Sandra Helene Hamilton, 82, of Malibu, California, passed away on October 6, 2025, with family by her side. Sandra was born on February 9, 1943, in Thief River Falls, Minnesota, the daughter of Bill and Dorothy (Blanchard) Gray.
Sandra spent her young years in Thief River Falls and Fontana, CA, and would describe her childhood as idyllic. Her father, her hero. She would earn her undergraduate degree at San Jose State University and Masters in Education at Pepperdine.
In San Jose, Sandra would meet and eventually marry Darrell Hamilton on August 29, 1964. They would begin their post-collegiate lives in Los Angeles, where Sandra taught first to third graders at Daniel Freeman Elementary in Inglewood. Sandra was an amazing teacher who loved and kept in touch with many of her former students up until her passing. She also maintained incredible lifelong friendships with her “Teacher Friends” as she lovingly referred to them.
In 1970, Sandra would move to Malibu, California, where she and Darrell would raise two loving sons, Mark and Scott (Lynn), and would reside there for the rest of her years. She loved Malibu with a passion and often mentioned that she would not want to call any other place home. A few years into her move to Malibu, she retired from teaching and focused on managing the Malibu and Topanga properties she and Darrell would accumulate over the years. Sandra had three grandchildren who she absolutely adored, Kylie, Jack and Summer. And her girlfriends in Malibu meant the world to her.
Sandra is preceded in death by her husband, Darrell, her parents, and brother, Bill. She is survived by her sons, Mark Hamilton of Manhattan Beach, California, and Scott Hamilton of Doylestown, Pennsylvania. And her grandchildren, Kylie Hamilton, Jack Hamilton, and Summer Hamilton.
A celebration of life memorial will be held after the holidays at her home in Malibu.
Lifetime Malibu resident Ava Quin Wagner, daughter of Jefferson “Zuma Jay” Wagner and Robin Lynch, married Dylan Klumph of Los Flores Canyon on Oct. 11.
Ava attended Webster Elementary, Malibu Junior High, and Malibu High School before graduating from Middlebury College. The couple currently resides in the Malibu Civic Center area.
Dylan is the son of Bruce and Debra Klumph of Malibu.
The wedding ceremony took place at the historic Adamson House, by the fountain overlooking Second Point, with catering provided for an intimate celebration attended by family and friends from both sides. Photo courtesy of the family.
Skye is a 2-year-old gray Pit Bull mix who was surrendered to the Agoura Animal Care Center in early July. She has a fun-loving and energetic personality that’s sure to make you smile. Skye participates in weekly playgroups with other large dogs, where she loves to jump, run, and play to her heart’s content. Her favorite things include tennis balls, splashing in the water, and spending time in the yard soaking up the sunshine. Skye is a joyful, affectionate girl who’s ready to bring her playful spirit and big heart to a loving forever home.
Adopt a Shelter Dog Month! For the whole month of October- Bring a book, read to any DACC dog, and your adoption fees will be waived, including spay/neuter and microchip!
For the whole month of November staring the 1st adoption fees for dogs and cats ages 1+ are $10, including spay/neuter and microchip.
Care Center Hours: Monday-Saturday 11am-5pm Closed* on Sunday and holidays
29525 Agoura Road, Agoura Hills, CA 91301 agoura@animalcare.lacounty.gov
The City of Malibu is pleased to announce the appointment of Frances Arricale as deputy city manager, bringing a wealth of leadership experience spanning law, government, business, and nonprofit sectors.
“We are thrilled to welcome Frances to Malibu,” said Mayor Marianne Riggins. “Her wide-ranging experience and expertise in law, government, business, and nonprofit areas, along with her passion for public service, make her an exceptional addition to our team. We look forward to her leadership as we continue to serve our community and rebuild and recover from the recent fires.”
A career government relations professional and attorney, Arricale brings practical expertise at the local, state, federal, and international levels. Most recently, she served as senior counsel in California state government, and her prior local government experience includes public service with the City of New York. She has also held executive roles in financial services, worked in the Los Angeles entertainment industry, and led nonprofit startups.
