Peninsula People Nov 2017
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November 2017 • Peninsula 3
6 Peninsula • November 2017
Thinking of Remodeling?
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Join us on
Saturday
November 4 th
at 10:00 am
R e s e r v e Yo u r S e a t s
61st Annual
Neighborhood Church
Yule Parlor
Tea by the Sea
The 61st Annual Neighborhood Church Yule Parlor Tea
by the Sea will once again open the holiday
season on:
Friday, December 1 and Saturday December 2,
10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Neighborhood Church is located on the bluffs of Malaga
Cove at 415 Paseo del Mar, Palos Verdes Estates. We will
begin the celebration by viewing the original treasured hand
painted ceilings and walls of the Mediterranean architectural
estate and art work of the historic Haggerty home built in
1927. The home was purchased and converted to the Neighborhood
Church in 1952.
High Tea will be served with live holiday music.
Event is enhanced with three delightful shops. Vintage
with antiques and memorabilia for sale, Bake Shop with
homemade pastries and candies wrapped for gift giving
through the holidays, and the Yule Shop with homemade
arts and crafts made by loving hands.
Checks are to be made out to Women's Fellowship for $25.
Mail to: Neighborhood Church, 415 Paseo Del Mar, Palos
Verdes Estates, C.A. 90274. $30 day of event.
Your ticket will be held for pick up at the door. Proceeds
distributed to local charities.
PENINSULA
Volume XXII, Issue 4
November 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
ON THE COVER
Photo by David Fairchild
Pianist, composer and
conductor David Benoit will
conduct his “Journey of the
Endeavour” at the California
Science Center, where the space
shuttle Endeavour resides.
PROFILES
22 Ed Foundation foundation
by David Mendez Two-term Ed Foundation President Roma
Mistry helped restructure the organization to serve future
generations..
28 Benoit looks up
by Bondo Wyszpolski Over the past five decades, David
Benoit has cast a wide net in the musical world as a performer,
composer, conductor and KJazz DJ. Now he’s focusing on work
that is less ephemeral and more enduring.
38 A life of passing passions
by Maneesha Prakash For most of his 22 years, Marco
Vignale has suffered from a progressively debilitating gene
mutation, a condition so rare that it is known to be shared by
just one other person in the United States. It hasn’t stopped
him from living a full life.
48 Schoeben’s students
by Robb Fulcher By the end of the school year one fifth of
the Palos Verdes School District’s 11,500 students will visit
campus therapists through a new program created by therapist
and entrepreneur Liz Schoeben.
58 Born to serve
by Robb Fulcher Faith driven volunteer Jackie Crowley has
been helping the less fortunate for nearly five decades. Now
she will be the focus of attention when the Palos Verdes Peninsula
Chamber of Commerce recognizes her as the 2017 Citizen
of the Year.
76 Sea Change at Chez Melange
by Richard Foss Chez Melange chef Robert Bell and partner
Michael Franks abandon their restaurant’s name and menu in
order to continue their tradition of culinary adventures.
HIGHLIGHTS
10 60th Annual Portuguese Bend Horse Show
14 Act II Shop ‘til you drop
18 Torrance Police Foundation on the Hill
34 PTN Halloween Ball at The Depot
44 Friends of the Library at Villa Narcissa
52 Palos Verdes Concours takes to the air
DEPARTMENTS
60 Peninsula calendar
74 Around and about
78 South Bay Dining Guide
85 Home services
STAFF
EDITOR
Mark McDermott
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Stephanie Cartozian
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Daniel Sofer (Hermosawave.net)
CONTACT
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8 Peninsula • November 2017
S P O T L I G H T O N T H E H I L L
Portuguese Bend Horse Show
Raises funds for Children
Peninsula Committee Children’s Hospital held their main fundraiser
on September 8 -- 10 at Ernie Howlett Park in Rolling Hills Estates.
This was the 60th year of the Portuguese Bend National Horse Show
benefiting Children’s Hospital Los Angeles (CHLA). This year’s proceeds
will provide support for the CHLA Associates Endowed Chair for
the Chief of the Children’s Orthopaedic Center, as well as The Associates
Endowment for Liver and Intestinal Research. The theme for this
year’s horse show was “Stirrup Hope – the Story of our Lives.” In addition
to the three day horse show, the weekend featured a children’s carnival,
food booths, a boutique, a Saturday Night BBQ dinner and special
events, varying from miniature therapy horses to the Long Beach
Mounted Police.
1. Joe Leimbach, Jeff MacLean, Darren
Del Conte and Scott Stuckman.
2. Megan Moore, Diane Moore, Lisa
Noski and Andrea Sala.
3. Doug and Gwynne Shaw.
4. Kathy and Kirk Johnson, Marnie
and Dan Gruen, Holly and Jeff Gardner.
5. Jay and Valerie Crawford.
6. Doug Van Riper, Steve Mitchell,
Jan Van Riper and Karen Mitchell.
7. Larry Clark, Noelle Giuliano and
PHOTOS BY FLORA FAIRCHILD
Anne Clark.
8. Michael, Diana and Lizzy Grannis.
9. Long Beach Mounted Police
10. Dave Rowe, Dave Farrell, Carole
Rowe and Anne Farrell.
11. Lisa Van Nortwick, Shari Moore
and Jenny Litchfield.
12. Jim Witte, John Whitcombe,
Craig Knickerbocker, Flora Fairchild
and David Wendorff.
13. Charlie Stuckman.
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10 Peninsula • November 2017
S P O T L I G H T O N T H E H I L L
ACT II Supports Theatre
Holiday Fundraising Boutique
ACT II was founded in September of 1984 as a support organization
for the Palos Verdes Performing Arts. This year their “Shop till you
Drop” lunch included gourmet food stations and a boutique featuring
clothing, purses and jewelry. The women of ACT II have raised over
$450,000 through their annual Variety Show and Spring Fashion Show.
The members meet monthly from September through June to plan the
shows and to enjoy numerous theatre-related programs. “It used to be
us knocking on all these production and musical artists’ doors asking
them to come perform here. Now they are calling us,” Julie Moe-
Reynolds said. This year the boutique was in the Harlyne J. Norris Pavilion
and presented dozens of purveyors, including The Pottery Barn, to
help ring in the holidays.
1. Halloween Boutique.
PHOTOS BY STEPHANIE CARTOZIAN
2. Julie Moe-Reynolds, Pam Barrett-
Hill, Jim Hill and Abby Douglass.
3. De De Hicks, Deena Gribben and
Meredith Grenier.
4. Judy Dinh and Georgia Ellingson.
5. Arline Grotz, Nancy Budde, Donna
Day, Adrienne Ang, Pam Barrett-Hill,
Joyce Kochanowski and Mary Graff.
6. Maryann Ayres, Donna Day and
Carolyn Harrington.
7. Pam Barrett-Hill and Lorraine
Kasse.
8. Melinda Grotz.
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14 Peninsula • November 2017
S P O T L I G H T O N T H E H I L L
Palos Verdes Community
Supports Torrance Police Foundation
Ann and David Buxton opened up their Palos Verdes Tuscan style estate
to host a fundraiser for the Torrance Police Foundation. The
organization’s mission statement is to “stand behind those who wear
the badge” by appealing to the community to support public safety projects.
The grants issued by the Torrance Police Foundation (TPF) to the
police department fund projects that typically are not covered by the
police department budget. Among the guests were Torrance Mayor Pat
Furey and members of the police department. A drone demonstration
was presented by Torrance Police Office Matthew Slawson. To learn
more visit www.TorrancePoliceFoundation.org.
1. Hosts Ann and David Buxton.
2. Marylyn and Chuck Klaus.
3. Officer Matthew Slawson, Jerry
and Gabriela Rocha.
4. Board member and founder Jack
Messerlian and Mayor Pat Furey.
5. Donna and Councilmember Geoff
Rizzo.
6. Councilmember Mike Griffiths and
Cecilia Geronimo.
7. Board chair Hank Parker and
Captain Jon Megeff.
PHOTOS BY STEPHANIE CARTOZIAN
8. Elisabeth Swardstrom and Emmett
Miller.
9. Officer Matthew Slawson demonstrates
the drone donated by the
Torrance Police Foundation.
10. Diamond Level Sponsor Tim
Rogers and Mayor Pat Furey.
11. Diamond Level Sponsor Tim
Rogers with Kristen Matsuda and
former Police Chief Mark Matsuda.
12. Captain Jon Megeff and Board
Member and Platinum Level Sponsor
David Buxton.
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18 Peninsula • November 2017
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22 Peninsula • November 2017
Ed
foundation
Roma Mistry put the
Peninsula Education Foundation
on a solid footing
during her two term
presidency
by David Mendez
Despite her two-term presidency of the Peninsula Education Foundation’s
Board of Trustees, Roma Mistry doesn’t think what she’s
done merits much consideration, compared to the community of
volunteers that she lives among
“I’ve lived on the hill for 22 years…people seem to be involved in so
many wonderful organizations, giving back to the community,” Mistry said.
“I don’t think what I’ve done is anything unique beyond what other people
have given back.”
But during her two years as PEF’s President, Mistry saw two consecutive
executive directors move on in quick succession, and helped stabilize the
foundation to continue its mission of supporting the Palos Verdes Peninsula
Unified School District.
“We have a great community, principals and teachers who care, and volunteers
who come together to keep our schools successful,” Mistry said.
“We’re ensuring our kids have the tools they need to be successful.”
The former child welfare attorney for Los Angeles County has lived on
the hill with her husband Sameer since 1995. The two met when they were
working on their postgraduate studies; Roma was at Pepperdine Law
School, while Sameer was studying medicine at USC.
They first moved to the South Bay after they were married, when he accepted
a residency at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, and lived in Redondo
Beach.
“We would drive around, and I had never heard of PV before,” Mistry
said. “I remember thinking it would be awesome if we could live there,
and as a young couple, the timing was right — we saved and bought a
house before we had kids.”
The two, she recalls, were the youngest on their block when they moved
in. Roma was 27, Sameer was 30. They fell in love with their new neighborhood.
“We were young, no kids, working hard, and we knew we wanted to live
there, where the schools were great,” Mistry said.
Former two-term Education Foundation president Roma Mistry.
Photo by David Fairchild
November 2017 • Peninsula 23
Their son Dilan was born four years later; their daughter Shefali three
years after him.
When their children were ready to go to school, their parents decided to
send them to public school, rather than take advantage of any nearby private
options.
“It’s about being part of your local community; I went to LA Unified
schools,” Mistry said. “I think public schools have a lot to offer, especially
in the community we’re in. It’s a no brainer.”
Mistry started her support for the Peninsula Education Foundation as a
donor. She was still practicing law at the time, while volunteering at her
child’s school.
“Eventually, I became aware of the funding issues, and how our schools
are funded,” Mistry said.
In terms of per-pupil funding, the Palos Verdes Peninsula School District
is among the lowest-funded school districts in the state. The bulk of its
budget comes from the state’s Local Control Funding Formula. As of the
2015-16 school year, PVPUSD receives $7,579 per student. By comparison,
the statewide average for all unified school districts is $8,954 per student.
“When we started donating, my kids were really young; I don’t think I
fully grasped the scope of disproportionality in funding for schools,” Mistry
said. “From that point, I started paying more attention to what PEF was
funding, and it grew from there.”
Music programs nationwide have become expendable in many situations
as belts have tightened for schools. However, PEF has named funding music
programs among its top priorities.
“That caught my eye; my son participated in music in elementary school
and got his first taste of playing an instrument,” Mistry said. “It was a selfesteem
boost for him and it spurred an interest going forward and continuing
his musical education. That was a big selling point for me.”
As she continued looking into PEF, Mistry appreciated that its board of
trustees was a cross-section of the community. Its members ranged from
volunteers to professionals, and parents at each level of schooling and across
the peninsula community.
“It offered a vantage point from being an elementary school parent to
what lies ahead, and what we have to look forward to; plus, it gave a look
at what the Ed Foundation does beyond elementary school,” Mistry said.
Mistry joined the PEF Board of Trustees in 2011, shortly after she stepped
away from her legal career. In 2014, she was elected board president.
Mistry is reticent about giving herself much credit, instead deferring to
the Board of Trustees, as well as PEF Executive Director Christine Byrne,
and the organization’s staff and volunteers.
“[Byrne] goes in and is there every day…the PEF office staff is the hardest
working group I’ve worked with. They’re a well-oiled machine, making
sure things run smoothly, contacting companies and seeking partnerships,”
Mistry said. “The buck stops with them.”
Mistry’s challenge, she said, was beyond strictly fundraising. Under her
leadership, PEF underwent a review of its bylaws, wrote a strategic plan,
and put in place a new employee handbook.
“Those things don’t sound sexy or important, but they’re important for
governance,” Mistry said. “For an organization to be successful, it has to be
guided.”
