PV Magazine. | Issue 68 | January

2026 | January | No. 68

2025

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Editor’s Letter | Issue No. 68 Happy New Year, Palos Verdes!

As we reflected on the year behind us, the title of this recap issue, Stories That Stayed With Us, felt especially meaningful. Because the truth is, these stories aren’t ours.

They are yours.

Every feature, every photograph, every word shared within these pages represents a moment of trust. A person, a family, a business, a nonprofit, a community member opening their lives and allowing us to help tell their story.

That responsibility is never lost on us. It means the world to our small, independent team, and it’s something we carry with deep care and intention in everything we publish.

Palos Verdes Magazine has always been rooted in positivity, authenticity, and connection—but that doesn’t mean the journey has been easy. Like so many small, independent publications, we’ve felt the ups and downs, the uncertainty, and the challenge of continuing to show up with grace while staying true to who we are. In a world that often feels overwhelming, we’ve learned that all we can do is our very best—and lead with good intention.

We believe deeply that words matter. That stories matter. That kindness matters. And that when something is created with care, it can ripple outward in ways we may never fully see—but hope will be felt.

As we look toward 2026, our promise is simple: to continue doing our best. To uphold the quality you expect, to share stories with heart, and to move forward with grace, humility, and purpose. We are endlessly grateful to everyone who opens our pages, reads our newsletters, engages with us online, and supports what we do.

From the good moments to the hard ones—after all, we are all human. And while we can’t control everything that happens to us, we can choose how we show up in the world. With kindness. With care. With good intention.

And with hope that, together, those choices might somehow—some way—help change the world for the better.

Thank you for being part of this journey.

With gratitude, Kristin Borden Founder & Editor-in-Chief Palos Verdes Magazine PO Box 4752 Palos Verdes Peninsula, CA 90274 310-940-1445 kristin.borden@palosverdesmagazine.com palosverdesmagazine.com

Some stories begin long before the page. From a day at AltaSea with Jenny Krusoe, Robin Aube, and Kevin Gaines of Kelp Ark, to conversations with Allan Sanford about BeachLife and Redondo Beach’s coastal transformation—these behind-thescenes moments helped shape the stories of 2025.

PV MAGAZINE TEAM lane bullard Creative Director lane.bullard@palosverdesmagazine.com cindy donnelly Community Calendar, Special Advertising Section, Content Creation cindy.donnelly@palosverdesmagazine.com melani Edelstein Writer melani.edelstein@palosverdesmagazine.com Edward McClure Contributing Event Photographer mccsch@aol.com PVM Street Team Christian (Cifen) Alexander, Video Host, Editor Isabel Galvin, Video Editor Sophia Walter Digital, Website, Ad Traffic sophia.walter@palosverdesmagazine.com For advertising inquiries: kristin.borden@palosverdesmagazine.com

Follow us on Instagram @palosverdesmagazine

PV Magazine has partnered with www.onetreeplanted.org

2026

06 | PVMagazine | January |

Find Your Local Pediatrician

Torrance Memorial Physician Network Personalized, High-Quality Pediatric Care • Accepting New Patients • Find Your Pediatrician at TMPhysicianNetwork.org Grace Pyo, DO, and Richard Cabrera, MD

IN THIS ISSUE Issue No. 68

14

Community + locale 27 April Showers of Afro Unicorn A new chapter of purpose, power, and possibility

41 A Legacy of Light How two Palos Verdes women sparked a House of Hope in San Pedro

27

Around town 32 Jennifer Mentesana, Guided by Grace book signing 33 PV Juniors 2025 Spirit of the Season 34 Peninsula Seniors Holiday Celebration 35 PLFF South Asian Diwali Celebration 37 Special Children’s League Annual Benefit Luncheon

35

2025 year in review

14 A look back on some of the stories from the past year that touched us and stayed with us

17

38

37

pv Community calendar

11 January Highlights Peninsula fun for everyone 2026 | January | PVMagazine | 09

Calendar Highlights

palosverdesmagazine.com/calendar

Photo by Erik Jay

Now through May- Pacific Gray Whale Season

Saturday, January 17 at 10:00 a.m.

Take to the seas to experience whales, dolphins and sea lions in their natural habitat while enjoying a fun boat trip with an experienced guide. For details and fees contact Cabrillo Whale watch at cabrillowhalewatch@gmail.com, or call 310-548-7770.

