the current

Month: October 2018

  • Malibu City Council Candidates: Pierson, Palmer, Simmons and Dahmavandi Answer Questions for Voters – Farrar M.I.A.

    Malibu City Council Candidates: Pierson, Palmer, Simmons and Dahmavandi Answer Questions for Voters – Farrar M.I.A.

    The bolt to the finish line… the countdown is on…

    With less than a week to go,

    Then we can put another City Council election to bed just in time for the holiday rush.

    Bring on the Pumpkin Lattes!

    I must say, this election was pretty quiet compared to the last one.

    Oh there was the usual sign stealing (and destroying) – but nothing like the last race. Downright mud slinging along with in-your face-threats to local business owners with the intent of bullying them into votes. But it was nothing quite like the vicious smear campaigns of seasons past.

    This round of candidates were pretty civilized overall – but then again, we have a lot less characters to choose from.

    The good news is, we have at least two very qualified and well rounded participants, Mikke Pierson and Jim Palmer.

    Both candidates currently serving as Council appointed commissioners, Pierson is on Planning, and Palmer is on Public Works.

    Public service on one of the City’s commissions is vital to understanding how the city functions, and should be participated in before a candidate makes the decision to run for Council, in my opinion.

    Both Pierson and Palmer have extensive business experience, and are both successful entrepreneurs, making them less likely to rely on our City Manager or staff for guidance in many areas.

    Unfortunately, current and past council members have looked to City Manager Feldman to make decisions leading us to the current disaster we have going on at City Hall.

    Palmer’s extensive experience as a CPA is a must have on council.

    Our budget has gone up over 20% in the last 4 years, and we have a top heavy admin staff with close a million dollars in salaries. Overall, we are heavily over paying for a steep decline in customer service and amenities promised to residents.

    The bleeding has to stop.

    Palmer is the perfect candidate to assist in the process of properly assessing spending, and making suggestions to current council members where to cut the fat. Both Palmer and Pierson actually know how to read spreadsheets without their eyes glazing over.

    Palmer and Pierson are longtime residents, and truly understand community needs. They also have great relationships with the current council members Skylar Peak, Rick Mullen and Jefferson Wagner. This gives us hope for the cohesiveness we’ve been looking for on the dais for quite sometime now, and can reasonably achieve with LaMonte and Rosenthal termed out.

    Lance Simmons is poised and has a rich political background, but lacks the community connection and activism experience. If Simmons chooses to get involved in more high profile community issues over the next two years, he might have a better chance in the next race.

    Olivia Dahmavandi, the youngest of all the candidates, also needs more local activism experience before she can show where heart truly lies on the issues. Actions speak louder than words and Dahmavandi barely dipped her toe in during the most crucial ballot measures and preservation fights in this town. Then there is also the sticky situation of her, her husband, and her family members being developers, with Dahmavandi denying it, although there is verifiable proof. Either way, her development ties could pose a significant conflict of interest as a City Council member.

    As for Karen Farrer, well we can’t say much about this candidate because chose not to answer our questions!

    When people, or in this case political candidates, show you who they are.. believe them.

    MALIBU CITY COUNCIL QUESTIONS FOR MIKKE PIERSON

    Name: Mikke Pierson

    Birthdate: 1-3-60

    Birthplace: Santa Barbara, CA

    Education: BA Psychology, University of California at Santa Cruz

    Occupation(s): Business coach.   Previously a retailer for 30 years.

    Years you have lived in Malibu: 58

    What inspired you to run for Malibu City Council?

    I’ve been involved with Malibu politics for over 7 years as Planning Commissioner and a Public Works Commissioner.  During that time I have learned a great deal and I know what is working and what can be improved with our city and our local government. I was inspired to run after realizing that it was time for me to help guide Malibu forward instead of just interpreting our codes.  I realized that I have the knowledge, the experience and the temperament to do this successfully.  I teach leadership for a living and it is time for me to walk the walk.

    Do you have any city government experience prior to this?  

     Yes.  Please see above.

    Do you have experience with Malibu city government prior to this?  

     Please see above.

    If you were granted absolute power and could wave your magic wand and absolutely fix any one (or several) problem(s) in Malibu – what would that be and how would you do it?

     At this time it would be to make the PCH safer and not so hugely disruptive of everyone’s lives.  The highway is dangerous and is the main concern I hear from the citizens of Malibu. Making it safer won’t be easy, but I have the experience and relationships to immediately engage CalTrans and our sheriff’s to start making progress.  While there are many things in Malibu we need to focus on, the PCH is the one that affects our lives on a daily basis. And there are actions we can take to make incremental improvements, which could save a lives every year.

    What are the actions or sales or purchases or environmental project taken on by Malibu in the past 10 years that you strongly agreewith – and make you proud to live in Malibu?

    Broad question, but I believe the recent purchase of nearly 30 acres has the potential to be great for the city into the future.  Of course what is critical next is that we do a great job of addressing the citizens wants and needs in a fair, open and transparent way.  This purchase might be our one time to really do a few things that help strengthen community in our city.  From ball fields, to a community garden, to a senior or teen center, a skate park, to affordable housing and more, including park and open space, should all be part of an important city discussion.  And importantly, the land purchase removes anyreason to develop Bluffs Park.  I very much look forward to being a part of the discussion and the decisions we make for our future.

    How should the City of Malibu approach the AirBnB situation? Be as detailed as you like

    My experience on the Planning Commission has really showed me what so many already see, that Short Term Rentals need to be strongly controlled in our city.  First of all, we cannot let corporations take over our neighborhoods.  The right to do limited short term rentals should only be granted to primary homeowners at best, and even then they need to be strongly regulated.  STR’s have gone on for decades in our city already, but in our modern world we need to regulate it so as not to allow our neighborhoods to be turned into motel or commercial zones.  And regulation is needed for additional reasons; to make sure there is no impact on neighbors, to make sure someone is always available if there is a problem and to make sure there are safety plans in place in case of a natural disaster. I fear the day a large fire sweeps into Malibu and 300 short term rentals have no idea where to go or what to do.  Important, at present I strongly believe our codes do not allow short term rentals.  It seems very clear to me.  So if we are going to allow them, we need to do it right.

    How should the City of Malibu approach the traffic and speed problem? Be inventive and detailed.

     The first action I want to do when elected is meet with the staff at CalTrans that oversees Malibu and get to know them and their process.  It will be very important to get to know them and drive the PCH with them, especially as there was a recent change in management at CalTrans.  The PCH Safety Study lists 130 improvements that are needed to improve safety on the PCH and we need to help CalTrans prioritize continuing to work on making those improvements.  I also will work closely with the PCH Task Force to find ways to increase law enforcement presence in Malibu and on PCH.  Supporting the Volunteers on Patrol is an essential part of this as it frees up the Sheriff’s from other duties.  Right now the VOP’s only have two patrol cars and I believe they need four.  The numbers support it.  So working closely with CalTrans, the PCH Task Force and supporting our VOP’s will all make incremental improvements to a difficult problem.  This is an issue where my experience with the city, as a Planning Commissioner, allows me to get to work immediately as I already know many of the people and processes involved to make effective change.

    Do you think the Whole Foods retail complex on Cross Creek is a plus or a minus?

     The Whole Foods shopping center is not my vision for the future of Malibu.  I voted against it as a Planning Commissioner and at the polls.  We have too much empty retail space already in the city.  I would like the city to support the locally owned and local serving businesses we have already. When elected I want to register all of our local businesses so we can communicate with them, with the goal of helping them survive and thrive.  In conjunction with the Malibu Chamber of Commerce I would like to establish programs to promote and support our local businesses.  As a small business consultant, I have the skills and vision to get this done.

    There is a great deal of very expensive dirt in the middle of Malibu that would be long gone if it were just about any other place in coastal southern California. Do you think that dirt should be left alone, or should it be developed? Developed how?

     Are you talking about the Civic Center or Bluffs Park?  Bluffs Park should be left alone. And if I had my way, the city would purchase more of the Civic Center and retire it from commercial development.  I’d rather see parks and open space then more empty retail space, and I think the citizens of Malibu have shown they agree.

    Where did you stand on the Malibu Lagoon Restoration and do you believe that restoration has been a success or a failure?

     I’ve read all of the science on this and it is very complex.  I used to play baseball there as a kid and even then we knew the fields were build on old tires and other debris, so I certainly don’t mind that being cleaned up.  I do know one truth about the lagoon – it needs to breech from time to time.  It was never intended to be a closed system.  I think the recent die off of fish shows this.  And looking at the historical pictures of the lagoon, it is clear that seasonal breeches are part of its natural cycle.

    Are any of the current City Council members your mentor/fellow traveler politically?

     I am friends with every current member of the City Council and as you know Laura Rosenthal appointed me and I am grateful to her for that and her mentoring.  With that said, I feel that I follow my own path in that I naturally reach across all divides politically in Malibu.  I don’t hold camp exclusively with anyone and I remind myself daily to make decisions in the best interests of the city, not anyone’s ideology.  I believe in high level communication with everyone, whether or not I feel the same way they do.  That is why my cell phone number has been listed publicly on the city’s website for the last seven years.  I think that civil discourse is the hallmark of a successful democracy.  310-309-0038

    Do you consider yourself generally conservative or liberal, politically?

