LWW 01-07-20 Trans/Vie

 Jan 7 2021

GRF Board votes to continue shutdown

At a special emergency meeting on Dec. 30, the Golden Rain Foundation Board of Directors voted 13-5 to continue the shutdown of outdoor amenities pending a Jan. 22 special meeting, when the issue will be reconsidered.

The golf course, Veterans Plaza, the Amphitheater for religious services and Mission Park facilities will remain closed amid a worsening outbreak of COVID-19 cases that has ambulances lined up 15 deep at local hospitals, and overflowing emergency and ICU rooms.

The Dec. 30 meeting drew more than 30 residents, mostly golfers, all in favor of reopening the course. 

The board sympathized with speakers, acknowledging the importance of outside exercise to maintain health. 

The majority of directors, however, agreed that safeguarding this vulnerable community takes top priority, so facilities will remain closed to try to slow the COVID-19 spread.

The matter will be reconsidered at a special meeting on Jan. 22 at 1 p.m. in Clubhouse 4 that will also be livestreamed. 

At that meeting, each venue will be considered individually to determine if the time is right to reopen that particular site.

On Nov. 25, the board closed amenities after briefly reopening them as the number of COVID-19 cases in Orange County began to climb with no end in sight, and neighboring Los Angeles County’s counts had reached historic highs. Since then, the board has met twice, on Dec. 21 and Dec. 30, to reconsider reopening facilities. 

At the Dec. 30 meeting, residents, mostly golfers, were clearly disappointed at the vote to keep amenities closed. Before the vote, 14 people paraded to the podium, some unmasked while speaking, to tell the board that they want the course open now. 

They reasoned that most other area golf courses are open, that outdoor exercise is essential to health, that there are practices to make golfing safer, and “the safest place to be is outdoors.”

“I need to be out and about to stay healthy,” said Ron Steele, an avid golfer from Mutual 3. “Normally I’m out two to three times a week. Now, on the outside, it’s once a week,” he said, adding that he believes it is safer to play in LW where COVID exposure is less likely.

Several directors spoke about being torn between opening amenities and continuing the shut-down, given the gravity of the situation. Directors Paul Pratt, Tony Dodero, Carol Levine, Lee Melody and Phil Friedman supported the motion to reopen, but the majority were adamantly opposed.

One GRF director quoted Dr. Nancy Smith, a Health Care Center physician, as saying, “There seems to be a lot of angst about the vaccine, so I wanted to share for a minute what it means to me:  Some people like me think of the vaccine as a golden ticket, and I will tell you why. I will be able to sleep at night instead of worrying that COVID is going to race through Leisure World hurting so many people that I care about.”  

Those remarks articulated the position of the board majority, that a doctor who treats LW friends and neighbors is losing sleep worrying about how COVID will affect the community. 

Directors cited a “COVID reality” that requires everyone to wear masks, maintain a social distance of at least 6 feet, have social events online or in other safer, distant ways to combat loneliness, and go without certain activities because they can increase risk of spreading the virus. 

GRF directors acknowledged that it is unknown how prevalent COVID-19  is in LW because the Orange County Health Care Agency doesn’t break out those numbers but it’s reasonable to assume it is here. 

The number of reported cases in Seal Beach has continued to escalate day by day. As of Jan. 5, 746 cases had been reported. 

Since Leisure World makes up about one-third of the Seal Beach population, it’s likely cases are on the rise here as well. The fatality rate is highest among people aged 84 years and up.

Seal Beach at large has a large population of people who are at high risk for coronavirus. Of the 24,119 Seal Beach residents (U.S. Census 2019), 9,479 or about 40 percent are over the age of 65, according to the city. 

In an effort to safeguard everyone as soon as possible, the GRF is working with the Orange County Health Care Agency to obtain the COVID-19 vaccine for all residents. To that end, the GRF is seeking to host a Point of Distribution, which will allow for a mass inoculation within LW.

Amenity and vaccine updates will be published in the LW Weekly and sent out via LW Live as soon as they become available. 

Despite the dire situation, GRF director Leah Perrotti summed up everyone’s hope for the future: “‘This too shall pass,’ is an old Persian saying that may have originated with the poet Rumi. Abraham Lincoln was a fan of this line because it is true and appropriate in all times and situations. Lincoln said ‘How much it expresses. How consoling in the depths of affliction!’”

For more information, contact kathyt@lwsb.com. 

—Kathy Thayer, assistant recreation manager, 

and Ruth Osborn, managing editor

New year brings new laws

California has new traffic laws pertaining to good samaritans, cell phone usage and more that are set to go into effect in 2021. The new laws were released mid-December by the California Highway Patrol. They went into effect Jan. 1, unless otherwise noted. 

Emergency Vehicle Safety

Drivers are now required to slow down or change lanes when approaching stationary emergency vehicles with emergency lights, such as a tow truck or Caltrans vehicle,on local streets and roads. Until now, such slowing was only required on freeways.

This law is designed to protect law enforcement officials or first responders who may be outside of their vehicles while responding to emergencies.  

Unattended Children 

Bystanders and passersby will not face civilor criminal liability for damaging vehicles  to remove unattended children, age 6 or younger, who are in immediate danger from heat, cold, lack of ventilation or other dangerous circumstances.

Distracted Driving

Beginning July 1, driving while using a cell phone “in a handheld manner” will result in a point being added to a driver’s record. The penalty applies if the violation is the second to occur within 36 months of being convicted of the same offense.

Four points within 12 months, six within 24 months or eight within 36 months could lead to a suspended license, according to the California Department of Motor Vehicles.

The law pertains to anyone caught talking on the phone or texting while driving unless they’re using a hands-free device. Anyone under the age of 18 cannot use any devices while driving.

Emergency Vehicle Alerts

Authorized emergency vehicles will be allowed to use a “Hi-Lo” warning sound, which is different from a siren. It will be used to notify the public of an immediate need to evacuate an area for an emergency. 

 License Plates for Veterans

The California Department of Motor Vehicles also announced changes that will benefit veterans of the United States military.

Eligible disabled veterans may verify eligibility for special or distinguishing license plates or a disabled person parking placard if they present certification from the California Department of Veterans Affairs or a county veterans services officer. 

Previously, the DMV only accepted certification from the United States Department of Veterans Affairs in the absence of a medical certificate.

The DMV also will waive applicable knowledge and driving skills tests required for a commercial driver’s license if the applicant is a current or former member of the United States Armed Forces licensed to drive large trucks. They need to qualify for the Troops to Trucks or Military Even Exchange program. 

For more information on California driving law:

• http://www.dmv.ca.gov

• http://www.chp.ca.gov

State extends stay-at-home order

On Dec. 29, the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) announced that the Southern California Region will remain under the State of California’s “Regional Stay-at-Home Order.” 

The County of Orange, along with 10 other Southern California Counties, were originally placed under the State’s Regional Stay-at-Home Order on Dec. 3.

As a result, Orange County residents will continue to be required to stay at home as much as possible and not gather with other households to reduce exposure due to our region’s available intensive care unit (ICU) capacity being under 15 percent.

The Southern California Region may come out of the Stay-at-Home Order if at such time hospital ICU capacity projected four weeks out reaches above or equal to 15 percent.

Then, individual counties, including Orange County, will return to the appropriate Blueprint for a Safer Economy tier as determined by case rate and test positivity. If the ICU capacity for the Southern California Region is less than 15 percent after the three-week period, the ICU capacity will be assessed weekly to determine when the order can be lifted.

There are several steps Orange County residents can do at this time:

1. Get tested for COVID-19.

OC Health Care Agency officials are urging residents, especially those with any symptoms, to get tested for the virus.

COVID-19 testing is now widely available across the county for those who are symptomatic or asymptomatic, with or without insurance, at no cost. Testing takes only a few minutes, and results generally come back within two to three days.

If you test positive for COVID-19, stay home and let close contacts know. A close contact is someone you were within 6 feet for at least 15 minutes within a 24-hour period during the infectious period.

2. Stay home if you don’t feel well.

Consult with a health care provider. If you do not have a health care provider, call the OC Health Care Agency’s Health Referral Line at 1(800) 564- 8448.

3. Stay home when possible.

When you leave the house, avoid crowds and stay 6 feet apart from people not in your household.

4. Do not gather.

Do not mix households at this time.

5. Wear a face covering.

Wear a face covering when you are around people not in your household, especially when indoors.

6. Wash your hands often.

Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.

7. Avoid Touching Your Eyes, Nose and Mouth with Unwashed Hands

8. Clean and Disinfect Frequently Touched Surfaces

For questions related to COVID-19, contact the Orange County COVID-19 Hotline at 1(833) 426-6411, visit http://www.ochealthinfo.com/novelcoronavirus, or follow the HCA on Facebook (@ochealthinfo) and Twitter (@ochealth).

COVID-19 News Update

First Reported COVID-19 Variant

• The first reported U.S. case of the COVID-19 variant that’s been seen in the United Kingdom has been discovered in Colorado, Gov. Jared Polis announced Dec. 30, adding urgency to efforts to vaccinate Americans.

According to news reports, the variant was found in a man in his 20s who is in isolation southeast of Denver in Elbert County and has no travel history, state health officials said. Rural Elbert County is at the far edge of the Denver metro area that includes a portion of Interstate 70, the state’s main east-west highway.

The Colorado State Laboratory confirmed the virus variant and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention was notified.

Scientists in the U.K. believe the variant is more contagious than previously identified strains. The vaccines being given now are thought to be effective against the variant, Colorado health officials said in a news release.

For the moment, the variant is likely still rare in the U.S., but it has probably been seeded by travelers from Britain in November or December, according to scientists studying the virus.

Public health officials are investigating other potential cases and performing contact tracing to determine the spread of the variant throughout the state.

CDC data says that more than 11.4 million doses of vaccine have been distributed and 2.1 million people had received a first dose as of last week. 

•••

Stay-at-Home Order tied to Dwindling Hospital Capacity

Southern California’s dwindling intensive care capacity prompted state health officials to extend the region’s stay-at-home order, Gov. Gavin Newsom announced Dec. 29.

That means indoor spaces at restaurants, fitness centers and many other businesses and public sectors will stay closed.

New four-week projections, which are  updated each day, predict that the ICU capacity in the Southern California hospitals will remain at or near 0 percent.

Experts predict that ICU capacity will not improve, and demand will continue to exceed capacity. 

Mini farm forum scheduled

Effective Jan. 1, the Golden Rain Foundation assumed management of the Mini Farm at 1.8 acres. Prior to this time, operations were overseen by the Mini Farmers Club, which still exists for those choosing to join, although it is no longer a requirement to be assigned a garden plot.

With so many changes, some confusion and many questions have arisen, so the GRF Recreation Committee has scheduled an informational forum at 1 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 21. Shareholder/members may participate via Zoom if they want to speak, or they may choose to watch the meeting online, which will be livestreamed at www.lwsb.com/livestream. 

The Recreation Department is requesting questions be submitted via email no later than Jan. 20 to minifarm@lwsb.com. Those who want to participate via Zoom should send their requests to the same email address by the same date, as space will be limited. 

After the meeting, the recorded version will be uploaded to lwsb.com for interested parties to view at their leisure.

In the interim, many questions can be answered by viewing the Mini Farm website. The new policy, as well as the new lease, can be accessed at https://www.lwsb.com/mini-farm/. 

The Recreation Department looks forward to helping mini farmers navigate the new rules and relieving any concerns.

For more information, email minifarm@lwsb.com.  

