The Malibu Times • February 29, 2024

SPRING 2024

MALIBU’S AWARD WINNING NEWSPAPER SINCE 1946

local sheriff’s deputies honored for

Four Los Angeles County Sheriff’s deputies who work locally were honored Feb. 26 by the Malibu City Council for making a swift water rescue and saving a life.

Presentation of commendations were received by Deputies Frank Espinoza, Jake Lobato, Daniel Bautista, and Rick Vigil for their bravery and heroism.

On Feb. 1, deputies received a call for service in the Serra Retreat neighborhood. “Someone was in distress. They heard screaming,” Espinoza recounted.

Nearly a week after the substantial mudslide that closed both directions of Malibu Canyon Road last week, officials announc its reopening Monday morning, just in time for the morning rush.

LA County Public Works an -

nounced the reopening on Sunday night.

“Great news! After intensive cleanup efforts and a thorough safety assessment, Malibu Canyon Road will reopen for the Monday morning rush at 7 a.m. Your safety is always our top priority. Drive safely, and have a great week!”

The road had been closed since Wednesday, Feb. 21, in both directions near Piuma Road due to a slide that occurred during heavy rainfall.

CONTINUED ON PAGE A8

Students honored at the Boys & Girls Club of Malibu Youth of the Year event

The

The candidates — Azalea, grade 12; Diego, grade 10; Irina, grade 11; and Emily, grade 12 — were celebrated for their years of dedication, inspiration, and advocacy in the school and Malibu community.

Turns out a man was “screaming at the top of his lungs” for help as he got caught in rushing water in Serra Creek. The typically tranquil stream was transformed into a raging torrent of cold water days after an atmospheric river dumped about four inches of rainfall on Malibu, with much of the hillside runoff collecting in Serra Creek.

“The man was yelling, hoping someone could hear him,” Espinoza said. “A worker happened to hear him and called 911. We got there in two minutes. When we arrived

for

on scene we could hear somebody screaming. We went toward the screams and could see this gentleman in the creek hanging on for dear life.”

The victim, whom The Malibu Times is not identifying, managed to precariously grab the branch of a bush in the middle of the creek.

Hall on a rainy evening Feb. 20 only to find the commission canceled its meeting just 90 minutes beforehand, catching most Marlins unaware.

A contingent of swimmers in Malibu was expected to make a public stand at the Feb. 26 Malibu City Council meeting after a Parks and Recreation Commission meeting was canceled last week at the eleventh hour.

As many as 40 members of the Marlins Swim Club drove to City

The Marlins showed up at the Parks and Rec meeting to express their support for Erik Ran, who was fired as head coach of the Malibu Seawolves last year and is now head coach for the newly formed Marlins. The Marlins have expressed frustration with the Malibu Aquatics Foundation, which runs the Seawolves program and is the city’s swim vendor.

“We feel we’ve been handled not fairly,” said Marlins president Ani Dermenjian. “In the pouring

With the rushing current nearly up to his neck, the four deputies knew they had to act quickly. They asked a resident for a rope and luckily got one.

“We walked along the bridge and got closer to him,” recalled Espinoza.

One of deputies threw the rope

rain we all left to come and an hour before they canceled. It’s not acceptable.”

The swim club came prepared with signs and speeches to argue for a democratic process in governance of the city program. They were disappointed at the last-minute cancellation, but it was unavoidable according to one commissioner. Suzanne Guldimann is vice chair of the Parks and Recreation Commission, about to wrap up eight years of service to the community.

“It was absolutely canceled at the last minute,” Guldimann

CONTINUED

‘This is a bad move for the city’ mayor of Malibu says over Permanant Skatepark appeal

for heroic rescue efforts

Mudslides cause multiple road closures in Malibu CONTINUED

toward the victim. The first attempt failed, but on the second throw the victim reached the lifeline. However, there was much more to do to get the man out of the creek.

By the time the man grabbed the rope, he was so exhausted from trying to extricate himself he

Four outstanding youth representatives shared their personal stories of adversity, goals for the future, and the impact the Boys and Girls Club of Malibu (BGCM) has made on their lives at the latest Youth of the Year event on Saturday, Feb. 24.

Before the candidates shared their personal stories, Malibu BGCM Chief Executive Director Kasey Earnest introduced the judges and welcomed the guests to the Third Space location.

“In considering this year’s event, we thought what better use of space

To start off the City Council meeting on Monday, Feb. 26, the Malibu City Council commended Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Deputies Francisco Espinoza, Jake Lobato, Daniel Bautista, and Rick Vigil for rescuing a drowning individual.

“Day in and day out, police officers and deputy sheriffs put on a uniform and they go to work, and most of the time, they don’t get acknowledged for what they

do, but they have a commitment to public safety and to ensure everyone goes home safely at the end of the night,” Sgt. Chris Soderlund said. “So I want to thank the City of Malibu and all its residents for commending the deputies here for a job well done.” Public Safety Commission Chair Chris Frost thanked the deputies for their commitment and dedication to public safety.

“It is my sincere hope that when you see an LA County deputy, a highway patrolman, a Volunteer on Patrol, that you will smile and tell them thank you, and when you turn off the lights at night, rest assured that they are just getting started,” Frost said.

To read more about the depu -

ties, read Judy Abel’s story on A1.

For items not on the agenda, over 24 speakers attended the meeting and signed up to speak in support of the Malibu Marlins and their coach Erik Ran, and the Marlins efforts to get more time at the community pool. Currently, the club has only secured time at 6:30 in the morning (see Marlins story on A1).

“I am overwheled by the support of this community to keep and continue fighting for a swim team where community members are having a say for a local coach,” Ran said.

Ran was hired by the Seawolves during the pandemic and coached a total of 23 swimmers

In Case

You Missed it

The top stories from last week you can read at MalibuTimes.com

Family and friends honor

Matt Rapf: Family man, man of God, intellect, and iconic surfer

Many Malibutes shared their experiences with Matt and his dedication to his profession and his family

Open Hearts Foundation’s gala raises funds, celebrates

Kristy’s Village Cafe

colorful and delicious Year of the Dragon Dragons coyly sought customers’ donations in ornate red envelopes for good luck in the new year

Third Space hosts Valentine’s Day Sip and Shop event Event provides an opportunity for designer artists to bring in funds for the BGCM, with their vintage luxury goods

CHA Malibu maestro of all things musical

Founder of The Composers Breakfast Club considered a pioneering philanthropist and creative visionary

Sharks girls water polo advances to CIF quarterfinals

OPINION Letters to the Editor

*Letters to the Editor may not reflect the view, opinion and/or ethics of the The Malibu Times. They are however, letters from the people of Malibu. We support your right to express your opinion. Read "Write to Us" to submit your letter today.

Healing the community

Dear Editor, I am writing to address a misleading statement in last week’s article regarding the dismissal of the latest Malibu Seawolves swim coach. The co-president of the Malibu Aquatics Foundation (MAF), Joe Sichta, is quoted as saying that “the leadership of the Seawolves and the Marlins have been in ongoing conversations for many weeks now as both sides seek common ground to heal this rift in our community.” Unfortunately, that is not the case. When I texted Mr. Sichta to find out how he could make such a statement in light of the facts to the contrary, he answered by referring to a single meeting he had with the president of the Malibu Marlins Board Of Directors, Ani Dermenjian. At that breakfast, he asked Ani (our president) to join their (the MAF) board — an offer she declined for obvious reasons.

He also asked the Marlins to reach out to the Daland Swim School, an out-of-town for-profit organization, in the hope that they could come in and take over for both clubs. This is a plan the MAF has since abandoned themselves, and we never thought it made any sense nor met with Daland at all. The “ongoing conversation and plan for healing” made a good sound bite, but grossly misrepresented the facts.

The Malibu Marlins Swim Club was formed after the old MAF Board Of Directors fired their previous coach, Erik Ran, and subsequently refused to meet with the swimmers to explain their decision. We, the swimmers and parents, were told that the MAF board has the right to do as they please and that they had no intention of listening to the community. We soon learned that the nonprofit MAF is indeed organized, unlike most other nonprofit swim clubs, and does not allow their “members” (legally they have no members) to vote in board elections.

The MAF operates without transparency or accountability, more like a privately held business than a public-benefit corporation. That is why we were forced to start a new swim club, the Malibu Marlins, based on principles of democratic governance, transparency, and accountability.

The stonewalling by the MAF has continued for over eight months. The MAF/Seawolves, with the help of the city staff, have denied the Malibu Marlins access to the community pool, even though we represent the majority of the Malibu swim community. I suspect their goal was to choke off the competition and force swimmers to join the Seawolves as the only option. This has partially succeeded. It was only with the help of the school district that the Marlins were able to secure pool time at 6:30 in the morning, which has allowed us to re-hire our beloved Coach Erik and build a successful new club, despite the attempts to undermine us. Ironically, the Seawolves were then forced to fire their head coach, because they don’t have enough swimmers to afford him.

This was the status quo when the

article was published. On Saturday, Feb. 17, there was a meeting between Joe Sichta and myself, at which the possibility of healing the community and combining the clubs was discussed for the first time. Even after this meeting, it is not clear whether that could ever happen, because the MAF board refuses to join the Marlins organization, which has proper governance, but is so far also unwilling to commit to changing their board structure. In other words, they just want to go back to the way it was. We pay — they decide. While I am encouraged by the fact that a frank exchange of ideas took place and continue to hope for the best, I am also aware that there is a tiny minority of activist parents who brought about this rift and continue to act unilaterally and in secret instead of taking steps towards reconciliation.

It is a good sign that the Seawolves held their first-ever general meeting last week, which is dampened, however, by the fact that they, once again, refused calls for democratic governance by their own members.

I get asked by other parents all the time about when we will be able to offer afternoon swim times, because they want to join the Marlins so their kids can swim with Coach Erik. Many of our swimmers who are unable to make the early morning times are swimming with the Seawolves and are now frustrated again by the new board repeating the same mistakes of the old one: firing yet another coach without notice or consultation with their members, and now being told that a head coach isn’t necessary at all. I wish there were a way to heal and bring the community together, but I don’t see it happening under the “my way or the highway” approach the MAF pursues when they are not providing a nice-sounding but hollow public statements.

Robert Brinkmann CFO, Malibu Marlins Swim Club

Don’t forget to vote for Central Committee

Dear Editor,

Many West Los Angeles Republican voters are noticing the race for Central Committee on their ballots for the first time and may skip over it because they do not know what Central Committee is, or do not know who to vote for. That would be a HUGE mistake!

Central Committee is responsible for some of the most important groundwork of the local Republican Party: voter registration, voter education, getting out the vote, recruiting talented and qualified candidates, supporting candidate campaigns, organizing volunteers, and fundraising.

Having the right people dedicated to this necessary work, and doing it effectively, is critical — especially in AD 42 where our California Assembly seat can be flipped red and DSA-backed local candidates can be pushed out of office if the Republicans improve their ground game.

Due to 2020 redistricting and low Los Angeles GOP engagement in the last decade or more, there has

The Malibu Business Round Table

Friday, March 1 from 8:30 to 10

Each month the agenda consists of:

TFrom the publisher HAYLEY MATTSON

State of newspapers undergoing significant transformation

“Were it left to me to decide if we should have a government without newspapers, or newspapers without a government, I should not hesitate a moment to prefer the latter.”

he landscape of newspapers is in flux, as highlighted by a recent announcement from the San Luis Obispo Tribune editor regarding cutbacks on printed editions starting April 15. This decision mirrors a more significant trend within the industry as newspapers confront the challenges posed by the digital age while striving for sustainability.

In his statement, editor Joe Tarica underscored the newspaper’s transition towards a more digitally focused future. This shift comes as no surprise, given the mounting costs associated with print production, particularly the steady rise in paper prices over recent years. Many newspapers nationwide have found themselves compelled to halt print operations entirely due to these financial pressures.

The Los Angeles Times, for instance, made headlines at the end of January with news of significant layoffs affecting more than 20 percent of its newsroom — one of the largest workforce reductions in its 142-year history. The necessity for these cuts was attributed to the paper’s inability to sustain annual losses ranging from $30 million to $40 million without commensurate progress in building higher readership, essential for attracting advertising and subscriptions.

Similarly, the historic Santa Barbara NewsPress, a venerable institution in California’s newspaper landscape, ceased publishing in July of last year after its owner declared bankruptcy. Despite transitioning to an online-only format

not been an election for Los Angeles GOP Central Committee for the newly-drawn geographic boundary of Assembly District 42 ever. The new boundary for LA County encompasses: Beverly Hills Post Office and Holmby Hills North of Sunset up to Mulholland; Beverly Glen and Bel Air North of Sunset up to Mulholland; Brentwood North of San Vicente; Pacific Palisades; Malibu; Agoura Hills; Calabasas; and Westlake Village (on the LA County side).

Twenty-three percent of AD 42’s registered Republican voters live in the LA County portion of the district.

Luckily, there is no shortage of quality AD 42 Central Committee candidates to vote for in this March 2024 Primary election. One is attorney and mother Elizabeth Barcohana, who is endorsed by California Assemblymember Bill Essayli, Calabasas City Councilman James R. Bozajian, Chino Valley Board of Education President Sonja Shaw, Orange County Board of Education Trustee Mari Barke, Mom Army/ Dad Army, Moms on the Ground, California Women’s Leadership

— Thomas Jefferson

in April 2023, the publication’s digital presence also came to an abrupt end when owner and publisher Wendy McCaw filed for bankruptcy.

As the publisher of The Malibu Times and other publications along the coast, the significance of our print editions resonates deeply with me. They serve not only as a historical record but as cherished documentation of local events within our region. Our newspapers offer a tangible account of our community’s narrative during specific periods, providing a unique perspective that digital platforms often fail to capture.

Beyond editorial and journalistic concerns, the decision to continue printing newspapers carries significant implications for employment and livelihoods within our community. Our sales and design teams, administrative staff, journalists, printers, postal services, and delivery teams all form part of the intricate network supported by the newspaper industry. These individuals depend on its operations for stable incomes and employment opportunities.

We are immensely grateful for the support from our advertisers, subscribers, readers, and the community at large. I am steadfast in my commitment to continue printing for as long as it remains feasible. Even if we become the last newspapers to print in the great state of California, we will persevere in delivering valuable content weekly to our readers.

Association PAC, the West Los Angeles Republican Assembly, and the California Republican Assembly. Also endorsed by the CRA running for Central Committee are candidates from nearly all areas of AD 42: Ginger Hyde (Pacific Palisades), former Malibu Mayor Richard Mullen, Kevin Hedvat (Beverly Hills PO), Ronnie Bansbach (Brentwood), Marshall Mullen (Malibu), and former Agoura Hills Mayor Denis Weber.

Central Committee appears toward the end of the March Primary ballot, after the judges (another section voters commonly skip but should not). Be sure to look out for it and remember to vote for these seven qualified candidates early, well before Election Day on March 5.

Rick Mullen, Malibu

Another tire added, another life lost

Dear Editor, I attended the Ghost Tire event on Monday, an event that resonated deeply with me and underscored

the importance of road safety in our community. Having participated in the event to add another tire for the life lost, I couldn’t help but reflect on the significance of Mayor Pro Tem Doug Stewart’s words urging us to set the pace on PCH. Each tire laid out represented more than just rubber on the road; it symbolized the loss of a loved one, a life cut short due to preventable accidents.

As a community, it’s imperative that we take proactive measures to ensure the safety of everyone on our roads. We cannot afford to have another family experience the heartache of losing a loved one in a tragic accident. Each life lost leaves an indelible mark on our community, and it’s our collective responsibility to work towards preventing such tragedies.

Events like the Ghost Tire serve as poignant reminders of the stakes involved and the need for continued vigilance when it comes to road safety. Let us honor the memory of those we’ve lost by committing ourselves to creating safer roads for all.

Cindy Myers, Malibu

Mary

SIRENS

The following incidents were reported between:

JAN 12 - jan 17

 1/12 | Vehicle Burglary

A vehicle parked near Topanga Beach was broken into and ransacked, and their wallet and iPhone were missing. The victim said the front passenger door was damaged. The iPhone was worth $800, and the wallet was worth $70. There were no security cameras available for evidence.

 1/12 | Residential burglary

A home on Pacific Coast Highway was vandalized and the side door was shattered. The victim said there nothing appeared to be missing from her home. The door was estimated to cost $2,500 to repair. There were no security cameras available for evidence.

 1/14 | Vehicle Burglary

A vehcile parked near Solstice Canyon was broken into and a wallet and $50 in cash was stolen. The victim said they returned from their hike to see the driver-side door lock had been punched. The door was estimated to cost $500 to repair. The wallet was worth $100. There were no security cameras available for evidence.

 1/15 | Vehicle Burglary

A vehicle parked on Pacific Coast Highway was broken into and the window was shattered. The victim said there was nothing valuable in the vehicle. The damage was estimated to cost $2,200 to repair. There were no security cameras available for evidence.

 1/17 | Burglary vehicle

A vehicle parked near Topanga State Beach was broken into and ransacked. The victim left the key fob underneath a wooden fence directly in front of his vehicle, and upon return, the key fob was missing when they returned from surfing. The victim was unsure what was missing from the vehicle. The key fob was estimated to cost $500 to replace.

NEWS BRIEFS

Speeding driver arrested going above 80 mph on Pacific Coast Highway

A young man appearing to be in his 20s was arrested for reckless driving on Pacific Coast Highway on Thursday, Feb. 22. The man driving a white Porsche was said by deputies on scene to be going 80plus, well over the 55-mph speed limit on PCH north of Trancas Canyon Road.

Los Angeles County Sheriff’s officers from the Lost Hills/Malibu station got the call about the wreck at 3 p.m. Thursday and found the Porsche totaled with the driver inside. He was arrested for reckless driving and taken to jail.

Sgt. Christopher Soderlund said it appeared the young driver was speeding and hit a wet patch of roadway causing him to lose control of the sportscar. The Porsche then hit a white Ford pickup truck, causing more damage. Luckily no one appeared injured on scene.

“We have zero tolerance for speeding,” Soderlund said.

2024 Homeless Count shows decline in Malibu since 2016

On Jan. 24, the City of Malibu participated in the 2024 Greater Los Angeles Homeless Count along with The Los Angeles Homeless Service Authority (LAHSA) and community volunteers. The local count showed 51 people experiencing homelessness in Malibu, the lowest number since 2016, when the city began participating in the Homeless Count, and a 30 per-

cent decline since the 2023 Count. The data follows reports from the city’s Homeless Outreach Team through The People Concern that they helped 51 people in Malibu exit homelessness in 2023 through placement in permanent and interim housing, or family reunification. For more information about the city’s efforts to address homelessness, visit the webpage at www. malibucity.org/homelessness.

