GRF will replace slanted retaining wall and add mounted fans to fitness room
by Ruth Osborn
rutho@lwsb.com
In its second-to-last meeting before the close of the 2022-23 term, the GRF Board met April 25 for a relatively short and conflict-free session.
With only a handful of residents in attendance and no member comments, GRF Board President Marsha Gerber said “it must be that we’re doing a good job.” She noted that residents’ opinions matter to the board, pointing to the removal of two controversial agenda items related to higher fees for excessive club meeting set-ups. The topics were tabled for future consideration.
But there was still a full agenda of business to conduct—authorizing pest control contracts, approving fans in Clubhouse 6 and accepting a donation, among other items.
Highlights include:
Perimeter Wall Funding
Upon the recommendation of the Physical Property Committee, the board authorized more than $200,000 to share in the cost of replacing a perimeter wall with Frontier.
The dilapidated retaining wall now encompasses the Frontier facility, abutting First Christian Church and the road leading to the North Gate. Most of the cinderblock wall is shrouded in ivy but in some places deterioration is clearly visible.
Frontier will equally share the project cost of $449,535. GRF’s estimated portion is $201,530 with a $10,000 contingency fee.
Frontier will pay $224,767.50; and First Christian Church, $23,237.50.
“I don’t think we are financially ready to do this unless (Senior Facilities Director) Mark (Weaver) says it’s really important,” said Gerber. GRF Director Lee Melody from Mutual 14 agreed, inquiring whether the wall could simply be repaired, rather than demolished and replaced.
Weaver pointed to engineering reports that showed the wall is leaning outward by nearly three degrees, has substantial water damage, intruding tree roots, cracks, no rebar in places and subpar water drainage. Immediate action was recommended.
“The engineer told us that the wall is failing,” said GRF Director Carole Damoci of Mutual 12. “I think we have to replace it. It’s a wall between neighbors.” She added that if the wall were to come down on the cars frequently parked against it, GRF could be exposed to substantial liability.
GRF Director Camille Thompson of Mutual 8 said that the excessively wet winter may have accelerated the rate of deterioration, noting “we are stuck between a rock and a hard place, and it hurts.”
The financial pain is exacerbated because the project was not planned for and therefore, unbudgeted. Typically, the GRF schedules bigger projects like this after making them part of a reserve study.
Weaver said if it was his wall, he’d replace it, a judgment that met with board agreement.
“This is a safety issue,” which makes it mandatory, Gerber said. “But we always have to keep in mind that we don’t have a huge pot of money.”
The board majority agreed, with two no votes, Sandy Geffner of Mutual 3 and Lee Melody of Mutual 14.
Wall Mounted Fans in Fitness Room
Upon the recommendation of the Physical Property Committee, the board approved the installation of wall-mounted fans in the Fitness Center dance room in Clubhouse 6. Kress Construction was awarded the contract for a total not to exceed $4,897.20.
The dance room accommodates several groups, who sizzled last summer when temperatures rose. There is air conditioning in the center that regulates ambient temperatures, but the dance room heats up because there is little air flow.
In March, a temporary wall mount fan was set up to test the possibility of moving air in the room. It was successful in cooling exercisers, so the Recreation Department moved forward with a recommendation to install two more wall mount fans for a total of three fans.
Friends of Library Donation
The GRF Board voted unanimously to accept a donation of $7,500 to Leisure World Library from The Friends of the Library. Across the patio from the LW Library is the Friends of the LW Library Bookstore staffed by volunteers who promote the library by raising funds through the sale of used items such as books, movies, and boutique items donated by members of the LW community. These funds help the LW Library purchase new items for its collection. Bookstore hours are Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. and Saturdays from 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Holiday Decorations
The board voted to award a contract to Magical Holiday Designs at a cost not to exceed $30,995 for holiday decorations for the 2023 season.
The contract includes the purchase, storage, installation and striking of decorations throughout Trust property.
There will be two decorated and lighted Christmas trees, one at Veterans Plaza and the other near the Health Care Center; roofline lights on GRF buildings and at the Main Gate, wreaths and lighted holiday signs, among other embellishments.
The board discussed the possibility of the GRF buying, installing and storing decorations rather than contracting the project out. But the consensus was that six weeks of festive enjoyment was worth the cost.
Celebrate Cinco de Mayo tomorrow
Recreation’s Cinco de Mayo event is this Friday, May 5. Enjoy Koffel’s Mexican food truck, its famous virgin margaritas and a variety of Mexican and American food. This year will feature Mariachi Zapopan, one of the most popular singing groups of the genre in Southern California. The dancing and fun start at 5 p.m. in the Clubhouse 6 parking lot, as well as inside. The first floor of the clubhouse will be closed to normal activities, including table tennis.
This is one of the most popular events of the year, and the space is always filled to capacity, so residents only for this free festival.
Parking is extremely limited. A free shuttle from the Clubhouse 4 parking lot will run continuously from 4:30 p.m.
Honoring Mom
Mother’s Day lets the most important woman in most people’s lives know how greatly appreciated she is. Mothers are trusted confidants, best friends and ongoing support systems. The LW Weekly will celebrate mother love in a special edition featuring memories of, and tributes to, those mothers and maternal figures who cultivate potential to the fullest in their children. LW residents and their families are invited to submit brief tributes (one to two paragraphs) to emmad@lwsb.com. High resolution jpgs are welcome. Submissions are subject to editing and will run as space allows. Deadline is May 4 for the May 11 edition.
Security announces 30-day delay for parking enforcement
In an effort to build community goodwill toward the new parking enforcement program, the Security Department has been directed by GRF to delay full implementation of the parking enforcement program. The department will impose a 30 day “community warning period” before parking citations with fines are issued.
Full implementation of the parking enforcement program will be in force on June 1, according to Security Director Victor Rocha.
Page 2-3 General News
Some residents required to update payment information
Editor’s Note: As of May 1, the GRF will start transitioning to CINC Systems, a comprehensive community management software that can be accessed from anywhere, has a work order component so Service Maintenance staff can use cell phones for processing; and accommodates electronic invoice processing, approval workflows and vendor management. This software will yield significant efficiencies in staff time in all GRF departments. As part of the rollout, a new payment system for residents will be implemented. The following information was sent to all LW households:
Effective May 1, 2023, the Golden Rain Foundation will be transitioning to a new partnership with CINC Systems. This new partnership will feature a web-based account management tool and a new address to remit your payments.
To access your community’s resident portal, visit https://lwsb.cincwebaxis.com. On your first visit to the website, you will need to create an account:
• Simply click on the “Sign In” button.
• Select “Create an Account” and complete the information required.
• Once your registration request is reviewed and validated, you will receive an email with a link to set your password.
• You can then log in with your email address and new password to make payments and access information about your community.
Payments:
New account numbers have been generated for all the members.
Your new account number is ACCOUNT NUMBER and is also located at the top of the first page of the letter.
Please be sure to update your payment methods so that they reflect your new account number and reference this account number on all future payments. Your account number must be listed on the check.
Current member balances will be forwarded and carried over to the new software in the next 30 days.
The Golden Rain Foundation offers the following options to make paying your assessment easier which includes:
By Mail: Check made payable to
SEAL BEACH MUTUAL XX
c/o Golden Rain Foundation
PO Box 610310
San Jose, CA 95161
Direct Debit
If you want to sign-up for the automatic bank draft of your assessments, complete the form included in the letter and return to the cashier located in the first floor reception area of the Administration Building located at 13531 St. Andrews Dr., Bldg. A.
If you currently have direct debit set up, no action is required.
Bank’s Bill Pay Service:
Using your Bank’s Bill Pay service will generate a check and remit that payment to the lockbox on your behalf. Be sure to denote your account number in the setup as this will be necessary to ensure the payment is properly applied to your association account.
If you currently have bill pay set up through your bank, it is important that you delete your current setup and re-enter a new payor record using the new remittance address found in the letter along with your new account number.
Online Payments:
You will be able to make online one-time or recurring payments using either e-check or debit/credit card after May 1, 2023. Once you have registered on the association’s website, click on PAY ASSESSMENTS. This website has been specifically designed to allow you the convenience of making your payments online and accessing your account information. A convenience fee may be charged for this service.
Registration Assistance Sessions:
If you need assistance with registering for the community’s resident portal, the Golden Rain Foundation will be providing in-person step-by-step training on the following days:
• May 15 — Session 1 from 10 a.m.-noon
• May 15 — Session 2 from 2-4 p.m.
• May 16 — Session 3 from 2-4 p.m.
• May 17 — Session 4 from 10 a.m.-noon
• May 17 — Session 5 from 2-4 p.m.
The training sessions will be held in the Learning Center located at the LW Library. To reserve your spot in one of the training sessions, contact the Recreation Department at 561-431-6586 and press option 9 or online at https://calendly.com/lwsb/cinc.
Feel free to contact the GRF at 562-431-6586 or info@lwsb.com, should you have any questions or concerns regarding your community account or your community.
Mother’s day brunch May 13
The GRF Recreation Department will host a special brunch to honor Leisure World mothers on Saturday, May 13, in Clubhouse 4 at 11 a.m.
The event will be catered by Country Gardens Caterers. This event is always a huge success, and the Recreation Department expects to sell out this year.
An elegant repast includes an egg and sausage strata, strawberry crepes, fresh fruit and pastry platters, sparkling cider and more.
Moms and guests will be serenaded by classical harpist Peggy Skomal. Mothers may want to treat daughters too, and both are welcome to attend the event taking place the day before Mother’s Day.
Reservations are on sale for $34 and are available at the Recreation Office in Building 5. Those wishing to buy a table of eight ($250) or sit with a group should inform the Events Coordinator when purchasing.
All seating will be assigned by GRF if no request is made. Inquiries may be directed to Recreation at mayokab@lwsb.com or by calling 562-431-6586, ext. 476. Those buying individual tickets may pay online on lwsb.com.
—Recreation Department
Passport Photos
The Copy and Supply Center is in Building 5 next to the Security Decal Office. The center handles mail distribution for GRF offices. Copy, notary and passport photo services are available for a fee.
Passport photos are taken from 9-11 a.m., Monday-Friday and cost $12. Notary service is by appointment only.
The center also has small flags, emergency kits, batteries and other items from the Purchasing Department for sale. Light bulbs can be recycled at the center, which is open from 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
The center closes for lunch from noon to 12:30.
Fax Service
The LW Library offers fax service for $1 per page to send a fax domestically, $3 per page to send a fax internationally and 50 cents per page to receive a fax.
To receive a fax via the library, residents should ask the sender to include his or her name and phone number on the fax and provide the sender with the library’s fax number, 562-431-4143.
The library is open Monday-Saturday from 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. For more information, call the library at 562-598-2431.
Arts and Leisure 16-19
CD Music for Seniors
The new CD Music for Seniors Club had its first meeting last week. Fun, music and snacks were on the agenda. The club will meet next on June 15. CD’s are free, plus CD players are available to those that do not have them. Those who enjoy music and fun people are welcome to join.
Photo Arts Club
The Photo Arts Club will meet Thursday, May 11 at 1:30 p.m. in Clubhouse 3, Room 9.
The assignment is to submit photos taken on the field trip to the Rancho Los Alamitos on April 13 by submitting them to Ben Benjamins at benbenjamins@hotmail.com to be shown at the meeting.
A Facebook page has been created for all LW residents interested in photography. On Facebook, look for “Photographic Arts Club of Leisure World.” This is a private page to avoid outside ads or comments. To join, hit the “Join” button, and LW residents will be approved. Feel free to post favorite photos. In the “comments” section, people can ask questions about cameras, iPhones or photography in general. A quick response will be provided.
For the meeting, also bring photos to be displayed and to be commented on at the meeting.
Hooks and labels will be available for members to use to hang framed photos in the hall of Clubhouse 3.
Individuals with technical or other questions will be paired with someone who can help them for individual discussion after the meeting. Everyone is welcome.
For information about the club, call Regine Schumacher at 562-430-7978.
