Patrons

SPRING 2024

TORRANCE MEMORIAL FOUNDATION

CAROL AND JERRY MARCIL From sports to business, travel and philanthropy, they are all in!

Boar d N ote s

HUMAN NATURE WRITTEN BY STEVEN F. SPIERER

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s a kid, on Sundays I would go on rounds with my father, Eugene, who was an oldstyle family physician. From delivering over 3,000 babies to setting bones and treating patients from infancy to old age, he instinctively knew people. Often, with the patient’s consent, Dad invited me into the patient’s room. Sometimes I would even get to listen to their heart with his stethoscope.

Just like we are familiar with the concept that pets are healing, Dad understood it could be a therapeutic event for a patient to have a kid around—in addition to the benefit I would get from the experience.

While I was growing up in Ladera Heights, my mother was a homemaker and active volunteer in the community. My parents gave me the foundation for my eventual career in law. I applied what I learned from them about the role of human nature in helping people solve and prevent problems.

My wife, Phyllis, grew up in Palos Verdes. When we married, we knew we wanted to raise our three children there. Today Joe, Melanie and their spouses are raising their children on the Peninsula and are actively involved as Patrons and in the YPPA. Our son Mitch lives in San Francisco with his wife and children. We are thrilled to have nine grandchildren ranging in age from 3 to 11.

At the encouragement of my longtime friend and business partner Joe Hohm, I joined the Foundation board in 2016. Serving on the board has been a

Steve and Phyllis Spierer

rewarding experience, allowing me to understand the big picture of Torrance Memorial Medical Center and the details of its valuable initiatives for our community.

Torrance Memorial is working to double the size of its emergency department to better serve the growing needs of the South Bay. We need more space; it’s just that simple. This state-of-the-art, two-story facility will address the ever-increasing demand for emergency services while improving patient care. With the $62 million expansion project underway, we are dedicated to implementing advanced technology and optimizing processes to achieve this goal.

It is an honor and privilege to contribute to action that will positively impact the lives of others. I encourage you to get involved, because together we are shaping the future of health care one compassionate step at a time. •

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Boar d o f D i r ec to r s EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

S O N G C H O K LE I N

Community Volunteer M A R K LU R I E , M D, P R E S I D E NT

CO N N I E L A I , E S Q.

Retired, Lundquist Lurie Cardiovascular Institute

Board Chair, JI REN Primary School, Former Litigator, Musick Peeler

P H I L PAV E S I , V I C E P R E S I D E NT

C R A I G LE AC H

Retired Aerospace Executive, TRW GREG GEIGER, TREASURER

Retired President/CEO, Torrance Memorial Medical Center

Principal, Westport Capital Partners, LLC

R I C H A R D E . LU CY

E X E C U TI V E D I R E C TO R M A R K E TI N G

H E I D I H O F F M A N , M D, S E C R E TA RY

Principal, Calstan Capital, Inc.

Erin Fiorito

Radiology, Torrance Memorial Medical Center

L AU R I E M C C A R T H Y

J O S E P H H O H M , C PA /J D , O F F I C E R

W. DAV I D M C K I N N I E , I I I

Medical Accounting Service, Inc.

Consultant, McKinnie Consulting

C O PY E D ITO R

PATR I C K T H E O D O R A , O F F I C E R

ERIC C. NAKKIM, MD

Laura Watts

Co-founder & Chairman, DocMagic M I C H A E L Z I S LI S , O F F I C E R

Emergency Medicine, Torrance Memorial Medical Center

Owner, The Zislis Group

TO M O ’ H E R N

BOARD MEMBERS

Retired CEO & Director, The Macerich Company

Retired Investment Banker

MICHAEL ROUSE

Community Volunteer

Retired VP of Philanthropy & Community Affairs, Toyota Motor Sales

N A D I N E B O B IT

PATR I C I A SAC K S , M D

Community Volunteer

Retired, Radiologist, The Vasek & Anna Maria Polak Breast Diagnostic Center

C H R I ST Y A B R A H A M

J O H N G . BA K E R

Founding Partner, The Brickstone Companies

Cofounder & Senior Managing Director, VerityPoint

Retired Airline Executive

ST E V E N S P I E R E R

TH Y R A E N D I COT T, M D

Partner, Spierer, Woodward, Corbalis & Goldberg, JA N I C E T E C I M E R

PAU L G . G I U LI A N O

Community Volunteer

President, Integrated Food Service

R U S S E LL VA R O N

A L A N G O LD ST E I N

Owner, Morgan’s Jewelers

First Vice President, PVG Group, RBC Wealth Management

R O B E R T A . YO U N G

RICK HIGGINS

Retired Technology Management Professional

E D ITO R

Julie Taylor

P U B LI S H E R , C R E ATI V E D I R E C TO R

Vincent Rios

C O N T R I B U TO R S

Melani Morose Edelstein John Ferrari Suzanne Grudnitski Diane Krieger Nancy Sokoler Steiner Melissa Bean Sterzick

SA M S H E T H

H A RV DA N I E L S

Radiation Oncology, Torrance Memorial Medical Center

A Publication of the Torrance Memorial Foundation

P H OTO G R A P H E R S

Peter Cooper Deidre Davidson John Dlugolecki Philicia Endelman Ed McClure Micheal Neveux Vincent Rios Wendy Saade

Retired Director Boeing Satellite Systems, Inc. ANN ZIMMERMAN

Community Volunteer

G I N A K I R K PAT R I C K

Published by

Community Volunteer

V I N C E N T R I O S C R E ATI V E , I N C .

VincentRiosCreative.com Torrance Memorial Medical Center treats all people equally without regard to race, color, national origin, age, gender or disability. The section 504 coordinator can be reached at 310-784-4894. If you do not wish to receive this publication, please contact marketing communications at 310-517-4706.

4 PAT R ON S | S PR IN G 2 024

©2024 Torrance Memorial Medical Center.

All rights reserved. Reproduction or use in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited.

NEW BOARD MEMBERS ROB YOUNG Now retired, Rob Young was director of mobile service at Boeing Satellite Systems, Inc. (formerly Hughes Satellite Systems), where he spearheaded communication and navigation services development for civil and commercial clients. Rob holds a bachelor’s degree in finance and applied mathematics and a master’s degree from Loyola University.

In prior positions he worked with Hughes Electronics corporate office managing financial planning, negotiating U.S. government contracts and leading merger and acquisition activities. He was then assigned to serve as CFO/chief of business operations for a joint venture between Hughes Electronics, General Motors and Delco Electronics, where he oversaw technology transfer and product development for projects including adaptive cruise control and night vision systems.

Actively involved in the community, Rob is a member of Palos Verdes Golf Club, where he has served on various committees. He has also held board positions at the Children’s Dental Center of Greater Los Angeles and served as chair of the board of Kinecta Federal Credit Union.

Rob and his wife, Teri, are longtime supporters of Torrance Memorial and avid sports enthusiasts following the Los Angeles Dodgers and USC Trojans. Fight On!

2023 BOARD RETREAT HELD AT PALOS VERDES GOLF CLUB L to R, seated: Paul Giuliano Thyra Endicott, MD Nadine Bobit Ann Zimmerman Phil Pavesi Heidi Hoffman, MD Jack Baker Christy Abraham Song Klein Standing: Pat Theodora Michael Zislis David McKinnie Michael Rouse Eric Nakkim, MD Mark Lurie, MD Greg Geiger, Harv Daniels Joe Hohm, Steve Spierer Laurie McCarthy Tom O’Hern Janice Tecimer Alan Goldstein Rick Higgins

S P R IN G 2 024 | PATR ON S 5

Tab le o f Co nte nts

30 Patro n Pro f i le 30 Jerry and Carol Marcil have been married for 36 years and enjoy a life well lived, but it hasn’t always been easy for them. From sports to business and extensive travel, the couple enjoys life and believes deeply in giving back to the community.

O n th e Cove r

35 6 PAT R ON S | S PR IN G 2 024

Jerry and Carol Marcil at Lanakila Outrigger Canoe Club in Redondo Beach.

Locally handmade Maile-style Ti leaf leis

by Marie Miyashiro of Ohana Florals, ohanaflorals@gmail.com.

PHOTOGRAPHED BY MICHAEL NEVEUX

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Pro g r e s s N ote s

F utu r e focu s

12 Orthopedic surgeon Randolph O’Hara, MD, is also a patient.

14 Home health and palliative care programs share similarities and differences.

16 Meet president and CEO Keith Hobbs.

20 Torrance Memorial’s Movement Disorder clinic brings stability with innovative treatments.

22 The renamed Lundquist Leach Emergency Department and plans for expansion.

38 René and Phyllis Scribe – Kindred Spirits 39 Licensed Professional Fiduciary

Cli n i cal S potli g ht 24 Imaging reveals what’s happening inside the body, helping physicians diagnose and successfully treat problems.

E ve ry D o nati o n Co u nts 28 Auxiliary check donation, event ticket donations for Torrance Memorial staff, Educational Foundation of America grant, See’s Candies and Holiday Festival volunteers all give back.

Am bas sad o r s Co r n e r

yppa pl ay- by- pl ay 40 The Rex’s Chef Walter Nunez

I n Yo u r co m m u n it y 42 YPPA Casino Night 44 An evening with the Ambassadors 46 Holiday Festival Fashion Show 49 Heroes and Holiday Festival trees 50 Holiday Festival Gala 58 Lundquist Lurie Cardiovascular Center sign unveiling 60 Distinguished Speaker Series – Dr. Lisa Genova 61 YPPA meetup at Hennessey’s Redondo Beach

S u ppo rte r s 62 Torrance Memorial gives special thanks to our many supporters.

35 The Mindful Dr. David Chan

F O LLOW U S !

TorranceMemorial @TMHealthSystem

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Patrons magazine welcomes your feedback at patronsmagazine@tmmc.com.

torrancememorial

S P R IN G 2 024 | PATR ON S 7

Cale n dar

38TH ANNUAL

GOLF TOURNAMENT MONDAY, JUNE 3 Palos Verdes Golf Club 3301 Via Campesina, Palos Verdes Estates

SCEDULE OF EVENTS

MIRACLE OF LIVING Lectures are held in person and on Zoom on the third Wednesday of the month at 6:30 p.m.* Hoffman Health Conference Center 3315 Medical Center Drive, Torrance Information & questions: 310-784-3707 May 15 Aging with Confidence

August 21 Brain Health

June 19 Happy Feet

October 16 Pelvic Floor

July 17 Menopause

November 21 Cancer

Visit TorranceMemorial.org/healthy-living for links to upcoming lectures and to view our library of past lectures. *Dates and topics are subject to change

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Check-in 10 a.m.

Shotgun Start noon

Driving Range/ Practice Putting 10 to 11:30 a.m.

Cocktails and Silent Auction 5 to 6 p.m.

Barbecue Lunch 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.

Reception and Awards 6 p.m.

Stampede Putt 11:45 a.m.

Sponsor donors receive priority registration Call: 310-517-4703 Visit: TorranceMemorialFoundation.org/golf

FINANCIAL HEALTH SEMINARS Seminars* are held in person and on Zoom Saturdays, 9 to 11 a.m.

Hoffman Health Conference Center 3315 Medical Center Drive, Torrance Information & RSVP: 310-517-4728 May 13 Savvy Social Security Planning

July 8 Boot Camp for the Executor September 9 Straight Talk about Estate Planning *Dates and topics are subject to change

e v a Sthe es t a D

SPECIAL EVENING COMMUNITY EVENT Wednesday, September 18 Torrance Memorial’s Recipe for Women’s Heart Health 2024 To support the vision of the Lundquist Lurie Cardiovascular Institute James R. Armstrong Theatre 3330 Civic Center Drive, Torrance

S P R IN G 2 024 | PATR ON S 9

Awar ds an d Acco l ad e s AMERICAN COLLEGE OF EMERGENCY PHYSICIANS

Torrance Memorial is now accredited by the American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP) Geriatric Emergency Department Accreditation Program. This bronze (level 3) accreditation provides an excellent avenue to convey to our patients, colleagues and hospital administration our program is first-rate and meets the interdisciplinary geriatric standards set forth by ACEP focused on the highest care for the South Bay community’s older adults.

HEALTHGRADES

Torrance Memorial Medical Center has been nationally recognized by Healthgrades with both the Patient Safety Excellence Award and the Outstanding Patient Experience Award. Only top-performing hospitals are recognized as national leaders in both categories.

SILVER DESIGNATION FOR ANTIMICROBIAL STEWARDSHIP

Torrance Memorial is recognized with a Silver honor roll designation for Antimicrobial Stewardship by the California Department of Public Health’s HealthcareAssociated Infections program. Thanks to the Torrance Memorial team that developed a program embodying each of the CDC’s core elements, achieving this designation period for three years.

AMERICAN COLLEGE OF RADIOLOGY

Torrance Memorial’s ultrasound breast staff received the Breast Diagnostic Center Award from the American College of Radiology (ACR), achieving another three years of ACR breast accreditation. Receiving this prestigious Breast Imaging Center of Excellence designation from the ACR demonstrates our excellence and hard work in supporting our patients and community.

AETNA’S INSTITUTES OF QUALITY SEAL

Congratulations to Torrance Memorial for meeting the criteria for Aetna’s Institutes of Quality® seal in Total Joint Replacement. IOQ designation is for the current three-year review cycle of 2023 to 2025.

BLUE DISTINCTION CENTERS FOR MATERNITY CARE 2023 PROGRAM AMERICAN COLLEGE OF SURGEONS

Torrance Memorial recently earned the distinction of being named an American College of Surgeons Surgical Quality Partner.

This designation highlights Torrance Memorial’s dedication to maintaining the highest standards in surgical care as evidenced by our participation in the following quality programs: Commission on Cancer, National Accreditation Program of Breast Centers, and Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program. Accreditation of Torrance Memorial’s cancer program, breast program and bariatric program reflects our proven record of adhering to the most rigorous standards in surgical quality to minimize complications, improve outcomes and save lives.

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Torrance Memorial’s maternal care center was awarded the Blue Distinction Centers (BDC) designation for maternity care as a national center of excellence program that encompasses 1,030 facilities, accounting for almost 25% of all birthing hospitals nationwide. Sponsored by Blue Cross Blue Shield, BDC-designated maternity care centers must meet rigorous quality evaluations that measure structure, process and patient outcomes.

BDC maternity facilities are evaluated on outcomes and procedures for all patients regardless of insurance coverage, which increases quality care for all women.

Experience the Best Torrance Memorial Medical Center proudly secured a coveted spot on Newsweek’s 2024 World’s Best Hospital list, ranking among the top 150 to 250 globally. This achievement surpasses numerous academic institutions in California and the South Bay. Our hospital also impressively stands at #10 in California and 43rd in the United States. Newsweek partnered with Statista Inc. to ensure the ranking’s quality by utilizing input from medical experts, patient surveys, hospital metrics and Statista’s Patient Reported Outcome Measures (PROMs) survey.

Our medical expertise speaks for itself and becomes even more meaningful when compared to other top-ranking hospitals in the nation, state and South Bay.

NEWSWEEK BEST HOSPITALS 2024 HOSPITAL

CA Ranking

US Ranking

World Ranking

Ronald Reagan UCLA

1

5

12

Cedars-Sinai Medical Center

4

11

41

Keck Medical Center of USC

6

36

220

UCLA Medical Center, Santa Monica

7

24

125

Torrance Memorial Medical Center

10

43

247

UC Irvine Medical Center

11

100

N/A

MemorialCare Long Beach Medical Center

16

96

N/A

Huntington Medical Center

21

152

N/A

Providence Little Company of Mary Medical Center

31

178

N/A

TorranceMemorial.org

Pro g r e s s N ote s

PHYSICIAN AND PATIENT AT TORRANCE MEMORIAL “EXCEPTIONAL CARE, EXCEPTIONALLY CLOSE” IS THE RIGHT CHOICE FOR DR. RANDOLPH O’HARA. WRITTEN BY JOHN FERRARI PHOTOGRAPHED BY PETER COOPER

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xceptional care, exceptionally close. Torrance Memorial’s promise means a lot to South Bay residents and patients. It means even more to the hospital’s physicians when they become patients.

Whether you’re at the hospital for a routine physical exam, diagnostic procedure or surgery, doctors are the voice of authority. But doctors are patients too, with all the concerns any patient has.

“I thought I’d go in and my cholesterol would be a little high, and that would be that,” says Torrance Memorial orthopedic surgeon Randolph O’Hara, MD, referring to his annual (and overdue) checkup with his primary care physician, Rumi Cader, MD. His cholesterol was high, but Dr. Cader also noticed a high heart rate and ordered an electrocardiogram. It revealed atrial fibrillation (A-fib), an irregular and often very rapid heart rhythm.

A-fib is not uncommon, affecting some 5 million adults in the United States. Still, Dr. O’Hara was surprised. “I’m in my early 60s. I do cardio exercise regularly, on the elliptical and the rowing machine,” he says. “I had no symptoms.”

That’s a hallmark of A-fib—it’s often asymptomatic until a diagnostic test uncovers it. (A-fib also can

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“BEING A PATIENT GAVE be symptomatic. The most common symptoms include a ME A WHOLE NEW noticeably rapid heartbeat or PERSPECTIVE.” heart palpitations, dizziness, shortness of breath, weakness, – Randolph O’Hara, MD fainting or fatigue—all of which are symptoms of many other conditions too.) A-fib is associated with a fivefold increase in the risk of stroke.

Dr. O’Hara also has a family history of heart attacks. With that in mind as well as his newly diagnosed A-fib, Dr. Cader referred Dr. O’Hara to a Torrance Memorial cardiologist, Eric Castleman, MD. Dr. Castleman ran several tests including a coronary calcium scan to identify any calcium buildup narrowing the coronary arteries, and an angiogram to reveal narrow or blocked arteries.

The test results revealed significant coronary artery disease: three of Dr. O’Hara’s arteries were narrowed, two of them by 80%.

Rumi Cader, MD, FACP, MPH Specialties: Internal Medicine and Primary Care

Eric Castleman, MD Specialties: Cardiology and Interventional Cardiology

John Stoneburner, MD Specialties: Cardiothoracic, Vascular and Thoracic Surgery

Dr. O’Hara was referred to cardiothoracic surgeon John Stoneburner, MD, who recommended a triple bypass and cardiac ablation surgery—a complex combined procedure but the best option.

Dr. O’Hara could have opted for treatment at one of SoCal’s large university or research hospitals but chose Torrance Memorial for the staff’s experience and capabilities.

“I’ve been involved with Torrance Memorial for about 30 years,” he explains. “I know the staff very well, and I’ve seen the staff grow over the years.

For me, having that relationship with the staff over all these years means I had complete confidence in them. Plus I know Torrance Memorial has state-ofthe-art technology.”

Bypass surgery to treat blocked or narrowed arteries is a well-known surgery; cardiac ablation is less so. The procedure uses heat or cold to cause targeted micro-scarring in the heart, blocking the electrical signals that cause arrhythmia. While cardiac ablation can be performed as a minimally invasive procedure using a catheter inserted into the heart, “that doesn’t work as well on patients with persistent atrial fibrillation” like Dr. O’Hara, Dr. Stoneburner says.

Dr. Stoneburner couldn’t leave the A-fib untreated though. “It’s like the timing on a car,” he explains.

