PV Magazine | May | Issue 24

2022 | May | No.24

your community magazine

AWHALE

of a Day!

World Renowned Dancers

Izabella & thomas Lewandowski

From Poland to PV

Around Town Events

Photo Galleries from Fundraisers to Egg Hunts

Summer Camp Guide 2022

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C E L E B R AT E

Mother’s Day AT T E R R A N E A R E S O R T

Give mom the ultimate Mother’s Day overlooking the ocean, joining friends and family on the Palos Verdes Peninsula.

Celebrate with a variety of dining options and activities, including our Mother’s Day Ballroom Brunch on Sunday, May 8.

TO PURCHASE TICKETS TO THE ANNUAL MOTHER’S DAY BALLROOM BRUNCH, VISIT

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8 7 7. 5 0 9. 4 5 78 | T E R R A N E A . C O M | # T E R R A N E A D I S C O V E R Y | C O M M U N I T Y | S U S TA I N A B I L I T Y | E P I C U R E A N | W E L L N E S S | C E L E B R AT I O N

Cover photo by Brenda Cash

Editor’s Letter

Issue No. 24

Hello Palos Verdes!

As I sit here reflecting on the whirlwind that was the past month I am filled with gratitude.

Spring is a season for renewal and awakening and that’s exactly what is happening all around the Peninsula. With events reporting record attendance this brings hope and good news for nonprofit organizations and so many others that took a hit during the pandemic.

The Peninsula Education Foundation’s Jennifer Mentessana reports record earnings at this year’s in-person Main Event at Terranea held on April 22 and Debbie Sampson of Las Candalistas tells us that their event, The Secret Life of Bees, was sold out on April 21 at Catalina View Gardens.

Hang tight as we will be showcasing these specific events and many more in Issue No. 25, so stay tuned!

I am also overwhelmed by the warm and wonderful receptions the staff of this magazine and I Noelle Giuliano, Kelly Walsh, Jacquie keep receiving at all the local events we have been attending. From the Seahorse Classic cocktail Leimbach, Carey Romer, me, and Sue Wilkinson at the VIP sponsor recepparty at a home in Lunada Bay to the PV High Booster Club, Catch the Wave (disclaimer, both my tion in Lunada Bay at the beautiful kids go to PV High so this one was a no-brainer), it has been an amazing honor to feel so welcome. home of Kim and John Whitcombe Keep the invites coming as we would love to cover your event in the magazine! We are expanding our Photo Gallery section in our printed publication and also in our online gallery section on our website. If you miss seeing yourself in the printed magazine check out our online gallery as we are uploading all of the photos to those galleries.

We are excited to share this issue with you. We introduce you to the dynamic Izabella and Thomas Lewandowski, whom I met many years ago at their dance studio, Fred Astaire in Redondo Beach. I was immediately blown away by the incredible energy at this studio. Izabella is a powerful force and the teachers she has brought into her circle at the studio are some of the most fun, Julie and Tim Wesley at PVHigh Catch colorful and energetic people I have ever met. When I found out this couple lived in Palos Verdes, the Wave Booster Party at PVGC and given what is happening in Ukraine, I knew it was great timing to do a story about this Polish couple who continue to work nonstop to create a dream life for themselves in PV. Don’t forget, we have an exciting photo contest going on for all high school students on the Peninsula. You won’t want to miss the intriguing announcement connected to the contest which will be revealed at the winner’s reception.

Thank you for allowing us to share in your lives. Keep the stories and pictures and great ideas coming our way so we can keep sharing them with you. We feel so privileged to be part of this phenomenal community.

Ittie and Warren cutting at Fundraiser for Hvaldimir, PCCH’s 32nd Annual Seahorse Classic post round event

Happy Spring!

KRISTIN BORDEN Publisher, Managing Editor & Owner PV Publications LLC. 310-940-1445 kristin.borden@palosverdesmagazine.com palosverdesmagazine.com

CHECK our community calendar and submit your event for free!

PV MAGAZINE TEAM renee jaco Creative Direction, Ad Management renee.jaco@palosverdesmagazine.com

malin rigby Digital Strategist, Website Management malin.rigby@palosverdesmagazine.com

melani Edelstein Writer melanimoroseedelstein@gmail.com

06 | PV Magazine | May 2022

onewhale.org

lane bullard Graphic Design lane.bullard@palosverdesmagazine.com Brenda cash Photographer brenda@brendacash.com Victoria O’Leary Photographer victoriaoleary.com sara atashi Writer sara.atashi@palosverdesmagazine.com cindy donnelly Community Calendar cindy.donnelly@palosverdesmagazine.com

A LEGACY OF CARE Our lives are defined in many ways, some which reflect the level of our accomplishments. But for those with a deeper interest, few qualities endure longer than the expression of our love—whether it’s aimed toward our family, our community or the thousands of lives we help transform along the way.

Your support and contributions, of any amount, help expert community care thrive for years to come.

Learn more about starting your own legacy at TMLegacy.org

IN THIS ISSUE Issue No. 24

12

PV YOUTH

community+locale

30 PVP Girls Softball League 2022 season is in full swing and record numbers of girls participating

32 The Neighborhood Church Egg Hunt

31 Award-winning Robotics Peninsula High’s Robotics team hits the international stage

32 featured

17 Dr. Myroslava Novosilska South Bay Rotarians help a young Ukrainian doctor get through troubled times

26

arts + culture 16 Egg Painting, Ukrainian Style Nina Ritter, Katrina Vanderlip, and local artists uniquely decorate eggs

34 PVPHS Walk to Support Cancer Patients

37 PV High Booster Club Fundraiser, Catch the Wave

42

PV palate 41 Lisa Boyd Fish Tacos Celebrating Cinco de Mayo never tasted so good

PV HISTORY

PV pets 26 Camps for Kids A helpful guide so your kids can get the most out of summer

34 Luminaries and Novas Brighten Lives

36 Lacrosse Moms Shoot to Win

43 Bubbles is Coming Home A beloved piece of local history will be back

summer camp guidE

33 A Whale of a Day

35 PV Walkers Get Into Action

12 Izabella & Thomas Lewandowski This Poland-to-PV couple tell us how hard work truly does pay off 21 Meet the Accardos “Don’t Worry Be Happy” and doing good for others are the cornerstones for this young family

32 Peninsula Friends of the Library Benefit for the PV Library District

47 Don’t Worry, Be Hoppy Get to know PV’s native, long-eared residents

PV Professional 49 The ABC’s of A-B Trusts How changed federal tax exemptions affect these types of trust

philanthropy+ ORGANIZATIONS 23 PVPAR What is PVPAR? Learn more about this valuable organization 24 A Walk With Sally Two boys find comfort in a WWS mentor program after losing their father 42 Say YES! to the Dress Maria’s Closet dresses young women in style and confidence

May 2022 | PVMagazine | 09

Just Sold RECENT SALES BY LYNN KIM

REPRESENTED SELLERS

6005 Ocean Terrace (pictured), Rancho Palos Verdes | SOLD $3,700,000 REPRESENTED BUYERS

7168 Crest Road, Rancho Palos Verdes | SOLD $2,875,000 REPRESENTED BUYERS

43 Via Porto Grande Rancho Palos Verdes | IN ESCROW Lynn Kim is passionate about helping her clients make informed decisions. She prides herself on her exceptional quality of service through constant communication and transparency. As a result, she has become a leading top realtor in California.

