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Harbor Market Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting Celebration!

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The Lomita Chamber of Commerce proudly welcomed Harbor Market with an official ribbon cutting to celebrate their Grand Opening in Harbor City!
 
As a family-owned neighborhood convenience store, Harbor Market brings top-quality products, friendly service, and a warm, local vibe to the community. We’re honored to have them in our Chamber family and excited to support their continued success!
 
Special thanks to our Chamber Board Members, Lomita City Councilmember Barry Waite, Rep. Jose Ochoa from Senator Laura Richardson’s office, and representatives from the office of LA City
Councilmember Tim McOsker for helping us recognize this milestone with official certificates.
 
Congrats again to the Harbor Market team—here’s to many successful years ahead!
 
Follow Harbor market on Instagram
Find Harbor market located Here ( 25225 Vermont Ave, Harbor City, CA 90710)
 
 

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2025 Board of Directors Announcement

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The Lomita Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce its 2025 Board of Directors and Officers, who will be officially recognized at the Installation & Awards Ceremony on March 6, 2025.

Incoming & Re-Elected Board Members – We welcome the following individuals to the 2025 Board of Directors:
 

Kim Edwards, HomeStreet Bank (3-year term)
Kevin Gordon, Attorney at Law (3-year term)
Bruno Perron, Still Got It Fitness (3-year term)
Paris Chevalier, South Bay Credit Union (re-elected, 3-year term)
Tabitha Pennington, State Farm Agent (re-elected, 3-year term)
Nayeem Khan, Lomita Mail & Print (appointed to fill a 1-year vacancy)

We are thrilled to have this mix of new and returning leaders on the Board as we continue to serve the Lomita and South Bay business community.

Outgoing Board Members – We extend our gratitude to the following board members for their dedicated service:
 

Jan Vogel, South Bay Workforce Investment Board
Jeff Koven, Koven Video Productions 

Chamber Leadership Roles for 2025 – At the January 2025 Board meeting, the following officers were elected:

Chair: Tracy Maestro, California Water Services Company
Chair-Elect: Sharon Shapiro-Fox, Athens Services
Immediate Past-Chair: Jennifer Olvera, Coastal Funeral Center/Green Hills Memorial Park
Secretary: Mary Hornickel, The Wellness Company
Treasurer: Paris Chevalier, South Bay Credit Union

2025 Lomita Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors:

  • Andrew Aparicio, The BBQ Element/Element Outdoor
  • Paris Chevalier, South Bay Credit Union
  • Kim Edwards, HomeStreet Bank
  • Laurie Glover, Silverado Memory Care Community
  • Kevin Gordon, Attorney at Law
  • Mary Hornickel, The Wellness Company
  • Nayeem Khan, Lomita Mail & Print
  • Jane Lau, Berkshire Hathaway Home Services CA
  • Steve MacAller, Torrance-South Bay YMCA
  • Tracy Maestro, California Water Service
  • Jennifer Olvera, Coastal Funeral Center
  • Tabitha Pennington, State Farm Agent
  • Bruno Perron, Still Got It Fitness
  • Sharon Shapiro-Fox, Athens Services
  • Teresa Workman, Teresa Workman Realty
  • Mark Waronek, City of Lomita (ex officio liaison)
  • Heidi Butzine, President/CEO (non-voting Board member) 

The Chamber remains deeply appreciative of all Board members—past, present, and incoming—whose leadership drives growth and success for our business community.

We invite you to join us on March 6th to welcome the 2025 Board, celebrate our award winners, and support our community.

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How Your Business Can Help Those Displaced From Workplaces

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Supervisor Janice Hahn and the Los Angeles County Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) have launched Business-to-Business Space Share, a free platform designed to connect businesses and nonprofits displaced from their workplaces with temporary spaces generously offered by other businesses across the county.

This initiative, inspired by the generosity of local business owners, enables businesses to open their doors to help others maintain their livelihoods during this challenging time. For example, Whittier Councilwoman Cathy Warner and her husband are offering their periodontal office space to displaced professionals when it’s not in use.

If your business has available space, you can play a vital role in supporting our community’s recovery. Whether it’s a place for a dentist to treat patients, a hairstylist to see clients, or any other type of workspace, your contribution can make a meaningful difference.

How It Works:

  • For Businesses Offering Space: List available space on the portal, including details like size, amenities, and availability. Spaces can be offered for a single day or longer, and multiple listings are welcome.
  • For Displaced Businesses: Search the portal for suitable spaces and connect directly with those offering them.

The platform is user-friendly and ensures businesses retain full control over any agreements. While the County facilitates these connections, terms of use are determined between the parties.

