Malibu Times Magazine • Winter 2021

COMMUNITY

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H E A LT H

VOL. 18•NO. 1 | WINTER 2021-22

MAGAZINE

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FEATURES

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Let There Be Art

Pepperdine welcomes back the community.

All Aboard

Celebrity Cruises provides luxury wellness.

Making a Difference

Dolphin Award winners make Malibu shine.

Loving Malibu

Malibuites share what they’re looking forward to in the new year.

Cheers to a New Year

Local spots and favorite spirits.

Keeping it Together

MALIBUHOME

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A Clear Winner

Crystal Clear Glass: where function meets style.

Culinary Chic

Discover the latest kitchen trends.

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In The Know

Ultimate products and services for the home.

Design a New Year

Learn what’s all the rage in design and decor.

A Tale of Three Generations

Malibu Escrow is a family run, women-led business.

Taking care of yourself is always in style.

Fresh Air

Outdoor activities abound in Malibu.

A Local Debut

Sophia Galaté releases her first album.

A Blessing to Be Alive

Vinny Van Patten wrote down his journeys.

Meet the Coastal Cowboy

Realtor Julian Alexander knows the community.

Eyes on Malibu

Readers share their favorite photos of the ’Bu.

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THE REGULARS 8 11 13 74 82

Letter from the Editor

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Contributors Calendar Crossword Last Look

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73 WINTER 2021-22 | 7

It's a New Year!

My favorite holiday tradition is when my family and friends sit around the table and we share Oplatke (thin wafers). It's a sentiment from my mom's Polish side of the family. Each person starts with their own wafer, and then taking turns, we pass our wafers around the table so that everyone breaks off a piece of each other's.

Then we join all our collected pieces together with honey and we eat it together while we offer forgiveness, love and joy for the future. And every year starts anew. It's quite fun—and quite moving.

I'm so excited for 2022 ... I feel hopeful for good things—forgiveness, love and joy. Happy New Year!

ACC-Malibu Times-Ad-2020-1112-PR.pdf

1 11/12/20 Bridget Graham, Editor

8 | MALIBU TIMES MAGAZINE | #MALIBUTIMESMAG

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MALIBU TIMES MAGAZINE • PUBLISHED QUARTERLY BY THE MALIBU TIMES, INC. VOLUME 18 . NUMBER 1 . WINTER 2021-22

FROM THE EDITOR

MAGAZINE

PUBLISHERS Hayley and Nicholas Mattson

EDITOR Bridget Graham CREATIVE DIRECTOR Nira Lichten ASSISTANT EDITOR & SOCIAL MEDIA EDITOR Tracy Wright SALES ASSOCIATES Mary Abbott, Barbara Calandra, Teresa Gelbman, Dorie Leo, Kathy May, Anthony McDemas CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Eric Dick, Laurie Hartt, Kamala Kirk, Stephania Jean, Sarah Shmerling, Tracy Wright CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Emily Scher CONTACT The Malibu Times, 24955 Pacific Coast Highway, Suite A102, Malibu, CA 90265 Editorial: 310.456.5507 | bridget@malibutimes.com Advertising: 310.456.5507 Visit us online: malibutimesmag.com Social media: Facebook @MalibuTimesMagazine Instagram/Twitter @malibutimesmag | #malibutimesmag

Malibu Times Magazine is published quarterly. All rights reserved. Reproduction or use of the contents in whole or in part without the written permission of the publisher is prohibited. Letters to the editor are welcome and will be edited for clarity and length. Submissions should be emailed to bridget@malibutimes. com. © 2021-22 The Malibu Times, Inc.

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CONTRIBUTORS

WE ASKED OUT CONTRIBUTORS:

What Are You Looking Forward to in the New Year?

>> Eric Dick is a songwriter, film and TV composer, music producer and self-proclaimed crossword nerd. You can visit his work at ericdick.com. “I love Malibu in the winter ... perfect temperature and so peaceful. Throw in seeing friends, more music production and crosswords ... and I’m good!”

>> Kamala Kirk is a USC graduate and co-founder of “Spa & Beauty Today.” She loves the beach and loves spending time with her pugs, Getty and Wrigley. “I’m looking forward to more opportunities for personal and career growth, quality time with loved ones and good health.”

>> Laurie Hartt, a Pepperdine University alumna, freelances around the globe, most recently in Prague, where she taught English and wrote for travel blogs. “Reconnecting with friends and family I haven’t see in too long!”

>> Emily Scher graduated from the School of Visual Arts. Her background is in FX computer animation for feature films. Her work can be viewed at emilygoodman.com. “I’m looking forward to moving back to Malibu and into my brand new rebuilt home after the Woolsey fire!”

>> Stephania Jean is a freelance writer who divides her time between Canada and California. She’s a proud UF grad and UBC grad. As a consummate traveler and foodie, she’s happiest when off on culinary or outdoor adventures with her husband and dog. “Finally being reunited with my family after being apart for two years!”

>> Sarah Shmerling, editorin-chief of the Palisadian-Post, is approaching her ninth year of writing and editing for magazines and newspapers. “I’m looking forward to adventures in the new year, both big and small.”

>> Tracy Wright is a senior reporter at The Daily Mail and also serves as the assistant editor of MTM. See a few of her favorite things on Instagram @tracyiswright. “Turning my first house into a home, growing personally and professionally, and finally starting that blog I’ve been putting off for.ev.er.”

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Highlights from the Kinsey African American Art and History Collection Organized by The Bernard & Shirley Kinsey Foundation for Arts & Education and KBK Enterprises, Incorporated

Hughie Lee-Smith, Untitled, 1951, oil on masonite

An impressive survey of African American history and culture, this exhibition of the award-winning Kinsey Collection includes masterful paintings and sculpture, photographs, rare books, letters, manuscripts, and more, celebrating the achievements of African Americans from the 16th century through the years of slavery and Emancipation, to the Civil Rights Movement and up to the present day.

January 15–March 27, 2022 Plan your visit: arts.pepperdine.edu/museum Frederick R. Weisman Museum of Art Pepperdine University | 24255 Pacific Coast Highway | Malibu, CA 90263

@weismanmuseumofart

Winter Calendar December 5 •

Through January 24 Incredible Art Presented amid the antiquities collection at the Getty Villa, the Rubens: Picturing Antiquity exhibition juxtaposes the artist’s exhilarating drawings, oil sketches, and monumental paintings with rarely shown ancient objects. The Getty Villa; 17985 Pacific Coast Hwy., Pacific Palisades; free; getty.edu

6 p.m.

Winter Wonderland Downtown Santa Monica brings the holidays to Third Street Promenade with the return of Winterlit— holiday lights, that transform the area into an immersive, festive experience.

Third Street Promenade, Santa Monica; free; santamonica.com

February 16-17 December 12, and 2nd & 4th Sundays each month • 7 a.m Sweet Rides Rev your engines and talk shop

with car enthusiasts while admiring some of the world’s finest automobiles with a cup of joe during Cars and Coffee. Malibu Bluffs Park; 24250 PCH; 310.456.2489; malibucarsandcoffee.com

December 17 •

9 p.m Rock out The Spazmatics are known for bringing their excited ‘80s energy to the stage as the “new wave nerds that rock.”

The Canyon, 28912 Roadside Drive, Agoura Hills; $19.50-$35; wheremusicmeetsthesoul.com

7:30 a.m.

Delightful Dance Beloved by fans of all ages, immerse yourself in the extraordinary power and grace of a performance unlike any other with Riverdance.

Fred Kavli Theatre, 21000 Thousand Oaks Blvd., Thousand Oaks; $40-$85; bapacthousandoaks. com

January 25-29 • multiple showings

Pepperdine Arts The classic English

December 18-19 • multiple showings

comedy from the late 19th century of The Importance of Being Earnest involves mistaken identity, dramatic revelations and high anxiety hijinks set in the idyllic English countryside. Smothers Theatre, 24255 Pacific Coast Hwy.; $15; arts. pepperdine.edu

Beautiful Ballet The 27th annual Nutcracker features incredible choreography and dazzling costumes, with a 100% chance of snowfall on the audience. Fred Kavli Theatre, 21000 Thousand Oaks Blvd., Thousand Oaks; $32-$50; bapacthousandoaks.com

February 14 • 8 p.m.

Music Makers Enjoy a night of soulful music with sweet sounds from 112 and Next, two of the top contemporary R&B vocal groups from the ’90s.

The Saban, 8440 Wilshire Blvd., Beverly Hills; $59-$125; wheremusicmeetsthesoul.com

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TAIKOPROJECT

Ailey II

Let There Be Art The Center for the Arts at Pepperdine University is back entertaining the community.

BY STEPHANIA JEAN

A

fter 16 months of virtual performances, the Center for the Arts at Pepperdine University opened its doors to audiences in September. Since then, they’ve roared back with an exciting season—with more to come in 2022.

We spoke with Tyler Flynn at the Lisa Smith Wengler Center for the Arts who shared his excitement that live shows are back in the community.

particular favorite of yours?

TF: The Queen’s Cartoonists, who are performing in January—they are a jazz ensemble that plays live music synchronized to various animated films and shows while also entertaining the audience with funny gags. As a lifelong animation fan, I think this will be an incredible performance that will bring new life into classic animation.

MTM: What are you most looking forward to when welcoming back the community?

TF: We’re grateful to once again gather together in community and to engage with our patrons as we share in our collective love of the arts.

Collision of Rhythm

MTM: What has been a highlight of the opening season at The Lisa Smith Wengler Center for the Arts?

TF: Mamma Mia! marked the first musical hosted on our stage in two years; we’re pleased that opening weekend was nearly sold out.

MTM: What makes a good show?

TF: A good show is one that maintains our commitment to present innovative, unique, entertaining and diversity while maintaining a space that protects the health and safety of our patrons; we have maintained these commitments throughout our current season.

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MTM: Are you doing the ARTSReach program for children next year?

TF: Yes, we are holding our ARTSReach program in spring, and are excited to once again offer free shows and Weisman Museum tours to L.A. schoolchildren. Our ARTSReach program—which exists thanks to the generosity of our donors—is our way of giving back to our community by introducing kids to the beauty and magic of performing arts. Teachers or parents who are interested in participating in ARTReach can submit a request through our website.

