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e ditor’s l etter
Dear Palos Verdes,
issue no. 57
February is a month that invites us to celebrate love and the connections that bring us closer together. In this issue, I couldn’t resist sharing more updates about Wayfarers Chapel, as it continues to hold a special place in the hearts of so many in our community. Since the news of its dismantling, we’ve been overwhelmed by the outpouring of photos and stories from those whose lives were touched by this iconic location. We’re thrilled to feature a heartfelt photo gallery showcasing some of the beautiful weddings that took place there—a tribute to the countless moments of love and joy it inspired. A special thanks to our dear friend and photographer Erik Jay, who shared some of the last photos ever taken inside the chapel, giving us all a chance to say a meaningful goodbye.
In addition, this issue highlights two incredible individuals whose stories are sure to inspire. Music healer Jeralyn Glass shared her journey of finding light through sound, offering a powerful reminder of the healing power of creativity. We also feature the work of talented young artist Hanna Kao, whose passion and vision remind us of the importance of nurturing new voices and perspectives.
These stories, along with others in this issue, celebrate love, community, and the connections that make our Palos Verdes Peninsula so extraordinary. I hope you find inspiration and joy in this latest issue
With love and gratitude,
Kristin borden
Founder & Editor-in-Chief Palos Verdes Magazine Po box 4752
CoNTrIbuTING PHoToGrAPHEr Edward McClure mccsch@aol.com
SoPHIA WAlTEr Digital, Website, Ad Traffic sophia.walter@palosverdesmagazine.com
For ADVErTISING INquIrIES: kristin.borden@palosverdesmagazine.com
Kristin At CSUDH 2024 Economic Forum with Dr. José Navarro-Martínez, and Frank Mottek
XOXO Hanna Kao original painting
in t H is iss U e
PV PRoFiLe
24
Jeralyn Glass
This PV resident tells her story of music and healing
33
Hannah Koa
A young artist’s journey through creativity and connection
Celebrating Love at Wayfarers Chapel Beautiful wedding moments captured in time
18
Saying Farewell
Local photograhper Erik Jay shares his feelings and photos of a beloved landmark
29
PVEPD Celebrates New Leadership
Announce two significant leadership milestones, highlighting its commitment to excellence
34
CSUDH Palos Verdes Connections
Unveiling the Palos Verdes roots of California State University Dominguez Hills
THROUGH MARCH 1
february 2025
SUnDay FebRUaRy 2, 10:00a.M. to 3:00 P.M.
Whale Fiesta at Cabrillo Marine Aquarium
Join us for tons of fun as we celebrate the migration of the Pacific gray whale and the beginning of the whale watch season! It’s a family day filled with activities and exhibits for all - games, arts and crafts, puppet shows, expert guest lecturers and festive music. cma.recreation.parks. lacity.gov
eVeRy tUeSDay, tHURSDay, FRiDay, anD SatURDay, 11:00 a.M. to 11:30 a.M.
Meet & Greet with Terranea’s Falconer at Pointe Discovery
Meet Terranea’s falconer and his birds of prey outside of pointe discovery at the Terranea resort. This 30-minute talk includes an explanation about our falconer and fun facts about his birds of prey. Free. terranea.com
WeDneSDayS FebRUaRy 5, 12, 19 anD 26, 10:15a.M. to 11:30 a.M.
Peninsula Seniors Bohannon Lecture Series at Scriba Family Center. Free event for the community, enjoy a cup of coffee and thought-provoking lectures on a variety of topics, all presented by local personalities. Coffee at 10:15am, lecture begins at 10:30am. Free. pvseniors.org.
tHURSDay FebRUaRy 13, 1:00PM to 3:00PM
Peninsula Friends of the Library presents Financial Crime and Education Workshop: Check Fraud
PFl and Malaga bank host a workshop on how to protect your personal and financial information in today’s challenging environment. Join your neighbors and hear from experts how you can take action. your best defense against fraud begins with you! Sign up today, space is limited. 310-921-7505
tHURSDay, FebRUaRy 13, 6:30P.M.
