2023 | March | No. 34
your community magazine
Spring ARrives on the Beautiful Palos Verdes Peninsula
Jonathan Ho’s microgreens , Vertical Farming & Hydroponics Native Plant Gardens Ballerina Campbelle Malicse 2023 YoungArts Finalist
palosver d e sma ga z in e . com
Excellence, for you. The Health care industry has spoken, and we are humbled by the recognition. The acknowledgement for Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Centers in San Pedro and Torrance serves as a powerful source of motivation for our employees to continue our mission: to provide our patients and communities with world class compassionate care.
Your Partner in Health Care Excellence.
ChooseProvidence.org
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Cover Photo: Erik Jay
Editor’s Letter
Issue No. 34
Hello Palos Verdes I guess Phil the groundhog was right this year! On February 2, 2023 when Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow, he predicted 6 more weeks of winter weather. He seems to have been right. I don’t know about you but I am ready for Spring. This is our Spring issue and as I sit here writing this, the wind is howling and it’s 54 degrees outside. If Phil was right, we can look forward to our beautiful sunny California weather back in a few more weeks! Regardless, the hills are alive on the Peninsula! The rain has given us lots of beautiful green and the flowers are blooming. This was our inspiration for this issue. For many reasons, this is my favorite time of year. New beginnings and opportunities to “grow” and enjoy all our community has to offer. Longer days are coming and this offers us more daylight to get outside and enjoy the beauty that surrounds us. We have some great stories this month. From our feature on Peninsula High School graduate, Jonathan Ho’s microgreen business to a rescued horse that loves cookies, there is something for everyone. I’d like to thank Joan Behrens and the Rotary Club of Palos Verdes Peninsula for continuing to honor the wonderful teachers we have on the Peninsula through their Educator of the Year program. I had the honor of attending the event this year and had the opportunity to talk to some of these selfless men and women who give so much of themselves as they take care of our children on a daily basis. Thank you for your continued support of this community magazine. Please continue to submit your story ideas and as I always say, “this is not my magazine, it is your magazine. We are just the vehicle to tell the story.” Here’s to new beginnings, kindness and making some kind of positive difference in the world. Kristin Borden Publisher, Managing Editor & Owner PV Publications, LLC 310-940-1445 kristin.borden@palosverdesmagazine.com palosverdesmagazine.com
Follow us on Instagram and remember to tag us for your chance to win 2023 PV Magazine merch coming soon! @palosverdesmagazine
PV Magazine has partnered with www.onetreeplanted.org
PV Magazine would like to thank Dianne Gowder for sharing her beautiful Spring photos on pages 16 and 17 . Inspired by her love for walking, she hikes and shares the beauty surrounding her through her snapshots with her Iphone 11. Living in San Pedro and loving life in the South Bay for the last 30 years Gowder was born in the UK. Her infatuation with nature and the majesty of the Palos Verdes Peninsula has allowed her to combine her two favorite hobbies, walking and photography.
PV MAGAZINE TEAM lane bullard Graphic Design lane.bullard@palosverdesmagazine.com
melani Edelstein Writer melanimoroseedelstein@gmail.com
For advertising inquiries: Roma Mistry roma.mistry@palosverdesmagazine.com
cindy donnelly Community Calendar, Special Advertising Section, Content Creation cindy.donnelly@palosverdesmagazine.com
minnie payne Proofreader, Copywriter
Contributing photographerS Brenda Cash brenda@brendacash.com
06 | PV Magazine | March | 2023
laura hiller Digital Growth, Newsletters HillerELaura@gmail.com
GIVE BACK TO YOUR COMMUNITY AND YOURSELF The planned giving programs at Torrance Memorial Foundation can make a lasting difference for your community through your estate planning, such as establishing a charitable gift annuity (CGA). With your CGA donation, you receive income for life at a higher rate compared to your savings account or certificate of deposit (CD), and your charitable tax deduction is immediate. Your future gift to Torrance Memorial will help others receive expert care and treatment for years to come. Learn more about starting your own legacy at TMPlannedGiving.org | 310-784-4843
IN THIS ISSUE Issue No. 34
28
outdoors 16 Spring is in the Air Flowers are blooming and local photographer Dianne Gowder shares her photos 18 Microgreens are a Big Deal Jonathan Ho explains the benefits of going small on a large scale
pv profiles 28 Coach Brian Edelman A community rallies behind a beloved PV High coach
20 Going Native Expert suggestions to help you landscape your own native plant garden
community+locale +GALLERIES 24 Chamber Orchestra 40th Anniversary Season Chamber Orchestra Celebrates 40th season, Famed Music Director Dr. Frances Steiner retires and welcomes Hector Salazar
AROUND TOWN
34
16
41 Campbelle Malicse This young dancer is ‘en pointe’ for a bright future
33 Rotary Club’s 42nd Annual Educator of the Year Presentation
41
34 AAPI Art Show Mardi Gras on the Peninsula 35 New and Improved Panther Park 37 16th Annual Project Runway at PVHS Peninsula Seniors Bohannon Lecture
pv calendar
47
Education
pv palate
30 Meet Laura Hughes Making an impact on education 31 PEF Looks to the Future With many enrichment programs, PEF broadens student horizons 32 Steven Ihde One of the recipients of the Rotary Club’s honor talks about his teaching experience
11 March Highlights Peninsula fun for everyone
43 Lisa Boyd Lisa Boyd bakes up a new warm Irish tradition, Soda Bread
pv pets 47 Meet Finn An adopted horse finds a new home and new friends
pv professional 44 Angela Dorsey Financial tips for women retiring in 2024 46 Greg Becker California Law and Trusts for Pets 2023 | March | PVMagazine | 09
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pv calendar
march 2023
C alen d ar H ighlights palosverdesmagazine.com/calendar Photo by Erik Jay
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.
March 3, 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
The Power of Pink Women’s Wellness Conference
Join us as we bring together women of South Bay for an inspirational and educational experience featuring exciting and engaging speakers, a fabulous lunch, and a pop-up boutique that features local vendors and artisans. We are excited to announce Marilu Henner as our keynote speaker. Tickets are $250. plcmfoundation.org
March 3, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Spring Film at Malaga Cove Library
Enjoy a fun musical at this after-hours event featuring “An American in Paris” (1951), starring Gene Kelly and Leslie Caron. Two friends struggle to find work in Paris and things become complicated when the two fall in love with the same woman. Seating is first come/first served. Free. pvld.org
March 4, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Cactus Wren Monitoring Training with Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy
Volunteers, 16 and older, are invited to join our Citizen Science Program for monitoring the charismatic and rare cactus wrens in our preserves. The monitoring begins in March and lasts through August. Space is limited. Sign up at https://pvplc.volunteerhub.com
March 4, 7 p.m.
March 15, 10:15 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
Peninsula Seniors Bohannon Lecture Series: “A Saint Patrick’s Day Celebration”
Enjoy a morning at the Peninsula Seniors Scriba Family Center with the local Pennyroyal Players. Sing along to beloved traditional Irish songs, with limericks, poems, and lively Irish dancing. Celebrate the “green” with this family of musicians and their uplifting Irish spirit. Free. www.pvseniors.org
March 17, 18, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Collected Treasures Estate Sale at the Palos Verdes Art Center
Beautiful linens, china, silver, fine and costume jewelry…. you will find all these and other unique estate treasures at Collected Treasures, a curated collection of special items at special prices. Proceeds benefit the Palos Verdes Art Center. Free. www.thecirclepvac.org/collectibletreasure
March 17, 7 p.m.
