Peninsula People Feb 2017

Volume XXI, Issue 7 February 2017

February 2017 • Peninsula 3

Timeless 

PENINSULA 

Volume XXI, Issue 7 

February 2017 

P A L O S V E R D E S P E N I N S U L A M O N T H L Y 

Centuries ago when the world’s finest clockmakers were 

hard at work, their aim was to create a mechanical marvel 

that operates continuously and last forever. Imagine 

a hand made complex mechanism of inter-working parts designed 

to keep time accurately. Your clock is a work of art and 

your job is to keep this timeless treasure healthy for the next 

generation. 

Your clock reminds you of its presence every time you wind 

it. If the accuracy of the clock is not what it used to be, or the 

chimes are not as strong or rhythmic, or maybe it just stops; 

that means your clock is talking to you and telling you that its 

endless life is in jeopardy. 

It is imperative to maintain and service your clock regularly. 

Oil gets old and dry forcing the train of gears to work twice as 

hard to accomplish their goal. This results in damage that drastically 

shortens the life of a fine timepiece. 

Michel Medawar has been extending the lives of timepieces 

for over Sixty years as his father did Sixty years before. He is 

the inventor of the first talking clock in the world. He is a graduate 

from Patek Philippe in Geneva, Switzerland, The Theod 

Wagner Clock Co. in Wiesbaden, Germany, and the Howard 

Miller Clock Co. in Zeeland, Michigan. Call him so that he may 

come to your home and offer you a free estimate for servicing 

your clock. Or bring your wall or mantel clock to our store to 

see our showroom and receive the same complementary diagnosis. 

We are located at 810C Silver Spur Rd., in Rolling Hills Estates, Ca. 

90274. Or call us at (310) 544-0052 

Open 10:00 am - 6:00 pm Tuesday - Saturday 

810C Silver Spur Road • Rolling Hills Estates • CA 90274 

Call 310.544.0052 

ON THE COVER 

Photo by Amy Theilig 

(amyTphoto.com) 

Terranea Resort President 

Terri Haack. 

PROFILES 

24 

28 

34 

38 

44 

58 

Sweet deal 

by Esther Kang “Queen Sugar” author Natalie Baszile 

returns to the Peninsula to talk about how her novel was 

chosen by Oprah Winfrey to be the basis of a new cable 

television show. 

Terranea mom 

by Rachel Reeves Terri Haack grew up in a big family. 

That experience helped her hold Terranea Resort together 

when times were tough and to make it flourish in the good 

times. 

Heart and Seoul 

by Bondo Wyszpolski Peninsula’s DK Kim brings 

musicians from his native Korea to perform with the Asia 

America Youth Symphony, conducted by fellow Peninsulan 

David Benoit. 

Peninsula craftsman 

by Stephanie Cartozian An early 1970s craftsman home 

is as timeless as the surrounding nature it was designed for 

its residents to enjoy. 

Mexican adventure 

by Richard Foss Salsa Verdes Chef Rafael Solorzano 

reworks his menu to meet halfway with diners’ expectations 

and his interest in more exotic Mexican meals. 

High on the Hill 

by Stuart Chaussee Realtors Chris Adlam, Lily Liang and 

Steve Watts share their thoughts about the local home market 

for Peninsula Magazine’s annual Real Estate Roundtable. 

HIGHLIGHTS 

6 Breakfast Club anniversary dinner 

14 Malaga Cove Homeowners gathering 

18 Morgan’s Jewelers PV holiday party 

DEPARTMENTS 

8 Peninsula calendar 

64 Around and about 

65 Home services 

STAFF 

EDITOR 

Mark McDermott 

PUBLISHER 

Stephanie Cartozian 

PUBLISHER EMERITUS 

Mary Jane Schoenheider 

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER 

Richard Budman 

DISPLAY SALES 

Tamar Gillotti, 

Amy Berg, 

Shelley Crawford 

CLASSIFIEDS 

Teri Marin 

ADVERTISING 

DIRECTOR 

Richard Budman 

ADVERTISING 

COORDINATOR 

Teri Marin 

GRAPHIC DESIGNER 

Tim Teebken 

FRONT DESK 

Judy Rae 

DIRECTOR OF 

DIGITAL MEDIA 

Daniel Sofer (Hermosawave.net) 

CONTACT 

MAILING ADDRESS 

P.O. Box 745 

Hermosa Beach, CA 

90254-0745 

PHONE 

(310) 372-4611 

FAX 

(424) 212-6780 

WEBSITE 

www.easyreadernews.com 

EDITORIAL 

PenPeople@ 

easyreadernews.com 

ADVERTISING 

(310) 372-4611 

displayads@ 

easyreadernews.com 

Please see the Classified Ad 

Section for info. 

FICTITIOUS NAME 

STATEMENTS (DBA’S) 

can be filed at the 

office during regular 

business hours. 

(310) 372-4611 

Peninsula is a supplemental 

publication of Easy Reader, 2200 

Pacific Cst. Hwy. #101, PO Box 427, 

Hermosa Beach, CA. 90254-0427. 

SUBSCRIPTIONS 

Yearly domestic mail subscriptions 

to Peninsula are $80, foreign $100 

payable in advance. The entire 

contents of Peninsula are copyrighted 

2017 by Peninsula People, 

Inc. 

6 Peninsula • February 2017

Russ Varon and Gina Doherty 

Our Heartfelt Appreciation 

Ralph Scriba, Craig Leach, Loraine Scriba 

Torrance Memorial Medical Center wishes to thank the following sponsors for their generous support of the 33rd Annual Holiday Festival which 

raised millions for the medical center's North Patient Tower transformation. 

Kristina and Kevin Durkin, Jeff Neu, Tiffany Mesko, 

Sandesha and Kapil Singh, Michael and Andrea Zislis 

Torrance Mayor Pat Furey, Carolyn Snyder, Jean and 

Ray O’Dell, Bob Habel and May Hoffman 

Richard and Melanie Lundquist 

Priscilla Hunt with family members 

$100,000+ 

Billee and John Gogian 

Melanie and Richard Lundquist 

Oarsmen Foundation 

Loraine and Ralph Scriba 

Russell Varon 

$25,000+ 

Ayne and Jack Baker 

Oi-Lin and Tei-Fu Chen 

Ofelia and Emmanuel David 

Sam and Rose Feng 

Donald and Priscilla Hunt 

TF Educational Foundation 

Ellen and Pat Theodora 

Torrance Memorial Medical Staff 

Julie and Jackson Yang 

Andrea and Michael Zislis 

$10,000+ 

Deborah and Russ Barto 

COR Healthcare Medical Associates 

Diana Cutler 

Sally and Mike Eberhard 

George and Reva Graziadio Foundation 

Keenan Healthcare 

Marilyn and Ian MacLeod 

Brian Miura, M.D. 

Norris Foundation 

Owens and Minor Distribution Inc. 

Kirsten Wagner, D.D.S. 

and Richard Rounsavelle, D.D.S. 

Beatrice and Alfredo Sheng 

Janice and Timur Tecimer 

Liz and Rich Umbrell 

Marshall Varon 

$5,000 - $9,999 

Association of South Bay Surgeons 

Jennifer and Brad Baker 

Ann and David Buxton 

Judy Nei and Vinh Cam, M.D. 

Robin Camrin 

Steven Davis, M.D. 

EMCOR Service/Mesa Energy Systems 

Elaine and Ron Florance 

Angela and Dean Furkioti, D.D.S. 

Jackie and Greg Geiger 

Terry and Joe Hohm 

Kalpana Hool, M.D. and Hugo Hool, M.D. 

Charlotte and Russ Lesser 

Eric and Anna B. Mellor, M.D. 

Sandii and Lee Minshull 

Jeff Neu 

Borseen Oushana 

Kelly and Chris Rogers 

Marge Schugt 

Jan and Ian Teague 

Torrance Emergency Physicians 

Torrance Memorial Radiology Group 

$1,000 - $4,999 

2H Construction 

Christy and Jay Abraham 

Jeanne and Fikret Atamdede, M.D. 

Lori and David Baldwin 

BCM Boehling Construction 

Management. Inc. 

Peggy and Clifford Berwald 

Nadine and Ty Bobit 

Marsha and Ken Boehling 

Trudy Brown 

Linda and Zan Calhoun 

Cannon Building Services, Inc. 

Joan and Chris Caras 

Ann Carley 

Rama Chandran, M.D. 

Bryan Chang, M.D. 

Philomina and Raju Chhabria 

Jason J. Clark 

Sandy and Thomas Cobb 

Mei and William Collier 

James Cook 

Sharon Coors 

COR Healthcare Medical Associates 

Christian Cordoba 

Stephanie Cartozian 

Kathleen Crane and Hon. Milan Smith 

Ruth and Jim DeFlavio 

Susan Dilamarter 

Debbie and Steve Dinsmore 

Thyra J. Endicott, M.D. 

and Rev. Jonathan Chute 

Regina and Dan Finnegan 

Roy Fu, M.D. and Denise Kwok, M.D. 

Christina and Giovanni Funiciello 

Christine and Bob Gaudenti 

Gelbart and Associates 

Steven and Khryste Griswold 

Marne and Dan Gruen 

Susan and David Haas, M.D. 

Shanna and Jack Hall 

Laurie and Greg G. Halvorsen 

Lisa and Steven Hansen 

Harbor Care Center 

Mary G. Harris 

Nancy and Keith Hauge 

Mary and Peter Hazelrigg 

Heritage Rehabilitation Center 

Carole Hoffman 

Gabriella and Ken Holt, M.D. 

HUB International of California 

Danica Krslovic and Dominic Iannitti 

James and Gable Insurance Brokers 

Mary Rose and Thomas Jeffry 

Alexis and Peter Jensen 

Judy and Parnelli Jones 

Jackie and Vince Kelly 

Brenda and Kraig Kilgore 

Lucy and Byron Kimball 

Song and David Klein 

kpff Consulting Engineers 

Erika and Robert Kraak 

Donna and Louis LaMont 

Judy and Craig Leach 

Barbara and Barry LeQuire 

Linda and David Lillington 

Peter Lorman, M.D. 

Pat and Rich Lucy 

Barbara Demming Lurie 

and Mark Lurie, M.D. 

Marcil M. Mamita, M.D. 

Kristy and Eric Maniaci 

Carol and Gerry Marcil 

Thomas Mathieu 

McCarthy Building Companies 

Kathryn and David McKinnie 

Medline Industries Inc. 

Fifi Menzelos 

Melany and Paul Merryman 

Roxanne and Ramin Mirhashemi, M.D. 

Morrow-Meadows Corporation 

Murray Company 

Lisa and Eric Nakkim, M.D. 

Serena and John Ngan 

Corinne and Randolph C. O'Hara, M.D. 

Pacific National Group 

Christina and Phil Pavesi 

Payden and Rygel 

Kelli and Edward Piken, M.D. 

Nancy Poirier 

Adriana and Greg Popovich 

Kathryn and Craig Poropat 

Todd Powley 

Rosemary and Gerald Pudlik 

Colleen and Craig Quinn 

Reproductive Partners Medical 

Group, Inc. 

Carlene Ringer 

Azam Riyaz, M.D. 

Laura and James Rosenwald 

Nancy and Michael Rouse 

James Ryan 

Sandra Sanders 

Laura and Marc Schenasi 

Connie Senner 

Allyson and Alexander Shen, M.D. 

Laura and Tom Simko 

Debra and Jerry Soldner 

South Bay Pain Docs 

South Bay Gastroenterology 

Medical Group 

South Bay Plastic Surgeons 

Kathleen and John Spearman 

Spierer, Woodward, Corbalis and 

Goldberg 

Gina Sulmeyer, M.D. and Michael Arriola 

Aileen M. Takahashi, M.D. and 

Charles Spenler, M.D. 

Terranea Resort 

The Luminaries 

Mari Tokashiki 

Torrance Anesthesia Medical Group, Inc. 

Torrance Emergency Physicians 

Torrance Memorial Neonatology 

Torrance Orthopedic 

and Sports Medicine Group 

Torrance Pathology Group/Torrance 

Memorial Medical Ctr. 

Art and Cynthia Tuverson 

Unified Care Services 

Sandy VandenBerge 

Voya Financial 

Alissa and Mike Wilson 

Mary and Steve Wright 

Kay and Dwight Yamada 

Sandy and Frank Yang 

MAJOR IN-KIND 

BENEFACTORS 

American Solutions for Business 

Choura Events 

G.S. Gaudenti Brothers 

Morrow Meadows 

Redondo Van and Storage 

Rolling Hills Flower Mart Studio 

The Zislis Group 

Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. 

