La Mirada Kiwanis Club Members Honored as 2024 Women of the Year
La Mirada Kiwanis Club members Dr. Cathy Alvarez and Patty Miller were recognized recently for their valuable contributions to the community as 2024 Women of the Year award recipients.
Dr. Alvarez was honored by California Assemblywoman Blanca Pacheco as a Woman of the Year for her years of service to the community.
Cathy is a retired educator and school counselor, who served in the Norwalk-La Mirada Unified School District for many years. She is a member of La Mirada Kiwanis Club, Norwalk 605 Kiwanis, La Mirada Ebell, Norwalk-La Mirada PTA Council, the La Mirada Community Foundation and the Community Services Commission.
Cathy volunteers at elementary schools for Read Across America and at a local senior center where she entertains others with music, singing and creating crafts.
Cathy enjoys baking and delivers her homemade treats to Benton Middle School staff monthly to show her appreciation and to VFW Post 9148 to help with fundraising efforts.
Patty Miller was honored by California State Senator Bob Archuleta as a Woman of the Year for her leadership of La Mirada Kiwanis as President in 2033 and spearheading the “Buddy Bench” program.
Patty helped establish the program to combat loneliness and bullying in La Mirada schools. The benches are located at all six La Mirada elementary schools.
This project exemplifies Patty's efforts over many years to support programs for La Mirada's youth.
Scout Achieves Eagle Scout Rank with Gardenhill Park Sign Project
Hannah Cantrell of Scout Troop 1238-Fullerton successfully completed her Eagle Service Project recently, which involved the construction and replacement of the sign at Gardenhill Park.
The project was particularly challenging for the 17-year-old, as it required navigating the city's approval process and building a durable sign capable of withstanding outdoor conditions for many years.
Hannah demonstrated exceptional leadership by planning, organizing, and leading a team of Scouts and parents during the construction phase and she is now planning a ribbon-cutting ceremony with city officials.
Completing an Eagle Service Project is a crucial requirement for a scout to earn the prestigious rank of Eagle Scout.
Gary and Diane Smith Recognized with Community Spotlight Award for 64 Years of Service to Meals on Wheels
This past Tuesday evening the City’s Community Spotlight Award was presented to Gary and Diane Smith for their outstanding service to the La Mirada community. This prestigious award honors individuals who, through their actions, represent the city positively.
Gary and Diane Smith have been residents of La Mirada since 1972.
Diane began volunteering with Meals on Wheels in 1990, and Gary joined her in 1994 following his retirement. Together, they have dedicated a remarkable 64 years of service to the Meals on Wheels program.
The Meals on Wheels program empowers elderly, disabled, and chronically or temporarily ill individuals to maintain their independence by providing them with nutritious meals at a minimal cost.
La Mirada’s Meals on Wheels operation began in 1975.
Throughout their years of service, Gary and Diane have delivered countless meals to clients across La Mirada. Their commitment and compassion exemplify the Meals on Wheels mission of "Service with Friendship."