—Kathy Thayer, assistant recreation manager

Public input wanted on OCTA emergency prep survey

The Orange County Transportation Authority is continuing its efforts to ensure county residents, workers and visitors can keep moving even in the event of a natural disaster and is asking for public input to help in this ongoing effort.

OCTA’s Hazard Mitigation Plan is designed to support existing emergency and crisis management plans. 

Those who use OCTA services—including OC Bus, Metrolink commuter rail, OC Flex and OC ACCESS paratransit service—are asked to help update the plan by completing a brief survey at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/HR85JM9.

The 13-question online survey is available in English, Spanish and Vietnamese and will be online through tomorrow, Jan. 8.

The valuable public input received will help OCTA better plan for how to keep services running in the event of natural disasters such as flooding, an earthquake or wildfire. 

Completing the plan will also help OCTA qualify for federal funding opportunities that will allow for enhanced measures to prepare for such natural disasters. 

For more information on OCTA programs and services, visit www.octa.net.

The Orange County Transportation Authority is the county transportation planning commission, responsible for funding and implementing transit and capital projects for a balanced and sustainable transportation system that reflects the diverse travel needs of the county’s 34 cities and 3.2 million residents. 

With the mission of keeping Orange County moving, this includes freeways and express lanes, bus and rail transit, rideshare, commuter rail, environmental programs, and active transportation.

Sign up for LW Live

Sign up for the GRF’s one-way, real time community notification system. LW Live will keep you informed during emergencies and get the word out about safety, recreation and governance issues. 

All you need is an email address. To sign up online, log onto www.lwsb.com and click the “LW Live” icon to the right.  

Medicare Scam Watch

As the country begins to distribute COVID-19 vaccines, there’s no doubt scammers are already scheming. Medicare covers the COVID-19 vaccine, so there will be no cost to you. If anyone asks you to share your Medicare number or pay for access to the vaccine, you can bet it’s a scam.

Here’s what to know:

• You can’t pay to put your name on a list to get the vaccine.

• You can’t pay to get early access to a vaccine.

• Don’t share your personal or financial information if someone calls, texts or emails you promising access to the vaccine for a fee.

If you come across a COVID-19 vaccine scam, report it to the Federal Trade Commission or call 1-800-MEDICARE. And check out CDC.gov for trustworthy information on the COVID-19 vaccine.

-—Medicare.gov

Gov Newsom pledges faster vaccine rollout

About 612,000 more coronavirus vaccine doses are headed to California as state officials try to speed up the rollout.

On Jan. 4, Gov. Gavin Newsom said the state’s  inoculation program, which began Dec. 14, should be more efficient in coming weeks.

As of Jan. 3, about 454,000 doses had been administered, about a third of the nearly 1.3 million Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna vaccines the state has received so far, according to news reports.

 The state is preparing to add more distribution sites and authorize more medical professionals to give shots, such as dentists, pharmacy technicians and members of the National Guard, according to Newsom.

California is in the first leg of its vaccination campaign—Phase 1A-—which includes about 3 million frontline medical workers and residents of nursing homes and assisted living facilities.

Technicians and nurses with pharmacy chains CVS and Walgreens are tasked with vaccinating long-term care facility residents and staff. 

The next leg, Phase 1B, will be split in two: First up will be people age 75 and older and high-risk workers such as teachers, childcare workers and more emergency services personnel. 

Next will be people ages 65-74, prisoners, homeless and high-risk workers in transportation, industrial, commercial, residential and “critical” manufacturing sectors.

It is not clear when the next phase will begin.

Phase 1C is expected to include people age 50 and older, and people ages 16-64 with underlying medical conditions or a disability that increases their risk of a severe coronavirus case. The third phase also includes workers in sectors such as energy, water, defense, communications and government operations. 

The state’s Community Vaccine Advisory Committee met Jan. 6 to decide more details related to Phase 1C, Newsom said.

State officials have said shots should be widely available to the general public by early summer.

CAP Food Distribution

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 Jan. 21.

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 $1,354 a month for one person; $1,832 for a two-person household; and $2,311 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.

2021 SBPD Cares Campaign

For 2021, the Seal Beach Police Department wants to remind the community that it CARES. 

Seal Beach Police Chief Philip L. Gonshak said this year’s focus will be on the community, and how the SBPD will continue to “CARE” for the Seal Beach community:

•C—Community Traffic Safety: SBPD will continue to focus on community traffic safety.

By reorganizing the SBPD Traffic Bureau, it will be able to direct the traffic resources already at its disposal. Traffic enforcement officers will be reactive and proactive, responding to community complaints and safety issues as they arise. The department will target specific traffic trends in need of enforcement efforts such as street racing, commercial enforcement and Leisure World issues.

•A-—Always Listening and Learning: The SBPD is dedicated to listening and learning from the community. 

It will collaborate with the community to determine exactly what they expect from their police department and how we can work together to improve community relations.

•R—Responsive to Quality-of-Life Issues: Besides working to drive down crime in Seal Beach, the department will also continue to focus on quality-of-life issues and respond to all calls for service, regardless of the nature.

•E—Enhance Partnerships with Residents, Businesses and Visitors: The department will improve the level and efficiency of the service it provides through enhanced community partnerships. 

Opportunities for community outreach will be organized with the objective of seeking input on new and continuing local issues for global-based strategies and problem-solving.

•S-—Strengthen Relationships with McGaugh Students and Faculty: SBPD will provide opportunities for positive interactions with McGaugh students, parents, faculty and the SBPD staff.

“We are very excited for a busy and productive 2021,” said Chief Gonshak. “The year 2020 brought many challenges that we worked diligently to overcome and I cannot thank the hardworking men and women of the Seal Beach Police Department enough for all their efforts.

“We also want to thank the Seal Beach City Council for approving the Seal Beach Police Department Reorganization Plan and City Manager Jill Ingram for her support and guidance along the way. 

“I know there will be new challenges in 2021, but we look forward to working with the community on new and innovative strategies to help protect Seal Beach.”

To learn more about the ways to connect with the SBPD,  follow it on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.

Community Hospital reopened Jan. 4

Long Beach’s Community Hospital reopened on Jan. 4 and is ready to accept patients, according to hospital representatives.

 The facility opened with 11 intensive care beds and space for 40 other patients as hospitals across the region scrambled to manage the ongoing surge of coronavirus patients, according to a news report in the Long Beach Press-Telegram.

Community Hospital will not initially treat coronavirus patients. It will focus on transfer patients with other health issues to help make room for more coronavirus-related care across the region.

Over the weekend, several area hospitals declared “internal disasters,” meaning they face extreme conditions that could put patients at risk, such as severe staffing shortages. 

According to the Orange County Health Care Agency, 2,178 patients are being treated at Orange County hospitals, with 500 of them in intensive care units; in Los Angeles County, 7,898 patients were being treated, 1,627 of them in the ICU.

Southern California’s ICU bed capacity, as determined by a state formula, remains at 0 percent. 

Orange County has 33 percent of its ventilators available, according to the agency.

All of the county’s metrics remain within the state’s most- restrictive, purple tier of the four-tier coronavirus monitoring system.

State officials have warned that January could be the worst month of the pandemic.

Community Hospital has hired more than 130 employees and continues to recruit physicians, nurses and staff for other positions.

More staffing will be necessary to eventually treat patients in all 158 beds that Community Hospital was licensed for before it shut down.

Officials expect, though, that Community Hospital’s emergency room department can reopen in March.

The hospital shut down in the summer of 2018, after its former operator, MemorialCare, determined a state-required seismic retrofit would be too costly for the facility to remain financially viable.

California LifeLine Available

California LifeLine provides discounted home phone and cell phone services to qualified households. Only one California LifeLine discounted phone is allowed per household (except for teletypewriter users and for Deaf and Disabled Telecommunications Program participants). The California LifeLine discounts can only be for the individual’s primary residence. 

Each household must choose to get the discount either on a home phone or on a cell phone, but not on both. Households cannot get the discount from multiple phone companies. Qualifiers must renew annually to receive their discount. 

Free cell phones and service are provided through different carriers upon qualification. Cell phone providers  have varying data packages.

How to Qualify:

Residents may qualify for California LifeLine in one of two ways; either program-based or income-based. Documentation of proof of eligibility is required. Submit copies of proof of eligibility with the completed and signed application.

Examples:

Program-based qualification may include:

•Enrollment in Medi-Cal, LIHEAP, SSI, Cal Fresh, Federal Veterans and Survivors Pension Benefit programs.

•Income-based qualifications for a household size of up to two people is $28,700 (annual income limit equals gross income before taxes, including Social Security payments, pensions, etc.).

 For more information and assistance, contact California LifeLine at (866) 272-0349.

People who do not qualify for the LifeLine Program may qualify for senior discounts with phone/cable/Internet company. Call your provider directly to inquire about senior discounts and/or eligibility for reduced fees for these services.

For more information or assistance with this program or others, contact GRF Member Resource Liaison, Cindy Tostado, LCSW, at 431-6586, ext. 317.

LA County requires quarantining after travel

Because of the likelihood of exposure to COVID-19 while traveling outside of L.A. County, everyone who traveled or is planning to travel into L.A. County must quarantine for 10 days. 

If you start to experience any symptoms or have a positive test, isolate for 10 days and until you are fever-free for 24 hours. 

The best way to safely quarantine is to not leave your home or allow any visitors to your home, and to find others who can help you buy groceries and other essential necessities.

If you need help during your self-quarantine, such as finding assistance to help get groceries, there are resources available by calling 2-1-1 or visiting the public health website.  

Perspectives page 4

Letters to Editor

Editor:

I was disappointed with the results that kept the golf course completely shut down along with Veterans Plaza and the Amphitheater. 

I agree with the director at the end who said he was sorry that the golf course was not discussed separately. I was an avid golfer until I gave it up 25 years ago.  In my experience, I needed to play at least two or three times per week or I would lose many of my skills.  As a senior, I am sure it is much harder to maintain a steady level of play. There are many exercise classes and religious programs on Zoom and the Internet.  Not a complete substitute, but these can be obtained in the home. This is not practical for golf where you are hitting the ball out 50-150 yards with no one around you.  It seems like there could be some type of task force to determine how these people can play.  Maybe only one person at a time or only those in a household. Maintain distance—even 12 feet would be easy to obtain. 

I am sure even harsh restrictions would be welcome to serious golfers.  I think it is less safe to have all these golfers playing all over Orange County and Los Angeles County, where golf is open, and then bringing anything they may catch back to Leisure World.

Tom Funkhouser

Mutual 14

Editor:

Thank you to the Golden Rain Foundation Board of Directors for understanding the need to ratchet down community spread of the COVID-19 virus (in an emergency GRF meeting) on Dec. 30. We are in the “community phase” of the pandemic. 

The virus is becoming widespread. 

Health experts said the second phase of the virus would be worse than the first one. This has come true.

I don’t like it, but I think experts are correct. Cases are doubling every six weeks. How can this be?  

Please isolate now so we can see our families within the next 60-90 days, enjoy our grandchildren attending school again, and help medical, healthcare and all employees have a decent workweek and future.  

Essential workers are getting sick and dying while we wait for vaccines to take effect.  I have two children categorized as essential workers. Let’s stay cautious to help stop others from dying this winter. 

“Outdoor amenities” can resume in 60-90 days after we have more ICU beds available and less workers getting sick.   

Thank you for the tough but thoughtful approach to helping LW residents survive until spring. 

Camille Thompson

Mutual 8

Editor: 

Resilience is one of my New Year’s resolutions. It will help tremendously in coping with the coronavirus pandemic.   

