Page 1, General News
Toys for Tots event drew 200
Santa, elves, hot cocoa, cookies and carols—all the ingredients of a perfect holiday salute for Toys for Tots, the annual toy drive that helps the estimated 15 million children who live in poverty nationwide.
More than 200 Leisure World residents turned out Dec. 13, many with one, two or five—as was the case with Lynn Baidack of Mutual 6, who brought five basketballs—toys, to make Christmas brighter for kids in Orange County.
Each new toy will deliver a message of hope.
That spirit of giving sets Leisure World apart, with this community ranking in the top two of top toy givers each year.
As a holiday bonus, LWers got to enjoy a festive evening listening to the beautiful music of the Long Beach Community Band, directed by Greg Flores. Theater Club elves passed out cookies and cocoa and Santa, also known as Phil Mandeville, posed for photographs.
Minibus transportation safely got revelers to and from the popular annual event.
Club renewals are temporarily on hold
GRF clubs normally receive a letter asking them to come in to the Reservations Office after their annual elections to renew their reservations and update their officers’ information.
Currently, the Recreation and Facilities and Amenities Review Committees are reviewing policies to determine the most equitable use of trust property for the most shareholders/members and to enhance enjoyment for everyone who lives at Leisure World Seal Beach.
Accordingly, renewals have been temporarily put on hold and letters are not being sent. If your club is up for renewal, be aware of the following information:
1. Unless you have changed presidents or authorized signers, you do not need to submit a new Club Officers Renewal Form
2. Your reservations will continue, uninterrupted, until such time as the Recreation Committee has reviewed current policies that may or may not affect your club
3. At some point, the Committee may request your club leadership to come before the Committee.
4. In anticipation of renewing your club and compliance with Recreation procedures, when you come up for renewal you will need to submit a membership list, with Mutuals and apartment numbers, of a minimum of 20 residents.
5. Non-resident guests may not be counted as club members, but you need to submit a list of guests who regularly attend meetings, which includes their names, make and model of car, and license plate each year, with updates as necessary, to Recreation and Security. Please do not give guests your personal gate passes, as you will be held responsible for any violations of your guests.
6. Guests must be accompanied by the club member who invites them. A gate pass simply allows access to and from the unit a guest is visiting, unless they are coming in for a club reservation and are on the list submitted to Security. Guests may not participate in any activities without their host present.
7. Spot checks of GRF ID’s will be conducted to insure no unaccompanied guests are in attendance. Always carry your ID card with you .
For more information, email kathyt@lwsb.com.
Shopper bus service offered
Special Golden Rain Foundation Minibus service will be offered from 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 22, to Westminster Mall and the 99-Cent Only Store for holiday shopping on a first-come, first served basis.
The special shuttle will depart from the Amphitheater Hub at 9 a.m., 10 a.m., 11 a.m., noon, 1:30 p.m., 2:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. Return trips from the Westminster Mall will be at 10:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 1 p.m., 2 p.m., 3 p.m., 4 p.m. and 4:30 p.m.
Shoppers at the 99 Cents Only Store will be dropped off and picked up on the way to the mall.
GRF offices closed Monday
In observance of Christmas Day, all Golden Rain Foundation offices except Security will be closed Tuesday, Dec. 25.
The Minibus and the Access bus will operate on the holiday D schedule.
Leisure World Maintenance Department will be on call for emergencies only and may be reached at 594-4754.
American Legion Post 327
The American Legion Post 327 will host its annual New Year’s Eve dinner at 6 p.m. in Clubhouse 3, Room 2. Naples Rib Company will again cater a dinner with ribs, tri tip, hot links and chicken along with sides, and special ice cream for dessert.
Members of the Post, Auxiliary and Sons and their guests are invited. Space is limited so call Lee Esslinger, (310) 491-8990, for reservations by Dec. 24. Tickets are $25 per person. Entertainment will be provided by Tommy Williams.
SB City Hall closed for holidays
Seal Beach City Hall will be closed from Monday, Dec. 24, through Tuesday, Jan. 1, for the Christmas holiday. The offices will re-open for public business on Wednesday, Jan. 2, with regular business hours 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
The Building Department will not conduct inspections during the holiday closure.
There will be no street sweeping on the following dates: Dec. 24, Dec. 25, Dec. 31 and Jan. 1.
In case of emergency, call the Seal Beach Police Department at 799-4100 or dial 911.
Christmas Tree Recycling
Christmas trees can be disposed of at the 1.8 lot/Mini Farm area, according to the Service Maintenance Dept. People who need assistance can contact the department and create an order for their tree to be picked up at the current rate of $42 an hour, charged in 15-minute increments.
American Legion Auxiliary
The American Legion Auxiliary thank the people who come every week to make poppies.
The Auxiliary distributes poppies each year with a request that the person receiving the flower make a donation to support the future of veterans, active-duty military personnel and their families with medical and financial needs.
The Auxiliary’s poppy-making effort is on vacation until Wednesday, Jan. 9, when volunteers will meet in Clubhouse 1 at 10 a.m.
Poppy-making is an integral part of the Auxiliary’s community service.
Auxiliary members should get their New Year’s Eve dinner tickets before they are gone. Cost is $25. Naples Rib is catering. To get tickets call Lee Esslinger at (310) 491-8990.
HCC Blood Drive
The need for blood does not take a holiday. Make a difference in the new Year by saving some lives.
The American Red Cross will host a blood drive from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. on Jan. 4 at the Health Care Center.
Make an appointment on line at redcrossblood.org and enter sponsor code “Leisure.”
GRF mail-outs will be separate
by Nancy Ray
Stock Transfer Manager
Shareholders who pay their monthly assessments by check should keep an eye on their mailboxes for two Golden Rain Foundation mail-outs.
The first packet contains the 2019 carrying charge coupons and will be mailed out near the end of December.
The second packet contains 2018 property tax information and four 2019 guest passes, and will be mailed at the end of December.
Shareholders who pay by check will receive the 2019 coupon books and payment envelopes directly from the coupon vendor. Shareholders are encouraged to mail their monthly payments via the U.S. postal service; those who want to bring their payments to the GRF Accounting Office or use the white GRF payment boxes may continue to do so with the understanding that their payments are forwarded to a different processing center.
Shareholders who pay their monthly assessments by direct debit will receive one packet containing their property tax information, guest passes and direct debit information.
If you maintain a forwarding address, your guest passes and coupon packets will be mailed to you at the address on file.
Important to note: there are no late charges assessed for late January payments. The due date for January payments is extended to Jan. 31 before assessments are considered late to provide ample time for all shareholders to receive their 2019 packets with carrying charge information and payment coupons.
Your 2019 Guest Passes are printed on bright blue-teal cardstock; your property tax information is printed on the same sheet as your guest passes.
Emergency contact forms are also enclosed in the year-end packet. Complete this form only if you have not updated your emergency contact information recently. You may return this form to Stock Transfer or drop it in one of the white GRF mailboxes throughout the community. Do not include the emergency contact form with your monthly payment.
Due to the large volume of mail-outs processed by the post office, your neighbors may receive their packets before or after you. If you have not received your guest passes or your payment coupons by Jan. 15, contact the Stock Transfer Office for assistance at (562) 431-6586, extension 348, 347 or 339.
CAP Food Bank
Free food is available in Leisure World to eligible residents who are 60 years or older through Community Action Partnership of Orange County (CAPOC), which has a monthly distribution site by Clubhouse 4. The next food distribution will be today, Dec. 20.
Every third Thursday from 9-11 a.m., qualified people receive 40 pounds of food, including canned fruit, vegetables, meat, rice, juice, cereal and more.
Eligible seniors must live in Leisure World, be at least 60 years of age and meet income guidelines as follows: up to $1,287 a month for one person; $1,736 for a two-person household; $2,184 for a three-person household. To sign up, bring a photo ID, and proof of income (Social Security/SSI Statement, letter or bank statement or paycheck stub).
People who are unable to apply themselves or pick up the box of food may send a proxy to act on their behalf with appropriate ID. People who need help arranging a proxy can call GRF Member Resource Liaison Cindy Tostado at 431-6586, ext. 317.
CAPOC will have a representative there to help people with applications for its program and for the separate Cal Fresh benefits, which are food stamps.
People over 55 who don’t receive SSI will qualify if they meet the following income guidelines: $2,010 per month for one person; $2,708 for a two-person household. Bring an ID, Social Security card, proof of income and rent receipt to apply for food stamps.
Senior Patriots for Peace
The Senior Patriots for Peace will not meet in January. Instead, membership is encouraged to attend the GRF celebration of Martin Luther King, Jr’s birthday. Details will be printed in an upcoming edition of the LW Weekly.
The club held an annual election with the following results: Dorothy Kemeny, president; Jacquie Clarke, vice president; Donald Koepke, secretary; Barbara Dumont, treasurer; members-at-large are Lucille Martin, vigil chairperson; and Mary Downey, membership chairperson, who is being assisted by Nancy Goldstein.
She is updating the spreadsheet.
Three other members, Ordie Kim, Bette Smirnoff and Judy Ford, are doing reminder calling.
—Dorothy Kemeny
Government
GRF Board of Directors Meetings
Golden Rain Foundation committee and board meetings are open to Leisure World residents. Conference Room B is located downstairs in Building 5. The Administration Conference Room is upstairs in the Administration Building. The following is a tentative schedule of meetings on the Golden Rain Foundation master calendar, maintained by Administration:
Thursday, Dec. 20 GRF Board Executive Session
Administration 1 p.m.
Friday, Dec. 21 GRF/Mutual Roundtable
Administration canceled
Monday, Dec. 24 Management Services Review Ad Hoc
Administration canceled
Thursday, Dec. 27 Service Maintenance Committee
Administration canceled
Friday, Dec. 28 Facilities and Amenities Review Ad Hoc
Administration canceled
Wednesday, Jan. 2 Physical Property Committee
Conference Room B 1 p.m.
Thursday, Jan. 3 Management Services Review Ad hoc
Conference Room B 1 p.m.
Friday, Jan. 4 GRF Board Executive Session
Administration 1 p.m.
Monday, Jan. 7 Recreation Committee
Conference Room B 1 p.m.
Tuesday, Jan. 8 Strategic Planning Ad Hoc Committee
Conference Room B 1 p.m.
Wednesday, Jan. 9 Security, Bus & Traffic Committee
Conference Room B 1 p.m.
Thurs. Jan. 10 Communications Committee
Conference Room B 1 p.m.
Friday, Jan. 11 Executive Committee
Conference Room B 10 a.m.
Monday, Jan. 14 Mutual Administration Committee
Conference Room B 1 p.m.
Monday, Jan. 14 Renumbering Subcommittee
Conference Room B 3 p.m.
Thursday, Jan. 17 Information Technology Committee
Conference Room B 1 p.m.
Thursday, Jan. 17 Finance Committee
Conference Room B 10 a.m.
Friday, Jan. 18 Roundtable with Mutuals & GRF
Conference Room B 1 p.m.
Wednesday, Jan. 23 Architectural Design Review Committee
Conference Room B 1 p.m.
Thursday, Jan. 24 Service Maintenance Committee
Conference Room B 1 p.m.
Friday, Jan. 25 Facilities and Amenities Review Ad Hoc
Conference Room B 1 p.m.
Tuesday, Jan. 29 GRF Board of Directors
Clubhouse 4 6 p.m.
Thursday, Jan. 31 Torch Run Subcommittee
Conference Room B 1 p.m.
Schedule of Mutual Meetings
Mutual meetings are listed below. Mutual residents are invited to attend the open meetings of their mutual boards as follows:
Thursday, Dec. 27 Mutual 1
Administration 9 a.m.
Friday, Dec. 28 Mutual 6
Administration 9:30 a.m.
Thursday, Jan. 3 Presidents’ Council
Clubhouse 4 9 a.m.
Wednesday, Jan. 5 CFO Council
Conference Room B 10 a.m.
Wednesday, Jan. 9 Mutual 4
Conference Room B 9:15 a.m.
Thursday, Jan. 10 Mutual 12
Conference Room B 9 a.m.
Friday, Jan. 11 Mutual 3
Conference Room B 9 a.m.
Monday, Jan. 14 Mutual 9
Clubhouse 3, Room 2 9:30 a.m.
Monday, Jan. 14 Mutual 10 (special)
Clubhouse 3, Room 2 2:30 p.m.
Tuesday, Jan. 15 Mutual 14
Conference Room B 1 p.m.
Wednesday Jan. 16 Mutual 5
Conference Room B 9 a.m.
Wednesday, Jan. 16 Mutual 7
Conference Room B 1 p.m.
Thursday, Jan. 17 Mutual 2
Clubhouse 3, Room 2 9 a.m.
Thursday, Jan. 17 Mutual 11
Clubhouse 3, Room 9 1:30 p.m.
Friday, Jan. 18 Roundtable with GRF & Mutuals
Conference Room B 1 p.m.
Tuesday, Jan. 22 Mutual 15
Conference Room B 9 a.m.
Wednesday, Jan. 23 Mutual 10
Conference Room B 9 a.m.
Thursday, Jan. 24 Mutual 1
Conference Room B 9 a.m.
Friday, Jan. 25 Mutual 6
Conference Room B 9:30 a.m.
Monday, Jan. 28 Mutual 8
Conference Room B 9 a.m.
January meetings have been canceled for Mutuals 16 and 17.
AMENITIES/RECREATIONAL
Return questionnaires by Jan. 1
The deadline to return the Trust Property Amenities/Recreational Use Questionnaire on page 7 of the Nov. 29 issue of LW Weekly has been extended to Jan. 1. Surveys can be returned to the LW Weekly office, or dropped in a white GRF mailbox located throughout the community. Copies can be picked up at the LW Weekly office, Monday-Friday, between 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
Recap of Golden Rain Foundation Board Activity
of December 18, 2018
Approved Minutes
MOVED and duly approved the minutes of the November 27, 2018 Golden Rain Foundation (GRF) Board of Directors (BOD) meeting were approved, as presented.
General – Appoint New Committee Member
MOVED and duly approved to appoint Ronde Winkler to the Facilities and Amenities Review Ad hoc Committee.