Lynn is humbled with the opportunity of being a major donor to her local school district, the Palos Verdes Education Foundation, to benefit all children. Lynn hosts Santa in the Park in Lunada Bay yearly thanks to the wonderful Lunada Bay Home Owners Association. She also has the humble honor to donate to Torrance Memorial Hospital and The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.

It is important for her to give back to her community and people in need.

Lynn is incredibly thankful she is able to raise her children in the same environment as she was raised. She currently lives in her hometown - Lunada Bay, Palos Verdes Estates, CA. After graduating from Peninsula High School, she went on to receive her B.A. degree in Political Science from the great University of Southern California. Fight On!

Lynn J Kim GLOBAL REAL ESTATE ADVISOR DRE# 01476216

Sponsor to: PALOS VERDES UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT

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Providing comprehensive care for your spine World-class health care, close to home Kyle S. Yang, MD Physical Health and Rehabilitation | Palos Verdes Primary & Specialty Care 501 Deep Valley Dr. | Suite 100 | Rolling Hills Estates, CA To book an appointment or learn more, please visit uclahealth.org/providers/kyle-yang or call 310-695-6763

Izabella shown with her spirited and fun staff

12 | PVMagazine | May 2022

Lewandowski

World Renowned Dancers Share their Story of how Hard Work and Dedication Helped them Rise from Hardship in Poland to a Comfortable Life in Palos Verdes

Written by Mel a n i M o ro s e E d e l s t e i n

A

s a young girl growing up in Poland, Palos Verdes resident and world renowned dancer Izabella Lewandowski never dreamed such a glorious life existed. Daily existence was arduous and unyielding growing up as an only child in the former communist nation, and her parents sacrificed everything so Izabella could follow her dreams and dance. It was a struggle for many years.

Then opportunity knocked, and Izabella and her high school sweetheart turned husband, dance partner, and lifelong collaborator Thomas Lewandowski jumped. They knew the chance to dance in the United States would likely only come once in a lifetime, and so with the support of their families, they seized the moment.

“It was challenging to get the paperwork, but we finally did, and we came here in 2000. We were teenagers invited to try out to represent the US in ballroom dancing. He spoke no English and we had three months to try it out. We came to Hacienda Heights, where we lived.

The three-month trial period passed quickly, and Izabella says somehow she knew it was right to stay in the US, and so did Thomas. They were always on the same page. Although he could not speak the language and they couldn’t see family or friends from Poland for years, they knew they had made the right call.

“We just somehow felt like this is the place to live, so we stayed and worked seven days a week from nine in the morning until midnight Honestly, it was a lot and with him learning English and us getting familiar, remember we did not have anyone, nobody. We were two kids alone, all on our own, and we had no help.”

Izabella believes her life is the true American dream come true.

She defines their early years in the US as the hustle and grind. They worked nonstop for dance studios all over the Los Angeles area and the entire country. They traveled and coached and judged

competitions and danced competitively worldwide.

“We are goal-oriented dreamers, and that drives us. Our motto was always to say never stop when you’re tired, stop when you’re done. So we built a life from scratch. Twenty-two years later, we are proud to be accomplished and titled.”

Izabella and Thomas didn’t take a break or vacation for ten years. After earning dozens of US and worldwide Latin Showdance championship titles, they decided to retire from competitive dancing about eleven years ago to focus their passionate love for dance, their studios, teaching, performing with students, and judging competitions.

“We have a passion for it. We wanted to open a business without taking out any loans, and we have always loved helping people. We are the kind of couple that does everything together, and this is what dance is all about. It’s about making opportunities for others both in dance and in business. If you work for me, you have a lot of good opportunities, which is important.” Izabella says.

Today, they own several Fred Astaire Dance Studio (FADS) franchises and the Los Angeles region representatives for FADS. That means they have the right to develop business in the LA area, and they are working hard at it. Their corporate office is at the Redondo Beach studio where they work, and business is booming.

“We bought the area seven years ago. We opened Redondo, then two years later during the pandemic we opened two more, and then another for a total of four now,” she says with a smile. Their current locations include Redondo, Laguna Hills, Diamond Bar and Arcadia, with Long Beach coming soon.

After decades of travel Thomas, Izabella, and their toy poodle George are relishing the Palos Verdes lifestyle they have worked so hard to shape.

Several years ago, a dance student had a house for rent on the Peninsula. The Lewandowskis moved in and eventually bought and renovated the place.

They have called Palos Verdes home for fourteen

May 2022 | PVMagazine | 13

PV profile

Izabella &Thomas meet

We are goal-oriented dreamers, and that drives us. Our motto was always to say never stop when you’re tired, stop when you’re done.

years now, and they couldn’t be happier.

“This is the most beautiful place in the world.

Because of what I do, I travel insanely, all over the world, and other than the south of France, I believe there is no place like Palos Verdes. I love the water, and I love the quiet, and I love the ocean and the birds and the spectacular views. It is so quiet on the hill, peaceful. I love that you can get the action of the beach cities and then come home to the calm. It feels like a resort. I love Palos Verdes,” Izabella gushes.

With so much gratitude in their hearts, the Lewandowski’s are all about helping others to achieve success and enjoy life.

“We love to see other people thrive and do everything with good intentions. The more you give, the more you receive. We believe that people grow through dance. It honestly changes perspective and is just such a beautiful form of discipline and art, and we want to share that. We love what we do. We love our jobs. We get to travel and dance, and we won’t ever stop. We can’t imagine anything more rewarding than seeing students thrive and perform and be joyful,” Izabella says.

“I had a situation once where I was in Denver, and a student, a beautiful older woman, said, you probably don’t remember me, but I was in a wheelchair, and you inspired me to be dancing today. I was so surprised. I used to go to BYU to train and teach handicapped and I met this woman. She thought she would never walk again and now she’s not only walking, but dancing and competing; it’s just incredible.”

After a lifetime of hard work and struggle, Izabella and Thomas Lewandowski are finally finding time to enjoy the fruits of their labor.

“My husband just surprised me with a trip to

,,

Bora Bora. We never had a honeymoon, so we never took time to enjoy things before now. It’s always been work, work, work, and travel, travel, travel, and so now it is a good time to live a little,” she says and rightfully so.

“We can spoil ourselves, we have earned it and so we try to take a vacation at least once a year.

Even though business is good and there is a lot more stress and pressure, we have learned you need to take a break and take care of yourselves,” a lesson the Lewandowski’s value and share with their community every chance they get.

Izabella with her dog Georgie, @georgie_thepoodle

May 2022 | PVMagazine | 15

pv profile

,,

arts +culture

#peaceforukraine

Ukrainian Egg Decorating Party at the Villa Narcissa with Top Local Artists

Studying traditional Ukrainian designs

Katrina Vanderlip along with the new owner of the Villa Narcissa, Nina Ritter, hosted a afternoon of egg decorating led by Lisle Dewar. Nina comes from a family of artists so was delighted to have the artistic creativity at the Villa Narcissa and hopes for more painting activities to take place on this historic property. peaceforukraine.com

Nina Ritter, owner, Villa Narcissa

Katrina Vanderlip made a Palos Verdes ostrich egg with peacocks and a feather

Marianne Hunter took off one of her amazing enamel pendants in order to get closer to her egg decorating

Alexey Steele, who’s father was one of the most important painters in Ukraine was thrilled to learn the traditional technique. He has created a website, peaceforukraine.org, where you can see his father’s wonderful paintings showing all the traditional life in Ukriane.

