LWW Trans/VIE 12-17-2020

Holiday Cheer Happens Here

The Leisure World Theater Club and the Video Producers Club has produced plays and readings to be viewed online to make your holidays merrier, all from the comfort and safety of home. They are available on several platforms. Read on for specific viewing information. 

GRF TREE LIGHTING/

MENORAH LIGHTING

The annual tree lighting ceremony featuring holiday entertainment by The Entertainers club at Veterans Plaza Dec. 10 can be seen on youtube.com. The menorah lighting filmed Dec. 8 can also be seen on youtube.com. Both events will also be available at SBTV-Channel 3, Spectrum 1390 and other stations this month. 

A COVID CHRISTMAS

The Theater Club produced “A COVID Christmas” about a pandemic that has almost shut down the world. In the North Pole, Santa is ready to go, but a health official spotted Rudolph’s red nose and quarantined Santa and his entire workshop staff for 14 days.

There is only one person who can save the day? 

 The Grinch and his faithful dog Max live in a cave and don’t come out until Christmas. They don’t even know about the virus. Will Grinch and Max agree to save the day?  

Tune in LW Channel 1390 to watch the Christmas Eve adventures of Santa, his elves  with two unlikely heroes who try and save the day.

SPECIAL DELIVERY

Eight LW actors are featured in “Special Delivery,” a Christmas play, including Joyce Basch, nimbly tap dancing her heart out; Luanne DeSantis, Charla Gae, the intrepid grandma headed to the North Pole; Russell Gray, Phil Mandeville as Santa, Oralia Osuna, Mark Scott, and Wild Willey, a fearsome pirate with a shoulder-mounted parrot.

Watch for the show on youtube.com  on the joeseniorvideo channel, on Spectrum Cable Channel 1390 from around 4 p.m.-4:15 p.m. and on SBTV-Channel 3.

THREE TOLD TALES

Charlie Guggino gives a reading based on the last chapter of Charles Dickins’ “A Christmas Carol,” the 1843 novella that recounts the story of Ebenezer Scrooge, an elderly miser who is visited by the ghost of his former business partner Jacob Marley and the spirits of Christmas Past, Present and Yet to Come. 

Joseph Chavez reads “The Christmas Eve Truce of WWI,” written by LWer Taylor White from old newspaper articles.

Finally, Santa Claus, aka Phil Mandeville, will give a spirited rendition of “The Night Before Christmas,” a poem first published anonymously in 1823 and later attributed to Clement Clarke Moore, who claimed authorship in 1837. 

Joseph Valentinetti produced the show, which can be seen at https://www.lwsb.com/threetoldtales/ and at www.youtube.com on the Joseph Valentinetti Channel.  

SBTV Channel-3 listings are printed in the Community section and avaiable at www.sbtv3.org. 

Lights Trivia

• Martin Luther, the 16th-century protestant reformer and priest, is believed to be the one who sparked the interest in holiday lights. It is said he became so entranced by stars shining through an evergreen forest that he brought a tree into his home and tied candles onto its branches for his family’s enjoyment.

• In 1880, Thomas Edison laid 8 miles of underground wire to power the strings of lights that surrounded his New Jersey laboratory. Train commuters traveling between New York and Philadelphia were amazed by the glowing fields. 

• In 1882, during the holiday season, Thomas Edison and colleague Edward Johnson were the first to decorate a Christmas tree with lights. The historic presentation had the tree atop a revolving box that spun every 10 seconds with 80 blinking red, white and blue lights.

• In 1895, four years after the White House was wired with electricity, Grover Cleveland requested the first family’s tree be adorned with hundreds of multi-colored bulbs. Cleveland is credited with warming the public to the idea of electric Christmas lights. At the time, many people mistrusted electricity and thought that dangerous vapors would seep into homes through the lights and wires.

• Christmas lights were once very expensive. To have an electrically lighted tree was a status symbol. Because of their expense, they were more commonly rented instead of purchased.

• Montgomery Wards gave the American public two well-known Christmas treasures: the bubble light and Rudolph, The Red Nosed Reindeer. Carl Otis, an accountant for the company, invented the bubble light.  The original story of Rudolph first appeared in their children’s giveaway booklet in 1939. 

• In 2014, the Gay family of LaGrangeville, New York, strung 601,736 lights around their home last year to reclaim the Guinness World Record for the most lights on a residential property. Set to more than 200 songs, the installation took the world record with help from Ritz Crackers, who contributed a 200,000-light display.

• Since 1997, Albuquerque’s botanical garden has hosted River of Lights, which claims to be the largest walk-through light show in New Mexico. The exhibit features more than 550 sculptures and animated displays and 200 miles of twinkle lights. Guests can also ride around the park aboard the Polar Bear Express while enjoying a toasty hot chocolate.

• In 2016, the average American’s monthly electric bill was around $114. But during the holiday season, Americans spent between $199 and $573 on electricity.

• In 2019, the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree was wrapped in five miles of multi-colored lights (over 50,000 lights) and topped with a 900-pound star made of Swarovski crystals.  

How to Use Zoom to Connect with Family and Friends

By Patty Marsters

pattym@lwsb.com

  

While it’s looking festive outside, as people decorate for the holiday season, it may not be feeling so festive when considering holiday plans. Stay-at-home orders and rising COVID case rates have curtailed people’s typical celebrations. But that doesn’t mean this holiday has to be lonely.

“Social distancing does NOT mean social isolation,” said Miryam Fernandez, a LW resident who teaches technology classes. “We can socialize on Zoom with as many or as few people as we want.”

Zoom became very popular at the start of the pandemic as a good tool to connect with others. Its versatility allows it to be used on any laptop or desktop computer, tablet, or smartphone. Joining a “meeting” is simple; all you need is a link and a passcode. (You can also enter with a meeting ID and passcode.) Your call can be with just one person or up to 100. The free version limits calls to 40 minutes, but you get unlimited time with the yearly plan, which runs around $14.99 per month.  

Most iPhones and Apple devices come equipped with FaceTime. It’s easy to use, making it ideal for the technologically challenged, but it can only be used by people with Apple products.  

Another free option is Google Duo. The free app from Google is as easy to use as FaceTime and can be accessed by Apple and non-Apple devices, but it allows for only 12 participants vs. FaceTime’s 32. 

The most popular option for international video calls is WhatsApp, which is also free. The drawback for virtual holiday gatherings is it only supports up to four callers.

LWer Bob Cohen, who also teaches technology classes, recommends people looking to connect for the holidays find out what others are using first. “It’s important to know what others are comfortable with,” he said.  

He also suggests those who are unsure how to get started on any of these platforms visit https://getsetup.io. The website offers free classes geared toward teaching older adults, as well as a helpline for those who need more one-on-one assistance.

The technology experts at LW contacted by the LW Weekly universally backed Zoom as the simplest program to use. “It’s very versatile,” said Joe Osuna of LW’s Video Producers Club, which offers free classes via Zoom. “Joseph Valentinetti and I [also] use it to create local TV and YouTube  programs.” 

For first-time users, Cohen said, the best thing is to have someone send a meeting invitation. Once you click on the link provided, the program walks you through setting up the app and software on your device. Anyone still requiring help can check out the class listings in LW Weekly. 

Once you are set up, it’s important to find a space with limited distractions and optimal personal comfort. For a solid Internet connection, the spot should also be near the Wi-Fi router, as this proximity often affects the quality of the video and audio, too. 

Make sure the area is well-lit. A window that provides natural lighting is best, but if that’s not possible, just make sure your friends and family can clearly see you. Either way, avoid sitting where the light source is behind you or can cast shadows on your face.

Consider where you’re sitting, as you’ll want to be comfortable. A desk or table will hold your device sturdily in place, but you can also invest in special holders. There are multiple styles on the market for keeping tablets and smartphones in an upright position, which puts less strain on your hands. If the device seems too low, forcing you to slouch or get into uncomfortable positions, use books or other solid objects to raise it to a more convenient height. Ideally, you want to look straight into the camera and allow those on the other end to see you clearly.

Most newer computers come equipped with built-in cameras, but if yours does not, there are inexpensive external cameras that clip onto the top of a laptop or desktop screen. The New York Times’ tech editors recently tested 13 webcams and recommended Logitech’s C920S HD Pro Webcam and HD Webcam C615, both of which can be found on Amazon.com, as well as at Best Buy and Walmart, as of press time.

If you have hearing issues, consider using an external speaker and/or ear buds or headphones. And if you have hearing aids, check with your audiologist for which headphones work best with your particular devices. In many cases, good-fitting headphones that completely cover your ears will work. 

There are also captioning devices you can utilize. Carolyn Stern, the assistant director of outreach and strategic initiatives at the Center for Hearing and Communication, recommends webcaptioner.com, a free, web-based service, if you’re using Zoom or a similar app on a laptop or desktop. Open Web Captioner in a new browser, then adjust the browsers so you can see both onscreen, layering horizontally. 

Or, you can place your smartphone in front of your computer’s speaker and open a speech-recognition app to transcribe everything being said. According to Stern, Android users should download Live Transcribe, while Otter.ai works well with Apple products.

And whether chatting via laptop, desktop, tablet or phone, Stern recommends using speaker view, which allows you to see the person currently talking larger than anyone else on the call. 

If you’re on a call with a lot of people, try to mute your mic unless you’re speaking. This allows for fewer sound distractions and interruptions. It also makes it easier for your friends and family members who have hearing loss to better understand what’s being said. “I have hearing loss, and when we were meeting in person, it was often hard to understand people,” Fernandez said. “Now, on Zoom, it’s nearly impossible when there is background noise such as dogs barking, phones ringing, people talking, people shuffling things around, and so on. These noises are all magnified on Zoom, so when there are more than a couple of people on a Zoom call, the ‘mute all’ button is a lifesaver.”

Silence or turn off notifications for email and chat on your computer and consider doing the same thing on your phone. 

Lastly, consider what’s in the background. If you don’t want your family to see the pile of laundry you’ve yet to fold, platforms like Zoom allow you to employ a virtual background. “I get my background images from Googling ‘public domain’ images and photos,” Osuna said. There are numerous tutorials on YouTube that show just how to incorporate them.