Architectural Design and Review Committee – Capital Funding Request – Landscape Replacement, Medical Building
MOVED and duly approved replacement of landscaping around the Medical Building, for a total cost not to exceed $10,429, per revised proposal, Exhibit A in the agenda packet, from Anguiano Lawn Care dated 11-19-18, Capital funding, and authorize the President sign the contract.
Executive Committee – Approve Workers’ Compensation Policy Renewal
MOVED and duly approved renewal of Workers’ Compensation Coverage with Berkshire Hathaway Homestate Companies (BHHC), for the 2019 policy year, in the amount of $269,973, and authorize the GRF President to sign the renewal.
Executive Committee – Approve Uniform Contract
MOVED and duly approved to award a contract with UniFirst based on bid proposal dated November 13, 2018, Exhibit A in the agenda packet, for a five-year term, funding from Operations, and authorize the President to sign the contract.
Finance Committee – Accept November Financial Statements
Moved and duly approved to accept for audit the financial statements for the month of November 2018, as presented by the Director of Finance.
Finance Committee – Liquid Reserve Funds – Funds Transfer Request
Moved and duly approved to authorize the transfer of $500,000 of reserve funds from First Foundation Bank to US Bank for the purposes of maximizing insured funds and to invest with US Bancorp.
Finance Committee – CD Purchase Request – Investment Ladder
Moved and duly approved to authorize the purchase of four (4) CDs, at approximately $245,000 each, with maturity dates of January and July 2020, and January and July 2021, at the prevailing interest rates at the time of purchase, for a total of approximately $980,000 of reserve funds.
Finance Committee – Approve Exclusive Use of Trust Property Lease Agreement
Moved and duly approved the 1st Addendum for the lease agreements for the exclusive use of Trust property, for a six month term from January 1, 2019 to June 20, 2019, for the Friends of the Library, Genealogy Club, Golden Age Foundation, Historical Society, Radio Club, Theater Club, Video Producers Club and authorize the President to sign the agreements.
Finance Committee – FINAL VOTE: Amend 5061-31, Fees
Moved and duly approved to amend Policy 5061-31, Fees, to increase the facilities and amenities fee from twenty (20) to twenty four (24) times the monthly GRF assessment fee and change the $25 fee from “late payment” to “returned check” fee.
Mutual Administration Committee – FINAL VOTE: Amend 1201-33, GRF Identification Cards
Moved and duly approved to refer the policy back to the Mutual Administration Committee for further review.
Physical Property Committee – Capital Funding Request – Building Improvements (Medical Building) and Concrete Replacement (Medical Building and Building Five)
Moved and duly approved improvements around the Medical Center Building including concrete replacement, and roof installation (cover open awnings), based on recommendations of the ADRC, adding a contingency of $2,000, for a total cost not to exceed $22,756, Capital funds, and authorize the President to sign the contracts.
Holiday Carport Schedule
The holiday carport cleaning schedule for 2018 is as follows:
Christmas Day
Tuesday, Dec. 25
Mutual 10, Carports 117-120, 122-124, will be cleaned Friday, Dec. 21.
New Year’s Day
Thursday, Jan. 1, 2019
Carports will be cleaned as usual on New Year’s Day.
LW DEMOCRATIC CLUB
Love will visit LW on Jan. 16
Attorney Brandon Love, Leisure World Democratic Club’s expert on Orange County politics, will be the featured speaker on Wednesday, Jan. 16, at noon in Clubhouse 4.
Highly regarded for his perceptiveness regarding politics in Orange County, Love will address the general election results including strategies going forward. Love will touch upon two critical upcoming elections: the election for District 3 on the Board of Supervisors (the spot vacated by Todd Spitzer) and the election for the Seal Beach City Council District 1 (the spot vacated by Ellery Deaton). Members are encouraged to come prepared with questions.
Once again, SBLW Democratic Club will participate in the Orange County Women’s March. Make reservations now for a bus to the March on Saturday, Jan. 19. The suggested donation is $20 per person. As in the past, scholarships for club members are available upon request. Call Clara Wise for information or to reserve a spot, (909) 957-9886.
Interested in getting to know fellow Democrats and neighbors in a relaxed setting? Join a group of club members at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 26, for the popular Lunch Bunch program. Lunch Bunch gives new and old members a chance to get to know each other in an informal setting. Call Dale Lieberfarb, 594-1119, for information or to make a reservation.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING MINUTES
GOLDEN RAIN FOUNDATION
November 27, 2018
CALL TO ORDER
President Linda Stone called the regular monthly meeting of the Board of Directors (BOD) of the Golden Rain Foundation (GRF) to order at 10:00 a.m., on Tuesday, November 27, 2018, in Clubhouse Four.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Ms. White, of the Theater Club, led the Pledge of Allegiance.
ROLL CALL
Following the roll call, Corporate Secretary reported that Directors Perrotti, R. Stone, Snowden, Pratt, L. Stone, Gerber, Gould, Hopewell, Rapp, Fekjar, Dodero, Winkler, Heinrichs, Findlay, Lukoff, Friedman, and Moore were present. The Executive Director and the Director of Finance were also present.
Seventeen Directors were present, with a quorum of the voting majority.
PRESIDENTS COMMENTS
I hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving – a special time to share with family and friends. And, next month, December, will bring us more great holidays beginning with Hanukkah on the 3rd, Christmas on the 25th and Kwanza on the 26th. On December 8th, there will be a Holiday Reception for the GRF and Mutual Directors as a thank you and recognition for all of the time and effort that they volunteer on behalf of the residents. Their energies save thousands of dollars for each shareholder in yearly fees. Truly something to be thankful for.
Today we are short one director: the Mutual 16 representative, Steve McGuigan, tendered his resignation on November 20th. He most recently was appointed to the Board in July of 2018 as there were no candidates for Mutual 16. Previously, Steve served on the GRF BOD for Mutual 8 from his election in June 2014 to June 2018 and chaired Security, Bus & Traffic committee three times, as well as chairing the RV Lot Ad hoc committee during his service. Steve never shied away from exploring all options, testing all assumptions, and establishing a rigorous decision-making process. Thank you, Steve, for your service.
Because of the merger of Mutuals 15 and 16, we will become a Board of Directors of seventeen in the future. This is a record making event and possibly the first of many. Kudos to Mutuals 15 and 16 for leading the way.
You’ve probably noticed the beautiful murals on the east wall. They are not quite complete as they will have signs that will identify them as to the date when the photo was taken and the addition of picture molding. I had hoped that the mural behind the dais would be complete but unfortunately it was delivered incorrectly. But, it is on order, and I am assured that it will be up by the first of the year.
I have heard many complaints about the Christmas Tree placement at Veteran’s Plaza and not in front of the Medical Center. The placement was a Recreation Committee decision based on the growing attendance and the safety of the residents. The area in front of the Medical Center is on a slope and the Courtyard has very limited space. There will be a tree in the old location just not the main tree. Give it a fair chance and if you still feel like you would like to see it returned to its old place then let the Recreation Committee know of your thoughts and possible solutions. But do remember that you will be limiting the number of residents that can safely be accommodated.
The boulders and plants are in Median number 2. Please drive by and see how nice it looks and visualize all of the medians so planted. Now we are just waiting for the final approval from ADRC and then we will send out a RFP (Request for Proposal) to finish the rest of St. Andrews.
Please be advised that we have had quite a few sightings of coyotes in our community. Be sure to keep your pet on a 6’ leash at all times…do not let them run freely or on an extended leash. Carry noise makers and be sure to make yourself appear bigger if confronted. Use the approved hazing methods.
So, my wish to you is to enjoy the coming holidays safely and with good cheer and health. The year 2019 is fast approaching. Now on to the business at hand.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
The GRF Board of Directors met for Executive Session meeting on November 2 to discuss legal and contractual matters.
SERVICE ANNIVERSARIES
Four employees were recognized with a service award.
Vivian Samuel Finance Department 5 years
Dora Otrambo Transportation Department 5 years
Lynn Valenziano Recreation Department 10 years
Eila Van Sauter Transportation Department 30 years
SEAL BEACH COUNCIL MEMBER’S REPORT
Seal Beach Council Member Sandra Massa Lavitt provided a recap of the Seal Beach Council meeting.
SHAREHOLDER/MEMBER COMMENTS
In accordance with Policy 5610, Participation by Foundation Members, members may enter into a comment period prior to the beginning of business. NOTE: Foundation members are permitted to make comments before the business of the Board begins. Requests must be registered in advance of the meeting. The Open Meeting Act allows boards of directors to establish reasonable time limits for the open forum and for speakers to address the board. (Civ. Code §4925(b).) Time limits, per speaker, are limited to:
4 minute limit per speaker, when there are no more than 15 speakers
3 minute limit per speaker, 16 – 25 speakers
2 minute limit per speaker, over 26 speakers
Five member offered comments.
CONSENT CALENDAR – APPROVAL OF BOARD COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES
In accordance with Civil Code 4090, the Foundation will make available a summary of the meetings where a quorum of the Board was present. A quorum of the Board was present at the following Committee meetings:
• Minutes of the Recreation Committee Board Meeting of October 1, 2018
• Minutes of the Security, Bus & Traffic Committee Board Meeting of October
10, 2018
• Minutes of the Executive Committee Board Meeting of October 12, 2018
• Minutes of the Facilities and Amenities Review Ad Hoc Committee Board
Meeting of October 26, 2018
APPROVAL OF BOARD MEETING MINUTES
The minutes of the October 23, 2018 meeting were approved, as presented.
REPORTS
The Health Care Center Advisory Board will meet on Wednesday, January 16, 2019 and a report will be given at the following GRF Board meeting.
The Strategic Planning Ad hoc Committee will meet on Tuesday, January 8, 2019; a report will be provided at the following GRF Board meeting.
The Chair of the Management Services Review Ad hoc Committee presented a report on the progress of the Ad hoc Committee and informed attendees that the December meeting will be cancelled.
The Chair of the Facilities and Amenities Review Ad Hoc Committee presented a report on the progress of the Ad hoc Committee.
NEW BUSINESS
General
Emergency Sewer Line Repairs, Clubhouse Three
On October 30, 2018, Clubhouse Three incurred a significant failure of the sewer line requiring the temporary closure of the building. Subsequent actions identified a failure of the main sewer line in at least two sections.
Ms. Rapp MOVED, seconded by Ms. Snowden-
TO acknowledge and ratify the emergency actions taken by the Executive Director requiring Non-budgeted expenses charged to Cost Center 53, Building Repair and Maintenance and approve Non-budgeted Operating funding, in an amount of $6,900.
Three Directors spoke on the motion.
The motion was carried unanimously by the Board members present.
Facilities and Amenities Review Ad Hoc Committee
Adopt Policy 5175-Far, Facilities and Amenities Review (FAR) Ad Hoc Committee
At its regularly scheduled meeting on October 26, 2018, the Facilities and Amenities Review Ad hoc (FAR) Committee recommended the GRF Board adopt Policy 5175-FAR, Facilities and Amenities Review (FAR) Ad hoc Charter, which sets forth the purpose, duties, and limitations of the committee.
Mr. Moore MOVED, seconded by Ms. Hopewell and carried unanimously by the Board members present-
TO adopt Policy 5175-FAR, Facilities and Amenities Review (FAR) Ad hoc Charter, as presented.
Finance Committee
Accept October Financial Statements
At the regularly scheduled meeting of the Finance Committee on November 19, 2018, the Committee duly moved to recommend to the Golden Rain Foundation Board of Directors acceptance of the October 2018 financial statements for audit.
Ms. Winkler MOVED, seconded by Ms. Rapp-
TO accept the October 2018 financial statements for audit.
One Director and the Executive Director spoke on the motion.
The motion was carried unanimously by the Board members present.
Funds Transfer Request – Liquid Reserve Funds
At the regularly scheduled meeting of the Finance Committee on November 19, 2018, the members discussed the liquid funds held in various financial institutions and noted the balances in some of the financial institutions exceed the FDIC insurance limit and therefore are not in compliance with Policy 5520-31 – Reserves.
The Committee passed a motion to recommend the GRF Board authorize the transfer of $500,000 of reserve funds from First Foundation Bank to US Bank for the purposes of maximizing insured funds and to invest in higher yielding CDs with US Bancorp.
Mr. Lukoff MOVED, seconded by Mr. Friedman-
TO approve a transfer of $500,000 in Reserve funds from the First Foundation Bank Business Maximizer account to the Money Market Reserve account at US Bank the purposes of maximizing insured funds and to invest in higher yielding CDs with US Bancorp.
Three Directors spoke on the motion.
Director K. Rapp left the meeting at 10:56 a.m.
The motion was carried with one abstention (Rapp).
CD Purchase Request – Investment Ladder
At the regularly scheduled meeting of the Finance Committee on November 19, 2018, the members discussed terms and interest rates on CDs offered through US Bancorp. Additionally the Committee discussed the current investment ladder and reserve funds available for investing to fill in the gaps in the investment ladder.
Following this discussion, the Committee passed a motion to recommend the GRF Board authorize the purchase of four (4) CDs, at approximately $245,000 each, with maturity dates in December 2019, June and November 2020 and May 2021, at rates in line with those indicated on the discussed Laddered Portfolio Sheet, ranging from 2.65% to 3.1%, for a total of approximately $980,000 of reserve funds.
Mr. Friedman MOVED, seconded by Ms. Gerber-
TO approve purchase of four (4) CDs, at approximately $245,000 each, with maturity dates in December 2019, June and November 2020 and May 2021, at rates in line with those indicated on the discussed Laddered Portfolio Sheet, ranging from 2.65% to 3.1%, for a total of approximately $980,000 of reserve funds.
Two Directors spoke on the motion.
Director K. Rapp returned to the meeting at 10:58 a.m.
The motion was carried unanimously by the Board members present.
Approve Lease Agreement, On-Site Sales Office, Second Amendment
At its regularly scheduled meeting on November 19, 2018, the Finance Committee recommended to the Board the approval of the Second Amendment to the agreement, between Charles Briskey Real Estate Inc. and GRF. This amendment extends the termination date of the existing agreement entered into in 2015, until December 31, 2019, under the existing terms and conditions.
Ms. Hopewell MOVED, seconded by Mr. Gould-
TO approve the Second Amendment to the Resales Lease Agreement between the Golden Rain Foundation, Seal Beach and Charles Briskey Real Estate, Inc, for one (1) year, new expiration date of December 31, 2019, and authorize the President to sign the agreement.