Lisle Dewar who brought all the kits necessary for the egg decorating and explained the technique

16 | PVMagazine | May 2022

Daria de Koning, a very creative jewelry designer applies the hot beeswax to her egg

Rick Humphreys from the Portuguese Bend Artist Colony known for his exquisite pencil drawings of Palos Verdes landmarks

Katrina Vanderlip decorated with a Ukrainian sunflower by painting on hot wax using a special pen that is heated over a candle and successive dye baths

Meet Dr. Myroslava Novosilska Written by Me l a n i M o ro s e E d e l s t e i n Photographed b y C h r i s S t i l l i a n s : C M S - D e s i g n Po r t ra i t u re

As a well known dermatologist and transplant surgeon who has practiced medicine for nearly two decades, Ukrainian Dr. Myroslava Novosilska’s visit to the US was scheduled months ago. The day before departing for the U.S., she hosted the International Congress on Hair Restoration, a large-scale event in her hometown of Lviv attended by doctors from around the world. Things were seemingly normal when she left Ukraine to study in southern California. This was four days before the war began, she’s trapped here and now worried about her thirteen-year-old daughter who she is now separated from.

Myroslava’s world turned upside down in the blink of an eye. When she left for her business trip, said a goodbye to her family and left her warm, cozy and comfortable life in Lviv, she thought she would return in three weeks. “We were safe and too tolerant of the Russians,” says Myroslava, who has received awards for scientific achievements and is the ambassador of Lviv, located in western Ukraine about 43 miles from the border with Poland. Unfortunately, this beautiful historical, romantic city, known as a tourist destination and often called the cultural capital of Ukraine, is now being destroyed

by Russian missiles, and life there is collapsing.

The 37- year-old doctor who speaks seven languages, (Ukrainian, English, German, Italian, Hebrew, Polish, and Russian) is now focused on improving her English and worries about her daughter, Julia, who is believed to have emigrated alone to Poland. Myroslava has been trying for weeks to arrange for daughter to get on a plane to Spain, then to Mexico, and then across the U.S. border and into Southern California. Unfortunately, communications are difficult, and information is hard to get. Meanwhile, Myroslava is in Manhattan Beach working with a lawyer to apply for and obtain a work and residence permit and a U.S. visa for her daughter, Julia.

Rotarians of South Bay, remaining true to their mission of providing helping hands to others, have welcomed Myroslava, a member of the Rotary e-Club in Ukraine, to their meetings and events.

Christine Barnicki, a member of the Palos Verdes Peninsula Rotary Club, held an open house to allow Rotarians in the area to meet Miroslava. “Neither I nor my guests knew where to find the city of Lviv on the map,” said Christine. “A few days later the news was all about Lviv, and we sure know where it is now.” Myroslava was also a guest of South Bay Sunrise Rotarians David Henseller and Karen Greenberg on a tall ship sailing from San Pedro.

It’s hard to listen to stories like Myroslava’s and sit back. However, there are many ways to help. Under a new Department of Homeland Security program called Uniting for Ukraine, American individuals

From left to right, David Henseler, Rotary Club of South Bay Sunrise Torrance, who was Myroslava’s first contact with Rotary in the South Bay, Myroslava Novosilska, Rotary e-club of Ukraine and Christine Barnicki, who hosted a meet-and-greet to introduce members of the Palos Verdes Peninsula Rotary Club to Myroslava.

and groups, including nonprofits and churches, can apply for sponsorship of displaced citizens of Ukraine. The new program appeared on the DHS website on Monday, April 25.

Unfortunately Myroslava’s daughter does not qualify for this new program, as a parent must accompany a child en route to the U.S. Myroslava has applied for temporary protected status, so she cannot return for her daughter. She cannot leave America. “The situation is confusing,” she says. “I have been trying to find a way out of this situation every day for two months.

“I want everyone to know I am sincerely grateful to ordinary Americans, because every time I hear the word ‘Ukraine,’ I feel their warm look in my heart.”

It is difficult to hear stories like Myroslavas and sit idly by. There are so many ways to help those who are so inclined. Under a new Homeland Security Department program, dubbed “Uniting for Ukraine,” American individuals and groups, including nonprofit organizations and churches, can apply to sponsor displaced Ukrainian citizens. The brand new program goes live on the DHS website Monday April 25, 2022 May 2022 | PVMagazine | 17

community

South Bay Rotarians Staying True to Their Mission of Providing Service to Others

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150 EL CAMINO DRIVE, BEVERLY HILLS, CA 90212. 310.595.3888 © 2022 DOUGLAS ELLIMAN REAL ESTATE. ALL MATERIAL PRESENTED HEREIN IS INTENDED FOR INFORMATION PURPOSES ONLY. WHILE, THIS INFORMATION IS BELIEVED TO BE CORRECT, IT IS REPRESENTED SUBJECT TO ERRORS, OMISSIONS, CHANGES OR WITHDRAWAL WITHOUT NOTICE. ALL PROPERTY INFORMATION, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO SQUARE FOOTAGE, ROOM COUNT, NUMBER OF BEDROOMS AND THE SCHOOL DISTRICT IN PROPERTY LISTINGS SHOULD BE VERIFIED BY YOUR OWN ATTORNEY, ARCHITECT OR ZONING EXPERT. IF YOUR PROPERTY IS CURRENTLY LISTED WITH ANOTHER REAL ESTATE BROKER, PLEASE DISREGARD THIS OFFER. IT IS NOT OUR INTENTION TO SOLICIT THE OFFERINGS OF OTHER REAL ESTATE BROKERS. WE COOPERATE WITH THEM FULLY. EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY. *2022 **REAL TRENDS + TOM FERRY AMERICA’S BEST REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONALS (2018-PRESENT)

featured family

MEET THE

ACCARDOS

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

PV Magazine celebrates neighbors in our community. Today, we introduce the Accardo family: Tony and Marina and their three kids. Amelia is 13-years-old, August is 11-years-old and Asher is 6-years-old.

It only takes one glimpse into the essence of this family to recognize their rallying cry: don’t worry, be happy.

Tony, a top South Bay realtor, is steadfast and carefree and loves beach volleyball, long road trips and a good family party. Marina played rugby growing up, loves design and remodeling, speaks four languages and has a passion for cooking.

When they’re not raising the family and running the South Bay real estate scene, they spend time building homes for underprivileged families in Baja, Mexico. They have built five homes in Baja and move on to their next build this spring break.

When did you move to Palos Verdes?

Tony: I was born and raised in Palos Verdes.

We moved back up to PV in 2015 from Redondo Beach. My roots are in Palos Verdes and I knew I wanted our children to know and love this community as I do.

Do you have any pets: Tony: Roma, a one-year-old pit bull mix rescue, and Rex, a 56-year-old rescue Tortoise.

Where is your favorite spot in Palos Verdes?

Marina: One of our favorite neighborhoods in Palos Verdes is Palos Verdes Estates and the annual tradition of Palos Verdes Little League baseball, where hundreds of family and friends gather as they kick-off the first day of the little league baseball season. The community comes alive with a parade, a dunk tank, games and of course the snack shack, which opens for burgers, hotdogs and a candy fest.

How do you juggle your business and family lives?

Marina: Motherhood is entrepreneurial. Starting a business is much like starting a family. It doesn’t come with an instruction guide, countless people throw advice at you, there’s never enough time or money, sleep is a luxury the first two years, and you hang on to little victories. Before you know it everything begins to fall into place, patterns become familiar and there is a firm place to stand.

What are some lessons you value in your family?

Tony: We tell our kids to do it with passion or not at all.

Marina: You realize that even if you make small mistakes, they aren’t terminal, and tomorrow’s a new day.