A short but steep hike will bring you down to the cove with a rocky shore. In the middle of the cove is a tide pool accessible at low tide and an ocean brimming with sea life. Moderate to Strenuous with strenuous climb back to parking lot. Rain cancels, meets at Pelican Cove parking lot. losserenosrpv.org

Go Whale Watching with Cabrillo Whale Watch Volunteer Naturalists on Board!

Now through January 31 daily from 8am to 5pm

Dinosaurs Around the World: The Great Outdoors at South Coast Botanic Garden

Experience the Age of Reptiles. Immersed throughout our 87 acres, guests will get to meet 13 life-sized animatronic dinosaurs. Each one moves with quiet, graceful motions, and some even make noise. Friday, Saturday and Sundays you can board the Pangea Express for a roaring expedition! Get a front row seat to the amazing story of a prehistoric planet, with a knowledgeable guide to tell you all about what the world was like in the Age of Reptiles. For tickets and more information visit southcoastbotanicgarden.org

Sundays, January 4. 11.18 and 25 at 7:30am

PV Bike Club Sunday Morning Breakfast Ride

Riders of all types, guests and visitors are welcome; just show up wearing your helmet and with your bike in good working condition! Meet at the Malaga Cove Fountain. Newcomers need to sign liability release on website. Rain cancels. For schedule of weekly breakfast destinations and information visit pvbikeclub.net

Wednesday, January 7, 14, 22 and 21 and 28 from 10:15am to 11:30am

Peninsula Seniors Bohannon Lecture Series

Bring your friends to enjoy a cup of coffee and thought-provoking lectures on a variety of topics, all presented by local personalities.

This free program meets every Wednesday. For more information, visit pvseniors.org

Jan 7th (First Wednesday of Every Month) at 9:00am

1st Wednesday Bird Walk at White Point Nature Preserve

Join expert Bob Shanman meeting in front of White Point Nature Education Center for a free bird walk with an experienced naturalist, binoculars provided. pvplc.org

Saturday, January 10 from 10:30am to 11:30am

Nature Club –Wildlife Tracking with the PVP Land Conservancy

Join us for a nocturnal wildlife themed Nature Club at White Point Nature Education Center. We’ll do fun activities and learn about how scientists study animals that come out at night! Ages 3-10 years old. pvplc.org

Friday and Saturday, January 16 and 17 f rom 10am to 4:30pm

Peninsula Library Friends Foundation Malaga Cove Book Sale

More than 25,000 books, large print, books on CD, music CD’s, records and puzzles to pick from. New donations arriving daily. Helps fund essential programs and Library services. Plffoundation.org.

Friday, January 16 from 4:00pm to 5:00pm

Friday Fun: Our Voices, Our Dreams- A story and craft celebrating Martin Luther King

Start the weekend off right... at the library! This week: Our Voices Our Dreams story and craft Aimed at grades TK - 5th grade but all ages welcome No registration required. pvld.org

Los Serenos Docent Guided Nature Walk at Vicente Bluffs Reserve-Pelican Cove

Sunday, January 18 from 10:00am to noon

Nature Journaling with Cabrillo Marine Aquarium

Join CMA education staff as we learn how to identify common marine animals. Practice tips and techniques for nature journaling with animals we find. All materials are provided, including an upcycled/recycled nature journal. Free meet in the lower courtyard. www.cabrillomarineaquarium.org

Monday, January 19 from 9am to noon

MLK Jr. Day of Service at White Point Nature Preserve with PVP Land Conservancy

You will help care for the White Point Native Plant Demonstration Garden by planting native shrubs, removing invasive weeds, watering native plants, grooming trails and more! Your efforts will help restore this habitat for wildlife as well as create a beautiful place for the community to enjoy! Sign up at pvplc.volunteerhub.com

January 24 (Fourth Saturday of Every Month) at 11:30am

Native Garden Tour Experience at White Point Nature Preserve

Come tour the White Point Native Plant Garden and learn about how to grow and care for native plants. Meet at White Point Nature Education Center. pvplc.org

Friday, January 31 from 10:30am to 12:00pm

The Four Gentlemen: Flowers, Seasons, and the Spirit of Chinese Painting Presentation at Peninsula Center Library