     I am generally liberal, with a strong financial and business background.  I am proudly endorsed by the Los Angeles County Democratic Party and the Los Angeles League of Conservation Voters.  I feel strongly about civil rights, women’s rights and the protecting the environment.

    Where would you put the skateboard park, if you could put it anywhere?

    I think the iconic spot would be on the land the city got in exchange for the houses being built at Bluffs Park.  It would be world class.  As the owner of a skate shop for almost 30 years, I can tell you it would be amazing! In reality I have a feeling the land the city just purchased at Point Dume will probably end up being the place it actually happens.  And it must happen!  It is long past time.

    There has been a lot of sound and fury, rattle and hum that things are rotten in the city of Malibu: Some point to the firing of Brad Davis. Others point to the raid on Zuma Jay’s homes and business. Do you feel that Malibu city council government is corrupt and how do you propose to fix it?

     I see and hear what others are saying, but truthfully I have no idea at this point. But the fact that people in the city feel this way is a problem.  As an organizational expert I look forward helping the city function better and have the citizens of Malibu feel it is responding to their needs.  That is why my slogan is “A City that works for You!”

    What is your position on the phrase:   “Don’t change MALIBU let Malibu change you!”

     My response is, “Malibu is a unique land and marine environment and residential community whose citizens have historically evidenced a commitment to sacrifice urban and suburban conveniences in order to protect that environment and lifestyle, and to preserve unaltered natural resources and rural characteristics. The people of Malibu are a responsible custodian of the area’s natural resources for present and future generations.”

    What will would do to ensure there is little change to this beach town.

    Use of mission and vision statements as my guiding directive for all of my decisions.  And if our codes don’t reflect our mission and vision statements, fix the codes!

    What would role be as a leader in the environmental movement ER for the city of Malibu?     For example.   The current city council banned plastic straws and expanded existing bans on eps products etc.   What forward-looking steps would you take?

     There are a number of things I want to accomplish on City Council.  First I want to help ban single use plastic water bottles from our city.  We also need to ban rodenticides, glyphosate and pesticides containing neonicotinoids from our ecosystem. These poisons have no place in or near our city.  I also want the city to study the possibility of using micro-grids especially up our canyons, instead of relying on the antiquated poles and power lines we have now.  We all need to embrace the Clean Power Alliance and have clean and sustainable power delivered to our homes.  I also support the Malibu Smart Water Conservation Program as conserving water needs to remain a priority in our city.

    Do you think there should be a limit on TDSF (total developable square footage) placed on beachfront MALIBU property?   Currently there is only one for non beachfront property.   

     YES!  I have been saying this for years.  There are glaring examples on why this just makes common sense.

    Do you support the city’s plan to have an electric fleet by 2020?

     Yes.  We need to continue to embrace technologies that move us away from fossil fuels as fast as possible.  If we can power them with solar power…all the better!

    Do you support incentivizing the building permit process for non ocean front property if the project had a 15% plus reduced square footage? (And can you explain what that means??!?!?)  

     As a Planning Commissioner, I certainly can explain what this means.  I like the idea of reducing the maximum TDSF in certain situations in the city.  There are places where it feels too big as more and more development seems to want to maximize TDSF (TDSF = Total Development Square Footage, or the maximum amount of development you are allowed to do on a lot).  I think my first idea is to streamline and fast-track the permit process for projects that don’t ask for discretionary requests.  That is, they don’t push the development envelope.  Your question is more about, is the envelope too big?  And I believe in cases it is and that this wasn’t intended when we formed the city.

    MALIBU CITY COUNCIL QUESTIONS FORJIM PALMER

    Name:         Jim Palmer

    Birthdate:   December 4, 1945

    Birthplace:  Los Angeles, CA.

    Education:

    Award in Accounting:  UCLA

    Bachelor of Arts:  Antioch University

    Master of Arts in Organizational Management,

    Antioch University.

    Occupation: 

    President, Palmer Management Associates, Inc.

    A full service Accounting, Auditing, Organizational Management and Tax Preparation Company.

    Years Lived in Malibu:

    I have lived in Malibu over 50 years.

    Inspiration to run for Malibu City Council:

    “The City of Malibu needs more accountability and transparency with the residents.”

     Growing up in Malibu, I have surfed all of Malibu’s waves.  My children grew up here and went to the Malibu Schools.  I am a Malibu Small Business Owner.

    Now, I serve as Chair of the Malibu Public Works Commission and I have seen how the City is run and operates. My accounting and organizational management experience and leadership will serve the residents of Malibu to have more accountability and transparency in the City of Malibu Government.

    Prior City Government Experience:

    I was appointed to the Malibu Public Works Commission by Rick Mullen.  Now, I serve as Chair of The Malibu Public Works Commission.  I have gained valuable experience working with the Public and the Malibu Public Works Department staff moving Agenda items forward to the City Council.  This experience working with the Malibu Public Works Commission has enabled to develop relationships with Caltrans, Los Angeles County Sheriff Department and California Highway Patrol which all play a major role in the safety of our city.

    If granted a magic wand to fix any one problem in Malibu, What problem would that be and how would you fix it?

    I would wave my magic wand over PCH and improve the safety of our major thoroughfare.

    The three immediate steps I would take are:

    First, I would insist that the City enforce the rules it already has in place.  Daily traffic jams in front of Nobu and the Malibu Pier would be eliminated if they were required to follow the rules of their existing City of Malibu Conditional Use Operating Permits.

    Second, I would add additional Sheriff Patrols on PCH. Speeding and reckless driving will not be deterred unless there is a visible enforcement presence on PCH.

    Third, I will work with Caltrans, Los Angeles County Sheriff and the California Highway Patrol to reduce the PCH speed limit at some of our most dangerous intersections such as Big Rock and Trancas.

    How should the City approach the Short Term Rental/Air B&B situation?

     Shout Term rentals are one of the biggest problems in Malibu.

    Short term rentals should be limited to “OWNER OCCUPIED PROPERTIES.”

    All other properties such as apartments, condominiums, and investor owned residential properties should be prohibited for short term rental use, 30 days or less.

    A new Malibu School District is something the whole community wants and supports. If Short Term Rentals are allowed to continue and decrease the availability of long term rental housing for families, there will not be any children to attend our schools.

    How should the City approach the traffic and speed problem?

    The City should work with Caltrans, Los Angeles County Sheriff and California Highway Patrol to increase enforcement of speeding and reckless driving with visible presence on PCH.  The City should work with the above mentioned agencies to reduce the speed limit at some of our most dangerous intersections like Big Rock and Trancas.

    Is the Whole Food Complex at Cross Creek a plus or minus?

     The Whole Foods project went to a vote before the Malibu Residents.  The Malibu Residents voted 60% against the project.  I agree with them.

    The Valuable Dirt purchased by the City.  What do you think should be done with it?

    First, the city needs to have public discussions on the best use and best management practices for land management.  Malibu has the ability to provide sports facilities, cultural, community and educational centers for our residents. We can create world class, environmentally sensitive architecture designs for our future.  Malibu can take the lead in sustainable building.

    Malibu Lagoon:

     The restoration was done to create a cleaner lagoon and it succeeded as long as the tidal flow was open.  The results of the sand berm blocking the tidal flow created the current problems.  We need to create a way for the ocean to merge with the lagoon and restore its natural habitat.

    Current Malibu Council Members I mentor and follow?

    Generally I agree with Rick Mullen, Skyler Peak and Jefferson Wagner.  I like their votes to purchase commercial properties, to ban plastics, to preserve Bluffs Park and to pass the Dark Skies Ordinance.

    Conservative or Liberal?

    Fiscally Conservative

    Socially Liberal

    Skate Park?

    Recently acquired parcels of land in the Civic Center and Heathercliff on Point Dume give us adequate room for a world class skate park complex.

    Is The City of Malibu Council Government Corrupt?

    Many Malibu residences have suggested to me that we need more transparency in our City Government, I agree.

    In my accounting practice I have used tools like, “performance reviews” and “management compliance audits” to insure that we identify and stay focused on best management practices.  Another tool I use is “continuing training and development” meetings.  I believe we can use these same tools to deal with management and personnel issues in the City.  This approach will allow the City to operate for the benefit all the residents of Malibu.

    Position on “Don’t change Malibu let Malibu change you!”

    I have many friends that have traveled all over the world.

    No matter where they have traveled, they always say there is no place better than Malibu.  I agree and I say the same thing when I return from traveling.  There is no better place in the world than Malibu.

    Malibu Changes You!

    What would do to insure little change to this town?

    I will follow the Malibu General Plan which says, “MALIBU WILL MAINTAIN ITS RURAL CHARACTER BY ESTABLISHING PROGRAMS AND POLICIES THAT AVOID SUBURBANIZATION AND COMMERICALIZATION OF ITS NATURAL AND CULTURAL RESOURCES.”

    I will work with the residents and the City to continue to preserve open land by purchasing new land from commercial developers.

    Leadership in the Environmental Movement?

    Current opinions I would propose include:

    Totally banning pesticides and rodenticides.

    Programs that would include the installation of solar panels on all new Malibu construction.

    Accelerate the implementation of the Malibu Dark Skies Ordinance.

    Eliminating drainage and wastewater run off that pollutes our ocean.

    Do you support the City’s plan to have an Electric Fleet by 2020?

     Yes!

    Support incentivizing the building permit process for non ocean front property if the project had a 15% plus reduced square footage?

