The Malibu Times • February 5, 2026

After days of public demand for transparency, the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation reported it paid a public relations firm $65,000 after the Palisades Fire.

The Lede Company, which represents A-listers such as Rihanna and Reese Witherspoon as well as high-end clothing company Isabel Marant, was quietly paid to help shape a more positive narrative around the LAFD’s response to the deadly blaze, one of the costliest in U.S. history.

The funds used to pay for public relations came from the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation, which acts as the charitable arm of the LAFD. Since the Jan.

“Empty executive orders do nothing for us — put your money where your mouth is!” County Supervisor Lindsey P. Horvath stated when asked about her opinion regarding President Trump’s Jan. 27 executive order calling for the

Secretary of Homeland Security and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to “preempt” state and local permitting authorities with regard to the rebuilding of homes and businesses destroyed by the Palisades Fire.

What the executive order says The executive order, titled “Addressing

A group of scientists from area universities, calling themselves CONSORTIUM (Community-Oriented Network for Scientific Observation, Recovery, and Tracking of Impacts from Urban Megafires) has just released initial findings after a year of testing for toxins from the Eaton and Palisades burn scar areas.

Because government agencies decided to end soil testing after the January 2025 dual conflagrations, fire recovery nonprofits reported that fire-ravaged communities were left with confusion and fear over the safety of returning home. Using funds from FireAid and other philanthropies, a consortium of university researchers was able to collaborate on the largest soil testing project ever performed in Southern California.

With soil samples collected from 6,400 lots in both burn scars and including at some with standing homes, the groups from CAP.LA (Community Action Project — Los Angeles) and USC’s CLEAN (Contaminant Level Evaluation & Analysis for Neighborhoods) soil testing program found a significantly higher level of lead in Altadena than found in samples from the

Palisades Fire areas. This is attributable to the higher concentration of older homes in Altadena that likely used lead paint. Screening for lead was particularly important due to its health risks.

According to iO Wright, of the nonprofit PostFire.org that presented the findings this week, “In the state of California, the Environmental Protection Agency has said that 80 PPMs, parts per million, is the residential screening level for lead. That is the threshold. So, if you have over 80 PPMs of lead that is technically higher than the state of California says is safe for human and animal exposure. This has been confusing. There are different EPAs.”

Wright explained there is the state CalEPA, which says that 80 PPMs of lead is safe, and the more lenient federal EPA, which says that 200 PMs of lead is safe.

“They’re screening thresholds. I wouldn’t describe them as safety thresholds and the reason why is there’s no safe level of lead for exposure,” he said. “I would encourage everyone to take advantage of some of these soil testing programs that are free and that are available to you because it gives you the information you need to figure out what the right next step is.”

On a positive note, very few

State and Local Failures to rebuild Los Angeles After Wildfire Disasters,” states, “State and Los Angeles city and county governments failed to contain wildfires that ravaged Los Angeles and consumed nearly 40,000 acres of homes and businesses.” The order also says that state and local governments failed to engage in responsible

Falate founded Malibu Fitness.

By BARBARA BURKE

In 1986, Ronald Reagan was president and George Deukmejian served as the governor of California. Gas cost less than a dollar a gallon, due to an oil glut. The Polynesian-themed Tonga Lei was a locals’ favorite eatery, as was Malibu Sea Lion, owned by Robert Morris. Occasionally, Tom Petty and other local musicians would show up unannounced and jam at the Trancas Bar & Grill. The Dume Room was another revered locals’ sanctuary.

Malibu wasn’t even a city yet, but that would soon change.

1986 was also the year when Lonnie Weinstock

“We are celebrating 40 years in business and you’re invited!” Malibu Fitness posted on social media. “On Feb. 20, we are having a party at the gym from 4 to 6 p.m. There will be storytelling, live music, food and fun. Bring everyone! Valet provided. Thank you for your continued support!”

Reminiscing, Marty Pritchett shared, “For 40 years, I’ve had the privilege of working at Malibu Fitness and watching it grow into so much more than a gym. It’s been a place where friendships are formed, confidence is built and people of all ages come together to support one another’s health and well-being.

“Malibu Fitness means community, consistency, and care — it’s a second home for so many, and I’m proud to have been part of its story for four decades.”

For her part, Weinstock Falate said, “Having grown up in Malibu, I’ve witnessed firsthand how much our

group

the tragic accident that claimed four university seniors in October 2023. The group Justice for Four Angels says its aim is to give voice to the four young women who were killed and to help prevent further road tragedies in Malibu and beyond. The group, with a growing presence on social media and which has spoken at Malibu City Council and Planning Commission meetings, was started last year by Billy Melcher, Lilly Bradshaw, and Bridget Thompson.

Letters to the Editor In Case

*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.

Dear Editor,

Michel Shane is absolutely wrong in charging those who oppose the experimental one-lane roundabout as putting pleasure above safety. As a Public Works Commissioner for the last 15 years, I, along with my fellow commissioners, reacted to the presentation of this project with severe skepticism because we felt it was unsafe.

Most of us have extensive experience with roundabouts in other countries, but no one had seen a four-lane highway merging two lanes of traffic plus a bike lane into one lane. And there is also a pedes-

Driving

Forty lives. That’s the price of synchronizing 12 traffic lights on PCH. Tonight, number 41. I’m not even done writing about the first 40.

Day 1 of a nine-year project is finally here. Drive at 50 mph to hit all greens. We now control access. It’s working. We’re progressing — speed cameras are being installed, and Lost Hills shows that innovation is possible. We’re winning. So, why can’t I celebrate?

Let that sink in. Nine years. Forty lives.

On Monday, AAA will come to teach our teenagers how to stay safe on that same road.

Speed cameras are progressing. Sixteen months after AB 1297 was enacted, the supplier was selected, and contracts are in the final stages. The city manager anticipates a deployment this summer. “Each week we get closer.”

The Lost Hills Sheriff’s Station launched a Real-Time Watch Center with hundreds of surveillance cameras instantly accessible for crime prevention and disaster response. Cmdr. Jennifer Seetoo saw a need and made it happen. Progress. Real progress. So why does it feel like a losing battle?

The system problem

Here’s what outsiders don’t understand: Malibu doesn’t control PCH — Caltrans does. Various agencies

trian crosswalk. As far as we know, there is no other such roundabout anywhere on any highway in the U.S.

Over the objections of residents, this was approved by the Planning Commission. Once again, Michel and others used the tragedy of the four Pepperdine girls in Eastern Malibu to sway the Commission, though how a young man intentionally speeding at 100 miles an hour and who lost control near LaCosta is relevant to Western Malibu escapes me.

While residents expressed concern that the single-lane roundabout would cause delays during evacuations, the potential for a crash that would block the highway is real. Panicked drivers trying to negotiate

manage our beaches, parks, and infrastructure.

Our City Council pushes for safety. Their hands are tied on the very road killing our neighbors.

Every improvement requires coordinating entities with different priorities and timelines. When something moves, like speed cameras, it’s because dedicated people navigated a system designed to make basic safety nearly impossible.

Yes vs. no

City staff are working overtime. Councilmembers championing safety. Residents demanding change. AAA is bringing education. Lost Hills is proving innovation works. And organized opposition filing appeals to block safety projects, expansion projects, and projects that bring some change to the old ways.

Tonight, three cars ahead of me, PCH is closed. Another pedestrian was killed in darkness at the exact spot where, weeks ago, I wrote about a friend who kept missing her turnoff because it was too dark to see. I documented the danger. It happened anyway. We can’t install lighting in dangerous sections because appeals prioritize dark-sky compliance over drivers’ visibility ahead.

The roundabout pilot — a solution that could cut fatalities by 90%, according to studies by the Federal Highway Administration — is still awaiting approval. Lighting designed to help drivers see pedestrians is blocked by the rural setting. This is not due to engineering problems, but because there is disagreement over whether this is the right solution for Malibu.

Easy to say “I don’t want that.” Harder to offer alternatives.

But no, without yes, defends the status quo. The status quo killed 62 people in 16 years.

What unified vision actually means Can we create a blueprint that unites everyone? No-growth advocates, devel-

Notice: All of our columnists are independent contributors to The Malibu Times. The opinions they express are solely their own and do not reflect the views or positions of The Malibu Times.

From the publisher HAYLEY MATTSON

“Change is rarely comfortable, but it’s where growth learns how to breathe—and where the future quietly begins.”

the roundabout in an emergency is not fiction. We saw the mess of wrecks at Sunset and Palisades Drive during the afternoon of Jan. 7. It took a front loader to clear enough of them out of the way to clear a path for emergency vehicles.

The proposed area for the project between El Matador Beach and Encinal Canyon is actually the safest of any stretch along PCH, though it also has the most highspeed driving, but neither Caltrans, the city, nor LASD has been

opers, everyone in between?

Here’s what that could look like:

Preserve rural character. No massive development. Keep dark skies and open space. Protect what makes Malibu special.

AND: Safe bike lanes separated from traffic. Dark-sky-compliant lighting at dangerous sections. Roundabouts that slow speeds without changing aesthetics. Water transportation as an alternative to PCH congestion and for emergency relief. Speed cameras that enforce limits without additional deputy patrols are not affordable.

Technology that works everywhere else, implemented here without destroying what we love. No one wants to change the face of Malibu. We want to improve our ability to drive away and return alive.

That’s the vision. Malibu’s character

able to provide the actual number of such speeders.

Objections to what many residents feel is the dumbest idea in memory do not mean they do not care about safety. To accuse them of objecting to a bad proposal and ignoring safety is disrespectful. We celebrate our traffic synchronization signal on Feb. 4th and soon speed cameras that send out tickets will become a reality. But the hard truth is that most accidents happen in Eastern Malibu. It is more congested with 10 times the amount of traffic. And most of us support

is intact. Our neighbors are surviving the drive home.

Someone must unite this community to actively build a shared vision, not merely discuss it. City Council, citizens’ committee, and regional agencies should work together. This is what we aim to preserve, what we seek to change, and it is non-negotiable.

Or are we so divided that I’m being naive that something like this could happen?

Right now, every safety project is a referendum on Malibu’s identity. Every proposal gets appealed. Every improvement takes nine years.

The math we can’t ignore

In December 2024, I asked Malibu 2030 if we found the courage to make PCH safe. Four years closer to that deadline, I see we’re finding it. Slowly, painfully.

Michel’s call for stricter penalties for excessive speeders. But to argue against a dangerous and experimental one-lane roundabout cannot be stretched to being anti-safety. A simple stop sign combined with the new speed camera at Decker would have a similar traffic calming effect. It could be lit and flashing at night — similar to those installed on Lost Hills Road in Calabasas.

Four years left. At this pace, simple math says 20 more lives. Twenty more empty chairs while we debate, coordinate, and appeal. Every synchronized light saves lives. Every speed camera creates accountability. Every teenager AAA teaches understands the dangers of PCH. But we’re doing it one project at a time, one appeal at a time, one nineyear timeline at a time.

Forty lives for synchronized lights. That’s 40 empty chairs and hundreds of broken hearts.

How many more for a unified vision?

No one wants to change the face of Malibu.

But 41 people died waiting for us to figure out what that face should be. Let’s stop emptying the chairs and start creating the joy. Together Driving Change.

PUBLISHER

EDITOR IN CHIEF

COMPANY ADMINISTRATOR

COPY EDITOR

PROOFREADER

GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

CONTRIBUTORS

DISPLAY ADVERTISING

ADVERTISING COORDINATOR

Hayley Mattson

Hayley Mattson

Cami Martin

Michael Chaldu

Judy Abel

Jen Rodman, Anthony Atkins

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

— Abraham Lincoln

WEDNESDAY

Pedestrian killed in Malibu collision on Pacific Coast Highway

Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department traffic investigators are looking into a fatal collision between a vehicle and a pedestrian on Pacific Coast Highway east of West Winding Way.

The crash occurred Monday, Feb. 2, at about 7:30 p.m., authorities said. Preliminary reports indicate an adult female was driving a green Lexus SUV eastbound in the No. 2 lane when it struck a pedestrian walking eastbound in the roadway. The pedestrian was pronounced dead at the scene.

Early investigation showed no signs of driving under the influence, excessive speed, or distracted driving by the driver, the Sheriff’s Department said. The cause of the crash remains under investigation.

Anyone with information about the collision is asked to contact the Malibu/Lost Hills Sheriff’s Station at (818) 8781808. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through Crime Stoppers at (800) 222-TIPS (8477), the “P3 Tips” mobile app, or lacrimestoppers.org

The investigation is ongoing.

Two days of anti‑ICE protests in L.A., Malibu join nationwide immigration uprising

Two days of anti-ICE demonstrations in downtown Los Angeles — part of a broader national uprising against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and federal immigration policy — unfolded last Friday and Saturday with large daytime crowds and largely peaceful protests before tensions rose again after nightfall.

On Friday, thousands of protesters gathered in the Civic Center area for a planned “ICE Out” rally, part of a nationwide “National Shutdown” and “ICE Out of Everywhere” campaign that saw actions in all 50 states and Washington, D.C., as activists decried recent immigration enforcement tactics and deaths linked to federal agents.

While much of Friday’s daytime rally proceeded without incident, video and police reports show that as night fell, a smaller group moved toward the federal detention center’s loading dock in downtown Los Angeles, throwing trash and

NEWS BRIEFS

debris toward federal agents. Those agents responded with pepper balls and irritant sprays to disperse the crowd. The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) reported eight arrests — including one for assault with a deadly weapon on an officer, one curfew violation, and six for failure to disperse after orders were issued.

On Saturday, hundreds of demonstrators again assembled outside Los Angeles City Hall in what organizers described as a continued stand against ICE and federal immigration policy. Daytime speeches and chants calling for change remained peaceful, but as evening approached, law enforcement declared an unlawful assembly near the Federal Building after some in the crowd began throwing fireworks, rocks, and bottles at federal agents. Video from the scene shows federal officers deploying tear gas to break up the clashes, and several people lined up in handcuffs against a wall, likely being taken into custody.

National and local political context

The Los Angeles protests were part of a nationwide wave of anti - ICE actions tied to broader anger over federal immigration enforcement, including recent controversial shootings of individuals by immigration agents in Minneapolis, which helped spark demonstrations in New York, San Francisco, Portland and elsewhere. Organizers of the “ICE Out of Everywhere” campaign called for widespread economic action — such as work and school walkouts and boycotts — aimed at pressuring lawmakers and the administration.

Local and state leaders have weighed in amid the unrest. Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass has publicly supported the constitutional right to peaceful protest while urging demonstrators to avoid violence, and she has criticized federal deployments that she and others argue escalate tensions and undermine community safety. California Gov. Gavin Newsom similarly has condemned what he described as overly aggressive federal immigration tactics and has called for accountability and policy changes.