“When the timing is off, the car loses power. It’s hard on the car’s engine; it won’t last as long. But A-fib is worse than just an engine timing issue because A-fib can cause blood clots, potentially leading to a stroke.”

In Dr. O’Hara’s case, Dr. Stoneburner was able to use a new technology: the EnCompass Clamp, which increases the speed and efficiency of surgical ablations. The surgery—both the bypass and the ablation—took less than four hours. Although he has been performing ablations for 10 years, “a lot of people don’t know tachycardia can be fixed with ablation—catheter-based or surgical,” Dr. Stoneburner says. “There are good options for surgical or minimally invasive procedures, and they work.”

Dr. O’Hara spent five days in the ICU recovering from his cardiothoracic surgery, which he says was “an absolutely humbling experience that gave me a whole new perspective. You rely on the ICU nurses and staff. They were fantastic. I think they’re that way with everyone—they have to be to do their jobs.”

That was last winter. Dr. O’Hara was able to return to work—albeit slowly—six weeks after his surgery.

He was back to performing his own surgeries a month after that. That points to the beauty of preventive heart surgery, Dr. Cader says. Because Dr. O’Hara’s coronary disease was treated before it led to a stroke or heart attack, there are no limitations on his activities.

“Once someone has had a heart attack, there can be a weakness of the heart muscle that can lead to problems like congestive heart failure. By opening coronary arteries and preventing a heart attack, we’ve opened the patient’s options. For Dr. O’Hara there are no contraindications to do everything he wants to do.”

Dr. O’Hara is making some changes, though, to stay healthy—like improving his diet to lower his cholesterol level. “That’s a work in progress,” he admits. “I’m more aware of how I’m feeling and trying to keep from working too much, to balance a little more.”

Dr. O’Hara and his wife recently downsized, moving from Palos Verdes to Hermosa Beach. “We had a big house, but we had to drive everywhere,” he notes. “Now we can walk to restaurants and the beach. The house also happens to be right next to one of our offices.” Dr. O’Hara does plenty of walking: 5 miles along the beach most mornings before his workday begins.

Besides improving his physical health, the walks give him time to think and reflect. “Looking back, it was a great experience for me,” he says. “I have to give kudos to Dr. Cader. He’s the one who started the whole thing.”

For his part, Dr. Cader says this is the kind of case—and outcome—he likes to see. “We were fortunate to catch and treat the problems before Dr. O’Hara had a heart attack,” he explains. “Everyone 18 and older should have annual exams. Most people don’t have any notion they have cardiac risk factors—hypertension or hyperlipidemia—until they experience something serious later on, like a heart attack. These are the cases we love as physicians because we save lives this way—the ones where you prevent something potentially catastrophic. That’s the beauty of seeing your doctor and preventing these things from happening.” •

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Pro g r e s s N ote s

THE WHOLE PATIENT HOME HEALTH AND PALLIATIVE CARE PROGRAMS UNITE PATIENTS, FAMILIES, COMMUNITY AND MEDICAL PROFESSIONALS. WRITTEN BY MELISSA BEAN STERZICK

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eaving the hospital doesn’t have to mean leaving the circle of care the hospital provides. While many conditions require hospitalization, others are best treated at home where patients feel safe and can benefit from proximity to loved ones. A sense of normalcy is important for healing, whether the illness has been long or short, chronic or acute. Torrance Memorial’s home health and palliative care programs give individuals the medical, practical and emotional support they need in the various settings where they need it.

HOME HEALTH

Torrance Memorial home health provides care for patients who are not sick enough to be in the hospital but are too sick for routine outpatient care. These patients receive care in their home by a multidisciplinary team including a nurse, social worker, physical therapist, if needed, as well as home health aides. Torrance Memorial home health treats close to 600 individuals, one on one, in the South Bay every day.

“From a healing perspective, many people would rather receive care at home, in familiar surroundings with their family around them,” says Heather Shay, RN, BSN, MBA, Torrance Memorial’s vice president of quality “The hospital is the most expensive site for care. Home health is a Medical director of positive option for those who need nursing palliative care and hospice at home.” at Torrance Memorial, A physician’s order is required for Ujjwala Dheeriya, MD home health services. Patients are most often referred after a hospitalization and sometimes directly from their doctor’s office. Their care is managed by their regular physician, and the home health team will communicate with the physician about the patient’s condition and required services.

Home health services can be provided for many medical needs including monitoring by a nurse, wound care, IV medication and respiratory treatments. Home health is not a “house call” but specifically serves patients who are homebound due to illness, need specific care and are not

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sick enough to be in the hospital.

“Often patients have been in the hospital and need follow-up care that requires a nurse or monitoring after their discharge from major surgery or illness. Home health is part of the post-acute treatment plan. It’s better—they don’t need to be in the hospital but aren’t quite ready to be on their own,” Shay says.

Home health fills the gap between hospitalization and periodic doctor visits. In addition, home health can help manage acute and chronic conditions to avoid hospitalization, or rehospitalization, when possible.

“As health care has gotten more and more complex and interventions, treatments and therapies have gotten more complex, patients are leaving the hospital earlier and earlier. There are more things for patients to deal with at home. Home health gives them the support they need to manage these issues in the home setting,” Shay says.

PALLIATIVE CARE

Home health and palliative care are similar in almost all aspects, but palliative care offers patients an extra layer of support. A palliative care specialist physician works with the primary care physician, registered nurses, social workers and other practitioners. Easing physical pain and treating symptoms are essential aspects of palliative care.

Palliative care can be offered in a clinic, at home or in the hospital, nursing home or extended care facility. It is provided during any stage of a disease regardless of the expected outcome. It focuses on symptom management during treatment as well as support for family members.

Ujjwala Dheeriya, MD, is board-certified in palliative care and hospice and internal medicine. She is the medical director for palliative care and hospice at Torrance Memorial.

“What palliative care provides is specialized medical care for people living with a serious illness. It’s focused on providing relief from the symptoms and stress,” says Dr. Dheeriya. “The care team acts as a consultant and collaborates with primary care, hospitalists and other specialists.”

Frequent hospitalizations and office visits, advanced

disease, immobility, high dependence on caregivers and concerns about caregiver mental health are all important reasons for a patient to seek palliative care. Palliative care provides physical, logistical and emotional support for patients and their caregivers.

The patient’s medical team coordinates care through frequent communication and regularly scheduled meetings. They compile medical information to help the patient make informed decisions.

They empower the patient by streamlining communication and ensuring the family partners in their treatment.

In addition, much of what the palliative care team does is unite the patient, the family and the surrounding community by bringing in appropriate resources—whatever those resources may be, from equipment to arrangements for transportation, home health aides and food delivery.

Even though more people are taking advantage of palliative care, many still misunderstand its purpose. Palliative care is not end-of-life care. It can be provided at any stage of an illness

Appropriate from the time a serious illness is diagnosed Offered alongside disease, modifying treatment Based on patient/ family needs

Based on prognosis Bereavement services Improve quality of life

Manage pain and relieve symptoms

Life expectancy of equal to or less than six months End of life care Home or facility

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RE

PA

TIV

Offered when a terminal diagnosis is confirmed

Psychological, social and spiritual support to patient and family

Hospital, clinic, home

IA

alongside curative treatment.

“All hospice care is palliative, but not all palliative care is hospice,” Dr. Dheeriya says. “Palliative care is offered alongside disease-modifying treatment and includes care for the patient’s pain and symptoms and the entire family’s psychological and spiritual distress.”

Managing a serious illness or recovery after hospitalization is challenging, so home health and palliative care providers use their expertise to simplify the workload. Both the home health and the palliative care programs at Torrance Memorial apply the most current medical treatments and embrace integrative medicine.

A serious health condition creates more than just physical symptoms and the need for medication and surgery. It also has to be addressed in terms of its practical and emotional impacts on the patient and the patient’s family. The goal is to treat and heal the whole person. •

E CARE

H O SPIC

A C E

“ALL HOSPICE CARE IS PALLIATIVE CARE BUT NOT ALL PALLIATIVE CARE IS HOSPICE” — Ujjwala Dheeriya, MD

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Pro g r e s s N ote s

HOBBS TAKES THE HELM WRITTEN BY DIANE KRIEGER | PHOTOGRAPHED BY VINCENT RIOS

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ovember 1, 2023, wasn’t in any way remarkable. Just an ordinary Wednesday. It happened to be Keith Hobbs’ first day behind the CEO desk—long occupied by retiring chief executive Craig Leach.

A major milestone in Torrance Memorial history to be sure. But for the hospital community at large, it was a perfectly normal weekday in a carefully planned, seamless transition of leadership. Nothing had been left to chance.

Leach had carefully timed his exit, bringing Hobbs on board as executive vice president in March 2021.

He’d calculated two years would be enough time for his successor “to really get to know the culture of the organization, to fit in and build relationships.” And that’s exactly what happened.

Hobbs has been an integral part of the Torrance Memorial leadership team for almost three years now. He’s spearheaded the new ambulatory surgery center set to break ground within the coming year, shepherded the dramatic expansion of laboratory outreach programs and overseen the strategy for growing the physician network. Last February, he was formally promoted to president, and his elevation to CEO was announced in June—several months before he stepped into that role.

“It’s hard replacing a trusted, longtime leader like Craig Leach,” says Torrance Memorial board chairman Greg Geiger, “but the task was made easier with Keith Hobbs as the candidate. We already know what kind of leader he’s going to be because he’s been here for a few years. We have all the confidence in the world in him.”

Cedars-Sinai Health System CEO Tom Priselac echoes that confidence. “I’m excited to be working with Keith,” he says. “He’s already proven himself a great asset as we increase our footprint across the region.”

Newly appointed chief medical officer Zachary Gray can vouch for Hobbs’ personal style. “I can honestly say Keith is a genuinely warm, caring, good person,” says Gray, who spent the past year in close collaboration with Hobbs as they meticulously planned Torrance Memorial’s rotating residency in internal medicine, slated to debut in July. “Keith has all the bona fides and all the experience necessary.”

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ALL IN THE FAMILY

Hobbs grew up in Glendale, California. Both his parents worked in sales for Pacific Bell and AT&T. The first in his family to graduate from college, Hobbs started out as a compensation analyst at a bank in 1989. He moved over to Walt Disney Imagineering in a similar role after two years. The Indiana Jones ride, Fantasmic and Disneyland Paris were launched during his tenure.

“It makes total sense going from banking to entertainment to health care,” Hobbs reflects playfully, then adds in earnest: “I found my calling in hospital administration. Since I was young, I’ve always been involved in helping others. I really enjoy the healthcare environment. The mission resonates with who I am as a person.”

In 1992, Hobbs joined the HR department of USCaffiliated Children’s Hospital Los Angeles (CHLA). His wife of 33 years, Merilee, was already a reimbursement rep in the billing department and loved her job.

They’d met at church a few years earlier. At the time, she was a candy striper in what is now USC Verdugo Hills Hospital in their hometown of Glendale.

Together, they raised three children: Amanda, 28, Kameron, 26, and Landon, 21, and are proud grandparents to 18-month-old granddaughter Scarlett.

Rounding out the Hobbs family is Tillie, a Yorkie rescue dog.

For recreation, the family fixates on sports. Everyone roots for Trojan football, the Dodgers, the Rams, the Lakers and the Kings.

Golf is a big part of their lives. Hobbs taught everyone—starting with his wife. For their first date, he took Merilee to a local golf course and used swingcoaching as an excuse to put his arms around her.

When it came time to pop the question five years later, he hid the engagement ring inside the ninth-hole cup.

All three kids grew into serious golfers—especially Amanda, who attended college on a golf scholarship.

As youngsters, they had all played AYSO soccer with their dad as team coach. Hobbs himself is a former mini-triathlete, but he no longer competes. At 57, he gets his exercise playing pickleball; he’s a regular with the hospital’s Thursday night pickleball group.

Keith Hobbs took the helm as president/CEO of Torrance Memorial in November.

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Photo: Philicia Endelman

Pro g r e s s N ote s

LEARNING THE ROPES

Like his predecessor, Hobbs pours much of his energy into work. His 24-year career at CHLA spanned many roles. As administrative director of surgery, Hobbs led the 300-physician pediatric, multispecialty medical group and oversaw the USC-affiliated surgical residency program.

Later as vice president, he managed everything from anesthesiology to laundry-and-linen to telecommunications. He spearheaded a pediatric vision center that’s now internationally recognized, cut the ribbon on a new 317-bed inpatient tower and helped expand CHLA’s Saban Research Institute.

In 2016 he moved from a CHLA vice presidency into the top job at USC Verdugo Hills Hospital, then a struggling community hospital within Keck Medicine of USC. In his first year as CEO, Hobbs ratcheted up the 158-bed facility’s net revenue by 50%. Over the following three years, he boosted financials by $20 million annually. He catapulted the low-ranked emergency department into the top 25% tier.

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Among his other accomplishments at USC Verdugo Hills: Hobbs opened a neonatal intensive care unit, developed a teaching hospital program, crafted a physician network strategy, and drove the development and approval process to bring interventional radiology and catheter lab capabilities to the hospital. His decision to leave his hometown community hospital—a place he’d known all his life, part of a USC system he also knew intimately—was not undertaken lightly.

In accepting Leach’s plan for a gradual transition, Hobbs effectively was resigning as CEO to take up an executive vice presidency. To the casual observer, it might look like a curious setback in an unblemished career. But the challenge was irresistible.

Listing his reasons for joining Torrance Memorial, Hobbs says, “The stature of this hospital, is top of the market in Southern California.” And “Being affiliated with Cedars-Sinai, which in my opinion is the health system of Southern California. The longevity and success of Craig Leach and the rest of the leaders—it was ultimately a no-brainer.”

The Hobbs family, L to R: Carley Laliberte, Kameron, Merilee, Keith, Landon, Scarlett, Amanda, Corey Kimbell

Merilee was all in. “After we got married,” Hobbs recalls, “she asked if we ever had a chance to be closer to the ocean, would I consider it? I promised I would.”

The whole family has fallen in love with the South Bay. “Merilee loves to hike the different trails near our home in Rancho Palos Verdes,” he says. “And after six months, my boys, who still live with us, wondered why we hadn’t moved here years ago.”

A TRUE FIT

The executive search firm Spencer Stuart identified Hobbs through its “CEO succession planning” process. After a string of interviews, Leach and Torrance Memorial’s leadership gave Hobbs the vote of confidence.

Chief nursing officer Mary Wright, who is also senior vice president for patient services, vividly recalls her favorable first impression. “Keith was one of the very few candidates who could demonstrate how he collaborated with nursing—true collaboration, really solving problems together,” she says.

Hobbs’ rapport with physicians is equally robust. “From the very beginning, Keith went out of his way to engage with us and try to build relationships,” says Gray, who was medical director of the emergency

department when Hobbs arrived in 2021.

“His natural inclination is to fit in exactly with the way the culture at Torrance Memorial works. I remember him saying repeatedly how at home he felt here.”

That’s hardly surprising because Hobbs “fits in” almost everywhere. He prides himself on being a multifaceted leader, serving on the boards of the Torrance Area Chamber of Commerce and Communities Lifting Communities, a nonprofit focused on health inequities and housing for the homeless.

In the realm of health care governance, he is vice chair of the executive committee of the Hospital Association of Southern California, made up of CEOs across Southern California. He serves on the California Hospital Association Board, reviewing key health care legislation for the State. He’s also a fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives and a member of the Medical Group Management Association.

Like his predecessor, Hobbs demonstrates an uncanny ability to steer clear of zerosum options and find win-win solutions—all of which made it possible for November 1 to be just an ordinary Wednesday. Torrance Memorial’s new CEO possesses all the tools to build on a tradition of excellence while moving toward a rapidly evolving future. •

President and CEO Keith Hobbs is known for his friendly fist-bumps when he makes rounds in the hospital, embracing the culture of Torrance Memorial.

VISION FOR THE FUTURE OF TORRANCE MEMORIAL Some short-term goals are to get the academic medical center up and running, expand the ambulatory surgery center strategy and add solar power capabilities. That’s over the next two or three years.

We’re also continuing to expand our Torrance Memorial Physician Network.

Some of our medium-term goals will be expanding the Lundquist Leach Emergency Department to double its current size, adding more treatment and consultation spaces. This expansion will greatly improve the patient experience while enhancing flexibility, efficiency and safety. We are evaluating several other campus expansion plans to increase capacity and meet the growing needs of our community.

These projects should be completed between 2026 and 2030.

As for the long-term vision for the hospital, we own the Honeywell parking lot across the street.

Through our affliatiion with CedarsSinai we also own the TorMed office buildings next to the West Tower.

One of the greatest attributes of Torrance Memorial is it’s not landlocked. We have the ability to grow where most other hospitals in California can’t. We own our destiny.

When the time is right, we will have the ability to add a new tower and new medical office buildings to serve the South Bay into the future.

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Pro g r e s s N ote s Elliot Hogg, MD, is a neurologist and movement disorder specialist with the Torrance Memorial Lundquist Neurosciences Institute and CedarsSinai Neurosciences.

MOVING ON FROM TREMORS AND SHAKES MOVEMENT DISORDERS CLINIC BRINGS STABILITY WITH INNOVATIVE PROCEDURES. WRITTEN BY JOHN FERRARI PHOTOGRAPHED BY WENDY SAADE

T “WE REVIEW AND TREAT PATIENTS AS A TEAM: NEUROPSYCHOLOGISTS, NEUROLOGISTS AND NEUROSURGEONS.” – Elliot Hogg, MD

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reating conditions that affect the brain is always a team effort, and teamwork makes Torrance Memorial’s Movement Disorders Clinic tick. The clinic, a partnership between the Lundquist Neurosciences Institute and Cedars-Sinai, diagnoses and treats movement disorders affecting control of the body’s muscles.

“We review and treat patients as a team: neuropsychologists, neurologists and neurosurgeons,” says neurologist Elliot Hogg, MD, a movement disorder specialist with the clinic and Cedars-Sinai Neurosciences. Three conditions comprise the majority of disorders affecting the clinic’s patients: essential tremor, Parkinson’s disease and dystonia.

Essential tremor usually manifests as shaking of the hands, head, legs or even vocal tremor. Essential tremor may be caused by a miscommunication in

brain networks governing timing and movement, says Dr. Hogg.

Parkinson’s disease is caused by brain cells dying prematurely, particularly those that produce dopamine, which controls movement. Patients’ movements become slow and stiff, often accompanied by tremors. The disease can cause nonmotor symptoms as well, ranging from loss of smell to sleep problems, anxiety, depression and declining cognitive function.

Dystonia causes muscle contractions and repetitive or twisting movements.

It often affects the neck but can be generalized and affect the entire body, says Dr. Hogg. The spasms may be mild or severe and can be painful. Dystonia can be a primary condition or associated with another disease, such as Parkinson’s.

While symptoms of these conditions can be treated with medications, medication alone may not control the symptoms completely. And potential side effects may be worse than the symptoms.

“When we diagnose a patient, as the neurologist I evaluate medication options first,” Dr. Hogg says. “If symptoms could be better treated with surgical options—deep-brain stimulation or focused ultrasound—I’ll refer to Paula Eboli MD, Torrance Memorial’s medical director of neurosurgery, to evaluate the patient for those programs.