Before making or joining the call, test your setup. Start a meeting with no one else, then check that the software works as it should. Most, if not all, platforms allow you to test your video and audio; look under the settings tab. Check your camera positioning and your comfort level with where you’ll be sitting. And don’t forget to check how you look, too. 

“Remember, on these video calls, you are on camera,” Cohen said. “It’s a good idea to wear pants.”

Operation Santa Cop—SBPD

The Seal Beach Police Department is looking for families in need this holiday season as it prepares for the second annual Santa Cop community outreach event. If you know of a family or individual who has been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic or could use some extra holiday cheer this year, send in your nominations.  Include your name, phone number and the nominees’ name(s), phone number, address, along with the reason for the nomination. Send nominations to Community Oriented Policing Team Officer Victor Ruiz no later than Sunday, Dec. 20, by 5 pm. Officer Ruiz can be reached at vruiz@sealbeachca.gov. Nominations will be anonymous. Selected nominees will be visited by Seal Beach police officers and Santa Cop.

SBPD tickets trucks for violations in traffic stops

On Dec. 10, the Seal Beach Police Traffic Bureau, along with law enforcement from the Culver City, Irvine, Rialto, Anaheim, Huntington Beach and Cypress police departments, and the California Highway Patrol and Riverside County Sheriff’s Department conducted a commercial vehicle enforcement checkpoint from 7 a.m.-noon. The check point was located at Seal Beach Boulevard between St. Andrews Drive and Golden Rain Road.

The operation generated a lot of interest and speculation on a LW Facebook page Dec. 10, with residents concluding that police were looking for drugs or humans being trafficked.

In reality, a total of 61 commercial trucks were inspected with 47 citations issued. Four vehicles were placed out of service for various violations and two vehicles were impounded. Those violations cited involved improper or expired registration and insurance, drivers’ licenses, hazardous materials, brakes, lighting, load securement and axle restrictions.

These operations help to ensure commercial truck drivers are in compliance with California Vehicle Code as well as other regulations.

The goals of the commercial enforcement operation included:

• The prevention of collisions and incidents attributed to mechanical defects or excessive driving hours and involving vehicles and drivers subject to California Vehicle Code §34500.

• The prevention of incidents and catastrophes during, or as a result of, hazardous materials transportation.

• Minimizing damage to city roadways by operating fixed and mobile commercial vehicle weight regulation.

• Educating commercial vehicle operators, the motor carrier industry, and the public and to promote commercial vehicle safety.

The Seal Beach Police Department’s Traffic Bureau will conduct similar enforcement programs to help maintain the safety and security of our Seal Beach roadways. To learn about other ways that the Seal Beach Police Department helps to keep roadways safe, follow it on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter @sealbeachpolice.

Bolsa Avenue to be resurfaced

The City of Seal Beach’s Bolsa Avenue pavement resurfacing construction started Dec. 14. The work will be accomplished in two phases.  The first phase of work is limited to reconstructing the existing ADA curb ramps to be complaint with current ADA standards. 

The work also includes asphalt “dig-out” repairs in isolated sections of Bolsa Avenue.  Weather permitting, this Phase 1 work was scheduled to start Dec. 14, with normal working hours between 7:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Monday-Friday. Bolsa Avenue will remain open to through traffic during this initial phase of work, with periodic lane closures when necessary.  

The second phase of the Bolsa Avenue rehabilitation consists of installing a new asphalt road surface from PCH to Balboa Drive, including the Balboa Drive intersection.  This work has been scheduled to be completed during the week of Dec. 28 to correspond with McGaugh Elementary School’s holiday closure as required to minimize school traffic impacts.

The asphalt resurfacing work requires a two-day full closure of Bolsa Avenue between PCH and Balboa Drive staring at 7 a.m. on Monday, Dec. 28, continuing through 5 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 29, weather permitting. Access to this segment of Bolsa Avenue will not be permitted during this time; however, detours will be provided to the residential community and adjacent businesses impacted. 

For more information, contact Deputy Director of Public Works/City Engineer Iris Lee at (562) 431-2527, ext.1322.

How to plan for a medical emergency when the power goes out

Are you reliant upon medical equipment that requires electricity to operate?

What happens when there is a power outage, and this equipment fails?  Do you have a back-up plan?

Southern California Edison (SCE) provides the following tips to its customers:

Emergencies and Rotating Power Outages

• All customers who depend upon electrically operated medical or life-support equipment for survival should be prepared at all times with a back-up power system or other plans necessary to ensure their health and welfare during outages. 

SCE does not provide back-up generation.

• If the California Independent System Operator (CAISO) declares a rare Stage 3 Emergency and enacts rotating outages,  Medical Baseline customers will be contacted with a pre-recorded telephone message. 

SCE may only receive a 10-minute warning, so customers may not hear about the outage before it occurs.

• If a Public Safety Power Outage (PSPS) is called, SCE will attempt to reach its Medical Baseline customers through their alternate preferred method of contact (email, text, SMS, TTY).  If your physician has indicated that your medical equipment is for life-sustaining purposes and SCE does not reach you directly through your preferred method of contact, it will send a technician to your door to make in-person contact to deliver the message regarding the PSPS event. 

• To update contact information or cancel notifications, call 1-800-655-4555. For TTY service, call 1-800-352-8580.

SCE urges customers who use this type of equipment to create an emergency back-up plan, as follows.

• Work with the hospital or medical company that supplied your life-support device to develop a back-up plan. They may offer special services during an emergency.

• Contact your local office of emergency services to see if it keeps a list of customers with special medical needs.

• Keep emergency phone numbers handy, including those of your doctor and medical equipment company.

• Create a plan for leaving your home in the event of a lengthy outage, and share this plan with you family and friends.

• Keep a fully charged cell phone or spare portable power banks.

• For more emergency plan tips, visit www.redcross.org.

Get Help If You Use Medical Equipment

If you or someone in your household requires the regular use of electrically powered medical equipment or other qualifying medical devices, you may be eligible for SCE’s Medical Baseline Allowance program. 

This program provides an additional 16.5 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity per day. Provided at the lowest baseline rate, this helps offset the cost of operating the medical equipment.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, SCE temporarily changed how to enroll and recertify for the Medical Baseline program so that SCE customers can continue to benefit from this important program.

• Enrollments: Customers who use electrically powered medical equipment can temporarily enroll in the Medical Baseline Allowance program without a physician’s signature for a period of one year beginning March 4, 2020.

• Renewals: Customers already enrolled in the program who were due to renew between March 4, 2020, and April 16, 2021, will continue to be enrolled in the program. 

These renewals will be postponed for one year from the original renewal date in 2020.

Call SCE Medical Baseline Program at 1-800-655-4555 for information or to register.  

—Eloy Gomez, GRF safety and emergency coordinator, and Cindy Tostado, LCSW, GRF member resource and assistance liaison

Security starts full-time staffing Jan. 1

As reported earlier, the GRF Board of Directors approved a innovative program to transform the deployment of security officers.  

Beginning Jan. 1, 2021, part- time positions in the Security Department will be discontinued, and Security staff will be comprised of full-time officers.

All part time security officers have been given the opportunity to increase their hours by becoming full-time employees.  

Those who have chosen this opportunity are eligible for GRF benefits such as vacation pay, holiday pay, medical and dental benefits, etc.

“We are pleased and proud to have residents of Leisure World on our staff,” said GRF Executive Director Randy Ankeny. “In fact, we have recruited several residents as security officers-—and we hope to see more.”

For more information, visit the GRF Careers section of the Leisure World website at www.lwsb.com.

GRF Construction Updates

GRF projects are underway around the community despite slowdowns attributed to the COVID-19. This column will update residents on the progress of various construction projects. The information is provided by GRF Facilities Director Mark Weaver and Physical Property Manager David Rudge.

LW POOL

Plans from the pool architect are in the process of being fine-tuned to avoid mid-project change orders. When the plans are finalized, the GRF will submit them to the City of Seal Beach and Orange County Health Care Agency for approvals. Once permits are issued, construction will begin. The date for the pool to be open is April 5.

SoCal Gas has completed underground utility work. The meter assembly for pool equipment should be installed over the next couple of weeks.

 The electrical contractor has a GRF permit and submitted plans to the City of Seal Beach to relocate the golf course pump from the pool equipment room. The plan is under review by the city.

The block wall between the pool and the golf course is complete. It will allow for a view of the golf course via a wrought iron picket fence with a service gate.

LEARNING CENTER KITCHEN

The cooktop has been delayed untit the week of Jan. 25. Once it is received and installed, work on the kitchen will be complete.

PAVING PROJECT

Foxburg Road paving started Dec. 7 and should be complete by Friday, Dec 18. Mutual 9 shareholders will need to move vehicles to the Clubhouse 3 and 4 parking lot for the duration of the project.

Perspectives Page 4

Letter to Editor

Editor: 

I cannot concur with any action that relaxes the current restrictions on communal activities at Leisure World, Seal Beach. With Christmas and New Year’s coming and the infection and death rates climbing further, we would only be welcoming an absolute disaster in our midst.

Consider the following: The three requirements for virus suppression are 1) wear a medically certified mask over you nose); 2) keep a 6-foot distance from others, even if they are wearing a mask and certainly avoid anyone not wearing one; and 3) sanitize your hands frequently. All three must apply as soon as you leave your home.

Although many of us conscientiously abide by the above, many of us do not. This is the behavior I have observed: no mask, mask in pocket, mask in hand, mask around and mask under nose.

These are the excuses I’ve heard: I’ll put it on when I need it; I’m exercising; I’m out in the open air; and I’m riding a bike or in my golf cart (not realizing your breath is immediately carried over to the sidewalk by the very wind vortices you are creating).

I firmly believe we are simply not ready to take the action proposed. I only ask that we improve our current  performance and delay relaxing our current measures until February, when the actual outcomes of the holiday transmissions are known. Otherwise, we may well be opening ourselves to an unimaginable tragedy.

Stan Brinton

Mutual 3

Government

GRF Board of Directors Meeting Agenda

 Clubhouse 4

Wednesday, Dec. 23, 10 a.m.

