SEAL BEACH CITY COUNCIL
LW water rates could increase by 33%
by Emma DiMaggio
Communications Manager
Leisure World residents may soon see increased water bills, triggered by inflation, debt payments, reduced water revenues, rising capital costs and inflation.
On Thursday, Feb. 26, the Seal Beach City Council will continue its public hearing on the proposed rate increase for the city’s water and wastewater services. The council is expected to decide whether to increase rates following the hearing.
Under the current proposal, the city would gradually increase water rates annually for the next four years.
What rate increases mean for LWers’ wallets
Leisure World is unique in that, rather than having multiple water meters, the entire community is served by a single 6-inch meter—for reference, this is six times larger than the most common residential meter in Seal Beach.
Leisure World pays its water bill by dividing the cost of the bill by the number of units in the community, 6,608, and then distributing the cost on a Mutual-by-Mutual basis corresponding to each Mutual’s number of units.
Over the past 12 months, LW residents have paid an average $17.07 for water each month, according to data from the GRF Finance Department.
In comparison, the average residential unit in Seal Beach pays $55.76 per month, according to City of Seal Beach data.
If the proposed rate increases are approved, the cost of water in Seal Beach would increase by 33% in 2024—increasing LWers’ average monthly water bills to $22.70 per month.
At proposed rates, LW residents’ monthly water cost would increase 140% over the next four years, with an average monthly cost of $40.96 by 2028.
“The proposed water and sewer rates are not insignificant by any means,” Public Works Director Iris Lee said at the Feb. 12 council meeting. “However, we need to look at it holistically, system-wide, and as impactful as it may be, the responsible thing is to make sure that we do not compromise health and safety.”
Inflation, debt payments, reduced revenue, capital costs and inflation cited as causes for increased rates
During a Feb. 12 presentation to the council, Project Manager Steve Gagnon cited a variety of reasons for the proposed increases.
The first is the city’s debt. The City of Seal Beach currently has five loans, two of which are for water, and two of which are for wastewater utilities, Gagnon said at the meeting. He explained that when cities take on debt, they agree to a covenant—a pledge to bondholders that they’ll pay back their debt, plus some. In this case, the city pledged to recover 1.2 times its expenses, but it’s only recovering a portion of that amount.
Meanwhile, the city’s water and sewage infrastructure require substantial capital improvements. In some places, such as Old Town, areas of pipe were installed between 1900 and 1910.
“We all know they won’t last forever,” Gagnon said.
The proposed increases assume that the city will take on more debt to pay for these capital improvements, in the hope that spreading the costs across 30 years will help soften the blow for ratepayers.
“If [the city] doesn’t take on more debt, that means [the city] would have to cash fund the [proposed] capital projects,” Gagnon said, “which means rates would have to go up even more than what we’re proposing.”
Old pipes aren’t the only reason for the proposed increase. Two years ago, California’s ongoing drought led the state to move forward with initiatives encouraging people to conserve water. A year later, the state had one of the wettest years on record, and lawn watering decreased.
Both drought events and wet years result in the same effect: people use less water, and the city’s revenue decreases.Gagnon estimates that decreased water use resulted in a $600,000 loss in the city’s revenue.
The impacts of reduced water use were exacerbated by rising costs at the water’s source: the Orange County Water District (OCWD). The City of Seal Beach gets 80% or more of its water from groundwater, according to Gagnon, and the agency that replenishes that water, the OCWD, must now construct systems to treat groundwater for PFAs, commonly known as “forever chemicals.” As a result, the district’s water rates have increased beyond what the city predicted.
These are just a few of the constellation of factors that affect water rates, including population size, water sources, pipe age, historical investment, property tax revenue and elevation.
“Some people may feel there may be fluff that we can cut, but I can assure you, as this particular water and sewer system’s expert, we already did that,” Lee said. “We’re presenting you with the most responsible, efficient and effective option that there is.”
Seal Beach isn’t alone in its proposed hikes
In Orange County, the two water districts serving Costa Mesa and Lake Forest have both raised rates due to a combination of inflation, rising capital costs and increasing rates from OCWD.
Huntington Beach, Pasadena and Burbank are all considering hikes as well. Nearly all are facing 10-33% increases, with Pasadena’s draft plan proposing a 152% increase in wastewater fees.
“Water and wastewater services are not like your typical government services, they’re not like police, fire, parks and recreation that are funded by tax dollars,” Gagnon said. “The goal is to simply cover your costs. You have to cover your costs, and you have to maintain reserves. That’s what we’ve tried to do in these financial plans.”
Proposition 218 states that revenues cannot exceed the funds required to provide the services; cannot be used to pay for anything other than the service for which it was charged; and the amount of the fee cannot exceed the proportion cost of providing service.
If the city can’t increase revenue to pay for the water system, the cost will impact the city’s General Fund—causing “major cuts in your essential services,” according to Lee.
The next public hearing on water rates will be held on Monday, Feb. 26, in the Seal Beach City Council Chambers at 211 Eigth St., Seal Beach, at 7 p.m. The televised meetings can be viewed on cable television on channel 3 or on the city’s website at https://www.sealbeachca.gov/Government/Agendas-Notices-Meeting-Videos.
Members of the public may speak at meetings during public comments or on any item listed on the council agenda.More information about the proposed rates is available at https://www.2023utilityratestudy.sealbeachca.gov/.
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PHARMACY
Long-awaited MedCare Pharmacy will open in March
The MedCare Medical Pharmacy, located adjacent to the Optum Health Care Center, will hold a soft opening on Thursday, March 14, with a grand opening on Friday, March 15.
The long-awaited pharmacy provider will replace the LW Pharmacy, which closed its doors in February of last year. Renovations of the pharmacy began in January of this year. The new space includes an open layout and an expanded grocery area.
The pharmacy is actively working with SCAN on its preferred provider status. In the interim, MedCare said it is dedicated to subsidizing and matching any co-pay for residents who align with preferred status to lessen the financial burden on residents.
People can share feedback on the pharmacy, as well as product requests, by emailing medcaremedicalrx@gmail.com.
Those who want to switch over to MedCare before the new pharmacy arrives can call MedCare at 1-714-557-2982, TTY 711.
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Car sales held on fourth Saturday
Each fourth Saturday, authorized residents have the opportunity to sell any motorized vehicle in the Administration Parking Lot from 8 a.m.-4 p.m.
Vehicles must have current DMV registrations and GRF decals as well as be insured. In addition to cars, motorhomes, motorcycles, golf carts, bikes, trikes, and scooters may be sold. The owner or representative does not need to be present but is allowed to display a single “for sale” sign no larger than 18” by 24” on the vehicle, to include a phone number.
The sale is open to Leisure World residents only and the guests they call in. The public will not be able to sell at the events. This is a self-managed event where residents can meet and buy or sell a vehicle on their own. For more information, contact Recreation at 562-431-6586, ext. 2398.
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Drop off bulky items March 9
The City of Seal Beach will hold a “Dump Day” on Saturday, March 9, in the Public Works Yard located at 1776 Adolfo Lopez Dr., Seal Beach, CA 90740, from 8-11 a.m. or until intake capacity is reached.
Residents may drop off bulky household waste at no cost. Staff will be on site to collect household items that are too bulky for residential garbage bins, such as mattresses, furniture and toys.
Salvageable items will be kept out of the landfill and donated to Goodwill.
Donations of new and gently used clothing, household items, and more can also be given directly to Goodwill at the event.
This event is organized to further Caltrans’ goal of keeping California’s highways litter-free as part of the Clean California Initiative.
The event is being held in partnership with Caltrans, Republic Services and Goodwill.
The following items will not be accepted at this event:
• Hazardous materials (batteries, paints, oils, chemicals, pesticides, smoke detectors, fluorescent lights, etc.)
• E-waste or universal waste (anything with a circuit board or battery)
• Concrete, dirt, rocks, brick, asphalt, or sand
• Treated wood
• Tires
For questions or additional information, contact Lauren Barich in the City Manager’s Office at 562-431-2527, ext. 1336, or email lbarich@sealbeachca.gov.
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GRF Phone System Update
On Feb. 1, the GRF replaced its 15-year-old phone system for a new one that will facilitate the efficiency of the courtesy call center recently implemented to provide one-stop information to frequently asked questions related to GRF departments, services and facilities.
The main GRF number has not changed. It is 1-562-431-6586. Callers should listen to menu options as they have changed and make their selections accordingly. Residents can access all departments via this main line.
The Security Department is still accessible via its main line at 562-594-4754.
Due to cybersecurity concerns, the full list of GRF staff extensions will not be posted at lwsb.com, which is a public website. Instead, there will be a list of extensions to the main GRF departments.
See below for the GRF departments and their new extensions.
• Security, ext. 2377
• News, ext. 2383
• Main Auto Attendant, ext. 2700
• IT, ext. 2701
• Client Services (customer care team), ext. 2702
• Mutual Administration, ext. 2703
• Finance, ext. 2705
• Service Maintenance, ext. 2706
• Recreation, ext. 2707
• Physical Property, ext. 2708
• On-Site Sales, ext. 2709
• Stock Transfer, ext. 2710
• LW Library, ext. 2437
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VECTOR CONTROL
Empty standing water after rain
In the aftermath of the February downpour that flooded streets and downed trees, LW residents are encouraged to empty sources of standing water, an action which can dramatically reduce mosquito populations. Beyond the nuisance, mosquitoes can cause sickness and death through disease agents they can carry, including Zika and West Nile virus.
According to the Orange County Vector Control District, a large portion of mosquitoes are produced in residential backyards in small breeding sources. It only takes a bottle cap of water to provide a breeding ground for mosquitoes.
Common sources of standing water include rain gutters, overflow saucers on flower pots, water bowls for pets, fountains and birdbaths, open trash bins, buckets, barrels and low-lying areas.
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Gate Access Quick Facts
1. An average 6,000 vehicles enter Leisure World’s gates each day.
2. GRF Security issues an average 1,300 visitor passes each day.
3. The barrier arm has been struck 11 times. The breakaway arm has been reattached each time, at no additional cost.
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PERSPECTIVES
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Editor:
Just now sitting here at my desk at 1 p.m. on a lovely sunny afternoon after all the rain, I hear frantic screaming as I see the brown coyote lope by and a woman clutching her small dog in her arms as she hurries by.
This scrawny brown coyote has been living in the greenway in Mutual 6 between buildings 140, 135, 57 and 58 for some time.
He killed one beloved pet on Jan. 9 in Mutual 6, lunged after another and has generally terrorized this beautiful area. He is here morning, afternoon and evening.
Other coyotes that have frequented this area have been docile and run away when humans are present. Not this one—-he boldly moves forward.
We now must bring cudgels, flashlights, and noise makers when we walk. We must be constantly vigilant and ready to ward off potential attacks.
Frankly, this is not the “Leisure World” that I expected when I moved here to enjoy the beautiful greenways where I love to walk. This coyote must be caught ASAP so that we do not have to live with this unacceptable level of inconvenience and stress.
Margo Wheeler
Mutual 6
Editor:
At about 10 a.m. on Feb. 9 at St. Andrews Gate, I approached the line to enter Leisure World. I could hear a car horn blaring. My assumption was that it was malfunctioning and stuck. Soon it became obvious that a rude driver was suffering from anxiety and road rage.
