Malibu Coast, CA December 2019

DECEMBER 2019

MalibuCoastLifestyle.com

A Nutcracker Christmas at t he Ballet

ARTISTS CELEBRATE "MALIBU RISING"

THE JEWISH FREE LOAN ASSOCIATION

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

DECEMBER 2019 PUBLISHER

Ben Malkin | Ben.Malkin@LifestylePubs.com Robin Chesler | Robin.Chesler@LifestylePubs.com EDITOR

Tracy Marcynzsyn | Tracy.Marcynzsyn@LifestylePubs.com AD DESIGNER

Staying Connected I ASKED MYSELF WHETHER I SHOULD STAY IN THE “60 MINUTES ANDY ROONEY” MODE OF GROUSING, SNIPING AND COMPLIMENTING. After all, it is the holiday season and being positive about everything is the usual approach…. but, what the heck… I’ll just keep on being me.

Evan Deuvall LAYOUT DESIGNER

Dana Rudolph CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Tracy Marcynzsyn, Jeff Runyan CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Jean Celeste Lubin, Ben Malkin

In the spirit of love for my fellow man and woman, the response once again of our community during a crisis keeps restoring my faith. As I write this, one day removed from the insanity of another fire (the not so easy “Easy Fire”), with many more likely to come before we get a grip on what it takes to mitigate this ever-increasing threat, I cannot help but marvel at the brave and unrelenting response and support we receive from first responders and others in our community. Our November issue was dedicated to thanking everyone for their efforts and, sad to say, here we go again.

The holiday season is very much a family affair. Celebrating our love and showing it in small ways is often more important than a big celebration or gift. But before

CORPORATE TEAM

I celebrate, I’ll go back into a bit of grousing and sniping. Recently on a beautiful

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

Saturday afternoon, Robin and I visited Ventura Harbor Village. We stopped for lunch

CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry

at Le Petit Café, one of my favorite dining destinations in Ventura County—genuine

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

French cuisine served by a typically grouchy Frenchman. I love it! We were happy.

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

As we sat at an outdoor table looking at the parade of visitors passing us by, we

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

saw family group after family group who were 100% disconnected from each other.

Mom, Dad, Bud, Sis and Grandma too all had their faces and attention glued to their mobile phones. They were there, but they really weren’t there. They were together, but not together. I could go on and on. However, my parting advice is to ban all

EDITORIAL MANAGER Nicolette Martin AD MANAGER Chad Jensen REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

mobile devices from your Christmas, Chanukah and New Year’s celebrations. Behave like it is 1985 and not 2019-20. Maybe you all will love each other a bit more.

Happy Holidays!

ARIZONA | CALIFORNIA | COLORADO | CONNECTICUT | FLORIDA | GEORGIA IDAHO | ILLINOIS | KANSAS | MARYLAND | MINNESOTA | MISSOURI | MONTANA

ON THE COVER Ballerina Naomi Corti is a Pacific Festival Ballet alumni, currently with New York City Ballet.

She grew up in Westlake and her family now resides in Malibu.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JEAN CELESTE LUBIN 4

Malibu Coast Lifestyle | December 2019

NEVADA | NEW JERSEY | NORTH CAROLINA | OHIO | OKLAHOMA | OREGON SOUTH CAROLINA | TENNESSEE | TEXAS | VIRGINIA | WASHINGTON

Ben Malkin, Publisher Ben.Malkin@LifestylePubs.com

514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO Proverbs 3:5-6 Malibu Coast Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via

MalibuCoastLifestyle.com

the US Postal Service to some of the Malibu Coast areas’ most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors.

Information in Malibu Coast Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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INSIDE THE ISSUE DECEMBER 2019

FEATURES 12 A Helping Hand Local Nonprofit Provides Community Boost

16 "Radical Beauty: Malibu Rising" Artists Bring Form to Feelings Post-Wildfire

20 Rising Stars Pacific Festival Ballet Dazzles with “The Nutcracker”

16 24

24 Pepperdine University Welcomes New President Jim Gash

20

12 DEPARTMENTS 4

Lifestyle Letter

8

Good Times

11

Around Town

12

Giving Back

24 Trend Setter 28 Financial Buzz 32 Lifestyle Calendar

GOOD TIMES

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Malibu Coast Lifestyle | December 2019