Video Producers Club
On his latest road trip, Video Club Producer Owen Hughes travels to Oregon. See it all as nature abounds, from lakes, waterfalls and wine country. View his video segment this Thursday at 7 p.m. on Facebook by searching “Leisure World Video Producer’s Club.”
LB Symphonic Rock on May 20
People can “rock and roll all night” to some of the best classic rock of the ‘70s and ‘80s on May 20 during Symphonic Rock. A seven-member band and the power of the Long Beach Symphony will bring the house down for a full party evening at the Long Beach Arena (300 E. Ocean Ave.) at 8 p.m.
Conductor Susie Seiter is best known for The Legend of Zelda: Symphony of the Goddesses, Pokémon: Symphonic Evolutions, and conducting film concerts like Frozen Live, Pixar in Concert and Mary Poppins Live.
In legendary Pops series style, picnicking and side-stage dance floors will get everyone up on their feet.
The music of Journey, Led Zeppelin, U2, Starship, Pat Benatar, Scorpions and Lynyrd Skynyrd are just a few of the evening’s top chart favorites.
Doors will open at 6:30 for indoor picnicking. People cna bring their own food and libations, or pre-order online. Bring dancing shoes and your best rockstar look.
For tickets, visit LongBeachSymphony.org or call 562-436-3203, ext. 1.
Grab N’ Go Menu May 8-11
Lucille’s Smokehouse BBQ
Lucille’s BBQ will visit Leisure World each second Monday starting May 8, from 3-6 p.m. No preorders are accepted: onsite orders only, and cahs and cards are accepted.
Look up “Lucille’s Food Truck Event Menu” for a full list of offerings.
Taco Tuesday
Each Tuesday, enjoy Mexican favorites plus hot dogs, burgers and fries from 5-7 p.m. No preorders allowed; cash and cards are accepted.
Domino’s Pizza
Order Domino’s pizza each Thursday. Call ahead at 562-493-2212 for special orders like wings and salads. Order in-person from 3:30-7 p.m. in the Clubhouse 6 parking lot. cash and cards are accepted.
This schedule is subject to change. Check LW Live for updates; sign up at www.lwsb.com/lw-live-sign-up/.
Those with questions or feedback can call 562-431-6586, ext. 398
On-call bus service is available from 4:30 p.m. on; regular service before 4:30 p.m; weekends on-call any time. Call 562-431-6586, ext. 379.
Scrabble Club
The Leisure World Scrabble Club met on all four Wednesday’s in April. There were 61 scores above 300, eight of which were higher than 400. There were 31 bingos (the use of all seven tiles in one move).
LW Art League
There were two raffle winners at the LW Art League meeting on April 11: Carol Costello (l) and Vicky Mayhew (r). They won jewelry pieces created by guest demonstration artist Lisettle Thierry (center). The Art League will meet on May 9.
The LW Art League will meet on Tuesday, May 9, in Clubhouse 4 at 7 p.m.
The club will be honored with a visit by the successful Long Beach-based artist Juan Gomez. Gomez’s parents migrated to the United States from the state of Zacatecas, Mexico, where they were farmers, when Gomez was young. His parents encouraged him to work hard, get an education and pursue his love of art. He received his bacehlor’s degree of fine arts in drawing and painting from California State University, Fullerton.
He has established work in galleries, museums and alternative spaces throughout Southern California, such as the Torrance Art Museum, LA Artcore Brewery Annex, Los Angeles Municipal Gallery, CSUF Pollock Library and the Coastline Community College Art Gallery. He works in mixed media and painting.
His work is an exploration of his roots and the social disruption that affects many today. The purpose of his current work is to expose the disconnect brought up by present societal divisions, which prompted the idea of finding strength in one’s own roots to face adversity with fortitude and conviction.
Gomez continues his practices at his studio space at the Artists Co-op in Long Beach and makes a profound effort to support his artisitic peers. His current goals are to continue refining his craft and to participate in exhibitions.
The Art League’s popular vote subject this month is “flowers.” Those submitting work for judging should have them in 6:30 p.m.
Genealogy Club
The Genealogy Club Workshop, which meets in the east end of Clubhouse 3, welcomes visitors and new members.
The club provides computers with Ancestry.com, newspapers and military subscriptions for member use. It also has a large selection of research books and periodicals.
The Genealogy room is open Monday through Thursday from 1-4 p.m. and weekends from 11 a.m-2 p.m. Each Thursday afternoon at 1:30, the club has a short class on a variety of subjects.
The schedule is as follows:
May 4: Ancestry.com
May 11: The Brazilian Connection
May 18: Land Records
May 25: DAR (Daughters of the American Revolution)
Community Karaoke
Erika Greenwood loves country music and often selects a popular tune at the Wednesday night karaoke party.
Newcomer Rodney Schaerer had fun singing “House of the Rising Sun.” Rose Mary Trujillo and Helen Schultz sing the joyful gospel numbers. Ed Jablonski did a powerful “Greatest Love of All.”
Vilma Lina Tagaloa sang “I Have a Dream.” “Have You Ever Seen the Rain” was sung with energy by Sherie Vanek. “That’s Amore” is a catchy song for Nina Todorov. Carmen Edwards sang “Queso Queso Queso” in perfect Spanish. Thirty-plus Leisure World karaoke singers performed for a full house socializing between the songs.
Next week the club will still be celebrating Cinco de Mayo. People can practice a new tune or perfect a familiar one each Monday in Clubhouse 6 from 1-3 p.m. Karaoke parties are in Clubhouse 1 on Wednesday evenings beginning at 5:30. Everyone is welcome to sing or just enjoy the variety of music.
Garden Club luncheon tickets on sale
Tickets for the Garden Club’s June Blooms Luncheon are now available for $20 each. The luncheon will be held on June 19 at 11:30 a.m. in Clubhouse 2. Catered by Country Garden, attendees will have a choice of a club wrap or veggie hummus wrap, offered alongside old-fashioned potato salad and cucumber, tomato and dill salad plus an array of baked goods including cupcakes, cookies and brownies for dessert.
There will be an opportunity drawing for a wide variety of amazing gift baskets. Everyone is encouraged to wear their favorite gardening hat and join in a festive parade.
Club membership is not required to attend. To purchase tickets call Nancy Goldstein at 562-896-8604 or attend the next Garden Club meeting on May 15 at 1:30 p.m. in Clubhouse 2, where tickets will be on sale in the lobby.
Drone Club
On a recent outing Drone Club members, Bruce Reynolds (l-r) and Larry Blitstein, take flight at the End Cafe Park in Seal Beach. The club flies for recreational and photographic purposes, and new members are welcome. For more information, contact Joseph Valentinetti at 0501042@gmail.com.
Symphony will host Mother’s Day event
The Seal Beach Symphony will hold its inaugural Mother’s Day recital on Sunday, May 14, at the Old Ranch Country Club.
From Australia, Pianist Van-Anh Ngyuen will thrill the audience with selections from Chopin and Debussy. Coloratura Soprano Hila Plitman will wow the audience with the fireworks of Mozart’s Queen of the night. Concert Master Myroslava Khomik will impress with Vivaldi and Massenet. Artist in residence Sangeeta Teresa Mai and Artistic Director Chad Berlinghieri will present a few classics, including the Italian favorite Mamma!
The afternoon will feature a cash bar and passed appetizers.
Individual tickets range from $25-$125. VIP tables and tax-deductible sponsorship opportunities are available. For more information, visit sealbeachsymphony.org or call 562-509-8640.
RV Club Annual Picnic
The next RV Club general meeting will be Tuesday, May 16, at 5 p.m. in the Clubhouse 1 picnic area.
The group will have a barbecue dinner for the club’s annual May barbecue and potluck picnic. The club will provide tri-tip and chicken entrees and beverages.
Members may bring a side dish such as a salad, potato dish or dessert. Happy hour starts at 4 p.m. Members who want chicken for their entree must RSVP.
Volunteers are needed. To volunteer, come by the picnic area at 4 p.m. This is the RV Club’s last meeting until September. RSVP to lwrvclubsb@gmail.com or text Bob Konier at 562-314-8468.
Coin Club
The Coin Club will meet on May 10 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. LW residents can have coins evaluated at no cost.
Leisure Time Dancers
This week the “cuddle in/out” was introduced in East Coast Swing. Two new members joined the class. The tango class reviewed the “la puerta” and “open box,” focusing on differentiating between the two similar movements.
All levels of dancers are welcomed, and folks can join the class at any point in the series. Each class begins with a review of the previous week’s material before moving on to new concepts.
Classes are every Monday in the dance studio, upstairs in Clubhouse 6. East Coast Swing is at 2 p.m., followed by tango at 3 p.m. No partner is necessary; class will rotate so everyone dances. The cost is $7 per person for one class, $11 per person for two classes in a single day.
For more information, contact club President Jackie Theis at 310-743-9373.
Tickets available for Quilting Bee luncheon
The Leisure World Quilt Bee Annual Spring Luncheon Fundraiser is May 17 in Clubhouse 2 at 11:30 a.m. Tickets are $20.
This is a popular event with wonderful door prizes.
There is limited seating so those interested should contact Lisa at 949-584-2884 as soon as possible to purchase tickets.
Friends of the Library
by Pat Kruger
Friends of the Library
This is one of those announcements that we hate to make. Recent events tell us that the Friends of the Library are apparently not immune to reports of shoplifting. The Friends Bookstore and Boutique places trust in anyone who comes shopping here and it hopes to maintain that kind of relationship with customers. But now volunteers must be more vigilant to protect the already low-priced items from opportunists who take advantage. This isn’t the world we expect here in LW. We can ask that those who seek to exploit our trust not to come to the store but that would be naive. So,we will be watching our stock more closely and ask that people report to us any suspicious things you might notice. At another period of time, limits were placed on the numbers of customers allowed at one time, and we hope not to have to do that again. Let’s all try to work together to keep our reputation of trust and good will and enjoy the Bookstore as the fun adventure it’s meant to be.
Author will speak at library
The Leisure World Library will hold its first AuthorSpeak event of 2023 at 11 a.m. on Friday, May 5, next to the Library at Veterans Plaza.
Edgar Award-winning author Naomi Hirahara will discuss her New York Times Best Mystery Book of 2021, “Clark and Division,” and its upcoming sequel, “Evergreen,” part two of the Japantown Mystery series.
Set in 1944 Chicago, “Clark and Division” is an eye-opening and poignant new mystery— the story of a young woman searching for the truth about her revered older sister’s death—that brings to focus the struggles of one Japanese-American family released from mass incarceration at Manzanar during World War II.
The presentation begins promptly at 11 a.m. Arrive as early as 10:30 a.m. to enjoy refreshments provided by the library.
Weekend night dances in May; next up: big band swing
The Velvetones Ballroom Dance Orchestra is Leisure World’s own professional big band, playing big band swing and jazz standards. They will perform Sunday, May 7 from 6-9 p.m. in Clubhouse 4 and again on May 21.
Vinyl Rock wil perform on Saturday, May 25, at 7 p.m. in Clubhouse 4. The Orange County-based band consists of nine members who passionately perform classic rock, Motown, and pop tunes primarily from the ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s. Vinyl Rock is sponsored by Cabaret Entertainers. The doors open at 6:30.
On Saturday, April 22, Abilene returns to Clubhouse 2 at 7 p.m. Abilene is Leisure World’s No. 1 country rock band going strong for 20 years. Doors open at 6:30 and the music goes until 9.
Rules and guidelines for shows:
• No table saving. You may bring your own snacks.
• Attendees must be out of the clubhouse no later than 10 p.m.
• No announcements are permitted from the stage, except by the bands.
• Clubhouse lighting and audio-visual equipment can only be adjusted by the custodian according to the instructions they have been given.
• Be sure to sign in, either as a resident or guest, in the proper spot. This is the only way GRF can judge bands’ popularity.
