The Malibu Times • August 28, 2025

Malibu students kick off new school year

From sunrise rituals at Zuma Beach to the opening of Malibu High’s state-of-the-art campus and new principals at local schools, the 2025–26 year begins with smiles all around

By BARBARA BURKE

Spirits were buoyant on Thursday, Aug. 21, as public school students from kindergarten to high school in Malibu attended the first day of school. Preschool students commenced school on Monday, Aug. 25. Before their learning even began, it was clear that students are going to keep up with some old traditions — Malibu High’s 2026 senior class honored the Sharks’ years-long ritual of the seniors gathering on Zuma Beach at sunrise on their first school day. Smiling and full of optimism, they started their last year in high school at the community’s brand new high school, a building and grounds that will embrace and educate pupils from ninth to 12th grades for many years to come. The new school offers students the latest and greatest technological features and large learning spaces that will foster collaborative, project-based learning, according to Carey

Upton, the chief operations officer who oversees facility improvement projects for the district.

“The first day of school was filled with excitement as our new principal, Sally Wennes, greeted students and families,” Marielle Hadid,

Malibu City Manager search in limbo amid closed-door delays

After executive sessions and unanswered questions, Perez steps back from the post, leaving Malibu residents seeking clarity on the next city manager

By BARBARA

The City of Malibu issued a request for applications for a city manager on May 5, noting that the city seeks a manager to maintain the City’s “unique land and marine environment (and) rural character of its residential community,” and also stating, “consistent with the typical role of City Manager, the successful applicant will also be responsible for working with the City Council, fiscal and budget accountability, community relations, and the delivery of city services.”

The job notice also stated, “The ideal candidate is a seasoned leader, communicator, and diplomat for working with the City Council, State and regional officials, staff and stakeholders. The preferred candidate will have leadership experience as a Chief Executive, Assistant/Deputy Chief Executive or Department Head in a public or private agency of comparable complexity, and have demonstrated the ability to admin-

istratively lead a municipality and personnel; learn and apply the principles of public sector governance and engagement; and manage local government processes and regulatory requirements.”

The posted salary was $270,000, depending on qualifications and experience, with a qualifier in the job notice stating, “It is the City Council’s intent for the salary of their next City Manager to be in the top quartile of city manager salaries in the region based on the experience and qualifications.”

The City’s request for job applications noted that the filing deadline was June 6 and that applications should be submitted to Peckham & McKenney. If potential applicants had any need for more information, the notice instructed them to call Tony Dahlerbruch, the owner of the executive search firm. The firm’s website states, “We believe that an executive search firm must be dedicated to providing professional service and a personal, hands-on

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communications director for the Malibu Elementary School PTA said. “Students reunited with friends, met their teachers, and started the 2025–26 year with lots of energy and smiles. Families gathered at drop-off, and there was a wonderful sense of community.”

Hadid noted that the PTA kicked things off on Aug. 20 with a welcome playdate for new families. “We are also excited to continue our Sea Lion Academy after-school enrichment program, made possible by our MES PTA and overseen by our dedicated teacher Robyn Estella,” she said. “This year’s offerings include film production, math magic, fun-letics, gamer club, reading room, storytelling, French, geography, American sign language, Spanish, art lab, puppetry, makerspace, and theatre.”

“I’m very proud to be a part of the first graduating class of the new Malibu High School!” Maizee Marderosian said. “I’m also looking forward to having a fun senior year with

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stoplight at Guernsey Avenue and PCH permanent. On Monday, Aug. 25, Caltrans Public Affairs Alisa Almanzan issued this statement to The Malibu Times:

Believe it or not, there was a time in Malibu, not too long ago, when many of the city’s residents abhorred the idea of adding more traffic signals to Pacific Coast Highway. Those in opposition to traffic lights claimed abrupt braking before the signals would lead to more traffic accidents and would slow their commute times on the busy highway. But with renewed calls for safety on the deadly highway that has claimed 61 lives since 2010 and due to scores of other accidents with injuries there’s a growing urgency to make whatever changes are necessary, no matter how inconvenient, in furtherance of greater safety to pedestrians and drivers.

Caltrans, the state agency that facilitates Malibu’s thoroughfare, PCH, heard loud and clear from residents and city officials who pleaded to make a temporary

Protecting Malibu homes from wildfire

City of Malibu: Steps you can take before disaster strikes

By JUDY ABEL

The City of Malibu is once again urging residents to be prepared for wildfires even as the community is reeling and recovering from last season’s devastating blazes. With September marking National Preparedness Month, Malibu officials are reminding

residents to sign up for free home fire assessments that offer gold-standard advice for home hardening in preparation for the dry heat we’re experiencing and what could be the makings for another dangerous fire season.

A critical resource in the preparation for wildfire is the city’s team of fire liaisons. Liaison Gabriel Etcheverry is an expert on home hardening and defensible space, which are the first steps in home fire safety. The retired firefighter with 34 years of service has been

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“At Caltrans, safety is paramount to make Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) safer for all road users. We are working expeditiously to restore the crosswalk and traffic signals while we conduct the required engineering evaluations to identify the appropriate traffic control measures at this location. We anticipate the traffic signals will be operational this Saturday, (sic) Aug. 23. The restoration of the crosswalk delineation is currently planned for this Thursday, Aug. 28.

“The traffic signal at the Guernsey Ave. intersection with PCH was a temporary measure while Caltrans worked to replace the Trancas Creek Bridge. As the

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OPINION

Letters to the Editor

*Letters to the Editor may not reflect the view, opinion and/or ethics of The Malibu Times. They are however, letters from the people of Malibu. We support your right to express your opinion. Submit your letter to editorial@ malibutimes.com or visit malibutimes.com.

Malibu can — and must — do better for our seniors and disabled in times of crisis

Dear Editor,

Every year, Malibu is reminded of its vulnerability. Fires, power shutoffs, floods — disaster is not a matter of if but when. And yet, with each crisis, the same truth becomes painfully clear: Malibu is not doing enough to protect its most vulnerable residents — our seniors and disabled neighbors.

These are the people who cannot simply “pack up and go.” Many rely on oxygen tanks, powered wheelchairs, medications, or caregivers who may not be able to reach them when roads are closed. Some cannot drive. Others are trapped in homes without backup power. Too often, they are left to wait, hope, and survive on their own. That is not acceptable. A community is measured by how it treats those who need the most help. By that measure, Malibu still has work to do. It is not enough to

hold meetings after the flames have passed or to issue generic emergency alerts. We need a proactive system of wellness checks, evacuation support, and designated volunteers trained to reach and assist our vulnerable residents before a crisis peaks.

The city must commit to a registry of seniors and disabled residents who want help, ensure shelters are truly accessible, and provide reliable communication that doesn’t vanish when cell towers burn. Most importantly, Malibu must acknowledge that resilience is not just about rugged independence — it’s about collective responsibility. We cannot continue to leave our elders and disabled neighbors at risk. They are not afterthoughts. They are Malibu. And if Malibu wants to live up to its reputation as a compassionate, close-knit community, we must prove it — especially when disaster strikes.

Kristin Thames, Malibu

LFrom the publisher HAYLEY

MATTSON

“Transparency in local government isn’t just a policy — it’s a promise to the community that decisions are made openly, responsibly, and with the public’s trust at heart.”

ast week, the integrity of The Malibu Times was publicly questioned by Councilmember Steve Uhring, who then doubled down at Monday night’s council meeting, taking time to call out our reporting. We welcome scrutiny — but let the record show that The Malibu Times remains steadfast in our commitment to keeping the community informed, regardless of any attempts to discourage reporting.

Our team works tirelessly for Malibu. From covering the fires — where we were on the ground every day, speaking with residents at their burned lots — to navigating the rebuild alongside them, our journalists go wherever the story takes them. Our dedication to this community never wavers. Our goal has always been clear: to deliver accurate, timely information, and at times, to provide insight that others are not able to. Residents have a right to know why Perez’s contract was never finalized, why the council met behind

— Anonymous

closed doors without reportable action, and ultimately, why she was not hired. Although Councilmember Uhring has been a vocal critic of our coverage, we stand by our reporting, which thoroughly examined these questions and emphasized that the council’s decision-making was deliberate, thoughtful, and measured—a process the community has a right to understand. I personally met with Perez, and she attended last month’s Malibu Business Roundtable. Like many others, I was impressed by her and wish her nothing but the best. Failing to report on this matter, however, would have done a disservice to the community.

Serving on the city council is a heavy responsibility, and the voices of Malibu residents are critical in guiding these decisions. Transparency is not optional — it is essential. Residents deserve answers, and if elected officials fail to recognize that, Malibu faces a larger challenge than our reporting.

The Malibu Schools Safety Committee did the work, not the SMMUSD PR Machine Eight months, one permit: Malibu families deserve better

By KEVIN KEEGAN Guest Columnist

In an ideal local public school district, school leaders model the behavior we hope our children and students will emulate. Unfortunately, today, the SMMUSD Board of Education and its leaders are falling short of that ideal.

The most recent example relates to how the SMMUSD board and its leaders are playing the PR game, specifically, to give themselves an advantage in their quest to prevent Malibu residents, neighbors, teachers, students, administrators, and community members from achieving local control over our own public schools.

I will highlight for you the gaslighting and misinformation techniques SMMUSD recently deployed.

The context is that in June, SMMUSD hired a new PR director from Washington, D.C. with flashy political experience to lead a revamped SMMUSD PR Machine. In case you missed it, SMMUSD made their hiring announcement while the 2024-25 school year was ending in June and, as I witnessed first-hand, the SMMUSD Board and its leaders did not take time at the school year’s conclusion to acknowledge the significant hardships the Malibu schools and Malibu community endured last school year.

Instead, SMMUSD spent hours upon hours during their final board meeting of 2024-25 in June, as they often do, primarily focused on the needs of Santa Monica and, in this case, giddy about their new PR Machine personnel changes, visibly excited to welcome someone from Washington, D.C., to do their PR scheming.

Last week, the overhauled SMMUSD PR Machine shared one of its first messages to Malibu parents, teachers, and families. The topic was school safety, entitled “Safety Updates Underway at Malibu Schools Ahead of New School Year.”

That school safety message from the SMMUSD PR Machine included misinformation, which I will explain in a moment, and, disappointingly, direct gaslighting of Malibu parents, students, teachers, and leaders. Subsequently, the SMMUSD PR Machine pumped out a message to our Webster Elementary School families, as if we’re a checklist to tick off.

I know Malibu, our residents, and neighbors. I know those of you reading this may not know what I am writing about, and I know most of you care about Malibu public schools. Let me give you examples of what I mean.

The first example of how the SMMUSD PR Machine is acting in a

way I do not believe we want our students to emulate is that in their safety updates message, SMMUSD takes credit for work they did not do themselves. The reality is most of SMMUSD sat on the sidelines while many of us in Malibu spent the past two-plus years working tirelessly to make these safety improvements happen, even when we were told many times that solutions were not possible. We did not give up.

The first safety update SMMUSD mentions in their message is a new school resource officer, or SRO, for Malibu schools. Here is how that announcement by SMMUSD begins: “The Malibu City Council in June 2025 unanimously approved reassigning a sheriff’s deputy to serve as a School Resource Officer (SRO) for the 2025–26 school year. Currently, the District is not moving forward with private armed security due to concerns around oversight, security, and feedback from staff and some parents. Most school Districts rely on school resource officers from local law enforcement agencies to support campus safety.”

The SMMUSD PR Machine goes on to note in that message that they already have two (2) SROs for Santa Monica schools through the Santa Monica Police Department, a point we in Malibu had to repeatedly emphasize for years, and which underscores SMMUSD leadership’s pattern of prioritizing Santa Monica.

The three problems with SMMUSD’s SRO announcement are (1) SMMUSD framed its messaging to take credit for this development, (2) SMMUSD unnecessarily brought up the private security issue, especially since Malibu did not hire a private security officer, and (3) SMMUSD did not mention the Malibu Schools Safety Committee, which is the local group that did most of the critical work to achieve this safety improvement outcome for Malibu schools — a small example of how local control will benefit us in the future.

Because the SMMUSD PR Machine crafted the private security note in a way to make SMMUSD look heroic, I will reveal to you our Malibu Schools Safety Committee’s strategy in keeping the private security option on the table as we sought our desired outcome.

In 2024, both Malibu elementary schools’ site councils not only voted to approve “hiring a dedicated School Resource Officer (SRO) and/or a private security company for Malibu Public Schools,” but they shared signed public letters of support. This was critical because, from my perspective, we wanted to ensure Malibu teachers were behind the interest in an SRO. I think you

By JO DRUMMOND

It has now been eight months since the January fire. In that time, the City of Malibu has issued just one rebuild permit. One permit in eight months.

For families who lost everything, this isn’t just unacceptable — it’s deeply unjust. Survivors should not have to fight through endless red tape in order to come home.

We know what’s possible. By her own track record, Malibu’s building manager, Yolanda Bundy, has the capacity to process as many as 60 permits in a single month. The question isn’t whether the capacity exists — it does — but whether our city leadership has the will to act. Bottlenecks that don’t make sense

The barriers to rebuilding have been well documented. Rebuild Ambassador Abe Roy has catalogued them in detail, but even a short list shows how needlessly complex — and unfair — the process has become: Six-foot overhangs that always counted toward original square footage (TDSF) are suddenly being excluded.

• Driveways and garden walls — even those under two feet — are being sent for expensive, time-wasting geotechnical review.

• TDSF limits are applied so rigidly that modest rebuilds are blocked even when setbacks are unaffected.

Codes are being misinterpreted and twisted to make rebuilds harder, not easier — such as counting low-flow plumbing fixtures in a way that prevents fire families from adding even a single bathroom. Meanwhile, regular Malibu families simply remodeling can add bathrooms under the same code without issue.

“Like-for-like +10%” rules are enforced so narrowly that families cannot add a modest ADU or a small permanent space to live in while they rebuild.

And here’s the contradiction: While fire families are being denied ADUs on their own single-family lots, the city is mandating ADUs on multi-family properties — when those property owners want to convert to a simple single-family home to save money. The result? Homes that stood for 20, 30, even 50 years are being treated as if they were brand-new construction projects. These are not luxuries — they are practical, reasonable steps to let families come home.