The Bracken Band St. Patrick’s Day Party
Experience Irish jigs, misty moor ballads, rowdy rebel songs, traditional folk reels, and Celtic mythology in the rich repertoire of this IrishAmerican group. The Bracken Band, Lyon’s Academy of Irish Dance, opens the show. Pre-concert beer and wine tasting are available for an additional charge. Tickets are $23-$33. grandvision.org.
San Pedro International Film Festival Presents Oscar-Nominated Short Film Series: Documentary Category
March 25, 9 a.m.
March 7, 11 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
March 25, 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.
Every Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday meet Terranea’s falconer and his birds of prey outside Pointe Discovery at the Terranea Resort. The 30-minute talk is an explanation of what the falconer does and fun facts about his birds of prey. Free. terranea.com
Spring cleaning? If you have books and DVDs to donate, you can drop them off at the Peninsula Center Library on the last Saturday of the month from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., except for holiday weekends. Please drive up the ramp off Silver Spur into the underground parking area. For questions, call 310-921-7505.
Once again, SPIFF is proud to present these Oscar-Nominated shortfilm series. This year’s screening takes place at the Starlight Terrance Cinemas in Rancho Palos Verdes. Tickets are $15. spiffest.org
Meet & Greet with Terranea’s Falconer at Pointe Discovery
March 8, 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Docent Guided Nature Walk at Forrestal Nature Reserve
Walk through the coastal sage scrub habitat. Learn about local geology. Moderate to strenuous. Park along Forrestal Drive past the yellow gate where the road dead-ends. www.losserenos.org
Book Donation Drop-Off Day for Peninsula Friends of the Library
PV Walkers
March 25, 26, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
March 9, 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
Come join us and enjoy the blooms, fragrance, friendship, and fun. Dozens of elegant blooming orchids and award-winning entries. Local Southern California commercial growers and quality vendors offer a unique selection of species, hybrid orchids, and companion plants. Admission is $5, and children under 12 are free. Free Parking.
Share your love of nature with students and nature center visitors! No experience is required; training is provided. Age 18, and over. Sign up at pvplc.org/calendar-for-volunteers.
Upcoming Event April 9, 9 a.m.
March 11, 7 p.m.
Easter at La Venta Inn consists of a classic egg hunt, bites from Made by Meg catering, a visit with the Easter Bunny, and more! Call for pricing and details at 310-373-0123.
Meet at our Scriba Family Center for guided stretching, led by physical therapists from Providence Little Company of Mary, San Pedro, followed by walking at your own pace at the Promenade on the Peninsula. Meets every Wednesday. Free. For more information, call 310-377-3003.
Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy Docent Orientation (Virtual)
San Pedro International Film Festival Presents Oscar-Nominated Short Film Series: Live Action Category
Once again, SPIFF is proud to present these Oscar-Nominated short film series. This year’s screening takes place at the Starlight Terrance Cinemas in Rancho Palos Verdes. Tickets are $15. spiffest.org
South Bay Orchid Society Spring Show & Sale at Palos Verdes Art Center
La Venta Inn Easter Celebration and Egg Hunt
2023 | March | PVMagazine | 11
Palos Verdes Market Update JANUARY 2023
Palos Verdes Estates
2019 2020
2021
2022 2023
2019 2020
2021
2022 2023
Rancho Palos Verdes
2019 2020
2021
2022 2023
2019 2020
2021
2022 2023
2019 2020
2021
2022 2023
2019 2020
2021
2022 2023
Units Sold
Average Days on Market
Average Price per Sq.Ft.
Units Sold
Average Days on Market
Average Price per Sq.Ft.
-28.6%
+45.2%
+17.7%
-39.4%
+70.0%
-0.8%
Rolling Hills Estates
Rolling Hills
N/A N/A 2019 2020
2021
2022 2023
2019 2020
2021
2022 2023
2019 2020
2021
2022 2023
Untits Sold
Average Days on Market
Average Price per Sq.Ft.
-57.1%
-50.0%
+5.1%
2019 2020
2021
2022 2023
Units Sold
N/A N/A 2019 2020
2021
2022 2023
Average Days on Market
N/A N/A 2019 2020
2021
2022 2023
Average Price per Sq.Ft.
*Percent Difference Compared to the Same Month Last Year
THANK YOU TO MY CLIENTS AND THEIR REFERRALS FOR MAKING ME YOUR TRUSTED REALTOR AND TOP PRODUCER FOR 10 YEARS IN A ROW!
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Frances Steiner, Music Director Hector Salazar, Assistant Conductor
SEASON
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FAMily diSCOunt: With at least one paid full admission, children 18 and under receive a free ticket. this promotion is valid in person only at the ticket office.
Single tickets – $63 (plus PVPA Facility Fee) In-person, via phone, or online at PVPA Concert Previews at 6:15 pm and Concerts at 7:00 pm
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Spring is in the air Photography by Dianne Gowder
16 | PVMagazine | March | 2023
tab name here 2023 | March | PVMagazine | 17
Jonathan Ho’s
MICRO GREENS make aBIG DIFFERENCE Writ ten by Melani Mo ro s e E d e l s t e i n | P h o t o g ra p h y b y B re n d a C a s h
Food is life. What we eat is core to our existence. And people are beginning to understand that buying and eating organic not only promotes good health but aids Earth. If you have visited the Palos Verdes Farmers Market or any other local farmers markets in South Bay, you might have noticed Palos Verdes native Jonathan Ho, entrepreneur and founder of Ho.Listic Operations. Ho’s mission is to create more sustainable, locally sourced food. He succeeds by implementing vertical farming, hydroponics, and microgreens. Fruits and vegetables lose nutrients the minute they are picked. The 31-year-old farmer is passionate about this fact and wants everyone to understand that this is just one reason we should
18 | PVMagazine | March | 2023
eat locally sourced-foods. Sustainable foods are grown in a way that limits negative impacts on our environment. By eating locally sourced foods, your food has not been refrigerated or traveled thousands of miles, using fossil fuels that create greenhouse gasses. Conventional agriculture feeds large populations but causes serious adverse effects on human health and our Earth. Pesticides and herbicides contaminate the air, surface, groundwater, and soil. Ho explains that local urban farms address these issues by reducing transportation and runoff emissions, utilizing land and water efficiently, and significantly decreasing foodborne illnesses – all while producing healthier, better-tasting food.
healthy living
Jonathan’s first inspiration came in Mr. Smith’s Environmental Science AP class at Peninsula High. “These inspirational seeds remained dormant throughout undergraduate studies at Cal Poly SLO where I majored in Environmental Science with an emphasis in Hydrology and Watershed Management,” he explains. “It wasn’t until I got my masters in Environmental Engineering and did consulting work in a rural region of Thailand, working with local farmers, that I understood how to propagate those developmental seeds into something more.” The 31-year-old Palos Verdes native, who attended Vista Grande, Ridgecrest, and Peninsula High lives in Koreatown. “My farm is at my residence. I grow food daily, using less land, water, and time,” he says. Ho recognizes the advantages that his background provides him. “Being born and raised in Southern California is an incredible privilege. The combination of wonderful weather, diverse peoples, and natural landscapes has shaped our fundamental beliefs, but our experiences away from home are the source of our inspiration and passion. Removing the thin veneer of comfortability revealed the struggles of everyday people all over the world. Witnessing rural, agrarian communities that lack reliable access to water and food really put things in perspective,” he explains.
