Pacific Beach family puts on winning show at IndieFest “The Little Match Makers” claimed the honor of “Best Feature Film” at the seventh annual San Diego IndieFest at Liberty Station in Point Loma on March 13 — and a proud Pacific Beach mom had a major hand in the film’s financial backing.  The independent film was brought to fruition because of Esperanza Ferdden’s ability to step up to the plate to aid her son, Mario Ortiz, the flick’s co-director/produ-cer/cinematographer. Ferdden tried to avoid the spotlight during the red carpet walk at the film festival, downplaying her role in making the film happen. But she couldn’t contain her smile. “My son has won three Emmy awards,” Ferrden said. “He wanted to do this movie with his friend, Agustin Castaneda. They had a money guy, but then nothing. I just did what a mother would do. I was the hotel, cook and cleaner. Most of the film was made in Pacific Beach. We love PB. I’ve never done anything like this before. This was a family thing and it’s a family film.” Hoping to recoup her investment, Ferdden said “‘The Little Match Makers” will come out on a DVD in June in time for Father’s Day. Obtain a copy at Wal-Mart, Target or Best Buy.” — Bill Swank PB Planning Group sets March 23 elections Ten seats will be up for election on Wednesday, March 23 when the Pacific Beach Planning Group (PBPG) hosts its annual balloting from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at the Pacific Beach/Taylor Branch Library. Pacific Beach residents, property owners and businesses are eligible to vote. The PBPG is a 20-member volunteer board that advises the city on new development projects, parking, traffic, future planning and other issues related to the Pacific Beach Community Plan. The election takes place at the library, located at 4275 Cass St. For more information, visit www.pbplanning.org.