Human cost: Seven years of waiting

This isn’t just about numbers — it’s about lives. Take Melissa Ireland, a Woolsey Fire survivor. She has been waiting on multiple permits for seven years. Seven years of limbo. Seven years without a real home. The stress has been so relentless that she is now experiencing PTSD.

And the impact goes beyond

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housing. Melissa has had to put off starting a family until now — her dreams delayed year after year by a system that should have helped her rebuild long ago. When delays drag on this long, they are not just bureaucratic failures. They are moral ones. No Malibu family should be retraumatized — or have their life plans stolen — by the very system meant to help them recover.

Censoring the messenger What makes this worse is how our own Rebuild Ambassador, Abe Roy, has been treated. At his presentation to City Council on Monday — the first time in three months he had even been allowed to present — he was told by the mayor to remove the slide that spelled out the devastating reality: at the current pace, Malibu will take 9 to 16 years to rebuild. Out of respect for the request, Abe complied — acknowledging the slide might be seen as “inflammatory,” not because it was inaccurate, but because the math itself laid bare how badly council has failed fire families. Make no mistake: Abe stood ready to present that truth if he had been allowed. And that projection should have sparked urgency and leadership. Instead, he was sidelined, berated, and punished for daring to show fire families what we all already know: Nothing is moving.

Let’s be clear: this is not just indifference. When the only person brave enough to quantify the crisis

Jen Rodman, Anthony Atkins, Ebers García

Judy Abel, Barbara Burke, McKenzie Jackson, Burt Ross, Benjamin Marcus, Michel Shane

Anthony McDemas

Karen Kagan

“I am not bound to win, but I am bound to be true. I am not bound to succeed, but I am bound to live by the light that I have. I must stand with anybody that stands right, and stand with him while he is right, and part with him when he goes wrong.” — Abraham Lincoln

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One person in custody following a bizarre seven-hour standoff on Malibu Road

A bizarre and tense standoff is finally over on Malibu Road. The event unfolded Aug. 20, after a woman allegedly used a bow and arrow from her house to shoot at a couple walking their dog along the beach. Authorities say the incident began around 10 a.m. Wednesday when the couple reported the suspect shouting obscenities at them from a balcony before releasing an arrow in their direction. The projectile missed, but the encounter sparked a heavy law enforcement response.

Deputies with the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department surrounded the home at the 25000 block of Malibu Road, where the 68-year-old woman barricaded herself inside and ignored repeated commands to surrender. Police and witnesses saw that the suspect had hurled piles of debris including clothing, household items, and trash from the home’s beachfront balcony onto the sand below. Neighbors described the situation as frightening and surreal, some noting that the suspect had lived in the beachfront property for years but generally kept to herself, others commenting that the woman was known to others as someone who verbally voiced her anger towards dogs on the beach. They speculated their neighbor was experiencing a mental health crisis. One neighbor said, “If I were on the beach, I’d be seriously concerned.”

The standoff stretched for more than eight hours, forcing the closure of Malibu Road and drawing curious onlookers. One bystander commented, “Anyone firing a bow and arrow clearly needs help.” One investigator said the suspect was already known to police due to an earlier incident. Officials on scene also indicated that the suspect may have been struggling with mental health issues in explaining the bizarre behavior, although a Sheriff’s Department spokesperson could not confirm that detail.

By early evening, deputies entered the home and safely took the woman into custody without further incident. She was transported to a hospital for mental and physical evaluation. She is now facing charges of assault with a deadly weapon. Fortunately, no one was

injured. The suspect’s identity has not yet been released.

Officials issue safety warnings ahead of Labor Day Weekend in Malibu

As thousands are expected to flock to Malibu for the Labor Day holiday, officials are urging residents and visitors to exercise caution. Large crowds, heavy traffic, and high fire danger are anticipated throughout the weekend. The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department will increase patrols to manage beachgoers and traffic along Pacific Coast Highway, while lifeguards warn of strong rip currents and crowded conditions at popular beaches.

The City of Malibu is also reminding the public of strict fire safety rules, especially with hot, dry weather forecasted. Residents and travelers are encouraged to plan ahead, allow extra time for delays, and prioritize safety as Malibu braces for one of its busiest weekends of the year.

Mountain lion strolls past camper in close Malibu encounter, video shows

A Malibu camper had a heart-pounding brush with wildlife earlier this month when a mountain lion strolled within inches of him — an encounter that was captured on video.

The man, identified only as Kevin, said he and his family were camping at Leo Carrillo State Park on Aug. 4 when the incident occurred. While Kevin was seated near a ranger station trying to get cell service, the mountain lion emerged silently from nearby bushes and walked directly toward him.

Footage later obtained by KTLA shows Kevin absorbed in his phone as the big cat approaches, coming within arm’s reach before calmly walking past him.

Though relieved by the calm encounter, Kevin grew concerned when the lion ran off in the direction of the family campground, where his children were staying. Fortunately, the animal never entered their campsite, and no harm was reported.

California State Parks confirmed that no attacks or injuries occurred during the incident. Officials advise that if visitors encounter a mountain lion, they should remain calm, make themselves appear larger, and back away slowly rather than running.

Leo Carrillo State Park, located along the Malibu coast, is known for its scenic campsites and natural wildlife, including mountain lions that roam the Santa Monica Mountains.

Fire survivors, lawmakers demand action on insurance delays and State Farm rate hikes

Lawmakers and fire survivors held a news conference Monday to demand more action from the state to protect homeowners affected by the Eaton and Palisades fires and to deny a rate increase for State Farm.

Nearly 100 people gathered at

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the Altadena Library for a news conference addressing mounting frustrations over insurance claims tied to the devastating January fires. Assemblymember John Harabedian (D–Pasadena), flanked by state Senator Sasha Renée Pérez and Supervisor Kathryn Barger, who represent the Altadena area, called on Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara to take immediate action to protect affected homeowners who continue to struggle with their insurance companies.

Victims of the January Eaton and Palisades fires detailed their prolonged battles with insurers, citing delays, denials, and underpayments on their claims. The survivors — some still living out of their homes six months later due to extensive smoke damage — warned that continuing insurance setbacks are deepening their hardship. Harabedian urged Commissioner Lara to freeze State Farm’s proposed rate hikes, particularly the pending 11% increase on top of a previously approved 17% emergency hike, and demanded the ongoing investigation into the insurer be wrapped up within 60 days.

Survivors also laid out a broader package of concrete reforms:

• Amend the California FAIR Plan so smoke and contamination damages no longer require “permanent physical changes” to qualify for coverage.

• Increase transparency, including monthly public reports on insurance complaints and a tracker portal for claimants.

• Ensure policyholders receive both original and updated loss estimates from insurers. These measures are intended to streamline claims and hold both regulators and insurers accountable.

Commissioner Lara says his office is already investigating State Farm, taking legal action against the FAIR Plan, and assembling a task force focused on smoke-related claims.

Nobu Malibu wins dismissal of wrongful termination lawsuit

A Los Angeles judge has tossed out a wrongful termination and harassment lawsuit brought against Nobu Malibu by a former employee. The female employee, who was just 19 when she was hired by the high-end sushi eatery, alleged she was sexually harassed and then fired for speaking out.

According to court filings, plaintiff Erica Medina, who started employment in August 2021 as a server assistant, claimed that some of her male co-workers subjected her to ongoing harassment. The lawsuit alleged employees made inappropriate remarks about her body, mocked her Filipino heritage by saying she “should have been a nurse,” and called her derogatory names such as “whore” and “Sa tan.” The most serious allegation involved a male colleague who Medina said showed her explicit photos and videos of himself on his phone.

Medina further stated that the restaurant’s shared locker rooms for both male and female staff created an uncomfortable working environment. In September 2022, she filed a written complaint with Nobu management regarding the alleged harassment. Instead of re ceiving support, she claimed, she was demoted and then terminated the following month.

However, Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Michael Small dismissed the case with prejudice on Aug. 19, meaning Medina cannot refile. The ruling came after Nobu’s attorneys argued that Medina failed to participate in required discovery and appeared to have abandoned her claims. No representative appeared on her behalf at the dismissal hearing.

In earlier court papers, Nobu’s lawyers denied all allegations, arguing that even if retaliation could be proven, Medina’s termination was based on legitimate business reasons rather than harassment complaints.

Dick Van Dyke makes good on promise

The incomparable Dick Van Dyke went out of his way to make good on a promise to greet some of his most loyal fans. Roughly 60 Van Dyke superfans bought meetand-greet tickets to this summer’s Vandy Camp event held at Malibu High School in June. The legendary entertainer intended to appear at the event held for fans in his honor at the Arlene and Dick Van Dyke Theater on campus. However, the typically energetic showman, now approaching 100 years old, wasn’t up to making an in-person attendance at the joyful celebration that day. At the last minute, when Van Dyke’s wife Arlene announced that her husband was unable to make it to the auditorium, the crowd made up of Van Dyke’s loyal supporters took the disappointing news without complaint and only expressed their concern for their idol’s health and well-being. The rest of the gathering was devoted to wishing the iconic actor/dancer/comedian a speedy return to optimum health. Apparently those well wishes worked. The nearly century-old legend welcomed 30 of those fans to his Malibu home Aug. 17 for an event titled “High Tea at Vandy Manor.”

Van Dyke, looking in fine fettle, met with his adoring fans, reminisced, received an award, and sang with the appreciative crowd. A second tea event is scheduled and is expected to include one fan who had flown in from Belgium for the original event. Arlene Van

Dyke said it was important for the couple to organize a do-over because, “Dick van Dyke fans are the greatest humans.”

Kanye West’s Malibu beachfront home back on the market

Kanye West’s gutted beachfront home is back on the market after falling out of contract. The problematic property on Malibu Road was purchased by the rap star in 2021 for $57.3 million. The striking modernist home was designed by award-winning architect Tadao Ando. However, immediately after his purchase, the artist, who now goes by the name Ye, stripped the entire interior of the building, leaving just a concrete shell open to the elements. In 2024, the property was sold to Bo Belmont’s Belwood Investments, using a fractional ownership model. Belmont pledged to restore the home to its Tadao Ando origins.

After an investment of $8.5 million in renovations, yet still incomplete, the home was sold again earlier this year to developer Andrew Mazzella for $30 million, $9 million below asking. This month, ultimately due to complicated investing arrangements and securing funding, the deal finally collapsed. The property is now relisted at $34.9 million — a reduction from the $39 million price tag. Construction has paused in the meantime as a new buyer is sought. Carrying costs for the 4,000-square-foot building are said to run $300,000 a month.

City of Malibu hosts Safety & Preparedness Fair ahead of fire season

With wildfire season quickly approaching, the City of Malibu is urging residents to take action now to protect their families, homes, and neighborhoods. To help the community get ready, Malibu will host its annual Safety & Preparedness Fair on Saturday, Sept. 6, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at City Hall.

The free, family-friendly event will feature hands-on demonstrations, safety resources, and

opportunities to connect with local emergency services. Attendees can learn about brush clearance and home hardening techniques, disaster readiness for wildfires, earthquakes, and floods, and explore volunteer opportunities with local organizations.

“The more prepared our residents are, the safer our community will be,” city officials noted in a statement. “This fair is a great way to learn life-saving skills while enjoying a fun day with family and neighbors.”

For details, visit malibucity.org/ safetyfair.

Malibu offers free CERT training to prepare residents for disasters

The City of Malibu is inviting residents to take part in its next round of free Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training, beginning Tuesday, Sept. 16. The program is designed to equip community members with the knowledge and skills to prepare themselves, their families, and their businesses for wildfires, earthquakes, and other potential disasters. Classes will be held Tuesday evenings from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Malibu Library, with the final session scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 25, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Malibu City Hall.

CERT training, which is administered nationwide by local agencies, provides participants with hands-on instruction in disaster preparedness, fire safety, first aid, medical response, search and rescue, disaster psychology, and neighborhood team building. The program empowers residents to take an active role in community safety and resilience, particularly during emergencies when professional responders may be delayed.

“Malibu is no stranger to disasters, and CERT training gives our community the tools to be better prepared and more resilient,” city officials emphasized.

For more information or to register, visit MalibuCity.org/CERT or email PublicSafety@malibucity.org

OBITUARIES

B eaver Valenzuela was born on July 11, 1948, and died at home on July 3, 2025, surrounded by his family. His death marked the end of a three-year battle with pancreatic cancer, one that he fought courageously and tirelessly.

Beaver was the oldest son and the second-oldest child of seven children born to Edward and Helen Valenzuela.

His dad was a career Navy man, so Beaver and his family lived in several places while he was growing up: Hawaii, San Diego, and Japan, finally

settling in Los Angeles, his mother’s hometown. Beaver spent two years in the Navy after graduating from high school and then spent a year in Los Angeles learning woodcarving from an expert. With his new skills and his new wife Sharon, he headed north to a remote part of British Columbia to join his sister and brother-in-law in their back-to-the-land adventure. Two years later, in 1977, the opportunity to join the L.A. City Fire Department brought Beaver, Sharon, and their new daughter back to Los Angeles and, shortly after, to Paradise Cove, where he lived for the rest of his life. He loved and excelled in his career with the fire department, rising to the rank of captain. He was respected for his dedication, his complete willingness to always be part of the team, and his effectiveness as a leader.   Beaver had a sharp wit and a unique sense of humor, which was hilarious. He lit up the room when he entered, whether it was at work or at a big family

gathering, and he had a

Submission deadline is Monday at noon. Please email submissions to:

The Malibu Times

c/o Calendar Editor, to editorial@malibutimes.com

Only events with a connection to Malibu will be considered. Calendar events are scheduled in advance and subject to change.

FRI AUG 29

MALIBU FILM SOCIETY

SCREENING OF ‘BIG ROCK

BURING’

Special Event Series at Mali-

bu City Hall the Malibu Film Society presents a Special Event Series screening of Big Rock Buring on Friday, Aug. 29, at 8:00 p.m. at the Malibu Civic Theater, 23825 Stuart Ranch Rd. Attendees will enjoy an exclusive sneak preview of this 30-minute documentary, which highlights the resilience of Malibu residents during the Palisades Fire, capturing the terrifying night when officials deemed the area too dangerous to enter, forcing residents to either flee or become their own first responders with little more than garden hoses.