Three Directors and the Executive Director spoke on the motion.
The motion was carried with two recusals (Fekjar, Gerber).
2018/2019 Master Insurance Policy Renewal
DLD Insurance Brokers, Inc. has partnered with the Golden Rain Foundation (GRF) for over 27 years to secure broad and competitive insurance options, in terms of both pricing and coverage conditions. The master insurance package includes coverage for Directors & Officers (D&O), Errors & Omissions (E&O), Forefront Portfolio (Crime/Fiduciary/KRE/Workplace Violence) and Property/Causality.
The proposal for property coverage premium for this renewal period shows a slight increase of 3.575% while maintaining the same terms and conditions, including deductibles, as the expiring policy. An increase in assessed property values offset by the great strides made by GRF and the Mutuals to put loss control measures into place to mitigate future fire losses minimizes this increase. The management liability portion of the policy package shows a net 2.4% decrease over the expiring policy period, and the overall change for the 2018 / 2019 coverage period shows an increase of 2.33% over the expiring policy. Premiums for the renewing coverage period and comparisons to the expiring policies and to the 2019 budgets are shown in Exhibit A – 2018-2019 Insurance Premium Proposal Comparative.
The new master insurance policy proposal of $1,938,352 plus one-third of the total pollution policy premium approved in 2017 of $31,239, for a total premium expenditure of $1,969,591 will be recognized in the combined GRF and Mutual 2019 budgets. Combined funds (Foundation and Mutuals), in the amount of $2,096,500 were included in the respective 2019 operating budgets based upon estimates and assumptions made during the budget period.
At the regular meeting of the Finance Committee held on November 19, 2018, the Committee reviewed the proposal for the Foundation’s and the Mutual’s insurance for the policy period of December 1, 2018 to November 30, 2019, provided by DLD Insurance Brokers, Inc. and unanimously passed a motion to recommend the Board approve the contract for the placement of Property, Boiler and Machinery, Flood (excluding earthquake), General Liability and Automotive Liability Insurance with Philadelphia and the placement of Umbrella Liability, Forefront Portfolio (crime, fiduciary, kidnap, ransom, extortion and workplace violence), E&O, D&O/Employee Practices Liability and Cyber Liability Coverage with the recommended carriers through DLD Insurance Brokers, Inc. for the period of December 1, 2018 to November 30, 2019, for a total premium of $1,938,352.
Ms. Winkler MOVED, seconded by Ms. Snowden –
TO approve the master insurance policy proposal dated November 2, 2018, as submitted, in the amount of $1,938,352, for the policy period of December 1, 2018
to November 30, 2019 and authorize the President to sign the required renewal documents pursuant to the related proposal as prepared and submitted by DLD Insurance Brokers, Inc.
Two Directors spoke on the motion.
The motion was carried unanimously by the Board members present.
Approve Telecommunications Services Agreement, First Addendum
At the November 19, 2018 meeting of the Finance Committee, the Committee recommended to the Board approval of the First Addendum (attached), to the Telecommunications Services Agreement between the Golden Rain Foundation, Seal Beach and Superwire Telecom Inc., for continuation until the date of expiration on, June 30, 2022.
This action was based upon the unanimous agreement by all Mutual Boards to:
RESOLVED, the Board of Directors of Mutual ____ hereby authorizes the Board of Directors of GRF to renew the Agreement with Superwire Telecom Inc. to extend the term of the Agreement until June 30, 2022.
At the conclusion of the cycle of all Mutual Board meetings during October and November 2018, unanimous agreement was achieved by all Mutual Boards at duly posted meetings.
Mr. Friedman MOVED, seconded by Ms. Fekjar-
TO approve the First Addendum to the Telecommunications Services Agreement between the Golden Rain Foundation, Seal Beach and Superwire Telecom Inc., for continuation until the date of expiration on June 30, 2022, and authorize the President to sign the agreement.
Two Directors and the Executive Director spoke on the motion.
Mr. Stone MOVED, seconded by Mr. Pratt-
TO amend motion to include the terms and conditions of the existing lease.
Four Directors spoke on the motion.
The motion to amend failed with two yes votes (Pratt/ R. Stone).
The original motion was carried with one no vote (R. Stone).
TENTATIVE VOTE: Amend Policy 3324-31, Purchasing Fees
Policy 3324-31, Purchasing Fees, set forth a transaction fee for materials purchased through the Purchasing department and the Copy & Supply Center.
At the regular Finance Committee meeting on October 15, 2018, the Committee recommended Policy 3324-31, Purchasing Fees, be amended. Further amendment was recommended, by the Finance Committee, at the November 19, 2018 meeting. The proposed policy changes are noted in the attached document.
Mr. Dodero MOVED, seconded by Ms. Rapp-
TO tentatively amend Policy 3324-31, Purchasing Fees, to increase the transaction fee for all materials purchased through the Purchasing department and the Copy & Supply Center from 2% to 5% and to replace “shipping and handling” with “processing” fee, pending a 30-day notification to the membership and a final decision by the GRF BOD on January 29, 2019.
One Director and the Executive Director spoke on the motion.
The motion was carried unanimously by the Board members present.
Adopt Policy 5340-31, Capital Improvement Fund
At its regular meeting on November 19, 2018, the Finance Committee recommended Policy 5340-31, Capital Improvement Fund, be adopted by the GRF Board of Directors.
Ms. Rapp MOVED, seconded by Mr. Dodero –
TO adopt Policy 5340-31, Capital Improvement Fund, to establish a framework for the approval and control of all capital expenditure.
One Director and the Executive Director spoke on the motion.
The motion was carried unanimously by the Board members present.
Amend Policy 5520-31, Reserves
At its regular meeting on November 19, 2018, the Finance Committee recommended Policy 5520-31, Reserves, be amended by the GRF Board of Directors.
Mr. Lukoff MOVED, seconded by Mr. Stone –
TO amend Policy 5520-31, Reserves, refining the policy language, clarifying the component/assets to be included in a reserve study as those GRF is required to maintain, replace or repair (“MRR”), notification procedures of the transfer of money from the reserve account to the operating account, exception criteria to the transferred funds being restored to the reserve account, and guidelines for the withdrawal/transfer from reserve funds.
Two Directors and the Executive Director spoke on the motion.
The motion was carried unanimously by the Board members present.
Information Technology Committee
Non-budgeted Operating Funding Request – Power DMS, Policy Management Software
At its regularly scheduled meeting on October 16, 2018, the Information Technology Committee (ITC) duly moved and approved to recommend to the GRF Board of Directors the purchase of Power DMS, a policy management software.
The software contains features requested by Mutual Administration Committee (MAC), to improve our policy workflow: track changes, review & approval process, check-in & out, audit trail, version history, standard format, searchability, and notification functions.
At its regularly scheduled meeting on November 19, 2018, the Finance Committee reviewed available Non-budgeted Operating funding for the purchase of Power DMS, and unanimously resolved funding is available.
Ms. Snowden MOVED, seconded by Ms. Hopewell-
TO approve the purchase for Power DMS, in an amount not to exceed $6,300/year (includes $200 in contingency funds if we need to add additional user licenses), Non-budgeted Operating funding to be charged to 6481000-34 (Computer Maintenance & Software) and authorize the GRF President to sign all applicable contracts.
One Director and the Executive Director spoke on the motion.
The motion was carried unanimously by the Board members present.
Capital Funding Request – Microsoft Dynamics GP, Enterprise Resource Planning Software
At its regularly scheduled meeting on November 20, 2018, the Information Technology Committee (ITC) duly moved and approved to recommend to the GRF Board of Directors the purchase of Microsoft Dynamics GP, an enterprise resource management software.
The software will be used to manage inventory, purchase orders, and service request orders (SROs). Consolidating these work processes into one software solution will increase GRF efficiency and productivity. Furthermore, our existing version of Dynamics is no longer supported and needs to be replaced.
Pricing for the first year is $158,148 ($72,548 software costs + $65,600 implementation costs + $20,000 in contingency funds); see attached spreadsheet and proposal in the agenda packet.
Annual *licensing costs:
2019 – $12,523 (Funding was allocated in the approved 2019 operational budget)
2020 – $11,242
*Annual licensing fee is based upon number of user licenses, as noted in the attached documents.
At its regularly scheduled meeting on November 19, 2018, the Finance Committee reviewed available Capital funds for the purchase of Dynamics, and unanimously resolved Capital funding is available.
Note: Upon completion and institution of Dynamics (see attached timeline in the agenda packet), the Axxerion contract will be terminated.
Mr. Stone MOVED, seconded by Mr. Friedman and carried unanimously by the Board members present-
TO the software and implementation of Microsoft Dynamics, for a cost of $158,148 ($72,548 software costs + $65,600 implementation costs + $20,000 in contingency funds), Capital funding and authorize the GRF President to sign all applicable contracts.
Physical Property Committee
Capital Funding Request – Gates, Mission Park
The Physical Property Department was tasked to provide cost to install new gates at Mission Park (see locations in exhibit A, in the agenda packet). Cost was obtained from MJ Jurado, to install gates in the three areas as follows (see exhibit B, in the agenda packet):
Location A off El Dorado $4,070
Location B Main Parking Lot at ramp $1,250
Location C Parking Lot off Canoe Brook $2,200
At its regularly scheduled meeting on November 5, 2018, the Recreation Committee recommended the GRF Board approve the installation of three new gates at Mission Park in location A, B and C, as per exhibit A, in the agenda packet, in the amount of $7,520, from MJ Jurado and to add $1,000 for contingency, for a total cost not to exceed $8,520, pending Board approval.
At its regularly scheduled meeting on November 19, 2018, the Finance Committee reviewed available Capital funding for the cost to install new gates at Mission Park, and unanimously resolved funding is available.
Ms. Gerber MOVED, seconded by Mrs. Perrotti-
TO approve the installation of new gates at Mission Park, per the proposals provided and to approve a contract with MJ Jurado to complete the work, in an amount not to exceed $8,520, including contingency, Capital funding, and authorize the GRF President to sign all applicable contracts.
Three Directors and the Executive Director spoke on the motion.
The motion was carried unanimously by the Board members present.
Recreation Committee
Capital Funding Request – Patio Game Tables, Library
At its regularly scheduled meeting on November 5, 2018, the Recreation Committee (RC) duly moved and approved to recommend to the GRF Board of Directors the purchase of Library Game Tables, to be placed on the Library patio. Staff recommend the Dave Bang Associates. The RC Committee recommended the cost not exceed $3,311, from Capital Funding.
At its regularly scheduled meeting on November 19, 2018, the Finance Committee reviewed available Capital funding for the cost to purchase Library Game Tables, and unanimously resolved funding is available.
NOTE: Quotation includes $720 for shipping; GRF Staff is exploring alternative shipping, including pick up of table by GRF Staff.
Mrs. Perrotti MOVED, seconded by Mr. Moore-
TO approve the purchase of Library Game Tables, to be placed on the Library patio, at a cost not to exceed $3,311, Capital Funding and authorize the GRF President to sign all applicable contracts.
Five Directors, the Executive Director and the Library Operations Supervisor spoke on the motion.
The motion was carried unanimously by the Board members present.
Service Maintenance Committee
Reserves Funding Request – Ice Machine Replacement
At its regularly scheduled meeting on October 25, 2018, the Service Maintenance Committee duly moved and approved to recommend to the GRF Board of Directors the purchase of the Scotsman Prodigy Plus Full Cube Ice Machine Head, along with the Scotsman 30” 420 lb Ice Bin, to replace the existing Ice Machine (Asset ID 904).
Quotes are as follows:
Amazon (Ice Machine and Bin – purchased separately) $ 3,533
Amazon (Ice Machine with Bin) $ 4,134
Reliable Ice Equipment Inc. $ 4,182
The ice machine at the Service Maintenance Yard has had several repairs over the course of ten years, with the machine now beginning to fail on a regular basis. Staff recommends a replacement for a Scotsman Prodigy Plus Full Cube Ice Machine Head, along with the Scotsman 30” 420 lb Ice Bin, at a cost not to exceed $3,533, from Reserve Funding.
Ms. Hopewell MOVED, seconded by Mr. Dodero –
TO approve the purchase of the Scotsman Prodigy Plus Full Cube Ice Machine Head, along with the Scotsman 30” 420 lb Ice Bin, in an amount not to exceed $3,533, Reserve funding, to replace the Service Maintenance Ice Machine (Asset ID 904), and authorize the GRF President to sign all applicable contracts.
Six Directors and the Executive Director spoke on the motion.
The motion was carried with one no vote (R. Stone).
CONTROLLER’S REPORT
The Finance Director provided a financial report earlier in the meeting.
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S REPORT
The Executive Director provided a written report for the Board.
BOARD MEMBER COMMENTS
Seventeen Board members spoke on the meeting proceedings.
ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned was at 12:13 p.m.
_______________________
Suzanne Fekjar
GRF Corporate Secretary
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Religion
FIRST CHRISTIAN CHURCH
Christmas hymns will be featured
First Christian Church’s December potluck was delicious, as always. The delightful meal was followed by FCC’s choir presentation of the Christmas story combining Scripture readings with well-known and beloved Christmas carols. The choir’s program was presented at Rowntree Gardens Senior Living in Stanton earlier this month.
The Saturday evening service begins at 5:15 p.m. with the Hospitality Room opening at 4:30 p.m.
Sunday morning begins with Elder Jack Frost teaching Bible study at 9. The group is currently studying the book of Exodus. At 9:30 a.m. the Hospitality Room opens for fellowship and light refreshments with Carol Speake and Sue Kaminski hosting.
Pastor Bruce Humes will begin the worship service at 10:15 a.m. with praise, prayer and scripture, followed by Margaret Humes leading the congregation in hymns of worship, “Silent Night! Holy Night!”, “O Come All Ye Faithful” and “Joy To the World.” The communion hymn will be “He Was Nailed To The Cross For Me.”
The church choir, under the direction of Anita Ragole, will sing “Hark, The Herald Angels Sing.” Pastor Bruce Humes will present the communion meditation and service Sunday. For the offertory, Carol Speake and Sue Kaminski will sing “O Come Be Born Again.”
Anita Ragole will sing, “Mary Did You Know?” followed by her reading of the scriptures from the Gospel of Luke 2:1-7.
