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MARCH 2020

MalibuCoastLifestyle.com

Standing Strong REBUILDING POST-WOOLSEY

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

MARCH 2020 PUBLISHER

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

The Ides of March A MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL TEAM, THE HOUSTON ASTROS, WAS RECENTLY CAUGHT CHEATING IN TWO WORLD SERIES, ONE OF WHICH

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

Miranda Williams LAYOUT DESIGNER

Dana Rudolph

THEY WON. They probably cheated all season in order to get there. The punish-

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

ment (there was no way of weaseling out of some punishment) was suspensions,

Kimberly Blaker, Alicia Doyle, Tracy Marcynzsyn, Kateri Wozny

a big fine (which to the Astros was pocket change and maybe “the cost of doing business”) and the termination of managers and a GM. What is astounding is that

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

none of the players who benefited from and inflated their batting averages due to

Janet Barnett, Alexia Carroll, Leslie Bixler, Ben Malkin

the pilfered signs said they were sorry or gave back their tarnished World Series rings or bonuses. Please understand, I am not a Dodgers fan. “They wuz robbed,” but this message is about ethics, not fandom. However, the World Series win should be erased not just for the Astros, but for the Red Sox, who cheated as well when they beat the Dodgers and they should lose the win as well. However, after thinking about it, I come to an all too obvious and painful conclusion. Why should they? These days, lying, breaking laws and ethical boundaries does not seem to matter as long as you win. This was just baseball. No big deal. Better yet,

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

look at Washington and our government and our “leaders.” It’s a maelstrom of bald-

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

faced lies and deceit. At the current rate nothing will change and the moral core of

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

our democracy will continue to decay. So what?! The economy is good, the stock market keeps rising and the trains run on time.

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

Ben Malkin, Publisher Ben.Malkin@LifestylePubs.com 514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO

ON THE COVER Bibi Jordan stands amidst the rubble of her torched home after the Woolsey Fire.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALEXIA CARROLL 6

Malibu Coast Lifestyle | March 2020

MalibuCoastLifestyle.com

Proverbs 3:5-6 Malibu Coast Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Malibu Coast areas’ most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Malibu Coast Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

INSIDE THE ISSUE MARCH 2020

FEATURES 14 Dr. Mohammed Taqi A Lifeline for Stroke Victims

18 Rising from the Ashes Local Residents Rebuild Homes and Lives

22 30

22 Helping Hands The Malibu Foundation Boosts Recovery

DEPARTMENTS 6

Lifestyle Letter

Good Times

Around Town

Healthy Lifestyle

22 Giving Back 26 Inspired By 30 Trend Setter 34 Lifestyle Calendar

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Malibu Coast Lifestyle | March 2020

• Female health concerns • Menopause: Fatigue, mood swings, Skin and sexual changes • Laser Vaginal Rejuvenation, O’Shot • Andropause concerns • Erectile dysfunction treatment: Gainswave, P’Shot • Fatigue, Low energy and stamina, Poor concentration, Poor sleep • Bio-identical hormones (Non-invasive and Pellet therapy) • Personalized IV Nutrients

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AROUND TOWN

CASA PACIFICA WELCOMES NEW THERAPY DOG PEARL Casa Pacifica Centers for Children and Families recently welcomed Pearl, the fifth Newfoundland to offer animal-assisted therapy. Arriving on campus at 10 weeks old and weighing 23 pounds, Pearl greets and provides comfort and therapeutic support to residential youth and students.

provide educational materials and information about the proposed Liberty Canyon Wildlife Crossing. Allied-Artists.com

PEPPERDINE COMMUNITY PRESENTS SONGFEST A unique Pepperdine tradition, Songfest is a favorite experience shared by students, alumni

“As we continue to bring Newfoundlands on to

and the greater Pepperdine family. This musi-

campus to work with our youth, we strive to learn

cal variety show features a cast of hundreds of

new ways to increase the human-animal bond

students and a live orchestra, historically thrill-

and promote resilience and healing in non-tra-

ing each of its sold-out audiences during its

ditional formats,” says Dr. Josh Lepore, Clinical

annual six-performance run every March. More

Director and handler of Otis, Casa Pacifica’s other

importantly, it provides each of its participants

Newfoundland therapy dog.

with an opportunity to forge wonderful friend-

ALLIED ARTISTS SHOWCASE LANDSCAPE ART

ships and share life-long memories. Students of every kind join together in groups, each of which presents a 12-minute-long show that features

Join the Allied Artists of the Santa Monica

singing, dancing, creative sets, costumes, and a

Mountains and Seashore in supporting the

completely original script. All of the show's com-

Western National Park Association and National

ponents are based upon a central theme, which

Park Service on Sunday March 29, from 10 a.m.

is specifically unique to each year's Songfest.

to 4:30 p.m. at the King Gillette Ranch Visitor

This year’s performances take place Wednesday,

Center, 26876 Mulholland Hwy, in Calabasas.