Via Live Stream 

To view the live GRF Board meeting, go to www.lwsb.com. The live streaming uses YouTube live and terminates at the close of the meeting.

1) Call to Order/Pledge of Allegiance

2) Roll Call

3) President’s Comments

a) Announcements

4) Seal Beach City Council Member’s Update 

5) Health Care Advisory Board Update

6) Shareholder/Member Comments 

a) Written, submitted prior to meeting

b) Verbal, via live streaming

Note: Foundation Shareholder/Members are permitted to make comments before the meeting business of the Board begins. The Open Meeting Act allows boards of directors to establish reasonable time limits for the open forum and for speakers to address the board. (Civ. Code §4925(b).) Time limits, per speaker, are limited to:  4-minute limit per speaker, when there are no more than 15 speakers; 3-minute limit per speaker, 16 – 25 speakers; 2-minute limit per speaker, over 26 speakers.

7) Consent Calendar 

a) Committee/Board meetings for the Month of October 

i)Minutes of the Executive Committee Board Meeting of Nov. 13

b) GRF Board of Directors Minutes, Nov. 24 

c) October GRF Board Report, dated Dec. 23 

d) Accept Financial Statements, November 2020, for Audit 

e) Approve Reserve Funds Investment Purchase

f) Approve Capital Funds Investment Purchase 

8) Reports

a) AB 3182 Ad Hoc Committee

b) Bulk Cable Services Ad Hoc Committee

c) COVID-19 Ad Hoc Committee

d) Strategic Planning Ad Hoc Committee

e) Website Ad Hoc Committee

9) New Business

a) General

i) Accept Donation, Golden Age Foundation

b) AB 3182 Ad Hoc Committee

i) FINAL VOTE: Adopt 40-3182-2, Member/Owner (M/O) and Renter/Lessee (R/L) Fines, Fees and Deposits 

ii) FINAL VOTE: Adopt 50-3182-1, Member/Owner (M/O) and Renter/Lessee (R/L)—Rules 

iii) Amend 30-1001-5, Glossary of Terms

iv) TENTATIVE VOTE: Amend 30-5093-1, Member Rules of Conduct

v) Amend 50-1201-1, GRF Identification Cards 

vi) Amend 50-1201-2, GRF Identification Cards—Fees

vii) Adopt 50-1641-4A, Seal Beach Mutual _____, Lease Agreement

viii) Amend 50-1630-4, Notice of Disclosures, in Membership Transfers

ix) Amend 50-1641-1, Seal Beach Mutual Seventeen, Lease Agreement

x) Consent Calendar: SB 3182 Forms:

1. Adopt 50-3182-4, Decal and ID Card for Member/Owner (M/O)—Mutuals 1-12 and 14-17 Form

2. Adopt 50-3182-4A, Decal and ID Card for Renter/Lessee (R/L)—Mutuals 1-12 and 14-17 Form

3. Adopt 50-1650-4A, Renters/Lessees Emergency Contact Form

c) COVID-19 Ad Hoc Committee 

i) Adopt and Implement 70-1448-3R, Emergency Operational Rule—Mission Park, Phase One 

d) Executive Committee

i) Approve Workers’ Compensation

e) Finance Committee

i) Capital Funding Request—Replace Copy and Supply Center Shredder

ii) Non-budgeted Operating Funding Request—Prepaid Microsoft Support

f)  Recreation

i) Amend 70-1447-1, Use of Community Facilities, Mini Farm Rules

ii) Amend 70-1487-1, Recreational Vehicle Lot (RVL), Rules and Regulations

iii) Amend 70-1488-4, Mini Farm, 1.8 Acres, Lease Agreement

iv) Amend 70-1489-6, LW Trailer Club, Lease Agreement

10) Board Member Comments

11) Next Meeting/Adjournment

The next regular GRF Board of Directors meeting is scheduled for Jan. 26, 2021, at 10 a.m. in Clubhouse 4.

Mutual Meetings 

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

Thurs., Dec. 17 Mutual 2

virtual 9 a.m.

Thurs., Dec. 17 Mutual 11

virtual 1:30 p.m.

Fri., Dec. 18 Mutual 6

virtual 9:30 a.m.

Mon., Dec. 21 Mutual 15

virtual 1 p.m.

Tues., Dec. 22 Mutual 1

virtual 9 a.m.

COMMENTS/QUESTIONS FROM 

THE MEMBERSHIP

Dec. 21 GRF Board of Directors Meeting

Submit your request to the GRF Board Office, P.O. Box 2069, Seal Beach, CA 90740,  Mrs. Deanna Bennett, Executive Coordinator, no later than 4:30 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 18. You may also drop off your question/comment at the Stock Transfer Office, Attention Deanna Bennett or email your question/comment to grfboardaction@lwsb.com.

Today’s Date: ______________________

Your Name (please print):

 ____________________________________

Mutual #_____ Apt#______

My Subject is: _________________________

_____________________________________

The Open Meeting Act allows boards of directors to establish reasonable time limits for the open forum and for speakers to address the board. (Civ. Code §4925(b).) Time limits per speaker are limited to: four minutes for 15 or fewer speakers; three minutes for 16-25 speakers; and two minutes for more than 26 speakers. 

COMMENTS/QUESTIONS FROM 

THE MEMBERSHIP

Dec. 23 GRF Board of Directors Meeting

Submit your request to the GRF Board Office, P.O. Box 2069, Seal Beach, CA 90740,  Mrs. Deanna Bennett, Executive Coordinator, no later than 4:30 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 18. You may also drop off your question/comment at the Stock Transfer Office, Attention Deanna Bennett or email your question/comment to grfboardaction@lwsb.com

Today’s Date: ______________________

Your Name (please print):

 ____________________________________

Mutual #_____ Apt#______

My Subject is: _________________________

_____________________________________

The Open Meeting Act allows boards of directors to establish reasonable time limits for the open forum and for speakers to address the board. (Civ. Code §4925(b).) Time limits per speaker are limited to: four minutes for 15 or fewer speakers; three minutes for 16-25 speakers; and two minutes for more than 26 speakers. 

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.

Mon., Dec. 21 Finance Committee

Clubhouse 4 10 a.m.

Mon., Dec. 21 Special GRF Board Meeting

Clubhouse 4 noon

Wed., Dec. 23 GRF Board Monthly Meeting

Clubhouse 4 10 a.m.

Recap of Special GRF Activity, Dec. 15

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. 22.

 MOVED and duly approved to reconsider the status of current closures (Veterans Plaza, the Golf Course, the Amphitheater—for religious purposes, and the Bocce Ball court and the multipurpose court), at a Special GRF Board of Directors meeting on Dec. 21. 

Health & Fitness

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 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, contact Adler before 9 a.m. the prior business day. Menu is subject to change without notice. 

Thursday, Dec. 17: Chicken chop suey, brown and wild rice, and Oriental vegetables; applesauce; ham, turkey and cheese sandwich, with lettuce, tomato and pickle, plus Asian coleslaw. 

Friday, Dec. 18: Roast beef with mushroom gravy, garlic-and-chive mashed potatoes, and mixed vegetables; cake; taco salad, with shredded chicken, diced tomato, corn, black beans, cheese, cilantro and salsa dressing, plus crackers.

Monday, Dec. 21: Herb-roasted chicken leg and thigh, oven-browned potatoes and seasoned carrots; peaches; tuna salad sandwich, with lettuce and tomato, plus creamy coleslaw.

Tuesday, Dec. 22: Pork loin with apple-berry sauce, macaroni and cheese, and zuccini medley; chocolate pudding; entrée Greek chicken salad, with tomato, olives, cucumber, feta cheese and vinaigrette dressing, plus crackers.

Wednesday, Dec. 23: Baked ham with honey glaze sauce, mashed sweet potatoes and seasoned green beans; cheesecake; roast beef-and-cheese sandwich, with lettuce, tomato and pickle, plus homemade macaroni salad.

You’ve been tested for COVID-19. Now what?

By CJ Blomquist

OptumCare

COVID tests are increasingly common. Just last week, Orange County announced an at-home test that would be available to all residents. This is great news if you think you’ve been exposed. But what does testing mean?

It’s a moment in time. Your test result doesn’t tell you the future. It only determines if you’ve been exposed to COVID-19 when you get tested. You could still be exposed to the virus afterward. Many people want to get tested, but doctors encourage people to get tested only if they think they have been exposed. A negative test result could give you a false sense of security going forward—and that could be dangerous.

It’s confidential. Your test results are only shared with public health officials. They aren’t shared with anyone else. This means you are responsible for sharing the results with your doctor. You don’t have to—it’s your choice. But as we learn more about the long-term health effects of COVID-19, it’s important your primary doctor knows your status, so they can help you to stay as healthy as possible.

It’s not a free pass. No matter your test results, be vigilant about being safe. Keep washing your hands, wearing your mask over your nose and mouth, and following social-distancing guidelines. It isn’t time to let your guard down.

This is a really tough month, as we gear up for the most festive time of the year without the usual festivities. There is hope on the horizon: With newly approved vaccines, next year’s holiday season could be back to normal. But it all requires us to do our part now.

OLLI Winter Session 2021

Leisure World resident Holly Weber will teach “Healthy Not High.” The six-week course will be offered via Zoom for the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute on Wednesdays,10 a.m.-11:30 a.m., beginning Jan. 6, 2021. Using the solid research of Raphael Mechoulam, Ph.D.; Bonni Goldstein, M.D.; and many others, the class will highlight details of cannabis history. It will address marijuana research throughout the world and demystify the many “dangers” of using the plant, as well as cover when cannabis should not be used and possible medication reactions with it. Dr. Bonni Goldstein’s book “Cannabis Revealed” will be used as a text; copies are available via Amazon.com.

To register, call (562) 985-8237 or go to http://web.csulb.edu/colleges/chhs/centers/olli/. 

Weber is a registered nurse, certified brain nutritional counselor and psychotherapist who provides customized wellness consultations and counseling. She may be reached for an appointment at (562) 430-8245.

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, right after the Queen Kong interview and is available on youtube.com.

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.

