Malibu Coast, CA December 2020

D E C E M B E R 2 02 0

celebrate locally!

LI F E + C U LTU R E LO CAL T RE ASU RES EM I LY'S G I F T PACI FI C F ES T IVAL BAL L E T HOME + DESIGN CARO L I N E PM J O N ES S T U D I O

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Moorpark 14349 White Sage Rd. 805.222.1380

Santa Barbara 3920 State St. 805.898.9883

Oxnard 887 Ventura Blvd.

805.278.0388

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Torrance 20901 Hawthorne Blvd.

310.802.6380

LIFESTYLE LETTER

DECEMBER 2020 PUBLISHER

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

A Very Different Holiday Season

EDITOR

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

Miranda Williams

I AM WRITING THIS MESSAGE AT THE END OF OCTOBER. By the time we publish our December holiday issues I do not expect our society’s pandemic-impacted routine to be much different than it is now. My primary wish is that here in Southern California it does not get worse as it has throughout the Midwest and the South. The upward trajectory of infections and deaths in that region is clearly the result of very loose or nonexistent safety measures by local governments and local organizations and individuals—a whole lot of misinformation and failed leadership.

L AYO UT DESIGNER

Dana Rudolph CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Susan Baldani, Kimberly Blaker, Alicia Doyle, Tracy Marcynzsyn CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Donovan Coleman, Ariana Dewing, Hannah Gross, Jean Celeste Lubin, Tracy Marcynzsyn

When I am out and about in our community, I am quite impressed at how people are almost universally adhering to safety measures regarding masks and social distancing. The compliance is at a very high level and I have not witnessed any angry confrontational behavior. Since our community includes the full political spectrum, it looks like respect for the safety and health of others is a community triumph over politicized non-science. Best Practices will help us all get through this terrible time and hasten a return to normal…which is what we all want.

In our December issue we have a focus on Shop Local. Our business community is now open for business and needs your support. Buy as many Christmas and Hannukah presents from local merchants as you possibly can. Do that before you

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

default to Amazon or a big box store. Go back to your medical practitioner. Stay

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

on top of your health. They have strong safety protocols in place. Dine out safely.

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

Restaurants have suffered greatly during the pandemic.

AD MANAGER Chad Jensen REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams

The biggest challenge will be staying safe when you have family holiday gath-

WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

erings. If you travel to visit family for the holidays, the challenge is even greater.

Frankly, I am staying home. My children and grandchildren are spread all over the globe, Hawaii to Philly to Amsterdam. It hurts, but in the words of a poignant song written in 1945 at the end of WWII, “We will be together again.”

514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO

Stay Safe. Stay Healthy. Happy Holidays!

ARIZONA | CALIFORNIA | COLORADO | CONNECTICUT | FLORIDA | GEORGIA IDAHO | ILLINOIS | KANSAS | MARYLAND | MASSACHUSETTS | MICHIGAN

ON THE COVER Malibu resident Indiana Woodward is a soloist with New York City Ballet and a Pacific Festival Ballet guest artist.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JEAN CELESTE LUBIN 4

Malibu Coast Lifestyle | December 2020

Ben Malkin, Publisher Ben.Malkin@LifestylePubs.com

CityLifestyle.com/MalibuCoast

MINNESOTA | MISSOURI | MONTANA | NEW JERSEY | NORTH CAROLINA OHIO | OKLAHOMA | OREGON | PENNSYLVANIA | SOUTH CAROLINA TENNESSEE | TEXAS | VIRGINIA | WASHINGTON

Proverbs 3:5-6 Malibu Coast Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via 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.

INSIDE THE ISSUE DECEMBER 2020

FEATURES 10 Emily’s Gift An Unexpected Dream & a Dog

14 Holiday Magic Pacific Festival Ballet Finds Silver Lining

26 It’s In the Bag Volunteers Pour Love into My Stuff Bags

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32 Buy It In the ‘Bu! Favorite Picks in the ‘Hood

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DEPARTMENTS 4

Lifestyle Letter

8

Around Town

10

Inspired By

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Trend Setter

22 Artist’s Palette 26 Giving Back 28 DIY 32 Local’s Choice

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Now more than ever, come experience the magic of Christmas

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AROUND TOWN that same wealth of perspectives,” says Beck.

“Diversity in our faculty and student body gives more depth to our scientific research, more color to our arts and more justice to our society.”