Participate in the LA County storm damage survey to help with the recovery effort

The Los Angeles County Office of Emergency Management (OEM) has created an online survey to gather storm damage information as part of the effort to assist residents, businesses, cities, and property owners impacted by the recent storms. You can help by completing the survey. Identifying damage helps direct recovery activities and resources after any disaster, and helps to determine if the county is eligible for disaster assistance, which in turn helps LA County communities. (Disaster assistance is not guaranteed, so residents and businesses are encouraged to continue working with their insurers.) For more information and to take the damage survey, visit the county storm recovery website at recovery. lacounty.gov. For assistance in completing the survey, call 2-1-1.

2024 Art Exhibit Closing Reception

Alan passed away in his sleep on Friday, February 16, 2024. He was

Born in New York City, Ike had an adventurous and accomplished life. He graduated from DeWitt Clinton High School, attended CCNY, and then joined the Army, from which he received an honorary appointment at the Military Academy at West Point. Upon graduating from

81 years old and is survived by his son, Tony, daughter-in-law, Jessica, and three grandchildren: Anthony, Harper, and Zoe.

Alan was born and raised in Cannonsburg, Pennsylvania, a town he always said was “between the steel mills and the coal mines.” After he graduated from Washington and Jefferson College (which he attended on a golf caddy scholarship), he headed to California with $100 in his pocket for what was to be a three-week vacation. He never left.

Alan worked in sales and eventually found his way to Malibu

West Point in 1954 and then serving as a First Lieutenant in the Army, he decided to relocate with his new wife, Marsha, to Dayton, Ohio, to pursue his engineering career. He joined Globe Industries/ TRW and, after many years, transferred to their headquarters in Los Angeles as the General Manager and Vice president of TRW’s Active Components Division. His career rose in the corporation, and in 1989, he retired to begin working as a management consultant for venture funds in the technology world. This led to the position of Chairman and CEO of California Amplifier from 1994 until 2004, when retirement truly began.

Once in Los Angeles, Marsha and Ike fell in love with the Malibu community, en -

set for March 10

The Community Services Department is pleased to announce the 2024 Student Art Exhibit.

Children in grades TK-12 will display artwork at the Malibu City Gallery. The exhibit provides a forum that fosters creativity among student artists, educators, and the Malibu community. Artwork will be on display at the Malibu City Gallery, 23825 Stuart Ranch Road, through March 8. The Gallery is free admission, and open to the public Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. A closing reception will be held Sunday, March 10, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. to celebrate the artists with light refreshments and certificates.

School Safety

Assessment update

The Malibu City Council discussed the final report and recommendations in the School Safety Assessment on Feb. 12 as part of the effort to enhance safety in Malibu public schools. Representatives from the Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District (SMMUSD) reported on recent and upcoming actions and answered questions from the council.

In response to a series of deadly school shootings in 2022, the city, the Santa Monica Malibu Unified School District (SMMUSD), and the Malibu-Lost Hills Sheriff’s Station (LASD) partnered on the School Safety Assessment to study safety levels and vulnerabilities at Malibu public schools and make recommendations for improvements.

in 1975. He bought a house on Broadbeach for $150k and soon after started an unplanned career in real estate, helping his friends and business associates buy beach houses. Alan went on to become one of the most accomplished real estate agents in Malibu history and worked in the industry for nearly 40 years. He never lost his love for the ocean, was larger than life, always the life of the party, loved to dance, loved to travel, loved the Rolling Stones, loved fast cars, and loved his family. He lived his life to the fullest and went out on his own terms. We will miss him.

joying their home perched in view of the Pacific Ocean. He loved traveling the world, playing tennis well into his eighties, and enjoying the accomplishments and growth of his children and grandchildren. He also participated in creative writing classes at UCLA and continued his lifetime joy of singing at every opportunity.

He is survived by his wife Marsha of 68 years; his children Nancy Coron Anding (Keith), Diane Coron Koziel, and Robert Coron (Brenna); and his four grandchildren, Lexie, Will, Olivia, and Lyla.

Ike’s last wishes were ones of gratitude. Donations in his memory can be made to the Lupus Research Alliance, the West Point Jewish Chapel Fund, or an organization of your choice.

The LASD assigned a school liaison sergeant to assist with school safety needs, and the City Council established a School Safety Ad Hoc Committee consisting of Councilmembers Bruce Silverstein and Paul Grisanti. The city hired a consultant to conduct the School Safety Assessment for the four public school campuses in Malibu: Malibu Elementary School, Webster Elementary School, Malibu Middle School, and Malibu High School. For security reasons, the complete final report will not be made publicly available. For more details, including the list of recommendations, see the staff report at malibucity.org/AgendaCenter.

City Council advances master plan for future uses of vacant city-owned land

At its Feb. 12 meeting, the Malibu City Council approved hiring a firm to provide comprehensive community outreach and engagement services that will be needed to develop a master plan for the future use of the city’s vacant properties. The city owns five parcels of vacant land totaling just over nine acres. Over the years, the City Council has sought out and purchased vacant open space properties in Malibu to prevent it from being commercially developed and to ensure that it would be used for the benefit of the community, and to preserve Malibu’s rural coastal village character. Until now, there has not been an organized effort to plan for the future uses of the properties. For more information, see the staff report at malibucity.org/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Item/6519?fileID=59274.

PCH to be closed nightly from Sycamore Canyon Road to Las Posas Road

All lanes of PCH in both directions will be closed nightly from 6 p.m. to 7 a.m. (or later) from Sycamore Canyon Road to Las Posas Road in Ventura County until further notice due to erosion. The ocean-side shoulder is eroding and collapsing from high tides, surf, and storm conditions, and more storms are expected. Reopening times may vary based on high tides or storm conditions. Use alternate routes. Check your navigation app, Caltrans QuickMaps, or Sigalert before getting on the road. Caltrans plans to install K-rails to block off the right-hand ocean-side lane and begin emergency steps to stabilize the collapsed slope. A Caltrans inspector must assess the damage each morning and determine when it is safe to reopen. Crews will shift lanes to the land side to provide two lanes in both directions. Watch for reduced speed limit signs, and workers and work vehicles in the road. Under California law, traffic violation fines are doubled in construction zones.

Update given on Wireless Ordinance

On Feb. 7, the California Coastal Commission (CCC) held a public hearing on the city’s proposed amendments to the Local Coastal Program and certified it with suggested modifications. A City

Council public hearing will be scheduled to consider the CCC’s modifications to the Local Coastal Program amendment; initiating a zoning text amendment to make additional changes to the Wireless Ordinance; and amending the Malibu Municipal Code (MMC) to adopt provisions in MMC Chapter 17.46. For more information, visit the city’s Wireless Communications Facilities webpage at malibucity. org/1040/Wireless-Communication-Facilities.

Accessory Dwelling Unit Ordinance under review by Coastal Commission

This week, the Planning Department submitted the City’s Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Ordinance to the California Coastal Commission (CCC) for its certification review. On Jan. 8, the City Council adopted an ordinance to regulate ADUs in the city, taking a significant step toward addressing Malibu’s housing challenges while balancing the need to preserve the community’s rural coastal village character. The staff report is available on the website at malibucity. org/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/ Item/6435?fileID=57906.

The state has identified ADUs as an important tool to create more affordable housing amidst California’s housing crisis and has passed several laws to make it easier to build ADUs. The city began developing an ordinance to be consistent with the state laws and has been gathering community input to ensure the regulations reflect Malibu’s needs and characteristics. For more information, visit the project webpage at malibucity.org/adu.

Malibu Little League Season opens March 2 with kick-off parade, Opening Day ceremony

The Malibu Little League 2024 spring season will start with a kickoff parade on March 2 at 8 a.m. at the Malibu Country Mart. It will be followed by the Opening Day ceremony on the Majors field at the Malibu Bluffs Park at 9:30 a.m.

The revived MLL parade starts at the Malibu Country Mart (PCH and Cross Creek Road) where decorated floats assemble. The parade will proceed to Cross Creek through Civic Center Way to the Webster/OLM parking lot, where kids will be picked up at 8:45 a.m. The parade is followed by the Opening Day ceremony at the Malibu Bluffs Park at 9:30 a.m. The MLL Opening Day will be filled with inaugural events, family fun, and, of course, baseball and softball. Malibu Little League is determined to live up to its slogan, “The Greatest Setting in Little League Baseball.”

“We’re extremely excited by the continuing growth we’ve seen with our program and have lots of new initiatives planned,” said John Alfano, the new MLL president. “We have tons of new field improvements. We installed new benches in the dugout, ran power to our pitching machines in the batting cages, and just installed a temporary snack shack that will be serving up hot food, including hot dogs, hamburgers, vegetarian options, drinks, and snacks. Finally, we are putting in two new scoreboards this year

Dragons. Beginners and experts are welcome. For teens ages 13 – 17. Attendance is limited, and advance registration is required. Please register every individual in your party, including kids. This will be used to save your spots in the program. We cannot guarantee availability for any unregistered attendees.

sat mar 2

thu feb 29

MALIBU HIGH SCHOOL MASQUE 3 NIGHTS

Masque, MHS’s talent showcase will be performed February 29, March 1, and March 2 at 7 p.m.

This annual event showcases our tremendously talented students while raising money for prom.

DUNGEONS AND DRAGONS AT THE MALIBU LIBRARY

Join the Malibu Library on

Thursday, Feb. 29, from 4 to 6 p.m. to learn and play the popular role-playing game Dungeons &

67TH ANNUAL MALIBU LITTLE LEAGUE OPENING DAY CEREMONY

The Malibu Little League 2024 spring season will start with a kickoff parade on March 2 at 8 a.m. at the Malibu Country Mart. It will be followed by the Opening Day ceremony on the Majors field at the Malibu Bluffs Park at 9:30 a.m. The revived MLL parade starts at the Malibu Country Mart (PCH and Cross Creek Road), where decorated floats will assemble. The parade will proceed to Cross Creek

through Civic Center Way to the Webster/OLM parking lot, where kids will be picked up at 8:45 a.m. The parade is followed by the Opening Day ceremony at the Malibu Bluffs Park at 9:30 a.m. The MLL Opening Day will be filled with inaugural events, family fun, and, of course, baseball and softball.

MALIBU CHAPTER DAR PRESENTS ‘THE LIFE AND TIMES OF JUNE AOCHI BERK’

Malibu Chapter DAR will host a presentation at the Malibu United Methodist Church, 30128 Morning View Drive, Malibu, on Saturday, March 2, at 11 a.m. The attendees are invited to join our chapter for a hosted lunch following the presentation. The presentation, lunch, and parking are free and open to all.

wed mar 6

CELEBRATE WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH AT THE

MALIBU LIBRARY

Join the Malibu Library on Wednesday, March 6, from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. for a special Women’s History Month activity celebrating the life and accomplishments of pilot Amelia Earhart. We will have a reading of the book “I am Amelia Earhart” by Brad Meltzer, followed by a paper airplane race. For ages 5-12.

sun mar 10

STUDENT ART EXHIBIT CLOSING RECEPTION

The Community Services Department is pleased to announce the 2024 Student Art Exhibit. Children in grades TK-12 will display artwork at the Malibu City Gallery. The exhibit provides a forum that fosters creativity among student artists, educators, and the Malibu community.  Artwork will be on display at the Malibu City Gallery, 23825 Stuart Ranch Road, Feb. 5 through March 8. The Gallery is free admission, and open to the public Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. A closing reception will be held Sunday, March 10, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. to celebrate the artists with light refreshments and certificates.

MALIBU FILM SOCIETY OSCAR PARTY RETURNS TO MALIBU

The entire community is invited to attend Malibu Film Society’s annual Academy Awards Party, to be held on Oscar Sunday, March 10th. This year’s event will be held at the Malibu West Beach Club at 30756 Pacific Coast Highway (located on the sand at the very end of Zuma Beach). Doors for this year’s party will open at 3 p.m. for red-carpet arrivals and champagne reception, with the pre-show broadcast shown on a giant 15-foot screen.  The awards ceremony will then be shown live starting at 4 p.m. The event includes free valet parking and an open bar, with a lavish four-course dinner provided by Monrose Catering.  Recommended attire ranges from casual chic to dress-toimpress. There will also be an Oscar prediction contest, with the top prize going to the person with the most correct answers.  Individual tickets range from $125-$175 per person, and can be purchased online at www. MalibuFilmSociety.org.

wed mar 13

EMILY SHANE FOUNDATION FUNDRAISER

Enjoy a meal or drinks at Zinque in Malibu while supporting the Emily Shane Foundation SEA Program on Wednesday, March 13, from 6 to 8 p.m. A percentage of all receipts will benefit The Emily Shane Foundation. Zinque is located in the Malibu Colony Plaza. For more information visit emilyshane.org.

sat mar 16

CAFFEINATED VERSE: POETRY

OPEN MIC

Join Malibu Poet Laureate

Nathan Hassall to hear readings of original pieces written by local poets and bring a poem of your own to read during the open mic on Saturday, March 16, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. For adults. This event is part of the city’s free poetry workshops in partnership with Malibu Library, the Malibu Poet Laureate Committee, the Malibu Arts Commission, and the Friends of the Malibu Library, offering community members engaging, educational opportunities to find expression through poetry with a renowned local poet.

SMMUSD PRESENTS:

STAIRWAY OF THE STARS

Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District (SMMUSD) will present Stairway of the Stars for the 73rd year, a musical extravaganza highlighting the outstanding music education programs, and showcasing the talents of students from every school in the district. Nearly 900 elementary, middle, and high school students will “star” in the “Stairway to the Stars” outdoor concert in the Santa Monica High School Greek Theatre on Saturday, March 16, at 4 p.m. The 2024 Stairway Honor Award will be presented to Julianna Di Giacomo. Di Giacomo attended Lincoln Middle School, where her choral director was Janet Schwabe, and Santa Monica High, where her choral director was Linda Anderson. Di Giacomo performed at many Stairway concerts as a student, and she graduated from Samohi in 1992. She is thankful for the wonderful music education she received while attending schools in the SMMUSD. To purchase tickets, go to www. StairwayoftheStars.org.

wed mar 20

MALIBU LIBRARY SPEAKER

SERIES: DAVID AMBROZ

The Malibu Library Speaker Series presents national poverty and child welfare expert and advocate David Ambroz, discussing his book “A Place Called Home” on Wednesday, March 20, from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Ambroz currently serves as the Head of Community Engagement (West) for Amazon. Previously he led corporate social responsibility for Walt Disney Television and served as president of the Los Angeles City Planning Commission and as a California Child Welfare Councilmember. After growing up homeless and then in foster care, he graduated from Vassar and later from UCLA School of Law. He is a foster dad and lives in Los Angeles. This event will take place at Malibu Library. RSVPs are required. Malibu Village Books will sell copies of “A Place

Called Home” at the event.

sat mar 23

THE RIPPLE EFFECT: A

GENERATIVE POETRY WORKSHOP

Join the City of Malibu and the poetry community in a Generative poetry workshop on Saturday, March 23, from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Michael Landon Center at Malibu Bluffs Park. When things ripple, they emanate from a center and move outwards. Ripples are an unfolding interaction. In terms of poetry, poems “ripple out” from us and join the ripple of existing and yet-to-be-penned poems which creates a dialogue that continuously overlaps. Join us for a generative, poetry writing workshop where we will sit in the “ripple” of each other’s energies, read, and discuss poems to stimulate our imaginations, and write original poems from prompts provided in the workshop. This workshop is for everyone, regardless of ability level. Participants should bring a pen and a notepad! Led by Malibu Poet Laureate Nathan Hassall.

ONGOING

FARMERS MARKET

The Malibu Farmers Market returns to the Library Plaza on Sundays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., located at 23555 Civic Center Way, adjacent to the Library. For updates follow up on instagram @ malibufarmersmarket.

RELAXING THROUGH

COLORING

The art of coloring activates different areas of the brain, using logic, forming colors, and creativity. Join this free, unstructured program. Instructed by Judy Merrick. Complimentary program. Visit malibucity.org for dates and times.

STRETCH AND STRENGTH

Participants will focus on increasing flexibility, balance, circulation, and muscle tone while learning to relax through breathing techniques. Bring yoga blocks and a mat. Instructed by Marsha Cooper. $5 per class. Visit malibucity.org for dates and times.

WELLNESS WORKSHOPS

Learn ways to help release tension and stress, balance energy in the body, and promote a sense of well-being. Leave each workshop with restored inner harmony and receive the healing benefits of community connection. Instructed by The Mindry, TheMindry.com. The first workshop is Yin Yoga and Group Meditation on Jan. 20 at 9:30 a.m. Ages 18 and over. Followed by a Restorative Soundback at 2:30 p.m. for ages 55 and over. The third workshop is Breathwork and Stress Management on Feb. 2 at 4 p.m. for ages 12 through 17. Preregister at malibucity.org/register.

A

and certificates. Photo by Samantha Bravo/TMT

A crisis

that does not discriminate has ravaged communities and claimed far too many lives

Rehabilitation specialists, some battling addiction and some who are sober curious, gather to discuss the fentanyl crisis

By BARBARA BURKE Special to The Malibu Times

The statistics are absolutely astounding. Malibu and our country are facing what some experts characterize as the “fourth wave” of the opioid epidemic, according to a report last week from Millennium Health, a laboratory that monitors the use of illicit drugs and prescription medication. The study reveals that an overwhelming number of fentanyl-positive urine samples taken from addicted persons — almost 93 percent — contained additional substances.

According to Nora Volkow, director of the National Institute of Health’s National Institute of Drug Abuse, the combination of methamphetamine and fentanyl use has risen meteorically since 2015 — by 875 percent.

They gathered at Malibu’s newest rehabilitation center, Carrara Luxury Rehab Center, to discuss the insidious effect of fentanyl.

NEWS BRIEFS

CONTINUED FROM A3

thanks to our volunteer parents and sponsors. The thing I’m most excited about is our annual kickoff parade for Opening Day by City Hall in Malibu with all our ballplayers, team sponsors, and floats thanks to the Malibu community working together to support our children and families.”

Founded in 1955, MLL is dedicated to nurturing a love for baseball and softball by fostering a sense of sportsmanship and community among our young athletes and their families cheering them on! Its mission is to provide a safe, welcoming environment where children can grow their skills, play a team sport they love with their best friends, and have the most fun they’ve ever had in their lives!