44th Palos Verdes Peninsula Rotary Annual Educator of the Year Awards Dinner
Honoring Peninsula teachers is one the great privileges of rotarians here at the PVP rotary Club. We will introduce you to the nine educators of merit and distinction that will be honored as Educators of the year. reception and Dinner to be held at the Palos Verdes Golf Club. Tickets $100 for more information visit www.rotarypvp.org
WeDneSDay, FebRUaRy 14
Celebrate Love with a Romantic Experience at Terranea bubbles and bites Featuring Veuve Clicquot on the lobby Terrance is a limited capacity evening of luxury and live music, a glass of Veuve Clicquot yellow label brut Champagne or rosé, tantalizing bites, chocolate boxes and a flower bouquet workshop. Maybe you and your Valentine would prefer couples yoga, or Cupid’s Couples Archery, not to mention all the dining options. you are sure to find the perfect way to celebrate Valentine’s Day at Terranea! Visit terranea.com/events for details or call 844-242-0967 for dining reservations.
SatURDay, FebRUaRy 15, 10:30 a.M
Guided Nature Walk at White Point Nature Preserve with Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy February is for lovers.... of nature! Naturalists will guide you along a trail to discover a unique variety of wildlife in their coastal sage scrub habitat with amazing views across to the ocean. Meet in front of the Nature Center and come inside to explore after the hike. Free, reservations not required. pvplc.org/calendar
SatURDay, FebRUaRy 15 FRoM 2:30PM to 3:30PM
PV Reads: A Community Reads Event “Her Traveling Shoes” with Ina, The Storyteller
True stories of four courageous black women who spoke up and travelled for love, adventure, fame and fortune. A few of their stories to be
Looking for something to do this weekend?
PV Magazine’s Community Calendar has it all! Scan QR code to find out what’s happening around Palos Verdes and the South Bay.
shared included profiles of civil rights activists Georgia Gilmore, Pilot bessie Coleman, Athlete Wilma rudolph and poet Amanda Gorman. All ages welcome, great for families. Meet in Peninsula Center library Community room. For more information call 310-377-9584 x601.
SatURDay, FebRUaRy 15, 12:00P.M. to 3:00P.M.
Peninsula Origami Group Meets at Historic Malaga Cove Library
origami has many benefits! It helps develop hand-eye coordination, sequencing skills, attention skills, patience, temporal spatial skills and problem-solving abilities. origami promotes mindfulness and is a great stress-reliever. Plus, it’s fun! Free. All ages are welcome to join! While there, enjoy exploring the charming historical library and adjacent park and fountain. pvld.org
SUnDay, FebRUaRy 16 at 1:00PM oR 3:00PM
Family Science Sundays at the Marine Mammal Care Center
Join experts from the Marine Mammal Care Center as you learn about the biology and anatomy of the squid. This is a common food of our local marine mammals and something we occasionally feed our patients. Participants will work in pairs to dissect a squid using dissection scissors and forceps. Free, registration required. marinemammalcare.org/events
FebRUaRy 16 at 3:00PM.
Los Serenos de Point Vicente Docent Guided Nature Walk at Pelican Cove Park Hike past the unique native flora and fauna and explore the tide pools teeming with fascinating marine life. The hiking difficulty is moderate to strenuous. The trail to and from the tide pools is short but steep, the theme of this nature walk is “Tidepool Creatures.” For additional details visit losserenos.org
FebRUaRy 20 FRoM 10:30aM to 11:30aM
Little Fish Tales By the Sea at the Point Vicente Interpretive Center
Join us for a new story time, activities will include stories, rhythm, rhyme, songs and crafts. Geared toward children 2 to 5 years old, but all are welcome. Designed for children and caregivers to attend together. Enjoy the museum and park grounds afterwards. For questions, call 310-544-5375.
FebRUaRy 21, FRoM 4PM to 6PM
Peninsula Friends of the Library Celebrating Our S imilarities Series: Black Heritage
Come and learn. Enjoy black Heritage Art, books, Clothing, Dance, Food and Music. Performances by Joyful Music & Arts Music Academy’s MAKINTo, local artists Alison rowley Jamele, Candy Paula and Michele Ford. Artwork of students from PVHS and PVPHS, CollAb Dance Studio and Creative Space Dance Instruction. Meet in the Peninsula Center library Community room. www.pvldfriends.org
FebRUaRy 23, 2:00 P.M. to 4:00 P.M.