    More and more we are seeing larger houses like 7,000, 8,000, 9,000 square foot homes being built in Malibu neighborhoods that are principally made up of much smaller houses.

    I am against mansionization if it disrupts neighborhoods and the size of very large houses must be reduced.

     

    MALIBU CITY COUNCIL QUESTIONS FOR LANCE SIMMENS

    Name: Lance Simmens

    Birthdate: August 27, 1953

    Birthplace: Abington, PA

    Education:

    BS Pol. Sci. Georgia Southern University, MPA Temple University, completed doctoral courses in Public Administration George Washington University

    Occupation(s):

    Public Service, served two Presidents, two US Senators, two Governors, the US Senate Budget Committee, US Conference of Mayors, Screen Actors’ Guild

    Years you have lived in Malibu: 3 years.

    What inspired you to run for Malibu City Council?

    I have been actively involved in community activities since I first moved here, serving as President of the Adamson House Foundation and the Malibu Democratic Club. This is my community and I feel the need to offer my considerable public policy and political skills to balance the need for environmental stewardship and sustainable development.

    Do you have any city government experience prior to this?

    During graduate school I spent three months as an intern with the City of Philadelphia. For six years I was Assistant Executive Director of the US Conference of Mayors, representing all cities over 30,000 population in the United States before Congress. I have developed groundbreaking policies and resolutions on urban economic policy and represented Mayors before Congress on legislation impacting our cities. As senior advisor to PA Governor Ed Rendell I was the principal advisor on intergovernmental affairs, interacting with over 2,500 municipalities and their elected representatives for 8 years.

    Do you have experience with Malibu city government prior to this?

    I have regularly attended City Council meetings over the past three years and spoken on numerous issues before Council.

    If you were granted absolute power and could wave your magic wand and absolutely fix any one problem in Malibu – what would that be and how would you do it?

    I think that the most pressing issue facing Malibu is the congestion on Pacific Coast Highway. This includes the issues of speed and safety. Part of my platform is to relieve congestion by prohibiting parking along PCH except for residents, locating parking space off the highway and instituting a shuttle service to provide public access to nonresidents to the beaches while removing the need to cross PCH. I am also proposing that we pursue arrangements with large buildings with underground parking that is unused on the weekends downtown for those visiting our beaches. Further, I propose engineering bike lanes along PCH, where practical, in order to keep distance between bicycles and automobiles and limiting bicycle groups to single file through the more congested sections of the highway.  On the speed issue I would explore greater enforcement by law enforcement.

    Can you name an action or sale or purchase or decision or environmental project taken on by Malibu in the past 10 years that you stronglydisagreewith, and why? How would you have done this differently?

    Surely the City’s attempt to develop the bluffs stands out. Also the failure of the City to ban rodenticides city-wide is a decision I strongly disagree with.

    What are the actions or sales or purchases or environmental project taken on by Malibu in the past 10 years that you strongly agreewith – and make you proud to live in Malibu?

    Most recently city actions with respect to banning of straws makes me very proud to be a part of this community. In addition, the purchase of the land that has recently been consummated gives us an opportunity to determine the best sustainable uses of such land.

    How should the City of Malibu approach the AirBnB situation? Be as detailed as you like:

    Realizing the competing needs of some homeowners for additional income it is important that we develop accountability measures that protect those who live in proximity to these rentals from behavior that is detrimental to the character of the existing community, such as loud music, reckless automobile traffic, and littering, just to name a few potential consequences.

    How should the City of Malibu approach the traffic and speed problem? Be inventive and detailed.

    I have already addressed this in a previous question. I believe that we need to increase enforcement while alternative options are explored. One of those options may be the establishment of additional flashing signs along PCH to warn motorists to slow down. One option to explore also may be positioning a severely demolished vehicle in a prominent place, maybe the eastern entrance to the city, to draw attention to the deadly consequences of speeding, maybe with a plaque that draws on the old saw “Speed Kills.” I have seen this in numerous locations around the country and would want to investigate whether or not it has an impact on speeding.

    Do you think the Whole Foods retail complex on Cross Creek is a plus or a minus?

    I was opposed to the retail complex and spent many hours outside Ralph’s talking with residents and dispensing orange hats and shirts garnering public opinion. If in fact studies show that traffic congestion will be exacerbated by additional development it makes absolutely no sense whatsoever to have embarked on this development.  Once again, it highlights the need to have long-term planning and a blueprint for sustainable development of our community.

    There is a great deal of very expensive dirt in the middle of Malibu that would be long gone if it were just about any other place in coastal southern California. Do you think that dirt should be left alone, or should it be developed? Developed how?

    My environmental plank calls for a sustainable visioning process that involves all stakeholders in the city to come up with a set of measurable indicators covering economic, environmental, social policy, and in general quality of life indicators that should govern policy decisions on development as we move forward. I was tasked in 1993 to establish the first Federal Office of Sustainable Development in the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and part of our mission was to be involved in visioning exercises in communities across the country, i.e. Seattle, Portland, Monterey Bay to name a few. These exercises were largely successful in helping to guide policy makers on what was ultimately in the best interests of the community.  I proposed this to Malibu’s Sustainability Director and he is fully supportive of this effort.

    Where did you stand on the Malibu Lagoon Restoration and do you believe that restoration has been a success or a failure?

    I will leave the success or failure to academics and scientists but it appears to have provided an environmentally positive refuge for wildlife that inhabits it and this is an important and positive indicator of the health of the community in general. Therefore from my standpoint it appears to be successful. The recent fish kills present a perplexing problem, however, and it is going to be important to get to the heart of what is causing it.

    Are any of the current City Council members your mentor/fellow traveler politically?

    Jefferson Wagner and I have had an especially good relationship since I arrived here. One of my first actions shortly after I moved here was discussion of the potential impacts of El Nino on the deteriorating pilings on the pier.  The project of funding the repairs was essentially stalled by bureaucratic inertia. I contacted Henry Stern, who was staffing Senator Fran Pavley, who had a strong position in the State Capitol, and together with Jefferson managed to unclog the logjam and expedite repairs of the pilings. Luckily we escaped El Nino.

    Do you consider yourself generally conservative or liberal, politically?

    Liberal.

    Where would you put the skateboard park, if you could put it anywhere?

    I know where I would not put it, and that is on the bluffs. We must protect the bluffs and use other properties that have recently been purchased for recreational facilities, ballparks and the skate park.

    There has been a lot of sound and fury, rattle and hum that things are rotten in the city of Malibu: Some point to the firing of Brad Davis. Others point to the raid on Zuma Jay’s homes and business. Do you feel that Malibu city council government is corrupt and how do you propose to fix it?

    In general there is a disturbing level of public anxiety with respect to a loss of confidence in our elected leadership and institutions at all levels of government. I have written books and innumerable articles about this.  I have devoted my entire professional career to good government, that is government that helps advance a more equitable and just society. I believe government CAN work, sometimes it does not, but that does not mean that it cannot. I am beholden to no interests whatsoever and I can only guarantee that I will make the best decisions given the information at hand to advance the public interest, not special interests. Hence my campaign slogan: Principles Over Politics. I also spoke before City Council and expressed outrage at the appearance of political hanky-panky with respect to the raid on Jefferson’s home. I implored the City Council to investigate whether or not there was a political component to this incident.

    What is your position on the phrase:   “Don’t change MALIBU let Malibu change you!”

    The two are not mutually exclusive, we can do both and benefit all concerns. There are certain things in Malibu that should change, greater opportunity for quality of life enhancements, being an exemplar of sustainable development, greater transparency in government and standing up for the betterment of the community are all things that can enhance our community. So we should be able to mutually benefit from change as long as the community at large is involved in plotting our long-term course.

    What will would do to ensure there is little change to this beach town.

    We need to maintain the essential character of our community. We need to ensure that any change results in positive enhancement of the community envisioned in our mission and value statements.

    What would role be as a leader in the environmental movement ER for the city of Malibu?   For example.   The current city council banned plastic straws and expanded existing bans on eps products etc.   What forward-looking steps would you take?

    I believe that Malibu can be a shining beacon of environmental quality. We should make available to all residents information that apprises them of programs at the State and Federal level that can help them become energy self-sufficient. I have already requested from the the City Sustainability Director a list of programs that can be shared with residents to help them become environmentally sound.  On City Council I will be a leader in exploring and proposing resolutions that promote 100 percent renewable energy as not just a goal but a reality.

    Do you think there should be a limit on TDSF (total developable square footage) placed on beachfront MALIBU property?   Currently there is only one for non beachfront property.

    Yes.

    Do you support the city’s plan to have an electric fleet by 2020?

    Absolutely

    Do you support incentivizing the building permit process for non ocean front property if the project had a 15% plus reduced square footage? (And can you explain what that means??!?!?)

    Yes, it seems to me that it is a compromise to expedite the permit process in exchange for a reduction in square footage. I am inclined to oppose this in principle but once again the devil is always in the details.

    MALIBU CITY COUNCIL QUESTIONS FOR OLIVIA DAMAVANDI ARYEH

    Name: Olivia Damavandi Aryeh

    Birthdate:Feb. 21, 1985

    Birthplace: St. John’s Hospital in Santa Monica, CA

    Education: Master’s degree from Columbia University

    Occupation(s):

    I served as Assistant Editor and Staff Writer of The Malibu Times.  After obtaining my Master’s degree, I served as the Media Information Officer for the City of Malibu. I now serve as President of the nonprofit Santa Monica Mountains Safe Trails Association, which I founded with a few neighbors to educate visitors and residents about safety, particularly fire safety, in our local mountains.