March 18 to Friday, March 20, at 7:30 p.m. and

The group will present an art exhibit and sale

also on Saturday, March 21, at 2 and 7:30 p.m.

featuring 20 local artists displaying representa-

Arts.Pepperdine.edu

tional landscape and seascape paintings of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area. This year’s show will be a celebration of

We are always accepting submissions for announce-

the continued recovery after the devastating

ments you’d like to see included in our Around Town

wildfires that burnt almost 100,000 acres of the

section. Submissions are accepted via the Contact

Santa Monica Mountains. #SaveLACougars will

Us tab at MalibuCoastLifestyle.com.

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Words cannot possibly express how truly grateful we are to both of you. From that first desperate hospital bedisde phone call, to all the calls, meetings in between, you have been there with kindness, caring and support. We believe there are Angels among us, much like our beautiful Mother as well as both of you who guide those in need with great compassion. We thank you so very much for your loving friendship with Peg and for all the care and concern you've given us. We feel truly blessed.

- Vanessa & Valerie, Daughters of Peg Lane, RN.

HomeCare805.com | 805.777.8111

M. Asif Taqi, MD FAHA Dr. M. Asif Taqi is an interventional and stroke neurologist who is an expert for treatment of brain aneurysms and blockages in brain and neck blood vessels

device. The cutting-edge neurovascular treatment is the only device cleared by the FDA in a new category of temporary coil embolization assist devices for the treatment of brain aneurysms. For over a decade, Dr Taqi has participated in national and international trials and been a primary investigator for several new technologies pertaining to stroke and brain aneurysms. He has published over 50 articles,abstracts and book chapters on vascular diseases of the brain.

He did his initial research fellowship at Brown University in Rhode Island and went on to complete his Neurology residency training at the University of Tennessee. He further completed a clinical fellowship in Neurocritical Care, Vascular Neurology, and Endovascular Surgical Neuroradiology at Medical College of Wisconsin in 2012 Dr. Taqi runs stroke programs at Los Robles Regional Medical Center and West Hills Hospital and Medical Center. He is a senior member of the Society of NeuroInterventional Surgery (SNIS), a fellow of the American Heart Association (FAHA) and a member of the Society of Vascular and Intervention Neurology (SVIN). In 2019 Dr. Taqi treated the first brain aneurysm patient in the USA with the minimally invasive Comaneci embolization assist

Dr. Taqi enjoys his personal life and professional life equally. He is dedicated to providing excellent and comprehensive care to his patients in this region. Triple board certified in Neurology, Vascular neurology and Critical care neurology Recipient of the Outstanding Scholar Award for his achievements in clinical research Recipient of 40 under 40 award for Conejo Valley for his contribution to stroke care

Procedures Performed

•Brain Aneurysm Embolizations •Vertebral Artery Stent and Angioplasty •Stroke Thrombectomy •Intracranial Stent and Angioplasty •AVM Embolizations •WADA Testing •Tumor Embolization’s •Kyphoplasty •Internal Carotid Stent and Angioplasty •Embolization for Epistaxis •Brachiocephalic and Subclavian Artery Stent and Angioplasty

Conditions Treated

•Blockages in the brain and neck vessels (Carotid

stenosis/vertebral stenosis and Intracranial stenosis)

•Stroke •Brain Aneurysm •Brain Atrio Venous Malformations (AVM) •Compression fracture of a vertebral body •Headache Los Robles Regional Medical Center 227 Janns Rd Suite 125 Thousand Oaks, CA, 91360 (805) 242-4884

West Hills Hospital & Medical Center

www.vnsc.me

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

HEALTHY LIFESTYLE Photo Credit: Janet Barnett

ARTICLE ALICIA DOYLE

VASCULAR NEUROLOGY

OF SOUTHERN CA LIFORNI A 14

Malibu Coast Lifestyle | March 2020

A LIFELINE FOR STROKE VICTIMS

WHEN MUHAMMAD TAQI WAS IN HIS FINAL

Dr. Taqi grew up and went to medical school in

YEAR OF MEDICAL SCHOOL, HIS FATHER HAD A

the city of Pakistan, Karachi, and immigrated to

STROKE—AND A MONTH LATER, HE PASSED AWAY.

the United States at age 23 to pursue a career in

“There was no treatment available at that time for

neuroscience. This began with a research fellow-

stroke,” Dr. Taqi remembers. “That’s when I decided to

ship at Brown University, followed by residency at

choose this field and advance this field to help others

the University of Tennessee. He then attended the

who suffer from stroke or brain aneurysm.”

Medical College of Wisconsin to complete fellow-

Today, Dr. Taqi is an interventional and stroke neurologist at Vascular Neurology of Southern California

ships in Neurocritical Care, Vascular Neurology, and Endovascular Interventional Neuroradiology.

in Thousand Oaks, a private practice located on the

“Contributing to the medical education of my com-

Los Robles Regional Medical Center campus, just

munity is perhaps one of my main aspirations,” says

500 feet from the hospital Emergency Room. “My typical patients are those

Dr. Taqi, who has been practic-

“ T H AT ’ S W H E N

that come in for medical and

arteries and brain aneurysms,” he says, adding that these diseases may affect patients of varying demographics.

be prepared in case they may

C HO O S E T H I S F I E L D

witness a neurological disease.”