The attendant on duty continually requested the driver to cease. He would not! This went on for several minutes. When the scene finally cleared and I was able to roll through, I complimented the guard for “professionally” handling this rude resident.
He mentioned that the Security Department knew of this individual (perhaps from previous encounters).
I suggest that anyone who witnesses this bizarre behavior submit a report to our Security Department so that, at the very least, this individual could be cited.
There are Codes of Conduct posted throughout our community.
In my opinion, this person was in violation of them. Allowing for this behavior to continue is unacceptable.
The safety and well being of our neighbors is at stake.
R. Gene Vesely
Mutual 3
Editor:
Whatever happened to “God first?” And no, you cannot have two firsts.
D. Thackrey
Mutual 15
Editor:
A recent letter from Carol Damoci (Feb. 1) said that a sign on the GOP Club booth insinuates that “only Republicans love God.” The sign in question says “God is welcome here.”
If the Democrats wanted to put up a booth with a similar sign on it, I am pretty sure Republicans would not object.
On another topic, of all the achievements of the Biden administration, I cannot help but wonder why they have chosen to emphasize the forgiveness of student loans.
If students took out loans they cannot afford to pay back, why is it the responsibility of the government (meaning the taxpayers, of course) to pay off the loans for them?
This is perhaps the clearest example in many years of a Democratic administration paying off a group of fairly loyal constituents.
It is probably not those who chose a useful major that are most lined up at the trough but rather sociology, anthropology, philosophy, political science, journalism, history, ethnic studies, gender studies, art and social science majors of various stripes, basically, the fun, but not-so-useful subjects. An alternative approach to educational spending would be to spend those “additional funds” to provide educational opportunities for foster children. Less than 10% of these children graduate from college. The foster parents’ financial responsibility and remuneration for those children ends at age 18.
Brian Harmon
Mutual 12
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Perspectives Policy
Submissions in each of the following categories may be published at the discretion of the Communications Director.
Letters to the Editor
Letters, maximum 250 words, should be typed and delivered to LW Weekly by email (preferred), regular mail or hand-delivered. See addresses in the staff box below.
Letters must be of general interest to the community and may contain opinions, suggestions, compliments, and complaints without being scurrilous, libelous, defamatory, repetitive or otherwise inappropriate.
The names of individual employees, titles and/or departments will not be permitted in letters that could adversely impact any Golden Rain Foundation employee directly or indirectly.
Member Columns
Columns may present an argument, opinion or information about pending issues of concern or interest to the community.
Priority is given to first-time or less frequent writers.
Some names will be left out to protect privacy.
Contributor Reviews
Restaurant, theater and book reviews or travel submissions are welcome subject to terms and conditions in the policy unless otherwise noted.
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GOVERNMENT
Mutual election cycle begins; Directors are needed to serve
The community unity of Leisure World Seal Beach is a direct result of volunteer work by Mutual and GRF Board members duly elected to serve their Mutuals and residents.
This community was founded on the premise that the Mutual Boards and the elected Board of Directors work alongside on day-to-day operations of each Mutual Corporation. Directors address the issues of most importance to their electorate—the shareholders, whereas the Board of Directors finds solutions to existing problems.
Leisure World Seal Beach has many residents with experience in various fields who could make a difference by becoming a candidate for a director’s position on their Mutual’s Board of Directors. The schedule above indicates each Mutual’s annual meeting and election date, and the deadlines to apply for candidacy.
Those who are interested or have any questions about becoming a candidate for election to their Mutual’s Board of Directors can call 562-431-6586, ext. 2329.
For questions about GRF elections, call 562-431-6586, ext. 2393.
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GRF Meetings Schedule
Golden Rain Foundation committee and board meetings are open to LW residents. The following is a tentative schedule.
GRF Board Executive Session
Thurs., Feb. 22
Conference Room A, 1 p.m.
GRF Board Meeting
Tues., Feb. 27
Clubhouse 4/Zoom, 10 a.m.
Facilities Committee Meeting
Tues., Mar. 5
Conference Room A/Zoom, 10 a.m.
Operation Committee Meeting
Thurs., Mar. 7
Conference Room A, 10 a.m.
A quorum or more of the directors may be present, only to listen and observe, and no formal board action will be taken at committee meetings. Members will be provided an opportunity to address the committee.
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Mutual Meetings Schedule
Mutual residents are invited to attend the open meetings of their Mutual boards. The following is a tentative schedule.
Mutual 1
Thurs., Feb. 22
Conference Room B/Zoom, 9 a.m.
Mutual 15
Fri., Feb. 23
Conference Room B/Zoom, 1 p.m.
Mutual 6
Fri., Feb. 23
Conference Room B/Zoom, 10 a.m.
Mutual 8
(open forum 9:15 a.m.)
Mon., Feb. 26
Conference Room B/Zoom, 9:30 a.m.
Mutual 10
Wed., Feb. 28
Conference Room B/Zoom, 9 a.m.
Mutual 17
Tues., Mar. 5
Conference Room B/Zoom, 1:30 p.m.
Presidents’ Council
Wed., Mar. 6
Clubhouse 4, 1:30 p.m.
Mutual 3
Fri., Mar. 8
Conference Room B/Zoom, 9 a.m.
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GRF Board of Directors Meeting Agenda
Tuesday, Feb. 27, 10 a.m., Clubhouse 4
The GRF Board meeting can be attended in person or live streamed at www.lwsb.com. The tab will be active 15 minutes prior to the start of the meeting.
The live streaming uses YouTube Live and terminates at the close of the meeting.
1. Call to Order/Pledge of Allegiance
2. Roll Call/Notice of Quorum
3. President’s Announcement
4. Member Comments/Correspondence
5. Consent Calendar
a. GRF Board of Directors Minutes, Jan. 23
b. Accept the Interim Financial Statements for Dec. 2023 for Audit
c. Accept the Reserve Funds Investment Purchase for December
d. Approve Transfers of Funds for GRF per Civil Code 5502
e. Rescind COVID-19 Emergency Operational Rules:
i. 70-1448-1, COVID-19 Emergency Operational Rule
ii. 70-1448-3, Golf Course, Phase 1 Emergency Operational Procedures
iii. 70-1448-3A, Veterans Plaza, Phase 1 Emergency Operational Procedures
iv. 70-1448-3B, Mission Park Multi-Use Court, Phase 1, Emergency Operational Procedures
v. 70-1448-3C, Mission Park Phase 2, Emergency Operational Procedures
vi. 70-1448-3D, Amphitheater Phase 1, Emergency Operational Procedures
vii. 70-1448-3E, Pool and Spa Phase 1, Emergency Operational Procedures
viii. 70-1448-3F, Fitness Center Phase 1, Emergency Operational Procedures
ix. 70-1448-3G, Friends of the Library Phase 1, Emergency Operational Procedures
x. 70-1448-3H, Library Phase 1, Emergency Operational Procedures
xi. 70-1448-3J, Clubhouse 1 and Clubhouse 2 Poolrooms, Emergency Operational Procedures
xii. 70-1448-3K, Clubhouse 1 and Clubhouse 2 Woodshops, Emergency Operational Procedures
xiii. 70-1448-3L, Clubhouse 3 Sewing Room, Emergency Operational Procedures; 70-1448-3M, Art Room, Emergency Operational Procedures
xiv. 70-1448-3N, Ceramics Room, Emergency Operational Procedures
xv. 70-1448-3O, Lapidary Room, Emergency Operational Procedures
xvi. 70-1448-3P, Veterans Plaza Phase 2, Emergency Operational Procedures
xvii. 70-1448-3R, Mission Park Phase 2, Emergency Operational Procedures
f. Rescind 40-5580-2, Entry Passes—Fees
6. New Business
a. Capital Funding
i. No Items
b. Reserve Funding
i. Addition Of Cameras to Entrance Gates
ii. Site Survey to Design and Replace Wireless Campus Links
c. Governing Documents
i. FINAL VOTE: Amend 13-5025-3 GRF Election Procedures
ii. FINAL VOTE: Adopt 10-1937-3 Community Rules Violation Panel and Appeal Procedure
iii. FINAL VOTE: Amend 30-5093-2 Authorized Resident (AR) Rules of Conduct, Non-Compliance with Rules of Conduct—Fines and Penalties
iv. Amend 70-1447-1, Community Garden – Rules
v. Amend 30-1000-3, Member Services Committee Charter
vi. Amend 14-5540-1, Contingency Fund
8. Next Meeting: Tuesday, Mar. 26, at 10 a.m., Clubhouse 4
9. Adjournment
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Public Comments at GRF Meetings
California law requires the Board to establish reasonable time limits for members to speak at meetings. (Civ. Code Sec. 4925(b).), and how the Board responds to questions or concerns; most often the Board is unable to respond (Civ. Code Sec. 4930.).
Time limits are four minutes per speaker for 15 or fewer speakers; three minutes per speaker for 16-25 speakers; and two minutes per speaker for more than 26 speakers.
To address the Board, submit a comment card at the meeting before it is called to order. Members may email correspondence to the executive coordinator at grfboardaction@lwsb.com.
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Call for Candidates for the GRF Board of Directors, Even-Numbered Mutuals Only
The election cycle for the Golden Rain Foundation (GRF) Board of Directors representing Mutual 2 (two seats) and Mutuals 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14 and 16 (one seat) begins in February. A Mutual Board of Directors may appoint a nominating committee for the purpose of recommending a candidate for election, who will be given candidate instructions by the Stock Transfer Office. Candidates may also self-nominate.
A candidate may be a member who is an officer or director of a Mutual Corporation; of any City Council; of the Orange County Board of Supervisors; of the City of Seal Beach or the County of Orange Planning Commission. A member of any entity or partnership or an officer or director of any corporation engaged in supplying material or labor to GRF is discouraged from running for the Board. This may cause a potential conflict of interest, causing an unnecessary liability including, but not limited to, breaching fiduciary duties.
Candidates cannot be convicted of a crime that would either prevent GRF from securing fidelity bond coverage or terminate GRF’s existing coverage. The candidate must be current in the payment of carrying charges which does not include non-payment of collection charges, late charges, fines, remove assessments, costs levied by a third party, or if the member has paid regular or special assessments under protest per Civil Code Section 5658, has entered into and is currently on a payment plan, or if the member has not been provided with the opportunity to engage in Internal Dispute Resolution (IDR). Candidates must be members of GRF for at least one year. Renters/lessees of a unit within a Mutual are not eligible.
Each candidate is required to submit a statement to the Stock Transfer Office of more than 300 words, in 12-pt font, single-sided, written in compliance with the election rules and contain the background, qualifications, and platform of the candidate, and shall not contain any disparaging or defamatory content. The statement will be mailed out with ballots.
Candidates should refer to GRF By-laws, Article Six, Section One, and complete an Eligibility Disclaimer. Application for Candidacy forms and GRF Directors Handbooks are available in the Stock Transfer Office in the Administration Building, and should be submitted by Friday, Mar. 29, 4:30 p.m.
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RELIGION
Assembly of God
Some things are so overwhelming in their beauty or magnitude that the only appropriate response is, “That’s amazing.” To be amazed is to experience great astonishment, wonder or surprise. Pastor Chuck Franco will preach “Our Amazing God,” from Psalm 111:1-10, on Sunday, Feb. 25. The scripture reminds believers that God is merciful, gracious, righteous, faithful, and trustworthy, all things this world does not supply.