    Years you have lived in Malibu: All my life.

    What inspired you to run for Malibu City Council?

    I was born and raised here, attended our local schools (MJC&S, Webster Elementary and Malibu High School), spent my career working to educate the public about Malibu’s most important affairs, and am now raising my family here. Malibu has given me everything I have.  Now I want the opportunity to give back to my community.

    It has always been my dream to raise my kids in Malibu. However, I am deeply concerned about several issues (which comprise my campaign platform) that are threatening residents’ quality of life and safety.

    I’m anxious about what the future holds for Malibu, and instead of complaining about these issues, I want to apply my sound knowledge and experience to ameliorate them.

    Do you have any city government experience prior to this?

    Having been born and raised in Malibu, my experience with municipal government is Malibu-centric.  (See below)

    Do you have experience with Malibu city government prior to this?

    As the head journalist and assistant editor for The Malibu Times, I covered all aspects of City government, including City Council, Commissions, and Council Sub-Committee meetings.  Later, I came to know and understand the intricacies of municipal government by acting as the City’s Media Information Officer.

    If you were granted absolute power and could wave your magic wand and absolutely fix any one problem in Malibu – what would that be and how would you do it?

    I would wave the wand furiously over PCH!

    Pacific Coast Highway used to be a nightmare during rush hour and beach days, now PCH is a nightmare 24/7. It’s time for people to stop saying we can’t do anything about it.

    I will reprioritize our budget to hire extra law enforcement, and address the traffic dangers of bicyclists that engage in reckless conduct on the highway.

    Since we (a town of 6,500 full time residents) host 15 million visitors per year, I will launch a social media-based campaign to reach millions of visitors who have no idea how dangerous our main thoroughfare really is.

    And finally, I will work with Caltrans to bring state-of- the-art technology to track the flow of traffic and time the lights accordingly, especially at the Topanga Canyon intersection.

    Can you name an action or sale or purchase or decision or environmental project taken on by Malibu in the past 10 years that you strongly disagree with, and why? How would you have done this differently?

    More than 10 years ago, the City had an opportunity to settle a lawsuit that involved a project on the west end of Malibu.  Briefly, a land owner said he was entitled to build 32 condo on his land.  The City fought him.  Finally, he offered to settle for building three (3) houses.  The City said, “NO,” The owner went to court and the judge ruled that he was entitled to his 32 condos.  Leaders should know when to hold them, and when to fold them.

    What are the actions or sales or purchases or environmental project taken on by Malibu in the past 10 years that you strongly agree with – and make you proud to live in Malibu?  

    The purchase of the original Chili Cook-Off site. It not only stopped development of 20 acres for a planned shopping center, it also created a park that incorporates a stormwater treatment facility that captures all the polluted storm water in the Civic Center area, cleans it, and uses it to irrigate what is now known as Legacy Park.

    How should the City of Malibu approach the AirBnB situation?

    I believe the City should put strict restrictions on all short term rentals by creating an ordinance that holds owners responsible for tenants’ behavior:

    • Owners must either live on the property or be immediately available to respond to complaints
    • If owners do not respond within two hours, the Sheriff will be instructed to shut the facility down immediately
    • After two failures to meet their responsibility, owners will be banned from providing short term rentals

    How should the City of Malibu approach the traffic and speed problem? Be inventive and detailed.

    I think the City of Malibu should reprioritize our budget to hire extra law enforcement, and encourage them to also ticket bicyclists who engage in reckless conduct on the highway.

    Since we (a town of 6,500 full time residents) host 15 million visitors per year, I think the City should launch a social media-based campaign to reach millions of visitors who have no idea how dangerous our main thoroughfare really is.

    The City must work with Caltrans to bring state-of- the-art technology to track the flow of traffic and time the lights accordingly, especially at the Topanga Canyon intersection.

    I think the time is ripe for new ideas and for proof that we really can improve the safety on PCH.

    Do you think the Whole Foods retail complex on Cross Creek is a plus or a minus?

    Commercial development in Malibu is only a plus when it is community-serving. The Whole Foods retail complex can only be a plus if it includes resident-serving amenities. We don’t need more retails stores selling $100 t-shirts.

    There is a great deal of very expensive dirt in the middle of Malibu that would be long gone if it were just about any other place in coastal southern California. Do you think that dirt should be left alone, or should it be developed? Developed how?  

    I would certainly oppose any commercial development on our newly acquired land.  However, the community has expressed a need for more recreational and cultural arts amenities.  I strongly believe that this is a decision that only the residents can make.  That is why I would support public hearings . In the end, our residents should decide what they need, not the City Council.

    Where did you stand on the Malibu Lagoon Restoration and do you believe that restoration has been a success or a failure?

    I did not support the Malibu Lagoon Restoration because I felt the decision was rushed, and that there was not ample evidence to support it as the right choice.

    Are any of the current City Council members your mentor/fellow travelers politically?  

    I have sought out the advice and council of several Council members, past and present.  Lou LaMonte has been invaluable in advising me on legislation regarding the rehabs that threaten our residential neighborhoods.  Rick Mullen has been a font of information regarding many matters, including the ongoing battle against the MRCA.  Zuma Jay was kind enough to offer me many tips on the hazards of campaigning. Ken Kearsley has aided me in my efforts to prevent agencies like the MRCA from turning our neighborhoods into public gathering places.

    Do you consider yourself generally conservative or liberal, politically?  

    I tend to be fiscally conservative and socially liberal.

    Where would you put the skateboard park, if you could put it anywhere?

    I would want to hold public hearing before I make a final decision.  But I’m inclined to locate it as centrally as possible.  One place that seems plausible is the triangle property on PCH and Stuart Ranch Road because it is far from homes which eliminates the possibility of noise and view problems.

    There has been a lot of sound and fury, rattle and hum that things are rotten in the city of Malibu: Some point to the firing of Brad Davis. Others point to the raid on Zuma Jay’s homes and business. Do you feel that Malibu city council government is corrupt and how do you propose to fix it?

    I saw no evidence of corruption when I was a City employee.  However, if anyone offers credible evidence that such corruption exists, I would certainly demand an investigation.

    What is your position on the phrase:   “Don’t change MALIBU let Malibu change you!”

    I agree with it.

    What will you would do to ensure there is little change to this beach town?

    Everything within my power under the law.

    What would role be as a leader in the environmental movement ER for the city of Malibu? For example:  The current city council banned plastic straws and expanded existing bans on eps products etc.   What forward-looking steps would you take?  

    I would introduce an ordinance that requires all new buildings and major remodels to include solar panels on all south facing buildings, both residential and commercial.  I would also study the possibility of requiring 50% of all landscaping be zero scape.

    Do you think there should be a limit on TDSF (total developable square footage) placed on beachfront MALIBU property?  

    Currently there is only one for non beachfront property.  It would depend on the limit.  Beach lots are unique, as they are usually so much smaller than landside property.

    Do you support the city’s plan to have an electric fleet by 2020?  

    Yes

    Do you support incentivizing the building permit process for non ocean front property if the project had a 15% plus reduced square footage? (And can you explain what that means??!?!?)

    I’m not sure what you mean by “incentivizing.”  However, if you mean reducing the size of a house in return for a streamlined permitting process, then I’m all for reducing mansonization of a neighborhood.  If you mean automatically granting a variance for a 15% reduction in house-size, then I doubt I would agree.

     

     

     

     

     

     

  • Malibu Creek State Park Shootings

    Malibu Creek State Park Shootings

    The Malibu Canyon shootings gained national attention at the end of June when Irvine resident Tristan Beaudette was found murdered in his tent on Friday June 22nd at Malibu Creek State Park. Beaudette, who was camping with his two young daughters, was shot in the head at approximately 4:44 a.m.

    (more…)

  • Blown Away – LHSD Dismisses Local “Unexplained” Explosion Amid National Scare

    Blown Away – LHSD Dismisses Local “Unexplained” Explosion Amid National Scare

    *EDITOR’S NOTE: LHSD, SCE, FRONTIER  HAVE CONCLUDED THE RUPTURED CONDUIT IS NOT THE SOURCE OF THE EXPLOSION AND THAT THERE WERE “NO MALFUNCTIONS”. 

    The Halloween vibe was in full swing on Monday October 22, with an ominous moon hovering high over Malibu  Canyon.

    While this may be the season for *trick or treat*, residents weren’t quite expecting the *trick* part so soon before holiday.

    At approximately 9:45 p.m., residents near Malibu Creek State Park were shaken by an *unexplainable* ( per Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department) explosion that rocked neighborhoods near the intersection of Las Virgenes Rd. and Lost Hills Rd.

    Was somebody pulling a pre-halloween prank, or were residents experiencing more of the frightening occurrences that have plagued the area all summer long?

    If it was indeed *more of the same* (so to speak), whoever it is,  decided to kick it up a notch – and whatever it was, definitely rocked the house.

    In fact, it rocked many houses, cars (setting off alarms), and whatever else wasn’t bolted to the ground.

    A resident close to the explosion sent The Local Malibu this map. 

