PFAC NEWS - Professional Fiduciary Association of California

PFAC NEWS
a f f i l i a t e
o f
t h e
n a t i o n a l
professional fiduciary association of california g u a r d i a n s h i p
a s s o c i a t i o n
volume 9, issue 4 — fall 2009
Fall Conference Recap!
Make Plans NOW for 2010
See details on page 14-15
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Table of Contents
PFAC Board of Directors 2008-2009
President
Stella Shvil, CCF, RG
858-794-0394
stella@shvilfiduciary.com
Southern Region President
Richard Norene
(310) 222-1044
esanda@sbcglobal.net
Vice President/
President Elect
Thomas Thale, CCF, RG
619-501-4626
thomas@profiduciary.com
Southern Region Director
Norine Boehmer
310-246-9055
norineb@pacbell.net
Executive Director’s Report . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
President’s Message. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
FPL Policy Enhancements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Northern Region President
Scott S.H. Phipps
510-508-9588
phisco2@yahoo.com
New Members. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Treasurer
Gary Loebner
(650) 961-3368
SVFiduciary@sbcglobal.net
Northern Region Director
Northern Region President
Patricia McVey-Ritsick
925-627-1593
patmr@pmrfiduciary.com
Fight the Flu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Past President
Sharon Toth CCF, RG
510-352-6000
stoth@imtassociates.com
San Diego Region President
Beverly Brito
760-480-8941w
boognbr@cox.net
Secretary
Linda Banta
(415) 459-3486
fidresources@aol.com
Region and Chapter Contacts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Calendar of Events. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Make Plans NOW for 2010 Conference. . . . . . . . . . 14
Executive Director’s Report
A
San Diego Region Director
s you know, since July 2009, PFAC
has intervened on behalf of several
members regarding licensure issues they
experienced with the Professional Fiduciaries Bureau. To date, all of those who
contacted us regarding delays and lack of
response to e-mails and telephone calls
have had their licenses renewed or their
initial licensing applications processed.
One member had been attempting to be
licensed since March 2008, and she was
particularly grateful that we were able to
bring her case to resolution. To date, the
Bureau has issued 388 licenses.
PFAC Staff
One Capitol Mall
Suite 320
Sacramento, CA 95814
Phone: 916.669.5330
Toll-Free: 866.886.7322
Fax: 916.444.7462
Web: pfac-pro.org
Email: pfac@amgroup.us
Executive Director
Jackie Miller
jmiller@amgroup.us
Accounting Services
Connie Payne
cpayne@amgroup.us
Communications Director
Melissa Hensley
mhensley@amgroup.us
Membership Services
Erica Guerin
eguerin@amgroup.us
Jackie Miller
Sandy Carey, PFAC’s legislative advocate, has reported that the
Department of Consumer Affairs has transferred administration of
the PFB to another Bureau Chief. Richard Wallinder, current Chief
of the Cemetery and Funeral Bureau, will also serve as Chief of
the Professional Fiduciaries Bureau. Former acting Bureau Chief
Joanne Wenzel is returning to her position as Chief of the Bureau for
Private Postsecondary and Vocational Education. The Bureau continues to have few staff and resources; because the Bureau continues
to be underfunded, the PFAC Board of Directors is monitoring this
issue very closely.
report continued on page 7
professional fiduciar y association of california • one capitol mall, suite 320 • sacramento, ca 95814
916-669-5330 • toll-free 866-886-7322 • fax (916) 444-7462 • www.pfac-pro.org • email pfac@amgroup.us
3
President’s Message
A
s a PFAC member for over seven years
I have seen much growth and many
changes in our organization. For those of
you who have been with PFAC for years
and provided countless hours of your time
we thank you. To those of you who are currently providing your time, let me thank
you for that as well. The growth and quality of PFAC can only improve through the
efforts of its leaders and more importantly
through the volunteer efforts of our membership. We thank for your commitment to
volunteer in the future and to strive for improving our organization.
It is quite challenging to serve as both
your President and as a professional fiduciary. However, the rewards are worth the
time and effort and I am willing to help
however possible. During these first few
months, I have had the privilege of serving
with some wonderful board, committee,
and staff members who have great passion
and commitment to improving the quality
of PFAC. As many of you know, at times this
profession can be quite challenging. But at
the end of the day we are provided with great
satisfaction in knowing we have helped our
clients to achieve a better quality of life.
As I continue to speak to various professionals in our industry, it becomes more
and more apparent that PFAC has developed a well-respected standing and reputation in communities throughout our state.
Our membership continues to follow the
ethical standards laid out by our organization and that of the Professional Fiduciaries Bureau. There are numerous individuals in our community who are not aware
of the countless hours and efforts we may
undertake to take care of a client’s needs.