“It is a privilege to serve the local community of the iconic City of Malibu,” Arricale said. “As a former resident, I know how beautiful and special Malibu is. I feel fortunate to join the dedicated team at City Hall and look forward to proactively working each day for the residents of Malibu.”
Arricale earned her Juris Doctor from Brooklyn Law School, a Master of International Public Policy from Johns Hopkins University’s School of Advanced International Studies, and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Fordham University. She is licensed to practice law in California, New York, and the District of Columbia.
Grateful to call Southern California home, Arricale previously lived in Malibu and plans to return with her three beloved rescue dogs.
Sold-out weekend of running, giving, and gratitude brings Malibu together at Zuma Beach
With the Pacific Ocean as its backdrop, the IPS Malibu Moves: Half Marathon, 10K, 5K, 1-Mile & Kids Run presented by UCLA Health welcomed more than 2,000 participants, families, and volunteers to a sold-out weekend at Zuma Beach. The two-day event was about much more than running or walking — it celebrated Malibu’s resilience, wellness, and deep sense of community connection.
“This year exceeded everything I could have hoped for,” said Erica Segel, founder and race director of Malibu Moves.“We sold out, we raised so much money, and most importantly, people felt seen, celebrated, and part of something special. That’s what it’s all about.”
Now in its second year, Malibu Moves doubled in both participation and impact, raising more than $83,000 for local causes. The majority of funds will benefit the Malibu Education Foundation, the Emily Shane Foundation, and the Community Fire Brigade, with additional contributions supporting volunteer-driven organizations that helped power the event’s operations and community outreach.
“We’re incredibly grateful for Malibu Moves’ support,” said Keegan Gibbs, co-founder of the Community Fire Brigade.“It helps us stay prepared, stay equipped, and stay connected — because when the next emergency hits, our neighbors count on us.”
The weekend began on Saturday with the Zuma Dash and Kids Run, where families gathered on the sand for a day of play, fitness, and fun. The beach transformed into a lively Kids Zone with music and a Halloween costume contest that filled Zuma with color and laughter.
Sunday brought the Half Marathon, 10K, and 5K, turning the Pacific Coast Highway into one of California’s most scenic racecourses — lined with ocean views, enthusiastic volunteers, and cheering spectators.
While participants came from across the state, nearly 150 Malibu residents joined the start line, making them the second-largest group after Los Angeles. Mayor Marianne Riggins led by example, completing the Coastal Quest Challenge by running both the 1-Mile Zuma Dash and the 5K.
“Malibu Moves was born from a simple idea — that movement has the power to heal and unite,” said Segel. “Seeing thousands of people come together in the name of wellness, inclusion, and community gives us hope that we’re not just rebuilding Malibu — we’re reimagining it stronger than ever.”
Local athlete Patrick Renner claimed second place overall in the Half Marathon with a time of 1:17:12, while 14-year-old Atticus, one of Malibu’s youngest finishers, placed eighth overall and first in his age group in the 5K at 21:01, also completing the Coastal Quest Challenge. Other top finishers included Russell Yu of Alhambra, who won the Half Marathon in 1:14:02, and Elyissa Santos of North Hollywood, who finished first among women in 1:21:27. In the 10K, Levi Lorenzana of Santa Clarita took first place in 33:55, followed by Akiko Crawford of Tujunga in 47:11. The 5K winners were Dave Barnett of Pacific Palisades in 17:53 and Maddie Mooney of Eugene, Oregon, in 18:23.
Among the standout participants was “Baywatch” actor and Malibu resident David Chokachi, who completed the 5K while carrying a 45-pound ruck plate as part of his training to join the Community Fire Brigade, one of the event’s charity partners.
“I’m honored to take part in Malibu Moves and support the Fire Brigade’s mission of protecting our city,” said Chokachi.“Carrying the weighted ruck through the 5K symbolizes the strength and readiness our community shows every day. Malibu has been through so much, and seeing everyone come together with such determination and heart reminds us what resilience truly looks like.”
