Is the drought over? Water Update
Editor’s Note: The following information was provided at the Presidents’ Council meeting Feb. 2. It is reprinted here for the edification of all LW residents.
by Karl W. Seckel, P.E.
director, Municipal Water District of Orange County
You might think that the recent parade of storms hitting California (now called atmospheric rivers) would have resulted in the end of the drought.
But when did the drought begin, how is a drought defined and how do we know when we are “out of a drought?”
My 45 years in the water industry in Orange County and Southern California has led me to the following conclusions:
• Since the year 2000, we’ve endured 17 years of below-average water runoff in the two watersheds—the Northern Sierras and the Colorado River Water Basin—that provide valuable imported water into Southern California.
• We had a record-dry four-year period from 2012 -2016 that was eclipsed by another record-dry three-year period from 2019-2022.
• Mother Nature has substantially changed how she delivers water to us. Each year is a mystery. Typically we don’t know how much supply we will have to manage until the end of April for the year ahead. Stay tuned for the results in 2023.
• Substantial investments to the tune of $5 billion since 1990 in storage in Southern California and in Central Valley groundwater basins and in Lake Mead, investments in water use efficiency and investments in local projects, including recycling, have helped us survive these low supply periods without major mandatory water use restrictions. Per capita water use has dropped by over 40% since 1990 in Southern California. Simply put, we’re using less water, even with many more people living here.
• Unfortunately, dealing with the Colorado River’s over-allocation and California’s shrinking snowpack will necessitate additional significant investments in the future. We must be more adept at capturing water in wet years (we will still have them) and storing it away for dry years.
Some would say there has been an epic failure by our state to get critical infrastructure built to deal with climate adaptation.
Others blame the myriad of regulations. There is nearly unanimous agreement that warming trends will reduce the opportunity to store water in the mountains in the form of snow. California’s biggest reservoir has always been the Sierra snowpack, which is projected to reduce by 10-20 million acre-feet of equivalent storage. That’s more than Shasta, Oroville and San Luis reservoirs combined. All were built in the 1960s or before to provide carry-over supplies for farmers and urban customers.
It seems irrational to run a state with fifth largest economy in the world using such an outdated water system.
Dealing with this future requires an “all of the above approach” to use water wisely. Additionally, we must utilize opportunities to turn wastewater into potable drinking water. We need further collaboration with farmers. Most importantly, we need to invest in infrastructure that will allow us to capture precipitation during wet years and deliver it to where it can be stored, primarily in groundwater basins, for future use.
Gov. Gavin Newsom’s administration seems to be heading in the right direction, but the speed and participation by the state needs to be amplified. The issues facing us are beyond the ability of the water agencies to fix without the help from Sacramento.
Investments are needed for both water supply and flood control, and partnerships and collaboration should help spread the costs and make reliability more affordable throughout California.
California doesn’t have a supply problem. We have a storage and delivery problem. If Sites Reservoir or the Delta Conveyance Project were in place this year, we would have considerably more water in storage at this time.
And no, the drought is not over. It will be over when our levels of storage increase to allow us to deal with the extreme swings in supply.
Recovery from multiple years of drought will not occur in a single year. Several wet years are needed.
There is good news, though. Storage reservoirs have begun to recover in early 2023. But we’ve seen this before. In fact, last year at about this time, after a very promising start to the winter, Mother Nature’s spigot turned off entirely for three months and put us back in a hole.
Maybe Mark Arax, a columnist for the New York Times, whose most recent book is “The Dreamt Land: Chasing Water and Dust Across California,” captures the vagaries of water in California best: “A flood year always breaks the drought years, or so my grandfather, the raisin farmer, told it. Drought is California. Flood is California. In the wettest years, rain and snowmelt coming down the rivers produce some 200 million acre-feet of water.
“In the driest years, they produce 30 million. Between the extremes lies an average year, which happens so infrequently that it is a myth we tell ourselves. As long as we keep faith in the average, it is us and not nature in command.
“When we’re in the midst of drought, we have no memory of flood. When we’re in the midst of flood, we have no memory of drought. Amnesia is how we built agriculture across marsh and desert and houses in floodplains and canyons of fire.”
In California, we need to plan and build infrastructure for both extremes. In the meantime, let’s keep our fingers crossed for more rain and snow in February and March.
LW HCC pharmacy to close
Leisure World’s Good Neighbor Pharmacy will close its doors at the end of the month. Optum, who subleased the space to the pharmacy, has indicated it is developing a plan to “assure that there will be continuous on-site support for pharmacy services” until a new pharmacy partner can be placed at the site.
On Feb. 3, the operators of the Good Neighbor Pharmacy informed Optum that the store was abandoning its lease, which ran through September, according to Victoria Batistelli, Optum’s director of group operations. The store owner has reportedly sold the store’s inventory to CVS, a Rhode Island-based corporation with over 9,600 U.S. locations.
The abrupt announcement has forced Optum into both short-term and medium-term decisions to deliver continuing pharmacy services, according to Batistelli.
In the short-term, Batistelli said Optum will install a clinical account manager to provide residents one-on-one help to temporarily transfer their prescriptions to Optum’s mail pharmacy system.
That service offers delivery to the customer’s door.
In the medium term, Bastistelli said Optum will immediately search for a partner to replace the full on-site pharmacy, a process she estimated might take three to four months. The company also hopes to continue to stock grocery items in the space until the new store opens.
Current Good Neighbor prescription customers have other options. Batistelli indicated that Leisure World residents who obtain their prescriptions through Good Neighbor could call each of their prescribing physicians, including those doctors they see within the on-site Optum clinic, and change the pharmacy to which their prescriptions are automatically sent.
Five of those pharmacies are on routes served by City of Seal Beach or Leisure World free shuttles.
The community has had an on-site pharmacy since its opening in 1962. It operated in the Health Care Center until June 1966, when the community opened a free-standing pharmacy. It moved into its present location in 1986. Its only short-term closure was due to the 1995 flood, when it operated temporarily in Clubhouse 3.
Batistelli said Optum would update its plans by next week and inform pharmacy customers through the company’s website and the LW Weekly.
—William Thompson
SBPD patrols increased on Super Bowl Sunday
Feb. 12 is Super Bowl LVII Sunday, and the Seal Beach Police Department will have additional officers on patrol looking for drivers suspected of being under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.
“We want the football fans in our community to enjoy Super Bowl festivities, but we also want responsible drivers on our roads,” Chief Michael Henderson said. “Before you grab a drink, make sure your game plan includes scheduling a ride-share or designating a sober driver.”
The Seal Beach Police Department reminds the public that alcohol is not the only substance that impairs. Marijuana, prescription medications and over-the-counter drugs may also impair drivers’ ability.
Funding for this program is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Super Bowl LVII will feature the Kansas City Chiefs vs. the Philadelphia Eagles. The game starts at 3:30 p.m. PST on Sunday, Feb. 12. The Chiefs are seeking their third Super Bowl title and are playing in the big game for the fifth time in franchise history. The Eagles are after a second Super Bowl title and are playing in the NFL’s biggest game for the fourth time in franchise history.
Docents needed at rancho
Rancho Los Alamitos, the historic site neighboring California State University, Long Beach, is looking for docents to lead engaging tours for visitors of all ages.
The rancho is currently recruiting and training new docent volunteers to volunteer on Saturday afternoons.
People who enjoy learning, talking with others and immersing themselves in local history make excellent docents.
An information session about docent training will be held on Saturday, Feb. 18, at 11:30 a.m. at Rancho Los Alamitos, 6400 E Bixby Hill Road, Long Beach, 90815. The Rancho is eight miles from Leisure World. It is also seeking volunteers to help in the gardens, with crafts for children, and welcoming the public to the historic site.
For more information, contact steve@RanchoLosAlamitos.org or call 562-431-3541.
Naval Weapons Station Security Exercise
Local residents may see an increase in law enforcement activities in and around the Seal Beach Naval Weapons Station through Feb. 17 as base personnel take part in an annual series of nationwide security exercises.
The exercises, collectively called Citadel Shield-Solid Curtain 2023, are being conducted simultaneously on Navy bases throughout the continental United States. At the naval weapons station, drills and training will be conducted on a wide range of potential security scenarios.
The exercises may cause increased traffic around the weapons station, delays in base access, and temporary gate closures. The station’s “Giant Voice” mass notification loudspeaker and alarm system may also be used.
Civilian boat traffic through Anaheim Bay is unlikely to be affected.
The series of exercises are scheduled to run for two weeks and conclude by Friday, Feb. 17.
Exercises are not in response to any specific threat but are part of regularly scheduled annual training, developed to enhance the readiness of Navy security teams.
For more information about the exercise contact the Naval Weapons Station Seal Beach Public Affairs Office at (562) 626-7215.
Live updates will also be posted on the station’s Facebook page (search under “Naval Weapons Station Seal Beach, Detachment Fallbrook, Detachment Norco”).
Memorial Care heart screenings offered
In honor of American Heart Month, LW residents can get screened at the Women’s Heart and Stroke Seminar and MemorialCare Long Beach Medical Center on Saturday, Feb. 25, from 7:30 a.m.-2 p.m.