The evening features a confirmed Q&A with filmmaker David Goldblum. Doors open at 7:00 p.m. for a pre-show wine reception with complimentary snacks and beverages. Free admission for Malibu residents and MFS members with preregistration.

SAT AUG 30

BIG BLUE BEACH CRAWL

On Saturday, Aug. 30, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., the City of Malibu invites the community to join a special outreach event at Zuma Beach as part of the

“Malibu: Surf, Sand, Slow” safety campaign. Focused on raising awareness about slowing down and driving with caution on Pacific Coast Highway (PCH), the event is a key piece of the City’s multi-faceted PCH safety strategy, which also includes infrastructure and technology improvements like the Traffic Signal Synchronization Project, increased enforcement through additional CHP patrols, and support for legislation such as SB 1297 to allow automated speed safety cameras. Originally planned before the 2023 wildfires by the City’s PCH Safety Focus Group, the campaign was created in response to the tragic loss of four Pepperdine students along PCH. Volunteers and attendees will help spread the message that safety comes first on Malibu’s iconic coastal highway thu sep 4

CONNECTIONS BREAKFAST

On Thursday, Sept. 4, from 8:30 to 10 a.m., local business professionals are invited to gather at Ciela Living in Pacific Palisades for a morning of networking, coffee, and community connections.

The event will include a lively coffee mixer, breakfast, and a featured presentation by Sam Laganà, Voice of the LA Rams. Attendees are encouraged to bring business cards, prepare a brief 30-second introduction of their business, and, if they wish, contribute a small raffle gift to showcase their work.

A lifelong resident of Pacific Palisades and former Chamber member, Laganà is widely recognized as the stadium announcer for the LA Rams and was recently honored as “Honorary Town Sheriff” for

CALENDAR

his leadership during local fire recovery. He will also be recognized by Catholic Charities with the 2025 Humanitarian Award. In addition to his announcing career, Laganà chairs the John R. Wooden Award program, serves on the LA Sports & Entertainment Commission, and has held leadership roles at Pepperdine University and Notre Dame High School.

For more information, contact Anthony McDemas, Connections Director, at Connections@Malibu.org

FRI SEP 5

MALIBU BUSINESS ROUND TABLE

On Friday, Sept. 5, from 8:30 to 10 a.m., business owners, professionals, and community leaders are invited to join the Malibu Business Round Table on Zoom. This monthly virtual meeting offers a valuable opportunity to connect, collaborate, and exchange ideas while exploring local business trends and hearing from guest speakers on topics relevant to Malibu’s business community. Whether you’re an established entrepreneur or just getting started, the round table provides a welcoming space to build relationships and strengthen connections within Malibu’s thriving network.

To be added to the reminder list, please email office@malibutimes.com

THE WISDOM OF EVE OPENS AT THE BLUE DOOR PLAYHOUSE

Theatre Palisades is proud to present its second production of 2025, The Wisdom of Eve by Mary Orr, running Sept. 5–21 at The Blue Door Playhouse

in Culver City. Adapted from the classic film All About Eve, this riveting play peels back the curtain on the cutthroat world of Broadway, following the seemingly devoted fan Eve Harrington as she becomes the assistant to legendary actress Margo Crane. But beneath her innocent façade lies relentless ambition, leading to manipulation, betrayal, and the unraveling of friendships and careers.

Directed by Sherman Wayne and produced by Martha Hunter, this sharp, witty drama brings to life timeless themes of envy, power, and the ruthless pursuit of success. Performances take place Fridays and Saturdays at 8:00 p.m. and Sundays at 2:00 p.m. on Sept. 5–7, 12–14, and 19–21 at The Blue Door Playhouse, 9617 Venice Blvd., Culver City. Tickets are on sale now, with a special $5 early bird discount available using promo code WISDOM5. Don’t miss this unforgettable theatrical experience—visit TheatrePalisades.org for tickets and details.

SAT SEP 6

7TH ANNUAL SAFETY AND PREPAREDNESS FAIR

As part of National Preparedness Month, the City of Malibu will host the 7th Annual Safety and Preparedness Fair on Saturday, Sept. 6, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Malibu City Hall. This free, family-friendly event welcomes community members of all ages to learn how to prepare for wildfires, earthquakes, floods, and other disasters that can impact Malibu. Attendees can explore hands-on demonstrations, discover life-saving skills, connect with emergency responders, and find products and services to help keep their homes and families safe.

VOLUNTEER WEEDING DAY AT POINT DUME NATURE PRESERVE

Join the fun on Friday, Sept. 6, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. for a special Service Day at the scenic Point Dume Nature Preserve. Volunteers will help protect Malibu’s natural beauty by hand-pulling invasive plants and restoring native habitat. This monthly weeding effort will continue starting in October on the second Wednesday of each month. Don’t miss this chance to give back while enjoying one of Malibu’s most breathtaking locations.

This is a great opportunity to give back to the environment, enjoy the outdoors, and connect with fellow nature lovers. Be sure to bring gardening gloves, a hat, sunscreen, and water. Free two-hour parking is available at the Point Dume entrance (space is limited), with additional parking at the Westward Beach County lot (hourly rate) and along Westward Beach Road (free). Sign-ups are encouraged. Get your hands dirty and feel great doing your part for local conservation!

THE NATTY PROPHETS AT MALIBU MUSIC

On Saturday, Sept. 13, at 6 p.m., enjoy an evening of California Rastafari with live music from

The Natty Prophets. Formed in 2018 in Southern California, this reggae band has shared the stage with artists like Wyclef Jean, Rebelution, Iration, The Expendables, and Pato Banton. With multiple albums and singles available on all platforms, their latest releases include the 2024 album “Crowns of Gold” and the March 2025 single “Made Out of Love.” This free, all-ages event offers an unforgettable night of uplifting rhythms and good vibes. Space is limited, so arrive early to secure your spot. Visit malibumusic.com.

SAT SEP 13-14

ZUMA BEACH TRIATHLON

On Sept. 13–14, the Zuma Beach Triathlon returns to Malibu, bringing hundreds of athletes together to swim, bike, and run along one of California’s most iconic stretches of coastline. Known for its sparkling waters, sweeping ocean views, and high-energy atmosphere, the annual event attracts elite competitors, first-time triathletes, and weekend warriors alike.

This year’s race carries added significance as Malibu and surrounding communities continue to recover from the devastating Palisades Fire. In a show of unity and resilience, the Zuma Foundation is offering complimentary entries and training programs to those who lost homes, while also supporting the Boys & Girls Club of Malibu through athlete donations and a matching fund of up to $10,000. Visit zumabeachtriathlon.org for more information.

ONGOING

MALIBU FARMERS MARKET | SUNDAYS

The Malibu Farmers Market takes place every Sunday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., offering a wide range of fresh, local produce and artisanal goods. Currently located at Legacy Park, the market provides a great opportunity to support local farmers and vendors while enjoying the scenic beauty of Malibu. For updates and more information on the market, visit malibufarmersmarket.

net. Make sure to stop by for a vibrant shopping experience this Sunday!

MONDAY COMPOSERS BREAKFAST | MONDAYS

The Monday Composers Breakfast takes place weekly at Dreamland Malibu, located at 22969 Pacific Coast Highway, in Malibu, every Monday from 9 to 11 a.m., with a simultaneous Zoom option for those unable to attend in person. Guests are encouraged to check in or join the mailing list for the latest updates on upcoming meetings, CBC events, member performances, and more.

KNITTING | MONDAY AND FRIDAY

Join Malibu’s Community Services Department and

Sheila Rosenthal for a knitting workshop that takes place on Mondays and Fridays from 9 to 10:30 a.m. This program is a welcoming gathering space for fiber artists that fosters community through open stitch. Make a scarf, hat, blanket, or homemade gift. No experience necessary. Please bring size 8 needles and one skein of yarn. This is an ongoing, dropin program. Instructed by Sheila Rosenthal. Visit malibucity.org for location.

KUNDALINI YOGA CLASS | MONDAYS

Join us every Monday at 6:30 p.m. for a special 90-minute Kundalini yoga class with live Kirtan music, featuring local guest musicians. This unique experience combines movement, breathwork, and sound to create a deeply uplifting and meditative practice. The class is $28 per person or included with your yoga membership. After class, enjoy complimentary herbal tea grown in Malibu and stay for a relaxing Kirtan — a guided song circle to close out the evening in community and connection. Visit veritas-yoga. com for more information.

TOTAL BODY WORKOUT | TUESDAYS

A comprehensive low-impact strengthening class targeting all the major muscles of the upper and lower body with special attention to form, stabilization, core strength, and balance. Please bring your own hand weights and yoga mats. Instructed by Jackline Daneshrad. The classes are Tuesdays from 12:45 to 1:45 p.m. Cost is $5 per class. Pre-registration is recommended. At the Michael Landon Center at Malibu Bluffs Park.

SENIOR CHOIR | TUESDAYS

Learn the fundamentals of singing and performing different styles of music. Every Tuesday, from 10 to 11 a.m. at Malibu City Hall Senior Center. This is a great opportunity for socialization, self-expression, and learning through music. All levels are welcome. Instructed by Laura DeMieri Fercano.

SENIOR TECH HELP |

TUESDAYS

Receive one-on-one tech help with your laptop, tablet, or cellphone. Seniors can receive assistance using social media, Google Drive, Skype, Microsoft Word, email, and more. RSVP required. Instructed by Community Services Department staff. Tuesdays from 9 to 10 a.m. at the Malibu Senior Center.

COMMUNITY SOBER CIRCLE | WEDNESDAYS

Welcome to Aura House by Veritas Yoga — a space for personal integration, accountability, conscious connection, soulful conversation, and community rooted in mindfulness. Join them weekly for a sober gathering featuring guest speakers or facilitators, open shares and honest discussion, heart-centered practices, journaling, and nourishing tea and snacks. Every Wednesday at 7 p.m.

TOPANGA FARMERS MARKET | FRIDAYS

The Topanga Farmers Market is a Certified Farmers Market held every Friday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Topanga Community Center. With 45 exceptional vendors, the market offers a diverse selection of fresh, locally grown produce and handcrafted artisanal goods. It’s a wonderful way to support local farmers and makers while soaking in the natural beauty of Topanga Canyon. Whether you’re shopping for seasonal fruits and vegetables or one-of-a-kind crafts, the Topanga Farmers Market has something for everyone!

my classmates before we venture out. Let’s go, class of 2026!”

Maizee’s classmate Kylie Morra, also a senior, commented, “The first day of senior year reminded me how far we’ve all come. This year is about lifting each other up and making it the best one yet.”

Incoming sixth-graders provided comments about segueing to middle school, noting that there are more students, more teachers, more classes ... and more fun.

Little Chord Mlodzik, a third-grader at Webster Elementary, commented, “The first day of school was awesome! I’m really excited about learning from my teacher and seeing all my friends. I like Webster because of all the laughs!”

New principals and staff and a new campus — ready for a great new year!

MHS Principal Dr. Adam Almeida was appointed in July 2024, ahead of the 2025-2026 school year. Almeida previously served as an assistant principal at the school from 2019-2022, so he is well known in Malibu. Almeida, aided by Assistant Principal Denise Johnson, welcomed the high schoolers on the first day of school.

Malibu Elementary School also has a new principal. Sally Wennes holds a Bachelor of Arts in liberal studies and a Master’s of Arts

construction phase for this project is nearing completion, the signal and crosswalk were scheduled to be removed.

We value the partnership with the city of Malibu and look forward to our continued collaboration on this and other important matters on PCH.”

As of Tuesday, Aug. 26, traffic signal and crosswalk were operational, allowing pedestrians to make a safer passage across PCH from Zuma Beach.

The City of Malibu urged Caltrans to make the Guernsey Avenue signal permanent in a social media post:

“The City of Malibu has heard from many community members who value the temporary traffic signal at Guernsey Avenue and Pacific Coast Highway for improving safety and access to Zuma Beach. The signal was originally installed by Caltrans during the Trancas Bridge replacement project to provide safe passage for pedestrians and cyclists during construction, and was scheduled for removal once the project

in educational administration from California Lutheran University. She brings more than 20 years of experience serving schools in California, including serving as a principal for the Conejo Valley and Moorpark Unified school districts and Oxnard School District. When appointed, Wennes stated, “I’m incredibly excited to join the SMMUSD as the new principal of Malibu Elementary — it’s a privilege to become part of a community that values collaboration, creativity, and student success.” Wennes emphasized that she looks forward “to working closely with families, staff, and students to build on the school’s strong foundation and support every child’s growth and learning.”

No school would be strong without qualified support staff. Malibu welcomes several such faculty members.

Zoe Goldman will serve as the new occupational therapist for Malibu schools, and will support students’ fine motor skills and sensory processing needs. Public school occupational therapists such as Goldman work as specialized support personnel to assist students succeed in their academic programs, often as part of their related services pursuant to the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act.

Karen Hannigan joins the staff at Malibu Elementary School as a speech and language therapist. Malibu Elementary School also welcomes Anthony Lucas as an extensive support needs (ESN) faculty member. Lucas’s ESN credential qualifies him to provide intensive,

was completed. The project was recently completed, but in response to community requests, the City requested that Caltrans delay removal of the signal. The City is now working closely with Caltrans to evaluate possible solutions and the steps needed to determine if the signal can be made permanent. We will keep the community updated.”

A vocal proponent of safety measures on the highway, Malibu City Councilmember Haylynn Conrad, earlier told supporters of the light and crosswalk, “This is not just about one traffic light. It is about a broken system on this state highway … This is about an elected official and mother in the city of Malibu that just has been ravaged by a historic fire who is angry and exhausted by the government and this one traffic signal will be that very symptom that illustrates a much bigger issue in this city and state. Malibu residents and Malibu’s elected officials are ignored again and again. The world sees us shouting at City Hall meetings and at our wits’ end, but they never see the process that drives us there. There’s a process of a thousand papercuts and it’s decisions like this are exactly what push people past their limits.

specially designed instruction for Malibu students with a wide range of significant disabilities, including providing support in multiple areas from academics to communication, including gross and fine motor skills, social-emotional, behavioral, vocational, and adaptive living skills.

Finally, Kaitlin Theobold will work at Malibu Elementary School as a specialized academic instructor for transitional kindergarten. The SAI model involves mainstreaming students utilizing collaborative teaching by special education and general education teachers who co-teach in the same classroom to support students who have an individualized education program.

