with disabilities are often not treated--nor seen as—equals or valued members of society. A key element of Lakewood's Community Dialogue on Race, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion is celebrating the diversity of people and cultures that Lakewood is proud to have as part of our community.

With 61 million adults in the United States living with a disability--equaling one in four adults--people with disabilities make up the largest and most diverse minority group within our population, representing all abilities, ages, races, ethnicities, religions and socio-economic backgrounds.

Physical impairment is the most common disability in the United States, and the City of Lakewood is proud to continue its ongoing work to create and enhance accessibility at its parks and community buildings.

The city is finalizing the con

ceptual design of facility improvements planned for the Weingart Senior Center.

In addition to new flooring and lighting throughout the facility, the restrooms will be remodeled to current Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards and additional hearing loops for the hearing impaired will be installed.

Providing residents in need with reliable and friendly transit throughout the city is Lakewood’s DASH (Disabled, Accessible, Seniors, Handicapped) transit program. All the buses and the six new vans are wheelchair accessible. To become a DASH rider, call city staff at 562-9240149.

And since 1981, Lakewood has partnered with Special Olympics Southern California to provide a year-round athletic program for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. In

Bloomfield Park, with recreation staff that plans, implements and supervises weekly activities. For information, contact Bloomfield Park staff at 562-865-1717.

Ann Magill, a writer with cerebral palsy, is credited with designing the Disability Pride flag several years ago. (Those colors are used in the graphic accompanying this story.) Magill selected each color to represent something meaningful to the disabled community (briefly summarized):

Black – Mourning of disabled persons who have experienced mistreatment, negligence or death

Green – Sensory disabilities, including blindness, deafness, lack of smell, taste or other sensory conditions

Blue – Those with psychiatric disabilities, such as anxiety, depression and other mental disorders

White – Persons with invisible disabilities and/or undiagnosed conditions

Gold – Cognitive and intellectual disabilities and other neurodivergence

Red – Persons with physical disabilities

See the City of Lakewood’s proclamation in recognition of Disability Awareness Month, signed by Lakewood Mayor Ariel

Two BUSD high school bands to be part of 605 All Star Band

flower Unified, ABC Unified, and Norwalk-La Mirada, encompassing multiple cities in Los Angeles County, including Bellflower, Lakewood, Cerritos, Norwalk, La Mirada, Hawaiian Gardens, and Santa Fe Springs.

“As a district, we are very excited for our students, parents, staff, and the BUSD community. The Rose Parade is watched by millions and is a well-respected Southern California and American tradition. To have our students and staff involved is such a proud moment,” said Bellflower Unified Superintendent Dr. Ben Drati.

On Friday, September 22, 2023, all eight participating schools surprised their students with a video invitation from Ed Morales, the President of the Tournament of Roses Parade.

Each of the bands stands as a source of immense pride

College Fair is Oct. 10

Lakewood's annual College

Fair will take place on Tuesday, Oct. 10, from 6 to 8 p.m. at The Centre, 5000 Clark Ave.

Parents and students (ages 15-22) can meet college representatives, pick up brochures and get the infor- mation needed for the ad missions process.

All students in attendance on Oct. 10 are eligible to win a $250 scholarship.

The College Fair kicks off a series of free informational workshops held at the Lakewood Youth Center through the following week:

College Information & Admissions Workshop

Thursday, Oct. 12, 2023

7 - 8:30 p.m.

How to Pay for College

Without Going Broke

Thursday, Oct. 19, 2023

6:30 - 8 p.m.

Interested in the Field of Engineering?

Friday, Oct. 20, 2023

6 - 7 p.m.

Space is limited. Register now at www. lakewoodcity.org/CollegeFairWorkshops and take advantage of these free opportunities to get the information and resources to guide your student through the college preparation and application process.

For more info, visit www. lakewoodcity.org/CollegeFair, or call the Lakewood Youth Center at 562-429-7472.

St. Pancratius School Trunk or Treat

Enjoy Food, Candy, Music, and a Spooky Haunted House!

Saturday, October 28th 2023

6pm to 8:30pm

$3.00 Entrance Fee Per Person

within their respective communities.

