2024 | June | No. 49
SADDLE UP
Exploring the Equestrian Heritage of the Peninsula
Golfer karen mabli AROUND TOWN
palosverdesmagazine.com
IN THIS ISSUE Issue No. 49
20
community+locale
Around town
14 30 Horseback Riding on the PenisulaGuide Las Candalistas Event, Havana Nights From novice to professional, PV offers fun equestrian expereinces for everyone 31 Rolling Hills Estates Annual Mayor’s 23 Breakfast Ride Lomita Feed Store Wellspring 88 Opening A community staple that still serves community--and it’s animals
32
25 PNHS Art Contest Winner The Portuguese National Horse Show picks the winner for this year’s event
PV PROFILE
14
20 Tim Zigrang This winning roper is more than meets the saddle 38 Karen Mabli The accomplished golfer tells us how the game also taught her about life
38 37
32 PV Juniors Disbursement Event PV Ballet MBM Hospitality’s New Office Grand Opening 33 Vistas for Children “Runway for A Cause”
pv calendar
11 June Highlights Peninsula fun for everyone
PV HISTORY
2024 Graduates
37 Aidan Shen, Junior Contributor The young writer reflects on his senior year and time spent with us
19 Congratulations Graduates! PVP’s Equestrian Lifestyle The Peninsula has a long history of it’s The Peninsula’s seniors celebrate great memories and exciting futures love of horses
34th Annual Seahorse Classic Golf Tournament 35 PV’s Christian Rohrberg Wins Ojai Tennis Championship Eid Celebration in Lunada Bay PV Ballet Fundraiser Grand Vision Foundation
2024 | June | PVMagazine | 09
on the Peninsula Wr i t t e n b y M e l a n i M o ro s e E d e l s t e i n | P h o t o s b y E r i k Jay
On the Palos Verdes Peninsula, equestrian life flourishes among rolling hills and stunning coastal views. PV is a haven for horseback riders of all skill levels, featuring numerous stables that provide exceptional riding experiences. From beginners taking their f irst lessons to experienced riders exploring scenic trails, the Peninsula’s stables offer diverse opportunities to embrace the equestrian lifestyle. Discover some of the top stables that make Palos Verdes a premier destination for horse enthusiasts.
Peter Weber Equestrian Center
The Peter Weber Equestrian Center, located in Rolling Hills Estates, is a hidden gem with access to 90 miles of meticulously maintained trails. They offer top-notch horseback riding lessons with distinguished English trainers and comprehensive horse boarding services. Whether riders seek peaceful trail rides or competitive show success, the center caters to all equestrian pursuits with a wide range of amenities.
Portuguese Bend Riding Club
Tucked away in the scenic hillsides of the Palos Verdes Peninsula, the Portuguese Bend Riding Club (PBRC) offers an idyllic setting with a tiled Mediterranean villa courtyard, large old trees, and beautifully landscaped grounds. Situated on 10 acres within a gated community, PBRC provides multiple levels of training and lesson programs tailored to individual needs and goals.
Empty Saddle Club
Located on 13 lush acres in Rolling Hills Estates, just a few miles from the Pacific Ocean, the Empty Saddle Club is a private organization dedicated to preserving and promoting Western riding traditions. Founded in 1935 as a men’s equestrian club, it now welcomes a diverse group of men, women, and horseloving families who cherish cowboy life. Members enjoy access to three arenas, two hot walkers, a round pen, and three herds of cattle.
2024 | June | PVMagazine | 15
community + locale
Horseback Riding
AROUND TOWN
Las Candalistas Event, Havana Nights
Las Candalistas transported 250 guests to the streets of Havana, with their successful and vibrant Cuban themed evening. Guests were welcomed by a classic Cuban car, salsa dancers and mojitos. The main ballroom was infused with vibrant Cuban colors and guests were treated to a tasty Cuban dinner by Chef Dora Presents. Comedian, Emcee, and auctioneer Gary Cannon from Dukas auctioneers entertained the crowds and ran a fabulous live auction, with guests bidding on 7 trips including Cuba, and one fun and delicious Paella Party. Laura Henson Broussard, President of Las Candalistas said “It truly was a Party with a Purpose! Fun was had by all; it was a successful night of giving for our philanthropies. We are confident that with the help of the guests that came to the event we will be able to support not only our top 3 charities, Community’s Child, Manes for Movement and Marine Mammal Care Center LA, but 11 other South Bay charities.”
