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We are honored to have been recognized as a best hospital for maternity care by U.S. News and World Report for the second year in a row.
At Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Center Torrance, our patients receive familycentered care in a peaceful, healing environment. Whether your delivery is natural or high-risk, trust us to deliver expert clinical and compassionate care to you and your growing family.
Our comprehensive team of experts include:
• Board-certified team of OB/GYNs
• 24/7 Neonatology physician support
• 24/7 On-site OB physician support
• Pediatricians
• OB navigator—providing guidance and support throughout your pregnancy journey
• Doula program—providing physical, emotional and informational support throughout the birthing process
• Midwives
EXPLORE the Peninsula | SUMMER | 2024
As the days grow longer and the sun casts its golden glow over the Palos Verdes Peninsula, we are thrilled to present our third edition, covering July, August, and September. Once again, we invite you to delve into the essence of this breathtaking region, uncovering its hidden gems, local stories, and cherished landmarks.
In this issue, prepare to be captivated by the sweeping vistas that define our landscape, enchanted by the meticulously preserved open spaces, and fascinated by the rich history woven into our our community. EXPLORE the Peninsula is your definitive guide to discovering the beauty and diversity that make our Peninsula so special.
Whether you’re a longtime resident or visiting for the first time, we invite you to celebrate the unique experiences that make our Peninsula truly exceptional.
Happy reading and happy exploring!
Warm regards,
Kristin Borden
Publisher, Managing Editor & Owner PV Publications, LLC 310-940-1445 kristin.borden@palosverdesmagazine.com explorethepeninsula.com
Follow us on Instagram! @palosverdesmagazine
PV Magazine has partnered with www.onetreeplanted.org
LAnE BULLARd
Creative director | Graphic design lane.bullard@palosverdesmagazine.com
CIndy dOnnELLy
Community Calendar, Special Advertising Section, Content Creation cindy.donnelly@palosverdesmagazine.com
MELAnI EdELSTEIn
Writer melani.edelstein@palosverdesmagazine.com
Cover Photo by Erik Jay
EXPLORE the Peninsula | Summer | 2024
THInGS TO dO
6
From panoramic views to exhibits, there’s something for everyone to do on the Peninsula
8
Exploring the Peninsula
An expansive area dotted with history and hiking trails, this area encompasses pastoral vistas from cliffs to coastline
16
The Terranea Experience
Terranea wouldn’t be the top destination it is without the hard work and smiling faces of it’s people
22
Local Military Archaeology
The past merges with the present with these local WWII sites
23
Spotlighting some of the Peninsula’s best
PV LOCALE
We spotlight some of the locally owned restaurants and businesses in and around the Peninsula
PV magazine’s community calendar has it all! scan Qr code to see what’s happening around the Peninsula!
Saturday, July 20th at 9:00am
Los Serenos Nature Walk at George F Canyon Nature Preserve Wander along a willow-filled canyon stream with native coastal sage scrub habitat. Look down on one of the only areas on the mainland where one can view Catalina schist and visit the Nature Center to learn about local habitat and history. Easy. losserenosrpv.org
Saturday and Sunday, July 20-21st from 10:00am to 5:00pm Malaga Cove Art on the Lawn Show Shop for one-of-a-kind paintings, ceramics, jewelry, photography, textiles, sculptures, and more by local artists at the beautiful and historic Magala Cove Plaza. pvartcenter.org
Sunday, July 21st from 2:00pm to 4:00pm
Celebrating French Heritage and Culture with Peninsula Friends of the Library Bring your family and come learn about the Art, Books, Clothing, Dance, Food and Music of France! Register online. pvldFRIENDS.org