A N D A DVA N C E T H I S FIELD TO HELP

What patients like most about Dr. Taqi is the time he spends with them, his ability to make them feel they are

sion for their health.

one day either experience or At his practice, he loves doing procedures and surgeries, because “that’s my passion.” He also genuinely

O T H E R S W HO

enjoys his clinic hours.

S U F F E R F RO M

satisfying than informing my

S T ROK E OR

safe, and his willingness to help them make the best deci-

imperative for my neighbors to

I DE C I DE D T O

surgical management of stroke/ blockages in the neck and brain

ing for 17 years. “I believe it is

BR A I N A N E U RY S M .”

“There is nothing more patients of their post-procedure progress,” he says, further adding that he is also profoundly invested in research,

“I meet people often at a

because “there is still so much

point in their life when they

to learn and to improve in this

don’t have any time that can be

field of medicine.”

wasted to save their lives,” he says. “My availability and my confidence in what I do make them feel secure.”

In his field, every minute counts, he further emphasizes. “Patient outcomes depend on timely intervention,”

His dedicated staff certainly makes the experi-

Dr. Taqi adds. “We want our patients to recognize the

ence of clinic visits “very friendly,” and his practice

symptoms of stroke or aneurysm as soon as possible

is unique because Dr. Taqi is the only stroke neurol-

and to seek appropriate health care.”

ogist in the area who is triple board certified with extensive experience in clinical trials and research pertaining to stroke and brain aneurysms. “I am always looking to expand the practice to ensure

Vascular Neurology of Southern California is located at

that there is diverse dialogue about patient care,” he

227 W. Janss Road, Suite 125, in Thousand Oaks. For

says. “I think teamwork makes the dream work.”

more information, call 805.242.4884; or visit VNSC.Me.

March 2020 | Malibu Coast Lifestyle

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rising from

the ashes

Photo Credit: Alexia Carroll

MALIBU RESIDENTS BECOME RESILIENT, ATTEMPT TO REBUILD AFTER WOOLSEY FIRE ARTICLE KATERI WOZNY

Malibu Coast Lifestyle | March 2020

IN NOVEMBER 2018, THE WOOLSEY FIRE DESTROYED

Jordan later learned through an online comment that

1,643 RESIDENCES AND COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS IN

the fire had taken her home. She was not able to return to

INCORPORATED AND UNINCORPORATED LOS ANGELES

where her home once stood until two weeks later.

COUNTY AND VENTURA COUNTY.

“When you live in Malibu, you think you’re prepared for

“Many people were just completely traumatized by the

fire and we were well-prepared in terms of sprinklers under

fire,” says City of Malibu Mayor Karen Farrer. “They were

the gutters and hydrants,” says Jordan. “Fact of the matter

being displaced into a temporary residence and it was a

is, the nature of wildfires has changed dramatically.”

completely overwhelming event financially and emotionally.”

For now, Jordan is renting a home in Oxnard. She is cur-

Malibu residents who choose to rebuild are not only on

rently working with a building contractor little by little, day

the path to having a place called home, but also to rebuilding

by day, and is waiting for Fire Department approval to begin

their lives. More than one year later, the process is slow, with

the rebuild process.

less than half of residents applying to rebuild within the city

“We would’ve liked to be back there now,” says Jordan.

limits, according to Farrer. As of Jan. 20, the Malibu Rebuilds

“The longer we have to hold off to rebuild, the more issues

website states that 52 building permits have been issued,

and concerns are likely to happen with rain and erosion.

while one resident was given an occupancy certificate.

You may want to rebuild, but there are new regulations that

“(They may be) in dispute with their insurance company, under insured, trying to decide whether or not to rebuild and other factors,” says Farrer.

might mean not being able to rebuild on land or because you don’t have enough money.” Jordan also directed a documentary called “Phoenix

Residents have the option of a Like for Like Rebuild (rebuild-

Sisterhood of Malibu,” which features Jordan and four of

ing in the same location and same size), Like for Like plus 10%

her friends taking the events of the Woolsey Fire and turn-

Rebuild (rebuilding same location + up to 10% more square

ing it into a healing process.

footage and/or height increase) or Major Change to Residence (rebuilding with significant changes).

“When your house burns down, you lose much more than anything that you are aware of,” says Jordan. “Space

“For people who were like to like, we will waive their per-

affects your personality and relationships. What every-

mit fees,” says Farrer. “If they want to build a larger home

one’s learned is you have to lose your attachment to hav-

that is 50% larger, those fees are not waived.”

ing things. You need to try as hard as you can that every

Farrer says the council’s budget runs every year between

present moment is your dream.”