O

ther highlights to look forward to include The Frederick R. Weisman Museum of Art show, The Cultivators:

Highlights from the Kinsey African American Art and History Collection, which delivers masterful paintings and sculpture, photographs, rare books, letters and manuscripts as part of one of the most comprehensive surveys of African American history and culture. The show has toured through 30 cities, received three national awards and celebrates the accomplishments and artistry of African Americans from the 16th century through the years of slavery and Emancipation, to the Civil Rights movement and modern day. The exhibit is free, open to the public and runs from January 15 through March 27.

Smothers Theater, an intimate 450seat venue, this year has already seen the likes of Grammy award-winning musicians, and two comedy legends grace the stage. And 2022 includes the TAIKOPROJECT, Ailey II and many more shows until it closes with Roger McGuinn in April of 2022.

Don’t miss the chance to watch some budding talent during the Student Performances at the Center for the Arts. From opera, dance and musical performances, there are many different options to support the young artists of Pepperdine.

The Parkening International Guitar Competition is the most prestigious classical guitar competition in the world, and it offers cash prizes in excess of $65,000. It also includes the Young Guitarist Competition for youth aged 17 and under. It is tentatively scheduled for May-June of 2023. n arts.pepperdine.edu

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Celebrity Cruises brings wellness to a higher level.

Innovative Healing

BY BRIDGET GRAHAM

A

PHOTOS COURTESY OF CELEBRITYCRUISES.COM

Above: the relaxation room with heated tile loungers Below: the float room for cocooned meditation

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cruise is one of the most relaxing vacations one can take—and Celebrity Cruises has elevated the wellness experience.

Not only is the ocean the backdrop 24/7, but the onboard spa also offers escapes within the escape.

With more than 120 rejuvenating treatments available, including a “Women in Wellness Program,” there is no shortage of bliss. Some of the most highly respected female leaders in the wellness industry, including Ruth Zukerman, co-founder of Soul Cycle and Flywheel Sports, and Morgan Mitchell, Olympian and F45 training athlete, are advisors for the well-being program.

Wellness is a fundamental part

of the company’s philosophy and the AquaClass staterooms offer healthy luxuries like verandas that provide a walk right out to the water’s edge to a cashmere mattress and pillow, to the cuisine. There is also access to the SEA Thermal Suite, which features eight distinctive experiences inspired by nature, including the float toom where you swing into a meditative sleep, cocooned in floating basket chairs. And the Zero Gravity Immersion Massage uses advanced technology of a WellMassage4D table for a feeling of being suspended in the air while receiving the treatment.

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Making a Difference For more than three decades, the Malibu Dolphin Awards have honored outstanding individuals and organizations for contributions to the welfare of our local community. As we head into the new year, we also look back at a few memorable Dolphin Award winners over the years.

BY KAMALA KIRK

T

he annual Malibu Dolphin Awards honor those who make invaluable contributions to our community. The awards were created by Arnold and Karen York, former publishers of The Malibu Times and founders of the Malibu Dolphin Charitable Foundation, a nonprofit that recognizes and supports the Malibu Dolphin Citizens of the Year and assists other nonprofit organizations.

Selected via a nomination process, there have been hundreds of recipients throughout the years recognized for various contributions and achievements ranging from education and the arts to protecting the environment and helping the homeless, and so many more great achievements.

“When we moved to Malibu and even prior to acquiring The Malibu Times, Arnold and I were impressed with the generous spirit of its citizens,” Karen said.

“Shortly after acquiring Malibu Times, Arnold and I met

with Harvey Baskin and longtime Malibu resident and universal volunteer Ann Fulton to create a program to recognize and support these wonderful individuals and organizations.”

During their meeting, held at Geoffrey’s, a pod of dolphins came into view while they were discussing a name for the program—and, thus, the Dolphin Awards were born.

“Who could have imagined that 32 years later there would be 300-plus Dolphin Award recipients. Our country and community have experienced challenging times, and, unfortunately, there has been a surplus of negativity, rancor and divisiveness. Certainly, it has never been more important to accentuate the positive and to acknowledge and support the selfless generosity, kindness and caring that is typical of so many in our community,” Karen said.

Although they recently sold The Malibu Times, she and Arnold will continue to serve on Malibu Dolphin Charitable Foundation’s Board of Directors.

W I N T E R 2 0 2 1 - 2 2 | 19

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE ELLEN AND MICHAEL SHANE

Ellen and Michel Shane established the Emily Shane Foundation 11 years ago after the loss of their youngest child, Emily Rose, to honor her memory and help students reach academic greatness.

Honoring Emily

is that each student is asked to perform one good deed or act of kindness for every session received (typically twice per week).

“This embraces our foundation’s ‘pass it forward’ motto,” Michel said, “and honors Emily’s persona. We hope it helps foster a sense of social consciousness in our youth.”

In addition to winning a Dolphin Award in 2013, the Shanes received a Lifetime Achievement Award from President Obama in 2015 for their lifelong commitment to building a stronger nation through volunteer service. Ellen also received the KNX Honda Hero of the Week in February 2019 in recognition of her work with the foundation.

“Winning the Dolphin Award was a true honor,” Ellen said.

“We want to help and make a difference in people’s lives. It helps us keep the memory of our daughter Emily alive in a significant way. Her memory and her life continue through these children— to date, we have helped close to a thousand.”

“You have to live here full time to understand the true sense of community Malibu has and how we all help each other out,” Michel said. “The perception of Malibu by the world is one thing, the reality is truly another. We want to acknowledge how grateful we are to the community as everyone rallied around us at the time of the tragedy, and we continue to have a deep connection to this city and community.”

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PHOTO COURTESY OF MFS

Ellen and Michel Shane established the Emily Shane Foundation 11 years ago after the loss of their youngest child, Emily Rose, who was tragically murdered at the age of 13 in April 2010. She Cinematic Achievements was killed close to the crosswalk at Heathercliff Road on PCH, The Malibu Film Society (MFS), a nonprofit founded to create a which is now Heathercliff Road and Emily Shane Way. strong sense of community by bringing together local film lovers “Our foundation was created to honor Emily’s memory for screenings of critically acclaimed movies and classic films, and to help others with something Emily herself struggled received a Dolphin Award in 2019. Led by executive director with during her short life,” Ellen and Michel said. “Our Scott Tallal, MFS features volunteer staff and board members SEA (Successful Educational Achievement) Program provides with expertise in various aspects of the entertainment and film intensive academic tutoring and mentorship to disadvantaged production industry. students in the mainstream middle school classroom.”

“The original idea for a local film society dates back to The foundation serves students who are unable to afford 2005, after Malibu’s old movie theater burned down,” Tallal essential support to attain their best academic potential.

The SEA concept was developed by Ellen and Gene Bream, a now retired middle school teacher who taught for over 40 years. Since launching in Spring 2012, SEA now operates at 13 sites serving 15 middle schools across Los Angeles and Ventura Counties, and close to 1,000 children have participated to date.

“Specific to Malibu, we have helped many local students facing academic struggles. We work closely with the administration and counselors at Malibu Middle School, in addition to many other middle schools, to truly make a significant difference for our students,” Ellen said.

The nonprofit Malibu Film Society (MFS) creates a strong sense of community by bringing together One component of the SEA Program local film lovers.

PHOTO BY DAVE TEEL PHOTOGRAPHY

Johanna Spinks captured the people of Malibu to tell their stories, including those who lost homes after the Woolsey fire.

said. “Representatives from the City of Malibu invited several of us to a meeting where together we laid out plans for a series of outdoor movies to be held at Bluffs Park.”

The idea eventually evolved into a film society. After originally screening 14 films a year with three dozen sustaining members, MFS eventually attracted the support of the entire film industry, especially during awards season, when they typically show 40 to 50 of the year’s top contenders. They have also expanded beyond film to host free events open to the entire community, ranging from live coverage of the solar eclipse to playoffs featuring Los Angeles’ professional sports teams.

“The reception from (and impact on) the community has been extremely positive,” Tallal said. “Prior to the pandemic, a typical event would draw upwards of 100 guests who would mix and mingle before the show and often stay afterward for audience Q&A with the actors, directors and others involved in making the movie.”

When the pandemic occurred, MFS was forced to suspend in-person screenings. Strong studio support helped them shift gears by moving their entire operation online.

“Beyond giving our guests the ability to safely stream each movie in the privacy of their own home,” Tallal said, “the shift to virtual screenings yielded a huge silver lining: Q&A conversations with filmmakers all over the world.

“Although my original Dolphin Award dates all the way back to my involvement in bringing outdoor movies to Malibu 16 years ago, I’m delighted we can recognize all of the wonderful volunteers who have helped make all of this happen.”

Painting Portraits Los Angeles-based oil portrait artist Johanna Spinks was the recipient of a Dolphin Award in 2018 for two special portrait series that she painted depicting various Malibu residents and locals.

Spinks said, “Senator Henry Stern said it best on his Senate certificate of recognition I received: ‘Your dedication to capturing the struggles and triumphs of locals through your series, The Face of Malibu, and now The Face of Malibu Rebuilds. Your vivid depictions have helped tell the story of a community who will continually persevere.’ Those words really touched me.”

The Face of Malibu series followed after a very successful similar series she did in Ventura.

“Malibu had been my home for many years where I raised my kids, so I wanted to see if I could turn my brush to my local community to capture it in the same way,” Spinks said. “I wasn’t sure the project could be repeated in another town successfully though, and was a bit nervous about that, especially as it was my hometown. The Face of Malibu series evolved over a five-year period with an energy all of its own, which was just great to see and feel.”

The next series, Face of Malibu Rebuilds, came to be after the Woolsey fire when Spinks was displaced from her home.

“As I was sitting in the evacuee hotel chatting with evacuees, waiting to get back to my house, I realized I had to get these stories out,” she said. “The courage I saw post-fire from Malibuites who had lost everything is something that was so moving and still brings a lump to my throat.”

Spinks painted people from all walks of life in Malibu W I N T E R 2 0 2 1 - 2 2 | 21

including a senator, an actress, police chief, dog groomer, town mayors, and generally people who were doing things of interest in the community. She oil painted 60 people for The Face of Malibu series, and then painted 17 sitters in watercolor and ink for The Face of Malibu Rebuilds series.

“There is a unique thread of humanity that shapes us all and I certainly felt that in Malibu from my sitters and the stories they shared about their lives,” the artist said.

This year, all the portraits from both series were donated and accepted into The Boone Special Collections and the archives at Pepperdine University’s Payson Library to be digitized and kept safely as a record of Malibu.

“I love the idea that people will be able to see this series recorded for future years,” Spinks said.