The Accardo family gives back to the community by supporting small businesses and building homes in Baja Mexico for deserving families. Check out @bajaboundbuilds for more information on the Accardo’s amazing work of building homes in Baja.

May 2022 | PVMagazine | 21

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featured organization

Palos Verdes Peninsula Association of REALTORS® The Palos Verdes Peninsula Association of REALTORS® (PVPAR) is a local group that aims to improve the Palos Verdes community each day. We sat down with Edward Barrios, who is serving his 10th year on the board of directors, to learn more about PVPAR. Barrios previously served two terms as president of the group and works as a broker associate for Vista Sotheby’s International Realty.

What is the Palos Verdes Peninsula Association of REALTORS®?

The Palos Verdes Peninsula Association of REALTORS® (PVPAR) is a non-profit organization dating back to 1955 as the Palos Verdes Estates Board of Realtors and 1959 as the Rolling Hills Board of Realtors. The two associations merged to form the PVPAR in 1994. We’re a 700-members strong association of real estate professionals on the Peninsula, and our goal as an organization is to provide the most effective products and services for our members to maintain the highest level of professionalism and success in the business.

Palos Verdes Realtors are very involved in the community.

Is this something you help your members get involved with?

Our members are part of the fabric of the community. It’s our profession to help people sell one of their most valuable assets and to buy a place they plan to call home for many years. We care about our clients and the community and want to see it thrive. So, we go above and beyond for the community however we can. The PVPAR has been a proud supporter of the Peninsula Education Foundation for over 25 years, contributing to the PEF Real Estate Honor Roll. Our PVPAR Scholarship Fund has helped hundreds of students for over 25 years. In total we have given over $140,000 in scholarships, and we aim to raise the bar every year.

What is the Palos Verdes Specialist program?

We offer our members an intensive and comprehensive course called the Palos Verdes Specialist. With the unique landscape and rich history of the 4 cities on the hill, the Specialist course gives our certified members an advantage in helping their clients with real estate on the Hill. We have about 170 certified Palos Verdes Specialists and the annual enrollment is limited.

What do you love about the PVPAR? I love that we are a member-owned and operated organization with an incredible staff. I love that our members not only think of themselves and their day-to-day businesses, but are willing to volunteer hours, days and weeks to serve the association and to consistently focus on what we can do to improve ourselves as realtors. We’re fortunate to live and work in Palos Verdes and we’ll continue to assure our members do whatever we can to make the hill the best place to live for as long as we can.

PVPAR Clean up day for land conservatory

Edward Barrios, PVPAR Board of Directors

Tony Accardo, who recently received the PVPAR REALTOR® of the Year Award for 2021, is one of many members who have dedicated many hours, day, years, and decades serving in the PV community and helping PVPAR with our fundraising efforts for PEF and our PVPAR Scholarship Fund.

Lynn Aglipay, our current President of PVPAR and past recipient of the PVPAR REALTOR® of the Year award is a great example of how our members and leadership have been raising kids on the hill, involved at local schools, dedicated community involvement, and is an advocate at the state and national level for real estate rights.

The PVPAR is known for its small association making a big impact on the local and national levels.

May 2022 | PVMagazine | 23

philanthropy

After Losing their Father to Cancer, the Voytilla Boys Find Comfort through the Walk With Sally Mentorship Program How does a young child thrive when he’s lost a parent to cancer? Not many people know the answer to this daunting question. However, three years after his father, Michael Voytilla, lost his battle with sarcoma (a rare cancer), his son Chance has found support, community, opportunities, focus and inner strength. It has been a long journey to get to where Chance is today and his story included helping others via the Walk With Sally Organization.

Walk With Sally is a nonprofit organization that provides support to children ages 7 to 17 in L.A. County who are experiencing the trauma of a loved one’s cancer diagnosis. Through this program, Walk With Sally aims to create meaningful relationships between children and adults who share the common bond of living with or losing a loved one to cancer. They achieve this by matching each child with a mentor who understands the struggle they face and acts as an advocate for them. Walk with Sally also hosts monthly events and workshops to create a sense of community.

Chance and his younger brother Bode joined the Walk With Sally Program in 2018 as mentees. Since then, they’ve enjoyed a fun and adventurous friendship with their mentor, Jeff Wilson, from Hermosa Beach. They’ve shared their respective stories of loss, all the while finding laughs, hope and strength in the process. They were matched because of their mutual interests including surfing, skiing and snowboarding, baseball and basketball. They’ve attended Dodgers, Lakers and LAFC games, gone skiing, bike riding and surfing and played tons of board games together.

They also have in addition enjoyed Chance’s many Breakers Basketball Club, Zeller Baseball Club, and Lunada Bay Little League games.

Chance had never been involved in fundraising previously, so when Walk With Sally suggested he lead a team to raise funds to support other kids like him, he was unsure how to proceed. He always performed well academically and is a true go-getter. He never seems to tire despite his rigorous dual club sport schedule.

However, he quickly decided to take on this new leadership challenge. Chance will lead a fundraising team, “Team Voytilla,” for Walk with Sally’s Annual Friendship Bowl, the organization’s biggest fundraiser during the weeks of April 1 to 30, 2022.

So Chance, with the help of his mother Julie, mapped out a plan, which included outreach, coordinating meetings, putting up a website, setting an initial goal of $250 and managing communication strategies with donors and attendees.

24 | PVMagazine | May 2022

Chance, Julie, Bode, and Abby

philanthropy

Mike Voytilla

“My dad was an amazing role model, communicator and influence in my life,” Chance said. “He was never afraid to try new things, so I think I should have that outlook throughout my life.”

Chance Voytilla shown with his mentor, Jeff Wilson, getting ready for Cotillion

At first, Chance did not know if he’d be able to raise $250. However, he quickly realized how much impact his efforts had. “I couldn’t believe my eyes when I saw that I had raised over $1000 the first week,” Chance said.“Then I was up to $2500 the next week, then over $4000 by the third week.”

To date, Chance has raised over $5200 and the donations keep coming. He further asked his sister, Abby, if the company she works for would match funds as well.

Chance learned at a very young age that with help from others, it’s possible to thrive despite tragedy. He hopes the contributions he’s made to Walk With Sally will help others find that same understanding.

“I am so thankful that we were able to raise so much money to help other families like mine, and that I could do this all in honor of my dad, my hero,” Chance said. “I am thankful to my community.”

If you or someone you know needs cancer support or you are interested in volunteering or donating please contact: Walk With Sally 310-322-3900 info@walkwithsally.org www.walkwithsally.org

Mentor Jeff Wilson with Chance and Bode

May 2022 | PVMagazine | 25

pv summer camp guide 26 | PVMagazine | May 2022

Since 1995, Peninsula Bay Cities (PBC) Day Camp has offered a variety of ACA Accredited camp programs with fun-based activities and enriching instruction for ages 4-14. PBC Day Camp is located at Rolling Hills Preparatory School (located on Palos Verdes Drive North, near Western Ave).

Rolling Hills Prep is a beautiful 20-acre campus with spacious outdoor grass fields, basketball and tennis courts, plenty of space to enjoy the outdoors and, of course, play the ever popular…GAGA Ball!

There are 8-weeks of Day Camp programs. Campers may choose their weeks and mix programs for unlimited summer fun!