July 1 to June 30, with the Woolsey Fire recovery being in the top three priorities for the year. The city has also eased the

SLOW PROCESS

burden by expediting fire rebuilds and hiring additional staff.

Musicians Leslie Bixler and her husband, Bill, had returned

“As a council, we want to see many residents rebuild their

to their home in Latigo Canyon of 22 years the night before the

homes and lives as quickly as possible,” says Farrer.

fire began. The next morning, they found themselves leaving again for the last time, packing up two vehicles with a saxo-

MEMORIES BUILT

phone, guitars, artwork, documents, jewelry and their cat.

Bibi Jordan’s house in Decker Canyon with her partner,

“I took the pillows and blanket because it reminded me

Bruce, holds special memories. She hosted Airbnb travelers

of the smell of the house,” says Bixler. “We left behind so

and volunteers for more than 10 days at a time and grew

many things. We had a Steinway Grand Piano that was

organic produce and cooked meals.

Bill’s grandfather’s and classic vintage keyboards. We had a

“I could walk outside and pick fresh produce from the garden

recording studio and we lost a lot of instruments.”

as the seasons changed,” says Jordan. “It was a land to develop

The couple eventually ended up at a motel in Culver

a community and healing through hospitality and organic food.”

City. A few days later, she received a call from television

Bibi Jordan left her house of 20 years for the last time on Nov.

personality Brody Jenner informing her that their house

9, 2018, taking with her one memento from each family member

was a complete loss. The property also had a guest

stored in her library room, such as a watercolor painting and

house and a rental unit above the garage that they hosted

handmade lace her sisters had given her, along with items from

through Airbnb.

her mother and son. Instead of heading south, she headed north toward Oxnard, where she booked herself into a motel.

When she was able to return to the remains of her home, Bixler felt numb.

“I was fleeing for my life; it was terrifying,” says Jordan.

“Only one house made it on our entire street,” says

“I was thinking of family and my life. Each one (item) had a

Bixler. “It took a long time to feel anything because I was

story and memory to it.”

still in that emergency mind space.”

CONTINUED >

March 2020 | Malibu Coast Lifestyle

RISING FROM THE ASHES (CONTINUED) Bixler says between getting the debris removed, soil

“I had packed most of the important documents and lap-

tested for contaminants, the septic system checked and fire

top. but I forgot to take the emergency cash. I also had an

clearance, she and her husband continue to see the pro-

art collection,” says Ottilie. “I just sat on the other side of the

cess through in order to obtain their building permit.

roadblock and watched Point Dume burn.”

“Things you never think about we’ve had trouble with,”

He was informed his house had burned down when a

says Bixler. “The codes changed and insurance only allows

neighbor texted him a video of landscaping burning on

so much for upgrades. We would lose over half of our

his street. He was also listening to the scanner when fire

investment even more if we give up now.”

trucks tried to extinguish the flames.

The couple also got an early start with the engineering and architecture plans but are currently at a halt. “At the moment, we’re stalled because we decided to use an unconventional building system with fireproof panels,” says

“I’ve been an entrepreneur my whole life and I’m a realist when things go wrong,” says Ottilie. “I woke up Saturday, called my insurance company and filed a claim for the cars and the house.”

Bixler. Bixler added that the University of Southern California will

For his new home, Ottilie decided to build the same house

soon be conducting a live seismic test for the panels. If passed,

Like to Like with three bedrooms and two bathrooms plus

the Bixler’s will be the first to have these types of panels installed.

10%. He returned with his family to a rental in Point Dume

“We have small improvements to make it safer and more

to be near the rebuild. He is still deciding on a contractor.

fire-resistant,” says Bixler. “Our other house had more char-

“It was the only way to quickly do this,” says Ottilie. “I’m

acter because we had rock (landscape) work done and we

hoping to move back into the house before February of 2021.”

had to tear out the rock sculptures.” Bixler says the design of the house is the same as their

Ottilie’s advice for residents waiting for their building permits is to reach out to the community for help and not to lose hope.

last one, except narrower and longer. The new house will

“There are several social media groups and organizations

also have sprinklers installed and more clearance around

that are well-versed on how to help through the process,”

the property. For now, they are in a rental in Latigo Canyon

says Ottilie. “I also got advice from other people who had per-

near their future rebuild home.

mits. It takes time and is frustrating but you can figure it out.”

“If we get our permit in a few months, no matter how fast we’re going, so many things come up that are not in

MALIBU

our control,” says Bixler. “We are just getting permission

Approved by Planning: 216

to start the foundation.”

Under Plan Review: 80

At the fire support groups she attends, she says attend-

Building Permits Issued: 68

ees are in similar situations and feel like nothing can be

Homes Completed: 1

done to make the process move faster.