Thank you to all our donors. 

3330 Lomita Blvd., Torrance, CA 90505 

310-517-4703 - www.TorranceMemorial.org

S P O T L I G H T O N T H E H I L L 

PV Breakfast Club 

Celebrates 75th Anniversary 

Over 150 members and guests of the Palos Verdes 

Breakfast Club came together for the club’s 75th Annual 

Christmas Dinner Dance. The club was formed by 

neighbors volunteering for Civil Defense during World 

War II. Their motto is “No politics or causes, just neighborly 

fun and frolic.” The Breakfast Club meets on the 

first and third Saturdays of every month at the Palos 

Verdes Golf Club. 

For more information visit pvbcweb.com 

PHOTOS BY TONY LABRUNO 

1 

2 

1. Las Tres Virgiñas: Virginia 

Butler, Virginia Burns and 

Virginia Malone. 

2. Marty and Don Tobias and 

Georgeann Dorn. 

3. Sandra and Craig Caryl. 

4. Ram Nadella, Bob Bethel, 

Karl Jackson and Dan Crane. 

5. Bruce Dalrymple, Scott 

Sharpe, Henry Bazak and Jens 

Bechman. 

6. Georgeann and Bill Dorn. 

7. John and Alicia 

Maniatakis, Allan and Sue 

Frew. 

8. Shawn and Lala Nejad. 

9. Priscilla Clark and Jan 

Sharpe. 

10. Joanne and Charlie 

Peterson. 

11. Carol and David 

Kleinman. 

3 4 

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7 

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LILY LIANG PRESENTS: 

COMING 

SOON 

One of the largest estates ever offered in the heart of Malaga Cove in Palos Verdes Estates with panoramic views of the 

Queen’s Necklace. A royal wrought iron entrance leads you down a long driveway with massive, historic wooden gates 

followed by a stone and wood bridge to an oversized circular carport replete with waterfalls and gorgeous landscaping. 

Family-owned for over 40 years, on apx 4 sweeping acres and 3 parcels of land next to parkland with striking ocean, city and 

golf course views. This home is apx 10,000 sqft with abundant character, quality, and detail including a sun-drenched pool 

overlooking the Pacific Ocean, citrus and flower gardens, and large grassy areas for reception and entertaining. A truly 

private compound that is beyond compare. Price available upon request. Coming to market soon. 


PALOS VERDES’ FINEST HOMES & ESTATES FOR OVER 30 YEARS! 

NEW 

LISTING 

12 San Miguel, Rolling Hills Estates 

5bdrm + Library, 6ba, 4,500+ sq ft, Lot size approx. 20,000 sq ft 

$3,599,000 www.12SanMiguel.com 

HIGH-END LEASES: 

2249 Via Guadalana, Palos Verdes Estates 

4 bdrms + study, 5ba, 3,789 sq ft, Lot size 12,200+ sq ft 

$2,298,000 www.2249ViaGuadalana.com 

605 Paseo del Mar, Palos Verdes Estates 

6 bdrms, 9 ba, 6,800+ sq ft, Lot size 33,000+ sq ft 

Lease only. $28,000/mo. www.lilyliang.com 

2 Buggy Whip Dr., Rolling Hills 

4 bdrm, 4 ba, 8,000 sq ft, Lot size approx. 2.4 acres 

$13,500/mo. www.lilyliang.com 

1724 Esplanade #B, Redondo Beach 

3 bdrm, 4 ba, 1,830 sq ft 

$10,000/mo. www.lilyliang.com 

24 Narcissa Dr., Rancho Palos Verdes 

2bdrm, 2 ba, 1,825 sq ft, Lot size approx. 43,000 sq ft 

$7,500 www.lilyliang.com 

550 Silver Spur Rd. Suite 240, Rolling Hills Estates, CA 90275 

February 2017 •


PHOTOS BY BETSY TREYNOR 

Malaga Cove Homeowners Association 

Celebrates Camaraderie 

The Malaga Cove Homeowners Association celebrated its 10th Annual Neighborhood 

get-together Sunday, November 20. The historic La Venta Inn was the venue for this 

cherished community gathering. Over 175 Malaga Cove residents braved the whispers 

of rain and toasted to the holiday season while enjoying delicious appetizers, hors d’oeuvres 

and decadent desserts catered by New York Foods. This year’s celebration was organized 

by party co-chairs Valerie Beranek and Tricia Rapaport. Others who played a 

role include Olympia Wyman, Steve Rapaport, Alex Davis, Cynthia Underberger, Dave 

and Rita Evans, Art and Christine Fine, Betsy Treynor and La Venta's Mike Halish. 

1. Valerie Gorsuch and 

Cynthia Bartlett. 

2. Tanya and Jeff Dows and 

Vi Ballard. 

3. Tim and Dominique 

Charlton. 

4. Lola Hagerty, Shawna 

Regan, Edith Andrew, Patti 

Elder and Debbie Dinsmore. 

5. Christine Fine and Alyson 

Shepard. 

6. Kim Hall and Jim 

Vandever. 

7. Jim Flanagan, Denise 

Jacobs and Joe Juge. 

8. Alex Davis, Christine and 

Art Fine and Valerie Beranek. 

9. Steve and Tricia Rapaport. 

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Chris Adlam 

310.493.7216 

www.chrisadlam.com 

Stunning, panoramic ocean, Queen's Necklace, city lights, DTLA views and beyond! This Palos Verdes Estates home 

features over 3400 square feet of open living spaces with high, vaulted ceilings, and French doors that lead to a large 

backyard....perfect for indoor/outdoor living and entertaining. $2,750,000

Chris Adlam 

310.493.7216 


Beautiful, contemporary 6 bedroom home in Palos Verdes Estates. Over 5400 square feet, high ceilings, a 

spacious and open floor plan with ocean views, pool and spa, 3 car, attached garage and more. $3,199,000

Chris Adlam 

310.493.7216 


Gorgeous Palos Verdes Estates 5 bedroom home. Located in highly desired Valmonte with over 4.000 square feet of open 

and large living spaces. French doors, decks, patios....incredible indoor/outdoor living at its best! $2,500,000


Morgan’s Jewelers 

Celebrates 70th anniversary 

PV 

Morgan’s Jewelers PV celebrated its 70th 

anniversary and the holidays with live 

music, hors d’oeuvres and a Rolex watch 

giveaway as a thank you to their loyal patrons. 

The open bar’s top shelf libations included 

Duval beers and Hendricks gin. Fine 

jewelry purveyors came from all over the 

country to share their expertise and to showcase 

one-of-a-kind jewels. Carlos Chanu of 

Assael Pearls talked to guests about oysters 

pearls and also mother of pearl from Nautilus 

shells. Morgan’s owner Marshall Varon 

also shared his expertise. 

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2 

PHOTOS BY STEPHANIE CARTOZIAN 

1. Elie Massoud, Marshall Varon and Christian 

Maeder. 

2. Carlos Chanu. 

3. Diane Augur and Abbe Karges. 

4. Christian and Aivy Maeder, Shintia Lynch and 

Marshall Varon. 

5. Krish Shivara. 

6. Sarkis Barsoumian and Paul Setian. 

7. Colleen Conradt, Stephanie Chavez and Robert 

Hall. 

8. Juliet Rollins. 

9. Anait Ovsepyan, Ray Fadel and Shintia Lynch. 

10. Miroslav Dvorak, Yala and Dean Woo. 

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Queen Sugar 

meets 

Oprah 

Palos Verdes native 

Natalie Baszile’s 

story of a contemporary 

African American family 

reuniting in the South 

captures millions of hearts, 

including Oprah Winfrey’s 

Author Natalie Baszile, center, with Queen Sugar cast 

members Retina Westley (Nova) and Kofi Siriboe (Ralph 

Angel) on the set in New Orleans. 

Photo courtesy of Natalie Baszile 

by Esther Kang 

At the 2014 Los Angeles Times Festival 

of Books, Palos Verdes High graduate 

Natalie Baszile crossed paths with O 

Magazine’s Leigh Haber. The magazine’s 

book editor was a fan of Baszile’s debut novel 

“Queen Sugar”, published that year by Penguin. 

“Queen Sugar” is the contemporary story of 

a troubled, African-American family called to 

relocate in the South after their late father 

leaves them 800 acres of prime sugarcane 

land in Louisiana. 

A few months after the book fair, Winfrey’s 

media production company called Baszile’s 

agent. Winfrey was interested in optioning 

“Queen Sugar” for a series on the Oprah Winfrey 

Network (OWN). 

“I was pleasantly surprised,” recalled 

Baszile on the phone from her San Francisco 

home. “I, probably like many authors, when 

we think about our books, think about it being 

adapted as a feature film, not necessarily TV. 

So it was a surprise to me that someone would 

see a TV series in ‘Queen Sugar.’” 

Winfrey, who is credited as executive producer 

on the series, tapped young, up-andcoming 

filmmaker Ava DuVernay to create 

the show. DuVernay was fresh from directing 

the Grammy-nominated “Selma”, a historical 

drama based on the 1965 Selma to Montgomery 

voting rights marches led by James 

Bevel, Hosea Williams, Martin Luther King, 

Jr. and John Lewis. 

It wasn’t long before Baszile was sitting in 

Oprah’s Los Angeles home, flanked by the 

two women. They had long discussions about 

the heart of the story. They asked her if she 

had any ideas for casting. Because she had 

started writing the book more than a decade 

earlier, she thought that the actors and actresses 

she once had in mind were now too 

old. 

“When they asked me, I was honest,” 

Baszile said. “I had to rely on them for their 

vision.” 

Though having minimal involvement in the 

TV series, she was comforted by the fact that 

another African American woman would 

“continue this journey” in expanding the 


Author Natalie Baszile with Queen Sugar director Ava DuVernay 

at the New York premiere. Photo courtesy of Natalie Baszile 

world of “Queen Sugar.” DuVernay cast “Selma” co-stars Rutina Wesley, 

Omar Dorsey and Kofi Siriboe in leading roles, along with several 

talented, lesser-known actors such as Dawn-Lyen Gardner. In addition, 

DuVernay hired an all-female directorial team for the series. 

“It made sense to give the project my blessing and really be a cheerleader,” 

Baszile said. "Ava was trying to do in film and TV what I was 

trying to do in the book, which was to offer the audience a more nuanced 

and complicated picture of African-American life. And since I 

felt that we both were working toward the same goal, it was easier 

for me to say, ‘Okay, here’s this thing I’ve done. Take it and run with 

it.’” 

Season one of “Queen Sugar,” filmed primarily in New Orleans, 

premiered on OWN this past fall season. A green light for the second 

season was bestowed even before the first episode aired. With a 92 

percent rating on Rotten Tomatoes and several million viewers tuning 

in throughout the 13 episodes, the drama series has been a hit. 

It is currently one of the highest rated shows on the network and 

earned five nominations for the NAACP Image Awards, including 

Outstanding Drama Series, Outstanding Actor and Actress in Drama 

Series and Outstanding Writing in a Drama Series. 

“Every author hopes that their vision, the story they carry around 

in their head, the world they’ve inhabited for a decade — every author 

hopes that the world will resonate with as many people as possible,” 

Baszile said. “The most important thing to me was that she 

maintained the heart and the spirit of the book, and I felt that she 

did that. What I’m enjoying now is viewers and readers moving between 

these two worlds, which have echoes of each other.” 

Though it’s a work of fiction, elements of the story are inspired by 

the author’s own experiences in the South as a Peninsula-raised, 

African-American woman. During Baszile’s many research trips back 

to Louisiana — she visited three to four times annually for several 

years to learn about sugarcane farming — she experienced firsthand 

the micro-aggressions faced by people of color in the region. 

Baszile was born in Carson. Her family moved to Palos Verdes 

when she entered the first grade. Her father owned a business distributing 

aluminum for the aerospace industry, Her mother was a 

kindergarten teacher. After graduating from Palos Verdes High School 

in 1984, Baszile majored in English at UC Berkeley. 

Then she returned home to work for her father’s business, while 

writing at night. She also enrolled, briefly, in Afro-American Studies 

at UCLA, with the thought of becoming a professor. During this period, 

she began penning the first drafts of “Queen Sugar.” 