The NSF also awarded the University a $28,933 grant aimed at increasing the number of Latina/o STEM professors at the university level. CSUCI.edu

SPOTLIGHT SHINES ON! The Casa Pacifica Angels Spotlight on Style Fashion Show returned for its 19th year via virtual platform last month, featuring Susan and Ken Bauer as hosts. Celebrity fashion designer Kevan Hall showcased his beautiful designs on the runway, providing an exclusive behind-the-scenes

POET LAUREATE LEGACY

look at his creative process. The revamped event

Malibu’s second Poet Laureate Ellen Reich,

included Four Seasons Hotel brunch boxes com-

who passed away in May 2020, was recently

plete with bubbly, an online silent auction and

honored with a poetry stone engraved with her

more. All proceeds support Casa Pacifica’s ther-

poem, “Interruption of Bird.” Installed at Legacy

apeutic programs and services that bring healing

Park with approval of the City of Malibu Cultural

and hope to vulnerable children and youth strug-

Arts Commission and the Parks and Recreation

gling with complex mental health issues due to

Commission, the installation pays tribute to Reich,

circumstances that placed them into foster care,

whose teachings and commitment to Malibu made

and youth whose mental health challenges are

a lasting impression on the community. Reich

disrupting and destabilizing their family homes.

taught Creative Writing and Poetry for the Emeritus

“I feel this year’s annual Spotlight on Style

College at the Malibu Senior Center before serving

might be the most important in Casa Pacifica’s

as Poet Laureate for a year. Director of Creative

25-year history. As we face unprecedented

Writing at Pepperdine University Dr. John Struloeff

obstacles, it’s crucial we provide hope and help

was recently named Malibu’s third Poet Laureate.

to our children who need and deserve it,” said

He will serve until June 1, 2021.

Lori Silvey, event chair.

CasaPacifica.org

GRANTS PROMOTE DIVERSITY The

National

Science

Foundation

recently

awarded CSU Channel Islands (CSUCI) two grants that will support the University’s commitment to diversity in their expanding Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) faculty.

CSUCI President Erika D. Beck, PhD is the lead on a $299,695 grant from the NSF to lessen the systemic factors that create inequities in the academic profession for STEM faculty. The funds are from the NSF ADVANCE Catalyst program, which is designed to support an institutional self-assessment. The grant is aimed at studying the hiring and retention process and challenging inequities that create barriers for a diverse STEM faculty.

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Would you like to get in touch with us? We would

“We are fortunate here at CSUCI to have a rich

love to hear from you! Contact us at CityLifestyle.

variety of students with different backgrounds and

com/MalibuCoast using the Get In Touch link and

experiences, and we want our faculty to reflect

let us know what you think.

Malibu Coast Lifestyle | December 2020

VNSC Announces Expansion of Staff and Healthcare Vascular Neurology of Southern California is always looking services to a broad range of patients. Our practice has for ways to improve and diversify neurological healthcare. extensive reach in the Los Angeles and Ventura Counties, In order to accomplish this endeavor Dr. Taqi has expanded with clinic locations in Thousand Oaks, West Hills, and his team by adding three physicians and a nurse Antelope Valley. We look forward to dedicating our efforts practitioner. With the additional staff at VNSC we are to help you and your family!

Dr. M. Asif Taqi is an interventional The cutting-edge neurovascular able to provide comprehensive and targeted neurological and stroke neurologist who is an treatment is the only device cleared expert for treatment of brain by the FDA in a new category of aneurysms and blockages in brain temporary coil embolization assist devices for the treatment of brain and neck blood vesselsM. Asif Taqi, MD, FAHA aneurysms.

For over decade, Dr. Taqi is a triple-board certified interventional and stroke neurologist.

He is an expert in aawide range of Dr. Taqi has participated in national He did his initial research fellowship at procedures and treatments such as stroke treatment, brain aneurysm and embolization, carotid and intracranial international trials and been a Brown University in Rhode Island andand angioplasty, tumor embolization, kyphoplasty and brain stent placement AVM’s.

Dr. Taqi’s primary investigator forgreatest several skill new went on to complete set his involves Neurology his ability to connect with his patients on a personal level as he is acutely aware of the physical technologies pertaining to stroke and residency training at the University of and emotional process healthcare can be. brain aneurysms. He has published Tennessee. He further completed a over 50 articles, abstracts and book clinical fellowship in Neurocritical Care, chapters on vascular diseases of Vascular Neurology, and Endovascular the brain.

Raghav Aachi, MD, MS Surgical NeuroradiologyVenkat at Medical College of Wisconsin inDr. 2012 Dr. Taqi enjoys his personal life Aachi is a board-certified neurologist with additional specialization in vascular neurology. and professional life equally.

He He completed medical school and training at Gandhi Medical College in India before coming is dedicated to providing excellent Dr. Taqi runs stroke programs at Los to the United States to earn a master’s degree in biological sciences Portland State and from comprehensive care University to his Robles Regional Medical Center and in Oregon. patients in this region.

West Hills Hospital and Medical Center. He is a senior

M. Asif Taqi, MD. FAHA

member of the Society of NeuroInterventional Surgery (SNIS), Triple board certified in Neurology, Vascular neurology a fellow of the American Heart Association (FAHA) and a and Critical care neurology member of the Society of Vascular and Intervention Emanuela Sofroni, MD Recipient of the Outstanding Scholar Award for his Neurology (SVIN). achievements in clinical research Dr. Sofroni is a board-certified neurologist who specialized in Clinical Neurophysiology.