Federal officials, for their part, have defended continued enforcement actions and the presence of ICE agents in cities, stressing the role of immigration law in public safety and pledging that enforcement will continue despite protests. Some national campaigns have also featured demands to defund or abolish ICE and broader calls for immigration reform on Capitol Hill.

Local action in Malibu The anti - ICE sentiment has also reached communities beyond downtown Los Angeles. In Malibu, residents and community members organized a local demonstration called “Malibu Melts ICE” on Feb. 1 outside the Malibu Library, expressing solidarity with national protests and concern over federal immigration tactics. That gathering — which drew locals from across the political spectrum, including Pepperdine students and congressional candidates — focused on peaceful protest, signs, and chants emphasizing dignity and constitutional rights, and underscored that even smaller coastal communities are engaging with the broader national immigration debate. Law enforcement was present but took no enforcement action beyond routine safety warnings.

As protests continue to evolve across California and the na -

tion, officials at all levels are navigating how to balance the right to protest with concerns about public safety, federal enforcement prerogatives, and ongoing political friction over immigration policy.

Caltrans issues weekly lane closures for PCH, Topanga Canyon Boulevard for Palisades Fire repairs

Caltrans will continue emergency repair work on Pacific Coast Highway (PCH/SR-1) and Topanga Canyon Boulevard (SR-27) in the aftermath of the Palisades Fire, with lane closures and traffic restrictions in effect throughout the week of Feb. 2-8. Motorists are advised to plan ahead, expect delays, and exercise caution in active work zones.

Pacific Coast Highway (SR 1)

Work along PCH extends from Temescal Canyon Road to Carbon Beach Terrace in Malibu. Speeds are reduced to 35 mph with cones and signage between Temescal Canyon Road and Sunset Boulevard, and 25 mph in the active work zone from Sunset Boulevard to Carbon Beach Terrace. Weekday lane closures may occur between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. at various points.

Additional planned work areas include:

Trancas Canyon Road to Guernsey Avenue & Corral Canyon Bridge: Possible night closures.

• South of Las Flores Canyon to Sunset Boulevard: Fire, drainage, and slope repairs nightly from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. weekdays.

• South of Big Rock Drive: Catchment wall work reduces northbound lanes to one from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. weekdays.

Las Flores Canyon to Topanga Canyon Boulevard: Lane closures northbound and southbound at various times, including day, night, and weekends, for Southern California Edison (SCE) trenching.

• South of Topanga Canyon Boulevard: Slope and culvert work closes northbound lanes from 6 a.m. to 3 p.m. weekdays.

• Getty Villa area (Coastline Drive to Porto Marina Way): Northbound lane closures weekdays 9 a.m.–3 p.m.

Topanga Canyon Boulevard (SR 27)

From PCH to Grand View Drive, Topanga Canyon Boulevard will be closed to the public from midnight to 5 a.m. daily.

During daytime and evening hours, one-way traffic with a pilot car will manage emergency repairs and SCE trenching. Drivers should anticipate blind curves and traffic delays.

Safety and Traffic Advisory Closures are weather-permitting and subject to change. Delays are expected, and motorists are encouraged to use alternate routes when possible. Fines are doubled in work zones.

For current traffic conditions, view QuickMap. Detailed project inform ation is available a t dot.ca.gov/caltran s-near-me/ district-7 /district-7-projects / d7-palisades-fire-repairs

City of Malibu sees continued decline in homelessness

Preliminary results from the 2026 Greater Los Angeles Homeless Count show 44 people experiencing homelessness

in Malibu — 33 individuals and 11 vehicles, including cars, vans, and RVs. The count was conducted Thursday, Jan. 22, by city staff, the city’s Homeless Outreach Team, the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA), and community volunteers.

The continuing decline in homelessness reflects Malibu’s proactive approach to addressing the issue through coordinated outreach, housing placement, and encampment management. Since contracting homeless outreach services in 2017, the city has steadily expanded efforts to assist people experiencing homelessness (PEH). The Homeless Outreach Team has facilitated numerous housing placements, helping individuals exit homelessness through permanent or interim housing and family reunification. The team made 46 placements in 2025, following 72 in 2024, 51 in 2023, 67 in 2022, and 22 in 2021.

The city also partners with the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, Los Angeles County Beaches & Harbors, and California State Parks to safely manage encampments. Advance notice, outreach services, and environmental cleanup are standard practice, with sites monitored to prevent re-establishment. In 2025, Malibu cleared 44 encampments, matching the total from 2024.

Since tracking began in 2016, Malibu’s homeless population has steadily declined:

Residents who wish to help can volunteer with local outreach organizations or assist with future homeless counts. To report an encampment or request assistance, contact Public Safety Coordinator Luis Flores at (310) 456-2489, ext. 236, or via email at lflores@malibucity. org.

For more infor mation, updates, and resources, visit Ma libuCity.org/news

Deadline extended: City of Malibu Evacuation Plan

Survey open through February

The City of Malibu has extended the deadline for its Evacuation Plan Survey through the end of February. Residents, workers, and visitors are encouraged to provide input to help shape the city’s updated evacuation plan.

Community feedback is essential to improving evacuation routes, alerts, transportation options, and overall emergency preparedness. The survey is quick, confidential, and designed to ensure the updated plan meets the real needs of the Malibu community.

Your participation can directly impact the city’s safety measures and emergency response strategies.

Take the survey by the end of February surveymonkey.com/r/ MalibuEvacPlan

SBA opens Disaster Loan Outreach Center in Pacific Palisades

44**

*Informal count conducted in Malibu; LAHSA count cancelled.

**Preliminary data, final numbers pending per LAHSA.

“The 2026 Homeless Count demonstrates the effectiveness of Malibu’s outreach and housing placement programs,” said a city spokesperson. “Our partnerships with The People Concern, law enforcement, and the community continue to provide meaningful support for those experiencing homelessness.”

Starting Tuesday, Jan. 27, the Small Business Administration (SBA) will open a Disaster Loan Outreach Center in Pacific Palisades to provide in-person support for homeowners, renters, small businesses, and nonprofit organizations affected by recent wildfires and straight-line winds.

The center will assist individuals who have already applied for disaster loans, offering guidance on next steps, submitting missing information, addressing outstanding questions, and exploring options such as loan increases for mitigation improvements like insulated pipes, weather stripping, or storm windows. In rare circumstances,

the center may accept new loan applications.

The Pacific Palisades location is at the Ronald Reagan Palisades American Legion Post 283, 15247 La Cruz Drive. Hours are Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., with the center opening at 12 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 27.

Appointments can be scheduled at appointm ent.sba.gov For more information, visit sba.gov/disaster or call (800) 659-2955. Those who are deaf or hard of hearing can access telecommunications relay services by dialing 7-1-1.

The SBA encourages residents and business owners to take advantage of this opportunity to receive personalized assistance and ensure their disaster recovery process continues smoothly.

Sen. Allen proposes state backed loans for wildfire safety upgrades

One year after the devastating Los Angeles fires, State Sen. Ben Allen has introduced new legislation to help California homeowners make wildfire safety upgrades more affordable.

The proposed bill, SB 894, would create a state-backed, low-interest loan program modeled on California’s successful GoGreen energy-finance platform, allowing more households to retrofit their homes against wildfire risks.

“As families across the region continue rebuilding from last year’s horrific tragedy, it is our duty as leaders to find solutions that will not only help them in their recovery, but also prevent these disasters from happening in the first place,” Allen said. “Expanding financing options so that more Californians can affordably retrofit their homes will help save lives, homes, and essential public infrastructure and resources.”

The legislation is sponsored by Megafire Action, a nonprofit organization focused on wildfire prevention, which says public backing can unlock private capital at scale. Polling conducted by Megafire Action found that 83% of California voters support financial incentives for fire-resistant home upgrades, and 81% support

OBITUARIES

AAvaryl was an inspiration to all those

to come into her orbit. She made living an art form, taking every opportunity to make life beautiful through her style, her décor, and the many creative arts she immersed herself in — including her handmade blankets, painting, cooking, playing music, and filmmaking.

Avaryl even found a way to make chemotherapy look glamorous, finding joy in hats and scarves and dancing with her mom to keep spirits high.

Film was a central part of Avaryl’s life, from the first movie club she set up in high school, through her degree in film and filmmaking, to her much-loved Movie Bitches channel, which she created with her best friend and collaborator, Andrew Galdi, bringing joy and connection to thousands of followers.

Avaryl also designed houses

with her dad and built and rebuilt homes in Malibu — passion projects that fed her love of art, creativity, and family connection. It brings comfort to all who loved her that Avaryl lived so fully, enjoying travel and adventures with friends throughout Europe, New Zealand, and Australia. Avaryl’s passion and authenticity are a testament to the boundless love she received from her adoring parents, Scott and Aricia Halley, and her sisters, Erin Garnero and Morgan DiVenere. Avaryl will live forever in the hearts of family and friends, and her darling nephews Luca, Grey, and Bailey, and niece Lexi will always be told stories of their Auntie Avaryl. There will be a celebration of Avaryl’s life in Malibu on February 14th. For information, please email: celebratingav@gmail.com

Submission

c/o

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thu feb 5

PEPPERDINE UNIVERSITY

PRESENTS CHARO

Join us for an unforgettable evening on Thursday, Feb. 5, at 7:30 p.m. with Charo, the worldrenowned flamenco guitarist celebrated for her technical brilliance, vibrant stage presence, and signature sense of humor.

Trained by legendary classical guitarist Andrés Segovia, Charo seamlessly blends classical mastery with Latin rhythms and pop culture flair. Her performances are as joyful as they are virtuosic — promising a high-energy, entertaining night filled with music and personality. Visit arts. pepperdine.edu/events/20252026-season/charo-25-26.htm for more information.

MALIBU UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD MEETING AT MALIBU CITY HALL

The Malibu Unified School District will hold its regular school board meeting on Thursday, Feb. 5, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Malibu City Hall. The meeting will cover district updates, policy discussions, and community

tue feb 10

MALIBU FARM MALIBU BEACH CLEAN-UP – JOIN US! Missed the first beach clean-up of the year? Join the next one! Help keep Malibu’s beaches beautiful while connecting with fellow community members on Tuesday, Feb. 10, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Malibu Pier. After the clean-up, enjoy drinks featuring Humboldt Distillery vodka and a free meal for participants who post and tag Malibu Farm.

RSVP by emailing malibufarmcatering@gmail.com. Bring your energy, your friends, and your love for our coast!

wed feb 11

MALIBU LIBRARY NATURE WALK FOR KIDS –IN-PERSON PROGRAM

Discover the nature that is all around us during this fun and educational outdoor program for young explorers on Wednesday, Feb. 11, from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Join a City of Malibu naturalist for a guided walk through Legacy Park, starting at the Malibu Library and ending with a short storytime in the park. Designed for children ages 2 to 10, this program is open to kids accompanied by a parent or caregiver and offers a hands-on way to learn about the natural world right in our community. Visit lacountylibrary.org/location/ malibu-library/ thu feb 12

PALIBU CHAMBER OF COMMERCE CONNECTIONS

CALENDAR

begins with a coffee mixer from 8:00 to 8:30 a.m., followed by breakfast and a featured presentation. Attendees will have the opportunity to network with local business professionals and are encouraged to be prepared with a 30-second introduction of their business, bring business cards, and, if desired, a small raffle item that showcases their work.

The featured speaker is Kasey Earnest, who has served as CEO of the Boys & Girls Club of Malibu for 21 years. Under her leadership, BGCM operates three after-school sites and four school-based Wellness Centers across all Malibu public schools, providing no-cost, traumainformed mental health services to more than 1,200 students and families annually. Following the 2024–25 fires, BGCM partnered with the American Red Cross to deliver long-term disaster recovery services for Malibu, Pacific Palisades, and Topanga, and currently case-manages more than 2,500 fire survivors. In April 2024, Earnest and her team established the Malibu Community LongTerm Recovery Group. BGCM also hosts the annual Malibu Chili Cook-Off, welcoming more than 20,000 community members to the beloved, community-driven event each year.

sat feb 14

CAFFEINATED VERSE: POETRY

OPEN MIC — IN-PERSON PROGRAM

Join Malibu Poet Laureate Charlotte Ward for “Caffeinated Verse: Poetry Open Mic,” a welcoming gathering celebrating

program is designed for adults and offers a relaxed, creative space to connect through the spoken word.

This event is part of the City of Malibu’s free poetry workshops, presented in partnership with Malibu Library, the Malibu Poet Laureate Committee, the Malibu Arts Commission, and the Friends of the Malibu Library.

The series provides community members with engaging and educational opportunities to explore self-expression through poetry alongside a renowned local poet. To be held in the Malibu Library, Meeting Room.

‘PARK TALES: LOVEBUGS’ — IN-PERSON PROGRAM BLUFFS PARK (HOSTED BY MALIBU LIBRARY)

“Park Tales: Lovebugs” is a fun and educational preschool storytime held outdoors at Bluffs Park on Thursday, Feb 12, from 10 to 11 a.m.

Designed for children ages 2 to 5, this family-friendly program invites kids and their caregivers to enjoy stories narrated by a Malibu Library librarian, participate in a creative art activity, and enjoy a complimentary snack.

Advance registration is required and available online at MalibuCity.org/Register. Bluffs Park is located at 24250 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu.

thu feb26sun mar 1

MALIBU HIGH SCHOOL MIDDLE SCHOOL MUSICAL:

Malibu High School’s Middle School students bring the beloved musical “Shrek” to the stage in this fun-filled production for the whole community to enjoy. Performance dates run from Feb. 26 through March 1.

Additional details, including showtimes and ticket information, will be announced

For updates and more information, visit malibu.

fri

feb27sun mar 1

MALIBU MIDDLE SCHOOL

MUSICAL

Malibu Middle School students take the stage for their annual musical production, showcasing their talent and hard work in a lively performance for the community. Additional details, including showtimes and ticket information, will be announced soon.

For updates and more information, visit malibu. smmusd.org.

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 A ND 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, drop-in program. Instructed by Sheila Rosenthal. Visit malibucity.org for the location.

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 on Tuesdays from 12:45 to 1:45 p.m. and is $5 per class. Preregistration 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. Malibu City Hall Senior Center. This is a great opportunity for socialization, selfexpression, 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.

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!

Charo to appear at Smothers Theater

Lisa Smith Wengler Center for the Arts at Pepperdine welcomes iconic entertainer

By JUDY ABEL

How does one describe one of the most ubiquitous presences on television from the 1960s through the 1980s? After a lengthy conversation with the one and only Charo, the answer is clear: 500 pounds of megawatt personality bursting out of her petite 5’4” frame.

Speaking a mile a minute in her heavy, unmistakable Castilian accent, the iconic entertainer — forever associated with her famous catchphrase, “cuchi cuchi”—readily admits the tagline took her “straight to the bank.” But there is far more to Charo than the line that made her a household name. Poking fun at herself, she joked that if her career in entertainment ever fizzled out, she “can always become an English teacher.”