Contact Information: Email: office@pbcdaycamp.com Phone: 310-541-3664 Website: www.pbcdaycamp.com Social Media: Facebook: Peninsula Bay Cities Day Camp Instagram: pbcdaycamp

Join us for the Sierra Sleep-Away, a beautiful lakefront setting that is a paradise for outdoor living. The pine-covered shores of Bass Lake have been our home in the Sierras since 1970. Experience and learn waterskiing, wakeboarding, kneeboarding, tubing, kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding (SUP). In addition to the many activities, campers enjoy visiting nearby Yosemite National Park, Red Rock Falls and the waterslide rock at Falls Beach.

Exciting off-site adventures combine with camp favorite activities and special events such as camp dinner themes and the ever-favorite Camp Wide Games! Camp is more than fun and adventure, it is a place where campers learn and grow. Get unplugged and get into nature!

Contact Information: Email: office@pbcdaycamp.com Phone: 310-541-3664 Website: www.pbcdaycamp.com Social Media: Facebook: Sierra Sleep Away Instagram: sierrasleepaway Dates: 12 Days, August 8 – August 19

Dates: 8 weeks, June 13 – August 5

TennisPower Camp

Discovery Camp

TENNISPOWER CAMP was designed to give serious athletes a platform to develop their talent and reach their goals through a fun yet challenging tennis camp environment. Players of all ages will be exposed to the TennisPower Training System developed by Oliver Messerli which impacts players from the mental side of the game, to technical development, to physical and strategic training. The goal is to move better, become more consistent and match tough, and reach the next level of tennis.

DISCOVERY CAMP is designed to engage kids ages 4–10 through targeted elements of enrichment. Ignite creativity with new themed art lessons every week and learn the essential fundamentals of tennis. Develop positive physical and social interaction through fun crafts and sports activities. The goal is to combine creativity and learn to play tennis for the love of the game.

at TennisPower Academy, Peninsula Racquet Club

Contact Information: Email: FrontDesk@PeninsulaRacquetClub.com Phone: (310) 541-2523 Website: TennisPowerAcademy360.com Social Media: Instagram: @TennisPowerAcademy Summer Dates: 10 Weeks, June 13-Aug 19 Summer Hours : Full & Half Day: 10:00 AM - 1:30 PM 2.30 - 5:30 PM Pee Wee: Mon/Wed/Fri 11:30-1:30, Tues/Thur 2:30-4:30

at TennisPower Academy, Peninsula Racquet Club

Contact Information: Email: FrontDesk@PeninsulaRacquetClub.com Phone: (310) 541-2523 Website: TennisPowerAcademy360.com Social Media: Instagram: @TennisPowerAcademy Summer Dates: 10 Weeks, June 13-Aug 19 Summer Hours: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Peninsula Heritage School Summer Camp Our camp provides a safe, confidence-building space for children to learn and enhance their team-building and problem-solving skills.

Campers exercise their creativity and ingenuity and have fun both inside and outdoors with activities that include a multitude of games, water play on Fridays, ice cream breaks, and more!

Contact Information: Email: cchun@peninsulaheritage.org Phone: (310) 541-4795 Website: peninsulaheritage.org/community/summercamp Social Media: Instagram: @peninsulaheritageschool Dates: June 20 - August 19 between 8:30 am - 3:30 pm May 2022 | PVMagazine | 27

pv summer camp guide

Peninsula Bay Cities Day Camp Sierra Sleep-Away Camp

Dana Dana Graham Graham Top 10 Realtor in Top 10 Realtor in Palos Verdes Palos Verdes (Listings Sold) (Listings Sold) Top 3 Realtors at Top 3 Realtors at Berkshire Hathaway Berkshire Hathaway Palos Verdes Palos Verdes Berkshire Hathaway Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices HomeServices Legend Award Legend Award 37 Years Experience 37 Years Experience Palos Verdes Palos Verdes Resident Since 1947 Resident Since 1947 Dana Graham got into the real estate business 37 years ago because he couldn't find the kind of Dana Graham got into the real estate business 37 years ago because he couldn't find the kind of agent he wanted - one who not only understood the nuts and bolts of the business, but also had agent he wanted - one who not only understood the nuts and bolts of the business, but also had a strong empathy for the customer. The combination of 37 years of experience and lifelong Palos a strong empathy for the customer. The combination of 37 years of experience and lifelong Palos Verdes residency makes Dana tough to beat. In addition, as his many hundreds of satisfied past Verdes residency makes Dana tough to beat. In addition, as his many hundreds of satisfied past clients will attest, Dana Graham treats every sale as if it were his own. clients will attest, Dana Graham treats every sale as if it were his own.

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pv youth

Palos Verdes Peninsula

Girls Softball League Palos Verdes Peninsula Girls Softball League (PVPGSL) is the only girls’ softball league on the Peninsula. Since its inception in 1974, it has served girls ages 4 through 14. The league provides a safe recreational softball program to all girls interested in fast-pitch softball. Games are played at Cornerstone Elementary School and Highridge Park on Saturdays.

The current season has been one for the record books, with nearly 300 girls and 27 teams signed up! The spring season typically begins in February at our opening ceremony, which includes a car parade from Highridge Park to Cornerstone, and ends in May. The fall ball season, which features only Sunday games, begins in September and ends in November. Registration for fall ball begins in early summer.

Visit PVPGSL on its website, Facebook or Instagram for more information. www.pvpgsl.org for more information.

Opening Day Car Parade, 12U Back in Black

6U Golden Eagles and Pink Flamingos

Opening Day Parade at Cornerstone, 8U Blue Dragons

Opening Day Car Parade, 8U Lady Bugs

Opening Ceremonies , entire league

30 | PVMagazine | May 2022

Opening Day Car Parade , 10U Thunderbolts

PV youth

Team Picture holding Engineering Inspiration Award

The robot Helios showing it’s moves

When You Think Robotics, What Comes to Mind?

The popular TV program BattleBots, chanting the mantra of clashing steel and smoking motors? Or Boston Dynamics’ dancing humanoid robot, cranking out some moves to the tune of “Do You Love Me”? Or R2-D2? The Mars Rover?

Peninsula High School’s own competitive robotics team, the Phantom Catz, participates in an international high school robotics competition with a mission to make STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) more accessible, inclusive, and diverse. The competition, called the FIRST Robotics Competition–or FRC for short–is organized by the New Hampshire-based nonprofit organization FIRST: For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology. Founded in 1992 by MIT professor Dr. Woodie Flowers and Dean Kamen, inventor of the Segway, FIRST’s mission is to create

mentor-supported program, the Phantom Catz heavily relies on local support to not only fund its operations, but in guiding budding engineers and leaders. These mentors, who range from retired engineers to small business owners, support students during team meetings to gain a deeper understanding of engineering and business concepts.

They’re crucial in shaping how students approach problems and are instrumental in the team’s efforts to give back to their community.

In partnerships with Palos Verdes’ elementary and middle schools, the Phantom Catz has hosted STEM camps and STEM programs in the local community for the past five years. With the goal of inspiring future engineers, the Phantom Catz founded and mentor junior robotics teams at Ridgecrest Intermediate School and, more recently, an all-girls

“This team has broadened my horizons to an entire new world full of exciting opportunities in engineering and in driving innovation forward, and provided valuable experiences I wouldn’t have gotten anywhere else.”

Kan Shimada, senior at Peninsula High School and Team President:

a global community to advance STEM education by engaging the workforce of tomorrow in exciting, mentor-based programs that foster engineering and leadership skills. FRC culminates in an annual Championship event that celebrates over 450 teams from all around the world for their accomplishments, held this year in Houston, Texas from April 20 - April 23.