Of course, PEF continued its fundraising endeavors. In 2015 and 2016,
the organization donated $6.76 million to PVPUSD, with the bulk of contributions
coming from PV families. Donors will be thanked and honored
at the organization’s upcoming Food and Wine Fest on Nov. 16. That night,
winners of the Chuck Miller Teacher Grant will be honored. Teacher
awardees will receive up to $1,500 to bolster their classroom budgets.
Last year Mistry left the board in the hands of co-presidents Matthew
Rener and Michelle Fullerton, though she’s still volunteering. Her son recently
graduated from Palos Verdes High School, and is on to Chapman
University, while her daughter is in her second year at Peninsula High.
“It’s nice to be in a position where my family and I have been able to
benefit from the groundwork that’s been laid for us,” Mistry said. “I love
when people’s kids have graduated, and that we’re ensuring the success
and longevity of the schools and local community...PEF supports students
from the moment they start in kindergarten, and it’s there at every level.
We’ve been able to make sure that continues so that future generations can
benefit, too.” PEN
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Rising above his
musical horizon
David Benoit takes a poolside break at his Palos Verdes Estates home. Photo by David Fairchild.
On the launching pad with David Benoit
by Bondo Wyszpolski
Jazz artist David Benoit and the California Science Center are rarely mentioned
in the same sentence, but that’s beginning to happen more often
these days thanks to the space shuttle Endeavour. So far, so strange, so
let’s explain.
On Sunday, November 5, the Manhattan Beach native and Palos Verdes
Estate resident will conduct the Asia America Youth Symphony in the
Samuel Oschin Pavilion, at the Science Center in Exposition Park, where
the Endeavour is on view. The orchestra will tantalize the audience with
the theme from “Star Wars” and soon thereafter fill the hall with Benoit’s
spirited “Journey of the Endeavour.”
The composition is largely ebullient and celebratory and just over fiveand-a-half
minutes in length. Benoit premiered in 2013 at the James Armstrong
Theatre in Torrance. At that concert, footage of the shuttle was
projected behind the orchestra, a former astronaut was one hand to lend
gravity to the occasion, and among the people sitting in the audience was
an executive from the California Science Center.
“She said we must do this at the Endeavour,” Benoit says from the kitchen
table at his home in Palos Verdes Estates. “So we talked about it for a couple
of years and finally they pulled the trigger and said, ‘We’re going to do it,’
so here it is.”
After the piece is performed, the audience will turn their heads and marvel
at the long-distance voyager itself, imposing and radiant.
Benoit explains how the “Journey of the Endeavour” came about.
“I try once a year to do an artist residency in Villa Montalvo (in Saratoga,
near San Jose), where I can take a couple of weeks and write something
fresh. The idea is not to write anything commercial. I was looking for some
inspiration and I saw this video of the Endeavour when it went through the
streets of L.A.” Because of its size, its route from LAX to Exposition Park
had to be carefully choreographed, reminiscent of LACMA’s plan for “Levitated
Mass.”
The 184-foot long Endeavour was named after Captain Cook’s HMS Endeavour.
“I saw it almost like a ballet,” Benoit continues. “I saw it as an orchestral
piece.
“I edited the video so that you see it take off and then you see it land.”
The mood shifts as it wends its way across Manchester Avenue, north along
Crenshaw Boulevard, and east again on Martin Luther King Boulevard.
“And then finally, when it finds its home in the garage I kind of slowed the
music down. It was a little sad in a way, a little remorseful, but it was like,
well, that journey’s over, here’s the new one, and now he’s in the museum.”
Known for now, known for later
In 1982, the late Timothy Purpus wrote a cover feature for Easy Reader
about David Benoit as he was first achieving success as a professional jazz
musician. In the 35 years since, Benoit has released over two dozen albums,
including four this year. Foremost, perhaps, is his “Music of Montalvo” CD,
a crowd-funded effort recorded with the West European Symphony Orchestra
that highlights “Bikeride” (with the All-American Boys Choir) and “Napa
Crossroads Overture,” a catchy number co-written with David Pack, (formerly
of Ambrosia). The centerpiece of the CD belongs to the Endeavour.
The other new releases include the commercially-tilted “So Nice,” with
Marc Antoine; an all-solo piano CD called “The Steinway Sessions,” and a
holiday record with Dave Koz (“That’s more his CD, but I did the orchestral
arrangements and conducted, and played piano on it, too.”).
That would be a bumper crop year for any artist, on top of which Benoit
is a morning DJ for radio station 88.1 KJazz. It’s a weekday show, 8 a.m. to
12 noon, but because of traveling and other commitments Benoit is often
able to record several upcoming programs at a time. He’s also hosting a Saturday
show from 10 to noon, this one focused on piano players. He has a
free hand with Saturday’s selections, but not so much with those aired dur-
28 Peninsula • November 2017
ing the week.
Perhaps you’re thinking, hey,
that’s great, Benoit’s really on a roll
and he must be a happy camper.
Well, yes and no.
In some circles, Benoit is regarded
as a purveyor of smooth jazz
(or “easy listening”), a label he abhors.
“You get typecast,” he admits.
“Okay, everybody knows me for
writing the pretty melodies.” And,
yes, they are pretty, and often
charming.
Clearly, there’s an audience for it;
Benoit might be living under the
freeway if there weren’t. But
“smooth jazz” isn’t the only thing he
hopes to be remembered for, and
that’s one reason why “Journey of
the Endeavour” is a vital piece. He
would like to find other projects
that take him out of his comfort
zone and, like the shuttle itself, into
new frontiers.
“I’m always looking for new
things to write about,” he says. “Part
of the problem, well, the good and
the bad news, is it’s been an unusually
busy year for me commercially,
which is good. The ‘bad’ thing is
that when you have a year like that
there’s so little time to do the other,”
meaning of course the non-commercial.
“I need to get back to that
creative space.
“That’s what’s important as an
artist. We have our stuff to do to
earn money and keep the bills paid,
but the ‘Journey of the Endeavour’
is an example of something that has
no connections with making
money, it’s just, hey, here’s some
art; art’s important.” He points to
“Kobe,” written years ago in response
to the earthquake that damaged
the city of the same name, and
to the fairly recent “Bikeride,” as
more complex works that needed
time to be thought out and developed.
Benoit was 29 when Timothy
Purpus interviewed him, and he’s
64 now. That’s still young, or young
enough, for a strong second-half
showing. Sure, Schubert and
Mozart died when they were just
kids, but Verdi, Sibelius, and
Richard Strauss all lived productively
deep into their 80s. As Saul
Bellow once told Herbert Gold,
“Don’t count any writer out while
he’s still alive.” Sometimes one’s
greatest adversary isn’t old age so
much as it’s the unwillingness to
risk failure.
At the moment, Benoit’s legacy is
in his jazz compositions, the soundtrack
to “The Peanuts Movie,” and
so on, but will this work endure?
With the exception of a few tunes
(“Kei’s Song,” “Freedom at Midnight,”
“Drive Time,” etc.) will he
be remembered and played a generation
or two hence? Nobody
knows for sure, and one can’t even
guess whether his earlier classical
pieces will survive, but chances
could be greater that posterity
awaits him in the field of classical
or rather orchestral music. If he
persists in this genre...
He may not have cut his teeth at
a prestigious music academy, but
Benoit has the tools and the knowhow.
He’s been the music director
and chief conductor of the Asia
America Youth Symphony for a
dozen years, and has played or conducted
in numerous venues, including
Disney Hall where he led a
performance of Beethoven’s “Ninth
Symphony.”
In short, Benoit says, referring
back to “Kobe” and “Journey of the
Endeavour,” “Something I want to
do more and more [are works] like
these, expressing myself in a way
where I’m not encumbered by commercial
restrictions.”
Pushing at old boundaries
And thus the question, can he
transcend that by which he’s been
primarily known? Danny Elfman,
who tumbled into the new wave
music scene with Oingo Boingo,
has become a world-class composer
of soundtracks. Others, from Paul
McCartney to Joe Jackson, have
made the leap into writing symphonic
music, and Benoit himself
mentions Frank Zappa, whose
records like “Hot Rats” and
“Weasels Ripped My Flesh” belie
the fact that he was an accomplished
composer on a much
grander scale.
“People in the symphony world
and classical world are discovering
Frank Zappa,” Benoit says. “He was
a serious composer. But he’s been
dead now, how many years (almost
25), and people are just starting to
figure it out.”
Benoit wonders aloud if he’s running
out of time, and in a sense we
all are, and especially those of us
who harbor unrealized artistic ambitions.
“One of my dreams would be to
take a year off,” Benoit says, “which
I’ve never done, and it’s been pretty
much just doing gigs since I was 18.
And all of a sudden I’m 64 years
old, and still doing gigs.” It isn’t that
he doesn’t enjoy performing, it’s
just that a lengthy retreat, a sabbatical,
or what have you, would be a
rejuvenating balm and, need it be
said, could possibly give him the
November 2017 • Peninsula 29
eathing room required for a
larger-scaled work, one on which,
who knows, he might even stake
his reputation.
Looking ahead to potential opportunities
is important, he says,
“and continuing to be really creative,
because I feel like I’m doing
some of my best work now as I’ve
gotten older and a little smarter
about things. When you’re young
you think you know it all, then you
realize the adage ‘the more you
know the more you realize you
don’t know.’ Yup, that’s true,” and
he laughs.
In the meantime, Benoit has his
work cut out for him locally. This
includes a dinner concert on Sunday,
Nov. 12, at the Palos Verdes
Golf Club. Proceeds from the
event, with tickets at $125, benefit
the Asia America Symphony Association.
“I’ll do a few of my signature
tunes,” he says. “We’ll probably do
a couple things that people know
me for. I want it to be a fun, loose
event where maybe we’ll jam on
an Eddie Harris tune and then Herbie
Hancock, and maybe (throw in)
a few cover tunes. Everyone’s
gonna get a chance to stretch out
and jam a little bit.” In addition to
David Benoit introduces Manhattan Beach resident and Space Shuttle Endeavour
Astronaut Dr. Garrett Reisman at the premiere of "Journey of the Endeavour"
at the James Armstrong Theatre in Torrance in 2013. Benoit conducted the Asia
American Youth Orchestra wearing an Endeavour flight suit. Photo by Kevin Cody
Benoit on piano, the lineup is likely
to consist of guitarist Pat Kelley,
drummers Clayton Cameron and
Brad Harner, bassist Ken Wild, and
saxophonist Michael Paulo. “Plus
I’ll have a couple of my young
members from the orchestra performing
so they’ll have a chance to
be featured as well,” the latter musicians
being 14-year-old Vinnie
Aguas on drums and 17-year-old
Colton Russell on bass.
As for the Asia America Youth
Symphony, the 2018 season has yet
to be announced, but one of the
highlights (if not the highlight, for
those involved) takes place in June
when 30 members of the orchestra
will travel to Seoul, South Korea, to
perform. This is actually a reciprocal
concert: in February of this year
some 30 South Korean musicians
came to the States and were guests
of the Asia America Symphony.
On this side of the Pacific, however,
the AAYS will host its alumni
concert, on April 20: “We’ve had
the orchestra for 15 years now,”
Benoit says. “In those years we’ve
had a lot of students who have
gone on to be very successful in
music, so we’re asking them to
come back.” In other words, if you
or someone you know performed
with the group during those years,
dust off your oboe or viola and get
ready for the big reunion.
For the moment, though, all eyes
are glued to the space shuttle and
David Benoit’s “Journey of the Endeavour”
concert, which is also the
fall fundraiser of the Los Angeles
Philharmonic’s Peninsula Committee
(our local LA Phil Affiliates).
The performance takes place from
7 to 10 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 5, in
the Samuel Oschin Pavilion at the
California Science Center, 700 Exposition
Park Drive, Los Angeles.
Tickets, $150. Hors d’oeuvres,
desserts, fine wine and coffee to be
served. For information and tickets,
go to pclaphil.org. PEN
30 Peninsula • November 2017
Seeing the Space Shuttle Endeavour transported from Los Angeles International Airport to the California Science Center in 2012 inspired David Benoit to write
“Journey of the Endeavour.” Photo by John Post
November 2017 • Peninsula 31
550 Silver Spur Rd. Suite 240, Rolling Hills Estates, CA 90275
S P O T L I G H T O N T H E H I L L
Eat, drink and be scary!
