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Official publication of the GreaterOfficial Lakewood Chamber of Commerce | 30,000 Circulation - Delivered to every home in Lakewood publication of the Greater Lakewood Chamber of Commerce
33 Number 69 Volume 34
www.lakewoodnews.org / www.lakewoodchamber.com www.lakewoodchamber.com
September June 2016 2017
Ready to get your dance moves on? Annual Block Party returns with music, fun & food!
The Lakewood Civic Center Block Party begins at 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 24 with the Family Fun Zone activity area for kids and families and the always popular “Taste of Lakewood” with 20 eateries. The MVPs pop band will rock Clark Avenue starting at 5:00 p.m., followed by a fantastic fireworks finale. Taste of Lakewood 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Lakewood restaurants and specialty food purveyors will be offering great food at affordable prices. The Taste of Lakewood is
coordinated by the Friends of the Lakewood Libraries and helps support the purchase of books and materials for the Iacoboni and Nye libraries. This year’s participating restaurants and purveyors are: • Albertsons • Applebee’s • Black Angus • Cassidy’s Corner Café • Costco • Fiesta Foods • Gourmet Churros • Jimmy John’s • Mr. B’s Kettle Corn
• Outback • Panera Bread • Piazza Family McDonald’s • Pickup Stix • Revele Whipped Gelato • Round Table Pizza • Stone Fire Grill • Sugar from the Heart • The Loft • Wingstop • Yogurtland Taste of Lakewood presale tickets--always a good idea for avoiding lines--are available starting June 12 at Lakewood libraries and Lakewood City Hall
Summertime is here and concerts in the park is back!
Towing, Marisa Perez—Cerritos College Trustee, Pan American Association, Piazza Family McDonald’s Restaurants Gold sponsors: Allen Tire Company, Mr. B’s Kettle Corn, Rotary Club of Lakewood, The Rinks, Water Replenishment District Silver sponsors: EDCO Bronze sponsors: In Memory of Mrs. Linda G. Plooster, TGIS Catering. u
Concert Schedule: For eight Thursday nights in a row starting June 22, Del Valle Park will come alive with popular and diverse musical acts. Each concert starts at 6:30 p.m. Food trucks with creative menu items will be at each concert. Lawn chairs, blankets and picnics are encouraged. Pets, barbeques and alcoholic beverages are prohibited.
For a schedule of bands, food trucks and other details, go to www.lakewoodcity.org/concerts or call 562-866-9771, extension 2408. Concerts in the Park are solely supported by generous area businesses and concert patrons, including: Platinum sponsors: Glory Days Sports Grill, Kenny’s Auto Body-
June 22 – The Answer (Classic Rock) June 29 – Hard Days Night (Beatles Tribute) July 6 – Knyght Ryder (80s) July 13 – Doo Wah Riders (Country) July 20 – Stone Soul (Motown) July 27 – Wanted (Bon Jovi Tribute) August 3 – Gold Rush (Country) August 10 – Escape (Journey Tribute)
in packs of 10 for $10. Single tickets are not available for presale. Payment can be made with cash or checks made payable to the Friends of the Lakewood Libraries. Sorry, credit cards are not accepted. On the day of the event from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., the same multi-ticket packs as well as single tickets for $1.50 each will be available. No tickets will be sold after 8:00 p.m. and food will not be served after 9:00 p.m. Adult Beverage Garden 4:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. For guests age 21 and over, a cash bar offering beer, wine and specialty drinks will be sold at the Beverage Garden located on the Maple Room patio of The Centre at Sycamore Plaza. The Beverage Garden is the only place adult beverages may be consumed as well as purchased. An array of finger foods will also be sold. The entrance to the beverage garden closes at 8:00 p.m. Family Fun Zone 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Located in the parking lot south of the Angelo M. Iacoboni Library, the Family Fun Zone will feature carnival games and amusements for kids and families, including a giant slide, mechanical bull, adrenaline obstacle course, rock climbing wall and laser arena. No tickets for the Family Fun Zone will be sold
after 8:00 p.m., and all activities will stop at 9:00 p.m. Live entertainment 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. The MVPs will be jamming on Clark Avenue and the Civic Center starting at 5:00 p.m. with a variety of pop and patriotic music. Concert seating will be on Clark Avenue in front of city hall. Preshow activities begin at 4:00 p.m. It’s festival seating, so bring your low-back chair or blanket. Fireworks show 9:15 p.m. See a really spectacular, safe and legal display of professional fireworks capping off a wonderful day and evening at the Block Party. Driving & Parking The Block Party will stretch from the Civic Center parking lot (at Hardwick Street) southbound along Clark Avenue to Del Amo Boulevard. Clark Avenue will be closed from Candlewood Street to Del Amo Boulevard before the start of the Block Party. Use Civic Center Way to access free parking behind city hall and The Centre at Sycamore Plaza. Plan ahead as parking for RVs and recreational trailers will not be available at Lakewood City Hall or Lakewood Center mall. For information, call Lakewood city staff at 562-866-9771, extension 2408. u
LakewoodToday
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Summer’s here, and the time is right... By Mayor Diane DuBois
Can you complete that sentence? Yes...“for dancin’ in the streets!” And in the parks of Lakewood… and for a whole lot of other family fun, too. Concerts in the Park. One of my personal Lakewood favorites… there’ll be lots of dancing, picnicking and seeing friends in Del Valle Park every Thursday night starting at 6:30 p.m. from June 22 through August 10. To make your picnicking easy and creative, the city has arranged for a variety of food trucks to come, with interesting and tasty names like Peaches Southern BBQ Truck, The Greasy Wiener Truck, Dip’d Truck, Pirates Bistro Truck, Paradise Cookies Truck and long-time favorites Super Mex Catering Truck and Mr. B’s Kettle Corn. Check out the food and band schedule at www. lakewoodcity.org/concerts or call city staff at the number at the bottom of this article. Public Safety Expo. This is one of the kick-offs to every Lakewood summer. Kids can enjoy a wide range of fun—all free—including carnival games, bouncers and an amazing rock climbing wall. It’s also a chance to meet your Sheriff’s and Fire personnel, get crime prevention and safety tips, and have your kids spend some fun