I will consume more fruits, vegetables, fish, turkey, chicken and legumes, and take it easy on sweets, soduim, red meat and fats.

I will enjoy listening to music and dance to the Celtic Thunder’s joyful music for 30 minutes of exercise, read, continue to work on my project, tend to my plants and enjoy shopping while observing the social distance and virtually socializing with family friends and associates. 

My papa always reminded us  that prevention is better than a cure, cherished advice that I  practice. Papa was a medical tech for the U.S. Army.

Amazingly, words of wisdom from my parents continue to help me get through this pandemic.  

Happy, healthy new year to all.

Lisa A.Dickson

Mutual 1

Start with 2-1-1 for help with local resources

by Cindy Tostado, LCSW

GRF Member Resources/Assistance Liaison

211 OC is a free, confidential HelpLine that connects people across North America with the local resources they need. By calling 2-1-1, 888-600-4357 (toll free) or  (949) 646-4357 (local) you will be connected to a trained Information and Referral Specialist who can help you navigate your situation by assessing your needs and linking you to the most appropriate resource in your community.  Service is available 24/7 and offered in over 170 languages.

Examples of resources may include, but not limited to:

• Bills/Financial Support

• Food

• Crisis Services

• Transportation

• Mental Health

• Substance Abuse

• Legal Assistance

• Housing

When you are at a loss as to where to start, one phone call can help point you in the right direction. 

Be well and stay safe!

Member Column

by Jim Greer

LW contributor

I decided some time ago that I needed to bring another woman into my life—someone who would listen to me and make my life easier. Friends had recommended a special someone that they said was smart, modern and tech-savvy. I was told she would respond quickly to my demands, anticipate my desires, and show genuine interest in my favorite music and movies. 

Being the independent and practical man I am, I arranged to have her brought to my home. 

From the first day she arrived, she only spoke when spoken to. She would follow me into nearly every room in the house. My favorite music, news and movies were ready whenever I asked for them, and she even began tracking my online purchases and letting me know when they were delivered. 

At first, it was great. So easy to talk to, she did almost everything I asked and never argued with me. She even made helpful recommendations when she thought she knew what I wanted or would identify things I couldn’t remember.

Then, I discovered that she was eavesdropping during my conversations with others. She started interrupting me while I was talking, assuming that I was talking to her. Once she started talking, it wasn’t easy to get her to stop. She would ignore whatever I said and refuse to respond to me unless I addressed her by her formal name.

The strange thing was that my wife wasn’t even a bit jealous of me having another woman in the house. Yes, my wife of 44 years would openly laugh when this “other woman” would talk back to me, ignore me or not respond at all. 

One day, I caught the two of them talking when I wasn’t in the room. They seemed to have some close connection that I had never anticipated. In time, it seemed she preferred my wife’s conversation to mine. 

Before I knew it, my wife got the same service and consideration from her as I was, only better! 

Just the other day, I asked my other woman to find one of my favorite recordings that I knew she was familiar with, and she said she couldn’t find it. It was then that I knew something was up. I asked her again, and she refused to answer. It was then that I knew that my wife had gotten to her and turned her against me. 

Oh, yeah, she still lets me know when packages arrive, the weather forecast and responds positively to the simplest of requests and questions. But there is a bothersome attitude behind that smooth voice of hers. She doesn’t raise her voice, but I can tell behind the calm, soothing voice of hers that there’s something sinister going on behind my back.

I’ve attempted to send her back to where I found her. Unfortunately, Amazon won’t let me return her unless there is something physically wrong with her. And according to my wife, Alexa is the best friend she’s ever had.

Letters Policy

Letters to the Editor should include your name, Mutual number and phone number, and be emailed to rutho_news@lwsb.com or typed and delivered to the LW Weekly office. 

Letters must be of general interest to the community and may contain opinions, suggestions, compliments and complaints without being scurrilous, libelous, defamatory, repetitive or otherwise inappropriate. The names of individual employees, titles and/or departments will not be permitted in letters that could adversely impact any Foundation employee directly or indirectly.

Dispose of Christmas Trees

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.

Government

Recap of Special GRF Board Activity, Dec. 30, 2020

General—Reopening—Active Outdoor Amenities and Amphitheater (for
Religious Services)

MOVED and failed to approve to reopen Veterans Plaza, the Golf Course, the Amphitheater (for religious purposes), the Bocce Ball court and the multipurpose court, effective Dec. 30, 2020, or as soon thereafter as Recreation Staff are available.

MOVED and failed to approve to reconsider the status of current closures (Veterans Plaza, the Golf Course, the Amphitheater—for religious purposes, the Bocce Ball court and the multipurpose court) at a Special GRF Board of Directors meeting on Jan. 11.

MOVED and approved to reconsider the individual status of current closures (Veterans Plaza, the Golf Course, the Amphitheater—for religious purposes, the Bocce Ball court and the multipurpose court) at a Special GRF Board of Directors meeting on Jan. 22, 2021.

Mutual Meetings 

Mutual residents are invited to attend the open meetings of their mutual boards (schedule subject to change). 

Fri., Jan. 8 Mutual 3

virtual 9 a.m.

Mon., Jan. 11 Mutual 9

virtual 9 a.m.

Wed., Jan. 13 Mutual 4 (open forum, 9:15 a.m.)

virtual 9:30 a.m.

Thurs., Jan. 14 Mutual 12

virtual 9 a.m.

Tues., Jan. 19 Mutual 15

virtual 9 a.m.

Tues., Jan. 19 Mutual 14

virtual 1 p.m.

Wed., Jan. 20 Mutual 5

virtual 9 a.m.

Wed., Jan. 20 Mutual 7

virtual 1 p.m.

Thurs., Jan. 21 Mutual 2

virtual 9 a.m.

Thurs., Jan. 21 Mutual 11

virtual 1:30 p.m.

Fri., Jan. 22 Mutual 6

virtual 9:30 a.m.

LW Community Guide 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic delayed the production of the LW Community Guide in 2020. If there are any changes to your information for the White Pages from 2019, or if you weren’t included in 2019 but want to be in 2021, contact pattym@lwsb.com with your name and address and/or phone number. 

Street Sweeping

GRF trust streets are swept on the fourth Thursday of the month. Parked vehicles must be removed from trust streets before midnight the night before. 

Contact Mutual directors to find out when your carports are scheduled for sweeping.

GRF Meetings 

Golden Rain Foundation committee and board meetings are open to Leisure World residents. The following is a tentative schedule. Public health and safety measures will be in place to protect membership and staff, with limited in-person seating at Clubhouse 4. Physical distancing and wearing a face mask are required.

Fri., Jan. 8 Executive Committee

Clubhouse 4 1 p.m.

Mon., Jan. 11 Mutual Administration Committee

Clubhouse 4 1 p.m.

Tues., Jan. 12 GRF Board Executive Session

virtual 1 p.m.

Wed., Jan. 13 Security, Bus & Traffic Committee

Clubhouse 4 1 p.m.

Thurs., Jan. 14 Communications/IT Committee

Clubhouse 4 1 p.m.

Fri., Jan. 15 Finance Committee

Clubhouse 4 10 a.m.

Tues., Jan. 19 Website Ad Hoc Committee

Clubhouse 4 1 p.m.

Fri., Jan. 22 GRF Board Special Session

Clubhouse 4 1 p.m.

Tues., Jan. 26 GRF Board Monthly Meeting

Clubhouse 4 10 a.m.

Fri., Jan. 29 GRF Board Special Session

Clubhouse 4 1 p.m.

Mon., Feb. 1 Recreation Committee

Clubhouse 4 1 p.m.

Wed., Feb. 3 Governing Document Committee

Clubhouse 4 10 a.m.

Wed., Feb. 3 Physical Property Committee

Clubhouse 4 1 p.m.

Thurs., Feb. 4 COVID-19 Ad Hoc Committee

Clubhouse 4 1 p.m.

Fri., Feb. 5 GRF Board Executive Session

Clubhouse 4 1 p.m.

Mon., Feb. 8 Mutual Administration Committee

Clubhouse 4 9 a.m.

Health & Fitness

Practicing mindful meditation can reduce stress

By Patty Marsters

pattym@lwsb.com

With the New Year just begun—and with not much having changed (wasn’t everything supposed to be better in 2021?)—it’s easy to fall prey to sadness and disappointment. And that can be stressful. 

Meditation may help. The practice requires people to sit or lie down, relax their muscles, and attempt to clear their minds. “When you meditate, in general, the breath slows down, heart rate slows, blood pressure decreases, stress decreases, digestive function improves and the sense of tension in the body decreases,” Dr. Stephanie Cheng of the University of California San Francisco’s Department of Medicine told U.S. News & World Report.

Meditation has also been known to help control pain, improve sleep, strengthen attention spans and slow memory loss.

There are many forms of meditation, among them transcendental, centering, guided and mindfulness. The latter involves concentrating on the present moment and blocking out any judgments or fears of the past or future. 

Practitioners suggest wearing comfortable clothing and finding a quiet space to sit, whether on a chair or on the floor. The head, neck and back should be straight but not stiff; limbs should be relaxed. Breathe naturally, but pay attention to the air moving in and out of the body. As the mind wanders, take note of the thoughts, but then refocus on breaths and let the moments pass. In Psychology Today, Dr. Karen Kissel Wegela writes, “Remember that mindfulness meditation is about practicing being mindful of whatever happens. It is NOT about getting ourselves to stop thinking.” 

Those new to meditation should consider setting a timer for 10 or 15 minutes—long enough to relax and release stress, but not so long as to cause stress on the body, such as stiffness. The important part is to find peace. “We are trying to be with ourselves as we already are,” Wegela writes, “not trying to change ourselves into some preconceived notion of how we ought to be instead.”

Meals on Wheels, Long Beach

Meals on Wheels of Long Beach Inc. delivers freshly cooked meals Monday-Friday, between 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Deliveries include an 8-ounce carton of 1 percent milk. An alternate dessert is available for those on a diabetic diet. Contact Caron Adler at (562) 439-5000, ext. 2, or visit www.mowlb.org to complete an online application. To cancel a meal for the following day, you must contact Adler before 9 a.m. the prior business day. Menu is subject to change without notice. 

Thursday, Jan. 7: Roasted turkey with sage gravy, herb whole-grain stuffing, and Brussels sprouts; fresh banana; roast beef-and-cheese sandwich, with lettuce, tomato and pickle, plus homemade macaroni salad. 

Friday, Jan. 8: Chili relleno casserole, Spanish rice and pinto beans; fresh orange; taco salad, with shredded chicken, diced tomato, corn, black beans, cheese, cilantro and salsa dressing, plus crackers.

Monday, Jan. 11: Beef teriyaki, brown rice and Oriental vegetables; applesauce with cinnamon; chicken salad sandwich, with spinach and tomato, plus homemade macaroni salad.

Tuesday, Jan. 12: Oven-baked chicken leg and thigh, mashed sweet potatoes, and cauliflower; vanilla-chocolate swirl pudding; entrée Greek chicken salad, with tomato, olives, cucumber, feta cheese and vinaigrette dressing, plus crackers.

Wednesday, Jan. 13: Stuffed bell peppers, garlic-and-chive mashed potatoes, and peas with onions and pimentos; fresh pear; ham-and-cheese sandwich, with lettuce, tomato and pickle, plus tricolor pasta salad.

Drive-Through COVID Testing

The Orange County Health Care Agency offers free COVID-19 tests at two super sites: the Orange County Fairgrounds and the Anaheim Convention Center. The PCR tests are free, but appointments are required via 360clinic.fulgentgenetics.com/. 