How You Can Help

Visit the Business-to-Business Space Share portal at: https://sharespace.lacounty.gov/ to create a listing or search for available spaces.

By participating, you’ll be supporting displaced businesses, safeguarding livelihoods, and helping to strengthen our local economy. Together, we can make a significant impact and foster resilience in our community.

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Staying Safe and Supporting Our Neighbors During the Fires

The Lomita Chamber of Commerce extends our heartfelt concern for all those affected by the devastating fires. Our thoughts are with the impacted communities, as well as the courageous firefighters and first responders working tirelessly to protect lives and property.

We’re here for our neighbors during this challenging time and want to share important resources to help you stay informed and safe. Please feel free to share this information with anyone who may need it.  

Resources and Information:

Ways to Help:

  • Helps Wildfire Displaced Businesses Find Free Commercial Spaces Businesses interested in donating or finding space can visit the Business-to-Business Space Share portal at: https://sharespace.lacounty.gov/ 
  • Members of the public can easily donate to the LA County Fire Department through the Los Angeles Emergency Preparedness Foundation: https://laepf.org/lacofd

Important Safety Reminders:

  • Stay indoors and limit outdoor activities, especially during poor air quality.
  • Monitor air quality reports through trusted sources like  SCAQMD.
  • Follow all local evacuation orders and guidance from first responders.
  • Keep your emergency kit ready with essentials like medications, water, and flashlights.

We encourage everyone in Lomita and the South Bay to take precautions, stay informed, and lend support where possible. If you know of additional resources or ways to help, please share them with us.

Feel free to forward this email or share these resources with neighbors, friends, and colleagues who may benefit from the information.

Lomita Chamber of Commerce

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2025 Lomita Chamber Installation & Awards Night

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SAVE THE DATE!
Whodunit Mystery Chamber Installation & Awards dinner
January 30, 2024

San Pedro Elks Lodge  |  5:30pm – 8:30pm

Join us for an evening of intrigue and celebration as we install our 2025 Board members and honor outstanding businesses and individuals, and welcome incoming Board Chair Tracy Maestro. The night will feature an exciting mystery dinner!

Seeking Sponsors!

Partner with us to make this unforgettable evening possible. Multiple sponsorship opportunities are available, offering exposure across event materials, social media, and more. Spotlight your brand at this event!

Contact us today to get involved!

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Pearl Hope: Two-Time Lomita Lemonade Day Entrepreneur of the Year Wins National Title

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Lomita, CA (September 11, 2024) — The Lomita Chamber of Commerce is thrilled to announce that Pearl Hope, a two-time Lemonade Day Lomita Youth Entrepreneur of the Year, has just been named the 2024 National Lemonade Day Youth Entrepreneur of the Year! The exciting news was made public today during the Lemonade Day National Virtual City Directors Conference, presented by Nicole Cassier-Mason Lemonade Day National CEO from Houston, Texas.

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Pearl, a determined 12-year-old entrepreneur and the founder of Lucky Lemonade Co., used her lunch break from school to be recognized and share her inspiring journey on Zoom—proving she’s a true multitasking entrepreneur! Pearl’s hard work, creativity, and business acumen have been on display throughout her three years of participation in the Lemonade Day program, where she’s grown her lemonade stand into a thriving business selling a wide variety of products, including lemonade, baked goods, jewelry, accessories, and more.

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“This recognition is a testament to Pearl’s entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to her business,” said Heidi Butzine, President & CEO of the Lomita Chamber of Commerce. “Her journey has inspired many in the community, and we couldn’t be more proud.”

Pearl’s Journey to Success

Over the years, Pearl has evolved her business, expanding beyond lemonade to create a product line that includes skincare items like soap, bath bombs, and lip balm. She also supports her community by donating a portion of her profits to local charities, including the Harbor Pregnancy Help Center.

In 2024, Pearl generated over $3,700 in total revenue with an impressive profit of $3,400, making her a role model for aspiring young entrepreneurs everywhere. Her entrepreneurial journey, which began with a simple lemonade stand, has now grown into a business poised for even more expansion, including plans for a full skincare line.

What’s Next for Pearl?

As the 2024 National Lemonade Day Youth Entrepreneur of the Year, Pearl will receive a cash prize and gain invaluable media exposure, opening doors for more opportunities to grow her Lucky Lemonade Co. product line.

“As I continue to grow my business, my next goals are to expand my product line into major retailers like Sephora and Ulta, increase my online presence, and secure more local partnerships.” Pearl shared. 