The arts, music, and drama programs are always strong in Malibu schools. Notably, recently, SMMUSD’s schools were honored with the “Best Communities for Music Education” designation from the National Association of Music Merchants Foundation for their outstanding commitment to music education. The designation is awarded to districts that demonstrate outstanding achievement in efforts to provide music access and education to all students. Such an honor is partly attributable to the parent-organized support of the Arts Angels, Shark Fund, and Malibu PTA, all of which support the four schools’ visual and performing arts programs.

No matter what school they are attending and what school year they are beginning, students in Malibu got off to a great school year.

“I have received more than a dozen emails from outraged residents about something as simple as this. ‘Just leave the light — simple: LEAVE THE LIGHT. This will be the simplest thing you do today — leave the light.’

“That stretch is a drag strip, a straight shot where people rev their engines at the light and launch full speed next to a middle and high school where kids are surfing steps away.”

Conrad suggested more constructive meetings with Caltrans on safety issues. “Residents are traumatized and exhausted,” she said. “We are tired of being dictated to by outside agencies that do not live here and do not face the dangers we face every day on this road.”

Upon learning of the news the light will stay, Conrad reacted, “The fact that we were actually heard by a government agency as big as Caltrans is extraordinary. This community could use a win. Even the smallest wins make the ocean of noes we all deal with worth it.” The councilmember wanted to thank Public Works Director Rob DuBoux, Interim City Manager Candace Bond, Interim Deputy City Manager Richard Rojas, their teams, and all the residents who reached out.

approach, thereby guaranteeing the best “fit” in the candidates that we place with our client agencies. Our business philosophy centers upon the understanding that this is a “people” related industry and that attention to others’ needs is the key to effective customer service.” The company’s website also states it often receives “unsolicited comments from clients and candidates relating to our integrity and high ethics — we “team” with our client agencies in order to ensure a successful process.”

On July 30, the City issued a press release announcing that the City Council unanimously approved the appointment of Ronda Perez as Malibu’s City Manager, subject to a final vote at the public City Council meeting on Aug. 11. The City’s press release noted that Perez, “brings nearly two decades of experience in the public sector, with a strong track record of leadership, innovation and community engagement.” The press release also recounted Perez’s service as the city manager for Palmdale and Assistant City Manager of Lancaster, “where she successfully secured state and federal infrastructure funding, expanded parks and recreation programs, spearheaded securing state approval for Caltrans to surrender local ownership and control of a stretch of state highway running through Palmdale, and led efforts to revitalize downtown districts.”

The Aug. 11 agenda item to approve Perez’s appointment as city manager never occurred. Although the city had previously announced

MALIBU FAMILIES

that Perez would begin working as city manager on Aug. 25, that did not occur. Rather, the city council has held five executive session meetings, proceedings closed to the public, emerging from each meeting with acting Malibu City Attorney Trevor Rusin making the standard statement that the council “took no reportable action.”

These occurrences are entirely unprecedented in the history of the city and the executive sessions have piqued concerned citizens’ interest and queries.

A simple online search of Perez’ service for the City of Palmdale evinces that in late May, the city council agreed during a special meeting to not extend Perez’s contract. Per a mutual agreement between Perez and the City of Palmdale, Perez’s contract will expire on Jan. 18, but she will remain on Federal Medical Leave Act leave until the end of that contract, with Assistant City Manager Sal Mendez serving as city manager pro tem in her absence.

The Malibu Times noted in a prior article that on June 17, the City of Palmdale issued a 17-page request for proposals seeking “financial forensics fraud investigative services.” Bids for the potential Palmdale fraud investigation closed on July 18, twelve days before the City of Malibu announced it would most likely hire Perez as city manager. Clearly, all of those details are in the record.

Importantly, it is unclear if the City of Palmdale’s request for “financial forensics fraud investigative service,” involves Perez. It is equally unclear whether there is no, partial,

CONTINUED FROM A2 is silenced by those in power, that is censorship — and it is an attack on every Malibu family still waiting to come home.

Meanwhile, just over the hill

The contrast could not be clearer. In the City of Los Angeles — covering devastation in Pacific Palisades, Altadena, and other fire-hit areas — more than 800 homeowners had applied for rebuild permits as of early July. LA has approved nearly a quarter of those in a one-step process and is averaging roughly 55 days to issue a permit.

Doing the math, that puts LA’s rebuild-permit pace at nearly 50 times faster than Malibu — where just one permit has been issued in eight months. That disparity is impossible to ignore.

And consider this: After the Woolsey Fire in late 2018, Malibu’s first-year rebuild record looked dramatically different. Within 12 months, more than 100 homes were already approved, under construction, or even completed. By the 18-month mark, the city had signed off on 240 planning approvals and issued 100 building permits.

Compare that with today. After the Palisades Fire, in the same eight-month span, Malibu has managed exactly one permit. Not 100. Not even 10. One. Enough is enough Council has had the power since Day One to direct staff to treat our rebuilds as remodels, not new construction — and stamp them approved. Instead, we’ve had bureaucracy, misinterpretations, and stalling. Families don’t need more excuses. We need permits. And in the wake of not having a veteran city manager to guide this recovery, Acting City Manager Candace Bond must prove she is willing to lead. Residents cannot afford silence or hesitation. She must act decisively — and act now — on behalf of Malibu families who have already waited far too long. Staff vs. consultants Malibu staff are not the problem. They know this community and work tirelessly. The real slowdown

or entire merit to allegations set forth in a lawsuit filed on May 20 in the Los Angeles County Superior Court by Kathleen Abaied regarding her dismissal after serving for eight years as the head of human resources for the City of Lancaster. In that suit, Abaied alleges gender discrimination and whistleblower retaliation, among other things, relating to her investigating then Assistant City Manager Ronda Perez, who was the subject of numerous complaints of a hostile work environment. Clearly, all of those details are in the public record.

Clearly, every American citizen is entitled to the presumption of innocence and due process regarding allegations made against them. Equally clear is that the residents of the city of Malibu are entitled to be informed concerning what is going on in city government. The Malibu Times has kept the readers informed regarding what is going on with Perez, subject to restrictions in information access due to the five executive, closed door sessions.

What is clear is that Perez has many who admire her aptitude as a city leader — indeed as The Malibu Times noted in its last article regarding Perez, before a closed-session performance evaluation for Perez held by the City of Palmdale in late March, nearly 30 people, including community and business leaders and members of city staff voiced support for her serving as city manager. Further, in a The Malibu Times interview with Lancaster Vice Mayor Marvin Crist, he praised her for her leadership while serving for that town as assistant city manager, noting that

she has been instrumental in several large projects in Lancaster, including facilitating Lancaster, Palmdale, the school district in the area, state and federal entities to contribute to building a 140,000 square foot building that can house up to 1,000 people in emergencies and helping Lancaster to launch the first 100% totally electric bus system in a community.

“Ronda is great at leading, and she uses her brains and her ‘We can do this’ approach to getting things accomplished,” Crist said, stating that, “The higher level of a position one obtains, the more people want to knock you off balance and the more you are scrutinized.”

Crist also noted that Palmdale’s city council is infused with a lot of drama and has been so for a few years. “Just review the meetings where the council went in to executive session to consider whether to discipline Ronda, and came out of the closed door session and fired its city attorney, then went back into consider the matter regarding Ron-

da, only to emerge again into public session and to discipline then-mayor Richard Loa by taking away his position of mayor and taking away all his ceremonial functions and his duties because he was too connected with Lancaster. Then, they considered the matter relating to Ronda.”

Although Perez has both supporters who commend her competency and service in city government and detractors who question her leadership, the decision lies with the Malibu City Council. Residents are understandably eager—and deserve—to know why Perez’s contract was never signed, why the council met without reportable action, and why she was ultimately not hired. Just as importantly, the community deserves clarity on who will become the next city manager and when that individual will assume the role. It should be a top priority for the council to recognize that, in order to maintain the community’s trust in their leadership and decision-making, they cannot spend countless hours behind closed

doors without explanation. In the meantime, Candace Bond continues to serve as Interim City Manager. A former U.S. Ambassador to Trinidad and Tobago and a Malibu resident for more than 30 years, Bond was sworn in on May 19.

Following a closed session on Monday, Aug. 25 — the day Perez was scheduled to begin as City Manager — Interim City Attorney Trevor Rusin announced that she had withdrawn her interest in the position. With her withdrawal, the role remains vacant, and it is still unclear whether the city will continue working with the same recruitment firm in its search for new candidates. At the very least, the community now has some clarity on where the process stands.

Publisher’s Note: In all three articles

The Malibu Times has published concerning the city manager, Perez and other involved parties were contacted for comment. The Malibu Times remains committed to keeping the community informed, regardless of any attempts to discourage reporting.

with the City of Malibu for more than four years and spends much of his work conducting home fire assessments, a free service to Malibu residents and surrounding areas because, “we know what happens in the surrounding areas affects us so we’ll go all the way to the 101 corridor,” Etcheverry explained of the valuable service.

In a 30- to 45-minute walkthrough of a property, Etcheverry will give national best practices advice on vegetation management and home hardening based on fire code. A report solely shared with the homeowner is issued and although non-enforceable, if followed could make the difference in saving a home to wildfire. Since the program started in 2019, Etcheverry and his colleagues have conducted more than 600 free wildfire home assessments.

What homeowners don’t realize When asked what surprises residents most during an assessment, Etcheverry pointed to a hidden but dangerous vulnerability: wooden fences. “A lot of people have vines and shrubs running along wooden fences that connect directly to their homes,” he said. “In the Palisades Fire, many homes burned because flames traveled along those fence lines and ignited the structure. Something as simple as replacing the last five feet of fence with a non-combustible material like metal can create a fuel break and save a home.”

“ Zone Zero” and new fire safety standards

Perhaps the most significant change homeowners need to know about is California’s new “Zone

will appreciate that I did not rely solely on the letters. I visited with teachers at WES, MES, MMS, and MHS.

To be clear, had Malibu teachers (or principals or staff) told me one-to-one or in our meetings that they were adamantly or as a silent majority opposed to Malibu parents making this monumental effort for Malibu to help overcome the many obstacles within the SMMUSD system to hire an SRO, I would have respected their opinion and focused my attention elsewhere.

Instead, what happened was not only did Malibu teachers and staff encourage the efforts into which I and other Malibu parents breathed new life, but then Capt. Jennifer Seetoo fiercely championed the work. In fact, Seetoo wrote to me directly with this encouragement, “Over the past three years, the Las Virgenes Unified School District has worked closely with our [Lost Hills] station to make significant strides enhancing school safety … [including] initiatives such as camera integration and the incorporation of private security.”

We knew Santa Monica has had two (2) SROs for some time now and, as part of our Malibu strategy, we were determined to pursue all available options to increase the likelihood we could achieve our goal in Malibu and for Malibu, and I hope it is now evident that SMMUSD intentionally brought up the private security note to “score points” for SMMUSD. That’s part of their PR Machine’s game.

The goal of the Malibu School Safety Committee was to hire an SRO. Hiring private security was not the goal. That is simply an SMMUSD PR Machine red herring.

The second example of how the SMMUSD PR Machine is acting in a way I do not believe we want our students to emulate is that in the message, SMMUSD chose not to acknowledge the work and effort by many in the Malibu community, instead suggesting SMMUSD was involved. Let me clarify the record by informing you that we have an SRO pilot test underway because of the efforts by Malibu Public Safety Director Susan Duenas, our Malibu Public Safety Commission, Malibu City Staff, Sgt. William Velek, Seetoo, our MHS-MMSMES-WES principals, and many Malibu parents, including Jake Lingo, Josh Spiegel, Heather Alfano, and Wade Major. SMMUSD did not actively or regularly participate in our SRO efforts the past few years. The video and transcript speak for themselves. On Monday, April 28, 2025, during the Malibu City Council Regular Meeting, I and other Mal-

Zero” requirement. Established under Assembly Bill 3074 in 2020, the regulation already applies to new construction and will extend to existing homes beginning in 2026.

Zone Zero refers to the 5-foot perimeter immediately surrounding a home. This area is considered one of the most vulnerable to ember intrusion — the leading cause of structure loss in wildfires. “That’s where embers hit and collect,” Etcheverry explained. “If combustible materials are there, even something small can ignite, ladder up to a plant, then to a window, and suddenly the

ibu parents, along with Sgt. Velek, presented our case for an SRO pilot test from the Malibu Schools Safety Committee for the Council’s consideration of potential direction to the Public Safety Director and city staff. During that agenda item discussion, the question was asked several times, “What is SMMUSD’s suggestion or opinion?”

The answer from everyone involved was, and I’m paraphrasing, “We do not know because SMMUSD has not responded or participated.”

That is why this SMMUSD PR Machine effort suggesting SMMUSD leadership deserves credit for this important school safety improvement is offensive. Taking credit for someone else’s work is not how we expect our children and students to behave, let alone school leaders.

SMMUSD also announced in its message plans for emergency call buttons and radios, which is positive, but again, SMMUSD presents these developments with no mention of Malibu, Malibu parents, Malibu principals, Malibu teachers, Malibu School Site Councils, our Malibu Schools Safety Committee, and others who have advocated for and encouraged these developments and investments.

A likely reason the SMMUSD PR Machine does not mention Malibu is because if we had local control, we would already have made these improvements … years ago.

In that same message, the SMMUSD PR Machine makes even more galling announcements about the “Alternative Power” developments for our campuses with solutions like portable generators, failing to mention that Malibu, not SMMUSD, is paying for these improvements through Measure M and Measure MM. Furthermore, it took us months last year to get SMMUSD to sit down and take

this issue seriously. Again, if we had local control, we would be further ahead with our alternative power upgrades. We already are paying for them. Now we just need local control.

Lastly, another local impact from the Franklin and Palisades fires was the damage to Webster Elementary School, including smoke exposure.

The SMMUSD PR Machine explains that SMMUSD “partnered with a certified industrial hygienist” in the aftermath of the Franklin Fire, but they do not share any information about “testing.” Instead, SMMUSD mentions “sampling” and “cleaning.” SMMUSD posted a second announcement last week entitled, “Webster Campus Cleared for Safe Use.” That message also does not mention “testing.”