“Congratulations to our band students and instructors on being invited to participate in the 2025 Tournament of Roses Parade! We could not be more proud! Their special invitation to this prestigious, worldrenowned event is a reflection that hard work, practice, dedication, and the support of our parents and supporters pays off. The entire Bellflower Unified School District family ap-

plauds you and will be beaming with pride on January 1 as you represent everything that is great in our BUSD schools and community,” said Bell

flower Unified Board Presi

dent Mayra Garza.

The 605 All Star Band’s goal is to advance music education, build their programs, and offer students a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to perform on the world stage on January 1, 2025.

3601 St Pancr atius Place Lakewood (562) 634-6310

(Cont'd. from Pg. 1)

The Bellflower High School Band also received long-stem roses, and a video from Ed Morales, President of the Tournament of Roses Parade. Both Bellflower and Mayfair high school will be joining other bands from area high schools to form the first-of-its-kind, 605 All Star Band. Congratulations!

Public discussion on race, equity, diversity and inclusion

Akey part of the City of Lakewood’s ongoing Community Dialogue on race, equity, diversity and inclusion (REDI) is a regular discussion with Lakewood residents to hear their thoughts and suggestions on ways to build on all the good in Lakewood and make the community the safest, most welcoming place it can be, for everyone.

The next meeting will take place on Monday, Oct. 23 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at the Lakewood Youth Center at the northwest corner of Del Valle Park at 4658 Woodruff Ave.

To make the event more accessible to parents who would like to attend the evening roundtable, city staff will offer super-

vised onsite children’s activities in the Youth Center's game room, offering video games, basketball, air hockey, ping pong and even more entertainment options to keep them engaged.

Attendees (including children) will be provided a meal and refreshments; registration is required. In order to plan adequately for food and staffing for childcare, please RSVP by 8 a.m. on Oct. 16 at www. lakewoodcity.org/REDIroundtable or call

562-866-9771, ext. 3123.

Topics will include a progress report on implementing the REDI Action Plan passed by the Lakewood City Council in January 2021.

The Action Plan was based on input from hundreds of Lakewood residents in 2020 and includes, among many items:

•The creation of a Multicultural Food & Music Festival (called the Fest-Of-All, and happening for the third year on Oct. 14; de-

Lollipop Lane returns with over 100 artisans

Mayfair Park will come alive with over 100 crafters offering handmade, affordable holiday gifts on Saturday, Oct. 21 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

One of the first boutiques of the season in our region, the Lakewood event features a wide range of quality crafters and artists displaying Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas items. Jewelry, clothing, quilts, cards, gourds, gift bags, scarves, purses, wood crafts, paintings, candles, soaps, lotions and many other beautiful handcrafted items will be for sale.

Event admission is free, and each merchant handles their own sales. There will be a food truck onsite with a percentage of purchases benefitting Meals on Wheels of Long Beach (serving

Lakewood residents).

Mayfair Park is located at 5720 Clark Ave., at the corner of South Street and Clark Ave. Parking for the event will be available at the park. Additional parking and a free shuttle will service the Lake-

wood City Hall east parking lot (5050 Clark Ave.). The shuttle will run every 15 minutes from 9 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. For more information, please call 562-8669771, ext. 2408 or 562-866-4776 the day of the event.

tails elsewhere in this edition of the Lakewood Community News).

•Create neighborhood-level or park-level events for residents to meet their neighbors.

•Organize more community talks with the Sheriff's Department. See the full Action Plan at www.lakewoodcity.org/REDI.

There will be plenty of time for questions and comments. Representing the Lakewood City Council at the meeting will be Mayor Ariel Pe and Council Member Cassandra Chase.

(State public meeting rules limit attendance to two council members. Lakewood City Council Members have been rotating for each of the REDI roundtables.)

October:

There are hundreds of women business owners in the City of Lakewood. The Greater Lakewood Chamber of Commerce would like to take a moment to celebrate some of our Chamber Members in honor of National Women's Small Business Month. We are happy to hear that women-owned businesses have grown over the years exponentially and that womenowned businesses are today being acknowledged for their contributions to our economy. Not just throughout the month of October, but all year long, celebrate and support the women business owners in your life and in your community for their resilience and for their entrepreneurial spirit. Here are a few of our women-owned small businesses:

Erika Parada and Roxana Pasillas-Luevano own Vida y Alma House of Beauty.