She said she cried when she first heard she was receiving a Dolphin Award.

“Acknowledgements like this for a body of artwork done over several years don’t come along very often for artists,” she said.

“It was the honor of a lifetime to meet and paint all of these wonderful people—and certainly at the very worst times of their lives in the Rebuilds series. It is something I look back on now with awe—just how special each and every one of my Malibu sitters were. Thank you, Malibu.”

“

It was a very proud moment to win the Dolphin Award,.

I hold all Dolphin Award recipients in high regards and admire the collective dedication and commitment to serving the community.

—Kasey Earnest

”

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The Boys & Girls Club of Malibu’s mission is to provide quality programs to benefit youth in many areas of life.

Supporting the Community The Boys & Girls Club of Malibu (BGCM) received a Dolphin Award in 2019 for establishing the Malibu Emergency Relief Fund, which directly passed $2 million dollars in emergency aid and workforce development funding to Malibu to residents and individuals who work in Malibu and were affected by the Woolsey fire. The organization was also honored for its commitment to youth and family services ranging from afterschool mentorship programs to free licensed mental health services for the community-at-large.

“I really see my role as the executive director to identify gaps in services for our youth and community,” Kasey Earnest said.

“Strengthening community partnerships, being resource efficient and leveraging the skill sets of our professional staff to provide programming, mentorship a safe place for kids, mental health services and support for our Malibu public schools.”

Since winning the award, BGCM expanded their Wellness Center from licensed counseling services to include licensed social work services. During the pandemic, they triaged support services for the most vulnerable members of the population including senior citizens, providing free groceries delivered weekly and custom grocery shopping.

“True to our mission, we kept our doors open for those who need us the most and provided mental health, social services, home wellness checks and onsite academic support for Malibu public school children in the K to 12th grade,” Earnest said. “I am beyond proud of my team and our response to the community at large during and post pandemic.”

Most recently, BGCM was featured in the Wall Street Journal for their innovative response to the mental health needs of youth.

They are focused on delivering mental health education for all students and creating a culture of empathy and support. Through a partnership with the federal government and SAMHSA, they developed a social, emotional learning curriculum, Empowered Voices, which is now being taught as a for-credit class at Malibu High School.

“It was a very proud moment to win the Dolphin Award,” Earnest said. “I hold all Dolphin Award recipients in high regards and admire the collective dedication and commitment to serving the community.”

Feeding Others on Thanksgiving Diane Malecha organized the Annual Malibu Community Thanksgiving Dinner after meeting Ron Hayes, a longtime Malibu resident and activist, who at the time was raising money to buy a trailer or bus for the unhoused to take cover during the cold rainy El Nino nights.

“I attended their ad hoc meetings, and out of that came the idea of what would be the first Annual Thanksgiving Dinner for the Day Labor Exchange Families,” Malecha said. “We had a few weeks to prepare—flyers went out to the houses of worship in Malibu asking for hot, prepared food and volunteers to help on Thanksgiving Day. Members of the congregation picked up guests at the Labor Exchange and brought them to the courtyard of the Malibu Methodist Church Courtyard where we have the event each year. Since then, we have had a bus pick up from The Labor Exchange. Now we have hundreds of volunteers from the schools, congregations, scout troops, local markets, Pepperdine and the greater community who take part to make this event a success each year.”

When setting up for the holiday dinner a year later, Malecha met Janet Hirsch Ettenger and the two partnered. Since then, it has been a joint organizational event between Malibu Methodist and Jewish Center.

“We have been partners in crime ever since, raising our

families with this dinner and involving so many other Malibu youth as well,” Hirsch Ettenger said.

Kay Gabbard, another Dolphin Award winner (2005), has been a participating organizer from Malibu Methodist for many years, and every year the three women and their families, along with many Malibu families, volunteer.

The number served has grown from 40 to 250 guests, and the dinner has been going on for 25 years. The community event involves local kids organizing and Malibu families donating food. There is also a clothing drive, a toiletry item drive, craft activities, live music and hair cutting.

“It has been an opportunity for community service for students of all ages and for many families—this is how they spend their Thanksgiving,” Hirsch Ettenger said. “My own children grew up with this organizing volunteers, running the kitchens, organizing toiletry items and more.”

After the Woolsey fire, Pepperdine reached out to co-host a dinner and offered their facility. That year, they served Labor Exchange families, those who are unhoused in the community, as well as people who lost their homes to the fire.

For the past two years due to COVID-19, they have been handing out boxes of food and toiletry items to Labor Exchange families to take home and cook. They are also handing out bags of personal care items to the unhoused.

“One of the best parts, before COVID, would be kids who

The Annual Malibu Community Thanksgiving Dinner serves those in need with a hot meal, as well as offers other stations including hair cutting and passing out toiletries—all made possible by the many volunteers who contribute.

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grew up volunteering, returning year after year while home from college for Thanksgiving,” Hirsch Ettenger said. “That’s what I love—that it has become a tradition not just for [those who attend], but for local families as well.”

Malecha said that next year, they hope to be back in the Malibu Methodist Courtyard with their traditions.

“The most rewarding part about the experience is that I live in a community of people who care about each other, and also being part of an event that has expanded into creating more resources to help those in need,” Malecha said. “I am particularly honored to work with Kay Gabbard, she was the director of the Malibu Methodist Nursery School for 40 years. Her annual fundraiser called Cooks Tour sponsors scholarships for families in need. She has been on the Board of the Day Labor Exchange for many years, a founding member of C.A.R.T., and works daily to feed and care for the unhoused in Malibu.”

Along with their families, Hirsch Ettenger and Malecha received the Dolphin Award in 2004 for helping to organize the Malibu Thanksgiving Dinner.

“I think the Dolphin Awards are such a contribution to our community,” Hirsch Ettenger said. “Highlighting so many outstanding efforts creates an empowering awareness of other community members and of all individuals and families can do to attune to local needs. I think it teaches our children to take action and to make a positive difference. In that regard, I am honored to have received this award.

“It was an honor, and at the same time, encouragement to do more for others and our community.”

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Madelyn Glickfeld advocates for clean water

Clean Water Advocate Longtime Malibu resident and environmental activist Madelyn Glickfeld was honored with the very first annual Dolphin Award. She was honored for her public service on the State Coastal Commission (saying no to offshore oil), as a member of Los Angeles Regional Water Quality Control Board (when they required the City of Malibu to install a sewer system for the Civic Center, Malibu Colony and Serra Retreat to eliminate groundwater, Malibu Lagoon and ocean pollution caused by septic systems in the area).

“Requiring a sewer was very unpopular at the time, but I believe that water quality in Malibu Lagoon and Surfrider State Beach has improved dramatically, except during the recent drought when algae has impacted the Lagoon,” Glickfeld said. “Water quality continues to improve as the sewer system is completed.”

Glickfeld has also had many impacts on water quality in Ventura and Los Angeles County as a Regional Board member, including the requirement of cleanup of polluted soils and groundwater affecting people’s health, as well as the approval of the Municipal Stormwater Permit for LA Country, including Malibu. Glickfeld also advocated for the Safe and Clean Water Program, which generates annual funds to improve water quality; and she currently sits on the North Santa Monica Bay Stakeholder Group that advises the Board of Supervisors on funding of grant applications to improve water quality and supply with community benefits.

“Farther away, I have been working on ways to provide clean, reliable drinking water for disadvantaged communities in the Salinas Valley and in Southern Los Angeles County, which both have significant numbers of poor communities with polluted water, an infrastructure that is not maintained or replaced, and water that is not reliable,” Glickfeld said.

Glickfeld’s is also a Duke University Associate Professor of

Neurology, a member of the Duke Institute for Brain Sciences, and director of partnerships for the UCLA Institute of the Environment and Sustainability.

“As the first person to get the Dolphin Award, announced with an article in The Malibu Times, I was very complimented, but I had no idea how important the award would become,” Glickfeld said. “I try to go every year and have nominated others. This is a community filled with rife, and yet we can all come together once a year to celebrate the efforts of community members who try to make Malibu a better place. I am happier now to be part of the large group of Dolphin honorees than I was when I was the first.”

Helping Kids with Disabilities Lisa Szilagyi and Cantor Marcelo are both Dolphin Award recipients and the cofounders of Hand in Hand, an inclusion program offered at Malibu Jewish Center & Synagogue for young adults with special needs in a socially integrated program. Janet Hirsh Ettenger, another co-director, had long been involved in creating opportunities for kids.

In 2011, Szilagyi received the Citizen of the Year Dolphin Award for her work with students with disabilities in the Malibu community, and Cantor was honored in 2013 for his contribution of music to Malibu, as well as for co-creating Hand in Hand.

“I was having lunch with the at-the-time president of the Malibu Jewish Center & Synagogue, and actor Paul Reiser, and we decided to create this program,” Cantor said, who used to direct this type of program in Argentina and has an M.A. in music therapy.

“Young people with special needs often have few outlets for creating and maintaining friendships. Hand in Hand offers such a program—our ‘buddy system’ pairs teens and young adults with special needs with their mainstream peers,” Cantor said.

“This model has proven to be an effective method of nurturing friendships that continue to grow and enrich their lives.”

Szilagyi added, “What inspired the creation of Hand in Hand for me was being a mom to a daughter with a disability, as well as a special education teacher working with students with moderate to severe disabilities. As a parent and teacher, I saw how hard it was for kids with disabilities to have fun social activities with their peers. Cantor also saw the need.”

Over the years, Hand in Hand has grown and benefitted many people, from the individuals with disabilities and their families to the peer buddies who have developed a deeper understanding of individuals with disabilities and a passion for inclusion.

“Many of our peer buddies have developed lasting friendships with their peers with disabilities, and some have also gone on to work in fields that support people with disabilities,” Szilagyi said. “We have also strengthened our relationship with Pepperdine University and local students who volunteer in our program. Additionally, we have had many community members volunteer with us, bringing their

Those involved in Hand in Hand support an inclusion program offered at Malibu Jewish Center & Synagogue for young adults with special needs in a socially integrated program.

“ I think the Dolphin Awards are such a contribution to our community. It was an honor, and at the same time, encouragement to do more for others and our community.”

—Janet Hirsch Ettenger

”

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unique skills and teaching and leading cooking, yoga, dance activities and more.”