The Hymn Sing will be held Feb. 25 at 6 p.m. in the Clubhouse 3 Lobby. Join LW friends and neighbors in singing traditional hymns and fellowship.
The Wednesday Bible study will look at session five of “The Book of Mark,” a study by Francis Chan, covering Mark 4:35-5:43. This week takes in Jesus calming the storm, healing a demoniac, giving life back to a child and healing the woman with the issue of blood. These events become more than just stories as one considers the people involved, their challenges and disappointments, but ultimately their faith.
LW Assembly of God meets Sundays at 10:30 a.m. in Clubhouse 3, Room 2. The Wednesday Bible study is at 10 a.m. in Clubhouse 3, Room 2. The Hymn Sing is held on the fourth Sunday night of each month at 6 in the Clubhouse 3 Lobby.
More information about the church can be found at www.lwassemblyofgod.com, and on Facebook at the LW Assembly of God Church page, where people can catch up on past sermons. Contact the church office at 562-357-4360, or pastorchuck@lwassemblyofgod.com.
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LW Baptist Church
LW Baptist will reflect on God’s amazing grace on Sunday, Feb. 25, in Clubhouse 4 at 10 a.m.
In the book of Numbers, chapter 14, the adult generation of Israelites that experienced the exodus from Egypt were en route through the wilderness and had forfeited their right to enter Canaan due to their unbelief.
God, having just pronounced that the unbelieving generation will die in the wilderness over a 40 year period, gives instructions to the nation that are filled with unexpected hope: “When you enter the land where you are to live, which I am giving you…” and proceeds to detail how they should worship. The significance of these words is that God is not finished with Israel as a nation.God forgives his people and arranges the way for their sins to be forgiven.
For more information, call 562-430-8598.
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Faith Christian Assembly
Pastor Gwyn Vaughn will be back in the pulpit at Faith Christian Assembly on Sunday, Feb. 25, at the 10:30 a.m. service. Pastor Vaughn has so much experience and wisdom to share, and will bring a Bible-based teaching to encourage the congregation. All are welcome to join the service.
Join Faith Christian Assembly on Sundays at 10:30 a.m. and midweek Bible study on Wednesdays at 11 a.m. Weekly Grief Share meetings will resume March 14 at 3 p.m.
Call the church office for more information on these services or meetings, or to receive a free copy of the monthly newsletter, at 562-598-9010 or email contact@fcachurch.net.
People can also visit the website at www.fcachurch.net to read past newsletters.
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Congregation Sholom
Congregation Sholom will hold services via Zoom with Rabbi Mike Mymon on Friday, Feb. 23, at 6:30 p.m. Mymon will also lead the hybrid services on Saturday, Feb. 24, in Clubhouse 3, Room 9, and Zoom at 10 a.m. Saturday’s Torah reading will be Tetzaveh from the book of Exodus. Tetzaveh (You Shall Command) opens as God instructs Moses to appoint Aaron and his sons as priests. God details how to make the priestly clothing, how to sanctify the priests and offer sacrifices during the seven days of inauguration in the Mishkan (Tabernacle), and how to build the golden altar. To receive a Zoom invitation contact Jeff Sacks at 714-642-0122.
Shabbat across America will be held Friday, March 1. Congregation Sholom will have a potluck honoring Shabbat and Israel beginning at 5 p.m. in Clubhouse 3, Room 2; services will follow. Non-members should email murrjet@yahoo.com to RSVP for the event.
To become a member of Congregation Sholom, call Howard Brass at 714-396-0121 for a membership packet.
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Community Church
This is the second week of Lent, but each Sunday of Lent is designed as a mini Easter—a time to celebrate the love of God. Community Church will look at how God calls people to do difficult things. There will be people who step into the world solely driven to separate and exclude and damage; believers need to resist them. Believers need to be lovers, healers, helpers, truth-tellers and caregivers. People need a reminder that goodness still lives here.
Community Church meets for worship every Sunday at 9:50 a.m. followed by a time of fellowship and light refreshments. People are welcome to arrive early for a cup of coffee in the narthex. The church is located inside Leisure World at 14000 Church Place. All are welcome to attend.
Those who are in need without another way to address it may call the church office at 562-431-2503.
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Redeemer Lutheran and St. Theodore
On Feb. 4, the congregations of Redeemer Lutheran and St. Theodore honored the outgoing Council President Jerry Brady. He served faithfully for 20 years with unflagging energy in leading.
On Sunday, Feb. 25 the two congregations will celebrate the second Sunday of Lent. Bishop Murray Finck will preside over the 10:30 a.m. worship service at 13564 St. Andrews Drive. All are welcome. The congregations continue to collect canned and boxed food donations for the hungry.
In preparation for the reception of new members, for the Sacrament of baptism, and as an opportunity for any others to have a brief “refresher course” in what the congregations teach and believe, there will be five one-hour classes held on Wednesdays at 3 p.m., prior to the 4 p.m. midweek Lenten gatherings. The upcoming meeting on Wednesday, Feb. 21, will be an overview of Lutheran and Episcopal Theology titled “How We Read the Bible and What We Believe About God.”
Redeemer Lutheran and St. Theodore’s Episcopal Churches will holding Wednesday Lenten reflections and soup suppers at 4 p.m. from Feb. 21 through March 20. This time will be an ongoing look at the passion narratives of Jesus, from Palm Sunday through Good Friday in the four Gospels. This Wednesday will be a reflection on the triumphal entry into Jerusalem.
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First Christian Church
First Christian Church of Leisure World teaches from God’s word, the Holy Bible, verse by verse.
It is a friendly church that welcomes all visitors to join in worship and explore God’s word together, “That we may be mutually encouraged by each other’s faith, both yours and mine,” Romans 1:1.
Pastor’s Message
In Genesis 17, God made a covenant with Abraham saying, “I will give to you and to your descendants after you, the land of your sojournings, all the land of Canaan, for an everlasting possession, and I will be their God.” A covenant is a promise, and God is not one to break promises. The Lord appeared to Abraham’s son Isaac in Genesis 26:3 saying, “Sojourn in this land and I will be with you and bless you, for to you and your descendants I will give all these lands, and I will establish the oath which I swore to your father Abraham.”
God promised to perform the oath which He had promised Abraham. God continues with the promise of descendants, “and I will make your descendants multiply as the stars of heaven; I will give your descendants all these lands; and in your seed all the nations shall be blessed.”
The seed in which all nations will be blessed was the Messiah, Christ Jesus, a distant descendant of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob who would come into the world to redeem all those who would believe in him.
Weekend Services
Sunday services, held from 9:30-10:45 a.m., are traditional with hymnal music led by Janet Ray with Pat Kogak at the piano. Sherry Parmenter will sing special music this week.
Midweek Studies
Melli Herrera leads the women’s Bible study on Mondays from 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Pastor Whitlach leads the Tuesday Bible study from 9:30-10:30 a.m.
Pastor Bruce Humes leads the Thursday morning Bible study from 10:30-11:30.
Pastor Humes also leads prayer and Bible study every Friday from 4-5 p.m.
All Leisure World residents are welcome to attend any of the services and Bible studies.
Scripture of the Week
“And Jesus answered, ‘It is not those who are well who need a physician, but those who are sick. I have not come to call the righteous but sinners to repentance,’” Luke 5:31-32.
Contact
First Christian Church is located on Northwood Road behind Carport 125.
For more information about the church, call 562-431-8810 and leave a message.
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Join Holy Family Catholic Church’s Lenten Fish Fry
Holy Family Catholic Church’s Lenten Fish Fry is held on Fridays after the 11 a.m. stations of the cross devotion. With a minimum donation of $10 per person, people can get the following fish plates:
• Feb. 23: Fish burgers, chips plus fruit or a cookie.
• March 1: Clam chowder with crackers and fruit.
• March 8: Fish tacos with fruit or a cookie.
• March 15: Fish, fries, coleslaw plus fruit or a cookie.
• March 22: Clam chowder with crackers and fruit.
To join, sign up in the front of the church or parish office or call 562-430-8170.
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Buddha Circle
Buddha Circle will meet with Ven. Kusala on Saturday, March 2, in Clubhouse 3, Room 1, from 9:30-11 a.m. Kusala is well known in the Buddhist community. He presents Buddhism in simple ways. His teachings focus on how to help people suffer less and become happier. For more information, call 714-468-6887.
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Christian Women’s Fellowship and Bible Study
The Christian Women’s Fellowship and Bible Study group will meet Monday, Feb. 26, in Clubhouse 3, Room 6, at 10 a.m.
The group is currently studying the book of John, chapter 9. All residents are invited to attend.
For more information, call Margie Singleton at 562-594-8100.
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LW Korean Community Church
Leisure World Korean Community Church’s (LWKCC) Sunday services are held at the sanctuary every week at 11:50 a.m., and a morning prayer meeting led by the senior pastor is held every Tuesday through Saturday at 6 a.m.
LWKCC is located at 1400 Church Place. For more information, call 714-323-0897 or email revyong@hanmail.net.
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Seal Beach Union Evangelical Church
Seal Beach Union Evangelical Church offers a Korean Senior Health Club Class on Thursdays in Clubhouse 3, Room 4, at 1 p.m. Its focus is to help improve the mental and physical health of its club members while having fun. The class is led by senior pastor Joo Myung Hoon.
All residents in Leisure World are welcome to attend regardless of church membership or religion.
For information about the class, call 714-713-0905 or 562-716-2010.
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Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
Meetings for the Atherton Ward are held at 6500 E. Atherton St., Long Beach. Sacrament service is held every Sunday at 9 a.m., followed in the second hour by Sunday School on the first and third Sundays, and Relief Society and Elders Quorum on the second and fourth Sundays. Primary classes for children are held every Sunday during the second hour. Members who are unable to attend Sacrament services in person can request a link from Bishop Mike Gravley at 562-212-8641.
The reading source for this year is The Book of Mormon. Personal reading should be those chapters in 2 Nephi not covered in this study. The study for the week of Feb. 26-March 3 covers 2 Nephi 11-19.
The “Come Follow Me” lesson manual says “Engraving on metal plates is not easy, and space on Nephi’s small plates was limited. So why would Nephi make the effort of copying so many of the writings of the prophet Isaiah into his record? He did it because he wanted us to believe in Jesus Christ.”
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ARTS AND LEISURE
GENEALOGY CLUB
Club accepting dues for 2024
The Leisure World Genealogy Club will meet Wednesday, Feb. 28, at 10 a.m. in Clubhouse 3, Room 1. Coffee and snack time starts at 9:30.
The speaker of the month is Sandy Patak, owner of Ancestry Roads, a professional genealogist and webcaster. Based in Southern Appalachia, Patak brings the culture of all Appalachia to viewers with her webcasts.
The webcasts tell the stories of Appalachia and Appalachians intending to change the narrative. She is regularly asked to consult and speak on Appalachian-centric topics, genealogy and history. She travels the backroads of her ancestors with her husband, their yorkies, a bag of Crab and Chips, and a Cheerwine.
Membership renewals are due for 2024. There are white slips in the genealogy library for returning members. People should fill in the contact information so the club has the correct information.
The cost of dues for 2024 has gone up to $15 for the year to help cover rising club expenses. Membership fees fund the library, the library subscriptions to Ancestry, Fold 3, Newspapers.com, upgrading the computers and printer, supplies for the coffee hours each month, and supplies for the summer picnic. Dues may also be mailed to: Janet Lessin, 1351 Weeburn Rd., 47-J, Seal Beach CA 90740. People should include their address and phone number.