Living History Museum of African American Heroes at the Peninsula Center Library
Join our young presenters, who portray their heroes from African American history! learn about well-known and lesser-known leaders, scientists, artists, and civil rights leaders, as the children demonstrate the impact their heroes have had on the lives of all Americans. Meet in the Community room. (To learn about how your child portray a hero at this event, contact laura Henry at lhenry@pvld.org) Free. pvld.org
FebRUaRy 28 FRoM 4:00PM to 5:00PM
Friday Fun at Peninsula Center Library: Kids Oscar Party
Start the weekend off right... at the library! This week: Kids oscar Party with movie related activities and crafts! Aimed at grades TK5th grade but all ages welcome No registration required. Program subject to change without notice. pvld.org
Celebrating Love at Wayfarers Chapel
This Valentine’s season, we invited the community to share their cherished memories of weddings held at Wayfarers Chapel. The response was overwhelming, with couples from near and far submitting their photos and stories of love celebrated within this iconic venue.
In honor of Valentine’s Day, we’re thrilled to showcase these heartfelt images—a tribute to the countless unions that began at Wayfarers Chapel. From the beauty of the glass structure to the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape, these photos capture the timeless love stories that have unfolded there.
Join us as we celebrate love in all its forms and honor the joy and commitment shared by so many couples during this special month.
Alvin & Mary Jane Terre
Cindy & Brian Donnelly
Bernard & Elisa Anthony
Tiffany & Michelle Rogers
Brian & Danielle Ringel
Sandra and Richard Smart
Jim Ward & Niki Brown
Michael & Rachael Jarvis
Jon & Jerelle Esperanza
Tommy & Rita Ly
John A. and Su Yan Frye
Mark & Stefanie Miller
Peter & Maya Navarra
Charlie & Lauren Gonzalez
Michelle & Ray Landes
Christanna Rowader & Bobby Pedia
Ronnie and Liv Holton
Seung & Chunghi Lee
Honoring the past, embracing the Future
Wayfarers Chapel, a cherished local architectural and spiritual landmark, closed in early 2024 due to severe damage from the accelerating Portuguese bend landslide. In a carefully executed effort to preserve its legacy, the Chapel was disassembled, with key historic materials—including old-growth redwood glulam beams, blue roof tiles, and steel frameworks—meticulously cataloged and stored. led by Architectural resources Group (ArG) of los Angeles, this preservation effort ensures that irreplaceable elements of the Chapel will be integral to its future reconstruction.
The decision to dismantle the Chapel was driven by significant structural damage, including fractured glass panels, warped steel frames, and cracks in the concrete floor, underscoring the urgency of this effort. The preserved materials remain safely stored as discussions continue about the Chapel’s eventual rebuilding.
Charting the Path Forward
Multiple possibilities are being explored for Wayfarers Chapel’s future. If the current site stabilizes and geologists confirm it is safe, rebuilding on the original grounds remains an option. However, with the Portuguese bend landslide— active since 1956 and described as “unprecedented” in 2024—posing ongoing challenges, alternative locations within rancho Palos Verdes are also under consideration.
No matter where the Chapel’s next chapter unfolds, its spirit and history will endure. bricks from the original structure are being preserved and will be incorporated into any reconstruction, ensuring a tangible link to its past.
A Landmark of Culture and Community
For decades, Wayfarers Chapel has served as a place of spiritual reflection and celebration, hosting weddings, baptisms, and memorials while also featuring prominently in popular culture. The Chapel has appeared in numerous films, television shows, and music videos, including The o.C., lucifer, The bachelorette, revenge, and performances by artists like Pentatonix and James blake. Its timeless beauty continues to captivate and inspire.
As Wayfarers Chapel looks to the future, its mission remains unwavering: to provide a sacred space for rest, reflection, and spiritual growth.
Exploring New Earth: A New Spiritual Journey
In partnership with the Swedenborgian Church of North America, Wayfarers Chapel is launching Exploring New Earth, an online spiritual community debuting in January 2025. Designed as a global space for deeper spiritual engagement, this initiative will feature weekly themes, spiritual readings, and opportunities for discussion and reflection on God’s presence in our lives.
Meetings will take place on Sundays from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM (PST) via Zoom, with an in-person option at St. Francis Chapel in Palos Verdes Estates. Those interested can sign up for updates through the Exploring New Earth page.
For ongoing updates about the Chapel’s future and new initiatives, visit wayfarerschapel.org.