For Segel, the magic of Malibu Moves lies far beyond the race results. “I’ve seen so many first-timers this year —people who said, ‘I never thought I could do something like this,’” she said. “For many, this was a turning point after everything Malibu has faced — proof that they could still move forward, literally and emotionally.”
Segel emphasized that her team’s focus was on creating a welcoming, inclusive space. “From the beginning, I wanted to take away the intimidation factor of the word ‘race,’” she said. “We built this event around ‘movement’ — purpose over pace. Whether you walked a mile or ran a half marathon, you belonged.”
That philosophy was evident throughout the weekend. The final finisher received the event’s “Resilient Award,” with Pepperdine University’s cheerleaders leading an energetic celebration at the finish line to ensure that every participant, regardless of pace, crossed to cheers and applause.
“We truly believe the party’s in the back,” Segel said. “Those final finishers have often pushed the hardest. They deserve the same energy, if not more.” The sense of unity extended beyond the course. “The feedback I keep hearing is that people felt included and inspired,” Segel added. “And that’s the real victory.”
Saturday’s Kids Run captured the heart of the weekend. “There’s nothing as magical as the kids’ races,” Segel said. “They give everything they have, and their joy is so pure. You can see it on the parents’ faces — this sense of pride and amazement watching their kids accomplish something on their own.”
The family-friendly day featured games, crafts led by Pepperdine’s Center for the Arts, and activities designed to make fitness fun. “We don’t time the kids’ events on purpose,” Segel explained. “It’s not about speed — it’s about showing up, having fun, and realizing that movement is part of play.”
Next year, Segel plans to expand on the event’s Halloween theme. “We had a soft launch of a costume contest this year, and the creativity was amazing — kids came with handmade costumes, parents joined in, and I even ran in a lion outfit,” she said, laughing. “Next year, we’re definitely going to ‘spook up’ Saturday’s programming. It’s the perfect week for it.”
Behind the event’s flawless execution was a dedicated team that worked tirelessly to ensure a smooth, safe experience for participants and residents alike. “We know we’re borrowing a venue from our neighbors,” Segel said. “We plan carefully to minimize our footprint and always clean up afterward. Our goal is to make the community proud.”
That approach, along with strong partnerships, helped Malibu Moves run seamlessly. The event was supportedby International Protective Service, Inc. (IPS) as Title Sponsor, UCLA Health as Presenting Sponsor, and major partners including Rusnak Auto Group, SoCal Edison, Ventura Rental Party & Events, and The Malibu Times.
“Erica and her team did an exceptional job,” said Malibu resident Chris Wizner. “From logistics to safety to community outreach, everything was handled with professionalism and heart.”
At the Malibu City Council meeting following the event, Mayor Riggins and councilmembers praised Malibu Moves for uniting residents and lifting spirits. “They even suggested putting together a team for the city next year,” Segel said proudly. “That’s exactly what I dreamed of — this being our event, something every resident feels connected to.”
For Segel, who described the project as a “labor of love,” Malibu Moves represents both personal and collective renewal.“When I first started organizing races, it wasn’t about running — it was about the people,” she said. “The stories behind why they show up. Someone honoring a loved one. Someone taking charge of their health. Someone finding community after loss. That’s what keeps me going.”
She paused, reflecting on the past year’s challenges — fires, evacuations, red flag warnings, and the constant undercurrent of uncertainty. “Malibu can be a tough place to live,” she said. “We’ve had trauma, we’ve had loss. But we also have incredible beauty, both in the land and in the people. Events like this remind us why we choose to be here — and that together, we can find balance, hope, and joy again.”
As the sun set on Zuma Beach and the final medals were handed out, participants lingered at the post-race festival — enjoying live music, food trucks, a charity beer garden, and wellness experiences. Laughter mixed with ocean breeze, and for a moment, Malibu felt perfectly whole again.
“Malibu Moves is more than an event; it is a celebration of our community’s spirit,” said Karin Al-Hardan, president of the Malibu Education Foundation. “The funds raised will directly support our schools, teachers, and students who are the future of this city.”