“Youth sports like baseball and softball create the opportunity for communities to show children how to work together as a team and compete, have fun, play outside, build lifelong memories and friendships,” Alfano added. “Thanks to athletic programs like MLL, children learn how to support one another and put others before themselves. This helps them become not only better athletes, they become better people.”

“Three years ago in the midst of the pandemic, we had less than 80 kids,” Alfano said. “This year, our registration efforts have brought in over 250 kids, 23 teams, and a full softball league for girls.”

The Malibu Little League serves children ages 5-13 in all levels including tee-ball, baseball, and soft-

“We are out of time!” said Richard Taite, director of Carrara, founder of Cliffside Malibu, and one of those who journeyed from addiction, to a somber audience of attendees, some of whom provided testimonials about their addiction battles, some of whom explained the horrifically agonizing effect of losing a loved one or friend to addiction and some of whom were sober curious.

“When I was a kid, you could experiment with drugs and alcohol,” Taite said. “Kids today don’t have that rite of passage. We need to remember that kids who are under 25 years old feel indestructive — their frontal cortex is not fully developed. When I sold Cliffside a little more than five years ago, fentanyl was not a thing.”

Taite returned to the world of treatment centers in response to the crisis, he added.

Voices of Recovery

Taite hosted a Voices of Recovery discussion panel on Feb. 25, where fentanyl awareness advocate Parker Noriega shared her heart-wrenching story about losing her brother, Cooper, to fentanyl in 2022, and other panel members recounted their struggles with the treacherous substance.

ball for both boys and girls. MLL’s mission is to support America’s greatest national pastime.

Malibu Chapter DAR presents ‘The Life and Times of June Aochi Berk’

Malibu Chapter DAR will host a presentation at the Malibu United Methodist Church, 30128 Morning View Drive, Malibu, on Saturday, March 2, at 11 a.m. The attendees are invited to join their chapter for a hosted lunch following the presentation. This will be an event of historical significance as June Aochi Berk will speak about her life and times in America.

From her days as a child performer of traditional Japanese dance in the late 1930s to her involvement today in numerous Japanese American organizations, June Aochi Berk has been a community educator and a goodwill ambassador of the Japanese American experience.

In a conversation with Susan H. Kamei, author of “When Can We Go Back to America? Voices of Japanese American Incarceration during World War II” and USC adjunct professor of history, Berk highlights the challenges of her wartime incarceration, her postwar professional experiences and civic service, and the causes that are important to her today.

A homemade comfort food lunch will be served after the presentation. The presentation, lunch, and parking are free and open to all.

“The epidemic of fentanyl that is gripping our nation changed my family’s life forever when we lost Cooper,” Noriega said. “ Fentanyl, a synthetic opioid, is a silent killer you cannot see, smell, or taste. Although it’s hard to imagine, fentanyl is up to 50 times stronger than heroin and 100 times more potent than morphine — it lurks in the shadows, disguised in counterfeit pills or mixed with other drugs, waiting to unleash its deadly grip on unsuspecting victims.”

Illicit fentanyl is flooding our streets through illegal drug markets and has become a weapon in the hands of traffickers, Noriega added “It’s added to substances to make them cheaper, more potent, and tragically, more addictive, causing a surge in deaths, with statistics climbing daily,” she said. “It’s a grim reality that 2 milligrams, equivalent to just five grains of salt, can kill a person instantly.”

Taite noted that fentanyl is responsible for 200 deaths a day.

“Two hundred families’ lives are ruined every 24 hours,” he said, noting that country musician Jason DeFord, more popularly known as Jelly Roll, recently spoke on Capitol Hill and compared those statistics to a commercial airplane crashing

City Council waives fees for Little League to support youth sports

The City Council waived $34,000 in fees for the Malibu Little League (MLL) during the Feb. 12 meeting in order to help support youth sports in the community. The waived fees are for the use of field and equipment rental for the Snack Shack for the 2024 baseball and softball season. The MLL is Malibu’s primary youth baseball and softball sports league and has used field space at Malibu Bluffs Park since before the city’s incorporation in 1991. MLL is a parent-led volunteer organization that invests in Malibu Bluffs Park infrastructure and fields, and has worked closely with the city on improvements to park amenities. Since 2015, MLL has increased participation by 112 players. In 2024, MLL expects to have 16 teams with 250 baseball and softball players using Malibu Bluffs Park for weekly team practices and bi-weekly games. In 2023, MLL had 275 players, 82 percent of whom were Malibu residents. For more information, see the staff report at malibucity.org/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Item/6514?fileID=59268.

Revised work plan for PCH Traffic Signal

every single day in America.

Entertainment personality Renee Graziano (“Mob Wives,” “Celebrity Big Brother”) characterized herself as “a grateful recovering addict,” and shared, “My message is as real as this disease which is plaguing this country. If the disease of addiction would have told me that I was going to rob my son of 13 years of his life, would be self-medicating the day I buried my father, my sister who

Synchronization Project to address traffic congestion

In response to community concerns, the City of Malibu Public Works Department has announced adjustments to the ongoing PCH Traffic Signal Synchronization project to keep two lanes open in each direction on PCH by shifting one travel lane into the center median. Two lanes will be kept open in each direction to alleviate traffic congestion. Work hours are weekdays from 6 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The adjustment is designed to address congestion issues, while maintaining the production schedule and prioritizing the safety of construction workers and motorists. The new plan will be implemented as soon as possible after approval by Caltrans. One common question from the community has been why the work cannot be conducted at night. The Public Works Department considered nighttime work, but found that it would significantly slow down the project timeline and increase project costs by approximately $1 million due to required safety mitigation measures. The project is on track for completion as planned by the end of 2024. The city appreciates the understanding and cooperation of residents as we work to implement public safety improvements on PCH.

The construction work started at the Topanga Canyon intersection and is moving westbound towards John Tyler Drive. The Traffic Sig-

I love dearly would stop speaking with me for a year and a half, would overdose four times, causing my son to have to come to the hospital thinking it was the last time he would see me, and about the heartache and pain I caused my parents and family, I would have fought harder. Matter of fact, the disease of addiction did tell me that, but I was too high to hear it.”

Taite further addressed the over-

nal Synchronization Project is the city’s most significant measure to date to improve safety and mobility on PCH. The project will make PCH a safer “Smart Corridor” by installing communication lines between the existing traffic signals on PCH from Topanga Canyon Boulevard to John Tyler Drive to synchronize the signals to existing traffic conditions. It will allow signals to be controlled remotely by the Caltrans Traffic Management Center to lower traffic speeds and reduce congestion.  Watch for workers and work vehicles in and around the roadway. Under California law, traffic citation fines are doubled in construction zones. For more information about the city’s efforts to address PCH safety, visit the PCH Safety web.

Applications are being accepted through March 29 for general fund grants to support local nonprofits

Applications are being accepted through March 29 for the Fiscal Year 2024-2025 General Fund Grant Program from local nonprofit organizations to fund efforts that benefit residents of the community. All Malibu community-based organizations are encouraged to apply for a General Fund Grant. Applications will be reviewed by

whelming tragedies caused by insidious, diabolical fentanyl.

“We lost more than 100,000 people to fentanyl last year and it is projected we will lose 150,000 this year,” he said, characterizing the crisis, as “a love call that means that we need to love on those who are sick with this disease — they come to us broken and we need to love them as they go through the process of fighting this challenge.”

the City Council’s Administration and Finance Subcommittee in midspring. The subcommittee’s recommendations will be presented to the City Council for award during the annual budget approval in June. For more information and to apply, visit the webpage at malibucity.org/generalfundgrants.

Registration is now open for the next CERT training, starting April 18

Registration is now open for the city’s next Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training. As part of its ongoing efforts toward community-wide wildfire and disaster preparedness, the city is offering the next round of the highly popular free training with seven classes to be held on Thursday evenings from 6 to 9 p.m., April 18 through May 30, at Malibu City Hall. The program is administered by the city and other public safety agencies across the country and empowers community members to help themselves and their neighbors during disasters. Through hands-on training, participants learn the most up-to-date information on basic disaster preparedness, the use of a fire extinguisher, disaster medical care, first aid, search and rescue, disaster psychology, and neighborhood team building. For more information and to sign up, visit the webpage, at malibucity.org or email publicsafety@ malibucity.org, or call (310) 4562489, ext. 237.

(From left) Kevin Miller, a digital marketing exec; Parker Noriega, celebrity wardrobe stylist who runs an organization founded to honor her late brother; Richard Taite, founder of Carrara Luxury Rehab Center; Renee Graziano, reality TV star; and Sarah Levy, author of “Drinking Games” all gathered recently to discuss the fentanyl crisis. Contributed photo

The Malibu Planning Commission rejected an application to improve a pedestrian crossing at an existing crosswalk near Carbon Beach at the recent Planning Commission meeting on Feb. 20.

Caltrans states the proposed project will improve pedestrian safety by including a mechanism for vehicles to come to a full stop. The subject area is located approximately 1,500 feet west of Carbon Beach Terrace. According to the report, Caltrans recommends upgrading the beacon lights to a pedestrian signal because of the high number of rear-end accidents when pedestrians use the existing crosswalk.

Commissioners shared their concerns about the project, saying the crosswalk is located too close to the crosswalk near NoBu and McDonald’s, and a crosswalk wouldn’t be necessary.

“What’s the reasoning to why it has to go there, and what’s the justification for it,” Planning Commissioner Skylar Peak asked.

After a discussion, the majority of planning commissioners shared their concerns and motioned to move the item to a date uncertain.

“This seems to serve no purpose, and we have other places where we need them,” Vice Chair John Mazza said. “I think that the only reason it’s going in, personally, is because we have one there.”

Planning Director Richard Mollica said the proposal would help the synchronization and traffic flow.

Caltrans representative Chief Traffic Operations District 7 Abdi Saghafi said their study found an increase of rearenders at that location.

Caltrans estimated the proposed project would

confirmed. “We only had a threeperson quorum. We were under a flood watch and getting in was challenging.”

There were reports of a road caving in and a car over the side in the Saddle Peak neighborhood, confirming the danger to some drivers. While dozens of Marlins swimmers managed to make the drive, Guldimann said one commissioner had serious car trouble negotiating a pothole and was unable to make it.

“It was certainly not intentional,” she explained. “We make absolutely every effort to be there, but we’re just volunteers and regular Malibu residents too and sometimes life gets in the way of these things.”

be completed in 150 working days. The project also proposes overnight construction activity and requires written permission from the city manager.

The commission said they wanted an overall study of the crosswalk placement from Caltrans and motioned to bring back the item to a date uncertain.

The commission motioned Coastal Development Permit No. 22-049, Site Plan Review No. 22-027.

Motion passed 3-1 vote.

The commission motioned to continue the Lechuza Beach Public Access Improvements Project to a date uncertain. Lechuza Beach is located at the intersection

Guldimann confirmed a December meeting was also canceled.

“It’s not uncommon,” the commissioner explained. “People travel, they get sick, we have three members with young children so things can get a little bit complicated.”

The Marlins Swim Club has been frustrated with what they’ve called a lack of communication with the city that awarded the contract to provide service to the Malibu Aquatics Foundation, the city’s longtime vendor.

A subcommittee with commissioners Alicia Peak and Dane Skophammer was established to look into the debate in the Malibu swimming community over how to accommodate two swim clubs. The split in the swim

community occurred in June when the MAF board fired Ran and hired a new coach without consulting members. Those disappointed members formed their own club, the Marlins, but were unable to secure time at the pool other than 6:30 a.m. In a related development previously reported in The Malibu Times, the Seawolves let their new coach go due to financial conditions.

Dermenjian said of Ran’s firing, “We were disappointed how the whole process was handled because no one asked the parents what we thought. The Marlins are struggling because the city is not working with us to give us the hours we need. It’s unfortunate because at the end of the day it’s all about our children. That’s who is suffering here.”

Dermenjian recently met with MAF board member Joe Sichta to talk about mending fences between the two swim clubs.

“He’s wonderful,” she commented. “We have only two things we’ve been asking for from day one. We want coach Erik Ran to be the head coach and we want transparency when we’re creating a board. We want a democratic process. That’s it.”

Dermenjian has suggested

of West Sea Level Drive and Broad Beach Road (continue south on West Sea Level Drive once through the pedestrian gate).

The proposed developments include Americans with Disability Act-compliant parking and restrooms, viewing platforms, an advanced onsite wastewater treatment system, and a staircase. For more information about the project, visit the California Environmental Quality Act website.

Speakers included members of the Mountain Recreation and Conservation Authority (MRCA), the Homeowners Association, and residents of Lechuza

Beach and Broad Beach.

On Oct. 2, 2023, the Planning Commission held a public hearing on the project and requested additional information be provided to address several items raised by the Planning Commission.

“It’s really a shame that you go to such a beautiful place and you have such an eyesore,” Peak said.

After a heated discussion between the planning commission and MRCA, the commission motioned to bring back the item to a date uncertain and ask MRCA to relocate the restrooms, and create an alternate plan.

The meeting adjourned in memory of Matt Rapf.

bringing both boards together to try to work out a solution. Guldimann reminded, “We are just an advisory commission. I think there’s a tremendous amount of support for the Marlins. In a perfect city of Malibu, we would have our own swimming pool and this would

not be an issue. Because we share with the city, our time is very limited. The Seawolves (MAF) put in their application first last year. There was no room to change that. We’re all very supportive. We want to see our swim activities and everyone have the best opportunities to

participate and thrive.

“The kids unfortunately are the collateral damage in this. We all need to work together to make sure we have a good, strong, functioning swim program that serves the largest number of Malibu residents possible.”

This diagram from Caltrans shows its proposed pedestrian crossing near Carbon Beach. The city’s Planning Commission, after expressing its doubts on the project, continued it to a date uncertain during the Feb. 20 meeting.

This land is your land, this land is my land: Developing city parcels

City seeks to develop a master plan regarding uses of city-owned vacant property

By BARBARA BURKE Special to The Malibu Times

In a town full of families with children seeking recreation options, many have advocated that one of Malibu’s vacant, city-owned parcels be dedicated to a community center, perhaps with a public pool.

In a town full of creatives talented in a myriad of arts, many have advocated that one of Malibu’s vacant, city-owned parcels be dedicated to an arts center.

In a town full of surfers, some have advocated that Malibu establish a surf museum. This is, after all, where the surfing rage began, they note.

Now is the time to advocate vociferously and convincingly regarding how the vacant parcels owned by the city — and therefore by this community — will be used.

On Feb. 12, the City Council awarded a contract for an entity named Tripepi Smith & Associates to provide “comprehensive community outreach and engagement services,” that will be used “to identify top facility priorities and develop a master plan for the future uses of the city-owned properties,” according to a press release released by the city. The firm, the city’s press release continues, “brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the project, ensuring voices are heard and valued throughout the decision-making process.”

That presents a sort of “speak now or

forever hold your peace” situation.  Indeed, if residents do speak up, it also seems to implicate “the squeaky wheel gets the grease” doctrine as well.

First, the residents should assess what parcels are in play. The press release notes that, “Over the years, the City Council has sought out and secured open space properties in Malibu to ensure that they would be used for the benefit of the community and to preserve Malibu’s rural

coastal village character.”

In 2016, the city purchased the 35acre Trancas field property overlooking Zuma Beach. In 2018, the city purchased 29.24 acres of commercially zoned open space from the Malibu Bay Company as well.  That purchase involved 9.65 acres located at 23575 Civic Center Way (commonly known in the community as Sycamore Village); 1.11 acres at Civic Center Way and Webb Way and the purchase of

18.48 acres located at Pacific Coast Highway and Heathercliff Road.

The press release accurately notes, “until now, there has not been an organized effort to plan for the future uses of the properties.” Obviously, the Woolsey Fire and the pandemic delayed any such efforts.

Next Steps

There will be future meetings related to the vacant lands project and Tripepi will engage in community engagement

processes and the city will announce those in due course.

However, in order to inform themselves and be heard, residents can share their ideas and questions about the future uses of city-owned vacant parcels and receive updates on the projects by emailing Deputy City Manager Alexis Brown at ABrown@MalibuCity.org. View the City Council discussion here: youtube.com/live/jmfd6t6ghgA?si=AU6k5m9UQck_sBII&t=20913.

The staff report is here: malibucity.org/AgendaCenter/ViewFile/Item/6519?fileID=59274.

“Plans for the future uses of the cityowned vacant properties must include robust community engagement,” Malibu Mayor Steve Uhring said, adding, “We are committed to fostering transparent and inclusive dialogue with our residents. We want the community to really get involved. We aim to ensure that our residents have ample opportunities to contribute their insights and ideas so that the City Council can make informed decisions that reflect the values and aspirations of Malibu.”

This land is our land, as it was purchased for this community. Therefore,  residents should voice their concerns, suggestions and solutions loudly and often regarding how the parcels will be utilized because, as the old saying wisely notes, “invest in land, they’re not making much of it anymore.”  A corollary to that principle is relevant in this circumstance, “be informed about how the limited land of your community could best be utilized for all in the community.”

Santa Monica Education Foundation helps fund free one-on-one tutoring for students in need after COVID-19 pandemic

Malibu High School and Middle School students are taking part

By JUDY ABEL Special to The Malibu Times

Students who have fallen behind in their studies since the COVID-19 pandemic are being given a chance to catch up through a tutoring program that started in 2020. The program was encouraged by the late Dr. Jacqueline Mora, who served as assistant superintendent of educational services at Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District. Today more than 100 needy students are taking part in the free program that’s funded through the Santa Monica Education Foundation.

One of the companies contracted to provide free tutoring is SimplifiEDU. Its CEO, Jake Adams, explained that during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic many students fell behind during remote learning. Distance education can require additional support for those not equipped for technological aspects of remote education. There was a targeted effort to reach students with the most need: students in what’s called “tier 3.” Students who met academic and socioeconomic requirements with teacher referrals were first approached in 2020.

SimplifiEDU and a couple of other tutoring companies were vetted by Mora and two other SMMUSD coordinators to provide the free service funded by grants.

“Our program is unique from what other aid is being provided,” Adams said. “We don’t have a curriculum. We work through the student’s problem at hand to help students get past a certain marker or state standards. The value that Dr. Mora saw in the program is basically this idea of having an adult teacher/mentor being able to invest in a student and their education.”

Most of the tutored students start their programs on a D or F level in the classroom.

“They aren’t doing well in their classes and are being referred to us,” said Adams, who explained

that so many children were falling behind in 2020 when the program rolled out, a lottery had to be held to enroll students: “We initially took nearly 100 students.”

Initially, students were allotted once-a-week remote sessions. All tutoring is one-on-one.