Like for Like Rebuild: 63

“You want to move on and feel better but you’re stuck in

Like for Like + 10% Rebuild: 137

a process you didn’t ask for,” says Bixler. “The vibe (around

Major Change to Residence: 14

the city) is really dark. A lot of businesses have suffered and the population on the west end is displaced.”

UNINCORPORATED LOS ANGELES COUNTY Homes Damaged/Destroyed: 397

PERMIT IN HAND Jamie Ottilie is one of the residents that was granted a permit by the City of Malibu last November. He lived in Point

Building Permits Filed: 88 Building Permits Granted: 44 Occupancy Certificates: 5

Dume on lower Wandermere Road for 24 years, where 26 of 37 homes were destroyed.

UNINCORPORATED VENTURA COUNTY

“It’s a bittersweet feeling (having the permit),” says

Homes Destroyed: 107

Ottilie. “My house was where my son spent his first three

Homes Damaged: 35

years and his swing in the backyard went away. I explained

Building Permits Granted: 12

to him what happened and that we would be living in a

Building Permit Applications: 24

forest house (in Calabasas) for a year.”

Occupancy Certificates: 2

After carefully monitoring the fire throughout the day,

he later evacuated with his wife and son to Pepperdine

Source: Los Angeles County Public Works Department, Mali-

University. Ottilie wanted to return to his house to gather

bu Rebuilds, Ventura County Resource Management Agency.

more items, but was not allowed due to the roadblocks.

Numbers current as of Feb. 6, 2020.

Malibu Coast Lifestyle | March 2020

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GIVING BACK

Evelin at the Replant Love event.

MALIBU FOUNDATION AIMS TO BUILD RESILIENCE ARTICLE TRACY MARCYNZSYN 22

Malibu Coast Lifestyle | March 2020

L-R: Brandon Thomas Lee, Brandon Jenner, Trevor Neilson (co-founder), Rory Kennedy (board member), Evelin Weber, and people from the Clarins team.

EVELIN WEBER WOKE UP EARLY ON THAT FATEFUL

working to get money out the door as quickly as possible

MORNING OF NOVEMBER 8, 2018, TO THE SMELL OF

to those who needed relief. We were spared and that was

SMOKE IN THE AIR. Home alone with her 2-year-old son

part of the reason why we felt even more compelled to

and unaware of the nearby flames, Evelin decided to leave her

help… it’s our civic duty and human responsibility to use

Malibu home, packing bags and precious mementos “just in

our skill set for our community,” adds Evelin, who serves

case” and loading into the car with her son and dog. At first,

as Executive Director of the Malibu Foundation.

her husband, Trevor Neilson, who was in New York at the time

A Philippine native, Evelin also founded The Philippines

on business, told her not to worry, but when she drove to the

Foundation and Narra.life, an A.I. company that brings

bottom of the hill and saw traffic backed up on PCH, flames

financial access to the poor, and serves as a Patron to

and no cell phone signal, she knew the situation was serious.

UK-based charities, A World At School and Faces Charity.

“We thought we were going to lose our house,” she recalls,

She also worked in investment banking in New York,

but, “luck was on our side,” says Evelin, who immediately

London, Africa and Latin America as well as in post-natu-

sprang into action with her husband to help the community.

ral disaster economic recovery.

“We knew that we cannot control the outcome [of the

“While the Philippines is most affected by climate

fire], so what can we do? We woke up the next morning in

change, when the fire hit my hometown, I put all that

Santa Monica and said, ‘let’s do this… we have no choice,’”

on pause and really put my heels down in Malibu,” says

says Evelin, who founded the nonprofit Malibu Foundation

Evelin. “I feel grateful to be able to serve.”

with her husband to help Southern California rebuild and recover just two days after the Woolsey Fire began.

COMMUNITY COMMITMENT

With a background in economic development and nat-

Committed to the long-term rebuilding of areas

ural disaster recovery, the couple started making phone

affected by the Woolsey Fire, the Malibu Foundation

calls—the first was to Miley Cyrus, who had lost her home

focuses on three phases of recovery: relief, rebuilding

and readily agreed to donate to the cause; their lawyer,

and resilience. With the goal to “ensure a climate-resilient

who filed the 501(c)3 paperwork; local filmmaker Rory

community that is sustainable,” the Foundation coordi-

Kennedy, and others to rally for the community.

nates with organizations in the public sector that provide

“At first we didn’t realize how big it would get,” says Evelin. “Our hearts were in it. We had a group of people

economic development, emotional support and advocacy to help leverage their impact.

CONTINUED >

March 2020 | Malibu Coast Lifestyle

GIVING BACK (CONTINUED)

People are still struggling with all kinds of issues from one of the most destructive fires in Southern California’s history, including financial fallout, insurance problems, situational homelessness, grief, mental health issues and rebuilding challenges.

Executive Director Evelin Weber giving out certificates at summer surf camp.