Richelle & Jesse Halberstadt
Tue Nguyen & Shinta Lau
Chris & Jennifer Malloy
Stephen Ortiz & Genesis Rodriguez
“ I stood there as the glass cracked and the walls shifted, feeling the weight of grief before its confirmation. In that moment, it was as if I were saying goodbye to a piece of my own story.”
— Erik Jay
captUring the Final moments
Photographer Erik Jay’s Farewell to Wayfarers Chapel
Written by Kristin Borden | Photography by Erik Jay
Erik Jay was born into photography, inheriting a legacy from his grandfather, who documented the California Valley alongside iconic photographer Ansel Adams. From early memories of hours spent in the darkroom to a career that spans decades, his journey with photography has been one of passion and evolution. He began professionally in 2008, after years in the business world, and quickly achieved international recognition through private print sales, hotel commissions, and collaborations with celebrated artists like John Van Hamersveld. Known for capturing the soul of his subjects through visual storytelling, Erik has a unique ability to preserve moments that transcend time. His goal, in his own
words, is to create images that “stop time for the viewer.” This talent was fully realized during his poignant shoot of Wayfarers Chapel, just two days before its closure due to the accelerating Portuguese bend landslide.
Erik’s opportunity to photograph Wayfarers Chapel arose spontaneously. on his way to a scheduled shoot, he passed the iconic site and, with his professional equipment on hand, decided to make an unplanned stop. Alone in the Chapel, he took full advantage of the quiet space, unaware that he was documenting its final intact moments before its closure. reflecting on the day, he described an overwhelming sense of loss, likening the atmosphere to “the onset
PV Magazine is proud to partner with renowned photographer Erik Jay to present a stunning series capturing the final moments of Wayfarers Chapel before its closure. Taken just days before the beloved landmark was closed to the public, these powerful images offer a timeless tribute to a place that has touched so many lives.
These breathtaking photos are available as fine art prints and specialty products, giving you the chance to preserve the beauty and spirit of Wayfarers Chapel forever. Don’t miss this opportunity to own a piece of history and celebrate the legacy of this iconic sanctuary.
of grief before confirmation arrives.” The Chapel’s serene beauty was underscored by visible distress— cracks in the floor, buckled tiles, and fractured glass. As the land moved beneath him, Erik felt the urgency of capturing its fragility, noting the creaking and ticking sounds of the stressed structure as he worked.
“It was eerie because it wasn’t past tense,” Erik shared. “I was there while the glass was cracking and the walls were moving.” During his time at the Chapel, he observed the unwavering determination of staff members, led by Dan burchett, as they worked to mitigate the damage and maintain hope. later, a group of Japanese tourists arrived, their silent reactions to the cracks and stress lines revealing the universal impact of witnessing the Chapel’s decline. For Erik, the experience was deeply personal. The fountain, where he once worked as a teenager, brought back memories of his childhood in Palos Verdes. “It felt like I was saying goodbye to a part of my own story,” he said.
His focus during the shoot was to honor the Chapel’s legacy. Standing before the steps leading to the altar, he captured the angular brilliance of lloyd Wright’s design, framed by trees, sky, and the iconic tower. This perspective, shared by countless couples on their wedding day, symbolizes the Chapel’s timeless essence. “I wanted the photos to matter to everyone who saw them,” Erik explained. “For their memory to be a captured moment that mirrored what they experienced before stepping up to say, ‘I do.’”
Through his images, Erik has helped raise $15,000 for the Chapel’s preservation efforts. His photographs serve as a bridge between past and future, reminding the community of the Chapel’s significance while inspiring hope for its eventual return. “The Chapel is more than a structure—it’s a testament to love, faith, and peace,” Erik reflected. “It’s a part of our history, and I’m grateful to have been there to share its final moments.” His work ensures that Wayfarers Chapel will continue to inspire stories, memories, and dreams for generations to come, even as the community looks forward to its next chapter.
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JeRaLyn GLaSS A Story of Music and Healing
Written by Cindy Donnelly
Jeralyn performing at the Wayfarers Chapel
Jeralyn appears on the Kelly Clarkson show
Jeralyn Glass is a talented singer and musician whose artistic journey began on the Peninsula and has led her to become a pioneer in the field of Sound Healing and Music Medicine. After experiencing the unimaginable loss of her only child in 2015, she was led to blend her musical training with instruments developed in the year 2000, alchemy crystal singing bowls, to guide her through her profound grief. Jeralyn had been playing the singing bowls for 9 years, and inspired by her angel son, she discovered a new purpose of helping others using these instruments to quiet their mind and safely feel buried emotions, trauma and pain as part of their healing process.