The club holds Theme Thursdays, which act as mini learning sessions and/or discussions, from 1:30-2 p.m. in the Genealogy Library. Upcoming topics include:
• Feb. 22: Ray Dahl will talk about George Armstrong Custer and related stories.
• Feb. 29: Chew and chat (new fifth week theme).
The club will have water for tea, coffee or hot chocolate. People can bring snacks or the club will pull out the chocolate. It’s an opportunity to discuss anything: stories, problems, questions, ah-ha moments, etc. Club members are in the library every Thursday.
The library will be closed on Sundays until it has a new volunteer. Those who are willing to help with library hours as a volunteer or who want to be a substitute should contact Lisa Brass at 714-390-4213 or lisnhow@gmail.com. Volunteers who cannot be in the library on their assigned day should contact Brass if they fail to find a substitute.
Club members would love to hear about people’s genealogy discoveries, and family stories and see family pictures, which may appear in the LW Weekly. People can submit articles or photos to lwgenealogy@gmail.com.
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Coin Club
The LW Coin Club will meet Wednesday, March 13, in Clubhouse 3, Room 2, at 1:30 p.m. Members can participate in door prizes, refreshments, coin auctions, coin raffles and group discussions regarding currency and coins. Refreshments will be provided. Leisure World residents can have coins evaluated at no cost.
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Restaurant Review
Leisure World residents are welcome to submit reviews of their favorite restaurants. Reviews should include the writer’s full name, contact information and a Mutual number. Make sure the restaurant’s name, telephone number, address and operating hours are included in the review, which are subject to editing and will be run as space allows. Email them to emmad@lwsb.com.
Primrose
13956 Seal Beach Blvd., Seal Beach, CA 90740
562-799-6799
Hours: Seven days a week, 7 a.m.-7 p.m.
by Barry Silvarman
Pauline and I went to dinner one recent evening at Primrose. Our server told us that since the last review, business had picked up considerably.
We both had salads. I had a tasty burger with fries and Pauline had a lamb shank special with mashed potatoes for $20.90 that included the salad.
My burger, salad and fries was $15.90, and a very good apple pie was $4.95. This summer, we’ll take our dog, Marley, for outdoor lunch.
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South Coast Orchid Society
The South Coast Orchid Society will present a free program by Douglas Overstreet, well-known orchid guru and judge, on “Five Favorite Dendrobiums” on Monday, Feb. 26, at 7 p.m. at the Whaley Park Community Center, 5260 E. Atherton St., Long Beach.
Overstreet has been growing orchids in Southern California for decades, first as a hobby, and then as a career. He is currently the orchid specialist in charge of the Thornton Conservatory and the Ernest Hetherington Memorial Cattleya Collection.
The Dendrobium orchids are a group of at least 1600 known species found in nature mostly in Southeast Asia, but extending all the way from Japan to India and Australia. Overstreet will present a few of the Dendrobiums that are likely to thrive in the area, with some background about the country of origin and overall habitat, history and cultural notes. Some of the cold-tolerant Dendrobiums are blooming right now, so there will be a selection from members’ gardens on display at the meeting. The event is free and open to the public. For more information, email southcoastorchidsociety@gmail.com.
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Community Karaoke
Valentine’s Day was celebrated big-time during karaoke night on Feb. 14. Host Walt Bier opened the evening with “Can’t Help Falling in Love.” “Looking for Love” was fun for Karen Morris to sing. “Till There Was You” was a smooth duet by Carmen Edwards and Rob Illingworth. Donald Horning chose a Merle Haggard hit, “That’s the Way Love Goes.” Shannon Harrison entertained the audience with “The Wonder of You.” Geoff Davies gave an easy-going “You’re My World.” Two songs with silly lyrics were a hit, “Muskrat Love” by Elizabeth Butterfield and “Lucille Don’t Take Your Love to Town” by Pat Paternoster. Later in the evening, a lively group gathered to sing “Twilight Time.”
Everyone enjoyed the chocolate covered strawberries during this evening, sharing smiles and love. Everyone is invited to join the group each Wednesday beginning at 5:30 p.m. in the club’s temporary quarters in Clubhouse 4.
—Margie Thompson
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ST. PATRICK’S DAY DINNER DANCE
Celtic band will perform on St. Patrick’s
GRF’s fourth annual St. Patrick’s Day Dinner Dance will be held Sunday, March 17.
Clubhouse 4 will fill with the aroma of corned beef and cabbage, baby carrots and roasted red potatoes, a Sonoma salad dressed with a raspberry vinaigrette and brownies, all catered by Country Gardens. Strains of Irish music will be provided by an authentic Celtic band.
This year, GRF is bringing back Sportive Tricks, a Celtic band with a kick. From time-honored sing-alongs and sea chanteys, to covers with a twist and original songs, the seven members of Sportive Tricks each bring their own voices, instrumental talents, experience and energy for a toe-tapping good time. The band received rave reviews after their 2023 performance.
Tickets are available now at the Recreation Office, located in Building 5. Tickets are $45 or $325 for a table of eight. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. The band performs from 6-8 and it’s sure to be a blast.
For more information, contact Mayoka Bassell at 562-431-6586, ext. 2476, or email mayokab@lwsb.com.
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Grab ‘n’ Go Food Schedule: Feb. 22-28
Thursday: Domino’s Pizza at Clubhouse 6—Call ahead at 562-493-2212 for special orders, wings and salads. The truck is on site from 3:30-7 p.m. Cash and cards are accepted.
Monday: Italian Burger Food Truck at Clubhouse 6—Grab burgers, chicken, steak or loaded fries with an Italian accent. Full menu available online at https://shorturl.at/cejLZ. Preorders are accepted at info@italianburgergrill.com or by texting 424-299-6291. The truck is on site from 4-6 p.m. Cash and cards are accepted.
Tuesday: Taco Tuesday at Clubhouse 6—Enjoy Mexican favorites plus hot dogs, burgers and fries from 5-7 p.m. Cash and cards are accepted. No preorders are allowed.
Wednesday: Cousins Maine Lobster Truck at Clubhouse 6—Enjoy lobster rolls, clam chowder, lobster grilled cheese and more. The full menu is available at https://shorturl.at/lqstA. The truck is on site from 4-7 p.m. Cash and cards are accepted.
On-call bus service is available from 4:30 p.m. on. Regular bus service is available before 4:30; and weekends on-call any time.
Call a ride at 562-431-6586, ext. 2379.Vendors are subject to change.
For updates, sign up for LW Live email notifications by visiting www.lwsb.com/lw-live-sign-up/. To ask questions or give feedback, email kathyt@lwsb.com.
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Leisure Time Dancers
The Leisure Time Dancers hold classes on Monday afternoons in the dance studio, upstairs in Clubhouse 6. Salsa will be the new dance at 2 p.m., followed by a continuation of The Hustle at 3. Beginners are welcome.
No partner is necessary. The class will rotate so everyone dances. A review of basics is included. The cost is $8 per person for one class; $12 per person for two classes in a single day.
For more information, contact Nancy Lyons at nhlyons@icloud.com.
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LIVE MUSIC
Abilene will perform in CH 2
Abilene will host its monthly boot scootin’ dance on Saturday, Feb. 24, in Clubhouse 2 starting at 7 p.m. Doors open at 6:30, but reserving tables is prohibited.
Abilene is Leisure World’s No. 1 country rock band going strong for nearly 20 years.
Terry Otte leads Abilene and shares singing duties with Tina Schaffer. Rounding out the group are guitarist Rod Anderson, bassist Doug Decker and drummer Jim Greer.
All concerts are free, but tips are accepted and greatly appreciated. For more information, contact kathyt@lwsb.com.
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Saturday Morning Dance Class
There are two dance classes every Saturday morning in Clubhouse 6 (second floor). In February the classes are cha-cha at 9 a.m., followed by foxtrot at 10. Each class is $7 per person.
The class participants vote on new dance topics every month. Prior dance experience is not necessary, and partners are not required. For more information, contact Howard Small at 516-659-3314.
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GARDEN OF THE MONTH
Martha Garcia’s colorful garden has been selected by the Garden Club as the February garden of the month. This lovely garden is located in Mutual 14 at 1721 Sunningdale Road, 51-A.
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LET THE GOOD TIMES ROLL CLUB
Tickets on sale for club’s St. Patrick’s dinner dance
The Let the Good Times Roll Club will host a St. Patrick’s Eve dinner dance on Saturday, March 16, in Clubhouse 2.
All are welcome for an evening of dinner, fun, and music by the Legends of Rock Dance Band. Dancing will start after a dinner of corned beef on rye sandwiches prepared by Ralph’s Deli with Boar’s Head corned beef. The menu includes coleslaw, sandwiches, chips, green ice cream for dessert and a refreshment bar including non-alcoholic green punch.
In addition to bottled water and coffee, ice and cups will be available and guests are welcome to bring their choice of appetizers or bottled refreshments.
To purchase tickets, call Martha Destra at 562-225-0037 and leave a return message with a phone number. Seating is assigned and limited. Tickets are $22.50 each and a table of eight can be purchased for $160.
People are urged to buy tickets as soon as possible, as this reservation-only event must be booked with the caterer a week in advance.
—Martha Destra
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hui o hula
Jojo Weingart
Hui O Hula invites all to join a hula class. Jackie Shaw, a hula dancer from a decade ago, dropped by for some hula fun and friendship. The club wishes happy February birthdays to Insook Kim and Hyung Lee. For more information about the hula club, call 562-431-2242.
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Around the world in 180 minutes
The Great LW Discovery Tour
The Great LW Discovery Tour will be held on Saturday, April 6 from 11 a.m.-3 p.m., with the grand finale starting at 2. A total 60 clubs have committed to the event that will give residents, especially those who don’t typically take advantage of LW amenities, an opportunity to experience a wide variety of activities.
The Recreation Department requests that each participating club submit a short blurb about what they have planned for the day. It will be incorporated into a script that the tour guides and ambassadors will recite to entice residents who visit the displays.
The vendors who have signed up for Clubhouses 2 or 4 are providing fabulous prizes throughout the day as well as the grand finale closing ceremonies at Veterans Plaza. Recreation expects to draw up to 3,000 residents to the event. Clubs may hold their own raffles and offer their creations for sale as well. Tour guides, supplied by the Theater Club and Recreation ambassadors, posted in each venue, will make sure attendees are guided to each club’s spot.
Clubs can simply have a table display with information, handouts, or prizes, or may put on a more elaborate presentation. Most clubs will be staged at Clubhouse 3, but others will be situated in their usual clubhouse. Every clubhouse and amenity is included.
Email your club description blurb to kathyt@lwsb.com by March 1 to be included in the scripts.
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Spring Arts & Crafts Festival
The second annual GRF Spring Arts & Crafts Festival will be held on Friday, April 12, and Saturday, April 13, in Clubhouse 2 from 9 a.m.-2 p.m.
The Arts & Crafts Festival is held for the purpose of encouraging the creative talents of LWSB members. In 2023, Recreation added a festival in the spring to augment its traditional Fall Arts & Crafts Festival as demand has increased.
While invited to exhibit their products, participants must adhere to guidelines established in Golden Rain Policy 1481; items for sale at the festival must have been made by the shareholder/member. No manufactured articles may be sold. Each seller must live in Leisure World and must be a GRF member to qualify as an exhibitor of sale items at the festival. People are invited to come and support their fellow residents.
