Republican Club

By Brian Harmon

LW contributor

The LW Republican Club and Seal Beach City Councilman Thomas Moore are asking all LWers to join them in supporting the local police.

“The police are the thin blue line between the criminals and their victims and potential victims,” Moore said.“This is an issue that transcends political parties or partisanship,” he said.

Councilman Moore represents the 2nd District,which includes most of Leisure World east of Saint Andrews Drive.

Every Saturday at noon, supporters of the local police gather, some with signs, at the base of the Seal Beach pier.

Seal Beach resident and businessman Pete Amunson said, “We are doing what we can to recognize the contribution our police officers make to our community and our society.” Pete does social media publicity to help promote the event. He emphasized that people of all parties and no party are warmly welcome to participate.

Seal Beach resident Bibi Mesmer, who spearheaded the event said, “I am happy to be a part of this wonderful movement,” she said. “Those police officers deserve all the support we can give.”

Although Bibi is president of the Seal Beach Republican Women Federated, she emphasized that everyone is invited.

Bibi was quoted in the OC Breeze as saying, “It was a beautiful Saturday in Seal Beach with much to do (and) ...believe in.”

Elsa Gildner, treasurer of the LW Republican Club, was enthusiastic in her support of the rallies.

“I want to do everything I can to support those police officers out there risking their lives so that we can be safe. They protect everyone, us and our children” she said. “They are like guardian angels on our shoulders. They are in our prayers every day.”

She said, “Rather than defunding the police, we should be paying them more. Get rid of the bad apples, but don’t throw out the whole basket.”

Michelle Steel, chairwoman of the OC Board of Supervisors and candidate for Congress, also voiced her support,“Police protection is the one of the most vital functions of government,” she said. “This should be the last thing to be defunded.” ••• The GOP club continues to see increasing support at its booth each Monday. The club is giving away face masks, t-shirts and signs donated by Michelle Steel, as well as political flags, lapel pins, buttons, and scarves. LWs can also register to vote, donate to the club, join or just enjoy great conversation.