—Recreation Department
Legends of Rock show on May 10
Based on the great success of its April dance, the Pickleball Club is sponsoring a free Wednesday “Hump Day” dance party on Wednesday, May 10, from 5-8:30 p.m. in Clubhouse 2. The party will feature the Legends of Rock (LoR) Dance Band that plays throughout Orange County. Leisure World resident Jon Pearlstone is a member of the band.
The LoR Dance Band plays music that makes people want to dance and party, featuring the best in classic rock dance tunes from artists like The Beatles, Rolling Stones, Elvis, Springsteen, Petty and many more.
This will be a regular concert on the second Wednesday of every month.
All concerts are free, and BYO-everything with donations accepted.
For more information contact Legendsrocktribute@gmail.com.
NOCE Registration
The summer 2023 Leisure World North Orange County Continuing Education (NOCE) semester begins on June 5 and ends on Aug. 5. Class registration opened on May 2.
New and returning students will be able to register for the spring semester online at myGateway by visiting mg.nocccd.edu on any internet browser.
Those who experience issues logging into myGateway or applying to become a student should call NOCE Star Help at 714-808-4679 or visit the library, where GRF staff will do their best to troubleshoot your issues.
More information regarding classes and registration is available at the library.
Recreation offers trips to LA Opera, Stars on Ice and more
Excursion tickets are now on sale for the first trips of the season. Residents can purchase tickets online and at the Recreation office in Building 5. All prices include transportation and gratuity. Sales have been brisk.
‘Otello’ at the LA Opera
This year, Recreation was lucky to secure enough tickets for two evening performances of “Otello” by the LA Opera. Hailed as the pinnacle of the Italian operatic repertoire, Verdi’s transformation of the original Shakespeare play is a powerful drama of uncontrolled human emotion at its most extreme.
The operatic performances are on May 17 and June 1. Tickets have nearly sold out. Each year LA Opera offers a limited number of tickets at a greatly reduced price.
Tickets, including transportation, are $34. If they are still available by this printing, contact the Recreation Office to purchase.
Stars on Ice
On May 20, the 2023 Stars on Ice Tour will visit the Honda Center. The tour boasts an international cast of Olympic, world and national champion skaters sure to entertain all ages. Tickets are $45, all inclusive.
Angels vs. Mariners game
On June 9, the Angels will take on the Mariners and one busload of LWers will be there to see the action. Tickets are now available at the Recreation Office or on www.lwsb.com for $65.
More details about these events and other upcoming events will be available in the News and through LW Live. To sign up for LW Live, visit www.lwsb.com. Click on the text that says, “Click to sign up for community alerts,” and then input your name and email address.
For more information about excursions, contact mayokab@lwsb.com.
May 5 2023 Pages 4-5, 8-10, 14-15, 27
Perspectives
Letters to the Editor
Editor:
A little-known fact about Leisure World is that it has a very complete genealogical library with books and computers with a subscription to Ancestry.com. Nothing is more exciting than pulling up the 1950 census and seeing myself as a 7-year-old child living on my street with all my neighbors and playmates. The library is open Monday-Thursday from 1-4 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. with very helpful assistants to get you started on putting together a family tree.
For example, a census can provide a family’s location and its neighbors, plus relatives’ occupations, ages and levels of education. If you are really lucky, you’ll find a great great grandmother living close by. Since starting this addicting hobby, I found out that the great grandparents of my best friend in college lived next door to my great grandparents and are buried side by side in a small cemetery in Arkansas. I’ll bet that some of us have distant cousins we are not aware of living in Leisure World. It’s fun to recall memories of visiting a grandmother and a treasure for grandchildren.
Sandy Hines
Mutual 2
Editor:
In my prior letter (April 13), I was proposing a restaurant in an existing structure. For example, Clubhouse 3, Room 9, could be the area where food is ordered and picked up. As additional space for cooking, food storage and supplies might be needed, one or two rooms next to 9 could be added or 9 could be extended on the south side. Dining would be in Room 9. Alternatively, dining could be in the lobby. Doing so would cause a cessation of any reoccurring activities there, which is why I had a caveat in my prior letter: no disturbance in the continuance of any club or GRF event schedule.
GRF could hire a chef or two to operate the restaurant, instead of bringing in an outside chain, and therefore avoid that type of contract obligation.
W. H. Smith
Mutual 15
GRF Bylaws Ballot
The proposed bylaws amendment ballot has apparently caused some apprehension among detail-oriented readers who are uneasy about the amendment’s use of the word “proxy” in defining procedures through which a quorum is determined.
Here’s the updated language of the main provision, Section 9, that the GRF Board has asked members to change:
“The presence in person or by proxy or ballot of 33.33% of the members of record in good standing at any meeting shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business at said meeting…”
First, it may help to know what is meant by the term. A proxy is a format, or an agent legally authorized to act on behalf of another party, which allows a shareholder to vote without being physically present at a meeting. In essence, when a member mails a ballot to the GRF elections inspector, the member submits a proxy vote, which allows his or her decision to be recorded even if he or she cannot attend a meeting in person.
In fact, California’s Davis-Stirling Act actually mandates proxy voting in some instances. In section 5105(2), the law requires HOAs to provide “a ballot to a person with general power of attorney for a member.”
And while the word “proxy” is a new addition in the proposed Section 9 of the GRF bylaws, proxies are discussed in sections 10 and 11 of the bylaws. Those sections permit a majority of members to submit written instructions to alter GRF policy without a meeting of the board of directors. Proxy voting is well established in corporations and well regulated by California law.
In HOAs, it is a rarely used, but legally required method to allow the fullest participation by a community’s residents.
Safety Column-Emergency Notifications
by Eloy Gomez
GRF safety manager
Being prepared for disasters can reduce the fear, anxiety and losses that accompany disasters. Communities, families and individuals should know what to do in the event of an earthquake and where to seek shelter during a fire.
They should be ready to evacuate their homes and take refuge in public shelters and know how to care for their basic medical needs. You can reduce the impact of disasters by securing items that might shake loose in an earthquake, and taking other pre-emergency precautions such as signing up to receive emergency alert notifications.
Below are three emergency alert notifications systems, residents are encouraged to register with all three systems to receive up to date emergency notifications.
Nixle
Nixle is a local text messaging alert notification system. It is a nationwide program but is typically operated by local jurisdiction’s police departments such as is the case in the City of Seal Beach.
Nixle subscribers will receive alerts for severe weather, criminal activities, severe traffic or traffic accidents requiring street closures, DUI check points, missing persons, and local events.
To sign up to receive alerts from you local agencies simply text your zip code to 888777.
Stay Informed with AlertOC
AlertOC is a mass notification system designed to keep Orange County residents and businesses informed of emergencies. By registering with AlertOC, time-sensitive voice messages from the City of Seal Beach may be sent to your home, mobile, or business phone. Text messages may also be sent to mobile phones, e-mail accounts, and hearing impaired receiving devices.
Public mass notification systems have become a critical component of emergency preparation and response. Public Safety officials utilize the system to rapidly send out messages when there is a perceived, emerging, or imminent situation that may require community action, such as evacuation.
Based on the severity of the event, AlertOC may be used to contact residents by one or all of the following methods:
Home phone
Work phone
Mobile phone
Text (SMS) message
Residents are encouraged to sign up for this important notification service. From your search bar type the words: AlertOC – Sign Up or type the following link in your search engine https://member.everbridge.net/453003085613900/login
LW Live
Leisure World Live is an e-mail messaging system designed to keep LW residents and their families informed on street closures, major construction activities, emergencies, community events, and Optum medical related information.
To sign up to receive LW Live alerts from the old Leisure World webpage click on the blue square located at the right side “stay informed subscribe to LW Live” , from the new Leisure World webpage scroll down and click on the LW Live with a bell as a logo.
For more information regarding emergency preparedness or this article you may contact Eloy Gomez, Health and Safety Specialist at 562/431-6586 ext. 356.
Government
By Ripa Barua
election specialist
The 2023 annual meeting season begins May 16. The fever-pitch of activity will continue for the next six weeks as all 16 mutuals host their annual meetings.
The annual meeting and election season begins in January and concludes at the end of June. There are often many questions about this time of the year and why these activities are important. Here are the most common questions and their answers.
What is an annual meeting and how is it different from a regular board meeting?
The Mutual corporations and the GRF are required to have annual meetings in order to report to the membership their activities during the past year. Directors read reports concerning finances, infrastructure, accomplishments and goals for the future. An annual meeting is similar to a state of the union speech as directors are limited to presenting reports whereas business is conducted at board meetings.
Who can attend annual meetings?
Shareholders/owners are encouraged to attend their mutual annual meeting (see schedule at right).
Are the elections and annual meetings held on the same day?
The ballot counting for your mutuals election will be conducted at the annual meeting.
How often are elections conducted?
Most mutual boards of directors are elected annually.
How many ballots will I receive?
Everyone will receive two ballots due to the GRF bylaw amendments.
Should I separate the voting-portion of the ballot before mailing it in the envelope provided?
No, return the full legal-sized ballot in the envelopes provided.
Has my ballot been mailed?
Check the election schedule (upper right) to see when the mutual ballots were mailed.
There are three people who live in my unit; do we each receive a ballot?
One ballot is mailed to each unit on file. The unit represents one share of stock/voting power. Per Mutual bylaws, if there are multiple owners of one membership (unit) in the corporation, despite the multiplicity of owners, they shall jointly have only one vote.
Can I use a proxy or designate someone to vote on my behalf?
Depending on your Mutuals election policy, proxies may be used in Mutual elections. To ensure the ballots integrity, ballot envelopes must be signed by the shareholder member connected to that household.
Are write-in candidates permitted?
There is a space on most Mutual ballots for write-in candidates. However, for the vote to be properly cast for the write-in candidate, that candidate must be nominated at the annual meeting (called “nominated from the floor”) and must be present to accept the nomination.
My mail is forwarded to a post office box or an address outside the community. Will my ballot be forwarded to me?
No. As the voting rights are tied to the unit, ballots are all mailed to the units. However, a replacement ballot can be mailed to you at the address of your choice. Call Accurate Voting Services toll free at 949-556-3936 to request a replacement ballot.
The candidates on my ballot are running unopposed; why should I vote?
Your participation in the election process is critical for the operation of this community. Every vote counts! Additionally, the return of your properly cast ballot ensures that your Mutual will obtain the necessary number of votes to produce the annual meeting and counting of ballots.
I do not know the candidates running for my Mutuals board of directors; why should I vote?
Read the candidate Statement of Qualifications (often referred to as a resume or biography) included with the ballot for information. Ask candidates questions on topics that are important to you. Attend meet-the-candidates events. Ask your friends and neighbors their opinion.
If you decide you still do not want to cast your votes for any of the mutual candidates, you are still strongly encouraged to vote by checking the box labeled abstain from voting-ballot counted for quorum only portion of the ballot. This lets you participate in the election process by returning a properly cast ballot.
I have heard a quorum is necessary before the ballots can be counted. What is a quorum?
A quorum is the minimum number of members that must be present to make mutual annual meeting proceedings valid. In the case of elections, your participation in the voting process, i.e. your properly cast ballot, counts as your attendance. A quorum of at least one-third for some Mutuals and half plus one for some of the Mutual corporation membership is required before the mutual ballots can be counted.
I lost my ballot or cannot remember if I mailed my ballot. What do I do?
Call Accurate Voting Services toll free at 949-556-3936 to have a replacement ballot mailed to you or to confirm if your ballot was received.
Where do I mail the ballot?
The yellow-and-blue mailing envelopes are postage-paid and pre-addressed to the Inspector of Elections, Accurate Voting Services, Inc., P.O. Box 6117, Laguna Niguel, CA 92607-6117. Drop the ballot in a U.S. Mailbox as soon as possible. Your ballot must be received before noon on the business day BEFORE the annual meeting. You may also hand deliver your ballot to Clubhouse 4 on the day of the annual meeting. See instructions on your ballot for further information. Do not forget to sign the outside return envelope.
I still have questions about annual meetings and elections. Who can help me?
Contact Rosie Estrada, Stock Transfer manager, at 562-431-6586, ext. 346, or Ripa Barua, election specialist, at ripab@lwsb.com for assistance.