This talk explores how plum blossom, orchid, bamboo, and chrysanthemum each embody unique cultural meanings and emotional qualities in Chinese art. The session combines art appreciation, cultural storytelling, and light audience reflection to create a relaxing and engaging experience. Meet in Community Room. pvld.org

Upcoming Events in February Friday, February 13 at 8:30am

Concert Coaches to LA Phil Friday Mid-Day Concerts

Peninsula Committee Los Angeles Philharmonic is offering round-trip community Concert Coaches bus transportation to the Walt Disney Concert Hall for the LA Phil’s 11am Mid-Day concert. This month Dudamel Conducts Beethoven & Lorenz featuring Yunchan Lim. Email June Kagdis at jkagdis@gmail.com for transportation details.

Friday, February 18, 2026 at 11:00am

Palos Verdes Peninsula Village Information Session

Learn more about this dynamic organization for older adults who wish to remain in their homes and have joined together to help one another navigate the challenges and opportunities of aging. Hear from other village members and volunteers about the social opportunities to engage and volunteer resources available for support. Email or call for more information: peninsulavillagepvp@gmail.com or 310-991-3324.

2026 | January | PVMagazine | 11

pv calendar

january 2026

Looking for something to do this weekend?

PV Magazine’s Community Calendar has it all!

Scan QR code to find out what’s happening around Palos Verdes and the South Bay.

Seasonal Seaside Gathering Extraordinary Agents Deserve Extraordinary Appreciation.

At Estate Properties, success is more than numbers — it’s about people.

This weekend, we gathered at the Charthouse in Redondo Beach to celebrate the holidays and honor the incredible agents who make our brokerage extraordinary.

Our Holiday Brunch was a moment to reflect on a year filled with dedication, collaboration, and meaningful achievements. Surrounded by ocean views, great food, and even better company, we celebrated not just the wins, but the heart, integrity, and community spirit our agents bring to Estate Properties every day.

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2736 Via Victoria | Palos Verdes Estates $6,800,000

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A DAY WITH THE ROMANS

Issue No. 64, September 2025

On August 17, a community gathered at RAT Beach in Palos Verdes Estates to honor Zen Del Rio. The paddle out drew loved ones from near and far—an emotional, bittersweet tribute to an artistic soul whose life and legacy left a lasting imprint.

14 | PVMagazine | January | 2026

A look Back at 2025 As we turn the page on 2025, we find ourselves reflecting on the stories that stayed with us long after the last word was written and the final photo was placed. This past year was filled with moments of history brought vividly to life, inspiring acts of selflessness, and the creative energy of entrepreneurs, artists, and changemakers who continue to shape our community in meaningful ways.

From colorful historical narratives that teach us about the founders and characters that came before us, to heartfelt profiles of organizations and individuals quietly doing extraordinary work, these stories moved us. They made us pause, smile, and in some cases, see our community through a new lens. Each one reflects the spirit of connection, creativity, and care that defines this special peninsula that we are so proud to call home.

In this January issue, we’re revisiting a handful of our favorite stories from 2025—those that resonated deeply with our team and with our readers. Presented as a photo gallery with short reflections, this collection offers a glimpse into the moments, people, and places that made the year so memorable. And in case you missed any of them the first time, you can find the full stories waiting for you on our website.

We hope these favorites touch you as much as they touched us—and inspire you as we step into a new year of storytelling together.

Photo by Erik Jay

2026 | January | PVMagazine | 15

2025 year in review

stories That Stayed With Us

PV AND CSUDH

Issue No. 57, February 2025

Few realize that Palos Verdes was once considered the home of a major university. What is now known as California State University, Dominguez Hills was originally planned as California State College, Palos Verdes—an idea that would have forever changed the academic and physical landscape of the Peninsula.

Photo courtesy of CSUDH

PT. VICENTE LIGHTHOUSE NEARS 100 Issue No. 58, March 2025

A steadfast presence on the Palos Verdes coastline, the Point Vicente Lighthouse has guided mariners for nearly a century. First illuminated on April 14, 1926, the landmark approaches its 100-year milestone as the Friends of the Point Vicente Lighthouse work to raise funds for much-needed preservation and repairs.

16 | PVMagazine | January | 2026

Photo courtesy of US Coast Guard

Issue No. 61, June 2025

First surfed in 1929, the gentle waves off Malaga Cove drew comparisons to Waikiki and helped establish the area as an early hub of California surfing. In 1935, John “Doc” Ball and Adolph Bayer founded the Palos Verdes Surfing Club here—at a spot many credit as one of the true birthplaces of the sport.