time up close with the Sky Knight helicopter and even a fire truck and Sheriff’s vehicle. The free family fun runs from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, June 17 at Mayfair Park. • Civic Center Block Party. There will literally be dancin’ in the street to live music on Clark Avenue in front of City Hall for the biggest celebration that Lakewood throws all year. There’s also the Taste of Lakewood food booths and family fun zone with rides and amusements—all starting at 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 24 on Clark Avenue. And an amazing, safe and legal fireworks show wraps things up starting at 9:15 p.m. For details, go to www.lakewoodcity.org/ BlockParty or call city staff at the number below. Pool time! Lakewood is fortunate to have two large community pools (at Bolivar Park and Mayfair Park). They are great for swim lessons, lap swimming and good ole’ cooling-off fun. Check out the opening dates, hours and activities for each pool at www.lakewoodcity.org/aquatics or call city staff at the number below. Parks and playgrounds everywhere! One of the best aspects of the way Lakewood was originally built was the placement of a park in every neighborhood. Our city council does our best to keep those parks looking beautiful and updated with new play equipment. In recent years, new play areas have been added to Biscailuz, Bloomfield, Bolivar, Del Valle, Mayfair, Palms, Rynerson and San Martin parks. Our parks include airplanes, pumpkins, a 75-foot zip-line….and lots more. Visit your neighborhood park this summer, or go try out a new one in another part of Lakewood for fun. I bet you’ll see a lot of smiles, hear a lot of laughter and even see some
dancing! For more ideas on fun in Lakewood, go to www.lakewoodcity.org/recreation or call your city recreation staff at 562-866-9771, extension 2408. Have a great summer everyone! u
C i t y Spotlight Teen Summer Adventure Series Teens ages 12-17 can get a breath of fresh air and get heart rates up by participating in the six-part Summer Adventure Series. Most events are free and many include transportation. The complete schedule is located on the Teen Scene pages of the Summer Catalog. Visit www. lakewoodcity.org/recreation for a printable version. Registration is required. Call the Lakewood Youth Center at 562-429-7472 for more information. Splash into Summer The new summer recreation catalog is available and registration is going on now. Don’t delay registering for a summer of fun! Many popular courses fill early. Online and mail-in registration is going on now. Call 562-866-9771, extension 2408 to have a copy mailed to you or visit www. lakewoodcity.org/recreation to download a PDF version. Summer swim opportunities Swim Lessons: The first session of summer swim lessons will take place Monday, June 19 to June 30 at Mayfair and McCormick Pools. Online swim lesson priority registration for residents begins June 10 at 7:00 p.m. Non-residents may register online beginning June 13 at 7:00 p.m. Walkin registration will take place from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 17. Participants may sign up at www.lakewoodcity.org/ ecatalog. Gymnastics Registration for Summer Gymnastics sessions is going on now! Children can learn new skills and build strength and confidence in an encouraging atmosphere. These affordable gymnastics classes are offered beginning Monday, June 26, for kids
June 2017 between the ages of 12 months and 16 years. Visit www.lakewoodcity. org/ecatalog, or call the Recreation and Community Services Department at 562866-9771, extension 2408 to find the class that’s right for your little gymnast! Summer Camps Lakewood’s popular Summer Day Camp at Monte Verde Park is available once again, as well as other special topic camps – basketball, skateboarding, tennis, Lego camps, creative arts, science and dance camps – are offered throughout the summer. Sports Camp, for ages 8 through 13, offers 10 weekly sessions Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. starting June 19. Find these camps and many more in the Lakewood Recreation Catalog. You can pick one up at a Lakewood library, City Hall or any Lakewood Park, online at w w w. l a k e w o o d c i t y. o r g / ecatalog or call 562-8669771, extension 2408 for dates and details. Trip to see Jersey Boys at the Ahmanson Theatre The City of Lakewood offers affordable, familyfriendly local travel programs, with the next trip heading to the Ahmanson Theatre to see the critically acclaimed production of Jersey Boys, a musical biography of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons, on Thursday, June 22. The cost is $45, which includes bus transportation. Please arrive at Burns Community Center by 5:30 p.m. Bus leaves promptly at 6:00 p.m. for an 8:00 p.m. show. Children must be at least 10 years old to attend and must be accompanied by an adult. Register at www. lakewoodcity.org/ecatalog using activity #6791. For further information, please contact Recreation and Community Services staff at 562-866-9771, extension 2408. Last day to register is June 12 or until filled. Finally It’s Friday Lakewood’s long-standing commitment to fun and affordable events for families continues this summer with the “Finally it’s Friday” event series. Programs run Friday evenings, beginning June 23
and running through August 25. Activities include family swim, game night, theatre and “FUN-Tastic Family Night” events which pair live entertainment with dinner. Registration is required for most events. Many are free. Sign up at www.lakewoodcity. org/ecatalog. Go to www.lakewoodcity. org/FinallyitsFriday for a listing of events planned for July and August. Hollywood Bowl Trip The Hollywood Bowl is one of L.A.’s most beloved traditions and a great way to start celebrating Independence Day, on Sunday, July 2, with three-time Grammy winning a capella group Pentatonix, whose hits include arrangements of Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah,” “Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy” and “Daft Punk.” Arrive at 5:00 p.m., the bus leaves promptly from Burns Community Center, 5510 Clark Avenue, at 5:30 p.m. Children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult. The cost of the trip is $55 and you can register at www.lakewoodcity.org/ eCatalog by Monday, June 19, or until filled, using class #7095. For further information, please visit www. lakewoodcity.org/ travelprograms or contact the Recreation and Community Services Department at 562866-9771, extension 2408. Family Camp Parents and children, ages 3-11, can enjoy an outdoor experience together and spend a night out under the stars at Monte Verde Park July 15 and 16. Activities include games, crafts, nature walks, roasting marshmallows and singing around the campfire. The cost of this fun family outing is $17.00 per couple, $8.00 for each additional person. A $16.00 per couple materials fee for meals is due to the instructor at camp ($8.00 for each additional person). Camp begins on Saturday, July 15 at 1:00 p.m. and ends at 12:00 noon on Sunday, July 16. Register at www. lakewoodcity.org/eCatalog using class #6804 or call 562866-9771 extension 2408 for more information. u
June 2017
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Lakewood named “Most Playful City” for eighth straight year!