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ARTFUL SHOPPING Celebrate the holiday season and the transformative impact the arts have on our lives at the 2019 Center for the Arts Guild Holiday Boutique and Luncheon, Tuesday, December 3, starting at 11 a.m. at Sherwood Country Club, 320 West Stafford Road, in Thousand Oaks. Enjoy Christmas music while browsing an eclectic variety of holiday-themed gifts, followed by a luncheon at noon. Proceeds benefit Pepperdine University's ARTSReach Program, which provides free performances and museum tours for thousands of schoolchildren throughout Los Angeles and Ventura Counties. The Lisa Smith Wengler Center for the Arts at Pepperdine University presents innovative, unique, entertaining and diverse programs of exceptional performances and museum exhibitions.

HOLIDAY GREETINGS! Design homemade cards using micro pens and watercolors, Friday, December 6 at Malibu Bluffs Park, Michael Landon Center, from 2 to 3:30 p.m. with MLab Creative Workshop's Holiday Cards event. Learn techniques for aesthetically correct greeting card placement and standards. All supplies are included. $30. Register at MalibuCity.org or call 310.317.1364.

LET IT SNOW!

L A R EINA

Future Focus

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APPLY TODAY

NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS for the 2020-2021 School Year apply online at LaReina.com

Opportunities for playing in the snow in Southern California come around once a year in December, with various events trucking in snow for all to enjoy.

The Santa Barbara Zoo Snow Leopard Festival takes place Sunday, December 8, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. (9 a.m. early admission for members) at the Santa Barbara Zoo. Enjoy the rare sight of 80 tons of snow delivered for kids to sled in (sleds provided) and for many of the Zoo’s animal residents, including the highly endangered big cats to enjoy. Only $5/child covers unlimited sledding and bounce houses! SBZoo.org

TUESDAY TOURS 8:30 A.M. - 11:00 A.M October 29 - February 25 Reserve your Tuesday tour at LaReina.com/Tuesdays

Then, on Saturday, December 14, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. at Channel Islands Harbor, snow lovers will have another chance to play in the winter wonderland featuring snow, activities and followed by the colorful boat parade at 7 p.m. that can be viewed from all points along the Harbor’s edge and at surrounding restaurants.

ChannelIslandsHarbor.org

La Reina High School & Middle School A Catholic College Preparatory School for young women grades 6-12 sponsored by the Sisters of Notre Dame since 1964

For more information: 805.495.6494, ext. 1008 106 W. Janss Road, Thousand Oaks, CA 91360 Accredited by WCEA/WASC La Reina admits students of any creed, race, color, national and/or ethnic group to all rights, privileges, programs and activities at the school.

December 2019 | Malibu Coast Lifestyle

11

GIVING BACK

ARTICLE TRACY MARCYNZSYN

Lending a Hand, Not a Handout: The Jewish Free Loan Association FOR MORE THAN A CENTURY, THE JEWISH FREE LOAN ASSOCIATION OF LOS ANGELES HAS LENT A HAND TO PEOPLE IN NEED, OFFERING INTEREST-FREE LOANS ON A NON-SECTARIAN BASIS TO INDIVIDUALS AND FAMILIES WHOSE NEEDS ARE URGENT AND WHO MAY NOT QUALIFY THROUGH TRADITIONAL FINANCIAL CHANNELS. A financial first responder serving Los Angeles and Ventura counties, JFLA funded $113,000 in interest-free loans to individuals and families who lost their homes and belongings in the Hill and Woolsey fires.

“Our objective is to help people,” says JFLA Executive Director Rachel Grose, noting the agency services several thousand loans at any one time and currently has over $12 million out in loans for the communities of Los Angeles and Ventura Counties.

12

Malibu Coast Lifestyle | December 2019

As the only interest-free lending agency in the greater LA County,

website and then we set up an in-person or Skype appointment.”

JFLA serves an average of 1,000 clients annually, providing loans for

Borrowers are required to have a guarantor living in state who has a

a variety of needs—housing and rental issues, home health care,

credit score of at least 680 to qualify for an interest-free loan.

Alzheimer’s and dementia care, fall prevention, post-secondary education, medical/dental expenses, women fleeing domestic violence, children with special needs, summer camp, Israel experience, life cycle events and small business assistance.

By offering interest-free loans rather than charity, JFLA promotes

“We’re a social services agency; we’re not a bank,” says Grose.

“Everyone who walks in here is treated with dignity and respect.”