Jeralyn moved to Palos Verdes when she was 8 years old. Not long after, at the age of eleven, she participated in choir at Margate Intermediate School and discovered she had a natural talent for singing. Her parents took her to neighbors Annette Warren and Paul Smith who were well known musicians. Annette was a voice teacher who sang for Ava Gardner in the movie Show boat, while Paul was a jazz pianist who played with Ella Fitzgerald, Frank Sinatra, and Sammy Davis Jr. Their instruction gave Jeralyn a rich background in classical music, broadway songs and jazz standards. During these years, she sang at the Easter Sunrise services at the Wayfarers Chapel, at St. Peter’s by the Sea and in recitals at the Palos Verdes library.
At the age of sixteen, Jeralyn sang her first role as Maria in “The Sound of Music” with the PV Players. A few years later, she opened the Norris Theatre’s inaugural concert performing that shows title song, “The hills are alive...” She remembers the excitement and getting to wear a costume from The Carol burnett Show provided by producer bob Wright. broadway called and her dream came true as she was cast in the 25th Anniversary revival of My Fair lady starring rex Harrison which had a three-month run at the Pantages Theatre in lA. After her broadway debut, she attended Juilliard and pursued a classical singing career beginning at the Zurich opera Studio in Switzerland. She lived in Europe for 20 years, returning to California to see her family, guest teach at Chapman university and perform concerts. Jeralyn followed her parents example to give back to the community, and so during some of her visits, she sang benefit concerts for Trinity Care Hospice and the Cancer Support Community South bay at local venues such as The Norris Theatre, and the James Armstrong Theater. It was also during one of these return visits that she first heard Crystal Tones Singing bowls at a demonstration and was fascinated by their sounds. She purchased seven, took them back to Europe and began playing them for herself, her family, and with her voice students. She found they relieved stress and enhanced freedom of expression. Her son who sang and played the piano, also loved
the sounds of the bowls. When he was thirteen, he entered a national singing contest in Germany, making it to the semi-finals. Just days before the contest, his voice began to drop, which Jeralyn explains was really challenging. She guided him using one of the bowls, a G-note Citrine alchemy singing bowl, which helped him stay calm and sing with his new adult voice.
Sadly, just six years later, Jeralyn’s life changed forever with the death of her son. She had the first of what she calls “miraculous signs” the night he died. She and a friend were walking on the beach in Torrance when they both saw a shooting star which seemed to begin over her parents’ home on the Peninsula and cross the sky to land in the mountains of los Angeles. She heard her son’s voice say, “Mom, I’m home, I‘m with God”. The months that followed were difficult and Jeralyn was shaken to her core. She recalls sitting in her kitchen and again hearing her son’s voice, but this time he said, “Mom, call the bowl dudes.” At first, she ignored the message, but she kept hearing it until she finally called and purchased eleven more bowls, which she began playing intensely. The sounds allowed her to cry and groan in her grief. “Their exquisite, grounding yet ethereal tones soothed my brokenness, allowed me to move through the intense emotions and brought acceptance, hope and transmutation.”
Today, Jeralyn is bringing this same healing to others through her Crystal Cadence ® studio recognizing that “music has been a balm in every culture throughout history. The singing bowls are being integrated in new ways by mainstream artists, in classical music and meditative sound baths, and we are passionately exploring the science behind them.” Today, Jeralyn is helping create a Music, Health and Wellness research laboratory at San Francisco’s Minerva university and she offers soundbaths for cancer and hospice patients, veterans, children and everyone. She recently appeared on National TV on the Kelly Clarkson show (which donated $1000 to the Cancer Support Community South bay) and presented at the prestigious conference Music as Medicine sponsored by the NIH and the Kennedy Center. She has a new book published by Hay House, Sacred Vibrations: The Transformative Power of Crystalline Sound and Music, a Crystal Sound Healing oracle Card Deck, a unique mobile app Source-be Inspired, and a new album! She also is planning an in-person Healing retreat in August at St. Peter’s by the Sea in Palos Verdes. For more information visit her website www.crystalcadence.com or www.jeralynglass.com
Community Unites for Wildfire Relief
In the wake of the devastating los Angeles Wildfires of 2025, the Anne & Steve Hinchliffe San Pedro & Peninsula yMCA took immediate action to support those in need. As one of the first local organizations to issue a call to action, the yMCA rallied the community to collect essential supplies, including water, toiletries, towels, diapers, wipes, and non-perishable food. Donations poured in from every corner of Palos Verdes and San Pedro, with residents showing an overwhelming outpouring of compassion. Executive Director Josh Chan reflected on the community’s response, saying, “I’ve never seen our community rally together so selflessly—I’m so proud of Palos Verdes and San Pedro.” For more info, please visit www.ymcalA.org/SPP
To see more photos of any of these events, scan the qr code!