People can also learn how to prevent cardiovascular disease and stroke and receive carotid ultrasound, EKG, and cholesterol and blood pressure screenings. Once people receive their readings, they’ll have time to speak with a nurse practitioner to review the results. To register, call 562-933-0100. Cost of registration is $25 and includes a light breakfast and lunch.
Pool Closed Through Feb. 19
The LW Aquatic Center is closed through Feb. 19.
A shade structure is also being installed.
The pool should reopen on Feb. 20.
Woodshop supervisors needed
The Recreation Department is seeking woodworkers to be volunteer supervisors at the LW Woodshop.
People must be able to devote a few hours on one or two Saturdays a month to enable residents who still work to take advantage of the woodshop. To become a volunteer supervisor, call Recreation Director Jesse Cripps at 562-431-6586, ext. 350, to set up an appointment.
SB Transportation Program
There are currently 1,205 users registered for the Senior Transportation Program, according to the City of Seal Beach. The program is available for Seal Beach residents ages 60 and older and consists of a pre-fixed shuttle route and Yellow Cab Taxi service.
To register, visit www.sealbeachca.gov or contact the city’s Recreation and Community Services Department at 562-431-2527, ext. 1307.
Security Town Hall
The GRF Security Department will host a town hall meeting on Wednesday, Feb. 15, at 6 p.m. in Clubhouse 4. Security Services Director Victor Rocha will review the enhanced access control system being implemented in the community. Time will be allocated to answer all shareholders’ questions regarding security and safety.
Super Bowl Party in CH 4
The GRF Recreation Department will host a viewing of the Super Bowl on Sunday, Feb. 12, in Clubhouse 4 on the big screens, starting at 3:30 p.m. Doors open at 3.
Plan to join friends and enjoy complimentary snacks.
For more information, call the Recreation Department at 562-431-6586, ext 324.
—Tommy Fileto
Perspectives, page 4
Girl Scout cookies are coming to Leisure World
The Seal Beach Girl Scouts will have cookie booths on select days in February and March in Leisure World:
On Saturdays, the Girl Scouts will be in Clubhouses 3 and 4 on the following dates:
• Feb. 11:10 a.m-2 p.m.
• Feb. 18: Noon-2 p.m.
• Feb. 26:10 a.m.-noon.
There will be another opportunity to buy cookies on Wednesday, March 1, from 4 -5 p.m. at Clubhouse 6.
Those who can’t buy the cookies on-site at Leisure World can find the Girl Scouts at the Ralphs in Seal Beach almost every day from Feb.10-March 12. Online ordering and delivery is also available by contacting shannonpollock@verizon.net, who will connect residents with one of the local troops.
All of the classic cookies will be available including Thin Mints, Caramel deLites (otherwise referred to as Samoas), Shortbread (now called Trefoils), Peanut Butter Patties, Lemonades and Peanut Butter Sandwiches. Cookies are $6 per box.
The Girl Scout Cookie Program prepares girls with the business smarts they need. Everything girls do in Girl Scouting is designed to help them grow into leaders of courage, confidence and character.
When buying Girl Scout cookies you are creating opportunities for Girl Scouts to learn, grow, and thrive. From learning how to interact with customers to creating budgets and taking orders, the Girl Scout Cookie Program teaches Girl Scouts invaluable skills that they’ll need to succeed throughout their lives.Plus, Girl Scout Cookie proceeds stay in the community to support local councils and troops.
CITY OF SEAL BEACH
Bathroom Accessibility Program returns to SB
Leisure World residents who have trouble stepping into the shower for any reason are likely eligible for a free bathroom upgrade. For nearly two decades, the City of Seal Beach has run the Seal Beach Bathroom Accessibility Program to help residents of Leisure World modify their bathrooms making them easier for seniors to use as intended.
The units in Leisure World were built in the 1960s, before ADA regulations were established. As a result, the fiberglass tub/shower combinations can be a challenge for seniors to use. The funding from the County of Orange and HUD is used to modify these fiberglass units to make them more accessible to the residents for free.
How is it done? The side wall of the existing fiberglass tubs are cut to just a few inches from the floor. The tubs are then refinished with a new coat of fiberglass to look like new, and a custom glass shower door is installed. The process converts the tub/shower combination into a functioning shower. This eliminates the need for seniors to lift one leg up and over the tub wall; which is particularly dangerous when standing barefoot on a wet surface.
The Seal Beach Bathroom Accessibility Program is an innovative City Program designed to provide the residents with a more convenient and safe method to access the bathroom shower. The grant funds can also be used to build an in-shower bench, add grab bars and/or replace an existing toilet with a high-boy toilet; further assisting seniors.
To qualify, resident households must meet certain income guidelines. Savings do not disqualify you. All applicants must be over 55 years of age and have a gross annual household income less than or equal to the Orange County levels listed below:
• One-person household: $75,900
• Two-person household: $86,750
• Three-person household: $97,600
In addition to the income requirements, a licensed medical doctor must complete the Doctor’s Analysis Form (included in the application) that rates the physical condition of the applicant with respect to mobility problems, pain with movement, or trouble with balance. This rating allows the program to help the applicants who are in the most need first until all the funds are spent.
The bathroom improvement process is coordinated by CivicStone (www.civicstone.com): a company hired by the City of Seal Beach to review all applications and manage the construction improvements with the approved contractors. Once approved for the program and scheduled for work, the improvements usually take less than a week to complete.
“Many residents get confused on the application process,” said Monique Miner, program administrator. “They don’t realize you can have substantial savings and still qualify for the free upgrade. We are just a phone call away and can help residents apply for the completely free upgrade. But don’t delay completing your application, because funds are limited!”
Applications are currently being accepted and are available online at https://www.civicstone.com and from the City of Seal Beach’s website.
For more information email monique@civicstone.com or call 909-364-9000.
Letters to the Editor
Editor:
I’d like to make shareholders aware of a helpful service. Did you know we have a free shuttle to appointments at Long Beach Memorial Medical Center? The driver leaves from the Amphitheater bus stop beginning at 8 a.m., Monday-Friday, approximately every two hours. The schedule is posted. The hospital campus is large, but the driver has maps available and will drop you off at the building where you need to be. It helps to know the name of the building where your doctor is located, or the address for GPS. Save gas, parking fees, and stress. I’m very grateful for this service! For more information, call 562-933-1233.
Lyn Kelley
Mutual 12.
Editor:
Please let people know there are false phone calls regarding Spectrum lowering your phone bill. I recieved one, terrible experience. I called Spectrum, told them what happened and was told you must call them directly.
Edith Sessa
Mutual 10
Perspectives Policy
Submissions in each of the following categories may be published at the discretion of the managing editor.
Letters to the Editor: The maximum number of words is 250. Letters should be typed and delivered to LW Weekly by email (preferred), regular mail or hand-delivered. Letters must be of general interest to the community and may contain opinions, suggestions, compliments and complaints without being scurrilous, libelous, defamatory, repetitive or inappropriate. Names of individual employees, titles and/or departments will not be permitted in letters that could adversely impact any GRF employee directly or indirectly.
Member Column: At a maximum 500 words, columns may present an argument or opinion or information about pending issues of concern to the community. Priority is given to first-time or less frequent writers. Some names will be left out to protect privacy.
Setting It Straight
The location for the GRF Valentine’s Day Dinner/Dance was incorrectly reported in the Feb. 2 issue to be in Clubhouse 4. It will actually be held in Clubhouse 2.
Community, pages 14-17
Sunshine CLub
LW developer’s daughter will speak to club on Friday, Feb. 17, in CH 4
Heidi Cortese, daughter of the Leisure World developer Ross Cortese, will speak at the Sunshine Club’s meeting on Friday, Feb. 17, in Clubhouse 4 at 10 a.m.
Cortese has been the CEO of Rossmoor Construction Company since February 1993.
She will speak on her 30-year tenure as chairwoman of one of America’s most influential companies in developing senior housing: Leisure World.
Over 70,000 people nationwide call a “Leisure World,” former “Leisure World,” or Rossmoor property “home.”
Note that the meeting will take place in Clubhouse 4 instead of the Sunshine Club’s regular meeting place due to a larger crowd expectation.
Japanese American Club
The Japanese American Club will meet on Feb. 18 in Clubhouse 3, Room 1, at 11:30 a.m.
Beau Onouye from BEACHFITNESS will be the featured speaker. He is a certified Fumanet instructor and traveled to Hokaido, Japan, to get certification by Professor Kazutoshi Kitazawa in 2018. He graduated from California State University, Long Beach, and is currently a personal trainer, corrective exercise specialist, brain health trainer and nutrition coach. During the meeting, he will focus his presentation on senior exercise.
Members are asked to bring Asian potluck dishes. Those who do not bring a dish will need to pay $8 to cover expenses for the club-provided catered dishes which will include teriyaki chicken, Japanese vegetables, Chinese food and birthday cake.