Arts & Leisure

Mutual 2 honors its brightest displays

Mutual 2’s inaugural Holiday Decorating Contest winners were presented with yard signs and prizes on Dec. 9. Mutual President Peggy Keller and board member Chris Abel congratulated first-place winner Bettie Hancock, who decorated her home at 1202 Golden Rain Road, 72-I, with help from her daughters Charry Beck and Kathy Workman. 

Coming in second was Joanna Matos’ design, which features large tree ornaments she says she purchased long ago at the World Trade Center in Long Beach; see it in its glory at 1543 Monterey Road, 24-E. And Lynn Parreira gives all the credit for his home’s third-place finish to his wife, Dee Dee, who was at work during the presentation. You won’t want to miss the Parreiras’ patio at 1580 Monterey Road, 14-F. 

The contest drew 11 entries and focused on outdoor décor, or anything that could be viewed from outside. Winners were presented with gift cards totaling $100, $75 and $50.

Also to be seen around LW are these wonderous sites:

• 1710 Tam O’Shanter Road, 12-D: Mike Skinner and Sandy Tessier have a brightly bedecked home in Mutual 14. “We want to light up your spirits,” Sandy says. 

• 13331 Twin Hills Drive, 56-L: Jerry and Sharon Woodruff, Tessier’s sister, wish everyone a Merry Christmas. 

• 1440 Skokie Road, 89-I: Dave LaCascia’s display features a creche, snowman collection, Island of Misfit Toys, Rudolph figurines and more.

 • 13611 Cedar Crest Lane, 99-L: A menagerie of lights illuminates the block.

• 1441 Homewood Road, 96-A: Ted and Jeri Nowell invite you to see the multitude of brightly colored lights that surround their home.

• 1411 Pelham Road, 64-H: Bruce and Rhetta Lombardi have a 5-foot Santa and a 6-foot tree on a patio that’s “beautiful during the day, but spectacular at night,” Bruce says. 

• 1371 Pellham Road, 66-G: Glenna Hoff shares that her angel is named Joy “as she gives to so many these 20 years I have had her.”

• 13320 Del Monte Drive, 9-D: Elizabeth and Carl Kennedy invite all to view their festive home in Mutual 15.

• 13550 Del Monte Drive: “Peace on Earth and Merry Christmas from Mutual 17,” says Liz Meripol.

• 1671 Interlachen Road, 285-E: Dorothy Schwartz’s “Santa and Mrs. Claus and Their Elves” display is dedicated to the memory of her late husband, Bob.

• 1720 Interlachen Road, 41-H: Two snowmen stand guard over Sheila Sanfilippo and Julie Hughes.

Each week until Christmas, LW Weekly will run a list of notable decorations. Residents are encouraged to send an address and brief description of their holiday displays to pattym@lwsb.com, or slip a note through the mail slot of the office, located near the Amphitheater. High-resolution jpgs are also being accepted for possible inclusion in the annual holiday lights feature scheduled for Dec. 24.

Video Producers Club

“Special Delivery” is now available at https://youtu.be/5jpFWKcBORk. The 20-plus-minute play was written by Joe Osuna and features Joyce Basch tapping her heart out; Luanne DeSantis, Charla Gae as an intrepid grandma headed to the North Pole; Russell Gray; Phil Mandeville as Santa; Oralia Osuna; Mark Scott; and Wild Willey as a fearsome pirate.

The production will also air on Spectrum Cable Channel 1390.

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.

Men’s Golf League Results

A very bright and cool but damp morning greeted 13 men of the Monday Men’s Golf League. The round was played on Dec. 7 at Santa Ana’s Riverview Golf Course, a par-70, 5,800-yard, 18-hole course. The conditions made it challenging to find safe fairway locations, and since the course crosses over the Santa Ana Riverbed several times and greens are mainly well above the fairways, high-quality approach shots are exceedingly difficult to pull off. Even so, about half the players scored under par. 

A larger-than-normal number of golfers welcomed new player Tim Jackert.

All scores are net (actual score minus handicap). A Flight handicaps range from 0-20, while B flight is higher than 20.

A Flight Winners: First place: Dave LaCascia, 4 under 66; second: Bill McKusky, 3 under 67, plus fewest putts; third: Fujio Norihiro, 2 under 68, with 2 birdies; fourth: Glenn Barry, 70 (even par), plus closest to the pin on the 140-yard, par-3 second hole and a birdie; fifth: Gary Stivers; sixth: Gene Vesely, plus closest to the pin on the 10-yard, par-3 ninth hole and a birdie; seventh: Larry Hillhouse; eighth; Tim Jackert.

B Flight Winners: First place: tie between John Meyer and Bill Zurn, 1 under 69; second: Marv Ballard; third: Tom Ross; fourth: Bob Munn.

On Dec. 11 at the David L. Baker Executive Golf Course in Fountain Valley, it was a very cloudy, damp, cool morning; the sun never came out. The well-manicured, par-62, 4,000-yard, 18-hole course greeted 13 men and two women of the Men’s Friday Golf League. Scores were mostly above par as the tee boxes were set way back.  

A Flight Winners: First place: Hillhouse, 4 under 58, plus closest to the pin on the 110-yard, par-3 15th hole; second: Norihiro, 3 under 59, plus a birdie; third: Petersen, 2 under 60, plus two birdies; fourth: tie between LaCascia, Vesely and Jim Goltra (LaCascia and Vesely had birdies, and Goltra had fewest putts); fifth: McKusky, plus a birdie; sixth: Sam Choi; seventh: Stivers; eighth: Ron Jackson.

B Flight Winners: First place: Zurn, 4 under 58; second: Liz Meripol; third: tie between Munn and Dale Quinn (Munn had fewest putts, and Quinn had closest to the pin on the 100-yard, par-3 third hole); fourth: Meyer. 

Both the Monday and Friday Golf Leagues play at four local courses, all within 15 minutes of Leisure World, starting between 7 and 7:30 a.m., except holidays. LW Men’s Club membership is not required, and friends, ladies, spouses and family are all welcome to play and/or join. If interested, contact McKusky (562) 430-8618 or LaCascia (801) 674-5975.

—Dave LaCascia

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 (see below) to the LW Library between Jan. 11-14, 2021, 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.

Grab ’n’ Go Meals

Dec. 17-23 

Clubhouse 6 Parking Lot

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

• Friday: 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.

• Saturday: Naples Rib Co.—barbecue, salads, sandwiches; 2-4 p.m., cash/cards,  (562) 439-RIBS. Order ahead at www.ribcompany.com/LW for faster service.

• Sunday and Wednesday: Berg Catering—freshly prepared meals with a healthy, gourmet touch, 2-4 p.m., PayPal/checks/cash/cards. Preorder at (562)  663-2038 or www.bergcatering.com (click the special LW menu). 

• Monday: 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.

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

•••

 All Grab ’n’ Go events take place rain or shine. If it rains or is too hot, people line up inside Clubhouse 6. Everyone should maintain a 6-foot distance, and masks are required. For information, 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. For more information or to make a suggestion, call (562) 431-6586, ext. 379.

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

Trivia Events

Show off your movie knowledge

What flavor of Pop-Tarts does Buddy use in his spaghetti?

What is the name of Santa Claus’ son?

If you’re looking to flex your memory muscles this holiday, you can’t go wrong with online trivia games. Trivia, AD hosts livestreamed games on Facebook and Instagram that are tied to movies and TV shows nearly daily, and for the next few weeks, the majority of them focus on season-specific movies. 

Tonight, Dec. 17, the site features “Love Actually,” which, like “Die Hard,” isn’t necessarily a Christmas movie, but the holiday does play a part in its plotline. “Elf” takes center stage on Dec. 20, followed by “Jingle All the Way” on Dec. 22 and “The Santa Clause” on Dec. 29. The fun usually starts at 4:30 p.m. (except “Elf,” which is at 3:30) with three rounds hosted by a Trivia, AD team member. Find out more about the free online events at https://triviaad.com.

Triangle Game Night offers “Holiday Movie Virtual Trivia Night” at 5 p.m. on Dec. 19. It’s a free event, with costumes encouraged. Team up with those in your household or go solo for three rounds of questions about Christmas and Christmas-ish movies (see comment about “Die Hard,” above). The North Carolina-based, family-owned company says to “expect a lot of visual gratification and some really fun prizes.” For tickets, go to https://www.eventbrite.com/e/holiday-movie-virtual-trivia-night-tickets-131052199657.

Also on Dec. 19 at 5 p.m. is “Holiday Movie Magic,” brought to you by Deliciously Magical Trivia. The trio of friends host an evening centering on their favorite holiday classics, from “It’s a Wonderful Life” to “The Grinch.” Advanced Zoom users can form virtual teams that meet in breakout rooms, then answer family-friendly trivia questions via Google Forms. In two hours, five rounds of 10 questions each are played, with winners announced at the end. Go to https://www.eventbrite.com/e/holiday-movie-magic-trivia-tickets-129360495725 to register.

For a more traditional trivia game, Carolina Friends School hosts “Merry and Bright: Holiday Traditions and Trivia,” which promises to be a family-friendly journey through the season. In addition to Christmas-themed questions, you can expect Hanukkah stumpers. Register at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/merry-and-bright-holiday-traditions-and-trivia-registration-131411249585, then join the program at 4 p.m. on Dec . 19. 

The answers to the above questions are chocolate and Charlie. But you knew that.

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.

Dec. 22: No class. Happy holidays!

Jan. 5, 2021: Google Calendar

Jan. 19, 2021: Facebook

Feb. 2, 2021: 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.

Tech Talk

Join Bob Cohen in a 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 takes place during each session, and all you need to know in advance is how to join using Zoom. All sessions are free. 

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. 

Video Producers Zoom Meetings

The Video Producers Club offers free, weekly Zoom classes, as well as a Zoom Party Social on Thursdays.

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

Musical Theatre West

A modern take on a timeless tale 

Long Beach’s Musical Theatre West debuted this month a modern twist on a holiday classic using cutting-edge technology. 