“Both deep-brain stimulation and focused ultrasound can be life-changing procedures,” says Dr. Eboli. Motor-function conditions affect more than the patients’ muscles, she explains. The tremors and inability to control one’s own movements can cause social awkwardness, anxiety and depression.

An established procedure, deep-brain stimulation targets specific neural networks to disrupt aberrant communication, allowing the restoration of normal motor function. It involves implanting a pacemaker-sized microcomputer and battery in the patient’s chest, with a

Neurologist Elliot Hogg, MD, and office manager Lidia De Paz, CCMA, demonstrate programming the implanted neurostimulator microcomputer. By sending electrical signals to match the patient’s anatomy, the neurologist disrupts the abnormal brain signals and reduces tremors in real time—all conveniently done during an office visit.

lead extending to the patient’s head. The procedure is guided by MRI scans taken before the surgery to create a 3D road map, augmented by real-time imagery.

A neurosurgeon precisely places electrodes at the point in the brain responsible for the tremor. About a month after the surgery, a neurologist programs the microcomputer to send electrical signals that match the patient’s anatomy, disrupting the aberrant brain signals.

“We use multiple electrodes to shape an electrical field, almost like sculpting,” Dr. Hogg says.

A newer procedure—in use at Torrance Memorial since December 2023—focused ultrasound isn’t a surgical procedure in the traditional sense. “We use ultrasound beams focused on a specific piece of brain tissue to very precisely heat the area, creating a small lesion or scar in the tissue that was causing the tremor,” explains Dr. Hogg.

The beams are directed from outside the patient; there is no incision. Because there are no pain receptors in the brain, the

procedure is usually painless and doesn’t require general anesthesia. “The patient can actually witness the tremor stop in real time.”

Either or procedure may be recommended for a patient. Focused ultrasound produces immediate results and is nonreversible (and requires shaving the head, says Dr. Eboli). Additionally, focused ultrasound must be used to eliminate tremors on one side of the body at a time, with nine months between procedures.

“We have cases going every week,” says Dr. Hogg. “The procedures are a tremendous leap forward in our ability to treat our patients and the collaboration between Torrance Memorial and Cedars-Sinai provides great opportunities for patients in the South Bay.” • The Torrance Memorial Movement Disorder Clinic is located at 23560 Crenshaw Blvd.

Suite 101, Torrance. To learn more visit: TorranceMemorial.org/medical-services/ neurosciences/ or call 310-750-3326.

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Pro g r e s s N ote s

TORRANCE MEMORIAL MEDICAL CENTER RENAMES EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT

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n honor of former CEO Craig Leach’s 40 years of service to Torrance Memorial, Melanie and Richard Lundquist announced they will be making the lead gift to support the campaign to expand the emergency department. The Lundquists’ generous gift encompasses their request to rename the Melanie and Richard Lundquist Emergency Department to the Lundquist Leach Emergency Department. The decision for this renaming is to acknowledge Craig Leach and his legacy and provide

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meaningful, visible recognition for his outstanding leadership and his long-standing dedication to Torrance Memorial.

Once completed, the new two-story Lundquist Leach Emergency Department will offer more than 80 treatment spaces, a pandemic-ready waiting room with two separate patient areas and new consultation spaces. The facility will also have enhanced technology to increase efficiency and safety.

The announcement of the renaming of the Lundquist Leach Emergency Department surprised Craig Leach at his executive retirement party last fall. Pictured from left: Judy Leach, Craig Leach, Melanie Lundquist, Richard Lundquist, Kristen Leach, Daniel Leach, Nina Leach, Paul Leach, David Leach

“Under Craig’s leadership, Torrance Memorial gained national recognition and has become a highly regarded regional medical center. The community will benefit from Craig’s excellent stewardship for generations,” says Richard Lundquist, who, along with his wife Melanie, are longtime supporters of Torrance Memorial. “It is only fitting such an important facility be renamed to celebrate his legacy.”

Leach joined Torrance Memorial in 1984 as director of finance and served as the hospital’s senior vice president of finance, later assuming the role of executive vice president and chief operating officer. Leach became president and CEO of the hospital in 2005.

“I am overwhelmed by this honor and its future promise of delivering exceptional emergency care to all of our patients,” he says. “I’m proud of the accomplishments we’ve achieved together, and I am confident what we’ve started will continue to build in our community for many years to come.”

Melanie and Richard Lundquist have developed a friendship of trust and respect with Leach over the years. All their gifts to Torrance Memorial have been unsolicited. “Because of Craig and his team, we have been able to realize the philanthropist’s dream of making a tremendous improvement in human lives,” says Melanie.

“Torrance Memorial has always been an important part of our community, and Melanie and Richard Lundquist are longtime supporters of health and education for the South Bay community and beyond,” says Leach.

On behalf of the Leach family and the Torrance Memorial family, we thank the Lundquists for their continued support and generosity. •

LUNDQUIST LEACH EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT WHEN MINUTES COUNT, COUNT ON US – EXPANDING EMERGENCY CARE

CURRENT SPACE 1ST FLOOR

• •

16,000 square feet 101,000+ patients seen in 2023

EXPANDED SPACE WHEN 2ND FLOOR OPENS

• • • •

16,000+ square feet added to double the size 80+ treatment spaces 2 new elevators 5 years to complete entire project

FUNDRAISING CAMPAIGN

• • •

$62 million projected cost $41+ million raised to date 1,500+ donors

BEGINNING IN OCTOBER 2024

• •

Reconfiguration of 1st floor lobby to accommodate new elevators Demolition of 2nd floor space

Join the momentum today . . .

Be a lifesavER with your donation of any amount!

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Cli n i cal S potli g ht

Imaging Department Managers and Leadership team, left to right: Susan Castillo, Manager of MRI Derek Berz, SVP and Chief Operating Officer Sam Rodriguez, Manager of Ultrasound Christine Thune, Manager of Diagnostic Radiology Andy Tran, Manager of Nuclear Medicine & PET/CT and Imaging Assistants Yolanda Gonzalez, Manager of Imaging Nursing and 4E Outpatient Dianna Tyndall, Radiology Clerical Supervisor Belal Madha, Manager of CT William Ogan, Manager of Interventional Radiology Khalid Shariff, Director of Imaging Services Naween Syed Ilyas, Imaging Educator

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UNDER THE SURFACE IMAGING PROVIDES INFORMATION CRITICAL TO DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT. WRITTEN BY NANCY SOKOLER STEINER PHOTOGRAPHED BY MICHAEL NEVEUX

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truggling to breathe, the patient is rushed to the emergency department.

The emergency physician orders a chest X-ray, which rules out pneumonia and other chestrelated diseases. Next, the patient undergoes an ultrasound to check for a clot in his legs and a CT scan to look for clots in his chest.

The CT scan reveals a pulmonary embolism—a clot in the arteries sending blood to the lungs. He then goes to the interventional radiology suite, where physicians pinpoint and remove his clot.

“At this point, the patient has undergone four modalities of imaging: X-ray, ultrasound, CT and interventional radiology,” notes Khalid Shariff, Torrance Memorial Medical Center’s director of imaging services. “Thanks to the skill of practitioners and advances in technology, the patient is able to go home the same day he experienced what was previously a fatal condition.”

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Cli n i cal S potli g ht

Imaging reveals what’s happening inside the body, helping physicians diagnose and treat problems as well as confirm a problem was successfully treated. Using sophisticated equipment, Torrance Memorial’s team of more than 300 imaging technologists, radiologists, nurses and support staff provided 337,000 imaging procedures in the hospital last year. (Another 50 experts provide comprehensive imaging services at the Vasek and Anna Maria Polak Breast Diagnostic Center’s four locations.)

“Maintaining a state-of-the-art imaging department with cutting-edge technology and highly skilled professionals is paramount for a hospital’s diagnostic and interventional care capabilities,” says Derek Berz, senior vice president and chief operating officer. “Torrance Memorial continues to have advanced imaging capabilities that not only enhance the accuracy and efficiency of diagnostics but also enable specialized consulting, ensuring patients receive precise and tailored medical interventions. This ultimately elevates the overall standard of health care within the institution.”

Imaging technologists must earn certification from an accredited program for their specific imaging modality, which takes at least two years. Torrance Memorial also requires its technologists to obtain state and national licenses. Because imaging is so crucial to providing care, the department maintains 24-hour staffing for most modalities. Technologists work in concert with radiologists as well as other physicians in the medical center.

“Our radiologists are always looking at evolving technology, and we in the imaging department have visited equipment manufacturing plants to see what they’re working on,” says Shariff. “This allows us to plan for equipment additions and replacements over the coming decade. We like to remain ahead of the curve.”

The medical center’s imaging

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department offers the full breadth of services including state-of-the-art technologies and procedures, some of which are typically found only in academic facilities. Each type of imaging has its unique function and uses:

X-RAY How it works: When X-ray beams pass through the body, organs, tissues and bone absorb the rays at different rates. A detector converts this absorption into images.

When it’s used: Common uses for X-rays include detecting bone fractures, pneumonia and certain cancers. Portable radiography allows for digital images to be taken at the bedside. It helps physicians and nurses with procedures such as inserting and precisely placing ventilator tubes, feeding tubes and central lines.

FLUOROSCOPY How it works: A sort of continuous X-ray, fluoroscopy provides continuous, real-time X-ray video rather than producing single images.

When it’s used: Fluoroscopy helps physicians diagnose a range of problems, including gastrointestinal and cardiac conditions, and issues involving the bladder, kidneys, musculoskeletal system and reproductive organs. For example, doctors can see a patient swallowing in real time. Fluoroscopy may also take place during procedures such as placing screws or plates during orthopedic surgery or inserting a catheter into the heart. Portable fluoroscopy allows for imaging at the bedside of patients too ill to be transported.

ULTRASOUND How it works: Ultrasound uses highfrequency sound waves to create images of organs, tissue or blood flow.

When it’s used: Commonly used to monitor the growth and development of the fetus during pregnancy, ultrasound also helps physicians visualize the heart

and blood vessels, abdominal organs, brain, thyroid, skin and muscle.

CT (COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY) SCAN How it works: The donut-shaped Computed Tomography Scanner uses rotating X-rays to produce cross-sectional images—or slices—of the body. Spectral technology provides images of anatomical features previously not available, such as certain tumors or calcifications. Torrance Memorial has multiple CT machines, as well as a Portable Cone Beam CT scanner— also known as an O-Arm—which makes this technology available right in the operating room.

When it’s used: Individual images and those combined to produce 3D images show bones, muscles, organs and blood vessels.

They aid in diagnosing a wide range of diseases or injuries, including pneumonia, tumors, blood clots, strokes and bone fractures. CT can help guide lung biopsies and catheter insertions, among other procedures.

PET (POSITRON EMISSION TOMOGRAPHY) SCAN AND NUCLEAR MEDICINE How it works: Using the same equipment as a CT scan, positron emission tomography involves a patient intravenously receiving a small amount of a radioactive substance that allows for continuous images. PET and CT are frequently performed together.

When it’s used: Nuclear medicine provides functional information and enables early detection of certain diseases. It is used in cardiology for assessing heart function.

The bone scans detect abnormalities, aiding in orthopedic diagnoses.

MRI (MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING) How it works: MRI uses magnets and radio waves to produce images of organs and structures inside the body. MRIs

typically require patients to be inside a narrow tube-like space, but Torrance Memorial’s MRI machines have a more open design and produce exceptionally detailed images.

When it’s used: Particularly helpful for examining the brain and spinal cord, MRI is used for practically all areas of the body, including the abdomen, chest and limbs.

MAMMOGRAPHY How it works: Using a special X-ray machine, a technologist places the breast between two plastic plates to be compressed. The compression flattens and spreads out the breast tissue. The breast stays under compression for about 10 to 15 seconds per image while the X-ray is being taken. The technologist takes a minimum of two images of each breast.

When it’s used: A mammogram can be a screening or diagnostic evaluation of the breast tissue to detect cancer or other changes in the breast.

INTERVENTIONAL RADIOLOGY How it works: Using catheters (small, hollow tubes) and tiny instruments, interventional radiologists perform image-guided procedures on veins and arteries. Many of the conditions treated with interventional radiology previously required open surgeries.

Torrance Memorial recently completed a state-of-the-art Interventional Radiology Suite featuring biplane imaging, which uses two sets of cameras to provide realtime 3D images that can be rotated to view anatomy at all angles (see sidebar).

When it’s used: Treatments performed by interventional radiologists include repairing blocked arteries, stopping gastrointestinal bleeding, and destroying tumors and fibroids.

Imaging physicians, nurses and technologists stay up to date on safety and best practices thanks to imaging services educator Naween Q. Syed.

She creates and implements standard operating procedures for the department and trains department personnel to function safely and effectively.

The many scans and procedures performed by the imaging department require meticulous coordination. In August 2022, Syed oversaw the adoption and implementation of the Clinical Workflow Suite (CWS), a tracking system that monitors the status and timing of cases to ensure radiologists, staff, patients and equipment are deployed most effectively. “We were able to design CWS in a way that works best for our hospital,” Syed says.

The software helps the transportation room staff route technologists and patients most efficiently, thus minimizing wait times. “This is especially important in cases where time is of the essence, such as with stroke patients,” she says.

Torrance Memorial dedicates substantial financial resources to provide the finest imaging equipment and services. In addition, notes Shariff, “We’re lucky to have philanthropic support from the community for our department and the hospital in general. Community members see what we do and recognize the importance of the role we play.”

He adds: “Even more important than our sophisticated equipment and technology, it’s the commitment and skill of our people that makes our department so strong. I’m particularly proud of the longevity of our staff. Many have been here for 20+ years, and some have been working here for more than 40 years.

That’s unusual, but it reflects the support of management, the institutional culture and the people we work with.” •

I m pac t o n th e F utu r e THE NEW IR SUITE AT TORRANCE MEMORIAL Biplane imaging is one of the most advanced interventional medical technologies. It captures CT images of the (lying down) body from top to bottom and side to side. Biplane imaging brings enhanced precision to complicated vascular and neurological procedures by providing 3D anatomical views in real time.

Torrance Memorial Medical Center created the new Interventional Radiology Suite with biplane imaging, thanks to the generous $5.1 million donation from Patricia and Gerald Turpanjian. The suite, which debuted in the summer of 2023, has been used for such procedures as opening blocked or narrowed blood vessels, repairing aortic aneurysms and administering clot-busting medications to treat stroke.

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E ve ry D o nati o n Co u nts

L to R: Mark Lurie, MD, Linda Redgrift, Laura Schenasi, Rose Hadley, Melinda Richmond, Keith Hobbs

VOLUNTEER AUXILIARY DONATES $209,000 TO TORRANCE MEMORIAL At its annual meeting on January 5, the volunteer Auxiliary at Torrance Memorial presented a donation check for $209,000 to Torrance Memorial Foundation. These funds are raised through gift shop sales, restaurant fundraisers and other activities of many volunteers throughout 2023 to support the emergency department expansion campaign. Many thanks to the nearly 800 Auxiliary volunteers who also gave more than 111,000 service hours in 2023!

THE EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION OF AMERICA As an adjunct board member for The Educational Foundation of America, radiation oncologist Andrew Schumacher, MD, secured an invitation for Torrance Memorial to submit a proposal for funding to support BrainLab technology. The proposal was successfully awarded a $25,000 grant for BrainLab ExacTrac Dynamic software, which uses real-time tracking of movement when patients are breathing during delivery of radiotherapy and radiosurgery for neurological, spine, prostate, ear/nose/throat, craniomaxillofacial and other traumatic injuries. The Educational Foundation of America is a family foundation focused on advancing progressive change through support for creative initiatives working toward sustainability, justice and equity.

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HOLIDAY FESTIVAL VOLUNTEERS Holiday Festival 2023 brought record-setting financial donations, but the event doesn’t happen without the dedicated volunteers who give their time—some throughout the entire year. Like Santa’s elves, these volunteers meet weekly, beginning in early January, to ensure the tent’s holiday wonderland is created each year. Combining the hours of our various volunteer groups—Las Amigas, Auxiliary, Luminaries and Novas—more than 5,500 hours were logged for the 40th anniversary Holiday Festival in 2023. Additionally, a stellar group of more than 250 community volunteers filled a myriad of roles in the tent during public hours.

SEE’S CANDIES

Auxiliary volunteer Bea Mantico manages the vendor relationship with See’s Candies for the inventory to sell in the Torrance Memorial Gift Shop. When See’s approached her in January with an offer to unload their excess holiday supply, Bea accepted and subsequently transported 2,010 one-pound boxes in multiple trips to Torrance Memorial. With help from the Foundation team, these boxes were distributed to staff throughout the medical center—just before Valentine’s Day! Receiving their very own box of “nuts and chews” brought smiles to many faces.

Left: Liam Townsend with his wife, Yaneli, and daughter Taliyah at PAW Patrol. Above: Evelyn Calip and her husband, Robert, at Disney Hall.

EVENT TICKET DONATIONS FOR TORRANCE MEMORIAL STAFF To acknowledge the dedication and commitment of Torrance Memorial’s hardworking staff, the Los Angeles Philharmonic has been donating 100 tickets per concert for various orchestral performances at Disney Hall. To date Torrance Memorial staff has been present at 17 concerts! The LA Kings have also generously donated game tickets, along with USC basketball, PAW Patrol and NASCAR Clash at the Coliseum courtesy of Evan Flagg of Reach Capacity.

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GO BIG WHETHER IT’S SPORTS, BUSINESS, TRAVEL OR PHILANTHROPY, THE MARCILS GO ALL IN. WRITTEN BY NANCY SOKOLER STEINER PHOTOGRAPHED BY MICHAEL NEVEUX

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hen Jerry Marcil’s investment partner decided to put together an outrigger canoe team to participate in the sport’s most popular race, he asked Jerry to join the six-person team. Neither Jerry nor the others had prior paddling experience, but they were game.

The team practiced six times before participating in the 18.2-mile Queen Lili’uokalani Race in Kona, off the island of Hawaii, in 2000. “Out of 138 teams, mine came in dead last,” Jerry says.

Undeterred, Jerry and his wife Carol both participated in the race the following year. Carol decided once was enough, but Jerry decided to get serious.

“Carol and I saw a video of a race in Molokai, where the outrigger canoe world championship is held. It’s 41.4 miles through one of the roughest channels in the world,” he says. “I thought, ‘I want to be in that race and I want to win it.’ I read a book that said you could do anything you want to do in a 10-year period.

And it took me exactly 10 years to win the world championship.”

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He’s referring to the Molokai Hoe men’s race from Molokai to Oahu. Since that first championship in 2010, Jerry’s team won the competition for their age category in five of 11 races.

Outrigger canoes are recognizable by the long log or float attached to one or both sides of the hull. Jerry paddles a boat about 45 feet long.

While Carol didn’t pursue outrigger canoeing, she enjoys being active by walking, practicing yoga and playing tennis. She and Jerry ride bikes and have taken numerous organized bike trips. When they spoke with Patrons magazine, the couple was looking forward to a bike trip in Greece. They also enjoy fishing and have a boat named Born 2 B Wild.

Jerry, a South Bay native, grew up in Torrance.

He worked his way through school as a machinist, attending El Camino College for his Associate of Arts degree and then transferring to Cal State Long Beach. He earned a full scholarship from USC for his final year of college, graduating with a bachelor’s degree in business.

After graduation, Jerry began working as a real estate agent. He expected to pursue the field for only six months while waiting for a friend to graduate from business school. The two planned to open a bar and restaurant business.