Kids getting playful at Bolivar Playground opening in 2016. The national non-profit organization KaBoom!, which selects the winning cities, took into account Lakewood’s regular upgrading of its parks and play areas, its free sports programs for youth and its free afterschool programs at parks. In the past year, Lakewood added new playgrounds to Bolivar Park (including a 75-foot zip line), Del Valle Park (with an airplane-theme playground) and Rynerson Park (with an innovative, side-by-side adult-child fitness and play area). Lakewood was one of only 31 cities in California and 258 cities nationwide to receive the Playful City USA award on May 17. The awards promote children’s rec-
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reation and the development of more places for children to play. “We are thrilled to recognize Lakewood for putting kids first,” said KaBOOM! CEO James Siegal. “The well-being of our communities starts with the well-being of our kids, and play is critical for them to thrive. It is our collective responsibility to ensure that all kids get a childhood filled with play.” “It’s great to be named Playful City USA again,” said Mayor Diane DuBois. “Lakewood is a wonderful place to live and work…and be playful. At the heart of our city are safe places for children to have fun, including 10 parks and 19 playgrounds. Since the city’s found-
ing in 1954, Lakewood hasn’t wavered from its commitment to recreation.” How Play is Vital for Kids’ Development --information provided by KaBoom!-• Physical: Play builds strong muscles and healthy bodies. • Cognitive and creative: Play is vital to brain development. Play is how kids learn problemsolving, conflict resolution and creativity – in other words, the skills they need to succeed as adults. • Social and emotional: Play is how kids make friends and build strong bonds with the caring adults in their lives. • The best type of play for kids… is all types of play. All kids need balanced and active play every day to thrive. For more information, go to www.playfulcityusa.org. u
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Public safety expo helps kick off summer with free, fun events for kids
Kids love the hands-on exhibits at the Public Safety Expo. Two classic and free Lakewood events return on Saturday, June 17 at Mayfair Park. Lakewood Youth Sports (LYS) kicks off its 61st year with opening day ceremonies at 10:00 a.m. at the park’s Lisa Fernandez Field. At 10:30 a.m., LYS players and all youth are free to enjoy a range of carnival games and activities including bouncers, a rock-climbing wall and the Shakey-Quakey House, where kids can experience what an earthquake would be like so they learn how to react safely. The annual Public Safety Expo
starts at the park at 10:30 a.m. with a variety of live, entertaining demonstrations from Lakewood’s public safety partners. Sheriff’s and Fire Department personnel and vehicles will be on site with displays and hands-on exhibits, along with Lakewood’s Robinson-44 Sky Knight helicopter. Parents can talk with representatives from Neighborhood Watch and other crime prevention teams to learn about home and auto security, disaster preparedness and volunteer opportunities in crime prevention. u
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Early illegal fireworks reports encouraged
The Lakewood Sheriff’s Station reminds residents to celebrate the Fourth of July safely by not using illegal fireworks--and not tolerating those who do. To support the Sheriff’s efforts in suppressing the use of illegal fireworks, you can report problem locations now. If you know of a residence with a history of unruly/unsafe celebrations that are not in compliance with the law, please report it now by calling the July 4th Tip Hotline at 562-866-9771, extension SAFE (7233). Please provide as much
information as possible about the person, location and violation. You can also report the information online at www.lakewoodcity.org/ safe4th. Your name will remain confidential and the sooner you report this information, the better! If you observe the sale or use of illegal fireworks, call the Lakewood Sheriff’s Station at 562-6233500 immediately. The only fireworks that are legal in Lakewood are those that are rated “Safe and Sane.” Safe and Sane fireworks can be purchased from
“zero tolerance” policy means everyone they catch violating the law will be cited. Most violations carry a fine of $1,000. As a reminder, homeowners or tenants can and will be held responsible for what occurs on their property. u
any authorized firework stand in California, including those in Lakewood. Be sure to look for the fireworks sale permit and State of California Fire Marshal’s seal that all stands are required to display. Fireworks bought in other states, over the Internet, or from any other source are illegal. Legal fireworks may be only discharged in Lakewood on July 4th between 10 a.m. and 11 p.m. Lakewood will continue to target violators this year by deploying extra deputies on July 4. The
Anti-contracting bill advances in Sacramento Assembly Bill 1250 would make it very hard and very costly for cities, including Lakewood, to contract for services. Lakewood is famous from its incorporation in 1954 for creating the “contract city” model of local government where cities have the option of contracting with businesses, contracting with county agencies, or employing local city staff to provide the full range of municipal services. Lakewood and many other cities in California have found this model
June 2017 provides the most cost-effective and flexible way to deliver high-quality service to residents. AB 1250 seems designed to require cities to instead hire more city staff to carry out services in the future (even services used only intermittently), or to conduct new costly studies prior to using private sector contractors. Either way, many cities fear that the end result will be higher costs and a potential reduction in service to residents or an increase in local fees and taxes. AB 1250 has already been approved by one committee in the Assembly and is presently being considered by the Assembly Committee on Appropriations.