People will need to wear a mask and bring ID and confirmation of the appointment (printed out or via smartphone). Results are emailed up to three days later. 

For more details, visit occovid19.ochealthinfo.com/supersite.

Arts & Leisure

Improve memory by visiting museums virtually

By Patty Marsters

pattym@lwsb.com

According to a recent podcast by Dr. Anthony Metivier, visiting art galleries can improve memory. Among the 17 reasons he gave are it helps make mental connections between space and material objects, exercises one’s ability to create meaning, and gives the experience of puzzlement. 

“Looking at art is never just about ‘looking,’” Metivier wrote in the accompanying blog on his Magnetic Memory Method website. “As your eyes meet the graphic displays, ideas emerge. In fact, ‘art’ happens the moment that you start thinking about what you’re looking at or noticing your emotional responses.” 

If taking a guided tour, he says, a person would further develop concentration. Other sources agree, adding the visit can enrich personal creativity and provide a source of stress relief, as well as serve as affordable entertainment. 

But with COVID-19 precautions and safer-at-home orders in place, it can be hard, if not impossible, to visit local art galleries. But last year, Google Arts & Culture  partnered with more than 2,500 museums and galleries to bring their collections to homebound aficionados. 

The list at https://artsandculture.google.com/partner?hl=en is impressive, including American favorites such as the J. Paul Getty Museum in Los Angeles and New York’s Guggenheim Museum, as well as international treasures such as the British Museum in London, Musée d’Orsay in Paris, the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam and the Pergamon Museumin Berlin. Those who are overwhelmed by it all can visit a curated top 10 list at https://artsandculture.google.com/story/igKSKBBnEBSGKg?hl=en that features the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art in Seoul, the Uffizi Gallery in Florence and MASP in São Paolo.

The collections contained within the museums are separated by category, and for some, there are also featured exhibits. Everything is in an easy-to-navigate format and include detailed information about the works presented. For virtual visitors to the Musée d’Orsay, there’s a pictorial history of the building’s transformation from train station to museum. Washington, D.C.’s National Gallery of Art offers “Fashioning a Nation,” a survey of American formal wear from 1740 to 1895. There are up-close views of 5,000 years’ worth of treasures displayed at the National Museum in New Delhi. Astronomers won’t want to miss seeing what NASA and the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum have on view. 

There are also “street view” tours of select museums, such as the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam, Netherlands. This allows the viewer to roam the museum as if they were there. 

As COVID continues to impact daily routines as well as vacation plans, there just might be time to cross several museums off people’s bucket lists—and create new, art-filled memories.

Technology Classes by Miryam

Miryam Fernandez’s technology classes are taught every other Tuesday at 2 p.m. Topics change each session, which will be closed captioned. For an invitation, email Fernandez at mzzmimm@gmail.com. If you need help setting up a microphone and/or video or have other connectivity issues, call Bonnie Cooper at (562) 822-6358 before class begins.

Jan. 19: Facebook

Feb. 2: Beginning iPhone

Important Reminder: Apple, Microsoft, IRS, Social Security, etc., will never contact you by phone, text or email. If there’s a problem with your account, they will shut you down until you contact them.

Video Producers Zoom Meetings

The Video Producers Club offers free, weekly Zoom classes, as well as a social opportunity.

Classes are as follows:

• Monday, 10 a.m.: Bob Cohen hosts Tech Talk, focusing on a variety of topics. Email bob@bobology.com for a Zoom invitation. Subscribe to his free newsletter, which features links to videos, articles and free live meetings, at http://bit.ly/bobologynewsletter.

• Monday, 2 p.m.: Zoom class for iPad and Mac users hosted by Fred Carpenter. For an invite to his class, email sail1942@gmail.com.

• Wednesday, 10 a.m.: Beginners’ Zoom class for Windows and Android users with Charlie Guggino. For an invite to this class, email joosuna29a@gmail.com.

• Thursday, 10 a.m.: Beginners’ and Intermediate Zoom class for Windows and Android users and for beginning Video Producers with host Joseph Valentinetti. For an invite to his class, email 0501042@gmail.com.

• Thursday, 5:30 p.m.: The one-hour Zoom Party Social, hosted by Valentinetti, is open to all residents. For an invite, email 0501042@gmail.com.

—Joe Osuna

Book Reviews

LW residents are invited to submit reviews of their favorite books for publication in the LW Weekly. Include your name and mutual and telephone numbers. The reviews are subject to editing and will run as space allows. Email submissions to pattym@lwsb.com.

Grab ’n’ Go Meals

Jan. 7-13 

Clubhouse 6 Parking Lot

• Thursday: Domino’s Pizza—call ahead for special orders, wings and salads offered, 3:30-7 p.m., cash/cards, (562) 493-2212.  

• Friday-Saturday: Katella Deli—deli favorites, appetizers, salads, hot entrées; specials of the day available onsite, 3:30-5:30 p.m., cash/cards. Call ahead at (562) 594-8611, or order online at www.katellabakery.com. 

• Sunday: Lucille’s Smokehouse Bar-B-Que—barbecue, salads, sandwiches, 3-5 p.m., no preorders.   

• Monday: Kabobaholic Food Truck—chicken or meat kabobs, gyros, falafel, loaded fries, 4-6 p.m., cash/cards. To preorder, go to www.kabobaholicft.com or text (949) 400-4696; mention LWSB when ordering.

• Tuesday: Taco Tuesday—Mexican favorites, plus hot dogs, burgers and fries, 5-7 p.m., cash/cards, no preorders.

• Wednesday: Italian Burgers and Grill Food Truck—Burgers, sausage, chicken, steak and loaded fries, all with an Italian accent, 3:30-5:30 p.m., PayPal/checks/cash/cards. See the full menu at https://www.bestfoodtrucks.com/restaurants/pizzini/trucks/italian-burger-grill/menu. Preorders accepted via email to info@italianburgergrill.com or text to (424) 299-6291; make sure to specify you are ordering for Leisure World.

•••

 All Grab ’n’ Go events take place rain or shine. Masks and 6-foot social distancing required and strictly enforced. For more information or to offer feedback, call (562) 431-6586, ext. 398.

On-call bus service is available weekdays from 4:30 p.m., when regular service ends; weekends are on-call at any time. Call (562) 431-6586, ext. 379. 

Watch for LW Live! alerts for daily menus. Vendors are subject to change. Sign up for LW Live at https://www.lwsb.com/lw-live-sign-up/. 

Global Market Kitchen Delivers 

Free Delivery of Groceries and Meal Kits 

Global Market Kitchen delivers groceries and prepared meals every Wednesday, 2-4 p.m., to Clubhouse 4 or your apartment. Order via https://globalmarketkitchen.com or by calling (562) 661-9776. Customer service inquiries should be directed to globalmk.usa@gmail.com.

Where-We-Live Club

Learn about the concept of feng shui! “Let’s Put Our Affairs in Order and Organize!” will concentrate on the art of placement and how it may change lives. New and previous members, as well as all curious shareholders, are welcome to join. 

Email wherewelive@yahoo.com to be placed on a mailing list for future workshops, as well as updates to the club’s calendar of activities, Zoom meetings and HomeWorks.

Balance & Stability Class

A Landmark Balance & Stability class is offered on Saturdays, 11 a.m.-1 p.m., on Zoom. Instructor Adrianne Rosenfeld teaches the free, 40-minute class that focuses on balance, shifting weight and cognizant activities. It broadcasts at around 4:20-4:40 p.m. every day on the Spectrum Cable Channel 1390 and is available on youtube.com.

Rosenfeld is certified in Zumba, Zumba Gold, Silver Sneakers, and Balance & Stability. She also has certification from the Fitness Aging Institute and an ACE Group exercise certificate. Join the Zoom meeting by visiting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84982522530; the Meeting ID is 849 8252 2530. 

For more information, email arosenfeld1@verizon.net.

This feature showcases original poems by members of the Creative Writers Club of Leisure World and other GRF members. You’re invited to submit your poetry to the LW Weekly office or pattym@lwsb.com.

The Couple at the Bus Stop

Their hands were joined as one

while they sat together close,

cocooned inside the covered shelter

at the Leisure World bus stop.

Their masks showed the same ornate pattern.

They had been sewn from the same fabric.

Yet it was the way the couple was sitting . . .

pressed together into a unified likeness,

that hinted a new beginning

of a later-life love.

There had just been another occurrence

in the active season of wildfire.

The sun was now a muted orange disc

that served as a solitary beacon

to mark its remembered place

across the empty slate

of a featureless sky.

Yet the couple at the bus stop

 gave it no notice.

They just sat there waiting . . .

fully content within the confines

of their own private sanctum,

detached from the world around them.

Flocks of familiar black birds

were flying overhead in curious patterns,

each in turn swooping, then ascending,

then each returning to their former place

in a precise and structured formation,

gliding silently in ever widening circles.

The smoke had covered the landscape

 with a gray dust.

The streets held a new kind of stillness.

Whooshing sounds from local motor traffic

had become feeble and cautious;

they could scarcely be heard

above the heavy silence of midday.

Yet this new face of nature

that surrounded the couple at the bus stop

was a remote outsider that could find no place

in their sphere of conscious awareness.

But in the peaceful contentment 

of their self-made isolation,

each had become quite skilled

in the single-handed operation

of their wireless digital gadget.

While their blissful bloom of newness

filled the interior of that cozy little bus stop,

they just sat there hand in hand . . .

each gazing intently at their own personal screen,

basking in the aura of its luminescent glow.

David Chute

Mutual 14

Family Radio Service Users

Calling all Family Radio Service Users in Leisure World: The Radio Club provides an opportunity for a Family Radio Service (FRS) practice drill every Wednesday morning. Anyone who has an FRS radio is invited to participate. 

The call-in time is 9:30-9:45 a.m. on Channel 13/0. Be sure to wait until the radio is clear, then call in stating your first name, last name initial and mutual number. Remember to press the side button to speak, then release when finished.

For more instruction on the use of the FRS radio, contact Leisure World Radio Club President Rich Erickson at rjerxn@yahoo.com, or call (562) 431-6586, ext. 409, to leave a message.

LW Walking Trails

Regular brisk walking can help people maintain a healthy weight; prevent or manage various conditions, including heart disease, high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes; strengthen bones and muscles; and improve mood, balance and coordination. The Recreation Department has a Leisure World Walking Trails brochure featuring seven measured trails throughout the community. Stop by the Downtown Café and pick one up. For more information, contact kathyt@lwsb.com.

Santa Ana College

Online classes for ‘Active Adults’

Do you want to learn a new hobby or skill and spend time with other seniors? Santa Ana College has all types of classes to get you moving and having fun. The classes are offered for free through partnerships with community, wellness and senior centers; mature-living communities; adult care facilities; and others. Registering for the program gives you access to all 16-week courses online; the spring series starts Wednesday, Jan. 13. 

On Mondays at 10 a.m., there’s “History of Quilting,” a lecture series led by Cindy Gruenke. Each week, a block or project is also discussed, with detailed instructions and patterns given to attendees. 

“In the Loop” introduces crochet terminology and tools to beginners, with instructor Jenny Barrington giving live lessons and demonstrations in making a scarf, coaster and toy. Each class on Wednesdays at 6 p.m. includes a question-and-answer session.

Dr. Bang Lang Do explores the power of music in “Musical Infusion” on Mondays at 1 p.m. Students will discover the relationship between music and art forms such as poetry, painting, dance and movies. Then, on Fridays at 10 a.m., Do helps you explore your own power in “Musical Play.” 