The election schedule is provided below to assist with dates for your specific Mutual and save the date to attend your annual shareholder meeting. Mutuals are listed in order of annual meeting.
GRF Meetings
Golden Rain Foundation committee and board meetings are open to Leisure World residents. The following is a tentative schedule.
Thurs., May 4 GRF Executive Session
Conf. Rm A 1 p.m.
Mon., May 8 Mutual Administration Committee
Conf. Rm A/virtual 1 p.m.
Wed., May 10 Security Bus & Traffic Committee
Conf. Rm A/virtual 1 p.m.
Fri., May 12 Architectural Design Review Committee
Conf. Rm A/virtual 1 p.m.
Wed., May 17 Strategic Planning Committee 1 p.m.
Conf. Rm A/virtual
Thurs., May 18 GRF Administration Committee 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. Attendees will be provided an opportunity to address the committee.
Mutual Meetings
Mutual residents are invited to attend the open meetings of their mutual boards. The following is a tentative schedule.
Thurs., May 4 Presidents’ Council
Clubhouse 4/Zoom 9 a.m.
Tue., May 9 Mutual 16
Admin/Zoom 1 p.m.
Wed., May 10 Mutual 4 (open forum 8:30-8:45 a.m.)
Admin/Virtual 8:45 a.m.
Thu., May 11 Mutual 12
Admin/Zoom 9 a.m.
Fri., May 12 Mutual 3
Admin/Zoom 9 a.m.
Mon., May 15 Mutual 15
Admin/Zoom 1 p.m.
Tues., May 16 Mutual 10 (annual)
Clubhouse 4/Zoom 10 a.m.
Wed., May 17 Mutual 5
Bldg. 5, Rm B/Zoom 9 a.m.
Thurs., May 18 Mutual 2
Admin/Zoom 9 a.m.
Thurs., May 18 Mutual 14 (annual)
Clubhouse 4/Zoom 10 a.m.
Fri., May 19 Mutual 7 (annual)
Clubhouse 4/Zoom 10 a.m.
Mutual 15 Candidates Forum
Mutual 15 shareholders are invited and encouraged to attend a candidates forum on Wednesday, May 10, from 2-4 p.m. in Clubhouse 4.
This is an opportunity to meet the candidates for the Mutual 15 Board of Directors and Golden Rain Foundation Board of Directors.
Candidates will give speeches about their experience and why they want to serve on the board of directors of either Mutual 15 or Golden Rain Foundation.
There will be time for shareholders to ask questions.
This forum is hosted by the Mutual 15 Hospitality Committee.
People who need transportation to the event can call 562-431-6586, ext. 379, in advance and ask for the on-call bus.
Mutual 3 Elections
There are two elections taking place this year. The first election is to elect a GRF Board of Directors representative from Mutual 3 and to vote on changes to the GRF bylaws. The proposed changes to the GRF bylaws include a change that would protect the right to choose a representative from one’s own Mutual only, as well as update language regarding gender.
The second election is to elect the Mutual 3 board of directors. All seven seats are up for re-election.
The GRF ballots will be mailed on May 5 and will be counted at 10 a.m., Tuesday, June 6, at the GRF ballot counting meeting held in Clubhouse 4.
The Mutual 3 ballots will be mailed on May 15 and will be counted at 10 a.m., Wednesday, June 14 at the Mutual 3 Annual Shareholders meeting held in Clubhouse 4.
Be sure to vote and return all ballots received, as a quorum must be reached to have a valid election. Again, due to two elections, two ballots will be separately mailed; they are not duplicates.
GRF Meeting Notice
Thursday, May 4
1 p.m.
Conference Room A
This GRF meeting is closed to Shareholders/Members per Civil Code §4935.
1. Call to Order
2. Roll Call
3. Approve Minutes
4. Legal
5. Contracts
6. Pending and/or
Litigation Updates
7. Member Code of
Conduct
8. Personnel
9. Adjournment
Agenda is subject to change.
Health and Fitness
Joyful Line Dance
Joyful Line Dance meets in Clubhouse 6 upstairs from 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. on Thursdays.
The club has several instructors who take turns leading classes.
Last week, Gladys and Albert Comia demonstrated the Chili Cha Cha among other dances. Classes are on a first-come, first-served basis. Limit is 35, and face masks are recommended. Exercise shoes are recommended; no membership required, no fees.
Donations are welcome. For more information, text (562) 301-5339.
Medicare Changes
by Sandra Teel
special to the LW Weekly
Now that the pandemic has been declared officially over, here are some changes you can expect:
• If you are on Medicaid (Medi-Cal in California), you will be receiving information from the State Medicaid (Medi-Cal) program so they can reassess your eligibility to continue to receive these state benefits. They may call you, or send you paperwork in the mail or an email. It is especially important that they have a current phone number and address.
LWers should be looking for this information. When you receive the information packet, it is important that you respond in a timely manner with your updated information. Some people will be automatically renewed, but don’t assume you were renewed unless you receive a letter saying so with a new Medicaid (Medi-Cal) card.
• You may even get a phone call or information from your current Medicare Insurance company reaching out to help you re-qualify for your Medicaid.
• If you or someone you know is denied renewal of your Medicaid (Medi-Cal), call a specialist or me at 657-204-4224 to discuss options.
Other Medicare changes include:
• You may need to pay for those at-home COVID test kits now. Some COVID tests ordered in a doctor’s office will be covered.
• COVID treatments like Paxlovid will still be covered for beneficiaries through their prescription drug plans. However, there may be a co-pay for the prescription.
• Free telehealth video chats with doctors or healthcare providers will still be in place until the end of 2024. Before the pandemic, telehealth usually came with a cost.
• A Medicare provision that allows hospitals to treat patients in their homes instead of on-site is extended until the end of 2024. This effort began in November 2020 to free up hospital beds.
• Beginning 2024, Medicare will expand the types of behavioral and mental health providers it covers: added to the list are intensive outpatient mental health services.
Pickleball Players Club
The Pickleball Players Club will sponsor a free beginner lesson on Tuesday, May 9, at 10:30 a.m. on the pickleball courts behind Clubhouse 2. The Pickleball Club will loan paddles and balls. Jim Thomason teaches the beginner session on the second Tuesday of each month.
The club will host the band Legends of Rock on Wednesday, May 10, at 5:30 p.m. in Clubhouse 2.
For more information, contact President Linda Evenson at 561-577-3283 or email lwsbpickleball@gmail.com.
Laughing for the Health of It
Laughing for the Health of It will meet at 1:30 p.m. on Wednesday, May 10, in the Health Care Center Conference Room. Everyone is invited for an hour session of “no worries” and fun with others by laughing for no reason. Masks are required.
Bev Bender, a certified laugh leader, helps people improve their lives through laughter.
Optum Fall Prevention Series
LW residents are invited to learn more about fall prevention and how to stay safely on their feet every first Wednesday of the month beginning May 3 from 11 a.m.-noon at the Optum HealthCare Center Large Conference Room.
Clinical kinesiologist Christel Mitrovich of Reneu Health will lead the workshop series and educate people on how to reduce pain and risk of injury, prevent falls, increase strength and improve balance.
For more information, email Christel Mitrovich at christel@reneu-health.com.
Meals on Wheels of Long Beach
Meals on Wheels of Long Beach, Inc., delivers freshly cooked meals for $9.75 per day Monday-Friday, between 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Deliveries include an 8-ounce carton of 1 percent milk. An alternate dessert is available for those on a diabetic diet. Contact Client Manager Caron Adler at 562-439-5000, ext. 1, or visit www.mowlb.org to complete an online application or cancel a meal for the following day, before 9 a.m. the prior business day.
Thursday, May 4
Spaghetti and meatballs with marinara sauce, whole grain roll, seasoned broccoli, fresh pear, turkey, ham and cheese sandwich with lettuce, tomato and pickle, and a homemade macaroni salad.
Friday, May 5
Steak picado, Spanish rice, black beans, tres leches cake, Caesar chicken salad with romaine lettuce, shredded cheese, croutons, Caesar dressing and crackers.
Monday, May 8
Beef goulash, whole grain dinner roll, zucchini medley, pudding, egg salad sandwich with spinach and tomato, and a homemade potato salad.
Tuesday, May 9
Turkey lentil stew, biscuit, peas and onions, chef’s special cake, Cobb salad with turkey, ham and egg, tomato, bacon, blue cheese dressing, and crackers.
Wednesday, May 10
Beef lasagna, whole grain dinner roll, broccoli and cauliflower, cubed watermelon, turkey and cheese sandwich with lettuce, tomato and pickle, and a creamy coleslaw.
Lunch Cafe—Meals on Wheels OC
Meals on Wheels Orange County, in partnership with the city of Seal Beach, hosts The Lunch Cafe at the North Seal Beach Center, 3333 St. Cloud Drive, Seal Beach, Monday-Friday from 11 a.m.-noon. It is open to anyone 60 or older. Suggested contribution is $3, but everyone is welcome. Guests under 60 can enjoy lunch for $5. Arrive 10 minutes before the start time. Meals are served on a first-come, first-served basis. Sugar free desserts and water packed fruits are used throughout the menu to accommodate diabetics. LW minibus service is available for a pick up at 10:25 a.m. at the Amphitheater bus stop on St. Andrews Drive, with a drop off at the Community Center. The minibus returns to the Amphitheater at 11:40 a.m.
Thursday, May 4
Moroccan lentil soup with sugar free crackers, crab and vegetable salad, summer rainbow quinoa salad, and ambrosia.
Friday, May 5
Carnitas tacos with pico de gallo, Spanish rice, black beans, tortillas, rice pudding, and a fresh fruit.
Monday, May 8
Cream of butternut squash with sugar free crackers, pecan chicken salad, barley and black bean salad, and a mandarin orange.
Tuesday, May 9
Pork tenderloin with pineapple raisin sauce, chow mein, chef’s vegetable blend, whole wheat dinner roll with Smart Balance, and pineapple chunks.
Wednesday, May 10
Sweet citrus glazed chicken breast, Jasmine rice, winter vegetable blend, whole wheat dinner roll with Smart Balance, and a sugar free cookie.
Dancing Feet Club
Dancing Feet Club members danced to their hearts’ content last Sunday in Clubhouse 2. They entertained the audience by performing “Despacito” and “Bosanova.” It was a night of sheer fun to everyone.
For every ballroom selection played, there was a corresponding line dance to complement it.
Now people can come to a social dance without a partner and yet dance to every song.
Line dancing has changed the social ambience. Everyone is having fun on the dance floor, since partners are not mandatory.
The club hosts two events in Clubhouse 2: a line dance lesson and practice every Monday from 7-9 p.m., and social (ballroom) dance every fourth Sunday of the month from 6-9:30 p.m.
Come dress to impress and may bring favorite snacks and drinks.
Alcoholic drinks are not allowed.
There is no fee to participate.
For more information, text Ed Bolos at 551-998-4223 or email edgbolos@gmail.com.
—Ed Bolos
OCTA Bike Month
The Orange County Transportation Authority encourages people of all ages, including those working from home, to stay active and get outdoors to safely travel by bicycle during the month of May-—National Bike Month.
OCTA is leading a month-long challenge called “Get in Gear 2023.” Participants are encouraged to pledge to ride as many days as they can during May, for better health and to discover the fun and convenience of active transportation.
Bike Month highlights include a bike rally from 7:30-9 a.m. on Thursday, May 18th from the Orange Metrolink Station to the OCTA Administrative Headquarters at 600 S. Main Street in Orange.
The bike rally, which was last held in 2019 prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, is an approximate 3-mile ride, followed by an event featuring speakers, a free t-shirt for each participant, snacks and raffle prizes. Those planning to participate are asked to RSVP at www.octa.net/bikemonth.
Fitness Fusion
The Fitness Fusion Club meets at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesdays upstairs in Clubhouse 6, and at 10:30 a.m. on Thursdays and Saturdays at Veterans Plaza.