For more information, you can see the actual bill at www.lakewoodcity.org/AB1250 and see the analysis and alert that the City of Lakewood sent to state legislators at www.lakewoodcity.org/AB1250Alert. To express your opinion on AB 1250 to Lakewood’s elected representatives in Sacramento before the bill is passed, you can contact the following: Assembly Member (and Speaker of the Assembly) Anthony Rendon 916-319-2063 Senator Ricardo Lara 916-651-4033 Senator Tony Mendoza 916-651-4032 Governor Jerry Brown 916-445-2841 u
June 2017
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Success in raising funds to reuse old playground
Thanks to the generosity of Lakewood residents and businesses, over $10,000 was raised to refurbish the used playground equipment from Bolivar Park and transport it to the impoverished community of Matapalo, Costa Rica. The equipment will be installed in late June in the small Costa Rican community located inland of Playa Grande along the Pacific Coast. It will be the first public playground ever installed there. “We want to give a big thank-you to all the Lakewood residents and businesses who contributed to this successful fundraising effort,” said Valarie Frost, the coordinator for the effort from the Rotary Club of Lakewood. “We received hun-
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The site in Costa Rica where Lakewood’s refurbished play equipment will be installed.
dreds of donations, big and small, including from fundraising events held in restaurants, schools and private homes. It was a wonderful Lakewood community team effort, and 100% of funds raised are directly benefitting the project!” The used play equipment was removed from Bolivar Park to make way for two new playgrounds
that opened at the park in October 2016. There’s no market in the U.S. for used playground equipment, so large parts of the used Bolivar equipment would have simply been disposed of in a landfill. “There had to be a way to repurpose the Bolivar equipment since it was still very usable,”
said Frost.“So the Rotary Club of Lakewood decided to partner with the non-profit group Kids Around The World, which specializes in refurbishing and transporting used American play equipment to orphanages and impoverished communities around the world. “We’ve seen in Lakewood how playgrounds are great for children, building creative minds, healthy bodies and smiling faces,” said Frost. “So we wanted to see if we could help spread that joy and that good feeling with this older
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but still usable Lakewood equipment.” Frost and three other Lakewood community members will pay their own way to travel to Costa Rica in late June to help install the playground. They will leave behind a sign saying that the playground was “proudly donated by the community of Lakewood, California, U.S.A.” Frost plans to take photos to show the Lakewood community upon her return. u
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There’s a new sheriff in Lakewood On April 2, Lakewood welcomed a new commander to the L.A. County Sheriff’s Station on Clark Avenue. Captain James Wolak takes over the command of the nearly 300 sworn and civilian personnel who protect Lakewood and the four other cities served by the station. A 28year veteran of the Sheriff’s Department, Wolak served at the Lakewood Station early in his career in his first field assignment as a Deputy.
“I’m very happy to be back in Lakewood,” said Wolak. “It’s a great community.” “My top priority will be service to our residents,” said Wolak. “I believe in the Nordstrom philosophy of service where you make a positive impression on your first contact with your customers, be it on the phone or in person. I also believe in intelligence-based policing, where you find out where the crimes are
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Lakewood Sheriff’s Station Captain James Wolak.
occurring and when, and then make sure you get your deputies to the right places at the right times.” You can see an interview of Captain Wolak done by Lakewood CityTV at www.lakewoodcity.org/
June 2017 NewSheriff. Wolak graduated top of his class from the Sheriff’s Academy in 1989, and has held a variety of assignments including Men’s Central Jail, Recruit Training, Watch Commander at the Norwalk Station, and Service Area Lieutenant for Paramount (working out of the Lakewood Station). He earned his Bachelor of Science Degree in Political Science from Cal Poly Pomona and a Master’s Degree in Organizational Leadership from Woodbury University. The Lakewood Sheriff’s Station, the largest in the county, is considered a key managerial assignment for sheriff’s leadership personnel. Captain Wolak’s predecessor at the station, Allen Castellano, recently promoted to commander and has rotated to a leadership role in the Sheriff’s Courts Division.