Recipient of 40 under 40 award (EEGs) for Conejo for his She proficient at performing and analyzing electroencephalograms andValley electromyoIn 2019 Dr. Taqi treated theisfirst brain aneurysm patient in contribution to stroke care the USA with the minimally embolization gramsinvasive (EMGs).Comaneci Dr. Sofroni knew she wanted to be a doctor before she was even a teenager when assist device. she saw neuroscience save her father’s life through brain surgery.

Procedures Performed

•Vertebral Artery Stent and Angioplasty •Brain Aneurysm Embolization •Intracranial Stent and Angioplasty •Stroke Thrombectomy Hisham Salahuddin, MD •WADA Testing •AVM Embolization A board-certified in neuro-endovascular treatments. Dr. Salahuddin •Kyphoplasty •Tumor Embolizationneurologist specializing skill Angioplasty in treating •acute ischemic stroke, carotid stenosis, intracranial Embolization for Epistaxis •demonstrates Internal Carotidgreat Stent and and other malformations. He has shown leadership skills throughout his career •aneurysms Brachiocephalic and vascular Subclavian

Artery and of Angioplasty and is theStent Director the Comprehensive Stroke Program as Antelope Valley Hospital.

Conditions Treated

•Blockages in the brain and neck vessels (Carotid stenosis/vertebral stenosis and Intracranial stenosis) Kelsey Lindsey, NP • Stroke Ms. Lindsey is a board-certified Nurse Practitioner at VNSC. She began her medical career in 2010 by •Brain working bedside in theAneurysm intensive care unit. Ms. Lindsey became board certified by the American Association • Brain Atrio Venous Malformations (AVM) of Nurse Practitioners in 2019.

She also has extensive experience working at a level two trauma center and • Compression fracture of a vertebral body certified stroke center which makes her an ideal health care provider for this patient population.

•Headache West Hills Hospital & Medical Center

Los Robles Regional Medical Center 227 W. Janss Rd, Suite 125 Thousand Oaks, CA 91360 (805) 242-4884

www.vnsc.org

7230 Medical Center Dr, Suite 600 West Hills, CA 91307 (805) 242-4884

INSPIRED BY

E M I LY ' S G I F T: A DREAM REALIZED ARTICLE ALICIA DOYLE

TWO YEARS AFTER THE TRAGIC MURDER OF HER YOUNGEST CHILD, ELLEN SHANE SAW A BOOK IN A DREAM. “I immediately woke up afterwards and knew I had to create it,” recalls Shane, whose 13-year-old daughter, Emily, was killed on April 3, 2010, on Pacific Coast Highway. “The dream was like a message.”

Following the roadmap of her dream—which vividly depicted the cover and its artwork—Shane’s book was brought to life through Emily’s Gift: The True Story of Sherlock and Jackson. It’s the first in a series of true stories about the family’s dogs imparting positive themes for kids that was launched on August 4.

Emily’s Gift explores a chapter in the lives of the Shane family in which the two furry family members, Sherlock and Jackson, are the gifts they didn’t know they wanted—but eventually realized they needed—and could no longer live without.

“The book is a true story about our dogs,” explains Shane. “Despite great odds, our youngest child was able to bring puppies into our household—hence the first part of the title—Emily’s Gift.”

Throughout the story, there are positive themes and messages for children—and some humor.

“There are a few aspects of the book that make it special, such as the illustrations,” says Shane, whose book was illustrated by Bernard Joaquin and Patrick Horan. “It was uncanny to me that the illustrators, who worked using only photographs to depict our family and my verbal description of how I envisioned the cover and illustrations in my dream, captured everything so perfectly.”

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Malibu Coast Lifestyle | December 2020

In honor of Emily’s memory—and to support the vital work of The Emily Shane Foundation, which was founded by Shane and her husband, Michel—proceeds from the book will benefit the foundation.

“Children risking academic failure in the mainstream classroom who cannot afford necessary outside support often suffer negative consequences as a result,” Shane says.

The nonprofit charity’s SEA (Successful Educational Achievement) Program acts like a safety net to “catch” these students and provide them the intensive and individualized support they require to succeed to their best potential.

“SEA students are capable of success, however, they need someone to teach them, guide and encourage them,” explains Shane, further noting that many are below grade level in one or more subjects, and often lack the skills necessary to be successful in school.

“SEA mentor/tutors are carefully vetted and trained,” says Shane, adding that they learn not only to focus on their student’s subjects of difficulty, but also on essential organizational and study skills.

“To me, a child is not responsible for their family’s socioeconomic status or situation,” Shane emphasizes.

“Providing them with a pathway for a positive future makes a significant difference in their lives. Every contribution to SEA helps make that a reality for a student who would otherwise ‘fall through the cracks’.”

In future endeavors, Shane is writing the second book of this series, which are all true stories about her family’s dogs.