The phone committee will call all members to take RSVPs. All residents of LW are welcome to attend. The club dues are $10. For more information about the club or the meeting, call Michie Kimura at 714-317-1102,
Free income tax services are now available in LW
The AARP Tax-Aide program IRS-certified volunteers are preparing and e-filing tax returns for full-year California residents. This tax service is sponsored by the Golden Age Foundation (GAF) and is provided every Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday morning in the Knowledge and Learning Center in Clubhouse 3. Appointments are required.
LW residents can call 562-596-1987 and leave their name and telephone number and a volunteer will return the call to schedule an appointment.
The intake/interview sheet required for every appointment can be picked up at the Leisure World Library and completed prior to the appointment.
Individuals with rental property or a net loss from self-employment are out of scope for this program.
–Anna Derby
GRF Safety Manager and LW Community Emergency Response Team Instructor Eloy Gomez will talk about animal safety and emergency preparedness at the Paws, Claws, and Beaks Club on Feb. 15 at 4 p.m. in Clubhouse 3, Room 9. All LW pet owners are welcome. Refreshments will be served. For more information, contact Bonnie Kaplan at 714-930-5314 or email craft.kaplan029@gmail.com.
The Filipino Association of Leisure World (FALW) welcomes all residents to join its multicultural club’s next meeting on Sunday, Feb. 12, at 2:30 p.m. in Clubhouse 3, Rooms 1 and 2. The club’s annual membership dues of $10 are due now. The FALW’s next bingo event will be held on Sunday, Feb. 19 in Clubhouse 2. Doors open at noon, and games starts at 1.
Democratic Club
by Mary Larson
LW Contributor
The Orange County Registrar of Voters has until March 2 to certify the results of the Jan. 31 Seal Beach City Council runoff election. However, published reports already make it clear that over 1,800 Leisure World residents who were eligible to vote in this election did not vote. It is also clear that Leisure World’s new representative on the council will be Nathan Steele. As of Feb. 2, he was ahead by 185 votes with only approximately 36 ballots left to count.
With this runoff election completed, the Democratic Club is now focusing on what to anticipate in next year’s local and state-wide races. It is already clear that the contest to replace Dianne Feinstein in the U.S. Senate could be the most crowded and high-profile primary race of the 2024 cycle. Following close behind will be the race to replace Katie Porter in the House of Representatives.
Nancy Pelosi has already announced she will endorse Adam Schiff to replace Feinstein if she opts not to run again. Porter, the first candidate to throw her hat in this race, has been endorsed by Sen. Elizabeth Warren.
As previously reported, former U.S. Congressman Harley Rouda and California Senator Dave Min have both announced they will be running to replace Porter in the House.
Leisure World Democrats and supporters are reminded that they— speaking as an individual—are free to endorse any candidate at any time.
The SBLW Democratic Club is chartered by the Democratic Party of Orange County. This means that the club must follow the party’s rules and regulations in making candidate endorsements.
Before making endorsements, the club will send representatives to participate later this year in a meeting called a “pre-endorsement conference.” The meeting has currently been scheduled for October. Participants will vote on which candidates should receive the Democratic Party’s endorsement. The number of votes any club will have in this conference will depend on the number of members “in good standing” in that club.
The names of all candidates receiving at least 70% of the pre-endorsement vote are forwarded to the California Democratic Party for consideration during their state-wide convention. The final decision on endorsement will be made at this convention. Endorsements for local candidates (school boards, city councils, etc.) are made by the Democratic Party of Orange County governing body. The LW club will have one vote in that process.
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For a more in-depth reporting on issues, Democrats and supporters can subscribe to the club’s free newsletter by emailing democraticclubsblw@gmail.com or calling 562-296-8521.
Republican Club recognizes its volunteers
The LW Republican Club held a volunteer recognition lunch on Jan. 31.
During this even,t John Harper and Kitty Hammerschmidt were honored for their unselfish service to the club.
These same volunteers for the last two years have been supporting local candidates and other office holders in various ways. The various tasks include precinct walking, phone calls, manning the club’s booth and selling merchandise.
Harper was a past president and founder of the current Republican Club for nine years and Hammerschmidt was a past secretary to the club.
The club also recognized various outstanding performers during the midterm elections.
The club will hold its next meeting on Wednesday, Feb. 15, in Clubhouse 3, Room 2, at 7 p.m. Experienced campaigner Hope Horning will be the featured speaker.
Beginning in March, the Republican Club will open its booth on the first Monday of each month outside Clubhouse 6 from 10 a.m.-noon.
– David Harlow
Sunshine Club
Learn about lower back pain treatment on Friday, Feb. 10
Dr. Roger Moon, M.D, will speak to the Sunshine Club about chronic low back pain, on Friday, Feb. 10, in Clubhouse 3, Room 2, at 10 a.m.
Moon is a board certified anesthesiologist, who specializes in interventional pain management. He graduated from Tufts University School of Medicine in Boston, Massachusetts. He completed his residency at Stony Brook University in New York in anesthesiology. He then completed his fellowship training in pain management at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles, California.
Moon has a broad experience in the management of acute and chronic low back pain. He specializes in image guided techniques (ultrasound and fluoroscopy), including selective nerve root blocks, interlaminar epidural steroid injections, facet joint injections, medial branch blocks, radiofrequency ablation, sacroiliac joint injections and kyphoplasty/vertebroplasty. He also performs neuromodulation and intrathecal pump implants for post-laminectomy syndrome. Moon is a member of the American Academy of Pain Medicine as well as the Spine Interventional Society.
During the meeting, Moon will discuss the most common causes of low back pain in the elderly. He will also describe pertinent topics regarding low back pain treatment.
All residents are welcome to join this meeting. The Sunshine Club requires no membership fees, but donations are welcome. Refreshments will be served at the meeting. The Sunshine Club does not discuss politics or religions.
The Sunshine Club began in January 2012 with the mission of “Building Bridges For A Brighter Leisure World.” The club frequently invites guest speakers from Leisure World’s GRF departments so residents could get familiar with each system within the community. For more information, text 562-301-5339.
GAF
Amazon Smile program ends Feb. 20, Ralphs Rewards has new contact number
Amazon just announced the end of its Amazon Smile Community Reward program as of Feb. 20, and the Golden Age Foundation (GAF) would like to thank the LW community’s support over the years through the program.
Amazon launched Amazon Smile to make it easier for customers to support their favorite charities. However, after almost a decade, the program has not grown to create the impact that it had originally hoped. With so many eligible organizations (more than 1 million globally), its ability to have an impact was often spread too thin.
Amazon says it will continue to pursue and invest in other areas where it can make meaningful change from building affordable housing, providing access to computer science education for students, and using its logistics infrastructure and technology to assist communities impacted by natural disasters.
To help charities like the GAF that have been a part of the AmazonSmile program with this transition, Amazon will be providing the GAF with a one-time donation equivalent to three months of what it earned in 2022 through the program. Amazon will also be able to accrue additional donations until the program officially closes in February. The GAF will still be able to seek support from Amazon customers by creating wish lists.
There is another way to donate to the GAF through the Ralphs Community Reward program. People can sign up on www.ralphs.com or by calling (800) 576-4377. Note that the number has recently been changed. You will need your Ralphs reward card number to register or the phone number associated with the account. When signing up be sure to have the GAF’s non-profit organization FS 519 to register.
The GAF is a nonprofit 501 (c)(3) charitable organization dedicated to serving LW residents.
– Anna Derby
GAF
Board Meeting will be held Feb. 22
The Golden Age Foundation will hold its monthly board meeting on Wednesday, Feb. 22, at 2 p.m. in the GRF Conference Room B.
All members of the GAF are welcome to observe. This is a great opportunity for members to catch up on the latest news and get a preview of coming GAF attractions. For more information, contact Anna Derby at 562-301-5339.
Valentine’s day luncheon for cancer survivors
The strong men and women who are currently a cancer patient or a survivor are invited to come to LW Community Church’s free Valentines Day luncheon on Tuesday, Feb. 14, at noon in the fellowship hall at Community Church.
The luncheon will provide food, fun and smiles.
People may also invite their caregiver and the significant other who helped them through their time of need during the illness.
The party is by reservation only. Those interested in attending should contact Taylor White, a seven year survivor, by calling 562-208-3359 and leave a message.
LW Woman’s Club
The Woman’s Club of Leisure World is a non-profit philanthropic organization with approximately 150 members. Meetings are held the first Tuesday of the month, October-June. Meetings include not only donations to specially chosen organizations, but also outside professional entertainment followed by refreshments for our members.
At the January meeting we invited Sharon Kohn of the Impaired Vision and Hearing Club to tell us about the advantages of belonging to their club and also to accept a check from the Woman’s Club of Leisure World on their behalf.
Those who would like to know more about the Leisure World Woman’s Club or to join, should contact Membership Chair Kathy Russell at 949 293-7517.
LW Community Emergency Response Team
Members of LW Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) opened the last meeting to residents who were interested in learning about emergency preparedness and how to become a CERT member. President Catherine O’Brien made a presentation about how people can create a family emergency plan. O’Brien covered topics like creating a paper copy of the contact information for your family and other important people including information such as medical facilities, doctors and service providers. She encouraged those at the meeting to carry a copy or post a copy of the plan in a central location in their home such as a refrigerator,or a bulletin board.