Saturday, July 20, Pre-Movie Entertainment Begins at 5:30pm, Movie Starts at Dusk
City of Rolling Hills Estates Presents a Movie In The Park Ready for Summer? So are we! Join us for our summer movie night at Ernie Howlett Park! Bring a blanket or beach chair and some movie time treats as we gear up for a family fun movie! Free. www.rollinghillsestates.gov
Sunday, July 21 from 5:30pm to 9:30pm
Summer Sounds Sunday Outdoor Concert at the Historic Neighborhood Church Grounds
Bring a picnic and enjoy a free concert featuring Evan Marshall & Friends an internationally renowned mandolin virtuoso and expert violin player. Picnicking begins at 5:30pm and concert begins at 6:30pm. There will be a free will offering to support this program. www.ncpve.org/upcoming-events
Saturday, July 27 from 4:00pm to 6:00pm City of Rancho Palos Verdes Concert in the Park Featuring Radio Royalty Bring beach chairs and enjoy an afternoon of live music at this free family event. Food trucks, beer and wine booth, giveaways, crafts, inflatables for kids and music! www.rpvca.gov/parks
Saturday, August 10th at 9:00am
Nature Walk at Vicente Bluffs Reserve with Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy Naturalists
Follow the bluff top from Point Vicente to Oceanfront Estates. Explore El Segundo blue butterfly habitat, which features beautifully restored coastal sage scrub habitat. Easy. RSVP online. pvplc.org/calendar/
Sunday, August 11 from 2:00pm to 4:00pm
Celebrating Ukrainian Heritage and Culture with Peninsula Friends of the Library
Bring your family and come learn about the Art, Books, Clothing, Dance, Food and Music of Ukraine! Register online. pvldFRIENDS.org
Saturday and Sunday, August 17 and 18th
from 10:00am to 5:00pm
Malaga Cove Art on the Lawn Show
Shop for one-of-a-kind paintings, ceramics, jewelry, photography, textiles, sculptures, and more by local artists at the beautiful and historic Magala Cove Plaza. pvartcenter.org
Saturday, August 17th
The 150th Grand Commemorative Celebration of the Point Fermin Lighthouse Come join the Sesquicentennial Celebration of the Lighthouse with historic displays and demonstrations, food, plus games and activities for all ages. The community is welcome to this free event. www.laparks.org/pflighthouse/
Sunday, August 18th from 5:30pm to 9:30pm
Summer Sounds Sunday Outdoor Concert
at the Historic Neighborhood Church Grounds
Bring a picnic and enjoy a free concert featuring Bluezilla a unique group playing everything from Aretha Franklin to ZZ Tip and from retro dance music to country rock. Picnicking begins at 5:30pm and concert begins at 6:30pm. There will be a free will offering to support this program. www.ncpve.org/upcoming-events
Saturday, August 24 from 4:00pm to 6pm
City of Rancho Palos Verdes Concert In the Park Featuring Absoulute Bring beach chairs and enjoy an afternoon of Soul, Blues, Funk and R & B at this free family event. Food trucks, beer and wine booth, giveaways, crafts, inflatables for kids and music!
www.rpvca.gov/parks
Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, September 6-8, 10am to 4pm
67th Annual Portuguese Bend National Horse Show at Ernie Howlett Park
For three days, this highly regarded A-rated Horse Show has two fully scheduled rings, offering a wide variety of classes, including the prestigious PCHA Horsemanship Medal Finals. The weekend’s activities will include a hometown atmosphere created through an array of food booths, boutiques, and fun for children which will include magic shows, pony rides, face painting, and more! www.pcch.net
Saturday, September 14 at 9:00am
Nature Walk at Pelican Cove Reserve
with Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy Naturalists
Admire the picturesque ocean views and restored buckwheat-covered seaside bluff tops that support the recovery of the rare El Segundo blue butterfly. Moderate. RSVP online.