Pastor Gene Cherryholms’ message will be “Birth Of Christ” based on Luke 2:1-7. They had been looking in all the wrong places for Messiah. God said, “Forget about those palaces, He’s not there … look in the stable!”
Prayer and verse-by-verse Bible studies are held on Tuesdays with Pastor Humes, and on Thursdays with Pastor Cherryholmes both beginning at 9:30 a.m.
On Jan. 3 the Thursday evening Bible study with Pastor Phil O’Malley will resume studying the Old Testament Book of Hosea.
Hearing enhancements are available at all church functions. Call the church office at 431-8810 for further information. Leave a recorded message and someone will get back as quickly as possible.
HOLY FAMILY CHURCH
Four Christmas Masses will be celebrated
The Fourth Sunday of Advent will be celebrated on Dec. 16 at Holy Family Church, 13900 Church Place, next to the St. Andrews Gate.
The First Reading: Micah 5:1-4A; Responsorial Psalm: PS 80:2-3, 15-16, 18-19; Second Reading: Hebrews 10:5-10; Alleluia: Luke 1:38; Gospel: Luke 1:39-45.
Christmas Masses
Holy Family Church will celebrate Christmas Mass at 5 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 24, and on Tuesday, Dec. 25 at 8 a.m., 10 a.m. and noon.
Mass and Confession Schedule
Holy Family Church celebrates Sunday Mass at 8 and 10 a.m. and noon; the Vigil Mass is 5 p.m., Saturday; daily Mass is 8:30 a.m., Monday-Saturday.
Confessions are Saturdays and on the eves of Holy Days from 4-4:45 p.m. and on the first Fridays at 9:15 a.m.
Other Ministries
A Bible study group is Tuesday from 10-11 a.m. Come and join at the Parish rectory
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A Women and Men of Grace Prayer Group meets Wednesday from 10:30-11:45 a.m. at the Parish rectory. All are welcome.
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Come and say the Rosary and Divine Mercy every Monday and Thursday at 3 p.m. in church
For more information, visit our website www.holyfamilysb.com.
THE SALVATION ARMY
Home League will meet Christmas Eve
The Salvation Army Home League has special plans for the meeting of Dec. 24, Christmas Eve. At 7 p.m. in Clubhouse 4, members will spend the evening singing their favorite Christmas carols, interspersed with readings, prayers and informational tidbits about the songs.
Cookies, egg nog and other holiday treats will be served.
ROCK CHURCH
Messages can be listened to online
The Rock Church, Seal Beach campus welcomes everyone to weekly service for all ages at Marine Center, 151 Marina Drive, Seal Beach
Sunday services 10 a.m. in English and 1:45 p.m. in Spanish. Sunday’s message can be heard for free at www.gototherock.com. Select Seal Beach Campus and check the podcast.
For more information, call (714) 562-8233.
CONGREGATION SHOLOM
Rabbi Isenberg leads Friday services
Congregation Sholom Friday night services on Dec. 21 will be led by Rabbi Karen Isenberg. The service begins at 7 p.m. in Clubhouse 3, Room 9. An Oneg Shabbat will follow services.
On Saturday, Dec. 22, a bagel and cream cheese breakfast is planned at 9 a.m. in Clubhouse 3, Room 9. It will be followed by Shabbat services with Rabbi Eric Dangott from 9:30 a.m.-noon, followed by a dairy/potluck Kiddush lunch and study from noon-about 1:15 p.m.
The day’s Torah portion will be Vayiggash, in which Jacob brings his family to Egypt and is reunited with his son Joseph.
The walking group leaves Clubhouse 3, in front of the lobby, at 6:30 p.m., Mondays and Wednesdays.
To provide a ride to services, or to get one, call Jeff Sacks at (714) 642-0122 or Maria Bogart at 594-4362.
Celebrate the birth of Christ at Faith Christian Assembly
“It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year…” Faith Christian Assembly is ready for the celebration of the birth of Christ. The church is beautifully decorated, Christmas hymns are ready to be sung, people are waiting to welcome everyone and Pastor Gwynn Vaughn will powerfully speak the Word of God, which is ready to meet deepest needs. All are invited to the Sunday, Dec. 23, 10:30 a.m. service, to celebrate the Savior’s birth in the best way possible –the same way the Wise Men did, come and worship Him. “Let every heart prepare Him room.”
Tuesday is Faith Fellowship Time at 11 a.m. in the Garden Room; Midweek Bible Study, taught by Pastor Sheri Leming, is Wednesdays at 7 p.m. in the Garden Room.
To receive a free newsletter and for more information on the church, call 562-598-9010 or visit our website at www.FCAchurch.net. COMMUNITY CHURCH
All are invited to share spirit of Christmas, Dec. 24
Community Church opens its doors on Christmas Eve to anyone seeking a family of shared faith and friendship. The church will gather to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, who continues to be present today.
Community Church invites Leisure World friends and neighbors to share in the spirit of Christmas. The Christmas Eve service is Monday, Dec. 24, at 5 p.m. The music staff, directed by Renee Cortez, will provide special Christmas selections that include solos, and small ensembles. Come and experience the power and beauty of the Christmas story told in lessons and carols, and features the candlelight singing of Silent Night.
The church office will be closed on Dec. 24 and 25 for the Christmas holiday.
On Sunday, Dec. 23, Pastor Johan Dodge will present the morning message titled, “Proactive – Turning the Soil.” The Scripture lesson is Luke 1:1-18.
Serving as lay liturgist on Dec. 23 will be Carmen Edwards. Worship services are at 9:50 a.m. followed by a special Christmas dessert, coffee and cocoa in Edgar Hall.
ASSEMBLY OF GOD
Songs will fill air this week
There will be many “Songs in the Air” this coming Sunday as the congregation gathers at 10:30 a.m. and again at 6 p.m. for praise and prayer.
The 10:30 a.m. service in Clubhouse 3, Room 2, will include worship songs led by Denise Smith, accompanied by Marge McDonald at the organ and Norma Ballinger at the piano. The offertory will feature, “Ring the Bells.” Associate Pastor Dan Ballinger will sing the beloved, “O Holy Night,” and Pastor Sam Pawlak will deliver the message, “The Holy Hush of Christmas.” Visitors are warmly welcomed.
At the popular Hymn Sing at 6 p.m. in the lobby of Clubhouse 3, songs that the congregation chooses will be led by Pastor Ballinger with several special musical numbers: Pastors Sam and Pat Pawlak will sing a special duet that Pastor Sam wrote, the two pastors will sing, “Jesus, Wonderful Lord” and Dean Brown will also minister in song. After the closing devotional, folks will gather around the tables for a time of fellowship, greeting friends and making new ones. People from various churches throughout Leisure World and beyond attend each week.
Each Sunday two prayer meetings are held, at 10 a.m. and 5:15 p.m.
The Bible Study on Wednesday at 10 a.m. in Clubhouse 3, Room 7, will continue in the book of Colossians, Chapter 2 with Pastor Sam leading. Workbooks are available and participation is encouraged.
LW BAPTIST
‘Christmas Message’ will be delivered
Leisure World Baptist will welcome the birth of Jesus in song and message Sunday Dec. 23, in Clubhouse 4. Sunday school begins at 8:40 a.m., with Bob Simmons teaching. There will be coffee and conversation with friends at the round table until when the morning service begins at 9:45 a.m.
All are invited to join in the Call to Worship, “We Worship and Adore Him.”
There will be two solos, Connie Lee singing “Away in a Manger” and Sophia Peng’s selection “Blessed be the God of Israel.”
The choir selection is “Infant Holy, Infant Lowly,” a traditional Polish carol.
Congregational hymns include; “Angels From The Realms of Glory,” “The First Noel” and “That Beautiful Name.”
Pianist Yvonne Leon will play the offertory and songs of the season.
Pastor Rolland Coburn’s sermon is titled, “The Christmas Message,” from Luke 2:1-20.
The closing hymn will be “The Birthday of a King.”
The prayer room is open following the service.
On Monday, Dec. 24, Women’s Christian Fellowship and Bible study will meet in Clubhouse 3, Room 6, at 10 a.m.
On Wednesdays the Energizers meet in Clubhouse 3, Room 1, at 3 p.m.
The Seal Beach Rehab service is Thursday, Dec. 27, at 9:45 a.m.
For more information, call 430-2920.
Redeemer, St. Theo’s worship together at Christmas service
Redeemer Lutheran Church and St. Theodore of Canterbury Episcopal Church are worshiping together at 10:30 a.m. this Sunday in Redeemer’s sanctuary for a special Christmas service of lessons and carols. Participating are Pastor Gil Moore and Rev. Lisa Rotchford.
Pastor Moore will speak on the theme “The True Joy and Peace of Christmas.” Reader is Jerry Brady and prayer leader is Juanita Townsend. The choir will sing “The Magnificat.” Many poinsettias donated by members and friends cover the chancel area. A special Christmas Hawaiian lunch follows the service.
The Wednesday morning Bible class led by Pastor Lynda Elmer, which is studying the Book of Ezekiel, will not meet on Dec. 26, but will continue on Jan. 2 at 10:30 a.m. in the fellowship hall.
The Respite Center meets on Monday, Tuesdays and Thursdays. Call 596-1209 for information about registration and volunteering.
Website for the congregation is available at www.redeemerlutheransealbeach.com
LWKCC
Early morning services offered to begin the new year
The Leisure World Korean Community Church (LWKCC), Rev. Dr. Jang Young Yong, pastor, will celebrate the new year with special early morning worship services Dec. 26-29 and Jan. 2-5 at 6 a.m. in the main sanctuary.
The main message will be “My Confession of Faith, My Deepest Prayers.” The sermons will be delivered by Rev. Dr. Yong.
On the Dec. 30, there will be an end-of-the-year celebration after Sunday worship, with a gift exchange and prizes distributed.
The New Year’s worship will be on Dec. 31 at 11 p.m. in the main sanctuary.
On Monday, Jan. 14, from 9-11 a.m., Elder Grace Kim, educator, counselor, will give a lecture on “Assertive and Caring Communication” in the communion room. All are encouraged to participate.
On Dec. 9, the LWKCC celebrated Deacon Kwon Gi Chul and Elder Park Yong Ja’s 60th wedding anniversary. After the Sunday worship, the couple’s families and the congregation congratulated them and a feast prepared by their family.
Deacon Kwon Gi Chul and Elder Park Yong Ja reside in Mutual 4.
LWKCC is a nesting church of the Leisure World Community Church, located at 14000 Church Place, Seal Beach.
Sports & Games
LWers take top honors at Hawaiian Gardens poker tournament, Dec. 8
Gary Carnes won the semi-annual Gardens Casino Tournament on Dec. 8 over a field of more than 120 players.
After a delicious buffet breakfast provided by the Gardens, players contended for over three hours before club member Carnes bested second place Larry Slutsky, also a club member by a single pair to end the game
Third place was Robert LeBeau, from the Cerritos Senior Center. Fourth was Miriam Smith, from the Long Beach Lawn Bowling Club. Fifth place was Jody Dixon, frequent guest of the club and one of the instructors for recent lessons given by him and Frank DePalma. Sixth place was Kim Evans, friend of member and previous Gardens tournament winner Katie Hamilton. Seventh place was club member Santos Hernandez. Eighth place was Shellie Halprin, niece of member Susan Rose. Ninth place was Pauline Lane, friend of member Nancy Jordan. Tenth was club VP and publicity chair, Susan Dodson.
The club thanks all the Gardens staff, especially its chief cook and servers (terrific food), as well as Cavin Quintanilla, who ran the tournament this year. Thanks also to Cleo Looney, club secretary, the club liaison with the Gardens to organize this event for the past several years.
The Tournament Poker Club will host its annual potluck and player of the year at the end of January. Contact President Wendy Wu, (714) 366-0940, for information.
LADIES GOLF
Myung Kim is star of course
Thirty-nine ladies played for low gross, low net and birdies for the Ladies’ Golf Club. The star of the morning was Myung Kim with three birdies and below par with a 26.
A Flight: Low gross, Devora Kim, 29. Low net, Margie Thompson, 27. Birdies, Hae Lee, No. 2.
B Flight: Low gross, Myung Kim, 26. Low net, Grace Choi, 21. Birdies, Myung Kim, Nos. 1, 6, 8, Grace Choi, No. 4, Anne Walshe, No. 1, and Mary Park, No. 8.
C Flight: Low gross, Keiko Sekino, 29. Low net, Hailee Yang, 22. Birdies, Keiko Sekino, No. 5, Hailee Yang, No. 3, Anita Giroud, No. 1, and Yvonne Yim, No. 3.
D Flight: Low gross, Sandra deDubovay, 35. Low net, Joyce Bizzell, 23. Birdies, Sandra de Dubovay, No. 7 and Joyce Bizzell, No. 8.
CRIBBAGE CLUB
Olsen, deDubovay tie for first at 842
Dec. 12 was surely a winning day – Sandra deDubovay and Ron Olsen tied for first at 842, Julie Milburn and Jean Wilson tied for second at 834, Tami Reupert, Margaret Smith and Cathy Boufford tied at third at 830, Dale Quinn was on her own at 827. There were 55 players.
Howard Bleakley celebrated his birthday and players enjoyed a delicious cake decorated with a Christmas design and chocolate and vanilla ice cream. Norm Martin donated three cans of coffee and Alma Zamzow donated a jar trail mix. Howard Bleakley and Margaret Smith served. Thanks to all.
The Cribbage Club meets on Tuesday at noon in Clubhouse 1. There is always room for more players. Partners are not required.
To learn to play Cribbage or for a brush up, call Patti Smith at 242-4674 and she will arrange for lessons.
Players should arrive by noon to be assured of a table.
CHESS PUZZLE
This week’s puzzle: White moves first and for any answer by black, the white’s next move is checkmate.
•••
Chess partners are available in Leisure World when the LW Chess Club meets from 2-6:30 p.m. on Fridays in Clubhouse 3,
Room 7. Beginners are welcome for free lessons.
Solution to this week’s puzzle: Bg7
The white Bishop moves from h8 to g7. Any answer by black, the white’s next move is check mate.