The second half of meeting was presented by Peggy Lynch who gave a presentation about the effective ways that LW CERT members can stop bleeding in an emergency by using multiple options available.
— Janice Friedland
American Legion Auxiliary
American Legion Auxiliary’s mission statement is “In the Spirit of Service, Not Self.” The mission of the American Legion Auxiliary is to support The American Legion and to honor the sacrifice of those who serve by enhancing the lives of veterans, active military, and their families, at home and abroad.
For God and Country, the American Legion Auxiliary advocate for veterans, educate citizens, mentor youth, and promote patriotism, good citizenship, peace and security.
American Legion Auxiliary welcomes those who have a serving heart and an undying respect for veterans to join the group.
People can attend a meeting and fill out a simple membership form to be invited to a special orientation luncheon on how you join the group.
Auxiliary meetings are held every third Monday in Clubhouse 3, Room 1, at 1:30 p.m.
–Dianne Hart
Visit the Pala Casino on Feb. 20
LWers can visit The Pala Casino Spa Resort for the day on Feb. 20 through the Los Alamitos Senior Club for $45 per person.
The Pala Casino is a AAA Four-Diamond award winner for nine consecutive years and its gaming and entertainment includes over 2,000 slot machines, 70 table games, eight restaurants, two concert and show venues and more.
There will be two pickup and drop off locations for the event. One will be in front of Clubhouse 4, 1418 Northwood Road, at 7:45 a.m. and the other will be at the Los Alamitos Vons, 11322 Los Alamitos Boulevard, Los Alamitos, 90720 at 8:15 a.m.
For more information or to register for the day trip, contact Teri Nugent at 310-803-4338 .
obituaries, page 17
In Memoriam
Robert Asplin Jr. 54
Mary Lou Klar 88
Allegra Harlan 99
Lyle Morris 57
Joanna Exacoustos 79
Helchandree Sooklall 73
Marilyn Mehl 71
Frances Ortiz 84
John Zvonec 71
Lois Crawford 83
Dennis Leger 76
Enrigueta Romera Luna 98
Paul-Yuan Chen 81
Robert Palomo 90
Thomas Redwine 81
Barbara Knapil 89
Luis Gutierrez 96
Anayo Onwunyi 65
Patricia Frye 73
Anna Nuno 58
Lillie Farwell 74
Margaret Wheeler 77
Francisco Fernandez 94
Jean Yannuzzi
Alger Mock 69
Filomena Galdames 77
James Johnson 83
Robert Aito 93
Martha Alvillar 88
Dennis Quinn 81
Virginia Johnson 75
Angela Verand 64
Kathy Madison 71
Manuel Renteria 101
Carol Noland 84
Families assisted by
McKenzie Mortuary,
562-961-9301
–paid obituary
•••
The obituaries deadline is Friday at 1 p.m., prior to the desired Thursday publication date. Obituaries that are received later than Friday will go in the following week’s issue.
Email obituary notices to laurieb@lwsb.com with photos attached as jpg files. The first 250 words, plus one picture, are free to publish in the newspaper; each additional word is 25 cents. For more information, call (562) 430-0534, ext. 801, or email laurieb@lwsb.com.
Religion, pages 19, 22-23
First Christian Church
First Christian Church of Leisure World teaches from God’s word, the Holy Bible, most often verse by verse. It is a friendly church that welcomes all visitors to join in worship and explore God’s word together, “That we may be mutually encouraged by each other’s faith, both yours and mine,” Romans 1:12.
Message from the Pastor
“But Noah found favor in the eyes of the Lord,” Genesis 6:8. God took notice of Noah, “Because I have seen that you are righteous before me in this generation.”
God instructed Noah to construct an ark for himself, his wife, sons and his sons’ wives, plus two of every living thing; one male and one female. God described the construction of the ark in detail. He gave Noah the type of wood to use, the dimensions for the inside and outside, and how to cover it inside and out with pitch: “Thus, Noah did; according to all that God had commanded him, so he did” Genesis 6:22.
Afterward, God said, “I am bringing the flood of water upon the earth to destroy all flesh under the heavens.” Then God told Noah he was establishing a covenant (promise) with him that would occur when Noah and his family entered the ark. The ark was a vessel that saved the righteous; those who had faith in the creator, God, from judgement.
Today, believers know that the ark is an Old Testament picture of the savior, Jesus Christ, that came to bring salvation to whosoever would believe in God. A future judgement of mankind will come, and to survive the judgement each individual has been given an opportunity through belief to get “on board” the New Testament Ark—the person of Jesus Christ.
In John 14:6 Jesus says “I am the way, the truth, and the life, no one comes to the father except through me.”
Weekend Services
Sunday services are held from 9:30-10:45 a.m. The service is traditional with hymnal music led by Janet Ray and Pat Kogok at the piano.
First Christian Church Choir, led by Ray, will sing “Make Me a Blessing.”
Saturday services are more contemporary with Gregory Black leading worship with guitar accompaniment. The service is held from 9:30-10:45 a.m.
Midweek Studies
Melli Herrera leads the women’s Bible study on Mondays from 10:30-11:45 a.m.
Pastor Gary Whitlach leads the Bible study held on Tuesdays from 9:30-10:30 a.m.
Thursday’s Bible study, led by Elder Jack Frost, is held from 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Pastor Bruce Humes leads Friday’s prayer and Bible study from 6-7 p.m.
Scripture of the Week
“Jesus said ‘All that the father gives me will come to me, and the one who comes to me I will certainly not cast out. For I have come down from heaven, not to do my own will, but the will of him who sent me,” John 8:37-38.
Contact
First Christian Church is located on Northwood Road behind Carport 125. Those who would like to receive more information can call 562-431-8810.
Congregation Sholom
Congregation Sholom will hold services via Zoom with Rabbi Eric Dangott on Friday, Feb. 10, at 6:30 p.m. Rabbi Mike Mymon will lead hybrid services on Saturday, Feb. 11, in Clubhouse 3, Room 9, and via Zoom at 10 a.m.
Saturday’s Torah portion will be Yitro (Jethro), which begins as Moses reunites with his father-in-law Yitro and accepts his advice to appoint judges who will help govern the Israelites. The Israelites prepare to encounter God at Mount Sinai. God descends amidst fire, smoke, thunder and the blast of a shofar and gives the Ten Commandments to Moses.
To receive a Zoom link to the services, contact Jeff Sacks at 714-642-0122.
The book club will meet on Zoom on Wednesday, Feb. 15, at 7 p.m. This week, the club will travel back a few centuries by reading “The Gentleman from Krakow” by I.B. Singer.
Congregation Sholom has been serving Leisure World since 1962. It offers a traditional Jewish service in person and online.
Those would like to become a member of Congregation Sholom should call Howard Brass at 714-396-0121 for a membership packet.
Faith Christian Assembly
After a brief hiatus for the holidays, Faith Christian Assembly’s men’s and women’s ministries will hold the first meetings of the year on Thursday, Feb. 16, at 1 p.m. The church looks forward to returning to its monthly meeting schedule for these special groups. The groups are a way for people to gather comfortably in an informal setting, with the company of like-minded brothers and sisters. The groups are a great way for people who are not familiar with the church to give it a try and see what Faith Christian Assembly is about.
Faith Christian Assembly believes there is something special about people getting together to focus on strengths and address issues as men and women. Having a ministry devoted specifically to each group gives an excellent opportunity to do so. It provides an opportunity to learn from someone who has gone through or are currently experiencing the same things and help navigate life’s ups and downs through encouragement.
Join Faith Christian Assembly Thursday, Feb. 16, at 1 p.m. The women’s ministry, also called “Touch of Love,” meets under the direction of Linda Hernandez in the Garden Room. The men’s ministry meets under the direction of Ruben de la Rosa and Gary Leming in the main sanctuary. The church is located on the corner of Seal Beach Boulevard and St. Andrews Drive, just outside Leisure World.
Faith Christian Assembly’s regular Sunday service times are at 10:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. The pre-service prayer is on Sundays at 5 p.m. The midweek Bible study held on Wednesdays at 11 a.m.
People can call the church office at 562-598-9010 for updated schedule information or to receive a free copy of the church’s newsletter. People can also read the newsletter archive and find more information about the church at www.FCAchurch.net.
LW Baptist
“Though he slay me, yet will I hope in him” are famous words of the prophet Job. Less well-known are these: “All the days of my struggle I will wait until my change (or renewal) comes.” Both phrases express the hope of personal resurrection and glorification. LW Baptist will focus on these things in its worship service on Sunday, Feb. 12, at 10 a.m. in Clubhouse 4. The sermon title for this week is “Changed from Glory into Glory.”
The women’s Bible study group will meet Monday, Feb. 13, at 10 a.m. in Clubhouse 3, Room 6, to discuss the corollary doctrine of Christian growth. On Wednesday, Feb. 15, at 3 p.m., the Energizers group will host missionaries Ralph and Joan Justiniano from Japan. For more information, call 562-430-8598.
Christian Women’s Fellowship and Bible Study
The Christian Women’s Fellowship and Bible study group will meet on Monday, Feb. 13, and Monday, Feb. 27, at 10 a.m. in Clubhouse 3, Room 6. Members will begin a new book by Elizabeth George, “A Woman’s Walk with God.”