That likely was not an oversight by SMMUSD. Webster parents have been asking SMMUSD to approve testing for approximately six months, specifically by an independent, certified Industrial Hygienist (IH).

SMMUSD may have reasons why they do not want to test, such as the cost of an independent IH or a belief that their expert consultant’s “inspection” or “investigation” is an adequate alternative to testing. I do not know.

What I do know is that these recent messages to Webster parents, teachers, and families by the SMMUSD PR Machine are a form of gaslighting, whether intentional or not.

Unlike the SMMUSD PR Machine, Malibu parents know exactly what they are requesting. The reason is because many Malibu parents had their homes damaged by the recent wildfires and some Malibu parents, including Webster parents, unfortunately, had to hire a certified IH; Malibu parents had to have testing done inside their homes and rooms; Malibu parents

house is burning.”

The new rule will require that Zone Zero be free of combustible materials. Acceptable ground cover includes dirt, concrete, decorative rock, or pavers. Whether certain low-lying succulents will be permitted remains under review as the state gathers public input.

Etcheverry advises homeowners not to wait. “We recommend people start working toward Zone Zero now,” he said. “Getting rid of combustibles within 5 feet of your home is one of the most effective steps you can take.”

had to learn about all the details related to this post-fire-and-smoke damage cleaning process.

Malibu parents are not thinking hypothetically what might be needed to ensure their elementary school classrooms are safe from smoke damage, Malibu parents are well-informed about what is needed to provide that assurance.

It is likely the SMMUSD PR Machine’s semi-fictitious version of our recent history related to safety improvements on our Malibu public school campuses was erroneously crafted either at SMMUSD

Top fire safety tips

Beyond Zone Zero, Etcheverry stressed several additional home-hardening measures that residents can implement immediately:

• Clear rooflines: Keep trees trimmed at least 10 feet away from the roof and remove leaves or pine needles that collect.

Upgrade vents: Traditional quarter-inch mesh vents allow embers to enter attics and crawl spaces. Homeowners should consider ember-resistant vents such as Brandguard, Vulcan, or O’Hagin, which use baffles to block embers. For a more affordable option, replacing standard mesh with 1/16-inch screening provides significant improvement.

• Install dual-pane windows: These are far more resistant to heat and can prevent flames or embers from shattering glass and entering the home.

A resource for Malibu residents

For Etcheverry, the mission is simple: empower Malibu residents with knowledge. “It only takes 30 to 45 minutes for us to walk your property,” he said. “We’ll send you a report with recommendations, and that report stays just between us and the homeowner.”

Etcheverry hopes more people will take advantage of the free service. “If you live anywhere in the Santa Monica Mountains, especially Malibu, reach out to us. It’s a simple step that can make your home dramatically safer,” he said.

Preparation is just another tool in the toolbox in the effort to keep your home as fire safe as possible. It may mean the difference between losing everything and returning home after the flames have passed.

To schedule an appointment, visit malibucity.org

HQ dozens of miles away from our community or maybe in Washington, D.C., thousands of miles from our community. Either way, obviously, the distance between the SMMUSD PR Machine and our Malibu public schools is part of the problem, a reality which SMMUSD leadership needs to come to grips with instead of leaning into their stale stance of insouciance.

In closing, to SMMUSD leadership, if you are reading this, do not gaslight us. We may be overcoming trauma from the wildfires, but we are not fools. Instead, be gracious,

give credit where credit is due, and acknowledge when Malibu did the work or is providing the funding. Also, SMMUSD leadership, you still owe us an apology for spreading misinformation about MHS to the national media in the wake of the June 2 vandalism incident on our joint MHS-MMS campus. We have not forgotten. Put simply, SMMUSD leadership, please begin making your PR Machine choices in ways that better reflect how we want students in our local schools to communicate and behave.

Malibu Life

and aahs! What a gorgeous building and campus

Chamber of Commerce and Education Foundation gather to celebrate the 22-year project, proudly highlighting the

role of strong schools in building a stronger Malibu community

By BARBARA BURKE

Things were bustling at the new Malibu High School on Aug. 14, an idyllic Malibu morning that provided the perfect opportunity for some Malibuites of all generations to enjoy the new school campus, a project that was 22 years in the making from planning to completion.

As students and their parents enjoyed one of Malibu schools’ many wonderful traditions — Pick Up Your Stuff day, which provides

an opportunity for pupils to get learning materials, schedules, tour classrooms and find the proper lockers — members of the Malibu Pacific Palisades Chamber of Commerce gathered with their host, the Malibu Education Foundation, to tour the gorgeous new school building and grounds, to hear about how community members can support Malibu schools’ academic and extracurricular events for the forthcoming school year and to do what Chambers of Commerce do: offer opportunities for those in the business community to mingle and connect.

“We are excited to host the Chamber as the first community organization to meet on our new campus,” Dr. Adam Ameida, the school’s new principal, said as he popped in to say hello. “The room where you are meeting is where the students will enjoy their pottery classes.”

Stronger Malibu schools make for a stronger community The room was full of those from many segments of Malibu’s community. There were vendors of all types related to rebuilding Malibu, including roofers, construction con-

tractors, plumbers, electricians, architects, and landscapers. There also were representatives of many community organizations whose various efforts contribute to a better Malibu. As they enjoyed a breakfast catered by Howdy’s, the restaurant’s proprietor shared how integral Malibu schools were to his career path.

“I went to Malibu High and now I’m a parent of an incoming kindergartener,” said Ian Roven, an alumnus of Malibu schools and co-president of the Malibu Education Foundation. “The Foundation is doing great things to support all of our students.”

Karin Al-Hardin, president of the Foundation, chimed in, explaining that strong schools don’t happen by accident and that the Foundation funds the people who make a quality education happen for students, including in the classrooms as well as in extracurricular opportunities. Al-Hardin noted that the Foundation provides the students with instructional aides, tutors, counselors, arts educators, and athletic staff. She noted that the Foundation is the only organization that funds district staffing for all Malibu public schools, stepping up to

Anto Balian ready to ‘represent my community’ and help Waves hoops win

The 18-year-old guard, fresh off leading Armenia to backto-back wins over Costa Rica, joins Pepperdine with hopes to contend for a WCC title

By McKenzie Jackson Special to The Malibu Times

Anto Balian’s first bucket in the Armenia men’s national basketball team’s 13-point victory over Costa Rica on June 8 was a two-handed dunk to punctuate a fast break.

Then, the 18-year-old point guard hit a one-dribble, pull-up three-point shot in the face of a Costa Rican defender. Balian knocked down a pair of foul shots before swooping past two defenders for another score.

Balian was balling. He hit several more creative layups and another dagger three to finish the friendly with 18 points as Armenia rolled to a 103-90 win at Crescenta Valley High School in La Crescenta.

The very next day, Balian, a 6-foot-1 point guard, stepped on the hardwood inside Pepperdine’s Firestone Fieldhouse as the first basketball player from an Armenian school to ever be awarded a scholarship from an NCAA Division I program.

Balian, who grew up just 40 minutes from Malibu in Los Angeles’ Little Armenia neighborhood, is excited to represent

Armenians on the basketball court with the Pepperdine Waves.

“It means the world to me,” he said. “I’m the first Armenian kid from an Armenian school to receive a Division I scholarship. It is historic in my community. There are going to be a lot of people from the community at the games because Pepperdine is close to home. I’m carrying the weight

of a community that really believes in me.”

Balian aims to help the Waves contend for a West Coast Conference (WCC) title in any way he can.

“I want to make an impact on the court,” he said. “I want to be out there. If that means diving for a ball, locking down the best player on the court, it doesn’t matter.

PEOPLE

‘Big Rock Burning’

MALIBU SEEN

By Benjamin Marcus, Entertainment Editor

David

Goldblum

makes a documentary about a neighborhood recovering

Tuesday, Aug. 19, I was talking story with Kevin O’Neill at Malibu Sandals with two other chaps who were sitting in the shade on chairs in the quonset hut. One of the chaps was Alan Johnson, and the other was his son Elliott Johnson, who said something about the documentary “Big Rock Burning” and suggested I write about it in advance of the Malibu premiere on Aug. 29. He gave me a link to David Goldblum, and we connected.

In 50 words or less, can you say how you experienced the Palisades Fire? Did you stay or did you go now? Palisades Fire felt like an everyman-for-himself nightmare. Jan. 7 was one of the most harrowing nights of my life, seeing the smoke cloud barreling toward my window and then escaping down the mountain … it is not something I will ever forget.

Were you on alert?

In some regards, yes — I think the Franklin Fire a few weeks before had us all on alert. That said, I never in a million years could have imagined what was to come with the Palisades Fire.

At what point did you know it was coming your way?

It was a busy day working in my home office, so I sort of had my head in the clouds … in the afternoon I looked out the window and saw the fire coming closer and closer to Malibu, and I leaped in my car and sped off, without any belongings. Everything I owned was burned in the fires.

When did the fire reach Big Rock and how did it sweep in?

I’m not sure the exact time it hit Big Rock, but I left in the afternoon.

I believe if I left two hours later, I might not have survived.

Did you lose your house? Yes.

Where did you evacuate to and where are you now? I drove as far as I could … toward Orange County, where I stayed in a hotel, but then within a few days I knew I needed to return to Malibu to tell this story. I’m now temporarily relocated to Brooklyn, where I’ve been for the last few months as I’ve been editing this film.

There were over 40 Malibu residents impacted by the fires who were involved in the filmmaking process. Who else is in your team, and what roles did they play?

My community in Big Rock has a Whatsapp group, and a few days after the fire, I put out a message saying that if we wanted to tell our stories, I would shepherd the project. Within a few hours, I had dozens of residents reaching out to offer help. We had 40 residents involved with the film: Some residents served as executive producers, others were co-producers, some helped out by offering archival footage, etc. All in all, I believe we interviewed almost 20 residents as well, including Jo and Colin Drummond, Arno Koch, Wade Major, Janet Fulk and Peter Monge, Rosemarie and Thomas Ihde, Laurent Lusinchi, and Patty Phillips.

I see that some of your fellow producers have show-biz experience:

Fellow producers include Julie Parker Benello (”American Factory,” “Athlete A”) and James Costa (”The Dating Game,” “Welcome to Chechnya”).

Executive producers include Mark Hamill (”Star Wars,” “The Life of Chuck”), Marilou Hamill, Bryan Fogel (”Icarus,” “The Dissident”), and Trevor Burgess. Are you involved in show business or is this your first project?

I am predominately a film producer, focused on impact-driven projects. Under my Conscious Contact Entertainment banner, I produced the criminal justice system drama, “Grassland,” which is executive produced by Academy Award-winner Common, produced the sex industry film, “Sell/Buy/Date,” which is executive produced by Meryl Streep, and I’m a producer on “Uvalde Mom,” which premiered at SXSW. Last year, I signed a three-movie producing deal with Village Roadshow Pictures. “Big Rock Burning” is my directorial debut. This was a film I just knew I needed to make.

What inspired you to make this?

The night of the fires, and in the following days, I kept hearing the stories from fellow residents about how they had to flee through walls of flame, or fight the fire with garden hoses, and I kept hearing how no help came to the mountain all night because there was a “stand down” order. I knew there was a story here that I needed to pursue. I wanted to tell the story to bring together the community and bring us all healing in the process, and I wanted to use the film to hopefully bring some accountability and inspire change.

Can you say what the budget was for this project?

I’ll say this — normally a film has a development or pre-production period where I’m also raising money to shoot. For “Big Rock Burning,” however, we just had to go without any planning because there was such urgency. We began filming, I think, four days after the fires. In fact, the ground was still smoking in some scenes. At first, we had no financing, I was paying out of my pocket, because I believed in the story so much. Thankfully, we quickly had a few generous donors step up to get us through production and editing. We’re still raising money to support

At a rock concert

By Burt Ross, Contributed Column

Okay, I know what you are thinking. You are thinking that I, Burt Ross, did not attend a rock concert, but you would be wrong. A few weeks ago, I went to hear the Lumineers, a fabulous folk rock group (whatever that means), perform at The Forum. I went with my son, his wife, and, of course, my bride. It was a generous birthday gift indeed.

Now it has been years since I went to a rock concert, and like everything else, things have changed. For one thing, the crowd is getting younger all the time. I might well have been the oldest person in attendance. Most of the people there were young enough to be my grandchildren. Please do not take that literally since there must

have been around 17,500 people in attendance, and nobody is so prolific as to produce that many grandchildren.

There were two gals, maybe 20 years old if that, who sat across the aisle from where I was seated. Actually, they never sat. They literally jumped up and down for most of the show. It was a physical feat the likes of which I have rarely seen. I doubt I will see anything at the upcoming 2028 Summer Olympics more impressive.

I was also amazed at how much of the audience sang along with Wesley Schultz, the lead singer for the Lumineers. I can’t remember lyrics like I used to (or anything else for that matter), but most of the crowd certainly did not suffer from that shortcoming. To be honest, I have trouble remembering the words to “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star.”

I noticed that there were several hundred peo -

support the arts and athletic teams and that its efforts complement the efforts of the schools’ parent teacher associations, as well as of the Shark Fund. AlHardin highlighted the new athletic program at Malibu Middle School which is surging in popularity and will provide increased opportunities for the students.

Launched in 2024, the Foundation has provided $1.2 million in staff and staffed programs for the four schools. For each of the two elementary schools, it provided four instructional assistants and supported the arts programs. For Malibu Middle School, the Foundation supported athletics programs as well as math tutors and musical accompanists. For the high school, math tutors and strength and conditioning coaches funded by the Foundation have supported students and athletes and it also funded a musical accompanist and a community service liaison. The Foundation received seed funding from both the Santa Monica Malibu Unified School District and from the city of Malibu for its three-year launch effort and its goal of achieving self-funding by 2027.

As attendees left the Chamber breakfast, buoyed by their meeting others in the Malibu business community, one could not help but realize that both organizations — the Chamber and the Foundation are part of the secret sauce that supports a stronger, more informed, more educated and happier community

our impact campaign so we can do screenings around the country.

Any obstacles you had to overcome in the production?

One of my favorite quotes is “necessity is the mother of invention,” and in case, our obstacles really became blessings. Because of National Guard checkpoints that were set up after the fires along the PCH, I could only sneak one or two cinematographers across each day with a small camera. Sometimes they even had to hide in my trunk. That meant we had to keep the crew lean, and it created a surprising advantage: an intimate space for families to open up.