Sherry Boucher owns Seahawk Cocktail Lounge

Sandra Diaz owns the Law Offices of Sandra Diaz

Tamara Manavi is the proud new owner of O'Connor's Irish Pub

Desirea Ung, right, and Thea Uy, center, with Joe Ung, own Cassidy's Corner in Lakewood & in LB

Natasha Jackson is the proud owner of La De Da Salon

Arlae Chio, with her husband, owns Nostalgia Gorditas

Robin Snow owns Snow Funeral Services

Nicole Green owns Coco's Lipsmacking Cupcakes

Allison Van Wig leads Van Wig & Associates Patricia Murray owns Patty's Cakes, Cobbler & Fried Chicken

Lynsey Russell and Cristina Picarelli lead the P.R. Real Estate Group Krista Lopez owns Sugar from the Heart Bakeshop

Carissa Karner, left, owns Speaker-in-Demand

GREATER LAKEWOOD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Summer Stampede

ART ON WHEELS

The Greater Lakewood Chamber of Commerce celebrated the 25th Anniversary of its Summer Stampede Car Show last month, registering over 140 prized cars from throughout Southern California.

While every year has been special, this year's Summer Stampede set a milestone for this particular car show, not only in years, or in the number of cars that registered, but in the camaraderie that it celebrated.

"This might just be another car show for some, but for many of us, this car show gave us an opportunity to celebrate 25 years of friendship," said Mike Segura, Chair of the GLCC's Car Show Committee. "Twenty-five years is a long time, but when you spend them with friends, it feels like yesterday."

From classic cars to hot rods, this year's Best of Show Winner was Doug Lowe, for his deep-metallic blue 1968 Ford Mustang. Lowe, a resident of Lakewood for 40 years, is a member of the Lakewood Chariots, and loves how big the Summer Stampede has grown over the years.

There were a lot of fun surprises at this year's Summer Stampede, including delicious food by local barbecue master chef, Brian's Meats, an Artisan Marketplace, vintage bicycles on display, and a surprise highlight was seeing members of two local drawing clubs, Drawn to Long Beach, and Urban Sketchers of L.A., sketching their favorite prized cars on the spot.

Don Terlinden, founder of Drawn to Long Beach,

said that this year's Summer Stampede was the first time both clubs came together to draw at a car show. "We love drawing, so we figured why not go to local events and draw," he said. "It's a good way for artists to practice their skills, and the plus was meeting so many wonderful people."

Every car in the park was already a work of art, said Terlinden. "So why not turn them into art on paper."

Jose Solache, President/CEO of the Greater Lakewood Chamber of Commerce, said that this year's Summer Stampede was the best one yet. "Every year, this event gets better and bigger," he said. "My favorite part is seeing how much the car show community uplifts eachother. Yes, we do hand out trophies, but ultimately, when one wins, they all win, and they celebrate eachother."

The GLCC's 25th Annual Summer Stampede took place last month at Mayfair Park and was sponsored by Farmers Insurance, World Energy, the United Nurses Association, Timmons of Long Beach, F&M Bank, the Lakewood YMCA, Ride Yellow, Preferred Auto Design, the Lakewood Jaycees and by the City of Lakewood.

Thank you to all of the sponsors and to each and every car owner for participating in this year's 25th Annual Summer Stampede. Thank you to all of the vendors and to car enthusiasts everywhere for making sure that the Lakewood Summer Stampede is part of your annual car show itinerary.

We look forward to seeing you all next year!

Luncheon to honor those who protect Lakewood

Every November at the Award of Valor Luncheon, Lakewood invites residents and community leaders to take time to recognize deputy sheriffs, firefighters and fellow residents who have demonstrated heroism and outstanding service to the community. This year will follow that tradition, with a luncheon at noon on Tuesday, Nov. 7 at The Centre.

The Award of Valor annual luncheon brings together over 400 people, including Lakewood residents, civic and business leaders, public safety professionals, Neighborhood Watch block captains, Sheriff’s Station volunteers and Volunteers on Patrol.

Top officials from the Los Angeles County Fire and Sheriff’s Departments will speak and join the Lakewood community in a show of support and appreciation for local heroes and public safety personnel.

“This event is a great opportunity to say thank you to the deputy sheriffs and firefighters who work hard every day protecting and serving us, and to the community volunteers who have gone above and beyond in the cause of public safety in Lakewood,” said Mayor Ariel Pe. “If you are able, I hope you can join us at this wonderful and meaningful annual city event.”

Reservations are required. Tickets are $32 each, and tables of nine are available if purchased by 5 p.m. on Oct. 24. After that, tickets will be $42 each. Seats are not guaranteed after Oct. 31.