pvplc.org/calendar/
Saturday and Sunday, September 14 and 15th from 10:00am to 5:00pm
Malaga Cove Art on the Lawn Show Shop for one-of-a-kind paintings, ceramics, jewelry, photography, textiles, sculptures, and more by local artists at the beautiful and historic Magala Cove Plaza. pvartcenter.org
Sunday, September 22nd from 2:00pm to 4:00pm
Celebrating Hispanic Heritage and Culture with Peninsula Friends of the Library
Bring your family and come learn about the Art, Books, Clothing, Dance, Food and Music of Hispanic Countries! Register online. pvldFRIENDS.org
Cabrillo Marine Aquarium and Gift Shop
3720 Stephen M White Dr,, San Pedro, CA 90731 • 310-548-7562
The historic Frank Gehry-designed aquarium displays the largest collection of Southern California marine life in the world. Since 1935, CMA has provided visitors with both a natural and interactive approach to learning about the marine environment of Southern California. Open Tuesday through Friday 12pm to 5pm and Saturday and Sunday 10am to 5pm. www.cabrillomarineaquarium.org
Historic Malaga Cove Library
2400 Via Campesina, Palos Verdes Estates, CA, US, 90274 (310) 377-9584 ext. 551
On the National Register of Historic Places, this library originally opened in 1930 and offers beautiful original furnishings, lovely views and is adjacent to a historic Olmsted Brothers designed park and is walking distance to the Malaga Cove Plaza shopping center with shops and restaurants. Open M-Th 10am to 6pm, Friday 2pm to 6pm and Saturday 10am to 5pm, Closed Sunday. pvld.org
Marine Mammal Care Center
3601 S. Gaffey, Suite #8, San Pedro, CA 90731 • (424) 450-0570
Come see our seal and sea lion patients and enjoy various exhibits. Open for public visitation Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and Mondays from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm (Closed Christmas Eve and Day and New Year’s Day), reservations recommended. marinemammalcare.org
The Point Fermin Lighthouse
807 Paseo Del Mar, San Pedro, CA 90731 (310) 241-0684
Celebrating their 150th Anniversary, guests can enjoy tours Tuesday through Sunday every hour at 1:00pm, 2:00pm and 3:00pm. Grounds and gift shop open 1pm to 4pm. pflhs.org
The Point Vicente Interpretive Center
31501 Palos Verdes Drive West, Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275 (310) 544-5375
Offering spectacular views of the Pt. Vicente Lighthouse, seasonal opportunities to whale watch from the bluffs, and a museum and gift shop. Open daily from 10am to 5pm (closed Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Day and New Years Day). Free. www.rpvca.gov
The South Coast Botanic Garden
26300 Crenshaw Boulevard, Palos Verdes Peninsula, CA 90274 (424) 452-0920
Open Daily 8am to 5pm except for Christmas Day. The 87-acre Botanic Garden has more than 2,500 different species of plants from all over the world. Check the website
Written by Melani Morose Edelstein | Photos by Erik Jay
Welcome to the Palos Verdes Peninsula, one of the best kept secrets in Los Angeles. We invite you to embark on a journey through paradise and immerse yourself in the captivating beauty and rich history surrounding you.
As you venture into PV, be prepared to be greeted by an awe-inspiring spectacle right from the front seat of your car. Palos Verdes drive, winding its way along the coastline, offers a breathtaking ride through the peninsula’s neighborhoods and rugged shores, making it a drive worth savoring.
The 12-mile stretch of Palos Verdes drive might tempt you to complete the circuit in a mere 20 minutes, but resist the urge. Head down to the water’s edge or inland to the green hills of the Peninsula, there’s so much to experience, and appreciate.
Within the four cities comprising the Peninsula, which include Rancho Palos Verdes, Palos Verdes Estates, Rolling Hills and Rolling Hills Estates, there exists a multitude of activities and experiences awaiting exploration.
immerse Yourself in the outdoors
One of the first orders of business during an excursion to Palos Verdes should undoubtedly be a hike. With over 42 miles of trails across the Peninsula, there’s a plethora of options to choose from.
From the meandering trails featuring dazzling views and easy to read trail markers to the rocky dirt trails of the magical rugged shoreline, the trails of PV not only offer a chance to immerse yourself in nature but also provide sensational panoramic views of the Peninsula and the vast Pacific ocean beyond.
discover the secluded beauty of Abalone Cove, a remote beach offering uncrowded shores and some steep and serene trails. Explore the surrounding areas of Portuguese Bend and Inspiration Point for more natural wonders.
Perched atop dramatic cliffs overlooking Catalina Island, the Point Vicente Lighthouse offers a mesmerizing perspective. Take a stroll along stunning trails for more panoramic vistas and a chance to see migrating whales.