Cards and Games Scoreboard
Best Time Bunco results from Dec. 10: Most buncos, Julie Milburn. Most wins, Ann Ell. Most babies, Audrey Hutchings. Most losses, Susie Ralston and Rita Fueyo. Door prize winner, Belinda Sanders. The Best Time Bunco will not meet on Christmas Eve so members can enjoy the holiday with their family and friends. Games will resume on Jan. 14. Come and join the club for the new year. All Leisure World residents are welcome. Best Time Bunco meets the second and fourth Mondays of each month at 6 p.m. in Clubhouse 3, Room 1. For information, call Gail Levitt, 596-1346.
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Friendly Pinochle Club winners Dec. 14: Marilyn Allred, 12,580; Grace Buster, 12,160; Diana Lambert, 11,760; Irene Perkins, 11,490. The club meets Thursdays from noon-4 p.m. in Clubhouse 1. For more information, call (310) 968-9509.
– Bert Sellers
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Leisure World Duplicate Bridge Club winners in the game on Dec. 13, were: N/S: First in Strat A and B: Bill Linskey-Howard Smith; second in Strat A and B: Larry Topper-Shirley Knopf; third in Strat A and B, first in Strat C: Miriam Kelley-Judy Mathias; fourth in Strat A: Karen and Dave Johnston; fifth in Strat A: Janet Wagner-Carol Murakoshi. E/W: First in Strat A: Judith Jones-Al Appel; second in Strat A, first in Strat B and C: Peter Yao-Paul Chen; third in Strat A: Jeanette Estill-Diane Sachs; fourth in Strat A: Fern Dunbar-LaVonne McQuilkin; fifth in Strat A, second in Strat B: Peggi-Monica Gettis; third in Strat B: Midge Dunagan-Lynn Danielson; fourth in Strat B, second in Strat C: Frances Gross-Judith Cook. Winners in the game on Dec. 10, were: N/S: First in Strat A, B and C: Bill Linskey-Midge Dunagan; tied for second in Strat A and B: Larry Topper-Frances Gross and Jeanette Estill-Ann Croul; fourth in Strat A and B: Marty Lipman-George Alemshah; fifth in Strat A: Russ Gray-Sylvia Kaprelyan; sixth in Strat A: Karen Johnston-Mary Lou Houghs. E/W: First in Strat A: Larry Slutsky-Sue Fardette; second in Strat A: Fern Dunbar-LaVonne McQuilkin; third in Strat A: Judith Jones-Dave Johnston; fourth in Strat A, first in Strat B: Tybie Becker-Bea Aron; fifth in Strat A, second in Strat B: Peggi Spring-Monica Gettis; sixth in Strat A: Marilyn McClintock-Diane Schmitz; third in Strat B, first in Strat C: Paul Chen-Peter Yao; fourth in Strat B, second in Strat C: Monica and Paul Honey. Games are played Monday and Thursday afternoons beginning at 12:30 p.m. in Clubhouse 3 Lobby. Players are asked to arrive by 12:15 p.m. to confirm their reservations. To make or cancel a reservation for Mondays, call Midge Dunagan at 594-9698; for Thursdays, call Sharon Beran at 308-7838 or email her, no later than 10:30 a.m. on day of game, at hbsharonb@gmail.com. With a maximum of 18 tables available, players without reservations should arrive by noon and check in with the director of the day; they will be accommodated on a first come first served basis if there is space. Players needing a partner should arrive by noon and check with the club manager; every effort will be made to find a partner. To cancel a reservation on game day or to report running late, call 481-7368 between noon and 1 p.m. There will be a game on Christmas Eve Day, Dec. 24. There will not be a game on New Years Eve Day, Dec. 31.
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Burning Tree Duplicate Bridge Club winners Dec. 15: N/S: Sherry Troeger-Bob Mault; Alan Olschwang-Chie Wickham; Joyce Basch-Linda Nye. E/W: Judy Jones-Al Appel; Hanefi Erten-Mike Nielsen; Diane Sachs-Marilyn McClintock; Ellen Kice-Sylvia Kaprelyan. Dec 14: N/S: Fred Reker-Gary Paugh; Larry Slutsky-Verna Burns; Ted and Joan Wieber; Betty Jackson-Diane Sachs; Shirley Spink-Sharon Beran; George Alemshah- Sylvia Kaprelyan; Sibyl Smith-Judy Lorber; Mark Singer-Judy Carter-Johnson. E/W: Marilyn McClintock-Jeanette Estill; Sue Fardette-Marilyn McClintock; George Koehm-Dorothy Favre; Karen and Dave Johnston; Howard Smith-Mariann Klinger; Ellen Kice-Russ Gray; Paul and Monica Honey. The club meets Fridays and Saturdays in Clubhouse 1 at 12:15 p.m. For information on how to play or join, call or text Fred Reker at (615) 898-0669. The next special event is club championship on Saturday, Jan. 26.
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Jolly Time Pinochle Club winners Dec. 15: Jim Dix, 11,760; Joan Taylor, 11,530; Jim Kaspar, 11,210; Marge Dodero, 10,620. Games are played from noon-4 p.m. on Saturdays in Clubhouse 1. For more information, call Peg Kaspar at 799-0433.
– Bert Sellers
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Monday Bridge Club winners Dec. 17: Sheila Hanley, Carl Kulzer and Ben Watada. Games begin at noon in Clubhouse 1. For more information, call Mary Nell Clark, 296-8570.
•••
Fun Time Pinochle Club winners Dec. 17: Marie Parrent, 12,670; Maureen Habel, 11,070; Richard Van Wasshnova, 10,790; Grace Buster, 10,240. The club meets from noon-4 p.m. Mondays in Clubhouse 1. For more information, call Joan Taylor at 240-5416.
–Bert Sellers
TOURNAMENT POKER
Smith wins her first final tabl Marion “Joyce” Smith won her first ever final table and the last final table of the year on Dec. 15. Her high cards of an ace and king beat second place Dennis Kotecki’s king and jack when no one paired on the flop, turn, or river.
Third place was Anita Rosenstein, followed by Donna Hernandez, Barry Brideau, Richard Grodt and Tom Pappas. High hand was Glenda Saunders with four aces. Bobbie Johansson won the promotional hand of five and eight.
First place winner Smith, Mutual 4 resident, joined the club a year ago, soon after moving to Leisure World. She retired from the hotel business and now enjoys gardening, shopping and her grandkids.
The club looks forward to its annual potluck and player of the year tournament in January. For further information, call Wendy Wu at (714) 366-0940.
LW BOWLING
Spares are good… win 3
Spares Are Good took three from D Hustlers. Danny Bigelow opened with a 226 and teammate Gracie Hastings had a 179. John Gaddis of D Hustlers salvaged the third game with a 215.
Very Striking remained in first by eight games taking three from Strikes Are Better as Ron Marcus had a 226, Dave Silva a 223 and Connie Terry a 176.
The Pinbusters swept We Can Do It with Ned Sprow bowling a 566 series and Linda Peters a 176 game.
Maybe Next Tuesday split with Nameless in a match where every game was close. Nameless won the first by 10, the second by six and lost the third by 18. Tom Kaczmarek spared in the last frame to take total pins by two.
Just Lucky took three from OSIMA with Frank Snee bowling a 225 game.
SHUFFLEBOARD
Competition is getting tougher
The Shuffleboard Club’s 2018/2019 league season continued into week eight on Dec. 7 with two very competitive matches. Only two games separate all four teams with just over one-fourth of the games played.
This week The Classics and Girl Power tied for a second straight week 9-9. Classics all game winner was Dennis Jensen. Girl Power all game winners were Milly Larsen and Patty Peterson.
Puckmasters slipped by the Sliders, 10-8. Puckmasters all game winner was Anita Giroud. Sliders all game winners were Connie Lee and Norb Walsh.
Recently, outright wins have become a challenge. Teams are extremely competitive with close individual games every round.
Currently Puck Masters are in first place with five points, the Classics are in second with 4-1/2 points; Girl Power in third with 3- 1/2 points, and Sliders are fourth with three points.
After eight games the high individual averages are: Women, Milly Larsen, 619; Connie Lee, 609; and Carrie Kistner, 600. Men, Gary Jantzen, 818; Sal La Scala, Bob Peterson, and Lee Broadbent tied with 714.
There will be no last Friday of the month luncheon in December due to the Christmas and New Year’s holidays. The next luncheon will be Jan 25.
For those who want to join or try out the game, practices during league play are 10 a.m. Mondays and Wednesdays at the shuffleboard courts behind Clubhouse 1. For more information, all President Carrie Kistner at (949) 300-0285.
The next social event will be the Valentine’s Day party, which will be a potluck dinner on Feb. 9 at 6 p.m. in Clubhouse 3, Room 2. Left-Center-Right will be played after the meal. Bring 12 quarters and three dollar bills for the L-C-R competition.
BOCCE BALL
No lessons on Christmas or New Year’s Day
Bocce ball instruction is offered Tuesdays from 10 a.m.-noon, and Thursdays from 3-5 p.m. at the Mission Park bocce ball court, behind Clubhouse 2.
On Sundays there will be an official at the court from 1-5 p.m. There will not be an official at the court on Christmas Day or New Year’s Day, but the court is open and equipment is available for open play.
The court is open every day beginning at 9 a.m. Equipment is available. Players are requested to sign in every time they play.
MEN’S GOLF
January will have two tourneys
by David LaCascia
LW contributor
The Men’s Golf Club tournament was held on Dec. 12 at the local course. It was a very cool and damp morning for the 45 golfers who competed in four flights over 18 holes. A Flight has golfers with handicaps of 0-5; B Flight, 6-8; C Flight, 9-14; and D Flight, 15 -18.
All scores are net: (actual score minus handicap).
A Flight: Bob Barnum, 53; Bob Turner, 54; John Kolthoff and Bill Lyons, 55.
B Flight: Steve Walker and Ira Barenblatt, 54; Jim Dickerson, 55; Chang Choi and Mike Oh, 56.
C Flight: KW Jeon and Ryan Hong, 54; Bill Zurn, 55; Youn Lee, 56.
D Flight: James Choi, 51; Dennis Jensen, 52; Joe Didonato, 54.
Closest to the pin on hole No. 8 was Suk Im, and on the 17th hole, Bob Turner. There were also two circle hole winners but no holes-in-one.
In January, which has five Wednesdays, there will be two Men’s Club tournaments, one on the usual second Wednesday, Jan. 9, and another on the fourth Wednesday, Jan. 23.
Additionally, Men’s Club dues for the 2019 season are payable by the end of January. Payment can be made any time to the membership chair, the golf starter in the starter’s shack; at any of the tournaments, or at the next Men’s Club meeting on Jan. 8.
Arts and Leisure
Community
Hospitality Center open on Christmas Day for cheer
Join the Hospitality team on Christmas morning in Clubhouse 6 from 9-11 for strawberry shortcake, hot coffee, hugs and neighborly cheer.
Members of the Hui O Hula group will help liven up Christmas morning with seasonal hula.
Thanksgiving morning was a great success with between 125 and 150 neighbors sharing pumpkin pie, good conversation, and laughter. The Hospitality crew is hoping for even more friends and neighbors to join them Christmas and New Year’s mornings.
Friends and companionship is one reason shareholders chose Leisure World. This is a great opportunity to get together and share the holidays.
GR Minibus offering new service to Old Town, 99 Cents Store F
The Leisure World Minibus will provide Monday service to the Old Town Seal Beach and the 99 Cents Only Store on Valley View Street in Garden Grove beginning Jan. 11.
The Golden Rain Foundation is offering the service to replace the Thursday Senior Shopper that was recently eliminated by the city.
The Minibus will depart from the Amphitheater Hub at 9:30 a.m., 10:15 a.m., 1 a.m., 11:45 a.m., 12:30 p.m. and 1:15 p.m. with return trips from Old Town at 9:45 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 11:15 a.m., noon, 12:45 p.m., 1:30 p.m. and 2:15 p.m.
Pick-ups to return to LW at the 99 Cents Only Store will be at 10 a.m., 10:45 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 12:15 a.m., 1 p.m., 1:45 p.m. and 2:30 p.m.
The shuttle will go to the 99 Cents Only Store after dropping off passengers at Von’s Pavilion, Pacific Coast Highway at Main Street, and at Eisenhower Park at the SB Pier, Main Street and Ocean Avenue.
Those who take the shuttle to Main Street and want to extend their trip past 2:30 can return to Leisure World on the OCTA Bus 42A that picks up on Electric Street at Main Street, across from the Red Car Museum and SB Senior Center. The senior, one-way fare is 75 cents.
Sunday bingo fees will increase
Effective Jan. 1, the buy-in for the weekly community bingo in Clubhouse 2 on Sunday afternoons will increase to $3. This increase is necessary because the cost of bingo supplies has gone up. All the other game prices such as disks and additional paper will remain the same.
Bingo will be held on Dec. 23 and Dec. 30, hosted by the American Legion.
All are invited to go to Clubhouse 2 on Sundays to play. The doors open at 1 p.m. and bingo starts at 1:30. The afternoon ends about 4 p.m. Complimentary refreshments and coffee are served. The clubs that sponsor bingo thank all the loyal bingo players who attend on a regular basis.
The clubs would love to see the numbers grow. As more people attend, the “Pot of Gold” grows larger.
GRF
Used vehicle sale is on Saturday
On the fourth Saturday of each month, shareholders/members can sell any used motorized vehicle in the Administration Parking Lot from 8 a.m.-4 p.m. The next sale is Dec. 22.
Vehicles must have current DMV registrations and GRF decals as well as be insured. In addition to cars, motorhomes, motorcycles, golf carts, bikes, trikes and scooters may be sold. The owner or rep representative does not need to be present, but is allowed to display a single “For Sale” sign no larger than 18 inches by 24 inches on the vehicle, to include a phone number.
The sale is open to LW residents only and the guests they call in. The public will not be able to sell at the events. For more information, contact Recreation at 431-6586, ext. 350 or 398.
Cabaret Singers’ ‘Frozen’ tree awarded first place
Six clubs were selected to decorate Christmas trees in Leisure World clubhouses. The theme was “A Storybook Christmas.”
The judging criteria covered six points:
• Does the tree have a decorating theme that reflects the chosen holiday story of film?
• Does it have a color scheme?
• Are the ornaments sized appropriately for the top, middle, and bottom of the tree?
• Is there a tree skirt?
• Is there a tree top ornament?
• Are there any outstanding features?