    Most people who called the Lost Hills Sheriff’s Department described the sound(s) as *shots fired* – the usual go-to for residents living in the area, especially this summer, and since the uncovering of shooting incidents dating back to 2016. These crimes were hidden the from public by law enforcement and State Parks until the murder of Tristan Beaudette on June 22nd.

    The reports of *shots fired* have continued in the canyon for months after Beaudette was killed.

    A little over two weeks ago, with barely a month left in election season, LHSD and Detectives from the Major Crimes Bureau arrested 42 year old Anthony Rauda on a parole violation, in the area not far from the murder scene, seeking him in connection with a string of burglaries, and *fingers crossed* (for LHSD/LASD), if the stars align, for Beaudette’s murder as well.

    On September 30th, Rauda allegedly entered Malibu Valley Farms at approximately 3:30 a.m., and stole food from the unoccupied office space. Once authorities caught a glimpse of the burglar (who they believe to be Rauda) on video surveillance  carrying a rifle (fueling up for his next mission), it was love at first sight.

    You see, the rifle we have come to find out, is the murder weapon. An important *detail* conveniently released by LASD after NBC aired their *exclusive* on the burglary suspect/potential killer.

    Excellent timing, as we hit home stretch to Election Day!

    After reviewing the footage which was *magically* handed over to NBC and promptly put on blast (pun intended), LASD developed a serious hard-on for Rauda’s firearm because of it’s *unique characteristics*.

    Aren’t we all looking for this unique characteristics? The perfect match? I know I am  after four husbands  (not a typo, I said four, but that’s another story).

    What also makes the weapon Rauda was allegedly carrying in the video even more perfect, according to Richard Winton’s article in the LA Times, is that it is *capable* of shooting the round that killed Beaudette.

    Screen shot from Winton’s article in the L.A. Times.

    Now that’s what I call a match made in heaven.

    And like I said in my last article, you couldn’t plan a wedding with that much detail and have it turn out this perfect.

    Bravo.

    Inside sources say ballistics will *most likely* be a match, and if so, Jim McDonnell potentially gets the Hail Mary he needs, as he is neck and neck with opponent Alex Villanueva in the Sheriff’s race in the November 6th election.

    That Hail Mary is crucial as there is a large voting block out here, which includes Malibu, Calabasas,Westlake and Thousand Oaks who live, work, commute, hike etc… out here – and who’s lives have been severely inconvenienced on many levels due to the level of fear traveling through Malibu Canyon.

    Plain and simple, we want this killer caught.

    We also want the shooter caught, and personally, I don’t believe Rauda is either of those guys, IMO.

    So, here we are, more than two weeks after his arrest and no charges filed (sad face).

    Two Rambo style productions, complete with SWAT presence, and NBC on hand to grab the “exclusive” of Rauda’s arrest… and still no charges? It’s like the sex with a partner who’s turn it is to have an orgasm… and it never happens.

    Or may it’s the other way around?

    I know one of us is unsatisfied, that’s for sure.

    Those were some high profile, high dollar productions, and if this show was on my network and ended the season without murder charges filed, it wouldn’t make it to the next season.

    Show cancelled.

    Scenes from the second SWAT performance on October 6th. Meanwhile, the tip the suspect was in the area turned out to be *bogus* and deputies were racking up overtime.

    So, I have to believe if ballistics don’t come back a match to the murder weapon, McDonnell might be saying adios to LASD, as voters saying hola to Villanueva.

    However, we still have the sticky situation of a shotgun to deal with. There seems to be a co-mingling of crimes surrounding the Beaudette murder, which includes the absence of a weapon involved in at least 4 other incidents that pre-date the shooting of the Tesla (4 days before) and the Beaudette murder.

    Those incidents *did not* involve a a rifle. They were committed with a shotgun.

    LASD would like the general population, especially the voting public, to believe is that all the shootings were committed by *one in the same* – as in gun – and person.

    Well, good luck with that. Some of us know better. Like the victims perhaps?

    Besides, truth is my religion and I am not delivering a sermon serving up Rauda as solely responsible for all of these crimes – at least not until LASD produces a shotgun. Then LASD has the burden of proof putting Rauda at the scene.

    I’m just not a believer in the theory that he is both the killer and the shooter. Or either for that matter.

    Clearly, LASD needed more evidence which is why they performed a *high profile* (there goes that word again) *sweep* at Malibu Creek State Park coincidentally the day after my last article on Rauda was released.

    Never mind the numerous social media posts and emails asking law enforcement to address if they had the shotgun in custody that I distributed the week before.

    Needless to say, as far as answers go, all we got was crickets.

    ABOVE TOP: The whole in Meliss Tatangelo’s car after being hit with a shotgun slug in January 2018. Below, the slug after it was pulled out of Tatangelo’s car.

    Back to the blast, shots heard, or whatever LHSD would like us to believe it is…

    The morning after the *unexplained* explosion, Tuesday, October 23rd, I received a message from a resident close to where the incident was located.  The message included video footage of the blast, showing a bright flash, and a very loud sound. According to security professionals and gun enthusiasts we inquired with, it sounded like either explosives, or a high powered rifle or *shotgun*.

    The Local Malibu posted the footage on social media and the resident forwarded the video to Lost Hills SD.

    The area circled in the bright flash from the “unexplained explosion” on a resident’s home security surveillance camera.

    Shortly after posting the video, The Local Malibu Facebook page, received a message from another local resident who spotted an unmarked *bomb disposal* vehicle, with no plates, on his way to work that morning. The vehicle was headed toward Los Angeles.

    We both agreed this was disturbing given the reports of the blast reported the night before. Now, even more so, knowing that bombs were delivered to the offices of high ranking politicians all over the country that same day.

    The message from a local on our FB page regarding the sighting of “bomb disposal” vehicle.

    After gathering more information, The Local Malibu and Dr. Ronda Hampton, an activist involved in the Mitrice Richardson case and other cases in the area, and I forwarded more details to LASD HQ, including photos of a utilities pole with significant damage to it, not far from where the explosion occurred.

    The photo, posted by a resident on social media, questioned whether it was a gunshot and contacted Lost Hills Sheriff’s Department who came out investigate at the location.

    A NIXLE alert was then distributed at 7:54 p.m. asking for the public’s help.

    ABOVE: Photo of damage to a utility pole near the site of the explosion was uploaded to social media. BELOW: The NIXLE alert sent by LASD HQ.

    Meanwhile, ongoing news reports of bombs delivered to government officials created widespread panic, and while this local *explosion* doesn’t seem to be connected to the string of bombs delivered throughout the day nationally, it was a very odd coincidence to say the least.

    And the odd coincidences continued the next morning.

    I awoke to another message from the same local resident on Wednesday October 24th, who was commuting to work and saw the unmarked *bomb disposal* vehicle with no plates.

    This time, he saw a *K-9 Bomb Detection Unit* vehicle belonging to Ventura County. Another highly unusual sighting, and out of the county’s jurisdiction. With the count up to two bomb vehicle sightings now, one unmarked going to Los Angeles the day the national bomb scare, and the day after, going towards Ventura while the nation was still on high alert, we decided it was time to send another email to LASD HQ updating them on what we learned.

     

    Apparently informing them was not enough, I guess LASD wants me to make phone to other agencies for them to?

    That night, a social media post by the Lost Hills Sheriff’s Department (sent to me by a resident) on Facebook summed up the *2 day* investigation regarding the blast. The response from the resident who sent me the post (circled in red) put it all in perspective.

    “We serious”???

    Meanwhile the Feds have one guy in custody and are open to the possibilities as the investigation continues nationally.

    However, this tweet by CBS News created quite the deja vu moment for me…

    Sound familiar?

    I guess we’ll have to see how things shake out, for Rauda, McDonnell and whoever and whatever is responsible for blasting us out of bed last week.

    If you see something, say something… and then promptly post it on social media.

    ADIOS!

  • Public Safety: What We Learned About Yesterday’s WW II Vintage Plane Crash on the 101 Freeway

    Public Safety: What We Learned About Yesterday’s WW II Vintage Plane Crash on the 101 Freeway

    Yesterday started off with a bang, literally, with Malibu Canyon residents communicating on social media and via messaging about an explosion that occurred near Lost Hills Rd. and Las Virgenes Rd. at approximately 9:45 p.m. on Monday, Oct 22.

    Speculation fueled about the possibility of an explosion, or perhaps, the use of a powerful firearm that could have created the loud noise and flash seen on a home surveillance camera. Updated information our publication received throughout the day regarding the possible explosion was forwarded in a series of emails sent to Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Headquarters and subsequently resulting in a NIXLE alert sent out to residents last night at 7:54 p.m.

    During the endless morning chaos of deciphering the origin and investigating of the “explosion” heard the night before, yesterday another major incident took place a stone’s throw from the area plagued by non-stop drama.

    Like a scene out of a movie, I would say a really good action thriller vs. the over the top Rambo style production put on by LASD HQ the week before last with the multiple SWAT appearances, a vintage WWII airplane crashed right into the 101 freeway at approximately 1:45 pm.

    Feature photo and this photo by: Wade Kegley

    The pilot survived and no motorists were hurt.

    Miracles do happen.

    The AT-6 vintage model airplane with German markings, some identify as “Nazi”, is part of a fleet of vintage airplanes belonging to the Condor Squadron, a group of aviation enthusiasts dedicated to preserving aviation history. One of their main activities is memorial flights in restored North American Aviation AT-6/SNJ trainers originally flown during World War II.

