January 21, 2021
Virtual Safe in the South Bay Series
LiveWell During COVID-19: Vaccine 101
Join an esteemed panel of experts to learn up-to-date information on COVID-19 vaccines and the ways residents, organizations, businesses, schools and the Beach Cities community can support COVID-19 recovery.
Thursday, February 4
5 – 6:30 p.m.
COVID-19 Vaccine Available for Phase 1A and Residents 65+
If you belong to Phase 1A (frontline healthcare workers and residents at long-term care facilities) or are a resident aged 65 and older, you can visit the county's website to make an appointment to receive a COVID-19 vaccine.

Please be patient if there are no available appointments when you first visit the county's website. Appointments are continually being added and more vaccination sites are scheduled to open in the coming weeks.

If you do not have internet access to sign up for an appointment, you may call the county's call center at 833-540-0473, 7 days a week from 8 a.m. - 8:30 p.m.
Vaccination doses in the county are in extremely limited supply.
With almost 1.4 million residents aged 65 and older, and between 700,000-800,000 eligible healthcare workers, the number of vaccines required to complete two doses is over 4 million. Since doses first arrived 5 weeks ago on December 14, the county has received only 853,650 doses, including doses that arrived today.

Tips to make your vaccine appointment:
  • Check the county's website early in the morning as it seems like appointments are released sometime during the night, or check periodically throughout the day.
  • Appointments are continually being added, so be vigilant, especially if you are hoping to get vaccinated at a specific location.
  • You do not need to go back to the same location to receive your second dose. Just make sure you are receiving the same type of vaccine (Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna).
  • Some locations have phone numbers to call if you have specific questions about disability parking or any other needs. You should make the appointment and confirm it, then call to see if you can get your questions answered.

Tips for vaccination locations:
  • The closest county megapod is The Forum, 3900 W Manchester Blvd, Inglewood, CA 90305.
  • Crenshaw Clinic: Parking is not available on W 79th (it is blocked off). Drive up Normandie and park on the street (Vermont has testing site traffic, this location is doing testing and vaccinations).
  • Dodger Stadium: This is a drive through location, where you remain in your vehicle. There are usually lots of appointments available here.
If you have trouble getting an appointment through the county, you can also contact your healthcare provider or visit their website to see if you can get vaccinated there.

To stay informed on the COVID-19 vaccine, including answers to frequently asked questions, visit bchd.org/covidvaccine.
Medical Volunteers Needed
BCHD is looking for both medical and non-medical volunteers to assist with COVID-19 objectives. If you are interested in helping with COVID-19 vaccinations, testing or positive results calls, please visit bchd.org/volunteer for more information.
Know Your Tier
Click on the image below to see the additional phases and determine which phase you are eligible for.
Your Health District’s Role
Health Promotion & Education:
Beach Cities Health District (BCHD) has been committed to providing accurate and timely information to residents regarding COVID-19 vaccine progress, effectiveness, safety, distribution prioritization and access.

Vaccine Distribution:
BCHD is working with local city and school partners to bring vaccines to the Beach Cities, in collaboration with the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health and Supervisor Janice Hahn.
  • Closed Clinics: BCHD is also working with local fire departments to explore closed clinics for eligible populations in 1B - Tier 1. Closed clinics could serve educators, emergency services and congregate and home bound living settings.
  • Public Distribution Site: BCHD has requested to be a local vaccine distribution site at AdventurePlex (1701 Marine Ave., Manhattan Beach). This closed MPOD, could serve 1B populations. This includes adults 65 and older, education staff, emergency service workers and other essential workers including the food and agriculture sector.
Click the video below for information on the Vaccination Strategy
Safer at Home Order Still in Effect
The Temporary Targeted Safer at Home Health Officer Order will remain in effect for as long as the State Public Health Officer’s Regional Stay at Home remains in effect in the Southern California Region. The ICU availability for Southern California remains at 0%.