Stop at the Point Vicente Interpretive Center, a premiere whale watching site and museum dedicated to showcasing the distinctive characteristics and heritage of the Palos Verdes Peninsula. Explore exhibits that delve into the natural and cultural history of the Peninsula, with a particular focus on the majestic Pacific gray whale.
Venture into the charming village of Lunada Bay, home to a delightful fountain and a quaint commercial district. This PV hidden in this oasis features a wonderful market, a bakery, a sushi restaurant and the local’s favorite pizza place.
The Lunada Bay coastline embodies the Southern California vibe with epic waves and glimpses of surfers abound. This is one of the premiere winter surf spots in California. Known for the intimidating size of the waves and very limited beach access. Lunada Bay Canyon has stunningly steep cliffs and rocky terrain with tide pools to explore during low tides.
Some days hikers get lucky and catch a glimpse of the decaying shipwreck, the dominator. This freighter met its fate in 1961 when it became ensnared in fog and ran aground. Visiting the remnants of this unique PV landmark is a standout experience for kayakers and hikers offering an off-the-beaten-path adventure.
Witness nature’s masterpiece: sunset
Palos Verdes boasts unrivaled sunsets, and the beauty lies in the fact that there’s no wrong place to witness this celebrated natural spectacle. Along Palos Verdes drive, numerous spots beckon you to pull over and bask in the glory of the setting sun.
Malaga Cove Plaza is an enchanting destination along the scenic coastal route. This hidden gem features stunning Mediterranean-style architecture, the magnificent Italian neptune water fountain and an array of charming shops and restaurants.
Visit Farnham Martin Park, where the Farnham Fountain takes center stage. nestled adjacent to the Malaga Cove Library, this charming park offers a serene retreat. Built in 1928, the fountain predates the library itself, adding a touch of historical significance to the area. Take a moment to admire the timeless beauty of this landmark and soak in the tranquility of its surroundings.
Explore the magnificent neighborhood Church, initially constructed as a summer residence in 1927 along the scenic Malaga Cove shoreline. This PV jewel showcases a captivating blend of history and architecture.
For a unique perspective of the Peninsula, head inland to Rolling Hills Estates and saddle up for a horseback ride along the magnificent trails of PV. Featuring more than 50 horse trials and many properties zoned for barns and stables, Rolling Hills is well established equestrian country. There are many options allowing visitors to enjoy PV’s ocean breezes and temperate climate while discovering the Peninsula’s lush interior.
Wrapping up the tour of the Peninsula, take a moment to appreciate the vibrant marine ecosystem encircling the Palos Verdes Peninsula. These sheltered waters off the coast boast abundant biodiversity, providing opportunities to witness dolphins and harbor seals during summer and the awe-inspiring presence of migrating whales in winter.
The Palos Verdes Peninsula beckons nature enthusiasts and adventurers with its breathtaking scenery, diverse wildlife, and an array of fun activities waiting to be discovered.
Go out and explore!
Our neighborhood Seafood Market is a true hidden gem owned by the local Galletti Family. We carry a curated mix of the finest seafood and everything to go with it.
Also find specialty pantry staples and ready-to-eat salads, dips, platters, desserts, fresh baked bread, hot soups, wine etc., all Galletti family approved!
It is important to us that we provide you with the quality of product we would serve our own family – the best! We want our community to have access to the same fresh fish that our family has been lucky enough to have over the years. There truly is a difference in taste when quality is top priority.
We strive to provide the best seafood products and customer service, special requests welcome!
A Rancho Pals Verdes resident, Jonna Werts is immersed in the Hill’s community. Active at her son’s school, with philanthropy and in supporting local businesses, Jonna’s business Walk & Wag South Bay caters to dog and pet owners looking for additional TLC for their pups and pets, dog boarding, housesitting, dog walking and doggy daycare.
An animal lover from the time she was able to walk, the decision to provide a service for the four-legg’eds in her local South Bay needing exercise, time outdoors, daily check-ins, daycare and boarding was a unique business model and predates any pet apps. Connecting with her customers, she has meticulously built a team of dog lovers who embrace loyalty, kindness, devotion and honesty.