PTN Halloween Ball
The Pediatric Therapy Network hosted their 22nd Spooktacular Halloween Ball
to benefit the children with developmental and medical issues. Junior ambassador
Daniel Lowe, 12, told attendees about the challenges he’s learned to overcome
through PTN. One of the highlights he says of being involved with PTN was
meeting Lakers coach Luke Walton, and learning to address large crowds. The
RamFunkshus rocked the huge, tented event next to Chef Michael Shafer’s Depot
restaurant. One of the auction highlights was a dinner prepared by Chef Shafer
at the raffle winner’s home. Other auction items included a luxury suite for 12
people at the Staples Center to watch the Clippers or Kings and 2 VIP Forum
passes to see Jay-Z along with a limousine ride to and from the Forum. According
to PTN, one in six children born in the U.S. has a developmental disability. For
more information visit pediatrictherapynetwork.org
1. Chef Michael Shafer.
2. Charlene Nishimura and Sylvia
Luna.
3. Daniel, Tom and Melody Lowe
and Stacey and Ryan Harris.
4. Cher and Bret Carroll.
PHOTOS BY STEPHANIE CARTOZIAN
5. Paul and Lydia Ho, Jan and
David Lim.
6. Craig and Mary Rose Kalem,
Lynn and Vincent Macnguyen.
7. Armando and Isabel
Fernandez.
8. Wayne and Nori Dempsey.
9. Amanda Wynn and Andy
Stockton.
10. Tim and Andrea Thompson
and Paige Asawa.
1
2 3 4
5 6
7
8 9
10
34 Peninsula • November 2017
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family room with fireplace and a conveniently laid out kitchen with newer appliances. The interior is accented in wood paneling,
high beamed ceilings and hardwood floors. The 53,990 square foot parcel is situated on a private cul-de-sac street and is highlighted
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Marco’s
music
Marco Vignale and Emily Jordan on their way to the Peninsula High prom in 2013. Photos courtesy of the family
A rare gene mutation takes away a young man’s physical abilities, but not his passions
by Maneesha Prakash
On October 27, 2016, my son Marco was admitted to Torrance Memorial
Intensive Care Unit, complaining of shortness of breath, and
extreme stomach pain. We assumed this was another inflammatory
episode of his chronic condition that would be resolved with bed rest and
proper nutrition in a few days, at most. Marco did not return home, or see
the world beyond the walls of a hospital, for over three months.
Marco suffers from a very rare, rapidly progressing, life-threatening type
of Muscular Dystrophy known as BAG3 MFM6 myopathy. This condition
is caused by a spontaneous mutation in a single gene – parents and family
do not carry it. No treatment exists. All known subjects with the disease
have died in their teens or twenties.
Marco, now 22, is confined to a wheelchair and needs a breathing machine.
Alexander Zah, a 14-year old Massachusetts boy, is the only other
person in the U.S. known to have the same unlucky strike mutation. Both
boys have lived with no treatment, no hope, and the knowledge that their
condition is so rare that there is little incentive for medical research to be
conducted on their behalf.
We moved to Rancho Palos Verdes in 2003 when Marco was 8 years old,
with his two older sisters. He attended Soleado Elementary School and was
your average All-American Boy, with an average dislike of math, and an
above average love of soccer. He spent most of his free time kicking a soccer
ball against the garage door of his Longhill Drive home. As soon as he was
old enough he began playing AYSO soccer.
He was the slowest player on the field, which was not a surprise. When
Marco was a toddler he had a difficult time sitting on the floor or crossing
his legs. He would fall off playground swingsets because he didn’t grip the
ropes tightly enough. Neurological tests showed that Marco was missing
some key nerve reflexes, but doctors were at a loss as to why. Nevertheless,
Marco enjoyed playing AYSO, which is open to all kids, regardless of ability.
In 2006, his team, the Strikers, won the championship cup, which sent him
to a heaven of happiness.
Marco continued playing soccer at Ridgecrest Middle School, but with
more and more difficulty. P.E. required running around the field, which
was excruciatingly difficult. The UCLA Pediatric Neurology Clinic conducted
multiple tests, but could not diagnose the problem. He attended
summer soccer camps, and though he could not run much, he was praised
by his coaches for his technique. He hoped to try out for the Peninsula High
soccer team. But by the end of the summer of 2008, he was forced to accept
the reality that he could not keep up with the physical requirements of the
game. Instead, he became a living encyclopedia of FIFA and soccer World
Cups, dating back to 1930. He hoped to become a game commentator, until
he discovered those jobs go exclusively to former players.
He looked for another passion and found music. After trying drums and
guitars, he settled on bass guitar. He joined a jazz band through the Harbor
College outreach partnership. The group played at El Camino over the holiday
season. He immersed himself in music theory and composition. Music
filled his head and his home.
But, as with soccer, Marco’s body could not keep up with the physical
demands of his new passion. As his disease progressed he began to lose coordination
in his extremities. His fingers, once deft at pressing chords, lost
their strength, making it difficult to learn new and challenging pieces. After
advancing within just a few years from novice to accomplished bassist, he
had to move on, once again.
Marco transferred to Rancho del Mar in 2011, which offers individualized
instruction to Peninsula students. A shorter work day and a different approach
to learning helped him tremendously. He became an A student
(though still not in math). He drove a car with hand controls. But a diagnosis
still eluded the UCLA neurologists.
In 2012, Marco transferred back to Peninsula High and began dating a
beautiful young woman named Emily. By then, his health had declined to
the point that he could no longer walk, and was confined to a wheelchair.
Marco cont. on page 40
38 Peninsula • November 2017
Marco’s first passion was soccer.
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November 2017 • Peninsula 39
Marco cont. from page 38
He went with Emily to the 2013 prom in his wheelchair.
Finally, in early 2012, the UCLA team reached a diagnosis. Marco tested positive
for the recently discovered and usually fatal mutation known as BAG3 MFM6
myopathy. Our family was on the verge of despair.
Then, out of the blue, I received calls from two individuals who gave us hope.
The first was from Dr. Monte Willis, of the University of North Carolina. He
was doing basic research on a heart condition known as cardiomyopathy, which
results from a gene mutation similar to the mutation responsible for Marco’s condition.
The second call was from Laura Zah, of Massachusetts, mother of 14-year-old
Alexander. She had seen a slide presentation about Marco that I had posted on
YouTube.
Our families began talking to medical researchers, among them, an expert in
gene therapy from Harvard University who is studying genetic mutations. We are
now in negotiations to help commence a research project on their mutation.
There are no government funds for research on such a rare disease, and no
pharmaceutical company will invest in the necessary research for a disease with
so few sufferers.
To raise money to fund research, our families have established the non profit
Alexander’s Way Research Fund at Alexandersway.org and a GoFundMe campaign
at GoFundMe.com/genecure.
Last month marks one year since Marco’s urgent admittance to Torrance Memorial
Hospital. Since then, his condition has stabilized and he is living his life to
the fullest. Soccer matches are on the sports channels and he has begun to compose
digital music, which does not require the muscular dexterity required of conventional
composing. Emily, has been by his side throughout his ordeal.
Since the beginning of the human race, rare and deadly genetic diseases have
left children like Marco and Alexander without hope. Now, for the first time in
human history, we are developing the technical tools that in a not too distant future
may eradicate these diseases from the face of the Earth. It is our duty to do
all we can to save Marco, Alexander, and future generations of children. PEN
Marco Vignale and friends on his 22nd birthday. Photos courtesy of the
family
40 Peninsula • November 2017
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S P O T L I G H T O N T H E H I L L
Roaring ‘20s Elegance
Friends of the Library
Intermittent lightning lit up the fall sky on September 10, but there was
no raining on this fete hosted by the Villa Narcissa and Friends of the
Library. This was an enchanted evening with costumed Roaring Twenties
attire amidst a backdrop of Palos Verdes glamour and steeped in rich history.
The Vanderlip family was present including Narcissa and her sister,
Katrina Vanderlip who flew in from New York and auctioned off one of
her original watercolors of the Villa Narcissa to benefit the Friends of
the Library. More than 200 guests donated close to $50,000 to support library
programs and services. Notable sponsors included Continental Development
Corporation, the Jacqueline Glass Family, Malaga Bank and
Premier Bank of Palos Verdes.
PHOTOS BY STEPHANIE CARTOZIAN
1. Loretta Patterson and Brian Cole.
2. Bob and Sharron Parke, Pam
Barrett-Hill and Jim Hill and Cathie
DeFrees.
3. J.D. Dickinson and Pamela
Marton-Dickinson.
4. Russell and Viola Iungerich.
5. The venue at Villa Narcissa.
6. Patricia Tierney, Evalyn Prather and
Cindy Miller.
7. Special Thank You for the
Sponsors.
8. Brij and Donna Punj and Mike
Randall.
9. The Kaleidoscope Trio serenaded.
10. Mark Johnson, Donald Pooler
and Jim Munroe.
11. David and Judy Adishian.
12. Lee and Bob Boyles.
13. Kay Magee, Sondra Behrens,
Dana Graham and Lianne LaReine.
14. De De Hicks.
15. Virginia Butler and Les Fishman.
16. Narcissa Vanderlip.
17. Katrina Vanderlip auctioning off
her original watercolor of the Villa
Narcissa.
1
2
3 4
5
6
7
44 Peninsula • November 2017
8 9
10
11 12
13
14 15 16 17
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Student safety valve
Student safety valve
Linsey Gotanda Ed.D, Emiko Chapman M.Ed., Liz Schoeben MFTi, Nancy De La Rosa MFT. Photos by Brad Jacobson (CivicCouch.com)
Liz Schoeben’s therapists help school students deal with increasing pressures
by Robb Fulcher
Liz Schoeben is using a rare combination of
therapeutic and entrepreneurial acumen to
help students on the Peninsula avoid, or
overcome, the increasing pressures of school life.
Through her nonprofit organization CASSY
(Counseling and Support Services for Youth)
Southern California, Schoeben is making trained
therapists available to Palos Verdes Peninsula
school students. She established a similar program
in Northern California.
Through the year, one in five of the district’s
11,500 students will visit a CASSY therapist, and
the bulk of the student body will receive classroom
presentations from CASSY.
Schoeben said the school partnership is a welcome
reality in a nation where 80 percent of
young people with mental health concerns are
not getting help.
Business beginnings
Schoeben began her professional career with
Wells Fargo, selling services to small businesses,
when she discovered that she “loved hearing people’s
stories.” She began tutoring kids in difficult
straits – kids who might have a father behind
bars and an overworked mother.
In her late 20s, she left Wells Fargo and returned
to school for a master’s degree in marriage,
family and child therapy. Then, for the next
dozen years she worked as a school-based therapist
in Northern California.
A systematized approach
Along the way, she realized that she could
make a greater difference for a greater number
of kids by forming an agency to direct counseling
efforts in the schools.
She and colleague Liz Llamas co-founded
CASSY Bay Area in 2009. They hired trained
therapists, marking an immediate upgrade from
school-based systems that use graduate students
who are unpaid and less trained.
CASSY became a thriving concern, thanks to
Schoeben’s gifts as a counselor, coupled with her
flair as an entrepreneur who can conceive, develop
and administer a nonprofit organization.
“People usually have one brain or the other,”
she said. “It’s hard to find a therapist who wants
to run an agency.”
Schoeben worked to build CASSY from the
ground up, reading a “For Dummies” book about
starting a nonprofit.
She said her husband Rob Schoeben, then a
marketing vice president at Apple, provided expertise
and connections that helped CASSY start
its life with a professional website and logo design,
pro bono legal help, and a “polished look”
right out of the gate.
In six years CASSY grew into a $3 million-ayear
operation, serving more than 40 schools. Its
success with students was confirmed with stateof-the-industry
metrics. Last year, Schoeben left
to seek a new horizon.
“I’m an entrepreneur,” she said. “At that point
it was a really well run agency.”
To the Hill
Schoeben was speaking on a panel at a mental
health symposium in Sacramento when she met
officials from the Palos Verdes Peninsula Unified
School District.
“They wanted me to do CASSY down here,”
she said.
Her experience up north spared her some
growing pains with the new CASSY. In the Bay
Area, she juggled the administrative and clinical
functions, and worked in the schools.
“That was way too much. I learned I can’t do
everything.”
This time, Schoeben hired a part-time clinical
48 Peninsula • November 2017
director to manage the counselors, and partnered with The Giving Back
Fund, a nationwide organization that takes care of accounting, payroll taxes
and other similar functions for nonprofits. And once again, Schoeben’s
husband helped out.
“All this allowed us to start up the agency in less than a month,” she said.
Student issues
In the high schools, a CASSY counselor occupies an office in the administration
building, and is seen as “just another support” for the students.
“What we’ve found over the years is that [other students] have no problem
with it. It’s like, ‘Oh, you’re seeing her too, cool!’ They’re referring
their friends,” Schoeben said.
“There’s a lot of social work kind of stuff,” she said. “It’s not a long, yearafter-year,
lie-on-the-couch-and-talk kind of thing. We help them function
happily in school.”
Crisis intervention and treatment is also an important part of the work.
“A crisis is in the eye of the student,” said Schoeben. For instance, a student
might say, “I broke up with my boyfriend, and he’s in my second period
class,” prompting the counselor to talk the student through the
situation, sort out her concerns, and return to functioning comfortably in
the classroom.