“I was not a natural salesman, but things started happening. The market was hot. I was doing quite well, so I stayed with it,” he says.

He joined an older developer who sold condos. “I started telling him how to design and build them, but he wouldn’t listen. So I decided to go off and do it on

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my own,” says Jerry, who later founded Palos Verdes Investments in 2005. He switched his focus from new buildings to buying existing apartment buildings, renovating them and keeping them as investments.

He finds fulfillment in the work. “When you rehabilitate a building, you benefit the environment by saving a lot of resources. And visually it’s great to see the before-and-after effect. I also add a lot of recreational amenities, such as pools, fitness rooms, barbecue picnic areas and playgrounds so tenants can get outside their apartments and aren’t closed in.”

The company is quite successful today, but Jerry weathered some tough economic times during his career. “I went broke twice—seriously broke—once in 1982 and then around 1990. I was worth less than zero and had to work my way back.”

Carol is also a native Southern Californian. She grew up in the Lancaster area, attended community college and earned her accounting degree from Cal State Northridge. She worked as an auditor for Host International and then for CBS Television.

The two met at a self-actualization program and discovered their mutual interest in travel. Both were planning trips around the globe. “Jerry was further along in his planning,” says Carol. “One of the first times we got together was to share travel information.”

Jerry took a three-month trip. Carol traveled for a year, and Jerry met up with her for a week or so in England and Scotland. Recently the Marcils returned from a three-week vacation in the Philippines.

The couple married in 1988. Soon after, Carol decided to change careers. “I was an accountant and auditor and never really loved the work. I loved things about it, like working at CBS Television and going to the studios. But the actual work was dry and boring, and I wanted to do something more meaningful.”

She returned to school and earned her teaching credential, then taught third grade for another year.

By then the couple had two sons. Jason, 34, followed Jerry’s path. He invests in apartments and properties on his own. Ryan, 32, whom Jerry describes as a computer genius, works with his father at Palos Verdes Investments.

Jerry also has a daughter, Adriana, from a previous relationship. She buys apartments and converts them into Airbnbs. Adriana lives in Portugal with her husband and has two children, ages 6 and 8. Jerry and Carol are looking forward to a visit from them in June.

On a recent trip to the Philippines, Jerry and Carol take in the sunset on the island of El Nido.

Jerry and Carol paddle near the Lanakila Outrigger Canoe Club in Redondo Beach, a memberrun nonprofit organization celebrating the rich history of the Polynesian tradition of outrigger canoe paddling.

The Marcils started supporting Torrance Memorial Medical Center as Patrons 11 years ago, encouraged by Jerry’s best friend, board member Patrick Theodora.

“Torrance Memorial is important to the community,” says Jerry. Carol agrees: “Both our sons have been treated here.”

After Jerry received care in the emergency department, Pat invited him to return for a tour of the department. Pat described the current emergency department expansion plans to create a unique two-story design that will double the size, thereby increasing capacity, efficiency and access to care. The $62 million project was looking for an initial donation of $3 million.

That evening, Jerry consulted Carol, who fully endorsed the idea. The next day, Jerry told Pat they were in.

“Jerry has great admiration for the hospital and its leadership,” says Pat. “When touring the emergency department, he saw the need for the expansion and is giving to provide a state-of-the-art emergency department for the community.”

“It’s important to have a good medical facility, and knowing Pat and Greg Geiger are on the board gives us confidence our investment will be well managed,” says Carol.

“It makes a big difference for the people in the community,” says Jerry. “There are a lot of people who

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Sports are a big part of spending time with family. Above: Celebrating the Rams 2022 Superbowl win at SoFi stadium are Ryan, Carol, Jason and Jerry Marcil.

Middle: Celebrating Jerry’s milestone birthday in style.

Below: Outrigger canoe race in Kona.

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go into the emergency department who can’t afford it, but they need the care anyway.”

Philanthropy plays a large role in the couple’s lives.

They support close to 100 organizations and causes.

Their largest beneficiary is the YMCA. Jerry began supporting the Torrance-South Bay YMCA in 1986. He previously chaired the board and has served as the major gifts chair for the past 18 years.

In his first year in the fundraising position, Jerry grew donations from $200,000 to $500,000. “The major gifts chair usually serves two years. Sometimes they talk you into three. But they gave me a life sentence,” he jokes.

He also serves on the YMCA Metropolitan Board, which oversees the 27 YMCAs in Los Angeles County.

The YMCA provides 13 free or low-cost programs, including transporting seniors to centers for lunches, providing child care and—especially close to Jerry’s heart—running summer camps.

“I grew up poor,” he says. “I had friends who went to a YMCA camp, and I wanted to go. A neighbor heard my story and called the YMCA. A volunteer came to my house and said if I sold two cases of peanuts, I would earn my way into camp.”

Jerry went door-to-door, sold the two cases, and thought he had paid his way. Years later, he realized the peanut sale covered only a small portion of the total cost. The rest came from donations. In appreciation of his service and generosity, YMCA’s Camp Round Meadow—the camp near Big Bear Lake that Jerry attended, volunteered as a counselor and later sent his children—was renamed Camp Marcil.

The local organizations Jerry and Carol support include Switzer Learning Center, the Torrance and Palos Verdes school districts, Los Angeles Mission, Union Rescue Mission and Partners for Pediatric Vision. They also support international organizations including Plant With Purpose and Blue Dragon Children’s Foundation.

“We feel very grateful. We’re blessed with a wonderful community, close family and friends, the ability to travel, and the means to support Torrance Memorial Medical Center and other worthy community organizations,” says Jerry. “We believe you must fix your own community before you can fix others, and we’re pleased to do that here in the South Bay.” •

Susan and David Chan, MD

Am bas sad o r s Co r n e r

THE MINDFUL DR. DAVID CHAN ON FUCHSIAS, FLY-FISHING AND FIGHTING THE SHOTOKAN WAY WRITTEN BY DIANE KRIEGER | PHOTOGRAPHED BY MICHAEL NEVEUX

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sk about his lifelong pursuit of martial arts, and David Chan, MD, will say it’s all about “the process.”

The esteemed Torrance Memorial Medical Center breast oncologist has a black belt in Shotokan karate and has also trained in Krav Maga self-defense. Yet he wouldn’t dream of walking down a dark alley to test his mettle.

“If you have to use this in the street, you’ve basically failed at situational awareness and de-escalation,” he says. “You’ve made every mistake.”

So why, then, has he devoted 50 years to learning and practicing martial arts? “Because it’s really stimulating,” he says.

“It’s great physical exercise, and it’s very mentally challenging.”

He brings the same mindful karma to fly-fishing. Every year he and his wife, Susan, go to a remote spot in the American

Northwest or Canada. With a field guide, they stand waistdeep in chilly water, casting lines over rippling currents.

“We always go to protected waters,” he explains of the activity that never yields fresh catch for supper. Instead, it’s about the process. “The flies are barbless. It’s all catch and release by law. Last summer, I caught a 30-pound salmon. We took a picture, released it and it kept going.”

At 71, Dr. Chan can look back on a lifetime of important professional achievements, including dozens of clinical trials that have advanced the development of lifesaving cancer therapies. He has spearheaded several top-notch cancer programs, and he has offered compassionate, expert care to thousands of frightened patients.

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Am bas sad o r s Co r n e r

Top: Proof of the 30-pound salmon caught and released.

Middle: Fuchsia Dr. David Chan, double upright/trailing peachy complexion with flecks of orange and red.

Bottom: Both black belts and very skilled in karate, Dr. Chan and son Spencer sparring.

This, too, is all about the process. In an age of assembly-line medicine, Dr. Chan is present in the moment.

As a result, he says, “I’m always notoriously late.” He typically sees 16 to 18 patients a day.

By late afternoon, he’s at least an hour behind schedule—sometimes two hours—because he flat-out refuses to rush.

“My philosophy is: If a patient comes in with a significant problem, that’s their time. They’ve got my undivided attention. I’m there in the room until everything’s taken care of.”

And those other patients in the waiting room?

“They’re incredibly understanding because they know when it’s their turn, I’ll be there for them,” he says.

Though he was born in Taipei, Dr. Chan has spent all his life in California. His father died when he was only 3 years old. Soon thereafter, his mother, Seckyue Mary, emigrated to the United States with her four young children. Here she met and married Jack Fulbeck, a PhD student at USC. Their blended family moved to West Covina in the 1960s, when Fulbeck became an English professor at Cal Poly Pomona. A prolific poet, his prize-winning verse traveled into orbit on the Space Shuttle Challenger, where it was read by a crew member in 1985.

Dr. Chan was educated almost entirely at UCLA. After earning his bachelor’s and medical degrees, he stayed in Westwood through internship and residency. He and his wife had met as undergraduates. “She lived two doors down from me in the co-ed dorm,” he recalls.

A retired speech and language specialist, Susan worked for the Los Angeles Unified School District for many years. Their son, Spencer, 33, is a software developer living in the Bay Area.

Medicine has consumed Dr. Chan’s professional life.

He completed a fellowship at Stanford in 1985 and

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has worked at Torrance Memorial Medical Center ever since. Among his many accomplishments is authoring the acclaimed 2006 handbook Breast Cancer: Real Questions/Real Answers. His lengthy curriculum vitae boasts 45 academic papers, most recently a Phase 2 clinical drug trial published last September in the prestigious journal The Lancet Oncology.

His greatest passion is Torrance Memorial’s breast cancer program, which he has directed since 2018.

He calls it “the most satisfying thing I’ve done in my career.”

None of it would have been possible, he acknowledges, “without Priscilla Hunt and others who have made enormous donations to build the Hunt Cancer Center, which has consolidated and strengthened cancer care in the South Bay,” says Dr. Chan, who is a longtime donor and Ambassador member. “We’re so incredibly grateful.”

Dr. Chan undertakes each pursuit mindfully and with humble tenacity—including his fuchsias. He was introduced to the delicate, droopy, pink-andpurple flowers by a dear patient. Ida Drapkin was internationally known in horticultural circles and the founder of South Coast Botanic Garden’s celebrated fuchsia collection.

“I was caring for her over many years,” Dr. Chan recalls. “She would bring me clippings or plants in pots. Then one day she said, ‘I’ve got a new fuchsia I hybridized for you, and I’m going to call it Dr. David Chan.’ It’s actually registered.”

The floral Dr. Chan has “a peachy complexion with flecks of orange and red,” according to a May 2000 Los Angeles Times homage to Drapkin’s myriad fanciful hybridizations.

Under his patient’s tutelage, Dr. Chan took up the art of growing and hybridizing fuchsias. “It takes a lot of work because they aren’t very sturdy and they’re very hard to grow,” he says. “Especially the Dr. David Chan. It has giant flowers and very weak stems.”

He doesn’t grow any other flowers or plants—only fuchsias. He grows all different varieties, in the ground and cascading from elevated pots on his patio. No surprise: “With fuchsias, too, it’s kind of a process,” Dr. Chan says. “Different fuchsias require different amounts of shade and sun. Some are very sun tolerant. Some are very sun averse. You need to figure out what each plant needs.”

Sort of like cancer patients—each one is unique and the focus of Dr. Chan’s undivided attention. •

Photo: Vincent Rios

Members of the Torrance Memorial Medical Center Hunt Cancer Institute.

L to R: Susan Starr, NP, Swati Sikaria, MD, Vanessa Dickey, MD, David Chan, MD, Thomas Lowe, MD, Andrew Horodner, MD, Syed Jilani, MD, Hugo Hool, MD, Deborah Wallach, NP, Jessica Gunderson, NP

THE CHANGING FACE OF CANCER CARE Cancer care isn’t what it used to be. “When I first started practice, my group had maybe 35 or 40 patients in the hospital at any given moment. Today it’s a handful,” says breast oncologist David Chan, MD, who explains that oncology is primarily an outpatient practice now. “We’re very good at doing the treatments without the need for hospitalization.”

Dr. Chan weighs in on changes he’s seen over the course of 39 years of practice, and what the future holds.

Will progress in cancer care someday put oncologists out of business?

I don’t think so. What we’re seeing is cancer changing into a chronic illness. The analogy I use is high blood pressure or diabetes. The treatments don’t cure the disease, but it can be managed with medications and people can live long lives. The rate of cancer patient research and new drugs is nothing short of astonishing.

Is chemotherapy on the way out?

Targeted treatments have made chemotherapy far less of a focus. We now have so many subtypes of cancer, each with its own molecular signature. Pharma and biotech are developing specific targeted treatments for each one. Also, cancer treatment is far more individualized.

What’s new in breast cancer therapy?

The prognosis of breast cancer is rapidly improving. A lot of this is due to early, accurate diagnosis. That, along with all

the newer treatments, turns what once were terrible breast situations into very curable ones. Where patients in the past would have had a life expectancy of three or five years, they’re now living 15 or even 20 years with their cancer on treatment.

What is special about cancer care at Torrance Memorial?

We’re one of a very few community cancer programs doing high-volume clinical trials, working hand-in-glove with academic cancer centers. We have among the highest number of patients enrolled in the Los Angeles area year to year. It means our patients have access to new drug therapies long before they become FDA approved.

The Hunt Cancer Institute is really a cancer center without walls. Five tumor boards, specializing in different tumor types, review each patient’s case and develop a unique plan of action. We have a team of skillful and compassionate surgeons, radiation and medical oncologists, interventional radiologists, pulmonologists and pathologists, who make it all work seamlessly.

Half the oncology patients we see are breast cancerrelated, and our breast program is accredited through the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers. It’s a very difficult application process and the highest certification a breast program can receive. We were selected by Medicare as one of the top 100 Oncology Care Mode (OCM) programs nationally. OCM tracks our results, and the analytics show our breast cancer patients have a 40% to 60% better survival rate than average. It’s an incredible achievement. • S P R IN G 2 024 | PATR ON S 37

F utu r e Fo cus

KINDRED SPIRITS ON & OFF THE SLOPES WRITTEN BY MELISSA BEAN STERZICK

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serendipitous meeting on a chairlift at Mammoth in 1961 was only the first of René and Phyllis Scribe’s adventures together. They married two years after that day on the ski slopes and later had two daughters.

Phyllis and René have filled their lives with ski racing, travel, boating, driving through Europe, serving their community, and making the most of family time with their daughters, sons-in-law and four grandchildren. At 89 and 93 they still ski, but with one limitation: the weather.

“We are only fair-weather skiers now,” René laughs.

“If it looks bad, we don’t ski.”

René was born in Ghent, Belgium, into a military family. His grandfather, father and brother were all officers in the Belgian Army, and his brother died in World War II. After years of invasions and war, the family immigrated to the United States looking for a more peaceful life.

René arrived when he was 17 and attended junior college and then UCLA. He joined the California National Guard and ultimately the United States Air Force. He was working as an engineer in aerospace when he met Phyllis, who grew up in Pasadena. She earned her teaching credential at UCLA several years after René graduated and taught for the Long Beach Unified School District for 10 years.

René moved from aerospace to property development. When their children were very small, the Scribes were living in one of the apartments they had

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developed, but they wanted a lawn and a good school nearby. They found a lot in Palos Verdes Estates, built their home on footings buried deep in bedrock and have been there ever since.

They both gave their time freely to local organizations. After he retired, René became active in city politics, serving as chair of the Malaga Cove Homeowners Association and on Palos Verdes Estates’ parkland committee. Phyllis volunteered at Torrance Memorial Medical Center in Luminaries for many years, guiding her daughter through the Novas high school volunteer program.

So in 2010, when the Scribes sold an investment property and were looking for a beneficiary, Torrance Memorial was a natural choice. “As a volunteer, I really got to see how well the hospital was organized,” Phyllis says. “We would encourage other people to donate. We have found it very rewarding.”

The couple established a charitable remainder unitrust, which bypasses capital gains tax and

René and Phyllis Scribe on the day they met in Mammoth, circa 1961. René said a friend of his was an amateur photographer taking pictures that day and caught the two of them with his last frame right after they met.

provides the Scribes with income for the rest of their lives. In 2016 they sold another property and established a deferred charitable gift annuity to create a tax deduction and an additional income stream.

“We felt we should give back to the community where we have spent our lives,” René says. “A good hospital is important for the whole area.”

Being a Torrance Memorial donor and also a patient gives the family another point of view. About 10 years ago, Phyllis broke her back and several ribs.

“I went down the stairs backward and upside down,” she jokes. “My doctor said to go to the emergency department. When I got there, they rushed me in and took great care of me. They were so kind.”

The Scribes say a 60-year marriage requires a lot of patience and flexibility, but their longevity as a couple reflects another important truth: They are kindred spirits. Throughout their lives together, they have shared goals and priorities and carried out a partnership centered on a love for adventure, generosity to their community, and devotion to their home and family. •

A LICENSED PROFESSIONAL FIDUCIARY MIGHT BE THE BEST OPTION WRITTEN BY SUZANNE GRUDNITSKI, CLPF, NCG

Have you considered who will manage your affairs and your care if you lose capacity and are unable to do so? We all want to be fully functioning and independent until the end of our lives, but an unpredictable accident, debilitating stroke, Alzheimer’s or other medical condition can get in the way.

Many will count on a spouse, an adult child or a friend to take on this role, however you might be unsure how your close family will handle such a stressful situation. Or maybe you don’t want to burden loved ones or friends with this responsibility, or family and/ or friends don’t live nearby. In these situations, naming a private professional fiduciary is worth considering.

Professional fiduciaries are licensed by the California Department of Consumer Affairs Professional Fiduciaries Bureau after completing certification coursework and passing national and state licensing exams. Completion of continuing education units annually is required to maintain their license. Fiduciary license verification can be found at fiduciary.ca.gov.

A fiduciary’s role is to take care of people and/or their assets when they are no longer able to do so. The fiduciary is responsible for ensuring the clients’ assets are used for their benefit for the rest of their lives as directed by clients in their trust or Advance Health Care Directive. After death, a fiduciary serves as successor trustee or executor distributing assets as clients have dictated in their trust/will.

Fiduciaries can also be appointed by the courts in contentious matters. Sometimes issues arise and emotions flare preventing designated children or friends from making tough care decisions or settling estate matters fairly. Fiduciaries are the neutral, objective party to calm the waters and carry out the terms of the trust/will without the emotion. They are often also more knowledgeable and experienced in the many nuances of settling an estate.

Because you will be counting on this person to be there for you when you need them, it is recommended you interview several professional fiduciaries before deciding. Once you select one, you will want to continue building this relationship during your lifetime to strengthen your confidence your wishes will be carried out.

Fees for a professional fiduciary vary based on the extent of services needed. They are often calculated as a percentage of assets under management and should be outlined during the interview process. Most fiduciaries don’t charge until services are needed.

When settling your estate after you’re gone is their role, fiduciary fees are taken from the estate assets and properly documented in the estate accounting provided to beneficiaries.

When you rest your head on your pillow at night, you want the peace of mind gained from knowing should anything unforeseen happen, you have a good team in place to take care of you and your assets.