THE HERMIT PHILOSOPHER OF MALAGA COVE Issue No. 60, May 2025

In the early 1920s, Louis C. Dart—a down-on-his-luck hermit—wandered between Portuguese Bend and Malaga Cove. A chance encounter led him to a natural spring said to restore his health and inspired the creation of “Flotsam Castle,” a driftwood seaside dwelling that drew thousands of visitors and earned features in the Los Angeles Times and Popular Mechanics before fading into legend.

Photos courtesy of Palos Verdes Library District Local History Center.

2026 | January | PVMagazine | 17

2025 YEAr IN rEVIEW

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MARINE MAMMAL CARE CENTER: PROTECTING OUR OCEANS, ONE RESCUE AT A TIME Issue No. 59, March 2025

In our April 2025 issue, we spotlighted the Marine Mammal Care Center in San Pedro and its vital role in ocean conservation. From Earth Day reflections and the arrival of new neighbor AltaSea to hands-on education and the joyful “puppalooza” of seal and sea lion pups, this story offered a behind-the-scenes look at one of the busiest marine mammal rescue centers in the region. Led by CEO John Warner, MMCC continues to inspire the community to volunteer, donate, and take action—proving that compassion and care can make a lasting difference for our oceans.

Photo by Erik Jay

THE OCEAN SOLUTION: ALTASEA AND THE BLUE ECONOMY Issue No. 59, March 2025

At the Port of Los Angeles, AltaSea is redefining what’s possible beneath the surface. The 35-acre ocean innovation campus supports research and projects—like sustainable aquaculture and underwater pearl farming—that advance climate solutions while powering the growing blue economy.

Photo courtesy of AltaSea

PV NON-rOFIT 2025 YEAr IN rEVIEW

HAUNTING THE CLIFFS: THE DOMINATOR SHIPWRECK Issue No. 65, October 2025

Off the Palos Verdes coast, the rusting remains of the Dominator still cling to the cliffs. Few know that among those who battled the ship’s devastating fire was Doug Noble—a young Palos Verdes teacher and Coast Guard reservist at the time, now an 87-year-old Peninsula resident.

Photo by Erik Jay

2026 | January | PVMagazine | 21

SERVING UP INCLUSION: ACEING AUTISM Issue No. 65, October 2025

For the MacAllister family, tennis has become a powerful source of joy and connection. Through ACEing Autism, their son Vincent found confidence, belonging, and a place where passion outweighs difference—turning the tennis court into a space for inclusion and possibility.

A SEASON OF GRATITUDE: THE GUPTA FAMILY Issue No. 65, October 2025

Celebrating family, heritage, and gratitude, the Gupta family embodies the spirit of giving that defines the Peninsula. Their story is one of resilience, cultural tradition, and a shared commitment to community and generosity.

Shown here in traditional dress at their Palos Verdes home, the family is pictured with a special guest—Silas, the real-life camel featured in the Obi-Wan Kenobi series—who made a memorable visit during their family celebration. Deeply grateful for the community they call home, the people within it, and the Peninsula’s breathtaking sunsets, the Gupta family draws daily inspiration from their surroundings—living with generosity, connection, and heartfelt gratitude guiding all they do.

22 | PVMagazine | January | 2026

Issue No. 57, February 2025

A Palos Verdes–raised singer and musician, Jeralyn Glass has become a pioneer in sound healing and music medicine. Blending classical training with crystalline sound, her work transforms personal loss into a powerful practice of healing, reflection, and emotional restoration.

ROBERT MEDAWAR: A LEGACY OF CRAFTSMANSHIP Issue No. 58, March 2025

For more than four decades, Robert Medawar has been a cornerstone of Palos Verdes—building a legacy rooted in craftsmanship, integrity, and community. From fine jewelry to timepieces, his work reflects generations of tradition, trust, and family values.

A HISTORIC SEASON FOR PVHS ATHLETICS Issue No. 58, March 2025

At its February 11 meeting, the Palos Verdes Estates City Council honored Palos Verdes High School with four proclamations recognizing multiple CIF championship titles. The moment marked one of the most successful athletic seasons in Sea Kings history.