Ten years and voted South Bay’s Best (five times and counting), Walk and Wag South Bay loves every fur baby in their pack.
For the past 35 years, the PVP Land Conservancy has protected more than 1,700 acres of natural lands with 42 miles of public trails on the Palos Verdes Peninsula, two nature centers at the White Point nature Preserve in San Pedro and the George F Canyon Preserve in Rolling Hills Estates, along with the Linden H. Chandler Preserve in Rolling Hill Estates. Working with local and state governments and with the help of volunteers and supporters, the Conservancy launched a $30 million “Go Wild for the Peninsula” initiative to acquire and restore the last remaining natural area on the Peninsula, thereby creating a new 96-acre Wildlife Corridor. Join this important conservation movement by participating in a guided nature walk, an outdoor volunteer day beautifying the preserves with native plants, and attending other upcoming nature-based activities. See how great it feels to support natural landscapes!
Entering its 61st year, the Palos Verdes Red Onion has consistently offered the South Bay Community a wide variety of pleasing and satisfying Mexican and American specialties, coupled with reassuringly warm and friendly service, since opening its doors on August 20, 1963. The inviting ambiance of its dining rooms has welcomed three generations of family gatherings. The well-known reputation of the restaurant, and it’s three generation heritage in the food service industry, prompted noted culinary historian George Geary to include the P.V. Red Onion in his recent three volume publication chronicling the iconic eateries of Southern California.
Jeff Earle and his family of employees wish to thank the community for recognizing The Palos Verdes Red Onion once again as the “Best of the South Bay.”
Family-owned and operated, Good Stuff Restaurants have been a coastal favorite since 1980. Appealing to diets of all kinds, Good Stuff is proud to have “something for everyone.” With keto, GF, & vegan options, a fitness menu, breakfast all day and four different locations to choose from. The food served is classic and encapsulates the South Bay lifestyle.
Our Palos Verdes location at the Promenade Mall has luxurious and modern cozy booths and a great outdoor patio to enjoy the Southern California weather. Book your next event in The Peninsula Room located privately within the restaurant! Come also visit us in Hermosa on the Strand, Redondo by the beach, and El Segundo close to LAX!
Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, come meet our friendly staff and try our famous breakfast dishes, the classic Good Stuff Burger, a fitness salad, or a Barramundi Platter!
Celebrating fifteen years of unparalleled luxury and breathtaking coastal beauty, terranea resort stands as a beacon of elegance and tranquility on the southern California coastline. since opening its doors, this premier destination has seamlessly blended world-class amenities with the natural splendor of its surroundings, offering guests an unforgettable escape. from its stunning oceanfront views and lush landscapes to its renowned dining experiences and exceptional service, terranea has consistently set the standard for excellence. as we commemorate this milestone, we reflect on a decade and a half of cherished memories, unforgettable moments, and a legacy of hospitality that continues to inspire and enchant all who visit.
In 1913, 16,000 acres of this beautiful land was purchased by a consortium of new york investors led by Frank A. Vanderlip. Considered the founding father of the Palos Verdes Peninsula, Vanderlip built the first homes and grand estates on the land in 1924, inspired by a vision of coastal Mediterranean Villages that Terranea has since resurrected. Japanese farming communities, developed in the early 1900s, also influenced and helped cultivate the Peninsula’s natural character.
Terranea Resort’s scene-stealing backdrop started attracting Hollywood film crews in the 1950s, when Lloyd Bridges starred as ex-navy diver Mike nelson in the TV adventure series, “Sea Hunt.” popular black-and-white program was filmed in and around the present resort throughout four seasons from 1958-1961.
In 1954, the site became home to Marineland of the Pacific, a seaside animal theme park, which was the world’s largest oceanarium at that time. Opening one year before disneyland, many considered it California’s first major theme park. It was best known for its performing orcas or killer whales. Marineland was sold and closed in 1986 when acquired by SeaWorld in San diego (which opened in 1964).
Lowe Enterprises became involved with the oceanfront 102-acre Palos Verdes resort in 1998 and thus began a 10-year development project, which has become the Southern California luxury resort of choice. One of the guiding principles in the creation of Terranea was to weave it into the cultural, historical, and social fabric of the Peninsula.