In his spare time, Captain Wolak enjoys spending time with his family, reading and working out. He is married with four children, including a son who just graduated from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point and is now a lieutenant in the U.S. Army. Please join the community in giving Captain James Wolak a warm welcome back to Lakewood. u
Learn to protect yourself from mosquitoes
Mosquitoes can quickly breed in water left standing just a few days. Serious illness and even death can result from mosquito-borne diseases like West Nile virus and the new threat of the Zika virus. Zika is transmitted by the small Aedes mosquito and has serious repercussions for pregnant women. Aedes mosquitoes can live indoors or outdoors. Eggs are laid along the waterline of any water-holding container such as flower vases, plant saucers, buckets, used tires, and even plants that hold water, like bamboo or bromeliads. Eggs can remain alive for years, and hatch into larvae when conditions are right. Look for: • small, black mosquitoes with white stripes • mosquitoes active and biting during the day — even indoors! • immature mosquitoes (larvae and pupae) swimming in stagnant water. Report black-and-white, daytimebiting mosquitoes to the Greater L.A. County Vector Control District at 562944-9656 or www.ReportMosquitoes. org. This FREE service includes inspection and treatment. Remember the “3 Ds” of mosquito protection: • DEET: Use insect repellant containing DEET, Picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus to keep mosquitoes away. Prevent mosquitoes from invading your home by ensuring window screens are intact. • Dawn & Dusk: Dawn and dusk are the most active time for most mosquitoes. If you must be outdoors at those times, wear long-sleeve shirts and pants and insect repellant. NOTE: The Aedes mosquito is active during the day. • Drain: Clear your yard of any standing water, including water pooling at the bottom of plant saucers. Check toys or other small items left standing in water and wash them thoroughly if kept. Mosquito eggs laid in cracks are hard to detect and can live for up to a year. Remove or drill holes in the bottom of all plant pots, saucers, barrels, bins and old tires. Untreated swimming pools can be reported to Lakewood City Hall by calling 562-866-9771, extension 2140, or emailing service1@lakewoodcity.org. Residents finding any dead birds or squirrels (which could be a sign of West Nile virus) can report them by calling the West Nile Virus Dead Bird Hotline at 877-968-2473. The heavy rains of the past winter have created breeding conditions for other insects this spring and summer. Learn which are harmful—and which are not—by going to www.ReportMosquitoes.org. u
Green June 2017
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New green waste carts coming to homes in August
New green waste cart is shown on the right. The Lakewood City Council has approved a proposal from the city’s trash and recycling contractor, EDCO Disposal, to provide free green waste rolling carts to Lakewood residents and to begin the automated curbside collection of green waste, similar to how trash and recycling is collected. The free upgrade to Lakewood trash and recycling services will begin this August. The change in green waste collection will be preceded by several written communications to residents from EDCO and the city explaining how the new system will work. In August, residents will receive, for free, one new green waste cart (the same size as the standard 95-gallon trash cart residents currently have). Once the new green waste carts are delivered, EDCO will no longer pick up green waste in residents’ old green waste containers, as the system will be fully automated. The only exception is that residents may still leave bundles of branches, etc. less than 4 feet long and 18 inches in diameter, tied securely with string or twine and EDCO will pick those up at no cost. If residents desire, EDCO will remove, at no cost, existing green waste containers that residents own, or residents can keep those for other uses. After the initial delivery and upon request, EDCO will provide up to
Water quality report now available
Lakewood’s 2016 Water Quality Report shows that the city’s drinking water continues to meet all federal and state quality standards. You can view the most recent report at www.lakewoodcity.org/2016waterqualityreport. If you want a copy of the report or have any questions, contact the Lakewood Department of Water Resources at 562-866-9771, extension 2700. u
two additional large 95-gallon green waste carts to residents at no charge.
For residents who have space constraints at their home, smaller rolling green waste carts will be provided at no cost. Stay tuned for more details from EDCO and the city in advance of the August 2017 delivery of the new green waste carts and the start of the new automated green waste collection system. The new automated green waste collection system is expected to reduce injuries to EDCO workers that can result from lifting the wide variety of often unpredictably heavy green waste containers that residents have. The automated system, using larger green waste containers, is also expected to increase the amount of green waste recycling achieved by Lakewood residents. u
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Lakewood offering water-wise gardening workshops
A Lakewood home with a water-wise garden.
Converting yards into water-wise landscapes is one of the most effective steps homeowners can take to save water and still have a beautiful yard. A free workshop on water-wise gardening will be held on Saturday, July 22 from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Weingart Senior Center. The class is open to all residents interested in replacing their grass lawns with water-wise plants. The workshop will cover the
necessary steps to remove grass, install water-efficient irrigation and choose plants to create a beautiful garden that will cost less to maintain. Participants will receive a free starter kit (while they last) and refreshments will be provided. Seating is limited. To RSVP, call 562-866-9771, extension 2700. Go to www.lakewoodcity.org/ waterwiseclasses for the flyer. u w
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www.lakewoodchamber.com.
Registration for Youth Program begins soon
Registration for the summer 2017 College for Youth program is now open at Cerritos College. Classes begin June 19 and continue through August 11. The College for Youth program offers classes for children, first through 12th grade
in math, writing, SAT, computer technology, cooking, music, art, and sports. The most popular classes include video game design, mobile app development, powerhouse writing, CSI (crime scene investigators), swimming, and tennis. Newly added for this year are
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STEAM inventions, Mathcraft: using Minecraft to learn math), mobile filmmaking, planetary science, kitchen chemistry, and ceramics. Educational classes offered through this program will get children excited about learning and familiar with a college campus. There are four, two-week sessions that run through the summer, Monday - Friday, and all classes are age appropriate. Classes begin at 8am, 10am, 1pm or 3pm. Students can attend one or two classes, or stay all day and enjoy four different classes. Supervised lunch break is offered free and extended child care is available. For more information about classes or to register, go to www.cerritoscommunityed. com or call (562) 467-5050. Classes fill up quickly. u Stoppages
June 2017
Pet care days are just a woof (and purr) away
Pets and owners love Bow Wow Meow days.
Lakewood’s pet-friendly summer tradition, Bow Wow and Meow Day, returns Monday, June 19 from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., along Civic Center Way, behind The Centre at Sycamore Plaza at 5000 Clark Ave. The one-stop events offer required rabies vaccinations at only $6 each. Other products and services offered include: • dog licensing on site
License #: 971888
Water Heaters
Garbage Disposal
Sewers & Drains
Slab Leaks
Wall Furnace
Copper Re-pipes
Floor Furnace
Gas Lines
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15 Years Serving Lakewood
Video Inspections www.DBplumber.com
• individual vaccines and discounted vaccination packs • micro-chipping • nail trimming • physical exams • flea control products Information regarding lowcost spaying/neutering and health care for dogs and cats will be available. Cash, checks and credit cards are accepted. Dogs must be on leashes and cats in secure carriers. Residents may purchase a dog license from License Inspectors at the clinic. Click www.lakewoodcity.org/pets for more information about pet services and pet adoption. ♦
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2-Year
Anniversary Celebration Saturday, June 3rd 10AM - 2PM 11126 Del Amo Blvd. Lakewood, 90715 562-865-0390
Come out and help celebrate by enjoying food, drinks, music and raffle prizes! Check out their website at: www.ladedasalons.com
June 2017
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Traffic Alert for next three months
The Southern California Gas Co. will close one eastbound lane of Del Amo Boulevard crossing over the 605 Freeway until approximately mid-August while the company reconstructs a gas pipeline in the area. For the initial three weeks of the project, which started on May 22, the lane will be open outside of the 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. weekday construction hours. Starting about June 12, the work hours will extend to 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and the lane will be closed full-time, including during non-work hours and weekends. The expanded work hours and lane closure will allow the work to be completed in a shorter period of time and with maximum safety for drivers and workers. Drivers may experience slow traffic on Del Amo crossing over the 605 during the full threemonth work period and may want
Practicing good health is as easy as a walk in the park!