“I would also like to note that as we serve a disadvantaged population; the only ‘cost’ of admission to SEA participants is that they must perform one good deed per session—typically, twice per week—and the deeds must be entered on our website,” Shane says. “This embraces Emily’s persona and our foundation’s ‘Pass it Forward’ motto—and most of all, it helps establish a socially conscious mindset in our youth.”

For upcoming events and information, visit EmilyShane.org.

For additional information about The Emily Shane Foundation, visit EmilyShane.org, view @emilyshanefoundation on Instagram and Facebook or visit Twitter at @emilyroseshane. To order Emily’s Gift in English or Spanish, visit bit.ly/emilysgift. Shane’s Facebook author page is at facebook.com/EmilysGift.

CityLifestyle.com/MalibuCoast

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The heart of your home is about to get a whole lot happier!

COME SEE A WORLD OF DESIGN POSSIBILIT Y OPEN UP TO YOU. (805) 496-6660 | 104 East Thousand Oaks Blvd Thousand Oaks, California 91360 | ThousandOaksFireside.com | Info@ThousandOaksFireside.com

TREND SETTER

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GOLD:

PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

PACIFIC FESTIVAL BALLET FINDS SILVER LINING

Below: Angel, Indiana Woodward and cameraman, Tery Williams.

Photo Credit: Ariana Dewing

Right: Cast members filming "A Holiday Angel": L-R: Finn Harrington, Annie Regan, Mia Nelson, Jonathan Sharp, Jamie Regan, Colleen O’Callaghan; center: Ariana Dewing

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Malibu Coast Lifestyle | December 2020

"A Holiday Angel" Rehearsal

SILVER LININGS AND GOLDEN OPPORTUNITIES ARE

designed by PFB’s training school, California Dance

THE UNEXPECTED RESULTS OF ADVERSITY FOR

Theatre, teaching virtual and outdoor classes and giving

PACIFIC FESTIVAL BALLET.

words of encouragement to younger students.

In March, the resident ballet company at the Bank of America Performing Arts Center in Thousand Oaks came to a

Alumni Jonalyn Saxer, who holds four Broadway credits, stepped away from the national tour of “Mean Girls.”

screeching halt, as did performing arts organizations around

“It’s actually a blessing to be home and teach in a safe

the globe. Theatre closures due to the COVID pandemic sent

environment. This pause in my career has given me the

artists and productions into hibernation with no end in sight.

opportunity to bring my professional theatre experiences

Last year, Pacific Festival Ballet celebrated the Civic Arts

back to the studio that launched me,” says Saxer.

Plaza’s 25th anniversary with a spectacular gala collaborat-

Creatively, Maselli realized the need to shift the compa-

ing with fellow resident companies, New West Symphony

ny’s focus from stage to film. As a summer experiment, she

and 5-Star Theatricals. There was a sense of community

revised “The Secret Garden” and transformed it into a dance

accomplishment and a creative vision for the years ahead.

film set in beautiful locations around the Conejo Valley. This

In May 2019, PFB had premiered “Camelot,” the culmination

success prompted the concept of “A Holiday Angel.”

of a five-year project and was preparing for their 26th sea-

“Our company and community need a way to celebrate

son of everyone’s favorite holiday classic, “The Nutcracker.”

the holidays this year more than ever,” says Maselli. “With

“I never dreamt we would be in this position,” says PFB

so many beautiful alumni and dancers available I wanted to

Artistic Director Kim Maselli. “Walking away from our spring

create something unique and special.”

season was disappointing, as was losing our summer programs,

The icing on the cake was securing Malibu resident

but learning that our 2020 Nutcracker season was cancelled

Indiana Woodward as the angel. A soloist with New York City

was devastating for our company and the dance community.”

Ballet, Woodward found herself, like many artists, returning

Professional PFB alumni suddenly returned home, put-

to her family while patiently awaiting the art world to rekindle.

ting unexpected pauses on hard-earned careers. Walking

Dancer Kara Covaleski, returning from Cincinnati Ballet,

away from thriving Broadway shows and prestigious

reflects, “Last spring I was cast as Snow White and was beyond

ballet companies in New York, San Francisco, Cincinnati,

disappointed when the company shut down. Performing with

Indianapolis and Kansas City is unthinkable.

PFB again has given me that extra push of motivation and

After looking at reality, Pacific Festival Ballet began to do what

encouragement to get through these uncertain times.”

it does best—embrace change, encourage and think creatively.

So, amidst the fears and uncertainties of 2020, this year

As soon as permissible, PFB allowed returning alumni

has brought about unique circumstances providing silver

access to studio space, one at a time, to maintain their skills

linings and golden opportunities when least expected.

and mental well-being. They also jumped into a campaign

Learn more at PacFestBallet.org.

CityLifestyle.com/MalibuCoast

15

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ARTICLE KIMBERLY BLAKER

Survival Guide Fo r a S t res s - Fre e Holiday Season

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Malibu Coast Lifestyle | December 2020

DO YOU DREAD THE HUSTLE AND BUSTLE OF

Keep cleaning to a minimum during the holidays.