Who edited it? Which machine?

Meghan Moxsy, an incredible editor who really went above and beyond for the project.

What music did you use? There’s a lot of good songs about fire, starting with Jimi Hendrix and then Chicago Players and many others.

I worked with my close friend Zach Nicita, who scored my last film, “Grassland.” He composed the score for this, and then we licensed a few special songs for the end.

Did you collect fire footage from your neighbors? Anyone else?

Yes, most of the footage in the film is from neighbors. I even used neighborhood Ring Cam footage to help tell the story.

There was one guy who was running around with a very fancy camera and caught vivid color, high-res images of the fire. Images that did justice to the violence and chaos and fear of those things.

Does your documentary capture that violence and speed and chaos and unstoppability?

We definitely have some vivid fire imagery in there but that wasn’t what I wanted to focus on. One of

my producers, Julie Parker Benello, said “only use enough fire footage to move the story forward.” My focus on the film was the immediate aftermath of the fires and the community that came together.

I interviewed Bobby Milstein, whose So Cal Fire Supply system worked for three out of four houses in Big Rock. He is adamant that citizens of the Santa Monica Mountains accept the reality they can’t rely on city water or city power or city services — they have to be responsible for their own homes. Do you agree with that?

Somebody in the film says “you can’t assume the government will come for you” when the next fire comes. The Palisades Fire taught me that. We need to be more resilient as a community and figure out ways to take care of each other and not assume help is going to come. I think this fire was a wake-up call

ple near the stage who had no seats. They were standing during the entire concert and apparently paid dearly for the right to stand. Nobody could pay ME enough to stand for hours.

If you haven’t been to a rock concert for a long time, let me tell you that the sound was so amplified that the building shook with vibrations, and you were never quite sure that an earthquake wasn’t happening. By the way, I think the music was so loud that had I stayed in Malibu, I still would have been able to hear it.

We decided to leave a couple of minutes before the end of the show to avoid the mob all leaving at the same time. With the help of my strong son and two hiking sticks, I managed to climb about ten steps without a railing, and when I reached the final step, I was somewhat disappointed that the entire crowd did not give me a richly deserved standing ovation. I felt like I had just conquered Mount Everest.

in that respect.

I see that one of your producers is Bryan Fogel. A few years ago I watched “Icarus” and interviewed him before the Oscars. I told him he was going to win, but that didn’t jinx him. If, like Bryan Fogel, you win an Oscar, who will you thank first? And who will you be careful not to leave out?

I would probably thank the residents of Big Rock for jumping into this project with so much enthusiasm during the most challenging times of most of our lives. I’ll forever be inspired by my neighbors who allowed me to share their most intimate moments with them as they returned back to their burneddown homes for the first time. Then my fellow producers, Julie Parker Benello and James Costa. I would probably leave out some of the folks in leadership who failed to prevent this from happening.

The ushers and security personnel were all quite solicitous. I don’t think they are used to octogenarians going to a rock concert.

On our way home, we stopped at Randy’s, a famous donut store introduced to me by my good friend Phil Bellomy. Phil knows his donuts. I bought a strawberry jelly doughnut, which cost over $3. Were my parents to return from the land of the dead and discover that a donut could cost over $3, they would eagerly and happily return to where they came from. For reasons I don’t fully understand, next to each donut, there was a calorie count. Talk about taking the joy out of decadence! We all returned home and ate our donuts, which were well worth the price and the hardening of our arteries. It was a memorable night. There is nothing comparable to good family time, and hopefully, there will be more concerts in my future.

2025152786

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT

THE FOLLOWING PERSON IS (ARE) DOING BUSINESS AS:

PALACE TECHNOLOGIES

30721 RUSSELL RANCH RD SUITE 140, WESTLAKE VILLAGE, CA 91362, LOS ANGELES COUNTY

Articles of Incorporation or Organization Number (if applicable): B20250124964

Registered Owner(s): PALACE TECHNOLOGIES LLC

30721 RUSSELL RANCH RD SUITE 140, WESTLAKE VILLAGE, CA 91362

If Corporation or LLC- 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: 05/2025

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, PALACE TECHNOLOGIES LLC, JUAN ANDRADE, CEO

This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Los Angeles County on JUL 25 2025 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: 8/7, 8/14, 8/21, 8/28/2025 MALIBU 160

2025155158

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT

THE FOLLOWING PERSON IS (ARE) DOING BUSINESS AS: BIZ FLUUNT

1561 N GREENBRIER RD, LONG BEACH, CA 90815, LOS ANGELES COUNTY

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

1561 N GREENBRIER RD, LONG BEACH, CA 90815 If Corporation or LLC- 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: 07/2025

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, AUTO FLUUNT LLC, RYAN MILLER, MANAGING MEMBER

This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Los Angeles County on 7/30/2025 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: 8/7, 8/14, 8/21, 8/28/2025 MALIBU 181

PUBLIC NOTICE

T.S. No. 130370-CA APN: 4457-008-022 NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S SALE IMPORTANT NOTICE TO PROPERTY OWNER: YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF TRUST, DATED 5/18/2015. 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 9/16/2025 at 10:30 AM, CLEAR RECON CORP, as duly appointed trustee under and pursuant to Deed of Trust recorded 5/21/2015 as Instrument No. 20150592246 of Official Records in the office of the County Recorder of Los Angeles County, State of CALIFORNIA executed by: PAUL WOODMAN, TRUSTEE AND BOBBI WOODMAN, TRUSTEE OF THE PAUL BOBBI WOODMAN TRUST DATED SEPTEMBER 13,

LEGAL NOTICES

2007 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 ACCURATELY DESCRIBED IN SAID DEED OF TRUST. The street address and other common designation, if any, of the real property described above is purported to be: 26381 INGLESIDE WAY, MALIBU, CA 90265 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: $872,278.19 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 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 (855) 313-3319 or visit this Internet website www.clearreconcorp.com, using the file number assigned to this case 130370-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 130370-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 contacting an attorney or appropriate real estate professional immediately for advice regarding this potential right to purchase. FOR SALES INFORMATION: (855) 313-3319 CLEAR RECON CORP 3333 Camino Del Rio South, Suite 225 San Diego, California 92108 MALIBU 177

PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S SALE Trustee Sale No. 2500023-2CTT Loan No: HC***3-000/Third Point Land Company APN 4470-012-046, 4470-012-002 AND 4458-019-003 YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF TRUST, SECURITY AGREEMENT AND FIXTURE

FILING WITH ASSIGNMENT OF RENTS DATED JUNE 1, 2020. 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 PROCEEDINGS AGAINST YOU, YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LAWYER. On September 3, 2025, at 11:00 AM, at the Courtyard located at 400 Civic Center Plaza, Pomona, CA 91766, CHICAGO TITLE COMPANY, as the duly appointed Trustee (the “Trustee”), under and pursuant to the power of sale contained in that certain DEED OF TRUST, SECURITY AGREEMENT AND FIXTURE FILING WITH ASSIGNMENT OF RENTS recorded on June 11, 2020, as Instrument No. 20200633320 of official records in the office of the Recorder of Los Angeles County, CA, executed by: THIRD POINT LAND COMPANY, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company, as Trustor (the “Trustor”), in favor of HANKEY CAPITAL, LLC, a California limited partnership, as Beneficiary, together with 1) that certain MODIFICATION OF DEED OF TRUST dated as of March 22, 2022, recorded in the official records in the office of the Recorder of Los Angeles County, California on April 7, 2022, as Instrument No. 20220387500, and 2) that certain MODIFICATION OF DEED OF TRUST dated as of March 20, 2024, recorded in the official records in the office of the Recorder of Los Angeles County, California on April 11, 2024, as Instrument No. 20240239674, and any modifications thereto are collectively referred to herein from time to time as the “Deed of Trust”, WILL SELL AT PUBLIC AUCTION TO THE HIGHEST BIDDER, in lawful money of the United States, all payable at the time of sale, that certain property situated in said County, California describing the land therein as: SEE EXHIBIT “A” ATTACHED HERETO AND MADE A PART HEREOF. EXHIBIT “A” PARCEL 1: PARCEL 1A: (4470-012046) A PARCEL OF LAND, BEING A PORTION OF THE RANCHO TOPANGA MALIBU SEQUIT, AS CONFIRMED TO MATTHEW KELLER BY PATENT RECORDED IN BOOK 1, PAGE 407 ET SEQ. OF PATENTS, IN THE CITY OF MALIBU, COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES, STATE OF CALIFORNIA, IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY RECORDER OF SAID COUNTY, PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: BOUNDED ON THE NORTHEAST AND EASTERLY BY THE CENTER LINE OF TRANCAS CANYON ROAD, 60 FEET WIDE, AS DESCRIBED IN THE DEED RECORDED IN BOOK 15157, PAGE 18, OF OFFICIAL RECORDS OF SAID COUNTY, AND THE CENTER LINE OF TRANCAS CANYON ROAD, 40 FEET WIDE, AS DESCRIBED IN THE DECREE OF CONDEMNATION IN THE SUPERIOR COURT LOS ANGELES, CASE NO. 119161, RECORDED IN BOOK 7207, PAGE 331 OF SAID OFFICIAL RECORDS, BOUNDED ON THE SOUTHWESTERLY BY THE SOUTHWESTERLY LINE OF THE LAND DESCRIBED IN THE DEED TO TRANCAS TOWN, LTD., RECORDED DECEMBER 29, 1967 AS INSTRUMENT NO. 1605 IN BOOK D-3871, PAGE 617, OFFICIAL RECORDS, OF SAID COUNTY; AND BOUNDED ON THE NORTHWEST BY A LINE DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: BEGINNING AT A POINT IN THE CENTER LINE OF TRANCAS CANYON ROAD, AS SHOWN ON THE MAP OF TRACT NO. 26956, RECORDED IN BOOK 697, PAGES 73 TO 76 OF MAPS, RECORDS OF SAID COUNTY, SAID POINT BEING SOUTH 43° 17’ 45” EAST 90.44 FEET FROM THE NORTHWESTERLY TERMINUS OF THAT COURSE SHOWN ON SAID MAP AS NORTH 43° 17’ 45” WEST 187.58 FEET; THENCE SOUTH 41° 44’ 15” WEST TO SAID SOUTHWESTERLY LINE. EXCEPT THEREFROM THOSE PORTIONS INCLUDED WITHIN TRANCAS CANYON ROAD, AS DESCRIBED IN SAID DEED RECORDED IN BOOK 15157, PAGE 18, OFFICIAL RECORDS, OF SAID COUNTY, AND IN THE DECREE OF CONDEMNATION RECORDED IN BOOK 7207, PAGE 331 OF SAID COUNTY. ALSO EXCEPT THEREFROM THE FOLLOWING AS CONTAINED IN THE DEED FROM THE MARBLEHEAD LAND COMPANY, A CORPORATION, RECORDED JULY 18, 1941 AS INSTRUMENT NO. 856 IN BOOK 18590, PAGE 196 OF SAID OFFICIAL RECORDS:A. ALL MINERALS, OIL, PETROLEUM, ASPHALTUM, GAS, COAL AND OTHER HYDROCARBON SUBSTANCES IN, ON, WITHIN, AND UNDER SAID LANDS AND EVERY PART THEREOF, PROVIDED, HOWEVER, THAT THIS EXCEPTION SHALL NEITHER RESERVE NOR SHALL IT BE CONSTRUED AS RESERVING TO GRANTOR, ITS SUCCESSORS IN INTEREST, OR ASSIGNS, THE SURFACE RIGHT TO GO UPON SAID LAND TO EXTRACT SAID SUBSTANCES. B. ALL WATER AND ALL RIPARIAN RIGHTS TO SAID WATERS, ON OR UNDER THAT PART OF THE ABOVE DESCRIBED LAND LYING SOUTHERLY OF A LINE BEARING SOUTH 84° 57’ 28” EAST DRAWN FROM A POINT IN THE WESTERLY LINE OF THE LAND DESCRIBED IN SAID DEED RECORDED IN BOOK 18590, PAGE 196, OF OFFICIAL RECORDS OF SAID COUNTY. DISTANT NORTHERLY 600 FEET FROM THE SOUTHWEST CORNER THEREOF. PARCEL 1B: (4470-012-002) A PARCEL OF LAND IN THE COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES, STATE OF CALIFORNIA, BEING A PORTION OF THE RANCHO TOPANGA MALIBU SEQUIT, AS CONFIRMED TO MATTHEW KELLER BY PATENT RECORDED IN BOOK 1, PAGE 407 ETSEQ. OF PATENTS, IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY RECORDER OF SAID COUNTY, PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: BEGINNING AT A POINT IN THE NORTHERLY LINE OF THE 80 FEET STRIP OF LAND DESCRIBED IN THE DEED FROM T. R. CADWALADER, TRUSTEE, ET AL., TO THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA, RECORDED IN BOOK 15228, PAGE 342, OF OFFICIAL RECORDS OF SAID COUNTY, SAID POINT OF BEGINNING BEING NORTH 41° 20’ 45” EAST 40.00 FEET FROM ENGINEER’S CENTER LINE STATION 410 PLUS 53.51 AT THE WESTERLY EXTREMITY OF THAT CERTAIN COURSE IN THE CENTER LINE OF SAID 80 FEET STRIP DESCRIBED IN SAID DEED AS “SOUTH 48° 39’ 15” EAST 926.93 FEET”; THENCE NORTH 41° 20’ 45” EAST 354.00 FEET; THENCE NORTH 62° 20’ 55”