Suzanne Grudnitski, CLPF, NCG, is a Licensed Professional Fiduciary and National Certified Guardian with ConservaTrust Fiduciary Services in Redondo Beach and a Torrance Memorial Professional Advisory Council member. 310-893-6982 or suzanne@trustee.pro

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YPPA

A CULINARY ADVENTURE OF SELF-DISCOVERY CHEF WALTER NUNEZ’S AUTHENTIC RECIPE FOR LIVING WRITTEN BY MELANI MOROSE EDELSTEIN | PHOTOGRAPHED BY VINCENT RIOS

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xecutive Chef Walter Nunez, the genius behind the culinary delights at The Rex Seaside Steakhouse in Redondo Beach, isn’t just a wizard in the kitchen; he’s also one of the most compassionate, generous and grounded individuals you’ll ever encounter. His strong voice tinged with nostalgia, Chef Walter fondly recalls his childhood spent cooking alongside his family.

“You know, as a kid I never really considered becoming a chef. But those moments in the kitchen with my family cooking, always cooking—they’ve truly shaped who I am today,” he says warmly. “We didn’t have much growing up in Long Beach, but what we did have was each other and our

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“AVOID OVERCOMPLICATING MEALS AND FOCUS ON BRINGING EVERYONE TOGETHER TO EAT.”

shared passion for cooking.”

At the ripe age of 16, Chef Walter stepped into the culinary world, and he hasn’t looked back. Now at 33, he proudly declares that —Chef Walter Nunez cooking for others brings him immense joy. “It’s all about feeding people,” he advises.

“Avoid over-complicating meals and focus on bringing everyone together to eat.”

The chef boasts an impressive background in California’s culinary scene. He attributes a significant portion of his

achievements to his tenure at San Francisco’s renowned Jardinière, his experience collaborating with Chef Michael Hung at Faith & Flower, a distinguished establishment in Downtown Los Angeles, and later his time with Chef David Schlosser at Shibumi, an exclusive Michelin-starred restaurant also located downtown.

“By now everyone knows how talented Chef Walter is,” says his business partner and longtime friend Dan Nguyen. “What they really don’t know is how impressive Chef Walter is as a human being. He is such a good person, genuine and an excellent leader.

My wife, Lisa, and I are incredibly grateful to have him as our key partner in executing the vision that transformed The Rex into a premier steakhouse.”

Launching The Rex was a labor of love for the trio, who unveiled The Rex in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic. “When Dan proposed the idea of running a steakhouse in Redondo Beach, I thought, ‘Why not?’” recalls Chef Walter with an easy laugh.

Fast-forward to today, and Chef Walter, his wife Emily, and their 18-month-old daughter Harper are thriving in Torrance and actively engaging with their community. But the path to this point has been bumpy.

The chef encountered an unexpected twist when he landed in the emergency department of Torrance Memorial Medical Center in April 2023. “I brushed off what I thought was just a stomachache.

When I showed up in the emergency department, I thought I’d be out of there in a few hours but ended up staying a week. That stomachache turned out to be something much more serious. Guys like me who work all the time and eat whatever they want and neglect their health tend to overlook signals from their bodies.”

This experience served as a wake-up call for Chef Walter, leading him to reassess his approach to health and well-being. During his hospitalization, he realized the importance of establishing an ongoing relationship with a primary care physician, an awareness for which he remains deeply grateful today.

“By day six in the hospital, I was already on insulin and other meds and getting antsy. Amazingly, a friend of mine, Dr. Jamie McKinnell, randomly walked in. What are the chances a friend would show up? But that’s Torrance Memorial, where everyone is so caring. They have guided me through it all and continue to do so. I am almost off my insulin, and it’s just so comforting to have someone you can talk to,” he says.

Recognition of Torrance Memorial is a huge motivating factor for Chef Walter, and sharing his experience is part of his journey toward recovery. “In a world where eventually something is going to happen to most everyone, we are really lucky to have one of the best hospitals in the world right here,” he points out.

The chef has also found solace and meaning in his involvement with the Young Physicians and Professionals Alliance (YPPA), a hospital fundraising group. Alongside his family, Chef Walter

enjoys participating in various YPPA events, such as summer parties and casino nights, where he not only showcases his culinary skills and donates his time and efforts, but he admittedly feels good about contributing to causes close to his heart.

“YPPA is great. There are a lot of like-minded professionals involving themselves in what’s important to the community. It’s essential. I grew up not going to doctors or hospitals. That was our culture. But supporting the hospital and showing people there is no stigma to hospitals and doctors, that’s what it’s about at Torrance Memorial. This is an amazing network of people,” says the chef.

Through it all, Chef Walter remains dedicated to his origins, his craft and his community. With every dish he creates and every fundraiser he cooks for, he embodies the essence of gratitude, resilience and compassion. Through experience he has come to realize that food is not just about nourishment; it’s about healing, both physically and emotionally.

“Don’t get me wrong, I love a great French dip and all different kinds of food, but I think practicing moderation is really important—not just in the food we eat but in everything,” he shares with firsthand knowledge.

Chef Walter understands food’s potential to heal, inspire and bring people together. With each carefully crafted dish, diners are reminded of Chef Walter’s philosophy on life: a dash of gratitude, a pinch of resilience and a heaping spoonful of compassion.

Save the Date: The Rex will be hosting Casino Night again this year on Friday, September 27. •

Carefully selected cuts of meat, salt, pepper and heat are the key ingredients to the perfect steak at The Rex Seaside Steakhouse.

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I n Yo u r Co m m u n it y

YPPA CASINO NIGHT: A NIGHT OF GIVING AND GRATITUDE The seventh annual Young Physicians and Professionals Alliance (YPPA) Casino Night on September 29 at The Rex in Redondo Beach was a resounding success! Dedicated to the emergency department expansion campaign, the event raised an impressive $77,825—10 times more than last year, thanks to our incredible attendees.

The Rex, led by owner Dan Nguyen and Chef Walter Nunez, hosted 170 guests for an enjoyable evening featuring blackjack, craps, roulette and poker. It was a night filled with fun and giving, and its success is a result of everyone’s dedication and teamwork. We’re incredibly grateful to all attendees, donors and contributors for making a meaningful difference in expanding our emergency care facilities.

Visit TorranceMemorial.org/YPPA for membership information and updates on future events.

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Michaela Andrawis, John Andrawis, MD Anthony Walker, Meg Walker Teresa Eichner, Landy Koerner, Vicki Kern, Sharon Fong, Samantha Tulley Alex Shen, MD, Tonny Lee, MD, Jeff Lai, MD Chef Walter Nunez Sam Sheth, Kay Sheth, Deveena Chandra, Jay Bajaria Andy Gregorio, Justine Gregorio, Shanon Markward, Jesse Markward Jeff Lai, MD, Connie Lai, Gaby Miller, Greg Miller

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Jerome Unatin, MD, Jamie McKinnell, MD, William CunninghamCorso, Josh Cunningham-Corso, Pat Wilson, James Black, MD Brian Kim, MD, Steve Weiner, Roy Fu, MD, Carlos Ramirez, Aaron Klapper, Terrence Kim, MD Amanda Clauson, MD, Sanjay Arora, MD, Kurt Hansen, MD, Erin Hansen, Roy Fu, MD, Kevin Mak, MD, Madeline Schumacher, Alex Schumacher, Ron from South Bay Casino Rentals Ken Johnson, Nadine Bobit, Heidi Mackenbach, John Mackenbach Kurt Hansen, MD, Jenny Luo, MD, Dana Kennedy, MD, Amanda Clauson, MD, Stephanie Tang, DO Sophia Neveu, Doug Laurin, Elisa Anhalt, MD, Shanna Hall, Kevin Fujimoto, Stephanie Tang, DO

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I n Yo u r Co m m u n it y

AN EVENING WITH THE AMBASSADORS Torrance Memorial Ambassadors, an annual giving group of Torrance Memorial Foundation, gathered at the spectacular hilltop home of Serena and John Padian.

Emergency department physician Eric Nakkim, MD, spoke about the necessity of the emergency department expansion. Grateful patient Kevin Theodora shared his experience with the lifesaving care he received in the emergency department. Retiring president and CEO Craig Leach spoke eloquently about his nearly 40-year tenure at Torrance Memorial Medical Center. For more information on the Ambassadors, visit TorranceMemorial.org/ambassadors or call Judith Gassner at 310-517-4704.

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Craig Leach, Keith Hobbs Laura Schenasi, Heidi Assigal, Peggy Berwald Kevin Theodora, Craig Leach, Judith Gassner, Eric Nakkim, MD Andy Livian, Tracy Livian, Song Klein, Dave Klein Matt Bandy, Cindy Bandy, Vimal Murthy, MD, Nadia Antii John Odom, Karen Odom, Helaine Lopes, Steve Lopes, Joy Theodora, Kevin Theodora 7. Sandy VandenBerge, Don Douthwright, Suzann Douthwright 8. Dave Klein, Elliot Sumi, MD, Nani Sumi, Eric Nakkim, MD 9. Joe Hohm, Terry Hohm, Gina Whittlesey, Bill Whittlesey 10. Moe Gelbart, PhD, Marc Schenasi 11. Mort Bauchman, Chef Robert Bell 12. Pat Lucy, Richard Lucy

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I n Yo u r Co m m u n it y

40TH ANNUAL HOLIDAY FESTIVAL FASHION SHOW Torrance Memorial’s 40th annual Holiday Festival kicked off with a fabulous fashion show on November 28. Professional fashion models showcased two new designers—The Extreme Collection and Michail Collection—as they strutted down the catwalk and wowed the audience.

The 530 in attendance enjoyed a delicious lunch and shopping with special vendors throughout the festival boutique.

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Kay Sheth, Chris Carreon Front: Betty Tung, Mimi Liu, Wei Shi Lee, Beatrice Sheng, Angela Hsu, Back: Candice Horn, Teri Sheng, Via Tuoya, Laura Schenasi, Anita Chiu, Cindy Chiu Renee Hurst, Chelsea Gaudenti, Christine Gaudenti Gina Kirkpatrick, Song Klein, Keith Hobbs, Jennifer Chen, Helaine Lopes Roxanne Mirhashemi, Allison Mayer, Judith Gassner, Linda Perry, Joy Theodora Shannon Chung, Jan Lim, Emily Jiang, Joanne Chang, Jessica Tsai, DDS, Dede Hsu Sandra Sanders, Santa Claus Janice Tecimer, Val Adlam, Julianne Sasso Lisa Hill, Vicky Mar, Cynthia Sanders, Alyson Decker, Jan Van Riper

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I n Yo u r Co m m u n it y 10. Front: Lisa Nakkim, Teri Young, Ayne Baker; Back: Laura Schenasi, Kathleen Krauthamer, Kimberly Stone 11. Candice Horn, Dora Zhang, Karen Chuang, Yeon Jung Moon, Wanpin Yu 12. Alexandra Grossman, MD, Jenny Luo, MD, Mary Sun, MD, Ellen Baker, MD, Ana Lopez-O’Sullivan, MD, Gretchen Lent, MD, Monica Lee, MD, Gina Sulmeyer, MD, Christine Ham, Elisa Anhalt, MD 13. Ayne Baker, Teri Young, Patricia Sacks, MD 14. Gretchen Lanman, Carla Zanino, Lindsay Imwalle, Kathleen Goldstein

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HOLIDAY FESTIVAL TREES AND HEROES TREE Inside the big white tent, 32 themed decorated trees were on display and available for purchase through silent and live auctions. Celebrating the 40th anniversary, themes included Walking Through 40 Years of Holiday Festival, 40 Years of Giving in memory of John Schugt, MD, and Memories of the South Bay. A Ruby Red Christmas featured ruby gemstones symbolizing the anniversary. The late Lucy Kimball’s design for Holiday Happiness was brought to fruition and honored her longtime volunteer service. Additionally, a 12-foot Heroes Tree in the Lundquist Tower honored community heroes. Donation levels ranged from $150 to $10,000, raising over $15,000, with digital signage recognizing donors.

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Co-chairs Carolyn Synder and Bev George decorate Walking Through 40 Years of Holiday Festival designed by Bev George and Florence Tebbets.

Heroes Tree keepsake snowflake ornament.

Heroes Tree displayed in the Lundquist grand lobby.

A Ruby Red Christmas designed by Ginny Frazier, drew the awe from the granddaughters of tree sponsors Danielle and Mike Gatto.

Holiday Happiness designed by the late Lucy Kimball and decorated by Jeannine Frandsen.

Memories of the South Bay designed

by Craig Shiosaki and decorated by the Torrance Police Department.

Designed by Marge Schugt in honor of John Schugt, MD, toys from the 40 Years of Giving tree are given to pediatric patients in the emergency department post-festival.

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40TH ANNUAL GALA The 40th annual Holiday Festival Gala at Torrance Memorial on December 1 was a resounding success, with more than 600 guests gathering in a sprawling white tent for a night of celebration.

Auctioneer Letitia Frye skillfully encouraged bidding, resulting in an impressive $2.3 million raised in the live auction for the emergency department expansion. Guests enjoyed the festive atmosphere with cocktails, dinner and lively dancing. Their generosity also set a new record for the silent auction with nearly $70,000 raised.

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PHOTOS BY PHILICIA ENDELMAN, ED MCCLURE, JOHN DLUGOLECKI

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Front: Dennis Frandsen, Carolyn Snyder, Mary Hoffman, Bob Habel, Back: James Duarte, Veronica Duarte London Theodora, Lisa Arreguin, Jaden Theodora, Kirsten Alleroth, Ellen Theodora, Pat Theodora, Carol Marcil, Jerry Marcil Zac Gray, MD, Melanie Lundquist, Keith Hobbs, Richard Lundquist Greg Miller, Gabriela Miller, Connie Lai, Jeff Lai, MD Joy Theodora, Kevin Theodora

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Roy Martinez, Gabriela Martinez, Emmanuel David, Ofelia David, Sophie Kaneshiro, Ramona Villaluz 7. Judith Gassner, Emmanuel David, Ofelia David 8. Laura Schenasi, Priscilla Hunt, Brenda Nowotka 9. Front: Eric Nakkim, MD, Lisa Nakkim; Back: Stephanie Tang, DO, Ernie Kwok, Monica Lee, MD, Jenny Luo, MD, Bryce Fukanaga, MD, Brandy Van Zitter, Brian Miura, MD 10. Tori Schladen, Helaine Lopes 11. Clinton Grady, Ryan Halvorsen

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12. John Ngan, Serena Ngan 13. Carole Hoffman, Calvin Callister, Gayleen Callister 14. Hugo Hool, MD, Kalpana Hool, MD 15. Steve Lopes, Dave Klein, Marc Schenasi, Stanley Chang, MD 16. Front: Peggi Collins, Jeannine Frandsen; Back: Carolyn Snyder 17. Ian Kramer, MD, Sherry Kramer

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18. Ayne Baker, Jack Baker 19. Steve Wright, Mary Wright 20. Joe Hohm, Terry Hohm 21. Brian Bezner, Stephanie Bezner 22. Emmett Miller, Russ Varon, Kimberly Colletti 23. David Chan, MD, Susan Chan, Kathleen Krauthamer, Richard Krauthamer, MD

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24. Ellen Theodora, Pat Theodora 25. Jackie Geiger, Greg Geiger, Ann Markley 26. Phyllis Scribe, René Scribe, Mary Jo Unatin 27. Mike Eberhard, Sally Eberhard, Sonia Eberhard, Ryan Eberhard 28. David Chan, MD, Susie Chan, Melody Lowe, Tom Lowe, MD 29. Nancy Rouse, Michael Rouse

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30. Stanley Chang, MD, Joanne Chang 31. Brandon Hohm, Jenn Hohm 32. Stephanie Tang, DO, Zac Gray, MD, Elisa Anhalt, MD, Jenny Luo, MD, Gretchen Lent, MD, Kurt Hansen, MD 33. Greg Halvorsen, Laurie InadomiHalvorsen 34. Erin Hansen, Kurt Hansen, MD 35. Marc Schenasi, Dave Baldwin, Chris Adlam, Steve Lopes

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36. Jim Sala, Andrea Sala, Jen Katnik, Helaine Lopes 37. David Chung, MD, Shannon Chung 38. Carol Marcil, Jerry Marcil 39. Heidi Assigal, Gerhard Eberhart, Michaela Andrawis, John Andrawis, MD 40. Lori O’Hern, Tom O’Hern 41. Twanna Rogers, Tim Rogers

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42. Jack Baker, Barbara Lurie, Mark Lurie, MD, Ayne Baker 43. John Teng, Wendy Teng, Sandy Yang, Frank Yang 44. Jeff Kern, Vicki Kern, Alyson Decker, Dean Decker 45. Heidi Hoffman, MD 46. Lorraine Ouye, Song Klein, Janice Tecimer 47. Keith Chumley, MD, Kristen Gutermuth, MD

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THE LUNDQUIST LURIE CARDIOVASCULAR CENTER SIGN UNVEILING Philanthropists Melanie and Richard Lundquist, along with cardiologist Mark Lurie, MD, physicians and friends, celebrated the sign unveiling of Torrance Memorial’s Lundquist Lurie Cardiovascular Center on January 22.

Formerly known as the Specialty Center, the three-story building with over 65,000 square feet is dedicated to cardiac diagnosis, treatment and care.

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Lundquist Lurie Cardiovascular Center new signage Melanie Lundquist, Mark Lurie, MD, Richard Lundquist Keith Hobbs, Melanie Lundquist, Mark Lurie, MD, Richard Lundquist, Tom Priselac, Craig Leach Melanie Lundquist, Richard Lundquist Salman Azam, MD, John Stoneburner, MD, Aziz Ghaly, MD Heidi Assigal, Mark Lurie, MD, Barbara Lurie, Shlee Song, MD

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Tom Priselac, Craig Leach, Mark Lurie, MD, Keith Hobbs Dave Klein, Song Klein, Marc Schenasi, Steve Lopes Derek Berz, Aziz Ghaly, MD, Heidi Assigal Salman Azam, MD, Chris Matchison, MD, Song Klein, Dave Klein, Gaurav Banka, MD Cardiologists and senior administration join the Lundquists for the ribbon-cutting celebration.

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TORRANCE MEMORIAL DISTINGUISHED SPEAKER EVENT Torrance Memorial Medical Center Patrons gathered at Shade Hotel in Manhattan Beach on February 22 to hear Dr. Lisa Genova, a renowned neuroscientist and best-selling author, discuss memory and Alzheimer’s in a relatable and humorous manner. Dr. Genova, known for her acclaimed novel Still Alice, which was adapted into a major motion picture, entertained guests with insights into neurological diseases. The evening included a dinner reception and Q&A session before attendees headed to the Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center for the Distinguished Speaker Series, of which Torrance Memorial is a sponsor.

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PHOTOS BY PHILICIA ENDELMAN

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Merilee Hobbs, Keith Hobbs, Lisa Genova, MD, Jerry Marcil, Carol Marcil The Honorable Milan Smith, Sam Sheth, Kay Sheth Barbara Demming Lurie, Mark Lurie, MD, Kate Crane Front: Rick Higgins, Eve Higgins, Sandy Jackson, Karl Jackson, Back: Van Honeycutt, Diana Honeycutt Craig Leach, Judy Leach, Joy Theodora, Kevin Theodora Nadine Bobit, Ayne Baker Michael Zislis, Judith Gassner Roxanne Ellison, John Bucher, Laurie Bucher

YPPA MEETS AT HENNESSEY’S HERMOSA BEACH

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Young Physicians and Professionals Alliance (YPPA) members and friends met at Hennessey’s Tavern in Hermosa Beach on March 15 to celebrate a little luck and love for Torrance Memorial. Paul Hennessey and Keith Hobbs welcomed guests. Emergency physician Stephanie Tang, DO, shared the impact of YPPA’s annual giving program and emergency physician Kurt Hansen, MD, shared the fundraising campaign for the emergency department expansion.