Improve your memory through fun activities with Guadalupe Salgado in “Brain Training” on Mondays and Fridays at 9:30 a.m. 

There are courses in yoga, embroidery, meditation and more. Visit https://sac.edu/sce/programs/activeadults/Pages/Active-Adults-Online.aspx for the full schedule and to register.

Connecting with the LW Weekly

The Leisure World Weekly office is closed to the public in an effort to slow the spread of COVID-19. Editors can be reached by phone and email. See page 4 of any edition for editors’ addresses or send emails to rutho_news@lwsb.com. 

People may drop articles and classified ads into the letter slot at the front of the News Building. 

The editorial deadline is Thursday for the following Thursday’s edition. All classified and display advertising will be accepted by telephone at (562) 430-0534; deadline is Monday at 2:30 p.m.

Cool Cardboard Creations Contest

Reuse and repurpose cardboard boxes and scraps for a chance to win fabulous prizes in the Cool Cardboard Creations Contest. Submissions must be 95 percent cardboard. Acceptable materials include cardboard of all types, fasteners, glue, tape, as well as any nontoxic paint and recyclable decorations. The maximum size allowable for tabletop displays is 24 inches wide, 24 inches deep and 36 inches high. For floor displays, it’s 36 inches wide, 36 inches deep and 72 inches high. And for hanging displays, it’s 36 inches by 36 inches.

Excess cardboard can be dropped off in the designated area on the east side of Clubhouse 6. Anyone needing more building materials is welcome to take from this area.

Individual entries, as well as collaborative efforts made by GRF clubs or departments, should be brought with an entry form (below; also available at https://www.lwsb.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Cardboard-Contest-Entry-Form.pdf) to the LW Library between Jan. 11-14, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Projects will be judged based on originality and the use of cardboard. The first-place winner will receive $1,000, second place gets $500, and third place $250. Special category winners will be awarded prizes valued between $50-$100.

Creations will be featured in a drive-through display on Jan. 15, 2021, near Clubhouses 3 and 4 and Veterans Plaza. For more information, contact Kathy Thayer at kathyt@lwsb.com, or call (562) 431-6586, ext. 398.

GRF Cool Cardboard Creations Contest

Entry Form

Bring entry and this form to LW Library between Jan. 11-14, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Entries will be displayed Jan. 15. No early drop-offs accepted.

Name ______________________________________________

Mutual and Apartment ________________________________

Email Address ______________________________________

Phone number ______________________________________

Description __________________________________________

Tech Talk

Join Bob Cohen in a free, one-hour live Zoom class on technology every Monday at 10 a.m. Topics are different each week and include iPhones, apps, computers, websites and Internet marketing. A question-and-answer period is held during each session, and all you need to know in advance is how to join using Zoom.  

Registration information is sent out in the Bobology newsletter every Wednesday morning for the upcoming Tech Talk. To register for the newsletter, sign up at https://bit.ly/bobologynewsletter or contact bob@bobology.com.

Leisure Bikers

Sunday Leisure Bikers ride to Long Beach Municipal Golf Course and have breakfast, then continue to El Dorado park for a 2-mile hike at the Nature Center. There are also rides on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. 

All are invited to join; helmets, safe shoes and masks are a must. Call Mary Romero at (562) 810-4266 for more information.

Hot Meals Drive Through Program

The Hot Meals Drive Through program is available for residents of Orange County’s District 2, which includes Leisure World Seal Beach. Participants must be aged 60 and older, single parents or unemployed individuals or have disabilities. There are three sites open one day per week at which people may pick up two dinner meals. Qualified applicants must register in advance at www.ocmeals.com. 

Hearts and Hands United in Giving

Hearts and Hands United in Giving (HHUG) is a small, local nonprofit dedicated to helping the homeless in the LW community. HHUG accepts donations of clean, used towels, plus new, unopened, travel-size shampoo, soap or lotion. New socks are the only clothing donation that HHUG accepts. To donate, contact Linda Neer at (562) 430-3214 for pick up.  Donations can also be left on her patio at Mutual 2, 48-A.  To learn more about HHUG, visit www.hhug.org.

REligion, 6-8

LW Baptist

The Father’s Business and Ours

By Rolland Coburn

Pastor

The Bible says that as Jesus grew, he learned things by experience. Most important, he became aware of his calling, mission and business to do his father’s will. He learned how to be about his father’s business, and that is to be our business, too.

“To be used of God to sing, to speak, to pray/ To be used of God to show someone the way/I long so much to feel the touch of his consuming fire/To be used of God is my desire.”

The writings of Jesus’ childhood tell how Jesus readied himself to serve the father in heaven, and show how we can also serve.

Jesus learned how his parents expressed their love for God (40-41), and God gave us parents to start us in life, too. Jesus continued to grow and become strong, filled with wisdom, and God’s grace was upon him. And every year, Jesus’ parents went to the Jerusalem Passover.

Jesus learned to know and love God’s Word (42-47), and God enables us by grace also to know and love his word. When Jesus was 12 years old, his family went to Passover as usual. Afterward, as they were returning, Jesus stayed behind in Jerusalem, and his parents did not know. Thinking he was in the caravan, they traveled all day, and then began checking for him with family and friends. Not finding him, they returned to Jerusalem searching for him. Three days later, they found him in the temple, sitting among the teachers of God’s word, listening to them and asking them questions. And all who heard him were amazed by his understanding and answers.

Jesus learned to start serving God right away (48-49), and we learn the longer we serve, the sweeter it is. When Mary and Joseph saw Jesus there in the temple, they were dumbfounded. His mother  said to him, “Son, why did you treat us this way? See, your father and I are grieving, searching for you.” “Why were you searching for me?” he asked. “Did you not know I had to be in my father’s house?”

Jesus learned (50-51) how to respect authority for the father’s sake, and we learn to do so too. Mary and Joseph did not understand Jesus’ answer. Of course Jesus went back to Nazareth with them and was subject to them. And his mother treasured all of his words in her heart.

Jesus learned to understand and enjoy God’s favor and people, and we learn the same. Jesus grew more and more in wisdom and stature, and in grace with God and man. As the chorus says, his calling was “to be used of God.”

Frances Havergal put it this way: “Another year is dawning . . . of witness for Thy love/another year of training for holier work above . . . Dear father let it be/on earth or else in heaven, another year for Thee.”

First Christian

By Bruce Humes

Pastor

As we venture into the new year continuing to struggle with an unseen and deadly virus, a polarizing national election, and watching elected officials attempting to pass stimulus package to try to solve all of the  pain and suffering, it can be difficult to know who to trust in the world. There are many natural disasters around the world and many blame humans’ mismanagement of God’s creation. I can agree with that, but not for the reasons you may think. 

I believe the Bible clearly speaks of what is causing these things. We need to go no further than to the apostle Paul’s letter to the believers in Rome. In chapter 1, verse 18, of Romans he writes: “For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who suppress the truth in unrighteousness.”

This is nothing new; God’s wrath or anger has been revealed throughout the history of mankind because of man’s ungodliness, meaning wickedness, and man’s unrighteousness meaning unjust or injustices against others. 

 We might find ourselves asking why that is. God gives us the answer in verses 19-20: “Because what may be known of God was manifest in them, for God has shown it to them. For since the creation of the world his  invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and God Head (divine nature, deity) so that they are without excuse.”

The creation itself shows us the deity and sovereignty of God, and leaves mankind without an excuse when it comes to how we should live a godly life, meaning a life that glorifies God vs. a life that gives him no glory. We are without excuse in our unrighteousness, living a life that is unjust and allows the injustices toward our fellow man to continue. Verses 21-23 explains this:

“Because, although they knew God, they did not glorify him as God, nor were thankful, but became futile in their thoughts, and their foolish hearts were darkened. Professing to be wise they became fools and changed the glory of the incorruptible God into an image made like corruptible man—and birds and four-footed animals and creeping things.”

Most acknowledge or know something about God, but the problem comes when no glory is given him as God and they do not thank him for his abundance of provisions and blessings. They have no relationship with him; their thoughts become futile and their hearts darkened and they put that which is created before him who created it. 

Listen, we are all looking for something to put our hope and trust in. We are all looking for peace in the world, but we are looking in the wrong places.We are looking to man and his philosophy for the answers to the worlds problems. Jeremiah 17:9 says, “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked; Who can know it?” 

We have rejected the one who can guide us to solutions for our problems and give glory to that which is hopeless when it comes to solving man’s problems.

But, true hope, someone we can put our trust in is at the doorstep. We just need to open the door. Jesus  said this to the church of the Laodiceans in Revelation 3:20, “Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come into him and will dine with him and he with me.”

The apostle John writes in John 14:23, “Jesus answered and said to him, ‘If anyone loves me, he will keep my word; and my father will love him, and we will  come to him and make our home with him.’” 

Jesus said in Matthew 11:28-30, “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”

Jesus is the one we need to come to for rest, hope, and peace. 

If you want to speak to someone at the church or if you have a need, call the church office at (562) 431-8810. Leave a message and someone will return your call as soon as possible.

Beit HaLev

Rabbi Galit Shirah and the Beit HaLev congregation hope that the coming year brings health and an end to the coronavirus.

Beit HaLev’s Coffee Chavurah on Zoom will celebrate the Sabbath evening on Friday, Jan. 8, at 5:30, followed by the evening service at 6.  On Saturday, the morning service begins at 10:30 followed by the Coffee Chavurah.

To join on Zoom, go to https://us02web.zoom.us/j/9152434704?pwd=THJGTE1OUXI5VXFDTWtuZHF4K3VxUT09. The meeting ID is 915 243 4704, and the passcode is RavGalit.

Beit HaLev continues to livestream on Facebook as well.  To attend, go to Rabbi Galit Shirah’s website at Facebook.com/galityomtov.

The prayerbooks for all services are shared onscreen on both Zoom and Facebook.

The first chapter of the Book of Exodus, Shemot–meaning names–is the account of Moses’ first conversation with HaShem at the burning bush. God has heard the cries of the Israelite slaves in Egypt and has chosen Moses as the instrument of their redemption.  God tells Moses that the people will be brought out of Egypt and that they will travel to the land of milk and honey. Moses is instructed to face Pharaoh and free the Children of Israel. Moses argues that he is not the right person to free his people, but God assures Moses that God will “be with him.” In addition, because Moses is “slow of speech,” his brother, Aaron, will accompany him and speak for him.

Rabbi Galit Shirah conducts a weekday Ma’ariv service every Thursday for Sim Shalom, the Online Synagogue.  Sim Shalom presents livestream services Monday-Thursday, with a different rabbi each day.  To say Kaddish, pray for healing and to hear a spiritual message, go to: SimShalom.com.

Zoom classes for Beginning Hebrew and Pirke Avot will begin in January.  For information, contact the Rabbi at (562) 715-0888 or duets@icloud.com.

Assembly of God

Sheryl Franco

Co-pastor

Has someone broken a promise they made to you?  Have you ever broken a promise? Even with the best intentions, we have all fallen short at some point and disappointed someone else by not carrying through on a promise we made. Some of those promises were what could be considered small promises, with inconsequential results, like “I’ll take out the trash after this show is over, Mom, I promise.”  Some of the promises were big promises, with consequences that had great impact, like “I promise to love and to cherish, for better or worse.” Broken promises disrupt plans, cause financial chaos, start wars, break hearts, dash hopes, ruin dreams.  And once someone has broken a promise, it is hard to trust that person again.