A lack of talent, however, has never been Charo’s problem. She has been charming audiences for six decades with her comedy, singing, acting — and, in case you didn’t know, her virtuosic skills as a flamenco guitarist. No joke. She’s the real deal, having studied with the world-renowned classical guitarist Andrés Segovia in Spain, where she was born and raised. While the exact dates of that mentorship may be vague and occasionally disputed, what cannot be disputed is that this seemingly ageless entertainer has discovered the fountain of youth through laughter and the boundless energy she brings to the stage.

That energy will be on full display February 5 at Pepperdine University, where Charo will perform at the Lisa Smith

MALIBU FITNESS CONTINUED FROM A1

Wengler Center for the Arts’ Smothers Theater.

Audiences can expect plenty of comedy, of course, along with singing and dancing — and perhaps even some audience questions, which could be a hoot given how quick Charo is with a quip about her whirlwind life. Another highlight of her act includes her incredibly glamorous costumes, all designed by her sister, whom she affectionately calls “Carmencita.” Charo beams with pride when talking about the one-of-a-kind outfits, created especially for her by her beloved sister. The two shared a room growing up, dreaming together of one day moving to the United States.

But the highlight of the Pepperdine performance comes when Charo gets serious — albeit perched on a glittering stool — and begins to play classical Spanish guitar. In that moment, the “cuchi cuchi” fades, and a brilliant musician emerges. It’s reminiscent of when the impish Harpo Marx stopped clowning and began strumming his harp: all guile stripped away, leaving only beauty and talent. This is Charo as Maria del Rosario Mercedes Pilar Martínez Molina Baeza, her given name.

One social media commenter perfectly captured that revelation:

“You thought she was a beautiful dingbat until you hear her play flamenco guitar. Then it’s suddenly, ‘Put the car in park. What did she just do?!’ After I saw that for the first time, I always remembered there’s more to her than being beautiful and ditzy with an accent. Incredible player!”

“Guitar is my passion,” Charo explained.

“This is the real me. When I play guitar — no maracas, no cuchi cuchi — it’s me and the audience together, connecting. The

audience is like my family or my friends. I enjoy it like nothing else.”

She maintains her chops by practicing three hours a day at her Beverly Hills home, usually at night “when things are quiet” — no small feat given her famously busy lifestyle and antics. Among those antics: once adopting a baby bull to save it from being used in bullfighting. Though deeply proud of her Spanish heritage, Charo is outspokenly opposed to the controversial bloodsport.

“We don’t need to sacrifice a beautiful animal just for entertainment,” she said. “If you have to eat, it’s terrible that you have to kill them — because you can eat something else that is no meat.”

Now a vegetarian, Charo even offered to send this reporter her special lentil soup recipe, which she promises adds years to one’s life. And when the bull —named Manolo Martinez — grew too large to roam around her house (yes, inside the house), she rehomed him to a ranch in Malibu. “Malibu is so beautiful,” she added.

When asked about her favorite places to perform, Charo— who has played numerous times at the White House for presidents dating back to Richard Nixon—fondly recalled touring with one of her favorites, Bob Hope. He included her in his legendary USO tours, entertaining servicemen around the globe.

Now, she’s looking forward to her return to Malibu to perform at Smothers Theater and hopes to invite Pepperdine guitar students to watch her rehearse and observe her technique up close.

Tickets for Charo’s performance are available at:

arts.pepperdine.edu/events/2025-2026season/charo-25-26.htm

community has changed over the years. Since opening Malibu Fitness in 1986, I’ve learned that adapting and staying flexible isn’t just good business — it’s a way of life here.

“Between the growth of the health and fitness industry and the challenges we’ve faced as a community — fires, floods and COVID — I’ve been tested in more ways than I’ve ever imagined. Through it all, I’ve continued to learn, evolve and stay committed to the work that I love. I have immense respect for the Malibu businesses that have endured alongside us in this small, resilient community.”

It’s that community that has provided the support for Weinstock Falate to stay open.

“I’m deeply grateful for the loyal community and dedicated staff who have supported Malibu Fitness over the decades, some of whom have been with me since the very beginning,” she said. “I’m grateful for my health, proud of the work we do and I feel incredibly fortunate to love going to work every day.”

Characterizing herself as a “Six-day a week gym rat who considers Malibu Fitness to be her second family,” Laureen Sills sang Malibu Fitness’ praises, sharing, “Since 1986, when I joined Malibu Fitness, I have been a consistent member steadily riding the fitness trends from step aerobics in the ‘80s to current killer spinning classes, balance ball with weights, and the best yoga classes in Malibu.”

Sills said that Weinstock Falate “always hired the most experienced instructors, trainers, and an ebullient staff who greet everyone with a smile. At Malibu Fitness, many friends share the same health-oriented goals and are always checking on each other, especially when life is ‘life-ing.’”

“The support, kindness and encouragement go far beyond fitness”

“Malibu Fitness is home to me!” Darlene Addison stated. “For the past 11 years, Malibu Fitness has been more than just a gym to me — it has been a lifeline. As a parent caring for a disabled child, the gym has played a huge role in protecting my mental health. The support, kindness and encouragement there go far beyond fitness. Malibu Fitness is truly a community and a family, and I am deeply grateful for what it has meant to me and my family!”

Addison shared that in 2017, “Lonnie did a fundraiser for Callie’s Cause,” referring to a nonprofit organization to support research regarding a rare form of epilepsy called Dravet Syndrome. The Addison family formed Callie’s Cause after their daughter Callie was diagnosed with the disorder.

That’s why Malibu Fitness is so much more than just a place to get in shape. The community is invited to join in the celebration on Feb. 20 from 4 to 6 p.m. Guests will enjoy storytelling, photos and videos highlighting our history and a raffle. Of course, food and refreshments will be offered. Malibu Fitness is located at 29575 Pacific Coast Highway. “Cheers to Lonnie for 40 years of keeping Malibu healthy and providing so many of us a place ‘where everyone knows your name.’” Sills said.

Sheriff’s Department, serving in Malibu, was one of the first responders to the horrific scene on PCH Oct. 17, 2023. It’s a night he says changed him forever and became the catalyst to advocate for the four young women who are unable to advocate for themselves.

Justice for Four Angels, Melcher said, was started, “to support the families and friends of the four Pepperdine young women that were killed in the accident on PCH.”

“I’m a law student at Pepperdine and I’ve watched a lot of these kind of high-profile cases develop. And the common theme in all of them has been the more publicity these cases get, the more the focus shifts away from the victims and their families and their loss,” Melcher continued. “Their stories tend to get lost in the drama of the trial and the defendant and the lawyers and everything else. I’ve watched that happen again and again.

“So, our main mission amongst the three of us is to make sure that these women who have their voices taken from them, still have a voice in all of this, and that people remember what this is actually about and what happened to these families who are dealing with the grief of losing their kids and the stress of litigation. At times they may not have the strength to speak up or in

some instances they can’t. So, we are here to give them a voice. That is our main mission.”

The group attends every court hearing, obtains court documents, and disseminates the information to the victims’ families and others. With only one family living in Southern California and the rest scattered throughout the country, the organizers say they are able to take some of the burden off family members who can’t travel to the Van Nuys courtroom for what’s often a five-minute hearing.

“It’s stuff that they don’t have the ability and energy to do. They can only fight so much because this is such a loss to their family,” said Bradshaw, a Pepperdine alum whose time at the university overlapped with those who were killed in the tragedy. “So, if we can take some of that burden off of them, that’s the least we can do. It’s these things that will help them continue to fight for Niamh, Asha, Deslyn, and Peyton.”

Thompson, another founder of the group, and a roommate of three of the victims, elaborated on her participation: “Over two years ago when I lost my best friends, it was such an immediate helpless feeling. From the very beginning, I jumped on the advocacy pretty quickly. I was reached out to by a lot of media outlets and different advocacy groups. It was a way I felt I could keep their names alive and make sure that my

forest management and failed to adequately prepare for the fire, failed to maintain water distribution and reservoir systems so that the systems would be available and fully functional in case of emergency and failed to competently fight the fire. The criticism then states, “This marked one of the greatest failures of elected political leadership in American history, and it continues to this day with the abject failure to rebuild.”

That said, the order notes that, “American families and small businesses affected by the wildfires have been forced to continue living in a nightmare of delay, uncertainty, and bureaucratic malaise as they remain displaced from their homes, often without a source of income, while State and local governments delay or prevent reconstruction by approving only a fraction of permits needed to rebuild.”

The executive order also mandates an audit of $3 billion in federal hazard mitigation grant program funds that were granted to California to prevent future fires and fast-tracks federal environmental reviews.

The president’s office issued a fact sheet concurrently with the executive order, stating “President Trump is taking decisive action to overcome California and Los Angeles’s permitting failures that have left numerous families, businesses and houses of worship displaced and unable to rebuild a year after the wildfires.”

Elaborating, the fact sheet criticizes “overly burdensome, confusing and inconsistent permitting requirements, duplicative permitting reviews, procedural bottlenecks, and administrative delays have effectively stalled recovery efforts.” Continuing, the fact sheet states, “Even expedited reviews promised by local leaders have taken months, with processing times averaging 93 days for the Palisades (fire). Permit fees and environmental reviews add further delays and costs.”

The fact sheet also explains that “the order authorizes the administrators of FEMA and the Small Business Administration (SBA) to issue regulations that preempt State and local procedural permitting requirements and proposes that builders can self-certify to a federal

best friends’ names don’t die and that they didn’t die in vain.

“At the beginning, it was really focused on Pacific Coast Highway advocacy because that’s something that’s really important. It’s a dangerous road that has been dangerous for far too long. But as time has progressed and the court hearings have, it’s something I’ve also been super involved in. It’s easy for the defendant’s name or the attorney’s name to be in headlines and to kind of take over the story because it is a high-profile case. The attorney is a high-profile attorney. So, I just really want to make sure that their names don’t get lost and their stories don’t get lost because if they do, that’ll never be true justice for me.”

Melcher emphasized Justice for Four Angels also has been a consistent presence at Malibu City Council and Planning Commission meetings from the get-go.

“We were instrumental in getting the $55 million Caltrans safety plan passed,” he said. “We spoke at the planning commission meeting where one of the commissioners quoted one of the speeches we gave and then changed her vote to a yes, which is basically what got the thing passed. When it went to the City Council we spoke with the councilmembers. We had petitions on our social media accounts that went to the city for people to sign, to express their support, and

agency designee that they have complied with state and local substantive health, safety, and building standards.

City, county, state, and federal elected officials respond to the executive order

Responding to a request for a statement, the City of Malibu stated, “The City of Malibu is aware of the recent White House action related to wildfire recovery in Los Angeles County. The City is currently reviewing the Executive Order released today and its potential implications. The City will provide additional information once further details are available. Thank you for your inquiry.”

Although the city was cautious in its response, not so other elected officials.

Responding to the executive order on X, Gov. Gavin Newsom stated, “The Feds need to release funding, not take over local permit approval — the main obstacle is communities not having the money to rebuild.”

Horvath queried, “What meaningful relief have you provided, Mr. President? You’ve ignored our fire survivors. You’ve abandoned disaster relief funding. You’ve disrupted and caused fear across our construction workforce with your ICE raids. Your tariffs have raised the cost of goods.”

Malibu’s Congressman critizes the executive order

Congressman Brad Sherman weighed in, criticizing the executive order, opining that it is unconstitutional and impractical, and calling for more federal funding.

“Pursuant to action taken by President Biden and at least not rescinded by President Trump, the federal government is providing $7 billion to California, including well over half the cost of rebuilding Palisades High School.” Sherman stated in a press release regarding the executive order. “But Trump is doing everything to avoid spending a penny. Under Biden, there were supplemental appropriations to help the people hurt by Hurricane Ida, Hurricane Ian, the Maui fires, Hur -

and also advocating for PCH safety.”

supplemental appropriation to help the victims of Texas, Florida, the Eaton Fire, or the Palisades Fire, or any of the disasters that occurred in 2025. Not one penny.”

The statement added, “The President issues an executive order which is clearly unconstitutional and a nullity as an excuse for not providing a supplemental appropriation which would put money in the pockets of uninsured disaster victims.”

The Malibu Times caught up with Sherman to explore his other concerns regarding the order.

“This is a political hot air balloon — it becomes operative just as soon as we invade Greenland,” he said. “Look, it’s pretty clear that the feds cannot waive all building permits. It’s unconstitutional, and it has no immediate effect because all they’re doing is writing regulations and, when the lawyers are asked to draft the regulations, they will say ‘hey, we cannot write this.’”

Sherman noted that the 10th Amendment reserves to the states all powers not delegated to the federal government in the U.S. Constitution.

New York v. United States (1992), and a long line of judicial decisions instruct that police powers are vested in the state,” he said, referring to the constitutional law principles that general police powers — the authority to create and enforce laws promoting the health, safety, morals and welfare of the public — are primarily vested in the states, not the federal government.

“Agencies cannot do stuff that is clearly not in the statute granting agencies their powers and nothing in the FEMA authorizing legislation directs FEMA to preempt state and local rebuilding regulations,” Sherman continued. “The federal government cannot take the actions the executive order addresses and certainly cannot do so without Congressional action.

“The executive order is a nullity and thank God it’s a nullity. There are no federal permits — this order is illusory. If you’re a lawyer, you know it’s not enforceable. If you’re political, you know it makes no sense.”

Sherman also noted that the order gives FEMA and the SBA 30 days to draft regulations and provides 90 days for final approval of those regulations. “Those provisions inject uncertainty into the rebuilding and permitting process and uncertainty means lenders balk — How does this really help those rebuilding?”

Locals leading the rebuilding effort in Malibu respond to the executive order

Exhausted and exasperated fire victims who are trying to navigate through the county’s and City of Malibu’s permitting requirements — often perceived as byzantine and labyrinthian — while concurrently fighting insurance companies for compensation, may at first blush be pleased that the president is addressing permitting delays.

“At a high level, I’m glad that the problem is being recognized at the federal level and that the language is one of cutting red tape and moving things along much like we saw with the Army Corps dealing with the debris removal, which we all appreciated,” said Abe Roy, who advocates for permit expediting in Malibu. “It’s unclear how all this is going to play out ... for example, who does this executive order help? Only folks that have received FEMA/SBA aid? I think pretty much all victims received $700 or so — does that qualify?”

Delving deeper, Roy states, “If the federal designee — as the executive order calls it — issues a building permit, who conducts building inspections and who issues the certificate of occupancy?” Roy also wonders about the 90-day limbo period required for FEMA and the SBA to promulgate regulations. “Does this create more confusion for the already confused rebuilder?” he asked.