During the interview, the client’s needs are substantiated and their monthly budget is reviewed to determine what they can afford to repay, notes Grose.

self-sufficiency with the goal of helping people lead more rewarding

“The objective is to have it repaid in two to three years,” says

and responsible lives, affirming the ancient biblical mandate, inter-

Grose, noting how often just a few hundred dollars can really help

est-free lending, by enacting it.

someone in need.

“We are really trying to work with all kinds of people facing adversity,”

Individual loans range from a $200 to $10,000; small business

says Grose, adding that during her 17-plus years at JFLA, she has seen

loans are up to $75,000 and student loans up to $10,000, renew-

the positive ripple effect sparked by these loans.

able annually. In addition to generous donors, foundation grants and

“It’s not just the person who takes the loan that is helped—it’s impacting the entire family; many are living in multi-generational

fundraising events, funds are generated as people repay their loans.

“The dollars are recycled back into the program; when someone takes

families,” she notes.

out a loan and pays it back, the money keeps recycling,” says Grose.

LONG HISTORY

FUTURE FUNDING

JFLA began helping people in need in 1904, when a small group of businessmen in Los Angeles established an organization to

JFLA’s upcoming fundraising event on Feb. 8 will raise funds to help those facing homelessness.

grant loans without interest or other charges to help individuals

“The housing loans that we are able to make are pivotal loans—

buy a sewing machine or a pushcart for fruits and vegetables, for

eviction prevention, security deposits, including for Section 8

example. An original member of Community Chest, precursor to the

housing, first and last month’s rent, senior housing,” says Grose.

United Way, the Jewish Free Loan Association provided community

“In a housing crisis, if you can keep someone in housing, even if

assistance throughout the 20th century. In 1929, JFLA moved into

it’s temporary, that prevents homelessness,” she adds.

the Federation of Jewish Welfare building and has since remained a beneficiary agency of The Jewish Federation.

JFLA continued helping thousands of families during World War II get a fresh start in the U.S., assisted businesses rebuild after the

The college student homelessness program started in January 2019 aims to help students find housing, says Grose, noting tens of thousands of college students are homeless, sleeping in their cars or temporary shelters.

Watts riots in 1965, and created the first of its many student loan funds in the late 1980s. Following the 1994 Northridge earthquake, JFLA granted cash loans to those forced to vacate their homes and those without access to their bank accounts.

WAYS TO GIVE Donors can support JFLA’s mission in a variety of ways, including a One-time Gift, Automatic Monthly Gifts, IRA Charitable Rollover/Stock, Bonds & Securities, Matching Gifts,

UNIQUE MODEL Jewish Free Loan’s unique funding program enjoys a 99% repay-

Named Loan Fund, Planned Giving and Legacy, Crowdsourcing and Bar/Bat Mitzvah Programs.

ment rate and offers borrowers a fast and easy application process.

“Our objective is always to make the loan,” says Grose. “The process is really simple; it begins with a pre-loan application on our

For more information about the Jewish Free Loan Association or to donate, visit JFLA.org.

December 2019 | Malibu Coast Lifestyle

13

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ARTICLE TRACY MARCYNZSYN

“R A D I C A L B E A U T Y : M A L I B U R I S I N G” ARTISTS BRING FORM TO FEELINGS POST-WILDFIRE

"ON CE T H E S TOR M I S OV E R , YO U WO N ' T R E M E M B E R HOW YO U MADE IT THR OUG H , HOW YOU MANAG E D TO S U RV I V E . B U T, ONE T H IN G CE R TAIN : WH E N YO U COM E O U T OF TH E S TO R M , YO U WON ' T B E THE SAM E PE R SON THAT WALK E D IN . THAT ' S WHAT THI S S TOR M I S ALL AB OU T.” THIS QUOTE BY WRITER HARUKI MURAKAMI INSPIRED MALIBU ARTIST BIBI JORDAN TO CONTRIBUTE HER PHOTOGRAPH, “SHE WILL RISE,” AND TWO FILMS ABOUT THE FIRESTORM TO THE “RADICAL BEAUTY: MALIBU RISING” COLLABORATIVE COMMUNITY EXHIBITION FEATURING A VARIETY OF PAINTINGS, PHOTOGRAPHY, SCULPTURES, SHORT FILMS, WRITTEN WORK, POETRY AND OTHER ART CREATED IN RESPONSE TO LAST YEAR’S DEVASTATING WOOLSEY FIRE. “My 'storm’ was the Woolsey Fire, and if that's the worst thing in my life, I'll be lucky. But, it did change me... for better and for worse,” says Jordan, who designed her pieces to “invite viewers to explore the transformative power of adversity.”