Or as Segel put it simply, watching the last runner cross the finish line: “This is Malibu at its best — moving forward, together.”
Residents and councilmembers urged action on post-fire recovery, coastal risks, and a pending luxury motel conversion during another marathon meeting
In a marathon seven-hour session that stretched past 11 p.m. Monday, the Malibu City Council wrestled with a series of urgent and complex issues — from leadership instability and Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) fatalities to coastal vulnerability and post-fire rebuilding. The meeting, held at City Hall and streamed on Zoom, featured emotional public testimony, the introduction of a new deputy city manager, approval of key safety enhancements, and a contentious debate over a proposed zoning change for a beachfront inn. Yet by night’s end, residents’ greatest concern — the city’s lack of permanent leadership — remained unresolved.
Public comment set the tone for the evening as residents voiced frustration over Malibu’s uncertain leadership. Lifelong resident Megan Lorick, speaking on behalf of several community members, urged the council to prioritize hiring a permanent city manager. “Candace Bond has stepped in admirably as interim,” Lorick said, “but this time of crisis requires consistent, permanent leadership.” She cited challenges ranging from post-fire rebuilding to PCH safety, homelessness, and tourism pressures, warning that reliance on councilmembers as de facto managers was “unsustainable.” Lorick also presented research comparing Malibu’s options to other coastal cities, advocating for applicant Glenn Bacerra to be interviewed for the role — a suggestion that revealed divisions among councilmembers.
After a brief closed session with no reportable action, the meeting opened with an emotional adjournment in memory of entertainment lawyer Barry Haldeman and San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Deputy Andrew Nunez, who was killed in the line of duty earlier that day. The consent calendar passed with minimal debate, allocating $1.6 million in Measure M funds for PCH signal synchronization and speed-adaptive cameras — a move widely supported as Malibu faces a rising toll of traffic deaths. Councilmember Bruce Silverstein raised concerns about vulnerabilities in the city’s bidding process, but staff defended their procedures.
Interim City Manager Bond introduced Malibu’s new Deputy City Manager, Frances Arricale — a former Malibu resident with an extensive background in government operations. Bond’s city update touched on election logistics, highway safety coordination with Caltrans, and progress on rebuilding after the Palisades Fire. She praised Community Development Director Yolanda Bundy for being named the 2025 International Code Council Official of the Year and noted that seven rebuild permits had been issued, with nine more expected soon. Bond also announced the launch of Archistar, an AI-powered permitting tool designed to streamline reviews and speed up rebuild approvals.
Sheriff’s Sgt. Chris Soderlund reported a 42.7% decrease in Part 1 crimes compared to last year, while MRCA Ranger Tim detailed park safety improvements — including 263 parking citations issued, 3,619 pounds of trash collected, and enhanced red-flag staffing during high fire risk days. Councilmembers shared appreciation for Malibu’s new park closure policy during high-risk fire weather but criticized state and national parks for lagging behind on similar measures.
Public comments revealed deep frustration among residents over what many see as stalled progress. Jason Riddick accused the Broad Beach Geological Hazard Abatement District of overreach; Kevin Keegan marked the 100th day since Mayor Pro Tem Silverstein introduced his rebuild plan and demanded tangible results. Malibu High sophomore Parker Kaplan urged the city to make PCH safer for young pedestrians and cyclists, calling the highway “a divider for teens.” Several speakers advocated for faster rebuild approvals and praised staff’s recent improvements, while others urged stronger enforcement against illegal short-term rentals.
In a brief but emotional moment, the council voted to establish a new Surf Legend of the Year award to honor Randall “Crawdaddy” Miod, a beloved local who lost his life defending his home during the Palisades Fire. The recognition will be part of Malibu’s annual awards program.