“It doesn’t matter where the student is at; if they’re super far behind in their homework or working on a certain concept, we meet them where they are and work to help them get back on their feet academically,” Adams commented. “To have that tutor there to help them get through the class and get through what’s required of them navigating distance education, having a tutor is so helpful.”

Many of the tutors are graduate or college students who understand the infrastructure of online classes and navigating through academic struggles.

Adams stated, “We’ve seen some great results. A lot of kids seem really engaged. Some went from D or F level to being able to pass the class and getting into C’s, A’s, and B’s. We’ve had great results with just once a week.”

Tutoring has now been expanded to twice weekly. Subjects include math, English, science and social science.

The tutoring program was initially rolled out to middle school students. In 2023, the free program opened to high schoolers.

Currently, SimplifiEDU is supporting about 100 students in the district, seven from Malibu.

“Dr. Mora and SMMUSD staff were super in supporting these families. The district provided devices to students who needed them. A lot of parents have said they really appreciate this,” commented Adams.

Note: the current 2023-2024 school year is filled.

SMMUSD spokesperson Gail Pinsker emailed, “It’s based on narrow criteria to support our students with the greatest need. It’s important for parents to understand that criteria includes: English learners, socioeconomically disadvantaged, Black/African American or Hispanic/Latinx.

“This program is set for the year with the invited qualifying students who opted in by the fall deadline.

“That’s it for this program for this school year.

“The letters went out in late August 2023 after review of Spring 2023 test scores, evaluations and meeting other criteria as noted.”

Pinsker emphasized, “We do not promote this program or have

interest in people contacting us for more information as this is not an open program to families other than this very narrow group who qualify.

“As noted, only 44 middle and high school students in Malibu qualified for this school year.

“It’s a very small group of

students who need the additional support.”

Currently, three MHS and four MMS students are enrolled. Although qualification letters already were sent, SimplifiEDU has three spots open to provide the same service to other families in

the Malibu area.

Two requirements are past state standards tests proving the student is below grade level in math, English, science, or social studies and proof of participation in another needbased program at school. Contact info@simplifiedu.com.

actually uttered, “I’m going.”

“The water was taking him away,” Espinoza recounted. Espinoza and Lobato began pulling the man to shore. It was a slippery, cold, wet mess, but once they grabbed his hand and pulled they grabbed his belt to heave him up onto drier land. The victim, nearly swept away, was gasping for breath.

“We pulled him to shore away from the current because the water was going to take him. It was slippery and he had on rubber boots that were filled with water weighing him down,” said Espinoza. “After that we called the fire department so they could check him out. He swallowed a lot of water. He was super cold and couldn’t hang on any longer.”

The whole rescue took about 15 minutes.

“We had no plan. We came up with it as we went along. Between all of us we formulated a plan,” Espinoza said. “He (the victim) never gave us a chance to say he was

ready. He said, ‘I’m going.’ Me and Jake pulled him ashore.”

It was Bautista and Vigil who anchored them all in the rescue.

“They pulled the rope from the back. They were holding us too because it was so muddy,” Espinoza commented.

All four deputies ended up soaking wet, but grateful to save a life. The four typically do not carry ropes with them but that is changing now for Espinoza.

“Due to this incident I think we all went out and bought rope,” he said.

If you’re wondering how the man got into this predicament, turns out he was a worker trying to remove a log that had fallen on the Serra Bridge, but the bridge was slippery. He lost his balance and fell as another log hit him, knocking him into the creek.

This is not the first time Espinoza has saved a life on duty. The 45-yearold father of two toddlers was involved in a stolen car pursuit in Malibu in 2015. The suspect crashed the vehicle, killing one person. The 18-year veteran of the force saved the suspect from the burning car.

Sheriff’s Sgt. Christopher Soderlund said, “The deputies acted with bravery and heroism in rescuing this gentleman.

This is another example of the outstanding work they do day in and day out. Many times, the public never knows. It’s nice the

city is recognizing them for their brave and heroic actions. These events happen all the time, but they never get any fanfare, so it’s

nice to see the city honoring the four deputies.

“It’s just part of the job,” stated Espinoza.

Ple a se join us f or the premiere s creening of

March 7, 2024 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm

Fl ame s to the O ce an is a do cumentary film cre ated by LVMWD to share the incredible s torie s of the Wo ol se y Fire and it s impac t s on our communitie s

The e vening will include a short introduc tion, ning of the film and a mixer to f ollow

ROAD CLOSURES

CONTINUED FROM A1

For five days, Caltrans and LA County Public Works had been clearing large amounts of water and debris that covered both lanes of the canyon but also kept the canyon closed due to concern over the hillside’s stability.

“Public safety is our top priority, and we’re working tirelessly to manage this situation,” LA County Public Works shared on social media.

California Highway Patrol thanked motorists for their patience.

“Thanks for your patience as crews have worked for days to ensure the roadway is safe for everyone!” the post read.

The same day, Caltrans closed PCH from Latigo Canyon Road to Corral Canyon due to a mudslide that occurred after the rainstorm.

Malibu/Lost Hills Sheriff’s Station and Malibu Volunteers on Patrol were on scene informing drivers of the road closures.

On Friday morning, PCH was shut down in both directions west of Big Rock Drive due to a mudslide. Caltrans quickly cleared the road so drivers could get through safely.

City Manager Steve McClary provided a brief update at the City Council meeting on Monday night and shared the resources they have available for the community for the winter storm.

Officials continue to warn residents to be cautious while on the roads and be prepared for potentially hazardous driving conditions including water, mud, rocks, and debris in the roadway and low visibility, and possible power outages and traffic signal outages due to downed power lines.

“Go slow, watch for workers and vehicles. Expect mud & rocks on all roads in Malibu. Monitor local news on AM/FM radio, check navigation apps and websites before getting on the road,” the city website (malibucity.org) says. Keep headlights on. Never approach or touch downed power lines — stay back, warn others, and call 911. Under California law, always approach an intersection with a malfunctioning traffic signal as if it is an all-way stop sign — that means come to a complete stop.

Sandbags are available at Los Angeles County Fire Stations. Call stations to find out if filled sandbags and sand are available: Station 88, Malibu Road — (310) 456-2812, Station 70, PCH & Carbon Canyon — (310) 456-2513, Station 71, PCH & Zumirez — (310) 457-2578, Station 99, PCH & Encinal Canyon Rd — (310) 457-3706, Station 72, 1832 Decker Rd — (310) 457-6186. Search for which locations in LA County have sand, sandbags and filled sandbags on the LA County Department of Public Works website at pw.lacounty.gov/dsg/sandbags/.

Malibu/Lost Hills Sheriffs and Malibu Volunteers on Patrol were on scene informing drivers

Malibu Mayor Steve Uhring (at podium) speaks during the presentation honoring LA County Sheriff’s Deputies Frank Espinoza, Jake Lobato, Daniel Bautista, and Rick Vigil for rescuing a drowning person on Feb. 1. Photo by Samantha Bravo/TMT

The s tory of our communitie s facing the fl ame s and coming to ge ther

BOYS & GIRLS CLUB

CONTINUED FROM A1

than to host our event here at Third Space,” Earnest said. “Some of them [candidates] work in this store, so this is a very special place to them, and it’s truly what we aim to provide: out-of-school education, real-life work experience, and opportunities to gain skills.”

The judges included: Associate Dean of the Santa Monica College Malibu Campus Alice Meyering; Malibu Life Team co-founder, Compass Real Estate and BGCM Supporter Madison Hildebrand; City of Malibu Mayor Pro Tem Doug Stewart; SMMUSD School Board Member Stacy Rouse; Founder of Broad Street Oyster Co. and BGCM Supporter Christopher Tompkins; and Chief Investment Officer at Primestor and BGCM Board Member Lonnie Vidaurri.

The judges were able to ask the candidates questions about their passion, goals, and challenges they had to overcome.

Azalea is a 10-year BGCM member and hopes to be an advocate for affordable healthcare and accessible resources for her community.

“The issue of accessible healthcare is of utmost importance to me, and I firmly believe that health is important to every individual’s life,” Azalea said.

“And that everyone should have equitable access to healthcare resources.”

Diego is a 10-year BGCM member and enjoys volunteering at various events throughout his community, such as the Malibu Chili Cook-Off.

Diego said because of BGCM, he has already surpassed the recommended community service hours to graduate.

“Because I learned the positive impact

CITY COUNCIL

CONTINUED FROM A1

seven days a week.

“We quickly grew based on the principle that any Malibu resident was welcomed to join our team,” Ran said.

“There’s so many bigger issues that this City Council and the Parks And Recreation Commission has to deal with — this should not be one of them,” Ran said. “Can we please just have a few lanes that we can swim in, in the afternoon, that’s all we’re asking for.”

Swimmers, parents, and a Malibu High School teacher spoke and shared their frustrations with having to wake up early to swim.

“I really do not like waking up early; there have been so many times where I’ve almost gotten to school late, and I have a hard time concentrating in my classes, especially in the first three, because I wake up early and it would be a lot easier for me and I think the whole community,” one Malibu Marlins student swimmer said.

“I believe that the Malibu swim program would have remained strong if they [the Seawolves] never decided to remove Coach Erik from the program,” Taylor Murrey said.

Parents shared their concerns about having to wake up their kids early in the morning for practice.

“If we value our community and we value our kids, we can make this happen,” Jennifer Gonzalez said.

The parents also said they were frustrated when the last Parks and Recreation meeting was cancelled last minute due to a lack of quorum. Parks and Rec Chair Dane Skophammer spoke and apologized for the meeting being canceled last week but said they had created an ad hoc committee to address the issue.

“I apologize for us not having our meeting on Tuesday; several of the commissioners were sick,” Skophammer said. “The ad hoc committee reviewed the city’s contracts, the pool schedule, the regulations regarding the maximum swimmers per lane and by the hour... we set up a meeting on March 4. I think that this issue again highlights the need for more city-owned pool space and more city-owned practice facilities in general, the bottom line is we looked at the problem, we’ve assessed that even though there seems to be a simple solution, ‘Just let us swim,’ it’s not quite that simple.”

In response, Community Ser-

REAL ESTATE

of service, I intend to complete even more hours beyond the required time,” Diego said. “The Boys & Girls Club has shown me how I can put my goals for creating an equitable role into action; by developing my leadership skills, finding my love for service, and honoring my passion, I am passionate about becoming a registered nurse.”

Irina is a six-year member and shared her personal story about health and wellness, and is an advocate for body positivity.

“I wish to become a surgeon and open a nonprofit eating disorder clinic on the side, in which women but also anyone else who has experienced body image issues, to learn how to love, treasure, and appreciate every inch of their body,” Irina said.

The last speaker was seven-year member Emily.

As Emily bids farewell to her membership at BGCM, her next chapter is to attend a four-year university.

“Transitioning into college, I am focused on what truly matters to me — fighting against injustice, fostering curiosity, and investing in a brighter future,” Emily said. “My personal experiences of discrimination has taught me the importance of keeping an open mind and always standing up for what’s right.”

Some of Emily’s passions are reading, writing, education, and social justice. Emily will be the first of her family to attend college right after graduation.

After the speeches, the judges went to a separate room to rank the candidates and announce the winner.

The winner, Emily, will move on to the LA County-wide Youth of the Year event.

“We’re just incredibly grateful to be here,” Emily said. “I think Youth of the Year is an incredible accomplishment, and I’m incredibly honored to be this year’s Youth of

vices Director Kristin Riesgo said they hope to have something finalized before summer. The councilmembers said they hope to see a solution in the next Parks and Rec meeting on March 4. City Manager Steve McClary provided an update on the recent road closures due to the storms.

McClary also provided an update on CHP enforcement and said they had issued 226 citations on PCH, 200 of which were for speeding.

Soderlund provided a brief update on traffic enforcement, and a road update with the recent storms.

“I want to give kudos to Caltrans and Public Works, they have been working 24/7 every single day after the rainstorms and they cleared the roadway as soon as they could and to make it safe for everyone,” Soderlund said. “It’s raining today, and we anticipate more rain next week, so it seems like more mudslides and rock slides to continue, and I just want to advise everyone to slow down while it’s wet, you’re not going to be able to see debris in the roadway so please slow down.”

For council reports, Councilmember Bruce Silverstein responded to the recent Planning

the Year. This process has taught me a lot about myself and has empowered me to be fearless, and with public speaking, it has taught me a lot about myself, and I think if you can do this, it’s endless.”

Earnest said the Youth of the Year program is the most prized, exciting, and pinnacle event at BGCM.

“The youth who chose to be a part of this event and competition is really giving all of themselves, they believe they are the best ambassador for their boys and girls club and their community, and they are willing to share their struggles and their triumphs in a way that’s future-forward,” Earnest said.

Earnest also thanked the judges who attended this year’s event.

“With this particular event, we never

Commission meeting during which the commission denied a Caltrans proposal to add a traffic light near Carbon Beach.

“I make it a habit to not speak to my commissioner, [and] let them do what they deemed to be appropriate at the hearings,” Silverstein said. “I watched the hearing, I have been up here talking about things we can do to slow down traffic on PCH to make it safer, and here we are being handed a golden opportunity to put up another traffic light, and they denied it. It’s tone deaf, I just don’t get it.”

To read about the Planning Commission meeting, visit page A6.

In response to the speakers addressing the Marlins issue, Silverstein said he hopes someone will bring them formal action they can take.

“We can have deliberation and make a decision on what to do,” Silverstein said. “I couldn’t have been more impressed with the students that spoke, and they’ll be sitting up here one day or doing something even better than what we’re doing because they showed such poise, maturity, and eloquence; it was just phenomenal to see.”

The council motioned to execute the Los Angeles County Measure

have a hard time getting anyone to come and participate or speak because everyone believes so much in the mission of supporting these amazing youth on their journey, so we’re very privileged to get support from the city, from Supervisor Lindsey P. Horvath’s office, as well as our local businesses that are represented here,” she said. “These are ongoing contributors who believe in supporting local community as well as Santa Monica College (SMC) has been a wonderful recent partner to BGCM, so we really appreciate Alice’s [Meyering] participation.”

About the Boys and Girls Club of Malibu

Established in 1947, Youth of the Year is BGCA’s premier recognition program for

M Funding Agreement for the Pacific Coast Highway Pedestrian Undercrossing at Malibu Seafood Project.

The PCH Pedestrian Undercrossing at Malibu Seafood Project was identified as Priority ID No. 78 in the 2015 PCH Safety Study. This project was also discussed during the April 11, 2022, City Council meeting. At this meeting, council received an update on Los Angeles County Measure R and Measure M Transportation funds and provided staff with directions on implementing future projects using these funds. The council identified this project as Priority Project No. 7 in the Safety Priority Project list. The PCH Pedestrian Undercrossing at Malibu Seafood Project consists of constructing a new pedestrian undercrossing that would connect Corral Beach, across from Malibu Seafood, to the Sara Wan trailhead located next to Malibu Seafood. This project also includes ADA access and the construction of lighting within the pedestrian undercrossing to improve visibility.

“I was there when they originally proposed putting a crosswalk there, and the community went crazy; the tunnels are already

club members, promoting service to club, community and family; academic success; strong moral character; life goals; and poise and public speaking ability. The program is most effective when used as a year-round tool for fostering young people’s character, personal growth and leadership qualities. Local Clubs recognize members ages 14 to 18 as Youth of the Month winners and select a Youth of the Year, who then participates in state competitions. State winners each receive a $1,000 scholarship and participate in regional competitions. Five regional winners each receive a $10,000 scholarship and compete on the national level. The National Youth of the Year receives up to an additional $50,000 scholarship and is installed by the President of the United States.

there, so we just need to convert it to an underground passage,” Mayor Steve Uhring said. The council addressed the Permanent Skatepark appeal for over two hours, and councilmembers raised concerns on the minor changes that were made since the item was appealed in November last year.

The Permanent Skatepark at Malibu Bluffs Park was initially approved at the Planning Commission meeting on Thursday, Nov. 30. The meeting was attended by dozens of Malibu locals, including skaters who have been advocating for the permanent skatepark to begin construction, many also attended the City Council meeting on Monday night as well. Riesgo and California Skateparks Principal Designer Jaxon Statzell presented the skatepark plan. After a heated discussion, council members addressed the appeal and substantial conformity category. The appellant said the appeal includes grading and requests the city to be responsible for replacing any landscaping after the skatepark is built, but the council members admitted that they don’t know what the appeal includes.

“We have not seen the appeal, I read his appeal to the City Council but that’s not what’s going to be in the appeal document,” Uhring said. “Let’s bring it back; let’s do the appeal first in the next meeting.”

“I think this is a bad move for the city, this is a bad image, someone threatens to sue us, and we just roll over,” Uhring said. The council had two closed sessions regarding the skateparks.

Councilmember Marianne Riggins motioned to have a public open hearing on Monday, March 4, to hear the settlement proposal as a standalone item.

Riggins and Councilmember Paul Grisanti were frustrated with the amount of time Silverstein was taking with comments.

“We need to get a finalization of this — our residents want this skate park,” Riggins said. “We had a responsibility here to make improvements for our community and make sure our residents have the facilities that they are clamoring for, and they have been clamoring for this skatepark for decades, and it’s time to get down to the brass tacks and get it settled this isn’t a game.”

Four outstanding youth representatives shared their personal stories of adversity, goals for the future, and the impact of the BGCM on their lives. Photos by Samantha Bravo/TMT

Malibu Life

Malibuites visit Calakmul Biosphere in Mexico

Family

tropical forest with noted species extinction expert Dr. Gerardo Ceballos

Deep in the central-southern part of the Yucatán peninsula’s jungles of the Petén Basin in the Mexican state of Campeche sits Calakmul Biosphere. Located amidst the tropical forests of the Tierras Bajas, Calakmul falls within the Mesoamerica biodiversity hotspot, the third largest in the world, encompassing all subtropical and tropical ecosystems from central Mexico to the Panama Canal.

Malibu’s Evelin Weber, her spouse Trevor Neilson, and their young son Max, 7, went to Calakmul with Dr. Gerardo Ceballos, one of the world’s leading ecologists and a species extinction expert, a few weeks ago. They observed and learned about the site, which serves as a critical protected habitat for a number of endemic and threatened species.

The 1.8 million-acre biosphere is one of Mexico’s most fragile and protected tropical forests. It was established in 1989 by the Mexican government as a Natural Protected Area and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. At Calakmul, Ceballos and his team have spearheaded efforts to revive endangered jaguars, and they strive to save other endangered species and to educate people about imminent species extinction threats.