    The Local Malibu reached out to Condor Squadron and spoke to representative Chris Rushing who confirmed that the pilot in yesterday’s crash is also a pilot employed with Alaska Airlines. Rushing declined to confirm reports of a leak in the fuel line, and would only say he wanted to allow the NTSB to do complete their investigation before releasing any information on the cause.

    Photo by: Cole Puente

    A few hours after the crash, The Local Malibu received a message regarding a previous incident, on September 1st, where a local resident witnessed a similar vintage aircraft flying dangerously low over the same area where yesterday’s crash occurred. The plane was flying so recklessly, it prompted the resident to call 911 and report it. After hearing about a plane crash involving a similar aircraft to the one she saw on September 1st, the resident called CHP (where 911 calls made from a cell phone get routed to, different from when a landline dials 911) again to follow up on the previous incident she reported.

    I asked Rushing if he thought the aircraft flying recklessly could have been one of Condor Squadron’s planes and he dismissed the possibility, quite confident the airmen who are allowed to pilot these vintage aircrafts are skilled, responsible and follow FAA guidelines strictly.

    We did confirm there are a few vintage airplane clubs in the area that could have been involved in the September 1st incident.

    Additionally, we also learned the flight plan from Van Nuys to Camarillo does include the area where the two incidents occurred, including yesterday’s crash.

    So, what do you do if you see a similar situation that causes concern? Document it on video and photograph it – but only if you are in a safe area to do so. Focus on identifying numbers on the tail of the plane, which is like a license plate on a car. If it is an emergency situation that requires calling 911 and you are placing the call from a cell phone, keep in mind the call is re-routed to CHP and could end up going to voicemail (yes, voicemail), so it’s always best to have the station number handy for The Lost Hills Sheriff”s Department. 818.878.1808 (always ask for the watch commander or a commanding officer).

    If you see something, say something!

     

  • YES on Prop 12: A Message From Malibu’s Passionate Animal Rights Activist Cindy Landon

    YES on Prop 12: A Message From Malibu’s Passionate Animal Rights Activist Cindy Landon

    Proposition 12, the Farm Animal Confinement Initiative – a yes vote supports banning the sale of meat from calves raised for veal confined to less than 43 sf per calf and breeding pigs confined to less than 24 sf per pigand eggs from hens confined to areas less than 1 sf per hen.

    We would like to see an end to all animal suffering and while Prop 12 is not perfect, it IS a step in the right direction to improve the lives of these farm animals that have been treated only as money making commodities by the industry and kept in horrific, unsanitary conditions.
    Groups like Prevent Cruelty California and The Humane Society  and many others are in support of the ballot initiative.
    The factory farming industry that is responsible for the unnecessary animal cruelty in order to maximize their own profits is the opposition with The Association of California Egg Farmers and National Pork Producers Councilspending the most.
    I urge everyone to please vote ‘YES’ on Prop 12. – Cindy Landon, Passionate Activist for Animal Rights
  • Something Wild: The Wild Aid Gala November 10th

    Something Wild: The Wild Aid Gala November 10th

    By Ben Marcus

    The WildAid Gala is coming up November 10 in Beverly Hills – so it’s time to get on board.

    The About page for WildAid declares:

    “The illegal wildlife trade is a multi-billion dollar global industry largely driven by consumer demand in expanding economies. While most wildlife conservation groups focus on scientific studies and anti-poaching efforts, WildAid works to reduce global consumption of wildlife products and to increase local support for conservation efforts.

    We also work with government and partners to protect fragile marine reserves from illegal fishing and shark finning, to enhance public and political will for anti-poaching efforts, and to reduce climate change impacts.”

    An admirable cause supported by animals lovers at all levels of society. WildAid lists a lot of familiar names as members of the Board and Ambassadors, including: Prince William, Sir Richard Branson, Yao Ming, Jackie Chan, Leonardo Dicaprio, David Beckham,  Harrison Ford, Jane Goodall, Kate Hudson and a couple dozen other international citizens who care about wild animals and can’t bare to see them killed and exploited.

    Malibu resident Cindy Landon is one of those concerned international citizens, and she is involved in organizing and promoting the WildAid Gala on November 10 at the Beverly Wilshire. Last year, 650 guests learned about the illegal wildlife trade and WildAid’s conservation efforts and successes. The event raised $2.4 million for their programs, along with $1.2 million in in-kind donation and pro bono support.

    The Local tracked down Cindy Landon and asked her about her involvement in the WildAid mission.

    The Local: How are you involved with the WildAid Gala on November 10?

    Cindy Landon: I am one of the co-chairs for the event.

    The Local: How long have you been involved with WildAid?

    Cindy Landon: his is my first year working with WildAid.  I have been an animal activist for years and have been involved with several animal welfare organizations.  I have heard of WildAid and their upstanding reputation throughout the years, so when I was approached to be a part of the gala, I was thrilled to participate.

    The Local: Have you gone on expeditions/field trips/poacher-hunting trips with WildAid?

    Cindy Landon: I have not worked directly with WildAid’s efforts but have been involved with other organizations.  Most recently, I worked with Chris DeRose, the President and Founder of Last Chance for Animals, to finance an aircraft for the rangers at the Virunga National Park, the most biologically diverse protected area on the continent, located in the Congo and bordering Rwanda and Uganda, to track and intervene with poaching in the Park.

    The Local: Where has WildAid been most effective in protecting animals from poachers?

    Cindy Landon: WildAid doesn’t directly protect animals from poachers, however, its efforts absolutely do this indirectly. While the majority of wildlife conservation groups focus on scientific studies and anti-poaching efforts, WildAid targets consumers. If no one is buying the ivory trinket, then no one is killing the elephant. WildAid’s message is simple but strong: “When the buying stops, the killing can, too.” And this message is working. WildAid’s partnership with Yao Ming in China has helped lead to an 80 percent decrease in the consumption of shark fin soup. At the end of 2017, China, which was once the largest ivory market, banned all domestic ivory sales; a huge win for the world and WildAid, which was instrumental in supporting the government in this historic action. WildAid’s consumer approach is proven to work. So much has been accomplished, but our mission won’t end until the entire wildlife trade has ceased to exist.

    The Local: What is the worst/most heartbreaking incident of animal poaching you have witnessed or been personally involved with.

    Cindy Landon: There are so many heartbreaking incidents of animal poaching.  One of the most recent occurred just last month near a sanctuary in Botswana where 87 elephants were slaughtered for their tusks.  These magnificent, beautiful creatures were killed just for the ivory trade. Every 15 minutes an elephant is killed for its tusks.  Literally, tens of thousands per year. Rhinos also have been relentlessly slaughtered for their horns. When I was in Tanzania last year a ranger reported to me that there were only 2500 rhino left in Tanzania.  Africa is one of my favorite places in the world and to witness the devastation of the wildlife due to poaching and the ivory trade is unspeakable. Illegal wildlife trade is a multi-billion dollar global industry driven by consumer demands.  WildAid works to stop consumer demand for endangered species products and to ensure support for conservation efforts.

    The Local: Are you involved with any specific area of concern with WildAid? Ocean? Land?   

    Cindy Landon: I am passionate about all animal causes.  Factory farming is not only cruel and inhumane but a threat to all life.  80 billion (with a ‘B’) animals are slaughtered per year while being the number one cause of global greenhouse gas emissions, extremely destructive to the world’s forests, waste runoff pollutes water supplies, soil is eroded and corporate control of the food supply is increased.  Then there is the urgent issue of poaching and keeping the poached animals from extinction. It’s heartbreaking to witness the mass destruction and exploitation of African wildlife. I know of many people and organizations out there on the front lines whom put there own lives in peril every day to ensure the survival of animals like the Mountain Gorilla, Rhino and Elephant.  If drastic measures are not taken immediately my children will be the last generation in my family to see these majestic creatures. I believe as a society, as a species we must always think about our ethical and moral obligation not only to animals but all living things. I know that by doing nothing we are sewing ourselves into the history books as accomplices to the largest ongoing massacre of animals and the most destruction of natural resources.

    Organizations like WildAid give me hope.  Each one of us can make a difference and be a voice for the voiceless when we rescue a dog or stop buying farm factory products, eat more vegan and vegetarian meals, advocate for strict anti-poaching laws etc. etc.  These are a few examples of how we begin to shift the collective consciousness and create great change together.

    The Local: How wild are the WildAid galas?

    Cindy Landon: WildAid’s galas are known for being incredible. There is top-notch entertainment (I mean come on, David Foster!?), stunning decorations and auction items like once-in-a-lifetime trips to the Galapagos to swim with whale sharks. But more than that, there is also a beautiful energy in the room of hundreds of people coming together for the same cause. It truly is a magical night you won’t want to miss!

    The Local: What is the cost for people to attend, and what will be available to them?

    Cindy Landon: There are a variety of ticket options and sponsorships available. Please find them all here: https://wildaid.org/gala/. However, all guests will enjoy performances from 16-time Grammy Award-winner David Foster as well as performances from The Cirque. Celebrity Master Chef Martin Yan will be creating this year’s vegetarian meal and there will be a live and silent auction featuring luxurious and once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

    The Local Malibu: How can citizens get more information on the WildAid Gala?

    Cindy Landon: You can find all information about the gala here: https://wildaid.org/gala/

    The Local: If people want to contribute their time, or donate goods for the raffle, what is is WildAid ideally are looking for, and how can people contribute?