Summer’s arrival means more time outdoors and partaking in warm weather fun with family and friends. If your health goals have fallen by the wayside, summer can be a great time to reinvigorate your efforts. • Spend time with Mother Nature. Take advantage of the warmer temperatures and reap the physical and mental health benefits of spending time with nature. You don’t have to travel far to a hiking trail or the distant woods (although go for it if that’s your thing); nature is right here in our own backyard. Take a walk in a nearby Lakewood park or spend an hour in your backyard garden, it can deliver the health benefits of communing with nature. • Make more healthful meals at home. Eating out too much isn’t good for your health and it’s a lot more fun to have a backyard barbeque or pack a picnic lunch in the summer anyway. It’s easier to control your nutritional choices because you’re selecting what you’re preparing. Put dinner out on the back-burner for a special occasion. • Learn to love water. Hydration is essential to a healthier life and summer heat can make it hard to stay hydrated, especially if you’re not a fan of water. Rather than opting for sugary drinks or caffeinated soda, flavor your water with a classic lemon or lime wedge, or a unique mixture of strawberry and basil. • Start hanging out at the Farmer’s Market. Lakewood has its very own farmers market, held every Saturday at Lakewood Center. Now there’s no excuses for not eating fresh, organic, seasonal produce this summer. A trip to the farmer’s market also means some extra exercise as you walk the open-air aisles. There’s plenty of variety, and your backyard barbeque will be a hit with all the tasty selections. • Make time to nap. If you’re like most people, you probably don’t get a full eight hours of sleep each night. Napping for
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even just 20 minutes can help you feel more rested throughout the day. And few experiences are more relaxing and restorative than a nap in the shade on a summer afternoon. • Laugh it up! It’s summer! Enjoy it with family, friends and lots of laughter. Laugh-
ing benefits your physical and mental health, increasing the oxygen intake and endorphins in your brain. It’s also a great stress reliever, so learn a new joke, find a funny meme, or attend a comedy show. u
to consider alternate routes. There will be a few construction periods that also necessitate the closure of the on- and offramps of the 605 at Del Amo.
Lakewood residents can sign up for an email notification of those closures and other city news at www.lakewoodcity.org/subscribe. u
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June 2017
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It’s all about a Lakewood business with a great sense of taste!
Joe Ung, Owner of Cassidy’s Corner Cafe, with his family. Who wouldn’t want to indulge in a little bite of creamy goodness?
Luckily, Lakewood residents don’t have far to go to try this little delicacy, it’s right in our own backyard. Cassidy’s Corner Café is in the news once again, this time their signature Bagel Bombz have put them in the spotlight as a must try tasty treat! Cassidy’s Corner Café owner, Joe Ung, was in the news last year touting his colorful purple and gold Kobe Bryant Tribute Bagels. Joe’s proving himself to be quite the celebrity as Cassidy’s Corner has once again caught the media’s eye, this time for their one-of-akind Bagel Bombz. Chris Burrous, a local KTLA Channel 5 news anchor, has recently featured the Bagel Bombz
on a recent segment of the news. The small round red velvet bagel bites and cinnamon bites are filled with sweet butter cream cheese goodness and the newsroom enjoyed every single delicious bite! Joe Ung is a down home Lakewood guy, who lives by the phrase, “Lakewood Loyal.” Joe’s wife, Desirea, and three daughters, Cassidy (the company’s namesake), Madison, and Sophia, are the reason he wakes up before dawn each morning and strives to provide the best quality food for the community. Joe says, “Don’t ask yourself, ‘How?’ Ask yourself, ‘Why?’ When you have the ‘why’ figured out, the ‘how’ will come. Don’t sit wondering ‘how’ you’re going to
KTLA Channel 5 morning show team tasting the yummy Bagel Bombz! do it.... know ‘why’ you are!” Stop by Cassidy’s Corner Café at 11132 Del Amo Boulevard and try Joe’s yummy Bagel Bombz,
Calling all class of ‘77 Lancers! Join us on July 8, 2017 for a walk down memory lane with friends you may not have seen in a while. There will be food, drinks and dancing as we watch the horses run at Los Alamitos Race Track. For more info, email Lakewood1977reunion@ gmail.com, or visit us on Facebook at “40th Reunion Lakewood, CA Class of 1977.” u
...Stay Lakewood Loyal
because the guy that makes them is truly da bomb! u
June 2017
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Shop Lakewood...
Labwerkz Printshop opening in Lakewood is the image of success!
Opening a new business is an exciting time…all the years, months and days of planning coming to fruition. Ariel Pé of Lakewood has been looking forward to the unveiling of his dream, Labwerkz Printshop, for some time now. All the preparation finally came together with the help of family and friends. Labwerkz recently celebrated their Grand Opening & Ribbon Cutting Ceremony in pictureperfect style! Labwerkz is much more than a full-service promotional printing and marketing service, it’s Lakewood people coming together to provide a valuable service to the community. Stop by Labwerkz at 5930 Del Amo Blvd. in Lakewood, or give them a call at (562) 708-0645, and wish him much success! u
...Stay Lakewood Loyal
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Living in the future? Time to come back!