2026 | January | PVMagazine | 23

PV NON-rOFIT 2025 YEAr IN rEVIEW

JERALYN GLASS: MUSIC & HEALING

ONCE A MARAUDER, ALWAYS A MARAUDER: MIRALESTEFEST UNITES Issue No. 64, September 2025

Palos Verdes came alive the weekend of July 25–26 as alumni, faculty, families, and friends gathered for MiralesteFest, a two-day celebration filled with reunions, memories, and unmistakable Marauder pride. Led by alumni and longtime South Bay resident Jack Alexander, the event brought generations together through meaningful tributes, including the Hall of Fame ceremony and Marauder Spirit Award presentation, emotional reunions like the 1981 National Champion Boys Tennis Team, and creative highlights from local artist John Van Hamersveld.

From great food and local flavor to shared laughter and late-night toasts, MiralesteFest was more than a reunion—it was a joyful reminder that the Marauder spirit remains strong across generations.

Poster design by John Van Hammerseveld.

24 | PVMagazine | January | 2026

PV NON-rOFIT 2025 YEAr IN rEVIEW HORACE HIGGINS:STILL IN THE GAME Issue No. 64, September 2025

At 102, Horace Higgins is still showing up to play—enjoying ping-pong three times a week with Peninsula Seniors. Asked what keeps him coming back, his answer is simple: “it’s fun, it keeps you strong and sharp, and it gets you out of the house.”

LOVE ON 4 PAWS

Issue No. 60, may 2025

The mission of Love on 4 Paws is to share the joy, comfort, and healing power of a pets’ unconditional love with people in need.

The dogs and cats in the program live at home with their human handlers all over Los Angeles and Orange County and right here on the Peninsula. The organization is always looking for new volunteer teams!

2026 | January | PVMagazine | 25

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Photo courtesy of April Showers When Palos Verdes Magazine last featured April Showers two years ago, the Rancho Palos Verdes resident was deeply immersed in building what would become a cultural phenomenon: Afro Unicorn. At the time, her focus was on expanding retail partnerships, strengthening the brand’s presence, and solidifying its place in the marketplace.

As she steps into 2026, April finds herself in a different—and deeply intentional—chapter.

“This evolution is about storytelling,” she says.

“It’s no longer just about what I built, but how I built it—and who I became along the way.”

Over the past year, April has shifted from focusing almost exclusively on her licensed character brand to centering the woman behind it. She has opened herself up in new ways, sharing what she calls her “All Gas No Brakes” journey—the wins, the faith, the failures, and the fuel that kept her moving forward even when the path was unclear.

One of the most powerful lessons she has embraced is learning to release control.

“Not everything will go according to plan, and that’s okay,” April reflects. “When I truly trust God, things often turn out better than I ever imagined.

“ Delays aren’t denials. Redirections can be blessings. And surrender doesn’t mean giving up—it means allowing something greater to unfold.”

This mindset has shaped both her personal and professional life. In this season, April describes herself as being “professionally personal,” inviting her community into more of her real-time reflections as a founder. Through her YouTube channel, IAmAprilShowersTV, she hosts CEO Confessions & Lessons, a candid series offering an honest look at what it truly takes to build a brand like Afro Unicorn—from strategy and sacrifice to mindset shifts and major decisions.

While Afro Unicorn continues to reach audiences far beyond Southern California, April remains rooted in Rancho Palos Verdes, drawing inspiration from a community that has supported her journey from the beginning.

Quietly, behind the scenes, she has also been creating something that feels deeply full-circle.

April recently recorded a new talk show, Magic Makers with April Showers, which spotlights retail brand founders who—like her—took ideas from ideation to store shelves. The show premieres January 19 on AfroLandTV and will also air across major podcast platforms, continuing her long-standing mission to uplift and empower fellow entrepreneurs.

“I’m most proud that I never wavered from my original ‘why,’” she says. “Afro Unicorn has always been about motivating and uplifting women entrepreneurs—and that mission remains intact.”

Looking ahead to 2026, April’s focus expands even further. One of her primary intentions is to inspire the next generation by relaunching the Afro Unicorn Foundation, with a renewed emphasis on youth entrepreneurship. Her goal is to help young people see what’s possible early on— an initiative that aligns seamlessly with Ms. April’s Crown & Bookstore, her children’s platform centered on confidence, creativity, creativity, and leadership.