She is currently working on multiple projects that are in “various 

states of creation.” Two are novels and one could be a screenplay. 

Their focus is on nuanced stories with African Americans at the center 

“revealing the topics of our time, such as womanhood as an 

African American,” Baszile said. 

Last summer she taught a writing workshop for the MFA program 

at St. Mary’s College. Now, she is back to writing full-time. 

“I’m back to the writing because I have more stories that I want to 

tell than I have time to tell. My job is to write, whether it’s novels or 

some other form of storytelling,” Baszile said. 

Natalie Baszile will be holding book signings and presentations at Palos 

Verdes High School and Marymount College on Friday, Feb. 3, and at the 

South Coast Botanic Garden on Sat., Feb. 4. PEN 

Author Natalie Baszile with cast members at the New 

York premiere. Photo courtesy of Natalie Baszile 

February 2017 • Peninsula People 25

SAVING THIS SPACE 

FOR YOUR HOME 

Contact us to hear about our comprehensive & 

successful marketing program. Also, we offer a 

Seniors Discount package. 



Leadership 

suite 

by Rachel Reeves 

How Terri Haack led Terranea 

from the brink of collapse to the height of success 

When Terri Haack left South Carolina in 

2007, she was buoyant. She had agreed 

to take a job as the managing director 

of Terranea Resort, a proposed $480 million project 

on the dazzling Palos Verdes coastline, and she 

and her husband, Doug — her high school sweetheart 

and a commercial pilot — would be moving 

to Southern California, where their son had 

moved eight months earlier to earn a bachelor’s 

degree at USC. 

“Life was grand,” Haack says now of the enthusiasm 

she felt then. She was taking the helm of a 

world-class resort in Southern California. The 

drawings depicted a gorgeous 102-acre resort – 

582 luxurious rooms, a golf course, stunning 

views, eight restaurants. 

For 20 years developers had failed to complete 

projects on that particular stretch of shoreline, 

but Haack knew Terranea would be different. 

There was talk it would become a national icon. 

She spoke glowingly of the resort within the Palos 

Verdes community and with potential corporate 

partners in the Los Angeles area. She recruited 

hoteliers from all over the country, who quit highpaying 

jobs because they believed in the vision 

she was selling. 

Then, less than a year into construction, the 

real estate bubble burst and a national banking 

crisis ensued. Terranea’s lending bank, the 

Chicago-based Corus Bank, collapsed. Consumers 

closed their wallets. The project’s construction 

costs rose. All around California and the 

country, developers in the same position as Destination 

Hotels – Terranea’s parent company – 

handed over the keys. 

“When we started, there was this great enthusiasm 

about what we were doing,” Haack recalls, 

“and then suddenly we were watching it all unravel.” 

Terri Haack grew up resolute. She was the 

only girl in a brood of seven brothers; her 

sister was born when she was 19. She was 

influenced by strong female role models, including 

a grandmother who raised 14 children and a 

mother who raised nine, who taught her willingness 

to serve and stamina — two traits that would 

ultimately define her leadership style. She was 

the first in her family to move away from home, 

taking the job of general manager at a Seattle 

hotel when she was 22 years old. 

Over the course of her career she worked for a 

series of critical, condescending bosses, all of 

them male; the experiences didn’t make her 

angry so much as push her to become a different 

kind of leader. 

“I watched what they did and how it made me 

feel,” Haack reflects. “Even today, I remember 

how my boss made me feel in the workplace on 

my first job, when I was fifteen and a half. I think 

the negative influence made me a positive 

leader.” 

When Terranea began to unravel, Haack 

manufactured optimism. She had experience 

with turning things around. Before 

moving to L.A., she had overseen the 

successful $200 million redevelopment of Wild 

Dunes Resort on Isle of Palms and nurtured 

Kingsmill Resort in Williamsburg, Virginia, 

through a major repositioning. She had broken 

through the glass ceiling in her industry. 

But the odds of success at the Terranea site 

were dwindling. More than once Haack came 

home on a Friday night and confided to Doug 

that she thought the project might collapse. He 

remembers feeling powerless, like there was 

nothing he could do to help her, but more vividly 

he remembers his wife’s “inner drive” and “positive 

and upbeat outlook” — buoys that undoubtedly 

kept the Terranea team afloat. 

“You have to stay so focused on the vision,” she 

says. “You have to have an inner sense of belief 

that you can get this done, especially when everybody 

else is saying you can’t. There was so much 

negative pressure. People had pretty much concluded 

we were going to fail. That gave me this 

kind of strength to say no, you’re not going to defeat 

me.” 

It was the same determination she had felt 

every time a previous boss treated her with disrespect. 

Instead of becoming angry or intimidated, 

she became the boss. 

At the Terranea project site Haack smiled, but 

some nights she sobbed during the whole drive 

home. She felt responsible for delivering on the 

promises she’d made, both to recruits and the 

community to which she’d sold a vision. 

“And all the while we had to portray this façade 

that we were this world-class resort gaining business, 

so we couldn’t let the public know how difficult 

it really was,” she says. “I think that fear 

fueled my ability to think creatively, to do things 

most hoteliers wouldn’t do.” 

Some ideas worked, like forming relationships 

with community organizations, going into partnership 

with sympathetic suppliers (all of which 

Terranea still uses today), and opening with a 

skeletal staff. Others didn’t, like approaching the 

Rancho Palos Verdes City Council to ask for a deferment 

of transient occupancy taxes until they 

could be repaid plus interest. The loan was denied, 

but people still believe the taxpayers bailed 

Terranea out. 

Since the resort opened its doors in June of 

2009, Terranea has generated more than $30 million 

for city coffers. It has become an economic 

engine for the Palos Verdes Peninsula, a site for 

corporate conferences and a popular wedding 

destination. It has also become an icon. Travel + 

Leisure Magazine rated Terranea one of the 500 

best hotels in the world; Conde Nast Traveler 

called it “one of the best places on earth.” 

Haack, who has since been promoted to 

the resort’s president, doesn’t talk about 

the publicity. She’s prouder of the Terranea 

culture, marked by a commitment to sustainable 

ethics and responsible corporate 

citizenry. Among other environmentally friendly 

practices, the resort recycles food waste, prioritizes 

organic produce in menu design, and serves 

only sustainable seafood. Its pools are filled with 

saltwater, its bulbs low-voltage, its uniforms 

made of organic materials (including hemp and 

bamboo), and its amenity containers biodegradable. 

When executive chef Bernard Ibarra said he 

wanted to focus on buying seasonal and local, 

Haack offered her support. 

“She’s the culture of the resort,” Ibarra says. 

“Without her, none of it exists.” 

She has integrated Terranea into the community 

and vice versa, supporting charities and nonprofits 

working on a wide range of issues: 

Children’s Hospital of L.A., Palos Verdes Peninsula 

Land Conservancy, Peninsula Education 

Foundation, Habitat for Humanity, Art at Your 

Fingertips, Vistas for Children, Children’s Miracle 

Network, Peace for Kids, Walk with Sally, The 

Rotary Club, Palos Verdes Chamber of Commerce, 

Harbor Interfaith Services, Rainbow Services, 

Kiwanis, L.A. Biomed. Resort employees are 

encouraged, and sometimes paid, to volunteer at 

soup kitchens or homeless shelters. 

“That was a commitment from the very beginning, 

even when we could barely pay our bills, 


Terri Haack at Terranea Resort. 

Photos by Amy Theilig

that we would give back to the community in the way of 

overnight stays or auction items,” Haack says. “It was really 

hard in the beginning but I was so focused on being a good 

community and corporate partner, on how it had to be bigger 

than us.” 

Haack is busy. She leads a major resort and a staff of 

1,400 people. She speaks annually on Capitol Hill 

on behalf of the national hotel industry. She sits on 

scholarship committees, Marymount California University’s 

strategic planning board, and on the board of directors for 

both the American Hotel & Lodging Association and Habitat 

for Humanity. She also chairs the Palos Verdes Chamber of 

Commerce. 

But still she writes, by hand, birthday cards to every member 

of her staff. She has an open-door policy. She invites anyone 

who works at Terranea to see or email her personally 

with concerns, and she always makes time to respond. She 

knows most associates’ names, looks them in the eye, says 

hello, asks how they are. At meetings, she thanks everyone 

for playing a part in Terranea’s success, and means it. Haack 

recently instructed a busy member of her staff, whose absence 

she knew would be keenly felt, to fly back to Florida 

when her mother’s illness worsened. 

“I strongly believe she feels that all of her staff and employees 

are her family, and she treats them thus,” says Terri’s 

husband Doug, who came from a small family and learned 

through his wife what it’s like to care for lots of people. 

“She’s not just a face behind a wall,” says Shelli Nicola, 

Haack’s executive administrative assistant. “She is here, and 

she cares about everyone.” 

Haack encourages her employees to grow their skillsets; 

more than 300 people have been promoted since Terranea 

opened. At a recent holiday party, Haack named as one of 


two employees of the year a single mother of four who immigrated 

from Peru, began working as a temporary housekeeper at Terranea in 

2009, and is now leading a team of 38 associates. 

“It’s not just grow the business,” Ibarra says of Haack’s vision. “It’s 

grow the team.” 

And she has a standout team. Nicola says there is not a mean soul on 

staff; she attributes this to Haack, who hired good people and modeled 

for them “an attitude of servitude.” 

This is intentional. Each morning, when she pulls into her allotted 

parking space she asks herself, “How can I be of service today to someone?” 

The question directs her interactions with both guests and staff. 

More than once, an angry customer has ended up sending flowers and 

a note of apology after dealing with Haack. 

“She makes the weather at the resort,” Ibarra says, “and it’s always 

sunny.” 

She also makes the money. Her business savviness has grown Terranea 

into a nationally recognized model, both as a workplace and resort 

business. The awards she’s received confirm she’s good at both 

being a people person and a businessperson, among them Best Boss 

(Los Angeles News Group), General Manager of the Year (American 

Hotel & Lodging Association, or AHLA), General Manager of the Year 

for a Large Property (California Hotel & Lodging Association), Person 

of Distinction for Business/Innovation (Daily Breeze), Award for Business 

Excellence (Palos Verdes Chamber of Commerce). She was also 

the first woman to be named Resort Executive of the Year (AHLA). 

Haack downplays the extent of her contribution to Terranea’s success 

and corporate culture. 

“I just feel blessed and grateful every day that I get to do something 

that brings me this much joy, and that allows me to bring joy to other 

people,” she says. Other members of the Terranea team say she’s being 

humble. 

“After all these years on the road and all the places I’ve worked, I can 

honestly say she is the best person I’ve ever worked for,” Ibarra says. 

“She’s unbelievable. The property is physically beautiful and the surroundings 

are beautiful, but what makes Terranea what it is is really 

Terri Haack.” PEN 

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Heart 

& Seoul 

by Bondo Wyszpolski 

AASA president Robert Pacifici, DK Kim of the DK Kim Foundation and musical director David Benoit worked to bring the Korean Dream Orchestra to California. 

Photo courtesy of AASA 

The Asia America Symphony prepares to welcome the Korean Dream Orchestra 

In a matter of days, 32 young musicians from Seoul, South Korea will 

embark on an adventure of a lifetime. The highlight of their trip to 

Southern California (apart from a planned visit to Disneyland, of course) 

is liable to be the concert they are scheduled to perform on Feb. 16 at the 

Wilshire Ebell Theater in Los Angeles. 

It’s shaping up to be a milestone collaboration with the Asia America 

Symphony Association, under the musical direction of David Benoit, and 

one made possible in large part through the generosity of Dong Koo Kim, 

founder of the D.K. Kim Foundation and a major benefactor of the AASA. 

The Korean Dream Orchestra is sustained and promoted by Child Fund 

Korea, an organization that assists and encourages underprivileged children, 

helping them to better their lives and their prospects as they become adults. 

Similarly, D.K. Kim believes that education is the key to success for our 

young people. His foundation is committed to establishing a global presence 

that not only fights poverty, but promotes innovation through entrepreneurship, 

scholarship, and service. In other words, given the right tools, the children 

of today become the informed, self-reliant adults of tomorrow. 

Which brings us back to those 32 young Korean musicians, their Maestro, 

Seung Seok Oh, plus Je-Hoon Lee, the President of Child Fund Korea, and 

about six chaperones who will ensure that the youngsters won’t run off and 

join any rock ‘n’ roll bands. At least not on this occasion. 