“This could also be a kid, or another student or staff member, saying he
plans to kill himself, and he has the means, and he has a plan, and he’s
getting ready to carry it out,” Schoeben said.
In such a case, an eminently suicidal student might be hospitalized for
evaluation, with the cooperation of parents, and stabilized before returning
home. Then CASSY counselors help the student transition back to school.
CASSY counselors also help students cope if death strikes a student or
teacher, and help with issues of drug and alcohol abuse, or inappropriate
sexual behavior. They refer students for more intensive therapy for issues
such as eating disorders or suicidal planning.
Nationally, one in eight young people is clinically depressed, 26 percent
of high school girls have been victimized by physical or sexual abuse, including
date rape. A host of other issues, less serious and less chronic, still
can interfere with a student’s happy adjustment to their environment.
Although crisis counseling is sometimes needed for younger children,
much of the work with them is done in classroom presentations on social
skills and friend-making.
“We’re exposing almost every student to some level of emotional learning,”
Schoeben said.
Universal forces
Data collected on the issues raised by students show a universality of
experience, from affluent school districts to economically disadvantaged
ones, such as the East Palo Alto schools served by CASSY Bay Area.
“Every high school has the same issues – anxiety and depression symptoms,
communication with parents, the stress and anxiety of wanting to
get everything done, wanting to please everyone.”
Schoeben said the pitfalls facing kids have not changed fundamentally
since she attended high school in the ‘80s, but some things have changed,
such as the ubiquity of texting and social media.
“We don’t turn off as well now,” she said. “We used to hang up the phone
and go to sleep, or if my sister was on the phone, I couldn’t talk to my
friend, and I’d just go to bed. Now they can text all night, and are exposed
to the drama, and it’s hard to get a break. It doesn’t go away.”
On social media kids – and adults – have difficulty interpreting the tone
of online comments, and can be tempted into too-impulsive online communication.
“Their brains are still growing, until they’re about 25, and so they’re
more impulsive, it’s harder to slow down and make good decisions.”
Money matters
The school district covers 80 percent of CASSY’s funding, and Schoeben,
the former business banking salesperson, must fundraise the rest, which
totals about $45,000.
CASSY’s effectiveness is measured through feedback from kids, parents
and school staff, and by the Children’s Global Assessment Scale, commonly
called C-GAS, which evaluates the level of functioning, and severity
of mental illness, in children and adolescents.
CASSY Southern California’s first round of evaluative data will be com-
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piled at the end of the school year.
“We assume it will parallel
[CASSY Bay Area], where 90 percent
of the students we see get better,
based on the C-GAS scale,”
Schoeben said.
The school district had been
seeking ways to better address students’
social and emotional needs
for a couple of years, said Kimberly
Fricker, assistant superintendent
for educational services.
Conversations with students and
parent groups had underscored the
need to help high school kids cope
with the pressures of complex academic
schedules and the increasingly
competitive effort to get into
desirable colleges and universities,
she said.
The district hopes that addressing
the social and emotional needs
of younger students will help give
them the resiliency they can call
upon later, to handle the greater
stresses that high school can bring.
“I’m very excited and enthusiastic
about this partnership with
CASSY,” Fricker said.
Looking ahead, Schoeben wants
to expand CASSY.
“It’s important to have the district
buy-in. We would like to grow
district by district.” Growing
Liz Schoeben MFT, founder and executive director of CASSY, Southern California.
would help costs low and allow for
better employee training, Schoeben
said.
Funding can be secured for counseling
in financially disadvantaged
school districts through grants, and
through Title IX of the federal civil
rights law.
“East Palo Alto is a very underserved
community. Ninety percent
of students get free and reducedcost
lunch. But sometimes these districts
are easier to fund. It’s hard to
write a grant for a community that
has a lot of wealth,” Schoeben said.
In her limited spare time,
Schoeben relaxes by kickboxing,
and she volunteers four hours a
week with crisistextline.org, a free,
24-hour crisis counseling text line.
Rob works as a consultant for startups
and fledgling businesses. The
Schoebens live in Manhattan Beach,
and have three sons, ages 19, 21 and
23, all born the same week in June.
For more information visit Cassysocal.org.
PEN
50 Peninsula People • November 2017
The historic D-Day Doll Douglas C-53 Skytrooper that dropped paratroopers into combat during WWII. Photos by Tony LaBruno
by Randy Angel
The 24th edition of the Palos Verdes Concours d’Elegance had a different
look this year. Instead of a Peninsula golf course, the venue
was Zamperini Airfield in Torrance, at the Robinson Helicopter Company’s
facility. The new venue enabled the concours to include historic
aircraft alongside the dozens of vintage automobiles. The theme was “Elegance
and Speed,” a reflection of this year’s marquee cars, Packard and
Porsche.
Other cars fitting the “speed” theme were South Bay icon Vic Edelbrock
Sr.’s 1932 Ford, his record-winning V8-60 Sprint Car, a 1964 Ford Fairlane
427 “Thunderbolt” drag racer, one of only 100 ever produced, and David
G. Adishian’s 1961 Chrysler 300, one of the first muscle cars. The car was
known as the “Banker’s Hotrod” because of its luxury interior and 396
horsepower cross ram Wedge V-8.
Another highlight of the show was the Italian-built Pagani, exhibited by
Christopher Pagani. The Pagani is the world’s most expensive production
car.
The historic aircraft included a Douglas C-53 Skytrooper and a North
American P-51 Mustang D. During the Normandy invasion, the Douglas
C-53 dropped members of the 101st Airborne, behind enemy lines before
the first wave of soldiers hit the beach.
The masters of ceremonies were Dave Kunz and Ed Justice, Jr. Kunz has
been the Eyewitness News Automotive Specialist at ABC7 since 2001. Justice
comes from a family of automobile enthusiasts and has been heard on
radio programs Road & Track, Car and Driver and Motor Trend, in addition
to appearing on MSNBC.
Concours Chairman Ray Johnson said the new venue proved to be pop-
Superformance President Lance Stander.
The Torrance Tiger Squadron.
52 Peninsula • November 2017
Al Cellier, of Palos Verdes, with his 1962 red Corvette. Ed and Mort Bauchman, of Rancho Palos Verdes, with their 1964 Porsche 356 C.
Stearman 1942 aircraft N2S3 owned by Frank Mauro of Torrance.
ular.
“We have received very positive feedback from the exhibitors, sponsors,
and attendees,” Johnson said. “Robinson Helicopter, the Airport Commission
and the City of Torrance were very supportive of the show and helped
make the new venue a success and we would like to hold the show there
again next year.”
Rolling Hills residents Tom and Carrie Lieb, who have participated in the
event for many years, were two-time winners for the second time. They
took first place in the Hot Rods, Golden Era (1930-1960) class with their
1929 Ford Roadster and in the Brass/Antiques through 1924 category with
a 1923 Wills St. Claire Roadster. The Wills St. Claire won the Vintage Class
at Pebble Beach in 2001.
“It feels great to get a double win,” Tom Lieb said. “The ‘29 roadster was
prepared by my grandson Connor. He spent about 20 hours detailing the
car. I bought the car in 1959 but sold the engine for college tuition in 1961.
Mark Guggenheim, of Palos Verdes, with his 1958 Porsche
Speedster.
I put it back together in late 2009 and took it and the Wills to the Grand
National Roadster show in 2010 and won best roadster. I drive both cars
regularly which is a lot of fun.”
Darren Moore, of Rancho Palos Verdes, took two second-places with his
1922 Stutz Bearcat (Brass/Antiques through 1924) and his 1932 Packard
Twin Six 905 Coupe Roadster (Open Classic Packard, 1925-1948). He was
also presented the Chairman’s Award for his P51D Mustang Airplane.
Moore has seven cars and six airplanes in his collection but it was the
first time he has exhibited his cars.
“I’m not a car show person, but since the Concours was presented at Torrance
Airport where my collection is, I couldn’t refuse” Moore said. “I have
displayed and flown my aircraft at airshows before, but I no longer participate
in those events. I haven’t acquired the vehicles as an investment, only
because I like them.”
Moore purchased the P51D Mustang in 2011 after completing a training
Robert Knee, of Los Angeles, with his 1928 Mercedes-Benz 630K Murphy
Town Car.
Lianne Graham, of Palos Verdes, with her 1932 Chrysler Imperial CH Convertible
Sedan.
November 2017 • Peninsula 53
The scene at The Louis Zamperini Airfield venue.
The $2.4 million Italian Pagani.
Darren Moore( left), is presented the
Chairman’s Award by Ray Johnson
for his P51D Mustang airplane.
Photo courtesy of PV Concours d’Elegance
Christopher Pagani whose father manufactures the Pagani automobile. Photo by
Stephanie Cartozian
course in the aircraft with Stallion 51, the only school in the country that
offers this course.
“Soon after I completed the course, a man down in Florida had just completed
a six year restoration of his Mustang and decided to sell it,” Moore
added. “I flew it home a few weeks later. I tell everyone that I’m just the
“Caretaker” of it. It’s American history and I’ll pass it on to someone who
loves it just as much as I do.”
Peninsula residents placed first and second in the Post-War European Elegance
through 1976 class. Jay and Bonnie McDonald, of Palos Verdes Estates,
took top honors with their 1956 Mercedes-Benz 300SL while Hiram
Bond and Paul Marcelino, of Rancho Palos Verdes, were runner-up with a
1963 Rolls-Royce CT100.
Tom and Shannon Hartman, of Rancho Palos Verdes, placed second in
the Open American Classics, 1925-1948 class with their 1932 Lincoln
Model 248 K LeBaron Convertible Roadster
Local third-place finishers included John Marian, of Rancho Palos Verdes,
with a 1965 Porsche 911 (Porsche 900, 1965-1990) and Palos Verdes Estates’
George Johnson with a 1929 Packard 626 5-Passenger Sedan (Closed Classic
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Aaron and Valerie Weiss, of San Marino, won Best of Show with their 1936
Mercedes-Benz 290 Cabriolet A. Photo courtesy of PV Concours d’Elegance
David G. Adishian with his 1961 Chrysler 300, one of the first muscle cars.
Only 1,281 were made. The car was known as the “Banker’s Hotrod” because
of its luxury interior and 396 horsepower cross ram Wedge V-8. Photo by Jake
Caumeran
Packard, 1925-1948)
The Eric P. Allen Memorial award for Most Elegant was presented to
Earl Rubenstein, of El Segundo for his 1935 Packard 1204, Dual Cowl
Phaeton.
Best of Show honors went to Aaron and Valerie Weiss, of San Marino,
for their 1936 Mercedes-Benz 290 Cabriolet A.
Proceeds from the Palos Verdes Concours d’Elegance benefit the Boys
and Girls Clubs of the Los Angeles Harbor and a new charity, the Western
Museum of Flight. PEN
The award winning P51D Mustang was purchased in 2011 by Darren Moore
of Rancho Palos Verdes. Photo courtesy of PV Concours d’Elegance
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November 2017 • Peninsula 55
56 Peninsula • November 2017
Service first
Citizen of the Year
Jackie Crowley
finds happiness in
making others happy
by Robb Fulcher
Jackie Crowley has been giving of herself for more decades
than she will reveal, visiting kids recovering from surgery
in an orthopedic hospital, lugging supply-filled backpacks
to disadvantaged schools, and sitting on the boards of Palos
Verdes Performing Arts and the Peninsula Symphony Association.
If you ask her why, she might have to think for a moment.
Service has become second nature, to the extent that she sometimes
must remind herself to turn her attention to her other career,
real estate. Still, her answer is clear and simple: her work
is animated by faith and gratitude.
In recognition of her volunteer spirit, Crowley has been
named Citizen of the Year by the Palos Verdes Peninsula Chamber
of Commerce, which will officially bestow the honor at an
annual dinner Nov. 1.
Service in faith
In an interview, Crowley spoke of her church, Rolling Hills
Covenant, and its mission to “lead people to Christ.” She believes
that in addition to that Christian mission, people are
given individualized missions to be useful to each other.
“It probably sounds corny, but the good Lord has been very
good to me. Life has been very good to me,” she said.
Of course, she volunteers at the church too, taking care of
“leapers,” kids 18 to 24 months old, in the nursery, once a
month during the 9:30 service.
“We have peepers, creepers and leapers. I have the leapers,”
she said.
The morning of the interview, she had been on hand for the
“Shop ‘Til You Drop” fundraiser, with food and retail vendors,
to support Palos Verdes Performing Arts, which brings highly
regarded stage, musical and ballet performances to the Norris
Theatre, and oversees a student Conservatory and a multi-use
pavilion.
The next day would see her in San Diego where, in her role
as a state director for the California Association of Realtors, she
would help ride herd on one of the association’s three yearly
conferences.
