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“In towns and cities... there is no more important institution than the local paper.”
Warren Buffett
LCCN Staff Report
LA MIRADA — October will bring a full schedule of community activities to La Mirada, including a floating pumpkin patch, Fall Festival, National Chess Day celebration, Halloweenfest and several other programs for residents of all ages.
Pumpkin picking will move into the water at Splash! on Saturday, Oct. 24, when guests can jump into the 25-yard pool and select a pumpkin from the city's Floating Pumpkin Patch.
The event will also feature candy, decorations, games and crafts. Sessions will be offered at 10:30 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. All attendees must register, and tickets are $10 per person. For information, call (562) 902-3191.
La Mirada's annual Fall Festival will bring a western theme to the Activity Center on Thursday, Oct. 8, from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Residents are encouraged to wear their favorite western attire for an event featuring live music, line dancing, games, lunch and dessert. Admission is free, with a suggested $2.75 donation for lunch through Café on the Green. Lunch reservations are required and must be made by Friday, Oct. 2, by calling (562) 947-8787.
Players ranging from beginners to experienced competitors can celebrate the 50th anniversary of National Chess Day on Saturday, Oct. 10, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Resource Center.
All skill levels are welcome, but space is limited and registration is required. Parents must participate with children ages 13 and younger. For information, call (562) 902-3160.
La Mirada residents can dispose of old documents and electronics while picking up free mulch during the city's collection event Saturday, Oct. 10, from 9 a.m. to noon at the La Mirada Community Gymnasium parking lot.
The event, offered in partnership with EDCO, allows residents to shred up to three banker boxes, dispose of unwanted electronics and receive up to three cans or bags of mulch.
Mulch is self-service, so residents should bring their own containers and shovel. Household hazardous waste will not be accepted. Proof of La Mirada residency is required. For information, call Public Works at (562) 902-2385.
Residents, schools and businesses are encouraged to participate in the annual Great ShakeOut earthquake drill Thursday, Oct. 15, at 10:15 a.m.
Participants will practice the recommended earthquake response of “drop, cover and hold on.” City officials say practicing the procedure before an earthquake can help make the proper response more instinctive during an emergency.
Costumes, candy, games and a few spooky surprises will take over the historic Neff Estate on Saturday, Oct. 31, for La Mirada's Halloweenfest.
The free event runs from 4:30 to 8 p.m. and will feature a haunted maze, carnival-style games, crafts, a trick-or-treat area and costume contests for people of all ages and their pets.
A sensory-friendly hour begins at 3:30 p.m. and will offer a quieter environment, modified maze experience, adaptive craft activity, low-stimulation jumper and dedicated sensory station.
For information, call (562) 943-7277.
La Mirada's Public Safety Team will visit local schools during Red Ribbon Week, Oct. 23 through 31, encouraging students to make positive choices and commit to a drug-free lifestyle.
Parents are also encouraged to discuss the harmful effects of drugs and the importance of making safe and responsible choices with their children.
For information, call the La Mirada Community Sheriff's Station at (562) 902-2981.
Children ages 6 to 12 can participate in La Mirada's free After-School Club from 2 to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday at Frontier, Gardenhill and Windermere parks.
The drop-in program provides outdoor games, arts and crafts, homework assistance and other activities, with recreation staff on site during program hours.
For information, call (562) 943-7277.