Please continue to stay home as much as possible. The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health also recommends that individuals who live with people who are older or have underlying health conditions wear a face covering while indoors.
Choose to be Part of the Solution
Take the Safe in the South Bay Individual Pledge
By taking the pledge, you are committing to do your part to slow the spread of COVID-19 by protecting yourself and others. In addition to infection control best practices to keep you safe from COVID-19, you pledge to also focus on ways to care for your body, mind and community as we navigate the pandemic, and this new normal, together.
As of 1/19/2021
763
1,013
2,119
Need help?
If you or someone you know in the Beach Cities needs help with health-related information and referrals, or errand assistance and meal delivery, please call our Assistance, Information & Referral line at 310-374-3426, ext. 256, seven days a week, 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. or visit us online at bchd.org/resources.
Eat Local: Healthy Meal Delivery
Enroll Now:
Covered CA
Health Information & Referrals
Mental Health and Happiness January Calendar
Support your mental health and happiness with a range of resources, virtual events and tips. Explore options to reach out, stay connected and boost your resilience. This month, focus on gratitude and accountability. Learn more at bchd.org/series.
Full Tobacco Retail Ban in Manhattan Beach
Manhattan Beach has a long legacy of protecting the health of its residents through tobacco control policies. In 2014, they banned smoking in all public places; in 2015, they prohibited the sale of flavored products and prevented new retailers from being within 500 feet of schools; also in 2015, they prohibited smoking inside multi-unit housing; and effective January 1, 2021, Manhattan Beach will become the second city in the U.S. to ban the sale of all tobacco and vaping products. For more information, click here.
Join the Healthy Minds Initiative
BCHD, in partnership with Drs. Dean and Ayesha Sherzai, is running a study on how proper diet and lifestyle can prevent brain disease. The study has transitioned to a virtual environment in response to COVID-19.
Decorate a Valentine's Day Card
Download and decorate one of our Valentine's Day cards to share with a friend. 
Center for Health & Fitness Virtual Open House
Join BCHD's Center for Health & Fitness for a virtual open house and FREE online live classes.
January 25 29
*Classes are offered at various times
Virtual BCHD Board of Directors Meeting
Wednesday, January 27
6:30 p.m.
Virtual Blue Zones Project Nutrition Workshop
Attend the next Virtual Blue Zones Project® Nutrition Workshop to learn how to incorporate nutrient-rich foods into your diet. For those who cannot attend, recipes and the recorded workshop are posted. 
Thursday, January 28
4 5 p.m.
Parents’ Guide to Raising Happy, Healthy and Resilient Children
Presented in partnership with South Bay Mommies and Daddies, this five-part video series is designed for parents of children ages 0-6. Topics include mindful parenting, establishing healthy sleeping habits, early childhood nutrition and creating structure & fostering responsibility.
Supporting the Social-Emotional Needs of Young Children During a Pandemic
Hosted by Laura Nickerson
Thursday, January 28
7 p.m.
Virtual Strategic Development Half Day
Please join BCHD's Board of Directors, Strategic Planning Committee and staff for our Strategic Planning Half Day. The Half Day brings together BCHD's committees, staff, board, volunteers and members of the public to improve decision making, enhance organizational responsiveness, improve performance and strengthen the organization. Please RSVP by Monday, January 25 to help us organize and plan for breakout groups during the session. 
Friday, January 29
8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
FREE Virtual Talk to the Trainer Events
Talk to BCHD's Center for Health & Fitness Medical Exercise Specialists to get your questions answered! Learn the appropriate exercises, form and more to achieve your fitness goals this year.

Saturday, January 30, 10-10:45 a.m.  
Hips and Knees with Chris
Virtual Maximize Gratitude and Connection Event
POSTPONED
This evidence-informed workshop will include reflection, sharing and the opportunity to match with a group of people interested in supporting mental well-being.
Virtual Social Hour w/ BCHD Care Manager
With many senior centers closed and many older adults unable to socialize, we want to provide a space for people to talk, ask questions and share their experience during COVID-19. Join us if you want to learn more about community resources or BCHD, or if you just want to connect! Open to all.
First and Third Tuesday of the month
(Feb. 2 & 16)
11 a.m. 12 p.m. 
Virtual Mindfulness Drop-in
Take 30 minutes to downshift and practice mindfulness techniques the first Wednesday of each month. 
Wednesday, February 3
4 4:30 p.m.
Virtual Redondo Beach Super Bowl 10K/5K
Run the race on your own and submit your time.
Use code "BCHD2021" to receive $5 off race entry. Use code "AdventurePlex" to get a free kids run & medal available to the first 25 people.
Sunday, February 7

*People leaving their residences must strictly comply with physical distancing, as specified in guidance or protocols established by the County Department of Public Health. This revised temporary order requires all persons wear a face covering or mask over both the nose and mouth whenever they leave their place of residence and are or may be in contact with or walking near or past others who are non-household members in both public and private places, whether indoors or outdoors.
Virtual Blue Zones Project Social Hour
Enjoy good company and practice a few Power 9 Principles of Longevity, including Down Shift and Right Tribe. Relax, bring your healthy bites and connect with your community!
Tuesday, February 9
4 5 p.m.
Eating for a Healthy Heart Nutrition Workshop
Enjoy a free workshop on how to eat for better heart health in celebration of February being American heart month.
Thursday, February 11
11 – 11:55 a.m.
Virtual Families Connected Parent Chat
A free parent support group led by a licensed professional from the Thelma McMillen Center for Alcohol and Drug Treatment at Torrance Memorial Medical Center held in partnership with South Bay Families Connected. Open to all parents.
Mondays
10 – 11 a.m.
*Does not meet Feb. 15
Virtual Happiness Chat
This is a casual discussion group with light-hearted activities to spark conversation. Share ideas, tips, resources, jokes, quotes – anything that supports our happiness!
Tuesdays
12:30 1:30 p.m.
#LiveWellAtHome with Live Virtual Exercise Classes
Get unlimited access to all Center for Health & Fitness live virtual exercise classes for $32 monthly. Small Group and Personal Training is also available virtually. Learn more.
View Our Exercise Videos
Donate to the Beach Cities COVID-19 Fund
Donations will provide assistance to Beach Cities residents who are income qualified with essentials like groceries, household and cleaning supplies, rent and utility bill assistance and durable medical equipment to help keep them safe at home. 