Picking a winner was a challenge.
The Cabaret chose “Frozen” as the movie for its theme .
The judges were GRF Directors Barry Lukoff, Tony Dodero and Leah Perrotti, Recreation Committee chair.
GAF’s December meeting canceled
The Golden Age Foundation will not meet in December due to Christmas and New Year’s holidays.
The January board meeting will be on Wednesday, Jan. 30, at 2 p.m. in the Building 5, Conference Room B, located across from Clubhouse 6, behind the GRF Security Decal Office. All shareholders are welcome to observe the January board meeting.
•••
A GAF volunteer will be in the Clubhouse 6 Hospitality Room on Tuesdays, from 9-11 a.m. to help people register for the Ralph’s Reward program. Ralph’s donates a percentage of purchases to the GAF from those are registered. Sign up on www.ralphs.com. Participants will need a Ralph’s Reward Card number to register or a phone number associated with the rewards account.
SUNSHINE CLUB
End-of-year party is tomorrow
The Sunshine Club will have its year end party tomorrow, Dec. 21, to celebrate the progress of the club on its seventh anniversary. The party will be held at Clubhouse 3, Room 2, at 10 a.m. with catered Korean/American food and side dishes provided by members.
The party will start with a brief update of community affairs and a question-and-answer period.
Entertainment with a holiday sing-along and a presentation by three of Michael Harada’s Joyful Line Dancers that will include a few new numbers with the audience joining them.
It is a Sunshine Club tradition to take holiday group photo for a souvenir before the party is over.
During the year, the Sunshine Club invited many community leaders and administrative supervisors to be guest speakers.
The next meeting will be on Jan. 11.
The Sunshine Club of SBLW is designed to help all shareholders get along and to have better communication with neighbors.
The club meets on Fridays, in Clubhouse 3, Room 2 (except the first Friday in Room 9), from 10 a.m.-noon. All shareholders are welcome to attend, membership is not required. Refreshments are served.
For more information, call Anna Derby at 301-5339.
FRIENDSHIP CLUB
Computer classes are canceled
The Friendship Club offers computer classes taught by Jeff Sacks, Maxine Smith, and Miryam Fernandez.
• Monday, Dec. 24, Christmas Eve — No class
• Thursday, Dec. 27 — No class
• Monday, Dec. 31, New Year’s Eve — No class
• Monday, Jan. 7, Clubhouse 3, Room 4
11 a.m. – Prepare for a test (DMV or Real Estate) using technology (Sacks)
Noon- Facebook for Beginners (Fernandez)
This is an introduction to Facebook for the beginner.
• Monday, Jan. 14, Clubhouse 3, Room 4
11 a.m.-1 p.m. – Let’s Talk eBay (Smith)
Classes are free, but donations to pay for a wireless hotspot and printing materials are welcome.
If you use email, be careful about stopping your cell phone service. In many cases the cell phone number is the only way that the email company can contact you if the computer loses the email password. Have your computer support person check to see if your email is set up to properly contact you with your current cell number or a second working email account. Do this while the email is still working.
For eBay information, contact Maxine Smith maxla@aol.com; for Facebook information contact Miryam Fernandez, 884-7460; for computer information, contact Jeff Sacks (714) 642-0122.
To suggest questions for Q & A, or to join the email list, email to jfsacks@gmail.com.
KACMA
Christmas carols will be sung today
The last gathering of the Korean-American Classic Music Academy of the year will be today, Dec. 20, at 9:30 a.m. in Clubhouse 4.
Christmas carols and “Auld Lang Syne” will be led by Robert Chung prior to the annual business meeting and performance.
Lunch will follow at 11 a.m.
The class is conducted in Korean language. The objective of the KACMA is to promote fellowship through interpretation, appreciation of classical music, including symphony, operas and by attending concerts.
For further information, contact President Kathy Park, 598-6292; Program Chair Robert Chung, 387-7377; or Publicity Chair Yoon Soo Park, 431-3036.
SB Naval Weapons Station releases economic impact study results
The Naval Weapons Station, Seal Beach, announced the results of a recently completed economic impact and community involvement study on Dec. 12.
The study, which included both the naval weapons station and the nearby Defense Fuel Support Point, San Pedro base, indicates that the facilities contribute a combined $716 million to the area’s economy and support over 3,000 jobs. Naval Weapons Station, Seal Beach, was directly responsible for over $168 million of this total.
Based on the latest available data from Fiscal Year 2017, the study details annual economic benefits to the community from the bases, including over $664 million in industrial output, $52 million in direct payroll expenditures, and nearly $23 million in local and state tax revenues.
The study finds that visiting personnel from Navy ships, reserve units, and a base recreational vehicle park alone generate $7 million in yearly income for local shops, restaurants and transportation services.
Benefits to the community go well beyond dollar figures. The naval weapons station protects the only national wildlife refuge in the Los Angeles/Orange County basin, and the base fire department, under a mutual aid agreement with Orange County, routinely responds to civilian emergencies off the installation.
The Seal Beach base was also designated as winner of the 2017 Navy Region Southwest Installation Excellence Award for Small Installations and was hailed as the best small Navy base in the southwestern United States.
The report is available online at https://www.cnic.navy.mil/sealbeach/index.htm.
For your information:
Leisure World Lost & Found is located in the Security Satellite Office, downstairs in Building 5 behind the LW Health Care Center. Take found items there, and go there to look for lost ones.
Obituaries
•••
Collins, Dalya
1938-2018
Dalya Collins, 80, Mutual 9, died Dec. 12, 2018.
Dalya was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, on Oct. 14, 1938, to Freda and Chuck Balshum.
She married Paul Collins on April 19, 1985, in southern California.
She retired from her position as a loan broker.
Prior to moving to Leisure World in 2012, she lived in Old Town Seal Beach.
In Leisure World she was involved in the LW RV Club and the LW Radio Club as a ham operator. She loved to dance to the Velvetones.
She also loved dogs, traveling and sight-seeing and her husband, Paul.
She is survived by her husband, Paul; daughter Darci Horton and grandchildren.
There will be no services at this time. Her ashes will be scattered at sea and in a snow ski area.
•••
In Memoriam
Bessie Hammond 102
Mary Bellow 51
John Kloss 86
Mary Bellow 51
Anna Perez 24
Helena Jamadi 73
Lori Bennington 54
Eric Frazier 61
Laurie Yenkelun 61
Mona Voll 92
Daniel Howery 68
Jacqueline Galang 84
Sanford Hoffman 86
Families assisted by
McKenzie Mortuary,
961-9301
Travel
—paid obituary
Travel
On the Go
Day Trips
Fantasy Springs Casino- Jan. 2, $30, Los Alamitos Senior Club, Teri Nugent, 446-0293, Verna Burns, 596-1886, Joyce Ingram, (714) 887-9821
Pauma Casino – Jan. 9, $15; $10 cash in machine, New York Club, Phyllis Pierce, 598?3743, or Chee Chee Porr, 430-5949
Pala Casino – Jan. 18, $6, $10 back, American Legion Post 327, Gail Levitt, 596-1346
Guide Dog/Braille Institute- Jan. 22, $75 with lunch at Clifton’s, Los Alamitos Senior Club, Teri Nugent, 446-0293 or Joyce Ingram, (714) 887-9821
Pechanga Casino- Feb. 6, $15, Los Alamitos Senior Club, Teri Nugent, 446-0293, or Joyce Ingram, (714) 887-9821
Segerstrom Center , “Come From Away” – Feb. 7, $92, GRF Recreation, events@lwsb.com, 431-6586. ext. 326.
Tribute to Cher, Tom Jones, Elton John, Liza Minnelli, Palm Springs – Thursday, Feb. 28, $103 includes lunch, Los Alamitos Senior Club, Teri Nugent, 446-0293, or Joyce Ingram, (714) 887-9821
Pirates of Penzance, Glendale Theater – Saturday, March 16, $95 includes lunch, at Scarantino’s, Los Alamitos Senior Club, Teri Nugent, 446-0293 or Joyce Ingram, (714) 887-9821
Harrah’s Rincon – Daily, free, Amphitheater, 7:15-7:30 a.m., (877) 777-2457
Pala Casino – Daily, free, Amphitheater, 8 a.m., (714) 985-9555
Pechanga Casino – Daily, Amphitheater, 8 a.m., free, $10 in EZ Play upon arrival, (951) 770-2579
Valley View Casino – Sunday-Tuesday, Amphitheater, 7 a.m., free
Overnight Trips
Las Vegas, Sam’s Town – Three days, Jan. 14-16, Los Alamitos Senior Club, Teri Nugent, 446-0293 or Joyce Ingram, (714) 887-9821
Coastal “Safari” by Rail – Three-day tour featuring an Oceanfront Stay in Pismo Beach, Coast Starlight Train, Morro Bay and Cambria. Feb. 6-8, 2019, David Nell/Good Times Travel, (888) 488-2287
Wonder Valley- Feb. 10-12, Los Alamitos Senior Club, Teri Nugent, 446-0293 or Joyce Ingram, (714) 887-9821
Bluegrass Cruise – Feb. 18-22, four days, Carnival Inspiration, Long Beach, Catalina, Ensenada, Long Beach, Ellen Brannigan, (310) 890-2368.
Around Town
The Historical Society of Long Beach will present a live comedy slide show by Ambassador of Americana, Charles Phoenix, celebrating the “City by the Sea,” exploring Long Beach’s landmarks and lore, on Saturday, Jan. 12, from 2-4 p.m. at the LB Petroleum Club, 3636 Linden Ave. Tickets, $45 and $35 for HSLB members, are available online at www.hslb.org/.A meet-and-greet Charles follows the performance. Copies of his latest book, “Addicted to Americana” will be available and colorful cake from his “test kitchen” will be served. The presentation is in conjunction with the society’s exhibit “Chrome! Cruisin’, Car Clubs and Drag Strips,” that celebrates Southern California’s mid-century car culture.
Holiday travel is greatest ever recorded
One in three Americans will be on the road this holiday season, the highest number of travelers since AAA started tracking holiday travel in 2001.
While gas has been relatively expensive throughout the year, a recent drop to the cheapest national gas price averages of the year, combined with rising disposable income, is motivating more Americans to hit the road.
Gas prices averaged $2.46 for the first week of December, which is two cents per gallon less than one year ago. (The national average may be under $3, but in California, it costs an average of $3.41 per gallon, according to AAA).
Travel wait times will double and quadruple in some cities as holidays draw nearer, according to AAA. Numbers released Dec. 13 show that 112.5 million people are expected to be traveling in the air and on the roads, a 4.4 percent increase over last year’s number. It’s also the highest number of travelers since AAA started tracking holiday travel in 2001.
AAA forecasts predict:
• 102.1 million people will travel by car
• 6.7 million people will travel by air
• 3.7 million will travel by trains, buses and cruise ships
Travel times may be quadrupled in some cities, with Atlanta topping the list, closely followed by New York. As for Los Angeles, today, De™c. 20, from 2:30-3:30 p.m. will be the worst time for travel with waits twice as long as usual, according to data released by AAA.
Advice for Travelers
• Timing is everything. Leave early if you can.
• Drive with the aid of an app that uses real time traffic data
• Consider alternate routes
• Travel on the holiday itself. Most people leave before the holiday, and that’s when you’ll hit the most traffic.
Best Times to Fly and Book Christmas Flights
An analysis of AAA’s flight booking data from the last three years revealed that most holiday air travelers depart two or three days before Christmas and return the day after the holiday. This holiday season, Saturday, Dec. 22; Sunday, Dec. 23; and Wednesday, Dec. 26, will be the busiest days in the skies and at the airports. Fewer holiday travelers choose to fly on Christmas Eve (Monday, Dec. 24) and Christmas Day (Tuesday, Dec. 25), which are the lightest travel days around the Christmas holiday.
Most travelers booked their Christmas flights between Oct. 26 and Nov. 27, paying an average ticket price of $561 roundtrip. Last-minute planners who book between Dec. 12-18 this year can expect to pay the lowest average airfares, at $488. However, those travelers risk encountering limited availability and their preferred flights may already be sold out.
Car Rental Costs Reach 10-Year High, Hotel Prices Mixed
Holiday road trippers should budget slightly more for a rental car this year, as daily rates have increased 3 percent over last year. At $76, the daily average car rental rate this holiday season is the most expensive in 10 years. Travelers will also pay a bit more at AAA Two Diamond hotels, where prices are 1 percent more than last year, or $122 per night. Conversely, the average rate for AAA Three Diamond hotels has fallen 3 percent to an average nightly cost of $152.
Top 10 Year-End Travel Destinations
Warm-weather destinations are top draws in the winter months, occupying nine of the top 10 spots on the list of most popular holiday destinations, based on AAA’s online and travel agency air and tour bookings. The major cruise ports of Fort Lauderdale and Miami have both gained in popularity compared with last year, on the heels of a strong year for cruise sales. Meanwhile, New York City, the only cold-weather destination to make the top 10, can also expect a growing influx of travelers this holiday season.
Top destinations are:
• Orlando, Florida
• Cancun, Mexico
• Anaheim, California (Disneyland)
• Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
• Montego Bay, Jamaica
• Honolulu, Hawaii
• New York, New York
• Kahului, Hawaii (Maui)
• Fort Lauderdale, Florida
• Miami, Florida
AAA to Rescue More Than 960,000 Motorists
AAA expects to rescue more than 960,000 motorists at the roadside this year-end holiday period. Dead batteries, lockouts and flat tires will be the leading reasons AAA members will experience car trouble. AAA recommends motorists take their vehicles to trusted repair facilities for maintenance before heading out. Oil changes, fluid level checks, battery tests and tire inspections go a long way toward reducing the chances of a breakdown.
According to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, 46 percent of all crashes involving bad weather take place in the winter. AAA encourages drivers to be vigilant when hitting the road this winter and to stay prepared by carrying an emergency roadside kit containing a mobile phone and car charger, first-aid kit, blankets, drinking water and snacks, a flashlight with extra batteries, a basic toolkit, warning flares, an ice scraper, jumper cables and a shovel.