Once a year, Hand in Hand hosts the Hand in Hand All Abilities Fair with hundreds of attendees, performers, booths and workshops for families. They also host a Spring Formal Dance, an event that brings people together to dance and have fun. In addition, they do field trips including bowling, movies, Malibu parks, beach days, Universal Studios and Disneyland. During the pandemic, Hand in Hand has been able to maintain their connection to others via virtual Zoom meetings.

Since winning her Dolphin Award, Szilagyi has gone on to found and run a community-integrated day program for adults called the Aurelia Foundation—Creative Steps Program.

“We started with nine young adults in 2013, and have grown to support over 75 adults in three locations,” Szilagyi said. “Winning the Dolphin Award was so meaningful to me.

As an advocate for people with disabilities, I have always been passionate about inclusion and fighting for the rights of kids and adults with disabilities. To be recognized and honored by the Malibu community for my work was unexpected but so meaningful.”

Cantor shared, “Winning a Dolphin Award meant everything to me. It was a recognition that gave us more strength to go on. It showed we were going in the right direction and our community in Malibu really needs a program like this.”

Over the last seven years, Hand in Hand has transformed the lives of thousands.

“On behalf of the children, families and staff of Hand in Hand, we want to thank everyone, including our sponsors, without whom we wouldn’t be able to provide such a valuable program in Malibu,” Cantor said.

“

Winning a Dolphin Award meant everything to me. It was a recognition that gave us more strength to go on.

—Cantor Marcelo

”

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KBUU (99.1 FM), Malibu’s first and only radio station, covers local news and issues important to the community.

Taking a Stand Longtime Malibu resident Hans Laetz received a Dolphin Award in 2013 for his efforts to win tougher safety standards on utility poles after the 2007 Malibu Canyon wildfire. The fire occurred when several overloaded power poles snapped and ignited nearby brush, burning 3,800 acres and destroying 14 structures. Laetz made multiple trips to San Francisco and pushed for higher safety standards in Malibu during hundreds of hours of depositions.

“Working for no pay, I legally challenged Southern California Edison and the cell phone companies for their overloading of power poles in Malibu and causing the Canyon fire of 2007,” Laetz said. “Eventually the state assigned a prosecutor to the case, he did much of the work. We won $67 million in penalties, half from SCE, with half the amount going to rebuild the power poles in Malibu.”

After retiring from the TV news industry, he applied for an FCC license for Malibu and started KBUU (99.1 FM), Malibu’s first and only radio station that covers local news and issues important to the community.

“I cover stories [about] important stuff that affects Malibu,” Laetz said. “We produce hundreds of PSAs for free for Malibu groups and the city. KBUU is very much a product of my wife, Diane, and her hard efforts, plus 12 volunteers who do engineering, music direction and shows for it.”

Last year, KBUU put a new transmitter and antenna on the air, and updated the digital backbone. According to Laetz, KBUU is now transmitting three radio stations on their HD subcarriers and on the web. All three transmitters have to be precisely synchronized because they are all on the same 99.1 FM frequency.

“We’ve never received a penny of government aid, and people who I do not know contribute cash for the new transmitters,” Laetz said. “That really is gratifying.”

Helping Children A 1995 recipient of the Dolphin Award, Maria D’Angelo started the Children’s Lifesaving Foundation (CLF) in 1993 with a camp she had refurbished in Malibu with donated materials and hundreds of volunteers. For their work, CLF received two five-year leases from the National Park service to run camps for homeless and underserved children living in Los Angeles.

“The following year, the Malibu fire destroyed the campsite and we once again had to rebuild it,” D’Angelo said. “This time the National Park Service stepped in with help from the federal government—and the camp was totally rebuilt.”

D’Angelo started the foundation “by accident” after meeting a little boy at a shelter in South Central LA who was eight years old and had never been to school because he had never had a physical. After taking him in for a physical, she realized many more children needed medical assistance.

“I met many doctors and specialists, one in particular, Chris Landon, who owns three clinics in Ventura and had 30 medical doctors working there,” D’Angelo said. “And Dr. Koz, a famous dermatologist to the stars, and many others, all vowed to help children in need for free—and they did! It was an amazing example of community truly bonding together.”

At the same time, D’Angelo was teaching a program for adults across from Pepperdine University and two of her students, Michael Johnson and Bud Burke, were responsible for finding the first CLF home on Busch Drive in Malibu.

“On July 7, we opened the camp with seven children who were picked up from Lincoln Park across from St. Monica’s Church,” D’Angelo said. “It was a magical day for them and

for all of us. The next day, local Malibu friends helped by picking up 30 kids, and by the end of the first month, we were sending a bus to pick up 75 children a day at Ocean Park Community Center, Lieu Cap and Sunlight Shelters. Malibu has been such a generous and giving community of fantastic friends and supporters. I am forever grateful to all of these wonderful, amazing angels.”

Since 1993, CLF has served over 85,000 at-risk youth and homeless parents, and awarded more than 125 college scholarships to teens across LA. They also began finding financial sponsors to move specific families out of homeless shelters and into their own homes. These families formed the Adopt-A-Family Program, and later, a program called the Vita Network. Other programs sprang up from the work needing to be done, including Project Angel Wings Holiday Program, Care through College Program, and Camp for All. Since COVID-19 began, CLF has created a “Step Forward Emergency Family Fund” for the most at-risk families in their Vita Network, distributing over $120,000 to them directly, and will continue to distribute emergency funding in 2022.

The platform has helped to stabilize and rehabilitate homeless families by moving them out of shelters and into new homes. “[Winning the Dolphin Award] really gave us so much more exposure and credibility,” D’Angelo said. “It was also the gateway for us to receive a Citizen of the Year award from the City of Malibu. “[All the people involved] truly gave me the confidence I needed to move forward—the angels who continue to assist us with our work to this day.” n

Children’s Lifesaving Foundation (CLF) runs camps for homeless and underserved children living in Los Angeles.

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We talked to locals about the new year. We asked them: What are you looking forward to in the new year? What inspires you for the coming year? What are your new year traditions?

P H OTO G R A P H Y BY E M I LY S C H E R

My focus in the new year will be for a better year in health and more time for healing, with the need for peace given. There’s so much unrest all around us and in our world ... the pandemic, economically and with people in general.

I’d like to have more peace and comfort mentally this coming year. I love the time I take at sunset time every day because it brings me such a sense of renewal for a new day to come. I’m so lucky to be in Malibu every day to experience that. I have so much love for Malibu with its beautiful sunsets and views. It truly heals your soul and healed mine. And all of years I’ve spent here, working and serving the community as well, has made a huge difference in my life.

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I’m blessed and grateful for having the opportunity to share the love of the ocean.

Mother ocean has given me strength to be empowered—to feel and understand.

I’m blessed beyond belief! I’m able to give back to familia and friends. Smiles don’t lie. Amor

🙏💪🤙❤❤🤙💪🙏

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I like to bring in the new year by counting my blessings, staying grounded and being in the present. I’ll go somewhere beautiful to walk around and contemplate. Maybe I’ll read a book, or write in a journal. One of my favorite spots is Calamigos Ranch. I love the little carousel. This has been my new year’s tradition for years—to get outside, reconnect with nature and experience the beauty. When I look toward 2022, I’m filled with gratitude. My family is healthy; my daughter graduated from Malibu High, went to CalARTS and is an up-and-coming artist and filmmaker. I’m a newlywed and I have a great position with a local land-use firm. 2022 … Bring it on!

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I find inspiration and clarity right here every day, in the beautiful place we live, accessible any time. I hope 2022 brings many more days with my feet in the sand!

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(with Tom Yotka) Looking ahead to the new year 2022, I am imagining my home being rebuilt. Three years ago, it was reduced to a pile of burnt rubble and ash. All of the objects and possessions of two lifetimes, mine and my husband’s and all that we inherited from our parents and grandparents, and things I treasured from my children’s childhoods, were gone to oblivion in a few hours. As an artist who had just started painting again after retiring from 30 years as a hardworking OB-Gyn doctor, this was particularly tragic for me. I lost almost all of my paintings, all of my supplies, my studio and my art spirit was broken. What followed has been three years of dashed hopes as the reality of getting a building permit kept moving further and further away into the unforeseeable future. One roadblock after another has been placed in my way, and so here I am still working toward it and waiting for everything to fall into place. Out of the blue, Emily Scher, amazing photographer, contacted me to offer me a chance to display my artwork translating her photos through my artist’s eyes into paintings. This was the boost I needed to get me back to painting. I went to the art store and set up a little studio in the corner of my rented bedroom. Through painting, my hope is restored. Thank you, Emily, for this wonderful opportunity and renewal of my spirit to continue on to put my life and my house back together!

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(with Michelle Wolf and Andy Jackson) No question: the thing I’m looking forward to most is playing live music again. I feel like I’ve been hibernating at home writing songs and recording, which has been great, but there’s nothing like playing gigs. I did a couple of live shows in the summer with Lenny Goldsmith and We love to Old do the simple things Walking the let out of jail! I formed Band of Rouge The New at Trancas, whichthe feltmost! like we’d all been beach or just hanging out at home on the deck makes with Michelle Wolf and Andy Jackson in 2018, and weushave a bunch of new material that we’re happy. We also like to chill out with a glass of bubbly and itching to play … All we need is for Malibu to have a couple of great music venues. I hear people watch … especially at sunset. rumors about something at Trancas, and then there’s Aviator Nation. And, of course, we would LOVE to restart the Malibu Guitar Festival, which I founded with Doug De Luca. We’re looking at October 2022, so stay tuned! And last but not least, I’m really looking forward to having our European families come visit. My wife is German and I’m a Brit, and our families have been literally banned from coming in to the US. Thankfully, that’s changed, and so we’re expecting an onslaught crossing the pond!

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Cheers to a New Year!

MTM asked local spots to share their favorite spirits.

BY STEPHANIA JEAN

F

eeling festive? Then check out these recipes straight out of Malibu from two of our local wine tasting rooms.

Summer Somewhere Wines

PHOTO COURTESY OF STRANGE FAMILY WINES

Nicolette DeLuca—Tasting Room Manager MTM: What is your favorite holiday drink for the season?

ND: I absolutely love mulled wine! It makes everything so much cozier and really feels (and tastes) like the holidays to me.

MTM: Do you have a favorite blend at your vineyard?

ND: My favorite wine from Summer

Somewhere Wines is our 2017 Meritage, a Bordeaux-Style blend of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon and 30% Merlot. It is silky smooth with rich fruit, coffee and cocoa notes that make it the perfect wine to drink next to the fireplace or with family and friends. A close second is our Zuma Red Blend.