The executive order, Wade Major noted, “Underlines the three points we who are supporting those rebuilding have been screaming for during the past year. First, we want a fast and easy permitting process. Second, we want a guarantee to build like-for-like plus 10 percent without any strings or tax increases attached. Third, we request no back-door low income housing schemes to take advantage of fire victims.

“By refusing to do those three things and more, the county and cities of Los Angeles and Malibu opened the door for a federal takeover, and they have no one to blame but themselves,” Major said. “It’s inexcusable paralysis of the government across the board. Our asks — including waiving sales taxes for rebuilders, providing for loans to cover insurance gaps, and restoring Prop 58 (which prevented property tax reassessment on homes and some other property when transferred between parents and children, or grandparents and grandchildren when parents are deceased) are not a heavy lift. We should have had them eight months ago.”

Major advocates self-certification in some instances.

“If my engineer certifies my foundation, that should be the end of it — the city cannot have its contracted entities or staff demand more. That’s where self-certification is critical,” he said. “We also need geotechnical evaluations to be waived for areas where there has been no history of instability. The City of Malibu continues to fight these ideas because it cannot let go of its liability concerns.”

Addressing the executive order’s provisions allowing for self certification, Diane Moss, a local wildfire resiliency policy consultant, stated, “Every seasoned owner builder, contractor, and designer in Malibu I have asked agrees self-certification is inferior to simply simplifying the plan check process like the city of Sonoma did.”

The bottom line, Moss noted, is that the executive order can invite “interjurisdictional lawsuits that threaten to gum up the works.” She advocates leaders helping fire victims and admonishes them to “not turn this critical work into a political football that scores wins for political campaigns, but losses for communities.”

Celebrating female friendship with newest ‘holiday’

How Galentine’s Day is gaining momentum

By JUDY ABEL

It started out as a joke on the hit television show “Parks and Recreation” — a silly, made-up holiday designed for laughs, much like Festivus on “Seinfeld.” But sometimes jokes have legs. And waffles. And mimosas.

The seed planted in 2010 to celebrate female friendship has since blossomed into a full-grown, unofficial holiday observed across the U.S. and beyond. It’s called Galentine’s Day, and it may just be the best thing to happen to February.

Galentine’s Day was first introduced at the beginning of Season 2, Episode 16 of “Parks and Recreation” by the show’s relentlessly optimistic lead character, Leslie Knope, played by Amy Poehler. The faux holiday resonated with audiences so well it made two other appearances in later seasons. In the mockumentary-style sitcom, Leslie gathers her female friends for brunch and announces that February 13 — the day before Valentine’s Day — is now dedicated to “ladies celebrating ladies.” No boyfriends required. Romance optional. Waffles mandatory.

Leslie further explains that Galentine’s Day is about prioritizing “uteruses before duderuses” and “ovaries before brovaries,” phrases that somehow manage to be both ridiculous and oddly profound when celebrating platonic female friendships. As one character enthusiastically consumes a waffle topped with an Everest-sized

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mountain of whipped cream, the tone is set: This is not a subtle holiday. What truly captured the attention of audiences wasn’t just the joke, but the sincerity. The characters shower each other with over-the-top compliments, optimism about future relationships, and thoughtful — if delightfully quirky — gifts. The episode celebrated platonic love with the same intensity usually reserved for romance, and it struck a chord. Especially since Galentine’s Day falls right before Valentine’s Day, a holiday that

properties were found to have extraordinarily high levels of lead contamination.

“In the state of California and EPA, they generally consider lead contamination levels of 1,000 PPM or higher to be considered hazardous waste. There have only been a couple dozen samples tested at that level,” Wright said. “It reassures us that there’s not a ton of places out there that have truly, truly hazardous levels of lead that need to be avoided at all costs. What we have found though is that about 42% of the samples that we have tested

can sometimes feel more isolating than romantic if you’re single, newly heartbroken, or just tired of heart-shaped everything.

Enter Galentine’s Day: a joyful antidote. A few mimosas certainly help lift the mood, and it’s common for celebratory drinks like margaritas or palomas to make an appearance. The goal is simple — gather your favorite people, eat something indulgent, and remind each other why your friendships matter.

In the “Parks and Recreation” universe,

have shown lead levels above the state screening threshold.”

Wright elaborated, “Lead is a neurotoxin, and the health risks it poses to humans present over time. Those health risks are particularly acute for young children whose brains are still developing. You want to make sure you are limiting young children’s exposure to places that you know to be contaminated with lead and limiting that exposure could be in the form of literally just avoiding interaction with that area. It can be making sure that they’re not ingesting the soil because the primary way that lead is absorbed by your body is by ingesting it. Again, the health risks that are associated with lead are

exposure over time.”

Galentine’s Day celebrations are predictably over the top. Leslie decorates tables with flowers and balloons and gives each friend a gift that is both wildly specific and deeply heartfelt. Her friends receive cheerful hand-crocheted flower pens, mosaic portraits made from crushed bottles of Leslie’s favorite diet soda, and a personalized 5,000-word essay explaining why each friend is amazing. Is it excessive?

Absolutely. Is it on brand? Completely.

The whimsical holiday proved so popular that it made two more appearances

But the researchers tested for 18 toxins altogether and found another problem is arsenic. The proportion so far of tested homes with scraped soil within the Eaton burn zone above a 12 ppm arsenic background is four-percent, but higher in the Palisades zone at 17%. Non-scraped lots in Eaton were 5% and higher again in the Palisades zone at 20%. And again, the Palisades zone fared worse for arsenic levels when tested at lots with standing homes with non-scraped soil with 8% above a 12 ppm background for Eaton properties and 10% in the Palisades. These are initial findings as research continues.

on the show, and soon leapt off the screen into real life. Fans embrace Galentine’s Day wholeheartedly, and through word of mouth (and capitalism doing what it does best), idiosyncratic merchandise quickly became available. Now, you can buy Galentine’s cards, banners, mugs, and party supplies anywhere from CVS to the fanciest stationery store you’ve ever pretended you “just wandered into.” So how do you celebrate Galentine’s Day today? There are no hard rules, but brunch is a strong starting point. Hosting at a restaurant is great, but staying in works just as well. A cozy, pampering spa day at home is always a hit — think face masks, fluffy robes, and aggressively relaxing music. Creative types might opt for an arts-and-crafts gathering, making candles, bookmark charms, or anything else that will later be treasured mostly for its sentimental value. Movie nights are another classic option, ideally with popcorn, wine, and everyone piled onto one couch like it’s a sleepover circa middle school.

Above all, Galentine’s Day is about intention. It’s about pausing to acknowledge the people who show up for you — who answer your texts, hype you up, and know your coffee order by heart. As the earnest Leslie Knope character wisely advised, it’s a day to “shower them with weird gifts.” Weird, thoughtful, heartfelt gifts — and of course waffles. So, this Feb. 13, skip the pressure, skip the roses, and celebrate your cherished friends. Turns out a fake holiday can fill a very real emotional gap — especially when there’s whipped cream involved.

The scientists on a Feb. 1 webinar that announced the testing results all agreed that fire-affected homeowners have their lots tested.

Free soil testing is still available through the USC CLEAN program. The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health is also running a soil sample testing program. “It is very aligned with the work that our team and the CAP.LA team is doing and we’ve all been collaborating,” said Sujeet Rao, USC CLEAN director.

Unfortunately, applications for soils testing is currently on pause through CAP.LA because its funding has been exhausted.

More information is available at PostFire.org.

EDUCATION

Viewpoint School honors Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with annual production ‘Healing Through Music’

The school’s second annual united students, faculty, parents, alumni, and the wider community

By ELIZABETH HICKCOX  Special to

On Jan. 21, Viewpoint School celebrated the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. through its second annual “Healing through Music” production, bringing together students, faculty, parents, alumni, and community members for a day of performance, reflection,

and connection. The event, held in the Carlson Family Theater (CFT), featured two daytime student assemblies and an evening public performance. Presented by Viewpoint’s Music, Theatre, and Dance departments in collaboration with the Office of Community Life, “Healing Through Music” explored the unifying power of music across genres and cultures. “Music is transformative. It can touch our souls, support mental health, reduce stress, and build community,” said Patricia Jackson, chief belonging and community officer. “Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s oratory was rich with rhythm and

meaning, and he viewed music as a powerful instrument of change.”

Building on the inaugural production, this year’s performance included new contributions from students, faculty, parents, and alumni, as well as an art gallery curated by Visual Arts Department Chair Nell Yates. The program opened with a medley by Voices Now, Viewpoint’s Upper School vocal ensemble, followed by storytelling and an interactive drum circle led by Los Angeles-based musician and educator Jason Lee Bruns. Other highlights included Scott Joplin’s “Maple Leaf Rag,” performed by composer Bill Brendle and

student Jack Lawson; Corey Henderson’s heartfelt rendition of “Let It Be”; and a bilingual performance of “Endless Love” in Mandarin and Korean by students David Wang and Rachael Chun.

The evening culminated with a finale featuring the more than 100-member Viewpoint Community Choir. Notable guest artists included 2016 alumnus Randy White, an R&B singer/songwriter and music therapist, and 2004 alumna Jen Hirsh, an R&B singer/songwriter and “American Idol” semi-finalist. “Healing through Music” is a collaborative effort led by Bill Brendle, director of Voices Now, alongside

Middle and Upper School Choral Music Teacher Carrie Dietsch, Theatre and Dance Chair Scott Feldsher, and Chief Belonging and Community Officer Patricia Jackson.

Founded in 1961, Viewpoint School is committed to preparing students for extraordinary futures by nurturing their critical skills, courageous mindsets, and resilient identities. Its scenic 40-acre campus in Calabasas provides a setting where every student is known, respected, and included. Visit viewpoint.org to learn more about the school where tradition and innovation converge.

7, 2025, blaze that left 12 people dead and leveled thousands of homes and businesses from the Pacific Palisades, Topanga, and Malibu, the department has faced heavy criticism about its response to the fire. Critics point to the unprecedented wind conditions that were forecast days ahead of the conflagration, the lack of pre-deployment of fire crews in vulnerable areas, dry fire hydrants, the Santa Ynez Reservoir out of commission, and the Lachman fire on Jan. 1, that went unchecked for a week and is now thought to be

the ignition point. After the fire, the foundation appealed to the public to help its mission to support the LAFD with donations for vital equipment and programs that help the LAFD save lives and build resilient communities. According to the foundation’s report published last month, it allocated $42 million in donations to “critical priorities” but originally failed to mention monies paid to the Lede Company until the Los Angeles Times disclosed the controversy that charitable donations were used for a PR firm. After facing heavy scrutiny last week, the foundation’s president and chairman of the board of directors said since the

LAFD’s communications director role was unfilled, the previous administration requested the funds to hire a consultant.

In a statement, the foundation wrote: “This is exactly how we always operate: fast, responsive, and in the service to the Department’s needs.” The statement, however, did not address whether the Lede Company played a role in the fire department’s action in watering down it’s after-action report on the Palisades Fire that downplayed the department’s preparation for the fire and what critics say was a poor response.

The LAFD has not answered questions about the scope of the PR firm’s work, but has made clear its

policy for donations to the foundation.

“We have a clear policy wherein any donor can restrict a contribution to support a particular project or program,” the department stated. “One hundred percent of all restricted contributions go directly to support whatever project, program, or item the donor identifies. We are transparent because our supporters deserve nothing less — and because we are proud of the work you support.”

Former LA mayoral candidate Rick Caruso threatened to pull his promised $5 million donation over a period of five years if the foundation did not disclose how much money was paid for public relations.

certifications that could lead to insurance discounts.

“As we reflect on the destruction of last year’s LA fires, we have a responsibility to ensure

families are never left so vulnerable again,” said Eric Horne, California director at Megafire Action. “We applaud Senator Allen for his leadership and dedication to protect Californians against future fires. This bill provides a clear, trusted path for families to safeguard their homes without breaking the bank.”

Allen emphasized that wildfire retrofits are key to stabilizing California’s insurance market. “We will never stabilize California’s insurance market until we address the root

problem: too many homes are burning down,” he said. “This proposed program will expand access to proven protections for the families and communities who need them most, protections that many insurers are already rewarding with significant premium discounts.”

SB 894 follows a Senate floor tribute by Allen and Senator Anthony Portantino (D-Pasadena) to the victims of the Palisades and Eaton fires. The legislation also aligns with the state’s recent announcement of a fund designed to bridge gaps between insurance payouts and rebuilding costs.

The bill is expected to be heard by the Senate Banking and Financial Institutions Committee in the coming weeks.

City of Malibu seeks nominations for 2026 Jake Kuredjian Citizenship Award

Do you know a Malibu resident whose efforts make the community shine? The City of Malibu is now accepting nominations for the 2026 Jake Kuredjian Citizenship Award, a recognition given to individuals or groups who go above and beyond to support Malibu’s parks,

recreation programs, and overall community well-being.

From coaching youth sports and volunteering at local events to quietly lending a hand to neighbors, the award celebrates those whose dedication brings people together — especially during times of healing and recovery.

Nominations will be accepted from Feb. 9 through March 31. Residents can submit their nominations at malibucity.org/JakeAward

The award is named in honor of Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Deputy Hagop “Jake” Kuredjian, who was tragically killed in the line of duty on Aug. 31, 2001. Deputy Kuredjian’s courage and commitment left a lasting legacy, and this award recognizes the heart of Malibu: people helping people.

If someone you know deserves recognition for their contributions, now is the time to nominate them and show appreciation for their impact on the Malibu community.

Malibu Life

Malibu High girls water polo rolls to league championship on Senior Day

Sharks take Tri-Valley League title; eyes set on CIF-SS playoffs

By MCKENZIE JACKSON

The Malibu High girls water polo team celebrated their seniors in a victorious way on Jan. 27 in the Malibu High pool. The squad recognized seniors Camille Garvin, a center; Ceylon Zappa, the team’s top scorer; and Neko Kincaid, a goalie, during a Senior Day ceremony that featured everything from baby photos to cheers. The team then

defeated Cate 19-0 to claim a third consecutive Tri-Valley League championship and solidify its spot in the CIF-Southern Section Girls Water Polo Division III Championships.

Malibu head coach Hayden Goldberg praised Garvin, Zappa, and Kincaid after the victory.

“I don’t worry about these girls,” he said. “They all have a right head on their shoulders, you know. That has been a blessing for me.”

He added that the 12th-graders have matured in the pool throughout high school.

“I’ve watched Neko get three goals scored on her real quick and then make 15 blocks in a row and us winning a

MALIBU’S BEST SHT

game from behind,” Goldberg recalled. “It’s a crazy game full of emotion that we play, and I’ve seen a huge growth from her with that.”

Garvin, the coach explained, learned her position from Stevie Sturges, one of Malibu’s top players in recent seasons, and has thrived.

“She has been unbelievable,” Goldberg said.

Zappa, the team’s record holder in goals scored in a game and a team captain with Kincaid, leads the Sharks by example, Goldberg stated.