Environmental concerns took center stage as the council reviewed the city’s long-awaited Coastal Vulnerability Assessment (CVA). The report, presented by City of Malibu Environmental Sustainability Analyst Farah Stack, who joined the city team in September, and hydrologist James Jackson of Environmental Science Associates (ESA), paints a sobering picture of Malibu’s 21-mile coastline under the pressures of sea level rise. Using U.S. Geological Survey COSMOS hazard models, the study projected impacts under scenarios of 2.5 and 6.6 feet of sea level rise by 2100 — including bluff erosion, tidal inundation, and wave run-up threatening homes, septic systems, businesses, and PCH itself.
“This study doesn’t predict the future,” Jackson explained, “but it shows what could happen if we take no protective action.” The findings assume no seawalls or other interventions to illustrate the worst-case scenario. While the CVA does not yet prescribe specific adaptations, it outlines a “menu” of potential solutions, from nature-based dune restoration to structural reinforcement and elevation of buildings.
Councilmembers emphasized the urgency of safeguarding PCH — the city’s lifeline — from erosion and flooding. “If we lose PCH, we’re in deep trouble,” one warned, calling for collaboration with Caltrans and state agencies. The city plans to develop a comprehensive adaptation plan by 2026, pursue grant funding for pilot projects like beach nourishment or offshore reefs, and launch public engagement on climate resilience. An interactive online hazard map is already available for residents and advocates.
In its final discussion of the night, the council took up a contentious zoning proposal that would permit the transformation of the former Tide Pool Health Club and (formerly Casa Malibu) Motel into a unified 17-room luxury bed-and-breakfast inn at 22752–22762 Pacific Coast Highway. Contract planner Joseph Smith presented the nine-part legislative package, including amendments to the General Plan, Zoning Map, and Local Coastal Program, as well as a Coastal Development Permit and Conditional Use Permit.
The proposal, which involves no new construction, will repurpose the existing pool, gym, kitchen, and deck for guests only. The two parcels will be rezoned from Community Commercial (CC) to Visitor-Serving Commercial (CV-1), which allows smaller-scale lodging but not hotels. Alcohol service will extend to the entire site, limited to minibars and on-site consumption.
To comply with the city’s low-cost accommodation policy, the applicant agreed to pay $22,350 in in-lieu fees — and later voluntarily added a $2,022,350 contribution to the same fund, significantly exceeding the requirement. The council also directed that any additional Coastal Commission fees be retained by the City of Malibu to support local visitor-serving initiatives.
Following community concerns about noise, trash collection, and public access, the council adopted 44 staff-recommended conditions with several new restrictions: a complete ban on live entertainment and special events (including filming), limits on trash collection hours between 9 p.m. and 7 a.m., and mandatory neighborhood notification before sound system testing. Councilmembers cited prior noise issues at Soho House as justification for stronger enforcement measures.
A key debate centered on whether the pool, approved in 2015 for private use, should be opened to the public. Staff clarified that the Local Implementation Plan does not require public access for motel pools, and the council agreed, citing consistency with similar coastal inns.
Ultimately, the zoning change passed unanimously on first reading. The ordinance will return for a second reading on Nov. 10 before heading to the California Coastal Commission for certification. If approved, the redevelopment will create a small-scale, visitor-serving coastal inn — a model the council hopes will strike a balance between tourism and community impact.
Additionally, the council filled two vacancies on the Mobile Home Park Rent Stabilization Commission, appointing Scott Bloom and Sam Hankman—confirming Hankman’s eligibility under city rules despite being the son of a current commissioner. Councilmember Silverstein reiterated his support for Archer Star as a voluntary tool but urged caution regarding data privacy. He and Councilmember Haylynn Conrad plan to bring forward a December proposal to institutionalize rebuild efficiencies and possibly reinstate a “rebuild ambassador” program to assist homeowners. Councilmember Steve Uhring praised staff’s progress compared to Los Angeles County’s rebuild process, setting an ambitious goal of issuing 100 permits by year-end.
As Malibu continues navigating its dual identity — a small, tight-knit community with global visibility — the tension between progress and preservation remains palpable. The city’s leadership vacuum, ongoing fire recovery, and environmental threats underscore the challenges ahead. Still, Monday’s meeting reflected both the community’s frustration and its enduring resilience.