Living in the future may sound harmless, but in reality it may be the source of your suffering. Living in the future is problematic for the following reasons: 1) It’s usually a horrific scenario. 2) It keeps you from being present. 3) It doesn’t exist. If you take time to give it some thought, you’ll realize that most
of your worries stem from playing the “What if” game. You’re constantly projecting and trying to figure out how to fix a problem that hasn’t yet happened. Yet there you are, thinking, obsessing, and watching the thoughts loop in your brain. If you want to get rid of most of your problems, come back to where you are right NOW. Ask
June 2017
The power of preventing a stroke By Angie West, MSN, RN, CCRN-K, SCRN, ANVP, director, Stroke Center, MemorialCare Neuroscience Institute, Long Beach Memorial
yourself, What problem exists Now? Whatever situation is happening at the moment, you will be able to handle accordingly. Have you ever not been able to take care of something happening in the “Now?” Stop trying to fix what hasn’t yet happened. Stay present. If you find your mind wandering to the future, reel it back in. Then say, Let’s wait
and see what happens. Release the worry, and feel the peace. Submitted by Rossana Snee, MFT, author of The Healing Alphabet, 26 Empowering Ways to Enrich Your Life. Follow her on Twitter @askjoshsmom, Periscope.com, and https://www.facebook.com/askjoshsmom. She is available in a therapeutic capacity, and also for speaking engagements. u
According to the National Stroke Association, up to 80 percent of strokes are preventable. Knowing how to identify a stroke, learning the risk factors and recognizing and responding quickly to a stroke will help reduce the impact. Signs & Symptoms Even though strokes are the leading cause of long-term adult disability and the No.5 killer in America, many people aren’t able to recognize the signs and symptoms when stroke strikes. People also may not realize that with a stroke, time lost is brain (function) lost. When every minute counts, make sure you can recognize the signs of stroke with: • B: Balance Lost – Sudden loss of balance or coordination • E: Eyes Blur – Sudden trouble seeing or blurred vision in one or both eyes • F: Face Drooping – One side of the face droops or is numb • A: Arm Weakness – Sudden weakness or numbness of an arm or leg,
especially on one side of the body • S: Speech Difficulty – Sudden con-
fusion, trouble speaking or understanding speech • T: Time to Call 9-1-1 – Call 9-1-1 immediately (note the time the symptoms started) Risk Factors There are a multitude of risk factors that, if avoided or managed, can reduce your risk for stroke, including: • High blood pressure • Smoking • A history of Transient Ischemic Attacks (TIAs) • Heart disease • Diabetes Prevention In addition to managing any previously diagnosed health conditions, you can prevent stroke and other diseases by following a healthier lifestyle, including: • Weight control – Being overweight puts you at a higher risk of developing high cholesterol, high blood pressure and diabetes – all of which can increase risk for stroke. • Exercise regularly – Your heart is a muscle, leading an active life can help it be stronger, and reduce the work it takes your heart to pump blood, effectively lowering your blood pressure. • Eat healthy – Diets high in saturated fat and cholesterol can raise bloodcholesterol levels. Adding healthy fruits, vegetables and drinks to your diet improves your overall health and decreases your risk for stroke. • Stop smoking – Smoking doubles your risk for stroke when compared to a non-smoker. It reduces the amount of oxygen in the blood, allowing blood clots to form more easily. It also increases the amount of buildup in the arteries, which may block the blood flow to the brain, causing a stroke. Reaction A stroke is a medical emergency. The more time that passes between when a stroke starts and when a person receives treatment increases the chances for brain function to be permanently lost. This is why when a stroke strikes, it’s critical that the person experiencing symptoms receives medical attention and an accurate diagnosis as quickly as possible. u
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Community June 2017
City of Lakewood and Pathways team up to Make A Difference
Last month the City of Lakewood contacted Pathways, a local non-profit who services the frailelderly, dying and bereaved, to see if they had any clients who might benefit from the cities Volunteer Day projects. Meg Fisch, their volunteer coordinator sent out a quick email to the Pathways volunteers and Chloe Resh was chosen as a potential recipient. Chloe was born in Arkansas in 1918. Because work was scarce in her hometown, she moved to Lakewood, California by train in 1961. Being a good cook, Chloe found a job quickly at ABC Unified School District in the cafeteria. She worked there until she retired. During her “free time” Chloe could be found cleaning house or taking care of her beautiful rose garden. As Chloe aged, she realized she needed help to stay independent and in her own home. Her son moved in, but she needed a bit more help. She heard about Pathways, contacted them and they provided her with a Caregiving Volunteer, Katie Miller. Katie helps her get to doctor visits, takes her shopping to purchase things, and keeps her active. Katie steps in when her son is not available. With the recent rain, Chloe’s backyard became very overgrown. Weeds were over 6 feet high. Lakewood Volunteers jumped into action and sent a crew over to clean it up and return it to its’ glory. In fact, Chloe showed it off at her 99th Birthday gathering with her friends and she is now looking forward to spending many afternoons on her patio. What a beautiful picture of a community coming together to meet the needs of the people of our city. If you would like more information on how you can become a volunteer for Pathways or to receive more information on their services, please visit their website at www.pathwayshospice.org or give them a call at (562) 531-3031. u
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Health and Information Fair for Seniors
Association at the usual donation of $2.25. Those under the age of 60 are welcome to eat at a cost of $4.50. For a lunch reservation, call 562-6306210 between June 12 and June 15. Health screenings typically featured include: • Hearing tests • Balance testing • Spinal and scoliosis screenings • Glucose & blood pressure testing • Cholesterol screening • Massage therapy • Body fat analysis • Thyroid screening Screenings offered are subject to change. u