Jonathan at his booth at PV Farmers Market
Food and water are two essential, yet finite, resources necessary to sustain human life. “While in the U.S., 133 billion pounds of food and one trillion gallons of water go to waste each year, globally two billion people do not have regular access to safe food, and a billion people live without access to potable, clean water,” Ho says. With such statistics, making an impact seems mind-boggling but Jonathan Ho is not deterred. He sells his microgreens at PV Farmers Market on Sundays, Redondo Beach Farmers Market on Thursdays, Hermosa Beach Farmers Market on Fridays, and Torrance Farmers Market on Saturdays and Tuesdays. Ho’s immediate goal is to decrease reliance on corporate farms and the environmental impacts associated with modern agriculture. His long-term goal is to implement these technologies and ideas in developing communities to improve food and water security. Ultimately, it all comes down to making the world a better place one microgreen at a time.
“Our commitment is to the people, Earth, the provider.”
2023 | March | PVMagazine | 19
Thinking About Converting Your Yard into a
NATIVE PLANT GARDEN? Written by Cindy Donne l l y
Megan Wolff, Garden Coordinator for the Point Vicente Interpretive Center Demonstration Garden. Photo by Ann Dalkey
20 | PVMagazine | March | 2023
Juan Capistrano and Theodore Payne Foundation in Sun Valley. We are also fortunate that the Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy offers many native species specific to the Peninsula and South Bay that include ones that increase habitat for the El Segundo Blue Butterfly, Palos Verdes Blue Butterfly, California gnatcatchers, bees, and hummingbirds. Once you transform your garden, please be sure to send PV Magazine a photo!
Plants to Entice Butterflies to your Garden!
El Segundo Blue Butterfly with wings spread Photo by Cynthia Woo
To attract local species, plant Southern California native plants. Below is a list of host plants for local butterflies. All plants listed are available from Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy. Visit https://pvplc.org/plant-sales/ for more information. Black Sage (Salvia mellifera): Small, aromatic, evergreen shrub native to coastal Southern California and provides nectar for many species of butterflies. Does best with direct morning light. California Bush Sunflower (Encelia california): A bush with yellow sunflowers that bloom in coastal areas from February to August. Host plant for Fatal and Dusky Metalmark Butterflies and nectar for many species. Requires full sun. Narrowleaf Milkweed (Asclepias fascicularis): Food for the monarch butterfly and nectar for the monarch, West Coast lady, and striated queen butterflies. Prefers full sunlight. Rattlepod (Astragalus): Also known as locoweed, flowers between February and May. One of only two host plants for the Palos Verdes blue butterfly and is also food for many other species of butterflies as well. Prefers full sun. Seacliff Buckwheat: (Eriogonum parviflorum): Flowers June to fall. Food and nectar source for the endangered El Segundo blue butterfly. Partial to full sun exposure and dry conditions. Information from pvplc.org, theodorepayne.org and myplantin.com. 2023 | March | PVMagazine | 21
outdoor lifestyle
Following recent rain, the Peninsula looks very green and we look forward to enjoying beautiful wildflowers in the spring. Because of several years of drought, more Southern California people are considering/have considered converting their landscapes to native plant gardens. Even though this season has started out wet, we know that water will continue to be a resource we need to conserve. PV Magazine wants to explore the benefits of incorporating native plants in your yards and what local resources are available to assist in the transition. Megan Wolff, the garden coordinator for the Point Vicente Interpretive Center Demonstration Garden, explains that the benefits of converting your garden to native species go far beyond saving water, although that is a major advantage. She points out that native plant gardens provide wildlife a place in which to live and play a role in conservation, even within small areas. By incorporating narrow-leaf milkweed (Asclepias fascicularis), habitat in your yard promotes the proliferation of endangered Monarch Butterflies. Megan notes, “If neighbors take to native gardening, it creates wildlife corridors that benefit conservation efforts.” She adds that native plants provide a sense of place, are aromatic, and have cultural significance. Where should someone start in considering converting their traditional landscape to a native plant garden? Megan suggests – Determining what is already in your garden by using the app “iNaturalist” (You may learn that you have native plants.). You will also discover if you have invasive weeds of which you want to rid. To learn more about invasive species, refer to the California Invasive Plant Council website, cal-ipc.org. Another highly recommended website is the California Native Plant Society, calscape.org. “Calscape’s” goal is “to help Californians restore nature and save water one garden at a time. We do this by showing people which plants are native to any location in the state, helping them figure out which ones they want, where to buy them, and how to grow them.” Along with research, Megan recommends visiting local native plant demonstration gardens and volunteering with a local conservancy group or native plant garden to learn how to plant, water, and maintain native plant species. She also recommends visiting the native plant demonstration gardens at Point Vicente Interpretive Center (PVIC) and at the White Point Nature Preserve. Local volunteer opportunities include Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy, pvplc.org, or one of the monthly volunteer events at the PVIC Demonstration Garden, usually held the third Sunday of the month from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.. Email megan@ sccnps.org at least two days in advance to RSVP. Additionally, the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California, bewaterwise.com, gives information on rebates for turf replacement and gardening, and “How-To” videos, including one on converting sprinklers to a drip system. Once ready to purchase plants, find nurseries that carry Southern California Native Plant Species; two well-known nurseries are Tree of Life in San
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As the Chamber Orchestra of the South Bay Celebrates its 40th Season, Famed Music Director, Dr. Frances SteinerRetires and Welcomes Hector Salazar Wr i t t e n b y M e l a n i E d e l s t e i n P h o t o g ra p h y b y Ut e Rec k h o r n
24 | PVMagazine | March | 2023
In honor of Women’s History Month, visiting soloist Harpist Koni Choi, joins the Chamber Orchestra of the South Bay for the March concert. Choi is a resident of Rolling Hills.
Top: Hector Salazar, Chamber Orchestra of the South Bay Assistant Conductor, has been appointed Conductor and will replace Dr. Frances Steiner. Bottom: Renowned conductor Dr. Frances Steiner, known for her advocacy of American music, especially works by women and African Americans, will retire from the Chamber Orchestra of the South Bay.
2023 | March | PVMagazine | 25
arts + culture
As the glorious music of the Chamber Orchestra of the South Bay (COSB) fills the air in the exaltation of its 40th season, Music Director, and famed Conductor Dr. Frances Steiner prepares to take her final bow. COSB’s General Manager/Assistant Conductor Hector Salazar is her successor. Dr. Steiner’s storied career behind the baton includes chamber music concerts and recitals the world over. She was the first woman to conduct an orchestra at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion in Los Angeles and on numerous international stages. Yet, of all her travels, she is happy to come home to Palos Verdes where she has lived with her attorney husband on the east side of the hill and raised her daughter, since 1970. “I often say I’m happier since I live here,” she said in a 2015 interview. Just a few years after settling in PV, in 1974, Dr. Steiner took the job she still holds today, Music Director of the Chamber Orchestra of the South Bay, making her the longest-serving musical director in the orchestra’s history. Dr. Steiner found her way to conducting after a career as a cello virtuoso. Born to a musical family in 1937, she began her music career at age eight when she won a cello scholarship to a renowned music school. Her mother and sister played the violin and her father played cello. Dr. Steiner has shared her talents with the world by playing and conducting music and by working with many students during her university teaching career, including one of her brightest, her successor Hector Salazar. Salazar has served as the Orchestra’s Assistant Conductor/General Manager for more than a decade. He received his Bachelor of Arts degree from California State University, Dominguez Hills where he studied conducting with Dr. Frances Steiner. He earned his Master of Arts degree from CSU Long Beach and has conducted several symphony premieres. He worked on more than 60 musical theater productions and numerous motion pictures. The Los Angeles Times said Salazar “reveals a fluid and clear baton technique and an intelligent sensibility.” Those who love the sound and feel of a chamber orchestra, warmer and more intimate than a traditional orchestra, appreciate the cultural gem that is COSB. The residential professional orchestra of the Palos Verdes Peninsula Performing Arts Center at the Norris Theater is in its 40th season. Tickets are still available for the Sunday, March 5, 2023, concert featuring Rolling Hills Estates resident harpist Koni Choi, who also plays with the LA Phil. Choi lives on the Peninsula with her husband and two dogs. The other soloists featured are Arthur Omura, harpsichord, and Philip Vaiman, violin.