10th Annual South Bay Economic Forecast
The 10th Annual South bay Economic Forecast Conference took place on october 24 at California State university, Dominguez Hills, drawing business, education, civic, and government leaders from across the region. Moderated by Frank Mottek of Mottek on Money, the event featured insightful discussions on economic trends, investment opportunities, and the impact of artificial intelligence and robotics on the future of business. The South bay Economics Panel, led by CSuDH researchers, provided key findings on entrepreneurship and the housing market, while the AI and robotics Panel showcased industry leaders from companies like Ampaire, Chevron, Hadrian, GrayMatter robotics, and Waymo.
Attendees also had the opportunity to see cuttingedge technology up close, with a Spot robot and a Waymo autonomous vehicle on display. The conference concluded with a lively networking reception featuring wine and craft beer tasting, allowing guests to continue conversations sparked by the panels. The event underscored the South bay’s role as a hub for innovation and economic growth, setting the stage for the region’s evolving business landscape.
Economic Panel: Dr. Nestor Garza - Associate Professor of Economics, Dr. José Martínez - Professor of Economics and Co-Director of South Bay Economics Institute, Dr. Jennifer Brodmann - Associate Professor of Finance and member of South Bay Economics Institute, Dr. Fynnwin Prager - Associate Professor of Public Administration, Director and School of Public Service and Justice and co-director of South Bay Economics Institute, and event host Frank Mottek
Wade Downey – Alumnus and College of Business Administration and Public Policy (CBAPP) Advisory Board member, Dr. Joseph Wen – CBAPP Dean, Maria Villa – Alumna, CSUDH Philanthropic Foundation Board Chair and PV resident, and Dr. Tayyeb Shabbir - Associate Dean, CBAPP
Johnnell Bragg and Ty Herring, CSUDH business students and Innovation Incubator entrepreneurs
Kristin Borden, Dr. Joseph Wen – Dean CBAPP, Dr. Rida Elias – Assistant Professor of Management and Marketing, Bree Nguyen – Alumna, CSUDH Philanthropic Board member and Lecturer of Finance, Management, Entrepreneurship, Dr. Sari Silvano – Professor and Chair of Management and Marketing, and Beth Whittenbury, JD, Lecturer – Business, CBAPP Advisory Board member
Allen Bond and Eileen Hupp
Palos Verdes Estates Police Department Celebrates New Leadership
The Palos Verdes Estates Police Department is proud to announce two significant leadership milestones, highlighting its commitment to excellence in public safety and community engagement.
rebecca gomez makes History as First Female captain rebecca Gomez made history in 2024 as the first female Captain of the Palos Verdes Estates Police Department. As operations Captain, she oversees critical areas including the Traffic Division, reserve officer Program, and day-to-day patrol operations, ensuring efficient service delivery and fostering strong community relationships.
rebecca’s law enforcement career began with the San Gabriel Police Department (SGPD) as a law Enforcement Explorer. She graduated among the top of her class at the rio Hondo Police Academy and was soon hired as a Police officer, quickly earning recognition for her work ethic and investigative skills. She advanced to the Special Enforcement Team, focusing on narcotics, gangs, and human trafficking cases.
Promoted to Sergeant in 2016, rebecca excelled in critical incident management and later served as Administrative Services bureau Commander, leading department training, hiring, and professional development. She also co-founded several community engagement programs to strengthen ties with underserved populations.
ment in 2007. During his tenure, he has gained extensive experience across various assignments, including Patrol, Motors, Detectives, and the Special response Team. He has also served as a Community liaison officer and School liaison officer, fostering meaningful connections with residents, local businesses, and educational institutions.
