Julia Parton is undeniably the real deal, and her authenticity shines through her radiant, never-ending smile as a deeply rooted Palos Verdes resident. She is currently basking in the glow of being honored as the Palos Verdes Chamber of Commerce Citizen of the Year.
“I love to help find solutions and solve problems, support others, and make a difference whenever I can. Whether it’s raising funds for student athletes to play competitively, collecting food for those with insecurities, or providing law enforcement with necessary equipment. The results are what motivate me,” says the extraordinary Parton
Her role as First Vice President, Business Development Manager at Malaga Bank is a significant motivator. “In 2023, Malaga Bank has supported over 80 partner organizations through either volunteer or financial support. I am the third employee from Malaga Bank to be honored with the Citizen of the Year award. This is a true testament to the bank’s strong community culture and involvement. There is no denying Malaga Bank is truly the ‘community’s bank!’”
Parton graciously shared her story with Palos Verdes Magazine to connect with the community.
Palos Verdes Magazine: Tell us about your connection to Palos Verdes?
Julia Parton: As a lifelong resident of the Peninsula, I love the people first and foremost. I cherish the strong sense of community, the area’s beauty, and its slower pace. Growing up in this close-knit community was comforting, making me feel secure. As an adult, I appreciate that this feeling has endured. The small-town atmosphere remains – people are connected and rely on each other. I love running into clients, friends, and neighbors while out running errands, or dining at Red Onion!
PVM: What makes you a good leader?
JP: Good leaders possess self-awareness, credibility, focus on relationship building, empowerment, presence, and authenticity. I believe I have many of these characteristics. I enjoy being part of a team and working alongside them to succeed. My strong work ethic, instilled by my parents, is something I value.
PVM: Tell us about your career path.
JP: I started working at the Daily Breeze in high school and enjoyed a career there for 26 years in various roles in the advertising department. I attended college at night to finish my degree from CSUDH. After the Daily Breeze acquired the Beach Reporter and Palos Verdes Peninsula News, I was promoted to Publisher of the PV News. After the Daily Breeze was acquired by Media News Group, I separated from the world of newspapers and worked for local businesses before joining Malaga Bank.
PVM: What motivates you to volunteer?
JP: The benefits of community involvement, including valued relationships, mentors, and friendships, are tremendous. I’ve met lifelong friends through my community work.
PVM: Why is Community Service important to you?
JP: Non-profit organizations are crucial to our community, and they need support. The fact is that I love to help others. The satisfaction I get from helping is immense and I find the work important and necessary. I am the current President of the Rotary Club of Palos Verdes Peninsula, a 27-year member. Rotary’s motto is “service above self,” and we are people of action. This motto is something I have lived by for years.
PVM: How do you spend your free time?
JP: Most evenings and weekends I’m at work-sponsored events, Rotary, community events, or board meetings. So, when I do have free time, I love spending time with family and friends, traveling to see my sons in college, attending baseball games, wine tasting, concerts, and enjoying quality time with my husband. My husband and I recently purchased a home in Arizona, a place we love visiting.
PVM: What would you like people to say about you?
JP: That I am sincere, genuine, gracious, happy, fulfilled, blessed, and a good friend to all.
PVM: What makes you smile?
JP: I am truly blessed with a caring family, a fantastic career, and good health. Since the Citizen of the Year honor, I have been approached by many to thank me for all I do for the community. That made me think about the difference I must be making. This made me smile
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