The entourage will be in town from Feb. 11 to 17, with lodgings in the 

Torrance Marriott due to to the kindness of the D.K. Kim Foundation. 

They’ll have a couple of rehearsals, one on their own, one with members 

of the Asia America Youth Symphony, and later a dress rehearsal on the afternoon 

of the evening of the performance. The program will consist of 

some jazz tunes, some classical compositions, and a few Korean folk songs. 

Kelly Che will perform as a guest vocalist, accompanied by Maestro Benoit 

on piano. 

“Many, if not all, of the Korean musicians have never been on a plane or 

outside of the country,” says Robert Pacifici, President-elect of the the 

AASA. “This will be an eye-opening adventure!” 

Next summer, to reciprocate, 30 Asia America Symphony musicians will 

travel to Seoul. 

“The three organizations have one thing in common,” says Child Fund 

Korea’s Lee; “to invest in our youth through mentorship, education, and 

opportunity. By pooling their resources together, each foundation will benefit 

in participating in the welfare of our young children in the U.S. and 

abroad.” 

Benoit is also looking forward to the upcoming opportunity to bring together 

East and West: 

“It is dear to me to be able to give such an experience to these young musicians 

from both orchestras. It’s going to be an unforgettable ‘Seoul Meets 

Soul’ concert.” 

It won’t only be music that the visiting musicians will be thinking of. 

They’ve already petitioned for a burger-and-fries stop at In-n-Out on their 

way to Torrance from the airport. 

To learn more about the Thursday, Feb. 16 concert, call (310) 377-8977 or go 

to aasymphony.org. PEN 



Ansel Adams 

L i v e s H e r e 

The master bedroom retreat has floor to ceiling glass and minimalist modern lines that are conducive with mid-century modern design. 

A mid-century craftsman revels in the wide-open beauty of its surroundings 

by Stephanie Cartozian 

The terms “craftsman” and “handcrafted” are loosely used these days, 

but the hard-won work of wood craftsman Robert Halderman and the 

home he constructed in Palos Verdes Estates in 1973 show the depth 

and meaning of authentic craft. 

First purchased by Ed and Shirley Retzler when originally completed, 

later sold to Drew and Kathy Kim in 2011, this home is a blend of modern 

and California coastal architectural style, reminiscent of the famed Sea 

Ranch enclave in Sonoma. Bohemian and ecologically aware, these homes 

are unpainted and unadorned wood dwellings that boast simplicity. But 

their design is deliberate, taking in the ocean, mountain, sky and city views 

from every vantage point yet melding with sloping outside topography, uninterrupted. 

The Sea Ranch enclave was the catalyst for California coastal 

protection; the California Coastal Commission emerged in 1972 from the 

quagmire of dissenting opinion regarding ocean access as it related to the 

Sea Ranch Development. Forty five years later, the ranch’s design is increasingly 

relevant as living with simplicity and conscience have become 

an antidote to excess. 

Kathy Ito Kim, the current owner, toured the home six years ago as a 

Realtor hoping to show it to prospective buyers. Instead, she and her family 

bought the home for themselves and updated it while preserving its initial 

aesthetic. Originally designed by William Abbott of Tozier and Abbott, 

A.I.A., this home has a plentitude of floor-to-ceiling glass, yet it is situated 

in such a way as to ensure complete privacy. It’s an architectural feat. Sanctuary 

here imparts sanctity. “For me it’s mostly a retreat,” Kim said. “We 

Photos by Tony LaBruno 

Built with Western Cedar, the architecture blends modern and California 

coastal designs reminiscent of Sea Ranch in Sonoma County. 


Floating sphere lighting fixtures and seamless Corian countertops 

give this modern kitchen an ethereal and contemporary feel. 

Bea and Walter Kim on their handcrafted butcher block stairs replete with an 

exposed hardware railing and Kevin Ito’s fiery snow falling photograph in 

the background. 

The newly expanded breakfast nook, where the “sunset show” 

plays most evenings. 

are really outdoorsy people so it feels really comfortable and organic to 

us.” 

The home is almost entirely made from Western Cedar and Douglas Fir 

Pine, all hand-cut and crafted in various linear designs, some horizontally 

placed others diagonally or vertically. The interior’s second level is 

arranged around a central outdoor atrium. Its pitched ceilings and clerestories 

open the interior to the outdoors, creating a warm, light-infused space. 

The pot belly gas fireplace is situated warmly in the living room and one 

can see the vast Los Angeles cityscape, the oceanic shimmer of the Channel 

Islands and the sparkling “Queen’s Necklace” view of the Santa Monica 

Bay from various viewpoints throughout the home, melding interior with 

exterior elements. 

“Here it’s all about the sunsets. It’s like a show,” Kim said, looking out 

of a breakfast nook picture window facing the ocean. 

There used to be a television cabinet and closet here, Kim noted, but 

both have been removed to make the breakfast area larger; combined with 

the adjoining kitchen space, it’s become a “great room” conducive to in- 

The outside atrium with slatted wood overhang is centrally located 

upstairs providing an outside/inside element in the main living 

quarters. 


trospection as well as family time. 

The kitchen was modernized and 

remodeled by the Kims in keeping 

with the original aesthetic of the 

home. 

“The wood for the new kitchen 

came from the same mill where 

the original wood came to build 

the actual house,” Kim said. 

Craftman Robert Halderman, revisiting 

his original work, sourced 

the new wood, as well. Miller 

Woodworking of Harbor City, 

whose owners are Palos Verdes residents, 

hand-scratched the kitchen 

wood to create the linear, floating 

cabinetry replete with invisible 

touch latches. The refrigerator and 

pantry are disguised behind custom 

millwork hand stained in a 

deep onyx color. “Our main thing 

was preserving the aesthetic and 

the feel of the house but pulling 

out more of the modern and updating 

the house,” Kim said. “...That 

was the trickiest part.” 

They also added larger windows 

to the second level and a guest 

bathroom. 

“The windows used to be much 

smaller,” Kim said. 

In the new kitchen are Corian 

countertops, flowing and virtually 

seamless with bold effects of white 

color coupled with translucency. 

Kim said she had yet to see something 

her children could spill that 

could stain them. 

The upstairs is further comprised 

of the master bedroom and 

bathroom, situated adjacent to the 

atrium, with windows that act like 

skylights opening to the stars and 

moon as well as a large picture 

window to view the city lights. The 

master bathroom is also newly remodeled 

and has both Corian walls 

and countertops. Outside the room 

is a wall piece which appears to be 

a decorated skateboard. The family 

enjoys board sports and Kim explained 

this was an iconic design 

made by the international fashion 

The master bathroom has Dorn Bracht contemporary fixtures, frameless 

mirror and glass shower enclosure and Corian walls, all in line with a 

minimalist modern design. 

The children's room has permanent wood bunk beds built into the wall and 

a rustic linear wood design throughout. 

designer Celine, one of a limited 

number that a fashion blogger 

friend of hers had printed on skateboard 

decks. 

Perhaps one of the most vivid art 

pieces in the home, hanging in the 

stairwell, is a dynamic, large scale, 

and close-up photograph of snow 

falling. Kathy’s brother, Kevin Ito, 

was the photographer who captured 

this ethereal show of light 

within falling snow, making the 

event consonant with a meteor 

shower or some other extraordinary 

extraterrestrial event. The 

piece literally lights up the stairwell 

and breaks homogeneity. The 

passion the family has for the outdoors 

is tactile, expressed vividly 

throughout the home’s core. 

The wide dovetailed butcher 

block stairs lead you to the downstairs 

and showcase what a wood 

craftsman can achieve given the 

right skillset and gift of patience. 

Down these same stairs are two 

bedrooms and an additional bedroom 

being used as an office. The 

family added an expansive recreation 

room off the garage for the 

kids, which has a couch, piano, 

pinball machine and other amusements. 

Kim acquired the hip midcentury 

modern furniture and 

accessories here by visiting a myriad 

of vintage shops. With just over 

2,600 square feet of living space on 

just over 7,400 square feet of land, 

this house doesn’t leave its residents 

wanting for much. 

“You don’t make a photograph 

just with a camera,” said legendary 

photographer Ansel Adams. “You 

bring to the act of photography all 

the pictures you have seen, the 

books you have read, the music 

you have heard, the people you 

have loved.” 

This home is a paragon of this 

sentiment. If Ansel Adams were 

among us now, he would have 

found in this residence his ideal. 

PEN 

Owner Kathy Ito Kim reading to her children Bea and Walter in the master 

bedroom. 


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Chef and owner Rafael Solorzano at Salsa Verdes. Photo by Brad Jacobson (CivicCouch.com) 

Rafael’s second act 

by Richard Foss 

Upscale Mexican restaurants in Los Angeles 

often serve a curiously distorted cuisine. 

We have talented chefs who know 

Mexican traditions because they grew up with 

them, and they have better produce and meat 

than is generally available south of the border. 

Unfortunately their audience is used to a bland, 

homogenized version of the cooking of only one 

part of the country, comprising the northwestern 

states and Baja peninsula. 

A leading local chef discovered this problem 

the hard way and relaunched his restaurant as a 

consequence. Rafael Solorzano was ambitious 

when he opened Alfredo Garcia’s in Palos Verdes, 

serving a menu with numerous items from Yucatan 

and the southern regions. The restaurant 

was a critical success, but confused locals who 

didn’t recognize most of the items on the menu. 

Reached by phone for an interview Solorzano 

said that he now recognizes that he might have 

tried to do too much too soon. 

“People like things that are familiar to them. I 

introduced so many things people here didn’t 

know, like tamalitos, chiles nogada, and cochinita 

pibil, all at once. People seemed to like that there 

was a choice, but that was not what they actually 

ordered. They really liked the mole and we sold 

that a lot, but not the birria (a spicy stew made 

with goat meat). When I talked to people they 

said they wanted things that were more fresh and 

healthy. They want a very good version of things 

they already know.” 

Solorzano knew what they liked, and how to 

present it with style. He had previously cooked 

at the LA Country Club and other prestigious 

venues. He developed a new menu centered on 

Northern Mexican specialties and rebranded the 

place as Salsa Verdes (not, he explained, because 

they specialize in green sauces, but because he 

makes salsa and they’re in Palos Verdes). 

There has been a fallback to old favorites, 

though they’re made with uncommon skill and 

an emphasis on light, gently sharp flavors. In the 

tortilla soup this was expressed with a dash of 

lime juice while in a daily special of prawn ceviche 

tostadas, the same effect was achieved with 

mango and watermelon. Those tostadas were the 

hit of our meal and deserve a place on the menu. 

The mix of marinated seafood, onion, and 

cilantro with fruit was refreshing and delicious. 

Tomatillos have a different kind of fruity tartness, 

and lent some zing to a moderately spicy 

green sauce that we enjoyed over crab enchiladas. 

Crab is a sufficiently delicate meat that is 

often overwhelmed by spicy sauces, but this one 

was a partner in the flavors and enhanced without 

dominating. 

The other mains I have tried are chicken enchiladas 

in mole sauce and sea bass Veracruz style, 

topped with a vegetable medley of sautéed bell 

peppers, zucchini, capers, onion, and green 

olives. The rich sauce reminded me of a French 

ratatouille, and it goes just as well with grilled 

fish with just a little char on the exterior. Cilantro 

rice and black beans completed the plate for a 

Salsa Verdes’ chef is passionate 

about bringing the best of his 

native cuisine to the Peninsula 

substantial meal. 

The chicken enchiladas in thick, rich mole 

sauce are a carry-over from the previous menu, 

and it’s easy to see why they made the cut. The 

Puebla-style sauce made with chocolate, chili 

peppers, nuts, and spices has a deep, complex flavor 

and is one of the treasures of Mexican cooking. 

Chef Rafael makes it very well. The two big 

enchiladas on the plate are garnished with queso 

fresco and red onion and there are dabs of pico 

de gallo and chopped radish on the plate, but it’s 

all about the sauce and I used the last of my corn 

chips to get every bit of it. 

I have only tried one of the desserts, an unusual 

dulce de leche cake crusted with caramel, served 

atop a crisp cinnamon tortilla chip, and garnished 

with berries. It was a bit sweet for my tastes, but 

all Mexican desserts tend to be off the scale for 

my palate. My wife, who has a greater tolerance 

for sweets than I do, thought it was delightful. 

Salsa Verdes is successful on its own terms. 