This wine is about 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot, and 15% Syrah. I love this wine because it is the definition of a crowd pleaser … Easy drinking with dark, luscious fruit and a hint of spice from the Syrah. Pairs wonderfully with any red meat dish, as well.

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MULLED WINE 1 bottle of Merlot, Zinfandel, or Grenache 1/4 cup Brandy 2 oranges 2 tablespoons of maple syrup or honey 2 cinnamon sticks 3 pieces of star anise 4 whole cloves Add wine, brandy, maple syrup or honey, spices, and juice of 1 orange to a pot.

Warm over medium heat until steaming.

Continue simmering on low heat until desired spice from cinnamon, clove and star anise is reached. Serve in a mug and garnish with orange slices and whole cranberries.

Strange Family Vineyards

PHOTO COURTESY OF STRANGE FAMILY WINES

Shamra Tankersley-Strange—Owner MTM: What is your favorite wine for the season?

STS: Although the cooler weather often calls for heavier red wines, which pair well with holiday chills, we like to promote our sparkling wine for the holidays. It’s celebratory and beautiful on its own but you can add pomegranate seeds and a small touch of mint to add a festive touch.

MTM: What drink do you recommend for entertaining during the holidays?

STS: At the tasting room at our vineyard, we feature a “Bubble Bar.” It’s easy to create one at home when entertaining: All you need is sparkling wine, an assortment of pretty, fresh fruit and a couple of seasonal fresh juices. It can be set up on a table where guests can create their own beautiful concoctions. It’s fun, creative and gives the host a break from bartending!

Bonus Recipe - The Sunset Restaurant FRANCO SIMPLICIO SHARED “HOLIDAY BATIDA” Meyer’s Rum 1 & 1/2 oz Cachaca 1 oz Vanilla 1/4 tsp Espresso 1 tsp Demerara sugar sprinkle Cream 1 tsp Cinnamon Rim on glass Shake and serve with 1 large ice cube 36 | MM AA LL II BB UU TT II MM EE SS MM AAGGAA ZZ II NN EE || ## MM AA LL II BB UU TT II MM EE SS MM AAGG

BUBBLE BAR 1/3 of glass—Juice (Orange, Cranberry or Grapefruit) 2/3 of glass— Bubbly Pomegranate seeds or whole raspberries Herbs like mint Stir together juice and bubbly. Drop in a few pieces of fruit into each glass. Get creative and add a dash of liqueur like elderflower or bitters to finish. Garnish with mint or other festive herbs. n

Keeping It Together Ten ways to take care of yourself, eat healthy and not stress—from holidays to the new year.

BY LAUREN FREIMAN, L.AC.

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1

Don’t Show Up Hungry. Play it smart at holiday parties; just because your favorite caterer is hosting a party doesn’t mean you should starve yourself in preparation. Rather, have a small snack with protein before you show up. You’re less likely to overeat or make poor food choices.

2

Move with the Groove. Due to various changes in schedule or family in town, your regular exercise routine may be out of the question. Use this as an opportunity to get creative with your workouts. Studies have shown that even just a few short bursts of 10-minute exercises aid in weight control, help lower blood pressure and just make you feel better. So, get your feel-good release of endorphins in any way you can. Take a few short brisk walks or make your workouts a family affair.

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3

Catch some ZZZs. Snoozing for seven to eight hours a night is one of the most important things you can do for your health. Skimping on sleep will not only make you feel moody and irritable, it can also contribute to weight gain. Restful sleep helps keep cortisol (aka the stress hormone) in check. High cortisol levels are associated with decreased ability to cope with stress and an increase in appetite and weight gain.

4

Give Yourself a Time-Out. There may be endless to-do lists—but remember to take care of number one.

When you feel pampered, you will be more present for the ones you love. Try to maintain at least some of your me-time, whether it is getting a manicure or massage, reading a good book or taking a candlelit bubble bath.

5

H2O is Your Best Friend. Drinking water or hot tea helps fill you up and keeps your appetite under control. Be sure to drink one glass of water for every glass of alcohol—it will keep you hydrated and help minimize alcohol consumption, as well as save a few calories.

6

Take a Deep Breath.

You may not be able to get in the lotus position during stressful times, but you can stop and take a deep breath anywhere. Do you notice when you’re getting stressed or overwhelmed? Stress causes the body to shift into “fight or flight,” which results in shallow breathing, tense muscles and increased blood pressure.

Reverse this by taking a few Yogic Retention Breaths. Place your hand on your diaphragm, inhale and push your belly out as you breathe in. At the top of the inhale, wait one second and pause. Then exhale. As you exhale, feel your hand moving in toward your spine. At the bottom of the exhale, wait one second, pause and exhale. Repeat, increasing the length between the inhale and exhale. You will feel calm, collected and ready to meet any challenge in no time.

7

Go Ahead, Be Sinful.

Life is short. Enjoy dessert. Survey the landscape, choose one sweet or guilty pleasure and relish it. Don’t pick something you can eat anytime—pick something special. If you deprive yourself, you’re more likely to overindulge later.

If you find yourself stuck in a cycle of constant sugar cravings, have your dessert with a little protein. Or try a handful of almonds, a spoonful of peanut

butter or fresh whipped cream.

Protein helps keep your blood sugar levels in balance so you can indulge without your sweet tooth getting the best of you.

8

Laugh. There is a proverb that says: “If you are too busy to laugh, you are too busy.”

The holiday / new year season can be one of the busiest and most stressful times of the year.

Add in a pandemic and it soars to new levels. If you’re feeling crazed, lean on your sense of humor. Try taking it all a little less seriously. Let yourself laugh about the cookie disaster in the kitchen or the traffic frenzy

the parasympathetic nervous system, which controls rest and relaxation. In addition to stress, it’s effective for anxiety, depression, pain relief, insomnia, chronic conditions and almost every sign or symptom that may be ailing you.

10

Be Grateful. It has been a trying two years. Being grateful reminds us of what’s important in life. It can turn seemingly bad things into good things. Turn your mind toward thoughts about why you’re grateful—it will bring you joy and peace. n

that is back on the freeways.

It’s hard to stay frustrated, sad or stressed after a good laugh.

Laughing eases tension, promotes relaxation and even burns calories—50 calories for every 10 to 15 minutes. Watch a funny movie or TV show. Hang out with a funny friend (yes, we all have one). Just laugh.

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Get Acupuncture. If you really need to give your stress a kick in the butt, try acupuncture. It stimulates W I N T E R 2 0 2 1 - 2 2 | 39

Fr esh A i r When living in Malibu, there is no shortage of outdoor activities. We can be outside, getting fresh air, burning calories and staying healthy all at the same time.

BY BRIDGET GRAHAM

A Li t t l e Sa n d Goes A Lon g Way Walking in the sand burns 20 to 50 percent more calories than walking on the pavement, according to WebMd.com.

It requires more effort and almost three percent more energy; therefore, your muscles work much harder.

Runnersworld.com noted that running on sand burns about 1.6 more calories than doing so on asphalt. Plus, sand is better for the joints as opposed to hard pavement. For additional moves, you can also bring containers (and their lids) to the beach to fill them with sand and create portable weights.

Carry one small container in each hand, and work your muscles by swinging your arms while walking.

Cl i m b t h e S t a i rs The famous Santa Monica stairs—or infamous, as some may say—are a well-known hot spot for fitness buffs.

Situated in a neighborhood, this is a place where courtesy is a must. Located near San Vicente Boulevard and Fourth Street, there are two staircases, each with about 200 steps. The concrete set is a bit narrower in width, with the stairs closer together. The wooden steps, which are a few feet down the road, are wider and a bit farther apart.

Some people prefer one to the other, but you can also walk up one and down the other in a giant circle. Either way this is a definite workout! Climbing stairs is a lowimpact fitness option, primarily working the buttocks and quadriceps. It can improve your cardiovascular level, too.

DiscoverWalking.com noted that the average amount of calories you can burn by stair climbing is about 300 per 30 minutes, depending on the speed and intensity with which you move.

This website will help calculate exactly how many calories you’ll burn: stairway.hc-sc.gc.ca/calcalc.aro 40 | MM AA LL II BB UU TT II MM EE SS MM AAGGAA ZZ II NN EE || ## MM AA LL II BB UU TT II MM EE SS MM AAGG

Fi tne s s reasons: lowering LDL levels (bad cholesterol), blood pressure and risk of diabetes—and raising HDL (good cholesterol) levels and your good spirits, too.

Tra i l i n g A h ead Now, for those of you who want the benefits of walking the great outdoors with a kick-up-dust kind of feel, you can pick any of the trails in the Santa Monica Mountains. There is something for every one—from novice to hardcore. The Charmlee Wilderness Park trail is family friendly, and includes eight miles of trails and views of both Catalina and the Channel islands (on a clear day).

There is a picnic area, too (for when those breaks are needed).

You can access the park from Encinal Canyon Road in Malibu.

For those looking for a bit more of a challenge, hike the La Jolla Valley Loop, which can be accessed off Pacific Coast Highway, about a mile and a half north of Big Sycamore Canyon campground via the Ray Miller Trailhead. You’ll find gorgeous views, waterfalls and rolling grasslands.

Be Go o d to Fid o Grab your dog for low-impact walking, and you’ll likely be able to go farther distances when you’re doing it for the both of you. The Mayo Clinic recommended walking for numerous

Pedal You r Way Simply riding your bike can burn as much as 600 calories per hour, according to medicinenet.com (of course, if you’re doing the really die-hard, up-the-canyon workouts, it can be upward to 1,000 per hour). The benefits include working the quadriceps and increasing the heart rate for cardiovascular health. In a study, posted on medicinenet.com, of nearly 7,000 men and women who averaged three hours of biking per week, the risk of dying prematurely was reduced by about 20 percent—even if no other exercise was maintained. n W I N T E R 2 0 2 1 - 2 2 | 41

A Local Artist Sophia Galaté celebrates the arrival of her debut album, SOFIA

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Debut

BY STEPHANIA JEAN

A

s a third-generation local, Sophia Galaté has fond memories of her hometown.

“Malibu is a very special place mostly in part because my mom grew up [here] with her family. I feel I resonate with ‘old Malibu’—back when it was more of a laid-back hippie town rather than ‘new Malibu’ that everyone is familiar with today.”

Her “Most Malibu Moment?”