Much of her current volunteer work involves structure and
organization. On the Performing Arts board, for instance, she
helps make decisions about which theater productions should
be brought in, with a bottom-line focus that they must be affordable.
The board also oversees a variety of uses of the Harlyne
J. Norris Pavilion, and keeps track of Performing Arts
support groups such as Bravo!, Chorusliners, and Act II, which
put on “Shop ‘Til You Drop.”
Jackie Crowley in front of a wall lined with local service awards. Photo by Tony LaBruno
Crowley also solicits advertising for a program book that sits on the laps of Norris
Theatre patrons.
Depression child
Crowley was born during the Great Depression, in a hospital along Lake Erie. She
used to call her birthplace Cleveland, until she found out that, technically, she was
born in the eastern suburb of Euclid.
“I was sort of surprised,” she said. “I had always said Cleveland, Ohio.”
In the rough and tumble of a desperate economy, her father worked for Ford Motor
58 Peninsula • November 2017
Co. until that job went away. He operated his own auto dealership for a
time. Then he caught on with the government, in a job that called for frequent
relocations. The family lived in West Virginia, North Carolina,
Louisiana, Rhode Island, Pennsylvania and Ohio, with mom timing the
moves to take place between the school years.
“My mother was smart enough to have us move in the summertime,”
Crowley said.
Crowley’s father had fond recollections of California, where he was located
while he was in the service, so the family came out west. Crowley
attended Inglewood High School, where she served as editor-in-chief of
the yearbook.
“In those days you were raised to grow up, get an education, get married
and raise a family,” she said. “That was expected of a young lady, so that’s
the way it went.”
Crowley has two children, Steven Lee Pinkney and Susan Leann Mc-
Crae.
“I’d have to say life has been very, very good to me,” Crowley said.
By the time she and her family moved to the Peninsula, she was selling
homes. In 1972 she opened Rancho Verdes Realty, at Palos Verdes Drive
North and Crenshaw Boulevard. She signed on with RE/MAX in 1982 and
has been with the agency ever since, as a real estate broker and vice president
for estate properties.
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Toothbrushes and teddy bears
Her extensive volunteer service began in the early 1970s, when she went
into the orthopedic hospital in Los Angeles, performing duties including
working in the gift shop and visiting children in the recovery room following
surgery.
“We could go into the recovery room and then see the parents. It gives
them a wonderful feeling, that communication, to know that somebody
saw their loved one. It was wonderful.”
Crowley did that recovery room work for about 20 years, “as long as they
had that job.”
Also among Crowley’s volunteering favorites is the Affinity Group,
which she has chaired for five years, for the Volunteer Center South Bay.
The centerpiece of the effort is Operation Teddy Bear, which prepares and
delivers backpacks stuffed with supplies like books, crayons and toothbrushes
– topped off with a teddy bear – to school kids in underprivileged
areas.
“We’re known as the teddy bear support group,” she said.
Several hundreds of the backpacks have been delivered to date.
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Service in work
Crowley sees her real estate career as another form of service, with the
benefit of a paycheck.
“I love selling real estate. You help people make one of the biggest decisions
they make in life…It’s a very important step,” she said.
“Some people I’ve sold houses to, they’re still in the same house 50 years
later,” Crowley said.
“I’ve been in real estate for over 50 years – I wouldn’t want to say how
many more,” she added with a laugh.
Crowley lives in Rancho Palos Verdes, and fills her limited spare time
with physical activity including bowling, golf, swimming and ballroom
dance classes.
“I love to dance,” she said. “When you’re dancing, you don’t know that
you’re exercising, but you’re exercising.”
To be happy, she must be of service.
“I belong to Rotary Club of Palos Verdes Sunset, and the Rotary motto is
also my life motto: ‘Service Above Self,’” Crowley said. “Happiness for me
is anything I can do that makes someone else happy.”
“I don’t want people to think I’m a Pollyanna, but I definitely see the
glass as half full. I can’t see it half empty.”
Jackie Crowley will be honored as the Palos Verdes Peninsula Chamber
of Commerce 2017 Citizen of the Year at the chamber’s annual gala 5:30
p.m., Wednesday, Nov. 1 at Terranea Resort. In addition, Walk With Sally
will be named Nonprofit Organization of the Year, and Vistas For Children
will be named Community Service Organization of the Year. Tickets are
$150. For information see palosverdeschamber.com or call 310-377-8111.
PEN
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San Pedro, CA 90732
Not affiliated with Rolex USA
November 2017 • Peninsula People 59
60 Peninsula • November 2017
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.
Ongoing
Native Plant Nursery Volunteer Days
n Nurture seedlings and help shrubs grow for habitat restoration projects.
RSVP 48 hours in advance. Fridays and Saturdays, 9 a.m. - noon. Sign up at
pvplc.volunteerhub.com
Rapid Response Team
n Work alongside Conservancy staff protecting wildlife habitat by closing
unauthorized trails. Task include trail maintenance, building fences and installing
signage. Work at various locations around the Preserve. Directions to
sites emailed upon sign up. No experience needed. 15 and up. Visit volunteerhub.com
Nature on the Big Screen
n Birders take note! The PVP Land Conservancy is compiling photos for
slideshow showcasing your bird photographs for November 19 to be shown
on the “big screen” at the Warner Grand Theatre. If you have bird photos
that you would like to be included, please email up to 3 images to:
photo@pvplc.org. Please make sure they are in large format, at least 240 dpi
and 1920 x 1200 pixels. Include your name, location of the photo and
species of bird, if known.
n Are you a student who loves filming videos? You too can be featured on
the big screen. Please send a 1- 2 minute video about what you love about
nature, how nature impacts your life or what nature taught you. Send your
.mov or .mp4 file tophoto@pvplc.org. Include your name and year in school.
Sunday, October 29
Water music
n Season opener of the Peninsula Symphony. Pre-concert lecture by Maestro
Berkson (members only) at 6:15 p.m., concert begins at 7 p.m. The doors
open at 6 p.m. Concert opens with Felix Mendelssohn’s Calm Sea and Prosperous
Voyage, Opus 27. Aleksandr Glazunov’s majestic Das Meer (The
Sea), Opus 28, follows. After intermission, the concert hall is transformed to
a fairy tale lake in Anatole Liadov’s The Enchanted Lake, Opus 62. The concert
ends with Leonard Bernstein’s haunting On the Waterfront. Concert and
parking are free. Redondo Union High School Auditorium, 631 Vincent Street
November 2017 • Peninsula 61
Together, let us …
Pray for all who carry burdens.
Worship the Christ whose love
overcomes the darkness.
Light candles of peace, courage, love,
hope, faith, remembrance and
thanksgiving.
The Service
of Reflection
and Thanksgiving
Wednesday
November 15, 2017
7:00 pm (new time)
The Sanctuary
St. Peter’s by the Sea
6410 Palos Verdes Drive South
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
StPetersPres.org
Sponsored by the Stephen Ministry,
Deacons and Caring Ministries
DAVID FAIRCHILD PHOTOGRAPHY
Sunday, Nov. 5
Musical Endeavour
n “Journey of the Endeavour,” by
Grammy nominated Peninsula composer
David Benoit, will be performed
at the Peninsula Committee
Los Angeles Philharmonic (PCLAP)
fall fundraiser at the California Science
Center Samuel Oschin Pavilion.
Benoit will conduct the Asia
America Youth Symphony. “Journey
of the Endeavour” will be accompanied
by NASA footage of the space
shuttle’s journey to its permanent
home in Los Angeles. 7-10 p.m.
$150 at pclaphil.org. 700 Exposition
Park Dr., Los Angeles.
Jacob Miller and the
Bridge City Crooners
n The Palos Verdes Performing
Arts’ Cabaret Jazz series opens with
one of the finest roots-oriented vineventcalendar
in Redondo Beach (PCH at Diamond). For further information, please call the
Symphony Office at 310-544-0320, e-mail music.pensym@verizon.net, or
visit Pensym.org.
Friday, November 3
Full Moon Hike
n Sponsored by the PVP Land Conservancy. Explore nocturnal sights with an
expert naturalist under a full moon at the George F Canyon Nature Preserve,
27305 Palos Verdes Dr. E., Rolling Hills. Must be age 9 and up. $12 per person.
RSVP required at www.pvplc.org, Events & Activities.
A show of Ponies
n With classic touches of Fleetwood Mac and The Eagles, The Show Ponies
deliver a sassy blend of indie-folk, bluegrass, old-time country and American
roots-rock. 8 p.m. $20 to $42, available at www.grandannex.org or (310)
833-4813 Mon-Fri 9 to 5. The Grand Annex, 434 W 6th St., San Pedro.
Saturday, November 4
Outdoor Volunteer Day
n At Native Plant Nursery, 9 a.m. – noon. Nurture seedlings and grow shrubs
for habitat restoration projects all around the Peninsula. Reservations required
by Wednesday, November 1. Sign up at www.pvplc.volunteerhub.com.
Family hike
n First Saturday Family Hike at George F Canyon. 9 a.m. Bring your family
and join a naturalist guide to discover habitat, wildlife and more on an easy
hike up the canyon with amazing views of the city. Free. All ages welcome.
27305 Palos Verdes Dr. E., Rolling Hills. For more information, contact (310)
547-0862 or RSVP at: www.pvplc.org, Events & Activities.
Fortunate Son
n Fortunate Son delivers the spirit
and grit of Creedence Clearwater
Revival and John Fogerty. 8 p.m.
$20 to $42, available at www.grandannex.org
or (310) 833-4813
Mon-Fri 9 to 5. The Grand Annex,
434 W 6th St., San Pedro.
"Its Like You’re There All Over Again"
310-316-5547 WWW.DAVIDFAIRCHILDSTUDIO.COM
62 Peninsula • November 2017
tage-style jazz bands on the West Coast. Jacob Miller and the Bridge City
Crooners have taken the hot jazz of the ‘20s and ‘30s and combined it with
country blues, western swing, and ragtime to create an irresistible sound. 7:30
p.m. Tickets are $80, which includes reserved table seating, gourmet supper,
no-host bar, dance floor, and two music sets. Harlyne J. Norris Pavilion, 501
Indian Peak Road in Rolling Hills Estates. For more information, or tickets, call
(310) 544-0403 or go to palosverdesperformingarts.com.
Thursday, November 9
Personalized (genomic) medicine
n Modern genetic technology now allows the complete sequencing of an individual’s
entire “genome”, all 3 billion DNA base pairs. In this presentation,
learn about current and future applications of genomics in improving the diagnosis,
the prognosis and therapy, and even prevention of disease, the concept
of personalized medicine. Noon to 1:30 p.m. Lunch provided.
Attendance is limited to Friends, members and one-time guests. LA BioMed
1st Floor Conference Room, 1124 W. Carson St., Torrance. To become a
member, sign up at labiomed.org/friends or contact the Development Office
at (310) 222-4240 or development@labiomed.org.
Friday, November 10
Outlandish Raya
n Shimmering blues soul vocalist most recognized as the voice of the opening
credits of the Outlander series and for the shimmering vocals featured throughout
the sci-fi hit Battlestar Galactica. 8 p.m. $20 to $42, available at
www.grandannex.org or (310) 833-4813 Mon-Fri 9 to 5. The Grand Annex,
434 W 6th St., San Pedro.
Saturday, November 11
Holiday Boutique & Food Court
n Little Sisters of the Poor Auditorium, 2100 S. Western Ave., San Pedro,
8:30 a.m - 5 p.m. Grand Raffle tickets $5 each, (310) 548-0625.
Guided walk
n Celebrate Veteran’s Day viewing a former gun emplacement and learn
about the military history of the area from the Palos Verdes Peninsula Land
Conservancy. 9 a.m. Don’t miss the Nature Education Center with activities
for the whole family. This is a moderate
walk. Free and open to the
public. White Point Nature Preserve,
1600 W. Paseo Del Mar, San
Pedro. For more information, contact
(310) 541-7613 ext. 201 or sign up
at www.pvplc.org/_events/Nature-
WalkRSVP.asp.
Outdoor Volunteer Day
n Help beautify the native demonstration
garden and surrounding
habitat. 9 a.m. – noon. Sign up at
www.pvplc.volunteerhub.com.
White Point Nature Preserve,1600
W. Paseo Del Mar, San Pedro.
Stories, songs and more
n Share the joy of storytelling with
your children and introduce them to
the beauty of the natural surroundings.