Captain belda has held multiple leadership roles, including Traffic Sergeant, range Sergeant, Social Media Sergeant, and Detective Sergeant. Known for his integrity and professionalism, he has been a cornerstone of the department’s efforts to deliver exceptional service.
Captain belda’s promotion reflects his steadfast commitment to public safety and his ongoing contributions to the department’s mission.
a Bright Future for pvepd leadership
The promotions of Captain Gomez and Captain belda underscore the Palos Verdes Estates Police Department’s dedication to cultivating strong leadership and providing outstanding service to the community. The department congratulates both leaders on their well-deserved achievements and looks forward to the continued impact of their expertise and vision.
rebecca holds a bachelor’s in Criminal Justice Management and a Master’s in legal Studies. She is a graduate of the Sherman block Supervisory leadership Institute and the FbI-lEEDA leadership Trilogy. A strong advocate for mentorship and leadership, rebecca is active in organizations such as Women leaders in law Enforcement and served as the 2023 President of the San Gabriel Valley Peace officers Association. Among her many accolades, she was honored as a 2018 Woman of Achievement by the California State Senate. aaron Belda promoted to captain
The department also celebrates the promotion of Aaron belda to Captain, marking another proud moment for the Palos Verdes Estates Police Department.
A third-generation law enforcement officer, Captain belda has dedicated nearly 18 years to serving the community since joining the depart-
City Manager Kerry Kallman, Captain Aaron Belda, Mayor Pro Tem Michael Kemps, Councilmember David McGowan, Captain Rebecca Gomez, Mayor Victoria A. Lozzi, Councilmember Derek Lazzaro, Councilmember Craig Quinn and Chief of Police Luke Hellinga
Captain Aaron Belda and Captain Rebecca Gomez
PV Magazine is excited to announce our
be sure and check out our March, april and May issues to get all the latest information on upcoming Spring and Summer Camps! Peninsula Parents looking for awesome local day camps, away camps and summer programs can count on PV Magazine to help make this a summer to remember!!
is your local organization offering a Spring or Summer Camp in 2025 for kids in the Palos Verdes area and want to share the information with Peninsula parents? Contact us at cindy.donnelly@palosverdesmagazine.com for information on how you can be a part of our 2025 Summer Camp Guide!!
Hanna Kao
A Young Artist’s Journey Through Creativity and Connection
Written byMelani Morose Edelstein
Hanna Kao, a 17-year-old senior at Palos Verdes High School, has been creating art for as long as she can remember. With a passion for acrylic painting and a newfound interest in charcoal, Hanna’s work captures a raw, impressionistic style. She avoids pre-sketching, allowing her creativity to flow spontaneously onto the canvas.
For Hanna, art is more than a hobby—it’s a therapeutic outlet. She turned to painting during challenging times, including her struggle with an eating disorder, finding solace and peace in the process. Painting became a way to express emotions that words couldn’t convey, fostering resilience and healing. “Painting helps me escape reality and create an imaginative world,” she shares, adding that her work often reflects themes of inclusivity and self-acceptance, inspired by her experiences with bullying and insecurities.
Hanna’s art carries a profound purpose. She strives to connect with others by addressing issues people often conceal. “My paintings highlight insecurities and hardships, aiming to resonate with those facing similar struggles,” she explains. one of her most meaningful pieces, Feel it All, explores the idea of embracing the present moment, a message Hanna holds close. The work, featuring a grotesque face, invites viewers to see themselves reflected in its imperfections.
A pivotal moment in Hanna’s journey came when She stepped out of her comfort zone to participate in an art walk organized by Freedom4u. Encouraged by her AP Art teacher, she painted live for the first time, interacting with passersby and sharing the meanings behind her work. This experience connected her with Greg Allen, who provided invaluable support and helped her gain confidence in showcasing her art publicly.
Displaying her paintings has been both humbling and exhilarating. Watching strangers engage with her pieces, interpreting their underlying messages, fuels her passion for creating thought-provoking art. “It’s amazing to see my work resonate with people and spark conversations,” Hanna reflects. This connection underscores her belief in art’s ability to unite people from diverse backgrounds.
looking ahead, Hanna dreams of attending college to major in fine arts, aspiring to establish a studio in California or New york. She envisions a future where her art continues to advocate for empathy, inclusivity, and social change. “Art has been my passion since childhood,” she says. “I can only see myself being truly content working in the art industry.”