Checks should be made payable to the City of Lakewood and mailed with names of attendees to: Lakewood City Hall, c/o Community Relations Office, 5050 Clark Ave., Lakewood, CA 90712. Tickets can also be purchased online at www.lakewoodcity.org/AOVtickets. Contact 562866-9771 ext. 3123 for more information.

Award of Valor GOLD SPONSORS:

• H & H Nursery • EDCO

• Piazza Family McDonalds Restaurants

Halloween fun at Lakewood parks

Lakewood's traditional Halloween Carnivals are back, offering fun and safety for youngsters on the year's spookiest night.

Special carnival activities are scheduled for Tuesday, Oct. 31 from 6 to 8:30 p.m. at Biscailuz, Bloomfield, Bolivar, Boyar, Del Valle, Mayfair, Palms and San Martin parks.

Each park will have a special theme:

•Biscailuz Park: "Bluey”

• F & M Bank

• Water Replenishment District President John Allen

•Bloomfield Park: "Winnie the Pooh"

•Bolivar Park: "Scooby Doo"

•Boyar Park: "Super Mario

Bros"

•Del Valle Park: "Spider-Man: Across the Spider verse”

•Mayfair Park: "Disney Villains”

•Palms Park: "Lego”

•San Martin: "Super Mario Bros"

“Haunted houses” for little ghosts and goblins to venture inside will be available at Bolivar, Del Valle, Palms and San Martin parks. There will be inflatable attractions at Mayfair Park for an additional fee.

Support for the carnivals comes from community volunteers, civic organizations and Lakewood Tot Lot parents. Want to help? Volunteers are needed to run carnival booths. Visit www.lakewoodcity.org/HalloweenVolunteers to sign up.

For information, call the park nearest you at 562-8669771, ext. 2408. Use the "Park Finder" at www.lakewoodcity. org/parkfinder to locate which Lakewood neighborhood park is closest to you.

Care Solace’s free help can make all the difference

If you're concerned about a loved one’s mental health, the City of Lakewood understands how overwhelming it can be. That’s why Lakewood has partnered with Care Solace so that one call to them can make it easier to get the help you need.

Renessa lost loved ones to COVID. The isolation and grief caused her to seek therapy for her daughters. Care Solace helped them find a therapist who fit their needs and took the burden off of their family. Watch a video to hear Renessa’s story (and learn more about Care Solace) at www.lakewoodcity.org/AskForHelp.

Care Solace is available and free 24/7/365 to all Lakewood community members. Their compassionate team is ready to step in, lend a hand, and walk you through the process of finding the right help.

Reach out to Care Solace today at 888-515-7881 for personalized assistance or visit www.caresolace.com/LakewoodCA to search for support anonymously.

Postcard winners

(Cont'd. from Pg. 1)

bolizing one nation.

•Adrienne M. was inspired by the Veteran’s Memorial at Del Valle Park, showing how thankful the City of Lakewood is of the duty, honor and courage of U.S. military servicemembers.

You can see all the winning

designs and learn how to get involved at www.lakewoodcity.org/ TAS.

You will also find a list of additional card locations and campaign partners as well as alternative ways to submit your message online.

Nearly 40,000 cards and letters of appreciation have been sent to U.S. military servicemembers stationed far from home and, with military personnel deployment at a historic high despite no major

war, these greetings are sure to offer a piece of home to a servicemember experiencing extended time away from their families.

The deadline to deliver the cards to City Hall is Friday, Dec. 1. The city will send the collected cards and letters to the nonprofit organization Operation Gratitude for delivery with care packages to U.S. servicemembers overseas.

For more information, call the city’s Community Relations office at (562) 866-9771 ext. 3123.

Fall City Spotlight

Play at Palms Movie Night

Under the Stars featuring Hotel Transylvania: Transformania (PG)

Bring the entire family and enjoy an evening of FREE family fun and movie entertainment under the stars at Palms Park, 12305 207th St. on Friday, Oct. 13. Guests can bring chairs and a picnic and enjoy a fun evening with their families.

Check in begins at 6 p.m. with the movie scheduled to begin at 7 p.m. Hot chocolate and popcorn will be served while supplies last. Sorry, no pets or alcohol allowed at the park. For more information call the Lakewood Recreation and Community Services Department at 562-866-9771, ext. 2408 or visit www.lakewoodcity.org/ catalog.