The Malibu Foundation’s internal programs and partner organizations are doing everything they can to serve the full scope of the community’s needs: housing, job placement, rebuilding, wellness, legal assistance, advocacy and finance. They are also working to serve the environment and the beautiful flora and fauna that were affected by the fires to create resilient communities. In addition to providing immediate relief to those in need, the

M A L I B U F O U N D AT I O N ’ S 3 PHASES OF RECOVERY

nonprofit aims to create long-term sustainable programs that will lead to systematic change. We are looking at “how to create long-term impact,” says

PHASE I: RELIEF Provide immediate financial support to

Evelin, thus, “we work with organizations that specialize in help-

those most desperately in need. Program grants included

ing people.” Currently working with 32 organizations, the Malibu

Malibu Methodist Nursery School, California Wildlife Center,

Foundation is looking to support more programs.

Boys & Girls Club of Malibu, United Way of Greater Los

“We’re not just bound by the city limits of Malibu… Seminole

Angeles, Village Rising and Seminole Springs.

Springs, Malibou Lake, Oak Forest, Calabasas, Thousand Oaks and Westlake Village are all surrounding areas where people

PHASE II: REBUILD Work toward strategically integrating

were affected by the fire,” says Evelin.

fire prevention and building towards a greener, more resilient

“Everyone can do a little bit; you just never know whom you’ll be able to support and help,” she says, adding, “You don’t know

community. Programs include Best Buddies, Brain Balance of Encino, Homebound, KBUU, Mighty Under Dogs and more.

what going to happen tomorrow, so let’s give you the necessary tools to deal with whatever happens.”

PHASE III: RESILIENCE Advocate on local, state and federal

The Malibu Foundation is currently accepting grant applications

levels for more meaningful spending on behalf of the Woolsey

to fund programs and organizations that provide recovery and

victims and Malibu. Programs include The Climate Emergency

wellness services through May 31, 2020.

Movement, Mountains Recreation & Conservation Authority, Rock Your World, The Santa Monica Mountains Fund,

For more information, visit TheMalibuFoundation.org. 24

Malibu Coast Lifestyle | March 2020

SurfriderLA, Future Coalition and more.

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INSPIRED BY

FOR THE LOVE OF DOGS THEY'RE MORE EMOTIONAL THAN SCIENTISTS ONCE GAVE THEM CREDIT FOR

ARTICLE KIMBERLY BLAKER

IN LIVING WITH AND INTERACTING WITH OUR DOGS,

stare into our eyes, it activates oxytocin, creating a bond

WE GET TO KNOW THEM WELL. Despite their inability

similar to that between a mother and infant.

to talk, we often understand their emotions based on their

David Grimm, in his article, “How dogs stole our hearts,”

body language. Scientists now know what dog owners have

at Sciencemag.org, reports on the research of this phe-

suspected all along. Dogs experience a wider range of emo-

nomenon. In an experiment by Takefumi Kikusui, an animal

tions than scientists once thought.

behaviorist and his colleagues, dogs and their owners gazed

The dog brain is substantially smaller than the human brain

into each other’s eyes. Their gazes ranged from a few sec-

when accounting for body size, so it isn’t as complex as our

onds to a couple of minutes. The researchers found in those

brain. Yet, MRI studies reveal dogs’ brains aren’t much differ-

dogs and owners who gazed longer, the oxytocin levels rose

ent from humans. MRIs have revealed the same sections of

130% and 300% respectively. This adds to the growing body

both the human and dog brain light up based on various types

of research that supports dogs can feel love and attachment.

of stimuli, according to board-certified neurologist, Dr. J.P.

Just like in humans, dogs’ brains develop as they grow.

McCue, at New York City’s Animal Medical Center, reported in

In humans, the brain reaches full development around

“Dog Brain Facts: Understanding Canine Cognition.”

the age of 25, whereas dogs’ brains are fully developed

It’s also been found that dogs produce oxytocin, the neu-

around the age of 6 months. At this point, dogs’ emo-

rotransmitter and hormone that creates the emotion of love

tional development is equivalent to a 2.5-year-old human,

in humans. In fact, research has found that when our dogs

according to researchers.

Malibu Coast Lifestyle | March 2020

To gain perspective on what that means in regard to dogs’ range of emotions, Stanley Coren, in “What Emotions Do Dogs Actually Experience?” charts the emotions of a 2.5-year-old child. These include joy, love and affection, contentment, excitement, shyness and suspicion, fear, disgust, distress and anger. At that age, however, children don’t experience feelings that require self-consciousness, such as pride, shame, guilt and contempt. HOW TO READ YOUR DOG’S FEELINGS Here are some of the ways dogs express different emotions. Joy. Dogs often express this when a family member comes home or a familiar guest comes to visit. Dogs often run and

Anger. If a dog has ever ignored you or given you the cold

jump, wag their tails and lavish kisses. They also express joy

shoulder, there’s a good chance it’s mad at you. But if you’re

when playing by barking or giving a playful bow.

doing something that makes a dog particularly angry, the

Love and affection. When dogs are feeling affectionate,

dog might take a rigid posture, bark loudly in your direc-

they might nudge you with their nose, make affectionate eye

tion, or make sharp or short barks. This is a warning to stop

contact (as opposed to the threatening eye contact of an

whatever you’re doing that’s making the dog angry. If a dog

unknown dog), or make soft groans and sighs while lying next

begins growling, howling repeatedly with a rising pitch or

to you. Some dogs will lean their bodies up against you while

showing teeth, it’s prepared to attack.

sitting or standing. They also express their love through kissing, jumping and rolling onto their backs with a wagging tail.