Your family will enjoy spending
time with retired Children’s Librarian
Carla Sedlacek for stories and activities
featuring nature themes, exciting
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64 Peninsula • November 2017
props and songs. 10 a.m. Free. RSVP at:
www.pvplc.org. White Point Nature Preserve,1600
W. Paseo Del Mar, San Pedro.
The Company Men
n Featuring stellar performers from Broadway and
national touring companies of “Hairspray,” “The
Lion King,” “Jesus Christ Superstar” and “Camelot,”
The Company Men uniquely interweave Top 40 hits
with re-imagined classics by blending songs by
artists including Sam Smith, The Four Tops, Michael
Jackson, Katy Perry, Adele, The Temptations, Billy
Joel, Prince, Meghan Trainor, Bruno Mars, Michael
Bublé and more. 8 p.m. Tickets $70-$75; $10 discount
for youths. To purchase tickets, call the box
office at (310) 544-0403 or go to palosverdesperformingarts.com.
The Norris Theatre, 27570 Norris
Center Drive in Rolling Hills Estates.
Sunday, November 12
TMMC “Light Up a Life”
n Torrance Memorial Hospice will host its annual
“Light Up a Life” tree lighting ceremony and
fundraiser 4 to 6 p.m. at Torrance Memorial Medical
Center’s Hoffman Health Conference Center.
Hosted in honor of National Hospice and Palliative
Care Month, the event provides the community an
opportunity to celebrate and honor a loved one’s
life. The evening will include a reading of names,
performances by the Los Cancioneros Master
eventcalendar
Chorale and the Palos Verdes Peninsula High
School Symphonic Orchestra. Individuals can illuminate
a light on the holiday tree by making a donation
of any amount. All contributions support the
hospital’s Hospice and Bereavement Programs and
assist those who cannot afford care. For information
or to RSVP, call 310-517-4694 or visit www.TorranceMemorial.org/Hospice.
Second Sundays At Two
n Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra Principal Cellist
Andrew Shulman and renowned Italian pianist and
Colburn Conservatory faculty Fabio Bidini perform.
2 p.m. sharp! Free admission, donations appreciated.
Rolling Hills United Methodist Church, 26438
Crenshaw Blvd., Rolling Hills Estates.
www.RHUMC.org.
Chamber Orchestra, Waarts and all
n Chamber Orchestra of the South Bay, the resident
classical orchestra of the Palos Verdes Performing
Arts Center, continues its 2017-18 season with
featured soloist, award-winning violinist and Curtison-Tour
artist Stephen Waarts. Under the direction
of Frances Steiner, the program will open with
Gluck's Overture to Orfeo et Euridice followed by
Prokofiev's Violin Concerto No. 2 in g minor, Op.
63 featuring Mr. Waarts. Following intermission
Mozart's wonderful Symphony No. 41 in C Major,
KV 551 "Jupiter". There will be a Preview Talk by
Stephen Richards starting at 6:45 p.m. Concert begins
at
7:30. Single
tickets
are $63 (inc
l u d e s
PVPA facility
fee) and
will be
available
through the
Norris Theatre
Box
O f f i c e , Violinist Stephen Waarts.
(310) 544-
0403, ext.
221 or online at
www.palosverdesperformingarts.com. Further information
on COSB and its future concerts can be
found by visiting www.mycosb.org. Norris Theatre,
27570 Norris Center Dr., Rolling Hills Estates.
Monday, November 13
‘Jester’s Mom’ talk
n Barbara Saltzman, president of the nonprofit
Jester & Pharley Phund, will talk about “Why The
Jester Jingles” at Lunada Bay Elementary School auditorium,
520 Paseo Lunado, Palos Verdes Estates,
at 6:30 p.m. Free to local residents. Lunada Bay
Cub Scout Pack 276 is partnering with the Phund
November 2017 • Peninsula 65
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to bring smiles to children with cancer during the
holiday season. For every copy of “The Jester” sold
by Lunada Bay Cub Scouts, The Phund will donate
another to a hospitalized child. For information,
please contact The Jester & Pharley Phund at 310-
544-4733 or email thejester13@cox.net.
Wednesday, November 15
Service of reflection and thanks
n Take a moment for reflection as the holiday season
begins anew. Light candles of peace, courage,
love, hope, faith, remembrance and thanksgiving.
7 p.m. The Sanctuary St. Peter’s by the Sea, 6410
Palos Verdes Dr. S., Rancho Palos Verdes.
Wild birding unlimited
n Explore the birds making a home in the restored
habitat at the beautiful White Point Nature Preserve.
8:30 a.m. Binoculars supplied for beginners. Free.
All ages welcome. 1600 W. Paseo del Mar, San
Pedro. RSVP at: www.pvplc.org, Events & Activities.
Friday, November 17
An Affair to Remember
n Special Children’s League, luncheon and holiday
boutique, 10 a.m - 2 p.m. Palos Verdes Golf
Club, 3301 Via Campesina, Palos Verdes Estates.
Tickets Kristina Mermelstein, kmermel@cox.net.
Saturday, November 18
Running funning
n Palos Verdes Half Marathon, 5K and 10K races.
7 a.m. Pelican Cove Park, 31300 Palos Verdes Dr.
S., Rancho Palos Verdes. www.laceuprunningseries.com.
Outdoor Volunteer Day
n Help restore this unique canyon habitat home
to many threatened and endangered wildlife
species. 9 a.m. – noon. Alta Vicente Reserve,
30940 Hawthorne Blvd., Rancho Palos Verdes.
Sign up at http://pvplc.volunteerhub.com.
Art2Go2 premiers
n Art enthusiasts and the general community welcome
the second annual Art2Go event, a dynamic
concept for enjoying and buying art. Every wall of
Destination:Art will be filled with over 300 original
paintings of all styles and media created by the 22
studio and gallery artists, as well as the 60 associate
artists. Framers with special prices frames will
be on site. 3-7 p.m. Destination:Art Studios &
Gallery, 1815 W. 213th Street, Torrance. 310-742-
3192.
El Rayo-X
n Master guitarist and string player, David Lindley
pioneered the infusion of Americana and roots-rock
with world music then went on to work with some
eventcalendar
of the biggest names in ‘60s and ‘70s rock, including
Jackson Browne, Warren Zevon, Linda Ronstadt,
David Crosby, Bruce Springsteen and many
more. 8 p.m. $20 to $42, available at www.grandannex.org
or (310) 833-4813 Mon-Fri 9 to 5.
Grand Annex, 434 W. 6th St., San Pedro.
Sunday, November 19
Kids Club
n Families can dig their way into the past with
South Coast Botanic Garden’s Kids Club. Learn
about the Garden’s transformation from an underwater
wonder, to an open pit mine, to a trash
dump, and into a beautiful botanic garden. Hunt
for marine fossils in a simulated dig pit, build your
own landfill model, get dirty with soil testing, and
start your own flower seedling. 1 - 4 p.m. Free with
membership or general garden admission. RSVP
highly encouraged. 26300 Crenshaw Blvd., Palos
Verdes Peninsula. Southcoastboatnicgarden.org.
Beauty of Nature Series
n This is the final film of the PVP Land Conservancy’s
series with a documentary, The Central Park
Effect, that transports the viewer to the dazzling, hidden
world of America’s most famous city park. 4:30
p.m. Tickets $10 online at pvplc.org. Youth 18 and
under free. Warner Grand Theatre, 478 W. 6th St.,
San Pedro.
November 2017 • Peninsula People 67
eventcalendar
Wednesday, November 22
Birding with Wild Birds Unlimited
n Explore the birds in nesting season making a home in the George F
Canyon. 8:30 a.m. The program is free and all ages welcome. Presented by
the Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy 27305 Palos Verdes Drive East,
Rolling Hills Estates. RSVP at: www.pvplc.org, Events & Activities.
Saturday, November 25
Guided Nature Walk
n Visit White Point Nature Preserve and attend a naturalist-guided hike. Enjoy
coastal views and learn more about the plants, animals, restoration area and
more! 9 a.m. Meet at the information kiosk between parking lot and Nature
Center. White Point Nature Preserve, 1600 W. Paseo del Mar, San Pedro.
For more information call (310) 541-7613 or RSVP at: www.pvplc.org, Events
& Activities.
Native Plant Sale
n Plants sold on first-come, first-serve basis. Noon-2 p.m. White Point Nature
Preserve, 1600 W. Paseo del Mar, San Pedro. For more information call (310)
541-7613.
Sunday, November 26
Starbright Holiday Boutique & Music
n A festive benefit to support the Asia America Symphony Association &
Guild, Youth Symphony education programs and concerts will be held at a
magnificent oceanfront home from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Youth musicians and
professional artists perform. Music director David Benoit, renowned pianist.
Unique vendors include inspiring author Deborah Paul, Renko Original Fashions,
Nozomi (jewelry created from Japan’s tsunami) and more. Reservations
(a must) for lunch. Contact AASA (310) 377-8977 or Marlene Okada (310)
594-6510 for more information.
Monday, November 27
ACT II auditions
n Act II, a support group for Palos Verdes Performing Arts, is looking for talented
performers to sing in the upcoming annual variety show to be held
March 9-10, 2018. Auditions for “Broadway to Hollywood” will be held at
the Harlyne J. Norris Pavilion, and appointments for both solos and groups
are being taken for times between 5:30 to 10 p.m. Participants should choose
music from a popular Broadway or Hollywood songs to tie in with this year’s
theme. Accompanist will be available. All proceeds benefit PVPA. For more
information or to make an appointment, call co-producer Arline Grotz at (310)
377-7746. Norris Pavilion, 501 Indian Peak Road in Rolling Hills Estates.
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November 2017 • Peninsula 69
70 Peninsula • November 2017
Tuesday, November 28
TMMC Holiday Festival
n Torrance Memorial Medical Center hosts its annual
Holiday Festival fundraiser, through Dec. 3.
More than 36 themed, decorated trees, live entertainment,
the South Bay’s largest holiday boutique,
opportunity drawing, children's activities and food
court; $5 general admission. General Public Hours:
today: 1:30-3:30 p.m.; Wednesday, Nov. 29,
Thursday, Nov. 30 and Saturday, Dec. 2, 10 a.m.
– 9 p.m.; Sunday, Dec. 3, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Senior
Days: (free for seniors and those with limited mobility)
Wednesday, Nov. 29 and Thursday, Nov. 30,
10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Community Service Group
Night: ($2 admission to nonprofit and community
service group members) Thursday, Nov. 30, 4 to 9
p.m. In the white tent at Skypark and Medical Center
drives, Torrance. (310) 517- 4606 or www.TorranceMemorial.org/holidayfestival
for more
information.
Friday, December 1
Yule Parlor
n Welcome the holiday season with the Neighborhood
Church’s annual event featuring the formal delectable
Yule Tea by the Sea, accompanied by the
popular shops of vintage antiques and memorabilia,
bake shop with homemade pastries and candies
wrapped for gift giving, and the Yule crafts and
homemade arts created by loving hands. View the
treasured hand painted ceilings and walls of the
Mediterranean architecture, and treasured art work
of the Church. 10 a.m. - 3 p.m., Saturday and Sunday.
$25 each guest for one day; $30 if purchased
the day of event. Send your check to: Yule Parlor
Neighborhood Church, 415 Paseo del Mar, Palos
Verdes Estates. Ticket will be held for pick up at the
door.
Nutcracker sweets
n Start your holiday season with the annual production
of “The Nutcracker”, presented by Peninsula
School of Performing Arts. A beautiful blend of
professionals, pre-professionals, adults and young
dancers come together to delight audiences of all
ages with this rich rendition of the classical ballet.
World renowned performer Alexander Kalinin, as
Herr Drosselmeier, weaves an enchanted story
through the dreams of a young girl, Clara, and her
Nutcracker. Her travels take her to the Battle of the
Nutcracker and the Mouse King then to the Land of
Snow, and on to the Kingdom of the Sweets, where
Clara is greeted by the ever so beautiful Sugar Plum
Fairy and her court. Music by Tchaikovsky and choreography
by Tita Boulger, Vera Ninkovic, Marina
eventcalendar
Kalinina and Alexander Kalinin. A treat for the entire
family. Friday at 7 p.m., Saturday at 2 p.m & 7
p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. Tickets are $35 for
adults and $25 for Children 17 and under. For tickets
contact the Norris Theater Box Office at 310-
544-0403. palosverdesperformingarts.com.
Saturday, December 2
Victorian Christmas celebration
n The Banning Museum will kick off the holiday
season with its annual Victorian Christmas Weekend
Celebration. The Museum grounds are transformed
into a Christmas Festival featuring Victorian
period entertainment, walk-thru tours of the decorated
Banning Mansion, blacksmith demonstrations,
refreshments, family holiday crafts, a bake sale,
local food vendors, handmade crafts by area artisans,
and jolly ol’ St. Nick himself will pose for photos
with the little ones in an historic carriage. One
of the highlights of the festivities is a horse-drawn
trolley ride to the Drum Barracks Civil War Museum
in Wilmington. 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday and
Sunday. Banning Museum, 401 East “M” Street,
Wilmington. For more details contact Friends of
Banning Museum at (310) 548-2005 or www.thebanningmuseum.org.