Member Joan Sedillo (Photo Ed Mclure)
Ringman David Rosenberg, One of the 4 event chairs Nanci Browning, Live Auction Chair Debbie Sampson, Emcee Gary Cannon (Photo Lorri Mino)
Danielle Weinstock (event chair), President Laura Henson- Broussard , Nanci Browning (event chair) Selina Hamilton (event chair) (Photo Ed Mcclure)
Salsa Dancers (Photo Ed Mcclure)
Jackie Woolwine, Andre Vuilleumier, John Hodge, Lance Woolwine and Cynthia Bartlett (Photo Ed Mcclure) Wine and Spirit Toss Good guys, Jim Goodhart, Mike Ciminera, Greg Broussard, Nick Sampson, Ralph Brown and Bob Almeida (Photo Debbie Sampson) Members Rita Eisenstein, Trish Winchester, Randi Young and Susan Yamate (Photo Ed Mcclure)
Debbie Bandaras, John Waldron, Julie Waldron, Adrianna Schiappa, and Luigi Schiappa (Photo Ed Mcclure) Guests (Photo Ed Mcclure)
30 | PVMagazine | June | 2024
Speech time (Photo Selina Hamilton)
AROUND TOWN
To see more photos of any of these events, scan the QR code!
Rolling Hills Estates Annual Mayor’s Breakfast Ride Photos by Ed McClure
On Saturday, May 11, the City of Rolling Hills Estates held its annual Mayor’s Breakfast Ride. Rolling Hills Estates Mayor Velveth Schmitz and Councilmembers Schacter and Stegura were joined by elected officials from the neighboring Palos Verdes Peninsula agencies, and many members of the local equestrian community. Excitement was in the air as riders came together to travel the trail starting at Chandler Park and ending at Ernie Howlett Park where participants were offered a Pancake Breakfast provided by local scouts. The Pancake Breakfast is sponsored by Scout Parents, Inc., which provides college scholarships, Rolling Hills Estates Mayor Velveth Schmitz (second from junior leader training scholarships, and other forms left) and Congressman Ted Lieu (fourth from left) of support for local scouting activities. Proceeds go directly to the participating scout units. More horse happenings to come at RHE’s City Celebration held each September. Join us at the Empty Saddle Club on September 14, 2024! For additional information on the Mayor’s Breakfast Ride, please contact Rosa Pinuelas, Community Services Supervisor, at (310) 377-1577, ext. 109
Mounted posse
Scouts serving up pancakes
Rolling Hills Estates staff with Mayor Velveth Schmitz (third from left)
Wellspring 88 Opening
Wellspring 88, South Bay’s new wellness hub founded by South Bay locals and female entrepreneurs, Dr. Kelly Waggoner (PV native) and architect Farnaz Reneker, hosted an event honoring women on May 11. To celebrate, Wellspring 88 offered a tea ceremony, meditation, sound bath journey, and facials from Erica Marie Skin. Event decor was provided by Soulie Kaghazi of Studio Soul. Food and beverages provided by Esperanza. Located in the Riviera Village, Wellspring 88 boasts an extensive menu of holistic wellness offerings including energy healing, Qigong, full moon ceremonies, sound bathing journeys, breathwork, meditation, hypnotherapy, yoga, special events/retreats, and more. Waggoner and Reneker aim to harness the connection and fulfillment that comes from attending a transformative wellness retreat and sustain that stasis with science-based, ancient teachings that transcend personal growth and mindfulness into a way of life.