The world-premiere production of “Estella Scrooge: A Christmas Carol With a Twist!” was filmed using tracked green-screen techniques, with 3-D surreal digital environments merged with footage of the actors. “‘Estella Scrooge’ was born after a conversation with our executive producer Kevin Surace,” says producer Michael Jackowitz. “We thought, ‘Wouldn’t it be great if there was a way to shoot something in a safe, isolated fashion, but put everyone together in the same frame?’”

Director/co-book writer John Caird adds, “The creative team nimbly learned new techniques to bring the actors and their characters together. It’s wonderful to provide employment for the theater community while we enliven the classic Christmas Carol story, refashioned with a new twist for today.” 

Instead of miserable old Ebenezer, this take on Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” focuses on Wall Street tycoon Estella, who travels to her Ohio hometown to personally foreclose on an old hotel, which is run by her childhood friend. Phillip “Pip” Nickleby has transformed Harthouse into a refuge for the less fortunate townspeople, and that just happens to be where Estella is forced to stay when a snowstorm hits. Just as happened with her ancestor Ebenezer, Ms. Scrooge is haunted by three unwelcome visitors. 

“This piece was a joy to create, from the first beat of the idea to the culmination of the film,” says co-book writer/composer Paul Gordon. “Discovering how these Dickensian characters [from different novels] would interact together and tell a cohesive story with a distinct musical voice was both a challenge and a thrill.”

Created by Tony and Olivier award winner Caird, “Estella Scrooge” stars Betsy Wolfe in the title role, supported by Clifton Duncan as Pip and Danny Burstein as Ebenezer.

Tickets to the streamed broadcast are available via https://musical.org/estella/. For a 72-hour viewing window, it’s $29.99 per household to be streamed in multiple devices, but for $44.99, the VIP Premium Theatre Experience includes unlimited viewings, a download of the CD and behind-the-scenes footage. Though the sales go through StreamingMusicals.com, 30 percent of ticket costs are donated back to Musical Theatre West. 

“At a time of great conflict and hardship,” Caird says, “I hope we can shine a little ray of optimism into the surrounding darkness.”

Friends of the Library Bag of Books

The Friends of the Library has a Bag of Books program for people who love to read. 

Call (714) 350-7682 and request a specific genre or author, and volunteers will do their best to fill a bag for $5. 

The bookstore is still closed, and there is no more storage space. 

Residents are asked to hold onto their donations until the bookstore reopens. 

LW Poetry

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.

Toast to Old and Worthy Friends

Shadows of my past

Through thick and thin and new

You’ve not deserted me

And I have clung to you.

Friends are gifts to love

And cherish through the years

To often share our laughter

And sometimes share our tears

A Merry Christmas now

And joys throughout the year

With halcyon days and starlit nights

And peace and love and cheer.

—Deane A. Cox, Mutual 4

Religion, pages 10-11

LW Baptist

By Rolland Coburn

Pastor

Christmas tells the story of how Christ came from glory to enter our world as a real human baby, born of a virgin,he grew up with normal human development in a world of sin and pain. A Gospel song recalls, “Out of the ivory palaces into a world of woe, only his great eternal love made my Savior go.” Another rejoices, “I love to tell the story of unseen things above/of Jesus and his glory, of Jesus and his love/I love to tell the story, because I know ‘tis true/It satisfies my longings as nothing else can do.” The second half of the first chapter in the Gospel of Luke continues the story.

Mary, once she heard and agreed to God’s plan for her to be the mother of Messiah Jesus, hurried 100 miles south from Nazareth to visit her relative Elizabeth, who was in her sixth month of pregnancy with John the Baptist, the forerunner of Christ. The angel Gabriel had given both women their birth announcements, and they shared their stories of God’s love. It was a fellowship of faith from the moment Mary entered Elizabeth’s house, and Elizabeth greeted her as “the mother of my Lord.” The Holy Spirit filled them each with joy and even baby John in the womb jumped for joy (verses 39-45).

Mary’s joy was so great she burst out in praise to God. Put to music, her song is called the Magnificat, meaning magnifies, and says: “My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices over God my savior.” She rejoices that her salvation is in God and brings him thanksgiving for his mercy to her. She points to how God fills with good things those who hunger and thirst after righteousness, so they are abundantly satisfied. The two women visit, dwelling on God’s goodness together for three months until Elizabeth’s son is born, the announcer of the king Messiah.

Elizabeth’s neighbors and relatives, knowing God’s remarkable mercy to the older couple, came to rejoice with them at the birth. On the eighth day, at his circumcision, they wanted to name him Zacharias, after his father. But Elizabeth said no, he shall be called John, meaning “Jehovah is gracious.” They objected that no family member had that name and motioned for Zacharias to decide. Remember, Zacharias could not speak at the time, so to communicate he wrote, “His name is John,” astonishing the well-wishers. At once, the Lord restored his speech. He began praising God. Awe-struck at God’s work, people spread the news throughout the Judean hills. They kept asking, “What will this boy become, since God’s mighty hand is upon his life?” (verses 57-66).

The Holy Spirit moved Zacharias by inspiration, to tell how the prophets of old foretold the Gospel story. Zacharias blesses God for now visiting and providing redemption, salvation from sin through the Savior about to be born, fulfilling the promises to King David 1,000 years prior and to Abraham 2,000 years before. Speaking to baby John, Zacharias told him he would be the Lord’s prophet and go before him to announce his coming as the sunrise from on high. Luke concludes by telling us the child John continued to grow, becoming strong in spirit, living in the deserts until his public ministry to Israel, announcing Jesus the Messiah (verses 67-80).

Congregation Sholom

Rabbi Eric Dangott will stream services via Zoom on Friday, Dec. 18, at 6:30 p.m and Saturday morning at 9:30 a.m.  

Any 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.

Zoom also provides a phone number to call if you do not have Internet service. The number in California is in San Jose (area code 669).   

The link for the Zoom meeting is https://us02web.zoom.us/j/3752519429?pwd=UDREWTA1N21jaXVUZUhyQmY1U01JQT09. The meeting ID is 375 251 9429, and the passcode is 8ZYy69. To join the meeting via phone, dial +16699009128;  meeting ID: 375 251 9429.

Join Congregation Sholom on Zoom Sunday, Dec. 20, at 4 p.m. for Bingo hosted by Susan Michlin.

On Dec. 20, there will  be a socially distanced costume Hanukkah party outside Willard and Susan Michlin’s house starting at noon. A prize of $25 will go to the best four costumes. There will be latkes and jelly donuts served. Bring your own chair and wear warm clothes since this will be held outside. 

Electric Shabbat candles that have graciously been obtained for Leisure World residents by Rachel Berkowitz of Chabad are available for $8. This will enable shareholders to “light” a candle on Friday night and keep it burning until after Havdalah on Saturday night without a risk of fire. Contact Carol Levine to receive a set. 

Those who want to participate in the livestreamed services on the Congregation Sholom of Leisure World Group Facebook page should contact Ron Yaffee at (562) 430-7040.

Beit HaLev

The Coffee Chavurah on Zoom will celebrate lighting the menorah and have a singalong tonight, Dec. 17, the eighth and final night of Hanukkah, at 5:30 p.m. 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.

Shabbat services on Fridays start at 6 p.m. and on Saturdays at 10:30 a.m. Beit HaLev continues to livestream on Facebook as well. To attend, go to Rabbi Galit Shirah’s website at galityomtov.com, Facebook.com/galityomtov or YouTube.com on the “Shabbat Shalom LIVE!” channel.  A link to the PDF version of each prayerbook, “Lev L’Lev,” is provided at each service.

Genesis 41:53-43:15, “Miketz,” is the beginning of Joseph’s rise to power following his incarceration in Pharaoh’s prison.  Joseph is no longer the spoiled, pampered child of Jacob; he has matured and is about to become the second most powerful man in Egypt through his gift of prophecy and ability to interpret dreams.  The famine that envelopes not only Egypt, but also the surrounding lands brings Joseph’s family directly to Joseph and a reunion that unifies the 12 tribes in the new “strange land.”

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

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

First Christian Church

By Bruce Humes

Pastor

“Now the birth of Jesus Christ is as follows: After his mother Mary was betrothed to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Spirit. Then Joseph, her husband, being a just man and not wanting to make her a public example, was minded to put her away secretly. But while he thought about these things, behold, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream, saying, ‘Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take to you Mary, your wife, for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Spirit. And she shall bring forth a son, and you shall call his name Jesus, for he shall save his people from their sins.’ So all this was done that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the Lord through the prophet, saying ‘Behold the virgin shall be with child, and bear a son, and they shall call his name Immanuel, which is translated, God with us’” (Matthew 1:18-23, NKJV).

As we approach the Christmas season, it prompts us to search the Scriptures that speak of that which we celebrate–namely, the birth of Jesus Christ. 

Matthew gives an account of the miraculous conception of the Virgin Mary which was prophesied of by Isaiah 700 years earlier. It is often called the immaculate, meaning pure, undefiled, without blemish, but theologically, it means without sin conception. So we get the idea of he who was conceived was without sin. Jesus  certainly fills that description. Paul in 2 Corinthians 5:21 says “For he made him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in him.”

This is but one of many Old Testament scriptures that speaks of the one to come, the one who would save his people from their sins. We see three things in Isaiah’s prophetic word: a foretelling of  a unique conception and birth: “Behold the virgin shall conceive,” the gender of the child: “she shall bring forth a son,” and what the child’s name would be, “and they shall call him Immanuel, meaning ‘God with us.’”

Looking into Scripture, we see what was prophesied by Isaiah was fulfilled in the unique conception and birth of Jesus; he would later in his earthly sojourning go to the cross and die for each one of our sins, but he would be raised from the dead, bringing victory over what held us in bondage, namely our sins. 

Christians celebrate that event every year on Easter morning, but the celebration of Christmas is a celebration of his birth- a time when we share gifts with family and friends just as the wise men bore gifts to the child, Jesus. 

As Christians, by faith, we celebrate the birth of that which was conceived of a virgin by the Holy Spirit, certainly a miracle only God could perform. And just think, he let us know 700 years in advance of his intentions. We recognize that without the birth there would be no death, burial, and resurrection that brought the gift of salvation to mankind. And just like any gift we receive, it must be accepted and used. 

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 recorded message, and someone will return your call as soon as possible.  

Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints

By Jim Greer

LW Contributor 

Elder Jeffrey R. Holland retold the nativity story in the First Presidency Christmas Devotional, “the setting was as peaceful as nature could provide.” He described how on that night in early spring, two lone figures knelt beside the infant savior, lying in a manger. In this setting, “the hopes and fears of all the years” were met that night in Bethlehem.

Holland described Mary as one “whose courage and conspicuous faith are as striking as anything ever recorded in Scripture.” Joseph, “who by definition must have been the most worthy man on earth,” was to raise the child “whom so much was already known, of whom so much had already been written, and regarding whom so much was already expected.”

Christ was the firstborn of the father in the world of spirits, foreordained to be the lamb “slain from the foundation of the world” (Revelation 13:8). He was Jehovah of the Old Testament, who helped Noah in the time of the flood and Joseph in the time of famine. We know his names; “Wonderful, Counselor, The Mighty God, The Everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace” (2 Nephi 19:6). 

Jesus is Alpha and Omega, fulfilling the prophesy to “preach good tidings unto the meek; bind up the brokenhearted, proclaim liberty to the captives, and open the prison to them that are bound” (Revelation 21:6).

The Messiah was to “tread the winepress of redemption utterly and entirely alone, with no mortal companion who would aid him and no heavenly companion who could.” 

Holland bore witness that “in bearing all the sins and sorrows of mortality, he would bring the incomprehensible gift of salvation to the entire human family from Adam to the end of the world.” 

Jesus is the “Shepherd and bishop of our souls (1 Peter 2:25), the Great High Priest of our Profession (Hebrews 3:1), the free-flowing fountain of all righteousness” (Ether 8:26).

But, on that spring night, Jesus was just “a baby in the arms of a mother who adored him, watched over by a father who was gentle and strong.”

On that night, shepherds came representing the poorest of men. Later, symbolizing the richest of men, the wise men came from the east bearing gifts. And a heavenly host sang, “Glory to God in the highest” (Luke 2:14), praising the divine babe who came to earth.

Angels marked the path to the manger. An angel came to Mary, announcing her divine role. An angel appeared to Joseph and encouraged him to marry her, who was “highly favored” by the Lord. After the Christ child’s birth, an angel instructed them to flee Herod’s slaughter and later notified them when it was safe to return from Egypt. 

As we celebrate this sacred season, may we all remember not just Christ’s birth, but also  his mission to “bear our griefs and carry our sorrows.” Although the pandemic threatens, may we feel the savior’s loving arms around us.

Community Church

By Johan Dodge

Reverend 

During the winter season, the days are short and the darkness seems to creep into our lives. It doesn’t help that we have returned to a stay-at-home order across the state. What does it mean for us to have hope amid the darkness that we find ourselves in right now?  To answer that, we will look at a passage from the Gospel of Luke.  

The word “Gospel” means good news, which the Gospel of Luke is filled with, but not all good news seems like good news at first.  This week’s message is from Luke 1:26-38, a passage that answers the question: “Mary did you know?”  The answer is, yes, she knew.  Imagine having a divine encounter as a 13-year old girl.

 Community Church will look at the words shared with Mary and her response.  We won’t be asked to assume the same burden as Mary, but we are asked to serve in the name of love for all of creation.  How we answer that call determines how much darkness is kept at bay around us.  

To hear this teaching as well as worship music, tune in on Sunday morning at 9:50 on Facebook live,  @communitychurchleisureworld. Those who want to join should call the church office or email leisurewccsue@yahoo.com. Those who don’t have a computer or Facebook, call  the phone system at (562) 431-2503  and listen to the weekly message beginning Sunday evening. 

Community Church will hold an outdoor Christmas Eve service at 2 and 4 p.m. Now accepting reservations. Be aware that with current stay-at-home orders, this in-person worship opportunity may not be possible. In which case, it will be held on Facebook and Zoom. Contact the church office if you would like to participate in worship over Zoom.

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

Redeemer Lutheran & ST. Theodore’s

By Lisa Rotchford

Reverend

An anonymously written poem first appeared in a Canadian senior community newspaper in 1994. Advice columnist Ann Landers then introduced it to a worldwide audience. As we all are being affected by the threat of a debilitating virus, we can confront our fears by reflecting on the poem’s encouraging truths.

The original title is “What Cancer Cannot Do.”  Replacing the word cancer with COVID, remember:

“COVID cannot cripple love.

It cannot shatter hope.

It cannot corrode faith.

It cannot destroy peace.

It cannot kill friendship.

It cannot suppress memories. It cannot silence courage.

It cannot invade the soul.

It cannot steal eternal life.

It cannot conquer the spirit.

Especially during this season when sunsets come early and we’re encouraged to seek the light in the darkness, let the Holy Scriptures enlighten your Spirit. Remember that:

COVID cannot cripple love. You are loved.

“…neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans: 38-39).

COVID cannot shatter hope. There is reason to hope.

“Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary,

they will walk and not be faint.” (Isaiah 40:31)

Covid cannot corrode faith. Put your trust in a faithful God.

“Know therefore that the Lord your God is God, the faithful God who keeps covenant and steadfast love with those who love him and keep his commandments, to a thousand generations” (Deuteronomy 7:9).

Covid cannot destroy peace. Seek peace within your heart.

“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid” (John 14:27).

Covid cannot kill friendship. Know a friendship with God.

“The Lord your God, who goes before you…The Lord will fight for you, and you shall hold your peace” (Deuteronomy 1:30 and Exodus 14:14). 

Covid cannot suppress memories. Engage in your cherished memories.

“The memory of the righteous is a blessing” (Proverbs 10:7).

Covid cannot silence courage. Be encouraged for the future.

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future” (Jeremiah 29:11).

Covid cannot invade the soul. Seek relationship with God through your Soul.

“You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength.” (Deuteronomy 6:5)

Covid cannot steal eternal life. Know there is eternal life.

“..the Son of Man will be lifted up, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life. For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life” (John 3:14-16).

Covid cannot conquer the spirit.

“Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit” (Romans 15:13).

Assembly of God

By Norma Ballinger

LW contributor 

Pastors Chuck and Sheryl Franco officially became Assembly of God’s lead pastors on Dec. 14 and are working to become acquainted with members by delivering DVDs of recorded services.

This Sunday, Pastor Chuck’s sermon title is “The Birth of a Savior,” using Luke 2:1-21 for the text. Members and friends will receive a DVD the following day.  Read this passage  prior to Sunday as well as Luke 1 to remind yourself of the powerful happenings: a virgin conceiving, the words of the angel Gabriel, the prayer of Mary, her visit with Elizabeth and Zacharias, the angels’ visit to the shepherds, and others.

Christmas is the story of true love, about a God who loved us enough to send his son to die for us, knowing the price he was paying.  Every Christmas, there are tons of deals with catchphrases like, “Buy One, Get One Free”, but God has given us the best deal: salvation through his son, Jesus Christ. This is a deal that not even the largest franchise can begin to compare with. Recognize and hold close to your heart every promise God has made and share it with others.

Faith Christian Assembly

Faith Christian Assembly will honor its volunteers on Sunday, Dec. 20, at the 10:30 a.m. service. There is a great quote that says, “Volunteers don’t necessarily have the time; they just have the heart.”  This is so true!  Come and be a part of a church that has many faithful people who love to serve. There are so many volunteers that the chairs are practically empty when they all stand in the front.

Faith Christian Assembly will take your temperature at the door and you will be asked to wear a mask, especially before and after service, and sit socially distant from others. Those who are ill should stay home. 

Due to COVID-19, Faith Christian Assembly is not currently having all of its regular ministries at this time. Call the church office at (562) 598-9010 for updated information on the midweek Bible study, hosted by Pastor Sheri Leming, on Wednesdays at 11 a.m. and Grief Share on Wednesdays at 2 p.m.  

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

Community pages 14-19

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. They also offer 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 decreasing4 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 has been halted until Southern California’s coronavirus cases are back 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 off of their website, or delivery apps such as Postmates, UberEats, GrubHub as well as 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.”

You can also find a comprehensive list of this week’s Grab n Go Meals on page 12.

Juan Rodriguez has been bringing fresh produce from Berumen Farms to the Seal Beach Farmers Market for many years. He gets up at 4 a.m., drives to Fountain Valley and loads up his white van. Juan arrives at the market around 6:30 a.m. and sets up 4-6 tables to display his seasonal produce. These may include strawberries, cantaloupe, watermelons, broccoli, radishes,green beans, tomatoes, sweet potatoes, and many other fresh fruits and vegetables. 

The market is open every Tuesday from 9 a.m.-–1 p.m. (except for Dec. 29) at the Seal Beach Village at Westminster and Seal Beach Boulevard. Come see Juan and the other vendors, have a hot tamale, and get your nutritious food on Tuesdays.

Help GAF while grocery shopping

The Golden Age Foundation (GAF) is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) charitable organization dedicated to making the Leisure World Seal Beach community a better place to live. 

The LW community has been asked to stay home and social distance due to COVID-19. The pandemic has caused more people to eat the food they buy at grocery stores instead of going out to eat. Now, there’s way to help to donate to the GAF without any additional payment. 

The Ralphs Rewards program helps LWers donate to GAF while they shop at no additional cost. Those interested in participating will need their Ralphs Reward Card number to register or the phone number associated with their account. People can call the Ralph’s Reward registration phone number at (800) 443-4438 or go to www.ralphs.com. Make sure to give GAF’s ID number, FS 519, to complete registration. 

Ralphs announced it committed to giving $2 million during the next year through its Community Contributions program.  

GAF currently has about 425 people who have signed up for Ralph’s Reward program, which generates around $1,545 every quarter and almost $6,000 a year. 

Ralphs Reward program provides points for each shopper. By doing their regular grocery shopping and using their reward card, residents are helping GAF give back to the community.

Join the last Zoom meeting of 2020

The Sunshine Club’s final  Zoom meeting of 2020 will be on Friday, Dec. 18, at 10 a.m. The club will not meet again until Friday, Jan. 8. The link to join the Zoom meeting is https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82119904568?pwd=dkVmOVowRU1uQXRNb2QveFdFSHp4Zz09. The meeting ID is 821 1990 4568. 