The next Malibu City Council meeting is scheduled for Nov. 10.
The City of Malibu is offering residents multiple options to cast their ballots for the upcoming California Statewide Special Election, which is on Tuesday, Nov. 4. Malibu’s Vote Center is now open, providing convenient in-person voting for the community.
Vote-by-Mail Ballots
The Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk began mailing vote-by-mail ballots to all active registered voters on Oct. 6. Ballots submitted by mail must be postmarked by Election Day, Nov. 4, and received by the LA County Elections Office no later than Nov. 12. More information is available at the California Secretary of State website (sos.ca.gov/elections/).
Early voting is available at any Regional Vote Center across LA County. The Malibu City Hall 11-day Vote Center will operate from Oct. 25 through Nov. 3, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., and on Election Day, Nov. 4, from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.
11-Day Vote Center – Malibu City Hall
Address: 23825 Stuart Ranch Rd, Malibu
Hours: Oct. 25 to Nov. 3, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Nov. 4, 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.
4-Day Vote Center – Christian Science Church
Address: 28635 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu
Hours: Nov. 1 to Nov. 3, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Nov. 4, 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Ballots can also be submitted 24/7 at secure Drop Boxes throughout the county, including at the Malibu Library, 23519 Civic Center Way. For a full list of drop box locations, visit LA County Drop Boxes at locator.lavote.gov/locations/vbm/?id=4337&culture=en
Voter Registration
Conditional voter registration is available in-person at any Vote Center, including Malibu City Hall, up to and on Election Day. More information on registering to vote is available at the California Secretary of State voter registration page at www.sos.ca.gov/elections/voting-resources/voting-california/registering-vote.
Residents are encouraged to plan ahead and take advantage of these voting options to ensure their voices are heard in the Nov. 4 election.
A sprawling Malibu, CA estate once owned by Avril Lavigne has hit the market for $14.5 million, according to Realtor.com.
A luxurious oceanfront property once owned by pop-punk icon Avril Lavigne has been listed for sale at $14.5 million, offering buyers a rare slice of celebrity real estate in one of California’s most coveted coastal enclaves. The 4,500-square-foot contemporary home, nestled in the exclusive Malibu Colony enclave, boasts five bedrooms, six bathrooms, and panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. Originally purchased by Lavigne in 2003 for $3.2 million during the height of her“Sk8er Boi” fame, the singer-songwriter sold the estate in 2011 for $6.5 million amid personal life changes, including her divorce from Sum 41 frontman Deryck Whibley.
Current owners have since undertaken extensive renovations, transforming the property into a modern masterpiece. Highlights include floor-to-ceiling glass walls that flood the open-concept living spaces with natural light, a gourmet chef’s kitchen with top-tier appliances, and a primary suite featuring a private balcony, spa-like bathroom, and walk-in closet. Outdoor amenities elevate the lifestyle further: a resort-style infinity pool, expansive deck for al fresco dining, direct beach access via a private gate, and lush landscaping that ensures utmost privacy in this guard-gated community.
Lavigne, now 41, has long moved on from her Malibu chapter. The Canadian artist, whose hits include “Complicated” and “Girlfriend,” recently wrapped a world tour and continues to influence a new generation of musicians. Her former home’s listing comes as the Southern California luxury market remains robust, with oceanfront properties in Malibu commanding premiums amid low inventory. For those seeking a blend of rock-star history and serene seaside living, this estate represents a compelling opportunity. The listing is represented by Compass, with showings available by appointment only.
Terry Davis (center left), Patty Phillips (center right), and Duke’s Malibu General Managers Jimmy Chavez (far right) pose with first responders during the Sunday, Oct. 12, community gathering at Duke’s for fire survivors and first responders from the Palisades Fire. Photo courtesy of Patty Phillips
Duke’s hosts an afternoon of togetherness in resilience
Hugs, laughter, tears — all the feels were expressed by Malibu residents who gathered at Duke’s Sunday for an afternoon billed as “A Day to Come Together.” Neighbors, many displaced after January’s fire, reunited at the heartfelt event that drew 350 fire survivors, first responders, and the generous staff of Duke’s, who donated their time, entertainment, and all the food and drinks even as the restaurant itself is struggling to fully reopen after the fire and mudslide inundated the building.