The Phantom Catz, also known as Team 2637, were recognized for their commitment to STEM education and community outreach when they received the Regional Engineering Inspiration Award in early April, earning them a spot in the 2022 FIRST Championship, continuing a 15-year tradition of excellence. The team works out of Peninsula High School’s engineering laboratories essentially as a small business, managing everything from sponsorships and public relations to community outreach and, of course, builds a new robot to compete with every year.

In preparation for the Championship event, the Phantom Catz are busy making last-minute upgrades to their robot, which scores oversized tennis balls in a goal 10 feet high and traverses a set of monkey bars to earn points. As a student-run,

team with students from across the Hill. In addition to their local impact, the Phantom Catz promotes accessible STEM education with an emphasis on reaching under-represented groups such as Native Americans and special education, as well as international students.

The team prepares students for a world in which STEM-related careers have become increasingly important by providing unique opportunities that develop skills in everything from programming, manufacturing, and design to finance, media, and management. This year, the team’s qualification to the World Championship represents the development of an outstanding program that has enthusiastically bounced back from the effects of the pandemic. The team’s successes are a result of the incredible support from the local community and businesses such as Kinecta, John Deere, Boeing, NASA, and the Peninsula Education Foundation.

Having been finalists at the Ventura County Regional in mid-March and semi-finalists at the Los Angeles Regional in early April, the Phantom Catz are ready to compete at the FIRST Championship in Houston.

May 2022 | PVMagazine | 31

community

AROUND TOWN Egg Hunt Returns to The Neighborhood Church Photographed by Brenda C a s h

The Neighborhood Church welcomed children back to their annual Easter Egg Hunt tradition on Easter morning.

The Easter Bunny was on hand for photos and families enjoyed music and refreshments on the beautiful grounds of The Neighborhood Church in Palos Verdes Estates.

Literary Weekend Connects Cultural Adventures and Words On April 9, the Peninsula Friends of Library hosted its second annual Literary Weekend benefiting the Palos Verdes Library District. The in-person event featured an interview with New York Times award-winning author Lisa See, Chinese and Korean tea ceremonies and traditional music. This multi-sensorial literary and cultural experience drew over 60 participants to the Malaga Cove Library.

See spoke about what inspires her to write historical books, the research behind them and how stories build empathy for others. A highlight was Lisa’s discussion about her book On Gold Mountain, a memoir of her Chinese family’s settlement in Los Angeles, which is being made into an opera at the Huntington Library premiering in early May. The weekend concluded with a virtual interview with author Rebecca Frankel about her book Into the Forest, which tells the story of how one family from a small Polish village survived the Holocaust and triumphed through love.

Proceeds from the Literary Weekend will support the library’s Sunday hours, summer reading program, online resources and much more. Please visit www. pvldfriends.org for more information.

Linda Louie of Bana Tea Company pouring Pu-erh tea

Yoon Hee Kim of TeaClassics presenting Mountain Green Nokcha tea

32 | PVMagazine | May 2022

Friends Executive Director Colleen Cotter, Author Lisa See and PVLD Trustee Rosa Kwon Easton

A WHALE OF A DAY! Photographed by Brenda C a s h

The City of RPV and The Los Serenos de Point Vicente docents hosted the first in-person Whale of a Day in 2 years, a fundraiser for Los Serenos on April 9, 2022. The weather was perfect and people of all ages enjoyed this festival celebrating the migration of the Pacific Gray Whale. Cabrillo Marine Aquarium debuted their new life-size inflatable grey whale mother and baby!

Entries From 2022 Los Serenos School Poster Contest on Display at Whale of a Day

Life Size Inflatable Gray Whale and Baby Presented By Cabrillo Marine Aquarium

Overview of Whale of a Day on the Point Vicente Interpretive Center Grounds

Los Serenos Docent Exhibit Sharing Information With Attendees

Whale of a Day Poster Featuring School Poster Contest Winning Artwork By L. Craig of Ridgecrest Intermediate School

May 2022 | PVMagazine | 33

community

AROUND TOWN

community

AROUND TOWN Luminaries and Novas Brighten Lives with Thousands of Volunteer Hours

The Luminaries and Novas of Torrance Memorial Medical Center are non-profit volunteer groups founded in 1990 providing services and financial donations to the hospital. To date, they have donated over $530,000 to support many important hospital projects.

Both organizations volunteered over 14,000 hours, lifting patients’ spirits and supporting the hard- working Torrance Memorial staff. Even during the height of the pandemic, Novas worked in escort services to assist throughout the hospital. Luminaries president, Maureen Mirikitani, announced the Luminaries and Novas have been donating baked goods since September 2020, providing over 42 thousand items and volunteering over 4,920 hours for baking alone.

The 19 graduating Senior Novas, having contributed over 7,600 hours, will be recognized for their tireless dedication to the organization at the Grande Finale event at the Palos Verdes Golf Club on May 15, 2022.

Luminaries and Novas Senior Class of 2022

PVPHS High School Students and Staff Walk to Support Cancer Patients

On March 18, Palos Verdes Peninsula High School hosted the 20th annual “Walk for Life” to fundraise for cancer patients through Cancer Support Community South Bay and City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center in Duarte, Calif. Nearly 1,000 students, faculty and staff members participated in the walk, which raised a total of $40,000 to be split evenly between the two organizations. The walk included a ceremony that featured a speech from a student about loss due to cancer, a floral tribute to those impacted by cancer and shouts of hope as students threw purple powder.

From left CSC South Bay Development Director Jackie Suiter, PVPH Principal Dr.Brent Kuykendal

PVPH staff from left Athletic Director Glenn Van Enk, Associate Principal Dr. Jennifer Panagos, Activities Director Season Pollock, Principal Dr. Brent Kuykendall, Associate Principal Christina Sunada, Associate Principal Katie Clovis

PVPHS students shout “Hope” in an explosion of purple powder at the conclusion of the pre-walk ceremony.

34 | PVMagazine | May 2022

A student takes part in the traditional rose ceremonial tribute to friends and loved ones touched by cancer.

Cancer Support Community South Bay is presented with a check for $20,000. Pictured from left CSC South Bay Development Director Jackie Suiter, PVPHS students Emma Mulligan and Sophia Kim

PV WALKERS Do More Than Just Beat Feet Con tributed by Andre w We r t s

For Palos Verdes residents who are looking for a way to get active, the PV Walkers club is the perfect place to start. Meeting every Wednesday at the Promenade on the Peninsula at 9 a.m., the group offers more than just a location to walk.

PV Walkers offers all new members a welcome gift, a mileage card to chart your progress and quarterly healthcare seminars with Providence Little Company of Mary. Each week, the walkers also convene for coffee at the Peninsula Seniors Scriba Family Center after exercising. Membership is free and members are awarded for their mileage at each quarterly breakfast meeting. Call 310-541-0688 x502 for more information on joining PV Walkers.

“What I like about this program is it is run by professionals so they know what they are doing, and it is good for all levels.

It is a combination of stretching and aerobics a great variety of exercises not just walking.”

—PV Walker Participant

PV & Peninsula High School Lacrosse Moms Shoot Out

Lacrosse season is in full swing and Joe Alessi, sponsor of Boys Lacrosse at both PV and Peninsula high schools, hosted a half-time Senior Mom’s shoot out. PV and Peninsula moms tied with Alessi splitting the $500 1st place award between both teams. PV Sea Kings, however, won victory rights in overtime.

May 2022 | PVMagazine | 35

community

AROUND TOWN

community

AROUND TOWN Another Impressive Round for a Wonderful Cause!