“As a photographer and writer, it was natural for me to turn to my camera to express feelings ignited by the fire,” explains Jordan, remembering, “the fire burned away the ground cover and 16

Malibu Coast Lifestyle | December 2019

some of the understory that had adorned

more and now give freely—time, opportunity

my persona. The bare bones of my being

and generosity—as well as those elements

are now more apparent. I won't tolerate

that have always been touchstones—family,

being trampled on or put up with smoke

travel and nature,” she adds.

and mirrors. I want to stay true to myself

Jordan hopes her photograph will help oth-

and celebrate every day of my life. The poet

ers come to terms with their own experiences.

Rumi expressed it best: ‘Before death takes

“I invite others to consider what was their

away what you are given, give away what

own personal 'storm’, how it transformed them

there is to give.’”

and what is the one sure truth they learned

Jordan, along with hundreds of area resi-

from weathering the storm,” says Jordan.

dents, suffered tremendous losses from the fire

For sculptor and 28-year Malibu resident

but is nevertheless able to reflect optimistically.

Eugenie Spirito, living through the terror and

“The Woolsey Fire burned my possessions,

aftermath of one of Malibu’s worst wildfires on

but it illuminated assets I consequently value

record yielded deep lessons.

CONTINUED >

December 2019 | Malibu Coast Lifestyle

17

“RADICAL BEAUTY: MALIBU RISING”

(CON TI N UED)

Below: "Spring from the Ashes" by Sooki Raphael

Above: “Angel From The Ashes"

by Eugenie Spirito

Above: "The Day After" by Henry Hungerland

“ SO M E T IM E S IT TAK E S A D I SAS TE R — LIK E L AS T Y E AR ’ S WOO L S E Y F IR E —TO R E AWAK E N THOS E QUALITIE S IN U S AND U N IT E U S TO FACE ADV E R S IT Y.” — E U G E N IE S PIR ITO

18

Malibu Coast Lifestyle | December 2019

“Sometimes it takes a disaster—like last year’s Woolsey Fire—to reawaken those qualities in us and unite us to face adversity,” Spirito shares. “This is what Malibu, and all the towns affected by the Woolsey Fire, need—to be united with compassion, and it’s what we are seeing” one year later.

Spirito’s “Angel From The Ashes” sculpted for the exhibit “personifies the powerful nature of angels. They are kind and compassionate, always supportive, and yet also indestructible,” says Spirito, noting that the fire also sparked the creation of nonprofit organization, ComeTogether, which is dedicated to “healing and uniting through art all those affected by the Woolsey Fires.”

Malibu artist Henry Hungerland submitted his photograph, “The Day After,” to illustrate the collective angst fueled by the destructive wildfire.

“Friends of ours asked us to check on their home on Point Dume; unfortunately, this is what we found: home after home burned to the ground,” Hungerland recalls.

And still, “It wasn't over yet, as we saw several intact homes go up in flames 48 hours after the fire, ignited by wind-driven embers,” he adds.

“My home survived and so did I,” shares Sooki Raphael, who was forced to evacuate her Topanga Canyon home just days after a diagnosis of pancreatic cancer.

“I emerged as an artist from a diagnosis of pancreatic cancer and from the ashes of the Woolsey Fire in Malibu.

My recovery has paralleled the heartening rebirth of the landscape around me after the devastating fire. My colors are an expression of a renewal of spirit and life and reflect the way I see this Earth as we heal together,” says Raphael, who painted “Spring from the Ashes” after a hike through Malibu Creek State Park last March. “I was undergoing chemotherapy and found strength and inspiration in the exuberant comeback of the landscape.”

The second edition of the “Radical Beauty” exhibit installed by the City of Malibu Cultural Arts Commission kicked off with an Opening Reception in September featuring local artists, poets, writers, musicians and filmmakers.

Michelle Wolf & John Watkin: Band of Rouge opened the reception, followed by comments from Councilmembers Mikke Pierson and Jefferson Wagner, Cultural Arts Commission Chair Veronica Brady and Commissioners Kathy Eldon and Julia Holland. Poet Laureate, Ellen Reich, former Poet Laureate Ricardo Means Ybarra, and Barbara Burke shared poems and author Robert Kerbeck read from his book, Malibu Burning.