“She will take a girl down and score on a girl and then point to her teammates,” he said. “She has been that girl. She has been phenomenal for us.”

The senior night ceremony before the match featured the seniors holding flowers — in Garvin’s case, flowers along with a cuddly Sharks toy and big head cutout baby photo of herself — and posing for pictures on the pool deck.

The Sharks dominated Cate from the start of the match to the very end.

Garvin, Kincaid, and Zappa, along with junior Olivya Wild-Mullarky, led Malibu to a 14-5 record, including an undefeated run through the Tri-Valley League.

The Sharks host Palm Desert in the first round of the playoffs on Thursday.

The winner will move on to the second round on Feb. 10. Malibu advanced to

the quarterfinals last February, losing to eventual champion San Dimas 8-6.

The Sharks posted dominant victories throughout their season, but also had some tough losses, which prepared the squad for the postseason. Goldberg described Malibu as a talented group offensively and defensively.

“These girls are dogs,” he added. “They are ready to go.”

The team features freshmen, who learned from the seniors throughout the regular season.

“I have nine freshmen who for the next three years are going to be like Ceylon, be like Camille, be like Neko, and I can’t be happier,” Goldberg said.

Two Malibu restaurants named most romantic in Los Angeles

Another romantic spot in Topanga makes the top 10 list

By JUDY ABEL Special to The Malibu Times

With Valentine’s Day just around the corner and Cupid aiming his golden arrow, those celebrating love may be happy to know that two Malibu restaurants earned the top two spots as the most romantic restaurants in Los Angeles.

According to Time Out’s latest Los Angeles guide, it seems the path to a lover’s heart leads straight up Pacific Coast Highway to two Malibu establishments at the pinnacle of amorous dining experiences.

Leading the newly updated list of 11 venues, recently trimmed down from 18 selections, the most romantic of all is Nobu Malibu, the iconic Japanese restaurant that Time Out Group media describes as so stunning visitors might find themselves muttering, “Is this real life?” The celebrity hotspot, which relocated from the Malibu Country Mart to its current beachfront location in 2002, offers what the guide calls quintessential “see-and-be-seen” dining with spectacular ocean views that somehow become even more atmospheric after sunset.

The largely unenclosed dining room allows sweeping water vistas from virtually every angle, while tall hedges create an exclusive yet intimate ambiance. Diners can indulge in Chef Nobu Matsuhisa’s signature dishes, in-

PEOPLE

Getting busy in the music business: Part One

MALIBU SEEN

By Benjamin Marcus, Entertainment Editor

Kevin Zinger on his past, present and future with SRH, Regime and Sublime Redux

Billy Gale is a talented guitarist and singer who can be persistent when he thinks something should be done. Last August, for my Second Birthday at the Old Place, Billy introduced me to Kevin Zinger and suggested I do a story about him in The Malibu Times. Distracted by all the fire coverage and other things, here it is January 2026 and it’s time. We communicated over the weekend of the Grammys and came out with a 10,000word interview that might have to be in two pieces. Here is Part One.

Your friend, the charming and glamorous Billy Gale, has been nudging me to do a story about you since my Second Birthday at the Old Place way back in August. I got distracted by all the fire coverage — for which I am certain to win a Pulitzer prize — but the editrix of Malibu Times wants me to stick to entertainment, so here we are.

I love Billy. Incredibly talented guy and the last of the real Malibu Cowboys. And he is indeed persistent.

We drove up to Santa Cruz and back last week, and on the way back, we couldn’t get any radio stations along Big Sur — not even KPIG one oh seven oink five — so I listened to German Tim’s playlist. He had Lana del Rey on who I had kind of written off as another chick singer. But she did a nice version of “Summertime (Doin’ Time)” by Sublime.

She did a real good job. It’s actually a song that has been sampled and redone many times. The original was from George Gershwin. Sublime sampled it, but even Janis Joplin did a version, so Lana is in good company.

I’ve always said Janis Joplin’s version of “Summertime” is the best cover of a song ever. I’m going to listen to that right now. That guitar intro is … sublime! Ha! Good idea.

And then I was listening to KJACK Radio 93.1 and they played Smoked Two Joints, and I took that as a sign. Billy says you’re involved with Sublime. He said “Not to tell the master, but for your info, Jakob Nowell is, of course, the son of The Prodigy and carrying on the tradition. Zane Vandevort is the guitar genius. My perspective from working with them is this: There is Lennon and McCartney. There is Jagger and Richards. There is Graham Nash and David Crosby, and in 10 years Jakob and Zane can be the next legends. When I started working with them I took it all with a grain of salt. But now I believe if they stay together, work hard and stay humble they can be a major force in West Coast rock. Meet them and decide for yourself.”

To that I used a Vincent Vega line from “Pulp Fiction”: “That’s a bold statement.” We’ll get into your involvement with Sublime Viejo and Sublime Nuevo, but let’s do some backstory first. You started off promoting shows in San Diego.

When I first started promoting shows in San Diego, I wasn’t even old enough to get into the clubs I was booking. I was 18 years old, running

By

Levents in 21+ rooms. By the time I turned 21, my 21st birthday party was hilarious — because a bunch of club owners were there, genuinely confused. I’d been filling their venues for three years, but technically wasn’t old enough to walk through the front door.

By then, we were doing five nights a week in different clubs, booking a wide mix of genres and styles. The common thread was the culture: underground music tied to surfing, skating, action sports, and that Southern California DIY energy.

Some examples of bands we promoted or hosted during those years include: Pennywise, NOFX, Sublime, 311, Slightly Stoopid, Korn, Incubus, and Jurassic 5 — all very different genres, but all connected by that same scene.

We also booked bands we grew up on: Bad Brains, DI, Youth Brigade, Jane’s Addiction, Eek-A-Mouse, RKL, and many more.

A big part of the ecosystem back then was action sports media. I helped surf, skate, and snowboard filmmakers source music for their films, which created a natural loop: the bands became the soundtrack of ‘90s/early-2000s action-sports videos, and we’d often end up doing premiere parties or tie-in shows around the releases.

This was roughly 1993–2000, long before social media. At the time, we didn’t realize how special it was. We were just living it. Looking back, it feels like a secret club — if you were there, you know. And I never lost that mindset. When I produced the movie “Saving Banksy,” I used music that aligned with street art culture. Music can make or break film, and it’s important that it’s authentic to the subject manner.

Well I know a lot of those bands because I worked at SURFER Magazine all through the 1990s and watched an AWFUL lot of surf videos. In fact I started the SURFER Magazine Surf Video Awards around 1994 to sort out what was good and what was bad. So yes, I know those bands.

At 18, I was living in Mission Beach in a tiny one-bedroom that was basically a punk-rock crash pad. Rent was cheap for a reason: too many people crammed inside, junk everywhere, broken windows, bills rarely paid — half the time the electricity didn’t work, and we were lucky if we had consistent running water. It was filthy … and it was also rad. We didn’t know any better.

That place was constantly full — pro surfers, skaters, musicians, beautiful girls, and our local crew. In a weird way, the “open door” energy stuck with me, just not the dirty crash-pad part. Even today, I’ve always had an open-door policy. Maybe it comes from those years, or maybe it’s because I was an only child.

Now the crew calls my place in Malibu “Camp Rad.” My management company is called Regime — so of course the joke is that it stands for “Regime Adult Daycare.” My guest house is a revolving door of pro surfers, musicians, MMA guys, artists — people who are top-level in their lane. It can get hectic, but it’s a blessing: I get to learn, stay inspired, and we run the business like a family. I don’t

ike most of you, I traverse the PCH several times a week, and also like most of you, I have noticed a sign announcing the impending arrival of a new tenant where PC Greens used to

The sign simply says, “Hank’s

Coming Soon.” Hank’s is a grocery store/supermarket specializ-

look at the people we work with as “clients.” I look at them like family. For example, Jakob Nowell (Sublime singer) has a key to my house and a permanent room. Friends like Rob Garcia (one of the top boxing/ strength coaches in the world) and Jesse James Johnson (pro surfer and musician) have stayed with us for long stretches. Having people like that around — training during the day and jam sessions around the firepit at night — is something I don’t take for granted.

Musically, I’ve always been all over the map. Back then, you were “the punk kid” or “the hip-hop kid” or “the metal kid.” I liked all of it — punk rock to gangster rap — but it all shared the same DNA: street music, anti-pop, outsider culture, authenticity. The scene we helped build was nothing more than all of us doing what we loved and helping each other out. We never thought about it really, and we certainly didn’t realize how many of the people around us would later become legends at their crafts.

Bands like Pennywise and Sublime went from local heroes to worldwide bands. Skaters like Chad Muska, Sean Sheffey, and Jason Carney went from skating in the front of the house to the covers of magazines. Risk went from a graffiti tagger to a huge fine artist. Looking back it’s crazy to think how these things went on to shape SoCal culture for years.

Which shows and bands did you support that later became major acts?

A big turning point started with a nightclub connection. Someone invited me out because I knew a lot of people and could bring a crowd. I told them I wasn’t old enough to get in, though. I was only 18 at the time. They said, “Don’t worry — bouncers are covered. Just bring people.”

I brought a group, but the club was dead. A few days later, the guy behind it — Ryan (who’s still my partner to this day in SRH) — asked if I wanted to partner with him on the night.

Again, I said, “I’m not old enough.” He said, “We’ll handle it.”

So I put together a flyer, booked a couple bands, and — boom — we packed the place.

From there it exploded:

Week one: about 500 people

Week two: packed

Week three: line around the block

Other club owners found out and wanted us to take over additional nights. We branded everything with the SRH logo — “SRH Presents.” It became a familiar mark in the beach communities because our crew wore it, wrote it on boards, and we made stickers and tees.

We hosted and promoted bands before they became household names — Pennywise, The Offspring, Sublime, 311, Incubus, Blink-182, Unwritten Law, and many more. At the time, nobody had huge followings yet, but people learned they’d get a certain vibe, a certain energy, and a certain kind of crowd at our events. That consistency built momentum. By the time I was old enough to actually get into the clubs I was throwing. SRH was the biggest club and concert promoter in SD, and we expanded into markets all the way up the coast. The clothing side was taking off and we built a platform that

helped so many bands. That early opportunity Ryan gave me shaped the next three decades of my life. Early shows included bands like Sublime, Offspring, Pennywise, and Sugar Ray, back when they were called Shrinky Dinx and were a lot more punk than the tunes they are known for. And on the label and management side, I have had the privilege of working with some of my favorite bands of all time. Sublime, WAR, Amigo the Devil, House of Pain, Everlast, Dilated Peoples would all be at the top of my playlist and I get to work with them every day.

I remember Shrinky Dinx. When I worked for SURFER Magazine I was at a surf industry party somewhere in Orange County where the Shrinky Dinx singer jumped off some speakers and broke an ankle or something. He survived and had a good solo career as Sugar Ray.

By the time I was 21, Ryan and I were among the biggest promoters in San Diego, throwing shows constantly.

At the same time, I was still surfing for a clothing sponsor (Gotcha), but I didn’t really connect with their product — and honestly, I was young and out all night. Eventually they dropped me.

So I went to Ryan and said: “I’m going to take the money from the clubs and invest it into clothing — something that actually represents how we live and dress.”

This was pre-internet, pre-social media. I had no proof anyone beyond our scene would want it. I just believed there were other people out there who felt the same way and didn’t connect with the mainstream surf fashion at the time.

I think Michael Tomson would be disappointed to hear Gotcha described as “mainstream,” but that’s what happens. The temptation to sell at Costco and Target and Walmart and make a gazilliion dollars.

That became SRH, originally “Stoners Reeking Havoc.” “Supporting Radical Habits” came later, and the brand came to represent both.

Back then, having weed tied to your brand wasn’t a marketing angle — it was a liability. But we believed in legalization, we stuck with it, and we built SRH up to a point where it was doing around $10 million a year at its peak — while we were still promoting shows.

If I may quote Spicoli: “Righteous bucks!”

Eventually a San Diego band asked me to manage them — Sprung Monkey. I told them I didn’t know anything about management, and they said, “You didn’t know anything about clubs or clothing either.”

So I dove in. From there, things escalated fast. I later got pulled into a bigger label conversation that turned into a major deal — Kottonmouth Kings — at a time when that blend of punk/hip-hop felt way less common in the mainstream.

And through all of it, I stayed close to the bands I’d been supporting since the early days — especially Sublime. I would bet they played more shows for SRH than for any other promoter, especially before 1996.

One of the proudest moments I’ve ever been told came years later when Miguel, one of Sublime’s early producers and the owner of Skunk Records, told me: “You were the first person to ever pay Sublime a thousand dollars.” I’ll never forget that.

Which artists have you worked with that became major acts?

Early promotion years included: Korn, Sugar Ray, The Offspring, Pennywise, Sublime (and many others).

On the label/management side, we’ve worked with artists including: Sublime, WAR, Amigo the Devil, Common Kings, Hed P.E., Everlast, Kottonmouth Kings, G. Love, Dilated Peoples, Die Antwoord, House of Pain, Kyuss Lives, and more.

My older brother did some gigs with WAR. Oh wait, he says WAR didn’t use horns — it was Malo he played with. Mea culpa. We’ve also been part of Grammy-winning and Grammy-nominated projects with artists such as Cedric Burnside, Poncho Sanchez, and The Infamous Stringdusters, among others.

I started managing a band that went on to have solid regional success, and then I started working with another band. Around that time, Tom Whalley — who was running Interscope Records then — had a brother living in San Diego. He was very aware of the clubs and bands we were promoting. By 1996–97, that whole scene started exploding in a bigger way, and we’d been booking those bands for a long time. His brother reached out and wanted me to come up to L.A. to talk about doing this and that. Honestly, I didn’t even know what Interscope was at the time. And I wasn’t interested in moving back to L.A. or getting into that world. I was a big fish in a small pond, I was happy, I was young, and I loved what we were building — so I kept blowing them off.

Eventually, though, I was managing another band they really wanted to sign. Because Tom was such a big player in the industry at the time, it turned into a serious bidding war. Out of that, we landed a label deal with Capitol — one of the biggest deals of that era, if I’m remembering the year right. The

band was Kottonmouth Kings.

I ran that through Chat GPT to get the details and it said: “Kottonmouth Kings didn’t sign a traditional, straight-up Interscope artist deal. Their breakthrough came through Suburban Noize with major-label backing and distribution via Capitol/EMI, which gave them funding, promotion, and retail reach while they kept unusual creative and merch control. Exact dollar amounts were never publicly disclosed, and most of the ‘big money’ numbers people repeat are industry rumor rather than documented fact.” This was before Eminem, and before “white rap” was really established. Back then it was basically Vanilla Ice — which wasn’t exactly credible — and then you had House of Pain. Beyond that, it wasn’t common. Kottonmouth Kings blended punk rock and hip-hop, and that’s exactly why I gravitated toward them. I’ve always liked multiple genres, especially when they share the same DNA and collide in a real way.