    Cindy Landon: WildAid is always looking for sponsors for its gala as well as unique and luxurious silent auction items. While there aren’t typically many opportunities to volunteer, simply being an everyday ambassador for WildAid and spreading its message and mission can educate others about the work that has been done and everything that still needs to be done to continue saving these innocent animals.

    The Local: Are you involved with any specific area of concern with WildAid? Ocean? Land?

    Cindy Landon: I am passionate about all animal causes.  Factory farming is not only cruel and inhumane but a threat to all life.  80 billion (with a ‘B’) animals are slaughtered per year while being the number one cause of global greenhouse gas emissions, extremely destructive to the world’s forests, waste runoff pollutes water supplies, soil is eroded and corporate control of the food supply is increased.  Then there is the urgent issue of poaching and keeping the poached animals from extinction. It’s heartbreaking to witness the mass destruction and exploitation of African wildlife. I know of many people and organizations out there on the front lines whom put there own lives in peril every day to ensure the survival of animals like the Mountain Gorilla, Rhino and Elephant.  If drastic measures are not taken immediately my children will be the last generation in my family to see these majestic creatures. I believe as a society, as a species we must always think about our ethical and moral obligation not only to animals but all living things. I know that by doing nothing we are sewing ourselves into the history books as accomplices to the largest ongoing massacre of animals and the most destruction of natural resources.

    Organizations like WildAid give me hope.  Each one of us can make a difference and be a voice for the voiceless when we rescue a dog or stop buying farm factory products, eat more vegan and vegetarian meals, advocate for strict anti-poaching laws etc. etc.  These are a few examples of how we begin to shift the collective consciousness and create great change together.

    The Local: How wild are the WildAid galas?

    Corinne Meyerson: WildAid’s galas are known for being incredible. There is top-notch entertainment (I mean come on, David Foster!?), stunning decorations and auction items like once-in-a-lifetime trips to the Galapagos to swim with whale sharks. But more than that, there is also a beautiful energy in the room of hundreds of people coming together for the same cause. It truly is a magical night you won’t want to miss!

    The Local: What is the cost for people to attend, and what will be available to them?

    Corinne Myerson: There are a variety of ticket options and sponsorships available. Please find them all here: https://wildaid.org/gala/. However, all guests will enjoy performances from 16-time Grammy Award-winner David Foster as well as performances from The Cirque. Celebrity Master Chef Martin Yan will be creating this year’s vegetarian meal and there will be a live and silent auction featuring luxurious and once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

    The Local: How can citizens get more information on the WildAid Gala?

    Corinne Meyerson: You can find all information about the gala here: https://wildaid.org/gala/

    The Local: If people want to contribute their time, or donate goods for the raffle, what is is WildAid ideally are looking for, and how can people contribute?

    Corinne Meyerson: WildAid is always looking for sponsors for its gala as well as unique and luxurious silent auction items. While there aren’t typically many opportunities to volunteer, simply being an everyday ambassador for WildAid and spreading its message and mission can educate others about the work that has been done and everything that still needs to be done to continue saving these innocent animals.

  • Disturbing Details Emerge in the Disappearance of Matthew Weaver Jr.

    Disturbing Details Emerge in the Disappearance of Matthew Weaver Jr.

    This article was originally published on September 28th, 2018, updated 0n October 18th at 5:31 a.m. and on Oct. 2, 2018 at 6:48 a.m.

    On Tuesday October 16th, the family of Matthew Weaver Jr, missing since August 1oth, held a press conference announcing a $50,000 reward for information leading to finding Weaver.

    Anyone with information regarding his whereabouts was urged to call the LAPD’s Missing Persons Unit at (213) 996-1800 or dial 911. Tipsters can also call Crime Stoppers at (800) 222-TIPS.

    Major news media is currently circulation information to assist in finding Weaver however, not all the information out there is correct. The following is an updated timeline, with information verified by the family.

    Here is the updated information originally released on Sept. 27th, (our publication broke the story of Matthew’s disappearance here).

    In an effort to inform the public, the family of Matthew Weaver Jr. released the following information as of Thursday September 27th, 2018:

    *PLEASE NOTE: Some news articles refer to Matthew Jr. as a hiker. That is incorrect. Matthew Jr. was not in the area of Stunt Rd and Schueren Rd. on August 10th to “go hiking”.

    8/10: Matthew drops off a female “friend” at 5:00 a.m. in Chatsworh

    Matthew heads toward Stunt and Schueren Rd., last known location.

    5:15 AM ​Matthew’s car is on Mulholland Hwy
    5:35 AM ​Matthew’s car turns onto Stunt Rd
    5:45-6:24 AM ​Matthew’s car drives around Saddle Peak Rd & Schueren Rd.

    6:24-6:57 AM ​Picture posted on Matthew’s Snapchat from the Stunt Rd & Saddle Peak Rd parking lot. (originally, we were told by family the last known Snapchat was at 7:38 a.m., we will keep both in the timeline).

    Somewhere around  7:00 a.m., Matthew entered the white gate, suspiciously left open at Rosas Overlook, when it normally remains locked and typically should only be accessible by first responders and law enforcement officials.

    The keys to the lock should only in possession of first responders and law enforcement officials, and the keys are supposed to say “Do Not Duplicate”. However, we learned that people, other than first responders, have obtained a copy and been successful in duplicating them.

    Because of the keys getting into the wrong hands, specifically people other than first responders, the lock has had to be changed, and keys re-issued as a safety precaution on numerous occasions according to our sources.

    At 7:15 AM ​Security camera captures a vehicle driving on the Topanga Tower Motorway toward Rosas Overlook (GPS signal on Matthew Weaver Jr.’s cell phone tracks him at the Topanga Trail at 7:15 a.m., and by 7:28 AM ​Matthew’s car reaches the end of the trail at the area of Rosas Overlook.

    Later, Matthew Jr’s cell phone tracks his last Snapchat post at 7:38 a.m., and his last text message to a female, (the same female he dropped off at 5 a.m.) indicating “crazy (shit) is going on”.

    8/11: Matthew Jr.’s car is found by 4 people in between 12 -1 a.m., at Topanga Lookout/Las Rosas Overlook who noticed the vehicle and called 911.

    The car was located TWO MILES down the dirt trail off Stunt. Rd. At Schueren Rd.

    A Female and male voice were heard screaming for help by witnesses, specifically saying “somebody has a gun.”

    At approximately 1:30 a.m., first responders walk out to the site of Matthew Jr’s car, helicopters and a K-9 are dispatched.

    On Saturday Aug 11th, Lost Hills/Malibu Search and Rescue used K-9 Search and Cadaver dogs, first communicating they lost the scent at the paved road at Stunt Rd. and Schueren Rd, then communicated to family a second time that they lost the scent at 100 yards.

    Search and Rescue has conducted at least 5  or more searches to date, and the Weaver family has conducted at least 15 or more searches with their family and friends.

    Lost Hills Sheriff Department and Malibu Search and Rescue responding to the scene of Mathew Weaver Jr.’s disappearance on August 11th, 2018
    Map provided by the family of the search area.

    *Matthew Weaver Jr.’s cell phone, wallet, car keys, and clothing HAVE NOT BEEN FOUND.

    *The trunk lock on Matthew’s car was damaged from the inside.

    In an effort to inform the public we have released most of the updated important details and as more information is released, this article will be updated.

     

     

     

     

  • Two SWAT Missions Didn’t Lead To Rauda’s Arrest, But We Know What Probably Did…

    Two SWAT Missions Didn’t Lead To Rauda’s Arrest, But We Know What Probably Did…

    While we all get a few more gray hairs waiting for ballistics to come back on the rifle Anthony Rauda allegedly had when he was taken into custody, now might be a good time to review the events leading up to the his capture on October 10th.

    And… why two visits from SWAT didn’t turn up the suspect, but potentially critical information from a tip did.

    All the world’s stage…

    Looking like a scene from Rambo, the Malibu Canyon community was thrown into a virtual frenzy with the first high profile production courtesy of LASD on October 2nd.

    It was an unprecedented show of force – and in plain view – right in the middle of the morning rush hour commute while parents ushered kids to school, and members of the community made their way to work.

    Approximately a dozen patrol cars, Search and Rescue, the K-9 unit and SWAT, were staged at Rauda’s last known location, 26800 block of Mulholland Hwy, where he allegedly broke into an unoccupied office at approximately 3:30 a.m., searching for food, with a rifle in tow.

    Residents, who witnessed the police activity, called the station obviously worried for their safety. They were told by a deputy that they, and other specialized, tactical units, were searching for an armed burglary suspect. What they conveniently forgot to mention was that the suspect committed the burglary two days before, and this was not an “active” crime scene.

    Little clues that the October 2nd “mission” was merely for show became more apparent as the day progressed.

    Keep your friend’s close…

    First clue was the appearance of NBC, and only NBC, on cue to catch the exclusive. The second clue was the Special Weapons Team, taking time for a photo op, mid maneuvers, for their Twitter followers.

    It’s a good thing they did because had they not taken the time to post they were “tracking a felony suspect”, most of us who didn’t call the station, would have never known.

    Judging by the non stop action in the canyon lately, it looks like I need to check their Twitter feed a little more often. 😉

    By the end of what seemed like a very long day of crime fighting, I finally had my answers.