All residents are welcome. For more information, call Jean Davidson at 562-431-0597 or Margie Singleton at 562-594-8100
Community Church
It’s not too late to join Community Church for its two upcoming events. The Valentine’s Day luncheon for cancer survivors will be held on Tuesday, Feb. 14 at noon. People can contact Taylor White at 562-208-3359 to RSVP by Friday, Feb. 10.
The church’s Souper Bowl event will be held on Sunday, Feb. 12. People are asked to bring in canned soup or non-perishable food items to the Sunday worship service or drop off at the church office this week. Bins will be marked “Eagles” or “Chiefs” so people can drop the food items into their favorite team’s bin. Food will be donated to local food banks
Choose your own adventure books were very popular back in the day. Every few pages, the reader would be presented with a choice that would make them turn to a different page. Readers would be taken through different storylines and might even skip some storylines or outcomes entirely. Two people could read the same book and get a different ending.
In Community Church’s study of Deuteronomy this week, the writer presents a choice: life and prosperity or death and adversity. People naturally want to choose life and prosperity but can people know their choices will lead to life and prosperity rather than death and adversity? This question and its answers will be reflected on in Community Church’s joy filled community this Sunday, Feb. 12, at 9:50 a.m. All are welcome.
As always, the word Gospel means “good news” and those who are in need of some good news are welcome to join the service in person or online on Zoom and on Facebook at @CommunityChurchLeisureWorld. Contact the church office for the Zoom link.
Those who are in need without another way to address it can call the church office to leave a message at 562-431-2503.
Redeemer Lutheran
“Choose to Follow…Choose to Live” is the theme found in the Old and New Testament readings in Redeemer Lutheran Church’s worship service on Sunday, Feb. 12, at 10:30 a.m.
All are invited to join the community and share the word with Communion and hymns in the church sanctuary at 13564 St. Andrews Drive, across from the Administration building where ample parking is provided.
The church is celebrating SOUPerBowl Sunday and invites LWers to bring cans of soup to be distributed to those in need in the local community.
Those who have questions about the service or the work of the church can call 562-598-8697.
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
Meetings for the Atherton Ward are held at 6500 E. Atherton Street in Long Beach. Sacrament service is held every Sunday at 10:30 a.m. This is followed in the second hour by Sunday School on the first and third Sundays, Relief Society and Elders Quorum meetings on the second and fourth Sundays. Primary classes for children are held every Sunday during the second hour. Members who are unable to attend Sacrament services in person can request a link from Bishop Mike Gravley at 562-212-8641.
The reading source for this year is the New Testament. The reading assignment for the week of Feb. 13-19 is Matthew 5 and Luke 6. Of these two chapters, the “Come, Follow Me” says “By this point in His ministry it was clear that Jesus’s teaching would be unlike what the people of His time were used to hearing. The poor will receive the kingdom of God? The meek will inherit the earth? Blessed are the persecuted? The scribes and Pharisees were not teaching such things.”
Assembly of God
Service/Gathering Times: Sunday morning at 10:30 in Clubhouse 3, Room 2. The Hymn Sing will be held on the fourth Sunday, in the Clubhouse 3 Lobby at 6 p.m.
Sermon for this week: Love can save a life. Love has motivated people to donate organs, lift impossibly heavy vehicles off trapped loved ones and take literal bullets to shield someone else from death. When these events make the news, do people ever question whether the life that was saved merited the sacrifice of the lifesaver?
Rarely would that question be posed, as the full details of the relationship between the parties can be told in a brief news story. When it comes to the sacrificial love of God for His human creation, the answer is clear. Humanity was sick, hopeless, and in need of saving. God sent Jesus as the answer to that need.
“Love to the Rescue,” from Ephesians 2:4-5, will be Pastor Chuck Franco’s sermon this week. LWers are invited to join Assembly of God and discover the overwhelming love of God and the extraordinary way he chose to express that love.
Bible Study: Assembly of God’s Bible study resumes on Wednesday, Feb. 15, with two sessions remaining in “Fearless,” by Max Lucado. It is never too late to join this series and become empowered to face down fear in a culture that manufactures and distributes it.
Contact: More information about the church can be found at www.lwassemblyofgod.com.
Those who would like prayer, personal contact from a pastor or a DVD of the Sunday morning sermon can contact pastors Chuck and Sheryl Franco by calling 562-357-4360 or emailing pastorchuck@lwassemblyofgod.com. Carolyn van Aalst is also available to add to the prayer chain at 562-343-8424.
Pastor Chuck’s sermons can be accessed on the Faithlife app under “Leisure World Assembly of God,” where people can also give online.
The Sisterhood of Congregation Sholom celebrated Valentine’s Day with a luncheon. The beautiful centerpiece was created by Carol Levine to commemorate Jewish Arbor Day, which was on Feb. 6.
Page 5 and 8
Directors needed as Mutual election cycle begins
The community unity of Leisure World Seal Beach is a direct result of all the unpaid volunteers on Mutual and GRF boards. Board members/directors are elected to serve their Mutuals and shareholders. One of the best ways to create and sustain a community like Leisure World is to volunteer for the governance of this incredible lifestyle shareholders enjoy.
This community was founded on the premise that the Mutual Boards and the elected board of directors would set into operation the day-to-day business of each Mutual corporation. Directors address important issues to shareholders and Mutuals. Board directors find solutions to problems, large and small. This is not an easy job. It takes time, effort, and a willingness to dedicate a portion of their everyday life to the community where they live.
Leisure World Seal Beach is full of highly qualified shareholders who can offer expertise, such as knowledge of construction, plumbing and accounting. New ideas and perspectives are always needed. Consider becoming a candidate for a director of your Mutual’s board of directors.
The schedule below indicates each Mutual’s annual meeting date and election time line. Note the deadline to apply for candidacy. If interested in running or have any questions regarding the Mutual’s board of directors, contact the election specialist at 562-431-6586, ext. 329. Note some Mutuals are already accepting applications.
GRF Meetings
Golden Rain Foundation committee and board meetings are open to Leisure World residents. The following is a tentative schedule.
Fri., Feb. 10 Architectural Design Review Committee
Conf. Rm A/virtual 1 p.m.
Mon., Feb. 13 1.8 Ad Hoc Committee
Conf. Rm B/virtual 10 a.m.
Mon., Feb. 13 Mutual Administration Committee
Conf. Rm A/virtual 1 p.m.
A quorum or more of the directors may be present, only to listen and observe, and no formal board action will be taken at committee meetings. Attendees will be provided an opportunity to address the committee.
Mutual Meetings
Mutual residents are invited to attend the open meetings of their mutual boards. The following is a tentative schedule.
Thu., Feb. 9 Mutual 12
Conf. Rm A/Zoom 9 a.m.
Fri., Feb. 10 Mutual 3
Conf. Rm A/Zoom 9 a.m.
Mon., Feb. 13 Mutual 9
Conf. Rm A/Zoom 9 a.m.
Tue., Feb. 14 Mutual 16
Conf. Rm A/Zoom 1 p.m.
Wed., Feb. 15 Mutual 5
Conf. Rm B/Zoom 9 a.m.
Wed., Feb. 15 Mutual 7
Conf. Rm A/Zoom 1 p.m.
Thu., Feb. 16 Mutual 2
Conf. Rm A/Zoom 9 a.m.
Thu., Feb. 16 Mutual 11
Conf. Rm B/Zoom 1:30 p.m.
Recap of GRF Board Activity, Jan. 24
Approved Consent Agenda:
MOVED and approved the minutes of the GRF Board of Directors Minutes, November 22, 2022, were approved. Approve Capital Funds Investment Purchase, Approve Reserve Funds Investment Purchase, and the Acceptance of the Interim Financial Statements, November, and December 2022, for Audit were removed from the agenda on January 17, 2023.
General
Appoint Chair for Community Rule Violation Panel: MOVED to approve the President’s nomination of Director Edward Jablonski as chair/moderator of the 2022-23 Community Rules Violation Panel, and the naming of the following directors to hear Member appeals: Lucy Ableser, Carole Damoci, Tony Dodero, Janet Isom, Susan Jacquelin, Lee Melody, Teri Nugent, Leah Perrotti, and Camille Thompson.
Adopt 30-5700-3, Presidents’ Roundtable Charter: After discussion, 30-5700-3, Presidents’ Roundtable Charter will be sent to GRF Administration Committee for further review.
Architectural Design and Review Committee
Capital Funding Request: Landscaping at the Globe: FAILED to approve the contract to J&J Landscape to replace plants at the Globe at a cost not to excess, $38,910 and authorize the President to sign the contract.
Communication
Amend 20-5050-1, Digital Billboards: MOVED to amend 20-5050-1, Digital Billboards, as presented, and retitle it as “Electronic Communications” under the same rule number.
Adopt 20-5050-3, Digital Billboards: MOVED to adopt policy 20-5050-3, Digital Billboards, as presented.