Holly’s 2022 Sales Highlights
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My business spans from Manhattan Beach, to ThreeSixty at South Bay, down to the Palos Verdes Peninsula and everything in between! I love working with both buyers and sellers to achieve their real estate goals. If you are thinking of making a move in 2023, please consider contacting me for a consultation. Here is to a happy, healthy and successful New Year!
— Holly Danna
“
“Holly and her team made the sale flawless. Holly sold the house within three days on the market. Holly knew what we needed to upgrade (carpet, staging, painting) to sell our home for more
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Holly is a proud district parent and Major Donor to Peninsula Education Foundation.
Compass is a licensed real estate broker (01991628) in the State of California and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdraw without notice. *Wall Street Journal RealTrends America’s Best
For healthy births, Providence delivers.
Providence Little Company of Mary offers personalized support, including doulas, for expecting and new parents. At Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Center Torrance, our patients receive family-centered care in a peaceful, healing environment. As part of our commitment to providing parents compassionate and individualized care, we have launched a new doula program to provide mothers-to-be physical, emotional and informational support throughout the birthing process. In addition, you and your family will receive personalized care from our maternity program’s comprehensive team of experts. We offer: • Board-certified team of OB/GYNs
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WIN ANYWAY A Community Rallies to Support a Beloved Coach During Tough Times Written by Melani Edels t e i n | P h o t o b y E r i k Jay
28 | PVMagazine | March | 2023
Visit www.gofundme.com/f/believe-for-coach-brian or scan the QR code.
2023 | March | PVMagazine | 29
community
Palos Verdes knows how to huddle around and support a loved one in need. This all-around amazing hamlet we call home is an extraordinary place to raise and educate children. We are surrounded by educators who teach, train, coach, tutor, support, and love our children. In return, this community takes care of its educators. All you must do is look at the headline for the GoFundMe fundraiser currently underway for PV Cagers and Palos Verdes High School Varsity Basketball Coach Brian Edelman. It says Believe for Coach Brian! The community rallied behind him in 2019 when he was diagnosed with colon cancer and now step up to help him handle the crushing burden of a new cancer diagnosis. Margarita Schweisberger, Edelman’s GoFundMe campaign organizer, writes “Running the high school program and coaching in the youth program, all while never missing a game; dealing with multiple intense side effects and profound fatigue; weathering the disappointments of not qualifying for clinical trial after clinical trial. Does this sound like a Stage IV cancer patient to you? “ That is how she described Edelman nearly four years ago. He beat that beast and continued coaching for the few following years. Today, the beloved 36-year-old basketball coach is back in aggressive treatment for stage IV colon cancer, fighting new tumors in his lungs, hip, and shoulder. Despite difficult battles, Edelman is hopeful and grateful for showing love. “Just as I was in 2019, I am amazed and touched by all of the support. It is truly incredible and inspiring,” he wrote on his GoFundMePage. Brian Edelman built the Palos Verdes High School and PV Cagers basketball programs into the successes they are today; he grew up in Palos Verdes and graduated from PV High School in 2005. He has played basketball on the hill his entire life and has coached all over the South Bay for over a decade. Between all the leagues and sports camps, he has made a positive impact, coaching, teaching, and influencing well over 10,000 Palos Verdes children. There is a magnet in the locker room at PV High that encapsulates Edelman’s attitude. It says Win Anyway, something Coach Brian strives for every day as a coach and especially as he fights his personal battle. Edelman believes that if you lose, you can still win. All you must be is the best you can be, every day. That’s winning. Please visit Coach Brian Edelman’s GoFundMe page to send him a message of support and read updates on his health condition.
community
Meet
Laura Hughes
the New Executive Director at PEF
Written by Cindy Donne l l y
Laura Hughes recently took on the position of Executive Director at the Peninsula Education Foundation (PEF). However, she is not new to the organization having been involved with the PEF since 2017 as a trustee. Prior to taking the Executive Director position she was serving as the President of the Board of Trustees. PV Magazine recently had a chance to talk with Laura and found out she has a long-time connection to the Peninsula. She shared that she is a product of the PVUSD, having grown up on the hill and graduated from Miraleste High School. Although she moved away from the Peninsula for a time, like many of her peers, she returned to Palos Verdes to raise her children. She currently lives in Rolling Hills Estates and all four of her children have attended PVUSD schools. As her children went through school, Laura became involved in the parent volunteer organizations at their schools. She served many years on the PTA at Dapplegray Elementary School and later at Miraleste Intermediate School. She served for a time as President of the PTA at Dapplegray and on the PTA board at Miraleste. Her involvement led her to serve serval years on the local PTA council. In addition to serving on the PTA, she was involved as a room parent and volunteer with the booster club and fundraising. Outside of school, her boys played football with the PV Mavericks which led Laura to be a team parent, and PV Mavericks Football and Cheer Board President for three years. She recalls her time with the PV Mavericks program as one of her favorite endeavors. Laura Hughes Executive Director of PEF talking with attendees at 2022 Toast on the Coast. Photo by Erik Jay
30 | PVMagazine | March | 2023
Laura says, “it’s all about the kids.” Talking with her it is clear she is passionate about giving kids both an excellent education and extra-curricular activities during this foundational time in their lives. She is bringing her experience, knowledge, and commitment to PEF to ensure Palos Verdes students receive top-notch and well-rounded education necessary to succeed and reach their full potential.
“ Families move to our community because of its excellent schools. Palos Verdes Peninsula residents value the importance of education, and we are very grateful.” —Laura Hughes
education
Students enjoying afterschool enrichment programs. Photo by PEF
Looking Forward with the Peninsula Education Foundation In spring 2022, Laura Hughes took the helm as Executive Director at Peninsula Education Foundation (PEF). PEF’s role in the community is to ensure a quality education and extracurricular activities that enrich and provide fun by enhancing access to tools and programs that expand and improve. Laura points out that the Palos Verdes Unified School District has always been one of the lowestfunded school districts in California and PEF was founded with the goal of “fund the gap” between state funds and what was needed to ensure quality education. PEF is expanding its role in the community to do more than just cover the gap in funding. Recently, it has taken over After School Enrichment at the elementary school level and the Summer High School Sports programs. For high school athletes, PEF created the Summer Sports Alliance, open to all 9th to 12th graders but particularly important to incoming Freshmen to help them feel more acclimated when school begins. It stepped in when The Hill Athletic Alliance shut down its summer program. It offers high school sports camps at both Palos Verdes High and Peninsula High. PEF also runs Summer Enrichment programs at elementary and middle school levels with full-day options for parents who need childcare. These programs are designed to enhance students’ education and provide academic enrichment. Educational support includes funding additional classroom teachers, PE teachers, music teachers, library aides, and STEM programs. and Comprehensive/Academic Counselors. Enrichment, which to Laura is an important part of the equation, includes fun activities such as yoga, chess club, musical theater, mega machine Lego, dance, cheer, ukulele, band and strings, and language classes. In order to provide these vital programs, PEF is strategizing/implementing new fundraising efforts to increase the number of families who participate in its fundraisers. This has a twofold benefit – No. 1, increased participation hopefully raises more funds. No. 2, it helps PEF when applying for grants. Currently, about 30 percent of families participate in PEF fundraising. Laura would like to see this increase
with exciting new fundraisers that hopefully appeal to many more parents. Prior to the pandemic, the primary fundraiser was “The Main Event,” a gala dinner, held at Terranea Resort. After listening to feedback from parents, PEF experimented with a more inclusive and accessible fundraiser called Toast on the Coast, held in the fall of 2021 and again, in 2022. Last year, more than 520 people attended the casual outdoor festival, featuring live music, gourmet food tastings from top local restaurants, and premium wine and craft beer. This year, PEF will incorporate new elements including a live auction. In spring 2023, PEF is excited to hold its online auction from April 18 – 28. The highly anticipated auction is available to all Peninsula residents and the broader community through online bidding. People bid online and get great deals while supporting all 17 PVPUSD schools. Items such as VIP parking, front-row graduation tickets, and other one-of-a-kind experiences will be available. For more information or to donate an item visit https:// www.pvpef.org/pef-online-auction/ Exciting things are happening at PEF, and it needs the Palos Verdes Community’s support to continue their mission to raise and grant funds for PVPUSD students. Donations from parents, corporations, and the community fund additional classroom teachers, PE teachers, music teachers, and library aides. They also provide access to STEM programs and Comprehensive/Academic Counselors. Laura says, “Families move to the hill because of its excellent schools. Palos Verdes Peninsula residents value the importance of education, and we are very grateful.”