By any scorecard, the 32nd Annual Seahorse Classic Golf Tournament, held once again at the picturesque Palos Verdes Golf Club, was a smashing success. Golfers dressed in their festive best were treated to a pleasant spring day full of fun on the links starting with a delicious barbecue lunch, tricky 75-yard putting competition, exciting helicopter ball drop and the tournament’s traditional merry bagpiper shotgun start. A competitive skins game ensued, as did challenging hole-inone prize opportunities, a veritable “shotgun” par-5 drive and closest to the pin and longest drive contests. The day concluded with a jovial cocktail party reception in the club’s charming gardens and bar foyer. Hosted by the Peninsula Committee Children’s Hospital (PCCH), all proceeds from the Seahorse Classic go to Children’s Hospital Los Angeles (CHLA). Since its inception in 1957, PCCH has raised over 19 million dollars for CHLA. Don’t miss PCCH’s next fundraising event, the 64th Annual Portuguese Bend National Horse Show happening September 9 – 11th at Ernie Howlett Park in Rolling Hills Estates.

Kelly Walsh, Susie Farman, Hilary Waxler, Sue Wilkinson

Wendy Mouton, Ginny Xepolis

Kelly Walsh, Sue Wilkinson, Joe Giacomin, Jacquie Leimbach

Darrin Del Conte shotgun drive

Molly Leimbach, Chuck Leimbach, Kaitlin Leimbach, Jacquie and Joe Leimbach

Jacquie Leimbach, Carey Romer, Buck Page (CHLA), Mike Lichty (CHLA), Terry Greene (CHLA), Kelly Walsh and Sue Wilkinson

36 | PVMagazine | May 2022

Randy Dauchot, Allison Mayer, Kim Brothers, Ellen Smith

PV High Booster Club Fundraiser

CATCH THE WAVE Gina McDuffie, Allison Holcher, Shane Andrews, Courtney Klink

Andrew Werts, Charles and Velveth Schmitz, Kristin Borden, Jonna Werts

Jenn Kirk, Ally Shen, auction committee member Mandi Leonard

Teresa Nagy and Roxanne Bottwalla

Julia Prado, Cat Grennan, Anitra and George Bornheimer,

Co-chair Lisa Tellenbach, Booster Club President Dean Decker, Cho-chair Ally Shen

Principal Dr. Trista Ramirez, Quinn and Bill Mulkey, teacherTecia Barton

Justin Holcher, Matt and Nicole Reis, Amy Friedman

Teachers, coaches, parents having fun on the dance floor

May 2022 | PVMagazine | 37

community

AROUND TOWN

COMPASS MARKET SHARE OF $10M+ SALES *

LUXURY BROKERAGE IN LOS ANGELES *

IN LOS ANGELES COUNT Y 202 1

TONY ACCARDO NAMED REALTOR OF THE YEAR

BROKERAGE IN THE US

BY PA LOS VE R D ES ASSOC I AT I O N O F R E A LTO RS

AS OF 2021, CLOSED SALES VO LU M E Source: RealTrends 3/16/22

*Source: MLS via Terradatum’s BrokerMetrics. Regions include Los Angeles county. Property types include single-family home, condominium, townhouse and residential land. List and sell side. Closed sales, 01/01/21-12/31/21. Luxury for L.A. County is defined as transactions $10M+. Compass is a real estate broker licensed by the State of California and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. License Number 01991628. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only and is compiled from sources deemed reliable but has not been verified. Changes in price, condition, sale or withdrawal may be made without notice. No statement is made as to accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footage are approximate.

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pv palete

Lisa Boyd’s halibut fish TACOS WITH MANGO AVOCADO SALSA What better way to celebrate Cinco De Mayo and Halibut season than by making these deliciously spicy and sweet Halibut Fish Tacos with Mango Avocado Salsa! Pick up some of this delicious fish at The Great American Seafood Market in the Golden Cove Shopping Center. And stop by the market on Thursday, May 12th from 3-6pm to learn from me how to prepare some of my favorite fish dishes. Event details below. Can’t wait to see you in person!

Ingredients: 1 lb fresh Halibut or other white fish ½ tsp ground cardamom ½ tsp ground coriander ½ tsp cumin ½ tsp red pepper flakes ¼ tsp garlic powder ¼ tsp paprika ¼ tsp dried rosemary ½ tsp Kosher salt ¼ tsp freshly ground pepper 1 tbl olive oil

Great American Fish Market Cooking Demo with Lisa Boyd Thursday, May 12, 2022, 3pm-6pm Golden Cove Shopping Center 31224 Palos Verdes Dr. West, Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275 Lisa Boyd – Baker Boyd’s Batch Cooking Classes – Recipes – Baked Goods Follow on Instagram: @BakerBoydsBatch Latest info and classes: www.bakerboydsbatch.com Contact: bakerboydsbatch@gmail.com

Directions: 1. Mix all spices together in a bowl.

2. Generously season both sides of fish with seasonings.

3. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in frying pan over medium high heat. Once oil is hot, place seasoned fish in pan and sear for 4-6 minutes on each side, depending on thickness.

4. Place cooked fish on a plate topped with two paper towels. This will help the oil absorb into the paper towel and out of the fish.

5. Serve this delicious, spicy, and crispy fish inside your favorite taco shell or tortilla, top with fresh mango salsa (recipe below) and enjoy!

May 2022 | PVMagazine | 41

philanthropy

Saying “Yes” to Young Women’s Dresses & Dreams Maria’s Closet, a 501c3 nonprofit organization, is dedicated to promoting confidence and a positive self-image for young women within San Pedro and across Southern California.

“Maria’s Closets Big Give 2022 was attended by 120 amazing community volunteers and 176 prom gown recipients from local high schools, foster youth, and mentoring programs throughout Los Angeles County.

It was a day filled with empowerment and beauty for these spectacular Maria’s Closet girls. Maria’s Closet’s mission is to provide these young women with a fabulous prom experience, a night that they will remember for years to come,” says Ronna Luna.

Founded in 2016 by Ronna Luna, the program was established to recognize young women who strive to do well in school but do not have the financial means to attend prom. The mission statement, “empower young women, one gown at a time,” reflects the goal of providing prom dresses, accessories, makeup and hair consultation, etiquette tips and friendship for girls in need.

Over 750 girls in Southern California, mainly aged 17 to 19 living in the South Bay and Harbor City areas, have benefited from this nonprofit in the last six years. Maria’s Closet hosted its 3rd annual Big Give event on April 3 at the Boys and Girls Club of the Los Angeles Harbor, where 175 girls and their families were able to attend a makeshift prom with stylists, dresses, photos and gift bags. Additionally, Maria’s Closet has given nearly $10,000 in scholarships in the past and expects to award $12,000 in 2022.

To help empower girls one dress or scholarship at a time, Maria’s Closet welcomes monetary donations as well as volunteers. For more information, www.visitmariasclosets.org for more information.

PV Stylist Gayle Theodora Drake helps the girls select the perfect dresses

42 | PVMagazine | May 2022

Right to Left: Ronna Luna, Pam Costa, Lori Millard, Rosa Pesenti, Jackie DeLuca, Debbie Cusolito

“I am grateful that Maria’s Closet reached out to me to volunteer my styling expertise for these special young ladies. My heart is always so full at the end of the day! It is truly an Unforgettable experience! I love that the girls I have worked with continue to stay in touch with me. I feel beyond blessed and the most alive when I’m in service to others.”