The good news is there is a promise-maker whose name is also promise keeper. He is trustworthy. He keeps his promises and is incapable of breaking even one. Hebrews 10:23 says “Let us hold tightly without wavering to the hope we affirm, for God can be trusted to keep his promise.” The hope that verse speaks of is not a mere wish.  It is the conviction that God will do what he says he will do.  Always.  Every time. His promises give hope in the uncertainty of life. They sustain us when circumstances look grim. His promises carry us through every situation we face. 

Pastor Chuck Franco will be sharing a series on the promises of God this month through the DVD recorded message. What better way to start the year than to dive into God’s word and discover the promises made to you by the one who can be trusted to always keep his promises? As you take hold of God’s word, apply his promises to your life and walk in obedience to his word, you will gain that unwavering hope spoken of in Hebrews. Make 2021 the year God’s promises come alive to you.

Congregation Sholom

Rabbi Karen Isenberg will livestream services on Friday, Jan. 8, at 6:30 p.m. and on Saturday,  Jan. 9.,  at 9:30 a.m. on Zoom.

New Congregation Sholom members who want to watch the livestream should contact Jeff Sacks to receive the Zoom invitation. Text Jeff at (714) 642-0122, or email him at jfsacks@gmail.com. The link will have the meeting ID and password embedded. Those who want more details or need to practice beforehand can call Jeff ahead of time.

To join the Zoom meeting, go to https://us02web.zoom.us/j/3752519429?pwd=UDREWTA1N21jaXVUZUhyQmY1U01JQT09. The meeting ID is 375 251 9429 and the passcode is 8ZYy69. For audio only, call 1-669-900-9128, passcode 3752519429.

On Sunday, Jan. 10, at 4 p.m., Congregation Sholom will have a Zoom only game afternoon, hosted by Sandy Geffner. The group will play Scattergories together. Jeff will set up the Zoom session. Those who want to play should email Jeff at jfsacks@gmail.com ahead of time to notify him so he can send a Zoom invite link. Join Congregation Sholom for fun, mental exercise and laughter. When you log on at 4, Sandy will give you the game rules. It will be helpful if you have a pencil and a piece of paper ready.

Those who want to become a member to participate in the livestreamed services on Zoom should call Ron Yaffee at (562) 430-7040.

Faith Christian Assembly

We have counted down the clock as another year turns once again.  Now that another year has swiftly come to a close and is behind us, how do you plan to make 2021 count? Many people make New Year’s resolutions–whether it’s to lose a few pounds or to put some bad habits behind them. Is one of your resolutions to make life more meaningful in 2021? 

Faith Christian Assembly knows that life can be challenging at times. But it also recognizes that there is a God in heaven who loves and cares for us. Faith Christian Assembly encourages you to enrich your spiritual life this year.

Out of an abundance of caution, all who attend services or events at Faith Christian Assembly will have their temperature taken at the door, will be required to wear a mask before and after service and sit socially distant from others.  Those who are ill are asked to remain at home.  

Due to COVID-19, Faith Christian Assembly is not currently having all of its regular ministries at this time, but will resume as soon as possible. Call the church office for the most updated information on Midweek Bible study, which is taught by Pastor Sheri Leming on Wednesdays at 11 a.m.;  and the weekly Grief Share meeting.  

To receive a free newsletter and for more information on the church, call (562) 598-9010 or visit the website at www.FCAchurch.net. 

Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints

By Jim Greer

LW contributor

In the early days of the Church, publications supported members in their efforts to learn, live, and share the gospel. Church publications, then and now, provide inspiring messages to help members connect with church leaders and with one another. 

As a global church, we speak many languages, are united in our efforts to follow the savior, and rejoice in knowing that we are all children of God. And so, to better connect all church members, effectivethis month, the official church’s global periodical will be the Liahona, an official publication for all adult members, printed in their respective languages.

Regardless of the name change, the purpose of the church magazine remains the same: to help God’s children become more converted to their savior, Jesus Christ. If you have not received the January Liahona, visit www.store.lds.org. In the Gospel Study section, you can order single issues or subscribe. Subscriptions range from 1-5 years.

Another exciting change in January will be the “Come Follow Me” personal study curriculum, which for 2021 will be the Doctrine and Covenants. While other scriptures studied in previous years came from ancient records, the Doctrine and Covenants’ teachings are from modern revelations. This study will be an extraordinary opportunity to study scripture revealed in the last 200 years, which was given and recorded initially in English. 

When God speaks to his children, it’s called “revelation.” There are different kinds of revelation. Personal revelation is when God speaks to us individually through the Holy Ghost. We receive revelation to guide us in our lives and fulfill our callings, and how to best help those we are called to serve or lead. 

Parents receive revelation to lead their families, and bishops receive revelation to guide their ward. But only the prophet can receive revelation for the entire church, and each of us can pray and receive revelation that what our leaders teach is true.

Each of us can speak to our heavenly father at any time through prayer. When we do, we thank him for blessings, talk to h-im about our lives, and ask for what we need. As we patiently and humbly listen, the answers and inspiration will come as thoughts and feelings through the Holy Ghost.

It has been revealed that God speaks to each of us in a way each of us will understand (see Doctrine and Covenants 1:24). Some may experience dreams or visions, but most commonly, God speaks to us in quiet feelings of warmth, peace or joy through the Holy Ghost.

As you study this month’s reading in the Doctrine and Covenants, you will be taught about Oliver Cowdery, who learned that revelation comes to both the mind and heart (see Doctrine and Covenants 8:2). As you search, ponder, and pray regarding your study, the Holy Ghost will testify of the truth of the revelations contained in the Doctrine and Covenants. 

Holy Family

Holy Family Catholic Church, 13900 Church Place next to the St. Andrews Gate, will observe the Baptism of the Lord on Sunday, Jan. 10. 

The First Reading is from Isaiah 42:1-4, 6-7, 12-14, and the Second Reading is Acts 10:34-38. The Gospel reading will be from Mark 1:7-11. This week’s Alleluia from John 1:29 reads, “John saw Jesus approaching him, and said: ‘Behold the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world.’  Alleluia, alleluia.”

Masses 

To receive a copy of the weekly parish bulletin, sign up at https://ebulletin.jspaluch.com or https://www.jspaluch.com/Subscribe.

The church is now open to public entry and can return to its regular Mass schedule. Saturday (Vigil Mass) is at 4 p.m., and Sunday Masses are at 8 a.m., 10 a.m. and noon.

Those who attend must a wear a mask or face shield and sit socially distanced, and use hand sanitizer upon entry.

Community Church

By Johan Dodge

Reverend

If you are reading this on the day of publication, yesterday was the Epiphany, the time in the church calendar when we celebrate the coming of the Wise Men or Magi, who traveled from foreign lands with foreign beliefs (astrology), to seek out the new king of Israel.  

In the Nativity display in front of the church, the Magi are shown visiting Mary, Jospeh, and the baby Jesus in the manger scene. Scholars believe that the Magi probably visited Jesus when he was a few years old, based on the order that Herod gives to kill all of the infant boys under 2 years of age.

 This Sunday, we will look at both the coming of the Magi to visit the infant Jesus and the baptism of Jesus in the Jordan River. All of these events center on a new hope, foretold by the prophets of old. Of course, nothing ever quite works out the way we expect it to, and the same is true for the story of Jesus at his birth and his baptism—more on that next week. But for now, as we think about a “New Hope,” we have to let go of the old hope.  

Our numbers are growing each week, and more people call to join our Zoom worship and fellowship time.  If you have been waiting to participate, this is a great time to join us for virtual worship. 

To join us Sundays for live worship at 9:50 a.m. Tune into Facebook live @communitychurchleisureworld.  

If you want to join us for virtual fellowship, call the church office or email leisurewccsue@yahoo.com. Those who don’t have a computer or Facebook can call (562) 431-2503 and listen to the weekly message beginning Sunday evening. 

Did you watch the Christmas Caroling Challenge on the CW?  One of our own church members was one of the competitors. 

As always, if you are in need without another way to address it,  call the church office to leave a direct message at  (562) 431-2503.

Food Resources During the COVID-19 Crisis

The Leisure World Recreation Department has compiled the following information on senior grocery hours, Grab ’n’ Go meals delivered daily onsite, and local restaurants that deliver or have curbside pickup.

This information is updated consistently to help people stay home as much as possible during the COVID-19 crisis.

Grocery Store Senior Hours 

Gelson’s Market is open from 7-8 a.m. exclusively for seniors 65-plus. One caregiver per shopper is permitted. Proof of age is required. 

Pavilions opens for seniors from 6-7 a.m. It  also offers grocery delivery. 

Ralphs is open from 6-7 a.m. for seniors. Traffic is restricted to 50 people at a time.

Trader Joe’s has senior hours from 8-9 a.m. for people aged 60-plus. It controls shopper entry if the store gets too full. 

Costco is open from 10 a.m.- 6:30 p.m., with senior hours from 9-10 a.m. on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday for shoppers 60-plus. Costco warehouses will allow no more than two people to enter with each membership card. 

Target is open on Tuesdays from 7-8 a.m. for seniors only. The store has increased its hours and closes at midnight in the hopes of decreasing the amount of shoppers in the store at one time. 

Smart & Final stores are open from 6-8 a.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays to accommodate seniors 65 and older, those with disabilities, and pregnant women. ID may be requested.

Sprouts is currently restricting quantities of certain items, and bulk items are now sold prepackaged. It does not have senior hours but delivers through Instacart, or you can order 

ahead, and store staff will hand-pick your order for pick-up.

The Farmers Market is open at 9 a.m. on Tuesdays at Seal Beach Village parking lot.

Local Restaurant Delivery and Take-Out 

Even though outdoor and indoor dining have been halted until Southern California’s coronavirus cases are under control, there are still ways for you to help make sure your favorite local business makes it through the pandemic. Several local restaurants offer pickup and delivery service that can be ordered from their websites, or delivery apps such as Postmates, UberEats, GrubHub and through Yelp. 

For a list of local restaurants that deliver, visit https://www.sealbeachca.gov and click on the square that says “Support Local Business.”

Community, pages 12-13

Sunshine Club

Learn about the COVID-19 vaccine

With the COVID-19 pandemic continuing, it can be challenging to navigate all the information about the disease. Dr. Dara Nguyen will discuss the new COVID-19 vaccines, covering how they work, what side effects to expect, when they will be available to various populations of the public and safety measures to take  at the Sunshine Club’s upcoming Zoom meeting on Friday, Jan. 8, at 10 a.m. 

To join the Zoom meeting, go to  https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82119904568?pwd=dkVmOVowRU1uQXRNb2QveFdFSHp4Zz09;` the meeting ID is 821 1990 4568. All shareholders are welcome to join.

Those who want the Zoom link by email should text their name, Mutual number, along with email address to (562) 301-5339 by no later than Thursday, Jan. 3, at 5 p.m.

Nguyen completed her bachelor’s degree in Pharmaceutical Sciences at the University of California, Irvine, and received her Doctor of Pharmacy degree from Western University, College of Pharmacy. She is currently completing a Community Pharmacy Practice residency with WesternU/Ralphs Pharmacy, gaining experience at Ralphs Pharmacies, Share Our Selves Clinic, as well as on campus at Western University.

 Her professional interests include community practice, ambulatory care, diet and nutrition, and pharmacy leadership. After completing her training, Nguyen strives to continue providing patient care and forming strong relationships with the community. 

The Sunshine Club will host three more Zoom presentations over the next month including GRF  Security Services Director Victor Rocha on Jan. 15, neurology and pain specialist Dr. Kenneth Martinez on Jan. 22, and acupunturist Jeannette Painovich on Jan. 29. The topic of each guest speaker’s presentation is announced  in the LW Weekly with link information to join. 