“Our 11th grade biology class took place at Zuma Beach,” she said. “I can’t think of anywhere else where they would allow us to have class on the beach.”

These days, she is about to bring some new music into the world, having just released her debut album, SOFIA. The songstress said that if there was a particular soundtrack for her youth: “My dad played a lot of Motown and soul music growing up, and I fell in love with it. But R&B was something I discovered on my own. I vividly remember the day I saw John Legend on TV for the first time. I was nine years old, and at that moment I knew that I wanted to learn how to play the piano and sing.”

Sophia enjoyed growing up in a tight community where she still has close friends today. Many of them were interested in music and she spent much of her youth playing and performing with her classmates at Malibu High School. Being in proximity to LA and a rich music scene definitely shaped her trajectory toward becoming a musician herself.

When she finished high school, Sophia headed east to pursue her passion and study music at a college in Chicago. While there, she went to many jazz and blues clubs around the city and studied jazz in class. This helped cultivate her love of that particular musical style and influenced her own sound that she would create.

After graduation, this child of Malibu returned home to California. Sophia got her first job working in the music industry in LA as an assistant at a talent agency, ICM Partners. While it was a stressful position, it introduced her to three women who would help her found a business, The

Nucleus. This women-powered company has guided the careers of many artists since then.

But when the time came for Sophia to step out from behind the scenes and into the spotlight with her debut album, SOFIA, she wanted her work to be “a melodious blend of the sounds” that define her life—soul, R & B and jazz. While Sophia’s voice is uniquely her own, there are echoes of two of her biggest influences—Amy Winehouse and D’Angelo—in her work.

Her goal in music aims beyond “skimming the surface,” but to get under your skin with poignant messages about body positivity and confidence. Her songs tell stories about different struggles, relationships and other important issues.

“When I write lyrics, I think about a particular story from my life that I want to talk about,” Sophia said. “All my songs are true and personal. I want them to be meaningful and make sense, so I really pay attention to the words I choose. I’ve always struggled with being vulnerable, and writing this music has helped me overcome that.”

But this powerful vulnerability she described didn’t come easily. For a long time, Sophia grappled with mental health issues surrounding body image and disordered eating. Her career was postponed for a while by a fear of failure that steered her away from pursuing her passion for years.

“I’m proud of all the work that I’ve done,” she said. “Writing this music has helped me figure out who I truly am, who I want to be, and I love this version of myself. I’ve spent many years working on self-love, to a point that no one can disrupt how I feel about myself.

I want people to know that how you feel about yourself is what matters most.”

Releasing her music, she said, is a transformative moment, as it allows her to be who she wants to be—a songwriter and performer. And the lesson she learned from this journey? “Fear of other people’s opinions is truly a waste of time,” she said.

“Pursuing your passion is for yourself, not other people. But also, trust your path and trust your process.” ■ sophiagalate.com W I N T E R 2 0 2 1 - 2 2 | 43

BY LAURIE HARTT

Vinny Van Patten explored life and then wrote it all down.

T

ony Morrison once said, “If there’s a book that you want to read, but it hasn’t been written yet, then you must write it.”

Last year, one young Malibu man answered that call. Vincent Van Patten, grandson of Dick Van Patten (“Eight Is Enough”), son of Vincent Van Patten and Betsy Russell, and stepson of Eileen Davidson, wrote a book.

“Arrows of Youth” is part reflection, part observation, part counselor, part historian. It is unashamedly the point of view of a 25-year-old experiencing the world in the throes of the first pandemic in 100 years.

“It’s how I see the world now,” Van Patten said.

The book is structured around his solo, three-week road trip through the Pacific Northwest during the pandemic, buoyed by musings on his role in the changing world and history lessons from family members and other memorable figures throughout time.

“When the pandemic hit,” Van Patten said, “I knew I wanted to write and explore what we’re doing here in the world.”

He quit his job in real estate and threw himself full time into writing, reading and exploration through the written word.

For Van Patten, the love of writing came as a post-college surprise. A journalism student through four years at Cal Poly, he hated every minute of his chosen degree.

“I got into journalism thinking I’d be doing broadcasting and news casting, but I ended up writing about things I didn’t care about,” he said.

It wasn’t until he began to look further into the family history of his mother Betsy Russell, that he discovered a whole slew of writers in the family.

“I had this whole writing background I never tapped into,” he noted. “My great grandfather Max Lerner was a political writer; he wrote Democracy in America. My grandpa Richard Russell served in WW2 and became fascinated in the stock

44 | MM AA LL II BB UU TT II MM EE SS MM AAGGAA ZZ II NN EE || ## MM AA LL II BB UU TT II MM EE SS MM AAGG

A Blessing to Be Alive

market and started the Dow Theory Letters.”

Therefore, Van Patten’s road trip became a ripple effect of next steps for him to fully embrace his writing legacy—and pursue it through his own lens of travel. A life-long fan of travel shows like “Bizarre Foods,” Anthony Bourdain, and the Travel Channel, he began to look for ways to incorporate travel into his tales. When the inspiration for the road trip hit, he knew he’d found his own green light.

“I always wanted to go the Pacific Northwest,” he said. “It just blossomed into this three-week road trip to figure out what I want to do with my life. It was my first real experience travel writing, and I knew I wanted to give it everything I had.”

The book reads as a blend of memoir and contemplation, pulling in photos, poetry, philosophy and stories from his own family along with providing encouragement for other young readers looking to find their own way in the world. Where other books with a similar bent can be lost in a sea of similarities, “Arrows of Youth” separates itself from the Kindle crowd in its vulnerability. It’s self-published, knowingly written from a place of youth and relative inexperience, and intentionally positioned for a specific point in time. As one kindle reviewer wrote, it is “a much needed reminder to fall in love with life again.”

“I don’t have to have 50 years of experience,” Van Patten acknowledged. “This is how I view things now, and I knew from the beginning it would connect with other people, especially for people my age, trying to make meaning of it all. So there was definitely an urgency to get it out before the pandemic ended.”

Although a new author, Van Patten is clearly a serious one, giving up alcohol completely during the writing process to avoid any excuses to write, setting aside hours each day to write and edit, and waking up before dawn to join the early morning muses. When he’s not writing, he’s co-hosting his “Dare to Dream” podcast about unconventional paths in life.

“We hope to interview people from any field who have found their own way or are least trying to,” he said.

Van Patten, whose notable family history has clearly shaped his positive outlook on life, leaned into his heritage to shape the book.

“Everything I love about life turned into this book,” he

acknowledged. “Our arrows are experiences we’ll have for the rest of our lives: growing up, dealing with families; arrows to store on backs as fuel to guide us through. My grandfather Van Patten, for example, lived with such a full heart, a joy for life and not letting this gift of life slip away ... it’s a blessing to be alive.”

In early 2022, Van Patten plans to travel to Japan to continue his career in travel writing while teaching English.

“I want to be a part of a changing world,” he said. “I haven’t figured it out by any means, but I’m just exploring.” ■

“

Everything I love about life turned into this book.

Our arrows are experiences we’ll have for the rest of our lives.

—Vinny Van Patten

”

W I N T E R 2 0 2 1 - 2 2 | 45

BY LAURIE HARTT

Vinny Van Patten explored life and then wrote it all down.

T

ony Morrison once said, “If there’s a book that you want to read, but it hasn’t been written yet, then you must write it.”

Last year, one young Malibu man answered that call. Vincent Van Patten, grandson of Dick Van Patten (“Eight Is Enough”), son of Vincent Van Patten and Betsy Russell, and stepson of Eileen Davidson, wrote a book.

“Arrows of Youth” is part reflection, part observation, part counselor, part historian. It is unashamedly the point of view of a 25-year-old experiencing the world in the throes of the first pandemic in 100 years.

“It’s how I see the world now,” Van Patten said.

The book is structured around his solo, three-week road trip through the Pacific Northwest during the pandemic, buoyed by musings on his role in the changing world and history lessons from family members and other memorable figures throughout time.

“When the pandemic hit,” Van Patten said, “I knew I wanted to write and explore what we’re doing here in the world.”

He quit his job in real estate and threw himself full time into writing, reading and exploration through the written word.

For Van Patten, the love of writing came as a post-college surprise. A journalism student through four years at Cal Poly, he hated every minute of his chosen degree.

“I got into journalism thinking I’d be doing broadcasting and news casting, but I ended up writing about things I didn’t care about,” he said.

It wasn’t until he began to look further into the family history of his mother Betsy Russell, that he discovered a whole slew of writers in the family.

“I had this whole writing background I never tapped into,” he noted. “My great grandfather Max Lerner was a political writer; he wrote Democracy in America. My grandpa Richard Russell served in WW2 and became fascinated in the stock

44 | MM AA LL II BB UU TT II MM EE SS MM AAGGAA ZZ II NN EE || ## MM AA LL II BB UU TT II MM EE SS MM AAGG

A Blessing to Be Alive

market and started the Dow Theory Letters.”

Therefore, Van Patten’s road trip became a ripple effect of next steps for him to fully embrace his writing legacy—and pursue it through his own lens of travel. A life-long fan of travel shows like “Bizarre Foods,” Anthony Bourdain, and the Travel Channel, he began to look for ways to incorporate travel into his tales. When the inspiration for the road trip hit, he knew he’d found his own green light.

“I always wanted to go the Pacific Northwest,” he said. “It just blossomed into this three-week road trip to figure out what I want to do with my life. It was my first real experience travel writing, and I knew I wanted to give it everything I had.”

The book reads as a blend of memoir and contemplation, pulling in photos, poetry, philosophy and stories from his own family along with providing encouragement for other young readers looking to find their own way in the world. Where other books with a similar bent can be lost in a sea of similarities, “Arrows of Youth” separates itself from the Kindle crowd in its vulnerability. It’s self-published, knowingly written from a place of youth and relative inexperience, and intentionally positioned for a specific point in time. As one kindle reviewer wrote, it is “a much needed reminder to fall in love with life again.”

“I don’t have to have 50 years of experience,” Van Patten acknowledged. “This is how I view things now, and I knew from the beginning it would connect with other people, especially for people my age, trying to make meaning of it all. So there was definitely an urgency to get it out before the pandemic ended.”

Although a new author, Van Patten is clearly a serious one, giving up alcohol completely during the writing process to avoid any excuses to write, setting aside hours each day to write and edit, and waking up before dawn to join the early morning muses. When he’s not writing, he’s co-hosting his “Dare to Dream” podcast about unconventional paths in life.