WHAT ABOUT HACKLES?

Shyness, suspicion, fear. These emotions are often quite

People often think raised hackles indicate a dog is angry

evident. Dogs might flatten their ears, avoid eye contact, tuck

or showing aggression. Sometimes that’s the case. But raised

their tail under, cower, pant or shake. They can also have dilated

hackles are an involuntary reaction and most often caused by

glassy eyes. Pacing, hiding, whining, barking, sneering, nipping

a host of other emotions. These include excitement, arousal,

or submissive urination can also be signs of fear or shyness.

fear, shyness, defensiveness or being startled. That said, dogs

Distress. When dogs are depressed, they can experience

can bite out of fear, not just anger. The best way to know the

changes in appetite, behavior, sleep patterns and reduced

meaning behind the raised hackles is to look at other body

activity levels. Emotionally distressed dogs also show this in

language that indicates what the dog is feeling.

their posture with downcast eyes and a low bent neck. They might also lick or shed excessively.

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M I N I M A L LY I N VA S I V E NECK LIFT 101 WITH DR. R O N A L D M OY

A LESS INVASIVE NECK LIFT IS AN OUTSTANDING PROCEDURE FOR NECK REJUVENATION THAT IS ACHIEVED WITH FEWER INCISIONS, LESS PAIN AND MINIMAL DOWNTIME. The aging neck is defined by pigmentation changes, loose skin, lax muscles, horizontal wrinkles, loss of jaw contour, accumulation of submental (under the chin) fat and prominence of neck bands. A sagging neck betrays our age. We often do a good job keeping our faces refreshed with topicals, fillers and Botox, but forget about our necks. Traditional techniques to address the neck often require large incisions, the use of surgical drains and sometimes an overnight hospital stay. A less invasive neck lift combines minimally invasive techniques that tighten and lift skin under local anesthesia. Incisions are minimized and there is no need for surgical drains and recovery times are faster. A minimally invasive neck lift can also be combined with laser treatments to even skin color or liposuction to remove excess neck fat for optimal rejuvenation. When you desire a renewed sense of confidence, a minimally invasive neck lift can rejuvenate your appearance by restoring your neck contour in a very natural way. Learn more about neck lifts from leading cosmetic and facial plastic surgeon Dr. Ronald Moy, who has been helping patients achieve their skin health and beauty goals for more than 25 years. Q: WHAT IS A LESS INVASIVE NECK LIFT? HOW DOES THE PROCEDURE DIFFER TODAY THAN FROM 10 YEARS AGO? A: A less invasive neck lift accomplishes optimal results using minimal incisions hidden behind the ear and is performed under local anesthesia. The procedure differs from 10 years ago in that no drains are necessary because there is no bleeding and it does not require being put to sleep. Q: WHERE AND HOW LARGE ARE THE INCISIONS NEEDED FOR A LESS INVASIVE NECK LIFT? A: The incisions are placed in the crease where the ear meets the head called the post auricular sulcus and it extends into the hairline. These incisions heal well, look natural and are difficult to detect. Q: ARE THERE ALTERNATIVE PROCEDURAL OPTIONS THAT CAN TIGHTEN NECK SKIN? A: It is the best procedure for tightening the neck skin since about 1 inch of skin is removed behind each ear. Microneedling radiofrequency and Inmode Facetite can accomplish modest tightening.

Malibu Coast Lifestyle | March 2020

Q: HOW DO YOU REMOVE UNDER CHIN FATTY DEPOSITS? A: The fatty deposits under the chin are best removed with liposuction using a very small micro cannula, which is just a few millimeters thick. Q: WHAT TREATMENTS CAN BE COMBINED WITH A NECK LIFT? A: The most common procedure with a neck lift is fractional carbon dioxide laser resurfacing because this improves wrinkles, evens skin color and tightens the skin. Q: IN ADDITION TO A SAGGING NECK, I ALSO HAVE JOWLS. HOW ARE THESE ADDRESSED? A: Jowls are greatly improved with a neck lift because even though the sutures are placed behind the ear lobe that vector of pull does improve the jowls like a mini-facelift. Q: MEN’S SKIN IS THICKER AND LESS ELASTIC. CAN MEN HAVE A LESS INVASIVE NECK LIFT? A: Men’s necks can be tightened with a submental inci-

TODAY’S GIFT IS A STUDENT’S TOMORROW

sion and an incision that goes up and down the neck. The

Leave a powerful, lasting legacy that will impact

thicker, less elastic skin requires less surgical tightening.

the lives of future generations by making a

The scar created can be minimized with laser resurfacing.

bequest gift to Pepperdine University in your

Q: IS A MINIMALLY INVASIVE NECK LIFT AN OUTPATIENT PROCEDURE?

will, trust, or retirement plan. All it takes is the inclusion of a simple paragraph in your will.