The “Radical Beauty: Malibu Rising” exhibit is on display at Malibu City Hall, 23825 Stuart Ranch Road, through December 20. Visitors may view the exhibition Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is free.

December 2019 | Malibu Coast Lifestyle

19

RISING STARS PACIFIC FESTIVAL BALLET DAZZLES WITH "THE NUTCRACKER"

Alumna, Naomi Corti, currently with New York City Ballet Photo Credit: Jean Celeste Lubin

20

Malibu Coast Lifestyle | December 2019

Alumna Leili Rackow currently with San Francisco Ballet

Angeles-based professionals and international ballet celebrities from New York City, Miami, Seattle and San Alumna Leili Rackow currently with San Francisco Ballet

Francisco. These stars light up the Kavli Theatre stage year after year, exciting audiences and cast members alike.

“As a director, it is important for me to bring world-class talent to the Conejo Valley,” says Kim Maselli. “Bringing these celebrity dancers to our stage educates and inspires our patrons. It can also spark the dream for our community dancers to pursue careers of their own. Seeing these accomplished professionals up close encourages our dancers to realize their own dreams are attainable.”

These dreams come with a lot of hard work, talent and dedication. Pacific Festival Ballet’s training school, California Dance Theatre, has been a thriving arts organization in the community since 1985. The CDT curriculum offers classes in all dance forms for preschool children through adults. It also offers a Pre-professional Training Program for the serious-minded student wishing to pursue ballet as a career.

“As in most art forms,” says Patrick Frantz, ballet master and former dancer with Paris Opera Ballet, “it takes about 10 years of training to refine your skills and artistry. You need to have talent and a deep passion from within to keep driving you forward.”

Talent and passion abound at Pacific Festival Ballet. Over the past 25 years a multitude of dancers have gone on to professional careers and attribute their success to training, performing opportunities and mentoring from their instructors.

Alumni Leili Rackow, now a member of San Francisco Ballet, reflects on her PFB journey.

THE THOUSAND OAKS CIVIC ARTS PLAZA RECENTLY

“When I was a child dancing in ‘The Nutcracker,’ Tina

CELEBRATED 25 YEARS OF BRINGING ARTS AND

LeBlanc, guest artist from San Francisco Ballet, was the Sugar

ENTERTAINMENT TO THE CONEJO VALLEY. Pacific

Plum Fairy. It was so magical to dance in the same produc-

Festival Ballet has been a part of that story since 1994 and

tion with this famous ballerina. Now years later, I am in San

continues to make dance history in the community today.

Francisco Ballet and Tina LeBlanc has become my coach!”

The ballet company is well known for its dazzling pro-

This story of ballet dreams realized has overflowed onto

duction of “The Nutcracker,” which comes to life every

Pacific Festival Ballet hopefuls who are now dancing pro-

holiday season. The cast features community talent, Los

fessionally with New York City Ballet, Cincinnati Ballet, CONTINUED >

December 2019 | Malibu Coast Lifestyle

21

RISING STARS

(CON TI N U ED)

Milwaukee Ballet, American Midwest Ballet, Indianapolis Ballet and Kansas City Ballet. The exceptional training they received and the endless performing opportunities helped mold them into the artists they are today.

Alumni and professional dancer Emiko Flanagan reflects on her own career.

“Growing up I performed at the Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza for years. I never realized until I began performing throughout America and Europe what a world-class theatre I had in my own backyard,” says Flanagan. “Now when I return to perform with Pacific Festival Ballet as a guest artist, I look at the new generation of dancers and realize they have no idea what a gift they have!”

Many Pacific Festival Ballet dancers will move on to future performing opportunities and realize the treasure they have. While their wings will spread and their careers soar, they will always remember there is no place like home!

Join Pacific Festival Ballet for its 26th annual performance of “The Nutcracker” on Saturday, December 21 and Sunday, December 22, at 2 and 7 p.m. Tickets are available at the Civic Arts Plaza Box Office, 2100 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd. or Ticketmaster.com.

Learn more at PacFestBallet.org.