“We hope to interview people from any field who have found their own way or are least trying to,” he said.

Van Patten, whose notable family history has clearly shaped his positive outlook on life, leaned into his heritage to shape the book.

“Everything I love about life turned into this book,” he

acknowledged. “Our arrows are experiences we’ll have for the rest of our lives: growing up, dealing with families; arrows to store on backs as fuel to guide us through. My grandfather Van Patten, for example, lived with such a full heart, a joy for life and not letting this gift of life slip away ... it’s a blessing to be alive.”

In early 2022, Van Patten plans to travel to Japan to continue his career in travel writing while teaching English.

“I want to be a part of a changing world,” he said. “I haven’t figured it out by any means, but I’m just exploring.” ■

“

Everything I love about life turned into this book.

Our arrows are experiences we’ll have for the rest of our lives.

—Vinny Van Patten

”

W I N T E R 2 0 2 1 - 2 2 | 45

Known around Malibu as the Coastal Cowboy, Realtor Julian Alexander has no shortage of love for the community. First attracted by the “natural raw beauty” of the area, he now works with a long list of clients, helping them make the best decision—whether they’re selling their home or buying a multi-milliondollar beachfront estate—based on their unique circumstances.

Meet the Coastal Cowboy Realtor Julian Alexander offers a glimpse into his life in town—from work to his love of staying healthy and fit in Malibu.

BY SARAH SHMERLING

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Alexander shared with MTM on everything from his beloved holiday traditions to setting manageable goals for the new year, and everything in between.

MTM: Tell us a bit about your background—where did you grow up and what drew you to Malibu?

JA: My early childhood was based in Soldotna, a small town in Alaska. We grew up making snow forts, playing sports and riding snowmobiles. Taking in the Northern lights was always magical. In my teenage years, my family moved to Ashland, Oregon—a beautiful town home to the world-renowned Oregon Shakespeare Festival, as well as a cultural hotspot with award-winning galleries, theaters and restaurants.

What drew me to Malibu was the natural raw beauty. I could take advantage of living in nature and the many outdoor activities such as running, hiking and cycling, but I also picked up new activities like birdwatching and surfing.

It was mind boggling that a town like this existed right outside of an international city like Los Angeles, which attracted so many interesting people. The scenic beauty of Malibu was love at first sight.

MTM: How did you get started with the career path you are on today?

JA: I graduated from Oregon State University with a degree in exercise science. I was a varsity letter winner on the men’s crew team, and I thought I was set in my career path.

However, upon graduating I traveled through Europe over the summer and realized I wasn’t interested in continuing my education in a doctorate program. I took a leap of faith and moved to Los Angeles. Prior to selling luxury real estate, I sold everything from high-protein cookies to high-end fashion. The main thing I have learned over the years working in sales is to provide incredible service. I truly go above and beyond for my clients.

MTM: Can you describe how you develop a relationship with a new client?

JA: Well, first the client has to like his or her agent. There is a plethora of agents to choose from, and each agent offers a different skillset. If the client likes the agent’s personality and can visualize him or herself spending time previewing properties with that agent, then that is the first step. What is also important is the agent’s market knowledge. How is the market? Is it a buyer’s or seller’s market? Is there a lot of inventory? And knowing the material facts of active properties; for example, when the property last sold, price per square foot, recent sold comps, etc.

I move very quickly, and clients can reach me anytime. I am available 24/7. My life is my work, and I really enjoy hanging out with my clients and going through the home buying and selling process. It doesn’t matter if my client is looking for a $10,000 per month lease or buying a $100 million bluff compound: I will present all of the pros and cons, and allow for my client to make the decision.

MTM: With the start of the New Year on everyone’s minds and goals that come along with it, what are some of the ways that you stay active?

Alexander: It’s very important to set goals. Keep in mind that one cannot hit a target if it’s not there. I like to have more manageable goals throughout the year that act as benchmarks, which then culminate into ultimately achieving that big-ticket goal. Whether it’s business or pleasure, I like to keep moving. There is always something I can be doing or improving on.

MTM: For all things fitness, Malibu offers no shortage of activities and places to do them. What are some of the ways you take advantage of those offerings?

JA: I am connected with a great team of people. First off, Malibu

W I N T E R 2 0 2 1 - 2 2 | 47

Fitness is an institution here in town. Lonnie Weinstock, her son, Mike, and their team do such an incredible job. It’s been especially beneficial to have them as a resource during the pandemic. We also have a killer softball team. Come and watch us compete during the spring and fall season for some light entertainment. Mona Therese-Winston is my yoga instructor and massage therapist.

She is from Denmark and has been teaching for over 40 years.

Her specialties are focused on breathing, hatha/vinyasa yoga and meditation. She is well-known in the community and has such a positive and healing energy. Lastly, I have an incredible celebrity personal trainer, Chris Kholl. He has 10 plus years of experience and his style ranges from circuit training and weight loss to muscle imbalances and rehabilitation. He also works with some of the biggest celebrities in Los Angeles and Malibu.

MTM: When it comes to the holidays, how do you celebrate?

JA: I love the holidays, and I usually celebrate with either family and/or friends. It’s always fun to enjoy the different seasons. I love fall and the changing of the leaves. The cooler temperatures and the breathtaking sunsets. It’s also less busy in town. One of my favorite holidays is Thanksgiving. It is all about getting together and spending quality time—this is very important to me, to let people know that you appreciate them. And to also look back at what one has accomplished and be grateful.

MTM: Is there a favorite food or dish that comes to mind?

JA: Turkey and all of the fixings for sure. I can pretty much eat Thanksgiving dinner for the following couple weeks. Growing up one of my favorite things was leftover turkey sandwiches, with the turkey, stuffing, corn and cranberry sauce out of the can.

Nothing can beat this—yum.

MTM: What are some of your favorite childhood memories of the holidays?

JA: During Christmas, we were allowed to open one present on Christmas Eve. It was always the same gift: matching family pajamas. As a kid, it’s not really what you want, right? But looking back now, it was something that is needed.

Sometimes we don’t always appreciate the necessities in life.

They often get overlooked. For example, right now during this pandemic, we have all been living a somewhat abnormal life.

We got introduced to social distancing, and now we are craving social interaction. It’s nice when you’re walking down the street in your neighborhood, and someone says ‘hello’ and smiles.

MTM: Outside of work, what are some of your favorite things about Malibu?

Alexander: I love being on the beach in the early mornings for a run when it’s foggy and you can barely see the ocean and the sun is trying to break through the clouds. Malibu still has a rugged vibe, before it became a city, it was a 13,000-acre ranch owned by the Rindge family and you can still feel it. So, there is a lot to love about this town. I love the micro-climates of the 21 miles of Malibu—the diversity you can experience in one day in different parts of the town. I love driving through the canyons on smooth pavement and stopping at the top of the Santa Monica Mountains and taking in the panoramic views. I love the people 48 | MM AA LL II BB UU TT II MM EE SS MM AAGGAA ZZ II NN EE || ## MM AA LL II BB UU TT II MM EE SS MM AAGG

in Malibu—old and new. There are so many interesting and kind people in town, and I feel we all love Malibu for some reason or another. We are not city people and we appreciate what Malibu has to offer. The mountains, the ocean, the wildlife, the nature, the privacy. All of it.

MTM: Can you tell us about a couple of your current listings?

JA: Yes, here are two: 27212 Pacific Coast Highway is located on one of the best dry and sandy beaches in town—Escondido Beach. The property has a courtyard with spa, high ceilings and sliding glass pocket doors that lead out to a large beachfront deck.

Spending time here with family and friends while watching the sunset is guaranteed to create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

20647 Seaboard Road is located in the Big Rock neighborhood. Perched into the hillside, this mid-century architecture offers breathtaking white water ocean views. On approximately one half acre, the grounds consist of lush landscaping, a large balcony, pool with patio and outdoor spa.

What’s amazing about this neighborhood is the close proximity to the Westside, but also the abundance of wildlife and the panoramic white water ocean views. This property is truly an entertainer’s dream. n

424.425.9292; coastalcowboyrealty.com; Instagram: @jules.alexander Bracelet +Beryll (Worn By Good People) | beryll.com Photography Alexis Adam | alexisadam.com Yoga Mona Therese-Winston | padapadmam.com/classes.php Trainer Kris Koll | kriskollfitness.com

Crystal Clear Glass has the expertise to bring beautiful, contemporary glass elements to the home that offer both style and function.

MALIBUHOME REBUILD | REPAIR | REMODEL W I N T E R 2 0 2 1 - 2 2 | 49

PHOTOS COURTESY OF CRYSTAL CLEAR GLASS

A Clear Winner Glass within a home can be both functional and beautiful.

BY LAURIE HARTT

T

he iconic window in the Friends apartment. Colin Farrell’s phone booth. The storefront in “Breakfast at Tiffany’s.”

Leo’s fish tank in “Romeo + Juliet.” Glass is a regular supporting actor on-screen, so it’s no surprise it can also play a leading role in setting the stage for award-worthy homes and businesses.

Whether it’s a door, window or wall, glass is a clear winner for design that’s both functional and exceptional. We visited with Michael Aronson, owner and founder of Crystal Clear Glass, to learn more about how architects, contractors, homeowners and interior designers can use glass in their structures—and some of the important considerations to keep in mind when using this medium.

Exterior: Windows, Doors, & Glass Railings Function Panoramic windows are an easy way to bring in the California sunshine and bring in a personalized airflow. “It’s important to think about the function,” Aronson said. “For example: if 52 | MM AA LL II BB UU TT II MM EE SS MM AAGGAA ZZ II NN EE || ## MM AA LL II BB UU TT II MM EE SS MM AAGG

you’re laying in bed, do you want the draft at your head or feet? Maybe both?”

He also advised buyers to study the plans and think about using the doors and rooms. “It’s all about living in the house through the blueprints,” he said.

For example, in a bright room with a lot of white walls and white stone exterior, you may want to consider tinted or colored glass to reduce the glare. This glass is assembled in the factory before installation.

“It’s very important to take the solar rays into consideration,” Aronson said, noting that adding a film later to prevent glare can void the warranty on expensive glass.

H Safety Swapping a wall for a floor-to-ceiling window? Want an aluminum glass door? Be sure to choose a security glass to pull double duty in beauty and brawn. Crystal Clear Glass can advise on the best styles for your home or business needs, framed or frameless, Aronson said. “We provide safety and security glass that would impair anybody from getting into the building.”

crystalclearwindowsanddoors.com

Sustainability When building in a coastal climate or other areas where there are extreme or large variances in temperature, energyefficient glass is a key contributor to green thermal systems.