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Keith Hobbs, Eriko Masuda, MD, Dana Kennedy, MD 2. Joseph Friedrich, MD, Shanny Neuman 3. Paul Hennessey, Lauren Bauer 4. Jenny Luo, MD, Stephanie Tang, DO 5. Kevin Bidenkap, Sophia Neveu, Nik Bringleson, Angela Park-Sheldon, Ryan Mansour 6. Keith Hobbs, Stephanie Tang, DO, Jena Karl, Kristen Brosseau, Oliver Mindur 7. Keith Hobbs, Danielle Boujikian, Dru Olton, Maria Olton, Susie Wolfe-Corpus, Brandy VanZitter, Kat Olschnegger, Vimal Murthy, MD 8. Brandon Hohm, Monica Farrell Bringleson, Nik Bringleson, Meredith Johnson, Keith Hobbs 9. Ajna Sharma Wilson, Cody Charnell, Vimal Murthy, MD 10. Kurt Hansen, MD, Sophia Neveu, Stephanie Tang, DO 11. Brandon Hohm, Darin DeRenzis, David Marquart, Katharine Meier, Sean Meier S P R IN G 2 024 | PATR ON S 61

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TORRANCE MEMORIAL GIVES SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR MANY DONORS GIFTS FROM SEPTEMBER 1, 2023 TO FEBRUARY 28, 2024 $12,000,000+

Torrance Memorial Auxiliary

Melanie and Richard Lundquist

$100,000+

$1,000,000

Pat and Richard Lucy Barbara Demming Lurie and Mark Lurie, MD Oarsmen Foundation Audrey Reynolds-Lowman Twanna and Tim Rogers Linda and Lee Rosen Phyllis and Steven Spierer Jackson and Julie Yang

Paula and Michael Greenberg Diane and Davis Moore

$500,000+ Allen Alpay Lisa and Lowell Hill Norris Foundation

$250,000+ Uma and Avadhesh Agarwal Marilyn Amundson-Mohle Estate Vincent and Karen Chan Mary Gotham Estate Cindy and Bill Hagelstein Mary Jo and Victor Hazard Priscilla Hunt Katherine and Kirk Johnson Carol and Gerry Marcil Jane and Ajay Mehra Sima and Mahmood Saalabi Ellen and Pat Theodora Martha and Don Tuffli

$150,000+ Barbara and David Bentley Dina and John Chan, DDS Summer A. Andrada, DMD and Michael Chan, DMD Herbert Clarkson Estate Darla Valliant and Jack Feldman Gina and Gregg Kirkpatrick Robert and Mimi Liu Kay and Chuck Song, MD

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$50,000+ Ayne and Jack Baker Kim and Eric Belcher Deepak and Nandini Chopra Stephanie and Aaron De La Torre Francesca and Doug Deaver Michelle and Darrin Del Conte Sheri and Casey Dodge Janet Esposito and Roseann DeLuca Harry and Frances Fleming Amy and Stephen Haw Jennifer and Paul Hennessey Merilee and Keith Hobbs Surendra and Kala Jain Jody and Eric Jonsson Robert Koch Judy and Craig Leach Cathy and Major Lin Jeannine and Benedict Lochtenberg Allison and Rick Mayer Deana Buechel and Greg Mayer Carol and James McKay Carol and Karl McMillen Jacquelyne and Steven Miller Hangup and Michelle Moon Jeffrey and Tiffany Neu Serena and John Padian Lavonne Rodstein

Beatrice Sheng Sophie and Arnaud Solandt Joan and Herbert Stark Torrance Memorial Medical Staff Michael and Betty Tung Tien and Cliff Warren Nancy Weisel Colleen and Edward Whittemore, III

$25,000+ Renate and Steve A’Hearn Ralph Allman James Philip Burt Karen and Chan Chuang, MD Carolyn Elliott Employee Ambassador Program Jackie and Greg Geiger Noelle and Paul Giuliano Joanna and Paul Giuliano Patricia and David Hempel Carole Hoffman Jenny Luo, MD and Bryce Fukunaga, MD Janis Adams and John Lyons Lisa and Chuck Noski Lori and Tom O’Hern Lore and Marv Patrick Jonathan Po, MD and Harriet Po Laura and Marc Schenasi Phyllis and René Scribe Simplehuman - Frank and Sandy Yang Janet and Ian Teague TF Educational Foundation – Patricia and Gerald Turpanjian The Educational Foundation of America Deborah and Tom Thomas Elizabeth and Richard Umbrell – Buff and Shine

$15,000+ Timothy and Sandra Armour

Nadine and Ty Bobit Patricia Brewster COR Healthcare Medical Associates Joyce and Bob Daniels Ofelia and Emmanuel David Roxanne and Bruce Ellison Harbor Post-Acute Care Center Gabriella and Kenneth Holt, MD Gary Hunter Timothy Keenan Keenan & Associates Carol McCully Lynn† and David McGowan Elaine Scott Sam and Kay Sheth Phil Steinberg The Lundquist Institute Teri and Rob Young

$10,000+ Christy and Jay Abraham Elisa I. Anhalt, MD and Douglas Laurin Joan Caras Michele and Robert Christensen Vicki and Michael Curran Diana Cutler Ruth and Harv Daniels Randy and Luke Dauchot Alyson and Dean Decker Donna and R. Stephen Doan Thyra Endicott MD and Rev. Jonathan Chute Timme and Kurt Gunderlock Nan and Reed Harman Mary Harris and Doug Kendle Peter Johnson Anne Katz, PhD Song and David Klein Dorothy and Allen Lay Marilyn MacLeod Andrea and John Mazzotta Patricia and William Nault Nancy and Steve Novokmet Celia and Robert Rothman Kirsten Wagner, DDS and Richard Rounsavelle, DDS Patricia Sacks, MD Marge Schugt

Dan, Patrick and Regina Finnegan and Caitie Cleeland

Ellen and Charlie Steinmetz Janice and Timur Tecimer The John Gogian Family Foundation West Coast University Inc. Ann and Gary Zimmerman

$5,000+ Valerie and Chris Adlam Frank Y. An, MD Baker, Burton & Lundy Law Offices Lori and David Baldwin Lisa and Ken Baronsky Kevin Bidenkap Jean Breedlove Susan and David Chan, MD Chevron U.S.A. Nancy Peterson and Dick Chun Jan and Cliff d’Autremont Manjri and Rajendra Dhami Sally and Mike Eberhard Farmers & Merchants Bank Regina and Dan Finnegan Fire Sprinkler Contractors Association Charity Foundation Patricia and Paul Francis Melanie Friedlander, MD Judith Gassner Danielle and Mike Gatto Rosalind Halikis

Shanna and Jack Hall Mary and Peter Hazelrigg Erin Hoffman and Heidi Hoffman, MD Judy and Parnelli Jones Vicki and Jeff Kern Kinecta Community Foundation Kim and Rick Leacock Stan and Barbara Levine Linda† and David Lillington Dianne and Ned Mansour Mascari Warner Dinh Architects Eric and Anna Mellor, MD Nixon Peabody LLP Adrienne and Larry Olson Christina and Phil Pavesi Jan and Mike Philbin Michele and Robert Poletti Mary and Timothy Richardson Nancy and Michael Rouse John Sealy, MD Ellen and Clay Smith Kristin and Baker Smith South Bay Gastroenterology Medical Group Joy and Kevin Theodora Sr. Torrance Anesthesia Medical Group Torrance Emergency Physicians Torrance Radiology Medical Group Stuart and Frances Tsujimoto Linda and Robert Vallee Jr. Russell Varon

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S u ppo rte r s Kathleen Whiting Gina and Bill Whittlesey Terry and Jim Witte Woven Foundation Mary and Steve Wright Paul and Dora Zhang

$2,500+ Michaela and John Andrawis, MD Heidi Assigal and Gerhard Eberhart Association of South Bay Surgeons Beach Cites Estate Law Peggy and Cliff Berwald CJ and Sharon Beshke Ann Buxton c|a Architects Vinh Cam, MD and Judy Nei Chivaroli & Associates David S. Chung, MD and Shannon Chung Sandy and Thomas Cobb Nancy Combs Susan Dilamarter Debbie and Stephen Dinsmore, MD Lenore and Malin Dollinger, MD Diane Liebenson and Thomas Duralde, MD Dorothy and Bill Farris Jeannine and Dennis Frandsen Justine and Andrew Gregorio Laurie Inadomi-Halvorsen and Greg Halvorsen Ann and George Hartmann Jr. Sabrina and Eddie Hayden Lindsay Heaphy Terry and Joe Hohm, CPA Daniel R. Hovenstine, MD and Richard Bruno Ron Howel Almon and Sophia Huang Seema and Bill Kalra Jackie and Vince Kelly Connie and Jeff Lai, MD Ravi Mahalingam Annsley and Matthew Marshall Laurie and Thomas McCarthy Kak and David McKinnie Donna McNeely Trent Merrill Roxanne and Ramin Mirhashemi, MD

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Katy and Samuel Morris Lisa and Eric Nakkim, MD Victoria Nishioka Estate Maureen and Mario Palladini Trish and John Peterson PNG Builders Michelle and David Rand, MD Lori and Ray Richard Kelly and Chris Rogers Adele Ruxton Madeline and Alex Schumacher Allyson and Alex Shen, MD Cathy and Alan Siegel Timothy Skelly Erin and Andrew Sloves Linda and David Smith Carolyn Snyder Jerry Soldner Robert Stephenson Rose and Patrick Straub Surf Management, Inc. Ruth Sve Torrance Radiation Oncology Assoc.

Triton Pacific Construction Group Jan and Doug Van Riper Terri Wagner Cammarano and Dennis Cammarano Susan and Wade Welch Dwight and Kay Yamada Roger Paul Young YPPA of Torrance Memorial

$1,000+ Gina Albi Amy and Ian Armbruster Robert Armstrong Kathleen and Randy Avakian Michele and William Averill, MD Banc of California Charitable Foundation Bret Barrett Peggy and Morton Bauchman Stephanie and Brian Bezner John D. Blakey, MD Marilyn Boge Connie and Donald Bohannon Mary Bradfield-Smith Trudy Brown Jamie Buckstaff

Mary and Sean Byun Edna Campbell Kathleen and Milton Campbell Zenaida Carrillo-Ramo Nancy Carter Catalina Channel Express, Inc. Bryan Chang, MD Stanley Chang, MD and Joanne Chang Julie Che Potter and Josh Potter Jim and Julie Chen Philip W. Chung, MD and Lauren Choi, MD Ingrid Cobb Desiree and Jim Collings Peggi Collins and Steven Cocks Bruce and Jaye-Jo Cooperman Pam Crane Kathleen D. Crane and The Honorable Milan D. Smith, Jr. Mary Louise and Donald Crocker Peter Croke Don Culler Michael Czerwinski Judy Dabinett Jon and Tess David Gregory Dell Cindy and Steven Dennis Bobbie Diekmann Juli and Michael DiLustro James C. Ding, MD and Marcia Ding, MD Elizabeth Dye Anna Eakins EP Wealth Advisors, LLC Laura Fenn Robin Fernandez Mary Ford Juan Frisancho, MD C.L. and Billy Frishette Roy C. Fu, MD and Denise Fu Chloe and Tony Gambardella Aziz Ghaly, MD Teresa Gordon Nora and Dan Graham Violette Gray, MD and Zachary Gray, MD Graystone Consulting, Morgan Stanley Susan Greenberg Rudich and Howard Rudich Deborah Griffin Christine Hanson Patricia and James Hartman

Cynthia and Richard Harvey Christina Hicks Eve and Rick Higgins Beth and Erik Higgins Al Hill Mary Hoffman and Bob Habel Naiwei Hsu Lesley and Colin Hull Kim and Donald Inadomi, MD J. McKeeve Plumbing, Inc. Maria and Robert Jaques Aarchan R. Joshi, MD Jen and John Katnik Jeffrey and Kaitlyn Kim Arlene and Michael Klosk Rachel A. Knopoff, MD and Russell Dickerson, MD Sherry and Ian Kramer, MD Donna LaMont Mary Lanza Paula and Bill Larson Wilfredo Lazarte Monica K. Lee, MD and Ernest Kwok Linda Lee Heather and Donald Legg George and Christina Legg Matt Leitz Pamela Lemkin Kenneth Libkin Helaine and Steve Lopes Melody and Thomas Lowe, MD Luminaries of Torrance Memorial Heidi and John Mackenbach Lori and Joel Marfield Mary and David Matson Dorothy Mayer Mary Todd McCormack and Peter McCormack Marlene and Jeffrey McKeeve Nirav Mehta Catherine Melton Maki and Clark Michel Myron and Luise Miller Lillie and Emmett Miller Brian Miura, MD Diane and Ron Montalto Murray Company Karen and Gene Naftulin, MD Judith K. Opdahl

Robert Palmer, Esq. Kathy Paris Robert Parkinson Payden & Rygel Harold Payne Jack Pharris Leslie and Todd Powley Premier Infusion Care Prestige Care Physician, Inc. Karen and Dan Pryor John and Theresa Pujol Talese and David Pulley William Rehrig Tamara Ritchey Powers Ann and W. Jack Rode Robin and Steven Rome Laura and James Rosenwald, III Edward Rubalcaba Andrea and Jim Sala Denise Scarpetti Marlene Schultz and Philip Walent Dee and Tom Scott Connie Senner Heather and John Shay Pam and Brian Sherman, MD Robert Sickler Nicholas Silvino, MD Julie Park Sim, MD Diana and Ralph Simmons Deepjot Singh, MD Mae and Deren Sinkowitz, MD Judith Sipes Fay and Mitchell Sklar, MD Solid Rock Structural Solutions, Inc. Elizabeth Spatz Jim Specht Aileen Takahashi, MD and Charles Spenler, MD Spierer, Woodward, Corbalis & Goldberg Cathrine Tabellario William Tarng, MD Julie and Bruce Taylor Valerie and Nick Tell Jr. Trudi and Timothy Tessalone Natalie and Dave Thorpe Laurie Hunter and Bob Tiedemann Jeff and Yuki Tom Torrance Emergency Physicians Mike and Nina Tsai

Frank and Sandy Yang

Sherry and Ian Kramer, MD

Dan Tseng and Debbie Kao Richard P. Walker Kerry and David Wallis, MD Brigid and James Wethe, MD Susan and Matthew Whelan WIN Real Estate Services Inc., – Mathew Moore

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S u ppo rte r s Windes Peter and Monica Wong Louisa Woodward Cathi and R. Michael Wyman, MD Harry Yoshikawa Margaret Yuen Carla and Walter Zanino

$500+ Melissa Andrus Arora Pain Clinic Aley Arredondo Marcia and Lawrence August, MD Jennifer Baker Cecilia Banania Pam Barrett Daniel Bauman Tracy E. Bercu, MD and Peter Weinstein Karen S. Black, MD and James Black, MD Cynthia Blinn-Bauer Lance Bommelje Danielle Boujikian Diana and George Brandt Sheryl and Walter Brannan, MD Kristen Brosseau Heidi Bacani and Gene Brown Elena and Larry Bruns Joy Burkhardt Agnes Butardo John Campo, MD Frederique Carver and Doug Popovich Christine Castano Maria and Kevin Chapman Emily and Jeff Cheam Lilian and Patrick Chik Cara Chlebicki Chung Chu Keith T. Chumley, MD Alan Chung and Shannon Cao Amanda Clauson, MD Cheryl and Stephen Connors William Cunningham-Corso Shoshana and Phillip Cutler Ittie and Warren Cutting, DDS Michelle Dahle Nancy Daniels Sandra Daos Barbara David

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Josefina David-Engel Sara and Omer Deen, MD Nora Devine Janis Dickson Marina D’Souza, MD Marilyn K. Dubas Carla G. Duncan Theodore Dunn El Camino College Carissa Ellis Suellen Eslinger Mary Espinoza Don Estrada Eloise and Robert Evans Katherine Feles Justin Ficke Erin and Stan Fiorito Derrick Fisher Farnaz and Lawrence Flechner, MD Kimberly Flores Judith and Robert Frinier Terry and Pat Furey Doris Garber Maria Garcia Deborah and Moe Gelbart, PhD Tammy Ginder Herna Gonzalez Nancy and Bob Gragg Beth Graziadio Maral and Brian Hand Jeremiah Hargrave Eric Harris Alexandra and Connor Hartwell Sandra Hobbs Kalpana Hool, MD and Hugo Hool, MD Linda Howard David Hozaki Barbara Ignacio Carolyn and Randall Ito Alexis and Peter Jensen Janet and Michael Johnson Paul Kantor Ronna Katz Mona and Derrick Kawamoto Dana Kennedy, MD Anne Kienberger Dennis and Carrie Kikuno Terrence Kim, MD David S. Kim, MD

Chiaki and Aaron Klapper Danny Klein Steve Kostrencich Patricia Kromka Carol and Bill Kulencavich John and Yukiko Kuno Min Min Kyaw Patricia and Steve Lantz Devi Legaspi Martha and David Leveille, MD Kathy Levy and Kevin Fujimoto Debra Lininger Kathleen Liverpool Tracy and Andy Livian Jeffrey Love, Esq. Elizabeth M. Lowerison and Ralph Lopez LPL Financial Corporate Fernando and Eva Sophia Magdaleno Frank Malone Patricia Mann Cynthia Manson Ryan Mansour Wei Mao Vicky and Winston Mar Jennifer Materman Nancy Mateyka Lisa Humphreys, MD and John McNamara, MD Kimberly McNeil Elaine McRae Eva Mendenhall Maria Mendoza Melany and Paul Merryman MHP Structural Engineers Erik Milanez Millennia Education Katherine V. Miller, MD Rene Miller Anne Milliken Joanne and Marc Moser Wallace Murker Tamiko Nakama Sophia and Philippe Neveu Rhoda Newman Mary and Dennis Noble Walter Nuñez Young Oh Ronald Padilla Sarina Pai, DO

Elizabeth Paul, MD Linda Perry RL Peters Bang Pham, MD and Dolly Pham Colleen and Craig Quinn Ann Raljevich Karen and Michael Randazzo Marcie and Scott Rees, DDS Bernie and Timothy Reid Deborah and Rolando Janet Richardson Magdalena Rodriguez Adriana and Sam Rodriguez Janette Russ-Roberts Andrea and Jim Sala Sandra Sanders Catherine Sarcona Maria Sass Goldstein and Jared Goldstein Krista and Tom Schlappatha Andrew Schumacher, MD Philip and Martha Scott Camilla Seferian Karen Shum, DPM Roya and Hicham Siouty, MD Robin and RJ Smith South Bay Evergreen Seniors Association Grace and Greg St. Clair Michael Steele Kaylee and Mark Steinhauer Bert Stewart Carol and John Stratton, MD Elliot T. Sumi, MD and Nani Sumi Susan Swerdloff Nancy and Larry Takahashi Technical Visits International Beryl Tokunaga Wynne Torqueza Jon Tremmel Shelly Trites Maureen Trivers Irene and John Trotter, DDS Shiela and Mark Tsujimoto Josephine Tuzzolino Cynthia and Kazuaki Uemura Valerie Ungaro Veronica Urbano Brandy Van Zitter, RN Sandy VandenBerge Roksolana and Bernard Vecerek