Summer Enrichment
Summer Sports
Donate to PEF
If you would like more information on programs or donate to PEF go to www.pvpef.org or scan the QR codes.
2023 | March | PVMagazine | 31
honoring an educator
STEVEN Ihde Educator of the Year Honoree Written by Mel a n i M o ro s e E d e l s t e n
Widely considered the crown jewel of California’s public school system, the Palos Verdes Peninsula Unified School District ranks among the top K-12 districts in both the state and the nation. PV also claims outstanding, award-winning private schools. These schools would be nothing without the tireless work of the teachers who are undoubtedly the core strength and driving force behind the stellar classroom experiences PV students enjoy at every level. Almost every day, teachers are celebrated in big and small ways across the Peninsula. Yet, the beginning of a new year brings a special distinction. The 42nd Annual Educator of the Year recognizes exemplary teachers who represent and symbolize the profession’s finest. PV Magazine wanted to learn more about what makes these teachers extraordinary, so we spoke with teacher Steven Ihde On a recent busy Thursday afternoon during his fifth-period prep, we spoke with Mr. Ihde, Miraleste Intermediate School math teacher, chairman of the math department, and Educator of the Year honoree. How did you get to be the Educator of the Year? Fifteen years ago, I would have never imagined that I would be in a classroom, let alone this [PV Rotary Club award]. This is my second career and not something for which I went to school. I was an airline pilot and attended Embry Riddle Aeronautical University. I got a degree in science and got a little taste of aviation flying for Alaska Airlines right before the great recession in 2007. So I had to find something else to do. My entire family is in education. I mean everyone – my sister, my mother, my father, my grandfather. My grandma studied education; my cousins teach, and I was the only one who was not going into the family business, so it seemed natural. How long have you been in the classroom? This is my 11th year teaching full-time at Miraleste Intermediate. It is truly a special place. What makes you a good teacher? The influences around me. I must attribute a lot of what I do to my peers. I can’t take credit for something that makes me unique because I feel like I’m a piece of a lot of campus staff members. Over time, I have developed a teaching philosophy, and the two guiding words that really guide my instruction, and my practice, are love and logic. So, everything that I do I always think, does it fit to love, does it fit logic? Is it something that shows my love for what I teach, the love of my students, the love for my colleagues but also is it logical? Is it going to be something that I can relate to a lesson plan in 55 minutes that shows growth in learning? 32 | PVMagazine | March | 2023
Are students going to show growth? That’s love and logic. I’m an Eagle Scout and there are 12 words – trustworthy, loyal, helpful, friendly, courteous, kind, obedient, cheerful, thrifty, brave, clean, and reverent by which I try to live and it is not easy. There are times that you might hit nine out of 12 but to narrow it down, I think that is the love and logic in teaching. What is the best part of teaching? The best part of my job is that I get to walk into a classroom that is all mine, every day. My 900-square-foot room is where I get to develop relationships with students and develop lesson plans to hopefully make them fall in love with math. Not falling in love, that’s not realistic. I’m hoping to build mathematical confidence in every single student that I teach. A former student, now a professional musician, recently stopped in to say “hello” and. thanked me for helping him make the decisions that got him to his point in life, based on his experience in my class! If my class did something to make a student’s experience better or help them make decisions that got them to where they are, then I would have to say that is the best part of my job. I do love middle school. I think you really catch the students at an age where you get to determine whether they’re going to be lifelong learners.
The 2022 Rotary Club Educator of the Year Honorees are: Danielle Standart Peninsula Heritage School George Ramos Chadwick School Tim Hall PV Peninsula High School Steven Ihde Miraleste Intermediate School Major Millie Bearchell Crestmont College for Officer Training Kristy Kroeger St. John Fisher Catholic School Lucinda Rudolphs Rolling Hills Prep & Renaissance Schools Katie Angelini Montemalaga Elementary School (K-2) Abigail Maeder Vista Grande Elementary School (3-5)
The Rotary Club of Palos Verdes Peninsula 42nd Annual Educator of the Year Awards The Rotary Club of Palos Verdes Peninsula presented the 42nd Annual Educator of the Year dinner and program at the Palos Verdes Golf Club on Thursday, February 9, 2023. Rotarians Joan E. Behrens and David Rowe, Co-Chairs, joined with fellow Rotarians and assembled guests to honor the nine outstanding educators from public and private schools on the Peninsula. After an introduction by their principals/heads of school, each honored educator shared their insights about education and their appreciation of their families, colleagues, and students. Funds raised at this event also fund the PVP Rotary Club’s local college scholarship programs.
Danielle Standart, Annie Graaf, Dr. Cindy P. Chun and Peggy Bartlett
Curtis Chin and Katie Angelini
Julie Hamill, Linda Reid, Dr. Alex Cherniss and Rosa Kwon Easton
Michael Lehault, Steven Ihde and Yuki Tsujii
Joan Behrens and David Rowe
Educators of the Year: Front Row, left to right: George Ramos, Katie Angelini, Steven Ihde, Kristy Kroeger, Abigail Maeder. Back Row, left to right: Danielle Standart, Tim Hall, Millie Bearchell, Lucinda Rudolph
Tracy Martin, Kristy Kroeger and Tina Gurrola
Tom Sheppard, Lauren Ramos and George Ramos
Nigel Cross, Millie Bearchell and Duncan Sutton
Tim Hall and Brent Kuykendalll
2023 | March | PVMagazine | 33
community
AROUND TOWN
community
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To see more photos of any of these events, scan the QR code!
Celebrating The AAPI Community Through Art Show and Reception Photography by Marie C h a o “Celebrating the AAPI Community Through Art” held its second annual art show at the Peninsula Center Library foyer from Jan. 7, 2023, to Feb. 16, 2023. On January 21, an opening reception celebration was held, showcasing art made by the local AAPI community. The show aims to simultaneously celebrate the many diverse aspects of Asian culture and raise awareness about recent hate crimes against them. It is organized by artist Audrey Lin, a junior at Chadwick School. For information visit www. celebratingaapi.art.
