Week 4: Meet the "Chef" - Steven Harman
Steven Harman
Retirement Counselor, 25 years
How long have you been supporting City of Los Angeles employees with their retirement goals?
I’ve been a representative on the plan officially since 1997 with a small break between May 1999 and December 2000.
What is the most rewarding part of your work with City of Los Angeles employees?
I’m starting to see some of the people I enrolled back in the late 90’s start to retire with good sized balances in their account. Many of those people I’ve coached along the way to increase their contributions and not fiddle too much with their account.
What would you say are the 3 most important ingredients that go into the recipe for successful retirement planning?
Contribute early and as much as possible at that time.
Have patience.
Don’t panic when the market is having down days.
What is your favorite homemade dish to cook and why?
I used to bring homemade cheesecake into the office, but since we are trying to be healthier these days, I only bring that in on request. Otherwise, I’m known to my friends to make a very tasty brisket.
What is your favorite restaurant in or around Los Angeles and why?
Since I love Mediterranean food, I love Zankou Chicken, Kabab and More on 7th and Hill. For a nice Prime Rib and garlic bread, I like the Smokehouse in Burbank across the street from Warner Brothers. Little Tony’s in North Hollywood always makes me smile, and I like a nice Saturday lunch at Aroma Coffee and Tea in Studio City.