Finance Committee
Operating Funding Request: Approve Active Shooter Insurance: MOVED to approve the Active Shooter insurance proposal as presented by DLD, with coverage in the amount of $3,000,000 at a total cost of $21,551 plus taxes and fees. Funds to be expended from Operating Account GL #6731000, which has an annual budget of $848,802 as of January 1, 2023. The GRF President is authorized to sign the coverage.
GRF Administration
Committee
Amend 30-1001-5, Glossary of Terms: MOVED to amend these amendments in 30-1001-5 – Glossary of Terms: Age-Restricted Community, Common Area, Cooperative Housing, Exclusive-Use Common Area, Golden Rain Foundation, In Leisure World Seal Beach, Mutual Corporations (Mutual), Reserved Parking, Trust Property, Amenity, Common Interest Development, Cooperative Mutual, Property Interest, Roadway and Stock Cooperative, as amended.
Final Vote: 30-5025-3, Golden Rain Foundation Election Procedure: MOVED to ratify 30-5025-3, GRF Election Procedure, updating the Ballot Retention adding Acclamation rules, as presented.
Information Technology Service Committee
Amend 20-5045-3, Board Member Use of Foundation Equipment Procedures: MOVED to amend 20-5045-3, Board Member Use of Foundation Equipment, as presented, updating issuance and authorization rule, specifying that board members must sign 20-5045-4 form, and updating the return or replacement rule, giving the board member an option of replacing the device or purchasing theirs.
Adopt 20-5045-4, Board Member Use of Foundation Equipment Form: MOVED to approve adopt policy 20-5045-4, Board Member Use of Foundation Equipment Form, as presented.
Tentative Vote: Adopt 20-5560-1, Surveillance Camera Policy: MOVED to adopt policy 20-5560-1, Surveillance Camera Policy, as presented, pending a 28-day notification to the members, and a final decision by the GRF Board of Directors at its March 28, 2023, meeting.
Mutual Administration Committee
Capital Funding Request: SSD Alarm System: MOVED to approve the SSD Alarm proposal for $15,181.48 including a contingency of $2,500.00, Capital Funding, for the installation of the alarm system and a monthly expenditure of $206.95 from GL Code 6478000- 574, which has a monthly budget of $70.25 as of January 1, 2023 and authorize the President to sign any contracts.
Amend 50-5165-3, Mutual Administration and Service Maintenance Charter: MOVED to amend 50-5165-3, Mutual Administration and Service Maintenance Charter, updating language throughout, as presented.
Physical Property Committee
Reserve Funding Request: Building Five Modifications: MOVED to approve the improvements at Building Five for the replacement of carpet upstairs, LED lighting, workstations and the repainting of the complete exterior and upstairs interior, at a cost not to exceed $98,515, Reserve Funding, which includes a $5,000 contingency and authorize the President sign the contracts.
Capital Funding Request: Power for Fans Clubhouse One: MOVED to award a contract to Pacific 3 Electric for electrical improvements at the Clubhouse One Shuffleboard Court area, installing a 100-amp electrical panel, (3) wall-mounted fans, (8) 110v convenience outlets, (4) porch lights at each entry/exit door, for a cost not to exceed $18,000, Capital Funding, which includes the $3,000 contingency, and authorize the President sign the contract.
Amend 60-5504-1, Insurance Requirements Contractors: MOVED to amend 60-5504-1, Insurance Requirements-Contractors establishing the annual fee of $150 required from each contractor to adhere to these insurance requirements as soon administratively feasible, as presented.
Amend 60-5000-1, Use of Community Facilities, Dumpsters at 1.8 Acres – Rules: MOVED to amend 60-5000-1, use of community facilities, dumpsters at 1.8 acres – rules removing rule, 2.10 under general regulation and updating the days of operation from Monday to Sunday, as amended.
Recreation Committee
Amend 70-1487-2, Schedule of Fees and Monetary Fines: MOVED to amend 70-1487-2, Schedule of Fees and Monetary Fines, increasing the Annual Space Lease Fee effective June 1, 2023, as presented.
Amend 70-1500-1, Woodshop Rules: MOVED to amend 70-1500-1, woodshop rules, updating language throughout, as presented.
Amend 70-5562-1, Amphitheater Programs: MOVED to amend 70-5562-1, Amphitheater Programs, updating language throughout, as presented.
Amend 70-1480-1, Arts and Craft Festival: MOVED to amend 70-1480-1, Arts and Craft Festival, updating language throughout, as amended.
Amend 70-1482-4, Arts and Craft Festival Seller’s Statement and Form: MOVED to amend 70-1482-4, Arts and Craft Festival Seller’s Statement and Form, updating language throughout, as amended.
Rescind 70-1409-1, Amphitheater Dancing: MOVED to rescind 70-1409-1 Amphitheater Dancing, as presented.
Security, Bus, and Traffic Committee
Capital Funding Request: Gate Access System: MOVED to approve the proposal for a vehicle gate access system from CG Systems at a total one-time cost of $423,485.70, which includes a 10% contingency, with funds to be expended from the Capital Fund, which has an unallocated balance of $2,731,736 as of November 30, 2022, and a monthly cost of $1,632.00, with funds to be expended from Operating Account GL #6481000-837, which has an annual budget of $4,950. The President is authorized to sign the contract.
Recreation Committee
Capital Funding Request: Administration Access Control System: MOVED to approve the proposal from CG Systems at a total one-time installation cost of $49,218.40 plus a 10% contingency, and the purchase of 200 key cards at $1,270.00, with funds expended from the Capital Fund, which has an unallocated balance of $2,744,771, and approve the monthly subscription of $72.11, with funds to be expended from Operating Account GL #6481000-837, which has a monthly budget of $412.50 as of January 1, 2023. The President is authorized to sign the contract.
Tentative Vote: Amend 80-1937-1, Parking – Rules: MOVED to tentatively amend 80-1937-1 Parking – Rules, updating language throughout, pending a 28-day notification to the members, and a final decision by the GRF board of directors on March 28.
Presidents’ Council
Recap Jan. 5
Clubhouse 4
ZoomVideo – Virtual
The regular monthly meeting of the Presidents’ Council of Leisure World Seal Beach was convened at 9 a.m. by President Jeri Dolch on Jan. 5 in Clubhouse 4 and via Zoom.
The following is a recap.
Presidents’ Council meeting minutes of Dec. 1, 2022 were approved, by the Council, to stand as written.
City of Seal Beach guest speaker Iris Lee provided an update on the 2021-2022 Leisure World Water Consumption.
Emergency Council Committee Members, Kathy Almeida and Marty Williams, presented the “Go Bag” and “Boots on the Ground” Plan.
GRF President Marsha Gerber discussed the Optum’s Health Care Center Team’s plan to have an addition to the New Buyer Orientations.
Executive Director Jessica Sedgwick provided an update on the upcoming changes to the Mutual Administration Department, Finance Department, Stock Transfer Department, and Copy and Supply Department.
Learning and Development Manager, Acacia Young introduced her roles in Leisure World and presented the “Board Leader Certificate” program offered by the Community Association Institute (CAI).
IT Director Marcelo Mario provided an update on the Mutual website.
Facilities Director Mark Weaver provided updates on general projects in the community.
The Facilities Manager Ruben Gonzalez and Warehouse Manager Ruben Sandoval introduced the Purchasing Department’s roles and duties in Leisure World.
The Security Services Director Victor Rocha provided an update on recent thefts in the community and the new access gate system. He also announced the Security Town Hall.
Mutual Administration Director Jodi Hopkins presented the Mutual Administration Monthly Reports and Stock Transfer Monthly reports.
Mutual Administration Director Jodi Hopkins discussed the Mutual Election Material.
President Dolch adjourned the meeting at 11 a.m.
Recap Feb. 2
Clubhouse 4
ZoomVideo – Virtual
The regular monthly meeting of the Presidents’ Council of Leisure World Seal Beach was convened at 9 a.m. by President Jeri Dolch, on Feb. 2 in Clubhouse 4 and via Zoom.
The following is a recap.
Presidents’ Council meeting minutes of Jan. 5 were approved, by the Council, to stand as written.
Municipal Water District of Orange County guest speaker Karl Seckle discussed Water Supply Conditions Impacting Orange County.
Onsite Sales Broker Dawn Januszka discussed the housing market, escrows, and new buyer orientations.
President of Lynn Wealth Management Dave Lynn discussed Investment Opportunities.
IT Director Marcelo Mario discussed LWSB emails for Mutual Board Directors.
Facilities Director Mark Weaver provided updates on general projects in the community.
Mutual Administration Director Jodi Hopkins presented the Mutual Administration Monthly Reports and Stock Transfer Monthly reports.
Next Council meeting: Thursday, March 2, at 9 a.m., in Clubhouse 4 and via Zoom Tele-Video Conference and YouTube LIVE.
