The Retreat Center , a best kept secret in Palos Verdes

Here is a great article on the Palos Verdes Retreat Center, I like most of the community did not know that this retreat center is available to the public, It is a great place to see and hold meetings, events or small group seminars. The views are spectacular, right next to the St. John Fisher Church and School. Check this out for your next event. It is a great location, in the center of the peninsula easy to get to and centrally located.

By Frank Brown, Peninsula News
Friday, August 22, 2008 4:23 PM PDT

Hidden away on Crest Road just east of Crenshaw Boulevard, the Mary and Joseph Retreat Center holds secret charms. Some of its loyal supporters showed up last weekend to sip and savor wine and dinner, then to involve themselves in games of chance. Some who stayed late were put up for a nominal fee, rather than drive home.

The evening's theme, "Puttin' on the Ritz," paid off for Debbie Gaume. She won a round-trip for two to stay in Boston's Ritz Carlton. An elaborate silent auction brought in more funds to refurbish the center's 48-year-old heating system and install air conditioning. Though sponsored by an order of nuns, what few people know is that the center is open to secular groups as well. It's a perfect, quiet and inexpensive spot for the key people from the Hill's nonprofits to hold planning meetings, said Sydne Jongbloed, conference coordinator. There are no similar accommodations on the Peninsula.

The cost for a couple overnight is $85. With three meals, it's $155 for two in a shared room. There is a basic package, said Jongbloed, of two nights with five meals, a meeting room, coffee and tea service and snacks. "It's almost like a cruise ship," she said.

In tune with political times, the center plans to hold an appetizers, dinner and film about the American presidency starring Michael Douglas at 6 p.m. on Nov. 6. At $17, it's a bargain, says Jongbloed, who may be reached at (310) 377-4867, ext. 258.