Health and Fitness
Meals on Wheels, Long Beach
Meals on Wheels of Long Beach, Inc., is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit community service organization that delivers a variety of freshly prepared meals to homebound and active Leisure World shareholders. The discounted daily fee is $8.25 for a complete hot dinner and lunch consisting of a large salad or sandwich with a small side salad, dessert and carton of low-fat milk. Meals with a “friendly visit” are delivered weekdays between between 10:30 a.m-12:30 p.m. To start a new client application online at www.mowlb.org or call Caron Adler at 433-0232.
Monday, Dec. 24: Closed
Tuesday, Dec. 25: Closed
Wednesday, Dec. 26: Whole wheat spaghetti and meat balls with marinara sauce, whole grain dinner roll, zucchini and tomatoes, tapioca pudding, ham and cheese sandwich with spinach, tomato and pickle, potato salad.
Thursday, Dec. 27: Curry chicken, mushroom barley rice, roasted Brussels sprouts, yogurt with peaches and strawberries, tuna salad sandwich with lettuce, tomato, creamy coleslaw.
Friday, Dec. 28: Baked ham with honey glaze, mashed sweet potatoes, California blended vegetables, apple pie, Greek chicken salad, tomato olives, cucumber, feta cheese, vinaigrette dressing and crackers.
Senior Meals
Seal Beach Community Services, in cooperation with Community Senior Serv, offers a weekly hot meals program at the North Seal Beach Community Center, 3333 St. Cloud Dr. The center is open from 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Monday-Friday. Lunch is served weekdays at 11:15 a.m. Arrive by 11 a.m. to check in at the front desk; reservations not needed. Sugar-free desserts, including water packed fruits for diabetics, are available upon request. One-percent milk served. Suggested donation: $3 for seniors 60 and older; $5 for all others. For more information, call 430-6079.
Monday, Dec. 24: Closed.
Tuesday, Dec. 25: Closed.
Wednesday, Dec. 26: Hamburger on whole wheat roll, shredded lettuce, tomato and onions, carrot raisin salad, tropical fruit mix.
Thursday, Dec. 27: Mediterranean tuna salad, tomato and zucchini salad, whole wheat bread, orange juice, chocolate chip cookie, diet cookie.
Friday, Dec. 28: New Year’s brunch—Vegetable quiche (zucchini, mushrooms and tomatoes), red potatoes, small croissant and fresh melon.
Healthy Aging
—from the U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services
When people get older, their bodies begin to need fewer calories but just as many nutrients. Nutrient-dense foods pack a lot of vitamins and minerals into a small amount of calories.
As people age it becomes more important to “eat from the rainbow” of foods rich in nutrients, including:
•Fruits and vegetables (choose a range of types with vibrant colors)
• Whole grains, like oatmeal, whole-wheat bread, and brown rice
•Fat-free or low-fat milk and cheese or soy or rice milk that is fortified with vitamin D and calcium
•Seafood, lean meats, poultry and eggs
•Beans, nuts, and seeds
Some foods have many calories but offer few nutrients. Older adults should eat less of these foods:
•Sugar-sweetened drinks and desserts that have added sugars
•Foods with butter, shortening or other fats that are solid at room temperature
•White bread, rice and pasta made from refined grains
Focusing on nutrient rich foods can help people maintain healthy weights.
Older people typically lose muscle mass, which may increase frailty. They also burn fewer calories, especially if they are not physically active. Keeping a healthy weight is crucial, but what is healthy varies from person to person. Ask your health care provider about what a healthy weight is for you. Being overweight or obese may increase the risk for heart disease, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes and bone issues.
Eating wisely and being physically active to preserve muscle and bone may can help people maintain strength and stay healthy as they age.
Health and Fitness Classes and Clubs
Yoga
Classes are offered Tuesdays at 10 a.m. in the Clubhouse 4 Lobby,
Thursdays at 10 a.m. in Clubhouse 3, Room 1; and Saturdays, 10 a.m. in Clubhouse 3, Room 2. The fee is $5 per session.
For more information, call Connie Adkins at 506-5063.
Yoga, Meditation, Tai Chi
Classes are offered from 9:30-11 a.m. on Saturdays upstairs in Clubhouse 6.
Paul Pridanonda teaches students to free the mind and spirit using laughter and slow and steady flow of tai chi movements.
For more information, call 430-7143.
Beginning Yoga
Classes are offered from 10:30-11:30 a.m. on Wednesdays in Clubhouse 3, Room 6, and at the same time on Fridays in Clubhouse 3, Room 7. Bring mats. The fee is $5 a class.
For more information, call Patti Endly at 430-7291.
Monday Intermediate Yoga
Classes are offered each week from 5:30-6:30 p.m. in Clubhouse 4, Section C; fee: $5 per session.
For more information, call Pat Castaneda at 225-0273.
Pilates
Chair classes meet from 5:30-6:30 p.m. on Thursdays upstairs in Clubhouse 6. The cost is $5 a class. Instruction includes seated and standing exercises.
Mat classes meet Thursdays from 5:30-6:30 p.m. in Clubhouse 6, Room C. Those who attend should bring a mat. All other equipment will be provided.
For additional information, call Susan Hopewell, 430-6044, or Linda Neer, 430-3214.
Ageless Grace
The eight-week chair-based exercise program, which addresses 21 specific aging factors, has weekly classes at 4:30 p.m. on Mondays, upstairs in Clubhouse 6. The exercises are practiced in a chair; $5 per session; $30 for all eight sessions. For more information, call Carol Costello at 596-3927.
Feeling Good Exercise
Move to the music from 9:30-10:30 a.m. Mondays in Clubhouse 1, with Sarah Grusmark and Thursdays with Katie Sellards. The fee is $3 a class. People of all fitness levels are welcome. For more information, call Cathleen Walters at 598-9149.
Stick, Qigong, Tai Chi Club
Stick exercises, qigong and tai chi chih classes are held from 9:15-11 a.m. on Tuesdays in Clubhouse 3, Room 1. For more information, call Joann Mullens at 596-3936.
Movement for Health and Self-Healing Medical Qigong Club
Qigong practice sessions classes are held from 9-10 a.m. on Thursdays in Clubhouse 3, Room 2. The session is led by Dave Heilig, QiGong practitoner. For more information, call Catherine Milliot at 760-4545.
Fitness Fusion Upper/Lower Body Strength and Yoga
Classes are offered from 11:15 a.m.-12:15 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays in Clubhouse 6, top floor. Attendance both days is not necessary.
The fee is $4 a class when paying by the month, or $5 for those who do not attend on a regular basis. The trainer leads warm-ups, light weight-lifting and standing yoga poses for improved balance. For more information, call Marion Higgins at 296-8328.
Chair Exercise
Classes are offered from 9:30-10:30 a.m. on Tuesdays and Fridays in Clubhouse 1.
Classes are for men and women at all fitness levels. For more information, call 493-7063.
Arts and Leisure Dec 20 2018
LW Dance Classes and Clubs
The following is a partial list of dance classes and clubs available in Leisure World:
•A Time to Dance Club by Joseph: Ballroom dance group lessons are held the second and fourth Thursdays in Clubhouse 3, Room 2. Fox trot is taught from 6:30-7:30 p.m.; tango, 7:30-8:30 p.m.; $5 per session. Singles and couple are welcome. For information, call (559) 403-8974.
•Ballet: A one-hour class is held at 1:30 p.m. on Saturdays in Clubhouse 6, second floor. No experience is necessary. Men and women, including beginners, are welcome. Classes, $3, are taught by Mel Lockett. For more information, call Lynn R. Heath, 296-5588.
•Dance Club: Ballroom and social dance classes are held on Wednesdays in Clubhouse 6, Room C. Beginning/intermediate rumba is taught from 7:15-8:15 p.m. and intermediate rumba is taught from 8:15-9:15 p.m. The cost is $6 per class or $10 for both classes. Singles and couples are welcome. Dancers rotate. For information, call dance instructor Jeremy Pierson, 999-1269.
Tap dance classes are held on Thursdays in the Theater Club studio. Beginner tap dance class is from 8:30-9:30 a.m.; advanced, 9:30-10:30 a.m. Joyce Basch instructs. All levels are welcome; no experience is necessary; $5 per class. For more information, contact Basch, 598-1988 or joycebasch@verizon.net. Write “tap” in the subject line.
•Dancing Feet Club: Ballroom and line dancing are held in Clubhouse 2 on the fourth Sunday of the month from 6:30-9:30 p.m. Doors open at 6. Admission is free. Guests may bring drinks and snacks. The club holds free line dance lessons and practices in Clubhouse 6 on Thursdays from 7-9 p.m., and on the first, third and fifth Sundays from 4:30-6 p.m. For more information, call Ed Bolos at (551) 998-4223.
•Flowering Step Line Dance: Free classes are held at 10 a.m. on Mondays and the third Tuesday of the month in Clubhouse 2. Young-Ah Ko is the instructor. For more information, call (310) 658-0379 or 296-8068.
•Fun Exercise Line Dance Club: Intermediate line dance meets from 10:30-11:30 a.m. on Wednesdays in Clubhouse 6, Room C; membership, $10 a year. For information, call Suzanne Ahn, 810-1614.
•Grapevine Line Dance: Free line dance classes for all levels on Thursdays from 3-5 p.m., Clubhouse 6, Room C; more advanced dancers attend the Friday class (taught at a faster pace) from 1-3 p.m. in the lobby of Clubhouse 3. Newcomers need general knowledge of line dance and basic dance steps. For more information, inquire in classes.
•Hui O Hula: Beginners meet on Mondays from 10-11:15 a.m., upstairs in Clubhouse 6, followed by an intermediate and advanced class. The Tuesday class starts at 1:15 p.m. upstairs in Clubhouse 6. All levels are welcome. For more information, call 252-9676 or email jojo@huiohula.com.
•Joyful Line Dance Club: Get exercise and learn line dances from 2:30-4:30 p.m., Wednesdays, in the lobby of Clubhouse 3. Beginners dance from 2:30-3 p.m.; intermediates, 3-4:30 p.m. Members dance to popular favorites at the beginning and learn newer dances in the last hour. Takako Mitchell is the instructor. For more information, call Anna Derby, 301-5339.
•Leisure Time Dancers: Texas Two Step and Latin Cha Cha will be taught on Mondays in Clubhouse 6. The two-step, a casual, easy country dance, starts at 2 p.m.; and the upbeat Latin cha cha, at 3 p.m. Singles and couples are welcome; dancers rotate. Cost is $6 for one hour; $10 for two hours. For more information, call instructor Richard Sharrard at 434-6334.
•Leisure World Cloggers: Classes suspended through December. In January, classes resume as follows: advanced and intermediate students meet at 8:30 a.m. and beginners at 10:30 a.m., Wednesdays, on the Amphitheater stage. For more information, call 598-9974.
•Leisure Whirlers Square and Round Dance Club: The club hosts themed dances with a potluck on the first Friday of the month at 6:30 p.m. in Clubhouse 4. Singles and couples are welcome. Cost is $7 per person. For more information, call Lenore Velky at 237-2682.
•Saturday Morning Dance Club: American tango is taught from 9-10 a.m.; the Hustle, from 10-11 a.m., Saturdays, in Clubhouse 1; Candi Davis; instructor; dancers rotate. Sessions are $5.
•Suede Sole Dancers: The group meets at 6 p.m. on Sundays for a class upstairs in Clubhouse 6. Pat Erickson is the instructor.
•Velvetones Jazz Club Dance: The big band plays dance music at 6 p.m. on the first and third Sundays of the month in Clubhouse 4.
•Zumba Club: Stef Sullivan teaches the class with dance steps inspired by salsa, merengue, cha-cha, raggaeton, Cumbia, Bollywood, jazz, hip-hop and disco. Classes, $3, are held at 5:30 p.m. on Mondays, 8:30 a.m. on Tuesdays, 5 p.m. on Wednesdays, 8:30 a.m. on Thursdays and Fridays, 11 a.m. on Saturdays and 2:30 p.m. on Sundays. Classes are held in Clubhouse 6, except the Thursday class, which meets in Clubhouse 3.
Terrace Theater hosts the Nutcracker
The Long Beach Ballet will present “The Nutcracker” at the Terrace Theater at the Long Beach Convention & Entertainment Center through Dec. 23. The Long Beach Ballet’s Artistic Director David Wilcox has pulled out all the stops for this 36th production of the classical tale. This production boasts a full symphony orchestra, a flying sleigh, a real live horse, on-stage pyrotechnics, and a cast of over 200.
Former Disney designers Elliot Hessayon and Scott Schaffer created the enchanting scenery, Australian artist Adrian Clark designed the detailed costumes, and renowned magician Franz Harary created the special effects, including a magical costume switch, involving Clara instantly changing from her nightgown into a gleaming ball gown.
The Long Beach Ballet is the only ballet company in Southern California that performs “The Nutcracker” with a full symphony orchestra and is one of only two ballet companies in the country that uses two harps for its production to ensure the performance sounds exactly as Tchaikovsky intended.
The Long Beach Ballet’s Nutcracker has been seen by millions of people worldwide, including live audiences totaling more than 400,000 in Long Beach, 70,000 in Pasadena, hundreds of thousands throughout Asia (as performed by the Chinese Guangzhou Ballet), and millions more on television.
Remaining show times are Friday, Dec. 21 at 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, Dec. 22 at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.; and Sunday, Dec. 23, at 2 p.m. at the Terrace Theater, Long Beach Convention and Entertainment Center, 300 E Ocean Blvd., Long Beach.
Tickets can be purchased through the Long Beach Ballet at (877) 852-3177, and the Long Beach Performing Arts Center Main Box Office, and online through the Long Beach Ballet website, www.LongBeachNutcracker.com. Family-friendly ticket prices start at $34 -$78 with a special VIP Package also available.
Discounts are available for children, seniors, and groups of 15 or more.
GRF Movie
“New Year’s Eve,” rated PG-13, will be shown Wednesday, Dec. 26, in Clubhouse 4 at 2 and 7 p.m.
Intertwining stories promise love, hope, forgiveness, second chances and more for a number of New Yorkers on the celebrated night. A rock star (Jon Bon Jovi) and his ex-lover (Katherine Heigl) clash at an exclusive party; a singer (Lea Michele) becomes stranded with a killjoy (Ashton Kutcher) on the way to a New Year’s gig; a nurse (Halle Berry) stays with a dying patient (Robert De Niro) as he tries to hang on long enough to see the ball drop in Times Square one last time.
Some scenes and language may offend some viewers.