A: A minimally invasive neck lift is an outpatient procedure since almost all our cases are performed under local anesthesia without any sedation.

A bequest allows you to:

Q: WHAT TYPE OF ANESTHESIA IS USED?

» Maintain control of your assets during your lifetime

A: Neck lifts are anesthetized using dilute local anesthesia dripped behind the ear. The face for laser resurfacing is anesthetized with four painless dental blocks and two Botox-type forehead injections. Q: WHAT IS THE RECOVERY TIME?

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A: About 10 days because the complications of bleeding, pain and scarring are so minimal that healing is quicker than 10 years ago.

For more information, contact us or visit our website.

310.506.4893 pepperdine.edu/gift To find out more about minimally invasive neck lifts, schedule a consultation with Dr. Moy or his associates at 818.575.8000 or visit Chli.com. With offices at the California Health and Longevity Institute at Westlake Four Seasons, Dr. Moy and the entire team of Dermatology are at your service.

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MARCH

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

BURTON CUMMINGS

2ND ANNUAL CALABASAS SHAMROCK SHUFFLE & ST. PATRICK'S DAY FESTIVAL

"WAIT UNTIL DARK"

Calabasas Community Center

most? A classic American play

Who, Burton Cummings is that rare

Celebrate St. Patrick's Day with a

about a lady in peril. Young blind

artist who has transcended time,

race; start and finish at the Agoura

housewife, Susie, confronts a trio of

genres and generations with work

Hills/Calabasas Community Center.

blackguards who want to get a doll

that continues to resonate with fans

Runners will enjoy the post-race St.

from her (she does not know she has

both old and new. Boasting numer-

Patrick's Day Celebration featuring

it), said toy having a fortune of illicit

ous hits singles, including “American

live Irish music, kids inflatables,

items inside it. The battle of wits boils

Woman,” “These Eyes,” and “Stand

carnival

painting,

down to a confrontation between

Tall,” his voice has been rated among

Irish dancers, beer gardens and

the lady and the devil. A suspense-

the finest in rock music.

much more.

ful play with a thrilling climax!

Pepperdine University

the

former

lead

singer

Canadian rock group the Guess

games,

face

Theatre Palisades

The hunter or the hunted, who preys

TheatrePalisades.org

"WE SHALL OVERCOME"

FIREBALL TIM'S WHEELS & WAVES CLASSIC CAR EVENT

Pepperdine University

Inspired by the words and action

Malibu Country Mart

29 8TH ANNUAL ALLIED ARTISTS & SEASHORE EXHIBIT AND SALE

of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., "We

Auto enthusiasts showcase collec-

Shall Overcome" showcases the

tions and the entire community can

Annual art exhibit and sale by the

African American music traditions

join in to experience eye-catching

Allied Artists of the Santa Monica

that electrified generations of civil

automotive inspiration. Families,

Mountains and Seashore. A portion

rights activists and defenders with

kids and guests of all ages are

of the sales proceeds are donated to

interwoven spoken word from Dr.

invited to enjoy vintage, exotic and

local conservation and preservation

King’s recorded speeches. Utilizing

rare cars of all types. Photo oppor-

activities within the Santa Monica

a diverse ensemble of multi-genre

tunities are welcome and all events

Mountains National Recreation Area.

vocalists

are free and open to the public.

and

instrumentalists,

Damien Sneed presents a living lin-

FireballTim.com

eage of music and culture.

13 75TH ANNUAL SANTA BARBARA INTERNATIONAL ORCHID SHOW

18 SONGFEST

26876 Mulholland Hwy, Calabasas

29 "DON'T LET THE PIGEON DRIVE THE BUS!" (THE MUSICAL) Pepperdine University

Pepperdine University

Hop on board for an unforgettable

Songfest is one of Pepperdine’s

ride with the Pigeon! Featuring

Earl Warren Showgrounds

greatest and most unique tra-

an innovative mix of actors, pup-

The longest running and one of the

ditions and has been a favorite

pets, songs and feathers, "Don’t

largest annual orchid shows in the

experience shared by generations

Let The Pigeon Drive The Bus!"

United States runs through March

of students, alumni and the greater

(The Musical) is a comedic musi-

15. General admission is $14; seniors

Pepperdine family.

cal adaptation of the #1 New York

and students with ID, $12; children

Times

12 and under, free with paying adult.

honor award-winning Pigeon pic-

SBOrchidShow.com

ture books and is sure to get the

best-selling,

Caldecott-

audience's wings flapping.

Malibu Coast Lifestyle | March 2020

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