Alumna, Whitney Walsh, currently with American Midwest Ballet

Alumni, Hogan Fulton went on to play Billy Elliott in West End, London

Alumna, Emiko Flanagan, formerly with Dance Theatre of Harlem and Opera de Lyon

22

Malibu Coast Lifestyle | December 2019

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TREND SETTER

Pepperdine University Welcomes

New President Jim Gash ARTICLE TRACY MARCYNZSYN

24

Malibu Coast Lifestyle | December 2019

PEPPERDINE’S NEW PRESIDENT, JIM GASH, OFFICIALLY TOOK THE BATON FROM FORMER PRESIDENT ANDREW K. BENTON ON AUGUST 1, HAVING BEEN NAMED PRESIDENT ELECT IN MID-FEBRUARY AND FORMALLY INAUGURATED ON SEPTEMBER 25, 2019; BUT THE FORMER PEPPERDINE LAW PROFESSOR’S CONNECTION WITH THE UNIVERSITY ACTUALLY BEGAN BEFORE HE WAS EVEN BORN. “My parents met and fell in love in the early 1960s at Pepperdine, so Pepperdine has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember,” explains Gash, who attended Pepperdine for law school from 1990 to 1993—and whose wife also graduated from Seaver College!

Set on someday becoming a Pepperdine professor at the recently named Rick J. Caruso School of Law, Gash recalls advice from mentor, former law school dean Ron Phillips about how to accomplish his goal.

“He gave me three clear steps: excel in law school, do a judicial clerkship with a federal judge, and get several years of law practice experience at one of the top law firms in the country. I carried those steps out and they brought me further than I could have ever imagined,” shares Gash, who moved to Houston in 1994 to work for a federal court of appeals judge and to Washington, DC in 1995 for employment at national law firm Kirkland and Ellis, before returning to Calabasas and Kirkland’s Los Angeles office.

Gash realized his goal in 1999, when he began teaching at Pepperdine’s law school, serving two stints as associate dean (Student Life, 2005-2012; and Strategic Planning and External Relations, 2017-2019), and moving his family to Malibu in 2011.

“Every role has been a dream actualized,” he says. “My love for Pepperdine has grown dramatically over the years as a result of my time as a student, my wife’s time as a student, my time as a professor and administrator, and as a Pepperdine parent,” says Gash, whose oldest daughter, Jessica, graduated from Seaver College in 2018, while his son, Joshua, is currently a senior and daughter, Jennifer, is a sophomore.

The family also attends services at the University Church of Christ and feels privileged to be a part of the local Malibu community.

As the leader of an institution he loves dearly, Gash says he

“ I t h i n k i t ’s fa i r

plans to keep up the good work of his predecessors and focus

to say that there

before me and served so ably in our noble mission of strength-

is nowhere else on E a r t h l i ke T h e ‘ B u .”

—Jim Gash

on preparing students to lead lives of purpose.

“My goals are to continue the legacy of those who have come ening students for leadership,” says Gash. “Our mission is to strengthen students intellectually, spiritually and relationally and then send them into the world to lead with integrity and purpose.”

Expanding Pepperdine’s global reach and influence by providing opportunities for students to spend time in developing countries during their college years is one way Gash hopes to make an impact.

“My 27 visits to Uganda over the past decade and living there with my family for six months greatly impacted me and my children,” he says, noting “our students are eager for opportunities to make a meaningful impact on the lives of those less fortunate.”

CONTINUED >

December 2019 | Malibu Coast Lifestyle

25

TREND SETTER

(CON TI N U ED)

Also involved in the launch of the Resilience-Informed Skills

Gash invites prospective students to “Come and visit our com-

Education (RISE) Program on campus aimed to enable students to

munity. Spend some time with us. You won’t want to leave,” and

“thrive in a world where loneliness, anxiety, and depression are on the

wants people to know that Pepperdine is student-focused.

rise,” Gash notes the importance of resilience. “Our goal is to become

“We are a place that combines academic excellence, spiritual

a leader among higher education institutions in developing grit in our

formation and a global vision where students are equipped to lead.

students,” he says, adding that today’s students face unique challenges.

We are dedicated to our students, and we have been intentional

“Higher education, like the rest of society, is facing a mental

to foster a diverse learning environment that is both challenging

health crisis,” says Gash. “Students entering college are doing so at

and encouraging for them,” he says.

a time that is very different than when I was doing so. Factors such

Quoting James Monroe: “The question to be asked at the end of

as social media, political divisiveness and general angst are con-

the educational enterprise is not ‘What has the student learned?’

tributing to record levels of loneliness and depression. Pepperdine

but instead ‘Who has the student become?’” Gash emphasizes the

needs to lead in preparing students to be resilient.”

university’s mission to assist students realize their potential.