“Dual-glazed windows push out 60-70% of the heat,” Aronson explained. “Energy values are a large part of the systems to save energy.” He also recommended windows and doors with LEED aluminum for green buildings, and custom paints with low heat properties, which have 20% less heat factor.

Style Glass is often a key design element in contemporary-style homes, such as the 747 Winghouse and Sweetwater homes in Malibu, and the “Rollercoaster” home in Beverly Hills, all of which Crystal Clear Glass has played a large part.

“The 747 house was very involved because the ceiling is made of 747 airplane wings, flexes.

With the flex in the wings, the glass could fall out of the building if it hadn’t been installed correctly due to the winds in this location.”

If you’re looking for out-of-the-box design— for example, the Loma Linda project is 11,000 square feet of bent glass designed by Ed Niles on this Beverly Hills home—a company with experience in proper installation and engineering is extremely important—and not only for new designs, but also for historical renovations.

“Let’s say you want to have an older property restored to its former glory. Windows, doors and mirrors can have the look of yesterday, but still use modern materials that comply with current codes,” he said. “But be sure to seek out a specialist with experience and attention to detail to ensure high-quality work and craftsmanship.”

Wine cellar

Interior: Frameless shower enclosures & wine cellars Function meets style Glass makes an interior space seem larger. A frameless glass shower, for example, enhances the open feel of a bathroom. It can also section off a den or office, or add some additional structure to a kitchen or sunroom.

Looking for something a little more unique? Consider a glass wine cellar to display your collection, an airy atrium, or a greenhouse for your herbs and flowers. Stylized or antique mirrors or artwork can also brighten and enhance your space, as can subtle elements like doorknobs and other hardware.

No matter your style or location, and for quality and care, it’s a crystal clear choice. ■ W I N T E R 2 0 2 1 - 2 2 | 53

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Culinary Chic Discover the latest trends from the experts in kitchen design.

PHOTO COURTESY OF INSYTIVE INTERACTIVEBRANDS

BY KAMALA KIRK

From organization to water filtration, Bosch counter-depth refrigerators also offer a host of innovative features that help make everyday life a little easier.

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PHOTO COURTESY OFWDC KITCHEN & BATH CENTER

“

We’re seeing a more transitional kitchen design … which blends a combination of modern features and technology with various elements of the past.

—Eric Steven Stahl

”

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T

he kitchen is the heart of the home, and with many people spending more time at home, having a well-designed kitchen is essential for comfort and convenience. Kitchens haven’t been just a place to prepare food for a long time.

Over the years, they have evolved into dining spaces and social areas where friends and family spend time together. And research has shown that living in a home that satisfies one’s tastes and needs is beneficial for the mind, body and soul. From layout and color scheme to appliances and materials, there are many different options for creating the perfectly curated culinary space.

According to Eric Steven Stahl, president of Insytive Strategic Marketing Comm, the open-concept design for kitchens is extremely popular; an open kitchen creates a fluid living space that connects to the living and dining room.

“The kitchen has become part of the living environment where people are doing most of their entertaining,” Stahl said. “We’re also seeing a more transitional kitchen design, which is a blend of traditional and contemporary. It blends a combination of modern features and technology with various elements of the past.”

Gray is a current trend of color choice for many kitchen palettes—particularly the blending of various shades of gray for kitchen cabinets and decor, along with concrete and granite countertops.

“Sometimes white can be too stark or cold for some people, gray is cozier and warms up a room,” Stahl said. “It definitely adds more of a family feeling to a space.”

However, adding color and depth into the kitchen area can be as easy changing appliances, fixtures and finishes.

“Pops of color are trending in appliances,” Erika Gordillo, marketing manager of WDC Kitchen & Bath Center, said. “Samsung has their new BESPOKE Refrigerator that has four front panels, which can be changed to any of eight colors.”

She also noted that the new Viking Contemporary Color Collection of Professional Ranges comes in 14 hues to match any kitchen.

“Appliances are now a centerpiece in the kitchen—admired and celebrated,” Gordillo said.

H

PHOTO COURTESY OFWDC KITCHEN & BATH CENTER

Statement ventilation hoods over your range, especially one with an unusual finish, such as hammered copper, is an easy way to create an eyecatching statement in a kitchen design.

W I N T E R 2 0 2 1 - 2 2 | 59

H

A

PHOTO COURTESY OFWDC KITCHEN & BATH CENTER

Adding color and depth into the kitchen area can be as easy changing appliances, fixtures and finishes.

“

A warm, lived-in kitchen feels like a warm hug after a long day.

—Erika Gordillo

”

s a result of COVID-19, more homeowners have been investing in higher-end appliances and top-of-the-line brands for their kitchens. With so many hightech features, people can choose items such as refrigerators with cameras and voice-activated appliances.

“Statistically, research shows that people are spending way more time in their kitchens these days,” Stahl said. “People are saving money on traveling so there’s been a huge consumer shift towards higher-end kitchen products. The kitchen has become more of a status symbol.”

One of the popular features that Stahl discussed is undercounter and undercabinet LED lighting, which illuminates the space directly below and blends seamlessly into any kitchen. Not only is it useful and convenient, but these hidden fixtures improve the brightness and overall look and feel of any space without clashing with existing decor.

Stahl said hidden appliances, which are builtin and concealed behind custom cabinets, are also trending as they help to unify the look of the entire kitchen. Everything from refrigerators to dishwashers can be disguised in plain sight for a cleaner and simplistic look.

Some of the leading luxury kitchen appliance brands most popular among homeowners, according to Stahl, include Sub-Zero and Wolf, Miele, Dacor, Gaggenau and La Cornue. For decades, Sub-Zero has built a reputation for its innovative and technologically advanced solutions designed to meet any home refrigeration need. The Wolf line is part of Sub-Zero and offers leading-edge, professionally inspired designs that include dual fuel, induction and gas ranges for the serious at-home cook. Miele creates thoughtfully designed and precisely engineered home appliances such as dishwashers, washing machines and dryers. Dacor makes high-end appliances and is a leader in stylish and innovative refrigerators, ranges and wall ovens, among other products. Gaggenau is a leading brand for innovative and revolutionary home appliances that specializes in cutting-edge, built-in home appliances such as ovens, dishwashers, wine storage units and more. La Cornue is a French oven and cooking range manufacturer known for its distinctive and stunning ranges that bring style and elegance to any kitchen.

“Statement ventilation hoods are also on the rise,” Gordillo added. “Adding an extractor canopy over your range, especially one with an unusual finish, is an easy way to create an eye-catching statement in a kitchen design.”

Gordillo noted a good example is Premier Copper Products with their hammered copper range hoods that bring in a touch of modern vintage to a kitchen. She said that character with some throw-back looks mixed with modern conveniences is making a comeback as well.

“One way to invite warmth is a simple farmhouse-style apron sink,” Gordillo said. “These nostalgic kitchen sinks are no longer in plain white or biscuit but come in a variety of designs and finishes. Whatever your kitchen design, these stunning sinks will invite a softer kitchen environment to your home.”

A good example would be the 17 designs of apron sinks from House of Rohl— varying from basic white to black stainless steel, or a more whimsical Patina Blue Gold.

Whatever kitchen trends appeals to you most—Gordillo said that at the end of day, it’s about how this room in the house makes you feel: “A warm, lived-in kitchen is like a warm hug after a long day.” n

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In the Know

Ultimate Products and Services for the Home WDC Appliances Testing 1,2,3 ... Customers can experience fully functioning shower heads and faucets, live stream showers and saunas in a safe and sanitized environment before making a purchase—there isn’t anything else like it in SoCal. WDC carries quality plumbing fixture name-brands, including Grohe, Rohl and Waterstone. 30621 Canwood St., Agoura Hills • 818.991.8846 • wdcappliances.com

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PHOTOGRAPHY BY REILY IMAGERY FOR FRASER DECKS AND PATIO COVERS

Universal Appliance and Kitchen Center Inspired by the professional kitchen, Gaggenau offers a considerable number of advantages, including the finest, hand-crafted ovens, which offer 550°F capability and heated air catalysts to remove grease and odors. Every Gaggenau oven is made for the keen chef while being designed for the home. 26767 Agoura Road, Calabasas • 818.880.0011 • uakc.com

The Wave SeekerJason Konysky has a passion for photography that leads him to the ocean nearly every day. “I love capturing and sharing my perspective of the waters I grew up around,” he told MTM. His work is for sale and you can follow him on Instagram: @the_wave_seeker.

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Design a

New Year

The consensus is in—here are the trends in the home for 2022.

BY BRIDGET GRAHAM

MTM did our research and we found the top design trends for this New Year, which include both earthy and bold colors, patterns (think zig zags and curves), glass accents, updated workfrom-home spaces, antiques mixed into decor, bold designs, beautiful outdoor spaces and both nature and travel influences.

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W I N T E R 2 0 2 1 - 2 2 | 67

Right

Earth Colors This room is set in neutral colors and also shows off elements of bringing the outdoors in (brick), patterns and rounded curves to create a welcoming Zen space.

Below

Ziz Zag Patterns The design of the rug and the curved light fixtures set against the neutral colors in the room creates a bold statement.

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Above

Bold Colors Choosing bright colors such a yellow couch creates statement pieces and is on trend for 2022 design.

Left

Work at Home WFH is still a big part of life and creating a separate, updated space is both inviting and productive.

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Above

Curves Rounded edges work for both indoor and outdoor spaces.

Right

Antiques A vintage statement piece, especially in a bold color, creates a focal point in the room.

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Left

Outdoors Being outside never goes out of style.

Below

Travel Influences from places afar— especially from personal travel— brings the world home to you.

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Eyes on Malibu Each issue, we highlight readers, photographers, Instagrammers and #malibutimesmag posts as they depict the beauty of Malibu through their own lens.

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W I N T E R 2 0 2 1 - 2 2 | 77

VOLUMINOUS C LOUDS PUT ON A SHOW ABOVE THE SANTA MONICA MOUNTAINS JASON KONYSKY @the_wave_seeker

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Eyes on Malibu

W I N T E R 2 0 2 1 - 2 2 | 79

Eyes on Malibu

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LAST LOOK

Peacefully looking toward a new year

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