Those who would like to receive the Zoom link by email, should text their name, Mutual number  and email address to (562) 301-5339 no later than today, Dec. 17 at 5 p.m.

All shareholders are welcome to join this Zoom meeting.

The club decided to conduct its meetings via Zoom in July as a way to stay connected with each other since the group could no longer meet in person on Fridays mornings. The group has held 20 Zoom meetings, each with 25-35 participants interested in learning from  the guest speakers.

The club normally has an end of the year party with an abundance of East-meets-West multicultural foods and guests. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, the club has cancelled its annual party, with the hope that it will be able to do it next year. 

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.

The topic of each guest speaker’s presentation is announced  in the LW Weekly with link information to join. 

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

GAF

Lita Lewis gets in the holiday spirit  by giving back to her community

Lita Lewis from Mutual 16 gave her annual donation to the Golden Age Foundation to spread some Christmas cheer. Lewis has been a volunteer for the hospitality program since its inception in 1999.  She has taken a leadership role and kept things working in hospitality.  

During  this time of uncertainty, Lewis continues her support through her donation and encouragement. 

 “We thank Lita for her generosity, her willingness to volunteer and her enthusiasm toward the GAF,” said GAF president Anna Derby. “It’s people like Lita who make all of the GAF programs continue to be successful.”   

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, Dec. 17

4 pm A COVID Christmas

4:19 pm Christmas Story Song

By Revilla/Williams

4:45 pm FALW Karaoke Christmas

5:30 pm Gingerbread House Contest

6:02 pm Tommy Williams Feliz Navidad

6:09 pm Christmas 2018

6:30 pm Dixieland Jazz Band

7:35 pm   Flamingo Party

8:15 pm Cabaret Variety Show 9/2020

9:30 pm LW Tree Lighting Ceremony

10 pm Shakespeare in the Park:

Cymbeline 

Friday, Dec. 18

4 pm LW Menorah Lighting 2020  

4:13 pm Golf Cart Christmas

Caravan 2020

4:30 pm Special Delivery

5:15 pm Susan Michlin Doll House

5:30 pm SB Lions Club Veterans Day

Car Caravan

5:39 pm Fortunado Revilla

Christmas Music

5:50 pm Clowns in LW

6 pm LW Tree Lighting Ceremony

6:30 pm Los Al Jazz Band 2018

7 pm Seal Beach Christmas Parade

8 pm Shakespeare in the Park:

Orthello

10 pm COVID Christmas

10:17 pm Golf Cart Christmas

Caravan 2020

10:30 pm Cerritos Center:

Golden Dragon Acrobats

Saturday, Dec. 19

4 pm Seal Beach Christmas Parade

5 pm Special Delivery

5:30 pm LW Menorah Lighting

5:43 pm COVID Christmas

6 pm Gingerbread House Contest

6:32 pm FALW Karaoke Christmas

7:20 pm Christmas Story by Joe Osuna

7:30 pm Rob Roy Christmas Harmonica

8 pm LAUSD

11 pm Cerritos Center:

Matt Mauser

Sunday, Dec. 20

4 pm SB City Council 12/14 Replay

5 pm LW 50th Anniversary 2012

5:45 pm Fortunado Revilla 

Christmas Music

6 pm Seal Beach Christmas Parade

7 pm Dixieland Jazz Band

8 pm Life and Times in SB:

Paula Thomas

9 pm Cabaret Variety Show 9/20

10:12 pm Seal Beach Lions Veteran’s 

Day Caravan

10:30 pm Susan Michlin Doll House

10:45 pm Los Al Jazz band

11:30 pm Bob Cole Conservancy

Monday, Dec. 21

4 pm A COVID Day

4:18 pm Fortunado Revilla

Christmas Music

4:30 pm Christmas Story Song

By Revilla/ Williams

5 pm Clowns in LW/Hospitality 

Room 2018

5:30 pm LW Tree Lighting Ceremony

6 pm Dixieland Jazz Band

7 pm SB Christmas Car Caravan

8 pm Golf Cart Christmas Caravan

8:15 pm LW Menorah Lighting

8:30 pm  LW Special Delivery

9 pm Live at the Ford: 

Lady Jazz

10 pm Shakespeare in the Park:

Taming of the Shrew 

Tuesday, Dec. 22

4 pm Susan Michlin Doll House

4:15 pm FALW Karaoke Christmas

5 pm Christmas Story by Joe Osuna

5:09 pm Tommy Williams-

Feliz Navidad

5:15 pm Golf Cart Christmas Caravan

5:30 pm Gingerbread House Contest

6:02 pm Fortunado Revilla 

Christmas Music

6:15 pm LW 50th Anniversary 2012

7 pm SB Lions Veteran’s Day 

Car Caravan

7:20 pm Clowns in LW

7:30 pm Dixieland Jazz Band 2019

8:30 pm Seal Beach Christmas Parade

9:30 pm Rob Roy Christmas Harmonica

10 pm Cerritos Center:

Matt Mauser

Wednesday, Dec. 23

4 pm Wonderelles Sets 1 and 2

5:40 pm Hospitality Room Christmas 6 pm Christmas Story Song

By Revilla/Williams

6:24 pm Tommy Williams:

Feliz Navidad

6:32 pm Fortunado Revilla

Christmas Music

6:45 pm Susan Michlin Doll House

7 pm Life and Times in SB:

Paula Thomas

8 pm Shakespeare in the Park:

Merry Wives of Windsor

10 pm Cerritos Center:

The Four Tenors

*All programming is subject to change.

Republican Club

By Brian Harmon

LW contributor

One study from the Pew Research Center said that over 70 percent of Americans believe that there is too much hostility between Democrats and Republicans. I agree with them, and I believe most Americans and LWers do, too.

This problem is not going to be solved overnight, and it might not  be solved completely. 

I believe that if we understood the underlying issues that set the two parties apart, it would be the first step in solving the problem.

After 50 years or so of study and thought, I have finally figured out what I believe is the primary difference between the left and the right, Democrats and Republicans, and conservatives, liberals and progessives. 

Conservatives believe that the biggest question the government must answer is: “What is the proper balance between freedom and order?”

Progressives believe that fairness is the biggest issue. They believe billionaires living in the same country as people who are on the verge of starvation, is the biggest problem Americans face. Some may also put global climate change in that category.

It’s not that conservatives don’t care about a highly unequal distribution of income; it’s just that we don’t think it’s the most important issue. Just like progressives do not believe that the balance between freedom and order is irrelevant, it’s not number one on their list of problems.

A book I have been reading is called “Love Your Enemies: How Decent People Can Save America From the Culture of Contempt” by Arthur C. Brooks. He is  the president of the American Enterprise Institute, one of the largest conservative think tanks in America.

While looking at reviews of the book, I found that the most scathing criticism was that the author does not emphasize, or hardly mention, the problem of the increasingly large gap between the rich and the poor. I regret to say that this critic might have a good point. When President Donald Trump took office, the real average wage in the U.S. was the same as it was in 1974. By “real,” economists mean after correcting for inflation, how much a dollar will buy. 

I may be one of the few Republicans in America who carefully watched the debates between the Democratic candidates who wanted to be president. I saw that the candidates were almost entirely concerned about fairness. 

Another major issue was decriminalization of illegal immigration. President-elect Joe  Biden was vilified because it was said that when he was vice president under Barack Obama, more people were deported than in the previous administration. Obama focused on what might objectively be considered a good idea by focusing on illegal immigrants who committed crimes in the U.S.

The presidential hopefuls on the Democratic side also were concerned about making higher education more available to low-income individuals. Although there was some difference in the best way to achieve this goal, all believed that something must be done.

Questions about when a human embryo or fetus becomes human were not discussed. Nor was the constitutionality of Rowe v. Wade, the Supreme Court decision regarding abortion laws.

Republican debates in 2012 and 2016, as well as the Republican convention show a significant contrast. 

Starting with the most recent, this year’s GOP convention focused mostly on law and order, support for the police and military, freeing up the economy so that it can grow at a faster rate, and criticism of rioters and those leaders who fail to stop them.

In previous years, almost all favored stopping illegal immigration to the extent that it is possible; getting tougher on crime; lowering taxes; reducing government regulation of business; a color-blind racial policy; and getting tougher on China Iran and other nations. With one exception, all candidates expressed concern about the negative effect of rising deficits on future generations.

Democratic Club

By Mary Larson

LW contributor 

SBLW Democratic Club President Mary Tromp announced that she will be a candidate for re-election to the California Democratic Party’s leadership body (known as the state party’s Central Committee) in an election to be held in January. All registered Democrats living in the 72nd Assembly District are eligible to vote for up to seven women and seven men in the election, which will be exclusively by mail-in ballot. You do not have to be a member of the Democratic Club to vote ,but you must register for a vote-by-mail ballot by Jan. 11. The registration form is available online at https://ademelections.com/?isCandidate=False. 

Delegates to the state Central Committee whom Democrats elect in January are responsible for voting on behalf of the community they represent at regional meetings, as well as at the California Democratic Party Convention. They are also charged with voting for the endorsements of the California Democratic Party for partisan legislative and statewide offices in California, positions on Ballot Propositions (as needed), establishment of the official California Democratic State Party Platform (in even-numbered years) and CDP Resolutions. For more information, go to adem.cadem.org or email lwsbdemocraticclub@gmail.com. 

••••

The Jan. 20 Democratic Club membership meeting will feature further discussion about the importance of the five-member Orange County Board of Supervisors. With the current 2nd District representative heading to Congress, a special election to fill the remaining two years in her term will be held in the first few months of the new year. The most likely candidates are Republican John Moorlach, who represented the district before Michelle Steel, and Katrina Foley, the Democratic mayor of Costa Mesa. 

This election will be important for a number of reasons.  Every year the Orange County Board of Supervisors determines how to prioritize billions of dollars in taxpayer funds. It also wields influence over a large number of people. 

The supervisors will appoint 17 different directors of various county departments. They also appoint a county CEO, who in turn appoints 11 other directors. Supervisors also appoint members to the 85 different boards, committees, and commissions. Based upon the results of the 2020 U.S. census, the supervisors will also be tasked in 2021 with redrawing their district boundaries for the next decade.  