This is the type of Mexican restaurant the Peninsula 

will support, with assured cooking of standards 

and just a little exploration into more 

arcane traditions. It’s a solid second act from a 

chef who is passionate about bringing the best of 

his native cuisine to the Peninsula. 

Salsa Verdes is at 2325 Palos Verdes Drive West. 

Open Tues. - Sat 11 a.m. - 9:30 p.m., Sun. 1 – 9 p.m. 

Closed Mon. Parking lot below, elevator access, 

wheelchair okay. Beer, wine, and agave wine margaritas 

served. Some vegetarian items. Menu at SalsaVerdes.com, 

phone (424) 206-9456. PEN 


NOW SERVING YOU IN 2 LOCATIONS! 

With the great goodness of Mama 

in Rolling Hills Estates, we now offer 

our Cafe’ - a smaller version in Malaga Cove Plaza! 

Specializing in Mama’s Spaghetti & Meatballs with 

our newly inspired flatbreads, salads and more! 

Join us for Lunch & Dinner Mon-Sat. 

• Outdoor Patio Seating • Lots of Free Parking 

36 Malaga Cove Plaza 

Palos Verdes Estates 

(310) 375-6767 

815 Deep Valley Drive 

Rolling Hills Estates 

(310) 377-5757 

www.mamaterano.com 


CONCRETE - For the Drought-Conscious 

eventcalendar 

CALENDAR OF COMMUNITY EVENTS 

Compiled by Teri Marin 

You can email your event to our address: penpeople@easyreadernews.com 

All submissions must be sent by the 10th of each month prior to event taking place. 

] u 

t 

• Stamping 

• Driveways 

• Pool Decks 

• Arificial Turf 

• Patios 

• Stonework 

• Pavers 

• Foundations 

LIABILITY INSURED • WORKERS COMPENSATION 

Casey Lindahl - Founder & President of Lindahl Concrete Construction, Inc. 

310-326-6626 

Call for Showroom address 

Call for estimate 

LindahlConcrete.com 

Lic.#531387 

Robert T. Downs, Sharon A. Bryan* ** + ++, Christopher M. Moore* ** + ++, Rebecca L.T. Schroff** + ++, Jan T. Inoue* 

* Certified Family Law Specialist by the State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization; 

** Certified Trusts & Estates Specialist by the State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization; 

+ Chosen to 2016 Super Lawyers; ++ Chosen to 2015, 2016 and 2017 editions of Best Lawyers of America © 

Honored by our peers for our professional excellence, 

Moore, Bryan, Schroff & Inoue LLP 

2016 Super Lawyers 

Certified Family Law and Trusts & Estates Specialists 

Complex Property • Custody • Support Issues 

Personal Service • Exceptional Results 

Cost Effective • Timely Resolutions 

(310) 540-8855 

21515 Hawthorne Blvd, Suite 490, Torrance 

www.mbsllp.com | mail@mbsllp.com 

Saturdays, January 28 & February 4 

Volunteer trail watchers 

If you hike, bike or ride horses, become a Trail Watch Volunteer and make a 

difference. Trail Watch Training 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. at Ladera Linda Community 

Center, 32201 Forrestal Dr, Rancho Palos Verdes. Sign up at pvplc.volunteerhub.com. 

Saturday, January 28 

Outdoor Volunteer Day 

Nurture seedlings and grow shrubs for habitat restoration projects all around 

the Peninsula at the White Point Native Plant Nursery. 9 a.m.–noon. Reservation 

required by Wednesday, Jan. 25. Sign up at pvplc.volunteerhub.com. 

Native plant sale noon to 2 p.m. 1600 W. Paseo del Mar, San Pedro. 

Farming in the South Bay 

Author Judi Gerber will discuss the history of the area’s local family farmers, 

dating back to the 1700s at White Point Nature Education Center. 10 a.m. 

– noon. Free. 1600 W. Paseo del Mar, San Pedro. RSVP at pvplc.org. 

Guided Nature Walk 

Enjoy coastal views and learn about the plants, animals, restoration area & 

more! 9 a.m. White Point Nature Preserve, 1600 W. Paseo del Mar in San 

Pedro. Meet at the information kiosk between parking lot & Nature Center. 

For more info call (310) 541-7613 or RSVP at: pvplc.org, Events & Activities. 

SGT Peppers 

Enjoy classic Beatles hits from Ticket 

to Ride to Come Together played on 

the same vintage of instruments the 

Beatles used - recreating the original 

vibe. 8 p.m., Grand Annex, 434 

West 6th St., San Pedro. (310) 833- 

4813 or grandvision.org. 

Sunday, January 29 

Tour of Abalone Cove 

Enjoy a guided hike lead by the Los 

Serenos docents down to Abalone 

Cove. 3 p.m. (Also 1:30 on Feb. 25) 

Learn about the native fauna and 

flora and interesting facts about the 

local tide pool. The hiking difficulty 

is moderate to strenuous. Wear 

sturdy shoes. 5970 Palos Verdes Dr 

S, Rancho Palos Verdes. Parking fees 

waived up to 45 minutes prior to the 

event and 30 minutes after. Free. For 

more information, call (310) 377- 

5370 or visit losserenos.org. 

Thursday, Feb. 2 

New Neighbors Club 

Social and charitable women’s organization 

open to residents of the 

Peninsula. Activities include book 

club, golf, excursions and dining out. 


Saturday, February 4 

One Book, One Peninsula 

The Palos Verdes Library District and partners Palos Verdes Peninsula Friends 

of the Library, South Coast Botanic Garden Foundation, Marymount California 

University, Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy, Palos Verdes Art Center, 

Sustainable Palos Verdes Schools, Palos Verdes High School and Palos Verdes 

Performing Arts present the 8th annual One Book, One Peninsula event featuring 

Natalie Baszile, author of Queen Sugar. 2-4 p.m. South Coast Botanic 

Garden, 26300 Crenshaw Blvd, Palos Verdes Peninsula. No fees associated 

with this event but Garden admission is an additional fee. No registration required 

but seating is limited and will be first come, first served basis. For more 

information visit pvld.org/onebook or southcoastbotanicgarden.org/eventpolicies 

to learn more about event. 

Sunday, February 5 

Kids Club with Project Wild 

South Coast Botanic Garden’s Kids Club includes wildly fun activities to eneventcalendar 

Peninsula Library Community Room, 701 Silver Spur Rd., RHE. 10 a.m. Luncheon 

follows the meeting at 12:30 p.m. For more info, call Viktoria Mohme 

(310) 377-4862. 

Friday, February 3 

The Fire 

David Brewer and fiddle champ Rebecca Lomnicky play upbeat Scottish fiddle, 

bagpipes, and bodhran with guest vocalist Christa Burch. Opener: Lyons 

Academy of Irish Dance. 8 p.m., Grand Annex, 434 West 6th St., San Pedro, 

(310) 833-4813 or grandvision.org. 

Shortest 

Run to 

Catalina! 

Southern California’s Newest Marina 

LOVE AT FIRST DOCK 

Happy Valentine’s Day! 

Guest Slips Available! 

Marina Amenities 

• SLIPS from 28’ to 130’ 

• Dry Storage w/Crane Launching 

• New Restrooms w/Showers 

• Ice Machines & Laundry 

• Pumpout - Public & In-Slip 

• Ample FREE Parking 

Marina (310) 514-4985 • Dry Storage (310) 521-0200 

Cabrillowaymarina@westrec.com • cabrillodb@aol.com 

www.westrec.com/marina/cabrillo-way-marina 

2293 Miner St., San Pedro, CA 90731 

NOW 

OPEN! 


eventcalendar 

gage children ages 5 – 10 in wildlife and environmental education. Kids Club 

is included with Garden admission, but a $5 donation is greatly appreciated. 

3-4 p.m.; activities may run longer than anticipated. Registration required and 

limited to 20 children. 26300 Crenshaw Blvd, Palos Verdes Peninsula. southcoastbotanicgarden.org. 

Wednesday, February 8 

Palos Verdes Woman’s Club 

Meeting at noon at the Rolling Hills Country Club. Program will be Valentine 

music and songs performed by Anne Destabelle. 27000 Palos Verdes Dr E, 

Rolling Hills Estates. For reservations and info call Beverly at (310) 378-1349. 


Musique concert 

Brynn Albanese, violinist and graduate of Rolling Hills High School Class of 

‘86, returns to the Peninsula after 30 years to perform with her gypsy ensemble 

group, Cafe Musique!, in concert at Rolling Hills United Methodist Church. 

7:30 p.m. Admission is free but donations are appreciated! For more information, 

contact the church office at 310-377-6771. 

Saturdays, February 11, 18 

Film Fest 

2017 Oscar Nominated Shorts. Live action & documentary short subjects presented 

by San Pedro International Film Festival. Warner Grand Theatre, 478 

W. 6th St., San Pedro. (310) 548-2493; warnergrand.org. 

Saturday, Feb. 11 

Willie Watson 

Watson (formerly of Old Crow Medicine 

Show) is a singer-songwriter, 

multi-instrumentalist and star of the 

traditional and old time music renaissance. 

8 p.m. Grand Annex, 434 

West 6th St., San Pedro, (310) 833- 


Arts Fundraiser 

Norris Pavilion & Norris Theatre, annual 

gala . Dinner and show. 27570 

Norris Center Dr, Rolling Hills Estates. 

(310) 544-0403 or 

palosverdesperformingarts.com. 

Banning Museum 

12th Annual Valentine’s Tea and 

Tunes, at The Banning Museum. 1-3 

p.m. Elegant light lunch, special 

teas, hat contest, live entertainment, 

tour the Mansion and special exhibit. 

Limited seating.The cost is $65 

for Friends of Banning Museum 

members & $75 for non-members. 

401 East M Street, Wilmington. 

Reservations (310) 548-2005. 

Pen Heritage fundraiser 

Peninsula Heritage School’s Winter 

Gala. Dinner, silent and live auctions. 

6 p.m. The Automobile Driving 

Museum, 610 Lairport St, El Segundo. 

(310) 541-4795. 


eventcalendar 

Trail Crew Introductory Class 

Join this introductory class to learn how to improve Peninsula trails with various 

techniques for erosion repair, building rock walls, proper pruning and more! 

No experience needed, 18 and over. 9 a.m. to noon. PV Land Conservancy 

Office: 916 Silver Spur Rd. #104, RHE. Sign up at: pvplc.volunteerhub.com 

or (310) 541-7613x215. 


Sweetheart’s Stroll in the Garden 

Included with Garden admission, join a romantic afternoon in the South Coast 

Botanic Garden enjoying a picnic and local beer and wine. Tastings will be 

$5 for 5 tastings. No registration required. Noon - 4 p.m. 26300 Crenshaw 

Blvd, Palos Verdes Peninsula. Visit southcoastbotanicgarden.org/event-policies 

to learn more. 

Dawn Unity Groups 

Annual Interfaith Bible Lecture, featuring Professor Daniel Smith-Christopher 

and Professor Marvin Sweeney. 7:30 p.m. Rolling Hills United Methodist 

Church, 26438 Crenshaw Blvd, Rolling Hills. infobobroth@alum.mit.edu. 

Rolling Hills United Methodist Concerts 

Second Sundays at Two. Stars of Tomorrow from USC Music School. 2 p.m. 

Free, donations to artists. 26438 Crenshaw Blvd, RHE. RHUMC.org. 

Los Serenos tours at Ocean Trails Reserve 

Enjoy a guided hike led by the Los Serenos docents down to Ocean Trails Reserve 

at 2 p.m. Enjoy coastal views, visit WWII sites and possible Gray Whale 

sightings. It’s free and the public is welcome! Canceled if rain. 5970 Palos 

Verdes Dr S, Rancho Palos Verdes. Park on La Rotonda Dr. at Twin Harbors 

View Dr. For more info, call (310) 377-5370 or visit website at losserenos.org. 

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Watch & Clock 

Established 1947 

We Buy 

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(310) 833-6891 

714 S. Weymouth Avenue 

San Pedro, CA 90732 

Not affiliated with Rolex USA 

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Thursday, February 16 

South Coast Rose Society 

Social hour at 7 p.m. followed by a special Valentine’s Day exhibit about roses 

& romanticism. South Coast Botanic Garden, 26300 Crenshaw Blvd., Palos 

Verdes Peninsula. For more info, please visit them on Facebook. 