Opera Club
The Opera Club will be on hiatus in December. The next meeting will be Jan 8 at 1:30 p.m. to Clubhouse 3, Room 1, to watch the “Pagliacci,” starring popular tenor Jonas Kaufmann. Club member Sylvan Von Burg will introduce the opera. For more information, contact Beverly Emus at 296-5586 or bemus@socal.rr.com.
Community Karaoke
The Opera Club will be on hiatus in December. The next meeting will be Jan 8 at 1:30 p.m. to Clubhouse 3, Room 1, to watch the “Pagliacci,” starring popular tenor Jonas Kaufmann. Club member Sylvan Von Burg will introduce the opera. For more information, contact Beverly Emus at 296-5586 or bemus@socal.rr.com.
Leisure Whirlers
The Leisure Whirlers New Year’s Eve dinner and dance party will be on Monday, Dec. 31, from 5-9:30 p.m. in Clubhouse 1.
There will be music, dancing and a buffet dinner. Doors open at 5 p.m. for socializing.
The buffet dinner will be served at 6 p.m. Pre-rounds are from 6:30-7 p.m.
Square and round dances will be alternated from 7-9:30 p.m. Singles and couples are welcome. There will be a singles rotation so everyone can dance.
Tickets are on sale. Cost is $12 per person.
For more information, call Lenore Velky at 237-2682.
Welcome Graduates
The club welcomes graduates of the square dance class of 2018. These students have been working hard for the last nine months to learn the 110 square dance steps needed to participate at square dances all over the world. Square dances are called in English so no matter where people travel they can find a square dance club to dance with. All are invited to square dance with the Whirlers on New Year’s Eve. For more information, call Velky.
February Dances
The next regular dance party will be Friday, Feb. 1, in Clubhouse 4 from 6:30-9:30 p.m. The theme will be announced later. There will be music, dancing and a finger-food potluck.
Square Dance Class
Now that the Class of 2018 has graduated, square dance brush-up classes will be held weekly on Mondays from 7:30-9:30 p.m. All dancers are welcome to brush up on skills or just enjoy the fun of dancing. Singles and couples are welcome. There is a singles rotation, so everyone can dance. The class is held at the Garden Grove Women’s Club, 9501 Chapman Ave. in Garden Grove. For more information, call Mel Branham at (714) 803-0250.
Ad Hoc Chorus
The Ad Hoc Chorus meets at 4 p.m. on Tuesdays in the lobby of Clubhouse 3 for one hour. All are welcome to come and sing the old “Hit Parade” favorites, show tunes and some humorous novelty ditties. Helene Onu is the song leader and piano accompaniment is provided by Barbara McIlhaney. Everyone has an opportunity to try their hand at being a song leader. You do not have to be able to read music. Song sheets are supplied.
For more information, call Chuck Burnett at 493-0176.
Leisure Time Dancers
The Leisure Time Dancers invite everyone, including new members, to join them on Mondays for ballroom dance classes in Clubhouse 6. Then there will be a holiday break—no classes on Dec. 24 and 31.
Resuming Jan. 7, Instructor Richard Sharrard will continue the Texas two-step, a fun, easy and casual country dance, starting at 2 p.m. and the upbeat Latin cha-cha, at 3 p.m. On Jan. 21, the dances will change to fox trot and salsa, and Mitch Tannen will take over teaching for two weeks, until Richard is back on Feb. 4.
Singles and couples are welcome. Dancers rotate. The club especially needs ladies because there are more men than women.
Cost is $6 for one hour, or $10 for two hours. For more information, call Sharrard at 434-6334.
Community Sing
by Ethel Carter
LW contributor
On Dec. 10, Carmen Edwards was the emcee for the Community Sing.
Opening Acts began with Ethel Carter singing “Jing-A-Ling,” followed by Byong Choi, “If You Love Me;” Chuck Zeman, “I Only Have Eyes For You” (a cappella ); Bob Barnum, “Ave Maria” (with his sound box); Jerry Schwind, “You Are My Sunshine”; Pat Kogok, “McNamara’s Band”; and ending with a duet performed by Rita Casacchia and Ethel Carter, “Five Foot Two.”
Pianist Barbara McIlhaney accompanied five of the Opening Acts.
After Opening Acts Carmen led group singing until introducing her half-time guest, Audrey McKenzie. Audrey was dressed in a red and black ensemble—with bling. She has a lovely contralto voice and sang four numbers—“I Believe,” “Rudolph, the Red-Nosed Reindeer,” “Jingle Bells” and “We Wish You a Merry Christmas”—with vigor, inviting audience participation. She was accompanied by McIlhaney. The audience clapped loudly.
Then Carmen led more audience singing and ended the musical evening leading “Kumbaya.”
Many thanks to pianist Barbara McIlhaney and to book lenders Bob Barnum and Walt St. Clair.Special thanks to book transporter, Vito Villamor.
The Community Sing will be dark until Jan. 14.
Healthy Not High class offered at OLLI
Leisure World resident Holly Weber will teach the course Healthy Not High at the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute, CSULB main campus, Room 101. The six-week course will be held on Fridays from 10:45 a.m.-12:15 p.m., beginning Jan. 4 and ending on Feb. 8.
Using the solid research of Raphael Mechoulam, Ph.D., Bonni Goldstein, M.D., and many others, the class will highlight details of cannabis history. It will cover marijuana research done throughout the world. Demystifying the many “dangers” of using the plant will be addressed. When cannabis should not be used and possible medication reactions with it will also be covered.
To register, call 985-8237 or visit www.csulb.edu/centers/olli.
The book “Cannabis Revealed,” (available at Amazon.com) by Dr. Goldstein, will be used as a text.
Weber is a registered nurse, certified brain nutritional counselor and psychotherapist, who provides customized wellness consultations and counseling. She may be reached for an appointment at 430-8245.
SBTV-Channel 3
SBTV-3 airs on TWC-Spectrum Channel 3, Frontier Fios Channel 37 and online streaming at sbtv3.org/schedule. Thursday, Dec. 20
4 pm Celebration of Life—
Keith Baque
4:55 pm Veteran’s Day Celebration
6 pm FALW Fun Karaoke Christmas
7 pm Studio Cafe
8 pm Christmas Story by Joe Osuna
8:10 pm Acapella Holiday SBTV-3
8:30 pm 40th SB Christmas Parade
10 pm Acapella Holidays
10:30 pm Days of Old Long Gone By
Friday, Dec. 21
4 pm The Elf Who Saved Christmas
4:30 pm Halloween Pumpkin Carving
5:20 pm Tommy Williams Sings
5:30 pm Christmas Music with
Fortunato Revilla
5:40 pm Acapella Holiday SBTV-3
6 pm Christmas Harmonica
with Rob Roy
6:30 pm Christmas Story by Joe Osuna
6:40 pm Acapella Holiday SBTV-3
7 pm 40th SB Christmas Parade
Saturday, Dec. 22
4 pm Rockin’ Chairs
6 pm LW Video Producers Club
Christmas Party
6:32 pm Bula Brothers Dec 2018
7 pm Studio Cafe
8 pm Pageant of the Arts 2018
9:10 pm Halloween Pumpkin Carving
Sunday, Dec. 23
4 pm Celebration of Life—
Keith Baque
4:55 pm Veterans Day Celebration
6 pm FALW Fun Karaoke
Christmas 2018
7 pm 40th SB Christmas Parade
Monday, Dec. 24
4 pm The Elf Who Saved Christmas
4:30 pm Halloween Pumpkin Carving
5:20 pm Tommy Williams Sings
5:30 pm Christmas Music
5:40 pm Acapella Holiday SBTV-3
6 pm Christmas Harmonica
6:30 pm Christmas Story by Joe Osuna
6:40 pm Acapella Holiday SBTV-3
Tuesday, Dec. 25
4 pm Rockin’ Chairs
6 pm LW Video Producers Club
Holiday Party
6:32 pm Bula Brothers Dec 2018
7 pm Studio Cafe
8 pm Pageant of the Arts 2018
9:10 pm Halloween Pumpkin Carving
10 pm 40th SB Christmas Parade
Wednesday, Dec. 26
4 pm FALW Fun Karaoke Christmas
4:45 pm Christmas Music with
Fortunato Revilla
4:55 pm Veterans Day Celebration LW
6 pm Acapella Holiday SBTV-3
6:30 pm Halloween Pumpkin Carving
7:20 pm Tommy Williams Sings
GRF Weekly Dance
The Golden Rain Foundation sponsors a weekly dance on Saturdays from 7-10 p.m. in Clubhouse 1.
The Trio will play 40s through 50s ballroom dance on Dec. 22.
The band plays familiar dance songs at a comfortable tempo that dancers like, featuring tango, cha cha, waltz and nightclub two-step music.
The Trio takes requests and if the band doesn’t know the song, members will learn it by their next appearance.
Members include leader Gary Jones, drummer and vocalist Greg Reynolds; and alto and tenor sax Allen Renning.
Jones started playing the piano at age 5 and by his teenage years in the mid-1950s, he was playing piano in groups and backing singers in junior and high school. At the same time, he was taking trombone lessons, and then he played in bands and orchestras as well as small groups. He was a member of the Long Beach Junior Concert Band from 1958-1961. In 1962, Gary enlisted in the Air Force, playing trombone and piano in several bands doing recruiting around the U.S.
From 1970-1980, Gary played the night club circuit around Orange County, leading his own group and playing backup for several singers. He was also the pit band leader at the Harlequin Dinner Playhouse for three years. Since 1980, he has been doing piano backup in duos, trios and big band gigs. For the last 25 years, Gary has played in The Trio, recently taking the position of leader.
Greg Reynolds, drummer and vocalist, was born in LA in 1955 and has been a musician in Orange and L.A. counties since the early 1970s. He was a music major at Cal State Fullerton and has been a CPA since 1980. Greg has performed in various jazz, concert and rock bands over the years. He has been playing drums in the Trio with Gary Jones over the past five years, providing ballroom dancing for various organizations throughout Southern California.
Allen Renning, alto and tenor sax, began playing saxophone at age 8. He played in junior and high school bands for six years and was with the Junior Concert Band from 1957-1961. He studied the clarinet and flute while attending Long Beach State in the 1960s.
Allen started playing the baritone saxophone with a big band (swing band) in 1956, moving to a jazz quintet in 1961 and on to rock and roll bands from 1962-1970.
He continued with jazz combos and small dance combos in the 1970s, back to big bands in the 1980s and back to smaller groups from 1987 to the present. In addition to The Trio, he is currently playing with the 16-piece Max Bishop Big Band
The GRF Recreation Department asks residents and their guests to adhere to the following rules:
• Do not park on the east side of Clubhouse 1. Parking for the clubhouse is across Golden Rain Road at the golf course or on Burning Tree Lane.
• People must be out of the clubhouse no later than 10 p.m.
• Only the bands can make announcements from the stage.
• Everyone should sign in, either as a resident or guest.
Copper Enameling Class Canceled
The Lapidary copper enameling class scheduled on Dec. 28 has been canceled. The classes will resume in January.
Lapidary Club has new officers
The LW Lapidary and Jewelry Club held its 2018 Christmas luncheon Dec. 10 in Clubhouse 4, Room A. The event was attended by over 50 members and guests. Dan Stormquist, club president in 2018, officially handed over the reigns to new president, Dean Jacobus.
In accepting the post, Jacobus briefly discussed his plans and vision for the Lapidary Club in 2019. He recognized the many talents of the Lapidary Club members and would like to develop plans to grow the club and re-organize its shop.
In addition to the catered lunch, there were raffles to raise funds for the club and spice up the event. The prizes were donated by club members Alice Sioson, Yvette Louie, Edy Jianto, Nelson Melville, Do Thuy and President Jacobus. The featured raffle prize was a white Christmas tree decorated by members with their own artistic creations. The Christmas tree raffle prize was won by Dan Stormquist. The board meeting followed after the lunch.
Everyone is invited to attend classes like glass fusion, beading and copper enameling. Sign-up sheets are at the Lapidary Club shop in Clubhouse 4. The Lapidary shop also has machines and tools for glass cutting, gemstone faceting, raw gemstone cutting, grinders, kiln, etc.
Hui O Hula
Hui O Hula, LW’s Hawaiian dance club, is taking the holidays off. Classes will resume on Monday, Jan. 7, at 10 a.m. and Tuesday, Jan. 8, at 1:15 p.m., both upstairs in Clubhouse 6. Everyone is welcome to one or both days regardless of skill level.
In class, dancers imagine themselves on a sunny beach under coco palms in Hawai’i. It is a fun and relaxing way to “travel” and spend time with fellow dancers.
The Walk-in Hula-out class will be offered every Monday at 10 a.m. In this class, simply follow the leaders and sway along to traditional Hawaiian music. New hula will be introduced. Anyone who is interested in telling a story in dance may come and audit the free classes.
As the year is drawing to an end, instructor Jojo Weingart thanks class leader Yo Kishi and the dancers who take time out of their busy lives to perform throughout the year.
The aloha spirit, colorful costumes and hula dance bring plenty of joy to people. Hui O Hula wishes to continue the tradition in 2019.
Anyone who cares to join is most welcome.
LW Poetry
This poetry feature showcases original poems by members of the Creative Writers Club of Leisure World and other GRF members.
The Year of the Miracle
Life is busy, full of music, friends and activities
In the midst of it all the diagnosis of cancer
Where did that come from? There’s no family history!
Tests, X-rays, ultra sounds, biopsies, scans, Stage 4
What happened to my music, my friends my activities?
Suddenly priorities change, weariness sets in, focus is diverted
Prayer, lots of prayer! From friends, family and church
Positive outlook is the answer, keep looking forward, expecting the best.
With little notice it’s time for the 3-month check
Anticipation is sprinkled with a little fear and lots of prayer
The report comes back – “No evidence of disease recurrence
The previous specified abnormal activity is no longer present!”
Yes, I believe in God. Yes, I believe in prayer.
Yes, I believe in miracles because I just experienced one!
I am overwhelmed with gratitude. I am humbled beyond measure
Life is busy, full of music, friends and activities
But now it’s different, I feel special. I want to shout to the rooftops
I know God has a plan for my life and so I wait
Knowing there will be new and wonderful things for me to do
Thank you God for my miracle!
—Nancy Maggio