Often times, the news we read about this
profession is negative and based on a few
misguided fiduciaries or disgruntled family
members.
Let me take this opportunity to thank
those of you who continue to provide
countless hours to your clients. Whether it
be taking a client to the hospital and waiting in the ER, finding the right caregiver to
assist, or the right facility for a client who
can longer safely live at home. It could even
be the small gesture of simply stopping by
to visit with a client only to receive a smile
for your presence, taking them out to lunch
for their birthday, or just because. Let me
say thank you for all of what you do.
As our population continues to age so
will the need for more professional fiduciaries. We are moving forward to lay the
foundation for the need that continues to
grow. As your President, I am committed to
seeking opportunities to educate the com-
As an endorsed insurance provider for the Professional Fiduciary Association of California,
Dominion Insurance Services assists PFAC members in securing the quality insurance
coverage they require.
The PFAC-approved professional liability insurance program is underwritten through
Lloyd’s of London and is available for PFAC members only. The
Lloyd’s policy is specifically designed for professional fiduciaries
and is available at an affordable rate.
For further information, go to PFAC’s website, www.pfac-pro.org,
and click on the Dominion logo.
Toll Free: (888) 313-9977 Phone: (925) 313-9977 Fax: (925) 313-9978
Email: info@dominioninsurance.com
professional fiduciar y association of california • one capitol mall, suite 320 • sacramento, ca 95814
916-669-5330 • toll-free 866-886-7322 • fax (916) 444-7462 • www.pfac-pro.org • email pfac@amgroup.us
4
munity about our profession, providing
more educational opportunities for both
new and seasoned members, improving the
website, newsletter and brochures. As our
Board and committees move forward you
will see many positive changes in the coming year. As we work toward our goals, we
are mindful of our budget and limitations
and will move with caution and care. We
thank you for your input and patience.
Wishing you all continued success in
your chosen profession. As always, if you
have any questions or concerns, please feel
free to call me or e-mail at stella@shvilfiduciary.com or (858) 794-0394.
Warm regards,
Stella Shvil, J.D., CLPF, NCG
Licensed Professional Fiduciary No. 159
3830 Valley Centre Drive #705-762
San Diego, California 92130
Office (858) 794-0394
Fax (858) 794-4609
www.shvilfiduciary.com
E-mail stella@shvilfiduciary.com ■
FPL Policy Enhancements Approved for PFAC Members
Lawrence D. Hilton, Dominion Insurance Services
W
e are pleased to announce that underwriters at Lloyd’s of London have
agreed to several new Fiduciary Professional
Liability (“FPL”) insurance policy enhancements. Since first introducing the PFACendorsed FPL program we at Dominion
have worked continuously to improve and
expand the scope of coverage afforded
PFAC members. The last round of changes
before these most current ones occurred in
March of this year. These very latest enhancements underscore Lloyd’s long-term
commitment to the FPL program and the
members it serves.
Consider the following
highlights:
1. Consent to Settle Clause. The policy
already provides that no claim will be settled without the Assured’s consent. Because
underwriters are committed to working
with policyholders at claim time in a collaborative manner, the following helpful
language has been added to the consent to
settle clause located in Section I.B.4 of the
policy:
Without waiving the foregoing, in order to enhance the likelihood of resolving
Claims covered by this Insurance in a mutually agreeable manner to both Underwriters and the Assured, Underwriters agree to:
(1) seek the Assured’s views regarding any
potential settlement or compromise recommended by Underwriters and acceptable to
the claimant; and (2) substantively respond
to any such views, explaining Underwriters’
position and the reason(s) therefore.
2. New Provision for the Defense of
Disciplinary Proceedings. With California fiduciaries now operating under state
licensing regulations and thus subject to
discipline for alleged misconduct, underwriters have agreed to add coverage of up
to $10,000 for the defense of disciplinary
proceedings.
Coverage for Volunteers and Pro Bono
Cases. In response to requests by PFAC
members, underwriters have now included
in the policy form express language clarifying and confirming that coverage applies to
volunteers working for the Named Assured
as well as to all work done on a pro bono
basis.
For further information regarding this
PFAC-endorsed program, contact:
Lawrence D. Hilton, Esq.