Older Adults Benefits Information Fair

The Weingart Senior Center will host its annual Older Adults Benefits and Information Fair on Monday, Oct. 16 from 10 a.m. to noon. Adults 50+ can pick up health insurance and benefit related materials and speak with company

•Tuesday, Oct. 17, 5-6 p.m.: Budgeting and Money Management (Activity #25964)

•Tuesday, Nov. 7, 5-6 p.m.: Health and Basic First Aid (Activity #25965)

Registration is required at www.lakewoodcity.org/ecatalog and search using the activity number listed. For more information call the Lakewood Youth Center at 562-429-7472.

Free flu shots on Oct. 30

Flu season is here and a walkin, flu shot clinic is set for Monday, Oct. 30 from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Weingart Senior Center at 5220 Oliva Ave. The clinic is free, and is sponsored by the L.A. County Health Department and the City of Lakewood. It is geared

program invites local teens to apply for this special program to immerse themselves in civic engagement, develop an understanding of civic values, and contribute their own ideas to provide a positive impact on the Lakewood community. Selected Lakewood residents in grades 10 through 12 will be part of an advisory board that meets throughout the year to discuss issues, recommend policy, and provide feedback to the Lakewood City Council.

Lakewood teens are invited to attend an information session at the Lakewood Youth Center on the following dates to learn more about the program:

•Thursday, Sept. 28 at 6 p.m.

•Thursday, Oct. 12 at 6 p.m. Apply at www.lakewoodcity.org/YouthInGovernment from Aug. 27 through Oct. 31. The selection process will take place in November, with the program calendar running from December 2023 through May 2024. For more information, contact

roasting marshmallows and singing around the campfire. All meals and snacks are prepared, so parents can sit back, relax and enjoy nature.

Learn more by watching a CityTV video at www.lakewoodcity.org/familycamp.

A “what to bring” list will be emailed before camp. The fee is only $10 per person. A $15 per person supply fee is due to the instructor at camp. Use activity #26298 for registration.

Pets, barbecues, and alcoholic beverages are prohibited.

FUN-Tastic Family Night

Featuring Mad Science

Newton’s Laws of Motion are examined through exciting experiments at The Centre, 5000 Clark Ave. on Friday, Nov. 3 from 6:30 to 8 p.m.

Eyes will be rolling as an antigravity platform spins around with a cup of water, “Flaming Didgeridoos” make an eerie sound, and a bottle of “Mood Indicator” comes to life. Penne pasta, bread sticks, lemonade and a dessert will be served prior to the show. Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis.

Doors open at 6 p.m. Cost is $15 per person, $12 for children

“Turkey Tournament,” hosted by the City of Lakewood. There will be two tournament divisions offered. A co-ed division, and a men’s division. Games for both divisions will be played Saturday, Nov. 11.

The co-ed tournament will take place at San Martin Park, while the men’s tournament will be played at Palms Park. Games will begin at 9 a.m. at both locations, and run throughout the day.

Registrations are due by Nov. 8. Call the Recreation and Community Services Department for more information or to inquire about signing up as a team or sponsor at 562-866-9771, ext. 2408.

Teams

•Team fee is $350

•3-game guarantee

•ASA Bats

•Custom Dri-FIT jerseys will be given to the 1st place team Sponsors

•Sponsors get a field sign for $100, highlighting your business in front of 120 ball players and fans.

Now in its 51st year, Project Shepherd provides food and gifts during the holiday sea-

The statewide “Great California ShakeOut!” exercise is Thursday, Oct. 19 at 10:19 a.m. The annual drill helps raise public awareness about earthquake dangers.

Many businesses and schools participate in the drill. At the assigned time, employees and students “Drop, Cover and Hold On.”

Lakewood CityTV looks at the realities of living in “earthquake country” in “Shake, Rattle and Survive.” The video explores the risks of a major quake, and looks at preparing to deal with the aftermath. See the video at www.lakewoodcity.org/ ShakeOut.

Experts encourage families to use the ShakeOut drill as a reminder to check their preparedness plans, kits and supplies. More information is online at www.ShakeOut.org.

Golf tournament to help Lakewood schools

You can help students attending Lakewood schools by supporting the Lakewood Education Foundation (LEF) Golf Tournament on Friday, Oct. 20. And, you don’t even have to play golf to support the cause!