To ensure a harmonious effect the combined efforts of Hill Glazier Architects and Scheurer Architects produce a destination resort that is an elegant blend of authentic Mediterranean design, coupled with the ecological and aesthetic characteristics of the natural habitat of this rare coastline location. At first glance, this eco-friendly resort appears to be two and three stories high as it gently falls away to four and five stories toward the sea to embrace the coastal views. In addition, there is a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces to take full advantage of the location’s ideal climate and natural beauty.
Embracing the classic Mediterranean architecture that defines the area, the Palos Verdes resort pays homage to the rich heritage of the site through the names of many amenities, such as The Catalina Room, Marineland Ballroom, and the Vanderlip Suite.
Terranea Resort officially opened on June 12, 2009. From day one, Terranea Resort promised a sustainable vision for the 102 acres of breathtaking coastal property it inherited. Before breaking ground—years prior to opening day in June 2009—Terranea, under the guidance of visionary Bob Lowe, would go to great lengths to protect both the terrestrial and aquatic life of the Peninsula’s robust ecosystem. Plans were made to box each of the 45 surviving mature corals trees from former tenant Marineland of the Pacific and relocate them one by one to a new home on the property.
To protect and enhance the biodiversity of the flora and fauna—specifically the California coastal sage scrub habitat—landscaping features included a drought-resistant indigenous plant palette, locally cultivated from native plant material at a Palos Verdes seed bank and grown by the Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy.
terranea dining and entertainment
Terranea Resort is dedicated to seeking moments to provide unparalleled service to all that visit this slice of Peninsula paradise, offering a tangible sense of connection that is uniquely personalized, meaningful, and memorable.
While implementing in strategic phases, Terranea seeks to complete the goal to eliminate all single-use plastic products resort-wide by 2025. This commitment underscores the resort’s dedication to reducing plastic pollution and preserving the revered beauty of its coastal surroundings and natural habitat along the Palos Verdes Peninsula.
At the heart of Terranea’s exemplary experiences are meaningful connections and personalized service, created by the dedicated, talented, and happy team numbering over a thousand. President Ralph Grippo believes in the importance of loving what you do, where you do it, and with whom you do it, turning work into a passion.
to learn more, visit terranea.com
“terranea resort is delighted to celebrate our fifteenth anniversary, and immensely grateful to deliver extraordinary service and oceanfront experiences to our Palos Verdes community. our team continues to be passionately driven to create exceptional experiences for all our guests to enjoy for many years to come.”
—Ralph Grippo President, Terranea Resort
Veuve Clicquot Terrace
daily | 2 – 10pm | Lobby Terrace
Enjoy Veuve Clicquot Champagne along the Lobby Terrace and choose from Veuve Clicquot yellow Label, Veuve Clicquot non-Vintage Rose, and La Grande dame by the glass or bottle, alongside delicious bites.
Sips & Sunsets
Fridays & Saturdays | 5 – 8pm | solviva
Savor golden hour with a curated selection of fine wines, seasonal charcuterie, live music, and magical twilights overlooking the Pacific. Includes seasonal charcuterie. Wine selection by the glass/bottle available for purchase.
Sound Series
Fridays & Saturdays | 6 – 10pm | Sunset Bluff at nelson’s Live music and epic sunsets - a signature summer event! Experience an oceanfront soundtrack at Terranea’s annual concert series, and enjoy local craft beers, bites, and coastal breezes.
Mount Gay Rum Shop
Fridays – Sundays | 11am – 5pm | cielo point lawn
Cool off and order up a variety of refreshing Mount Gay rum offerings and tropical bites.
Taqueria Terranea
Saturday – Sunday |11am – 5pm | cielo point lawn
Satisfy your coastal cravings with a delicious menu offering tacos, margaritas, and more.
Slow Smoked Sundays
Every Sunday | 3 – 7pm | Sunset Bluff at nelson’s Take it easy and spend your Sunday overlooking the Pacific with a feast from the smoker and all the fixings featuring live blues and country music.
fun for families
Open to the public and resort guests!