••••

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

Democrats interested in joining the club or renewing their membership can find an application at https://sblwdems.wordpress.com/. Memberships received during November or December will not need to be renewed until Jan. 1, 2022.

OBITUARIES, page 19

•••

Diane Wasserman

May 1933–Dec. 2020

Diane Wasserman passed away Dec. 10. She was born on May 18, 1933, to Max and Molvin Mendelson in Oakland, California. She is survived by her daughter, Ronda, and her three grandsons: Jeremy, Beau and Shane. If you met her, you would know three things about her: she loved to dance, she loved to sing, and she loved to eat. She loved square dancing–really any dancing. She loved singing karaoke. Her go-to song was “Boots.” Her favorite food was spaghetti and chocolate in any form. She loved glittery, sparkly clothes and red lipstick. She didn’t know a stranger and was loved dearly by all of her friends. She was always on the go. She loved playing cards and games. She loved old classic movies and music and recently became quite addicted to the Hallmark Channel. She had a big beautiful smile and we will all miss her beyond words. The world will never be the same without her. 

••••

Jeff Davis Steenbergen

Aug. 1926–Dec. 2020

Jefferson “Jeff” Davis Steenbergen (Aug. 31, 1926-Dec. 6, 2020) passed away comfortably, at the age of 94, as a result of COVID-19. He moved on to his forever home in heaven to meet his Lord and savior. Jeff was a veteran and served with the Coast Guard in the Pacific during WWII. He met and married the love of his life, Agnes Sofia Grond, in 1948. Together, they had five children. Jeff and Agnes were longtime residents of Leisure World, until her passing in 2006. 

He was a prominent member of his church and of the community.  Jeff found love again and married Anita Decker in April 2010, she was also a resident of Leisure World. Together, they bought a home in Leisure World and resided here until health issues compelled them to move into an assisted living facility. Anita was a devoted wife and companion until the end. 

Jeff’s sons, David Jeffrey and Gregory Allen, preceded him into heaven in March and December 2018, respectively.  Jeff is survived by his wife Anita; daughters Holly Zebari, Cheryl (Paul) Palmer and Kim (Luis) Cardenas; 11 grandchildren; numerous great-grandchildren and three great-great grandchildren.

 There will be a private family graveside service Dec. 28, and a memorial service will be held, with a date to be determined.  Cards of condolence can be mailed to Anita Steenbergen at Brookdale Assisted Living, 737 Magnolia Avenue #231, Corona, CA 92879. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association. To donate, visit the website at  https://www.alz.org, by phone at (800) 272-3900, or  by mail at Alzheimer’s Association, P.O. Box 96011, Washington, D.C. 20090-6011.

••••

Gerald Owen Hore

Feb. 1944–Dec. 2020

On Saturday, Dec. 5, Gerald “Jerry” Owen Hore, husband, father and Papa passed away in Fountain Valley, California, at the age of 76.

Jerry was born on Feb. 18,1944, in Hood River, Oregon, to Iris and Jim Hore. He was raised at the Broughton Lumber Company in Hood, Washington, and graduated from White Salmon High School in 1962.  

Jerry attended the University of Washington in Seattle until he was drafted into the Army in 1967. He was stationed in Germany, Crete and Vietnam, where he served as a field artillery company commander and civil affairs officer. He was honorably discharged at the rank of CPT in 1970.

Jerry met Anna Thanh Pham in Saigon, Vietnam, in 1970, and they married on Feb. 16, 1974, in Bangkok, Thailand.  They raised two children: a daughter, Tanya, and a son, Anthony.

For 38 years, Jerry built his career in the construction industry, and they traveled the globe residing in Thailand, Singapore, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Aruba, Puerto Rico and the U.S.  In 2010, Jerry and Anna retired with a residence in Washington state and a vacation home in Leisure World.  

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents and brothers, Jimmy, Thomas and Charles.  He is survived by his wife, Anna; daughter, Tanya Manweiler,  and her husband; son, Anthony Grant, and his wife; and three grandchildren, Annabelle and Alexander Manweiler and Jacob Grant. 

His storytelling, humor, charm, compassion  and love will be greatly missed by all.

••••

In Memoriam: 

Patricia Aksamit  77

Rebecca Ranirez  65

Maxine LaFleur  90

Norma Nelson  68

Robert Arzola 62

Elaine Burdell  71

Orval Paul  95

Jacqueline Beesley  91

Frank Cunnea  81

Lonnie Albrecht  66

Frances Gonzalez  65

Polly Johnson  86

Iwo Nwankwo  69

Nellie  Elizarras  88

James Lockwood  74

Norma Binmore  93

Beverly Campbell  81

Sky Sunday  34

Families assisted by 

McKenzie Mortuary, 

961-9301

—Paid obituary

GENERAL

AVON

Lenora Browning, LW Resident. Phone 562-493-5457. Seal Beach Business License #BRN000. 07/01/21

———————————————————————–

JAFRA

By Helen

LW Resident. (562) 419-3557

www.jafra.com/hwells

Last minute holiday gift store.

Business License #WEL0015. 12/17

———————————————————————–

SHAKLEE

Delivered to your door. 

LW daughter 

Sandy Vander Woudefikse.

(562) 618-8731. 03/04/21

———————————————————————-

CBD Joint Relief Body Cream

By Restoor Skin Essentials.

Gina, LW Resident.562-281-7103. Business License #MCQ0015. 12/31

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South Florida Real Estate, Dream Home Finder, Licensed in Florida, contact me if relocating.. Óscar Núñez, CPA & Florida Real Estate Broker Associate, BK #3412069. 305-924-6733. 12/31

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May the sacred heart of Jesus be adored and glorified, loved, honored,

praised and preserved now and

forever. Sacred heart of Jesus, pray for us. St. Jude, helper of the hopeless, pray for us: Please pray for Ron & TJ. Say this prayer nine times of day for nine days and your petition will be granted. Must promise publication.

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May the sacred heart of Jesus be adored and glorified, loved, honored,

praised and preserved now and

forever. Sacred heart of Jesus, pray for us. St. Jude, helper of the hopeless, pray for us: Please pray for Katie. Say this prayer nine times of day for nine days and your petition will be granted. Must promise publication.

HANDYMAN SERVICES

Additions & Remodeling, Kitchen & Bath Remodeling, Windows, Tile & Stonework. State Contractor’s License #393071. 

OGAN CONSTRUCTION, INC. 

(562) 596-7757. 03/31/22

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JR HOME REPAIRS.  Quality work. Perfectionist, honest & reliable. Call JR 562-519-2764. SB Business License #JRH0001. 07/08/2021

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MP  CONSTRUCTION

General Contractor

Specializing  in  remodeling, Additions, Reconstruction, Window replacement and more! Call for a free estimate. 

562-746-5400. 

License #954725. 04/22/21

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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

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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

310-261-0571

Interior Flooring Solutions

Hardwood floors, carpet, 

laminate, vinyl planks. 

25 years experience. 

Contractor License 1043763. 12/24

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. 12/17

WINDOW WASHING

WANT CLEAN WINDOWS?

I Clean Inside & Outside Or…

Clean Outside Only and Save $$$.

(562) 600-0014. LW Resident,

Rich Livitsky. Seal Beach 

Business License #LIV0004. 12/31

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

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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. 12/31/20

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I am an experienced caregiver available to assist with daily care, doctor’s appointments, and errands. Available 24/7. 949-899-7770. 12/31

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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. 12/31/20

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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 12/31

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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. 12/24

HOUSE CLEANING

MOVE-IN, MOVE-OUT

WINDOWS,

HOUSECLEANING

CALL PHIL AT

562-881-2093

Over 30 years Experience!

Seal Beach Business

License #AB0001. 03/04/21

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Experienced housekeeper. I do weekly and monthly cleaning. 

Call 949-899-7770. 12/31

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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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Patricia House Cleaning, weekly or monthly. Excellent referrals in Leisure World. 562-397-4659 Seal

Beach License LUC0001.12/31

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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

For sale golf cart. Good condition. Call to see. 562-413-2958. 12/31

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Christmas red 4-wheel Victory electric scooter for sale. Purchased new, 10/29/20, from Alpine Home Medical. Very low mileage. Price $1,800 OBO. Cash only. Call Terry 562-760-5668 to test drive. Call Sharon 949-230-4711 with any questions. 12/24

TRANSPORTATION

Need a lift? Pam Miller. 

LW Resident. 310-227-1258. 12/17

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Rides by Russ

For over 5 years I have been 

giving all types of rides to 

Leisure World residents. 

Airports, doctors, shopping and errands. 714-655-1544. 12/17

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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‘99 Coachman, model 247QB Futura. Light trav-el trailer. Only used once a year. Like new inside. Must see to appreciate. Every-thing needed in-cluded. Ready to go. Sleeps six. Many extras. $7,900. (562) 430-5812. 12/17

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 12/17

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A FRIEND AND A TRUCK

Your moving service, any size job. Call 310-387-2618. Business License RO263644. 12/17

CARPORTS WANTED

Looking to rent a parking space in Mutual 15 near carport #2. 

714-585-4272. 12/24

MISCELLANEOUS  FOR SALE

Love seat and sofa, 4 years old, $600. Birch cocktail table, 3 drawers, $100. Call 714-469-6128. 12/17

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Like new brown couch pristene. Can deliver. Local calls only.

562-331-6513. 12/17

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New power love seat, 3 months old. Paid $950. Would like to sell it for $600. Call 714-240-8712 or leave a message. 12/24

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New medical air mattress, twin, extra-long with controls. 

562-431-8200. 12/17

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Men’s bike $40, shredder $10, 2 glass top end tables $45 each. 562-209-5382. 12/17

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Furniture For Sale by Docia Drake, 714-514-8232. NEW charcoal gray sofa bed, NEW electric lift chair (orig. $1,800), coffee table, end tables, lamps, drop-leaf kitchen table/2 chairs, 2 drawer dresser/buffet. 

FREE ITEMS

CalKing mattress. 3 months old. Free. 562-400-1553.