PEN
November 2017 • Peninsula 71
Clint Wilson, Teresa Klinkner, Kent Burton, Brad N. Baker, Christine Daniels, Albro Lundy, Evan Koch
Baker, Burton & Lundy, P.C.
Giant-killing law firm still growing after all these years
Baker, Burton & Lundy, the local law firm with a nationwide
reputation and billions of dollars won for its clients,
continues to expand both its practice and its physical
presence in the heart of Hermosa.
The giant-killing firm has won more than $4 billion in verdicts
and settlements, and the attorneys have argued twice before
the U.S. Supreme Court and won an affirmative verdict from
the California Supreme Court.
Never content to stand still, BBL has been growing its
probate and employment law divisions, while energetically
maintaining its core practices that include business, real estate,
personal injury, elder abuse and estate planning.
To house the expanding practice, the 41-year-old firm is making
its third expansion along Hermosa’s iconic Pier Avenue,
adding new offices and a “lifeguard tower-esque” roof deck
to its storefront.
Partner Brad N. Baker, who heads up estate planning,
probate, trust administration and trust litigation for the firm,
works to bring peace of mind to clients by putting their affairs
in order which allows clients to protect and care for their loved
ones who truly appreciate Brad’s attention to detail and forethought
dedicated to a comprehensive Estate Plan.
In addition to his legal work, Baker serves as vice chair of the
nonprofit Healthcare and Elder Law Programs Corporation
(H.E.L.P.), which provides information, education and
counseling on elder care, law, finances and consumer
protection.
BBL Partner Kent Burton heads up real estate and business
transaction law, while partner Albro Lundy heads the firm’s
litigation efforts.
BBL is recognized far beyond Hermosa’s cozy confines for
high-profile wins, including a multibillion-dollar settlement for
California consumers in a complex, multi-state case
concerning natural gas prices and the energy crisis of 2000 and
2001.
BBL also has spent hundreds of thousands of dollars to
battle cases that protected people maimed in preventable
accidents or exploited by those in positions of power, with no
profit to the firm.
The firm’s associates include:
Trial lawyer Evan Koch, who for three years running has been
named one of Super Lawyers’ “Rising Stars,” placing him
among the top 2.5 % of Southern California attorneys under
age 40;
Real estate and business transactions attorney Teresa
Klinkner, who has earned the highest Martindale-Hubbell
rating from her peers;
Business and real estate transactions attorney Clint Wilson,
praised by colleagues and clients for his competitive zeal and
his ability to harness the fine details of cases that others might
overlook;
Estate planning attorney Christine Daniels who is bilingual
(Spanish) and is known for embracing the challenge of
creating individualized estate plans for clients;
Steven J. Dawson, a labor and employment law and
litigation attorney, with nearly three decades of experience
representing corporations and public agencies in matters including
labor, employment, construction and property
disputes.
BAKER, BURTON & LUNDY | 515 Pier Avenue, Hermosa Beach | (310) 376-9893 | info@bakerburtonlundy.com
SPONSORED CONTENT
72 Peninsula • November 2017
around&about
Silver Spur Garden Club honors Red Onion
Author children’s book
Inspired by Misty Copeland
n Peninsula resident Debra Paul has published
her first children’s book. The title, “The
Ballad of Baby Rain,” is a nickname for
local ballerina Misty Copeland, whom Paul
wrote about when she was a newspaper
reporter. The story tells in rhyme the story of
a woodsman in medieval times, who
chances upon a young ballerina in the
countryside. With the handsome woodsman
as her manager, Baby Rain travels the
world performing for kings and queens.
“The Ballad of Baby Rain” is available at
orders@Xlibris.com or by emailing the author
at DeborahPaul16@cox.net.
Red Onion owner Jeff Earle with members of the Silver Spur Garden Club (left to right) Yu-Hsin Kreitzman, Joan
Friedman, Diane Camarata, Pat Fitzpatrick, Elizabeth Burns, Philo Chhabria, Maureen McGowan, Faye
Strumpf, and Pauletta Bryson. Photo provided by Lorraine Kasse
n The Silver Spur Garden Club recently awarded its Commercial Landscape Award to the Red Onion Restaurant the
for its drought resistant gardens. Third generation owner Jeff Earl said the restaurant’s recipes trace back to his greatgrandmother
Catalina Castillo, who was born in Sonora, Mexico, and his great-grandfather, Guillermo Spiva, who
was a blacksmith in Tombstone, Arizona. Catalina operated a café that cooked meals for local miners.
Schlichter & Shonack, LLP
DECORATED ATTORNEY JAMIE KEETON PROTECTS SOUTH BAY
RESIDENTS FROM LEGAL BLINDSIDES
When legal difficulties threaten the livelihood and security
of affluent South Bay residents, they can turn to decorated
attorney Jamie Keeton, who has saved clients
millions of dollars, and won more than $13 million in judgements
and settlements.
When such troubles strike, “Jamie is the go-to person,” law
partner Kurt Schlichter said, pointing to her recognition by the
Super Lawyers rating service four years running. “She’s the
lawyer you want to nail down before the other guy does.”
The attorneys at Schlichter & Shonack, LLP, aggressively represent
clients from individuals to Fortune 500 companies, up and
down the state and federal court systems. All the while, they remain
dedicated to giving their clients individual attention, and
keeping their costs low.
Keeton says the legal troubles that blindside affluent people
can come from unexpected sources such as neighbors, ex-business
partners, ex-spouses or domestic employees.
She represents plaintiffs and defendants in personal injury and
general civil litigation, handling cases from assault and battery
at high-profile Orange County nightclubs to multimillion dollar
real estate litigation,
including construction
defect cases.
Keeton handles all
phases of trials and
mediations, and is
backed by seven
other accomplished
lawyers in a powerhouse
firm that is serendipitously local.
“We’re not a big Century City firm, or a big downtown firm.
You won’t have to wait an hour and a half to meet with us for
five minutes,” she said.
“We’ll hold your hand at 10 o’clock at night because you’re
in litigation, and it’s scary. Everything you’ve worked for could
be at risk,” Keeton said. “Big corporations rely on us, but you can
get us on the phone at night.”
“You’ll have our cell phone numbers, and you’ll run into us at
Trader Joe’s,” Schlichter said.
SPONSORED CONTENT
Schlichter & Shonack, LLP | 2381 Rosecrans Ave., Suite 326 | El Segundo | 310-643-0111 | firm@sandsattorneys.com
November 2017 • Peninsula 73
Assistance League hosts back to school shopping
Art2Go second annual art sale
around&about
Dana School students and volunteers who participated in the the Assistance
League back to school shopping program (left to right) Andrew
Lozano, Edward Ruiz, Griselda Salgado, Valeria Belanzo, Romeshia
Banks, Destiny Alari, Daniela Alari and Helen Sandoval. Photo by Sharon
Cole
n The Assistance League San Pedro-South Bay hosted their shopping program
for middle school students identified as being in financial need. Participating middle
schools included Rudecinda Sepulveda Dodson in Rancho Palos Verdes and
Richard Dana Middle School in San Pedro. Over 300 students had an opportunity
to spend $100 on school apparel. The Assistance League is a national nonprofit
organization. To learn more about the Assistance League San Pedro-South Bay
contact Michele at (310) 832-8355, ext. 221.
Tony Sr. celebrates 90th birthday
n Tony Arminio Sr. recently celebrated his 90th birthday with a large family
gathering at the Palos Verdes Golf Club. Family traveled from all over the United
States and as far away as Japan to wish him well. Arminio has been a Palos
Verdes Estates resident since 1969 when he moved here with his wife Anita and
their six children, all of whom attended Palos Verdes High School. Tony enjoyed
a 50 year career in executive sales management for Electrolux. He is an Emeritus
Trustee of the Providence Little Company of Mary Foundation Board and a member
of both the Palos Verdes Golf Club and the Palos Verdes Breakfast Club, where
he is well known for his mentorship and storytelling skills.
Clouds, an original oil on canvas by Jean Comings of Rancho Palos
Verdes will be exhibited at the Art2Go sale.
n Art enthusiasts and the general community are welcome to attend the second
annual Art2Go event. Doors open at 3 p.m. Saturday, November 18 at Destination
Art Studios and Gallery, 1815 W. 213rd Street in Torrance. Over 300 original
paintings will be exhibited, in all styles and media created by 22 studio and
gallery artists, as well as 60 associate artists. Art2Go endeavors to increase
awareness of art as essential to the flourishing of the human spirit. Destination Art
is a non-profit art studio and gallery cooperative in Downtown Torrance dedicated
to public education in fine art.
Scary garden party at Orchard Supply Hardware
Stephanie Sanders and Chris Tabellario show ways to scare off garden
pests. Photo by Stephanie Cartozian
Tony Arminio is surrounded by his family members (left to right, back row)
Mark Arminio, Tony Arminio Jr., Rosanne Farnum, Anita O’Hara, Maria
Arminio and (front row) Caroline Somers.
n Palos Verdes’ new Orchard Supply Hardware store presented “Fright Weekend”
on October 13-15 for the little ghouls on the peninsula. Among the many
activities were “Frank’s Friends Craft,” where kids learned to make a spider from
a terracotta pot and then add spindly legs and googly eyes. Pumpkin carving
demos and spooky scavenger hunts were led by store staff. PEN
74 Peninsula • November 2017
From Our Family to Yours…
Family Owned and Operated…
Over 60 Years of the
Largest Finest Seafood
Selection on the West Coast
Live Crab, Lobster, Shellfish, Urchin - Fresh Fish - Poké - Ceviche
Smoked Fish - Cajun Shrimp - Oyster Bar with over 20 Varieties - Craft Beer on Tap
Steamed - Grilled - Fried
Dine in at our Casual Outdoor Ocean-View Patio or Take Out
EXPERIENCE THE FLAVORS OF FRESH SEAFOOD!
100-130 International Boardwalk Redondo Beach
www.qualityseafood.net (310) 374-2382
November 2017 • Peninsula People 75
Sea Change
for THE better
Sea Change co-owners Michael and Lisa Franks with chef Reilly Quillan. Photo by Brad Jacobson (CivicCouch.com)
Chez Melange stays ahead of the curve with a new name and a new focus
by Richard Foss
There was a time when restaurants fit into
categories, serving only the French, German,
Mexican, Italian, American coffee
shop, or whatever else was their specialty. California
cuisine blew up that expectation, creating
eclectic cuisine as its own category. Suddenly you
had to scan the menu carefully and weigh unanticipated
flavor combinations in your head. The
small plate revolution followed closely, so that
not only the flavors but the whole rhythm of the
meal was freeform. It was exciting to some people,
intimidating to others, and confusing to most
until we got the hang of it.
The first establishment in the South Bay to
wholeheartedly embrace this culinary revolution
was Chez Melange, and owners Michael Franks
and Robert Bell kept things edgy for decades.
After they moved to their current location, the
front room of the restaurant became Bouzy, a gastropub
with a more stable menu, but in the main
dining room culinary exploration reigned. A few
items were perennials, but all else was as variable
as the seasons and the whims of chef Robert Bell.
It was therefore a surprise when this most daring
of restaurants announced that the main dining
room would have a new name and a new
focus. It is now Sea Change, and most of the
menu is based on things that lived underwater.
It’s a smart move. While many restaurants offer
eclectic cuisine there isn’t another restaurant in
this nightlife-intensive neighborhood that specializes
in seafood.
The interior of Sea Change has been freshened,
the room transformed from a dark and clubby
cave to a brighter and altogether more appealing
space. It’s amazing how a simple repainting and
new upholstery changed the feel of the place,
which is now much more welcoming.
The new menu is recognizably a product of the
same aesthetic that created Chez Melange, with
multicultural and whimsical elements. You can
get kung pao lobster and Thai-style curried
Hawaiian ono, but also Southern shrimp and grits
or a hangtown fry, an oyster and bacon omelet
invented during the Gold Rush. On our first visit
our party included a pescaphobe eater who focused
on the short list of Chez Melange classics
and was reassured to find there were things she
could eat as well.
We asked our server to suggest starters and
were served Boston clam chowder, an avocado
stuffed with shrimp, clam and corn fritters, a
“Japanese” salad that included seaweed, Persian
cucumber, and pine nuts, and a starter of grilled
octopus. Though we hadn’t planned it that way,
it was a tasting of seafood fads of over 200 years.
76 Peninsula • November 2017
Chowder was popular in Colonial days, fritters in the 1880s, shrimp stuffed
avocados were big in the 1920s, Japanese-American salads hit in the ‘70s,
and grilled octopus went big at the end of the ‘90s. Had we wanted to chart
the development of the American palate with regard to seafood, we could
hardly have done better.
