At the January 7th Meeting members and guests were treated to a very informative and visually interesting presentation by Elias Saikaly, P.E. Head of the Engineering Division of the Public Works Department, City of Lynwood.

His power point presentation included many photos of city drainage infrastructure, flooded areas after heavy rains, city preparations and procedures for flooding situations, also lists of what residents should do to be prepared for heavy rains. Also he showed world maps that show changes in sea temperatures as an indication of projected El Nino conditions.

After the presentation in a personal conversation with Daniel, as to by whom and when the power point document was prepared, Elias noted that he personally completed the power point document for this Rotary meeting, and he personally took all the photos. Daniel's comment was that hopefully other groups in Lynwood will be able to see the same presentation.

Among the preparations for residents are the following from Elias' presentation: 1) Water –at least a 3-day supply; 2) Food –at least a 3-day supply of non-perishable food; 3) Flashlights with Extra Batteries; 4) First Aid Kit; 5) Medication, Sanitation and Personal Hygiene Items; 6) Multi-purpose tool; 7) Cell phone with chargers and Family and Emergency Contact Information; 8) Extra cash; 9) Map(s) of the area; 10) Pet supplies; 11) Tools/supplies for securing your home; 12) Extra clothing, hat and sturdy shoes, rain gear; 13) Cameras for photos of damage.

Questions from attendees included how residents and businesses could obtain sand bags. Elias provided handouts of his presentation which included actions items to be done by residents and by city staff, with many of the photos in the presentation.

Before the presentation, President Martina Rodriguez mentioned the District Rotary training that the next club president, Ramon Rodriguez, will be attending. Daniel welcomed Chris Wilson, field representative for Assembly Member Mike Gipson, and noting that Chris has agreed to be the speaker for the Mar 24 meeting. Chris noted that he is a member of the Wilmington Rotary Club. Daniel also greeted Eagle Scout Oscar Avila who has been a speaker twice and may return after his high school classes end in the spring and before he leaves for his planned summer school classes.

Marisela Santana, Public Information Officer for the City of Lynwood, included in her announcements the following: the Lynwood Transit Area Strategic Plan Community Scoping Meeting on Tue, Jan 12, 6:00 to 8:00 pm, Bateman Hall Room 1; also the need for volunteers for the annual 2016 Homeless Count within the City of Lynwood; also the Sunday luncheon for children with special needs in February.

Fernando and Tila Milan talked about recent activities of the Roosevelt ES and Helen Keller ES Youthact groups, including helping decorate the City of Downey Rose Parade Float; also mentioning that the Youthact groups will again participate in the Sat registration procedures for the Sunday LA Marathon.

 

Daniel Miller / Omar Franco

Public Relations and Community Outreach for the Lynwood Rotary Club