Dominion Insurance Services
370 Park St., Ste 8, Moraga CA 94556
T: 925.313.9977; F: 925.313.9978
E: larry.hilton@dominioninsurance.com ■
3. New Provision for Lost Earnings.
When a fiduciary is required to miss time
out of the office to appear at a hearing, arbitration or trial of a claim, that assured
loses valuable billable hours. In recognition of this, underwriters have agreed to a
new policy provision which allows for reimbursement of such lost earnings at a rate
of $250 per day, capped at $5,000 for the
policy period.
professional fiduciar y association of california • one capitol mall, suite 320 • sacramento, ca 95814
916-669-5330 • toll-free 866-886-7322 • fax (916) 444-7462 • www.pfac-pro.org • email pfac@amgroup.us
5
Welcome New Members
General
Barry Finkelstein, BS, JD
The Law Offices of Barry W. Finkelstein
(510) 521-7636
barry@alamedalaw.com
Associates
Richard Adame
(408) 500-8400
mexbanker@yahoo.com
Veronica Lanuza, CLPF
(818) 618-2677
Fax: (818) 773-0004
veronicalanuza@earthlink.net
Donna Adams, CLPF
Jewish Family and Children’s Services
(415) 449-3849
Fax: (415) 449-1232
donna@jfcs.org
Cynthia Parish, NCG, CLPF
(818) 386-1140
Fax: (818) 386-1031
Cparish001@socal.rr.com
Patricia Alexander
(626) 622-7171
Fax: (626) 578-1130
palexander@gepiaco.com
Margo Richardson, RN, CLPF, RG
Conservatorship, Trustee & Case Management Services
(949) 888-6756
Fax: (949) 888-6759
Margotsalot@hotmail.com
Eveline Blanchette, CLPF
(805) 461-5880
Fax: (805) 461-5880
Eveline.blanchette@gmail.com
Nancy Thornton, CCF, CPA, NCG,
CLPF
Foster Thornton, LLC
(858) 350-1391
Fax: (858) 794-2899
Nancy@fosterthornton.com
Jessica Britt, CLPF
Personal Contract Services
(650) 340-8873
Fax: (650) 340-7873
jessicambritt@hotmail.com
Robert Britton
Master Trust of California
(909) 382-4678
Fax: (909) 382-4678
Rcmaster-trust@hotmail.com
Dee Everett
(408) 334-9279
Fax: (408) 340-1323
deeflygirl@aol.com
Mary Gallagher
Integrity Fiduciary Services
(209) 524-9331
Fax: (209) 524-5501
mfgallagher@me.com
Perri Sloane Goodman
(818) 984-1380
Fax: (818) 760-8681
pgoodman@jfsla.org
Prabhakar Issac
Isaac Enterprises
(408) 972-2629
Fax: (408) 972-2629
Praisa3@hotmail.com
Edward Jones ranked “Highest in Investor
Satisfaction with Full Service Brokerage Firms,”
according to the J.D. Power and Associates 2009
U.S. Full Service Investor Satisfaction StudySM.
Visit jdpower.com.
Brad Sissons
www.edwardjones.com
Financial Advisor
Member SIPC
.
3961 Governor Drive
San Diego, CA 92122
858-458-9406
professional fiduciar y association of california • one capitol mall, suite 320 • sacramento, ca 95814
916-669-5330 • toll-free 866-886-7322 • fax (916) 444-7462 • www.pfac-pro.org • email pfac@amgroup.us
6
Region and Chapter Contacts
Eun Sun Eunice Jung, CLPF
Wilco Fiduciary Services
(213) 383-0983
Fax: (213) 383-0984
Eunice.jung@wilcomgmtintl.us
Tina Lazarus
(619) 508-9993
Fax: (866) 576-0460
lazavustina@gmail.com
Murray Kalish
(925) 256-9794
Fax: (925) 955-1635
mkalish@lsfwc.com
Wendy Middleton Moore
Wendy More Fiduciary Services
(916) 316-9960
Fax: (916) 782-8632
wmiddletonm@yahoo.com
Marsha Keefer
Practical Heart
(831) 419-5641
Fax: (831) 475-9628
mkeefer@sbcglobal.net
Matt Quentmeyer, CLPF
Sierra Fiduciary Services
(530) 621-3912
Fax: (530) 621-4484
sierrafiduciary@live.com
Paul Kim, CLPF
Wilco Fiduciary Services
(213) 383-0983
Fax: (213) 383-0984
drpaulmkim@gmail.com
Jay Soulier
(510) 208-4580
Fax: (510) 208-4582
cookiejoy@sbcglobal.net ■
Northern Region
Patricia McVey-Ritsick
925-627-1593
patmr@pmrfiduciary.com
Sacramento Chapter
Marve Breech
916-453-1418
marvebreech@yahoo.com
San Francisco Chapter
Barbara Simon
415-285-3233
Simonassoc_fiduciary@hotmail.com
Silicon Valley Chapter
Eric Hersh
408-996-2432
kehersh@sbcglobal.net
Santa Rosa Chapter
Jan Logan
707-823-8263
jloganppfs@comcast.net
East Bay Chapter
Janice Kittredge
925 465 5500
janice@californiaconnection.com
Central San Joaquin Valley Chapter
Ronald Dicken
559-732-0759
rondicken01@comcast.net
Feather River Chapter
Ronda Brunson
530-879-7650
ecs7650@sbcglobal.net
San Mateo Chapter
Claudia P. Johnson
650-692-5539
claudia@johnsonfiduciary.com
Executive Director’s report continued from page 1
On another issue – Our endorsed liability insurance program, administered by Dominion Insurance Services, Inc., continues
to grow. Currently, 108 members are taking