Through the generous donations of Lakewood residents and businesses, LEF was able to donate over $45,000 last year in grants of up to $500 to dozens of local teachers for classroom improvement projects. These grants provided electronic tablets, microscopes and other science equipment; art and physical education supplies; books of all kinds and reading levels; and a variety of classroom technology such as Apple TVs and microphones.

Here’s how you can help to fund teacher requests this year:

LAKEWOOD CENTER | 500 lakewood center mall

(northwest parking lot near El Torito Restaurant)

www.lakewoodcity.org/fest-of-all

20 tournament, starting at 1 p.m. at the Lakewood Country Club. The entry fee of $145 includes greens fees, golf cart, pre-tournament lunch, goodie bag and on-course small bites and beverages.

Visit www.lakewoodcity.org/LEFGolf to support the event in any of these ways:

•Register for the golf tournament

•Take advantage of sponsorship opportunities

•Buy a “Tee Sign” with your name/

message for $100

•Purchase raffle tickets

•Donate a raffle prize of merchandise or a gift card worth $25 or more.

The non-profit LEF is run by volunteers in Lakewood and is dedicated to improving educational opportunities for local students. Watch a video about LEF at www.lakewoodcity.org/ LEFvideo.

For more information, or to register or donate, please call 562-866-9771, ext. 2401.

You can donate directly by writing a check to the Lakewood Education Foundation and mailing it to LEF, c/o Lakewood City Hall, 5050 Clark Ave., Lakewood, CA 90712.

You can also donate online at www. lakewoodcity.org/DonateLEF. Donations are tax deductible.

FRIENDS OF THE LAKEWOOD LIBRARIES

Saturday, October 21, 2023

9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Angelo M. Iacoboni Library, 4990 Clark Avenue, Lakewood, CA 90712

Hardback Books $1.00 and up! Paperback Bargains!

Fiction Non-Fiction Mystery Romance

Children Music Teacher’s Table etc.

PRE-SALE EVENT FOR FOLL MEMBERS

Friday, October 20, 2023

10:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Memberships available at the door Dues are 100% tax deductible

All disabled customers will be admitted

PLEASE BRING YOUR OWN BAG!

WWW.LAKEWOODLIBRARYFRIENDS.ORG

The Friends of the Lakewood Libraries (FOLL) book sale is set for Saturday, Oct. 21 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Angelo M. Iacoboni Library at 4990 Clark Ave. in the Lakewood Civic Center.

Visitors will find plenty of paperback bargains plus hardback books for $1 and up on used non-fiction, novels, children’s and large-format books.

The FOLL "Members only" pre-sale is Friday, Oct. 20 from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. "Members only" times are also open to disabled patrons. Non-member shoppers may purchase FOLL memberships at the door and take advantage of the widest selection before the public sale.

Please bring your own shopping bags to the event.

Memberships start as low as $5 for seniors, $10 for individuals and $15 for a family. Dues are tax deductible.

Proceeds from the sale support Lakewood's two local libraries in many ways, including:

•Purchases of additional books, books on CDs, DVDs and periodicals.

•Programming funds to bring professional performers or workshop presenters for a variety of arts and educational events.

•Incentives for the children’s Summer Reading Program.

•Movie licensing and supplies for art activities and STEM projects for all ages.

•Furniture to improve library spaces.

For more information on FOLL, visit www.lakewoodlibraryfriends.org.

Fridays 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.

2 p.m. to 6 p.m.

2 p.m. to 6 p.m. Fridays 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.

City offers free shredding event for Lakewood residents only

There’s still time to enjoy the poThe City 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, Oct. 28 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

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

Elizabeth Vozzella

Attorney at Law

(562) 426-9876

www.vozzella4law.com

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).

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.

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

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 562-866-9771, ext. 2140.

COMMUNITY FOCUS GROUPS JOIN THE CONVERSATION

The City of Lakewood's Recreation and Community Services Department is seeking the community's opinion on Lakewood recreation facilities, parks, recreation programs and classes, and community events.

Tell us...What do you love? What can be improved? What is missing?

Share your opinions at a focus group meeting with the Lakewood Community.

Can't participate this time? Stay tuned for future opportunities to share your opinions at other events.

When: October 6, 2023

Time: 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

RSVP:

https://rcsdepartment.wufoo.com/ forms/si39qof0ts4oc7/