—Gayle Theofora Drake

pv history

B u bb l e s

is Coming Home!

In Honor of RPV’s 5oth Anniversary April 2022 Written by Me l a n i M o ro s e E d e l s t e i n

Marineland’s iconic Bubbles the whale is coming home to Rancho Palos Verdes.

The 28-foot fiberglass whale sculpture, which was kept in a city yard for more than three decades, was a popular RPV beacon back in the days when he greeted theme park guests.

Instantly identifiable to generations of visitors from all over the world, the Bubbles the whale statue was created in 1954 as the entrance monument to Marineland of the Pacific, holding court proudly until the park closed in 1987. The sculpture holds particular significance because it is a replica of the real, beloved whale Bubbles who once entertain guests at the theme park.

Nearly five years after preservation efforts began in earnest, and just in time to celebrate the city of Rancho Palos Verdes’s 50th Anniversary, Bubbles is being resurrected.

In 2019 RPV city councilwoman Susan Brooks helped lead the effort to refurbish Bubbles and have him placed at the new Point Vicente Interpretive Center entrance. Covid put the efforts to revamp Bubbles on hold until recently. In the last year, many people have shown interest in restoring this piece of Palos Verde’s history, including the city council’s unanimous vote to move forward with the restoration in August 2021.

“While the progress has been glacial, I’m hopeful. Call me an optimist, but I’m thinking Whale of a Day 2023 might be a time for unveiling or at the very least a rendering for serious fundraising,” says Jon Sansom, organizer of Preserve Our Whale (POW!) a grassroots effort to incorporate Marineland’s Bubbles the whale sculpture into the welcome monument at the Point Vicente Interpretive Center.

Photos courtesy of Palos Verdes Library District

This fundraising campaign, organized by community members like Sansom in coordination with the City of Rancho Palos Verdes, is still looking for donations.

Restoration is expected to cost around $300,000 Although RPV’s 50th anniversary isn’t until September 2023, the official city celebrationkicks off this coming September. Monthly events will commence with the ribbon cuttingof the newly named Ken Dyda Civic Center. PV Magazine will continue to cover andpreview all of the events and happenings surrounding the city’s 50th anniversary. www.gofundme.com/f/preserve-bubbles-the-whale

May 2022 | PVMagazine | 43

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pv pets

Photo by Erik Jay

Don’t Worry, Be Hoppy!

C o n t r i b u t ed b y Pa t r i c k S t ed n i t z

Some residents compare living in Palos Verdes to living in paradise. And we aren’t the only ones living in paradise– so are the rabbits. As the region is a peninsula, there is a 270-degree sea breeze buffer which guarantees the best weather in Southern California.

Combined with the fact that the peninsula is also a hill, and we have a 360-degree view that is unchallenged anywhere,these traits make our area an idyllic place for anyone. Still, there’s much more to our rich culture, so let me be your guide through this complex rabbit hole.

The rural landscape is home to a plethora of flora and fauna, and amidst fondness for the peafowl and foxes, bunnies are a favorite. I’m not referring to familiar names that we’ve experienced from our past, such as: Ricochet Rabbit, Thumper, Roger Rabbit, Energizer Bunny, Br’er Rabbit, Peter Cottontail, or Velveteen Rabbit. Their thick fur traps excessive heat quickly, so if you are outside during dawn or dusk when they are not seeking refuge from the sun, then greater viewing opportunities will arise.

They are particularly attracted to gardens with their preferred edibles, and not only carrots, by the way. Rest assured– “if you build it, they will come” as they are never too far away, especially on the hill. In fact, according to the Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy education director, Connie Smith, the “population is exploding… [last] year’s heavy winter rains produced an abundance of plant life… purple sage, California bush sunflowers, or grasses.”

Besides their usual shtick of radar-like ears and seeming to perpetually sit on a powder puff, this breed of rabbit can only boast a top speed of 19 mph while the human record is 28. Nevertheless, this feat is amazing for a creature less than 1.5 feet long, and they rely more on their tendency to use camouflage to evade predators before attempting to outrun other animals (probably a learned lesson from losing to The Tortoise in that famous race). Their trademark behavior is to flee in a zig-zag pattern, because they insist on eluding with an attitude, as Bugs Bunny would do. There is a threat that they cannot outrun though, because they are currently experiencing their own pandemic, which is only contagious to other members of their native species of desert cottontail. Despite their virus though, having multiple litters of offspring annually, eliminates the threat of extinction, as long as they inevitably maintain their stereotypical drive for proliferation.

“When in Rome, do as the Romans,” so when in PV don’t worry, and jump for joy! We’re only a few months into the new year, so it’s not too late to spot these furry friends.

Ideas are like rabbits. You get a couple and learn how to handle them, and pretty soon you have a dozen.”

–John Steinbeck

Patrick Stednitz is a lifelong Palos Verdes resident, regional philanthropist and international educator. This Veteran is also a multi-media artist, enjoys Chess and swimming in the ocean. Check out his activities on the Peninsula at” facebook.com/groups/SOUTHBAY.CA

May 2022 | PVMagazine | 47

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Are A-B Trusts Outdated Now that the Federal Estate Tax Exemptions is Over $12,000,000 Per Person?

Contributed by G re go r y B ec ke r

In 2000, the amount exempt from federal estate taxes was $1,350,000 for a couple. It is now over $24,000,000 thanks in part to the Tax Cuts & Jobs Act of 2017 as well as portability.

For a couple dying in 2022, with all of their exemption intact and a $24,000,000 estate, there would be zero in federal estate taxes due. Also, there would be a full step up in basis on certain assets.

The estate tax law expires at the end of 2025 unless Congress extends it or changes it. If it does expire, the amount one can shelter will fall by about 50%.

I frequently review living trusts for prospective clients. The most common mistake I see is the A-B Trust. This trust was used years ago to maximize federal estate tax savings but has become less common because of the rising exemption amount. For most, maximizing federal estate tax savings is no longer a concern and as such the A-B Trust is no longer consistent with their intent.

An A-B trust can be a family trust that splinters off into two trusts (A & B) after the death of the first spouse. Think of the “B” trust as the trust for the “Below” ground spouse’s assets and the “A” trust as the trust for the “Above” ground spouse’s assets.

Through the establishment of the “B” trust, the assets in it can “bypass” estate taxation on the death of the surviving spouse. Also, with certain restrictions, the assets of the “B” trust can be given

a level of protection from undesired influences during the lifetime of the surviving spouse like a “Black Widow” situation. This latter issue is a common reason for an A-B Trust.

The “B” trust is an irrevocable trust that often leads to additional administrative complexities and costs. The “B” trust often requires annual accountings to heirs, formal appraisals and distribution of trust assets between the new “B” trust & the survivor’s “A” trust. Imagine a spouse who has never handled any financial issues and is now restricted in the use of the trust assets while being saddled with annual accountings and trust tax returns. If the headaches aren’t enough to frustrate someone, the legal and accounting fees will be.

The flexible trust that I frequently prepare allows the surviving spouse to sit down with tax professionals after the first spouse dies to discuss options.

If the tax benefits provided by the A-B Trust are needed, the A-B Trust provisions can be implemented. If not, the survivor can carry on with a simple trust and administer it with little cost and few headaches.

The point here is that the A-B trust after the first spouse’s death can be an option and is not a requirement.

The Law Office of Gregory I. Becker 1711 Via El Prado, Suite 103 B Redondo Beach, CA 90277 (310) 543-1126 www,gregorgybecker.com California State Bar License #183059

May 2022 | PVMagazine | 49

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