Speaking of multiple genres, I’m listening to Station to Station right now which I think comes from one of the greatest funk albums of all time — by one of the whitest artists of all time. At the same time, I was still working with Sublime and all the other bands we were booking. Honestly, I’d bet large dollars Sublime played more shows for SRH than any other company in the world. This was all before Brad Nowell passed away in 1996. We grew the promotion business from San Diego all the way up to Santa Cruz. We ran tours, we built relationships, and there was loyalty both ways — those bands stayed loyal to us, and we stayed loyal to them.

I grew up in Santa Cruz in the 1970s into the 1980s and the music scene there was silly. Bands on their way up made it a point to play Santa Cruz, so we saw the Police at the Civic, B52s and Talking Heads at the Coconut Grove. Devo and The Tubes put on great shows. I was gone by the ‘90s. We’re out of space and will continue in Part Two.

Thank you for taking the time, Thank Billy the Persistent. I will.

ing in organic foods. The story of the new tenant’s anticipated arrival first appeared in this very newspaper back in late 2023. Obviously, the Palisades fire set back opening day, but we are now in 2026, and other than the sign, I don’t see any indication of a grand opening. I took the liberty of looking up the word “soon,” and not to my surprise, the definition is “in or after a short time.” I am a patient man (that assertion is a bald-faced lie), but over two years is not by any stretch of the imagination a short time.

Now I would like to make a personal plea to whoever runs Hank’s. Please hurry up and move in already. I am in my 80s, and I don’t know how many years, let alone days, I have left to patronize your store. I need all the organic food I can get. I have no clue what organic food is, but I’m sure it is good for me. If you want my business, you might want to speed up the moving process. If you can’t move in any faster, then at least change your sign to reflect the truth: “Hank’s Organic Perhaps Coming Some Day.”

Postscript: NEVER MIND. Please ignore everything written above. You won’t believe this, but the very first time I passed the store since submitting this column, I noticed the sign was down and had been replaced by colorful artwork depicting the products to be sold there. It looks like Hank’s will be opening sooner than later. My bride pointed out the irony that the removal of the “Coming Soon” sign was an indication that the store was, in fact, coming soon. Let us all patronize this new store when it finally opens.

Waves women’s Basketball holds off Santa Clara for key WCC road victory

Pepperdine

secures first WCC road win of the season behind balanced scoring and late-game grit

By McKENZIE JACKSON Special to The Malibu Times

The Pepperdine Waves women’s basketball team claimed its first road victory in West Coast Conference play this season on Jan. 31.

The Waves traveled to the Bay Area and edged the Santa Clara Broncos 74-72 at the Leavey Center. The win pushed Pepperdine’s record to 14-9 overall and 5-6 in the WCC.

Waves interim head coach Brian Porth said he was proud of the grit and growth his squad showed.

cluding the famous Black Cod with Miso and Yellowtail Sashimi with Jalapeño, all while positioned mere feet from crashing ocean waves. But be forewarned. Nobu features one of the priciest menus on the list and reservations fill up fast, 30 days in advance and are only taken by phone. If you miss out this Valentine’s Day, there’s always next year.

The number two spot in Time Out’s rankings is the gorgeous Geoffrey’s Malibu, praised for its dramatic clifftop perch at 27400 Pacific Coast Highway. The restaurant manages to balance family-friendly appeal with undeniable romantic allure, particularly for couples securing coveted tables along the railing that offer unobstructed Pacific panoramas.

The menu features California cuisine with global influences, from classic steaks and seafood to unexpected offerings like soy-glazed tofu and vegan red curry. The crowd favorite remains the baked Brie in puff pastry, served with pear chutney, beurre blanc, and toasted pine nuts. The restaurant also provides direct access to a lesser-known public beach, perfect for romantic strolls

“Stacking good days requires stacking small moments, and they did that for 40 minutes,” he said.

Junior forward Shorna Preston and junior guard Lina Faulk led Pepperdine with 15 points each. Faulk also grabbed 10 rebounds. Junior guard Taija Sta. Maria and graduate guard Meghan Fiso each added 14 points.

Six different Pepperdine players — Faulk, Fiso, Sta. Maria, Preston, sophomore guard Elli Guiney, and freshman guard Seleh Harmon — scored in the fourth quarter, pushing their squad to the win. Preston and Fiso scored consecutively, giving Pepperdine a four-point advantage with just under four minutes left in the game. Santa Clara tied the game 72-72 with 23 seconds left. But then Guiney scored on a layup, putting her team up again with two seconds on the clock. The Broncos weren’t able to score on their final possession.

before or after meals. What gives these two Malibu restaurants their romantic edge? According to Time Out’s assessment, it’s the unbeatable combination of natural beauty, culinary excellence, and that ineffable California coastal magic. Time Out’s updated guide specifically highlights beachside and rooftop venues with stunning views, and these two Malibu establishments delivered on both fronts.

SUMMONS (CITACION JUDICIAL)

CASE NUMBER: 25SMCV04824

NOTICE TO DEFENDANT: BERNARD ALEXANDER, an individual (AVISO AL DEMANDADO)

YOU ARE BEING SUED BY PLAINTIFF: (LO ESTA DEMANDANDO EL DEMANDANTE): GAIL STEINBERG, an Individual, ALEXA JACOBS F/K/A ALEXA STEINBERG, an Individual,

NOTICE! You have been sued. The court may decide against you without your being heard unless you respond within 30 days. Read the information below. You have 30 CALENDAR DAYS after this summons and legal papers are served on you to file a written response at this court and have a copy served on the plaintiff. A letter or phone call will not protect you. Your written response must be in proper legal form if you want the court to hear your case. There may be a court form that you can use for your response. You can find these court forms and more information at the California Courts Online Self-Help Center (www.courts.ca.gov/selfhelp.htm)should be, your county law library, or the courthouse nearest you. If you cannot pay the filing fee, ask the court clerk for a fee waiver form. If you do not file your response on time, you may lose the case by default, and your wages, money, and property may be taken without further warning from the court. There are other legal requirements. You may want to call an attorney right away. If you do not know an attorney, you may want to call an attorney referral service. If you cannot afford an attorney, you may be eligible for free legal services from a nonprofit legal services program. You can locate these nonprofit groups at the California Legal Services Web site (www.lawhelpcalifornia.org, the California Courts Online Self-Help Center (www.courts. ca.gov/selfhelp.htm), or by contacting your local court or county bar association.

Tiene 30 DIAS DE CALENDARIO despues de que le entreguen esta citacion y papeles legales para presentar una respuesta por escrito en esta corte y hacer que se entregue una copia at demandante. Una carta o una llamada telefonica no to protegen. Su respuesta por escrito tiene que estar en formato legal correcto si desea que procesen su caso en la corte. Es posible que haya un formulario que usted pueda usar para su respuesta. Puede encontrar estos formularios de la corte y mas informacion en el Centro de Ayuda de las Cortes de California (www. courts.ca.gov/13289.htm), en la biblioteca de leyes de su condado o en la corte que le quede mas cerca. Si no puede pagar la cuota de presentacion, pida al secretario de la corte que le de un formulario de exencion de pago de cuotas. Si no presenta su respuesta a tiempo, puede perder el caso por incumplimiento y la corte le podra quitar su sueldo, dinero y bienes sin mas advertencia.

Both teams only managed one basket apiece in the contest’s first three minutes. However, both teams eventually found an offensive rhythm, and the Waves, led by Faulk and Fiso, had a 17-12 lead at the end of the first quarter.

Pepperdine increased its lead to 33-19 in the second quarter when Preston scored, but before halftime, Santa Clara stormed back on a 14-1 run. The Waves still held a 34-33 halftime lead.

The squads traded baskets in the third quarter. With Preston’s eight points, three assists, and two steals in the period, the Waves had a 57-53 advantage going into the fourth quarter.

The win marked Pepperdine’s first victory over Santa Clara in three seasons. The Waves carry a three-game winning streak into their home matchup against Washington State. It is their first WCC streak of at least three games since the 2019–20 season.

The guide’s editors noted that today’s diners expect more than just good food when celebrating special occasions. They want experiences that create lasting memories and probably a few selfies that provide a stunning backdrop. Whether it’s the sound of waves crashing during dinner at Nobu or watching the sun set, painting the sky pink and purple over the Pacific from Geoffrey’s tropical terrace, these venues offer

sensory experiences that transcend typical dining.

While Malibu restaurants took the two top spots on the list, the fairytale, multi-tiered patio at Inn of the Seventh Ray in nearby Topanga Canyon earned the 7th spot on the list of romantic dining venues. The Inn of the Seventh Ray, that recently celebrated its 50th anniversary is a popular site for weddings, hosting more than 100 a year and likely pro-

LEGAL NOTICES

Hay otros requisitos legales. Es recomendable que llame a un abogado inmediatamente. Si no conoce a un abogado, puede llamar (a un servicio de remission a abogados. Si no puede pagar a un abogado, es posible que cumpla con los requisitos para obtener servicios legales gratuitos de un programa de servicios legales sin fines de lucro. Puede encontrar estos grupos sin fines de lucro en el sitio web de California Legal Services, (www.lawhelpcalifornia.org), en el Centro de Ayuda de las Cortes de California, (www. courts.ca.gov/13289.htm) o poniendose en contacto con la corte o el colegio de abogados locales.

The name and address of the court is: (El nombre y dirección de la corte es):

Superior Court of California, Los Angeles County, 1725 Main Street, Santa Monica, CA. 90403, West District

The name, address, and telephone number of plaintiff’s attorney, or plaintiff without an attorney, is: (El nombre, la dirección y el número de teléfono del abogado del demandante, o del demandante que no tiene abogado, es):

E. Jay Gotfredson, 11766 Wilshire Boulevard, Suite 440, Los Angeles, CA. 90025, 855-445-7700/310-478-0808

DATE: September 16, 2025 (Fecha) Clerk,, by David W. Slayton, Executive Officer/Clerk of Court, (Secretario) by M. Elder, Deputy Clerk (Adjunto) Judge for the Superior Court

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2025276646

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT

THE FOLLOWING PERSON IS (ARE) DOING BUSINESS AS: GOTT’S ROADSIDE - SANTA MONICA, GOTT’S - SANTA MONICA, GOTT’S ROADSIDE, GOTT’S 401 WILSHIRE BLVD STE 120 AND 140, SANTA MONCA, CA 90401, LOS COUNTY

Articles of Incorporation or Organization Number (if applicable): Registered Owner(s): GOTT BROTHERS DEVELOPMENT LLC 1360 ADAMS STREET SAINT HELENA, CA 94574 If Corporation or LLC- State of Incorporation/Organization CA

N/A I

in this statement is true and

posals too. Time Out called the “Inn” a “bucolic city escape” perfect for “love-stricken diners.” In the daytime, the wooded setting is serene, next to a sometimes-babbling brook. At night, under twinkling lights draped around lilac and oak trees, the scene becomes more dramatic and alluring for young lovers and those young at heart, celebrating lasting relationships.

Rounding out Time Out’s

correct. (A registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows to be false is guilty of a crime).

Signed, GOTT BROTHERS DEVELOPMENT LLC, JOEL A. GOTT, GENERAL PARTNER

This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Los Angeles County on DEC 12 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: 1/15, 1/22, 1/29, 2/5/2026

MALIBU 9

2025280083

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT

THE FOLLOWING PERSON IS (ARE) DOING BUSINESS AS:

VALERIE MYA

29127 TRIUNFO DRIVE, AGOURA HILLS, CA 91301, LOS ANGELES COUNTY

Articles of Incorporation or Organization Number (if applicable):

Registered Owner(s):

VALERIE WALTERS

29127 TRIUNFO DRIVE

AGOURA HILLS, CA 91301

If Corporation or LLC- State of Incorporation/Organization

This business is conducted by: AN INDIVIDUAL

The date registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: 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, VALERIE WALTERS, OWNER

This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Los Angeles County on 12/17/2025 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

list, two Santa Monica restaurants made the cut – the swanky Penthouse at the Huntley Hotel, 18 floors up, featuring stunning ocean and city lights views and the chic and bustling Èlephante. Èlephante’s indoor/outdoor space is one of the buzziest, casually elegant spaces around, serving seasonal California Italian cuisine and breezy cocktails. Interesting to note that no restaurant in Beverly Hills made the list.

Rounding out Time Out’s most romantic establishments are:

Wolfgang Puck’s pan-Asian eatery Merois, perched high atop the Sun Rose building in West Hollywood, offering a glitzy setting and views; celebrity hotspot Ardor at EDITION in West Hollywood; Mirate in Los Feliz, offering Mexican delicacies and cocktails in a dreamy open-air dining room; Cara Restaurant whose outdoor dining room surrounds a stunning reflective pool with an occasional live jazz band; the dark and moody Firefly in Studio City, featuring a cozy fireplace, secret garden, and twinkling lights; and finally at number 11, downtown Los Angeles’ 71Above that boasts views from Malibu to Laguna Hills.