Watch Pearl’s Journey

Take a look at the inspiring journey of Pearl (owner of Lucky Lemonade Co.), and 2024 National Lemonade Day Youth Entrepreneur of the Year, as she takes you behind the scenes of her thriving business, Lucky Lemonade Co., in this award-winning short film! From squeezing lemons to crafting homemade skincare products, this video showcases Pearl’s entrepreneurial story over the past three years. Pearl’s inspiring journey earned her the prestigious “A Day in the Life Movie Maker Award” from the Lomita Chamber of Commerce which directs the Lemonade Day Lomita program. Watch how Pearl’s dedication, creativity, and passion have led her to expand her product line and achieve national recognition—all while balancing school and giving back to her community!

 

This is the second time that Lomita’s local youth entrepreneur of the year has gone on to win the National title.

For more information about Pearl’s journey or how to get involved in Lemonade Day Lomita, visit LemonadeDay.org/Lomita or contact the Lomita Chamber of Commerce at hi@lomitachamber.org.

About Lemonade Day:
Lemonade Day is a community-based educational program that teaches youth how to start, own, and operate their own business—a lemonade stand. Through this fun and hands-on experience, children learn key life skills, including financial literacy, goal setting, and teamwork, while becoming the next generation of business leaders.

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Celebrating Our Young Entrepreneurs: Highlights from the 2024 Lemmy Awards

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On August 24th, the Lomita Chamber of Commerce hosted a heartwarming celebration at Lomita Park—the 2024 Lemmy Awards! This annual event shines a spotlight on the incredible young entrepreneurs who participated in Lemonade Day, recognizing their creativity, hard work, and community spirit. These young entrepreneurs earned their awards by submitting their business results to the Chamber, where they reflected on their performance, showcased their creativity, and demonstrated their entrepreneurial growth.

Celebrating This Year’s Entrepreneurial Achievements

This year, 52 young entrepreneurs across 32 official lemonade stands showcased their business skills, with 22 stands reporting impressive results. Together, they generated $25,053, saved $7,629, and generously gave back $7,756 to their chosen nonprofits and charities—demonstrating the true spirit of Lemonade Day.

This year, the Chamber also unveiled its official Lemonade Day Lomita theme song, generously donated by Localista Media—adding a fresh, musical touch to the celebration. Watch it here!

The day was filled with smiles, laughter, and well-deserved accolades. Among the highlights were:

Best Lemonade Stand: Sweet Sisters Lemonade, Alexandra and Aubrie won this photo entry contest for their beautifully themed stand that charmed everyone with its vibrant colors and welcoming atmosphere. 

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Amazon Gift Card Drawing ($100) Winner: Wakanda Goldstarr Lemonade owner Blessed was the lucky winner of the Amazon gift card drawing, adding an extra bit of excitement to their day. This entrepreneur sold out of their signature blackberry, cherry and strawberry lemonade flavors and sold books to give back a portion of proceeds to the Friends of Lomita Library.

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Video Contest Winner: Lucky Lemonade Co. captured the spirit of Lemonade Day through Pearl’s engaging and creative video that documented the entrepreneurial journey, going back to her first year participating in Lemonade Day just 3 years ago.

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Highest Grossing Sales & Most Philanthropic: Love N Lemons By Maddy brought in an impressive $4,693 in revenue and donated over 67% of her profits to Community’s Child, demonstrating that success to this entrepreneur was about making a difference. This being Maddy’s second year as a Lemonade Day Alum, this stand was a beacon of generosity and dedication to the community.

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Most Creative Recipe: The Lemon Ninjas Lucas, Zachary and Ezekiel wowed everyone with their unique lemonade flavors, including calamansi and dragon fruit, and POG (Passion Fruit, Orange, Guava) lemonade, leaving a lasting impression on their customers. They learned a lot as first-year Lemonade Day entrepreneurs about their strengths and where they have opportunities to grow.

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Most Innovative: Cole’s D’Luxe Lemonade stood out with a Hawaiian-themed stand, fresh ingredients, and creative products, including 3D dragons and raffle tickets. This 3-year Lemonade Day alum and Cole’s ability to think outside the box and continually improve the business earned Cole this well-deserved recognition.

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Most Creative Marketing: That Lemonade Kid Presents: Lemonade Go! Ethan continued his winning streak, taking home this award for the fourth year in a row by blending popular culture with business savvy to create an interactive and engaging experience through Pokemon Go. Ethan’s innovative approach not only drew in crowds but also left a lasting impression, solidifying a reputation as a marketing powerhouse.