“Dr. Ceballos is a conservation ecologist who is a leading expert in species extinction and he runs a jungle research camp that we visited,” Neilson said. “He  has led a years-long effort to save the jaguars. There are now approximately 4,000 jaguars, whereas when they were in peril years ago, there were only between 300 to 400.”

Ceballos, who is a faculty member at Instituto de Ecologia, UNAM, has written the “Annihilation of Nature” series of Amazon books. He has authored more than 500 scientific and divulgation articles in academic publications. His research and field work has analyzed relevant data and determined that the specter of extinction hangs over an astounding

number of amphibian species and mammals. “I first met Trevor when he attended a lecture on species extinction in the Cantor Museum at Stanford University in 2019,” Ceballos told The

decided to have this trip together to my study site in southern Mexico.

“They are a delightful family who are educated, concerned about the world, and eager to learn new things. They are fun to travel with! Trevor and Evelin have been tirelessly working at different scales, from local to global, to help fight extinction and climate change. They are philanthropists and entrepreneurs who are genuinely interested in these topics and have devoted a lot of time to support proper actions.”

The Malibu family learned that the amount of wildlife species the world has lost in the last few decades is alarming, Neilson noted. He referred to the World Wildlife Fund’s Living Planet Report, which found that out of the nearly 32,000 populations analyzed, there was an average decline of 69 percent since 1970 and up to 2.5 percent of mammals, fish, reptiles, birds, and amphibians have already gone extinct.

“The research establishes that deforestation is an even bigger factor in species extinction than climate change,” Weber said. Scientists’ concerns about the astounding rate of extinction were further corroborated on Feb. 12, when the United Nations’ first-ever report on migrating animals was published and, astoundingly, revealed that more than a fifth of the world’s migrating species are at risk of going extinct as a result of climate change and human encroachment.

“The statistics are very disheartening and if we don’t listen to the experts, humans are in real trouble,” Weber said. “We treat nature as if it is infinite. However,  the reality is that nature supports the biosphere and without it there will be no life on the planet.”

Weber, who is pursuing a doctorate in environmental sciences, noted that there is a critical communication disconnect between decision-makers who could work collaboratively to address concerns about species extinction.

“Urban planners lack the knowledge of scientists regarding urban sprawl and that has dramatically hurt biodiversity,” Weber said. “Traditional urban planning has hurt biodiversity — we have sprawling retail centers where wetlands are supposed to be.”

Man is, Weber stated, “working against nature

Malibu High School graduate is seen by millions in high profile Super Bowl commercial

Hilarious Pluto TV spot features former MHS theater kid

By JUDY ABEL Of The Malibu Times

The Super Bowl may be one of the highest-rated broadcasts on television each year, but the pricey commercials aired during the game often receive just as much buzz. Celebrity ads remain popular, but sometimes humorous spots become classics. One hysterical ad this year features Malibu High School graduate Jake Dvorsky. His comedic improv talent landed the 27-year-old a featured spot in Pluto TV’s hysterical commercial about farming couch potatoes. You can view it online at www.youtube.com/watch?v=4mPKDEfo0UM

“It all stems from theater at MHS,” the 2014 graduate affirmed. Dvorsky was in every MHS theater production while a student at MHS. After high school, he studied acting at UCLA. He also learned about the business and studied writing and producing for films. Dvorsky spends most of his time writing, producing films, auditioning, and producing a podcast for Wondery.

The Super Bowl commercial came about last year. When Dvorsky got the audition, he didn’t have a “full picture” of the scope of the advertisement.

“For this one they just wanted us to talk

about our favorite TV programs and why we liked them so much. It was all improvised. I started talking about reality TV because I like seeing hot people suffer. It’s cathartic,” the actor laughed. “And that got me the job.” Dvorsky’s droll take on reality television

expressed in the spot, “I like it when hot people throw wine on each other,” won the producers over and he landed the role of a couch potato growing in a field.

“There were 20 to 30 potatoes coming

Malibu Times. “After the talk, he told me he was very moved by my work, which has shown the magnitude and the consequences of the extinction crisis. Afterward, I met Evelin, too. And we then

Malibu’s Evelin Weber, right, is shown with her husband Trevor Neilson and son Max, 7, at the Calakmul Biosphere in Mexico, which serves as a critical protected habitat for a number of endemic and threatened species. Photo by Evelin Weber

MALIBU

Cool jazz

By Benjamin Marcus, Entertainment Editor

Pianist

Lto Malibu

isa Hilton is a fan of this column and now she is the subject of this column. She will be swinging and bopping with her quartet at Pepperdine on March 6, so we recommend you bop up there and swing and catch her act.

First of all, I’d like to thank you for the invite to your concert at Pepperdine Golf and Country Club ... sorry, Pepperdine University on March 6.

Of course — everyone is welcome! I encourage students and kids that are interested in the piano too. It’s a wonderful room and stage.

Who can we expect to see, and what can we expect to hear?

Our band with Igmar Thomas/trumpet, Rudy Royston/drums and Luques Curtis/bass, and myself on piano, will perform acoustic jazz and blues. We don’t get much jazz here in Malibu, so March 6 will be a treat for jazz lovers and anyone who likes instrumental music, and will be the same show that we will play at Carnegie Hall in NYC the following week. Going out for live music is a gift we give ourselves — it’s always uplifting. I tell stories about the creativity behind the music too, so it might be inspiring for some.

Any Miles Davis? Promise me “All Blues” — that song is musical heroin. “All Blues” swings like what I imagine heroin feels like.

Good description. I love that one too, but I have written or arranged almost 300 tunes, so they won’t all make it onto the set list — I’m sorry!

I come from a jazz family. My grandma Sarah was a theater organ accompanist for silent movies. Pops played clarinet, saxophone, and piano. Brother Dan played trombone with Ray Charles for many years. Younger brother Michael played bass for Berkeley High School and won a scholarship to the New England Conservatory of Music. I believe such artistic talents are inherited. Do you have musicians in your family tree?

My great uncle Willem Bloemendaal was a piano virtuoso and played for the Dutch Queen back in his day. I had three sisters and a grandfather who all played the violin and Mom liked to play standards on the piano. There was a LOT of instrumental music going on in our home which was a great foundation

for being a musician. I deeply loved the piano from a very young age and it is a passion, along with composing, that I am completely devoted to.

According to Wikipedia, you were born in San Luis Obispo. San Luis Obispo!? Ain’t nothing there but steers and craft beers!

Well I didn’t have as much exposure to music and culture there as many other musicians who grew up in urban areas and went to jazz camps did, but I believe your passion will always find a way to learn and grow.

Can you in 50 words or less describe your arc from San Luis Obispo to living in Malibu and having a great deal of music to your credit?

I think my creativity was probably born out of boredom growing up in our small town. As a kid I was pretty hyper creative — my poor mom always went along with the projects I wanted to try, but some were a bit crazy! The piano, and eventually composing, have now focused that creativity in one general area.

Malibu, like San Luis Obispo, is a small town with natural beauty, but I find so many creative people in Malibu, that I’m really happy and feel very lucky to be here now. I write about 10 songs a year and produce an album a year — so it’s been steady, but not an unreasonable amount of work.

Wikipedia says: “In the book ‘The New Face of Jazz,’ author Cicily Janus writes that Hilton has been ‘compared to some of the best pianists in history’ – comparisons often include Bill Evans and Dave Brubeck, but Hilton’s compositions are also considered to be reminiscent of musical impressionism inspired by Claude Debussy and Erik Satie.” The best pianists in history? Ludwig van? Ellington? Little Richard? Carole King? Elton John? Are you comfortable with that? To quote

Vincent Vega: “That’s a bold statement.”

Thanks for the smile — I actually haven’t been compared to those pop songwriters or to Beethoven either, but yes, people have said that I remind them of Bill Evans, Debussy, Satie even though I don’t really sound like them, which is surprising, but very kind. They are very melodic musicians with impressionistic harmonic ideas — that’s a nice category to be in, right? Dave Brubeck, who also grew up in California as I did, along with Miles Davis, Chet Baker, and others, we are considered the category of “cool jazz” — it’s jazz that has a less frenzied approach, and often explores new harmonic ideas too so we are in a the same jazz category.

I don’t know how you can ever rate an artist as “best” though — our goal is to express human experiences and emotions in a personal way. Music and art touches

Let’s hear it for the sloth

PERSPECTIVE

Iam confused again. I confuse easily. Sloth or slothfulness, which I assume means full of sloth, is a sin in the Bible as well as in other literature. It represents laziness, inactivity, lack of industry — all attributes which are right up my alley.

“60 Minutes,” which has been around almost as long as the sloth, did a show several months back about this very slow moving mammal. In fact, the sloth rarely exceeds half a mile an hour, which coincidentally is about how fast I move.

The show points out that the sloth is prehistoric and predates all of today’s animals by a country mile, whatever that means. Scientists believe that the sloth made its entrance on the scene around 60 million years ago, give or take a year here or there.

So why has the sloth exhibited so much staying power? The answer is in its slow movement and low metabolism rate. The sloth does not expend much energy, to say the least. There seems to be a lesson here. Take it nice and easy, and you might be around in another 60 million years.

When I look at a sloth, and to be perfectly honest, that would be a rare occurrence, I do not see laziness at all. Rather, I see a wise creature worthy of emulating.

So, let’s hear it for the sloth! We can all benefit from taking it easy and slowing down.

everyone uniquely so everyone will have a different opinion. I do admire Bill Evans, Claude Debussy, and some of Erik Satie’s and Dave Brubeck’s music, so I feel thankful for those comparisons!

You started playing piano at six years old and studied classical originally. Just as some people are Maui or Kauai or Big Island people, some are Bach or Mozart or Beethoven people. I’m a fan of Ludwig Van.

Every year in my “offseason” — when I’m done touring and recording — I explore classical music for a month or so and I really try to explore everything. One year for example, I played primarily atonal composers, but I often go through all Chopin’s complete piano works and a few sonatas — from Beethoven to Prokofiev.

Don’t know much about classical, but I like Beethoven’s 21st Piano Sonata: Waldstein. That’s Ludwig Van showing some chops! After a few weeks of classical, all I want to play is JAZZZZZZZZZZ, so then I go back to that. It’s like taking a vacation that’s interesting, but being happy to be back home — that’s jazz for me.

Well it just seems like playing classical is focused and disciplined and somewhat stressful trying not to make a mistake, while playing jazz is just letting loose and creatively easing the stress. Is that correct?

Any music or art takes discipline and focus, but if you are enjoying what you do, it’s not stressful — it’s fun! I’m interested in classical music, but jazz is the music of America, while classical music is western European music from generations in the past. For me, playing a waltz, minuet, or sonata doesn’t represent who I am or our world today. I like to explore it, but

CALAKMUL BIOSPHERE

Continued from B1

and the real issue is the loss of biodiversity and the impact that loss has had on ecosystems such as pollinators.”

“If man’s developments worked with nature, things would not have gone so sideways. Local examples of such ecological dysfunction abound,” she said. “For example, Eucalyptus trees are not indigenous to Malibu and nearby areas. They create fire hazards. However,  in the 1960’s, the fire department — of all entities — brought the trees to our locality and encouraged people to plant eucalyptus.”

Instead of working against nature, Weber said, everyone needs to support nature and plant only indigenous flora.

Ceballos agrees and he noted that ordinary people can do many things to help the environment and reduce the extinction crisis.

“Reducing consumption at all levels is a must,” he said. “For example, using less plastic and less water and reducing our waste.”

Elaborating, he said, “Plant trees and plant flowers that are used by animals and never buy a wild animal, such as a chameleon,

SUPER

Continued from B1

up with their own lines. It was a mockumentary-style setup,” he said. “It was unscripted. We had a lot of fun with it, making things up on the spot in outrageous potato suits. It was great.”

Dvorsky had no idea the commercial was intended for the Super Bowl. It was filmed over four rainy days in December at a farm in Pomona. He finally found out on set, but still couldn’t imagine the significance of landing such a widely seen advertisement.

“It’s so weird. I personally didn’t have a big reaction at first. I’m not a big Super Bowl fan. I didn’t realize how many people watch,” the Malibu native commented, but as he was watching the Super Bowl

not necessarily play it much. I prefer to play music influenced by the past, like jazz and blues with a little Latin and a bit of classical too, but what we play sounds like today, not yesterday.

Who are your favorite pianists?

I love the classical pianist Yuja Wang and I am a big fan of jazz pianist Brad Mehldau.

OK, I’m listening to “Jagged Lil’ Blues” on YouTube. Can I say it sounds like you poured Dave Brubeck and Miles Davis into a blender, added a pinch of Jobim and came out with something jazzy and cool?

That’s a pretty close description: It’s a little bit jagged and a little bit Latin with a dash of blues. We’ll definitely be playing that one at our show.

To read the full article visit malibutimes.com. The Lisa Hilton Quartet will perform at Pepperdine University’s Raitt Recital Hall on March 6 at 7:30: Tickets are $28 general admission, $10 for students. For more information go to lisahiltonmusic.com

Corrections

In the “posthumorous” eulogy to Matt Rapf, the photo of the Malibu wall was credited to Skylar Peak. The credit goes to Andy Lyon. In the interview with Chelsie Diane, a meme about Taylor Swift “swinging the election like she swings her hips” was unbolded so it looked like the meme came from Chelsie. It didn’t, and in fact that sort of thing makes her cringe. Blame for that cringey meme goes to Your Humble Interviewer. Also, the photo credit for Chelsie goes to Sarah Hein

snake, or macaw as a pet and vote for candidates who are environmentally concerned.”

On a local level, Neilson noted that Malibu needs to return to the dedication to preserving Malibu’s fragile ecosystem that is so eloquently expressed in the city’s mission statement.

“The people who wrote the mission statement were brilliant and foresightful,” he said.

“It’s time for us to return to their focus on preserving Malibu’s rural character and protecting our fragile ecosystem before it’s too late.  That’s all that matters.

“If there’s one thing that I do find heartening is that children who are young, such as our son Max, are naturally curious about nature and, when they are exposed to it, they are naturally inclined to respect and protect it.”

Ceballos thoroughly enjoyed showing Max where he researches, and they explored much of Calakmul.

“Max is a very smart and inquisitive child and he is very interested in the environment,” he said. “It is very important to educate your next generation. But the burden should be on our shoulders. There is no time to wait for the children to act.”

broadcast Feb. 11, it hit him.

“It didn’t sink in until it was actually airing,” Dvorsky said. “I saw some stat that it was one of the most watched events since the moon landing and I thought, ‘whoa, that’s pretty neat.’ I know the Super Bowl is big and obviously the commercials are a big deal, but I didn’t really realize just how big of a deal the Super Bowl was and how big the commercial would be.”

In the weeks since the spot aired, Dvorsky has been bombarded with messages. Hundreds of people reached out to the young actor via text, calls, and Instagram DMs.

“It was insane,” he said. “In 24 hours, I had 350 people I have not spoken to since middle school or people I’ve never even met saying, ‘Hey, I recognized you!’ It was really, really wild.

“I’m pretty stoked on it. Hilar-

iously enough Vulture wrote an article about it.”

The pop culture publication mentioned Dvorsky, writing, “Farmers are growing couch potatoes galore in the Pluto TV Super Bowl spot. We are particularly fond of the gay, Housewives-loving couch potato. Would certainly make him into waffle fries.”

Dvorsky remarked, “Not only was I in a Super Bowl ad, I got my first Vulture write-up at the same time.”

While the four-day shoot occurred in Pomona during a storm, Dvorsky fondly recalled, “We had a rainbow every single day on set. It was crazy. The production team was great. We were well taken care of.”

Beside his work playing a potato, Dvorsky recently produced and starred in his first feature film

titled “Low Life.” You can watch it on Amazon.

You can also catch Dvorsky co-starring in a short film traveling on the festival circuit, including Slamdance. The film, “Just Right” was written, directed by, and stars fellow MHS graduate Camille Wormser.

BOWL

Jake Dvorsky

Trevor Neilson and son Max Weber, 7, explore the Calakmul Biosphere in Mexico. The two, along with Evelin Weber — Trevor’s wife and Max’s mother — traveled to the biosphere with species extinction expert Dr. Gerardo Ceballos. Photos by Evelin Weber

SEEN

Lisa Hilton talks about her music, influences, and path from SLO

The Lisa Hilton Quartet is playing dates all over the country over the next week. Photo courtesy Lisa Hilton

2024019349

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT

THE FOLLOWING PERSON IS (ARE)

DOING BUSINESS AS: 1. CATALYST GROUP

4607 LAKEVIEW CANYON SUITE

300, WESTLAKE VILLAGE, CA 91361,

Articles of Incorporation or Organi-

Number (if applicable):

Owner(s): 1. FILMS BY JOVE,

4607 LAKEVIEW CANYON SUITE

300, WESTLAKE VILLAGE, CA 91361

If Corporation or LLC- CA State of Incorporation/Organization

CA

This business is conducted by: A CORPORATION

The date registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: 01/2024.

I

AT THE END OF FIVE YEARS FROM THE DATE ON WHICH IT WAS FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY CLERK, EXCEPT, AS PROVIDED IN SUBDIVISION (b) OF SECTION 17920, WHERE IT EXPIRES 40 DAYS AFTER ANY CHANGE IN THE FACTS SET FORTH IN THE STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 17913 OTHER THAN A CHANGE IN THE RESIDENCE ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION.THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (SEE SECTION 14411 ET SEQ., BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONS CODE).

Publish in The Malibu Times: 2/8, 2/15, 2/22, 2/29/2024

MALIBU 41

ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME

Case No. 24SMCP00056

Superior Court of California, County of Los Angeles

Petition of: RONIT WERTHEIM

TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS:

Petitioner RONIT WERTHEIM a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows:

Present Name: RONIT WERTHEIM

Proposed Name: RONIT HEIMANSON

The Court orders that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing.

Notice of Hearing:

Date: 03/24/2024 Time: 8:30AM, Dept.: K

The address of the court is:

SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES 1725 MAIN STREET, ROOM 102, SANTA MONICA, CA 90401

A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation, printed in this county (specify newspaper):

The Malibu Times

Date: Judge of the Superior Court

DAVID W. SLAYTON Executive Officer/Clerk of Court

PUB: 2/8, 2/15, 2/22, 2/29/2024 The Malibu Times

MALIBU 42 2024027753

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT

THE FOLLOWING PERSON IS (ARE) DOING BUSINESS AS:

1. ATLAS RANCH, MOLLY MARLER PHOTOGRAPHY

3915 COTTONWOOD GROVE TRAIL, AGOURA HILLS, CA 91301, LOS ANGELES COUNTY

Articles of Incorporation or Organization Number (if applicable): Registered Owner(s):

1. MARLER VENTURES, LLC

3915 COTTONWOOD GROVE TRAIL, AGOURA HILLS, CA 91301

If Corporation or LLC- CA State of Incorporation/Organization

CA

This business is conducted by: A LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY

The date registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: 01/2024.