Through her work, Hanna Kao offers a glimpse into the transformative power of art—not just as a medium of self-expression, but as a bridge that connects individuals, inspires dialogue, and fosters understanding in an often divided world.
Hanno Kao, live painting
Breaking Mental Barriers
Blossoms of Sorrow Leashed
PV and CSUDH
Unveiling the Palos Verdes Roots of California State University Dominguez Hills
Written by Melani Morose Edelstein
Few people realize that the lush, picturesque hills of Palos Verdes were once destined to host a trailblazing institution of higher learning. What we now know as California State university, Dominguez Hills (CSuDH) was initially planned as California State College, Palos Verdes. Its origin story is a compelling journey of bold decisions, community engagement, and an unwavering dedication to educational access.
In 1965, the first classes of the university were held in an unlikely Palos Verdes location: the California Federal Savings bank in rolling Hills Estates. “At that time, the area was still largely undeveloped.” recalls Susan Addleman, Director of Development for the College of business Administration and Public Policy at CSuDH, and a Palos Verdes native. “I grew up on Willow Wood road and went to high school here. It’s incredible to see how much has changed.”
That same year, the college officially adopted the name California State College at Palos Verdes. With just 40 students, 11 faculty members, and a handful of administrators, it was a modest begin-
ning. The course of the institution’s future took a dramatic turn after the Watts rebellion of 1965. The uprising, a critical moment in the Civil rights Movement, spotlighted racial inequalities and systemic barriers in los Angeles. In its aftermath, Governor Pat brown visited the affected areas and decided that moving the college to the Dominguez Hills site, in what would soon become the City of Carson, would provide better accessibility for urban, minority populations. The relocation was finalized in 1966, and the college was renamed California State College Dominguez Hills. “our mission became about serving the community in ways that were transformative,” says lilly McKibbin, Media relations Specialist for CSuDH. “Today, we’re proud to be ranked number one in the nation for social-economic mobility, meaning we help students secure well-paying jobs that change the trajectory of their lives.”
Despite its move, the university retains strong ties to the Palos Verdes Peninsula. With over 1,600 alumni currently residing in the area, CSuDH continues to play an integral role in the community.
Two different angles of the same proposed location for the permanent campus during the 1960s. The proposed location was to be on the Peninsula near the then-Nortronics research and development park.
Maria Villa, a long-time resident of Palos Verdes Estates and chair of the university’s philanthropic board, has been a passionate advocate for the school’s initiatives.
“We’re creating opportunities that didn’t exist before,” Addleman shares. “For example, our Innovation Incubator allows students to launch small businesses in a single day. They walk away with a logo, website, business cards, and a business plan. Amazingly, if students earn just $500 a month from these ventures, they can graduate debt-free.”
Additionally, programs like Catapult and the Small business Growth Academy underscore CSuDH’s commitment to entrepreneurship and community partnerships. “Groups of students work directly with small businesses, providing valuable insights and solutions. It’s real-world experience that makes a tangible impact,” Addleman explains. CSuDH has also carved out a significant presence on the global stage. “We’ll be hosting events for the 2028 olympics, a full-circle moment for us since we also hosted events during the 1984 olympics,” McKibbin says.
For Addleman, the university’s evolution is personal. “To have a university so deeply rooted in our home community is special. our service area includes Palos Verdes, and we’re proud to welcome students from all walks of life.”
With programs that empower students and partnerships that uplift local businesses, CSuDH remains a cornerstone of opportunity, innovation, and community, a legacy deeply intertwined with its Palos Verdes origins.
From its beginnings in a rolling Hills bank to becoming a beacon of accessibility and innovation, CSuDH’s history is a testament to its adaptability and commitment to serving diverse communities. “once a Toro, always a Toro,” says Addleman with pride. “Whether you’re 18 or 80, there’s a place for you here.”
California State College, Palos Verdes opened its doors in the fall of 1965 at the California Federal Bank (27608 Silver Spur Road) until a permanent campus was found. Classes were held on the second floor of the bank during the 1965-66 academic year. Between 40-50 freshmen and juniors enrolled and were taught by 11 faculty members.
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