advantage of this program, which continues to be enhanced and to provide valueadded benefits for our members, including
a vacant property program. Please see Larry
Hilton’s article elsewhere in the newsletter. For further information regarding this
valuable benefit, contact Larry Hilton, at
925.313.9977; or larry.hilton@dominioninsurance.com
The just-concluded Fall Conference in
Santa Rosa was a record breaker for a fall
program – with a record number of attendees and exhibitors/sponsors! Our thanks to
our Northern Region hosts and committee
and to all who worked so hard to make this
such a success! During our Friday business
meeting taking place during that event, the
membership voted overwhelmingly to approve all the proposed revisions to the PFAC
Bylaws. Among others, the changes will allow Associate members to vote and to hold
all Regional offices, including President and
Region Director; statewide offices (President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer,
Past President) will continue to be held by
General/Charter members only.
As always, if you have questions or
concerns, please feel free to contact the administrative office; 916.669.5330; toll-free:
866.886.PFAC; or pfac@amgroup.us. ■
Southern Region
Norine Boehmer
310-246-9055
norineb@pacbell.net
Orange County Chapter
Lee Ann Hitchman
714-276-2112
leeann@hitchmanfiduciaries.com
Central Coastal Chapter
Alison Stonecipher
805-680-4090
astonecipher@msn.com
San Gabriel Valley Chapter
Annabelle Wilson
626-792-1664
mail@arwilson.net
S. San Joaquin Valley Chapter
Joseph Ziemann
661-636-0966
trustjz@yahoo.com
Desert Chapter
Ronald Olund
760-323-8857
olundhooker@aol.com
Inland Empire Chapter
Sam Hlavaty
760-244-6592
SlednShoe@verison.net
professional fiduciar y association of california • one capitol mall, suite 320 • sacramento, ca 95814
916-669-5330 • toll-free 866-886-7322 • fax (916) 444-7462 • www.pfac-pro.org • email pfac@amgroup.us
7
PFAC Region Updates
Northern Region
Scott Phipps, President
Our last Regional meeting was
held on Thursday, September 17 at
Scott’s Seafood Restaurant in Oakland’s Jack London Square. The speaker
was Virginia George, Esq., Associate
Professor of Law at John F. Kennedy
School of Law and the Director at the
Elder Law Clinic in Pleasant Hill. The
clinic provides free legal services and
fights against financial abuse of elders,
serving senior residents of Alameda,
Contra Costa and Solano Counties. Ms.
George is a dynamic speaker and passionate about her work with elders.
Chapter Representatives are encouraged to join the Regional
Board at its’ meetings where you can share what is happening in
your Chapter. This is a great opportunity to hear what challenges
face each region, to network with other Representatives, learn how
to choose talent for presentations and offer suggestions on organization. If you have any questions regarding the procedures for your
Chapter please feel free to contact your Northern California Regional Director, Pat McVey-Ritsick at patmr@pmrfiduciary.com
or me at phisco2@yahoo.com.
Southern Region
Richard Norene, President Southern Region PFAC
Hello from the Southern Region. Our second regional luncheon meeting was held on October 22, 2009 at Almansor Court
in the city of Alhambra and well attended by over 50 members.
The educational portion featured Christine N. Lee, MSW. She addressed the relevant topic of “Cultural Considerations for Elder
Abuse and Neglect in Ethnic Communities.” It was an extremely
informative presentation. A discussion ensued on the challenges of
working with individuals who are part of a larger ethnic community. As a result of the knowledge gained at the luncheon, we came
away with greater insight to the unique needs of ethnic groups.
This will enable us to provide better service to clients with minority backgrounds. Scott Phipps
At a previous meeting of the Northern California Board we
decided to recognize our colleagues who have offered their time
and talent to PFAC. It was an honor for me to present a special
award to Rosalie Rowsey who has offered so much to so many of us
through mentoring. Even though she states that she wants to retire
she still mentors many individuals and groups of new members.
Thank you Rosalie for all that you have done and continue to do to
provide the example of professional fiduciary.
At this meeting there was an open invitation for volunteers
to spearhead the Attorney Appreciation Committee which is in
charge of planning an event to demonstrate our gratitude to the
attorneys we work in partnership with. A special thank you to
Norine Boehmer, Donna Bogdanovich and Emily Stuhlbarg for
your future work on this committee. The 2009 Attorney Appreciation Dinner was a HIT! With a
change of venue from the East Bay to the peninsula in Mountain
View and a theme of “Oh, I get by with a little help from my
friends,” the successful event was rated number one on the charts.
Original album covers (yes - remember those 33 1/3 rpm’s?) were
set as placemats and the musical event was attended by a record
number of attorneys. Special thanks to all who assisted in making
this such a fun event and to the 2009 committee: Sandra Hill,
Joyce Anthony, Bonnie Burdett, Jutta Kiel.
The next Regional luncheon meeting will be held on January
28, 2010 and details will be forwarded. Reservations can be confirmed to Julia Nelson.
The 2009 Fall Conference which was held November 5 and
6 in beautiful Sonoma County has exceeded its goals for funding
and attendance. Co-chairs Liz Adler and Tony Byrnes coordinated
a wonderful event. A special thank you to Deirdre Nesbit-Combs
for her superb and relentless skills in fundraising. The team who
put this together deserves a standing ovation.
Thank you to all who participated in the 2009 Fall Conference in Santa Rosa. The conference gave members a great opportunity to further their knowledge of this field and network with
colleagues throughout the State. Personally, I find that attending
conferences reminds me of the magnitude of the work we do to
protect our clients and enhance their lives, and the high quality
of our colleagues, making me proud to have chosen a career as a
Professional Fiduciary.
If you need additional CEU’s your local Chapter offers you the
opportunity to get them as well as network with your colleagues.
Attendance at other Chapter meetings in our Region and State are
encouraged. If you don’t know what Chapter you belong to, please
call the PFAC office or send me an email at phisco2@yahoo.com.
Chapter Representatives and their contact information are also
listed in this newsletter. Do you have a suggestion for a meeting
topic for your Chapter or for the Region? We are always looking
for talented speakers who are willing to share their experience and
provide educational enlightenment to our profession.
San Diego Regional Report
Bev Brito
Greetings from the San Diego Region.
Our Appreciation Dinner was once again a great success! It
was held at the San Diego Zoo in September. The zoo provided an
report continued on page 10
professional fiduciar y association of california • one capitol mall, suite 320 • sacramento, ca 95814
916-669-5330 • toll-free 866-886-7322 • fax (916) 444-7462 • www.pfac-pro.org • email pfac@amgroup.us
8
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Fight the Flu
W
hile you may not feel you need a
flu shot, reconsider: getting vaccinated not only protects you, it also helps
safeguard those you love. It’s even more
important if you or someone you live with
is at high risk for flu complications, such
as those with chronic health conditions
like asthma or diabetes, young children,
and the elderly.
Who Should Get Vaccinated
The Centers for Disease Control’s
(CDC) Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) names these
“high priority” groups:
• Anyone over age 50
• Anyone with a chronic health condition
• Anyone who lives with a person with a
chronic health condition
• Anyone in contact with high-risk individuals, such as hospital or clinic personnel or at-home caregivers
• Anyone who lives with or cares for a
baby under 6 months
• Babies and children, between 6 months
and their 19th birthday
• Pregnant women
The flu season can begin as early as
October and last throughout the winter.
Remember that it takes about two weeks
for the immunization to become effective.
Just check with your doctor to be sure
you’re a good candidate for the vaccination. While it’s very safe for the majority
of us, the vaccine is not recommended for
those who have a severe allergy to chicken eggs; had a severe adverse reaction to
a previous shot; have had Guillain-Barre
Syndrome; or if you currently have an illness with fever (in that case, wait until
you are better).
Where to Get Vaccinated
The CDC’s Healthy People 2010 set
a goal of having 90% of Americans age
50 and up receive a flu vaccine. The goal
has not been met in any one state, even
though it’s easier than ever to get the vaccine. Flu shots are offered at doctor’s offices, clinics, hospitals, and many pharmacies.
Flu Facts
Learn about the flu – so you can fight
against it for yourself and those you love!
• Flu is a catch-all term for a variety of
different viruses that cause respiratory
illness.
• Symptoms include high fever, headache and muscle aches, exhaustion, dry
cough and sore throat, and a runny or
stuffy nose.
• Complications of flu are bacterial
pneumonia, ear or sinus infections,
dehydration, and worsening of chronic
medical conditions.