I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows to be false is guilty of a crime). Signed, MARLER VENTURE, LLC, MOLLY MARLER, MANAGING MEMBER

This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Los Angeles County on 2/7/2024. NOTICE IN ACCORDANCE WITH SUBDIVISION (a) OF SECTION 17920, A FICTITIOUS NAME STATEMENT GENERALLY EXPIRES AT THE END OF FIVE YEARS FROM THE DATE ON WHICH IT WAS FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY CLERK, EXCEPT, AS PROVIDED IN SUBDIVISION (b) OF SECTION 17920, WHERE IT EXPIRES 40 DAYS AFTER ANY CHANGE IN THE FACTS SET FORTH IN THE STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 17913 OTHER THAN A CHANGE IN THE RESIDENCE ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION.THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (SEE SECTION 14411 ET SEQ., BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONS CODE).

Publish in The Malibu Times: 2/15, 2/22, 2/29, 3/7/2024 MALIBU 44

PUBLIC NOTICE

T.S. No. 114824-CA APN: 4448-019040 NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S SALE IMPORTANT NOTICE TO PROPERTY OWNER: YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF TRUST, DATED 7/12/2007. UNLESS YOU TAKE ACTION TO PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY, IT MAY BE SOLD AT A PUBLIC SALE.

IF YOU NEED AN EXPLANATION OF THE NATURE OF THE PROCEEDING AGAINST YOU, YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LAWYER On 3/13/2024 at 10:30 AM, CLEAR RECON CORP, as duly appointed trustee under and pursuant to Deed of Trust recorded 7/20/2007 as Instrument No. 20071722144 of Official Records in the office of the County Recorder of Los Angeles County, State of CALIFORNIA executed by: TONIA EIKERENKOETTER, A MARRIED WOMAN AS HER SOLE AND SEPARATE PROPERTY WILL SELL AT PUBLIC AUCTION TO HIGHEST BIDDER FOR CASH, CASHIER’S CHECK DRAWN ON A STATE OR NATIONAL BANK, A CHECK DRAWN BY A STATE OR FEDERAL CREDIT UNION, OR A CHECK DRAWN BY A STATE OR FEDERAL SAVINGS AND LOAN ASSOCIATION, SAVINGS ASSOCIATION, OR SAVINGS BANK SPECIFIED IN SECTION 5102 OF THE FINANCIAL CODE AND AUTHORIZED TO DO BUSINESS IN THIS STATE; BEHIND THE FOUNTAIN LOCATED IN CIVIC CENTER PLAZA, 400 CIVIC CENTER PLAZA, POMONA, CA 91766 all right, title and interest conveyed to and now held by it under said Deed of Trust in the property situated in said County and State described as:

MORE FULLY DESCRIBED ON SAID DEED OF TRUST The street address and other common designation, if any, of the real property described above is purported to be: 2351

TUNA CANYON ROAD, TOPANGA, CA 90290

The undersigned Trustee disclaims any liability for any incorrectness of the street address and other common designation, if any, shown herein. Said sale will be held,

but without covenant or warranty, express or implied, regarding title, possession, condition, or encumbrances, including fees, charges and expenses of the Trustee and of the trusts created by said Deed of Trust, to pay the remaining principal sums of the note(s) secured by said Deed of Trust. The total amount of the unpaid balance of the obligation secured by the property to be sold and reasonable estimated costs, expenses and advances at the time of the initial publication of the Notice of Sale is: $1,435,195.90 If the Trustee is unable to convey title for any reason, the successful bidder’s sole and exclusive remedy shall be the return of monies paid to the Trustee, and the successful bidder shall have no further recourse. The beneficiary under said Deed of Trust heretofore executed and delivered to the undersigned a written Declaration of Default and Demand for Sale, and a written Notice of Default and Election to Sell. The undersigned or its predecessor caused said Notice of Default and Election to Sell to be recorded in the county where the real property is located. NOTICE TO POTENTIAL BIDDERS: If you are considering bidding on this property lien, you should understand that there are risks involved in bidding at a trustee auction. You will be bidding on a lien, not on the property itself. Placing the highest bid at a trustee auction does not automatically entitle you to free and clear ownership of the property. You should also be aware that the lien being auctioned off may be a junior lien. If you are the highest bidder at the auction, you are or may be responsible for paying off all liens senior to the lien being auctioned off, before you can receive clear title to the property. You are encouraged to investigate the existence, priority, and size of outstanding liens that may exist on this property by contacting the county recorder’s office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge you a fee for this information. If you consult either of these resources, you should be aware that the same lender may hold more than one mortgage or deed of trust on the property. NOTICE TO PROPER -

TY OWNER: The sale date shown on this notice of sale may be postponed one or more times by the mortgagee, beneficiary, trustee, or a court, pursuant to Section 2924g of the California Civil Code. The law requires that information about trustee sale postponements be made available to you and to the public, as a courtesy to those not present at the sale. If you wish to learn whether your sale date has been postponed, and, if applicable, the rescheduled time and date for the sale of this property, you may call (844) 477-7869 or visit this Internet Web site WWW.STOXPOSTING.COM, using the file number assigned to this case 114824-CA. Information about postponements that are very short in duration or that occur close in time to the scheduled sale may not immediately be reflected in the telephone information or on the Internet Web site. The best way to verify postponement information is to attend the scheduled sale.

NOTICE TO TENANT: Effective January 1, 2021, you may have a right to purchase this property after the trustee auction pursuant to Section 2924m of the California Civil Code.

If you are an “eligible tenant buyer,” you can purchase the property if you match the last and highest bid placed at the trustee auction. If you are an “eligible bidder,” you may be able to purchase the property if you exceed the last and highest bid placed at the trustee auction. There are three steps to exercising this right of purchase. First, 48 hours after the date of the trustee sale, you can call (855) 313-3319, or visit this internet website www.clearreconcorp.com, using the file number assigned to this case 114824-CA to find the date on which the trustee’s sale was held, the amount of the last and highest bid, and the address of the trustee. Second, you must send a written notice of intent to place a bid so that the trustee receives it no more than 15 days after the trustee’s sale. Third, you must submit a bid so that the trustee receives it no more than 45 days after the trustee’s sale. If you think you may qualify as an “eligible tenant buyer” or “eligible bidder,” you should consider con -

tacting an attorney or appropriate real estate professional immediately for advice regarding this potential right to purchase. FOR SALES IN-

FORMATION: (844) 477-7869 CLEAR RECON CORP 8880 Rio San Diego Drive, Suite 725 San Diego, California 92108

MALIBU 37 2024016724

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT

THE FOLLOWING PERSON IS (ARE)

DOING BUSINESS AS: 1. MARKHAM MAPPING

21361 PCH SUITE A, MALIBU, CA 90265, LOS ANGELES COUNTY Articles of Incorporation or Organization Number (if applicable): Registered Owner(s): 1. CHEBON

MARKHAM 21361 PCH SUITE A, MALIBU, CA 90265

If Corporation or LLC- CA State of Incorporation/Organization

This business is conducted by: AN INDIVIDUAL

The date registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: 01/2024. I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows to be false is guilty of a crime). Signed, CHEBON MARKHAM, OWNER

This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Los Angeles County on 1/24/2024. NOTICE IN ACCORDANCE WITH SUBDIVISION (a) OF SECTION 17920, A FICTITIOUS NAME STATEMENT GENERALLY EXPIRES AT THE END OF FIVE YEARS FROM THE DATE ON WHICH IT WAS FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY CLERK, EXCEPT, AS PROVIDED IN SUBDIVISION (b) OF SECTION 17920, WHERE IT EXPIRES 40 DAYS AFTER ANY CHANGE IN THE FACTS SET FORTH IN THE STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 17913 OTHER THAN A CHANGE IN THE RESIDENCE ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION.THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (SEE SECTION 14411 ET SEQ., BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONS CODE).

Publish in The Malibu Times: 2/22, 2/29, 3/7, 3/14/2024 MALIBU 48 2024033451

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT

THE FOLLOWING PERSON IS (ARE) DOING BUSINESS AS: 1. THE BUTTER 4151 W 2ND ST APT 1, LOS ANGELES, CA 90004, LOS ANGELES COUNTY

Articles of Incorporation or Organization Number (if applicable): Registered Owner(s): 1. THE BUTTER COFFEE LLC 1401 21ST ST, SACRAMENTO, CA 95811

If Corporation or LLC- CA State of Incorporation/Organization

CA

This business is conducted by: A LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY

The date registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: 02/2024. I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows to be false is guilty of a crime). Signed, THE BUTTER COFFEE LLC, TAYLOR CRAFTON, CEO

This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Los Angeles County on 2/14/2024.

NOTICE IN ACCORDANCE WITH SUBDIVISION (a) OF SECTION 17920, A FICTITIOUS NAME STATEMENT GENERALLY EXPIRES AT THE END OF FIVE YEARS FROM THE DATE ON WHICH IT WAS FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY CLERK, EXCEPT, AS PROVIDED IN SUBDIVISION (b) OF SECTION 17920, WHERE

IT EXPIRES 40 DAYS AFTER ANY CHANGE IN THE FACTS SET FORTH

IN THE STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 17913 OTHER THAN A CHANGE IN THE RESIDENCE ADDRESS OF A REGISTERED OWNER. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED BEFORE THE EXPIRATION.THE FILING OF THIS STATEMENT DOES NOT OF ITSELF AUTHORIZE THE USE IN THIS STATE OF A FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME IN VIOLATION OF THE RIGHTS OF ANOTHER UNDER FEDERAL, STATE, OR COMMON LAW (SEE SECTION 14411 ET SEQ., BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONS CODE).

Publish in The Malibu Times: 2/22, 2/29, 3/7, 3/14/2024

MALIBU 49

BID NOTICE

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT SMMUSD invites sealed proposals for: RFP #24.19 – Districtwide Exterior Window Cleaning. All proposals must be electronically submitted via Secure Bids at https://colbisecurebids.com/o/smmusd/exteriorwindowcleaning on or before: April 11, 2024 2:00 P.M. RFP forms and specifications may be obtained in the link provided within this notice.

MALIBU 47

PUBLIC NOTICE

NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S SALE Trustee’s Sale No. CA-ACC-23019824

YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF TRUST DATED 5/28/2023. UNLESS YOU TAKE ACTION TO PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY, IT MAY BE SOLD AT A PUBLIC SALE. IF YOU NEED AN EXPLANATION OF THE NATURE OF THE PROCEEDING AGAINST YOU, YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LAWYER. NOTICE TO PROPERTY OWNER: The sale date shown on this notice of sale may be postponed one or more times by the mortgagee, beneficiary, trustee, or a court, pursuant to Section 2924g of the California Civil Code. The law requires that information about trustee sale postponements be made available to you and to the public, as a courtesy to those not present at the sale. If you wish to learn whether your sale date has been postponed, and, if applicable, the rescheduled time and date for the sale of this property, you may call 714-730-2727 or visit this Internet Web site www.servicelinkasap. com, using the file number assigned to this case, CA-ACC-23019824. Information about postponements that are very short in duration or that occur close in time to the scheduled sale may not immediately be reflected in the telephone information or on the Internet Web site. The best way to verify postponement information is to attend the scheduled sale. On March 20, 2024, at 11:00:00 AM, BY THE FOUNTAIN LOCATED AT, 400 CIVIC CENTER PLAZA, in the City of POMONA, County of LOS ANGELES, State of CALIFORNIA, PEAK FORECLOSURE SERVICES, INC., a California corporation, as duly appointed Trustee under that certain Deed of Trust executed by CARINA DORNELAS, as Trustors, recorded on 6/7/2023, as Instrument No. 20230371844, of Official Records in the office of the Recorder of LOS ANGELES County, State of CALIFORNIA, under the power of sale therein contained, WILL SELL AT PUBLIC AUCTION TO THE HIGHEST BIDDER, for cash, cashier’s check drawn on a state or national bank, check drawn by a state or federal credit union, or a check drawn by a state or federal savings and loan association, or savings association, or savings bank specified in Section 5102 of the Financial Code and authorized to do business in this state will be held by the duly appointed trustee as shown below, of all right, title, and interest conveyed to and now held by the trustee in the hereinafter described property under and pursuant to a Deed of Trust described below. The sale will be made, but without covenant or warranty, expressed or implied, regarding title, possession, or encumbrances, to pay the remaining principal sum of the note(s) secured by the Deed of Trust, with interest and late charges thereon, as provided in the note(s), advances, under the terms of the Deed of Trust, interest thereon, fees, charges and expenses of the Trustee for the total amount (at the time of the initial publication of the Notice of Sale) reasonably estimated to be set forth below. The

amount may be greater on the day of sale. Property is being sold “as is - where is”. Real Property in the unincorporated area of the County of Los Angeles, State of California, described as follows: Parcel 1: That portion of Parcel 43, in the County of Los Angeles, State of California, as shown on a record of survey Map Filed in Book 65, Page 28 of record of surveys, in the office of the County Recorder of said County, and that portion of Parcel 8 in said County and State as shown on Los Angeles County Assessor’s Map No. 69, recorded in Book 1, Page 28 of Assessor’s Maps, in the office of the County Recorder, described as a whole as follows: Beginning at the Southerly Terminus of that certain course in the Easterly Boundary Line of said Parcel 8, shown on said Los Angeles County Assessor’s Map No. 69, as having a bearing and length of “North 6° 29’ 18” East 397.93 feet; thence along the Boundary Line of said Parcel 8, as follows: South 33° 10’ 04” West 40.42 feet; South 62° 08’ 54” West 61.93 feet and South 33° 10’ 04” West 98.87 feet to the most Southerly corner of said Parcel 8; thence South 33° 10’ 04” West, along the prolongation of the last described course to the Northeasterly Line of the land described in Parcel 1 of the Deed to Leo B. Corcey, recorded on October 27, 1953 in Book 43018, Page 266 of official records of said County; thence Northwesterly along said Northeasterly Line to the most Northerly corner of said land to Corcey; thence Easterly in a direct line to the point of beginning. Parcel 2: An Easement for ingress and egress for over that portion of lots 1 to 6 inclusive and that portion of Lots 8 to 12 inclusive, in the County of Los Angeles, State of California, as shown on L.A.C.A. Map no. 68 recorded in Book 1 Page 28 of Assessor’s Maps, in the office of the County recorder of said County, included within the line of Oakfield Road, a Private Street, as said road is shown on said Map. Parcel 3: An Easement for ingress and egress over long valley road, as shown on record of survey filed in Book 65, Page 28 of record of surveys, in the office of the County recorder of said County. Except therefrom that portion of said road included within the line of the land described in the deed to the State of California, recorded April 10, 1958 in book D48, Page 543 of official records. From information which the Trustee deems reliable, but for which Trustee makes no representation or warranty, the street address or other common designation of the above described property is purported to be 23760 OAKFIELD RD, HIDDEN HILLS, CA 91302. Said property is being sold for the purpose of paying the obligations secured by said Deed of Trust, including fees and expenses of sale. The total amount of the unpaid principal balance, interest thereon, together with reasonably estimated costs, expenses and advances at the time of the initial publication of the Notice of Trustee’s Sale is $128,251.50.NOTICE TO POTENTIAL BIDDERS: If you are considering bidding on this property lien, you should understand that there are risks involved in bidding at a trustee auction. You will be bidding on a lien, not on the property itself. Placing the highest bid at a trustee auction does not automatically entitle you to free and clear ownership of the property. You should also be aware that the lien being auctioned off may be a junior lien. If you are the highest bidder at the auction, you are or may be responsible for paying off all liens senior to the lien being auctioned off, before you can receive clear title to the property. You are encouraged to investigate the existence, priority, and size of outstanding liens that may exist on this property by contacting the county recorder’s office or a title insurance company, either of which may charge you a fee for this information, if you consult either of these resources, you should be aware that the same lender may hold more than one mortgage or deed of trust on the property. NOTICE TO TENANT: You may have a right to purchase this property after the trustee auction pursuant to Section 2924m of the California Civil Code. If you are an “eligible tenant

buyer,” you can purchase the

if you match the

and high-

bid placed at the trustee auction. If you are an “eligible bidder,” you may be able to purchase the property if you exceed the last and highest bid placed at the trustee auction. There are three steps to exercising this right of purchase. First, 48 hours after the date of the trustee sale, you can call 877-237-7878, or visit www.peakforeclosure.com using file number assigned to this case: CAACC-23019824 to find the date on which the trustee’s sale was held, the amount of the last and highest bid, and the address of the trustee.

Second, you must send a written notice of intent to place a bid so that the trustee receives it no more than 15 days after the trustee’s sale.

Third, you must submit a bid so that the trustee receives it no more than 45 days after the trustee’s sale. If you think you may qualify as an “eligible tenant buyer” or “eligible bidder,” you should consider contacting an attorney or appropriate real estate professional immediately for advice regarding this potential right to purchase. NOTICE TO PERSPECTIVE OWNER-OCCUPANT: Any

as defined in Section 2924m of the California Civil Code who is the last and highest bidder at the trustee’s sale shall provide the required affidavit or declaration of eligibility to the auctioneer at the trustee’s sale or shall have it delivered to PEAK FORECLOSURE SERVICES, INC. by 5:00 PM on the next business day following the trustee’s sale at the address set forth above. The undersigned Trustee disclaims any liability for any incorrectness of the property address or other common designation, if any, shown herein. If no street address or other common designation is shown, directions to the location of the property may be obtained by sending a written request to the beneficiary within 10 days of the date of the first publication of this Notice of Sale. If the sale is set aside for any reason, including if the Trustee is unable to convey title, the Purchaser at the sale will be entitled only to the return of the money paid to the Trustee. This shall be the Purchasers sole and exclusive remedy. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse the Trustee, the Beneficiary, the Beneficiary’s Agent, or the Beneficiary’s Attorney WE ARE ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT, AND ANY INFORMATION WE OBTAIN WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. SALE INFORMATION

LINE: 714-730-2727 or www.servicelinkasap.com Dated: 2/20/2024

PEAK FORECLOSURE SERVICES, INC., AS TRUSTEE By: Lilian Solano, Trustee Sale Officer A-4810223 02/29/2024, 03/07/2024, 03/14/2024

MALIBU 51

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

The Los Angeles County Regional Planning Commission will conduct a public hearing to consider the project described below. A presentation and overview of the project will be given, and any interested person or authorized agent may appear and comment on the project at the hearing. The Regional Planning Commission will then consider a vote to approve or deny the project or continue the hearing if it deems necessary. Should you attend, you will have an opportunity to testify, or you can submit written comments to the planner below or at the public hearing. If the final decision on this proposal is challenged in court, testimony may be limited to issues raised before or at the public hearing.