Gash credits his parents and many mentors for helping shape his character and resolve to achieve his goals.

“I have been blessed throughout my life to have numerous men and

“We are seeking not only to pass along information to our students, but to help them become the men and women there were created to be,” he notes.

women serve as mentors and guides. My parents are excellent role mod-

Outside of school, Gash enjoys jogging at Zuma Beach, shopping

els of what it looks like to lead a family and to love God and love people,”

at the new Whole Foods and eating at Chipotle and Ollo. Also a huge

he says, also naming Judge Edith Jones, United States Circuit Judge and

college sports fan, he touts Pepperdine’s success in the field.

the former Chief Judge of the United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth

“We have an outstanding sports program with no less than five

Circuit; Gerry DeSimone, Rick Richmond and former law school dean

of our teams seriously competing for national championships in

Ron Phillips; and President Emeritus Andrew K. Benton.

Division 1 this year!” he says.

Equipped with a bachelor’s degree in Finance from Abilene

Although he doesn’t anticipate very much downtime in his first

Christian University (1989), and a JD from Pepperdine law school,

year, St. Martin in the Caribbean and Molokai, Hawaii, top Gash’s

along with years of experience as a lawyer and associate dean,

list of ways to spend vacation days with his family. While his leisure

Gash has truly embraced his new role.

time is limited, Gash counts his blessings.

“Over the course of my first 100 days, I am making a push to

“Each opportunity to connect with Pepperdine has drawn me

connect with as many people as possible, and I am being ener-

into a deeper relationship with the school and its mission,” he says.

gized by the level of affection and support for Pepperdine that I am

“When this opportunity to serve the institution in a much deeper

encountering,” says Gash, noting his hectic traveling schedule and

way arose, I couldn’t think of anything more meaningful for me to

gratitude for his “fantastic team that keeps me on track.”

dedicate my professional life to.”

26

Malibu Coast Lifestyle | December 2019

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FINANCIAL BUZZ

Long-Term Financial Planning Preserves Wealth ARTICLE JEFF RUNYAN 28

Malibu Coast Lifestyle | December 2019

According to Sports Illustrated, 78% of NFL players file for bankruptcy, or experi-

environment and it’s easy for an athlete to lose sight of their monetary limitations.

ence financial distress as soon as two years

Under our approach, the athlete’s finan-

into retirement. MLB players file for bank-

cial team will help guide the player to

ruptcy at four times the national average.

make sound financial decisions that are consistent with their current economic

QUESTION: One may wonder how,

and long-term retirement goals. The

given their newsworthy bonuses and

average MLB career is 5.6 years and the

soaring salaries, a player could experi-

NFL average is 3.2 years. This highlights

ence financial distress. What happens

the fact that athletes earn 70% to 90%

economically between their signing day

of their entire life income before they are

and their last day of professional play?

35. This also reinforces the importance of

The answer: Not enough to protect

coaching athletes to invest their money

them. With professional athletes, a lack

with the expectation that they are going to

of financial education, expertise, guid-

have 40 or more years in retirement.

ance, financial literacy and absence of a

The implementation of sound financial

solid financial plan are ingredients that

guidance is paramount in professional

LOS ANGELES IS A HYPER-STIMULA-

can lead to catastrophic economic hard-

sports. As a member of the athlete’s financial

TIVE ENVIRONMENT WITH FASHION,

ship at a relatively young age.

team, we will encourage an allocation that

FARM-TO-TABLE RESTAURANTS, CAR CULTURE,

CLUBS,

minimizes risks, maximizes future income,

BEACH

SOLUTION: An athlete is expected to

HAIR

perform consistently at their peak phys-

This piece isn’t designed to deter one

SALONS, PLASTIC SURGERY AND SO

ical condition. It’s rightfully not expected

from enjoying the finer things in life. It

ON. It seems like an endless flow of luxuries

that they also have financial expertise.

does, however, stress the importance

compete for every dollar of our household’s

This is where having a trusted financial

of prioritizing long-term goals, whether

discretionary income.

manager, advisor or better yet, a team that

you’re a professional athlete or a main-

In the manifesto below, we highlight the

can help protect, preserve and maximize

stream

many challenges that professional athletes

key economic interests in a conflict-free

hyper-competitive

face financially. But, we also recognize the

relationship is essential.