Artisans who wish to participate can sign up at Clubhouse 2 on Wednesday, March 20 from 7-9 a.m. A full table is $10 but may be shared with another participant for $5.
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LW Art League
The LW Art League met Feb. 13. The guest demonstration artist and judge was watercolorist Anne Kupillas of Long Beach. The demonstration was very lively and there was lots of interaction between Kupillas and the audience. Kupillas demonstrated a “wet on wet” watercolor painting technique using a vegan watercolor paint.
The competition winners are: Terese Smith, Best of Show; Carol Levine, popular vote. In the masters category, Alice Sioson won first place; Carol Levine, second; Rosie Grogan, third. In the intermediate category, Mary Hebert won first place; Daniel Prosek, second; Linda Frysinger, third; Judy Sherratt, honorable mention. In the 3D/craft category, Alice Sioson won first place.
Three new members joined: Michael Senecal, Jim Greer and Diane Astier. The Art League will meet Tuesday, March 12.
—Larry Sioson
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Osher Lifelong Learning Institute
On March 11, the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at California State University, Long Beach will begin registration for its spring session. Classes will be held on campus, at satellite community locations, and online using Zoom.
Over 80 classes will be offered covering a wide variety of subjects. The seven-week session begins on April 8 and is open to all adults 50 and over. Annual membership is $40, and classes are $15 each.
For more information including registration, visit the OLLI website www.csulb.edu/olli.
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COMMUNITY
Golden Age Foundation Board Meeting
The Golden Age Foundation will have its monthly board meeting on Wednesday, Feb. 28, at 2 p.m. in GRF Conference Room B. All GAF members are welcome to observe the meeting. This is a great opportunity to catch up on the latest news and get a preview of coming projects.
The GAF Board meets on the fourth Wednesday of the month. For more information, contact Anna Derby at 562-301-5339.
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Emergency Information Council
Digitize important documents today
The Emergency Information Council will hold its first free vital document scanning event today, Feb. 22, from 1-3 p.m. in Clubhouse 3, Room 3.
The Emergency Information Council’s first scanning event will scan documents on to a thumb drive for the first 60 residents. The scanning and the thumb drive are free. A copier will be available to scan important cards and odd sized materials. For this first event, documents should not exceed 20 pages. More documents can be added to the drive at future events if needed.
Types of documents worth scanning at this event include personal identification documents, wills, Leisure World Stock and member certificates, medical, financial, and insurance identification and contact information.
For more information, contact President Jackie Dunagan at jackie919@gmail.com or 562-431-7479.
—Nick Massetti
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Learn how to prepare for an emergency Friday
The LW Community Emergency Response Team ( LW CERT) will meet Friday, Feb. 23, at 9 a.m. in Clubhouse 3, Room 9, for a safety class on earthquake preparation. LW CERT’s free monthly safety classes are 45 minutes long and all residents are welcome to join. Coffee and muffins are provided.
At the January LW CERT safety class, President Catherine O’Brien distributed a FEMA “Family Emergency Communication Plan” handout and gave a presentation on the importance of having a good communication plan. O’Brien covered three ways to organize key contact information for people’s families and other important people (including medical facilities, doctors, insurance companies and service providers).
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Club donates final funds to GAF after disbanding
The Christian Fellowship and Fun Club (CFFC) has disbanded after over two decades, donating its remaining $200 balance to the Golden Age Foundation (GAF).
In 2002, LW residents Phil and Thema Bloot began inviting friends to their home for food, to watch videos, catch up and pray. As the group grew, Phil decided that it was time to register as a club. So began the Christian Fellowship and Fun Club.
Gatherings were once a month with approximately 80 people in attendance for potlucks and various entertainment groups.
In 2014, a generous gift was given to the club, which covered for the cost of entertainment. In 2015, Cliff and Betty Vander Wal moved to LW. They were asked to become the new leaders. They joined Larry and Sharon Vander Schaaf and Nadine Van Maanen, who were also serving at the time.
The next nine years were a blessing to all who attended the potlucks. The club enjoyed all of the groups that came to entertain, especially when children came to entertain on the piano and other musical instruments.
As time went on, entertainment became more difficult to find. People moved on and favorite groups became too expensive for the club’s budget.
The club thanks those who faithfully served, providing great food, washing dishes, helping set up and more. Thanks to Larry (and the late Sharon) Vander Schaaf, Nadine Van Maanen, Steve and Connie Postma and Bert Thompson.
The Club was blessed by the faithful attendance of so many people, but leadership realized that many people moved away, COVID interrupted lives, and some aged out and weren’t able to attend anymore that it was time to say goodbye.
CFFC would like to thank Kathy Thayer, Recreation Manager, and the custodians who so faithfully served the club each month. They are a blessing.
With the remaining funds in the treasury, the club donated to Meals on Wheels, Golden Age Foundation, LW Assembly of God Church and Artesia Christian Home Auxillary.
To all those who faithfully attended and supported Christian Fellowship and Fun Club, thank you and God bless you.
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Korean American Association
Tax preparation for Korean speakers available
The Korean American Association will provide free tax preparation every Thursday in February from 1-4 p.m. in Clubhouse 3, Room 6.
Those who made less than $80,000 in 2023 can receive help from IRS tax experts to file for free and potentially receive a tax refund.
The Good Hands Foundation volunteers will prepare tax reports for LW residents. Most of the volunteers are Korean bankers who have passed the IRS exam and are familiar with tax law.
To make a reservation for the service, call the Korean American Association at 714-713-0167.
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Raffle tickets are almost gone
There are only a few tickets still available for the American Legion Auxiliary’s fashion show and raffle event on March 9 in Clubhouse 2 beginning at 11 a.m.
Generous donations from stores around Seal Beach have continued to come in for the American Legion Auxiliary’s Raffle. The items are a round of golf for four at Meadowlark Golf Course in Huntington Beach, a Wine Country snack basket, and $50 gift card from Sabastiani’s Italian Bistro.
The event will start with a sandwich and salad luncheon provided by “Love At First Bite.” Then there will be a presentation of scholarship funds to Golden West College Nursing School and funds for scholarships to the Naval Sea Cadets who will assist with the luncheon, followed by a snazzy fashion show. Later, participants will be able to look through a large raffle with over 40 items.
Tickets are $40 or a $300 for a table of eight. The last day to buy tickets is Friday, Feb. 23. Call Rose Marie Sprague at 714-742-8362 to purchase tickets.
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LW church donates to GAF
The Seal Beach Sa-Rang Church observed its 19th anniversary by donating to the Golden Age Foundation. The inter-denominational church is led by Senior Pastor Jung Hyun Lee.
The Seal Beach Sa-Rang church originally started meeting in Clubhouse 3, Room 1. Under the leadership of Rev. Kyo Min Soh, the congregation steadily grew and the church relocated to the Clubhouse 3 Lobby at the beginning of November 2017.
Pastor Lee was ordained as a pastor in 1978, served as a chaplain in the Korean army, and served as president of the Southern California Pastors Association. He also serves as a Christian counselor for the Korean Press and as president of the KPAC Reformed Presbyterian University and Seminary.
Seal Beach Sa-Rang Church holds Sunday worship in the lobby of Clubhouse 3, at 11 a.m. every week. The Wednesday Bible study is held in Clubhouse 3, Room 2, at 6:30 p.m. For more information about the church, contact Pastor Jung Hyun Lee at 310-749-0577.
All Golden Age Foundation programs are provided free to Leisure World residents. The GAF is staffed by volunteers, so all contributions go directly to meeting community needs. The generous support of residents, clubs organizations, and businesses is the main source of income. For more information, go to www.GoldenAgeFdn.Org or call Anna Derby at 562-301-5339.
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Centenarian Event
Golden Age Foundation seeks sponsors for gift bags
The Golden Age Foundation (GAF) will honor LW centenarians on April 23 between 11 a.m.–12:30 p.m. Shareholders who will be 99.5 years old in 2024 are welcome to sign up.
Centenarians’ life’s journeys and presence here in the community are some of the many things that make Leisure World a great place to live. The GAF would like to take the time to acknowledge their special milestone by visiting and providing a special lunch for them and a friend or family member, a gift bag, and a smile from a volunteer. In that gift bag, they will receive a Centenarian Certificate issued by the City of Seal Beach, a bouquet of flowers, a $25 gift card, which will be donated by the sponsors. The more sponsorship the GAF gets, the more gift cards from local restaurants will go into a centenarian’s gift bag.
Additionally, GAF has been working with families to gather their stories of their unique family history to share with neighbors and friends in Leisure World.
Those who would like to be a sponsor for the centenarian event should contact GAF president Anna Derby, at 562- 301-5339 by March 31.
Those who want to honor a friend, neighbor or family member 99 years old or older as of this year, can also give Derby a call to sign up for the celebration.
For more information, visit www.goldenagefdn.org.
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Democratic Club
by Mary Larson
LW contributor
The Democratic Club’s will meet on Wednesday, Feb. 28, in Clubhouse 3, Room 2 at 1:30 p.m. or by Zoom. Jeffrey Cardenas, the organizing director for the Orange County Democratic Party will join the meeting in person. He will talk about the party’s plans for the November General Election, as well as how local clubs can work together.
The election to replace termed-out Andrew Do as LW’s District 1 representative on the Orange County Board of Supervisor continues to receive considerable attention throughout the county. One reason for so much interest in this race is because of the way California conducts elections dealing with county or local races.
LW voters need to be aware that if any one of the five candidates seeking to replace Do on the OC Board of Supervisors secures over 50% of the vote in the current Primary Election, the election for this seat will be over.
Frances Marquez is the Democratic Party endorsed candidate in this race. She also has a long list of organizations and elected officials and community leaders supporting her candidacy.
All voters can sign up for California’s “Where’s My Ballot?” tracker to receive an update by text, email or phone when their ballot is officially processed.
Voters can already submit their ballot in the Voter Drop Box located in the Amphitheater parking lot at 13531 St. Andrews Drive. Ballots are picked up daily by a representative of the OC Registrar of Voters. Because of the passage of Assembly Bill 626,people can also turn in their completed ballot at the vote center located at the fire station outside of the North Gate starting March 2.
Those who want assistance voting or more information about candidates on their ballot can contact a Democratic Club board member at 562-296-8521 or 1-805-588-5141. Visit the Hospitality and Information tent every Tuesday and Thursday outside Clubhouse 6 from 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Democrats and supporters are also invited to subscribe to the club’s free newsletter by emailing mlarson.telfords@gmail.com. Make sure to include contact and party information.
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Golden Age Foundation
Next shredding service will be held on March 12
The next Golden Age Foundation (GAF) shredding service will be held on Tuesday, March 12, in the Clubhouse 2 parking lot at 10 a.m.-noon.
To make sure the shredding service runs smoothly, the GAF asks residents to follow these guidelines:
• Do not arrive earlier than 10 a.m.; no one will be there to guard dropped off documents.
• Place documents to be shredded in paper bags in the passenger seat and stay in the car. A GAF volunteer will get the bags from the car.
• Once the truck arrives, drop off bags and leave. Waiting with documents or forming a line is not allowed.
• The GAF will only accept untied plastic or paper bags; no cardboard boxes.
• Magazines, newspapers, electronic devices and X-rays will not be accepted.