The Addams Family 

The Palos Verdes Performing Arts Conservatory will present a student production 

of the hit musical, “The Addams Family” at the Norris Theatre, through 

February 26. The ghoulish world from the 1960 television series come to 

spooky and spectacular life on stage. Performance times are 7:30 p.m. on 

Fridays and Saturdays and 2 p.m. Sundays, as well as a 2 p.m. show February 

25. Tickets are $15 for ages 12 and under; $22 - $28 for teens and 

adults. For more information or to purchase tickets, call 310-544-0403 or visit 

norriscenter.com. 27570 Norris Center Drive, Rolling Hills Estates. 


Rose’s Pawn Shop 

Grammy-nominated powerhouse returns to the Grand Annex for a great night 

of indie rock. Their music evokes Woody Guthrie and Bill Monroe but it’s pure 

21st century Americana. 8 p.m. 434 West 6th St., San Pedro, (310) 833- 



Peninsula Symphony 

A Royal Affair. Inna Faliks, soloist, Redondo Union High School Auditorium, 

631 Vincent St., Redondo Beach 7pm (310) 544-0320. 

World Of Wolves 

An exciting presentation allowing up close and personal interactions with ambassador 

wolves like Damu and his friends. Project Wildsong presenters will 

give an overview about wolf habitat, diet, physical characteristics, pack structure 

and ways wolves communicate. 2-4 p.m. South Coast Botanic Garden, 

26300 Crenshaw Blvd, Palos Verdes Peninsula. Bring blankets or lawn chairs 

to sit on. Registration required; online preregistration highly recommended. 

$6 adult members / $12 non; $3 

child members (ages 5-12) / $5 

Thank You 

For Your 

Vote! 

ON CALL 

24 HOURS 

7 DAYS 

52 Peninsula • February 2017 

2013 

Thursday, Feb. 23 

PV Historical Society 

Sweets, Secrets, and Wine. Stories 

from the Artifacts Collection. Palos 

Verdes history is filled with stories 

and secrets that many residents may 

not know or remember. The first of a 

series of talks based on pieces from 

the collection. The evening will begin 

with time for viewing the selected obeventcalendar 

non-members. 4 and under free. 

southcoastbotanicgarden.org. 

Organ donation 

The Neighborhood Church presents 

Notre Dame Choir Organist Johann 

Vexo, the latest in its series of annual 

organ concerts. Tickets $20. 4 p.m. 

415 Paseo del Mar, PVE. (310) 

378-9353. Neighborhoodchurchpve.org.

If the Queen’s Necklace is a Treasure, then 

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Phone: 310.936.5875 

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GAYLE PROBST 

Email: gayle.probst@gmail.com 

Phone: 310.977.9711 

CALBRE# 01137236

J. QUINN CONSTRUCTION, INC. 

Custom Concrete & Masonry 

eventcalendar 

jects and social hour. Short talks by three board members who are local historians 

- Ann Hugh, Bruce Megowan and Vicki Mack. Q & A after each talk, 

followed by light desserts. Pt. Vicente Interpretive Center, 31501 Palos Verdes 

Dr W, Rancho Palos Verdes. 7:30 to 9 p.m. Members $10, Non $20. Seating 

limited, RSVP (310) 373-6018 or membership@palosverdeshistoricalsociety.org. 


Fashion Show 

The Bedecked, Bejeweled and Bedazzled Vista’s for Children Fashion Show 

and Boutique/Luncheon in the Queen Mary Ballroom. 10 a.m.- 4p.m.1126 

Queens Hwy, Long Beach. Vistasforchildren.org for more info. 

Honey Country 

Rooted in three-part harmonies and southern twang, this trio can be heard on 

HBO’s True Blood. 8 p.m. Grand Annex, 434 West 6th St., San Pedro, (310) 

833-4813 or grandvision.org. 

Un Tributo a Mexico 

Grandeza Mexicana Folk Ballet Company, led by Artistic Director Jose Vences, 

showcases the splendor of Mexican Folk danf. Warner Grand Theatre, 478 

W. 6th St., San Pedro. (310) 548-2493 or warnergrand.org. 


The Belle of Amherst 

A play, with afternoon tea. Actress Melanie Jones mesmerizes in this onewoman 

play as Emily Dickinson, a daring poet in 1800s New England. Followed 

by Afternoon Tea (with scones, sandwiches, dessert). 2 p.m. To benefit 

Meet the Music. Grand Annex, 434 West 6th St., San Pedro, (310) 833-4813 

or grandvision.org. 

HAPPY HOUR TUES-FRI 4-7PM 

• Pools, Spas, Fountains 

and Waterfeatures 

• Firepits and Fireplaces 

• Outdoor Cook Centers 

• Stone and Tile Patios 

• Interlocking Pavers 

• Retaining Walls 

• Driveways 

(310) 325-6790 

www.quinnpools.com 

License B, C-8, C-53 #775677 

We reimburse UBER & LYFT up to $10 

Join Us Valentine’s 

Day & Night! 

Special Valentine's 

Dinner 

$59.99 

Com plimentary D in ner 

Buy 1 Dinner and 2 Drinks, Receive Free Dinner 

Live 

Piano 

Entertainment! 

MAKE YOUR 

RESERVATIONS 

TODAY! 

(310) 378-0267 

($17 Max Value. Dine in only. One per table. Not Valid with other offers or holidays. Expires 2/28/17) 

$17 $17 

320 Tejon Place Palos Verdes Estates (310) 378-0267 

www.LaRiveGauchePV.com 

SPECIAL MENU 4-COURSE DINNER $25.95 

Dine & Enjoy Our Lunch & Dinner Specials! 


eventcalendar 

Tuesday, February 28 

Shrove Tuesday Luncheon 

Sponsored by the St. John Fisher Women’s Council. The Luncheon is their annual 

fundraiser for the local charities they support. Guest Speaker will be 

Bishop Sartoris. Admission will be $25. 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Reservations can be 

made at the Parish Office, 5448 Crest Rd. RPV until February 24. Call Elaine 

Sweers at (310) 377-7704 for more info. PEN 

BEACH FC 2017 TRY-OUTS 

We are excited to announce our upcoming Try-Outs for 

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Ages: 2011 - 2003 

All players are welcome to attend. 

Come and join the Beach Family. 

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Parker Hearing Institute 

Prides Itself on Professional and Empathetic Care 

When Dr. William Lee Parker of Hermosa Beach, was only nine 

months old he formed the letter “L” with his thumb and index finger, 

then touched his tiny thumb to his forehead, and signed his first word, 

“daddy.” 

Though William Parker had normal hearing, both his parents were 

deaf. He didn’t begin to speak orally until he was three-years-old. The 

Parker family lived in Hawthorne. 

“My language structure, which began with sign language, was 

right on target,” he said. Neighbors and other deaf families taught 

Parker how to communicate with his voice. Dr. Parker has become 

the teacher, not only helping the deaf and hard of hearing, but 

showing them and their families how to cope in a world that isn’t always 

compassionate and just. 

Parker is an audiologist. His patients at the Parker Hearing Institute 

in Torrance, which he founded in 1975, range from infants and children 

to adults and senior citizens. His children Josh and Andrea followed 

him into the business after years of study in audiology. Josh is 

now in charge of the Institute, with offices in Torrance and San Pedro. 

Every working day Josh battles adversity. He tests the hearing of a 

little girl who was born deaf, then counsels her parents on how to 

overcome their anxieties and fears about raising the child. Through 

speech therapy, he teaches a hearing impaired youngster to articulate 

words and sentences properly. He convinces a cantankerous 

senior citizen to quit brooding and accept the fact that he must, at 

this late stage in 

life, wear a hearing 

aid. 

The Hearing 

Loss Association 

of America estimates 

that 48 million 

Americans 

are affected by 

hearing loss and 

1 out of every 

1,000 children is born deaf. One fifth of the population has hearing 

loss, and only one fifth of THOSE persons seek hearing help. The vanity 

issue (looking old) keeps 38.4 million people from wearing hearing 

aids. 

Modern digital aids are invisible and highly adaptive to noisy environments. 

Parker Hearing Institute prides itself on professional and empathetic 

care. 

Dr. William Lee Parker is proud of the practice he built and is doubly 

proud of his children, now adults, who carry on the high standard of 

hearing care that he brought to Southern California. Together with 

their hand-trained audiologists, Parker Hearing Institute has helped 

over 40,000 persons achieve greater hearing health. 

Parker Hearing Institute | 4201 Torrance Blvd, Suite 140, Torrance CA 90503 | (310) 540-4327 | www.ParkerHearing.com 

SPONSORED CONTENT 


A 

ward-winning physician Essam Taymour is seeing remarkable results 

with a breakthrough outpatient treatment that rejuvenates 

women’s vaginas and urinary tracts, ending age-related problems 

of dryness, itching, painful intercourse, frequent urination and recurrent 

urinary tract infections. 

The treatment uses gentle laser pulses to revive tissues at the cellular 

level, thickening and lubricating the vaginal wall, restoring elasticity and 

blood flow, and balancing the bacterial ecosystem. The treatment is 

commonly referred to as MonaLisa Touch, after the trade name for the 

laser apparatus. 

An overwhelming majority of the women Taymour has treated with 

MonaLisa Touch have seen their symptoms disappear after three painless 

five-minute sessions. 

“The results are absolutely astounding,” said Taymour, a board-certified 

obstetrician and gynecologist with full privileges at two hospitals, 

including Long Beach Memorial Medical Center, where he was named 

Doctor of the Year in 2010. 

The new treatment is bolstered by positive studies. One study tracking 

50 women found an 84 percent satisfaction level, with no adverse effects. 

Of the women who had been refraining from sex because of pain, 

85 percent were able to resume sexual relations. 

After treating about 100 women, Taymour’s results have outstripped 

those of the study. Among his patients, all of those who had complained 

of painful intercourse have been able to resume normal sexual functioning. 

Some of Taymour’s patients have taken to Yelp.com to laud his treatment. 

“Three treatments helped rejuvenate things down there, and even 

helped with better bladder control,” said a Palos Verdes woman, who 

also praised Taymour’s knowledge and technical skill. 

Taymour was a pioneer of the laser treatment in Southern California. 

He began offering it two years ago, when the closest colleague to keep 

pace was located in Beverly Hills. 

The symptoms that are treated by MonaLisa Touch, grouped under 

the term Genital Urinary Syndrome, affect some 50 percent of postmenopausal 

women, and about 15 percent of pre-menopausal 

women, Taymour said. But despite the prevalence of the syndrome, it is 

significantly underdiagnosed. 

“Surveys have found that only about 25 percent of women can even 

identify this set of complaints with menopause. The great majority of 

Dr. Essam Taymour 

Helping Women with Breakthrough Treatment 

DR. ESSAM TAYMOUR | 3550 Linden Ave., Suite 1, Long Beach | 562-595-5331 | gynomedgroup.com 

women don’t even put two and two together, that their complaints are 

linked to menopause,” Taymour said. 

“The syndrome progresses, and symptoms get worse, as women get 

older,” he said. “With human lifespans getting longer, Genital Urinary 

Syndrome is having a greater impact on quality of life.” 

Women often address the symptoms with over-the-counter creams 

and gels, which provide a limited, “Band-Aid-like” solution, or estrogen 

medications, which carry health risks and cannot be used by all women. 

“We really were challenged in treating these symptoms,” Taymour 

said. 

Then in 2014 the FDA approved the new treatment, which uses a fractional 

laser to heat certain tissues just enough to activate dormant cells, 

triggering a host of rejuvenating effects in the vaginal and bladder 

areas. 

In addition to MonaLisa Touch, Taymour provides a broad spectrum 

of obstetrical services including laparoscopic and robotic-assisted surgeries. 

He has championed minimally invasive gynecological surgery 

since it began to evolve in the 1980s. 

He is currently involved with a new innovative procedure using a radio 

frequency probe to shrink benign tumors called fibroids in the uterus. 

The treatment, called Acessa, replaces surgeries that can scar and 

weaken the uterus, requiring births by cesarean section. 

Taymour’s Yelp rankings are off the charts, with comments such as: 

“Best doctor ever…He made it possible for me and my fiancé to have 

an opportunity to have children. Hardly any marks after my surgery. He 

did it all laparoscopically [as non-invasively as possible] and with minimal 

pain.” 

“Dr. Taymour was my third opinion on my options of fibroid reduction 

or removal surgery. The Acessa procedure was a fantastic option for 

me. I had little to no pain…He was everything I needed in a doctor to 

handle this challenge and keep my body intact.” 