ANOTHER HOLIDAY SEASON? Between shopping,

Dismiss unused areas guests won’t see or use, and clean

wrapping, baking, holiday cards, parties and many

only the obvious in rooms that will be seen. The barely

other obligations and tasks, surviving the season

visible layer of dust on your baseboards is unlikely to be

can be a feat, let alone finding the time to enjoy it

noticed with all the holiday decorations and festivities.

with family and friends. This year, consider making a change to ease up and eliminate stress.

Make everyday meals quick and easy throughout the season. Soups, sandwiches, fresh fruit and vegetables, cottage cheese, veggies and dip, and other

PLAN AHEAD First, close your eyes and think back to the past

prepared or semi-prepared healthy foods will suffice for one month of the year.

couple of years and how hectic and stressful they felt.

Do your holiday shopping early in the day on

What percentage of holiday activities and tasks would

weekdays while your energy is high and crowds are

you need to eliminate to make the season truly enjoy-

small, or shop online or by catalog. If an item lacks

able and relatively stress-free? During this process,

details, search for a manufacturer’s website to get the

don’t think about what you can’t remove, just deter-

information you need.

mine the percentage of reduction you need to make.

Give gift cards. Hard-to-shop-for recipients will

Next, list everything you need to do during the

appreciate something practical. Gift cards to restau-

holiday season, to which parties you’ll be invited, and

rants, department stores, sporting good outlets,

how much money you’ll spend. Now cross off the least

specialty shops, or a massage, pedicure or round of

important, least necessary and least popular events and

golf make great gifts.

tasks. Then review the list and calculate how much time

Don’t overdo the baking. Your guests will likely

and expense you’ve shaved off. If you haven’t reached

have had their fill of holiday treats long before your

your predetermined reduction, review your list again.

gathering arrives. Also, the caring gesture of visiting

Once you’ve decided which parties you’ll attend

or calling friends and neighbors, rather than deliver-

and the commitments you’ll make, plan how you’ll

ing a plate of baked goodies, will be more enjoyable

decline the others, so you’re not caught off guard.

and meaningful for everyone.

PREPARE TO SHARE

SAVE MONEY

Enlist your family to help prepare for the holidays

Does your gift list grow each year? Decide with

and divvy up the tasks. Don’t expect perfection from

whom it’s essential to exchange gifts. Then talk to

yourself or your family. Remember, you probably don’t

extended family, friends, coworkers and others about

notice or mind the imperfections in others’ holiday

forgoing gift exchanges, putting a cap on the price or

gatherings. They’re just as unlikely to see any in yours.

drawing names instead. You’ll likely learn many feel

Also, keep in mind the holiday season isn’t the time

the same as you do.

to be head cook. Plan potluck gatherings and either suggest what each person should bring or, to avoid duplicates, ask guests to let you know what they’ll bring.

CELEBRATE WITH CHILDREN Allow kids to spend the day they open their gifts at home. It’s hardly fair and often stressful for kids

SAVE TIME & ENERGY

to leave their gifts that they’ve waited so patiently

Save time in gift-wrapping by setting up a station

to open. In turn, this causes stress for parents. So

in a spare room or the basement. Or stock a large box

plan family get-togethers on Christmas Eve or for

or basket with wrapping paper, ribbon, bows, tags,

the weekends before or after the holiday. If there’s no

tape, scissors and pens, so everything is stored in

way around it, celebrate early with your kids the day

one place. Have extras of everything on hand.

or weekend before the holiday.

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/MalibuCoast

19

SURVIVAL GUIDE (CONTINUED)

Traveling and holiday visiting can also be stressful for young children due to changes in their routines and unfamiliar faces. Have your kids help with packing, even if it’s only for the day, to make sure their favorite toys aren’t left behind. A security blanket or stuffed animal can also ease anxiety for young children in different surroundings.

Don’t forget to leave yourself plenty of time for rest stops as well.

Avoid taking children shopping during the holidays. Ask your partner or an older child to babysit, trade babysitting with a neighbor or friend, or hire a babysitter. This will not only reduce stress, but it’ll also likely cut your shopping time in half.

PRACTICE SELF-CARE Enjoy holiday treats in moderation. High fat and sugary foods and the lack of healthy meals can lead to tiredness and stress. Keep goodies stored in the freezer where they’ll be less of a temptation.

Have plenty of convenient, healthy snacks such as raw vegetables and nuts on hand. Prepare low-fat meals that won’t bog you down.

Pace yourself, and don’t try to do everything in one day. Finally, give yourself a break. Get plenty of exercise, such as a brisk walk in the fresh air, and set aside time for relaxation, like a long bubble bath.

LOOK AHEAD Start your shopping early for next year. Create a new tradition with a friend or family member and set a monthly shopping date for the upcoming year. By making a scheduled commitment, you’ll be more likely to follow through. Keep the early holiday shopping fun and choose a different town or shopping center for each trip, focusing on unique malls or trendy cities.