At this stage of her journey, success looks different than it once did.

“Alignment is everything,” April explains. “If I help enough people get to where they want to be, I’ll get to where I need to be. If something doesn’t uplift, create access, or serve others, then it’s simply not for me.”

As she enters a new year—and a new season— April is intentionally making space. Space for more impact. More expansion. More purpose. And she is doing so with the quiet confidence of someone who knows the story is still unfolding.

Her guiding mantra for 2026 says it all: Keep Making Moves.

“Life is like chess,” she says. “You don’t have to make perfect moves—you just have to keep making them. Keep showing up. Keep learning.

Keep progressing.”

And her hope for the year ahead?

“All is happening for me—and all is well.”

Connect with April Showers IAmAprilShowers.com • Instagram: @gotaprilshowers YouTube: IAmAprilShowersTV Magic Makers with April Showers premieres January 19 2026 | January | PVMagazine | 27

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April Showers A New Chapter of Purpose, Power, and Possibility

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AROUND TOWN

Jennifer Mentesana Book Signing: Guided by Grace Life and business coach Jennifer Mentesana gathered readers at the Malaga Cove Library Gallery & Garden on November 18 for a book signing and q&A celebrating her Amazon bestselling book, Guided by Grace: Follow the Breadcrumbs to Your Life’s True Purpose. Moderated by Michelle rogers, the evening featured an engaging conversation as Jennifer shared personal stories, practical insights, and encouragement for anyone looking to align their life and career with purpose.

For more info: jenmentesana.com

Nicole Reis, Karen Odom, Pam Irwin (Jennifer’s Mom), Jennifer Kirk, and Ally Shen Jennifer Mentesana and Karina Pacific

Cathy Eades, Tory DeTally, Leslee Leahy, Jen Fer Phillips, Keleigh Sanders, Janelle Brannan, and Meredith Edwards

Michelle Rogers and Jennifer Mentensana

John and Jennifer Mentesana

YOUR HOME. YOUR STYLE. OUR EXPERTISE. We live and work in the community. As a construction firm, Lunada Consulting & Design, Inc (LCD) offers services ranging from in home consultations, home renovations from start to finish, and hands on project management.

With LCD, it’s always personal, and by implementing this philosophy into our client’s project, the end result is never less than spectacular!

32 | PVMagazine | January | 2026

AROUND TOWN

To see more photos of any of these events, scan the QR code!

Palos Verdes Junior Women’s Club: 2025 Spirit of the Season

Photos by Ed McClure

The Palos Verdes Junior Women’s Club hosted its annual Spirit of the Season holiday event on Saturday, December 7, 2025, at the Torrance Marriott Redondo Beach. The festive day included a luncheon, live auction, and holiday shopping boutique, bringing members and guests together for seasonal celebration and meaningful giving.

Proceeds from the event benefited local South Bay charities supporting women and children in crisis. The PV Juniors is a nonprofit organization dedicated to community service, philanthropy, and leadership development.

For more info: pvjuniors.org

Alexis White, Christine Hansen, and Anne Cruz

Dan and Alla Kerker (President, PV Juniors)

Amy Hogan, Sachin Maheshwari, Melissa Coleman, and Maura Mizuguchi

Cheryl Keel, Chanel Walker Terry and Jeanine Mosna-Valentino

Laura Gomez and Jane Lau

Macha Schneider, Arian Barnett, Corinne Hickson, and Pantea Hannauer

Past Presidents: Amy Hogan, Susan Sandler, Nadia Elgrably, Jane Lau, Mary Kelliny, Alla Kerker, Teri Screen, Dora de la Rosa, Kandis Wannamaker, Julia Parton, Maura Mizuguchi, and Eunice Sheng

Alla Kerker, Stacy Sipes, and Judith Sipes

Event committee: Maura Mizuguchi, Laura Thatcher, Susan Sandler, Trisha Caal, Alla Kerker, Dora de la Rosa, Kandis Wannamaker, Jamie Middleton, and Bonnie Oseas

2026 | January | PVMagazine | 33

AROUND TOWN

Peninsula Seniors’ Holiday Open House Peninsula Seniors’ beautiful Scriba Family Center was alive with the sounds of caroling by the Pacific Coast Highwaymen Barbershop quartet for their annual Holiday Open House on Tues. Dec. 9. Guests were greeted at the door by a Frosty the Snowman figure, and treated to assortments of Holiday cookies, fruit cake, apple cider, chocolate eggnog. This was a free Holiday event for the community and over 150 guests attended the festivities. Peninsula Seniors is a senior (any age) social and educational meeting place with over 1140 members and offering over 90 program opportunities a month to make life fun as our motto suggests.

