At the March 24,   Meeting members and guests heard a presentation from Chris Wilson, Field Representative for Assembly Member Mike A. Gibson, 64th Assembly District.  Daniel introduced Chris Wilson by noting that he periodically attends the Lynwood Rotary meetings and is always most welcome!  Chris started his presentation by noting that he lives in Signal Hill and he is a Rotary member of the Rotary Club in San Pedro. The professional experience of Chris Wilson includes serving on the staff of Assembly Member Wilson for about  1 – ½ years and before that his experience includes serving on the staff for Bonnie Lowenthal for about 6 years.He started his presentation by describing a variety of constituent services that Assembly Member Gibson and his staff provide for all constituents. For example assistance is available for issues pertaining to local, state and federal programs and regulations. Services include assistance to small businesses, to help residents start businesses and to help small businesses to grow.
 
There was considerable response from several in the audience, especially from Rotary member Raj, who is the owner and  operator of a office supply store in Lynwood.  Part of the concern expressed is the competition that small businesses face from the so-called big box stores.  Among the resources that Chris mentioned is the Federal Small Business Administration.  Also, the Small Business Development Center workshops that include obtaining access to capital.  Raj mentioned that small businesses also need a “market to sell.”  Chris made references to policies and regulations from some cities, such as the City of Carson, that require the city to seek out businesses within that city in their procurement of services and goods.
 

Rotary visitor and Lynwood resident, Margaret Arajou, mentioned the assistance a family member received pertaining to veteran needs and services.As to legislation that Assembly Member Gipson, authored so far, include  AB 25 and AB 1228, both provide assistance to students with low incomes. In the absence of President Martina Rodriguez, President Elect Ramon Rodriguez presided at the  meeting.   In response to a question from Daniel, Ramon said he would coordinate further with Lulu as to ensuring that all the paper work is complete for the annual sale of fireworks, to include all paperwork with the vendor, Phantom Fireworks.  Since Lulu was not present, Daniel mentioned that Maria Quinonez or Lulu is not only the Club Secretary, but also the City Clerk for the City of Lynwood, which is the city department responsible for this type of paperwork.  Daniel reminded everyone the important need the club has for adult and youth volunteers for the four days of firework sales (July 1-4).

Daniel mentioned that the City of Lynwood's Annual Easter Egg Hunt will be this Saturday, March 26, from 11 am to 1:30 pm at Lynwood Park, Baseball Diamond #3.  Since the Lynwood Rotary Club is one of the financial sponsors of this annual event, Daniel encourage Rotary members to come to the event.  Also Daniel repeated the announcement that coming  on Tue, Mar 29, 5:30- 8:00 pm  , The Lynwood Library in partnership with the The Lynwood Union, presents, ,Painting with Light, an exhibition, showcasing the work of Lynwood-born artist, Felix Quintana.  Check out his work at felixquintana.com

Daniel mentioned that on March 31 there will be no meeting next week, because City Hall will be closed in honor of the Cesar Chavez Annual Event.

Daniel Miller /  Omar Franco Public Relations and Community Outreach for the Lynwood Rotary Club