• Flu is highly contagious, spreading
from person to person through coughing and sneezing. If you have the virus,
you are contagious a day before you
show symptoms, and up to five days after you get sick
• Wash hands frequently to prevent the
spread of germs.
• Flu strains mutate from year to year, so
it’s important to get vaccinated every
year. The flu shot for each year is specifically designed to provide immunity
to the most common viruses in that
year.
Source: www.cdc.gov/flu/about/qa/flushot.htm
PFAC Region Updates continued from page 8
In the San Diego Region we have well attended monthly meetings. These meetings not only offer CEU’s to members but a chance
to network with each other and the various vendors that attend our
meetings. Our meetings are held at various facilities, the location
of which is rotated around the county out of convenience to the
entire membership. The facility hosts the breakfast or brunch and
attendees have the opportunity to tour the facility. This keeps our
regional costs to a minimum and benefits the facility by providing
awareness to the fiduciaries of the available residential resources
that are available.
up-close and personal animal show as well as offering attendees entrance prior to the event. This is our second year using this location
and it has been well received by members as well as their guests.
Special thanks to Stella Shvil and Monika Pelletier for all of their
hard work in making this such an enjoyable event.
The speaker for our October Regional meeting was Judge Harry Powazek. Judge Powazek has been in our North County Probate
division for less than a year. Coming from family court has helped
him have a better understanding of the family dynamics fiduciaries
face on a daily basis. Our members were asked to submit questions
and concerns to him in advance so he could address the issues individually. This meeting was a good opportunity for fiduciaries who
primarily work in our downtown court to meet our newest Judge.
San Diego will be hosting the May 2010 Conference. Patty Fister and I are Co-chairing this event. We are in the process of forming our committees. If anyone is interested in joining one of the committees please contact us. The Call for
Proposals is also available. If you have any suggestions for presenters, please give the Call for Proposal to them for submission as
soon as possible. We would like to have all of these in by the end
of the year. We look forward to seeing all of you in at our beautiful
San Diego next May. ■
Judge Powazek formed a committee consisting of six attorneys
and two fiduciaries to survey San Diego County fees charged for
the services provided by those in our professions. Patty Fister and I
are the fiduciaries who were chosen for this committee. It has been
interesting to see the variations in educational background as well
as the diverse experiences, for both attorneys and fiduciaries, and
how that relates to the scale of fees charged. We hope to have the
reports ready to present to the Judge in the next couple of weeks.
professional fiduciar y association of california • one capitol mall, suite 320 • sacramento, ca 95814
916-669-5330 • toll-free 866-886-7322 • fax (916) 444-7462 • www.pfac-pro.org • email pfac@amgroup.us
10
Update – PFAC Bylaws Revisions
During the November 6 Business Meeting, the PFAC membership
voted overwhelmingly to approve the proposed revisions to the
PFAC Bylaws. All proposed revisions were approved. The updated version has been posted to the members’ only section of the
website.
Calendar of Events
Subject to change. Call local
contact to confirm schedule,
location and topics.
November
25 San Diego Region Conservatorship
Class 1:00 - 4:00 p.m. - Silverado
Escondido, 1500 Borden Road,
Escondico, CA. Call 619.698.9450 to
make reservations. The Conservator
Class is facilitated for family
members that have been ordered
by the court to attend this class to
fulfill the court requirement.
December
4 Santa Rosa Chapter Meeting - Coco’s
Restaurant (Hwy 12 and Farmers
Lane) 8 a.m.
8 San Joaquin Valley Chapter Meeting,
Location Spike and Rail Restaurant,
Selma, Noon. Contact Ron Dicken
559-732-0759 or email rondicken01@
comcast.net.
9 San Gabriel Chapter Meeting Notice
11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m., Embassy Suites,
Cancun Room 211 E Huntington
Dr, Arcadia 91006 Avoiding Liability
While Acting As Trustee, Presenter:
Alexandra L Bannon, Esq.
E-Mail mail@arwilson.net or phone
(626) 792-1664 Note: Reservations
are essential. 17 Sacramento Chapter Meeting,
11:00 a.m., Mimi’s Cafe, 2029 Alta
Arden Expressway, Sacramento, Ca
Speaker: Scott Sackett from Fiduciary
Management Technologies, Inc
916-930-9900
Topic: Computer Security &
Fiduciary Software
18 San Mateo Chapter Meeting Members Only - Time TBD - The
Pruneyard Plaza Hotel, Campbell
95008
January
20 San Diego Region Brunch Meeting
11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Location:
Oakdale Heights, 5740 Lake Murray
Blvd., La Mesa, CA - Topic: MediCal Updates - RSVP: Required - call
619.685.7423 to make a reservation.