Hearing Date and Time: Wednesday, April 24, 2024 at 9:00 a.m.

Hearing Location: Hall of Administration, 500 W. Temple Street, Board of Supervisors Hearing Room 381-B, Los Angeles, CA 90012. Virtual (Online) at bit.ly/ZOOM-RPC. By phone at (669) 444-9171 or (719) 359-4580 (ID: 858 6032 6429).

Project No.: PRJ2023-002901(1-5), Advance Planning Case No. RPPL2023004282

Project Location: Unincorporated Los Angeles County

CEQA Statutory Exemption: This project qualifies as a Statutory Exemption pursuant to Public Resources Code Section 21080.17 and CEQA Guidelines Section 15282(h).

Project Description: An ordinance amending the Los Angeles County Code, Title 11 – Health and Safety, and Title 22 – Planning and Zoning,

to update development standards with state statutory requirements for accessory dwelling units and junior accessory dwelling units in the unincorporated areas of Los Angeles County.

More information: Kenneth Warner, Regional Planner, 320 W. Temple Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012. (213) 974-6411. kwarner@planning. lacounty.gov. https://planning.lacounty.gov/long-range-planning/ adu-ordinance-amendment/.

Case Material: https://bit.ly/ PRJ2023-002901

If you need reasonable accommodations or auxiliary aids, contact the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Coordinator at (213) 974-6488 (Voice) or (213) 617-2292 (TDD) with at least 3 business days’ advanced notice.

2/29/24

CNS-3786929# MALIBU TIMES

MALIBU 52

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

The Los Angeles County Hearing Officer will conduct a public hearing to consider the project described below. A presentation and overview of the project will be given, and any interested person or authorized agent may appear and comment on the project at the hearing. The Hearing Officer will then consider to approve or deny the project or continue the hearing if it deems necessary. Should you attend, you will have an opportunity to testify, or you can submit written comments to the planner below or at the public hearing. If the final decision on this proposal is challenged in court, testimony may be limited to issues raised before or at the public hearing

Hearing Date and Time: Tuesday, April 2, 2024 at 9:00 a.m.

Hearing Location: Hall of Administration, 500 W. Temple Street (Basement), Assessment Appeal Board Hearing Room B4 (Board Room C), Los Angeles, CA 90012. Virtual (Online) at bit.ly/ZOOM-HO. By phone at (669) 444-9171 or (719) 359-4580 (ID: 824 5573 9842).

Project No.: 2018-000819-(3)

Project Location: 20662 Callon

Drive, Topanga, within the Santa Monica Mountains Planning Area

Applicant: Joel Cichowski and Claudia Reisenberger

CEQA Categorical Exemption:

Class 3 and Class 4

Project Description: Minor Coastal Development Permit to construct a 1,340-square-foot single-family residence in the Santa Monica Mountains Coastal Zone

More information: Tyler Montgomery 320 W. Temple Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012. (213) 974-6411. tmontgomery@planning.lacounty. gov. planning.lacounty.gov.

Case Material: https://bit.ly/2018000819

If you need reasonable accommodations or auxiliary aids, contact the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Coordinator at (213) 974-6488 (Voice) or (213) 617-2292 (TDD) with at least 3 business days’ advanced notice.

2/29/24

CNS-3786950# MALIBU TIMES MALIBU 53

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

Notice is given that Request for Proposals for Graffiti Removal Services District 5 North (BRC0000498), and Graffiti Removal Services District 5 South (BRC0000499) will be received per the instructions listed on the RFP until 5:30 pm, Monday, March 11, 2024. There will be an optional online Proposers’ Conference held for this solicitation. The total annual contract amount of this service is estimated to be $160,000 for District 5 North, and $200,000 for District 5 South. The RFP may be obtained by accessing the link at http://pw.lacounty.gov/brcd/servicecontracts or will be e-mailed or mailed to you upon request by calling (626) 458-4069 or TDD at (626) 282-7829.

2/29/24

CNS-3783650# MALIBU TIMES MALIBU 54

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

Notice is given that proposals for On-Call Pump Pulling, Machine Repair, Motor Control, and Well Maintenance Services (BRC0000463) will be received by the Los Angeles County Public Works, per the

instructions listed on the RFP until 5:30pm, Tuesday, March 19, 2024. No Proposers’ Conference will be held. The estimated annual contract amount is $1,730,000. Instructions for accessing the RFP document are available at the following link: http://pw.lacounty.gov/brcd/servicecontracts or may be mailed to you upon request by calling (626) 458-4199 or TDD at 626) 282-7829. 2/29/24

CNS-3783604#

MALIBU TIMES

MALIBU 55

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT the Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District invites electronic proposals for:  RFP #24.23 CHROMEBOOKS.  Proposals must be electronically submitted via Secure Bids https://colbisecurebids. com/o/smmusd/RFP2423 on or before:  March 19, 2024 at 2:00 PM.   RFP forms and specifications may be obtained in the link provided within this notice.

MALIBU 56

County Of Los Angeles Department Of The Treasurer And Tax Collector

Notice of Divided Publication

Pursuant to Revenue and Taxation Code (R&TC) Sections 3702, 3381, and 3382, the Los Angeles County Treasurer and Tax Collector is publishing in divided distribution, the Notice of Online Public Auction of Tax-Defaulted Property Subject to the Tax Collector’s Power to Sell in and for the County of Los Angeles, State of California, to various newspapers of general circulation published in the County. A portion of the list appears in each of such newspapers.

Notice of Online Public Auction of Tax-Defaulted Property Subject to the Tax Collector’s Power to Sell (Sale No. 2024A)

Whereas, on Tuesday, January 9, 2024, the Board of Supervisors of the County of Los Angeles, State of California, directed the County of Los Angeles Treasurer and Tax Collector (TTC), to sell certain tax-defaulted properties at the online public auction.

The TTC does hereby give public notice, that unless said properties are redeemed, prior to the close of business on Friday, April 19, 2024, at 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time, the last business day prior to the first day of the online public auction, the TTC will offer for sale and sell said properties on Saturday, April 20, 2024, beginning at 3:00 p.m. Pacific Time, through Tuesday, April 23, 2024, at 12:00 p.m. Pacific Time, to the highest bidder, for not less than the minimum bid, at online public auction at www.bid4assets.com/ losangeles.

The minimum bid for each parcel is the total amount necessary to redeem, plus costs, as required by R&TC Section 3698.5.

If a property does not sell during the online public auction, the right of redemption will revive and remain until Friday, May 31, 2024, at 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time.

The TTC will re-offer any properties that did not sell or were not redeemed prior to Friday, May 31, 2024, at 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time, for sale at online public auction at www.bid4assets.com/losangeles

beginning Saturday, June 1, 2024, at 3:00 p.m. Pacific Time, through Tuesday, June 4, 2024, at 12:00 p.m. Pacific Time.

Prospective bidders should obtain detailed information of this sale from the County of Los Angeles Treasurer and Tax Collector at ttc. lacounty.gov. Bidders are required to pre-register at www.bid4assets.com and submit a refundable $5,000 deposit in the form of wire transfer, electronic check, cashier’s check or bank-issued money order at the time of registration. Registration will begin on Friday, March 15, 2024, at 8:00 a.m. Pacific Time and end on Tuesday, April 16, 2024, at 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time. Pursuant to R&TC Section 3692.3,

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the CALIFORNIA COASTAL COMMISSION will hold a virtual public hearing starting at 9:00 am, Wednesday, February 7, 2024

The Coastal Commission meeting will be a hybrid meeting occurring both in-person and virtually through video and teleconference. Please see the Coastal Commission’s Virtual Hearing Procedures posted on the Coastal Commission’s webpage at www.coastal.ca.gov/mtgcurr.html for details on the procedures of this hearing. If you would like to receive a paper copy of the Coastal Commission’s Virtual Hearing Procedures, please call 415-904-5202. The in-person hearing will be held at the Holiday Inn Sacramento DowntownArena, 300 J Street, Sacramento CA 95814

The public hearing will act on the following item of local interest:

Item W10a: City of Malibu Local Coastal Program Amendment No. LCP-4-MAL-21-0049-1-Part B (Sign Regulations). Public hearing and action on the City of Malibu’s request to amend the Land Use Plan and Implementation Plan portions of its certified LCP to delete or modify policies and provisions that apply to signs on beachfront properties.

Check the Coastal Commission’s website for the staff report and more meeting information at www. coastal.ca.gov/mtgcurr.html

the TTC sells all property ``as is`` and the County and its employees are not liable for any known or unknown conditions of the properties, including, but not limited to, errors in the records of the Office of the Assessor (Assessor) pertaining to improvement of the property.

If the TTC sells a property, parties of interest, as defined by R&TC Section 4675, have a right to file a claim with the County for any proceeds from the sale, which are in excess of the liens and costs required to be paid from the proceeds. If there are any excess proceeds after the application of the minimum bid, the TTC will send notice to all parties of interest, pursuant to law. Please direct requests for information concerning redemption of tax-defaulted property to the Treasurer and Tax Collector, at 225 North Hill Street, Room 130, Los Angeles, California 90012. You may also call (213) 974-2045, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time, visit our website at ttc.lacounty.gov or email us at auction@ttc. lacounty.gov.

The Assessor’s Identification Number (AIN) in this publication refers to the Assessor’s Map Book, the Map Page, and the individual Parcel Number on the Map Page. If a change in the AIN occurred, the publication will show both prior and current AINs. An explanation of the parcel numbering system and the referenced maps are available at the Office of the Assessor located at 500 West Temple Street, Room 225, Los Angeles, California 90012, or at assessor.lacounty.gov.

I certify under penalty of perjury that the foregoing is true and correct. Executed at Los Angeles, California, on February 6, 2024.

3765

TD # $32,358.00

4431 AIN 4465-009-015 AMAZI, GLENN A LOCATION COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES $8,427.00

4432 AIN 4465-009-014 AMAZI, GLENN A LOCATION COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES $8,343.00

4433 AIN 4465-009-013 AMAZI, GLENN A LOCATION COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES $9,010.00

4434 AIN 4465-009-012 AMAZI, GLENN A LOCATION COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES $8,195.00

4435 AIN 4465-009-011 AMAZI, GLENN A LOCATION COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES $7,973.00

4436 AIN 4465-009-010 AMAZI, GLENN A LOCATION COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES $7,973.00

4437 AIN 4465-009-009 AMAZI, GLENN A LOCATION COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES $7,713.00

4438 AIN 4465-009-008 AMAZI, GLENN A LOCATION COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES $8,121.00

4439 AIN 4465-009-007 AMAZI, GLENN A LOCATION COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES $8,269.00

4440 AIN 4465-009-006 AMAZI, GLENN A LOCATION COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES $8,270.00

4441 AIN 4465-009-005 AMAZI, GLENN A LOCATION COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES $8,566.00

4442 AIN 4461-030-006 CLEGG, NORMAN ET AL CLEGG, KIMBERLY I LOCATION COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES $9,208.00

4445 AIN 4451-015-072 AQUAT

009 LLC LOCATION CITY-MALIBU

TD # $43,752.00

4446 AIN 4438-035-023 DIGITALCOLOR BEVERLY HILLS INC C/O C/O

ALI KHOSRAVI LOCATION COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES $4,728.00

CN104655 524

Feb 29, Mar 7,14, 2024

MALIBU 57

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING CITY OF MALIBU CITY COUNCIL

The Malibu City Council will hold a public hearing on MONDAY, March 25, 2024, at 6:30 p.m. on the item listed below in the Council Chambers at Malibu City Hall, located at 23825 Stuart Ranch Road, Malibu, CA and via teleconference.

Public comment can be submitted ahead of the public hearing to citycouncil@malibucity.org for inclusion in the public record. To view and participate during the public hearing, please review the meeting agenda posted at MalibuCity. org/AgendaCenter and follow the directions for public participation.

APPEAL NO. 23-004 – An appeal of Planning Commission Resolution No. 23-24, pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act, adopting Mitigated Negative Declaration No. 20-003 and Initial

Study No. 20-003 and approving

Coastal Development Permit No. 09-067 for the construction of a new 7,693 square foot, 20-room

motel above a new subterranean parking garage, surface parking lot, rooftop deck with swimming pool, spa and bar area, grading, retaining walls, landscaping, a new onsite wastewater treatment system and authorization for the planning director to submit a letter of public convenience or necessity for the sale of alcohol; Conditional Use Permit No. 18-002 for a motel in the Commercial Visitor-Serving-1 Zoning District and Sale of Alcohol; including Variance No. 18-030 for construction on slopes steeper than 3 to 1, Variance No. 18-031 for a retaining wall that is an integral part of the building in excess of 12 feet in height; Variance No. 20-035 for surface parking within the required front yard setback, and Site Plan Review No. 18-025 for a building height in excess of 18 feet, not to exceed 24 feet for a flat roof, located in the Commercial Visitor Serving-1 zoning district at 22959 Pacific Coast Highway (Surfrider Plaza, LLC)

Location: 22959 Pacific Coast Highway

APN:4452-019-005

Zoning:Commercial Visitor-Serving-One (CV-1)

Applicant: Burdge and Associates Architects, Inc.

Appellants:Malibu Township Council

Owner:Surfrider Plaza, LLC

Environmental Review:Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration (State Clearinghouse No. 2021020396) CEQA Guidelines 15164

Application Filed:June 11, 2018

Appeals Filed:July 27, 2023

Case Planner Adrian Fernandez, Assistant Planning Director 310-456-2489, ext. 482

afernandez@malibucity.org

For the project listed above with an initial study for environmental review, pursuant to CEQA, the City prepared an initial study and mitigated negative declaration finding that the project would have no significant adverse effects on the environment (CEQA Guidelines Section 15070).

A written staff report will be available at or before the hearing for the projects. All persons wishing to address the Council regarding these matters will be afforded an opportunity in accordance with the Council’s procedures.

Copies of all related documents can be reviewed by any interested person at City Hall during regular business hours. Oral and written comments may be presented to the City Council on, or before, the date of the meeting.

If there are any questions regarding this notice, please contact Assistant Planning Director Fernandez at (310) 456-2489, ext. 482.

COASTAL COMMISSION APPEAL

- An aggrieved person may appeal the City Council’s decision to the Coastal Commission within 10 working days of the issuance of the City’s Notice of Final Action. More information may be found online at www.coastal.ca.gov or by calling 805-585-1800.

Richard Mollica, Planning Director Publish Date: February 29, 2024 MALIBU 58

NOTICE TO READERS: California law requires that contractors taking jobs that total $500 or more (labor and/or materials) be licensed by the Contractors State License Board. State law also requires that contractors include their license numbers on all advertising. Check your contractor’s status at www.cslb.ca.gov or 800-321CSLB (2752). Unlicensed persons taking jobs that total less than $500 must state in their advertisements that they are not licensed by the Contractors State License Board.”

ALL REAL ESTATE advertised herein are subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act and the California Fair Employment and Housing Act, which makes it illegal to advertise any preference, limitation or discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, ancestry or national origin or intention to make such preference, limitation or discrimination. We will not knowingly accept any advertisements for real estate in violation of the law. All persons are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised are available on an equal opportunity basis.

THE MALIBU TIMES reserves the right to refuse the publishing of any advertisement(s) and to delete any objectionable word(s), phrase(s) and/ or image(s) from such advertisement. If there is an error or omission in the printing and/ or publication of an advertisement, The Malibu Times’ liability is limited to only one incorrect insertion or omission.

Advertising, Marketing & Web Malibu’s 360 A-Z Full Service

Creative Marketing Agency ~ www.vividcandi.com or @ vividcandi. Marketing Strategy, Production, Design, Web Development, Execution and Reporting. Located by the Malibu Pier. More Malibu Clients than any Agency. In Malibu for Over 20 Years!

Advertising Packages

NESS KNOWN IN MALIBU! .We can make it happen with our SPECIAL ADVERTISING PACKAGES. . Our low discounted rates will save you up to 50%. *Billing on monthly basis. *Get in 2-3 sections of the paper + online. *Your ad will be seen weekly in print & 24/7 Online at MalibuTimes.com Call 310456-5507

Animals

AGOURA ANIMAL SHELTER

29525 West Agoura Road, Agoura, CA 91301 (west of Kanan Road) 818-991-0071.

Morning visits from 10-12 daily except Wednesdays are by appointment only. Visits to the Care Centers between the hours of 2pm-5pm DO NOT require an appointment every day EXCEPT Wednesday, when visiting hours will be 2pm-7pm. www.animalcare.lacounty.gov

When veterinary care is unavailable or un-affordable, ask for Happy Jack® animal healthcare for cats, dogs, & horses. At Tractor Supply® (www.happyjackinc.com) (Cal-SCAN)

Announcements

Stroke and Cardiovascular disease are leading causes of death, according to the American Heart Association. Screenings can provide peace of mind or early detection! Contact Life Line Screening to schedule your screening. Special offer5 screenings for just $149. Call 1-888-892-5598 (Cal-SCAN)

Prepare for power outages today with a Generac Home Standby Generator. Act now to receive a FREE 7-Year warranty with qualifying purchase. Call 1-844-439-5645 today to schedule a free quote. It’s not just a generator. It’s a power move. (Cal-SCAN)

Eliminate gutter cleaning forever! LeafFilter, the most advanced debris-blocking gutter protection. Schedule a FREE LeafFilter estimate today. 20% off Entire Purchase. 10% Senior & Military Discounts. Call 1-855-424-7581 (Cal-SCAN)

DID YOU KNOW Newspaper-generated content is so valuable it’s taken and repeated, condensed, broadcast, tweeted, discussed, posted, copied, edited, and emailed countless times throughout the day by others? Discover the Power of Newspaper Advertising. For a free brochure call 916-288-6011 or email

NEW AUTHORS WANTED!

Page Publishing will help you self-publish your own book.

FREE author submission kit!