Stretching is one of the club’s 18 types of exercises. There are many health benefits associated with exercise. “Healthful Living Summer 2022” reported that exercise helps protect against Type 2 diabetes by modifying metabalism, how the body’s cells change food into energy. Consistent physical activity also improves insulin secretion. The club also includes other exercises, which as weight lifting, squats, cardio, jogging, yoga and qigong, all done to music. People should bring their own weights to the meetings at Veterans Plaza.
In addition to health benefits, being involved in this club has a social element. The club has lots of interesting people, including member Jerome Kluever, who takes his exercise very seriously, not only in the Fitness Fusion class but also in the Zumba and table tennis clubs.
In fact, that is why Jerome moved to Leisure World as soon as he found out that they had a room full of ping pong tables. People have interesting back stories, like Jerome who was once a prison guard at the Richard J. Donovan Correctional Facility in San Diego. He also met his wife, Nicole, at an airport and thought she was the prettiest girl he ever saw.
Fitness Fusion has class size limitations on Tuesdays but not on Thursday and Saturdays at the Veterans Plaza.
CAP Food Distribution
Free food is available to eligible residents who are 60 years or older through Community Action Partnership of Orange County (CAPOC), which has a monthly distribution site by Clubhouse 4. The next food distribution will be May 25. Distributions are on the third Thursday of the month from 9-11 a.m. The pick-up process has changed. Rather than driving up to the food truck, people should park, check in and retrieve their box of food from the Art Room in Clubhouse 4. Qualified people receive 32 pounds of food, including cereal, juice, peanut butter, milk, canned vegetables, fruit, soup and cheese.
Eligible seniors must live in Leisure World, be at least 60 years of age and meet income guidelines as follows: up to $1,473 a month for one person; $1,984 for a two-person household; and $2,495 for a three-person household. To sign up, bring a photo ID and proof of income (Social Security/SSI statement, letter or bank statement or paycheck stub).
For more information, contact Roberta Arshat in GRF Member Resources at 562-431-6586, ext. 317, or robertaa@lwsb.com.
Wa-Rite Club
by Denise Stabile
LW contributor
Members lost a total of 13 pounds in the week ending April 21 at the Wa-Rite Club. The club also welcomed new member Carol Darnell.
The meeting’s Top Loser title went to Ruth Depuy who lost an amazing 4 pounds.That’s a lot of butterflies in the club’s April Showers Bring May Flowers Contest, which ends May 5. Winners will receive cash prizes in addition to bragging rights.
The meeting discussion focused on mental health and aging.
Club President Judy Chambers presented “Reframing How You Look at Failure.”
The information gave strategies on how to acknowledge setbacks and increase opportunities for success as people move on from them.
Wa-Rite is a non-judgmental, supportive environment providing information, accountability, shared experiences and whimsy as the club members work toward their shared goal: making the most of our golden years by being as healthy and fit as possible. Members range from those maintaining their “ideal” weight to those working toward that goal.
Women interested in better health, more energy and some light-hearted cameraderie are enthusiastically welcomed.
Wa-Rite meets every Friday in Clubhouse 3, Room 1. Weigh in is from 9:15-9:45 a.m.
The meeting runs from 10-11 a.m.
People are welcome to visit up to three times for free; after that, weekly dues are 10 cents and annual dues are $10.
Sports and Games
The Cribbage Club meets on Tuesdays from noon-4 p.m. in Clubhouse 1. Last week, 47 members celebrated Happy Cribbage Day with cake and ice cream provided by Sandra deDubovay, and served by Margaret Smith and Donna Gorman. Melinda Cowan added chocolates and mixed nuts. Thank you to those who provided refreshments for the day.
First place honors went to Susan Dodson whose total score was 841 points of a possible 847. She was followed by Franca Yeske, second, 834; Alma Zamzow, third, 831; and Bea Lissow, fourth, 829. Margaret Smith lost all seven of the games played.
New members are welcome to join Cribbage Club. For more information or to learn how to play, call Terry Thrift at 714-394-5885.
Pool Club
At the Monday Pool League on April 24, In the Money extended its league lead by beating the Rail Runners 9-4.
This gives In the Money 96 wins and 73 losses, amounting to an eight-game lead over PJJ with two weeks to go.
With 13-point matches each week, eight games isn’t an insurmountable lead. Ken Harpham led In the Money with six wins.
Right on Cue beat the Cue Crew 8-5 in a battle of the Cues. “C” player Frank Sablan of Right on Cue scored six wins, including both of his singles.
PJJ won over the Renegades 8-5 as Pat Paternoster and John Barth each won five games. John Barth leads all “C” players in singles wins with 20.
On Wednesday, Triple Threat won 10-3 over Bank It. Steve Edrich won all seven of his games for Triple Threat, and Connie Terry won six. Triple Threat won all six of its doubles matches and the final eight triples match.
The Favorites edged The Ruffians 7-6 and moved within three games of the league leading Ruffians, who have a record of 95 and 74.
Dave Silva won five for the Favorites and both of his singles matches.
Milly’s Boys beat U3 9-4. Roy Mittlestead of Milly’s Boys had his best night winning all seven of his games.
There are only two more weeks of play in the regular season before playoffs start.
—Dave Silva
Women’s Golf
Thirty-two women golfers participated in the April 25 weekly tournament. The winners were:
Flight A: Devora Kim, low gross 26; Janice Turner, low net, 24 with a chip in on Hole 9; and Jessica Choi had a chip in on No. 1.
Flight B: Nina De Rosa and Chong Hee Kim, low gross, 30; and Margie Thompson, Judy Kim and Young Yoon, low net, 25.
Flight C: Pam Krug, low gross, 33 with a chip in on No. 2; Kay Hong, low net, 24.
Flight D: Mary Devlin and Connie Kang, low gross, 36: Patti Smith, low net, 23.
For an application to join or more information, call 562-493-0484.
-—Liz Meripol
Yahtzee Club
The Yahtzee Club meets on the first, third and fifth Fridays in Clubhouse 3, Room 6 at 1 p.m., with the next meeting on May 5. There will be a social.
On April 21, Gail Levitt and Lyn Doyle won for most Yahtzees. High score went to Julie Milburn, and low score to Joyce Ingram. Pat Herman won the door prize. For more information, contact Diane Seeger at 562-535-997.
Shuffleboard Club
With warmer days and bright skies, people are ready to be out and about. From April 21-26, Shuffleboard Club members played 62 games at the LW courts. For each game, there are two people competing for the best score. That means the shuffleboard courts were in use approximately 75 hours during the six days. The 24 league games played every Friday morning and the 12 games played every Tuesday evening account for about 60% of the games. Monday and Wednesday open-play and the new Wednesday afternoon Spring Madness have contributed 40% of the games. The membership also keeps growing. Three new members have paid dues.
The Shuffleboard Club does more than just play shuffleboard. There is a strong feeling of camaraderie among members and planned social events throughout the year.
Monday and Wednesday open play/practice continues from 9-11 a.m. and Tuesdays at 6 p.m. Personalized training is available at these sessions. For more information, call or text Kay Mount at 775-527-0426.
The Tuesday Evening League played April 25 with the Night Shufflers and the Disc Throwers competed with the Disc Throwers winning seven games of 12. The Disc Throwers’ John Mount and Carol Johnson both earned all-game winner honors.
The Friday Morning League played on April 28, with four teams playing a total of 24 games. The Hot Rods raced past the Bumpers winning 10 games out of 12. The all-game winners for the Hot Rods were Ellie West, Sal LaScala, John Mount, and Rod Osgood.
With the second competition, the Smashers and the Shooters played and evenly split the twelve games, 6-6. The all-game winners for the Smashers were Milly Larsen, Mo Habel and Steve Edrich. The all-game winners for the Shooters Shel Magnuson and Carol Schubeck, 6-6.
—Kay Mount
Pinochle Club
The Pinochle Club meets in Clubhouse 1 on Mondays and Thursdays between 11-11:30 a.m. and Saturdays at 11 a.m.
April 17 winners: Irene Perkins, first place, 13,510; Charlotte Westcott, second, 13,260; Jane Haas, third, 12,000; Mary Luongo, fourth, 11,400.
April 20 winners: Marge Dodero, first place, 10,180; Gene Smith second, 9,910; Howard Perkins, third, 9,830.
April 24 winners: Pat Blum, first place, 10,590; Don Walton, second, 10,470; Ruth Bonnema, third, 10,410; Antonia Zupancich, 10,320.
For more information, call Donna Gorman, 562-400-7646.
Duplicate Bridge Club
The Duplicate Bridge Club plays games on Monday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday in Clubhouse 1 beginning at 12:30 p.m. Reservations can be made at any game using the sign-up sheets. Also, people can call Linda Nye at 562-453-6678 or email her at yuelingnye@yahoo.com no later than 10 a.m. on game day. Players should arrive by 12:15 to confirm reservations.
On April 17, winners were Alan Olschwang and Linda Nye, north/south; and Judith Jones and Al Appel, east/west.
On April 21, winners were Larry Topper and Lynn Danielson, north/south; and Howard Small and Sue Fardette, east/west.
For more results, including a list of all players and scores, go to the Long Beach Bridge Center results page at http://www.acblunit557.org and click on Leisure World Results.
The club offers lessons and supervised play on Friday mornings at 9:30 a.m. Supervised play is an informal game in which novice players can ask questions of experienced players questions about bidding and card play. For more information or to join the club, contact John Markovich at 562-661-0502 or cdrjjm@yahoo.com.
Friday Golf Club
On April 21, nine golfers visited the 6,000-yard, par 71 Willowick Golf Course in Santa Ana. The players attacked the course, and scoring was good with two birdies by Jim Goltra and Clay Fischer, and one by Gene Vesely.
Fischer was closest to the pin on the par 3, fourth hole, and Ellic Vaden was closest on the par 3, twelfth hole. Fischer and Goltra tied for fewest putts in the A flight and Vesely and Vaden tied for fewest in the B.
A Flight Winners
Fischer placed first with a sensational 8 under 63; Goltra, second with a well-played 2 under 69; Bill McKusky and Sam Choi, third with a hard-earned 1 under 70; Fujio Norihiro, fourth at even par 71; and, Dave LaCascia, fifth.
B Flight Winners
Vesely was first with an excellent 9 under 62; Vaden, second, 6 under 65; Bob Munn, third, 1 under 70.
On April 24, 16 golfers contested the 5,600-yard, par 70 Riverview Golf Course in Santa Ana.
Gary Stivers had the fewest putts in the A flight, and Gene Vesely had the fewest in the B flight. Dave LaCascia was closest to the pin on the par 3 second hole and Clay Fischer was closest on the par 3 ninth hole. There were no birdies this week.
A Flight Winners
Larry Hillhouse, first with 10 under 60; Stivers and Chris Lankford, second, 3 under 67; Jim Goltra and Bill McKusky, third, 2 under 68; Sam Choi, fourth, at even par 70; and Fischer, Fujio Norihiro and LaCascia, fifth.
B Flight Winners
Vesely, first, an excellent 3 under 67; Tom Ross, second, even par 70; Digna Vesely, third, 2 over 72; Lowell Goltra, fourth, 3 over 73; Bob Munn, Ellic Vade and Ron Jackson, fifth.
For more information, contact Gary Stivers, 714-313-3697, or Dave LaCascia, 801-674-5975.
Saturday Social Bunco Club
The Saturday Social Bunco Club meets on the second and fourth Saturdays of every month, with the next meeting on May 6 in the lobby of Clubhouse 3.
Sign-ups are at 1 p.m.; play begins at 1:30.
On April 22, Marilyn Moody won most buncos; Linda Payne, most wins; Kathe Repasi, most babies; and Marianne Matheis and Helen Sponsler, most losses. Lyn Doyle won the door prize.
For more information, call President Doris Dack at 562-356-0443.