The Sunshine Club often has LW leaders come to meetings to introduce their organizations to the group. It also invites a wide variety of specialists from outside to share their experiences and ideas with club members.

For more information, contact Anna Derby at (562) 301-5339.

Learn the difference between the GRF and GAF

By John Hlavac

GAF Vice-President

Despite having very similar names, the Golden Age Foundation (GAF) and the Golden Rain Foundation (GRF) are two completely separate organizations.    

The Golden Rain Foundation is the nonprofit corporation that manages the shared property of Leisure World. This corporation has employees; an executive director, Randy Ankeny; and a board of directors that sit on numerous committees, such as recreation, physical property, finance, communications and security, among others. 

Every resident of Leisure World is a member of the GRF, which is why residents are called shareholders. The Golden Rain Foundation is funded by a portion of your monthly carrying charge.

The Golden Age Foundation, on the other hand, operates seperately from the GRF.

 GAF is, legally speaking, a 501(c)(3) charitable organization. It has a small board of directors. Every person in the organization is a volunteer with no paid staff. 

Our mission is to make the community a better and happier place in which to live. The GAF’s funding is dependent on contributions. When we get a large bequest, which happens occasionally, it usually is designated for a specific project. 

The next time you are at the gym, take a look at the plaque on the wall next to the elevator. The gym equipment was mostly provided in 2013 by a bequest from Jack Schiffiler funneled through our organization. Because the GAF doesn’t have employees, it works with the Golden Rain Foundation, who pays the staff that makes the gym workrun smoothly and efficiently. 

When we don’t get a large bequest like the one for the gym equipment, we still strive to make life better using the other donations that we receive.  

 Programs like the Hospitality Center in Clubhouse 6, the tax preparation program, the paper shredding program, the battery recycling program and the mobility aids program are all examples of GAF’s efforts. All of these programs are provided to residents free of charge, with the GAF picking up the tab.

The driving force for the Golden Age Foundation is in its mission statement to improve life in Leisure World. 

The GAF is always accepting donations, both large and small.  If you’re making your will or trust and want to help make Leisure World a better place, consider including the GAF. We appreciate every donation because every gift helps us achieve our goal.

LWers are invited to  consider becoming members and helping GAF make Leisure World better.  Nothing happens in our organization without the dedication and effort of our volunteers. They are the heart and soul of the Golden Age Foundation.

Foundation’s Tax ID is 23-7273105; it can be reached at PO Box 2369, Seal Beach, CA 90740.  

For more information, go to www.goldenagefdn.org or leave a message at (562) 431-9589.

senior Peace club

How to join the first Zoom meeting

The Senior Peace Club’s will meet via Zoom on Tuesday, Jan. 12, at 2 p.m. The topic for the next several months will be “Race, the Unfinished Business of Our Time.” During the meeting, the group will watch a YouTube video titled “Dr. Robin DiAngelo discusses ‘White Fragility.’” The group will discuss the video after watching.  

To participate on the computer, go to Zoom.com and click “Join a Meeting” at the top of the page, enter the Zoom ID number 818 998 1005 and password 002223 to enter the meeting or  type the following link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81899841005?pwd=emlIY1ovYlUrWnFiTDI3ZGZiL1QwUT09.  

To participate over the  phone, call (669) 900-6833; when asked, enter 818 998 1005 (audio only). There is no password to enter the meeting.

For more information, call Don Koepke at 562-330-3397.

SBTV

SBTV-3 airs on TWC-Spectrum Channel 3, Frontier Fios Channel 37 and online streaming at sbtv3.org/schedule. Have Roku? Go to http://roku.streamsource.tv/add/sbtv. The playback schedule is available at SBTV3.org.

Thursday, Jan. 7

4 pm A COVID Christmas

4:17 pm Christmas in Quarantine- 

The Pops  

5:01 pm Spider and Snakey 

Save Christmas

5:o8 pm Cabaret Music Around

the World

6 pm LW Tree Lighting Ceremony

6:30 pm Dixieland Jazz Band

7:35 pm   Special Delivery

8 pm Terry Otte’s 75th Birthday

8:15 pm Cabaret Variety Show 9/2020

9 pm Ocean Perspectives

10 pm Shakespeare in the Park:

Cymbeline 

Friday, Jan. 8

4 pm LW Menorah Lighting 

Presentation  

4:13 pm COVID Christmas

4:30 pm Special Delivery

5:15 pm Golf Cart Christmas

Caravan 2020

5:30 pm SB Lions Club Veterans Day

Car Caravan

5:39 pm Fortunado Revilla

Christmas Music

5:50 pm LW Yoga

6 pm LW Tree Lighting Ceremony

6:30 pm Los Al Jazz Band 2018

7 pm Seal Beach Christmas Parade

8 pm Dove Sonza’s 75th Birthday

9 pm Shakespeare in the Park:

Othello

10:30 pm Cerritos Center-

Golden Dragon Acrobats

 

Saturday, Jan. 9

4 pm Seal Beach Christmas Parade

5 pm Special Delivery

5:30 pm LW Menorah Lighting

5:43 pm COVID Christmas

6 pm Christmas in Quarantine:

The Pops

6:45 pm Spider and Snakey Save

Christmas

6:53 pm LW Yoga

7 pm LW Tree Lighting Ceremony

7:30 pm Ocean Perspectives

8 pm LAUSD

11 pm Cerritos Center–

Matt Mauser

Sunday, Jan. 10

4 pm Seal Beach Christmas Parade

5 pm LW 50th Anniversary 2012

5:45 pm Fortunado Revilla 

Christmas Music

6 pm Dixieland Jazz Band 

7 pm Spider and Snakey 

Save Christmas

7:07 pm Dove Sonza’s 75th Birthday

8 pm Life and Times in SB:

Paula Thomas

9 pm Cabaret Music Around 

the World

10:20 pm LW Yoga

10:30 pm LW Menorah Lighting 

SBTV, page 13

Sbtv

from page 12

10:45 pm Los Al Jazz band

11:30 pm Bob Cole Conservancy

Monday, Jan. 11  

4 pm Spidey and Snakey 

Save Christmas

4:07 pm LW Menorah Lighting 

4:30 pm Dove Sonza’s 75th Birthday

5:30 pm LW Tree Lighting Ceremony

6 pm Dixieland Jazz Band

7 pm Seal Beach City Council 

Meeting–LIVE

8 pm Golf Cart Christmas Caravan

8:15 pm LW Menorah Lighting

8:30 pm  LW Special Delivery

9 pm Terry Otte’s 75th Birthday

9:30 pm Bob Cole Conservancy

10 pm Shakespeare in the Park:

Taming of the Shrew 

Tuesday, Jan. 12

4 pm Golf Cart Christmas Parade

4:15 pm Christmas Quarantine Show:

the Pops

5 pm Tree Lighting Ceremony

5:30 pm Special Delivery/LW Yoga

6 pm Fortunado Revilla 

Christmas Music

6:15 pm LW 50th Anniversary 2012

7 pm Ocean Perspectives

7:30 pm Dixieland Jazz Band 2019

8:30 pm Seal Beach Christmas Parade

9:30 pm Bob Cole Conservancy

10 pm Cerritos Center–

Matt Mauser

Wednesday, Jan. 13

4 pm Spider and Snakey 

Save Christmas

4:07 pm LW Yoga

4:15 pm Christmas Quarantine Show:

the Pops

5 pm Dove Sonza’s 75th Birthday

6 pm Christmas Story Song

By Revilla/Williams

6:24 pm Spidey and Snakey

Save Christma

6:32 pm Fortunado Revilla

Christmas Music

6:45 pm Golf Cart Parade

7 pm Terry Otte’s 75th Birthday

8 pm Shakespeare in the Park:

Merry Wives of Windsor

10 pm Cerritos Center-

The Four Tenors

*All programming is subject to change.

Due to the current status of the pandemic, the Mobility Aids program of the Golden Age Foundation will be unable to accept donations of mobility aids for the foreseeable future. It will resume collecting donations when it is safe to do so.

Democratic Club

By Mary Larson 

LW contributor

Leisure World Democrats are reminded that the next club membership meeting, originally scheduled for Jan. 20, has been rescheduled for Wednesday, Jan. 27,  at noon via Zoom. The meeting will feature the importance of the upcoming special election for LW’s District 2 representative on the Orange County Board of Supervisors. The position was vacated by Michelle Steel. 

There are 130,958 registered Democrats and 192,160 Republicans in the Board of Supervisors’ District 2. Both parties will be vying to attract the district’s remaining 64,146 potential voters.  It is significant that the district overlaps 66 percent of California’s 48th Congressional District. 

Email lwsbdemocraticclub@gmail.com for information about how you can be involved in the campaign to elect Costa Mesa Mayor Katrina Foley as the District 2 representative on the Orange County Board of Supervisors.

••••

With the recent presidential election heavy on his mind, California 72nd District Sen. Tom Umberg introduced four new measures on the first day of the 2021-22 legislative session. Each measure centers on voting.  

In addition to authoring SB 29, SB 34 and SB 35 to protect voters and election workers, Umberg is the principal co-author of AB 37 with Assembly member Marc Berman. AB 37 will make California a permanent universal vote-by-mail state, which means every eligible voter will receive a ballot.

When Umberg was an assistant U.S. attorney, he investigated and eventually was instrumental in passing laws making voter intimidation at the polls a crime. In introducing the new bills, he is quoted as saying, “It is time for California to follow the lead of Oregon, Washington, Hawaii, Colorado and Utah and make sure eligible voters have safe and accessible access to the polls.”

••••

Democrats are also reminded that they are all eligible to vote for up to 14 people in the California Democratic Party-run election for the state party leadership body (the California State Central committee), regardless of whether they are members of a club. The election, usually held via Assembly-based caucus meetings, will be exclusively by mail ballot.  To vote in this election, participants must register for a mail ballot by Jan. 11. Go to adem.cadem.org or email lwsbdemocraticclub@gmail.com for more information about how to register and vote in this election.

 ••••

If you are a Democrat or a supporter and want to know more about the club,  subscribe to the free electronic newsletter by emailing the editor, Mary Larson, at mlarson.telfords@gmail.com or by calling (562) 296-8521.  Include your full contact information.  

The Democratic Club welcomes new members and friends. All club memberships are now calculated on a January–December calendar basis. Both new and renewal 2021 membership forms are available by calling (562) 431-7275 or by going online at https://sblwdems.wordpress.com/democratic-club-membership-2/.

Republican Club

By Brian Harmon

LW contributor

In a recent editorial, the Orange County Register announced its endorsement of Sen. John Moorlach for Orange County Supervisor District 2, adding to the list that includes the Orange County Republican Party, the New Majority of Orange County, the Lincoln Club of Orange County and the Leisure World Republican Club.

Perhaps the most disappointing California election result for Republicans this year took place in Orange County’s 37th Senate District, where Democrat Dave Min defeated Republican John Moorlach by two percentage points. Public-sector unions spent millions of dollars on ads against Moorlach, who had earned their ire for his efforts to control state spending and reform the overburdened pension systems.

This took place in an election year when Republicans did unexpectedly well in California and even clawed back two Orange County congressional seats they had lost during the 2018 “blue wave” election. The result is not just a further dwindling of the GOP’s Senate numbers, but also the loss of one of the Capitol’s heavily influential members.