Kids Club
Meet-A-Mermaid
Movie nights
Resin Board Workshops
Stargazing Tours of the night Sky
Adventures at Sea
Kayaking, Tidepooling, Standup Paddleboarding, Leopard Shark Tour
Adventures on Land
Guided Hikes, Archery, Horseback Riding, Falconry
Discover more offerings at Terranea.com/events
Written and photographed by Jim Shneer
The Peninsula is home to military archaeological remains dating from the 1920s to the 1970s. Most of these structures lie in the area surrounding Rancho Palos Verdes (RPV) City Hall and are accessible to the public. This site was known to the Army as the Long Point Military Reservation.
during World War I Fort MacArthur in San Pedro was built to protect the then new Port of Los Angeles from threats of attack by enemy battleships. Fort MacArthur’s original major armaments included four concrete batteries, each with a 14” gun and two batteries each with four 12” mortars. These six batteries each has observation structure called a base end station which is a tiny, standalone concrete room built mostly below ground which can accommodate two soldiers. Each has an above ground viewing port. The first set of six were built on Fort MacArthur. In the following decade three more sets of six were built further and further away from Fort MacArthur to improve targeting accuracy. The last set of six was built southeast of the RPV City Hall site in the mid to late 1920s on the hillside overlooking Palos Verdes drive South and the Terranea Resort. All six of these still exist.
Prior to World War II, the U.S. Army had developed a plan for upgrading coastal fortifications to keep pace with improvements in enemy naval weaponry and ship protection. When the war began, the implementation of this plan became urgent. One of these planned fortifications was a concrete battery, known as Battery 240 or Battery Barnes, designed to accommodate two 6” guns. It was built just west of the current City Hall building.
This battery provided protection for most personnel, shells, powder, the target plotting room, a room for communicating with newly constructed look-out positions and diesel generators which provided a self-contained power source. The battery and one of its two concrete gun emplacements remain. Finally, during WWII, it was already becoming clear that the day when the threat from battleships was disappearing, and was to be replaced by airborne attacks from manned bombers. So in the early 1940s work began on development of America’s first ground-to-air missile. In 1954 the Army began deployment of the first of this family of missiles, called nike, around major metropolitan areas and other areas of military significance. The Los Angeles area was surrounded by 16 sites each with numbers of these missiles. The first generation of the nike missile, called the Ajax, had a small conventional warhead which could destroy a single enemy bomber when the aircraft was no further than about 25-30 miles away. A few years later some of these sites were upgraded to the newer nike Hercules missile, with a range of up to 90 miles, which could host a small nuclear warhead, and usually did. Because a nuclear weapon was more effective, fewer sites were needed and about half of the original sites were retired. One of the sites which hosted the Hercules was designated LA-55. LA-55L, the launch facility for this site, was located in what is now the RPV city yard. It is probably the most complete remaining nike launch site in the Los Angeles area. A walk around the area reveals the original guard house, missile assembly building, diesel generator building, electrical substation and the tops (roofs) of the underground magazines used for storing the missiles, fuel and warheads. To launch a missile, it would have been raised by elevator from the magazine to the surface, wheeled over to a launcher, now long gone, and then fueled.
As the threat from bombers gave way to the ballistic missile threat, the entire nike program lost its value to national defense and was closed down in 1974 and the property on which LA-55L was located was turned over to the new city of Rancho Palos Verdes.
Jim Shneer was an aerospace engineering manager who, since his retirement, has devoted himself to lecturing and writing on the results of his historical research. His book Exploring The Military History of Fort MacArthur and Palos Verdes can be found at the Point Vicente Interpretive Center gift shop. All of his books in print may be found at www.lulu.com/spotlight/gg2490 and his online articles at http://tinyurl.com/mwy5yzw2.
by
the following pages highlight some of the Peninsula’s best real estate Professionals. experts in their fields, these Palos Verdes residents know the Peninsula.
—Warren Buffet
Lily Liang is the Vice-President of Strand Hill Properties, an exclusive member of Forbes Global Properties. She has been a top agent in high-end residential real estate since 1981. To date, Lily has more than $1 Billion in transaction sales.