Men’s Golf Tournament
The Leisure World Men’s Golf Club Tournament was played on April 26. Two groups of three flights of variously skilled golfers played for best net scores (gross score minus handicap), plus two circle holes (shots within a 5-foot radius are rewarded) and two closest to the pin challenges. The Turtle Lake Golf Course is a 1658-yard, 18-hole, par 54 course, that challenges all who play.
A total of 49 golfers played. A special “low gross” challenge was offered, and 20 golfers accepted. John Kolthoff took first place; Bruce Bowles, second; Pat Paternoster, third; and there was a four-way tie for fourth among Kyoo Choi, Thomas Kim, Mike Mayfield and Bill Lyons.
There were 53 birdies and 12 circle hole winners. Additionally, 24 of 49 golfers were net at or under par. Closest to the pin on the 6th hole was Dave LaCascia, and on the 15th hole was Kyoo Choi.
A Flight Winners
John Kolthoff came in first with a well-played 5 under 49, followed by Pat Paternoster, second with a terrific 4 under 50; Dave LaCascia and Bob Turner tied for third with a hard-earned 2 under 52; Dong Kim and Ron Steele tied for fourth with a nice 1 under 53; fifth: Kyoo Choi, at even par 54.
B Flight Winners
Bruce Bowles was first with a spectacular 11 under 44; John (JR) Rudosky, second with a super 6 under 48; Dennis McMonigle, third with a well-played 5 under 49; Thomas Kim and Ron Jackson, fourth with a nice 4 under 50; Won Song and Gary Newhalla, fifth; and Hyon Shin, Don Newhall and Ken Notorleva, sixth; John Haley and Rolando Ramirez, seventh; and Bill Long, eighth.
C Flight Winners
Richard Yakomi was first a very good 9 under 45; Steve Kang, second with a sweet 7 under 47; Manny Miranda, third with a respectable 3 under 51; and Byron Schweitzer, fourth at even par 54.
The next men’s tournaments will be on May 10 and May 24.
community, pages 11-13
SB Woman’s Club
Get tickets for fashion show
The Woman’s Club of Seal Beach will host a fashion show and luncheon fundraiser on Saturday, May 20, at the Marina Community Center from 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. A lunch will be served that includes a choice of chicken salad, roast beef or a vegetarian sandwich. The fashion show will display apparel from local Seal Beach boutiques. There will be raffle baskets along with a silent auction.
All proceeds are used to support local charities including the Seal Beach Animal Care Center, the arts and media departments at local schools and the Youth Center. A complete list of recipients is available on womansclubofsealbeach.org.
Tickets are $50 and can be purchased by calling Judy O’Neill at 562-706-5721.
Schmooze Club
The Schmooze Club will meet on Tuesday, May 9, to celebrate the Jewish holiday of Lag b’Omer, which falls on the same day.
The group will celebrate with a kosher brunch in Clubhouse 3, Room 9, at 10 a.m. The cost is $5 paid at the door for brunch, which will be served at 10:30. The Schmooze Club requests a donation for those who will only have a hot or cold drink and not the full brunch. Donations are gratefully accepted. The brunch will feature many dairy and vegetarian selections and dessert.
The celebration will include a “Schmooze Show and Tell” in which participants will share a favorite Jewish object in their home or family history, a favorite place or event to visit in Israel, a book they recommend for summer reading, interesting information about their family history, a special place or experience when traveling, or the wisest advice they were given in life. Everyone is encouraged to wear a sun hat and picnic clothes.
All Leisure World residents are always welcome.
People must RSVP by text or voicemail to Darlene Rose at 562-347-8088 by this Friday, May 5. Make sure to also provide names of outside guests for Main Gate entry.
Get SBTV-3 on your television
Did you know the City of Seal Beach has a free community channel that shows many Leisure World community events?
Residents don’t have to have cable TV to see the citywide community TV station known as SBTV-3. All that is needed is internet access, which can be found at home or in one of the Clubhouses.
Prime time is from 4-10 p.m., seven days a week. All programs are streamed in high definition to the internet from www.sbtv3.org. People can go to the website page and click on the blue round circle with the “3” in it at top of the page.
For Spectrum cable subscribers, SBTV-3 can be seen on Channel 3 in standard definition.
— Joe Osuna
Humanist Association to discuss Dawkins
The LW Humanist Association will meet on Sunday, May 7, in Clubhouse 3, Room 1, at 10:20 a.m.
Dave Silva will present a program about the scientist, philosopher and writer Richard Dawkins. A short YouTube video will be shown and then there will be a PowerPoint presentation about Dawkins’ books, starting with “The Selfish Gene,” in 1976, which shows how genes act to ensure humans’ survival and program their brains. It was in this book that Dawkins invented the concept of memes as a replicator of ideas.
Dawkins is an evolutionary biologist and in “The Blind Watchmaker” in 1986, he argues the case for Darwinian natural selection as the explanation for the diversity of life.
Most of Dawkins’ books have been about science; however, he is best known for his views of religion in books like “The God Delusion” in 2006, and “Outgrowing God: A Beginners Guide” in 2019.
After reviewing Dawkins’ books and philosophy, the meeting will open up to questions.
Sunshine Club
GRF Directors to discuss bylaw amendments
GRF board members Susan Hopewell and Carole Damoci will discuss the proposed GRF bylaw amendments at the Sunshine Club on Friday, May 5, in Clubhouse 3, Room 2, at 10 a.m.
Hopewell and Damoci will explain the proposed amendment needed to continue LW’s traditional voting process that each GRF director is elected only by their mutual’s residents. The issue is Article III(9)(a) of the bylaws and how quorum of votes is calculated. The amendment will clearly define how quorum is calculated.
The other amendments will correct language, written in 1962, that implies only men can serve as a GRF director.
There will be time for questions after the presentation.
The Sunshine Club will host three other speakers this month: Darla Olson, vice president of Meals On Wheels Orange County, will speak on May 12; Kevin Black, GRF Physical Property Manager, will present on May 19; Heather Hyland, from the O.C. Mosquito and Vector Control District will round out the month on May 26.
All residents are welcome to join this meeting. For more information, contact Anna Derby at 562-301-5339.
Seniors for Peace
Three speakers to present on environmental protection
The Seniors For Peace Club will meet today, May 4, at 2 p.m. in Clubhouse 3, Room 9. The meeting will feature a program titled “Helping Our Planet: A History and Personal Stories.” David Silva, Robert Richert and Rachael Lehmberg will present three perspectives on the environment.
The first speaker will be David Silva, president of the LW Humanist Association, who will present a brief history of the environmental movement. Silva is the author of “Searching for Utopia,” a nonfiction book that addresses the problem of climate change along with other sociological challenges. He is also the only LW resident to have run for statewide office of a major party, according to the Democratic State Central Committee.
During the late 1970s, Robert Richert, the club’s second speaker, was trained as an interpretive naturalist at El Dorado Nature Center in Long Beach. For 15 years, he led hundreds of groups of adults and children on informative nature walks at the Nature Center, Bolsa Chica Wetlands, and other Southern California wildlife preserves. He will talk about his local experiences. Richert is also the author of “Open Wound,” a nonfiction book about his experiences in Vietnam, and a local artist specializing in land and seascapes.
The final speaker, Rachael Lehmberg, a scuba diver and volunteer seal trainer who taught English at community colleges in Arizona, Hawaii, and California, will discuss ways in which ordinary people can function as citizen scientists working alongside professionals to use the power of science to study the challenges facing wildlife in this changing world. Lehmberg, a LW resident, will explain how residents can help to mitigate the damage occurring to the wildlife with which they share the earth.
All LW residents and guests are invited to attend. For more information, call Pat Kruger at 562-357-4040.
Democratic Club
by Mary Larson
LW contributor
The Democratic Club’s primary efforts for the remainder of the year continue to focus on the March 2024 Primary election.
LW’s 47th Congressional District, with no incumbent running, is one of three Orange County districts that could determine which of the major political parties controls the House of Representatives in the near future. This district includes Irvine, Laguna Beach, Newport Beach and Huntington Beach and Seal Beach. Democrats have a slight lead in voter registration: 35.6% of voters in the district compared to 33.9% for Republicans and 24.5% for no party preference.
Dave Min, a member of the California Senate, is a Democrat running in District 47. The LW Democratic Club has invited Min or his representative to be a guest speaker during the May membership meeting.
All three declared Democratic candidates for District 47—Min, Women for American Values and Ethics founder Joanna Weiss and Huntington Beach business owner Dom Jones—are scheduled to take part in several debates/forums in the coming months. The debates will take place on May 13 in Huntington Beach, sometime in July in Irvine and on Aug. 26 in Newport Beach.
Club members interested in carpooling to any of these events should contact Mary Tromp at 562-412-0898.
Scott Baugh, a former GOP Assembly leader, is one of the Republicans currently running in District 47. He already has campaign experience, having run against Porter in the 2022 midterm election. He has name identification among Republicans, as well as the backing of the Republican Party of Orange County.
Republican businessman Max Ukropina has also joined the race to replace Porter.
The LW Democratic Club is also closely monitoring what is happening in neighboring congressional districts 40 and 45. Incumbents running in both districts are Republicans. Young Kim is running for re-election in OC’s District 40 and Michelle Steel is running for re-election in District 45.
•••
The Democratic Club’s Information and Registration Booth outside Clubhouse 6 will be open on the first Tuesday of each month from 10:30 a.m.- 12:30 p.m.
For more in-depth reporting on issues and candidates, Democrats and supporters can subscribe to the LW Democratic Club’s free electronic newsletter by emailing democraticclubsblw@gmail.com or calling 562-296-8521.
People are asked to include their full contact information, as well as party affiliation, when signing up for the newsletter.
Paws, claws and beaks club
Get tips on dog behavior May 11
Pet lovers are invited to the next monthly meeting of the Paws, Claws and Beaks Club on May 11 at noon in the Clubhouse 1 picnic area. People are encouraged to bring their pets.
This meeting will feature a potluck and everybody is encouraged to bring a dish. People should contact Mary Romero at marymromero11@gmail.com or 562-810-4266 to let her know what dish they are bringing to share.
Maryanne Dell Shamrock will give a presentation on dog behavior at the meeting, with time for questions at the end.
Dell is the founder and director of Shamrock Rescue Foundation, an Orange County-based rescue that takes in animals (mostly dogs) at area shelters who are on death row or otherwise unlikely to find homes. Along with Ron and Charice King of North Tustin, Dell provides foster homes or boarding for the dogs Shamrock takes in, along with medical care. Many of Shamrock’s dogs are older and/or have medical or behavioral issues. Shamrock cares for the dogs until homes are found or, if homes cannot be found, for life.
Dell also trains dogs and consults on dog behavior. She is always eager to learn more about dogs and is always growing her knowledge base. She works with rescues and networks throughout the country to help dogs find homes. She is advisor at large with the Tibetan Spaniel Club of America’s Health and Rescue Trust, which finds homes for unwanted, homeless Tibetan spaniels.
In 2021, Dell achieved the Nose Work 2 title with her Tibetan spaniel, Bumblebee.
Dell will speak of her experience and answer questions residents might have about their own pets during the meeting.
“I always enjoy speaking to the members of Paws & Claws and helping them have enjoyable relationships with their pets,” Dell said.
For more information about the club, contact 562-810-4266.
— Mary Romero
gaf
Join Ralphs Community Rewards
The Golden Age Foundation (GAF) will host a sign up for the Ralphs Community Contribution Program on May 10 from 9-11 a.m. in the Hospitality Room in Clubhouse 6.
The Ralphs Community Contribution Program is sponsored by its parent Kroger Grocery Stores and is an easy way for Leisure World residents to raise money for the Golden Age Foundation without an additional cost.
A digital account is needed to participate in the program. Once linked to a resident’s Ralphs Rewards card, each shopping trip and swipe of the card at a Ralphs grocery store will give the GAF a donation from Kroger’s at no cost to the resident.
This is currently the only active fundraising project the GAF has and is presently supported by 300 LW residents.
In an effort to increase participation in this program, volunteers from the GAF will be available every Wednesday morning beginning May 10, from 9-11 a.m. in the Hospitality Room in Clubhouse 6 to assist residents in signing up for the Ralph’s Community Contribution Program or to answer any questions residents may have about the program.