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Mayor’s Award: Sweet Sisters Lemonade was recognized not only for their exceptional stand but also for their enthusiasm, making them a standout among their peers. Alexandra and Aubrie offered a delightful variety of lemonade flavors, including Mermaid Water and Unicorn Water. What stood out to earn the Mayor’s award was the enthusiasm they showed when they danced and sang a song about their lemonade stand during their microloan pitch at South Bay Credit Union.

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Honorable Mention: June of Take A Stand was recognized for her creativity and heart, offering not just lemonade with her team but also her original poems. This stand wasn’t just about selling lemonade; it became a platform for artistic expression and meaningful engagement. By offering original poems for sale and letting customers choose which charity would benefit from their purchase, this entrepreneur showed how powerful it can be when we work together, keep things simple, and stay committed to making a difference.

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Youth Entrepreneur of the Year: Pearl Hope of Lucky Lemonade Co. demonstrated remarkable growth and determination over the past three years, reflecting on strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities, with a commitment to continuous improvement and meaningful community impact. A key to Pearl’s success has been balancing profit from sales with giving back. Rather than relying on one-time donations, Pearl has built a sustainable business that supports ongoing contributions to causes that resonate with her. Pearl has plans to expand her lemon-themed product line including skincare with a goal to reach major retailers, making her a true leader among her peers. This approach highlights true entrepreneurship.

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In addition to the Lemmy Awards, all young entrepreneurs received certificates of recognition from the City Councilmembers of Lomita, the Lomita Chamber of Commerce, Assemblymember Al Muratsuchi, Senator Ben Allen, LAUSD School Board Member Tanya Ortiz Franklin, LA County Supervisor Janice Hahn, and LA County Assessor Jeffrey Prang. These certificates acknowledged their hard work, dedication, and contributions to our community, making the day even more special for our participants.

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A special thank you goes out to our presenters and sponsors—City of Lomita Mayor Pro-Tem Mark Waronek (on behalf of Mayor Bill Uphoff), Lomita Chamber Board Chair Jennifer Olvera (Coastal Funeral Center/GHMP), Chair-Elect Tracy Maestro (CalWater), Board Member Jane Lau (Realtor), Erin Ennis (Skin Topic Skincare), Chris Chartier (Grocery Outlet)—and our special guest, Assemblymember Al Muratsuchi. Your support and participation were invaluable and truly added to the celebratory spirit of the day, making the event even more memorable.

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The event concluded with a fun-filled scavenger hunt, where our young entrepreneurs and their families explored the park and won prizes. We captured some wonderful moments from the day, including the proud smiles of our winners as they accepted their awards.

It was a day of celebration, learning, and community—a perfect reflection of what Lemonade Day is all about. We are so proud of all our participants and look forward to seeing where their entrepreneurial journeys take them next!

Stay tuned for the 5th Annual Lemonade Day Lomita 2025— July 19, 2025! 

Lemonade Day Lomita is a summer youth entrepreneur program brought to you by the Lomita Chamber of Commerce in partnership with the City of Lomita, South Bay Credit Union and participating sponsors. It empowers young participants to step into the shoes of a business owner by guiding them through the entire process—from securing health permits and business licenses, obtaining microloans, and crafting special lemonade recipes to marketing their stands and managing finances. With the support of their families and the community, these young entrepreneurs showcase their hard work, creativity, and business acumen, all while learning invaluable life skills.

For more information, contact the Lomita Chamber of Commerce if you’d like to participate next year: https://lemonadeday.org/lomita/contact.

Special thank you to Chamber Ambassador Bonnie Orona (Adam Chiropractic & Wellness Center) for photos.

 

WATCH LEMONADE DAY RECAP
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Understanding Access Laws: ADA Guidance for California Small Businesses

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Small businesses in California must comply with various state and federal disability access laws. Non-compliance can result in significant costs from defending and settling lawsuits.

Key Accessibility Laws

  • Federal Law: The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires businesses to make accessibility improvements to their premises, ensuring that entrances, aisles, bathrooms, service counters, and other features are accessible to people with disabilities. Barriers should be removed if doing so is “readily achievable.”
  • California State Building Code (Title 24): Compliance is required for new constructions and renovations. This includes making the main entrance, primary paths, and associated features accessible. If construction costs are below a certain threshold, additional accessibility modifications are limited to 20% of the construction expenses.
  • California Civil Rights Laws: Laws like the Unruh Civil Rights Act and the California Disabled Persons Act ensure individuals with disabilities can fully use and enjoy all business establishments. Violations of the ADA also breach these state laws, which can result in substantial damages in lawsuits.
  • Senate Bill 1608: This legislation, known as the Construction-Related Accessibility Standards Compliance Act, offers protection against lawsuits for businesses that employ a specially trained expert known as a Certified Access Specialist (CASp) and adhere to their recommendations. Learn more about these inspections here.