Lily works one-on-one with her clients to market each property individually, while giving personal attention to each transaction to overcome any unexpected situations. She always tries to exceed her clients’ expectations. Lily has created a legacy in the industry through her outstanding performance and reputation for high ethics. In a more challenging real estate market like today’s, not just any agent can get the job done; an agent with Lily´s caliber and quality will really make the difference.
Lily believes that her unique background, including living and working in different countries and industries in both Asia and Europe, has given her a unique ability to
work with clients from different cultures and backgrounds. Lily is fluent in Mandarin and she embraces the diversity and contributions of all cultures. Lily has gained the trust of her clients, appreciates their referrals and is now working with the second generation of her clients.
Having lived on the Palos Verdes Peninsula for over 30 years, Lily has vast local market knowledge as well as experience working with both local and international clients that sets her apart from other agents in Palos Verdes.
Lily’s professionalism, sincerity, integrity, pleasant presentation, and hard work have earned her an outstanding reputation throughout the real estate industry. It would be a great opportunity for you to work with Lily Liang if you would like to have an extraordinary experience of either selling or buying homes in the fabulous community of Palos Verdes.
6410 s ea CoV e Rancho Palos Verdes
4 Bd + Library | 5 Ba | 7,590 sq.ft.
33,808 sq.ft. lot | 3 Car Garage www.6410seacove.com
$7,750,000
1533 Via lo P ez
Palos Verdes Estates
6 Bd | 8 Ba | Approx. 8,700 sq.ft
Approx. 30,000 sq.ft. lot | 4 Car Garage www.magnificentvillapalosverdes.com
$10,490,000
Lynn Kim is passionate about helping her clients make informed decisions. She prides herself on her exceptional quality of service through constant communication and full transparency. As a result, she has become the leading top producer in the South Bay and recognized at the top 1.5% in the nation. Through helping individuals in real estate, Lynn’s greatest meaning in life was truly realized. Giving back to help others is what truly life is all about.
Lynn was born and raised in Palos Verdes Estates, CA. To raise her children in the same environment that she was raised in is nothing but a true blessing. After graduating Peninsula High School, Lynn went on to receive her B.A. in Political Science at the University of Southern California – Fight On!
• Virginia and Les have the resources, experience, and expertise to guide you through the entire prcess of selling and buying your home.
• since 1980 they have provided top-tier service to clients and community.
• named Citizens of the Year in 2014
• two of Coldwell banker’s top 500 agents among the 50,000 agents in the United States.
“ Our client’s best interests has always been and always will be our #1 priority.”
—Virginia Butler and
Les
Fishman “ I entrust Les and Virginia with my clients, as I know the process will meet my and my clients highest expectations.”
—S.H.H., Attorney-at-Law, PVE
Teri has been selling Real Estate in the South Bay for over 20 years, specializing in residential and investment properties.
Having lived and worked in both Manhattan Beach and Palos Verdes, she understands the nuances of the different neighborhoods and areas in the South Bay Cities.
Teri believes in the importance of giving back to your Community. She is a lifetime member of Sandpipers and has been involved with the Manhattan Beach Education Foundation, the Peninsula Education Foundation, and Vistas for our Children.
This love of working with people to better the community permeates through to her work. She loves being able to help her clients through the process of buying and selling their homes, navigating them through an often stressful and always important decision by utilizing what she considers to be her strongest assets, her communication and negotiation skills.
the bisignano group is leading the way in coastal luxury properties. As a vital partner/owner of Vista Sotheby’s with over 30 years of experience, Gerard has cultivated an exceptional team of agents. the bisignano group takes immense pride in our position as one of the top teams in the Palos Verdes Peninsula and surrounding South Bay Beach Cities areas. Our 100+ years of collective experience allows us to offer you a comprehensive perspective of this challenging market and the skills to navigate and maneuver through the complexities of the ever-changing landscape. Our team possesses the necessary tools and insights to get the job done effectively.
“our client’s homes have been featured in the Wall Street Journal, Forbes, The Robb Report, Architectural Digest, NY Times, LA Times, Dwell, and other publications around the world.”