Residents wishing to submit donations by check can mail those to Beach Cities COVID-19 Fund, 1200 Del Amo Street, Redondo Beach, CA 90277.
COVID-19 Testing at BCHD Campus 514 N. Prospect Ave.
Los Angeles County testing sites, including the BCHD site, currently uses nasal swab tests. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warns healthcare providers and patients that the test made by Curative, an oral swab test, carries a risk of false results, particularly false negative results. The BCHD testing site does not use the oral swab.

Los Angeles County's testing criteria includes:
  • Those who have COVID-19 symptoms: Fever, cough, shortness of breath, chills, repeated shaking with chills, muscle pain, headache, sore throat, new loss of taste or smell, congestion or runny nose, nausea or vomiting, diarrhea
  • Those who have had a known exposure to COVID-19, including those who were in close contact with someone with COVID-19 
  • Those who live or work in a high-risk setting (such as skilled nursing facilities, group homes, residential care facilities and persons experiencing homelessness) 
  • In accordance with California Department of Health Testing Guidance, testing is also available when there is additional testing capacity if you do not have symptoms and you are an essential worker with frequent contacts with the public in these sectors: health care, emergency services, food and grocery, retail or manufacturing, public transportation, and education. To view a complete list of essential worker groups from the California Department of Public Health, click here.
If you're unsure if you need a test, check with your health care provider. If you don’t have a health care provider, call 211 to get a referral.

If you are unable to receive testing through your provider, please continue to check the site for availability at Los Angeles County sites, or make an appointment at a Los Angeles City, state-operated or community testing site such as CVS by visiting covid19.lacounty.gov/testing. Tests are free of charge and are by appointment only. 
Note: Testing does not prevent people from transmitting and getting the virus and is not a substitute for physical distancing, wearing face coverings over your nose and mouth, hand washing and avoiding crowds. 
What to expect after you've been tested for COVID-19
If you are awaiting testing results, you should stay home and act as if you are positive. This means self-isolating for 10 days and 24 hours after fever subsides and symptoms improve. If a person tests positive for COVID-19, they should plan on receiving a call from a contact tracer to discuss how to protect themselves and others, to find out where they may have been, and who they were in close contact with while infectious. If you are positive for COVID-19 and have not yet connected with a public health specialist or need more information on services, call toll-free at 1-833-540-0473. Residents who do not have COVID-19 should continue to call 211 for resources or more information.

If a person tests negative, they must continue to take every precaution to avoid contracting the virus or spreading the virus to others.
Healthy Living Campus
Environmental Impact Report Process
The refined draft Healthy Living Campus master plan, presented at the June 17, 2020 BCHD Board of Directors meeting, was developed from more than 60 meetings attended by more than 550 residents and drawing more than 1,000 comments during the last three years regarding elements of the campus. 
  
The Board endorsed a project description to continue the Environmental Impact Report (EIR) process ⁠— originally started in June 2019 ⁠— with the more compact Healthy Living Campus master plan as the basis of the project description. This blueprint will inform the public and project decision-makers about significant environmental effects and identify possible ways to minimize or avoid those effects. 

The Draft Environmental Impact Report is expected to be released in early 2021.

The updated, more compact draft master plan includes:  
A Community Wellness Pavilion with public meeting spaces, demonstration kitchen, modernized Center for Health & Fitness, aquatics and more.
Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE), a Medicare/Medicaid program that provides comprehensive medical and social services to older adults.  
Fewer Units: Residential Care for the Elderly (RCFE) units drop from 420 to 220. Pricing has yet to be determined. One plan being considered will offer 10 percent of units at below market rates. 
Smaller New Building Area: New on-campus building area drops 18%
Less Construction Time: Active construction time is shortened from nine to five years in two phases (instead of three). 
2.5 acres of open space for programming to replace acres of asphalt. 
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about the Healthy Living Campus: