The Parks & Recreation commission voted March on 22 to not add any more memorial benches, rocks and plaques at Legacy Park. Photo Samantha Bravo/TMT.
The City of Malibu Community Services Department invites children join the new “Agents of Discovery” augmented reality program, which promotes environmental education and encourages exploration of Malibu’s beautiful natural habitats.
The mobile app guides kids ages 4-12 on a “mission” throughout Malibu’s beautiful Legacy Park to learn about native plants, insects, animals, and birds. The mission starts at the Malibu Library and has 11 challenges, such as finding and identifying plants and animals and answering trivia questions. Children who complete the mission will get a free Malibu Agents of Discovery badge at the Malibu Library. The Malibu Library is located at 23519 West Civic Center Way, Malibu, across the street from Legacy Park.
To get started, download the free Agents of Discovery mobile app from Google Play or the Apple App Store. Click on the “Legacy Park” mission, and the city’s great blue heron will guide the user through the challenges.
While the challenges are meant to start and end at the library, they can be started anywhere in Legacy Park by opening the app and scanning the QR code on one of the informational signs posted around the park.
New challenges will be created each season to provide young explorers with new opportunities to learn about Legacy Park’s ecosystems and habitats.
For more information about the Agents of Discovery Program, visit the webpage at malibucity.org/Agents.
(From left) Malibu CERT team members Grant W. Graves, Logan Brashear, and Donna Gilbert, CERT Team Leader Richard Garvey, Jeff Litow and Public Safety Director Susan Dueñas are shown during the first CERT Training class on Thursday, April 13. Photo by Samantha Bravo/TMT.
Registration is now open for the city’s next Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training. As part of its ongoing efforts toward community-wide wildfire and disaster preparedness, the city is offering the next round of the highly popular free training with seven classes to be held on Thursday evenings from 6 to 9 p.m., April 18 through May 30, at Malibu City Hall. The program is administered by the city and other public safety agencies across the country and empowers community members to help themselves and their neighbors during disasters. Through hands-on training, participants learn the most up-to-date information on basic disaster preparedness, the use of a fire extinguisher, disaster medical care, first aid, search and rescue, disaster psychology, and neighborhood team building. For more information and to sign up, visit the webpage, at malibucity.org or email publicsafety@malibucity.org, or call (310) 456-2489, ext. 237.
Drs. Mathew Knowles and Joi Carr teach the "African American Aesthetic Culture From Spirituals to Hip Hop" course at Pepperdine University. Photos by Elyse Jankowski.
Pepperdine’s ‘African American Aesthetic Culture From Spirituals to Hip Hop’ with Dr. Mathew Knowles and Dr. Joi Carr
By Ben Marcus
When Millennials sneeringly tease Boomers just because they were born from 1946 to 1964, one sneers back: “You wish you were a child of the ’60s. You wish you were a teenager in the ’70s. You wish you were a 20-something in the ’80s. The soundtrack! Forgetaboutit!” Well up at Pepperdine, Dr. Mathew Knowles and Dr. Joi Carr don’t want this new generation to forget about all the great music of the past, and they are co-instructing a course called “African American Aesthetic Culture From Spirituals to Hip Hop.”
At the whiteboard, Dr. Mathew Knowles explains some of the concepts in the course “African American Aesthetic Culture From Spirituals to Hip Hop,” which he co-teaches with Dr. Joi Carr.Drs. Mathew Knowles (left) and Joi Carr hope to have the “African American Aesthetic Culture From Spirituals to Hip Hop” a permanemt course offering for the African American Studies program at Pepperdine University.Drs. Mathew Knowles and Joi Carr teach the “African American Aesthetic Culture From Spirituals to Hip Hop” course at Pepperdine University. Photos by Elyse Jankowski.
In my vast experience, the most musical people I have encountered are the Irish and Brazilians. Any opinion on that from either of you: Who are the most musical nation/people you have come across?
Dr. Mathew Knowles: It’s hard to definitively say which nation is the most musical, as music is a universal language that transcends borders and is present in every culture around the world. However, some countries are known for their rich musical traditions and contributions to the global music scene.
Countries like the United States, Nigeria, Brazil, Cuba, Jamaica, India, and Ireland have all made significant impacts on various genres of music and have produced many world-renowned musicians. Each of these nations has a unique musical heritage and a deep connection to music that is ingrained in their cultural identity.
The United States, for example, has been at the forefront of popular music for many decades, with influential genres like gospel, country jazz, blues, rock, R&B, hip-hop and Afro-Beats originating there. Brazil is known for its vibrant music scene, including bossa nova, samba, and música popular brasileira. Cuba has a rich tradition of Afro-Cuban music, while Jamaica is famous for reggae and dancehall. Nigeria has taken the world by storm with its popular Afro-Beats.
Dr. Joi Carr: I agree with Dr. Knowles. Music is universal. It explores all the complex ways we experience the human condition. At this point in history there has been so much cross pollination. We know where certain sounds/styles come from originally, but most commercially successful music is a bit transnational in many respects. The unique contributions of African Americans from the United States and the countries Dr. Knowles mentioned have changed the sonic landscape around the world.
“African American Aesthetic Culture From Spirituals to Hip Hop.” I know enough to know that is a juicy topic. You can cover all that in one Spring season?
Dr. Joi Carr: We wanted to create a class that traced the interdisciplinary nature of African American music all the way from chattel slavery to the present. The journey has been incredible: The history and social-cultural context alongside the music, literature, and film.
Dr. Mathew Knowles: First and foremost, we have very engaged students who want to learn our musical and cultural history. Some of the stories that have been told were not accurate. The way Dr. Carr and I have been effective in getting our students involved is by prioritizing the curriculum and identifying the key concepts and topics that must be covered to meet the learning objective of the course. A well-structured syllabus can help students and professors stay organized and on track.
My teaching style is one that I call “Edutainment” where I supplement some parts of my lectures with multimedia resources such as videos and simulations.
Yes, I try to write history that way: Educational and entertaining. Holding the attention of this fractured generation is tricky.
Dr. Mathew Knowles: Lastly, we have provided resources for self-study and encourage students to explore additional resources outside of class, such as textbooks and educational websites and we encourage students to share their feedback in class. “African American Aesthetic Culture From Spirituals to Hip Hop” is a combination of research from Dr. Carr and one of my published books, “The Emancipation of Slaves Through Music.”
Dr. Joi Carr: Yes, students read seminal works and listen to music extensively, from early recordings to the present day. We study the material chronologically and highlight significant moments, figures, and innovations in each time period.
Sounds like a Ph.D version of the Music Appreciation classes the stoners took in high school in Santa Cruz in the 1970s. Taught by people who know what’s up. Is the music appreciated up there on the hill?
Dr. Joi Carr: That is humorous. I would not call the class exactly that. But Pepperdine has a strong Fine Arts Division that has introductory level courses for students to explore music. This class is unique and has a critical edge. It is a journey through the evolution of African American music, from spirituals to gospel, blues, country, jazz, and R&B through contemporary hip-hop. Students are wrestling with the music in the context of a rich intellectual history of Black thought. Students are excited about learning about each era and placing the music in context. Some of the songs they have heard before (in movies etc.), but not in this immersive and comprehensive way.
Where did the idea come from? Did you contact the school or vice versa?
Dr. Joi Carr: The class developed organically. Dr. Knowles just finished co-teaching a course at Pepperdine’s Graziadio Business School on entrepreneurship. We were connected by a colleague and after we explored our respective interests and expertise, the course was a natural outcome. Teaching a course with African American music at the center with Dr. Knowles, with his extensive background as an educator and groundbreaking work in the music industry as an executive, just made sense. This new course will help reinvigorate the African American Studies program at Seaver College.
I have always wondered where inspiration for songs comes from. Beyonce for example: I know “Crazy in Love” funkifized a sample from the Chi Lites and spun it into gold. I wonder how “All the Single Ladies” evolved: What came first? So where did the inspiration for this class come from? Was it taught elsewhere and brought to the hills and dales of Pepperdine?
Dr. Mathew Knowles: The inspirations for songs can come from a variety of sources and experiences. Songwriters often draw inspiration from their own lives and emotions, using their personal experiences to create meaningful and authentic music. Relationships, both romantic and platonic, can be a common source of inspiration, as well as feelings of love, heartbreak, joy and sadness. Observing the world around them can spark ideas for lyrics and melodies, as can exploring different musical styles and genres as we’ve seen with Beyonce entering into the country music genre.
Some artists find inspiration in social issues, politics, or personal beliefs, using music as a platform to share messages and provoke thought. Great examples are “Single Ladies,” “Bills, Bills, Bills,” “Don’t Touch My Hair,” “Survivor,” and “Run The World” were all female empowerment songs by Destiny’s Child, Solange, and Beyonce.
Dr. Joi Carr: I have been teaching some of this course content in another class called Music and Text. I explore American literature and music thematically. This music inspires me and it is exciting to teach it in the context of the culture and history. I let the era lead me to the song selections and literature for the course.
How has the response been? Pepperdine comes off as a serious-minded campus.
Dr. Mathew Knowles: The response has been overwhelming, both from student interest and media interest from the U.S. and internationally.
Dr. Joi Carr: The response has been wonderful. I have heard from colleagues, current students, and alumni. People have expressed appreciation for this new exciting course content.
Where are the lectures given? How many people attend?
Dr. Joi Carr: The course is offered at Seaver in a multimedia classroom with an average class size of 16-18 students. We did not “advertise” the class with Dr. Knowles name attached to it. The course was posted in the schedule as usual without fanfare. We wanted students to migrate to the class naturally, for the course subject matter. It makes the teaching and learning process exciting. Plus, this material is incredible, life-affirming. We are having a great time teaching it together!
I plan to propose the course as a permanent catalog offering to fulfill academic units for the African American Studies program and general studies. It will go through a faculty review process. I imagine “From Spirituals to Hip Hop” being offered in the course rotation with the other offerings in the program. Current students tell me almost every week how much they are enjoying the journey this semester. We are excited for them, what they are learning. Dr. Knowles and I are truly delighted about it.
You might need a bigger room when this gets out.
Joi Carr: Absolutely. The course will be offered again. It is just a matter of time and logistics.
Offering an extraordinary opportunity to connect with like-minded animal lovers, savor unparalleled culinary creations, and possibly find a new furry friend to become a lifelong companion, the annual Malibu Farmers Market Paws for a Causepet adoption event, one of the largest animal rescue gatherings in LA County, will take place on Sunday, April 14, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Malibu Farmers Market, 23555 Civic Center Way, Library Plaza, Malibu (malibufarmersmarket.net.) Promising a diverse array of animals in need of forever homes — from majestic horses to playful puppies and kittens to graceful seniors and everything in between — Paws for a Cause is a special day filled with compassion, community, and culinary delights sponsored by the Cornucopia Foundation’s Malibu Farmers Market.
At the Paws for a Cause event, visitors can meet and interact with lovable animals up for adoption by many of the leading pet rescues in the LA area, gain valuable insights from experts in the field, and explore an exquisite selection of local gourmet foods, all while embracing the joy of giving back. According to Debra Bianco, CEO of the Cornucopia Foundation and overseer of the Malibu Farmers Market, Paws for a Cause celebrates the spirit of pet adoption and offers a new lease on life for animals of all ages and sizes. We encourage everyone in the community to bring a friend, come for lunch, shop to your heart’s content, and support a noble cause! Let’s make a difference together at this one-of-a-kind event!”
The Cornucopia Foundation was one of the first organizations to get hands-on environmental education into the schools of Southern California. To partially fund its mission, the Cornucopia Foundation established the Malibu Farmers Market in 2000 which is dedicated to environmental stewardship, animal welfare, and philanthropy. Bianco has meticulously hand-selected vendors who not only produce the highest quality goods but also share the Foundation’s commitment to ethical practices and sustainability.
Emily S., winner of the Boys & Girls Club of Malibu‘s Youth of the Year, has advanced to the next round and has been selected as a finalist for the 2024 Los Angeles County Youth of the Year. Two Los Angeles County finalists will be selected on April 6, and will progress to the California Youth of the Year competition on April 16.
On March 29, at approximately 06:30 a.m., a pedestrian was struck and killed by a semitruck on Pacific Coast Highway, near the intersection of Cross Creek Road, Malibu, according to the LASD news release.
Malibu / Lost Hills Station Traffic Investigators, as well as LASD Homicide Detectives responded to the scene to investigate the cause of this incident.
“At this time in the investigation, all evidence leads us to believe this incident is a suicide and not an accidental traffic collision; however, the investigation is ongoing,” the news release says.
BREAKING: Fatal collision on PCH an Cross Creek, all lanes are currently closed. Vehicles are being told to do a u-turn, on Cross Creek and right before Serra Road. More information will be provided when it becomes available. @LHSLASD are on scene. pic.twitter.com/0uHEw7luBd
Homicide Detectives arrived on the scene at 9:34 a.m.
According to the LASD, the semi-truck was traveling eastbound on Pacific Coast Highway in the number two lane, just east of Cross Creek Road. The pedestrian was in the roadway and was subsequently struck by the semitruck. The pedestrian was pronounced deceased at the scene by members of the Los Angeles County Fire Department.
The driver of the semitruck remained at the scene and is cooperating with detectives. Alcohol, Drugs, and Speed do not appear to be a factor.
PCH was reopened at 10:22 a.m.
LASD and The Los Angeles County Fire Dept. responded to a pedestrian who was struck and killed by a semitruck on Pacific Coast Highway, near the intersection of Cross Creek Road and PCH. Both lanes were closed while the scene was under investigation. Photo’s by Samantha Bravo/TMT.
Malibu Canyon is currently closed due to a landslide near Piuma Road. Photo by Samantha Bravo/TMT
Malibu Canyon will be closed Friday night through Monday morning, from Piuma Road to PCH for safety, due to rain & risk of slides. LA County Public Works posted on X, formerly known as Twitter.
🚧 Scheduled Malibu Canyon Rd. Closure 🚧
We're planning a closure from Piuma Rd. to PCH starting Friday at 7 PM to monitor ground stability changes due to #LARain. We anticipate reopening by Monday AM, but please check https://t.co/m42tAPVwcS for the latest updates. pic.twitter.com/nGZAGsZOF1
— LA County Public Works (@LACoPublicWorks) March 29, 2024
Malibu artist Josh Klein poses with two of his works, "Surf Spray," and "Sunburst." They are part of his exhibit "The Surf Sounds Loudly, Malibu Photographed by Joshua Klein." Contributed Photo
Josh Klein’s images provide fresh perspectives of the powerful, artistic waves along Malibu’s coastline
By Barbara Burke
Special to The Malibu Times
“Most photographers shoot Malibu scenes in color to capture all the beauty,” Malibu artist Bobbi Bennett said. “I think it’s great that Josh Klein took the traditional black-and-white approach, which captures yet another amazing Malibu aesthetic and creates a sense of mystery about the waves and landscape.”
Bennett was discussing “The Surf Sounds Loudly, Malibu Photographed by Joshua Klein,” an exhibit that opened on March 9 at Surfrider Gallery, which is located above The Malibu Farm Cafe at the end of the Malibu Pier.
Klein’s striking photographs celebrating waves, clouds, and other images along Malibu’s coast are on show through April 7. The Surfside gallery, which sits above the Ranch at the Pier, is open daily from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.
The Malibu Times was delighted to attend the opening reception. It’s well worth readers’ time to go view this exhibit as Klein’s images provide fresh perspectives of the powerful, artistic waves that undulate along Malibu’s coastline, of the ever-changing, intriguing cloud formations that hover over the beaches and of the rich and varied wildlife that calls the beaches home.
Klein’s images creatively capture Malibu’s natural beauty that attracts people from all over the world.
The photographs are very sharp and depict various beach events in real time.