Also, get a label-printing software program or app early in the year and enter all of the addresses on your holiday card list. When the holidays roll around, you can print the labels and eliminate the most time-consuming aspect of sending out holiday greetings.

Finally, remember the holiday season should be a joyful time for everyone, including yourself, to join in the good cheer with family and friends. Maximize ways to ease your stress and keep the “happy” in your holidays!

Kimberly Blaker is a freelance lifestyle writer at KB Creative Digital Services: KBCreativeDigital.com.

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Malibu Coast Lifestyle | December 2020

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ARTIST’S PALETTE

AN ARTISTIC

ARTICLE SUSAN BALDANI

CALLING: PHOTOGRAPHY DONOVAN COLEMAN

MEMORIALIZING MEMORIES FROM THE STUDIO OF CAROLINE PM JONES

THROUGHOUT HER 30 YEARS AS AN ART-

and is inspired by their memory,” she says. “By

IST, CAROLINE JONES HAS CONTINUED TO

spending caring time with the families, I am able

EVOLVE AS A PAINTER, A SCULPTOR AND

to combine concept drawings with materials of

A BUSINESSWOMAN. Now, she is starting a

stone or bronze and carve something that pays

company called Digital and Stone that expands

homage to their eternal relationship.”

her focus on creating monuments to memorialize those who have passed away.

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Malibu Coast Lifestyle | December 2020

Caroline began creating monuments when the opportunity arose about five years ago.

“I had a very close and personal experi-

There was an exhibition at the Getty Museum

ence with death at a formative part of my

where a demonstration by the head stone-

life,” she says. “And it changed the way I

mason of Canterbury Cathedral in England

thought and felt forever.”

was supposed to take place. Since the mason

Caroline believes that her monuments give

couldn’t bring her stone carving tools with

those who are grieving a landing place to

her, Caroline lent out hers. This eventually

connect and honor their loved ones. “Each

led to her receiving her first commission for a

memorial is created specifically for the client

memorial headstone.

Digital & Stone will go beyond Fine Art Monuments, however, “The concept of the new platform is to combine land conservation and restoration with eternal legacy,” she says. “I am a huge fan of green burial and hope to combine a more environmentally sustainable model of burial with memorials. Preserving the memory not the body will definitely be at the core of our new digital app, which will basically be a conduit for people to upload their memories and store them in perpetuity. We would curate the content and combine it with a GPS system. That plus the combination of community involvement, green belt land acquisition, nondenominational ceremony, green burial and fine art parks and memorials is our vision and goal.”

The natural environment has always been an important part of her life. “I was sent to boarding school, very sort of Harry Potter, when I was about 7 years old,” she says. “I’m from England, and my father was a Brigadier in the British Army and very traditional.”

“What became clear early in my life was that the only consistent thing in it was how good I felt in nature, especially when I was drawing. I left school and have been painting and creating artwork and travelling extensively ever since.”

Caroline believes that her goals for Digital and Stone are deeply profound and take her art to a whole new level. “Only when memory fades does a person truly disappear,” she says. “There’s nothing more important than the connection to those you love, whether they be alive or not. Creating something to connect the souls is incredibly meaningful.”

Learn more at DigitalAndStone.com/.

For future shows and exhibitions, visit CPMJones.com.

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F R E E C O N S U LTAT I O N 24

Malibu Coast Lifestyle | December 2020

READ

DINE

SHOP

PLAY

During this time, we’ve brought our print publication to you.

Now, we’re adding a new way to share good news! + INTRODUCING +

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GIVING BACK

M Y ST U F F B A G S :

FILLED WITH L OV E BY M A N Y

ARTICLE TRACY MARCYNZSYN | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

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Malibu Coast Lifestyle | December 2020

WHAT BEGAN IN A WOODLAND HILLS KITCHEN BACK IN 1998 HAS BLOSSOMED INTO A NATIONAL ORGANIZATION SERVING SOME 20,000 CHILDREN EACH YEAR OUT OF A 7,000-SQ-FT WAREHOUSE AND VOLUNTEER CENTER IN WESTLAKE VILLAGE. My Stuff Bags provides partner agencies, such as foster care and social service organizations, duffel bags filled with new essential and comfort items for children who enter shelters with nothing of their own.

“It’s so meaningful to a child to know that people care. These kids are very vulnerable, impoverished and in a traumatic situation—maybe they’re homeless, displaced by fire, abused, neglected or abandoned. Receiving comforting items, like a teddy

“ M Y S T U F F B AG S P ROV I D E TA N G I B L E P RO O F T O T H E S E C H I L D R E N T H AT M A N Y P E O P L E R E A L LY D O CARE ABOUT THEM,” S AYS H O L M E S .

bear or blanket, shows a child people know about them and want to help,” says Cofounder Janeen Holmes, pointing to the village of volunteers it takes to fill the bags and provide donations.