“Happy Chinese New Year” by Aiwen Cheung Adele Liu looking at artwork
Audrey Lin standing in front of her artworks “Chopsticks-Incense” and “HOW TO BE MORE ASIAN”
“TEAM” by Xi Ren
People gather in the Peninsula Center Library Foyer to attend the opening reception and support the artists
Special guest Connie Chung Joe, CEO of Asian Americans Advancing Justice SoCal, speaking to those in attendance
Rebecca Cooney, Elizabeth Imende-Cooney, Opening reception participants get ready for the official program to begin and Annie Webster enjoying the artwork
Live music played by Bridge to Inspire members Sarah Arata, Aurora Wu, and Alia Yu
Mardi Gras Celebrated on the Peninsula February 21 was Fat Tuesday and Mardi Gras was celebrated in a few homes on the Peninsula. Keeping up a long standing tradition, the Becker and Thomas families enjoyed jambalaya, Big Easy Wine and of course, a King Cake from Torrance Bakery (sorry Greg, we had to share the King Cake source).
Tiffany Becker, Jaime Thomas, Landon Becker, Colleen Thomas, Ian Thomas and Caroline Becker
34 | PVMagazine | March | 2023
Ian and Colleen Thomas with Fess Parker Big Easy Wine
New & Improved Panther Park at 4th Annual Brett Mendoza Memorial Peninsula Panther Alumni Game On January 28 at 10am, Peninsula High School hosted the Grand Opening Ceremony of Panther Park. Panther Park is the new and improved home of the Peninsula Panthers Baseball Program. These renovations and upgrades were funded by the diligent fundraising efforts of the Peninsula players and the generosity of its baseball parents and families. The grand opening coincided with the 4th Annual Brett Mendoza Memorial Peninsula Panther Alumni Game. This game celebrates Pen’s incredible alumni while remembering a beloved alumni student and coach, Brett “Dozer” Mendoza. On hand to celebrate this special event Nick Green (Head Baseball Coach of Peninsula Panther Baseball), Frank Califano (Athletic Director, Palos Verdes Peninsula High School),Dr. Brent Kuykendall (Principal, Palos Verdes Peninsula High School), Eli Morgan (Pitcher, Cleveland Guardians) as well as many other local leaders and alumnae.
2023 | March | PVMagazine | 35
community
AROUND TOWN
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Palos Verdes High School hosted the 16th Annual Project Runway Benefitting Make-A-Wish of Greater Los Angeles The Fashion Show supports The Make-A-Wish Foundation of Greater Los Angeles which helps make the dreams of children with cancer come true! The 2023 Presidents of Project Runway, Gigi Cole, Madeline Delana and Maggie O’Hern opened up the show by thanking the models, sponsors, devoted advisor, Jama Maxfield, Project Runway Board and all the amazing stores who provided the clothes which included; The Marbella, Cason Couture, Papillon, Annie’s, Margaret O’Leary, Vintage Dirty Laundry, Spyder, Best Swim, Lovestitch, Diane’s Bikinis, Cami, Alandrea, Paige, Beach DNA, ET Surf and Windsor.
“Fight On!” Bohannon Lecture at Peninsula Seniors welcomed Art Bartner as Guest Speaker Peninsula Seniors had a very special Bohannon Lecture speaker on January 25th. Former USC Trojan Marching Band Director for 51 years, Peninsula Seniors member, and PV resident, Art Bartner, presented an inspirational and heart-warming talk, “Life Lessons of a 50-Year Journey.” He discussed his career experiences leading one of the most famous bands in America, and his passing the baron and stepping off the field after 51 years. His recent book “Drive It!” is a hit with USC fans.
2023 | March | PVMagazine | 37
community
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Do you need additional space?
Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) On January 1, 2020, in the State of California a law on the approval of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU) went into effect statewide to help with affordable housing and the housing crisis. An ADU is a secondary housing unit that is either attached or detached to the primary residence. You may have heard of an ADU as a guest cottage, carriage house, pool house, or in-law suite to name a few.
Unused horse corral converted into a Detached ADU
Attached/Detached ADU
How nice would it be when your parents/family come for an extended visit and they can conveniently stay in the guest cottage. With an ADU you have the option of Attached or Detached to provide additional space. An Attached ADU shares at least one wall with the main house, while a Detached ADU is located in the home’s backyard or side yard. Having this space will allow independence for your parents/guests while visiting with you and family.
Converted Garage or Basement Many of us are still working from home. Wouldn’t it be nice to have a separate space for your studio/office. Or what if you have adult children who are looking to save for a down payment on their own CA dream house. Converting your garage or basement to an ADU could be the answer to provide that extra space. By utilizing existing space you don’t have to start from scratch you can use the existing footprint to create your ideal studio. All in all an ADU benefits the home owner and community by providing the extra space, income, and value to a single residential property.
Open living concept in a one bedroom, one bath ADU
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Jane Biggeln, Palos Verdes Resident Local Business Owner & Contributor
WWW.LUNADACONSULTING.COM | 310.544.1895 Contractor LIC. #1005962 Photography By: Dan Solomon
Dana Graham — A Palos Verdes Classic Top 1% Nationally Top 10 Agent in Palos Verdes Listings Sold President of the Palos Verdes Historical Society 75-year Resident of Palos Verdes
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pv arts
“My ballet success comes from learning from my mistakes and applying corrections.” —Campbelle Malicse
Campbelle dancing the role of Kitri in Act 1 of Don Quixote at YAGP 2023 in Las Vegas.
Rancho Palos Verdes Teen Recognized as a 2023 YoungArts Finalist Written by Cin d y D o n n e l l y | P h o t o b y L K s t u d i o
Excitement abounds for Rancho Palos Verdes resident, Campbelle Malicse. The Palos Verdes Distance Learning Academy junior also studies classical ballet at the Peninsula School of Performing Arts. This year, YoungArts Finalist in Ballet, the organization’s highest honor, recognizes Campbelle’s caliber of artistic achievement as she joins other accomplished young visual, literary, and performing artists throughout the country. As a YoungArts award winner, Campbelle is offered creative and professional development support throughout her career. She is also eligible to be nominated to become a U.S. Presidential Scholar in the Arts. YoungArts, the sole nominating agency for this honor, is one of the highest honors given to select high school seniors by our president. As a finalist, Campbelle participated in National YoungArts Week in January in Miami. I asked her what the experience is like; she shares that it is very busy with classes, both in the discipline of classical ballet and in other genres such as hip hop and jazz. Additionally, she experienced acting and poetry classes. Also, opportunities to network with the dance community and explore career options. She also talked with previous winners and was invited to work on helpful projects to promote her future as a dancer. Of the experience she says, “I don’t think I’ve realized the impact YoungArts has on me. It’s like I haven’t yet processed the experience of spending a week with so many talented and creative people.” After returning, Campbelle was back in the dance studio training for the Youth America Grand
Prix (YAGP) competition in Las Vegas held on January 26-29, 2023. She placed in the top 12 in the competition and plans to compete in the next round of YAGP in San Diego in March with hopes of being in the Florida finals in April. When asked about her success in ballet, she reflects, “my ballet success comes from learning from my mistakes and applying corrections.” Her goal is to be a professional dancer, and she hopes to enter the San Francisco Ballet or American Ballet Theater. She also has her eye on European companies such as The Royal Ballet in the U.K. and the Paris Opera Ballet, but she acknowledges the difficulty to get into European companies. To pursue professional dancing, she understands that she may need to attend online college or defer college for a few years. Currently, she works on audition videos for year-round schools and summer intensive programs, including San Francisco Ballet, the Royal Ballet, and English National Ballet. PV Magazine is very impressed with Campbelle and is excited to see what is next for her. If you want to see Campbelle perform along with other local ballet students, she will be participating in the Peninsula School of Performing Arts production of Swan Lake this coming May; you can visit https:// www.pspadance.com/ as the date gets closer for details. For more information on the YoungArts competition open to artists, 15-18 years old (or in grades 10-12) visit https://youngarts.org/ 2023 | March | PVMagazine | 41
pv palate
Lisa Boyd’s irish soda bread Ingredients: 1 cup whole milk 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (or white vinegar) 4 cups all-purpose flour 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature ½ cup sugar 1½ teasspoon kosher salt 1 teaspoon baking soda (hence, “Soda Bread”) 1 large egg 1 orange zest (about 1 tablespoon) ¼ teaspoon green food color gel or liquid (optional)
Soda bread is a bread that is leavened with baking soda, instead of yeast. First discovered in Ireland in the 1830s, it continues as a main food in the community. Today, the bread is baked around the world in celebration of St. Patrick’s Day. Enjoy it with soups and stews or slice it as toast smeared with delicious Irish butter.