Josh Klein’s images provide fresh perspectives of the powerful, artistic waves along Malibu’s coastline. Photos of Klein’s images.
“I caught the wave along Broad Beach just at the right moment!” Klein said, discussing one of his most moving pieces, “Surf Spray,” a striking image that makes a viewer feel immersed in its entire composition celebrating the frolicking water that has rushed skyward after a wave crashed along the rocks.
Another of Klein’s works possesses a chiaroscuro effect as it captures pelicans flying overhead under diffused rays of sunlight. One senses the warmth of the sun and the sense of the enviable freedom only enjoyed by the airborne birds.
“We’re thrilled to host Joshua at Surfrider Gallery,” Alice Bamford, the gallery owner, said. “He’s a true talent and he is so humble, talented and impactful!”
For more than a decade, Klein has helped to tend the historic Malibu Pier and has kept a watchful eye over the State Park where it is located. He enjoys immersing himself in the ocean’s rhythms and observing — and at times fortuitously capturing an image of — those random, unpredictably magical moments when there is sweet light and waves strike rocks, the pier, beaches, or bluffs with enormous power, yielding airborne pulses of water projecting upward in a mid-air ballet.
“The native Chumash called this ribbon land, where a continent crashes into the expanse of the Pacific, Humaliwo, which translates to ‘where the surf sounds loudly,’” Klein noted. “These images are the Malibu I have known and the photographs evolved organically on early morning walks or after my waking up to the moon dancing across the surf beneath my window.”
Klein explains that he captured his unique images in the quiet hours during his morning walks or his commute to the Pier.
Klein’s journey with photography began when he was a teen living in Paris during his high school years. He began his career in New York.
“When I was 30, I made my way west to LA and even when I lived above the lights of the city, Malibu was always the dream,” Klein said.
Klein’s photography affinity has taken him from the backstage of fashion shows to remote Saharan villages and across much of California.
As guests entered the exhibit, they paused breathlessly, taking in the gorgeously-lit rotunda space overlooking Surfrider Beach as it embraced Klein’s intriguing images, which have a rugged texture to them, leading one patron to verify that they were indeed photographs, as opposed to, perhaps, charcoal or penciled works.
“It’s a superb space to view Klein’s art,” commented Francisco Pugliese. “I am very familiar with the Leica camera he used and its image quality — his works display the excellent resolution and black-and-white textures that one can only accomplish with high-quality lenses such as Leicas.”
Kirandeep Singh commented about how moving Klein’s images were for him.
“When one actually looks closely at the photographs, he sees the beauty of all that Malibu has to offer and it makes you feel you are invited to enjoy those wonders,” he said.
“I’m delighted to share my images at the Surfrider Gallery,” Klein said. “I also am working on a project at Versailles where I am photographing the fountains there and those pictures are on show at The Paris Ritz.”
Ernest Hemingway once commented, “When I dream of an afterlife in heaven, the action takes place in the Paris Ritz.”
Although viewing Klein’s images of the world-famous Versailles in Paris is no doubt wonderful, those who admire Malibu’s magical waves, gorgeous cloud formations, and various species will find Klein’s striking portrayals of Malibu’s wondrous elements heavenly right here at the Surfrider Gallery.
A homeless individual, male, was killed by a big rig on PCH and Cross Creek just before 7 a.m., according to the Malibu/Lost Hills LASD Sgt. James Arens. Sheriffs closed off PCH both ways while they investigate the incident. The medical examiner arrived to the scene around 9:34 a.m. More information will be provided as it becomes available.
Academy Award winner Louis Gossett Jr. has died. The Malibu resident will not only be remembered for his career-defining role as a hard nosed drill sergeant in the 1982 movie “An Officer and a Gentleman “ but also for his Emmy winning performance as a slave named “Fiddler” in the influential American TV classic miniseries “Roots.”
The Brooklyn, New York raised Gossett was also a civil rights activist. He founded the Eracism Foundation to provide training for youth and adults that enrich their lives by assisting them in setting the example for living a racially diverse and culturally inclusive life. Gossett was 87.