LWers are encouraged to stop by on May 10 to enjoy a cup of coffee and then head to the volunteer table to receive help signing up for the program. Make sure to have a Ralphs membership card available before going.
For more information,about the program or the Golden Age Foundation, text 562-301-5339.
—Anna Derby
The Beyond Beginner Ukulele Players of the Aloha Club performed at the GAF’s 50th anniversary celebration on April 22.
The grandchildren of LWers Arnold and Pat Bateman wish a happy anniversary to Granny and Papa, with over 40 years and counting. “God bless. We love you guys!” The Batemans celebrated their 40th anniversary in Capistrano Beach on April 23.
Leisure World Assembly of God members participated in a food distribution ministry program recently. The three members from the church, Shannon Harrison, Marge McDonald and Cathie Lent, spent last week in Dinuba, California, working at Youth With a Mission. “Gleanings” is a mercy ministry whose mission is to feed the hungry of the world, both physically and spiritually. Volunteers of all ages work together throughout the year to pack food to be distributed globally by ministry partners.
New signs in Mutual 1
Now that the building painting project is complete, residents, visitors and delivery personnel of Mutual 1 can appreciate the installation of signs on all buildings with legible numbers. Street addresses and unit numbers are clearly visible from a distance
obituaries page 13
Karin “Heidi” Mitchell
1938-2023
Karin “Heidi” Mitchell was born in Gardelegen, Germany, on April 27, 1938.
She passed away on Friday, April 21, 2023.
Heidi immigrated to the United States in 1958 from Germany.
After she retired as a dental assistant, she enjoyed gymnastics and yoga as well as tending her garden at Leisure World. She also enjoyed her weekly, sometimes daily, trips to Trader Joe’s and Costco to find all the new and delicious foods.
She is survived by her sister Vera and brother Horst who both live abroad. •••
The obituaries deadline is Friday at 4 p.m., prior to the desired Thursday publication date. Obituaries that are received later than Friday will go in the following week’s issue.
The first 250 words, plus one picture, are free to publish in the newspaper; each additional word is 25 cents.
Email obituary notices to laurieb@lwsb.com with photos attached as jpg files.
religion pages 20, 26
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 1:12.
Pastor’s Message
Many people remember the song “Abraham Had Many Sons” from camp or Sunday school. This week, Pastor Bruce Humes will reveal the inspiration for that song.
In Genesis 12, the Lord said to Abram, “Go forth from your country, and from your relatives and from your fathers’ house to the land which I will show you; and I will make you a great nation. Abram at the age of 75 went forth as the Lord had spoken to him, taking his wife, Sarai, his nephew Lot, all their possessions and the people with them and set out for the land of Canaan. Upon arriving in the land, the Lord appeared to Abram and said, “To your descendants I will give this land.”
Abram knew this appearance of the Lord was a sign he had arrived in the land that God had designated for him to dwell in. Abram built an altar there to the Lord. Travelling further into the land, he settled in Bethel and there he pitched his tent, and another altar to God. In doing so, Abram was declaring his faith and worshiping God.
God promised before Abram’s departure from the land of his fathers that he would make Abram a great nation and would bless him and make his name great. This must have seemed an impossibility to Abram. He nor his wife were young, and they had no children. But things that seem impossible for man are not impossible for God. Soon God would change Abram’s name to Abraham and his wife’s name to Sarah and she would give birth to a child that would be the fulfillment of that promise.
It is important for believers to look not at circumstances, but at Gods promises. He is a faithful and unchanging God.
The child born to Abraham and Sarah was the beginning of the nation that would be Israel, which God blesses even today.
Weekend Services
Sunday services are traditional services from 9:30 a.m.-10:45 p.m. with hymnal music led by Janet Ray and Pat Kogak at the piano. This week, Beverly Sunday will sing a solo hymn.
Saturday services are more contemporary with Gregory Black leading worship with guitar accompaniment. The service is held from 9:30-10:45 a.m.
Midweek Studies
Melli Herrera leads the Women’s Bible Study on Mondays from 10:30-11:45 a.m.
Pastor Gary Whitlatch leads
the Tuesday Bible Study group from 9:30-10:30 a.m.
The Thursday Bible Study group, led by Elder Jack Frost, meets from 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Pastor Bruce Humes leads the prayer and Bible study group on Fridays from 6-7 p.m.
All are welcome to join.
Scripture of the Week
“For what great nation is there that has a god so near to it as is the Lord our God whenever we call on Him” Deuteronomy 3:7.
Contact
First Christian Church is located on Northwood Road behind Carport 125. For more information, call 562-431-8810.
Join Buddha Circle for ‘Aging with Joy’
Buddha Circle invites all LW residents to a special event on Tuesday, May 9, in Clubhouse 3, Room 1, from 10-11:30 a.m.
Khangser Rinpoche will give a special presentation titled “Aging with Grace and Joy.” He will give a short presentation on the benefits of mindful meditation.
Khangser Rinpoche is recognized as the eighth reincarnation of Khangser Rinpoche. He received his doctorate in Buddhist philosophy and the teachings from many great Tibetan spiritual teachers including His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama.
For more information, call 714-721-1548.
Faith Christian Assembly
Join Faith Christian Assembly this Sunday, May 7, at 10:30 a.m. or 5:30 p.m. Pastor Sheri Leming will bring another biblical message to encourage and help people get started on the right foot to begin a new week. People are also welcome to join the pre-service prayer at 5 p.m.
Jesus gives believers the greatest invitation in Matthew 11. Verse 28 is a familiar passage to many: “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.”
How do believers find this rest that Jesus is offering? First people must come to him, not for what he gives, but for who he is. Coming to him is rest. Because when people truly come to him in humility, they will learn of him. He has so much to teach, and he is imminently qualified to do so because he created all people and therefore understands their nature.
God says to believers: “Learn of me.” Learn of him, by coming under the whole counsel of God, no matter how unpalatable the current culture may find it. God commands it because it is a person’s responsibility to respond with obedience that brings honor to God. Believers need a humble desire to know the truth, and a temperament to be saved by it.
Other gatherings at Faith Christian Assembly include the Wednesday morning Bible Study at 11 a.m. and the men’s and women’s ministries on the third Thursday of each month at 1:30 p.m.
Faith Christian Assembly is located on the corner of Seal Beach Boulevard and St. Andrews Drive at 13820 Seal Beach Blvd.. The church office hours are Tuesday-Friday from 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
To receive more information, call the church office at 562-598-9010, email contact@fcachurch.net or visit www.FCAchurch.net.
Assembly of God
Service/Gathering Times: Sunday morning at 10:30 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 fourth Sunday of the month in the Clubhouse 3 Lobby at 6 p.m.
This week’s sermon: Life can be noisy and chaotic, even in a community like Leisure World. The banging of construction tools, yard maintenance machines, the squawking of that flock of wild parrots as they fly overhead, the planes that seem to fly just over the rooftop as they head to the airport, shatter the peace and quiet people crave.
More worrisome than outside noise is the inner noise people suffer. Regrets, self-criticism and rehearsing hurtful words spoken by others disrupt a peaceful mind.
In this installment of the series “The Good Fruit We Bear,” Pastor Chuck Franco looks at the peace experienced by believers who seek the good fruit of the Spirit.
Bible Study: “The Acts of the Apostles,” by Louie Giglio, opens up the book of Acts and reveals the world-changing power of the early church. Discover through discussion and guided study what that means for the church today.
Contact: More information about the church can be found at www.lwassemblyofgod.com.
Those who would like prayer, personal contact from a pastor or a DVD of the Sunday morning sermon can contact pastors Chuck and Sheryl Franco by calling 562-357-4360 or emailing pastorchuck@lwassemblyofgod.com.
Carolyn van Aalst is also available at 562-343-8424.
Pastor Chuck’s sermons can be accessed on the Faithlife app under “Leisure World Assembly of God,” where people can also give online.
LW Baptist
Remarkably the Bible refers to Abraham, Moses and Job as “friends of God,” and Jesus extends this title to his followers. This personal intimacy with God involves several features, for example prayer or talking to God, and these elements of Christian fellowship will shape LW Baptist’s worship service on Sunday, May 7, at 10 a.m. in Clubhouse 4.
The Women’s Bible Study group will meet Monday, May 9, in Clubhouse 3, Room 6 at 10 a.m. for social interaction and discussion of growing in faith. The Energizer’s group will meet on Wednesday, May 11, to discuss the application of the Psalmist’s petition,“Create in me a clean heart, O God.”
Call 562-430-8598 for more information about the church and meetings.
Community Church
The Apostle Stephen prays forgiveness for his tormentors. David advocates for relying on God’s love for deliverance.
The Apostle Peter calls believers to be delivered from ordinary existence into a holy priesthood.
Jesus, through John, challenges believers to trust in eternity and Jesus delivering all from fear of death.
Come one, come all to receive these messages of deliverance from Kelly Frankiewicz, M.Div.,who will speak at LW Community Church on Sunday, May 7, at 9:50 a.m.
As always, the word Gospel means “good news” and those who are in need of some good news are welcome to join the service in person or online on Zoom and on Facebook @CommunityChurchLeisureWorld. People can contact the church office to receive the Zoom link. The in person Sunday service is followed by food and fellowship.
Those who are in need without another way to address it can call the church office and leave a message at 562-431-2503.
Congregation Sholom
Congregation will hold services via Zoom with Rabbi Eric Dangott on Friday, May 5, at 6:30 p.m. Rabbi Dangott will also lead the hybrid service on Saturday, May 6, in Clubhouse 3, Room 9, and via Zoom at 10 a.m.
Saturday’s Torah portion will be Emor, from the book of Leviticus. Emor (Say) opens with laws regulating priestly behavior, working in the Mishkan (Tabernacle), and consuming sacrifices and priestly food. It describes the biblical holidays of Passover, Shavuot, Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, and Sukkot, and ends with a story about a blasphemer and his punishment.
To receive a Zoom invitation, contact Jeff Sacks at 714-642-0122.
Congregation Sholom has been serving Leisure World since 1962. It offers a traditional Jewish service in person and online.
Those who want to join Congregation Sholom, should call Howard Brass at 714-396-0121 for a membership packet.
Buddha Circle
Buddha Circle will meet with Ven. Kusala on Saturday, May 6, in Clubhouse 3, Room 1, from 9:30-11 a.m. Ven. Kusala is well known in the Buddhist community and presents Buddhism in a simple way.
The group is interactive and those who attend are encouraged to ask questions. Donations are welcome and will support Ven. Kusala in his teachings.
For more information, call 562-431-7275.
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
Meetings for the Atherton Ward are held at 6500 E. Atherton St., in Long Beach. The sacrament service is held every Sunday at 10:30 a.m., followed in the second hour by Sunday School on the first and third Sundays, 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 New Testament. The reading assignment for he week of May 8-14 is Matthew 19-20, Mark 10 and Luke 18.
The “Come, Follow Me” devotional asks, “‘If you had the opportunity to ask the Savior a question, what would it be?’ When a certain rich young man met the Savior for the first time, he asked, ‘What good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life?’ (Matthew 19:16). The Savior’s response showed both appreciation for the good things the young man had already done and loving encouragement to do more. When we ponder the possibility of eternal life, we may similarly wonder if there’s more we should be doing.”
Beit HaLev
Beit HaLev and Rabbi Galit-Shirah conduct online livestream Shabbat services every Friday evening and Saturday morning.
To join the Beit HaLev “Zoomagogue” interactive service, go to https://us02web.zoom.us/j/9152434704?pwd=THJGTE1OUXI5VXFDTWtuZHF4K3VxUT09. The meeting ID is 915 243 4704 and the passcode is RavGalit.
People can also join on Facebook at www.facebook.com/galityomtovOn or YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCU_LHxFlq4-vsxs07H-U1Rw.