22 Silicon Valley Chapter Meeting. 7:30
a.m. - Andrew de Vries, Prudential CA
Realty - How Fiduciaries Can Best Sell
Probate, Estate and Trust Real Estate
- Hobee’s Pruneyard, 1875 S. Bascom
Avenue, Unit 190, Campbell 95008
28 Southern Region Luncheon Meeting 11:30 a.m.
February
17 San Diego MEMBERS ONLY Lunch
Meeting - 7:30 - 9:00 a.m. Location:
Silverado - Encinitas, 335 Saxony
Road, Encinitas, CA - Topic: How to
Bill Medi-Cal
26 Silicon Valley Chapter Meeting.
7:30 a.m. - Chuck Filanoski, PhD Fiduciary Responbsibilities - Hobee’s
Pruneyard, 1875 S. Bascom Avenue,
Unit 190, Campbell 95008
March
17 San Diego Region Meeting 11:00 a.m 1:00 p.m. - Proposed Location: Elijah’s,
8861 La Jolla Drive, La Jolla, CA Topic: How to Handle a Suicide Case
- RSVP: Required call 619.685.7423 to
make a reservation.
April
21 San Diego Region Breakfast Meeting
7:30 - 9:00 a.m. Proposed Location:
Silverado Escondido 1500 Borden
Road, Escondido CA - Topic: Adult
Protective Services
22 Southern Region Luncheon Meeting
11:30 a.m. - Contact Julia Nelson julia.
nelson@yahoo.com (818) 957-4729
May
18 San Diego MEMBERS ONLY
Planning Meeting Lunch
5 - 7 PFAC Spring Conference, Hilton
Resort and Spa, San Diego
November 2010
4 - 5 PFAC Fall Conference, Renaissance
Hotel, Long Beach
Email your meeting announcements to pfac@
amgroup.us, to have them included in this
listing. Meeting schedules subject to change. ■
Specializing in the Sale of Real Properties in
Probate or Trust
The unique requirements of selling
real property in probate or trust
requires special knowledge and
expertise. From pre-sale preparation
to court confirmation, We believe you
and your clients will benefit from our
many years of experience
Phil Costanza, Broker Associate
Jeff Darr. Realtor
• Over 30 years combined experience selling probate real properties
• Representing the Santa Clara County Public Administrator/Public
Guardian’s offices in the sale of their real properties since 1980
• Knowledgeable with probate code and probate sale procedures
• Experienced in court procedures and sale confirmation hearings
• Listed in Silicon Valley Business Journal “Who’s Who in Real Estate”
• Listed in San Jose Magazine as one of Santa Clara County’s
Top 100 Real Estate Agents
With hundreds of probate and trust properties sold and a team of
service providers, we are uniquely qualified to handle all of your real estate
needs from pre-market preparation to property management.
Serving all of Santa Clara, Santa Cruz, Monterey,
San Mateo and Alameda Counties
Phil Costanza, CRS and Jeff Darr, SRES
Serving Professional Fiduciaries, Conservators, Attorneys & Trustees
Office: (408) 295-4432 Fax: (408) 295-5832
Email Phil at philcostanza @ remax.net or Jeff at jeffdarr @ remax.net
visit our web site at: www.philandjeff.com
Associated with Re/Max Santa Clara Valley - 1530 Parkmoor Avenue #B - San Jose, CA. 95128
Make Plans NOW to Join Us in Beach City USA!
15th Annual PFAC Educational Conference
May 5-7, 2010
Hilton Resort & Spa
San Diego, CA
Planning for the PFAC 15th Annual Educational Conference is moving ahead and now is the time to
start planning for your trip to sunny San Diego!
Aside from the wonderful networking opportunities, the conference will offer:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
A full day pre-conference intensive course offering 6.5 credit hours; topic and scheduling to be
finalized by January (additional fee of $220 applies)
A “Gidget & Moon Doggie” style Welcome Reception on May 5th including a live auction
Time to interact with sponsors and exhibitors throughout the conference
Fabulous keynote and general sessions
A variety of amazing classes to choose from including a wide range of topics with a incredible and highly experienced group of
presenters
An important Statewide Meeting
A final night reception and gala dinner/program
A silent auction with bidding throughout the conference
A “take home” program and conference notebook, tote bag and other goodies
The opportunity to earn credit for PFAC continuing education
GREAT hotel rates! The conference host hotel is the Hilton Resort & Spa and our negotiated rate is just $165 plus tax per night.
The special hotel rate for up to three days prior and three days after the conference. Take a holiday and stay the weekend!
The hotel is a beautiful water front property on Mission Bay (go to www.sandiegohilton.com for further details) and there are
lots of interesting nooks and crannies to explore! In addition, the hotel boasts a full service spa.