Both the Republican Club and Orange County Register’s editorial board agree that Moorlach combines his number-crunching skills “with a philosophical mooring, a courageous attitude that doesn’t bend to the will of special interests, and a collegial personality.” 

Politics does, however, provide silver linings. Orange County Supervisor Michelle Steel is one of the two Republicans who is heading to the U.S. Capitol. She’ll soon be vacating her board seat, with a special election to finish out her term expected this spring. And despite losing his first race, Moorlach announced his candidacy and quickly received the full backing of the Orange County GOP.

The article concluded with “Perhaps California’s loss is Orange County’s gain.” 

Obituaries, page 13

•••

Joan Louise Muenzer

April 1932-Nov. 2020

Joan Louise Muenzer passed peacefully on Thanksgiving Day at home in Leisure World with family at her bedside. Joan was born in Millvale, Pennsylvania, to Daniel and Marie Saul. Joan graduated from Millvale High School in 1950 and married her high school sweetheart, Bob Muenzer, in 1951. They were blessed with three children and moved to Long Beach, California, in 1955, following in the footsteps of her oldest sister, Melva. While Bob worked, Joan worked part-time for Van de Kamp’s bakery and was devoted to raising her children and keeping the household in impeccable order. 

Joan was highly organized and took great care of herself and everyone around her. She was known for her perfectly styled red hair, beautiful smile, generous heart, exercising daily, keeping her floors spotless, clipping coupons, her attention to detail and healthy homemade dinners.

Joan was a deeply loved and admired member of Covenant Presbyterian Church in Long Beach for 65 years. She served as a deacon, a leader of the church’s women’s group and  an advocate for the church’s free after-school program to children of Long Beach called Rising TIDE. 

She was also very involved in PEO (Philanthropic Education Organization) which provides educational scholarships to women worldwide. She served as president of her chapter from 2008-2010.

Although she greatly enjoyed being involved in her community, her favorite role came later as a grandmother. She took great joy in spending time with her grandchildren and was very involved in their lives. She made sure to attend all birthday parties, graduations, sports games, dance recitals, etc. She was devoted, generous and very loving.

Once Bob retired, they moved to Leisure World and traveled around the world enjoying many trips with a group called, “Traveling Tigers.” Their favorite trips included Tahiti, Hawaii, and cruising the Mediterranean. 

She leaves behind a legacy of love, devotion, courage and strength. Her presence will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her. Joan is survived by her husband; Bob Muenzer, her three children, Rick Muenzer (Kristen), Bobby Muenzer (Lynda) and Vicky Stanton (Duane); 14 grandchildren; and two  great-grandchildren. Special mention also to her caretakers, Nancy, Gabe and Linda as well as Dr. Vora and Mary Welch, NP at Memorial.

Those wishing to honor Joan’s life are invited to donate to Long Beach Covenant Presbyterian’s after-school program Rising TIDE at www.covenantlb.org or Todd Memorial Cancer at memorialcare.org.

– Paid obituary ••••

In Memoriam: 

Jacqueline Hendrix 54

Deborah Levario  47

Nancy Ippolito 47

Gorge Kilmer  89

Estel Schad  60

Daniel Rodriguez  69

Morning Star  79

Sharon Ybarra  68

Jack Ryan  70

Concordia  Tadlas  88

Gerardp Ramgel  39

William Jackson  90

Venera Kikabidze  91

Clay Pinto  59

Sheila Caron  66

Tauese Ale  76

Beverly Anderson  82 

Mary Dulay  70

Lee Porter  68

Deborah Mendoza  58

Families assisted by 

McKenzie Mortuary, 

961-9301

—Paid obituary

GENERAL

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562-596-0559

LW DECOR INC – LIC 723262

Install doors, new windows, recessed lights, fans, light fixtures. Cabinet refacing & refinishing, paint exterior window frames, ceilings made smooth, closets redone, misc. repairs. Kitchen/bathroom remodeling. 40+ yrs in LW.

LW DECOR INC

562-596-0559. 02/25/21

GARDENING

FRANK’S GARDENING SERVICE 

Complete maintenance and landscape. Serving Leisure World since 1978. Planting, clean-ups, fertilization. New lawns, etc. Offering my services to all Mutual’s. Honest and reliable. State Contractor’s License #779462. Call 562-863-7739, 562-743-3832 or 714-527-1172.

BATHTUB & SHOWER REFINISHING

We refinish your TUB/SHOWER to look brand new.

Convert to a WALK-IN SHOWER and/or raise seat.

Nu Kote 562-833-3911  

License #699080 

Serving LW since 1999. 03/04/20

PAINTING

Painting – Free estimates. 1 room or entire house & refinish kitchen cabinets. Call Jerry (714) 826-8636.

CA State License #675336. 01/21

Affordable – Professional, 

Licensed and Insured. 

Interior – exterior drywall repair, texturing, pressure washing, 

cabinets. Senior discounts. 

Cory Gee Painting 714-308-9931. 

License #1049257. 01/07/21

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562-596-0559

LEISURE WORLD 

DECORATORS

Lic 723262. 40+ yrs in LW. Interiors, cabinets, exterior window frames, kitchen, bath, doors, trim, primered only premium paints. Ceilings made smooth, crown moulding & baseboards installed. 

LW Decor Inc.

562-596-0559. 02/25/21

FLOOR COVERINGS

562-596-0559

LW DECOR INC. 

40+ yrs in LW. Vinyl plank, laminate, tile indoor and outdoor patio carpet. License 723262. 

562-596-0559. 02/25/21

CARPET & UPHOLSTERY 

CLEANING & REPAIR

All Year Carpet Cleaning since 1988.

Call Tito (562) 658 – 9841.

State Contractors Lic. #578194.01/21

SKYLIGHT SERVICES

SKYLIGHTS

CLEAN, REPAIR, REPLACE.

Licensed and insured.

Dan (562) 841-3787.

Seal Beach License #BRA0002. 03/11

WINDOW COVERINGS

562-596-0559

LEISURE WORLD DECORATORS

Shutters, blinds, roll-up shades, custom drapes. 

562-596-0559. 02/25/21

Leisure World 

Helping Leisure World

Y’s Service Club of the YMCA will assist residents with small non-professional jobs. We change light bulbs, clean air conditioner filters, hang a small picture or mirror, remove or place items on a high shelf, air bicycle tires, etc. Donations gladly accepted. Call weekdays between 9 am-5 pm, (562) 596-9906.

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“ROLLIN THUNDER”

GOLF CART CLUB 

Offers FREE advice on buying and selling of your golf cart. 

Also batteries. 562-431-6859.

HOME CARE

PERSONAL ASSISTANT

CHRISTIAN HOME CARE

Experienced, knowledgeable caregivers, honest, assertive, fluent English. Hourly/full-time, doctor’s appointments, errands. Bernadine 562-310-0280. Seal Beach Business License #BCS0002. Bonded/insured. 06/10/21

Maria’s experienced caregivers, run errands, Dr’s appointments, cleaning, cooking, part-time, full-time, live-in. (562) 230-4648. Seal Beach Business License #CAM0006. 03/25

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MOST AFFORDABLE RATE affordable rates with optimum service, 23 years experience LW, reliable, honest caregivers. Licensed, 24 hour, part time, doctors, appointments, references, fluent English. Ann 714-624-1911, Heidi 562-277-3650. Seal Beach License #HYC0001. 07/01

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EXPERIENCED CAREGIVER

Over 20 years in Leisure World with Excellent References.  Hourly or Live-in. Please Call Pampet: 562-371-4895. Seal Beach License PAN0003 03/25

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Elderly care. Live-in, live-out. 30 years of experience. Cooking, cleaning, medications, companions, doctors. Experience with dementia. Liensed by the state. 

Gloria 949-371-7425. 01/14/21

BEAUTY SERVICES

Tammy Nguyen Phenix Salon – Service in private suite. One customer, one hairstylist. Sanitized & professional. Haircut for men & women, shampoo, set, color, highlights, perm, nails & toenails. In-house service available. Tammy Nguyen. 13944 Seal Beach Blvd,  #116. (714) 425-4198. 02/25/20

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In home hair care, serving the men and women of Leisure World for 36 years. Mel, cell: 562-480-9341. License #KC75538. 01/07/21

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Stylish haircut at home. Countless clients w/referrals.  

Gabriel 562-708-3170. License #B50551. 02/18

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Yvonne from Phenix Salon is coming to your home for perms, color & cut. 714-855-8465. License K336138. 01/21

HOUSE CLEANING

MOVE-IN, MOVE-OUT

WINDOWS,

HOUSECLEANING

CALL PHIL AT

562-881-2093

Over 30 years Experience!

Seal Beach Business

License #AB0001. 03/04

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GRACIAN’S HOUSECLEANING & WINDOWS.

Windows 10% off first cleaning

General housecleaning

Excellent referrals in LW

(562) 307-3861. 

20 years experience.

Seal Beach Business License gra0006. 12/17

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MAGALY’S CLEANING SERVICE

We make your home sparkle! 7 days-call anytime! Complete cleaning. Seal Beach Business License #M0001A. Call 562-505-1613. 01/28

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General housekeeping, 30 years of experience. Bi-weekly or monthly. Seal Beach License RAZ0002. Call Gloria 949-371-7425. 01/14/21

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Maria House Cleaning

We’ll make your house look as

nice as possible! 15 years of

experience, We can work with your

schedule. Bi-weekly or monthly.

Deep cleaning.

Call or text 714-496-2885.

Bus. Lic #HER0008. 01/21

COMPUTERS

FRUSTRATED 

(562)755-6199

Everything for your computer (PC or Mac), cell phone, TV, stereo, any electronic device. 

Tina Schaffer. Seal Beach Bus.   

License #CIP0001 05/20/21

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John’s Computer Services

562-733-9193

Virus removal, Repair, Training,

Software, Wireless, Internet

Security. LW Resident

 SB License FUH0001. 01/21/21

AUTOS WANTED

ANY KIND OF CAR

Cars, motorcycle, truck – running or not. We are local – call anytime! We pay cash and remove promptly!We do DMV and Release of liability for you! Bonded/Licensed, since 1985! Call us so we can come out and give you a quote. 562-684-0901. 01/14/21

Electric CarTs/ Scooters/Mobile Chairs for sale

Golf Cars BUY SELL TRADE and REPAIRS. Call: 714-292-9124. 05/13/21

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2 scooters. Both run great and have new batteries. Go-Go $300. Jazzy $800. 562-296-8088. 

TRANSPORTATION

Need a lift? Pam Miller. 

LW Resident. 310-227-1258. 01/14

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Rides by Russ with a personal touch.

Airports, doctors, shopping and errands. 714-655-1544. 01/14

Autos/Boats/RV’s

Trailers FOR SALE

ELECTRIC CAR PADS

Installed at your residence. Call Frank 562-743-3832. State Contractor’s License #779462.

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2010 Ford Escape XLT, like new, original owner, 6 cylinder, 57,000  miles, white w/beige interior, serviced every 3,000 miles. 562-760-5668.

MOVING, HAULING & 

STORAGE SERVICES

J&D HAUL AWAY AND CLEAN-UP SERVICE

No job too small, fast, reliable, great prices. Seal Beach Business License

BRA0002. Dan: 562-841-3787 03/11

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A FRIEND AND A TRUCK

Your moving service, any size job. Call 310-387-2618. Business License RO263644. 03/11

MISCELLANEOUS  FOR SALE

Men’s bike $40, glass coffee table $40, black bedroom dresser $140. 562-209-5382. 

FREE ITEMS

35mm slide projector, FREE.  Located in Mutual 6.  650-704-2947