    NBC’s Eric Leonard, who I have never met before, communicated with, or follow on social media, decided to seek me out personally (lucky me!), and graciously dropped the link to his “exclusive” of the day’s events, on my Twitter feed.

    How nice of him to “inform” me on a story I had been reporting on (non-stop) since the day of the campground murder right?

    It looked like I made a new friend…

    For those of you who don’t know, my publication, The Local Malibu was responsible for exposing law enforcement’s cover-up of approximately two years of shooting incidents leading up to the murder of Tristan Beaudette June 22nd at Malibu Creek State Park.

    I have diligently stayed on the story since then, posting regular updates on our website and social media, including collaborating on a map of all of the incidents in the area. So, it was very interesting to see Leonard jump in, at what seemed like “the end” of the case (as LASD would have us believe), and just in time for the action to kick into high gear. Leonard and NBC were perfectly positioned to document it all.

    So, based on what transpired on October 2nd, and with the information Leonard was kind enough to forward to me via his exclusive, I decided to go out on a limb, and offer my own “insight” to my new friend – which sure enough, came true 6 days later.

    Time to play the lotto!

    Out of the frying pan…

    Once the dust settled from the opening day performance of the “Rauda Search”, the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department Public Information Officer, Nicole Nishida, distributed an out of character, unusually forthcoming, press release to the media – immediately after NBC aired the exclusive.

    If you were good at reading between the lines, you could very easily see what was about to unfold.

    The writing clearly was on the wall – and now, all over the newswire!

    Only 6 weeks before, state agencies and law enforcement top brass gathered at King Gillette Ranch for a Public Safety meeting hosted by Senator Henry Stern. Yet another high profile production aimed to calm residents, introducing a new “task force” formed specifically to “make our mountains safe again”. Concerned community members gathered in the auditorium ready to hear answers, but instead got the royal run around. Needless to say, they left the meeting very unhappy campers (pun intended).

    So, pardon me if I am a little suspicious at the timing of LASD’s “come-to-Jesus” moment, a month before the Sheriff’s election, with what seemed like a full confession of key facts from the case.

    Nishida conveniently dropped enough breadcrumbs to tie “recent events” to the burglaries, the shootings and the murder (which are separate, believe it or not), plus leaking a possible connection to the murder ( and weapon) – which before that day, we did not know was a rifle.

    That’s a lot of breadcrumbs to follow.

    Based on recent events, and how this all went down, it doesn’t look like we have enough breadcrumbs on a trail leading us to a murderer, but it does look like we have enough to make a pretty damn good fried chicken.

    Questions, questions…

    So, one big, obvious question is… why tell us now?

    Was LASD was prepping us for an arrest, and a high profile press conference?

    That is sure what it seemed like to me and is exactly how it went down on October 10th.

    But not before a little more fanfare…

    You’re either SWAT, or you’re not…

    Fast forward a few days to Saturday, October 6th. While sipping our pumpkin lattes, hoping to get a little hammock time after what seemed like endless overnight propeller action all week (from LASD helicopters), just like that, the birds were back up in the air again.

    Rumors of a suspect sighting by a maintenance worker at the Tapia Park close to Piuma and Malibu Canyon, were posted on social media with the news catching wind rather quickly.

    Almost immediately, I was contacted by a local who travels through the canyon frequently, who has been monitoring the situation. He texted me information on the staging activity at King Gillette Ranch, including now the second appearance of the SWAT team and their Bearcat armored vehicle.

    A few hours later, he texted me again. This time he said law enforcement was “on the move”, and the armored vehicle was headed to the creek bed, complete with assault rifles and bloodhounds.

    When I arrived, I stood maybe 200 feet from the awe inspiring action – which was nothing less than surreal, but even more so scary as f*ck, because the area was not contained. AT. ALL.

    Although I had the presence of mind to stay a safe distance away, and got as much footage of the event as possible, anyone could have easily walked up to these guys, in full tactical gear, rifles in hand. Cars drove by as if it were no big deal. A virtual side note if you will, all the while, a supposed “pursuit” was going down.

    Friend or foe…

    As I furiously uploaded photos and video of what we thought was an “active pursuit” of a “dangerous suspect”, I received a text from one of my new found media friends.

     

    Needless to say, I was pretty taken aback by the honesty…

    …and the info!

    I mean, after all, we didn’t really know each other that well.

    So, as any curious female would want to know, why would he be so trusting, so soon?

    Why would he be divulging what seemed to be pretty “sensitive information” – after we had just met only days before?

    Why was this guy trying to “jump into bed with me” (for lack of a better analogy) so quickly…?

    After a completely drama free Sunday, no birds in the air, nada, Saturday’s show stopping production was clearly starting to shake out like LASD was pulling out all the stops before voters headed to the polls.

    And, this “source” was obviously in on the whole “operation”, potentially trying to throw me off the scent.

    Howeverrrrrr, I have since picked up a new scent.

    The smell of the shotgun powder –  the was weapon of choice in at least 4 other shootings in Malibu Creek State Park before Tristan’s Beaudette’s murder.

    ABOVE: Photos of the slug recovered, and the damage to Meliss Tatangelo’s car, Jan. 2017
    The birdshot damage to this white BMW SUV was also by a shotgun. The incident happened in July 2017.

    Major news media have talked openly about the other shootings dating back two years, but avoided the topic of the type of weapon that was used, choosing to focus on the the murder weapon only.

    We reached out to LASD P.I.O. Nishida, and two other members of the Sheriff’s Department in hopes of getting some clarification as to whether the shotgun has been recovered, and if they can tie the weapon to Rauda along with the murder weapon.

    So far we’re hearing crickets…

    Does that mean we still have a shooter on the loose? If so, will it take another murder to bring him to justice?

     

     

     

     

  • Malibu Manhunt: Did LASD Get Their Man… Or Is the Shooter Still at Large?

    Malibu Manhunt: Did LASD Get Their Man… Or Is the Shooter Still at Large?

    Edited at 5:04 a.m. 10/13/18

    As Tuesday’s high profile arrest (that I predicted 6 days before) of parole violator Anthony Rouda made local and national headlines, the press conference/pat-on-the-back hosted by Sheriff Jim McDonnell was by all accounts, an excellent attempt at leading the public to believe the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department (LASD) actually “got their man”.

    The question is, which man?

    The burger stealing burglar, the shooter, the murderer, or all three?

    If you’re Captain Josh Thai of the Lost Hills Sheriff’s Department, it appears the manhunt is over, and law and order has been restored to Malibu Canyon.

    Capt. Thai even told the Malibu Times it’s “safe to go back” to Malibu Creek State Park.

    So, for now, it’s a waiting game.

    Will their be a ballistics match to Rouda’s rifle for the murder of Tristan Beaudette?

    Did detectives recover the shotgun tied to the shootings dating back to 2016?

    The weapon used in the shooting incident involving Meliss Tatangelo was a shotgun.

    When we get those answers, then, and only then, can we properly tell the whole story.

    Is LASD sweating bullets?

     

     

     

  • Malibu Canyon Shootings: Smoke, Mirrors, SWAT… and Sacrificial Lamb?

    Malibu Canyon Shootings: Smoke, Mirrors, SWAT… and Sacrificial Lamb?

    Dear Readers, Friends and Foes,

    I know all of you are waiting for details re: Tuesday’s extravaganza by law enforcement, and want to know about all the helicopter fly-bys and such…

    I do have a story in the works, but it’s best to put the breaks on it because I am feeling an arrest coming sooooooon.

    It would be silly for me to rush this story, because as we all know, Election Day is November 6th, and the smell of closing cases are in the air!

    LASD wants excellent arrest records on the books before voters head to the polls… Hence, the amazing display we saw on Tuesday, including the appearance of the SWAT team and all (by “all”, I mean NBC, who boasted on air Tuesday “In a story you will only see here on NBC”)!

    SHOWSTOPPER: LASD/LHSD broke out the Lenco Bearcat on Tuesday for the whole neighborhood to see. Pretty impressive!

    So… watch this space, because once this “arrest” happens, I will finish the story…

    But only after NBC’s Eric Leonard uploads his story first and forwards me the link like he did on Tuesday night. Leonard was kind enough to give me “insight” on what happened, even though we have never met, do not follow each other on social, or have had any contact whatsoever…

    … then we can put this chapter to bed… for now.

    Eric Leonard was “gracious” enough to “educate” me on what was going down in my ‘hood Tuesday.

    But know this,  I do not believe for one minute that if they do make an arrest, that it’s THE guy who killed Beaudette.

    Just my two cents.

    THAT GUY, most likely the same guy who has successfully eluded police for at least TWO YEARS, is a lot smarter than that.

    The last thing he would do is walk into the middle of a shit storm, knowing cops are close by, and continue to hit up the same area for food, multiple times, assuming, if not KNOWING, there are cameras potentially on every property – especially after recent events.

    And I seriously doubt he would be “inexperienced” enough to carry a rifle (aka his signature, identifying him for these crimes) to his alleged “refueling” spots.

    If it is a survivalist type, as the mainstream media is pushing, he doesn’t need to enter a residential/commercial area to eat. A survivalist knows how to “survive” in the wilderness…

    Stay tuned… I have a feeling this week is going to be memorable!

    Most importantly, STAY SAFE. Do not have a false sense of security because an “arrest” was made.

    I got your back.