• Remove staples and paper clips from all documents before the event.
• Contaminated bags will be turned away.
Donations are welcome.
For more information about the event or the Golden Age Foundation, go to www.GoldenAgeFdn.org, or text President Anna Derby at 562-301-5339.
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CERT training starts March 12
The LW Community Emergency Response Team’s (LW CERT) will hold a training on March 12. Classes are held from 6-8 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays for six weeks.
The LW CERT Team is a club of residents who are trained to help themselves and others in an emergency. During the training, residents are taught to:
• Plan for emergencies, power outages, and earthquakes.
• Protect themselves and others by learning skills such as basic first aid, using a fire extinguisher, and reacting in an emergency.
• Recover and get back on their feet after a disaster.
For more information, contact Eloy Gomez at 562-431-6586, ext. 2356, or email eloyg@lwsb.com.
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Make an appointment to file taxes today
IRS-certified volunteers are preparing and e-filing tax returns for full-year California residents. This free AARP program is sponsored by the Golden Age Foundation (GAF) and is available every Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday morning in The Knowledge and Learning Center in Clubhouse 3.
Appointments are required. Call 562-596-1987 and leave a name and telephone number. A volunteer will call back to schedule an appointment. The intake/interview sheet required for every appointment can be picked up at the Leisure World Library and completed prior to the appointment.
Note that individuals with rental property or a net loss from self-employment are out of scope for this program.
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LW Birthday
Linda Salarian celebrated her 60th birthday with a gala on Jan 27. It was a beautiful, elegant masquerade ball with guests dressed to semi-formal perfection.
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Golden Age Foundation Mobility Aids
Mobility aids are loaned out to the community as needed. They are open from Monday-Friday, 9-11 a.m., downstairs in Clubhouse 6. For more information or to volunteer, go to www.GoldenAgeFdn.org or call 562-431-9589.
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Rollin’ Thunder Golf cart Club
The Rollin’ Thunder Golf Cart Club will meet for a potluck and board meeting on Tuesday, Feb. 27, at noon in Clubhouse 2. The club requests all members to attend. Those who have a golf cart and are interested in joining are also welcome to join. There will be a sign-in table, where yearly dues can be collected from those who have not already paid.
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Sunshine Club
PhD candidate Marina Richie will speak to the Sunshine Club about the importance of study participants in advancing Alzheimer’s disease research on Friday, Feb. 23, in Clubhouse 3, Room 2, at 10 a.m.
Ritchie’s research centers on identifying means to improve recruitment, retention, and overall study design in Alzheimer’s disease research, including clinical trials. In addition to her research, she serves as a co-chair for REMIND, an organization led by UCI MIND’s predoctoral and postdoctoral trainees to conduct outreach and promote education on neurodegenerative diseases.
All shareholders are welcome to join this meeting. Sunshine Club requires no membership fees, but donations are welcome. Refreshments will be served.
For more information, contact Anna Derby at 562-301-5339.
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SPORTS AND GAMES
Tom Pontac boxes Parkinson’s disease on Zoom
LW resident Tom Pontac inspires with his perspective on living with Parkinson’s disease.
It’s been over ten years since he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. His life changed forever and a new chapter
began, one of acceptance, adapting and overcoming to live a good quality of life.
As a long-distance runner, Pontac was used to challenges, and this was a new one. His training now includes boxing, a non-contact form of exercise. It involves strength, balance, endurance, flexibility and cognition, all important factors in combating Parkinson’s and enhancing life. Most importantly, these classes can be taken on Zoom, eliminating the need to travel to a gym.
Being able to be proactive by engaging Parkinson’s as ifthis disease was an opponent in the ring is a great self-confidence booster as well as a physical one. Remember, “You may have Parkinson’s, but Parkinson’s doesn’t have you.”
For more information about classes on Zoom, call Tom Pontac at 562-304-0880.
—Tom Pontac
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Tournament Poker Club game coming March 2
Those who would like to play a fun and friendly game of Texas Hold ‘Em with the Tournament Poker Club for a $5 buy-in are welcome to attend the next Saturday tournament on March 2. Regular tournaments are on the first three Saturdays of every month in the lobby of Club-house 6. Registration begins at 10 a.m. along with treats and coffee. Cards are in the air at 10:30. There is no late seating.
On Feb. 10 the club had a great turnout for the week’s tournament. As the winners of their original tables, the final table players were: Joseph Wierszbieki, first place; John Burns, second; Tony Canfora, third; Doug Wolfe, fourth; Lem Hall, fifth. About 45 players started the game and at the final table play continued until Burns and Wierszbieki were head’s up. The flop came J-J-Q and holding 5-3 Burns went all in and was called by Wierszbieki holding 9-8. The turn was a 2, which was no help to either player. The river card was a K, which didn’t change the outcome, giving Wierszbieki the winning hand of 9-8 of clubs.
Wierszbieki has lived in Leisure World and been a member of the poker club for about a
year. This was his second final table win at regular tournament. In addition to tournament poker, Wierszbieki enjoys golf here in Leisure World.
The club congratulates all the winners.
For more information, call Debbie Barner at 325-721-0687.
—Debbie Barner
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Cribbage Club schedule change for February
The Feb. 27 meeting of the Cribbage Club has been canceled because Clubhouse 4 will be unavailable.
The club will meet in Clubhouse 4 March 5 while Clubhouse 1 renovations are finalized. The club meets Tuesdays at noon. Anyone arriving by 12:15 is assured a place to play. Refreshments are served from noon-12:15, and seven games are played beginning at 12:30.
The club met Feb. 13 for its semi-annual meeting and to play. The club provided pizza, salad and refreshments. Carrie Kistner and Candy Meyers did the serving and the club offers a special thank you to them both. The club appreciates all who pitched in to help get the lunch set up.
Winners of the week were: Helen Elich, 839, first place; Donna Gorman, 831, second; Sharon Rutigliano and Patti Smith, 824, third; Lynne Sorum, 821, fourth.
For more information; contact Marilyn Chelsvig at 562-279-5665.
—Mary Holder
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Shuffleboard Club planning meeting is Feb. 22
There will be a critical planning meeting for everyone in the Shuffleboard Club today, Feb. 22, from 2-4 in the afternoon in Clubhouse 3, Room 9, to discuss the rest of the club calendar year and beyond.
The painting project at the shuffleboard courts appears to be right on schedule, which means members itching to play again can resume league play in March.
A sea of red greeted members and guests at the recent Valentine’s party. Attendees were decked out in red clothing and the bulletin boards and tables were graced with hearts and arrows. Veteran member Rod Osgood is not only a great player but a great woodworker. His homemade hearts, each one different, were a giant hit and adorned each table as centerpieces. Kudos to Rod. He even put a hanger on the back of them so the lucky winners could display them at home on a wall. There was the usual competitiveness, laughter, and camaraderie at each of the tables. A good time was had by all.
For more information about the Shuffleboard Club, contact Membership Coordinator Patty Peterson at 562-714-7072.
—Barbara Gardner
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Did you know?
Basketball court stands ready for play at CH 2
There is a basketball half-court available adjacent to the pickleball courts in the back of Clubhouse 2. Remember: It’s not how tall you are, it’s how you play the game.
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Bocce Club
Session suspended by weather
The winter session of bocce play has been hampered by rainy weather and resulting delays in getting the court renovations completed. Court construction is now scheduled from Feb. 23-March 1. Because of this, the winter session has been suspended.
There will be a grand re-opening celebration in March with some fun, friendly competition on the new court. All interested players can sign up that day for the spring session, which is scheduled to begin in April. Stay tuned for updates as the court completion date gets closer.
For more information, call 714-904-6458.
—Estee Edwards
Duplicate Bridge Club
Due to Clubhouse 1 being remodeled, the Leisure World Duplicate Bridge Club will meet on Mondays and Fridays in February in Clubhouse 4 at 12:30 p.m. Reservations can be made at any game using the sign-up sheets. Players can call Linda Nye at 562-453-6678 or email her at yuelingnye@yahoo.com no later than 10 a.m. on game day. Arrive by 12:15 to confirm reservations.
Feb. 5 winners (five tables): Howard Smith and Fred Reker, and Howard Small and Chie Wickham, north/south; Shmuel Fisher and Thad Mikols, and Jeanette Estelle and Ron Lee, east/west.
Feb. 9 winners (eight tables): Sibyl Smith and Diane Schmitz, and Larry Topper and Lynn Danielson, north/south. Sue Fardette and Melanie Smith, and Judi Ornoff and Joyce Basch, east/west.
The club congratulates the winners and thanks all the players who participate and support the club.
For complete results, including a list of all players and scores, go to the Long Beach Bridge Center results page at www.acblunit557.org and click on Leisure World Results. For club information contact Howard Small at 516-659-3314 or howard.small@outlook.com.
—Sue Fardette
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LW Pool League
On Feb. 7, after the second week of play in the LW Wednesday Pool League, there was a three-way tie for the lead with Scam,
the Anglers and the Sharks all having a record of 15 wins and 11 losses.
The Sharks won big over No Miscueses 10-3. The Sharks won all six of its singles matches. It was a team effort with Paul Shellenberger, Brian Burke and Shery Wells all getting five wins in seven matches.
The Rack Runners came from behind to edge the Favorites 7-6. The Rack Runners won the last four games of the match, and Connie Adkins won five games for the Rack Runners.
The Anglers won the final eight ball game to beat Scam, which stands for Steve, Cornel and Millie. Ray Fredrichsen scored five points for the Anglers by winning all his doubles matches.
At the Monday League, the Side Shooters moved into first place by beating the Snipers 9-4. This gave the Side Shooters a record of 23 wins and 16 losses. Ron Kennedy, Gary Monahan and Guta Basner all had five wins for the Side Shooters. Monahan and Basner won both of their singles matches, and Kennedy won all of his doubles games.
The Renegades moved into second place by beating the Cue Crew 8-5. Renato Villanueva led the Renegades with five wins,
and the Renegades won its first five doubles matches.
The Rustlers edged the Rail Runners 7-6. Kurt Bourhenne won five games for The Rustlers, including both his eight ball and nine ball singles. Susan Dotson contributed by winning four games for The Rustlers.
—Dave Silva
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LW Men’s Golf club
Rolando Ramirez scores a hole-in-one on No. 2
The first Leisure World Men’s Golf Club Tournament of February was held on Valentine’s Day at the Turtle Lake Golf Course. Sixty-two variously skilled golfers in three flights vied for best net scores (gross score minus handicap), plus four circle holes (shots within a 5-foot circle rewarded) and two closest to the pin challenges.
After the heavy rains and serious flooding, it was good to see the quick recovery of the fairways, tees, and greens. Kudos to the landscape crew.
Since the greens were very receptive, it was surprising that only 19 of the 62 rounds were net at or under par, but there were 45 birdies, and seven circle hole winners. Rolando Ramirez aced the 64-yard second hole.
The low gross competition was won by Bill Lyons, followed by Bob Barnum and Mark Rice. Best net score was Bruce Bowles, followed by Lyons, and then Mike Carlson. Closest to the pin on the seventh hole was Ralph Koizumi at 2 feet 4 inches, and Daniel Mahoney and Rice tied at 6 feet even on the 16th hole.
All scores below are net (gross score minus handicap).