Formore info: pvseniors.org Becky Clark, Board President, Paul Weber, and Margie Beierschmitt, Executive Director

Kathy Stinis, Kimi Miwa, and Laura Warren J o Anne Weber and Susan Reymond

Joe and Marian Locascio, and Art McAllister

Becky Clark, Board President, Margaret Benson, Kay Meng, and Renée Reymond, Programs Coordinator

Ronald and Mary Keyes Gloria Mangano and Joani Thompson

Kimi Miwa, Silver Member, Andrew Lane, and Rita Lui

34 | PVMagazine | January | 2026

AROUND TOWN

To see more photos of any of these events, scan the QR code!

PLFF South Asian Diwali Celebration The Peninsula Library Friends Foundation’s Diwali celebration was a vibrant evening honoring the triumph of light over darkness. Held in the Peninsula Center Library Community Room and co-sponsored by the Peninsula Hill Foundation, the event brought South Asian culture to life through color, music, dance, art, and food.

The space was filled to capacity, with additional guests enjoying crafts, henna art, a photo booth, and hands-on activities in the lobby. Guests were welcomed by Shubhra Kathuria, who shared the deeper meaning of Diwali, followed by performances from the Shakti School of Bharata Natyam, local artists and musicians, and lively audience-participation dance experiences. Food samples were provided by Bombay Tandoori & Banquet, adding to the festive atmosphere.

This joyful celebration is one of PLFF’s most popular cultural events, reflecting the Foundation’s ongoing commitment to celebrating global traditions through Art, Books, Clothing, Dance, Food, and Music.

Bhangra Masti by Bollypop Gidda Gang

Peninsula Hill Foundation co-sponsored the Diwali event

Mehndi artist creating a Henna design

Artist Anu Kumar’s family at the Photo Booth backdrop

Artist Nida Amin with PLFF Executive Director Merlin David

PLFF Executive Director Merlin David’s selfie dancers from Bollypop Gidda Gang along with other presenters

Tabla Guru Manoj Thakar gave a music masterclass, while demonstrating the tablas

PLFF Executive Director Merlin David’s selfie with Peninsula Hill Foundation’s Priyanka Sharma, Deeksha Singhal & Swathi Ramanuja

Merlin David’ with emcee Shubhra Kathuria provid- All three dancers from the Shakti School of Bharata ed a splendid introduction of the Diwali celebration, Natyam - against the PLFF logo explaining the greater meaning of Diwali

Bhangra Masti by Bollypop Gidda Gang - dance performance

Peninsula Library Friends Foundation Annual Appeal We share a common love for our library. The Peninsula Library Friends Foundation exists to communicate, engage, and fundraise in support of the Palos Verdes Library District— bridging the gap between public funding and the programs and services our community values most.

Because of donor support, the library remains open on Sundays, offers expanded digital resources like Kanopy, Mango, and Hoopla, and continues to evolve with new services such as LINK+ interlibrary loans and assisted listening devices for accessibility.

Every gift—large or small—helps build a stronger, more connected community. To see the impact of your generosity, view the 2024–2025 Annual Report at plffoundation.org/2024-2025-annual-report Please consider making a tax-deductible donation at plffoundation.org/donate Because a library is more than books—it’s where we learn, connect, and belong.

With sincere gratitude, Merlin David Executive Director Peninsula Library Friends Foundation Tax ID #95-3275918

2026 | January | PVMagazine | 35

SOLD 2025

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I’ve sold recently, and I have plenty more!”

To see more photos of any of these events, scan the QR code!

AROUND TOWN

Special Children’s League Annual Benefit Luncheon On November 21st, the Palos Verdes Country Club was filled to capacity as the Special Children’s League (SCL) hosted its annual benefit luncheon. The rainy weather outside couldn’t dampen the spirits inside, as community members gathered to support neighbors with developmental disabilities.

The event, themed “A Community in Giving — giving hands, caring hearts,” continued a tradition of service that began in 1957. SCL provides crucial funding to local organizations helping individuals with autism, cerebral palsy, and other developmental challenges.