Duke’s Ocean Room, with its spectacular views and dolphins dancing in the background, was the perfect setting as Duke’s General Manager and Partner Jimmy Chavez welcomed guests and spoke of Malibu’s history of resilience in the face of disasters. He first thanked the Community Brigade, Malibu’s local fire stations, and Camp 8, who’ve helped save the beloved restaurant numerous times over its 30 years. Then Chavez recounted some history: “There’s been over 30 significant fires in the last 100 years here in Malibu. It puts a fire around every three years, which is crazy to think about what this community has been through. And this property we’re standing on goes back about that same amount of time being a restaurant. When Rancho Malibu started right here, at Los Flores Creek, May Rindge, put a guard here 24 hours a day with a shotgun and said, ‘You gotta turn around and go back.’”
Chavez explained that first a hot dog stand opened, then the Las Flores Inn in 1915, then in the 1940s, the Sea Lion restaurant, and then Duke’s. The oceanside spot has been a gathering place for more than 100 years.
“It means the world to us, that you are here,” he said. “Thank you for your support over the years. Thank you for coming back and thank you for your patience as we get reopened. We’re working our hardest to get there.”
The day was meant to reunite old neighbors and provide support to one another. Displaced Big Rock resident Jasmin Vahedi lost her family home. “My dad is in his late 80s now. We really, really want to get him back home,” she said. “That’s been the toughest part for us. And we also have a dog who lost his backyard. Watching our doggy every day not have his yard has been really tough. But more so seeing my dad. He wanted to retire and he wasn’t able to because now he has to pay rent. The whole process has been just awful and long.”
The hopeful part of the afternoon for Vahedi was meeting with the organizers of the event, the Big Rock Property Owners Association, who have many active community members working hard to streamline Malibu’s arduous rebuild process.
“The people in Big Rock are my family and more so after the fires,” Vahedi said. “We’re really helping each other out, getting through this. But it feels good to come here today and be with everybody. It just feels like a community that I love. I can’t wait to be back with my family.”
Even those not directly impacted by the fire came to support. Wailani O’Herlihy entertained with her graceful Hawaiian dancing and even taught others willing to swivel their hips, including Duke’s longtime Ambassador of Aloha and hostess Kathy Kohner-Zuckerman, the original Gidget.
Another beloved community member, nearly unrecognizable without her uniform, came to support. Jennifer Seetoo, who was promoted to Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Commander, flew back from D.C., to attend and greet familiar faces.
The Boys & Girls Club and local businesses and restaurants struggling since disaster fell on Malibu donated gift certificates and prizes to add to the festivities. There were lots of thank-yous to everyone who is helping Malibu move forward and to those who saved it. First responder Patrick Fearon of the LACoFD recounted the Palisades Fire was the worst he’s worked in his 30-year career. He fought the blaze for five days until being forced off-duty after suffering a lung issue from breathing in toxic materials. Now back at work, Fearon said, “Anytime the community comes together after something like that is a happy time.” The firefighter was happy to be at Duke’s since he was one of the responders to its devastating flood.
The first responders at the gathering all seem to consider their dangerous jobs as just another day at work. For Fire Captain Malcolm Dicks, the Palisades Fire will leave a lasting impression. He saved a life and made a lifelong friend when he rescued an event organizer and Big Rock resident Patty Phillips and her dog. The two got trapped in their car while fire was raining down on them. It was Dicks, without fanfare, who drove back up into the canyon with Phillips’ husband to rescue the two and then disappeared into the night to continue firefighting. Eventually, Phillips tracked him down to thank him. And Phillips’ son, who now wants to be a firefighter, wrote Dicks a letter saying, “Thank you for saving my mom.” The 30-year firefighter stated the letter touched him. “You don’t have another mom. It’s one of those things that hit deep to me,” Dicks said.