A flight winners (handicaps of 0-6): Lyons, 5 under 49, first place; tie between Dave LaCascia and Rice, 2 under 52, second; Barnum, 1 under 53, third; Bob Johnston, even par 54, fourth; John Kolthoff, fifth; tie between Alan Sewell, Ron Steele and Seung Lee, sixth.
B flight winners (handicaps of 7-13): Bowles, 6 under 48, first place; tie between Byron Schweitzer and John Rudosky, 3 under 51, second; Gene Archambault, 2 under 52, third; tie between Tom Owens and Rolando Phillips, 1 under 53, fourth; tie between Dale Williamson and Dave Winn, even par 54, fifth; Jun Um, sixth; tie between Bill McKusky and Gary Newhall, seventh.
C flight winners (handicaps of 14-18): Carlson, 4 under 50, first place; tie between Jon Russell and Ryan Hong, 1 under 53, second; tie between James Farr, Kevin Linstedt and Wong G. Park, even par 54, third; Manny Miranda, fourth; tie between Mark Tal and Hyon Shin, fifth.
The next men’s tournament will be on Feb. 28 and every second and fourth Wednesday of each month. The Guys and Gals tournaments will be on the third and fifth Wednesdays, if there is one, of each month.
Those who had planned to play and cannot should contact Alan Sewell at 541-324-8558 or Dave LaCascia at 801-674-5975 as soon as possible. Arrive 15 minutes prior to scheduled tee time and be ready to play.
NOTE TO ALL GOLFERS:
Men’s Club dues for 2024 are due. See Dave LaCascia at club tournaments or the next general meeting on March 6 in Clubhouse 3, Room 1. Meeting dates have changed to the first Wednesday of January, March, June, September and November. If dues have not been paid by the March 6 meeting, golfers will not be eligible to enter into the rewards part of the tournaments.
—Dave LaCascia
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LW Men’s Golf League
Wet fairways don’t deter golfers eager to play
After a 10-day layoff due to weather and flooded golf courses, the Leisure World Men’s Golf League played the David L. Baker Executive Golf Course on Feb. 12. Seven brave golfers confronted a soggy course and a 43-degree morning. The golfers teed off into a windless, sunny day and skies with little warmth. It was nearly halfway through the round before temperatures started to rise. Layers were shed by the 10th hole and by round’s end, it was barely into the 60s but a clear, pleasant late morning.
Baker is a 4,000-yard, par 62 course that has abundant water hazards and this week there were some sand traps that were a foot deep with water from the previous week’s rainstorms. Greens were in excellent condition, but fairways were soggy with numerous ground-under-repair areas still recovering from the flooding. Add wet fairways plus tees that were set way back, and playing conditions were tough for everyone.
With only seven players, the prize pool was only for fewest putts and closest to the pins on the third and 15th holes. Fujio Norihiro won all three pools and was aptly compensated.
The Monday and Friday golf leagues play at four local courses, all within 15-20 minutes of Leisure World. These courses are
always quite full, so advance league reservations are required with a sign-up sheet available at each round.
There is a prize pool for each round that players are not obligated to enter. Rewards are given for low net in each flight, birdies, closest to the pin on two par threes, and for the lowest number of putts in each flight. Holes-in-one and eagles (two under par), although infrequent, are generously rewarded.
Those interested in playing can contact Gary Stivers at 714-313-3697 or Dave LaCascia at 801-674-5975.
—Dave LaCascia
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LW Women’s Golf Club
Weather permitted Tuesday play for thirty-three
Thirty-three women made it to the golf course Feb. 13 to participate in the weekly Tuesday tournament. Play for the day was low gross, low net and birdies.
A flight winners: Low gross: Jessica Choi and Janice Turner, 29; low net: Ann Tran, Lisa Kim and Jane Song, 26; birdies: Janice Turner, 4, Ann Tran, 7, Song, 6, Hae Lee, 7, Sue Choi, 6.
B flight winners: Low gross: Mary Ann Moore and Grace Choi, 32; low net: Nina DeRosa and Sang An, 27; birdies: Grace Choi, 1, Very Thompson, 6.
C flight winners: Low gross: Pam Krug and Sun Lee, 34; low net: Songhi and Sue Yokomi, 26; birdies: Joann Lim, 8, Sun Lee, 8.
D flight winners: Low gross: Judi Irniff, 36; low net: Dale Quinn, 25; birdie: Judi Ornoff, 6.
Results of the Jan. 30 special tournament played from the blue tees:
A flight winners: Low gross: Linda Herman, 31; low net: Sandy Derouin, 27.
B flight winners: Low gross: Janice Turner, 33; low net: Sang An, Jane Song and Bert Thompson, 28.
C flight winners: Low gross: Eullia Kim, 34; low net: Cecilia Han, 24.
D flight winners: Low gross: Sue Elliot, 37: low net: Angela Han, 26.
The LW Women’s Golf Club plays a weekly nine hole tournament on Tuesday mornings at 7:30 at the Turtle Lake Golf Course. For more information, email club President Pam Krug at pskrug62@hotmail.com or call 562-431-1257.
—Linda Herman
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TABLE TENNIS
Table tennis is available for play on the first floor of Clubhouse 6. The Table Tennis Club offers lots of play options. Look for their information and sign-up sheets by the tables.
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Saturday Social Bunco Club
The Saturday Social Bunco Club meets on the second and fourth Saturdays of every month in the Clubhouse 3 Lobby. Sign-in begins at 1 p.m. and is $5. Play begins at 1:30. The next meeting will be Feb. 24.
Feb. 10 winners: Nancy Brown, most buncos; Helen Lind and JoAnn Barsanian, most wins; Dina Navarro, most babies; Sandy Weisenstein, most losses; Barbara Gardner, door prize. For more information, contact Susan Hopewell at 562-754-
5059 or Kathy Rapp at 562-230-8972.
—Kathy Rapp
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Monday Night Bunco Club
The Monday Night Bunco Club meets the second and fourth Mondays of every month in Clubhouse 3, Room 1. Play begins at 6 p.m. sharp. All Leisure World residents and their guests are welcome. Bunco is an easy dice game and a lot of fun. There will be a halftime social to visit with friends and neighbors.
The next meeting will be Feb. 26.
Winners for Feb. 12 include: Crystal Bushinsky, most buncos; Lillian Munoz, most wins; Nancy Floyd, most babies; Mimi Durino, most losses; Rita Fueyo, door prize winner.
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Chess Club meets every Friday
The LW Chess Club meets every Friday in Clubhouse 3, Room 7, from 2-6 p.m. Keep Alzheimer’s and dementia at bay by practicing this strategy game, proven to improve short and long-term memory, critical thinking skills and cognitive function. People are encouraged to bring one or more friends and enjoy the moment. Men and women are welcome.
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HEALTH AND FITNESS
Help seniors at risk by taking the survey
The Orange County Aging Services Collaborative (OCASC) is conducting a confidential survey to identify gaps in service delivery and at-risk seniors in Orange County.
Final results of the 2024 Older Adults Survey will be included in the 2024 Report on Aging in Orange County.
Only answer the survey if you are 65+ years of age and only one submission by household is allowed. Go to https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/OCASC2024 to take the survey.
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Trust the experts in learning how to dance every Thursday
The Joyful Line Dance Club meets on Thursdays from 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. in Clubhouse 2. The first half hour is for beginners and intermediate dancers learning the Tennessee Waltz original, Ah Si and more. After a brief break, the students practice more advanced dances such as Maria Meringue, Papa and The River of Babylon.
All attendees are asked to sign in with their name, Mutual, and unit numbers, and check in at the front desk before the class. Everyone is welcome with a minimal membership fee. Exercise shoes are recommended.
For more information, contact Anna Derby at 562-301-5339.
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Meals on Wheels Long Beach
Meals on Wheels of Long Beach, Inc., delivers freshly cooked meals for $10.50 per day Monday-Friday, between 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Deliveries include an 8-ounce carton of 1 percent milk.
Contact Client Manager Caron Adler at 562-439-5000, ext. 1, or visit www.mowlb.org to complete the application or cancel a meal for the following day, before 9 a.m. the prior business day.
Thursday, Feb. 22
Beef lasagna, whole grain dinner roll, broccoli and cauliflower, chef’s special cake, roast beef and cheese sandwich with lettuce, tomato and pickle, and homemade potato salad.
Friday, Feb. 23
Chili relleno casserole, Spanish rice, pinto beans, vanilla pudding, chef’s salad with turkey, ham, egg, tomato, bacon, blue cheese dressing, and crackers.
Monday, Feb. 26
Chicken enchilada casserole with red sauce, black beans, cauliflower, orange, tuna salad sandwich with spinach and tomato, and homemade macaroni salad.
Tuesday, Feb. 27
Teriyaki roast with brown rice, oriental vegetables, corn, chocolate pudding, taco salad with shredded chicken, tomato, corn, black beans, cheese, cilantro, salsa dressing and crackers.
Wednesday, Feb. 28
Chicken noodle casserole, carrots, Brussels sprouts, tangerine, roast beef and cheese sandwich with lettuce, tomato and pickle, and confetti slaw salad.
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LW Bicycle Group B members Maryann Murray (l-r), Susana Jianto, Mary Bergeron and Lucy Cyza posed in McFadden Square in Newport Beach. The LW Bicycle Group meets at the St. Andrews Gate, instead of North Gate, on Sundays with breakfast, Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 9 a.m. Helmets and safe shoes are required. For more information, call Mary Romero at 562-509-8475 or Lucy Cyza at 818-209-5075.
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Dancing Feet Club members are gearing up for their next performance with the new versions of Blurred Lines and September. The club meets on Mondays for line dance lessons and practice from 7-9 p.m., and every fourth Sunday for social (ballroom) dances. The next social dance is on Sunday, Feb. 25, from 6-9:30 p.m. Both classes are held in Clubhouse 2. Everyone is invited. Dress to impress and bring favorite snacks and drinks. Alcohol is not allowed. There is no fee to participate. For more information, text Ed Bolos at 551-998-4223 or email edgbolos@gmail.com.
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Meals on Wheels Orange County
Meals on Wheels Orange County in partnership with the city of Seal Beach is hosting The Lunch Cafe at the North Seal Beach Center, 3333 St. Cloud Dr., Seal Beach, Monday-Friday, from 11 a.m.-noon for anyone 60 or older. Suggested contribution is $3 or $5 for guests under 60.
LW Minibus service is available for a pick up at 10:25 a.m. at the Amphitheater bus stop on St. Andrews Drive, and a drop off at 11:40 a.m.
Thursday, Feb. 22
Pork arnitas bowl, tomato cilantro rice, fiesta vegetable mix, tortilla, sour cream, and seasonal fresh fruit.
Friday, Feb. 23
Baja fish sticks tacos black beans, red and white cabbage, tortillas (two), pico de gallo, and pineapple chunks.
Monday, Feb. 26
Vietnamese caramel pork with sauce, jasmine rice, broccoli, and tropical fruit mix.
Tuesday, Feb. 27
Turkey pot roast with brown gravy, sweet potatoes, collard greens, and sugar-free fruited gelatin.
Wednesday, Feb. 28
Macaroni and cheese, diced tomatoes, carrots, breadstick (one), sugar-free apple crisp, and orange-pineapple juice.
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The Ballet Fitness leader Mel Lockett demonstrates the new routine. The club meets on Saturdays, from 1:30-2:30 p.m., in Clubhouse 6, upstairs, in the Mirror Room. Everyone is welcome.