WEST 2401.74 FEET TO THE EASTERLY LINE OF TRACT NO. 12971, AS PER MAP RECORDED IN BOOK 248, PAGES 49 AND 50 OF MAPS, RECORDS OF SAID COUNTY; THENCE ALONG SAID EASTERLY LINE AS FOLLOWS: SOUTH 5° 45’ 30” WEST 298.00 FEET AND SOUTH 29° 33’ 17” EAST 48.96 FEET TO A POINT IN THE NORTHERLY LINE OF PACIFIC COAST HIGHWAY, 90 FEET WIDE, AS SHOWN ON THE MAP OF SAID TRACT 1 2971, SAID NORTHERLY LINE BEING A CURVE, CONCAVE SOUTHERLY, HAVING A RADIUS OF 4550.00 FEET, A RADIAL LINE OF SAID CURVE TO SAID POINT BEARS NORTH 25° 19‘ 52”WEST 10.00 FEET TO THE NORTHERLY LINE OF SAID 80 FEET STRIP OF LAND DESCRIBED IN BOOK 15228, PAGE 342, OF OFFICIAL RECORDS OF SAID COUNTY; THENCE EASTERLY, ALONG THE NORTHERLY LINE OF SAID 80 FEET STRIP OF LAND TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING. EXCEPTING THEREFROM THE FOLLOWING AS CONTAINED IN THE DEED FROM MARBLEHEAD LAND COMPANY, A CORPORATION, RECORDED JULY 18, 1941 AS INSTRUMENT NO. 856, IN BOOK 18590, PAGE 196, OF OFFICIAL RECORDS. (A) ALL MINERALS, OIL, PETROLEUM, ASPHALTUM, GAS, COAL AND OTHER HYDROCARBON SUBSTANCES IN, ON, WITHIN AND UNDER SAID LANDS AND EVERY PART THEREOF, PROVIDED HOWEVER, THAT THIS EXCEPTION SHALL NEITHER RESERVE NOR SHALL IT BE CONSTRUED AS RESERVING TO GRANTOR, ITS SUCCESSORS IN INTEREST, OR ASSIGNS, THE SURFACE RIGHTS TO GO UPON SAID LAND TO EXTRACT SAID SUBSTANCES.(B) ALL WATER AND ALL RIPARIAN RIGHTS TO SAID WATERS, ON OR UNDER THAT PART OF THE ABOVE DESCRIBED LAND LYING SOUTHERLY OF A LINE BEARING SOUTH 84° 57’ 28” EAST DRAWN FROM A POINT IN THE WESTERLY LINE OF THE LAND DESCRIBED IN SAID DEED RECORDED IN BOOK 18590, PAGE 196, OF OFFICIAL RECORDS OF SAID COUNTY. DISTANT NORTHERLY 600 FEET FROM THE SOUTHWEST CORNER THEREOF. PARCEL 2: (4458-019-003) THAT PORTION OF RANCHO TOPANGA MALIBU SEQUIT, IN THE COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES, STATE OF CALIFORNIA, AS CONFIRMED TO MATTHEW KELLER BY PATENT RECORDED IN BOOK 1, PAGE 407 ET SEQ., OF PATENTS, IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY RECORDER OF SAID COUNTY, DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: BEGINNING AT A POINT IN THE NORTHERLY LINE OF THE 10 FEET STRIP OF LAND DESCRIBED IN THE DEED FROM MARBLEHEAD LAND COMPANY TO THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA, RECORDED IN BOOK 16845, PAGE 253 OF OFFICIAL RECORDS OF SAID COUNTY, SAID POINT OF BEGINNING BEING NORTH 6° 48’ 45” WEST AND SOUTHWESTERLY 279.73 FEET ALONG THE ARC OF A CURVE NORMAL TO SAID LAST MENTIONED COURSE AND CONCAVE SOUTHEASTERLY WITH A RADIUS OF 1550.00 FEET FROM ENGINEER’S CENTERLINE STATION 905 PLUS 54.87 ATTHE WESTERLY EXTREMITY OF THAT CERTAIN CENTERLINE COURSE IN THE 80 FEET STRIP OF LAND DESCRIBED AS NORTH 83° 11’ 15” EAST 4037.50 FEET IN THE DEED FROM T.R. CADWALADER, ET AL., TO THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA, RECORDED IN BOOK 15228, PAGE 342 IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY RECORDER OF SAID COUNTY, SAID POINT OF BEGINNING BEING ALSO THE SOUTHWESTERLY CORNER OF THE PARCEL OF LAND DESCRIBED IN THE DEED FROM MARBLEHEAD LAND COMPANY TO GEORGE E. BARRETT, RECORDED IN BOOK 20892, PAGE 395 OF OFFICIAL RECORDS OF SAID COUNTY; THENCE ALONG THE WESTERLY BOUNDARY OF SAID BARRETT PARCEL NORTH 12° 45’ 55” EAST 299.49 FEET; THENCE NORTH 27° 41’26” EAST 141.23 FEET, MORE OR LESS, TO A POINT IN THE SOUTHERLY LINE OF THE 100 FEET STRIP OF LAND DESCRIBED AS PARCEL NO. 1 IN THE DEED FROM MARBLEHEAD LAND COMPANY TO THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA, RECORDED IN BOOK 20743, PAGE 271 OF OFFICIAL RECORDS OF SAID COUNTY, SAID LAST MENTIONED POINT BEING ON THE ARC OF A CURVE CONCAVE SOUTHERLY WITH A RADIUS OF 2950 FEET AND A RADIAL BEARING TO SAID POINT ON NORTH 5° 01’ 46” EAST; THENCE WESTERLY 540.49 FEET ALONG THE SOUTHERLY LINE OF SAID 100 FEET STRIP ON THE ARC OF THE ABOVE DESCRIBED CURVE; THENCE TANGENT SOUTH 84° 31 ‘ 55” WEST 46.85 FEET, MORE OR LESS, TO A POINT IN THE EASTERLY LINE OF THE PARCEL OF LAND DESCRIBED IN A DEED FROM MARBLEHEAD LAND COMPANY TO CLICERIO MINORINI AND WIFE, RECORDED IN BOOK 19075, PAGE 301 OF OFFICIAL RECORDS OF SAID COUNTY; THENCE SOUTH 32° 40’ 10” EAST 751.23 FEET ALONG THE EASTERLY LINE OF SAID MINORINI PARCEL TO A POINT IN THE NORTHERLY LINE OF SAID 10 FEET STRIP FIRST ABOVE MENTIONED; THENCE NORTHEASTERLY ALONG THE NORTHERLY LINE OF SAID 10 FEET STRIP 95.16 FEET ON THE ARC OF THE CURVE HEREINABOVE DESCRIBED AS CONCAVE SOUTHEASTERLY WITH A RADIUS OF 1550 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING. EXCEPT THEREFROM THAT PORTION OF SAID LAND INCLUDED WITHIN THE LAND DESCRIBED IN PARCEL 30-3 IN THE FINAL DECREE OF CONDEMNATION ENTERED IN LOS ANGELES SUPERIOR COURT CASE NO. 873 208 A CERTIFIED COPY OF WHICH WAS RECORDED AUGUST 12, 1969 AS INSTRUMENT NO. 1956 OF OFFICIAL RECORDS OF SAID COUNTY. EXCEPTING THEREFROM ALL MINERALS, OIL, PETROLEUM, ASPHALTUM, GAS, COAL, AND OTHER HYDROCARBON SUBSTANCES, IN, ON, WITHIN AND UNDER SAID LANDS, AND EVERY PARTTHERE OF, BUT WITHOUT THE RIGHT OF ENTRY AS EXCEPTED BY MARBLEHEAD LAND COMPANY, IN DEEDS RECORDED IN BOOK 20892, PAGE 395, AND IN BOOK 21307, PAGE 326 BOTH OF OFFICIAL RECORDS. 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 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 1.866.684.2727 or visit this Internet Website www. servicelinkasaD.com. using the file number assigned to this case 25-00023-2CTT. 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 Website. The best way to verify postponement information is to attend the scheduled sale. The real Property heretofore described is being sold “as is”. The street address and other common designation, if any, of the real Property described above is purported to be: 30901 PACIFIC COAST HWY, 6301 TRANCAS CANYON RD and 23907 MALIBU RD, MALIBU, CA 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 made without covenant or warranty, express or implied, regarding title, possession, or encumbrances, to pay the remaining unpaid balance of the obligations secured by and pursuant to the power of sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust (together with any modifications thereto). The total amount of the unpaid balance of the obligations secured by the Property to be sold and reasonable estimated costs, expenses and advances at the time of the initial publication of this Notice of Trustee’s Sale is estimated to be $12,967,242.77 (Estimated), provided, however, prepayment premiums, accrued interest and advances will increase this figure prior to sale. Beneficiary’s bid at said sale may include all or part of said amount. In addition to cash, the Trustee will accept a 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 California Financial Code and authorized to do business in California, or other such funds as may be acceptable to the trustee. In the event tender other than cash is accepted, the Trustee may withhold the issuance of the Trustee’s Deed Upon Sale until funds become available to the payee or endorsee as a matter of right. The Property offered for sale excludes all funds held on account by the Property receiver, if applicable. DATE: August 4, 2025 CHICAGO TITLE COMPANY, TRUSTEE 25-00023-2CTT 5170 Golden Foothill Parkway, Suite 130 El Dorado Hills, CA 95762 916636-0114 Sara Berens, Authorized Signor SALE INFORMATION CAN BE OBTAINED ON LINE AT www.servicelinkasap.com AUTOMATED SALES INFORMATION PLEASE CALL 1.866.684.2727

A-4849896 08/14/2025, 08/21/2025, 08/28/2025 MALIBU 183

PUBLIC NOTICE

NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S SALE File No.: 24-257594

A.P.N.:2017-028-022 YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF TRUST DATED APRIL 10, 2021. UNLESS YOU TAKE ACTION TO PROTEC T 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. A public auction sale to the highest bidder for cash, cashier’s check drawn on a state or national hank, 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. In the event tender other than cash is accepted, the Trustee may withhold the issuance of the Trustee’s Deed Upon Sale until funds become available to the payee or endorsee as a matter of right. The property offered for sale excludes all funds held on account by the property receiver, if applicable. The property described heretofore is being sold “as is”.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 Beneficiary’s bid at said salt

may include all or part of said amount. The amount may be greater on the day of sale. Trustor(s): SHERYL PETWAY, AN UNMARRIED WOMAN Duly Appointed Trustee; Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, & Crane, LLP DEED OF TRUST Recorded on April 14, 2021 at Instrument No 20210590822 of Official Records in the office of the Recorder of LOS ANGELES County, California Sale Date: 9/3/2025 Sale Time: 11:00 AM Sale Location: At The Courtyard located at 400 Civic Center Plaza, Pomona, CA 91766 Amount of unpaid balance and other charges: 51,556,296.83 (Estimated)Street Address or other common designation of real property: 7612 CARMENITA LANE, WEST HILLS, CA 91304. See Legal Description - Exhibit “A” attached here to and made a part hereof LEGAL DESCRIPTION - EXHIBIT A LOT 1 1 OF TRACT NO. 43933, IN THE CITY OF LOS ANGELES, COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES, STATE OF CALIFORNIA, AS PER MAP RECORDED IN BOOK 1089 PAGES 9 THROUGH 12 INCLUSIVE OF MAPS, IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY RECORDER OF SAID COUNTY. EXCEPT AN UNDIVIDED ONE-QUARTER INTEREST IN AND TO ALL OIL, GAS AND MINERALS, AS RESERVED BY HUGH HERBERT, IN DEED RECORDED IN BOOK 19537 PAGE 301, OFFICIAL RECORDS. ALSO EXCEPT AN UNDIVIDED ONE QUARTER INTEREST OF ALL OIL, GAS AND MINERALS, WHICH MAY BE EXTRACTED FROM SAID LAND, AS RESERVED BY BERTHA MAE DI PUMA, A MARRIED WOMAN, RECORDED IN BOOK 21659 PAGE 374, OFFICIAL RECORDS. The undersigned Trustee disclaims any liability for any incorrectness of the street address or other common designation, if any, shown above. 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 first publication of this Notice of Sale, 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. NOTICE TO POTENTIAL BIDDER(S): 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 docs 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 PROPERTY OWNER(S): 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 properly, you may call (866-684-2727) or visit the website http://www.servicelinkasap.com, using the file number assigned to this case 24257594. 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(S): Effective January 1, 2021, you may have a right to purchase this property after the trustee auction pursuant to California Civil Code Section 2924m. 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 (866-684-2727) or visit the website http://www. servicelinkasap.com, using the file number assigned to this case 24-257594 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. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid Sc Crane. LLP Date: August 6, 2025By: Shannon C. Williams, Esq. Authorized Signatory 13010 Morris Road, Suite 450 Alpharetta, GA 30004 Phone: 858-997-1304 SALE INFORMATION CAN BE OBTAINED ONLINE ATHTTP:// WWW.SERVICELINKASAP.COM FOR AUTOMATED SALES INFORMATION, PLEASE CALL (866-6842727) The above-named trustee may be acting as a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained may be used for that purpose. CA DPFI Debt Collection License # 11461-99; NMLS ID 2591653. To the extent your original obligation was discharged or is subject to an au -

tomatic stay of bankruptcy under Title 11 of the United States Code, this notice is for compliance and/or informational purposes only and docs not constitute an attempt to collect a debt or to impose personal liability for such obligation. However, a secured party retains rights under its security instrument, including the right to foreclose its lien.