Shabbat Ma’ariv services on Friday, May 5, at 5 p.m. and Saturday, May 6, at 10 a.m. include the counting of Omer.The Omer is literally a measurement of barley, but it serves as a method of counting the 49 days needed to arrive at Mt. Sinai-Beit HaLev counts each day until the holiday of Shavuot, giving each day a virtuous attribute so that souls may ascend and purify before celebrate the Giving of the Torah.
This week’s Torah reading is “Emor” (speak), from Leviticus 21:1-22:16, and continues the instructions to the Levites, Kohanim and their families on what is commonly referred to as the “Holiness Code.” Some of the criteria include regulations on choosing a wife, rules for disqualified Kohanim, sacrificial animals and sacred food.
All Beit HaLev services share special prayerbooks onscreen, “Lev L’Lev,” which include excerpts from the Reform Siddur, “Mishkan HaT’filah.”
Beit HaLev and Rabbi Galit-Shirah are a part of the Union of Jewish Universalist Communities and Clergy. It is progressive in thought and traditional in liturgy. Services are joyous, meaningful and musical. Beit HaLev welcomes everyone who seeks a path to the divine and doesn’t believe in labels. It considers all religions holy and valid.
To join Beit HaLev, call Rabbi Galit-Shirah at 562-715-0888 or email duets@icloud.com. Contributions to Beit HaLev are welcome and may be sent to: Beit HaLev, P.O. Box 2279, Seal Beach, CA 90740.
Redeemer Lutheran & St. Theodore’s
The Truth-filled Way of Life” is the theme at Redeemer Lutheran and St. Theodore Episcopal Church’s worship service on Sunday, May 7. LWers are invited to join the community and share the word with Communion and hymns at 10:30 a.m. in the sanctuary at 13564 St. Andrews Drive, across from the Administration building where ample parking is provided.
As part of the church’s outreach mission, people are asked to bring cans of soup to be distributed to those in need in the local community. For more information about the service or the work of the church, call 562-598-8697.
GENERAL
Calling All New-Comers to Leisure-World: Join Open-Forum-Discussion for questions regarding Leisure-World-Community. Saturdays/April-15th/April-22nd/April-29th/May-06th/(11:00am-1:00pm). Call/714-654-5434 for Mutual-5 meeting-address. Exp 5/10
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 7/19
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 6/07
HANDYMAN SERVICES
JR HOME REPAIRS. Quality work. Perfectionist, honest & reliable. Call JR 562-519-2764. SB Business License JRH0001. Exp 7/12
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562-596-0559
LW DECOR INC.
Kitchen/Bathroom-Remodeling. Install Microwave/Dishwasher/Recessed-Lights/Closets Redesigned/Cabinets-Refaced/New-Windows/Patio-Storage and Enclosures. Exp 5/03
40+/Years in LW
License 723262
PAINTING
Painting/FREE Estimates. 1-room or entire-house and refinish kitchen cabinets. (714)-826-8636. Call Jerry. CA State License 675336. Exp 5/24
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Cory Gee Painting. Affordable – Professional, Licensed-and-Insured. Interior/Exterior Drywall Repairs/Texturing/Pressure-Washing/Cabinets. Senior discounts 714-308-9931. License 1049257. Exp 5/03
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562-596-0559, LW DECOR INC.
Premium-Paints. Interiors/Cabinets/Ceilings/Exterior-Windows/Frames. Our Own Painting-Crew. 40+/Years in LW. Business License 723262. Exp 5/03
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Bel-Rich Painting. Small-Jobs, Bathrooms, Walls, Gates & More! Call Bret 714-220-9702. Business License 705131.
Exp 5/17
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Painting service for exterior or interior repairs, texture/drywall/cabinets/skylights/gates/frames. Joshua 714-267-6756. State Contractor License 1081798. Exp 11/22/2023
SKYLIGHT SERVICES
SKYLIGHTS
CLEAN AND REPAIR. Licensed and insured. Dan (562) 841-3787. Seal Beach License BRA0002. Exp 7/12
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SKYLIGHT Cleaning & Repairs, Contact Eugene (714) 774-4385. Contractor License 634613-B. Exp 11/29/2023
UPHOLSTERY/Carpet cleaning and tile & grout
All Year Carpet Cleaning since 1988. Tile & Grout. Tito/562-658-9841. State Contractors License 578194. Exp 5/24
Window Washing
BEAUTIFUL WINDOWS. 40+ YEARS EXPERIENCE. PHIL (562)-881-2093. Seal Beach Business License AB0001.
Exp 5/24
Leisure World Helping Leisure World
Does your walker need new tennis balls? Delivery and installation provided. Please provide your name and phone number. Free of charge. Diane Hart 714-955-2885.
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“ROLLIN THUNDER” GOLF CART CLUB
Offering FREE advice on buying/selling of your golf cart. Also batteries and Safety Flags. 562-431-6859
HOME CARE PERSONAL ASSISTANT
Experienced Caregiver available to assist with/Daily-Care/Doctor-Appointments/Errands/Available_24/7. 949-899-7770.SB Business License HEL0006. Exp 7/05
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CHRISTIAN HOME CARE
Experienced, knowledgeable caregivers. Honest/Assertive/Fluent-English. Hourly/Full-Time, doctor-appointments, errands. Bernadine/562-310-0280. Bonded/Insured. Seal Beach Business License BCS0002. Exp 6/21
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MOST AFFORDABLE RATES with/optimum service, 30-years LW experience. Licensed Reliable, Honest Caregivers. 24-hours/Part-Time/Doctor-Appointments. References, Fluent English. Ann/714-624-1911 and 562-277-3650/Heide. SB Business License HYC0001. Exp 5/10
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EXPERIENCED CAREGIVER
Over 25+/years in Leisure-World with/Excellent References. Hourly or Live-in. Please Call Pampet/562-371-4895. Seal Beach License PAN0003. Exp 7/19
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Elderly care. Live-in, Live-out. 30+ years experience. Cooking, cleaning, medications, companions, doctors. Experience with dementia. Gloria 949-371-7425. Seal Beach Business License RAZ0002. Exp 5/17
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Maria’s experienced caregivers. Run errands, Doctor appointments, cleaning, part-time, full-time, live-in. (562)-230-4648. SB Business License License CAM0006. Exp 5/03
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 7/05
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In home haircare, serving the men-and-women of Leisure-World for 36Years+. Mel Cell/562-480-9341. SB Business License #KC75538. Exp 5/10
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Experienced Korean-Barber at Dal Je’s Salon. 562-626-8122, 562-431-4603. 5-minutes from Leisure-World! Cannot-WAIT -to-Serve-You! PLEASE ask for Sue/Thank-You! SB Business License 14203016. Exp 5/31
HOUSE CLEANING
Experienced Housekeeper providing Weekly-and-Monthly cleaning. Call/949-899-7770. SB Business License HEL0006
Exp 7/05
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MOVE-IN, MOVE-OUT, WINDOWS, FLOORS. CALL PHIL at 562-881-2093. Over 30 Years Experience! SB Business License AB0001. Exp 5/24
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GRACIAN’S HOUSECLEANING & WINDOWS.
Windows 10% off first cleaning. General housecleaning. Excellent referrals in LW. (562) 307-3861. 20 years experience.
Seal Beach Business License GRA0006. Exp 7/12
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General housekeeping, 30+ years experience. Bi-weekly or monthly. Gloria 949-371-7425. Seal Beach License RAZ002. Exp 5/17
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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 5/17
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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 6/28
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Albert & Patricia House-Cleaning. Weekly/Bi-Weekly/Monthly. (562)-397-4659 , (323)-413-0830. Seal Beach License14206409. Exp 6/28
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LeeGee Cleaning Services. Move-In, Move-Out. Deep Cleaning and/or Recurring. General Housecleaning,Weekly/Bi-Weekly/Monthly. 7-Days Call/Text Lisa/714-916-7796. SB Business License LEE0004. Exp 5/03
COMPUTERS
FRUSTRATED (562)755-6199
Everything for your computer (PC-or-Mac), Cellphone, TV, Stereo, any Electronic-Device. Tina Schaffer. Seal Beach Business License CIP0001 Exp 5/03
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John’s Computer Services 562-733-9193
Virus-Removal/Internet Security Repair, Training, Wireless and Smart-TV Setup. LW Resident. SB License FUH0001.
Exp 5/17
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 7/05
ELECTRIC CARTS/SCOOTERS/MOBILE CHAIRS FOR SALE
Golf Cars SELL, BUY, TRADE and REPAIRS. Call 714-292-9124. Exp 1/03/2024
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 6/07
Transportation
Need a lift? Pam Miller. LW Residents ONLY. 310-227-1258 Exp 5/10
autos/boats/RV’s trailers FOR SALE
ELECTRIC CAR PADS
Installed at your residence. Call Frank 562-743-3832. Contractor’s License 779462. Exp 6/07
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2022 TOYOTA Tacoma Pickup-Truck. Good-Condition/Like-New/Original-Owner. 2K-Miles/Silver/4-Door/Pickup-Bed-Cover. Email jleeauto123@gmail.com or call/562-857-4480. $37,500
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 7/12
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A FRIEND AND A TRUCK
Your Moving-AND-Hauling service. Any size job! Call/310-387-2618. Business License RO263644. Exp 7/19
MISCELLANEOUS WANTED
LESLIE’S VINTAGE STORE Buying Mid-Century Modern Furniture/Antiques/Stain-Glass Windows and Lamps/Miscellaneous-Collectibles/Vintage-Clothing/Jewelry/ETC. 562-243-7229 Exp 5/10
MISCELLANEOUS FOR SALE
Estate Sale. Thursday/May-4th and Friday/May5th, 10:00am-3:00pm. 1360 Pelham Road, Mutual-5/Unit-69L. Furniture/Many-Miscellaneous-Items/Kitchen-Items-Appliances/TV/Lots-of-Crafts.
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Estate Sale – 1860 McKinney Way, Mutual 15 – 21B. Thursday, May 4 and Friday, May 5 from 8:30 to 2pm. Lovely sofa, several wing back chairs, beautiful carved cabinets and mirrors. Small tea cart, contemporary dining set with butterfly leaf, buffet server, and hutch. 32″ round oak table with 2 chairs, bookcase, small desk, large armoire, original art. Tons of small figurines, pelicans, polyphon music boxes, antique flat irons. Dresser/mirror, desk. Men’s western boots (size 12), hats, bolos. Ladies clothing (size L), and so much more. Estate Sales by Docia Drake, 714-514-8232. POB 327, Seal Beach. Business License ESC0001
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Neighborhood Patio Sale. 1380 Weeburn Road, Mutual-4/Building-81/81-L. Thursday/May-11th, 8:00am-2:00pm.
Many-Kitchen-Items/Cabinet/Clothing/Loads-of-Miscellaneous-Items. Stop By!
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Washable/Disposable-bed-pans. Adult-diapers/shower-chair/unused-bed/potty-chair/rocking-chair. Large storage cabinet 50”W/22”D/40”H. Mutual-15/Unit-21A. Laurie/562-843-6963.
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Deluxe Leather Power-Lift Recliner with heat and massage settings. Original-Cost/$1,795. Asking/$500. 714-886-7721.
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Power Lift Recliner with Power Headrest. Maine Blue. 40″Wx38″Dx41″H. Good condition/$300. Call Ray/702-493-3239.
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Estate Sale. 13500 St. Andrews Drive, Mutual-12/Unit-7G. Thursday/May-4th & Friday/May-5th, 9:00am-2:00pm. Clean sale with lovely furnishings. Dining-Room Table/Chairs. Beige 6′ Sleeper Couch, Living-Room/Couch, Asian-Style Black 3-piece/bedroom-set. Vintage drop-desk bookshelf, kitchen butcher-block, EZ-bed, queen-bed, computer-desk, boil BBQ, lamps, mirrors, dishes. Look forward to visiting with you this Thursday/Friday. Contact/Glinda Davis/714-943-1818
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Semiautomatic hospital bed. Side rails. Needs mattress. Like-New. $100 or offer. 917-673-4353