“Corporations, schools, banks, community organizations and other volunteers come in and help us stuff the bags,” says Holmes,

HOW TO HELP

a child advocate and former Special Education teacher. “It’s very

DONATE:

much a grassroots participation and involvement by a lot of people.”

New, nonviolent, nondenominational items: + Stuffed animals

FULL SPEED AHEAD Moving operations outdoors due to Covid, volunteers from

+ Blankets + Coloring books/crayons

the National Charity League recently filled duffel bags with

+ Small toys

toothbrushes, blankets, books, stuffed animals and other

+ Games/puzzles

items for children.

+ School supplies/stationery

“Everything in the bags is new, almost everything is donated

+ Small toiletries

and all bags include a blanket—most of them handmade,”

+ Baby stuff

notes Holmes.

+ Books

Having provided duffel bags to more than 600,000 children

+ Clothing

nationwide since its inception, My Stuff Bags continues to fill the growing need.

Donations are tax-deductible; send to:

“The needs are greatly increasing because of what’s going on today,” says Holmes, citing homelessness and domestic

MY STUFF BAGS FOUNDATION

violence as huge problems in California and across America:

5347 Sterling Center Dr

“More than 300,000 children enter foster care each year, tens of

Westlake Village, CA 91361

thousands more flee domestic violence and enter shelters with their mothers or are homeless.”

My Stuff Bags offer these unfortunate children a more hopeful start on this next phase of their journey by giving them new

VOLUNTEER: Stuff bags, make blankets or lend a hand at the Westlake Village Volunteer Center (MyStuffBags.com).

belongings to replace those they were forced to leave behind or never had to begin with.

“Our goal is to serve 20,000 children every year,” Holmes says, noting the generosity of recent item donors, including

CONTRIBUTE FINANCIALLY: Make an online donation by credit card at MyStuffBags.com or call 866-3MY-STUFF.

the Molina Book Foundation, Simply Fun puzzles and games and Bombas Socks.

MAKE A BLANKET: Blankets must be new, purchased or handcrafted, in

Learn more at MyStuffBags.org.

any fabric, color and size, from 40×40 to 54×60.

CityLifestyle.com/MalibuCoast

27

DIY

bullet journaling 101 ARTICLE NICOLETTE MARTIN

PHOTOGRAPHY ESTÉE JANSSENS

Let’s face it—in today’s so-much-to-do-and-so-little-time cultural mindset, it

can be hard to keep track of everything we need to do. Wake up—did you get enough sleep? Brush your teeth. Feed the kids. Feed the dog. Get ready for work.

Make your lunch. Those are just six things to think about in the span of 15 minutes after your alarm goes off.

With all of these things to keep track of and our lives moving a mile a minute,

anything we can find to streamline our obligations (and our thoughts) can be a lifesaver! Enter: bullet journaling. It’s equal parts calendar, meal tracker, diary, self care and, well, really anything else that you want to keep tabs on! The “mindfulness practice disguised as a productivity system,” coined by creator Ryder Carroll, can help you master the art of intentional living—any way you want to.

THE BASICS YOU NEED TO KNOW TO START ORGANIZING YOUR LIFE + ACCOMPLISHING YOUR GOALS

start simple

make it your own

There’s so much you can do

When you start searching for

The most important thing to

here with just a notebook (you’ll

bullet journaling on Pinterest,

remember is that it is for you

probably want one with a dotted

it can get really overwhelming

and not anyone else. Find lay-

grid) and a pen! If you want to

really fast. Decide what is most

outs that help with what you

add some creative flair, consider

important for you to keep track

need, use your favorite colors,

incorporating markers, stickers

of and start with that! If you try

doodle things that help you out

and washi tape.

to do too much at once, you’ll be

and make it work for YOU and

less likely to stick with it.

your goals!

what you need

28

Malibu Coast Lifestyle | December 2020

page styles

t ypes of pages in a bullet jour nal + Mood tracker + Activity tracker + Exercise tracker + Ideas list + Chore list + Budget tracker + Spending log + Bucket list + Reading list + Yearly goals + Happiness log + Sleep tracker

symbols

s ymbol char t A bullet journal really becomes what you make it. Use symbols that speak to you! Here are some basics to start with:

Task

Event Note Complete CityLifestyle.com/MalibuCoast

29

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Malibu Coast Lifestyle | December 2020

CityLifestyle.com/MalibuCoast

31

LOCAL’S CHOICE

Buy It In the 'Bu: FAVORITE PICKS IN THE 'HOOD!

WHEN IT COMES TO HOLIDAY SHOPPING, LOCAL IS WHERE IT’S AT—WITH SO MANY WONDERFUL OFFERINGS TO BE FOUND JUST DOWN THE ROAD, YOU’LL WONDER WHY YOU EVER ORDERED ONLINE! Here, we feature some favorite local picks for holiday and year-round shopping.