Limited offer! Why wait? Call now: 1-855-667-0380 (CalSCAN)

The difference in winning and losing market share is how businesses use their advertising dollars. CNPA’s Advertising Services’ power to connect to nearly 13 million of the state’s readers who are an engaged audience, makes our services an indispensable marketing solution. For more info call Cecelia @ (916) 288-6011 or cecelia@cnpa.com

Get your deduction ahead of the year-end! Donate your car, truck, or SUV to assist the blind and visually impaired. Arrange a swift, no-cost vehicle pickup and secure a generous yearend tax credit. Call Heritage for the Blind Today at 1-844-4912884 today! (Cal-SCAN)

Become a Published Author

We want to Read Your Book!

Dorrance Publishing-Trusted by Authors Since 1920 Book manuscript submissions currently being reviewed. Comprehensive Services: Consultation, Production, Promotion and Distribution Call for Your Free Author`s Guide 1-877-538-9554 or visit dorranceinfo.com/Cali (Cal-SCAN)

DIRECTV Sports Pack 3 Months on Us! Watch pro and college sports LIVE. Plus over 40 regional and specialty networks included. NFL, College Football, MLB, NBA, NHL, Golf and more. Some restrictions apply. Call

DIRECTV 1-888-641-5762 (CalSCAN)

DIRECTV OVER INTERNET -

Get your favorite live TV, sports and local channels. 99% signal reliability! CHOICE Package, $84.99/mo for 12 months. HBO Max and Premium Channels included for 3 mos (w/CHOICE Package or higher.) No annual contract, no hidden fees! Some restrictions apply. Call IVS

1-855-404-2509 (Cal-SCAN)

Jacuzzi Bath Remodel can install a new, custom bath or shower in as little as one day. For a limited time, we’re waiving all installation costs in half and offering a FREE safety upgrade! (Additional terms apply. Subject to change and vary by dealer. Offer ends 3/31/24 Call 1-833-985-4766 (Cal-SCAN)

Switch and save up to $250/ year on your talk, text and data. No contract and no hidden fees. Unlimited talk and text with flexible data plans.

Premium nationwide coverage. 100% U.S. based customer service. For more information, call 1-844-908-0605 (Cal-SCAN)

Get your deduction ahead of the year-end! Donate your car, truck, or SUV to assist the blind and visually impaired. Arrange a swift, no-cost vehicle pickup and secure a generous yearend tax credit. Call Heritage for the Blind Today at 1-844-4912884 today! (Cal-SCAN)

Attorneys

EAGAN LAW Personal Injury Attorney. Auto accidents, slip and fall, dog bites, wrongful death.

Call Todd Eagan today 877-70-INJURY / (310) 304-

OLAN

1-888-4911453. (CalSCAN)

DONATE YOUR UNWANTED CAR, TRUCK, RV OR BOAT TO HELP HOMELESS PETS

PETS ALIVE, A CALIFORNIA, QUALIFIED 501-C-3 NONPROFIT. WE ARE TAX DEDUCTION AND PAPERWORK EXPERTS AND PROVIDE GUARANTEED TAX DEDUCTIONS. FOR QUOTES AND QUICK PICK UP, CALL US TODAY. 833-772-2632 (Cal-SCAN) LAPETSALIVE.ORG

Donating your vehicle? Get more! Free Towing. Tax Deductible. Plus a $200 restaurant voucher and a 2-night/3-day hotel stay at one of 50 locations. Call Heritage for the Blind to donate your vehicle today. CALL 1-844-491-2884 (Cal- SCAN)

GOT AN UNWANTED CAR??? Your car donation to Patriotic Hearts helps veterans find work or start their own business. Fast free pick. Running or not! Call 24/7: 1- 877-5290495. (Cal-SCAN)

Tiene un vehiculo no deseado?

Donelo a Patriotic Hearts! Recogida rápida y gratuita en los 50 estados. Patriotic Hearts ofrece programas para ayudar a los veteranos a encontrar trabajo o iniciar su propio negocio. Llama ahora: 1-844- 244-5441 (24/7) (Cal-SCAN)

Bookkeeping A BOOKKEEPING SERVICE Quicken, QuickBooks, Excel. Honest, reliable, discreet. Local references. Patti 310-7208004. www.pattiullmanbookkeeping.com

Expert Quickbooks Pro, Full Charge Bookkeeper/*Advisor*. File Setup, Customization, Corrections, Private Instruction Available. Catch up your books. Sales & Payroll Tax Filing. My Nearby Office Or Yours. 310454-1675

Caregiver I CARE! CA licensed Caregiv-

er/Companion - Gourmet Cook - 15 yrs of experience - Fluent in French/English - Responsible - Excl Refs - Please contact Juliette at: 310-666-3220 or caringsoul301@gmail.com

Contractor

KANEROY and ASSOCIATES has been proud to serve Malibu & the Westside for the past 20 years, and look forward to putting it’s broad experience, creativity and craftsmanship to work for you on your next construction project. Kane Sickner 310-456-6841, www.kaneroy. com. Lic.#569337-Bonded/insured.

Counselors

Dr. Sherri Nader PSY 22116 / LCS 22848 License Clinical Psychologist Adjunct Faculty, USC. Individuals *Couples *Families * Parenting * Children *Adolescents *Teenagers. Malibu & Pacific Palisades. Weekend Appointments Available. 310-459-6350, www. SherriNader.com.

Eva Ackerman - Consultant, Coach, Mediator, Lighthouse. Se habla español. Eva blends psycho-spiritual training, transformational leadership and Sacred Commerce consulting to provide loving support, insightful reflection and effective tools for grounding and executing your vision into physical reality. Call 503-791-9939.

Electrical CONEJO VALLEY ELECTRIC

310-457-2139 coastlinefence@

& lighting specialist. We also install all

mounts, flat

TV’s, speakers & net-

systems. Family owned. Call 818-259-4055 or 805497-7711. Lic#922260.

Gardening

DUARTE LANDSCAPING Com-

plete Garden Service Yard & Hillside Clean Up. Tree * Trimming * Topping * Shaping *Palm *Cleaning *Sprinkler Work. Insurance. Bonded. Free Estimates. Jose Duarte, Owner. 323-733-2699 or 323-3337003

Handyman

MANNY’S THE HANDYMAN Construction, including demolition. Carpentry, plumbing, electrical, masonry/concrete, retaining walls, drywall, tile, roofing & painting, framing, finish carpentry. Power washing: decks, driveways & roofs. 30 yrs experience. Call Manny: 323-445-9622.

Your local handyman Professional Repair Services * Knowledge in all trades. We Fix It!. Call Bob 818-635-9319. Lic#924813

Insurance

SAVE BIG on HOME INSURANCE! Compare 20 A-rated

insurances companies. Get a quote within minutes. Average savings of $444/year! Call 1-844-410-9609! (M-F 8am8pm Central) (Cal-SCAN)

Internet FREE high speed internet for those that qualify. Government program for recipients of select programs incl. Medicaid, SNAP, Housing Assistance, WIC, Veterans Pension, Survivor Benefits, Lifeline, Tribal. 15 GB internet service. Bonus offer: Android tablet FREE with one-time $20 copay. Free shipping & handling. Call Maxsip Telecom today! 1-855-4800769 (Cal-SCAN)

Laundry

Malibu’s Premier Laundry Service with Daily Pickup & Daily Delivery Routes. We Tailor the Laundry to You. We do Residential & Commercial Laundry with a Smile. Call RQL at 424.322.0315. Visit www.royalqualitylaundry.com and @ royalqualitylaundry on IG.

Lost & Found

*FREE LOST & FOUND ADS.* Have you lost a pet or found an article? Please call our Classified Dept. at 310-456-5507 and we will be glad to take your classified ad at NO CHARGE

Massage Therapy

Heal injuries and optimize physical performance with deep tissue master Richard Gleason LA’s #1 bodyworker. 310-429-3218

Online Advertising IS YOUR WEB SITE LOST IN CYBERSPACE? Get LINKED to www.MalibuTimes.com and get NOTICED! 45,000+ Visitors. Over 250,000 Page Views per month! Call 310-456-5507.

Painting

MISTER ROBERTS PAINTING COMPANY Faux/specialty finishes, Tuscany Washes, Venetian Plaster, Stucco, Plaster, Drywall repairs, Deck Restorations

& more. Call 310-456-0409. Lic#491492, bonded/insured.

Paradise Painting - 15% OFF SPECIAL - We do it right the first time! Complete interior & exterior restoration specialists. Call or Text for a free estimate 805-910-9247. CSLB 1084319

Piano & Voice Lessons

In-Home Piano and Voice Lessons - Master’s in Piano Performance. BA in Music - Voice and Piano. 20+ years experience. Contact Greg at 818-8511473. malibuwestlakemusic@ gmail.com. www.malibuwestlakemusic.com

Pet Groomers Scizzors and Suds; 30682 Thousand Oaks Blvd; Agoura Hills. 818-706-1880

Real Estate Loans RETIRED COUPLE $$$$ for business purpose Real Estate loans. Credit unimportant. V.I.P. Trust Deed Company www.viploan.com Call 1-818-

248-0000. Broker-principal DRE 01041073. No consumer loans. (Cal-SCAN)

Rental Office Space 21355 PCH Malibu: Great office spaces for lease. .Unit 101A & 101B /- Approx. 500 sq. ft. each @ $2,500/m.OBO. Professional, Medical, Wellness, Retail etc. Ample parking. For more info Call/Text/ Email Kim, kim@divineimaging.com 310-617-6339 or Mayra @ 323-559-8119

22235 PCH Malibu (Tramonto Bldg) : Unique 2-room w/ waiting area office space for lease. Suite G /- Approx. 700 sq. ft. @ $3,400/m. OBO. Private bathroom. For more info Call/Text/ Email Mayra propertymanager@divineimaging.com 323559-8119 or Kim kim@divineimaging.com 310-6176339

Rental Wanted Former resident, retired teacher( on Apache Reservation).

Great background check/references. With pets. None smoker/ drinker. Seeking small rental. Can tutor/teach for reduced rent. Love Malibu. Strong Sales/ Management background too. Call 818-403-8712

Roofing

THOMAS MURRAY, WATERPROOFING SPECIALIST Seamless gutters, slate, decks, shingles, copper, hotmop, torch. All types of Roofing and Repairs. Residential* Commercial* Industrial. Call for a GREAT free quote 310779-5265. #726424. Bonded/ Insured.

Tree Services

JOHNSON TREE CO. Fruit tree care, brush clearance & removals, pest control, pruning, preservation, Tree surgery, trimming & feeding. Call 310-393-5700. Johnsontreecompany.com. Lic#924238/

Sharks track and field squad garners top-10 finishes at Malibu Invite last Friday

The 45-member Malibu team faced competitors from schools such as Beverly Hills, Calabasas, and more

Apair of fleet-footed Malibu High boys track athletes were a few seconds away from breaking a 22-year-old school record in the boys 3,200 meter race on Feb. 24 at the Malibu Invite.

Junior Trent Williams finished the race in fourth place with a time of 10 minutes, 12.95 seconds. Ranger Murphree finished one spot behind his classmate with a time of 10:12.97. The Malibu High record in the 3,200, set in 2002, is 9:52.

Mark Larson, one of the Sharks track and field coaches, said Murphree and Williams set personal records in the race.

“They both did fantastic today,” Larson noted. “They stand a good chance of getting towards that record by the end of the season. They certainly have a shot at that if they keep training and working.”

Larson said the two distance runners’ training will include running hills, speed workouts, surge runs on the beach, and 4- to 6-mile runs.

“The 3,200 is a race about endurance and smarts,” he said.

Murphree and Williams’ performances in the 3,200 were two of 27 top-10 Sharks’ finishes at the Malibu Invite, which featured over 800 boys and girls high school athletes from 28 schools competing in a variety of events on the Malibu High track and football field.

The 45-member Malibu team faced competitors from schools such as Beverly Hills, Calabasas, Campbell Hall, Channel Islands, Heritage Christian, Palmdale, Viewpoint, and Wildwood.

Murphree and Williams also had fast finishes in the 1,600. Murphree placed second in 4:38.86. Williams finished fifth in 4:46.99.

Malibu’s other top-10 placers included freshman Bridgette Shanahan, who placed third in the girls frosh/ soph 100 hurdles in 21.67. Sophomore Vera Kibler finished the girls frosh/soph 300 hurdles fourth in 1:10.26.

Sophomore Anthony Martinez placed fifth in the boys frosh/soph 300 hurdles in 53.56, and freshman Adham Abduh finished sixth in 58.58.

Sophomore Celeste Hartuv finished the girls frosh/ soph shot put in fifth place with a throw of 19-08.25. She placed sixth in the girls frosh/soph discus with a 44-08.00 toss.

Sophomore Aaron Weiss placed eighth in the boys frosh/soph 10lb shot put with a 24-03.50 throw.

Sophomore Lucas Nunez’s toss of 23-08.00 earned him nineth place. Weiss also finished 10th in the boys frosh/soph discus with a 56.08.00 throw.

Junior Wiley Murphree placed third in the boys discus with a 105-07.00 throw. Junior Wesley O’Brian’s toss of 97-08.00 placed him sixth.

Wiley Murphree finished third in the high jump with a 5-04.00 jump. Zampas-Klean’s bound of 5-00.00 earned him sixth. O’Brien’s 4-10.00 leap placed him eighth.

Junior Samantha Skuro placed ninth in the girls long jump with a 12-02.50 leap. Freshman Adam Aleme’s 4-02.00 jump placed him second in the boys frosh/soph high jump.

Senior Joy Kim placed sixth in the girls 400 in 1:08.62. Sophomore Zoe Retts finished the event ninth in 1:10.65. Freshman London Gould finished the girls frosh/soph 100m eighth in 13.96.

Junior Samantha Skuro finished ninth in the women’s 100 with a time or 13.94. Junior Malia Mosshart finished 10th in 14.00.

The girls relay team composed of Kim, Gould, Mosshart, and senior Hannah Kaloper placed third in the 4x200 relay in 1:56.92.

Senior Romane Fouquier-Gazagnes, junior Cole Zampas-Klean, and sophomores Stevie Clarke and Xavier Godbile finished the boys 4x200 relay with a ninth-place time of 1:41.57.

The Malibu Invite was the Sharks’ second meet of the season. Many of Malibu’s athletes, Larson noted, are first-time track performers.

“They are learning,” he stated. “We should have a good showing this year — both girls and boys.”

The Sharks’ first meet of the season was Feb. 17 at the Brentwood Open in Brentwood. The team will host Santa Paula on Thursday and then Hueneme on March 7. Malibu will take on Nordhoff on March 14 in Ojai.

Sharks head coach Mike Haluanlani expects Malibu’s sprinters and Skuro, who finished fourth in the pole vault

in CIF last year, to lead the Sharks. Haluanlani said Malibu is a competitive group. “They work really hard,” he said. “We should win multiple dual meets against schools with twice as big teams as us.”

Malibu Middle School Manta Rays set to hit playing fields

The school will have sports teams starting this spring with volleyball, soccer, and track and field

Malibu Middle School will field several sports teams for the first time in the school’s nearly fiveyear history this spring after separating from the High School in the Fall of 2019.

Sixth-, seventh-, and eighth-graders will step on the court as members of a co-ed volleyball team, lace up cleats as players on the boys and girls soccer teams, and take to the track as track and field athletes.

Malibu Middle School Athletic Coordinator Daryl Adams said there was a need for

middle school sports teams.

“There was no transition between elementary and high school athletics,” he said. “We need to build some school spirit through athletics.”

Around 120 students signed up to be on the volleyball, soccer, or track and field teams. Between 60 to 70 kids showed up for assessment at the school on Feb. 21. An assembly was held days earlier.

“It was crazy,” Adams remembered. “It was like a pep rally. All the kids are excited about it.”

Adams said parents and students are eager for the young athletes to take to playing fields as Manta Rays, which is the school’s mascot.

The Manta Rays’ presence was noted on Feb. 24 at the Malibu Invite, a track meet at the Malibu High School track. Gathered under two black canopy tents emblazoned with “MALIBU MIDDLE SCHOOL” and “GO MANTA RAYS” in teal letters, supporters sold Malibu gear such as shirts and hats.

Each of the middle school teams’ seasons are being organized by the Foundation for

Interscholastic Youth Athletics (FIYA), a Santa Monica-based nonprofit group that provides interscholastic sports competitions for schools in the Los Angeles area.

The Manta Rays will compete against teams from areas such as Agoura, Calabasas, Santa Monica, and Palisades.

The soccer teams’ seasons are from March 13 to May 10. The volleyball team’s season is March 27 to May 24. The track and field team’s campaign is April 7 to May 10.

The school will have sports teams in the fall for cross country, flag football, and girls volleyball and in the winter for basketball, dance, and e-sports.

All Malibu Middle students, Adams stated, are welcome to join any of the Manta Rays teams.

“We want everyone on board,” he said. “If you haven’t played before, you will have an opportunity to play. We aren’t cutting anybody. We want it to be fun. We want it to be entertaining. We want to build the value of athletics and education and tie it all into one.”

Malibu Middle opened in August 2019. Adams said ideally sports teams would have

Malibu and surrounding areas. Owner and long-time local, Wink Roberts and his highly skilled craftsmen have won countless honors including a first-place award with the American Institute of Architects.

They have painted thousands of houses and commercial structures in Los Angeles, Vail and Hawaii. Start to finish, they bring punctual, professional management to your project, no matter how big or small. They have a long list of loyal clients because they treat every home like a legend.

Mister Roberts Painting uses only high quality, leading-edge materials and techniques to ensure your project lasts, even in challenging marine environments. Services include new and existing interiors/ exteriors, historic architectural restorations, specialty finishes, cabinets, furniture, drywall and much more.

A Malibu local since the 1960s, Wink Roberts is a surfer (Makaha Winter Internationals/3rd Pt. Juniors), sailor (Crazy Horse Saloon Prindle Regatta Champion), Program Director/Captain (Pepsi Skateboard Team), actor, stuntman and screenwriter.

been established then.

“We are happy the ball is rolling now,” he said. “There was a dire need for it. A lot of parents don’t want to slump over the hill for their kids to participate in a competitive

sports program. For middle school, you have to start having that edge and competitive mentality in order to be successful. Being able to compete in a structured setting puts a bit of pressure on a kid but is also fun.”

Malibu High’s Ranger Murphree (front) and Trent Williams (back) were top-five finishers in the boys 3,200-meter race Feb. 24 at the Malibu Invite. Photos by McKenzie Jackson/TMT.

Canopy tents emblazoned with “MALIBU MIDDLE SCHOOL” and “GO MANTA RAYS” in teal letters sell Malibu gear such as shirts and hats as the school gets ready to field its first interscholastic sports teams. Photos by McKenzie Jackson/TMT.