“He is a skilled surgeon [and] performed a hysterectomy laparoscopically 

with little swelling or bruising, and virtually no scarring.” 

“He saved me from a close call emergency C-section!” 

“The most kind and efficient doctor...He makes you feel as if you’re 

his only patient that day!” 

The patients’ comments often dwell on his caring and compassionate 

approach. 

“I don’t think this is a job,” Taymour said. “It’s a mission. You are there 

for others.” 

SPONSORED CONTENT 


2 0 1 7 R E A L E S T A T E R O U N D T A B L E 

Peninsula Realtors Chris Adlam, Lily Liang and Steve Watts. Photo by Brad Jacobson 

High 

on 

hill 

the 

Terranea Resort, Trump National and 

the new Rolling Hills golf course 

have helped drive Peninsula 

real estate to all time highs, 

according to three top 

Peninsula Realtors 


y Stuart Chaussee 

Chris Adlam, Lily Liang and Steve Watts recently shared their 

thoughts for Peninsula magazine’s annual Real Estate Roundtable. 

Each has over three decades of experience selling Peninsula homes. 

Adlam was recently named the number 72 Top Producing Agent in the 

nation by the Wall Street Journal and REAL Trends. He works for Vista 

Sotheby’s International Realty. 

Liang has completed over $1 billion in residential real estate transactions 

and is Executive Vice President of Strand Hill Properties – Christie’s International 

Real Estate. 

Watts and partner Ceci Watts are top producers at Re/Max Estate Properties. 

CHAUSSEE: Steve, take us back, perhaps 10 years, to the prior peak in real 

estate on the Peninsula. 

WATTS: In 2007 we hit a peak. Then prices fell 30 percent to 40 percent to 

the trough in Q4 2010. Manhattan Beach fell less, but we declined at least 

30 percent on the Hill. The peak price in 2007 was around $1.7 million. 

We declined to a low of close to $1.2 million in 2010. Since then we have 

recovered nicely and we are now at all-time highs on the Hill, with an average 

sales price close to $1.8 million. The market has fully recovered. 

CHAUSSEE: At the 2013 Roundtable, which Steve and Chris participated in, 

I asked you both about the potential for price appreciation at that time. 

You both gave a relatively muted outlook, stating you thought average annual 

gains would be 5 percent or so. Are you shocked that we have had 

such robust price recovery? 

ADLAM: Yes, I am shocked. In 2008 there were only 86 sales in Palos Verdes 

Estates. The total sales were $165 million, 

with an average sales price of $1.925 million. 

In 2016, we were almost double those 

levels. We had 165 sales representing $366 

million in sales volume. Although the average 

sales price was only $2.2 million. 

WATTS: From 2012 through 2016 we have 

been very consistent, with around 600 total 

sales on the Peninsula every year. We had 

628 sales in 2016. In 2005 we had 617 sales 

and then declined to a low of 347 in 2008. 

It’s also interesting to note that in 2015 the 

highest priced sale on the Hill was $15.5 

million. Chris had the highest priced sale 

this past year of $11.9 million. What is interesting 

about the average sales price is that 

it really hasn’t increased that much. I found 

another interesting statistic looking at how 

many homes sold above $5 million in 2016 

on the Hill versus Manhattan Beach. I 

would have bet my life that what I found 

would have been quite different. I thought 

Manhattan Beach would have greatly exceeded 

the Peninsula. However, Manhattan Beach had 17 and Palos Verdes 

had 15. And, Manhattan Beach did not have one sale above $10 million. 

We had two sales above $10 million on the Hill and, again, zero in Manhattan 

Beach. 

CHAUSSEE: What does that tell you? 

WATTS: That the high-end market of Palos Verdes has greatly improved 

over the years relative to Manhattan Beach. Manhattan Beach currently 

has a greater number of homes on the market above $5 million, at 25 

homes and we only have 14. 

ADLAM: It’s important to note that the price per square foot in Manhattan 

Beach is significantly higher than on the Peninsula. Manhattan Beach is 

priced at over $1,200 per square foot. Our average price per square foot 

on the Hill last year was $622. 

CHAUSSEE: What can a new buyer expect going forward, as far as price appreciation 

per year? Say 5 to 10 years out? 

LIANG: I think real estate is the best way to accumulate wealth and I believe 

that will continue. What is important is that you must have “holding 

power.” We may go down temporarily, but prices will always recover. So, 

holding power is the key. Looking out seven years or so I think you could 

see a total return of 20 percent or more. 

CHAUSSEE: So, we’re only talking about 3 percent or so in average annual 

price appreciation from current levels? 

LIANG: Right, and we may have a decline somewhere in that period of 10 

percent or so, but the recovery afterwards should make up for the drop. 

Again, that’s why you need to have holding power. 

WATTS: The unknown is what is going to happen under the new administration 

and with interest rates. There is a projection of perhaps two interest 

rate hikes this year, but in the wealthier areas of the country, like the Peninsula, 

buyers are less affected by interest rate hikes. They can afford the 

higher adjustment on the mortgage. And, I agree with Lily, real estate has 

historically been a marvelous investment, but you have to be in a situation 

where you are not forced to move and sell your home in a bad or declining 

market. We will have a slowdown again – it will happen. 

CHAUSSEE: How much do you think we will decline during the next correction? 

WATTS: I believe the market here on the Hill will sustain itself even in a 

slowdown in the economy. I don’t think our market will even decline by 

15 percent or 20 percent. If it did decline by that much we would have demand 

come back in and support prices quickly. 

ADLAM: I agree. 

WATTS: I do want to quantify this - some properties will be hit harder than 

others. Distressed homes in a poor location or condition will be hit. When 

we have a correction, certainly poorly located or “dysfunctional” properties 

with a gas station in the backyard or lots of road noise will get hit more 

significantly. 

ADLAM: Back 10 years ago or whenever the exact period was when we had 

a big correction, remember, buyers were putting so little down to make a 

purchase that they didn’t have much 

“skin in the game.” It was easy to walk 

away from a property that had declined 

in value. We have financially healthier 

buyers and owners now. 

WATTS: I would think in recent years 

we often saw down payments, on average, 

of 40 percent to 50 percent and 

even some all cash purchases. 

LIANG: I recently went to Hong Kong to 

promote the South Bay area. I have 

lived in many different countries of the 

world and where we live is one of the 

nicest. However, the ultra-rich foreigner 

has not really heard of the South Bay. 

They know Beverly Hills and Malibu, 

but not Palos Verdes. I think that we 

have the resources and environment 

here to create a Nice or Monte Carlo 

and that was my goal in promoting the 

South Bay. I think it should be a place 

that attracts international buyers. 

ADLAM: When you compare some of 

the other great cities around the world, London, Paris and San Francisco – 

we are a bargain. 

LIANG: Yes. Even locally, relative to Marina del Rey and the West Side, 

homes here are a bargain. 

CHAUSSEE: Where are you seeing your buyers come from? 

LIANG: I have been working with many different international buyers. Last 

year I was much more active as a buyer’s agent than a listing agent, which 

was different for me. My buyers are not only from Taiwan, Hong Kong or 

China – they are from all over. 

WATTS: Technology has changed our business tremendously. Drones and 

3D virtual tours allow buyers to work directly with the listing agent. In 

2016 we had a higher number of dual-listing agents than ever before. This 

is when the potential buyer goes directly to the listing agent and says he 

wants that agent to represent him, possibly because they think they can 

get a better deal on the purchase. 

CHAUSSEE: So, does the listing agent then get both sides of the sale? 

WATTS: Yes, there is some negotiation and there is possibly a reduction. 

Similar to what Lily said, we are seeing a lot of international buyers who 

will contact the listing agent directly because they can gather all sorts of 

information online now and see the property through virtual tours. They 

Terranea Resort’s guests have helped increase international awareness 

of the Palos Verdes Peninsula Peninsula. Photo courtesy of Terranea 

Resports 


COZY ELEGANCE 

IN LAKE ARROWHEAD 

can learn everything about the property and then come out and visit. However, 

Palos Verdes has predominantly been an internal “move-up” market 

for locals. For example, an owner has done well financially and sells his 

home for $2 million looking to buy a property valued at $3.5 or $4 million. 

ADLAM: It’s that and those moving from the Beach Cities to the Hill. 

CHAUSSEE: Lily, going back to what you said previously about being more 

active now as a buyer’s agent, is that something you planned. 

LIANG: Not at all. It was simply due to the fact that I’ve had many more 

buyers approach me. 

CHAUSSEE: Let’s look at the current status on the Hill as far as inventories 

and how are we doing relative to other areas in the South Bay? 

ADLAM: Right now we are in January so inventory is relatively low. This 

is typical for this time of year. Sellers will take their homes off the market 

or put them on hold. 

CHAUSSEE: What is the current inventory? 

WATTS: 118 homes. We were around 150 homes at this time last year. 

CHAUSSEE: Has the lower inventory this year affected pricing in a positive 

way since you have less supply? 

ADLAM: Normally, yes. But, everyone expects inventory to be low this time 

of the year. If we had inventory at this level in March then there might be 

a different answer to your question. A few years ago in Palos Verdes Estates 

in February there were only 19 homes on the market. And I can also remember 

other times when we had probably 200 homes for sale in Palos 

Verdes Estates. 

160 Cedar Ridge Drive 

9 Bedrooms, 11 Bathrooms, 16,000 sq ft 

$4,925,000 

• Fabulous Mountain Estate 

in a gated community 

• Main House, Separate Apt. 

and Guest House 

• 2.75 Acres 

• Children's Ensuite 

Bedroom with 12 built-in 

bunk beds 

Shirley Walters 

Coldwell Banker- Redlands 

• Large his and her's office 

• Children's Playground 

• Enclosed garage space to 

accommodate 6 cars 

• Minutes from the Lake 

• Beach and Lake Privileges 

are included 

Jane Angel 

Previews Property Specialist 

Coldwell Banker- PV Beach Cities 

Cell: (310)292-2290 

Office: (310)791-6022 

Email: jangel@coldwellbanker.com 

BRE # 01272591 

Cell: (909) 436-6993 

Email: shirley.walters@coldwellbanker.com 

Bre # 01827379 

The new Rolling Hills Country Club and the 114 new homes to be built by 

Peninsula native Chuck Lande are expected to lift neighboring property values. 

Photo courtesy of Rolling Hills Country Club 

CHAUSSEE: If you look at the market this past year would you characterize 

it as a healthy market? 

WATTS: Yes, it was healthy and steady – good for buyers and sellers. It was 

not an overly inflated market. 

CHAUSSEE: What was the general price appreciation for 2016? 

WATTS: Probably 8 percent to 10 percent. It was pretty steady across the 

board, though some homes had much higher price appreciation. Good 

quality properties will always sell at a premium. If you have all of the right 

ingredients – four bedrooms, view property etc. you might have a buyer 

who doesn’t care if he has to pay $800,000 or $1 million more – he wants 

your property. So, it might sell for much higher than the statistics would 

indicate. 

CHAUSSEE: What is the entry level now to purchase a home on the Peninsula? 

ADLAM: Entry level for PVE is probably around $1.3 million. 

WATTS: For the entire Hill there are only two homes on the market priced 

below $1 million, which is really staggering. For PVE, Chris is probably 

right that the lowest priced home is $1.3 million and that will generally be 

in the Valmonte area. Sometimes the lower priced homes may be found in 

Lunada Bay too. But again, we are seeing historically low levels of inventory. 

CHAUSSEE: How much do you need to spend to find a nice family home? 

WATTS: $300,000 down payment and a purchase for $1.4 million will get 


you 2,500 square feet, not extensively updated and with no view. 

ADLAM: The buyers do have a choice. They can elect to live in Palos Verdes 

Estates for something significantly smaller for a little more money than if 

they decide to live in Rancho or Rolling Hills Estates, where they could get 

more for their money. 

CHAUSSEE: And how about Rolling Hills? 

ADLAM: That has been an interesting market. The last time I checked I 

think there were 26 homes for sale in Rolling Hills and three in escrow. 

CHAUSSEE: Which tells you what? 

WATTS: Prices are inflated and the product might not be very good. 

LIANG: You have the winding streets and the homes seem to be all onelevel 

Ranch style, so you only have a certain select buyer who will be attracted 

to that area and style of home. 

ADLAM: You really have to want to live in Rolling Hills. It’s an isolated sort 

of feel, but it is wonderful and a beautiful community. You get lots of privacy 

and land, but you have to know exactly what you are getting. 