Victor Elementary School Villa Sorrento Vizient Meg and Anthony Walker B.B. and Jefferson Wang Patrick Wecker Carol Wharton Betty Wilber Curtice Wong, MD Arlene Yakush Sean and Veronica Yokoe Joanne Yoshida Timothy and Cecilia Yu, MD Ellen and George Zelinsky

$250+ Debbie Adkins-Messenger Charlotte Adlam and Zach Matos Marti and Phil Adler Sharon and Charles Amos Beverly Bailey Gwendolyn Bailey Elizabeth Bailey Harriet Bailiss-Sustarsic Ellen Baker, MD Debra and Manuel Banderas Cindy and Matt Bandy Lisa Bargar Irene Bayan Julie and Brian Beckman Jennis Belen Michele and Robert Bell Lenore Bemis Susan and Derek Berz Robert Bill Roxan and Farhad Bottlewalla Jennifer and David Bray Jr., MD Susan and Dennis Castillo Jennifer and Anthony Chen, MD Changrong and Y Cheng Hae Son and Heidi Chong Julie Christian Sheryl Cook Danielle Cosgrove Peggy Crabtree Jeanette Cutuli Kristen Damon Patti and Steven Delcarson

Dell-Sparkman Design, LLC Martha Deutsch Tami DeVine Gayle and Richard Devirian John Dezso Nancy and David DiCarlo Liliana Dongo Darol Draggoo Carla Duhovic Donna and Gary Duperron Gay Durward Maria Eclevia Josephine Espejo Carlos Fernandez Erica Fink Lisa Fisher, MD and Brian Fitzgerald Shirley and Fred Floresca Kyoung and Gary Frazier Friday Nite Live Karen Gabriel Naomi and Marc Glaser Katrina Goldberg Anne Gonzales Alfrenda Gonzales Karen Gottlieb Linda and Gerald Grossman Marnie and Dan Gruen Mary and Doug Gutherie Sharon and Bud Guthrie Debbie Haag Shahina Hakim, MD and Hammad Zaidi Nikki Hannum Julie Hansen Natalie Hassoldt Teri Hawkins Chih-Ming and Shirley Ho Debbie Hoagland Terri Hogan Lena Miller-Horii and Dwayne Horii Dede Hsu Rosario Jarquin Emily Jiang Joyce Johnson Miki Jordan Emenhiser Loretta and Art Kaiser, DDS Sharon Kalani Grace and Sarkis Kassardjian Brian Kim Changkyun Micha Kim

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S u ppo rte r s Lea Ann King Evelyn Kita Tenzin Kiyosaki Wendy Klarik Susan Koch Landy Koerner and Mark Porter Kathleen and Richard Krauthamer, MD Eileen Krock Julie Krueger John Kumashiro Lisa and Carl Lahr Shirley Langer Sandra and Ed Langhammer Carole Larkins Tonny Meng-Che Lee, MD and Jessica Tsai, DDS Donna and George Lee Paula Leeds Gretchen Lent, MD Elizabeth Lerch Peggy Lew Andrea and Jamie Lewis, MD Lihon Li Cynthia Libertini Jan Lim Bill and Esther Lopez Maricarmen Luhrsen, RN Michelle Lusen Angelique Lyle Claudeene Lyon Patti and Barry MacNaughton Sachin and Payal Maheshwari Yvonne Marin Ann Markley Stacy and John Markulis Judith and Gene Matsuda Patrick Matteo Amber McAuley Meg McCormick, RN, MSN Anne McCormick Susie McKinney Tina McPhee Cheryl Medina Rashida and Raghuveer Mendu Pamela and Harold Michael Caro and John Miguelez Sofia Mills Janice Miyashiro Karen Mohr

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Glenda Moore Alden Munson, Jr. Vimal Murthy, MD Julie and Robert Nagelhout Lori and Steve Nolls Diana and Stephen Nuccion, MD William Oberholzer Karen and John Odom Mark and Betty Okuma Melissa and Patrick O’Malley Colleen O’Neill Mary Belen Ong Susan Osa Elizabeth Packwood Angela Park Shirley Pasion Maria Pavlick Janet Payne Patricia Pearce Lizzette Perdue Joanne Peterson Vilma Plagata Carolyn Pohlner Rachel Prachumsri QuinStar Technology, Inc. Faye and Armando Ramos Samuel Rodriguez Stephanie Roman Raquel Roy Sandra Rubinstein Letty Sanchez Keleigh Sanders Susan Santos Carmen Scotten Andrew Sheng, DMD and Eunice Sheng Brooke Sigler Aarika Simmons Marsha and William Singleton Susan Sions Lisa and Craig Smith Kimberly and David Stone, MD Torrance Chamber of Commerce Patrice Torres-Marin Dana and Steve Traversi Dianna Tyndall Aileen N. Ungab Judith and George Unrine Maria V. Valdivia Larry Vallalba, Jr.

Suzanne Vilicich Arecili Villalobos Robyn Westfall Lisa and Mike Wilson Sarah Wohn, PsyD Lynn and Larry Wolf Lori Woodman Becky Yamada Kenneth Yen Sylvia and Philip Yim Rosie Zamora Tatiana Zeballos, MD and Constantinos Chrysostomou, MD Lauren Bauer

$100+ Susie Adams Tomoko Akazawa Bibi and Ameer Ali Mary Ann Alvarez Mei and Kent Amano Lucy Anderson Diana Arceri Paula Arico Maria Arteaga Jose Asis Sara Avakian Ralph Avakian William Battles Lauren Bauer Mary Beehler Sandy Behrens Melissa Benoit Jane Bergamo Michael Black Beverly and Christopher Boise-Cossart Elaine Booth-Carnegis Maricela Bordenave Ruth V. Borges Carly Brandt Liliana Brankovic Susan and William Brewer Lisa Briedis Donna and James Bunn Lon Burns Dinah Cabalatungan Evelyn and Robert Calip Linda Campanale

Leny Catamisan Josephine Chan Lillian and Thomas Cheng Cheryl Chobanian Marcia Christensen Coast V.I.P. Service Coral Cortez Costco Workplace Anne Crofut-Rhilinger Carolyn Cruz Mina Dastgheib Leticia De La Torre Joanne Del Dotto Geraldine Dela Cruz Tiffany and Russell Delia Daniel Delp Jr. Heather Dixon Linda Dobie Gayle Theodora Drake Patricia Drew Mary Eddy Marilyn Edwards Juliana Enge Ana Maria Espejo Lauren Estabrook Marissa Farol Margaret and Calvin Feliciano Focus Cup Golf Club Darlene and Paul Foley Sharon Fong Thomas Fox Carol Fukuchi Alesia Giampaoli Deborah Giles Jayne Glodowski Jill Golden Terry Gonzales Tracey Green Kathleen Hagemeier Kurt Hansen Jacqueline Hemmah Mary Hersh Vickie Hershberger Bruce Hershberger Nathan Higashigawa Horace Higgins Michelle L. Holman Suellen Hosino Lisa Hughes

Donald and Valerie Ishihara Joyce Ishimoto Nicholas Jendzowsky Joyce and Rudy Jimenez Margaret Johnston Kathleen Jucar Joyce Kao Mandana and Steve Katz Sylvia and Gregory G. Kennedy Cynthia Keus Freda Khan Jan Kiernan Mitch Koch Evan Koch Karen Kojima-Higa Kimberley Koontz Debbie Kozlovich Cassandra and Chance Krutsinger Denise Kwok, PhD Patricia and Gerald Lanphen Evelyn D. Lapham Judy Lebrillo Kristina Lenehan Claudia Leung Chi Leung Nolan and Mary Jane Lew Martha and Richard Lopez Robyn Lunstad Gail and Thomas Magliano Judith Maizlish Larry Maizlish Carol Mannino Jesse and Shanon Markward Elizabeth Marquez Iona Matson Jackie and John McGovern Torey and Steven Mellgren Mary Ann and E.L. Merritt Richard P. Meyer, DDS Shirley Mikami Barbara Minami Lauren Mitchell Rosalyn Modeliste Sally Moite Kathleen Monsen Ashley Moore Ken Murakami Diane Murphy George and Florence Nakakura

Nikolina and Jimmy Naumovski Edward and Allisha Nazareth Teresa and Thomas Noone Dennis Noor Arthur Ochoa Shino Okumura Maria and Dru Olton Maricel Olvera Wayne Otsuki Michele Palombo Maria and Joseph Pangindian Winston Pascual Donna Patch Jennifer Patten Jaquelina Patti Fred and Ann Peitzman Luis Peralta Patricia Perez Ruth A. Petrucha, MD and Fred Kong Fran and Rod Peveler David Phung Tracey Pollack Gigi Portugal Karen Provin William Puente Sherry Rafters Christopher Rama Denzil Ramdhanie Elena and Will Reigadas Laura Renfro Vincent Rios Sara Robinson Dani Rodriguez-Brindicci and Ricc Brindicci Peggy and Lewis Roland Joanne and Michael Romanelli Jr. Suzanne Rowland Dottie and Vincent Rudinica Roberto Ruiz Arceli Salanguit Ana Salinas Angela and Isabelo Salva John Sattler Dan Schakel Alia Schiltgen Diane and Eric Schott Tim Schugt Ernesto Segura Christine Serra-Harris Cheryl Shaw

S P R IN G 2 024 | PATR ON S 69

S u ppo rte r s Edward Shimp Chanh Shiu John and Carolyn Sibbison John Singh Lorraine Smith Mary and Dale Spiegel Jr. Susan Spires Janet and Michael Stoakley Joyce and Jared Stout Madhulika Subherwal Marcy N. Taguchi Lisa and Daryl Takata Remer Tangoan

Adolphus Tate III Patricia Tate Dorothy Teja Eloise and Steven Thompson Torrance Police Association Torrance Woman’s Club Mei and Steve Tsai Cynthia Tuverson Cesar Valle Katherine Van Meter Violeta Velevski Dominique Vialar Bao Vu

Lani and Roger Walker Heidi Ward Ellen Watanabe Patrick Wilson Cara Wilson Daniel Xilonxochilt Yasmin Yap-Mariano Jessica Yonekawa Wallace Yuki Tiffani and Cesar Zanelli Geraldine Zientek

Diane and Bill Wingerning Terry and Jim Witte

David S. Chung, MD and Shannon Chung Louise and David Clinton Nancy Combs Alyson and Dean Decker Donna and R. Stephen Doan Peggy and Robert Dowell Diane Liebenson and Thomas Duralde, MD Dorothy and Bill Farris Melanie Friedlander, MD Susan Greenberg Rudich and Howard Rudich Rosalind Halikis Ann and George Hartmann Jr. Lindsay Heaphy Stan and Barbara Levine Trish and John Peterson Lori and Ray Richard Tamara Ritchey Powers Robert Stephenson Ellen and Pat Theodora Jan and Doug Van Riper Nancy Weisel Lisa and Mike Wilson Dwight and Kay Yamada Andrea and Michael Zislis

AMBASSADORS VISIONARY Buff and Shine MFG, Inc Sandy Behrens Timme and Kurt Gunderlock Cindy and Bill Hagelstein Diane and Davis Moore Nancy and Steve Novokmet Jonathan Po, MD and Harriet Po Twanna and Tim Rogers Celia and Robert Rothman Elaine Scott Colleen and Edward Whittemore, III

PREMIER Chevron U.S.A. Valerie and Chris Adlam Frank Y. An, MD Jean Breedlove Susan and David Chan, MD Steve Fechner Patricia and Paul Francis William E. Kim, MD and Kay Kim Allison and Rick Mayer Marilyn and Frank Miles Jacquelyne and Steven Miller Christina and Phil Pavesi Phyllis Pelezzare Mary and Timothy Richardson Ellen and Clay Smith

70 PATR ON S | S PR IN G 2 024

PLATINUM Warren Oda and Juliet Chang Judith K. Opdahl Delores Parcell John and Theresa Pujol Robin and Steven Rome Raquel Roy Laura and Marc Schenasi Marcia and Michael Schoettle Marlene Schultz and Philip Walent Jerry Schwartz, MD and Mojgan Chegounchei, RN Allyson and Alex Shen, MD Robert Sickler Mae and Deren Sinkowitz, MD Fay and Mitchell Sklar, MD Ruth Sve Irene Terrell Charles Turek, MD Mary Jo and Jerome Unatin, MD Terri and Dennis Cammarano Susan and Wade Welch Brigid and James Wethe, MD Susan and Matthew Whelan Peter and Monica Wong Cathi and R. Michael Wyman, MD Nancy and Roger Zapor

GOLD Michele and William Averill, MD Lori and David Baldwin Peggy and Morton Bauchman

Peggy and Cliff Berwald John D. Blakey, MD Trudy Brown James Cabaniss Vinh Cam, MD and Judy Nei Jim and Julie Chen Philip W. Chung, MD and Lauren Choi, MD Pam Crane Marina D’Souza, MD Judy Dabinett Juli and Michael DiLustro James C. Ding, MD and Marcia Ding, MD Laura Fenn Jeannine and Dennis Frandsen Judith Gassner Jackie and Greg Geiger Karen Gottlieb Marnie and Dan Gruen Christine Hanson Beth and Erik Higgins Merilee and Keith Hobbs Erin Hoffman and Heidi Hoffman, MD Daniel R. Hovenstine, MD and Richard Bruno Kim and Donald Inadomi, MD Sandy and Karl Jackson Alma and Barry Johnsin, DDS John Johnson, MD Susan and Lawrence Kneisley, MD Rachel A. Knopoff, MD and Russell Dickerson, MD Harold and Linda Koletsky Patricia Kromka Donna LaMont Monica K. Lee, MD and Ernest Kwok George and Christina Legg Linda† and David Lillington Laurie and Steve Love Melody and Thomas Lowe, MD Vicky and Winston Mar Lori and Joel Marfield Sudy and Bud Mayo Sunny Y. Melendez, MD and Ron Melendez, MD Catherine Melton Karen and John Odom Judith K. Opdahl John and Theresa Pujol Robin and Steven Rome

Lawrence August, MD, Terry Hohm, Gina Whittlesey, Bill Whittlesey, Joe Hohm, Gary Zimmerman Raquel Roy Laura and Marc Schenasi Marlene Schultz and Philip Walent Allyson and Alex Shen, MD Robert Sickler Mae and Deren Sinkowitz, MD Fay and Mitchell Sklar, MD Ruth Sve Susan and Wade Welch Brigid and James Wethe, MD Susan and Matthew Whelan Peter and Monica Wong Cathi and R. Michael Wyman, MD

SILVER Christy and Jay Abraham Michaela and John Andrawis, MD Marcia and Lawrence August, MD Cindy and Matt Bandy Michele and Robert Bell Diana and George Brandt Elena and Larry Bruns Edna Campbell Anita Canfield Frederique Carver and Doug Popovich Fern and Martin Cohen Ittie and Warren Cutting, DDS Farnaz and Lawrence Flechner, MD Karen and John Freeman

Judith Gassner Elaine and Byron Gee Deborah and Moe Gelbart, PhD Nancy and Keith Hauge Chih-Ming and Shirley Ho Lindsay and Peter Imwalle David S. Kim, MD Song and David Klein Gigi and David Kramer John and Yukiko Kuno Martha and David Leveille, MD Andrea and Jamie Lewis, MD Kenneth Libkin Helaine and Steve Lopes Lisa and Christopher Martz Marjory and John McKeeve Lisa Humphreys, MD and John McNamara, MD Joanne and Marc Moser Ann and Daniel Mueller Mary and Dennis Noble Elizabeth Paul, MD Maria Pavlick Robyn and Al Peacock III Linda Perry Janette Russ-Roberts Carmen and Gordon Schaye, MD Barbara L. Schulz, MD Carolyn Snyder Bert Stewart

S P R IN G 2 024 | PATR ON S 71

S u ppo rte r s Carol and John Stratton, MD William Tarng, MD Janice and Timur Tecimer B.B. and Jefferson Wang Robyn Westfall Mary and Scott Wheatley Kathy and David Willock Curtice Wong, MD Arlene Yakush Ellen and George Zelinsky Ann and Gary Zimmerman

HONORARY Ruth and Harv Daniels Sally and Mike Eberhard Barbara Demming Lurie and Mark Lurie, MD

Kak and David McKinnie Joy and Kevin Theodora Sr. Russell Varon

LIFETIME Gail and Doug Allen, CLU Betty Belsky Achara and Thomas Cowell, MD Virginia and Dennis Fitzgerald Sherry and Thomas Gossett, MD Patti and Al Hermann Carole Hoffman Terry and Joe Hohm, CPA Kathleen and Richard Krauthamer, MD Sylvia and Robert Laxineta, DDS Judy and Craig Leach

Pat and Richard Lucy Carol Magee Cheryl Melville Genevieve and Hugh Muller Robin and Norman Panitch, MD Ellen and Fraser Perkins, MD Peggie and Gerald Reich, MD Carlene and Edward Reuscher Patricia Sacks, MD Beya and Robert Schaeffer Jr., MD Laura and Tom Simko, MD Kimberly and David Stone, MD Tina and Peter Vasilion Erin and Patrick Yeh, MD

YOUNG PHYSICIANS & PROFESSIONALS ALLIANCE (YPPA) Charlotte Adlam and Zach Matos Nicole Alexander-Spencer, MD Janice and Mark Ancheta, MD Michaela and John Andrawis, MD Elisa Anhalt, MD and Doug Laurin Nadia Antii Melanie and Benjamin Archer Alejandra Arredondo Liz Bamgbose Megan and Andrew Bark Bret Barrett Dawn Barry Lauren Bauer Stephanie Bezner, Esq. and Brian Bezner Tasneem Bholat, MD and Sam Alherech Kevin Bidenkap, CFP Cynthia Blinn-Bauer Nadine and Ty Bobit Danielle Boujikian John Campo, MD Cody Charnell Stanley Chang, MD and Joanne Chang Christine Chui Amanda Clauson, MD Susanna Wolfe-Corpus and Ronald Corpus William and Josh Cunningham-Corso Shoshana and Phillip V. Cutler

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Kristen Damon, Esq. and Dru Damon Sara Deen, DDS and Omer Deen, MD Gregory Dell Angela and Eric von Detten Alice Diego-Malit, MD Carissa and Benjamin Ellis Joseph Friedrich, MD Denise and Roy Fu, MD Aziz Ghaly, MD Laurie Glover

Maria Sass Goldstein and Jared Goldstein Teresa Gordon Justine and Andrew Gregorio Lori and Jerome Haig Ryan Halvorsen Kurt Hansen, MD Charlie Hargraves and Jennifer Irwin Erin and Heidi Hoffman, MD Jenn and Brandon Hohm Michelle Luna Holman

Bunco Night fundraiser for the emergency department expansion hosted by Justine and Andy Gregorio.