BEAUTY COLLECTION Malibu Country Mart 3900 Cross Creek Rd #2, Malibu BeautyCollection.com/MalibuCountryMart 310.317.0117 “I really like the Beauty Collection. Since the one in Calabasas closed, I have bought many of my skin care products there. They are very knowledgeable and the service is great! I've known their sales staff for over 15 years when they started out in the Calabasas location and transferred to Malibu. I also like their client-retention program, where you accumulate points for your purchase and can use them towards your next purchase.” —Robin Chesler, Publisher

DRILL SURF & SKATE Trancas Country Market 30745 Pacific Coast Hwy #D20, Malibu DrillSurfSkate.com | 310.457.7715 “My favorite shop in Malibu is Drill Surf & Skate because it offers merchandise that serves both the local community and visitors alike. Owned and run by a local family, Drill is the furthest west surf shop in Malibu and conveniently located right across the street from Zuma Beach next to the local favorite grocery store. The shop carries beach staples, such 32

Malibu Coast Lifestyle | December 2020

Robin Chesler, Publisher

as sunscreen, hats and an array of clothing items for all ages at affordable prices. The shop carries all types of surf and skate equipment for purchase or rent. Drill even offers skateboard and surf lessons to locals and visitors!

“On multiple occasions I have found myself running into Drill to purchase items, such as hats and sunscreen, for family beach days. Last week I had a pair of sandals break on my way to work and I stopped in to grab a new pair for a fair price. It's a shop I have personally shopped at for years, and one that I have recommended to friends when they are looking for something specific or a gift for someone else. The employees have always been welcoming and friendly. My favorite part about Drill is that it

Hannah Stevens, Mental Health Counselor

has something to offer to everyone and serves a diverse population.” —Hannah Stevens, Mental Health Counselor

HIPTIQUE Trancas Country Market 30745 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu Hiptique.com | 310.399.6105 “My favorite clothing store is Hiptique at Trancas. She definitely has some of the better, high-end brands and has also added a beautiful selection of children’s wear next to her gift area. She’s an incredible merchandiser; she tells a story when you walk into her store. You can always find clothing for yourself or a gift for someone special.”

CODA STUDIO Trancas Country Market 30745 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu

Katharine Marinaro, Founder CBD+ nature

Coda.Studio | 310.457.8668 “Coda is new in Trancas. They have a beautiful selection of home goods, pillows and accessories. I’m rebuilding my home that was lost in the Woolsey Fire; Coda is where I’m going to get a lot of my furniture made—it’s a new fresh start!”

MALIBU MARKET & DESIGN 25001 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu MalibuMarketDesign.com | 310.317.9922 “I’m obsessed with this store! It’s three levels—you start out in this super adorable gift shop, the next level has stone and surfaces, outdoor furniture, and the third level has furniture and the design team. It’s a beautifully curated true lifestyle store where you can find the most amazing treasures. I’m using them to redo all my kitchen cabinetry and I’m going to buy all my outdoor furniture there too.”

—Katharine Marinaro, Founder, CBD+ nature

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/MalibuCoast

33

LOCAL’S CHOICE (CONTINUED) MALIBU SHAMAN Malibu Country Mart 23410 Civic Center Way, Malibu MalibuShaman.com | 310.456.5617 “I love Malibu Shaman! It’s been around since my college days—decades ago—when I first discovered this local treasure of a shop. The alluring smells of the incense coupled with great vibes greet you as you enter. And as soon as you walk into the store, you know it’s a special place, run by genuinely kind people. Owner Scott Sutphen has curated an incredible selection of metaphysical books, dazzling crystals, music, incense, Buddhas, candles and so much more. The large variety of locally made Shaman masks, Native American drums, dreamcatchers, feathers, native tools, cards, artwork, jewelry, Tarot and Oracle cards make it easy to find a gift for anyone—and hard to resist buying a thing or two for yourself while you’re at it!” —Tracy Marcynzsyn, Editor

Tracy Marcynzsyn, Editor

TAVERNA TONY Malibu Country Mart

Taverna Tony; Photo 'Courtesy Malibu Country Mart

23410 Civic Center Way, Malibu TavernaTony.com | 310.317.9667 After working up an appetite from all that holiday shopping, stop into Taverna Tony for some delicious local fare. This favorite locale offers authentic Greek food served in a festive, fun environment.

This holiday season, consider feasting the Greek way at Taverna Tony, located in the beachside oasis, Malibu Country Mart. Throughout December, the Mediterranean eatery in the heart of Malibu is offering a traditional Greek feast for those seeking a non-traditional holiday dining experience.

The restaurant will be featuring its full menu and a Greek Feast pre-fixe offering perfect for the whole family this holiday season. The feast features 15 different specialties; highlights include: + All dips | Taramosalata, Melintzanosalata,

Taverna Tony; Photo Courtesy Malibu Country Mart

Tzatziki, Hummus + Tabouli + Dolmathes + Spanakopita + Keftethes (Greek meatballs) + Greek potatoes + Orzo + Chicken souvlaki Opa!

34

Malibu Coast Lifestyle | December 2020

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