Boston is noted for chowder that includes salt pork and has a light broth
that includes cream and butter. They also add a bit more pepper and herbs
than other regions, and this one hit that mark on all counts. The clams
were tender, the flavors integrated so that no one stood out from the others.
The clam and corn fritters here have a more Southern flair – think hush
puppies with some chopped clam mixed in and a creole remoulade sauce
on the side.
Avocados stuffed with shrimp are a delight that has mysteriously gone
out of fashion. The flavor balance is simple, two things that are rich and
luscious with a little housemade French dressing to add interest.
The octopus derives from a different tradition, where brighter and more
complex Spanish and Mediterranean French flavors play together. Grilled
octopus tentacle tastes the same about everywhere, smoky mild seafood
with a distinctive slightly chewy texture, but the right accompaniments
can enhance the enjoyment. The mix of butter beans and celery stewed
with potato and black garlic and accompanying dabs of black olive pesto
provided a succession of clean, simple flavors to pair with the grilled tentacle.
The little plate with a lot of flavors was a reminder of why tapas
caught on and octopus went from bait to entrée.
The salad was close to the standard Japanese mix of lettuce, seaweed,
and scallion with ginger miso dressing, but with a few extra touches. The
pine nuts and crumbled nori added a bit of umami and texture, and the
slightly peppery cress was an interesting substitute for the radish that
would usually fill that niche.
For mains we got petrale sole with couscous, kung pao lobster, chicken
schnitzel, and steak frites. The schnitzel and steak proved that the people
in this kitchen didn’t forget anything about cooking meat when the focus
changed to fish. Our non-seafood eater and her husband tore through both
so fast that I barely managed to steal a few bites. The schnitzel came with
a blueberry-port sauce that I recommend be served on the side – it’s good
but sweet for some palates. As fine as that butter-fried schnitzel is, the
gruyere cheese and rye bread pudding outshines it – it was invented here
but encapsulates Northern European flavors.
The sole was sautéed with what was described as a falafel crust, which
made me expect a thick chickpea batter with fish inside. That wasn’t quite
what was going on, because the point was to show how the Middle Eastern
seasonings that are usually used in falafel go with seafood. It works, too –
– the delicate fish was heavily dusted with cumin, coriander, parsley, and
other flavors I couldn’t quite identify. A dollop of yogurt over the fish and
mild, fragrant couscous underneath made it a satisfying meal.
The one item that didn’t quite work for me was the kung pao lobster,
and it wasn’t for the usual reason. The red chili heat and bell pepper often
overwhelm everything else, but were muted in this version. That left the
soy, sesame, and other mild elements in the forefront, and though those
are perfectly good flavors they aren’t what I associate with kung pao.
The wine list here has always had many selections that go well with
seafood, and we asked our server to select some for us to sample. Our
server offered tastes of a Vermentino and a Quady Rhone-style blend from
Oregon, while the carnivores in our midst shared a Paoletti Piccolo Napa
blends in the Bordeaux style. The cocktails are on point too. If you enjoy
a good Manhattan you should try the “Summer in the Hamptons,” a variation
that uses a spicy rye and lavender bitters to deliver complex herbal
and floral notes.
That cocktail was the only after-dinner item we had despite some tempting
options because we had binged on the starters. There weren’t any
seafood items on the dessert list, and the seafood was what I had come to
try. On departure, our impression was unanimously favorable. Sea Change
is delivering a revitalized experience in a more dynamic space. They’re
serving a little of everything and a lot of seafood. It’s a good next chapter
for the people who wrote the book on modern dining in our area.
Sea Change at Chez Melange is at 1611 S. Catalina in Redondo. Open
daily 4 p.m. – 9:30 p.m., Sunday brunch 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Valet parking weekends,
lot, or street. Full bar, corkage $15, some vegetarian/vegan items. Reservations
recommended. (310) 540-1222. ChezMelange.com. PEN
The Landmark
Pictured above Michel Medawar restores the historical
tower clock at Malaga Cove School back to its original
working condition. By hand, he repairs the damaged
numbers, hands and the mechanism retaining its
authenticity.
Your clock has a complex mechanism of inter-working
parts designed to keep time accurately, and it is your job to
keep this timeless treasure healthy for the next generation.
Your clock reminds you of its presence every time you
wind it and if its accuracy is not what it used to be, or its
chimes are not as strong rhythmic, or maybe it just stops.
That means it’s 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 fifty years as his father did fifty 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
November 2017 • Peninsula 77
78 Peninsula • November 2017
S O U T H B AY
DININGGUIDE
1
EL SEGUNDO
Deluca Trattoria
225 Richmond St.
(310) 640-7600
delucapasta.com
2
HERMOSA BEACH
Hennessey’s
8 Pier Avenue
(310) 372-5759
hennesseystavern.com
3
MANHATTAN BEACH
Hennessey’s
313 Manhattan Beach Blvd.
(310) 546-4813
hennesseystavern.com
1
2
4
RANCHO PALOS VERDES
Poke Me
31234 Palos Verdes Dr. #A,
(424) 327-2172
Pokeme.net
5
3 4
Best of The Beach 2017 Winner
Best Eclectic, American Contemporary
Daily Breeze “2015 South Bay’s Favorite”
American Restaurant & Bar
“ Best New Restaurant”- Richard Foss of Easy Reader
Favorite Soul Food of 2015- Daily Breeze( yeah, we were surprised
too)
5
REDONDO BEACH
Baleen Kitchen
The Portofino Inn
260 Portofino Way
(310) 372-1202
Hotelportofino.com
Hey! We like to party, especially with YOU! Call us for your next
Occasion. We’ve got a Banquet Room perfect for any celebration
Call 310-378-8119 for details
November 2017 • Peninsula 79
S O U T H B AY
DININGGUIDE
6
REDONDO BEACH
Barney’s Beanery
100 Fisherman’s Wharf
(424) 275-4820
barneysbeanery.com
9
Quality Seafood
130 International Boardwalk
(310) 374-2382
Qualityseafood.net
7
8
Hennessey’s
1712 S. Catalina Avenue
(310) 540-8443
Hennesseystavern.com
HT Grill
1701 S. Catalina Avenue
(310) 791-4849
htgrill.com
10
11
Riviera Mexican Grill
1615 S. Pacific Coast Hwy.
(310) 540-2501
facebook.com/RivMex/
Ws China Bistro
1410 S. Pacific Coast Hwy.
(310) 792-1600
wschinabistro.com
6
7
8 9
10
11
80 Peninsula • November 2017
12
13
S O U T H B AY
DININGGUIDE
ROLLING HILLS ESTATES
Plates - An American Bistro
550 Deep Valley Dr. #145
(310) 541-9500
platesrgi.com
TORRANCE
Alpine Village Restaurant
833 West Torrance Blvd.
Torrance, CA 90502
310-323-3954
alpinevillagecenter.com
14
15
Hey 19 Public House
4525 Calle Mayor
(310) 378-8119
Hey19publichouse.com
Truxton’s American Bistro
24530 Hawthorne Blvd.
(310) 373-8790
truxtonsamericanbistro.com
12
13
14
Barney’s Beanery
Here at Barney’s we've got our full newspaper-sized menu available as well as 40 beers
on draft. Daily and weekend specials and a great Happy Hour Mon - Fri, 4pm to 7pm.
ALL DAY Happy Hour on Monday! We offer free wifi and always have the TV's tuned
to numerous sporting events, in case you want to settle in for a long lunch or dinner.
Either way, we are here for you so come on in and enjoy!
100 Fisherman’s Wharf, Suite H, on the Redondo Beach Pier.
(424) 275-4820 www.barneysbeanery.com
15
November 2017 • Peninsula 81
Welcome to the Riviera Mexican Grill
Just the place for people who think life's a little bit better splashed with salsa. When you pull up a chair
here, we want you to know that our food will always be fresh and good. This is the one place where the sun
shines and the surf's up every day of the year! So, eat drink and be mello, amigos, you're in the Riviera!
Mon.-Thurs.11:00am - 9:00pm, Fri.and Sat.11:00am - 10:00p.m. Sun.10:00am - 9:00pm
1615 S. Pacific Coast Hwy., Redondo Beach (310)540-2501
82 Peninsula • November 2017
German traditional cuisine,
contemporary American fare,
award-winning artisanal sausages,
20 taps of European & craft beers.
Happy Hour
Live Entertainment
Weinerschnitzel
Pan-fried Pork Cutlet
ALPINEVILLAGECENTER.COM
The Alpine Village Restaurant
833 West Torrance Blvd.
Torrance, CA 90502
310-323-3954
Closed Monday & Tuesday
November 2017 • Peninsula People 83
ickedler.com
4032 VIA PICAPOSTE PALOS VERDES ESTATES, CA 90274
$1,799,000
4008 VIA NIVEL PALOS VERDES ESTATES, CA 90274
$1,829,000
3602 GREVE DRIVE RANCHO PALOS VERDES CA 90275
$1,399,000
85 LAUREL DRIVE RANCHO PALOS VERDES, CA 90275
$5,249,000
RICK EDLER
RICK@VISTASIR.COM
310.872.4333
CALBRE#01113145
KITTY EDLER
KITTY@VISTASIR.COM
310.283.8790
CALBRE#00800837
Classifieds 424-269-2830
ELECTRICAL
MUSIC LESSONS
POOLS & SPAS
FOR SALE
Prime for VRBO, Home + Office or Retirement in the city of
Mount Shasta, California. 3 Bedroom, 2 bath, 2,482 sq. ft. on 1/4
acre. Renovations in 2003 included electrical, drywall, plumbing,
flooring, windows, roofing and heating. Garden includes fruit trees,
raised vegetable and flower beds, an arbor for outdoor dining.
Asking $294,000
Please contact
Sandra Haugen
at Elite Real Estate Group
(530) 859-2907 • dnshaugen@hotmail.com
Classifieds 424-269-2830
LYNCH
ELECTRIC &
General
Building
Contractors
• Residential
Troubleshooting
• Remodel Specialist
Scott K. Lynch
P.V. Native
Licensed & Insured
Cell
310-930-9421
Office & Fax
310-325-1292
www.LynchElectric.us
Lic 701001
FLOORING
Vocal Technician
Piano Teacher
Vocalist
Jeannine McDaniel
Rancho Palos Verdes
20 year experience
All Ages
310-544-0879
310-292-6341
Jeannine_mcdaniel2001@yahoo.com
PLASTERING
Patch Master
Plastering
Patch Plastering
Interior • Exterior
• Venetian Plastering
• Ceiling Removal
• Drywall Work
• Acoustic
Ceiling Removal
• Water & Fire Restoration
310-370-5589
Lic. # 687076 • C35-B1
POOLS • SPAS
HARDSCAPES
New Construction
& Remodeling
Excellent References
Horusicky Construction
310-544-9384
www.Horusicky.com
Credit cards accepted
Lic #309844, Bonded, Insured
ROOFING
QUIXTAR
Concrete & Masonry
Residential & Commercial
310-534-9970
G
CONCRETE
Lic. #935981 C8 C29
classifieds
424-269-2830
D
Remodeling
Design
Kitchens
Bathrooms
Room Additions
New Construction
Reserve
your space in the
next
CONSTRUCTION
Pub Date: Nov 18
Deadline:
Nov 3
Call direct
s
(424)
269-2830
Charles Clarke
Local Owner/General Contractor
Ph: (310) 791-4150
Cell: (310) 293-9796
Fax (310) 791-0452
“Since 1990” Lic. No. 810499
CONSTRUCTION
Call us to Discuss the
ENDLESS POSSIBILITES
Extreme
Hillside Specialist
Foundation Repair Experts
Grading & Drainage
Retaining Walls,
Fences & Decks
310-212-1234
www.LambConBuilds.com
Lic. #906371
GARAGE DOORS
HANDYMAN
Handyman
Services…
Fix It Right the
First Time
We like small jobs
/ Free estimates
What we do…
Plumbing,
Electrical, Drywall,
Painting & more.
Valente Marin
310-748-8249
Unlic.
PLUMBING
Thank You South Bay for
50 Years of Patronage!
Residential • Commercial • Industrial
Plumbing 24/7 • Heating
Air Conditioning
pfplumbing.net
800-354-2705 • 310-831-0737
PLUMBING
MATTUCCI
PLUMBING • HEATING • COOLING
DEPENDABLE • PROFESSIONAL • AFFORDABLE
FULL SERVICE PLUMBING • COPPER REPIPES
SEWER VIDEO INSPECTION • HEATING
DRAIN & SEWER SERVICE • COOLING
TRENCHLESS SEWER REPLACEMENT
Tile Reroof and
repair specialist
310-847-7663
Family owned
business since 1978
Lic 831351
ON CALL
24 HOURS
7 DAYS
FREE ESTIMATES
310.543.2001
CALIFORNIA
Lic. #770059
C-36 C-20 A
2013
November 2017 • Peninsula 85