WATTS: And you have the gated community which adds to the protection 

and privacy appeal. 

CHAUSSEE: In past Roundtable discussions, Realtors have commented that 

Palos Verdes Estates has typically held up better in weak periods and had 

also appreciated better during times of economic growth. Is a PVE home 

typically a better investment as far as retaining its value in a tough market 

and appreciating better during a strong market? 

ADLAM: Yes, I would say PVE has typically been a little safer investment 

and held its value better. 

WATTS: Correct. 

LIANG: PV Estates has no tract houses. Every home is custom built, which 

is appealing. Because they are all custom homes, even if your neighbor 

sells his or her home for what you think is a relatively low price, it doesn’t 

mean that your home would sell low too – each home is unique. 

ADLAM: I had a listing in PVE a couple years ago that was five doors away 

from another home on the market. One sold for $469 per square foot and 

my listing sold for just over $1,000 per square foot. 

CHAUSSEE: And why the discrepancy in pricing? 

ADLAM: One was an historic home, great condition with a little better view 

and the other had 1970s architecture. 

CHAUSSEE: But you’re talking about twice as expensive per square foot! 

ADLAM: Right. When we talk about price per square foot it can only be 

used as a guide – you can’t hang your hat on it. 

CHAUSSEE: Is there a premium price percentage you can typically add to a 

home in PVE vs. Rancho or another part of the Hill? 

ADLAM: Not really, but you can say that in the Estates you will typically 

get less square footage for the money and you will pay a bit more. It varies 

per property. 

WATTS: We don’t use price per square foot that much. It can range from 

$400 on the low side to $1,200 on the high side. It doesn’t tell you if the 

home has vaulted ceilings, a view, whether it’s a completely updated home 

or not. Simply using square footage doesn’t help much. And, that’s what 

Zillow uses which is very misleading and inaccurate. 

CHAUSSEE: So you find Zillow estimates, or “Zestimates” to not be that 

helpful? 

WATTS: Not helpful at all – actually it can be very misleading. I typically 

find that Zillow will overestimate in value. 

ADLAM: A perfect example of that is the experience the CEO of Zillow had 

with his own property. The Zestimate for his home was somewhere around 

$1.9 million, but his home ended up selling for just over $1 million. 

LIANG: I think for tract houses, Zillow is a pretty good reference because 

the homes are so similar, but not for custom homes. 

WATTS: You really can’t use a statistical formula like Zillow uses to determine 

the value of a custom-built home. And, even in a tract neighborhood 

you’ll have many homes that are remodeled and updated so those homes 

will be worth more than the same home next door that isn’t updated, but 

has the same floor plan and square footage. Zillow doesn’t know that and 

that’s where an analysis by a professional can be helpful in giving you an 

accurate indication as to pricing. Zillow also does not account for views at 

all. 

CHAUSSEE: Is there a typical premium you can put on a view property on 

the Peninsula? 

WATTS: You can within reason. I would say the best view value on the Hill 

is the Queen’s Necklace with coastline and city view combined. Some do 


The Palos Verdes Peninsula’s international reputation 

received a boost when local businessman 

Donald Trump, owner of Trump National Golf 

Course, was elected president of the United 

States. Photo courtesy Trump National Golf 

Course 

not care for the Harbor view because they think it is cluttered and messy, 

but I like it and find it quite interesting. 

CHAUSSEE: What is the most in-demand view? 

ADLAM: Queen’s Necklace, looking north. 

CHAUSSEE: What could a Queen’s Necklace view add to a property as far 

as price premium? 

ADLAM: It could make it worth three times as much. Let’s use Paseo La 

Cresta (aka New York Hill), as an example. If you are on the rim of Paseo 

La Cresta, lot value alone 

is $6 million. If you are 

on the interior with no 

view, I don’t want to say 

the lot value might be 

only $2 million, but it is 

most certainly nowhere 

near the lot value of a 

view property on New 

York Point. 

WATTS: That is an extreme 

example, of 

course. Let’s look at another 

example. Chris and 

I are in escrow on a place 

on Via Del Monte. If you 

took the property and 

moved it across the street 

with no view it might go 

for half the price. I think 

you can add a low premium 

of $350,000 to a 

property with a view, all 

the way up to $1 millionplus. 

If you want to own 

on the bluff at Rocky 

Point, on the outer edge, 

where you have a limited 

number of homes available, 

a buyer with a somewhat unlimited budget might not really care if 

he has to pay $3 million or $5 million for what is essentially an irreplaceable 

property. It might not come on the market again – he wants to buy it. 

CHAUSSEE: What if you can’t afford to buy a home on the Peninsula, is 

renting a decent option? 

WATTS: There is very little inventory and rents have gone up a lot. 

LIANG: I have 4 rental listings right now that are available – high-end 

homes. One is listed at $28,000 per month. I have leased it before for 

$25,000 per month. 

CHAUSSEE: But what is entry level on the Peninsula, as far as monthly rent? 

WATTS: $4,000 would be the minimum. 

LIANG: $6,000 per month will get you a nice rental property. 

ADLAM: There is a lot of demand but no inventory. 

CHAUSSEE: Has the success of Terranea and Trump National helped prices 

on the Peninsula? 

LIANG: I think it has helped a lot. Before Trump National and Terranea, 

there were even fewer potential buyers who knew of the Peninsula. Now 

they come to visit Trump or Terranea and they see just how beautiful it is. 

WATTS: Terranea has brought a tremendous benefit to the community. Significant. 

ADLAM: The Peninsula has now actually become a destination spot. It wasn’t 

before. 

WATTS: Terranea, far more so than Trump, as far as helping to attract visitors 

and increased pricing. Terranea has a tremendous draw and if you 

talk to anyone who stays there, you’re never going to hear a bad word. The 

visitors marvel at the open space and views. 

CHAUSSEE: What about the new homes planned at Rolling Hills Country 

Club? 

WATTS: They are going to build some spectacular homes that will be entry 

level at $3 million and head significantly higher from there. I believe there 

will be 114 homes for sale. It will be open for golf around June and the 

Clubhouse should open in October. It will be beautiful. 

CHAUSSEE: Do you think the demand will be there? 

WATTS: Oh yes, without a doubt. It will be spectacular. 

CHAUSSEE: How will the homes be sold? 

WATTS: We don’t know yet, but I’d like to say that if the owners happen to 

read this article, I hope they will open it up to local real estate agents – it 

would be advisable. They can learn from the experience Terranea had in 

that they tried to sell the properties on their own before opening it up to 

local agents. 

CHAUSSEE: So you think the new homes being developed at Rolling Hills 

Country Club will also add to the appeal of the Peninsula? 

ADLAM: Absolutely. New construction is a huge premium. My understanding 

is it will be a world-class experience with golf, tennis, pool, clubhouse 

etc. It will be unique on the Peninsula. 

LIANG: I also think it will bring value to the area, but I don’t think buyers 

will delay making a purchase to wait to see what’s offered at the Country 

Club. There are so many reasons people move to certain areas of the Hill. 

For example, young families with children often prefer Lunada Bay because 

of the short distance to three school levels. 

CHAUSSEE: Is there any risk of another bubble in real estate on the Hill 

and how would you define a bubble? 

WATTS: It becomes a bubble if our inventory grows above 200 to 220 

homes. Right now we are around 115 homes on the market. In part, a bubble 

is created by overpriced listings that aren’t selling. I believe right now 

probably 70 percent of the homes we sell have some sort of price reduction 

before they are sold – even in a good market. There are also some unrealistic 

expectations by our real estate community that will overprice a home 

to gain a listing, which can add to general overpricing and higher inventory. 

As far as a bubble, I think it will take a significant rise in interest rates, 

and an increase in inventory and price to reach bubble levels. The problem 

is if prices and inventories keep moving up, you eventually get to a tipping 

point. The catalyst could be the stock market having a significant correction, 

some global issue, something happens perhaps with the new administration 

that creates an issue – we could have a correction. But again, as 

Lily said, you simply need to have “staying power” so you can ride out any 

temporary price correction. And, 

don’t forget, even in a bad market, if 

you have a great property, your 

home’s value could actually increase. 

ADLAM: I absolutely agree. A unique 

property can actually increase in 

value during an otherwise declining 

market. Remember, statistics are one 

thing, but they don’t tell the whole 

story. In 2015 the average sales price 

on the Peninsula was $1.82 million 

and in 2016 it was $1.79 million. So, 

there was actually a decline in price 

using the average of all homes sold. 

But, we all agree that despite those 

numbers, prices have generally 

moved higher in the past year. 

LIANG: The reason for the apparent 

decline in price has been the quality 

and location of the homes sold on 

the Hill. You have perhaps had more 

homes sold in less desirable areas on 

the Peninsula that are priced lower 

than the more desirable areas like 

Palos Verdes Estates, which have actually 

increased in value. I don’t 

think the average sales price decline 

in the past year is actually indicative 

of the strength of the overall market. 

The opinions of the participants in 

this Roundtable discussion are their 

own and not of the companies they represent. 

Under no circumstances does 

the information in this column represent 

investment advice. PEN 

Stuart Chaussee is a 

Palos Verdes-based fee-only 

registered Investment Advisor. He 

is the author of three financial 

books, including the awardwinning 

Advanced Portfolio 

Management; Strategies for the 

Affluent. 

He is a former contributing writer 

for TheStreet.com. Stuart 

welcomes your feedback and 

can be reached through 

www.preservingwealth.com 

or e-mail him directly at 

stuartchaussee@msn.com 



Las Niñas Evergreen Ball 

around&about 

Las Madrecitas, an auxiliary of the Charitable 

Children’s Guild of the Orthopædic 

Institute for Children (OIC), held its 51st 

annual Evergreen Ball in the Grand Ballroom 

of the Beverly Wilshire Hotel on Saturday, 

January 7. The event recognized 

the Las Niñas 2017 senior class for their 

exemplary volunteer service to OIC and 

their community. 

At the event, Dr. Anthony Scaduto, OIC’s 

president and chief executive officer, 

awarded each Las Niñas honoree with a 

white gold medallion in recognition for 

their service. 

The Las Niñas honorees are: (Top row, 

left to right) Katelyn Walti, Isabelle Spelta, 

Courtney Zwarg, Sally Gerich; (2nd row) 

Jennifer Doi, McKenna Howard, Danielle 

Lean, Tyler Amano-Smerling, Claire Bogosian, 

Claire-Marie Irawan; (3rd row) 

Sophia Traversi, Joslyn Chu, Nadia 

Maher, Sarah Myers; (Front row) Lauren 

Hart, Nicolette Walker, Jennings Nelson, 

Alison Cromer, Alexis Nickl. (Not pictured) 

Davis Anderson and Danielle Suhr. 

Photo by Gilmore Studios 

Trump iced 

n An ice sculpture of Donald Trump 

greeted guests at the sold out presidential 

inauguration day breakfast hosted 

by Trump National Golf Course in Rancho 

Palos Verdes. Breakfast was 

$45.17, in recognition of the local 

businessman becoming the 45th president 

of the United States in the year 

2017. Photo by Ross Huffman 

Bridge champ 

Palos Verdes resident Edward 

Piken and Steve Cohen of Las 

Vegas won the 10K IMP Pairs 

at the Fall North American 

Bridge Championships 

(NABCs), one of the 15 championship-level 

events held in 

Orlando last November. This 

was Piken’s third NABC title. 

CSCRB receives commendation 

Judith Opdahl, executive director 

of Cancer Support 

Community Redondo Beach 

(CSCRB) accepts a commendation 

from Los Angeles 

County Supervisor Janice 

Hahn during last month’s Association 

of Chambers of 

Commerce (SBACC) Installation 

and Awards luncheon at 

the DoubleTree by Hilton hotel 

in Carson. SBACC was 

named Public Sector/Government 

Agency/Nonprofit of 

the Year. CSCRB provides 

more than 165 free programs for emotional support and education 

for people with cancer and their families. For more information on 

CSCRB, call (310) 376-3550 or visit 

cancersupportredondobeach.org. 

Photographer Capozzola a finalist 

n Palos Verdes High science teacher Renee Capozzola’s photograph 

of two black tipped sharks was selected as a finalist in the 

Shark division of the “The World Shootout," an international underwater 

photography contest.The winners in each category will 

be announced at the upcoming Boot Dusseldorf dive show in Dusseldorf, 

Germany at the end of January. 


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