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: 1/15, 1/22, 1/29, 2/5/2026 MALIBU 10

PUBLIC NOTICE

NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S SALE Trustee Sale No. 25-000142CTT Loan No: ******.003/Kemper APN 4458-007-019 YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF TRUST, SECURITY AGREEMENT AND FIXTURE FILING WITH ASSIGNMENT OF RENTS DATED NOVEMBER 21, 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 PROCEEDINGS AGAINST YOU, YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LAWYER. On February 11, 2026, 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 November 27, 2024, as Instrument No. 20240836835 of official records in the office of the Recorder of Los Angeles County, CA, executed by: Ross Hilton Kemper and Linda Kerkorian Kemper, Trustees of The Ross Hilton Kemper and Linda Kerkorian Kemper Family Trust Dated May 7, 2002 who were identified in the Deed of Trust as Ross Hilton Kemper and Linda Kerkorian Kemper, Trustees of The Ross Hilton Kemper and Linda Kerkorian Kempe Family Trust Dated May 7, 2002, as Trustor (the “Trustor”), in favor of HANKEY CAPITAL, LLC, a California limited liability company, as Beneficiary, 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: A PARCEL OF LAND SITUATED IN THE COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES, STATE OF CALIFORNIA, BEING A PART OF RANCHO TOPANGA MALIBU SEQUIT, AS PER MAP RECORDED IN BOOK 1 PAGES 414 TO 416 INCLUSIVE OF PATENTS, IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY RECORDER OF SAID COUNTY, PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED AS A WHOLE AS FOLLOWS: COMMENCING AT ENGINEER’S CENTER LINE CONTINUED ON

STATION 944 PLUS 81.47 IN A TANGENT BEARING SOUTH 83° 09’ 30” WEST OF THE 80 FOOT STRIP OF LAND AS DESCRIBED IN THE FINAL ORDER OF CONDEMNATION IN SUPERIOR COURT CASE NO. 135650, A CERTIFIED COPY OF FINAL ORDER BEING RECORDED IN BOOK 9434 PAGE 338, OFFICIAL RECORDS, SAID CENTER LINE STATION BEING SOUTH 00° 40’ 42” EAST 4183.75 FEET FROM A 12 INCH BY 12 INCH SANDSTONE MONUMENT MARKED TM 4 IN THE ROOT OF A 54 INCH SYCAMORE AT A NORTH BOUNDARY CORNER OF SAID RANCHO, DESCRIBED ON COUNTY SURVEYOR’S MAP 9207, RECORDS OF SAID COUNTY, THENCE ALONG THE CENTER LINE OF SAID 80 FOOT STRIP OF LAND SOUTH 83° 09’ 30” WEST 2622.71 FEET TO THE WESTERLY TERMINAL OF SAID TANGENT OF SAID 80 FOOT STRIP AND ENGINEER’S STATION 918 PLUS 58.76; THENCE SOUTH 06° 50’ 30” EAST 40 FEET TO A POINT IN THE SOUTHERLY LINE OF SAID 80 FOOT STRIP, CONCAVE SOUTHERLY HAVING A RADIUS OF 1460 FEET, A DISTANCE OF 305.00 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING; THENCE EASTERLY ALONG SAID CURVE 35.00 FEET TO A POINT; THENCE SOUTH 20° 05’ 12” EAST 150 FEET TO A POINT; THENCE SOUTH 18° 01’ 50” EAST 202 FEET, MORE OR LESS, TO A POINT IN THE ORDINARY HIGH TIDE LINE OF PACIFIC OCEAN; THENCE WESTERLY ALONG SAID ORDINARY HIGH TIDE LINE 29 FEET, MORE OR LESS, TO THE INTERSECTION OF SAID TIDE LINE AND THAT LINE WHICH BEARS SOUTH 20° 05’ 12” EAST FROM SAID POINT OF BEGINNING; THENCE NORTH 20° 05’ 12” WEST 345 FEET, MORE OR LESS, TO SAID POINT OF BEGINNING. EXCEPT THEREFROM ANY PORTION OF SAID LAND FORMED BY ACCRETION BY THE PACIFIC OCEAN WHICH WAS NOT FORMED BY THE DEPOSIT OF ALLUVION FROM NATURAL CAUSES AND IMPERCEPTIBLE DEGREES. ALSO EXCEPT THEREFROM ALL MINERAL, OIL, PETROLEUM, ASPHALTUM, GAS, COAL AND OTHER HYDROCARBON SUBSTANCES AND WATER CONTAINED IN, ON, WITHIN AND UNDER SAID PROPERTY AND EVERY PART THEREOF, AS RESERVED IN THE DEED RECORDED MAY 4, 1937 AS INSTRUMENT NO. 587, OFFICIAL RECORDS. PARCEL 2: A PARCEL OF LAND BEING A PART OF RANCHO TOPANGA MALIBU SEQUIT, AS PER MAP THEREOF RECORDED IN BOOK 1 PAGES 414 TO 416 INCLUSIVE OF PATENTS, IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY RECORDER OF SAID COUNTY, AS DESCRIBED IN THAT CERTAIN DECREE OF CONDEMNATION RECORDED NOVEMBER 20, 1929 AS INSTRUMENT NO. 1192 IN BOOK 9434 PAGE 388, OFFICIAL RECORDS, BOUNDED NORTHERLY BY THE SOUTHERLY LINE OF THE LAND AS DESCRIBED IN THE DEED OF THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA, RECORDED OCTOBER 8, 1937 AS INSTRUMENT NO. 1316 IN BOOK 15228 PAGE 342, OFFICIAL RECORDS, AND BOUNDED EASTERLY AND WESTERLY BY THE NORTHERLY PROLONGATION OF THE EAST AND WEST LINES OF THE LAND AS DESCRIBED IN THE DEED TO MARGO BOTSFORD, SUSAN WODIUM, PETER G. BOTSFORD, KATHERINE B. HATTERSLEY AND

ANDREW M. BOTSFORD, RECORDED OCTOBER 29, 1981 AS INSTRUMENT NO. 81-1062720, 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.servicelinkasap.com, using the file number assigned to this case 25-00014-2CTT. 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.

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 1.866.684.2727, or visit this internet website www.servicelinkasap.com, using the file number assigned to this case 25-00014-2CTT 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. The real Property heretofore described is

PUBLIC NOTICE

CITY OF MALIBU FISCAL YEAR 2024-2025

In accordance with State of California Government Code Section 40804, each city is required to publish a summary of its Annual Financial Transactions Report. The following is a summary of financial transactions for the City of Malibu for the Fiscal Year Ending June 30, 2025. SUMMARY

Excess (Deficiency) of Revenues Over (Under) Expenditures

Income (Loss) Before Capital Contributions, Transfers,and Special and Extraordinary Items

Other Financing Sources (Uses)

Capital Contributions

Proprietary Fund Transfers In (Out)

Special and Extraordinary Items

(Specify)

to the Limit

Questions regarding this summary of financial transactions may be directed to Financial Controller, Renee Neermann: (310) 456-2489 /rneermann@malibucity.org

being sold “as is”. The street address and other common designation, if any, of the real Property described above is purported to be: 23872 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 $12,661,081.86 (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: January 12, 2026 CHICAGO TITLE COMPANY, TRUSTEE 25-000142CTT 5170 Golden Foothill Parkway, Suite 130 El Dorado Hills, CA 05762 916-636-0114 Lindsay Lopez, Authorized Signor SALE INFORMATION CAN BE OBTAINED ON LINE AT www.servicelinkasap.com AUTOMATED SALES INFORMATION PLEASE CALL 1.306.684.2727 A-4863497 01/22/2026, 01/29/2026, 02/05/2026 MALIBU 11

PUBLIC NOTICE

Title Order No.: 3656649-2 Trustee Sale No.: 88380 Loan No.: 9160093338 APN: 2049-038-025 NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S SALE YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UNDER A DEED OF TRUST DATED 8/1/2022 . 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 2/10/2026 at 10:30 AM, CALIFORNIA TD SPECIALISTS, AS TRUSTEE as the duly appointed Trustee under and pursuant to Deed of Trust Recorded on 8/3/2022 as Instrument No. 20220783292 in book ////, page //// of official records in the Office of the Recorder of Los Angeles County, California, executed by: YEVA SARKISYAN, A MARRIED WOMAN, AS HER SOLE AND SEPARATE PROPERTY , as Trustor MORTGAGE ELECTRONIC REGISTRATION SYSTEMS, INC. SOLEY AS

NOMINEE FOR POWER EXPRESS MORTGAGE BANKERS , as Beneficiary WILL SELL AT PUBLIC AUCTION TO THE HIGHEST BIDDER FOR CASH (payable at time of sale in lawful money of the United States, by cash, a cashier’s check drawn by 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). At: Behind the fountain located in Civic Center Plaza located at 400 Civic Center Plaza, Pomona, CA 91766, NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S SALE – continued all right, title and interest conveyed to and now held by it under said Deed of Trust in the property situated in said County, California describing the land therein: PARCEL 1: LOT 41 OF TRACT NO. 39509, IN THE COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES, STATE OF CALIFORNIA, AS PER MAP RECORDED IN BOOK 1119 PAGE(S) 38 THROUGH 66 INCLUSIVE OF MAPS, IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY RECORDER OF SAID COUNTY, AND AS AMENDED BY CERTIFICATE OF CORRECTION RECORDED FEBRUARY 8, 1989 AS INSTRUMENT NO. 89-216257 OF OFFICIAL RECORDS AND BY CERTIFICATE OF CORRECTION RECORDED JUNE 15, 1990 AS INSTRUMENT NO. 90- 1069901 OF OFFICIAL RECORDS. PARCEL 2: NONEXCLUSIVE EASEMENTS AS SUCH EASEMENTS ARE DESCRIBED JN THE SECTIONS ENTITLED “CERTAIN RIGHTS AND EASEMENTS RESERVED TO DECLARANT AND DECLARANT ASSIGNEES”, CERTAIN EASEMENTS FOR OWNERS· AND “SUPPORT, SETTLEMENT, ENCROACHMENT AND DRAINAGE” OF THE ARTICLE ENTITLED “EASEMENTS” OF THAT CERTAIN DOCUMENT ENTITLED “DECLARATION OF COVENANTS, CONDITIONS AND RESTRICTIONS AND RESERVATION OF EASEMENTS FOR MOUNTAIN VIEW ESTATES, A PLANNED RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT” RECORDED AUGUST 18, 1989 AS INSTRUMENT NO. 89-1333775 OF OFFICIAL RECORDS OF SAID COUNTY, AND ANY NOW OR HEREAFTER RECORDED AMENDMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTS THERETO (COLLECTIVELY THE “DECLARATION”. The 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: 5513 AMBER CIRCLE CALABASAS, CA 91302. 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, 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 said Deed of Trust, with interest thereon, as provided in said note(s), advances, if any, under the terms of the Deed of Trust, estimated fees, charges and expenses of the Trustee and of trusts created by said Deed of Trust, to-wit: $3,450,660.08 (Estimated). Accrued interest and additional advances, if any, will increase this figure prior to sale. 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 caused said Notice of

CONTINUED ON PAGE B5

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING CITY OF MALIBU PLANNING COMMISSION

The Malibu Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on MONDAY, March 2, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers, Malibu City Hall, 23825 Stuart Ranch Road, Malibu, CA on the project identified below.

SAFETY ELEMENT UPDATE

General Plan Amendment No. 24-002 – Consider the proposed General Plan Amendment to adopt the Safety Element Update and make a recommendation to the City Council.

The State of California requires each county and city to adopt a General Plan, consisting of several “elements,” including a Safety Element. The City’s General Plan Safety Element has been updated consistent with General Plan and Safety Element state law (Government Code Section 65302 et seq.). The purpose of the Safety Element is to incorporate safety considerations into the planning process by establishing goals, policies, and implementation actions intended to minimize the risk of injury, loss of life, property damage, and environmental damage associated with natural and man‐made hazards. This includes emergency preparedness; seismic and geologic hazards; flood hazards; fire hazards; climate adaptation; shoreline protection; and hazardous materials and waste. The Planning Commission is asked to provide a recommendation to the City Council. The City Council will consider adopting the proposed amendments at a future public hearing.

APPLICANT: LOCATION: APPLICATION FILED: CASE PLANNER: City of Malibu Citywide August 12, 2024 Allison Cook, Contract Planner, acook@malibucity.org (310) 456-2489, extension 246

The project is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). CEQA applies only to projects that have the potential for causing a significant effect on the environment. Pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3), where it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the activity in question may have a significant effect on the environment, the activity is not subject to CEQA. Therefore, because the Safety Element Update would involve adoption of a policy document that does not, in and of itself, include any proposed development or land alteration, and would not require rezoning or facilitate development beyond what is currently allowed in the City’s General Plan, it can therefore be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that adoption of the Safety Element Update would have a significant effect on the environment.

In addition, pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15308, the project is exempt from CEQA, as it consists of an action taken by a regulatory agency, as authorized by state or local ordinance, to assure the maintenance, restoration, enhancement, or protection of the environment where the regulatory process involves procedures for protection of the environment.

A written staff report will be available before the hearing for the project. All persons wishing to address the Commission regarding these matters will be afforded an opportunity in accordance with the Commission’s procedures. Oral and written comments may be presented to the Planning Commission on, or before, the date of the meeting.

A draft Safety Element is available for review by any interested person at the following location during regular business hours: Malibu City Hall – Reception Desk 23825 Stuart Ranch Road, Malibu, CA 90265

For more information, including drafts of the Safety Element, visit malibucity.org/SafetyElement. IF YOU CHALLENGE THE CITY’S ACTION IN COURT, YOU MAY BE LIMITED TO RAISING ONLY THOSE ISSUES YOU OR SOMEONE ELSE RAISED AT THE PUBLIC HEARING DESCRIBED IN

correct. (A registrant who declares as true information which he or she knows to be false is guilty of a crime).

Signed, LEONARDO FRANCO, OWNER

Default and Election of Sell to be recorded in the county where the real property is located and more than three months have elapsed since such recordation. DATE: 1/15/2026 CALIFORNIA TD SPECIALISTS, AS TRUSTEE, as Trustee 8190 EAST KAISER BLVD., ANAHEIM HILLS, CA 92808 PHONE: 714-283-2180 FOR TRUSTEE SALE INFORMATION LOG ON TO: www.stoxposting.com CALL: 844-477-7869 PATRICIO S. INCE’, VICE PRESIDENT CALIFORNIA TD SPECIALIST IS A DEBT COLLECTOR ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. “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 on 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 the outstanding lien 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 844-477-7869, or visit this internet Web site www.stoxposting.com, using the file number assigned to this case T.S.# 88380. 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.” For sales conducted after January 1, 2021: 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 (844) 477-7869, or visit this internet website www.STOX POSTING.com, using the file number assigned to this case 88380 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; by remitting the funds and affidavit described in Section 2924m(c) of the Civil Code; 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. Disclosure In compliance with CA civil code 2924f(F), the opening bid for the foreclosure sale is based on a valuation provided t the trustee by the lender of the lender’s representative. The trustee does not determine, verify, or opine on the accuracy of this valuation and makes no representation regarding the market value of the property subject to foreclosures (the “Property”). The trustee’s compliance or non-compliance with CA civil code 2924f(f) shall not be construed as an opinion, warranty, or representation regarding (i) the priority of the deed of trust being foreclosed, (ii) the condition of title to the Property, or (iii) any other matters affecting the Property, Including the value of the Property. The trustee relies solely on the trustee’s sale guaranty and/or Information provided by the lender regarding the lien priority and title condition and does not Independently verify such Information. All bidders are solely responsible for conducting their own Independent due diligence regarding the loan, the Property, its value, the lien priority of the deed of trust being foreclosed, and the condition of the title to the Property. The trustee assumes no liability for the accuracy or completeness of any information provided by third parties, including the lender. The valuation used to determine the minimum opening bid applies only to the Initially scheduled sale date. Any postponement or continuation of the sale does not obligate the trustee to obtain or rely upon a new valuation, nor does It alter the trustee’s limited role in the process.