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Wa-Rite
The Wa-Rite Club meets every Friday from 9-10 a.m. in Clubhouse 3, Room 1. Weigh-ins are from 8:15-8:45, and optional for guests. Female LW residents are welcome to visit any of the club’s meetings, and should arrive by 8:45.
The club supports and encourages members as they pursue their weight loss goals and build new connections.
Weight loss groups have been proven to be successful and help women stay on track. They provide major benefits including better sense of accountability, tried and true strategies for success and a relief from stress.
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CLASSIFIEDS
GENERAL
Are you TIRED of GROCERY-SHOPPING? Let me/(a-Leisure-World-resident) do the shopping for you/714-655-1544! Exp 3/06
BATHTUB & SHOWER REFINISHING
We refinish your SHOWER/TUB to look brand new. Convert to WALK-IN SHOWER and/or raise seat. Nu Kote 562-833-3911
Serving LW since 1999. SB Business License 699080. Exp 3/27
GARDENING & LANDSCAPING
FRANK’S GARDENING SERVICE
Complete maintenance and landscape. Serving Leisure-World since/1978. Planting/Clean-Ups/Fertilization/New-Lawns/etc. Offering my services to every Mutual. Honest-and-Reliable. State Contractor’s License 779462. Call/562-863-7739,
562-743-3832 or 714-527-1172. Exp 5/08
HANDYMAN SERVICES
JR HOME REPAIRS. Quality work. Perfectionist, honest & reliable. Call JR 562-519-2764. SB Business License JRH0001. Exp 7/24
PAINTING
Painting/FREE Estimates. 1-room or entire-house and refinish kitchen cabinets. (714)-826-8636. Call Jerry. CA State License 675336. Exp 4/24
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CORY GEE PAINTING. State Contractor License 1049257 (Bonded and Insured). Interior and Exterior, Cabinets/Drywall/Texturing/Acoustic-Ceilings, Senior-Discounts. (714)-308-9931. Exp 4/03
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Call/562-596-0559, LW DECOR INC.
Premium-Paints. Interiors/Cabinets/Ceilings/Exterior-Windows/Frames. Our Own Painting-Crew. 40+/Years in LW. Business License 723262. Exp 4/03
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Bel-Rich PAINTING. Small-Jobs, Bathrooms, Walls, Accent-Walls & MORE! Call Bret 714-220-9702. Business License 705131. Exp 4/17
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LADY PAINTER
Cindy Beatteay 714-356-1539. Interior Paint, Speciality-Finishes, Cabinets, Murals and MORE! State Contractor License 1033927. Exp 4/24
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Painting service for exterior or interior repairs, texture/drywall/cabinets/skylights/gates/frames. Joshua 714-267-6756. State Contractor License 1081798. Exp 2/28/2025
SKYLIGHT SERVICES
SKYLIGHTS CLEAN AND REPAIR Licensed and insured Dan (562) 841-3787 SB Business License BRA0002. Exp 3/20
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SKYLIGHT Cleaning & Repairs, Eugene (714) 774-4385. Contractor License 634613-B. Exp 8/14/2024
WINDOW WASHING
BEAUTIFUL WINDOWS. 40+ YEARS EXPERIENCE. PHIL (562)-881-2093. SB Business License AB0001. Exp 3/06
Leisure World Helping Leisure World
Does your walker need new tennis balls? Delivery and installation provided. Please provide your name and phone number. Free of charge. Contact Diane Hart 714-955-2885.
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“ROLLIN THUNDER” GOLF CART CLUB
Offering FREE advice on buying/selling of your golf cart. Also batteries and Safety Flags. 562-431-6859
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Help the Emergency Information Council bring disaster preparedness information to Leisure World by donating your unwanted vehicle. Call (855) 500-7433 or visit www.careasy.org/nonprofit/emergency-information-council.
HOME CARE PERSONAL ASSISTANT
EXPERIENCED Caregiver available to assist with/Daily-Care/Doctor-Appointments/Errands/Available_24/7. 949-899-7770.SB Business License HEL0006. Exp 3/13
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CHRISTIAN HOME CARE
Experienced, knowledgeable caregivers. Honest/Assertive/Fluent-English. Hourly/Full-Time, doctor-appointments, errands. Bernadine/562-310-0280. Bonded/Insured. SB Business License BCS0002. Exp 8/07/2024
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MOST AFFORDABLE RATES with optimum service, 30-years+ Leisure-World Experience. Licensed/Reliable/Honest-Caregivers. 24-hours/Part-Time/Doctor-Appointments. References-available/Fluent-English. Ann/714-624-1911 and Heide/562-277-3650. SB Business License HYC0001. Exp 11/06/24
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EXPERIENCED CAREGIVER
Over 25+/years in Leisure-World with/Excellent References. Hourly or Live-in. Please-Call/Pampet/562-371-4895. SB License PAN0003. Exp 3/27
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Elderly care. Live-In/Live-Out. 30+/years experience. Cooking/Cleaning/Medications/Doctors/Companions. Experience with Dementia. Gloria/949-371-7425. SB Business License RAZ0002. Exp 4/17
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MARIA’S Experienced Caregivers. Run Errands/Doctor-Appointments/Cleaning/Part-Time/Full-Time/Live-In. 9xShifts. (562)-230-4648. SB Business License CAM0006. Exp 4/17
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LOVING ARMS CAREGIVING
Are you or a loved one in need of compassionate caregiving services? Look no further! Loving Arms Caregiving is here to support you with meal preparations, cleaning, Dr’s. appointment transportation, companionship and much more. Contact us at (562)754-4639 to learn more about how we can assist you or your loved one. HCO#194701039 Exp 3/13
BEAUTY SERVICES
Tammy Nguyen Phenix Salon. Service in private suite. One-customer, one-hairstylist. Sanitized & professional. Haircut for men-and-women. Shampoo/Set/Color/Highlights/Perms, Nails/Toenails. In-house service available. 13944 Seal Beach Boulevard, #116. Tammy Nguyen (714)-425-4198. Exp 3/13
HOUSE CLEANING
EXPERIENCED Housekeeper providing Weekly-and-Monthly/cleaning. Call/949-899-7770. SB Business License HEL0006
Exp 3/13
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MOVE-IN, MOVE-OUT. Walls, Floors, WINDOWS. PHIL 562-881-2093. Over 30 Years Experience! SB Business License AB0001. Exp 3/06
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GENERAL HOUSEKEEPING, 30+/years experience. Bi-weekly or monthly. Gloria/949-371-7425. SB Business License RAZ002. Exp 4/17
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Maria House-Cleaning. We’ll make your house look NICE-as-Possible! 15+/years-experience. We can work with/your schedule. Bi-weekly/Monthly. Deep-Cleaning. Call/Text/714-496-2885. Business License HER0008. Exp 4/17
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MAGALY’S CLEANING SERVICE. We make your home sparkle! 7-days/call anytime! Complete-cleaning. 562-505-1613
SB Business License M0001A. Exp 3/06
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Albert & Patricia House-Cleaning. Weekly/Bi-Weekly/Monthly. (562)-397-4659, (323)-413-0830. SB Business License14206409. Exp 3/06
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MM House Cleaning. Your “Happy” House Cleaning Service! Call Michelle (949)-524-5524. Business License 20236653896 Exp 2/28
COMPUTERS
FRUSTRATED (562)755-6199
Everything for your computer (PC-or-Mac), Cellphone, TV, Stereo, any Electronic-Device. Tina Schaffer. SB Business License CIP0001 Exp 1/22/2025
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JOHN’S COMPUTER & TV SERVICES (562)-733-9193
All things computer related. LW-Resident. SB Business License FUH0001 Exp 4/17/2024
TV SERVICES
JOHN’S TV & COMPUTER SERVICES (562)-733-9193
All things TV related. LW-Resident. SB Business License FUH0001 Exp 4/17/2024
AUTOS WANTED
ANY KIND OF CAR
Cars/Motorcycle/Truck, running-or-not. We are local, call anytime! We pay cash and remove promptly! We do DMV and Release-of-Liability for you! Bonded/Licensed, since 1985! Call us 562-684-0901, we can come out and give you a quote. CA Business License 046854. Exp 3/13
golf carts/eLECTRIC CARTS/SCOOTERS/MOBILE CHAIRS FOR SALE
GOLF CARTS for Sale & Repairs. Call 714-292-9124. SB Business License 14206207. Exp 1/29/2025
Golf cart tires
Golf Cart Tires in Leisure-World with “SPECIALTY TIRES”. All-Standard-Sizes and MORE! 1-800-847-9593. SB Business License SPE0007. Exp 4/17
Transportation
INEXPENSIVE SHUTTLE. AIRPORTS/SHOPPING/DOCTORS, etc. 562-881-2093. SB License ABL0001. Exp 3/06
autos/boats/RV’s trailers FOR SALE
ELECTRIC CAR PADS
Installed at your residence. Call Frank/562-743-3832. Contractor’s License 779462. Exp 5/08
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2014 Dodge Caravan with New Disability Lift $7000/OBO. New-tires/new-radio with backup camera/480-235-4934. Exp 2/28
MOVING, HAULING & STORAGE SERVICES
J&D HAUL-AWAY AND CLEAN-UP SERVICE
No job too small! Fast/Reliable/Great-Prices. Seal Beach Business License BRA0002. 562-841-3787 Dan. Exp 3/20
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A FRIEND AND A TRUCK
Your-FRIENDLY-MOVERS. We-offer-HAULING-Service-too. ANY size job! Call (310)-387-2618. Business License RO263644. Exp 3/27
MISCELLANEOUS Wanted
Buying Antique and Vintage Furniture/MCM-Retro-Furnishings/Dressers/Desk/Antique-Jewelry/Navajo-Zuni-Jewelry/Vintage-Clothing/Men’s-Watches-and-Lighters/Toys/Novelities/Whimsical-Figures/Miscellaneous-Collectibles, ETC. 562-243-7229. Exp 4/17
MISCELLANEOUS FOR SALE
Clearing Sale. Thursday/February-22nd and Friday/February-23rd, 9:00am-3:00pm. 13840 Canoe Brook Drive/Mutual-3/Unit-6A. Furniture/Clothing/Electronics/Kitchenware/Household-Goods. 714-287-8185. Exp 2/28
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Estate Sale by Jennifer and Denise. 1561 Northwood Road Mutual-11/Unit-272F Friday/February-23rd ONE-DAY-ONLY. Amazing Treasures and EVERYTHING-MUST-GO! Lots of beautiful lamps, Rectangular-Table-with-six-chairs/Antique-Secretary-Desk/Art-Work/Christmas/Slide-Top-Buffet/China-Cabinet/Nightstands/Computer-Desk/Twin-Bed-Frame/Brand-New-Compact-Wheelchair/Luggage/TVs/Pots/Crockpots/Jewelry and so much more. For entry through Leisure-World main-gate, call/text Denise/714-234-8842 by Wednesday evening.POB 427, Seal Beach, 90740. Seal Beach Business License 14206514.
LEISURE WORLD APARTMENT FOR SALE
For Sale by Owner. Mutual-14/Corner-Unit/2-Bedroom/1.5-Baths/Real-Wood-Floors/Washer-and-Dryer, Air/Conditioning. 562-760-5875. Exp 2/28
FREE ITEM
Queen-Size Futon (blue denim). YOU MUST PICK UP. (310) 890-2368.