Paul and Debra Vaughan - Estate Gift/Living Trust

Longtime residents of Thousand Oaks, Paul and Debra Vaughan became season ticket holders recently after returning from six years in a remote area of Washington state. According to Debra, "we didn't realize how much we would miss the culturally enriching life we had come to know. When we moved back, we decided to look closer to home having no idea that there was a local venue and professional orchestra in our own backyard. The Visions of America performance really sparked our interest."

Paul became a classical music enthusiast in college and Debra to this day continues to practice piano having requested as a young girl that her parents allow her to take lessons. They both feel strongly that "the arts should not be outside of the mainstream and instead viewed as a necessity." They lament how "hard it is to make a living as a musician and feel that it's very important to support their local symphony to keep music alive. Donations are critical to bridge the gap between what people are willing to spend money on and what positively impacts them."

Paul especially likes the "enlightened approach of NWS bringing in lesser-known pieces like Respighi's Pines of Rome. They really have a pulse on what is good and are building their own future by inviting community members in to participate."

Now, going into their retirement years, Paul and Debra enjoy quality time with their beloved Australian Shepherds: Sophie, Sage, and Shelby. They have more to contribute financially and find it rewarding to give in ways they can make a difference.

Enjoying each concert more than the last, when recently reviewing their estate plan, they both agreed on the importance of leaving a legacy to New West Symphony. One that would sustain and impact the future of regional symphonic music.

June 2024