Happy St. Patrick’s Day!
Directions: 1. Preheat oven to 375°F and line a cookie sheet with | parchment paper. 2. Measure milk into a glass measuring cup and add lemon juice. Set aside. 3. Place flour into a large mixing bowl. Add room temperature butter. Rub butter and flour together with your fingers until the butter is the size of small peas. 4. Add room-temperature baking soda into the flour mixture, make a well and set aside. 5. To milk mixture, add orange zest, egg, and food coloring. Mix to combine. 6. Pour the milk mixture into the flour well. Stir in a circular motion to slowly mix in the flour. 7. Once most of the liquid is dissolved, use your hands to knead the dough slightly in the bowl to finish incorporating the flour. The dough will be very wet. 8. Shape the dough into a circle and place on the prepared cookie sheet. Cut an “X” on top of the dough. 9. Bake at 375°F for 40-60 minutes, until the outside is browned, and an inserted toothpick comes out clean.
Lisa Boyd – Baker Boyd’s Batch Cooking Classes | Recipes | Baked Goods Follow on Instagram: @BakerBoydsBatch Latest info and classes: www.bakerboydsbatch.com Contact: bakerboydsbatch@gmail.com
2023 | March | PVMagazine | 43
pv professional
12-Step Checklist
for Women Retiring in 2024 By Angela Dors e y
Retirement for women can be so overwhelming. You are so close, the finish line is almost in sight. With 2023 underway, you have just 12 months left until you retire in 2024. Emotionally, mentally, and physically, you are so ready to retire. But are you ready financially? The first year or two of retirement can be challenging. Make sure you prepare ahead of time with this step-by-step checklist to follow in 2023, starting with your overall retirement plan.
1. Review or Create Your Retirement Plan
If you haven’t done so already, now is the perfect time to review or create a retirement plan. This should include everything from exactly when you will retire to how you will spend your time. Take the time to think about what you want retirement to look like for you. Will you be retiring with a spouse? Do you want to work part-time, volunteer, or travel the world? The answer to these questions will inform the rest of the tasks on this list, so it’s important to be both intentional and realistic about your plans.
2. Decide When to Claim Your Social Security Benefits
Deciding when to take Social Security benefits is one of the biggest questions you will have to answer in the year leading up to retirement. Depending on your age when you retire, you could be looking at reduced benefits (age 62), full benefits (age 67), or maximum benefits (age 70). If you decide to retire, but delay benefits until a later date, you will have to plan for an alternate income stream during that time. Keep in mind that once you turn age 62, your benefit amount will be increased annually based on the cost-of-living adjustment. This adjustment occurs even if you don’t claim your benefits until a later age. If both you and your spouse worked and contributed to the Social Security system, then you have two benefit amounts to consider. There are strategies that married couples can use to make the most of their benefits by taking one benefit early and delaying another until age 70.
44 | PVMagazine | March | 2023
3. Create a Realistic Retirement Budget
Once you’ve assessed your Social Security benefits and decided when to claim, it’s important to take a look at all other sources of retirement income and create a realistic budget. With your newfound free time, it can be easy to overspend without realizing it. But since your income is fixed, a realistic budget that you can hold yourself accountable to is one of the best things you can do in the months leading up to the big day. Overspending, even for a short period, can shave years off the longevity of your assets. The budget doesn’t need to be perfect, but it should be something you can honestly stick to. Try tracking your expenses for a couple of months to get an idea of what you spend currently. Once you have all your costs outlined, consider if there are areas where you can cut back or items that will increase in retirement.
4. Consider Saving More
If you are earning more income in the year leading up to retirement and you don’t necessarily need it for daily expenses, consider contributing more to a tax-advantaged retirement account like a traditional or Roth IRA, or a 401(k) or 403(b). These accounts have increased contribution limits for taxpayers over the age of 50 and contributing more can be an effective way to boost your nest egg while reducing your taxable income just before retirement.
5. Determine Your Withdrawal Strategy
Many retirees mistakenly assume that how and when they withdraw from their retirement accounts doesn’t matter as long as they have a sizable amount saved. They also falsely believe that they will always be in a lower tax bracket in retirement. This can result in inefficient withdrawals that increase your tax liability unnecessarily and greatly reduce the longevity of your portfolio. The timing of withdrawals makes all the difference and it’s a key component in safeguarding your retirement nest egg. For example, a $50,000 withdrawal from a Roth IRA will have a wildly different tax impact than that same distribution from a traditional IRA. If you blindly take your money and run, you could trig-
6. Review Your Life Insurance Needs
Many employers offer group and supplemental life insurance policies as part of a benefit package for employees. These are great during your working years, but they often expire at retirement, and retirees who only have group insurance may be left unprotected. Whether you have a mortgage and want to make sure your family is covered, or you want to provide an inheritance, be sure to review your life insurance needs, as well as any existing policies you have in place. If it makes sense, consider extending your employer’s coverage or look for a private insurance policy.
7. Take Advantage of Employer Healthcare Benefits
Another important step to take before retiring is to utilize any healthcare benefits offered by your employer. Maintaining good physical and mental health is a key component to a happy and fulfilling retirement. Make sure you are up to date on your physicals, check-ups, and prescriptions before retiring, especially if you have already met your deductible for the year. If you have an FSA, consider spending down the account, and if you have an HSA, consider paying for expenses out of pocket to keep the funds growing tax-deferred.
8. Review Your Medicare Options
Once you turn 65, you will be able to enroll in Medicare. Depending on your age at retirement, be sure to mark your calendar for this important milestone. If there is a gap between when you’re retiring and your Medicare eligibility, you will have to find alternative coverage through the Health Insurance Marketplace, COBRA, private insurers, employer retiree insurance, or your spouse’s employer coverage. These options can vary dramatically in cost and level of coverage, so be sure to plan ahead.
9. Evaluate Your Long-Term Care Needs
Long-term care is a woman’s issue. It’s estimated that 70% of today’s 65-year-olds will need long-term care services at some point in the future. Without proper planning, these costs can quickly spiral out of control. The year before retirement is the perfect time to assess your needs and consider long-term care insurance to supplement what you can afford to spend out of pocket. Consider family health history as well as your own lifestyle, health needs, and projected life expectancy when thinking about long-term care. As difficult as it can be to think about, planning ahead is the best way to safeguard your savings as you head into retirement.