Kathleen Jucar Dawn and Bo Kaplan Jennifer and John Katnik Dana Kennedy, MD Veronica and Jeff Kern Lynn Kim Terrence Kim, MD Chiaki and Aaron Klapper Song and Dave Klein Connie and Jeffrey Lai, MD Gretchen Lent, MD Kathy Levy, RN Catherine Leys Cynthia Libertini, RN and Federico Libertini Jeffrey Love, Esq. Beth Lowerison, RN Jenny Luo, MD and Bryce Fukunaga, MD Heidi and John Mackenbach Susan and David Mackenbach Sachin and Payal Maheshwari Courtney and Ryan Mansour Annsley and Matthew Marshall Colleen and Jamie McKinnell, MD Kimberly McNeil, RN Chaitali and Akshay Mehta, MD

Maki and Clark Michel Erik Milanez Kristen and Oliver Mindur Brian Miura, MD Katy and Samuel Morris Vimal Murthy, MD Nadav Nahumi, MD Sophia and Philippe Neveu Walter Nunez Maria Olton, RN and Dru Olton Sarina Pai, DO Jennifer and Victor Pan Francine Park, MD Sejal and Maneesh Penkar, MD Luis Peralta William Rehrig Vincent Rios Maggie Rodriguez, RN Dani Rodriguez-Brindicci and Ricc Brindicci Andrew Schumacher, MD Madeline and Alex Schumacher Angela Park-Sheldon, CFP and Hank Sheldon Allyson and Alexander Shen, MD Stephanie and Brad Sherman

Pamela and Brian Sherman, MD Karen C. Shum, DPM Brooke Sigler, CPA and Marty Sigler Julie Sim, MD Kristin and Baker Smith Cyndy and Joseph Spierer Kellie and Todd Stender Brittany and Jason Stone Cassie Parra and Jeffrey Su Gina Sulmeyer, MD and Michael Arriola Stephanie Tang, DO William Tarng, MD Natalie Thorpe, RN and Dave Thorpe Sean Tompkins Wynne Torqueza, RN Shelly Trites, RN Elizabeth and Richard Umbrell Brandy Van Zitter, RN Meg and Anthony Walker Sarah Wohn, PsyD Basil Younes, MD Hilary and Clay Zachry Andrea and Michael Zislis

PROFESSIONAL ADVISORY COUNCIL Nadia Antii, CRPC Gregory Becker, Esq. Beti Tsai Bergman, Esq. (Co-Chair) Stephanie Bezner, Esq. Gene Brown, CLPF Yvonne Chavez, CLPF Stephen F. Connors, CFP Phillip Cook, CFP Christian Cordoba, CFP Maureen Dearden Vince Fierro

Nancy Gragg, CWS Suzanne Grudnitski, CLPF Eric J. Harris, Esq. Connor Hartwell, CFP Brandon Hohm, CPA Alexis M. Jensen, CPA Derrick Kawamoto, EA Carol Kulencavich, CPA Mathew Moore Karen Pryor (Co-Chair) Cristin H. Rigg, CFP, CDFA

Gregory Schill, CFP F. Thomas Schlappatha, CFP Marianne C. Sfreddo, CPA Grace Greer St. Clair, Esq. Larry Takahashi, CFP Sylvia Thompson Mark Tsujimoto Stuart Tsujimoto, CFP Abby Waddell

HERITAGE SOCIETY Gina Albi James Andrews Karen† and Bob Armstrong Ayne and Jack Baker

Lenore Bemis Peggy and Wayne Bemis, DDS Elaine Booth-Carnegis Jan and Virgil Bourgon

Lucy Bradley Robert† and Patricia Brewster Robert and Gayle Brierley Mimi Brody

Ronnie Brown† Maria Buechler James Philip Burt James R. Cabaniss

S P R IN G 2 024 | PATR ON S 73

S u ppo rte r s Marie† and James Campbell Kathleen and Milton Campbell Benjamin Cheng and Kim McCarthy Marilyn Chevalier† Herbert Clarkson† Francine and Phillip Cook Melody and Gary Cooper Bette† and Dick† Crowell Joyce and Bob Daniels Ruth and Harv Daniels Rejandra and Manjri Dhami Ginny and John Dixon Sheri and Casey Dodge Arlene and Dale† Dorman Thyra Endicott, MD and Jonathan Chute Judy English and William Crudup, MD† Jack Feldman and Darla Valliant Sam and Rose Feng Harry and Frances Fleming Myrna Frame Henry Frankenberg Judith and Robert Frinier Sunila Fuster, MD Sidney Gamber Sue Glessner Irene Goldman and David Sato† Rebecca Gonzales and James Ng Susan Goodlerner, MD and Ed Wolfman Mary Gotham† Karen Gottlieb George W. Graham† Patricia and Gary† Hathaway, MD Adrianne and Alan† Hegge Donna Helstrom

Patricia and David Hempel Joan Henderson Eve and Rick Higgins Aida Hillway† Keiko and Allen Hochstein Carole A. Hoffman Daniel Hovenstine, MD Donald† and Priscilla Hunt Gary Hunter Maude Infantino David and Tracy Isenberg June Kaneoka Ronna and Robert† Katz Sylvia Kennedy Stuart C. Kern Robert P. Koch Millie Kruger Micki and Norman Lasky, MD Irving Levine Hilary Lord Pat and Richard Lucy Melanie and Richard Lundquist Barbara Demming Lurie and Mark Lurie, MD Judith Maizlish Larry Maizlish Franceen† and Michael McClung Del McCulloch Carol McCully and Ed Barad Kak and David McKinnie Sandra and Kenneth McKivett Linda Severy McMahon and Jerold McMahon Carol and Karl McMillen Rita and Joseph C. Meistrell Cheryl Melville Richard Meyer, DDS Myron and Luise Miller Doris and Gregory Morton

Jeannine Frandsen, Donna Helstrom, Patricia Brewster

Steve Nash and Dell Fortune† Victoria Nishioka† Susann Norton Colleen O’Neill Judith Opdahl Kenneth O’Rourke Lore and Marv Patrick Christina and Phil Pavesi Nancy Peterson and Dick Chun Fran and Rod Peveler Judy and Dan Platus Donna and John† Prysi Deborah and Rolly Reyes Carlene Ringer† Betty Jane and Ernest Rivera Tom and Karen Roa Lavonne and Jerry† Rodstein Kirsten Wagner, DDS and Richard Rounsavelle, DDS Laura and Marc Schenasi Diane and Eric Schott Barbara Schulz, MD Elaine and David Scott, MD Loraine† and Ralph† Scriba René and Phyllis Scribe John R. Sealy, MD

Judy and Sherrill† Sipes Joan F. Stahura Joan and Herbert Stark Thelma† and Phil Steinberg Deborah and Donald Stewart Nancy and Douglas Teulie Inge Thompson Frances and Stuart Tsujimoto Carolyn† and Charles Turek, MD Sandy VandenBerge Marcela and John Vanhara William Victor Susan K. Warner Suzanne Webb† Lily Weckerly Nancy Weisel Carol A. Wharton Lois and Richard Winters Teri and Rob Young Stanley and Frances Zee

Herna Joy Gonzalez Debbie Griffin Christina Hicks Naiwai Hsu Paul Kantor

Wilfredo N. Lazarte Esther Lopez Mary Matson Tami Nakama Maureen Palladini

† Deceased

EMPLOYEE AMBASSADORS PREMIER $1,000+ Heidi Assigal Derek Berz Mary Bradfield-Smith

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Zenaida Carrillo-Ramo Dolores Cellier Robert Clayton Mary Ford Judith Gassner

Andrea Rand David Rand Chris Rogers Laura Schenasi Julie Taylor Mary Wright

BENEFACTOR $500+ Melissa Andrus Cecilia Ani Kathie Avakian Cecilia Banania Bret Barrett Dan Bauman Lance Bommelje Joy Burkhardt Heather Burt Agnes Butardo Alan Chung Phil Cutler Michelle Dahle Sandra E. Daos Josefina David-Engel Janis Dickson Mary E. Espinoza Don Florentino Estrada Justin Ficke Erin Fiorito Kimberly Flores Maria Garcia Tammy Ginder Shanna Hall Jeremiah Hargrave Keith Hobbs Linda Howard David Hozaki Barbara Jane Ignacio Carolyn Ito Mike Johnson Anne Kienberger Dennis Kikuno Daniel Klein Alicia Kosmides Min Min Kyaw Steve Lantz Bill Larson Devi Legaspi Donald Legg

Fernando Magdaleno Patricia Mann Cindy Manson Wei Mao Elaine McRae Eva Mendenhall Maria L. Mendoza Melany Merryman Candace Millek René Miller Anne Milliken Rhoda M. Newman Young Oh Betsy Osborne Ronald Padilla Amanda Pazian Marissa Peate Ann Raljevich Karen Randazzo Bernadette Reid Addy Rodriguez Susan Santos Catherine Sarcona Connie Senner Heather Shay Michael R. Steele Devi Sutrisna Natalie Thorpe Veronica Urbano Sandy VandenBerge Patrick Wecker Betty Wilber Sean Yokoe Joanne Yoshida

SPONSOR $250+ Mary Ann J. Alvarez Gwendolyn Bailey Lisa Bargar Irene L. Bayan Jennis Belen Susan Castillo Changrong Cheng Heidi Chong Danielle Cosgrove Jeanette M. Cutuli Lety De La Torre Tami DeVine

Carla Duhovic Maria Eclevia Carlos Fernandez Alfrenda Gonzales Kathy Hagemeier Natalie Hassoldt Debbie Hoagland Tiffany Hsu Rosario Jarquin Changkyun Kim Tenzin Kiyosaki Susan Koch Julie A. Krueger John Kumashiro Martha Lopez Maricarmen Luhrsen Patrick Matteo Anne McCormick Pamela Michael Janice Miyashiro Glenda M. Moore Nancy Mukai Mary Ong Shirley Rose Pasion Paty Pearce Lizzette Perdue Vilma Plagata Zenaida Poquiz Armando Ramos DebbieReyes Sam Rodriguez Arceli Salanguit Susan Sions Kelie Wu Tabangay Dianna Tyndall Aileen N. Ungab Maria Valdivia Larry Villalba, Jr. Lori Woodman Phil and Sylvia Yim Rosie Zamora

DONOR $100+ Susie Kim Adams Tomoko Akazawa Bibi Ali Maria Arteaga Jose Albert Rey Asis

Sara K. Avakian Mary Beehler Melissa Benoit Maricela Bordenave Carly Brandt Liliana Brankovic Dinah Cabalatungan Evelyn Calip Crystal Castillo Rosalinda Catamisan Julie Che-Potter Ingrid Cobb Coral Cortez Carolyn Cruz Mina Dastgheib Geraldine De La Cruz Heather Dixon Linda Dobie Mary J. Eddy Juliana S. Enge Ana Maria Espejo Helen Flores Tom Fox Carol E. Fukuchi Sidney Gamber Jill Golden Zorayda Gozun Tracey Green Cathy Guthrie Michael Harada Jacqueline Hemmah Mary Hersh Bruce A. Hershberger Vickie Hershberger Nathan Higashigawa Suellen G. Hosino Lisa G. Hughes Valerie Ishihara Cynthia Keus Freda Khan Kimberley Koontz Cassandra Krutsinger Chance Krutsinger Trisha Lanphen Judy Grace Lebrillo Kristina Lenehan Chi Leung Claudia Leung Mary Jane Lew

S P R IN G 2 024 | PATR ON S 75

S u ppo rte r s Nolan Lew Liki T. Lima Elizabeth Lowerison Karla Marmol Elizabeth Marquez Lauren Mitchell Rosalyn Modeliste Ashley Moore Edward Nazareth Maricel Olvera Michele Palombo Wendy Pangindian Winston Pascual Donna Patch Jennifer Patten Jaquelina Patti Marco Pech Patricia Perez David Phung Gigi Portugal Karen Provin Felicia Quintana Sherry L. Rafters Christopher Rama Denzil Ramdhanie Laura Renfro Dottie Rudinica Ana Salinas Isabelo Salva Alia Schiltgen

Ernesto Segura Christine Serra-Harris John Singh Lorraine Smith Madhu Subherwal Lisa Takata Remer Tangoan Keith Tate, III Steven Thompson Beryl Tokunaga Wynne Torqueza Mei Tsai Vivian Tsang-Harada Cesar Valle Bao Vu Lani Walker Yasmin Yap-Mariano Tiffani Zanelli

FRIEND $50+ Mari Noelle Aguirre Alicia M. Alcazar Mei Amano Kent Amano Arlene Amigable Ashley Archuleta Aley Arredondo Jacqueline Ayres Lauren Ayres

Marnie Bay Marisa Bay Kyomi Bolender Josephine Boyon Caroline Cabilogan Felicidad Cabuena Cathrine Cainglet Thelma Carbonell Luzviminda B. Cartera Monica Cervantes Bobbie Chan Arliene P. Chang Elizabeth Cinco Ian Dickson Liza Domingo Priscilla Ednilao Michael Hanson Corrine Hidalgo Tokiko Imai Lynn Jagger Blanca Lardizabal Craig Leach Andrew Lee Vivian Lee Susan Lieu Elizabeth Lizaso Liza Lumanlan-Domingo Erica J. Mclister Kim McNeil Matthew Morales

Sanjeshni Murphy Erica J. Musto Nooshin Naghsheh Sophia Neveu Sue-Ann Nouchi Eliza Oliveros Melissa O’Malley Pat Quan Sophia Ramirez Maria D. Rangel Dani Rodriguez Amanda SanClemente May Santos Rinnah Sapitanan Vilma Sapitanan Jamie Schneider Khalid Shariff Manette Sinkus Richard Tejada Shelly Trites Bertha Turk Laura Tweedt-Roybal

RETIREE Betsy Biggins Kathryn Braasch Sandra Nazareth Bert Stewart

IN-KIND DONATIONS PREMIERE ($5,000+) Christy and Jay Abraham Jennifer and Anthony Chen, MD Choura Events ClearWave Orthodontics Sonia and Ryan Eberhard G.S. Brothers, Inc. Los Angeles Philharmonic Morgan’s Jewelers Redondo Van & Storage Rolling Hills Flower Mart Laura and Marc Schenasi See’s Candy Shops, Inc.

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Aileen Takahashi, MD and Charles Spenler, MD The Zislis Group

CONTRIBUTORS 9Round Ablon Skin Institute Academy of Magical Arts Valerie and Chris Adlam Annette and John Aguirre Alpha-Lit South Bay Ayne and Jack Baker Lori and David Baldwin

Maria Ballinger Beauty Treats Spa Michele and Robert Bell Bettolino Kitchen Stephanie and Brian Bezner Bianca Ecklund Designs Blue Mountain Veann and Tracy Bracken Bradford Renaissance Portraits Jennifer Brown and Clark Drake Lucia and Mark Bucklin Heather and Glenn Burr Cabrillo Marine Aquarium Frederique Carver and Doug Popovich

Maria and Kevin Chapman Tei-Fu and Oi-Lin Chen Nancy Peterson and Dick Chun Claydon Jewelers Ruth and Harv Daniels Deidre Davidson Photography Inge and Duane Davis Patti and Steven Delcarson Gayle and Richard Devirian DuBunne Day Spa Sally and Mike Eberhard Eddie V’s Felix Design Studio Regina and Dan Finnegan Fowler & Moore Interiors French Kande Angela and Dean Furkioti, DDS Gaetano’s Restaurant Chloe and Tony Gambardella Jackie and Greg Geiger Noelle and Paul Giuliano Ronnie and Alan Goldstein Kathleen and Rich Goldstein Anne Gonzales H2O Hermosa Diana and Greg Hagerman Halper Fine Art Jackie and Craig Halverson Hennessey’s Tavern Eve and Rick Higgins Helen and Dave Hitzel Chih-Ming and Shirley Ho Jenn and Brandon Hohm Terry and Joe Hohm Allison and Justin Holcher Galena Miller-Horii and Dwayne Horii Diane and Scott Imbach International City Theatre JLV Design Katherine and Kirk Johnson Deborah and JP Jones Jus’ Poke Dede King Shaya and Grant Kirkpatrick Gina and Gregg Kirkpatrick Tenzin Kiyosaki Song and David Klein Heather and Rick Kline Tricia Kosmo

Patricia Kromka Kristen and David Kudrave Katy and Greg Laetsch Connie and Jeff Lai, MD Las Amigas of TMMC Laugh Factory Long Beach Jacqueline and Joe Leimbach Gretchen Lent, MD Leonardo & Roberto’s Gourmet Blends Kathy Levy and Kevin Fujimoto Little Sister El Segundo Tracy and Andy Livian Helaine and Steve Lopes LA Kings Los Angeles Kings Judith and Arthur Lubin Lucky Dawg Grooming Salon Pat and Richard Lucy Barbara Demming Lurie and Mark Lurie, MD Marilyn MacLeod Tami and Paul Mance Judith and Gene Matsuda Del McCulloch Elaine McRae Medawar Jewelers Sunny Y. Melendez, MD and Ron Melendez, MD Brian Miura, MD Modern Jewelers Mehrnoosh Mojallali MOLAA Jennifer and Peter Morgan Musical Theatre West My Saint My Hero Nantucket Crossing NASCAR Clash Lori and Tom O’Hern Lee and Lorraine Ouye Palos Verdes Beach and Athletic Club Palos Verdes Florist Palos Verdes Golf Club Palos Verdes Tennis Club Julia Parker Patti Cakes Paul’s Photo, Inc. PAW Patrol PCB Label Company Pinwheel French Cafe & Bakery Barbara Pomykalski

Porsche Downtown LA R10 Social House Ready Refresh Red Car Brewery and Restaurant Republic Services Roclord Studio Photography Nancy and Michael Rouse Patricia Sacks, MD Sausal Sawdust Festival Tori and Jim Schladen Barbara L. Schulz, MD Dee and Tom Scott Patti and Rich Severa Allyson and Alex Shen, MD Sam and Kay Sheth Cathy and Alan Siegel Simms Restaurants Skywalker Vineyards Slay Restaurants Sodexo Terrie and Steven Solomon South Bay Plastic Surgeons South Coast Botanic Garden Spierer, Woodward, Corbalis & Goldberg Spirit Cruises Maureen and Brian Takahashi Stephanie L. Tang, DO Janice and Timur Tecimer The Beehive The Kettle The Rex Steakhouse Torrance Cultural Arts Foundation Triton Pacific Construction Group Trump National Golf Course, Rancho Palos Verdes Truxton’s American Bistro Mike and Nina Tsai UCLA Athletic Department USC Athletics Sandy VandenBerge Julie and Rob Waller Walteria Cleaners Susan and Wade Welch Wine Shoppe Wright’s Clothing Erin and Patrick Yeh, MD YIP Fitness Ann and Gary Zimmerman

S P R IN G 2 024 | PATR ON S 77

Keukenhof Tulip Gardens, Amsterdam 2023

Th e L ast Wo r d

BE SOMEBODY WHO MAKES EVERYBODY FEEL LIKE A SOMEBODY. — Mary Wright, Chief Nursing Officer

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NONPROFIT ORGANIZATION U.S. POSTAGE

PAID

3330 LOMITA BLVD. TORRANCE, CA 90505 310-325-9110 WWW.TORRANCEMEMORIAL.ORG

PERMIT NO. 381 TORRANCE, CA

38TH ANNUAL GOLF TOURNAMENT MONDAY, JUNE 3, 2024 • PALOS VERDES GOLF CLUB

TORRANCE MEMORIAL

with a PURPOSE

For More Information torrancememorialfoundation.org/golf 310-517-4703

All proceeds benefit Torrance Memorial’s Emergency Department Expansion