401k/Profit Sharing Plan/Defined Benefit

CLUBS,

NIGHT COUNTRY

CLUBS,

issues are not isolated to athletes and that It is a player’s skill, discipline and abil-

stories and the similarly competitive work

ity that can lead to substantial earnings;

environments in which we live.

it is their advisory team’s skill, disci-

ADVISORY ASSISTANCE

professional

competing

environment.

in

a

Your

Plan and financial future are equally

there are insights to be gained from their

ATHLETE WEALTH &

and preserves their future wealth.

depending on it.

pline, ability and fiduciary obligation to

Jeff Runyan is the lead of Runyan

help ensure they maximize the benefit

Capital Advisors financial advisory team

of those earnings to build a solid and

based in Beverly Hills, providing clients

secure financial future.

nationwide with wealth management

The financial advisor should work with

and retirement planning advice. Backed

SCENARIO: When people think of

the athlete, the agent and the attorney to

by over two decades of industry expe-

professional athletes and their economic

protect against unnecessary financial risk

rience, Jeff leads an investment team

futures, they usually envision enviable

and help construct an investment port-

committed to designing investment

salaries and earnings that support lavish

folio that strives for financial safety and

portfolios that adhere to the premise,

lifestyles. However, the reality is often

accumulation of wealth to support them

“Discipline Makes the Difference.” Learn

a very different scenario. Sometimes, it

throughout their retirement.

more at RunyanCapital.com.

can be one of financial distress, or worse,

When an athlete signs a contract yield-

Securities offered through Wedbush

bankruptcy. An overwhelming body of

ing substantial compensation, there are

Securities Inc. Member NYSE/FINRA/SIPC.

evidence suggests agents, managers,

obvious temptations, including requests

advisors and accountants should recog-

from friends and family, which may ulti-

nize the challenges professional athletes

mately conflict with the best outcomes

encounter that could possibly undermine

for their economic futures. Add the pres-

their financial well-being.

sures of a hyper-competitive locker room December 2019 | Malibu Coast Lifestyle

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DECEMBER

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

3

HOLIDAY BOUTIQUE & LUNCHEON Sherwood Country Club

The Lisa Smith Wengler Center for the Arts at Pepperdine University and the Center for the Arts Guild Holiday Boutique and Luncheon offers

holiday-themed

gifts

and

delectable trips, precious jewelry,

Leonis Adobe Museum! Feed sheep

stunning art and much more! $250.

and goats, make crafts with the

NewWestSymphony.org

museum guides, enjoy live music with Craig Newton, see a blacksmith

7 54TH ANNUAL HOLIDAY PARADE OF LIGHTS Channel Islands Harbor,

lunch. Proceeds benefit Pepperdine

3600 Harbor Blvd.

ARTSReach program.

Enjoy a day of holiday activities.

Beginning at noon, play in 36 tons

6

of snow near Marine Emporium

NEW WEST SYMPHONY'S 25TH ANNIVERSARY GALA 25 years and recognizes long-time supporter Nancy Israel. The evening features performances by orchestra members of the New West Symphony, and a live auction with

holiday photos with the family in the Plummer House. $8.

12 MALIBU HIGH SCHOOL CHOIR CONCERT Malibu High School

Landing and take free pictures with

Get in the spirit of the season and

Santa. The parade of festively deco-

enjoy a holiday concert with the

rated boats starts at 7 p.m. in front of

Malibu High School Choir.

Peninsula Park.

Hyatt Regency Westlake

The New West Symphony celebrates

in our blacksmith shop, and take

7 HOLIDAY ROUNDUP

Leonis Adobe Museum

14 BREAKFAST WITH SANTA Malibu City Hall

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CONTINUED >

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Malibu Coast Lifestyle | December 2019

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR breakfast with Santa at Malibu City Hall. MalibuCity.org

14 FRIENDS OF THE MALIBU LIBRARY HOLIDAY SALE

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15 FIREBALL TIM'S WHEELS & WAVES CLASSIC CAR EVENT Malibu Country Mart

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Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza

Pacific Festival Ballet presents its 26th annual performance, sure to

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see included in our Calendar section. Submissions are accepted via

the

Contact

Us

tab

MalibuCoastLifestyle.com.

at

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