Erica Marie Skin treated attendees to facials, including pictured Melanie Knopke and Nina Ruggiero
Wellspring 88 founders Farnaz Reneker and Dr. Kelly Waggoner
For More info: www.wellspring88.com
Dr. Kelly Waggoner and Farnaz Reneker welcoming guests, including pictured Claire Dietrich, Jenny Barrett, Soulie Kaghazi, Tiffany Gibson, Soffi Yessmann, Tanya Monaghan, Pamela Salzman, and Emma Salzman
2024 | June | PVMagazine | 31
“ Golf taught me more than just how to swing a club. It taught me the value of perseverance, the importance of friendship, and the beauty of finding peace amidst the greens.” —Karen Mabli
38 | PVMagazine | June | 2024
Score card from the red tees on June 4, 2002
A Golfer’s Journey through Family, Achievement, and Community at Palos Verdes Golf Club Written by M e l a n i M o ro s e E d e l s t e i n
Amidst the lush landscape of Palos Verdes stands the venerable Palos Verdes Golf Club, a bastion of tradition and companionability for golf aficionados. As the PVGC celebrates a momentous anniversary this year it continues to be more than just a beautiful golf course. It’s a cherished sanctuary where friendships flourish and memories are etched in the fabric of time. In the vibrant universe of the PVGC, the name Karen Mabli resonates deeply. As a golfer and a cherished member of this esteemed club, Mabli’s life story intertwines seamlessly with the rich legacy of camaraderie, competition, and cherished memories that define the PVGC. Karen Mabli is a woman whose passion for golf and unwavering dedication to her craft have left an indelible mark on the sport and the community she holds dear. “It’s a big anniversary year for Palos Verdes Golf Club, celebrating its 100th year,” Mabli shares with a smile, her eyes sparkling with pride. “And it’s truly an honor to be part of such a milestone celebration.” As the conversation unfolds, Mabli’s journey into the world of golf emerges as a tale of familial love and unwavering determination. “I was very fortunate,” she reflects, her voice tinged with nostalgia. “My parents were avid golfers, and it was at Glendora Country Club where my love affair with golf began at the tender age of nine.” From those early days on the greens of Glendora Country Club, Mabli’s passion for golf blossomed, fueled by the unwavering support of her family. “When competing in National Golf Championships my husband, my biggest fan, became my caddy,” she reminisces fondly. “Together, we embarked on a journey filled with laughter, camaraderie, and countless rounds of golf.” Mabli’s journey took her to Palos Verdes Golf Club, where she found not only a golfing haven but also a second home. “Jim Gormley, the head pro at the time, encouraged me to join PVGC,” she recounts with a smile. “It was the best decision I ever made, besides marrying my husband.” Amidst the backdrop of Palos Verdes Golf Club’s lush fairways and breathtaking vistas, Mabli’s golfing prowess shone brightly. With numerous tournament victories and club championships to her name, she carved out a place
for herself as one of the club’s most esteemed members. “I don’t like talking about myself,” Mabli humbly admits. “But golf has given me a sense of self-confidence and a lifetime of cherished memories.” Beyond the accolades and triumphs, Mabli’s journey is a testament to the profound impact of family and community. “Golf gave us a common bond,” she reflects, her voice filled with warmth. “My parents, my husband, and my brother, we were always together, sharing in the joy of the game.” As Palos Verdes Golf Club celebrates its centennial milestone, Mabli remains a steadfast pillar of the community, her unwavering dedication and infectious enthusiasm inspiring fellow members and newcomers alike. “This club is like a family,” she muses, her eyes alight with emotion. “A home away from home, where every round of golf is a celebration of friendship and camaraderie.” In the midst of life’s challenges and triumphs, Mabli’s love for golf endures, a beacon of hope and resilience in an ever-changing world. “Golf taught me more than just how to swing a club,” she reflects. “It taught me the value of perseverance, the importance of friendship, and the beauty of finding peace amidst the greens.” Mabli’s words linger in the air, a poignant reminder of the enduring power of sport, community, and the human spirit. In the heart of Palos Verdes Golf Club, amidst the echoes of laughter and the gentle rustle of the wind, Karen Mabli’s legacy is a testament to the timeless bonds of family, achievement, and unbreakable ties.
Karen Mabli March 3, 1994 at PVGC when she first got the Women’s Course Record, Blue Tees
2024 | June | PVMagazine | 39
PV profile
Karen MabLI