Lakewood’s Senior Health Fair will be held Friday, June 16 from 10:00 a.m. to noon at the Weingart Senior Center at 5220 Oliva Avenue (just south of Candlewood Street and west of Lakewood Boulevard). Free screenings and health-related
information will be available throughout the morning. The event is free and open to the public. Call the senior center at 562-630-6141 for additional information. Lunch is available for those 60+ provided by the Human Services
Lakewood Chamber’s Spring Co-Ed Softball League If you’re interested in joining the Chamber’s Summer Season of Softball, call Frank Cardiel at 562-5319733, or email
info@lakewoodchamber.com. OPENING DAY IS JUNE 14TH! Lakewood Chamber Champions
Lakewood Best Buy “Blue Jays”
It’s time to put your brain to work! Congratulations to David Lockyer, he’s the winner of the May Sudoku contest! To be eligible, print your name, address and phone number on a letter size (8½ x 11) piece of paper, and then tape the puzzle onto the paper. Mail entries to: Lakewood Community News, P.O. Box 160, Lakewood, CA 90714. Or drop it by the Chamber office at 4111 South St. in Lakewood (Upstairs). The winners are drawn by random. One entry per household; the answers must be postmarked no later than Friday, June 23, 2017. The winners will be drawn on Monday, June 26, 2017, and the call to the winners will be made the same day. If a message is left, the prize must be claimed by return phone call within 48 hours (two business days) or a new winner will be chosen. The name of the winner will be published in the July issue, along with a new Sudoku Puzzle. u
The Arts Aloud Theater Group is auditioning performers between the ages of 13-18 to appear in a talent showcase. Auditions are free and open to all SoCal teens; if selected, there is not cost to perform. All participants will receive access to master classes and mentorship opportunities with noted artists and craftspeople. Acts are chosen by a group of entertainment people who volunteer their time. First, second and third place cash awards are are bestowed during the event. Over $3,500 in cash prizes and donations will be distributed. Date and location are:
9402 Oak Street Bellflower, 90706
“The Sweat Shop Gym”
Lakewood Women’s Club receives award
Does your son or daughter have a special talent?
Wednesday, June 28th 4PM - 8PM
Runner-up Champions
THANKS to our Sudoku Sponsor
Register at:
www.artsaloudtheatergroup.com
At the recent Los Cerritos District Women’s Club Convention, the Lakewood Women’s Club received the Outstanding Participation Award of the Chimes, for their active participation in district and the California Federation of Women’s Clubs. They were also awarded the Mantel Clock for the club entries in all categories at the Fine Arts Festival. Membership luncheon meetings are held the at 11AM, the third Tuesday of each month (Sept.-May) at the Centre at Sycamore Plaza, 5000 Clark Avenue, Lakewood. Meetings are followed by lunch and a speaker or entertainment. If you are interested, please call Membership Chairman, Sandra Reprogle Richardson, 562-866-8410. Members are busy in the summer raising funds to support other non-profit groups, such as Meals on Wheels, Weingart Senior Center, and others, with the sale of fireworks, July 1-4, at the Lakewood Women’s Club Fireworks Stand located on the southeast corner of Del Amo and Paramount Boulevards. Stop by and help support Lakewood non-profit community organizations. u
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Community June 2017
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Make your staycation feel like an actual getaway No stringent schedule. Eating new, exotic foods. Getting lost in a page-turning novel. Trying a new activity that takes you outside your comfort zone. These are the types of things that make for a memorable vacation. The problem is, you’re not traveling this year and instead are opting for the increasingly popular staycation. Yes, you’re taking ‘paid time off’ and staying put, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have an incredible time. In fact, many of the activities that make a traditional vacation so wonderful can be emulated while at home. To help make your staycation feel like a real getaway, follow these suggestions. You’ll have just as much fun as leaving town, but you’ll save tons of money, plus get to sleep in your own bed. Limit technology: When you travel to a faraway location, you probably have limited-to-no access to your cell phone and email. That disconnection helps you unwind. Mimic that feeling by limiting your technology use during your staycation. Leave your phone upstairs, turn the computer off and resist grabbing the tablet. You should consider changing your email and phone message to say you’ll have limited access over the time you’re off, so people who contact you know it might be awhile until you get back to them. Escape with a destination-specific book: Want to feel like you’re leaving town without leaving the house? A good book can transport your mind to the destination of your choice without the hassle of planes, trains and automobiles. Kick your feet up and let yourself feel the sights and sounds that only a good book can describe so vividly. Eat exotic and amazing fare: Every corner of the world offers cuisine that represents the culture of the people who live there. When you travel, eating these types of foods enhances the vacation experience. During your staycation, skip standard weekly meals and try new destination-inspired recipes and make a few at home. Drink and be merry: While you’re expanding your staycation experience with new cuisine, why not drink that way too? Complement your meals with a traditional location-inspired libation, such as a Manhattan from New York, Mai Tai from Hawaii or Vieux Carre from New Orleans. Of course there are plenty of non-alcoholic beverages to wet your whistle, too. Feel the southern charm with a traditional sweet
tea, or sit down with your book and instead of a classic cup of joe, indulge in an Italian espresso or an iced coffee. Break routine with a daily adventure: You may be home, but that doesn’t mean you can’t explore
areas of your city that you rarely venture to. By doing new things, you’ll feel like you’re really on vacation! Staycations continue to grow in popularity, give it a try; it will truly feel like a getaway rather than just bland days off at home. u
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June 2017