A-4849440 08/14/2025, 08/21/2025, 08/28/2025

MALIBU 184

PUBLIC NOTICE

T.S. No.: 250416310

Notice of Trustee’s Sale

Loan No.: 78686 Order No. 92296106 APN: 4434039-032 Property Address: 21016 Mendenhall Ct Topanga, CA 90290 You Are In Default Under A Deed Of Trust Dated 7/31/2024. 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. A public auction sale to the highest bidder for cashier’s check drawn on a state or national bank, cashier’s check drawn by a state or federal credit union, or a cashier’s 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. No cashier’s checks older than 60 days from the day of sale will be accepted . Trustor: Affordable Ecom LLC, a[n] California Limited Liability Company Duly Appointed Trustee: Fortra Law (f/k/a Geraci Law Firm) Recorded 8/7/2024 as Instrument No. 20240528921 in book N/A, page N/A of Official Records in the office of the Recorder of Los Angeles County, California, Date of Sale: 9/4/2025 at 11:00 AM Place of Sale: Behind the fountain located in Civic Center Plaza, 400 Civic Center Plaza, Pomona, CA Amount of unpaid balance and other charges: $2,666,075.17 Street Address or other common designation of real property: 21016 Mendenhall Ct Topanga, CA 90290 Legal Description: Please See Attached Exhibit “A” The undersigned Trustee disclaims any liability for any incorrectness of the street address or other common designation, if any, shown above. 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 first publication of this Notice of Sale. 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 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 (877) 440-4460 or visit this Internet website www.mkconsultantsinc. com, using the file number assigned to this case 250416310. 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: 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 (877) 440-4460, or visit this internet website www.mkconsultantsinc. com, using the file number assigned to this case 250416310 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. When submitting funds for a bid subject to Section 2924m, please make the funds payable to “Total Lender Solutions, Inc. Holding Account”. 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. Date: 8/6/2025 Fortra Law (f/k/a Geraci Law Firm) by Total Lender Solutions, Inc,. its authorized agent 10505 Sorrento Valley Road, Suite 125 San Diego, CA 92121 Phone: (949) 954-6092 Sale Line: (877) 440-4460 By: Rachel Seropian, Trustee Sale Officer Exhibit “A” Legal Description Lot 75 Of Tract 45360, In The County Of Los Angeles, State Of California, As Per Map Recorded On September 4, 1991 In Book 1178 Pages 32 Through 42 Inclusive, Of Maps, In The Office Of The County Recorder Of Said County MALIBU 186

2025148248

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT THE FOLLOWING PERSON IS (ARE) DOING BUSINESS AS: WOLFIE

21200 OXNARD STREET 6214, WOODLAND HILLS, CA 91365, LOS ANGELES COUNTY Articles of Incorporation or Organization Number (if applicable): Registered Owner(s): THE WOLF LTD. A LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY 21200 OXNARD STREET 6214 WOODLAND HILLS, CA 91365 If Corporation or LLC- 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: 07/2025 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 WOLF LTD. A LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY, MARIE VALDES, MANAGING MEMBER

This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Los Angeles County on 7/21/2025 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: 8/14, 8/21, 8/28, 9/4/2025 MALIBU 187

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 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, September 24, 2025 at 9:00 a.m.

Hearing Location: Hall of Administration, Room 381-B, 500 W. Temple Street, 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.: R2005-01452-(3)

Project Location: 2354 Topanga Canyon Boulevard, within the Santa Monica Mountains Planning Area CEQA Categorical Exemption: Class 3 and Class 4

Project Description: Variance for construction of a new 4,000-square-foot single-family residence on a mapped significant ridgeline. This is an appeal of the Hearing Officer’s approval of June 24, 2025. More information : Tyler Montgomery 320 W. Temple Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012. (213) 974-6411. tmontgomery@planning.lacounty.gov.

Case Material : https://bit.ly/R2005-01452 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. 8/21, 8/28/25

CNS-3958654#

MALIBU TIMES

MALIBU 189

To

 POPPY’S PAL 

and/or their name, breed and age. Poppy’s Pall photos are published in the order in which they are received.

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 800-321-CSLB (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.

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FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT

THE FOLLOWING PERSON IS (ARE) DOING BUSINESS AS: THE WOLF LTD.

21200 OXNARD STREET 6214, WOODLAND HILLS, CA 91365, LOS ANGELES COUNTY

Articles of Incorporation or Organization Number (if applicable): Registered Owner(s): THE WOLF LTD. A LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY

21200 OXNARD STREET 6214 WOODLAND HILLS, CA 91365 If Corporation or LLC- 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: 08/2025

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 WOLF LTD. A LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY, MARIE VALDES, MANAGING MEMBER

This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Los Angeles County on 8/7/2025 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: 8/21, 8/28, 9/4, 9/11/2025 MALIBU 191

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE

Pursuant to the California Self-Service Storage Facility Act (B&P Code 21700 et seq.), the undersigned will sell at public auction, on September 15, 2025, personal property including but not limited to furniture, clothing, tools, and/or other household items located at: Mariposa Land Company, Ltd., dba Malibu Self Storage 3728 Cross Creek Road Malibu, California 90265

Time: 10:00 AM

Stored by the following persons:

Albert

Albert

Michael Madsen

Michael Madsen

All sales subject to prior cancellation. Terms, rules, and regulations available at sale.

Published in the Malibu Times 08/28 & 09/04. MALIBU 192

2025155027

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT

THE FOLLOWING PERSON IS (ARE) DOING BUSINESS AS:

INGRAM GENERAL

3412 OCEAN FRONT WALK #201, MARINA DEL REY, CA 90292, LOS ANGELES COUNTY

Articles of Incorporation or Organization Number (if applicable): Registered Owner(s): ARTTCON INC. 3412 OCEAN FRONT WALK #201 MARINA DEL REY, CA 90292

If Corporation or LLC- State of Incorporation/Organization

HI

This business is conducted by: A CORPORATION

The date registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: N/A

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, ARTTCON INC., MICHAEL INGRAM, PRESIDENT

This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Los Angeles County on 7/29/2025

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: 8/28, 9/4, 9/11, 9/18/2025 MALIBU 193

NOTICE INVITING RESPONSE

Schneider Electric Buildings America, Inc. – CSLB #708952 RFQ No. PC25P0085 SMMUSD–MG-STR

Project Title: Ground Mounted Solar Photovoltaic Array

Scope: Structural Racking Design & Installation NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that responses to a Request for Qualifications will be received by Schneider Electric Buildings America for the furnishing of design, labor, materials, tools, equipment, and services necessary for the completion of the above-referenced project.

Qualifications Submission Deadline:

Date: September 25th, 2025

Time: 2:00 PM PST

Location: Schneider Electric Building Connected Portal RFQ Responses and Evaluations: Responses to the RFQ will be received through Schneider Electric’s Building Connected portal, reviewed, and scored according to a Best Value matrix. Upon review and scoring of each respondent’s qualifications, selected respondent(s) will be asked to provide cost proposals, following a mandatory site walk, for the design/build services required to implement the Structural Design and Construction Phase. Schneider Electric reserves the right to reject any or all proposals, waive irregularities, and award in the best interest of our Customer.

Project Description

The scope of work includes the structural design and installation of a 534 kW-DC ground-mounted photo voltaic system at the Malibu MS/HS campus. This project includes serving as the Structural Engineer of Record (SEOR) for the design and installation of the racking system that will support the solar arrays. It also encompasses all necessary grading and earthwork, the implementation of erosion control measures, and the preparation and submission of documentation to the Authority Having Jurisdiction for permitting and approvals.

License Requirements

Respondents must possess a valid Architect or Structural Engineer license(s) in addition to a California Contractor’s License Class “A or B” at the time of the response submission.

Prevailing Wage

This is a public works project subject to prevailing wage laws under California Labor Code Section 1720 et seq. and the Davis-Bacon Act. The higher of state or federal rates will apply.

Skilled and Trained Workforce

This Project requires the use of a Skilled and Trained Workforce in accordance with PCC Section 2601.

Authority Having Jurisdiction

The Authority Having Jurisdiction for this Project is the California Division of the State Architect (DSA). While not a requirement, experience with submitting plans and obtaining approvals from the DSA is highly recommended.

This Project will include continuous observation, inspection, and reporting by a DSA certified Inspector of Record.

Documents & Inquiries

Submit contact information to the following to receive access to Request for Qualification documents:

Daniel Cotten – Project Development Manager; Email: daniel.cotten@se.com MALIBU 194

NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE

Notice is hereby given pursuant to California Civil Code Section 798.56a and California Commercial Code Section 7210 that the following described property will be sold by Calabasas Village (Warehouse) at public auction to the highest bidder for cash, in lawful money of the United States, or a cashier’s check payable to Calabasas Village, payable at time of sale, on Tuesday, September 16, 2025 at 10:00 a.m., at the following location: 23777 Mulholland Hwy Space 111, Calabasas, Ca 91302. Said sale is to be held without covenant or warranty as to possession, financing, encumbrances, or otherwise on an “as is,” “where is” basis. Upon sale to a third-party bidder, the mobilehome must be removed from the Premises. The property which will be sold is described as follows: Manufacturer: Fuqua Trade Name: Fuqua Year: 1975 H.C.D. Decal No: AAR3857 Serial NO.: S8849U, S8849X The current location of the subject property is: 23777 Mulholland Hwy Space 111, Calabasas, Ca 91302. The public auction will be made to satisfy the lien for storage of the above-described property that was deposited by Elissa Soto aka Elissa Y Soto with Calabasas Village. The total amount due on this property, including estimated costs, expenses and advances as of the date of the public sale, is $7,928.14. The auction will be made for the purpose of satisfying the lien on the property, together with the cost of the sale. Dated: August 29, 2025 Hart Kienle Pentecost By: Ryan J. Egan, Esq: Authorized Agent for Calabasas Village Contact: Julie Rosario (714) 432-8700 (IFS# 40518 08/28/25, 09/04/25) MALIBU 195

Pepperdine women’s soccer earns

victory of season, defeating California Golden

Sophomore Lily Stewart’s late header lifts Waves over Cal, thrillingly avenging last year’s NCAA tournament exit

By McKENZIE

The Pepperdine Waves women’s soccer team got their revenge on Aug. 24 — and their first win of the season.

The Waves beat the California Golden Bears 1-0 in Berkeley. The Bears knocked Pepperdine out of the NCAA tournament in the first round last November, ending the Waves’ 2024 campaign.

Pepperdine head coach Tim Ward said in a statement that the victory was meaningful because Cal has a great program.

“Really proud of the girls and the grit, the fight, the control, the composure, the flexibility,” he said. “I think today we got a little bit better, and I’m really proud of that.”

Sophomore defender Lily Stewart headed in a free kick delivered by redshirt senior Tabitha LaParl in the 85th minute to seal the victory.

Cal outshot Pepperdine 11–8, though both teams had six shots on goal.

The Bay Area victory followed a

I want to help the team win.”

close 3-2 loss to the fifth-ranked USC Trojans three days earlier in Los Angeles.

Junior forward Julia Quinonez and junior defender Peyton Leonard both netted goals for the Waves. Freshman defender Ariani Markey assisted Quinonez’s score, which occurred in the 19th minute.

USC equalized early in the second half. Leonard then followed up her own missed penalty with an unassisted goal to give Pepperdine a 2-1 advantage.

The Trojans secured the win with two goals in a nine-minute span.

USC outshot Pepperdine 14-7.

Pepperdine sophomore goalkeeper Jillian Medvecky notched six saves in both matches.

Despite the loss to USC, Ward praised his team’s performance.

“It’s not the result we were looking for, but the performance was outstanding,” he said.

Pepperdine enters Thursday’s home game against Columbia University with a 1-2-1 record. The Waves play at Arizona State in Tempe on Sept. 4 and Arizona in Tucson on Sept. 7.

“Playing against pros teaches you that you have to get to a certain level to really dominate in the sport,” Balian said. “They have been great mentors for me in becoming who I am. They told me to give it my all, control what you can control, and to have fun.”

with a 13-22 record.

Balian said his teammates have been impressive in workouts.

“We have all put the work in,” he said. “All of us are talented in our own way.”

Balian averaged 26 points a game throughout his high school years at Rose & Alex Pilibos Armenian School.

The guard’s scoring prowess — highlighted with dunks, crafty layups, and three-point splashes — made 50-, 40-, and 30-point scoring outbursts for him a common occurrence.

Balian’s star play throughout high school led to him being selected for the Armenian men’s national basketball team when he was 16. He has been the squad’s starting point guard since June 2024 when the team defeated Guatemala and Ireland in the Los Angeles International Basketball Cup.

Balian had nine points, five rebounds, and two assists in the first of Armenia’s two friendlies against Costa Rica. Armenia won the initial matchup 86-62 on June 6 at Fresno City College in Fresno, before downing Costa Rica again two days later in Southern California.

Balian is always reminded of the impact he has on others after the national team contests.

“People come up to me and show me love,” he explained. “The kids in the community asking for autographs or pictures are truly humbling moments. Those are moments you don’t want to change. You want to preserve.”

Armenia’s roster is full of college and overseas professional hoopsters, who have helped Balian prep for college basketball.

Balian learned basketball from his father, Sarkis Balian, a former basketball star at L.A. City College, who was also his high school coach.

Anto averaged 18 points a game during his freshman year of high school and 27 points a game the next season. He scored 28 points a game as a junior and 31 points a game during a senior campaign that included single-game scoring explosions of 53, 44, 40, 41, 39, 38, and 36 points.

Balian committed to Pepperdine last November, drawn by the welcoming approach of second-year head coach Ed Schilling and his staff.

“It was a no-brainer,” Balian remembered. “There are people that believe in you and people that don’t believe in you. Coach Schilling believed in me. That is why I chose Pepperdine.”

Balian will wear the number 25 for the Waves, but in high school, he adorned number 24 because of his admiration for the game and legendary work ethic of NBA great Kobe Bryant, who wore 24 during part of his career.

“Basketball isn’t just a sport for me anymore — it’s a passion I’m excited to pursue,” Balian explained. “I want to play basketball every day and make something out of it.”

Balian is one of 12 new players who will lace up sneakers for Pepperdine when its season tips off this winter. The Waves’ only returning players from their 2024-25 campaign include Aaron Clark, Danilo Dozic, David Mager, and Javon Cooley. The Waves finished last season

Reflecting on his early college practices, Balian said he made plenty of mistakes because of a mix of emotions. He said Pepperdine’s coaches were understanding, and he eventually settled down.

“I still have a lot to learn obviously,” he said. “I’m focusing on what is given to me at each moment — taking it day by day. I’m enjoying it and loving every moment of it.”

The freshman credited his workouts with Pepperdine Assistant Director of Athletics for Sports Performance Matt Young for his steady defensive play in practice.

“I’m getting stronger in the weight room,” Balian noted. “It is making me change my ways on the court. It has really helped me.”

Armenia national men’s basketball team head coach Rex Kalamian, also an assistant coach with the NBA’s Milwaukee Bucks, said in a television interview earlier this year he has watched Balian “amp” his game up the last three years.

“He has become a better scorer, a better passer, a better ball handler,” he said. “Overall, you can see the work he has put in.”

Balian envisions inspiring Armenian youth while Pepperdine competes for a WCC championship and NCAA tournament berth.

“I want to affect the game in ways bigger than myself and do stuff for the team to win,” he said. “I’m excited to represent my community on such a high level. It’s a very good thing to have on my shoulders.”

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

We’re a Family-owned & Operated Painting Contractor business that still has that personal touch.

When it’s done right, paint will protect your property from the elements and last for years to come. When it’s rushed or prepped improperly it can begin to bubble and peel, leaving it once again vulnerable to