How to Contact Your Government
Contacting your elected officials remains one of the most important civic responsibilities you can perform outside of voting. Here’s a guide to how to contact those elected to be your voice:
President Joseph R. Biden
Phone: 202-456-1111
Mail: The White House, Office of the President, 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, D.C. 20500
Website: www.whitehouse.gov
Vice President Kamala Harris
Phone: 202-456-1111
Mail: The White House, Office of the Vice President, 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, D.C. 20500
Website: www.whitehouse.gov
U.S. Senator Dianne Feinstein
Phone: 310-914-7300 or 202-224-3841
Mail: 11111 Santa Monica Blvd., Ste. 915, Los Angeles, CA 90025
Website: www.feinstein.senate.gov
U.S. Senator Alex Padilla
Phone: 202-224-3553
Mail: 255 E. Temple St.
Suite 1860, Los Angeles, CA 90012
Website: www.padilla.senate.gov
U.S. Representative, 47th District, Katie Porter
Phone: 949-668-6600 or 202-225-5611
Mail: 12151 Michelson Drive
Sutie 195, Irvine, CA 92612
Website: https://porter.house.gov
Governor Gavin Newsom
Phone: 916-445-2841
Mail: 1303 10th St., Ste. 1173, Sacramento, CA 95814
Website: www.gov.ca.gov
State Senator, District 36, Janet Nguyen
Phone: 714-558-3785 or 916-651-4036
Mail: 1021 O Street, Ste. 7130, Sacramento, CA 95814
Website: sr36.senate.ca.gov
State Assembly Member, District 72, Diane Dixon
Phone: 714-843-4966 or 916-319-2072
Mail: 17011 Beach Blvd., Ste. 1120, Huntington Beach, CA 92647
Website: ad72.asmrc.org
Orange County Supervisor, District 1, Andrew Do
Phone: 714-834-3110
Mail: 400 W. Civic Center Drive, Santa Ana, CA 92701
Website: bos1.ocgov.com
Seal Beach Mayor Joe Kalmick
Phone: 562-431-2527, ext. 1501
Email: jkalmick@sealbeachca.gov
Mail: Seal Beach City Hall, 211 Eighth St., Seal Beach, CA 90740
Website: www.sealbeachca.gov/Government/City-Council
Seal Beach City Council Member, District 5,
To be determined Phone: 562-431-2527, ext. 1505
Email:
Mail: Seal Beach City Hall, 211 Eighth St., Seal Beach, CA 90740
Website: www.sealbeachca.gov/Government/City-Council
Comments/Questions at GRF Board Meetings
The Open Meeting Act allows boards of directors to establish reasonable time limits for the open forum and for speakers to address the board. (Civ. Code §4925(b).) Time limits are four minutes per speaker for 15 or fewer speakers; three minutes per speaker for 16-25 speakers; and two minutes per speaker, more than 26 speakers.
To address the GRF Board of Directors, submit a request to the GRF Board Office, P.O. Box 2069, Seal Beach, CA 90740, Attention: Executive Coordinator, no later than 4:30 p.m. on the Friday prior to the meeting. You may also drop off your question/comment at the Stock Transfer Office, Attention: Executive Coordinator, or email your question/comment to grfboardaction@lwsb.com.
Health & Fitness
Wa-Rite
Wa-Rite’s total weight loss for the week was 11.5 pounds. Last week Denise Stabile was the biggest loser with a loss of 2.5 pounds. This week the biggest loser was Shirley LaBrecque with a loss of 4 pounds. Have faith in yourself and start out small by having more water, movement, and being aware of portion sizes.
The club meets on Fridays in Clubhouse 3, Room 1. Weigh ins are from 9-9:45 a.m. The meeting begins at 10. The annual membership fee is $10.
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Joyful Line Dance offers full body workout
Joyful Line Dance meets on Thursdays in Clubhouse 6 upstairs from 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
The club has multiple leaders who take turns leading the class. They are Albert and Gladys Comia, Jojo Weingart, Caryn Lynn Stel, Kelly Johnson, David Powell, Carmel Atkinson, Anna Derby, Chung Cha Lewis, George Pinada, Gina Baik, Jinna Yoon and Sunny Kim.
For safety, classes are limited to 35 people on a first-come, first-served basis. Exercise shoes and masks are strongly recommended. No membership fees required, but donations are welcome.
For more information, text 562-301-5339.
—Anna Derby
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Meals on Wheels, Long Beach
Meals on Wheels of Long Beach Inc. delivers freshly cooked meals for $9.75 per day 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 Client Manager Caron Adler at 562-439-5000, ext. 1, or visit www.mowlb.org to complete an online application or cancel a meal for the following day, before 9 a.m. the prior business day.
Thursday, Feb. 9
Spaghetti and meatballs with marinara sauce, whole grain roll, seasoned broccoli, maple baked pears, ham, turkey and cheese sandwich with lettuce, tomato and pickle, and a creamy coleslaw.
Friday, Feb. 10
Chicken enchilada casserole with red sauce, pinto beans, seasoned cauliflower, sugar cookies, Caesar chicken salad with romaine lettuce and shredded cheese, croutons, Caesar dressing and crackers.
Monday, Feb. 13
Polish sausage with sauteed onions and bell peppers, baked beans, seasoned broccoli, vanilla pudding, chicken salad sandwich with spinach and tomato, and homemade macaroni salad.
Tuesday, Feb. 14
Chicken with wine sauce, biscuit, green beans with pimentos, chocolate cake, taco salad with shredded chicken, diced tomato, corn, black beans, cheese, cilantro, salsa dressing and crackers.
Wednesday, Feb.15
Beef lasagna, whole grain dinner roll, broccoli and cauliflower, baked apple with granola, ham and cheese sandwich with lettuce, tomato and pickle, and carrot and raisin salad.
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Eat to your heart’s content
In celebration of a heart health month, Optum HealthCare Center will hold a nutrition presentation by dietitian Sylvia Hernandez on Thursday, Feb. 16, from 10-11 a.m. in large conference room at the HealthCare Center.
People will learn how to reduce the risk of heart disease while still enjoying their food; separate healthy eating facts from food myths; and have their questions answered by a specialist.
Healthy refreshments will be provided and two lucky recipients will receive a raffle prize at the end of the presentation. RSVP is required by Tuesday, Feb. 14, to patient relations liaison Sarah White at 562-795-6255.
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SB senior Lunch Program
Meals on Wheels Orange County partnered with the city of Seal Beach to host a senior lunch program at the North Seal Beach Center, 3333 St. Cloud Drive, Seal Beach, from 11 a.m.-noon, Monday-Friday. Sugar free desserts and water-packed fruits are available. The program is open to anyone 60 or older. Suggested contribution is $3, but everyone is welcome, even if a contribution is not possible. Guests under 60 pay $5.
The menus are available online at https://www.mealsonwheelsoc.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/C1-January-Menu-2023-FINAL.pdf.
Thursday, Feb. 9
Multigrain Cheerios, 2% milk and orange pineapple juice, whole wheat bread with sugar free jelly, low fat yogurt, curry chicken, couscous with Parmesan and peas, Keebler crackers, sugar free cake, peas with ricotta and broccoli, sweet potatoes, succotash, whole wheat dinner roll and mandarin oranges.
Friday, Feb. 10
Oatmeal, 2% milk and orange juice, whole wheat bread with sugar free jelly, string cheese, shredded pork taco with pinto beans and corn, fiesta corn and bell pepper salad, tortilla, sugar free fruited gelatin, beef stew with vegetables and sauce, baby potatoes, Keebler crackers and a peach cup.
Monday, Feb. 13
Hard boiled egg, 2% milk and orange juice, all bran, chicken pecan salad, barley and black bean salad, California salad, whole wheat dinner roll, ambrosia, pork tenderloin with honey mustard sauce, sweet potatoes, collard greens, whole wheat dinner roll, and sugar free cookie.
Tuesday, Feb. 14
Oatmeal, 2% milk and orange pineapple juice, low fat yogurt and raisins, cranberry tuna salad on spring mix, lime and lentil salad, whole wheat bread, sugar free cake, stuffed cabbage, mashed potatoes, Chef’s Cut vegetable blend, whole wheat dinner roll, and assorted cake or fresh fruit.
Wednesday, Feb. 15
Cottage cheese, 2% milk and fruit mix juice, whole wheat bread with peanut butter and jelly, hamburger patty with bun, mayonnaise and mustard, potato salad, spring mix, mandarin orange, chicken breast strips glazed with citrus sauce, jasmine rice, Japanese vegetable blend, Keebler crackers, and sugar free pudding.
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LW Bicycle Club members rode to Martha’s in Huntington Beach for coffee, biking through flooded Bolsa Chica State Beach. The group meets on Sundays with breakfast, Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Helmets and safe shoes are required. Everyone is welcome. For more information, call Mary Romero at 562-810-4266.
Impaired Vision and Hearing Club
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The Impaired Vision and Hearing Club meets every fourth Tuesday in Clubhouse 3, Room 1, at 1:30 p.m. (except for July, August and November).
The Impaired Vision Support Group meets every third Friday in Clubhouse 3, Room 6, at 10 a.m.
Hard of Hearing Support Group meets every second Thursday in Clubhouse 3, Room 7, at 10 a.m.
For more information, call 562-431-4026.
—Sharon Kohn
GENERAL
REMEMBER YOUR SWEETHEART. Valentine’s Day February 14th. JAFRA SKINCARE PRODUCTS. Fragrances, Skin & Body Care and More! Call Susan Mehta-Maben 526-400-8104 or Order directly from my website:
www.jafra.com/smehta-maben SB Business License 14205920.