MALIBU 12

2025281498

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT

THE FOLLOWING PERSON IS (ARE) DOING BUSINESS AS: PANDA SPHERE

10314 MONTARA AVENUE, SOUTH GATE, CA 90280, LOS ANGELES COUNTY

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

10314 MONTARA AVENUE SOUTH GATE, CA 90280

If Corporation or LLC- State of Incorporation/Organization

This business is conducted by: AN INDIVIDUAL

The date registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: 09/2025

I declare that all information in this statement is true and

This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Los Angeles County on DEC 19 2025

NOTICE IN ACCORDANCE WITH SUBDIVISION (a) OF SECTION 17920, A FICTITIOUS NAME STATEMENT GENERAL-

LY 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: 1/22, 1/29, 2/5, 2/12/2026

MALIBU 15

2026009167

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT

THE FOLLOWING PERSON IS (ARE) DOING BUSINESS AS: CHICKTICKS

1160 CHISOLM TRAIL DR, DIAMOND BAR, CA 91765, LOS ANGELES COUNTY

Articles of Incorporation or Organization Number (if applicable):

Registered Owner(s): ADRIKE GUNADI 1160 CHISOLM TRAIL DR DIAMOND BAR, CA 91765

If Corporation or LLC- State of Incorporation/Organization

This business is conducted by: AN INDIVIDUAL

The date registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on: 01/2026

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, ADRIKE GUNADI, ADRIKE GUNADI, OWNER

This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Los Angeles County on 1/14/2026

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: 1/22, 1/29, 2/5, 2/12/2026

MALIBU 16

NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF: SUZANNE LOUISE SINCLAIR CASE NO. 26STPB00495

To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the WILL or estate, or both of SUZANNE LOUISE SINCLAIR.

A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by GREGORY GAUTHIER in the Superior Court of California, County of LOS ANGELES.

THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that GREGORY GAUTHIER be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent.

THE PETITION requests the decedent’s WILL and codicils, if any, be admitted to probate. The WILL and any codicils are available for examination in the file kept by the court. THE PETITION requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority.

A HEARING on the petition will be held in this court as follows: 02/18/26 at 8:30AM in Dept. 67 located at 111 N. HILL ST., LOS ANGELES, CA 90012

IF YOU OBJECT to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney.

IF YOU ARE A CREDITOR or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code.

Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law.

YOU MAY EXAMINE the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk. Attorney for Petitioner

HANH N. ARCHER, ESQ. - SBN 213362

HANH N. ARCHER, A PROFESSIONAL CORPORATION

23440 HAWTHORNE BLVD., STE. 150

TORRANCE CA 90505

Telephone (310) 375-9266

1/29, 2/5, 2/12/26

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MALIBU TIMES

MALIBU 18

CITY OF MALIBU PUBLIC NOTICE INVITING APPLICATIONS FOR COUNCIL APPOINTMENT TO THE HARRY BAROVSKY MEMORIAL YOUTH COMMISSION

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE THAT the City of Malibu is accepting applications for Council appointment to the MALIBU YOUTH COMMISSION beginning February 9, 2026. The Malibu Youth Commission may make recommendations to the City Council with respect to matters concerning the City’s programs and projects targeted to serve young people in the community. The commission implements, with the assistance of appropriate members of the City staff and within budget limits, events, programs, and activities for the young people of the community and also holds fund-raising events to further the work of the Youth Commission. All money raised will be restricted so that it is used exclusively to support the work of the Commission, its events, programs, and activities.

Any students in grades 7th through 12th in the 2026-2027 school year who either live or attend school within the City of Malibu are eligible and recommended to apply.

The deadline to submit applications for consideration of appointment is Tuesday, March 31, 2026 at 11:59pm at MalibuCity.org/YouthCommission. Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted.

Please contact Sebastian Spiroglou at sspiroglou@mali bucity.org with any questions. We encourage applications to be submitted as soon as possible.

Publish: February 5, 2026

Kate Manisco, Recreation Manager MALIBU 17

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

The Los Angeles County Hearing Officer will conduct a public hearing to consider the project described below. A presentation and overview of the project will be given, and any interested person or authorized agent may appear and comment on the project at the hearing. The Hearing Officer will then consider to approve or deny the project or continue the hearing if it deems necessary. Should you attend, you will have an opportunity to testify, or you can submit written comments to the planner below or at the public hearing. If the final decision on this proposal is challenged in court, testimony may be limited to issues raised before or at the public hearing Hearing Date and Time: Tuesday, March 17, 2026, at 9:00 a.m.

Hearing Location: Hall of Records, 320 W. Temple Street, Room 150, Los Angeles, CA 90012. Virtual (Online) at bit. ly/ZOOM-HO. By phone at (669) 444-9171 or (719) 3594580 (ID: 824 5573 9842).

Project No.: PRJ2024-003002-(3)

Project Location: 1558 Will Geer Road, within the Santa Monica Mountains Planning Area CEQA Categorical Exemption: Class 1- Existing Facilities Project Description: A Conditional Use Permit to authorize the continued operation of a dog boarding and training facility

More information: Shawn Skeries 320 W. Temple Street, 13th Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90012. (213) 974-6411. sskeries@planning.lacounty.gov planning.lacounty.gov Case Material: https://bit.ly/PRJ2024-003002

If you need reasonable accommodations or auxiliary aids, contact the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Coordinator at (213) 974-6488 (Voice) or (213) 617-2292 (TDD) with at least 3 business days’ advanced notice. 2/5/26

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MALIBU TIMES

MALIBU 19

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING CITY OF MALIBU PLANNING COMMISSION

The Malibu Planning Commission will hold public hearing on TUESDAY, February 17, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers, Malibu City Hall, 23825 Stuart Ranch Road, Malibu, CA on the project identified below.

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

COASTAL DEVELOPMENT PERMIT NO. 23-034, MINOR MODIFICATION NO. 25-009, AND CODE VIOLATION

NO. 23-047 - An application to construct a new two-story, 18-foot high, 4,856 square foot single-family residence, including a 791 square foot attached garage and a 824 square foot second-story second unit, landscaping, hardscape, grading, fire department turnaround area, vehicular access gate, and the installation of a new onsite wastewater treatment system; including a minor modification for up to a 50 percent reduction of the front yard setback

Location: 33008 Pacific Coast Highway APN: 4473-017-009

Zoning: Rural Residential-Two Acre (RR-2) Applicant: Schmitz & Associates, Inc.

Owner: Bluff Top 1 LLC

Appealable to: City Council and California Coastal Commission

Environmental Review: Categorical Exemption CEQA Guidelines Sections 15303(a) and 15303(e) Application Filed: May 17, 2023

Case Planner: Didier Murillo, Principal Planner (310) 456-2489, extension 342 dmurillo@malibucity.org

For the project identified above with a categorical exemption for environmental review, pursuant to the authority and criteria contained in the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), the Community Development Director has analyzed this proposed project and found that it is listed among the classes of projects that have been determined not to have a significant adverse effect on the environment. Therefore, the project is categorically exempt from the provisions of CEQA. The Community Development Director has further determined that none of the six exceptions to the use of a categorical exemption apply to this project (CEQA Guidelines Section 15300.2).

A written staff report will be available at or before the hearing for the project. All persons wishing to address the Commission regarding this matter will be afforded an opportunity in accordance with the Commission’s procedures.

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

LOCAL APPEAL – A decision of the Planning Commission may be appealed to the City Council by an aggrieved person by written statement setting forth the grounds for appeal. An appeal shall be filed with the City Clerk within ten days following the date of action (15 days for tentative maps) for which the appeal is made and shall be accompanied by an appeal form and filing fee, as specified by the City Council. Appeal forms may be found online at www.malibucity.org/planningforms or in person at City Hall, or by calling (310) 456-2489, extension 246.

COASTAL COMMISSION APPEAL – For projects appealable to the Coastal Commission, an aggrieved person may appeal the Planning Commission’s approval to the Coastal Commission within 10 working days of the issuance of the City’s Notice of Final Action. Appeal forms may be found online at www.coastal.ca.gov or in person at the Coastal Commission South Central Coast District office located at 89 South California Street in Ventura, or by calling 805-585-1800. Such an appeal must be filed with the Coastal Commission, not the City.

IF YOU CHALLENGE THE CITY’S ACTION IN COURT, YOU MAY BE LIMITED TO RAISING ONLY THOSE ISSUES YOU OR SOMEONE ELSE RAISED AT THE PUBLIC HEARING DESCRIBED IN THIS NOTICE, OR IN WRITTEN CORRESPONDENCE DELIVERED TO THE CITY, AT OR PRIOR TO THE PUBLIC HEARING.

Yolanda Bundy, Community Development Director

Publish Date: February 5, 2026 MALIBU 20

NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF: ANDREW THOMAS BLACKMAN CASE NO. 26STPB00895

To all heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who may otherwise be interested in the WILL or estate, or both of ANDREW THOMAS BLACKMAN. A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by ROBERT BLACKMAN in the Superior Court of California, County of LOS ANGELES.

THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that ROBERT BLACKMAN be appointed as personal representative to administer the estate of the decedent.

THE PETITION requests authority to administer the estate under the Independent Administration of Estates Act. (This authority will allow the personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority.

A HEARING on the petition will be held in this court as follows: 02/27/26 at 8:30AM in Dept. 11 located at 111 N. HILL ST., LOS ANGELES, CA 90012

IF YOU OBJECT to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney.

IF YOU ARE A CREDITOR or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Code, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code. Other California statutes and legal authority may affect your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law.

YOU MAY EXAMINE the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk.

Attorney for Petitioner

Is

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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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tive customer service attitude by providing high level customer service to the public and City staff, in person and over the telephone. The ideal candidate will be detail-oriented, motivated, and flexible; demonstrate a proactive and creative approach to addressing challenges. The Building Inspector must have knowledge interpreting, applying, eral policy and legal guidelines. Must be skilled in exercising investigations and inspections; and have the ability to work under minimal supervision.Applicants must submit a completed online City Employment Application by the filing deadline. Visit MalibuCi ty.org/jobs for more information about this position, benefits, and to apply online. EOE/ADA CHARGE

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

Date: 6/8/2026 Time: 8:30 AM, Dept.: 3

The address of the court is:

SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES

ALHAMBRA COURTHOUSE 150 W. COMMONWEALTH AVE. ALHAMBRA, CA 91801

A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation, printed in this county (specify newspaper): The Malibu Times Date: JAN 26 2026

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ROBERTO LONGORIA, Judge of the Superior Court

DAVID W. SLAYTON Executive Officer/Clerk of Court PUB: 2/5, 2/12, 2/19, 2/26/2026 The Malibu Times MALIBU 23

2026020193

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT

THE FOLLOWING PERSON IS (ARE) DOING BUSINESS AS: THE BUG BREW COMPANY 21530 CALIFA STREET UNIT 330, WOODLAND HILLS, CA 91367, LOS ANGELES COUNTY

Articles of Incorporation or Organization Number (if applicable): Registered Owner(s): MARIE C VALDES 21530 CALIFA STREET UNIT 330 WOODLAND HILLS, CA 91367 If Corporation or LLC- State of Incorporation/Organization

SPORTS

Sharks boys volleyball training with championship mindset

Malibu High squad enters preseason play with intense practices and sights set

KENZIE JACKSON

TBy

he Malibu High Sharks boys volleyball team didn’t ease into preseason training last month — they sharpened a championship mindset.

The squad’s practices end with a six-onsix scrimmage, and the competitions have been action-packed, with the volleyball rarely touching the gym court, explained Malibu senior outside hitter Keegan Cross, 18.

“How high-level our six-on-sixes have been has me really excited,” he said. “It shows me I’m playing with the highest level this team has ever been. Carrying out long rallies during these six-on-sixes — people trying their hardest, putting in full effort

— it’s really cool to see. There have been rallies that went on for a minute or two, which is pretty long in volleyball.”

Cross noted that it is a substantial improvement from a couple of seasons ago.

“The ball might be hit once and then it would land on the ground with no contest,” he said.

The Sharks are preparing for a 2026 campaign in which they aim to win the Citrus Coast League title for a third consecutive season and make a deep run in the CIF postseason.

Malibu head coach Derek Saenz said practices have been fun and competitive.

“The intent is there,” he added. “We have a purpose, and we are making sure it stays fun. We have team goals and individual goals — of course everyone wants to win CIF.”

The bunch began preparing for the season in the wake of the players practicing with and playing in national tournaments with various volleyball clubs.

Saenz, who has coached most of the Sharks in past volleyball club tournaments, noted how all of the players have won medals at either USA Volleyball or AAU national tournaments. The coach added that Cross, senior Alex Galan, sophomore Luca Calvo, and juniors Timur Podgore, Lucas Galan, Martin Kurial, and Madeus Lupo have all earned All-American nominations at those events.

Cross, who played club volleyball with Southern California Volleyball Club 18-1 Molten, said club volleyball helps the Sharks refine their skills for the high school season.

“Our practices started a little slow with everyone coming from club season, but after the first one or two practices, we all started playing together and realized this season is going to be super fun,” he said. Podgore, 17, said the Sharks are all playing at their highest level after training with different clubs and coaches, which he said has helped refine their technique.

Malibu finished their 2025 campaign with a 23-9 overall record including a 10-0 mark in the Citrus Coast League. The squad entered the postseason with high hopes but was defeated by Notre Dame (SO) 3-1 in the opening round of the CIF Southern Section Division IV Boys Volleyball Championships.

Saenz said the playoff loss was a disappointment, especially since the team advanced to the quarterfinals of the Division VI playoffs in 2024, but he believes Mali-

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bu can be championship contenders in any CIF division.

“We are good enough,” Saenz said. “The main goal is to win a CIF championship wherever we are at.”

The coach also wants his team to celebrate their accomplishments, such as the squad’s seniors — Cross, Galan, Julian Calvo, Taj Menteer, and Sebastian Longo — staying together as a team during the growing pains in previous seasons.

“The coolest thing is that they stuck with it,” said Saenz, who began coaching most of the group when they were eighth-graders.

“We’ve had seniors before, but they haven’t had the structure where it’s an entire class of kids that have committed.”

While Podgore said the Sharks play best when they are scrappy, Cross expects the Sharks’ offense to shine.

Saenz highlighted several players. He said Podgore’s work in the weight room has paid off, and Cross, Calvo, Galan, and Longo are playing well. Lupo is bounding higher than ever on the court, and Kurial is making a tremendous impact, Saenz said.

The Sharks begin their season with a Feb. 17 home matchup against Royal. Many Malibu players are excited about the matchup since they play on the same club volleyball teams as several Royal players, said Saenz.

“They have rivalries with their club teammates,” Saenz noted. “They want to beat them.”

Malibu plays at Palisades on Feb. 19 and then hosts Granada Hills Charter on March 3 — another important match for the team since Saenz is a Granada Hills alumnus and the Sharks lost the game last season.

“We didn’t play our best last year,” Cross said. “I think it is a game we should have won.”

Cross, an All-CIF player two seasons ago, said the Sharks are motivated because this will be their last season together as a group.

“I want to do the absolute most with this little time I have left,” he said. “I couldn’t care less about the individual accolades. I care more about what our team can accomplish. The ultimate goal is winning CIF.”