Important Reminders

  • Compliance with building codes does not exempt you from disability rights laws.
  • The responsibility for compliance primarily lies with your architect and contractor.
  • Even if the building department approves, you are still accountable for any access violations.

Steps to Reduce Lawsuit Risks

  • Hire a CASp: They will assess your premises for accessibility barriers and provide an inspection report, which can help if you are sued. 
  • Review and Follow CASp Recommendations: Ensure your premises comply with access laws and remove barriers over time.
  • Utilize Tax Incentives: Tax credits and deductions are available to offset accessibility improvement costs.
  • Address Complaints Promptly: Take complaints seriously and seek professional and legal advice to prevent escalation to litigation.

How Can I Fund Access Improvements?

Tax incentives may be available to help mitigate the costs of making accessibility improvements. More information on ADA tax incentives can be found here: https://www.ada.gov/taxcred.htm. Consult your tax advisor for specific advice.

Additional Resources: 

Disclaimer:

This information is provided as general guidance and should be reviewed by an expert in the industry. The Lomita Chamber does not endorse or make any guarantees about the suggestions noted here. This information does not replace professional advice from an advisor knowledgeable about disability access requirements. It is not legal advice. For specific concerns, including lawsuits or significant legal issues, you should consult with an attorney who specializes in disability access law.

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California Employers Required to Have Workplace Violence Prevention Plan in Place

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WVPP CA Employers

As of July 1, 2024, most California employers are required to have a Workplace Violence Prevention Plan (WVPP). The WVPP must comply with key requirements of the new law, which will be enforced by Cal/OSHA, who may issue citations and penalties for violations.

Per the employment law attorneys at Chase Law Group  (a Lomita Chamber member):

“The new law defines workplace violence as “any act of violence or threat of violence that occurs in a place of employment.” Workplace violence may include the “threat or use of physical force against an employee that results in, or has a high likelihood of resulting in, injury, psychological trauma, or stress, regardless of whether the employee sustains an injury.” 

Click here to read more about this new law and how it may apply to your business.

Should you have any questions regarding your company’s employment law concerns, contact an employment attorney for guidance. 

3rd Annual Healthy For All Ages Recap

3rd Annual Health For All Ages Recap!

3rd Annual Healthy For All Ages Recap

On Sunday, May 5, the Lomita Chamber of Commerce proudly hosted the 3rd Annual Health For All Ages health fair at Lomita City Hall. The event was a spectacular celebration of wellness, community, and free resources! 

The Health For All Ages fair featured a variety of free resources and giveaways, generously provided by our vendors. Highlighting the importance of health and wellness, the South Bay Lomita Lions Club facilitated a mobile health and vision screening bus for kids. Attendees also enjoyed a variety of delicious food, adding to the festive atmosphere.

Special thanks to DJ Ozzie, who kept the energy high with great music and served as our fantastic emcee for the day. A huge round of applause and thanks to McNulty School of Irish Dance, Shaolin Temple Kung Fu School, Gems of Polynesia, and Powered by Dance for their wonderful performances. 

We are deeply grateful to our sponsors for their support. Special recognition goes to South Bay Credit Union, our Champion Sponsor, for their exceptional contribution. We also thank Skin Topic Skincare, our Entertainment Sponsor, as well as Coastal Funeral Center and United Healthcare, our Passport Sponsors. Additional thanks to Optum, Roham International, 1Heart Caregiver Services, Torrance Memorial, Still Got It Fitness, Adam Chiropractic, Jane Lau of Berkshire Hathaway, Life Chiropractic, St. Clair Law, A Precious Elder, Happy Teeth Dental Company, and LocalAnchor.com.

The day brought upon the perfect opportunity for the community to unite and focus on their health and well-being while enjoying a fun-filled day. The 3rd Annual Health For All Ages fair was a resounding success, bringing together people of all ages in the spirit of wellness and community. Want to be part of the excitement next year? Email hi@lomitachamber.org for more info on participating in the next Health For All Ages Health Fair. See you there!

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3rd Annual Health For All Ages Recap!
3rd Annual Health For All Ages Recap!
3rd Annual Health For All Ages Recap!
3rd Annual Health For All Ages Recap!
3rd Annual Health For All Ages Recap!
3rd Annual Health For All Ages Recap!
3rd Annual Health For All Ages Recap!
3rd Annual Health For All Ages Recap!
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