10. Evaluate Your Housing Needs
If you haven’t already, take stock of your current housing and if it will still make sense in retirement. Are you an empty nester in a five-bedroom house? Have you always wanted to relocate? Do you have a mortgage? Would you easily be able to age-inplace or would significant accessibility modifications be required? These are all questions to ask yourself in the year leading up to retirement. Since housing is one of the largest ongoing expenses you’ll have during your golden years, it’s important to thoroughly consider your options.
11. Review Your Estate Plan
Now that you’re gearing up to retire, take the time to review your estate plan and make sure everything is in order. You should have basic estate planning documents like a will, durable power of attorney, and healthcare power of attorney to ensure that your wishes are clearly communicated and a trusted individual can act on your behalf if something were to happen. If your estate is more complex and you will have significant assets to leave behind, consider utilizing trusts in your estate plan.
12. Partner With a Professional
After decades of working, you know it’s time to retire. But do you feel prepared? Whether you’re already a client or need to partner with a trusted financial professional, I’m here to help you get where you want to go. Schedule a free introductory 30-minute phone call or email me.
A n ge l a D o r s e y, C F P ,® M B A C o m p re h e n s i v e Fee - O n l y F i n a n c i a l P l a n n e r D o r s e y Wea l t h M a n a ge m e n t w w w. d o r s e y w ea l t h . co m (310) 370-7776
2023 | March | PVMagazine | 45
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ger an avalanche of higher Social Security taxes, investment surtax, capital gains taxes, and even higher Medicare premiums, which will eat away at the funds that were supposed to carry you through retirement. Creating a tax-efficient withdrawal plan before retirement can help you strategically withdraw from your various retirement accounts and minimize your tax liability.
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Worried About What Will Happen to Your Furry Companion After Incapacity or Death? California Law Now Supports Trusts for the Care of Animals Contributed b y G re go r y B ec ke r
Safeguarding pets during incapacity or after death is an issue that is often overlooked during the estate planning process. Pets are an important part of people’s lives. For some, they are more than pets, they are companions. During incapacity or upon death, what happens to one’s pet companion? Who will feed and clean it? Will they be taken to a veterinarian for check-ups? What veterinarian will be used? Will the pet be sent to the pound? Will separation occur when multiple pets are involved? In the past, California law did not recognize pet trusts. Trusts could be created, but they were not enforceable. As there was no mechanism to insure for the well-being of one’s pets, many owners chose to euthanize their pets. As shocking as this may be, the thought of their companions being injected into a bad situation was the worst option for many. Today, California Probate Code section 15212 provides the authority that supports trusts for the care of animals until the death of the animal. A trustee named in the trust or appointed by a court may enforce the terms of the trust. If questions about the trustee’s job performance arise, a person having interest in the welfare of the animal may petition a court to request removal of the trustee. Assets in the trust may be applied to the intended use as expressed in the trust. The intended use could include types of food, frequency of feedings and even limousine trips to the pet spa. To the extent the assets exceed the amount required for the intended use, excess assets must be distributed to the settlor of the trust or the settlor’s successors in interest. When creating a pet trust, there are many issues that can be raised: • Certainty: The level of certainty in insuring that the wishes are carried out is one big issue. As more certainty is sought, more complex trust provisions will be required. As complexity weaves its way into the trust, drafting costs rise and so does the future costs to administer the trust. • Caregivers: Caregivers for the pets can be hired by the trustee or the trust can be written to find and incentivize future owner. • Inspection of Caregivers: Inspectors can also be hired by the trustee to oversee the caregivers.
Gregory I. Becker, ESQ. State Bar License 183059 The Law Office of Gregory I. Becker 1711 Via El Prado, Suite 103 Redondo Beach, CA 90277
46 | PVMagazine | March | 2023
• Accounting of Assets: Accountings of assets may be required to the residuary beneficiaries depending on the size of the trust. • Residuary Beneficiary: Upon the termination of the trust, which is generally at the death of the pet, the remainder of the trust assets is to be distributed to a named beneficiary. If there are none, the assets will be distributed to those persons who would then be the settlor’s heirs as determined by California Law. These are just some of the issues that need to be addressed in a pet trust. As far as what happens if multiple pets can be provided for under a trust or what happens if a pet is pregnant and delivers a large litter and then dies, those issues are reserved for a more thorough discussion of pet trusts. There are alternatives to pet trusts for pets such as continuing care programs for pets after the owner’s death. Another alternative is devising the pet to a friend or relative. This devise should come with a gift of cash or something of value. This is simple devise comes with a disadvantage – a lack of certainty amongst other disadvantages. Whether it is during times of incapacity or after death, an estate plan can be designed to provided for one’s pet companion. Whether it is through a will, power of attorney or pet trust, there are options as well as non-estate planning alternatives. As a pet owner myself, I hope going forward more pet owners will provide for their pet companions.
Greg and his family recently adopted Russell the cat from Pedro Pet Pals. Greg tells us that Clint Patterson, a volunteer and sponsor at the organization invited him and his daughter to the rescue after they had recently lost a pet to a wild animal attack For more information about Pedro Pet Pals: www.pedropetpals.com
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MEET FINN
PV PET OF THE MONTH
Written by Ci n d y D o n n e l l y
Karen Sarmast is a Palos Verdes Peninsula resident and member of the local equestrian community. She is the proud owner of Finn, a trail horse and barn favorite at the Peter Weber Equestrian Center. Where did you get your horse? We adopted Finn two years ago. There had been severe displacement of many ranch horses that needed immediate homes from the Northern California wildfires and at the time, we had three other horses – all European Showjumpers. I grew up showing Western horses, therefore, I was immediately interested in transporting Finn home. Is there a story behind his name? When he arrived, he was not in the best shape; we could see black ash and soot on his legs. He Finn up close at PWEC. Photo by Karen Sarmast would flee each time we tried to pet him but when he met my daughter, it was obvious he loved children. He let her touch him and eventually she hopped on bareback and rode him. So, she named him Finn...like he swam through the fires and made it through. He also has bright chestnut hair like an Irish boy, so the name suits him. What do you like best about Finn? What we like best about him is that after his first year here, he went from being super shy and afraid to bolder and more curious. Thanks to trainer Niki MacLeod, Finn receives patient, positive, and reinforced training. Is there anything unusual about your horse? When he first arrived, he didn’t know what a Karen’s daughter Sharlena Sarmast rides Finn bareback. Photo by Karen Sarmast carrot was; now, he loves his carrots and cookies! We call him Cookie Monster! Any interesting stories about Finn? We are very fortunate to have such a loving and caring barn staff who look after him. We are very thankful to Gil and Chantal of Peter Weber Equestrian Center (PWEC). They even arranged a visit from the Rolling Hills Fire Department to meet him. Knowing that he experienced a wildfire, it was amazing to watch eight firemen stand outside the turnout ring and let Finn interact with them. It was also heartwarming to see him curiously approach each one dressed in their fire Finn with Karen Sarmast who adopted him after wildfires in Northern California two uniforms. We see that his fear has slowly faded years ago. Photo by Michele Nunes into having a bolder personality. Finn is certainly loved by all and is one of PWEC’s barn favorites! What else should we know about Finn? Finn made the quarter-finals of America’s Favorite Pet Competition last October. Out of thousands of entries, he advanced to the top 20 in the Finn was chosen as one of America’s Favorite first round and eventually made it to the quarterPet profile group photo finalists. Photo by Karen Sarmast, Niki MacLeod finals, ranking “Top 5” in his group. Through the competition, he gained many fans and even has his own Instagram page, @STAYWILDFINN. 2023 | March | PVMagazine | 47
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