This year’s successful gathering was led by VP Ways & Means Chair Claudia Levin and Benefit Co-Chairs Barb Dancy and Jacqueline Dunton.

To learn more about SCL’s mission or to contribute to their cause, please visit sclsouthbay.org.

Merin Dahlerbruch, Carolyn Tsai, Natalie Shaby, Marie Macey, Jennifer Coward, and Patti Migliazzo

Kristin Kundrave and Maria Chan

Katie Dahlerbruch and Michele Dahlerbruch

Stephanie Goodman and Jackie Sussman

Claudia Levin

Nicole Stober, Ingrid Louangxay, Liz Broen, and Tina Robinson

Front row (left to right): Jody Pastell, Sheryl Rasmussen, Yuko Tong, Emilee Adatia Back row (left to right): Carole Fields, Lorri Mansker, Jean Kenney, Joyce Komatsu, Communications Secretary, Tracey Doi, Lorraine Ouye

Laurie Bucher

Jenny Massey, Molly Holm, and Corrin Gonzales.

SCL group photo

2026 | January | PVMagazine | 37

Light

A Legacy of

How Two Palos Verdes Women Sparked a Sanctuary of Hope in San Pedro

Seventy years ago, a quiet but powerful movement began on the Palos Verdes Peninsula — one led not by institutions or public systems, but by a handful of women who refused to look away from the suffering they saw around them.

It was the early 1950s, and addiction — especially among women — carried immense stigma. There were few places where women could ask for help without being judged, dismissed, or ignored. But a small group of compassionate, civic-minded women from Palos Verdes believed deeply in second chances. Motivated by the conviction that every woman deserved dignity and a path forward, they formed what would become the House of Hope Foundation in 1955.

As the need for recovery support grew, the founders leased a historic residence in the Vinegar Hill District of San Pedro — a home that had lived many symbolic lives. Once a saloonkeeper’s house, later a refuge for unwed mothers, it would again transform — this time into a sanctuary where women could reclaim their lives through community, structure, and unconditional acceptance.

House of Hope established one of the earliest structured recovery programs created specifically for women. Within those walls, countless stories of resilience began — stories of sobriety achieved, families reunited, and futures restored.

Emcee Mary McKelvey, Paul Williams, and VP of the House of Hope Regents, Ed Storti

38 | PVMagazine | January | 2026

House of Hope Foundation, Executive Director, Maricela Gray, and Emcee, Mary McKelvey

Honoring 70 Years of Courage

Vice President of the House of Hope Regents, Ed Storti and Thomas Hyatt

Los Angeles County Supervisor Janice Hahn and Los Angeles City Councilmember Tim McOsker with House of Hope Foundation’s Executive Director, Maricela Gray

Paul Williams

Board Member Claudia Murillo and President Alya Lucas

In 2025, House of Hope marked a milestone that spoke not only to endurance, but to transformation: seventy years of changing—and saving—women’s lives. This anniversary was more than a number; it represented seven decades of courage, grace, and the belief that every woman deserved another chance.

The celebration also served as a tribute to the ripple effect of recovery. When one woman found hope again, her family felt it, her children felt it, her friendships strengthened, and her community became a better place. Each restored life created a legacy that extended far beyond the doors of the House.

At its core, the anniversary honored the original founders whose deep sense of responsibility to their neighbors sparked a movement. What began with Palos Verdes women responding to a local need grew into a beacon for Southern California—still shining brightly, one story at a time.

What started as a compassionate response from a few local women became a powerful, ongoing testament to the strength of community care. House of Hope continued to stand as living proof that when hope was given room to take root, it could rebuild generations.

And it all began with neighbors who said: we choose hope.

For more information or to donate to House of Hope San Pedro, visit: houseofhope.org

2026 | January | PVMagazine | 39

community + locale

Over decades, thousands of mothers, daughters, sisters, and neighbors have rebuilt their strength through connection and care.

Today, House of Hope remains a licensed and accredited nonprofit organization, offering inpatient treatment, counseling, and skill-building programs dedicated solely to women. Transitional sober-living housing extends support beyond initial recovery, helping women step back into family and community life with confidence. Through all the years of change — in medicine, in society, in mental health care — the heart of their work remains the same: healing happens when women lift one another up.

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