MERLIN DAVID, PVE PD Community Relations Officer

Merlin David is the new Community Relations Officer of the Palos Verdes Estates Police Department. He is an effective communicator, efficient organizer and practical facilitator who comes to us with 24 years of experience in communications (writing, editing and publishing national magazines), planning large-scale music industry events and 10 years in risk management (risk assessment and loss control).

He has been actively involved with PVE Neighborhood Watch for over six years and has been president for almost three years. Under his leadership, NW has gained volunteers and started a weekly newsletter effectively communicating issues of crime safety (awareness and prevention) and disaster preparedness, while shining a spotlight on our PVE Police Department’s vital role in our community.

Merlin is a very recognizable resident, particularly in Lunada Bay—whether he interacts with new residents, senior residents, business owners or young children (who know him as “Mr. Merlin”). He wrote the school song for Lunada Bay Elementary School six years ago, “Be Safe, Be Kind, Be Respectful,” and continues to sing it with the students at their monthly Flag Ceremony. He’s been a visible member with the PTA (with the National PTA Reflections arts program), International Day celebrations and can’t be missed helping with drama events at PV Intermediate School and PV High. He organizes a yearly 4^th of July Bike Parade for his neighborhood—and gets neighbors of all ages involved, including the Police Department and Fire Department. Marcelle Herrera says “If you need some work done or need a volunteer, Merlin knows a guy/gal to help you get it done!”

Merlin says, “We live in a unique community where people feel they’ve found ‘home.’ I love looking at our diverse community and finding ways to be inclusive. Our community is better with more participation and more inclusion—that I will bring. Our Police Department views our community in this same way—they go above and beyond to create an environment where they help our residents—while they serve and protect. The outreach to educate and serve our residents regarding crime awareness and prevention, disaster preparedness and other aspects—helps people feel like we are all part of one community that cares. I can continue to build this feeling of community and make it stronger.”

Merlin is on several Boards, including David Benoit’s Asia America Symphony Association and the Peninsula Friends of the Library. Most people recognize him from his 5-mile daily morning walks along the cliffs of Lunada Bay or 13-mile a day bicycling, where he’s smiling and waving or stops to find out how you are doing. He enjoys vigorous weekly tennis matches, playing his guitar and writing songs. He’s the smiling face at PVE events where he attempts to meet every attendee to help them feel welcome. If he hasn’t already taken a selfie with you, just know that it will happen soon!

Merlin David

Community Relations Officer

mdavid@pvestates.org

310-378-4211

Hours:  Monday-Thursday 7:30am-5:30pm