The conference registration fee will begin at $375 for members (early bird registration).
We encourage PFAC members to consider advertising in the program/resource directory. Ads start at $150 for a business card ad.
For more information and a commitment form, go to www.pfac-pro.org and download the “Marketing & Sponsorship Opportunities”
brochure or contact MeetingWise, LLC, our conference management company, at (310) 937-9473 or admin@meetingwise.net.
Conference registration packets will mail in early February. We encourage everyone to register early to take advantage of the
registration discount. Go to www.pfac-pro.org for periodic updates, additional information and to register online (beginning in
February).
SOLD to the Highest Bidder!
We welcome your auction donations valued at $50.00 or higher including products or services including electronics, spa
services, wine, hotel stays, time shares, event tickets, gift baskets and much more. Check your attics, secret drawers, basements
and other hiding places too! Unwanted or unsuitable gifts and items picked up during travel may be good candidates for the
auction. If you do crafts, we welcome your creations. Please donate NEW and unused items ONLY unless they qualify as
antiques. Ask your vendors for donations; let a lucky winner use your mileage points, vacation home or beach cottage! Whatever
you do, use your imagination and consider sending us something! Remember, the money we make from this conference benefits
our programs year round. For more information on making donations please contact MeetingWise, LLC at (310) 937-9473 or
admin@meetingwise.net or… download a donations form at www.pfac-pro.org.
Call for Proposals: We are now accepting proposals for breakout sessions. If you would like to be considered as a presenter and/or know
someone else who has a great message to share with PFAC members, go to www.pfac-pro.org to download a proposal form.
professional fiduciar y association of california • one capitol mall, suite 320 • sacramento, ca 95814
916-669-5330 • toll-free 866-886-7322 • fax (916) 444-7462 • www.pfac-pro.org • email pfac@amgroup.us
14
PFAC 2009 Fall Conference Yields Strong Harvest!
The November 5-6, 2009 conference at the Hyatt Vineyard Creek Hotel & Spa in Santa Rosa,
CA yielded the highest participation ever recorded at a PFAC Fall Conference. With close to
350 in attendance (including sponsors, exhibitors and presenters), 115 in attendance for the
“Special Needs Trust Administration: The Good, The Bad and The Ridiculous” pre-conference
session and 46 exhibitors we had quite a harvest! The location was serene and peaceful (despite
the rain), the wine country was a perfect setting for our conference activities, the sessions were
filled with valuable information and the networking abounded.
The conference started with a “Wine Country” Welcome Reception with the exhibitors and
featuring two local wineries, Taft Street and Kendall Jackson. Friday included 23 breakout
sessions and the general session featuring “Ethics, Morality and the Law” presented by Virginia
Palmer, Fitzgerald Abbott & Beardsley LLP, Attorney at Law. We also had another great silent
auction with 47 items featured.
Our sponsors and exhibitors allow us to keep our fees reasonable and are the primary contributors to our fundraising efforts for the
organization. We thank them for all that they do and their continued loyalty to and support of PFAC. Our sponsors for this event are listed
below. For a list of exhibitors, go to www.pfac-pro.org.
$5,000 Sponsor
$2,500 Sponsors
Art Lehman, Village Associates Real Estate
Mechanics Bank
Perisho Tombor Ramirez Filler & Brown,
Certified Public Accountants
Phillips Bonding & Insurance Agency, Inc.
$1,500 Sponsors
Bond Services of California
Campbell Law Offices
Community Bank of the Bay
Institute for Professional Fiduciaries Studies By
Peter Myers, Esq. & Kevin Urbatsch, Esq.
Merrill Lynch Special Needs Group
Friend of PFAC Sponsors
Aaron, Riechert, Carpol & Riffle, APC
(Kathleen Durrans)
AccentCare (Rhea Laughlin)
IMT Associates (Sharon Toth & Meredith Taylor)
Stella Shvil, J.D.
Wells Fargo Advisors
(John Kramer & Gregory Haeseler)
PFAC Sonoma Chapter
A special thank you goes to our conference chairs Anthony Byrnes, Elizabeth Adler and the entire conference committee for
a job well done!
professional fiduciar y association of california • one capitol mall, suite 320 • sacramento, ca 95814
916-669-5330 • toll-free 866-886-7322 • fax (916) 444-7462 • www.pfac-pro.org • email pfac@amgroup.us
15
Professional Fiduciary
Association of California
One Capitol Mall, Suite 320
Sacramento, CA 95814
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Fiduciaries” Pamphlet
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PFAC | One Capitol Mall, Suite 320, Sacramento, CA 95814 | OR | Fax to: (916) 444-7462
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Questions? Call 866-886-7322