BATHTUB & SHOWER REFINISHING
Nu Kote 562-833-3911. SB Business License 699080. Exp 4/26/2023
GARDENING & LANDSCAPING
FRANK’S GARDENING SERVICE
Complete maintenance and landscape. Serving Leisure-World since 1978. Planting/Clean-Ups/Fertilization. New Lawns, etc. Offering my services to every Mutual. Honest and Reliable. State Contractor’s License 779462. Call 562-863-7739,
562-743-3832 or 714-527-1172. Exp 3/15/2023
HANDYMAN SERVICES
JR HOME REPAIRS. Quality work. Perfectionist, honest & reliable. Call JR 562-519-2764. SB Business License JRH0001. Exp 7/12/2023
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562-596-0559
LW DECOR INC.
Kitchen/Bathroom-Remodeling. Install Microwave/Dishwasher/Recessed-Lights/Closets Redesigned/Cabinets-Refaced/New-Windows/Patio-Storage and Enclosures. Exp 5/03/2023
40+/Years in LW
License 723262
PAINTING
Painting/FREE Estimates. 1-room or entire-house and refinish kitchen cabinets. (714)-826-8636. Call Jerry. CA State License 675336. Exp 3/01/2023
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Cory Gee Painting. Affordable – Professional, Licensed-and-Insured. Interior/Exterior Drywall Repairs/Texturing/Pressure-Washing/Cabinets. Senior discounts 714-308-9931. License 1049257. Exp 5/03/2023
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562-596-0559, LW DECOR INC.
Premium-Paints. Interiors/Cabinets/Ceilings/Exterior-Windows/Frames. Our Own Painting-Crew. 40+/Years in LW. Business License 723262. Exp 5/03/2023
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Bel-Rich Painting. Small-Jobs, Bathrooms, Walls, Gates & More! Call Bret 714-220-9702. Business License 705131.
Exp 2/22/2023
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Painting service for exterior or interior repairs, texture/drywall/cabinets/skylights/gates/frames. Joshua 714-267-6756. State Contractor License 1081798. Exp 11/22/2023
SKYLIGHT SERVICES
SKYLIGHTS
CLEAN AND REPAIR. Licensed and insured. Dan (562) 841-3787. Seal Beach License BRA0002. Exp 4/19/2023
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SKYLIGHT Cleaning & Repairs, Contact Eugene (714) 774-4385. Contractor License 634613-B. Exp 11/29/2023
UPHOLSTERY/Carpet cleaning and tile & grout
All Year Carpet Cleaning since 1988. Tile & Grout. Tito/562-658-9841. State Contractors License 578194. Exp 3/01/2023.
Window Washing
BEAUTIFUL WINDOWS. 40+ YEARS EXPERIENCE. PHIL (562)-881-2093. Seal Beach Business License AB0001.
Exp 3/01/2023
Leisure World Helping Leisure World
Does your walker need new tennis balls? Delivery and installation provided. Please provide your name and phone number. Free of charge. Diane Hart 714-955-2885.
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“ROLLIN THUNDER” GOLF CART CLUB
Offering FREE advice on buying/selling of your golf cart. Also batteries and Safety Flags. 562-431-6859
HOME CARE PERSONAL ASSISTANT
Experienced Caregiver available to assist with/Daily-Care/Doctor-Appointments/Errands/Available_24/7. 949-899-7770.SB Business License HEL0006. Exp 4/12/2023
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CHRISTIAN HOME CARE
Experienced, knowledgeable caregivers. Honest/Assertive/Fluent-English. Hourly/Full-Time, doctor-appointments, errands. Bernadine/562-310-0280. Bonded/Insured. Seal Beach Business License BCS0002. Exp 6/21/2023
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MOST AFFORDABLE RATES with/optimum service, 30-years LW experience. Licensed Reliable, Honest Caregivers. 24-hours/Part-Time/Doctor-Appointments. References, Fluent English. Ann/714-624-1911 and 562-277-3650/Heide. SB Business License HYC0001. Exp 2/15/2023
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EXPERIENCED CAREGIVER
Over 25+/years in Leisure-World with/Excellent References. Hourly or Live-in. Please Call Pampet/562-371-4895. Seal Beach License PAN0003. Exp 4/26/2023
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Elderly care. Live-in, Live-out. 30+ years experience. Cooking, cleaning, medications, companions, doctors. Experience with dementia. Gloria 949-371-7425. Seal Beach Business License RAZ0002. Exp 2/22/2023
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Maria’s experienced caregivers. Run errands, Doctor appointments, cleaning, part-time, full-time, live-in. (562)-230-4648. SB Business License License CAM0006. Exp 5/03/2023
BEAUTY SERVICES
Tammy Nguyen Phenix Salon. Service in private suite. One-customer, one-hairstylist. Sanitized & professional. Haircut for men-and-women. Shampoo/Set/Color/Highlights/Perms, Nails/Toenails. In-house service available. 13944 Seal Beach Boulevard, #116. Tammy Nguyen (714)-425-4198. Exp 4/12/2023
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In home haircare, serving the men-and-women of Leisure-World for 36Years+. Mel Cell/562-480-9341. SB Business License #KC75538. Exp 3/01/2023
HOUSE CLEANING
Experienced Housekeeper providing Weekly-and-Monthly cleaning. Call/949-899-7770. SB Business License HEL0006
Exp 4/12/2023
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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. Exp 4/19/2023
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General housekeeping, 30+ years experience. Bi-weekly or monthly. Gloria 949-371-7425. Seal Beach License RAZ002. Exp 2/22/2023
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Maria House-Cleaning. We’ll make your house look NICE-as-Possible! 15+/years experience. We can work with/your schedule. Bi-weekly/Monthly. Deep-Cleaning. Call/Text/714-496-2885. Business License HER0008. Exp 2/22/2023
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MAGALY’S CLEANING SERVICE. We make your home sparkle! 7-days/call anytime! Complete-cleaning. 562-505-1613
SB Business License M0001A. Exp 4/05/2023
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Albert & Patricia House-Cleaning. Weekly/Bi-Weekly/Monthly. (562)-397-4659 , (323)-413-0830. Seal Beach License14206409. Exp 4/05/2023
COMPUTERS
FRUSTRATED (562)755-6199
Everything for your computer (PC-or-Mac), Cellphone, TV, Stereo, any Electronic-Device. Tina Schaffer. Seal Beach Business License CIP0001 Exp 5/03/2023
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John’s Computer Services 562-733-9193
Virus-Removal/Internet Security Repair, Training, Wireless and Smart-TV Setup. LW Resident. SB License FUH0001.
Exp 2/22/2023
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 562-684-0901, we can come out and give you a quote. CA Business License 046854. Exp 4/12/2023
ELECTRIC CARTS/SCOOTERS/MOBILE CHAIRS FOR SALE
Golf Cars SELL, BUY, TRADE and REPAIRS. Call 714-292-9124. Exp 1/03/2024
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Golden Technologies Scooter/5-years-old/seldom-used/beautiful-condition. Battery/2-years-old. Scooter had VERY little usage in 2-years. $650/OBO/714-514-5169.
Transportation
Need a lift? Pam Miller. LW Residents ONLY. 310-227-1258 Exp 2/15/2023
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Inexpensive Shuttle. Airports, Shopping, Doctors, etc. SB Business License ABL0001. 562-881-2093. Exp 3/01/2023
autos/boats/RV’s trailers FOR SALE
ELECTRIC CAR PADS
Installed at your residence. Call Frank 562-743-3832. Contractor’s License 779462. Exp 3/15/2023
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. 562-841-3787/Dan. Exp 4/19/2023
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A FRIEND AND A TRUCK
Your moving service, any size job. Call/310-387-2618. Business License RO263644. Exp 4/26/2023
MISCELLANEOUS WANTED
Buying vintage books, posters, maps, photos, paper. Please call 949-295-8581 Matt. CA License 01894650
MISCELLANEOUS FOR SALE
Murphy Queen-Size Bed-and-Desk Combo. Like-New/White. I have a contact who will move/re-install for a fee.
Marilyn/714-904-4209. Exp 2/22/2023
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Double twelve Domino-Set (colored) $15.00. Cribbage-boards with/pegs $2.00 and $4.00 both/2-track. 562-370-8935.
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Nova potty-chair/$45 and Nova shower-chair/$40. New-condition/562-296-5427.
CERTIFIED personal tRAINER
I specialize in improving strength, balance, posture, flexibility, and mobility • shoulders • back • hips • legs • core muscles. Call Howard • 516-659-3314. SB Business License 14206682 Exp 3/01/2023
Free Items
2-Drawer Metal Filing Cabinet in Mutual-15. Call 559-732-8787 (phone# incorrect in last week paper). You-pick-U.
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Bed or Chair Risers, Shower Chair, Shower Bench, Free Standing Commodes, Up Easy Chair-Lift (does NOT include chair). 808-392-1824/Mutual-3.
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Clean single hospital bed with remote control 310-339-9808. You-MUST-PICKUP.