August 7, 2020 Vol. 1, No. 4
POSTAL CUSTOMER POSTAL
DDM*****
*****ECRWSSE
Permit #422 Permit
Pasadena, CA Pasadena,
PAID
U.S. Postage U.S.
ECRWSS PRSRT STD PRSRT Thank You Topanga!
DEAR TOPANGA COMMUNITY,
We cannot begin to express how grateful we are for all of the support, referrals, and business you have given us over the past 3+ years, since we joined together as a team, and joined Compass! It is because of you that we have become one of the top Real Estate Teams in Topanga! We are especially grateful for the trust so many of you have placed in us. We are honored, and endeavor to earn that trust, every day. To be able to work in the beauty that is Topanga and with members of the Topanga Community is absolutely wonderful!
Having both grown up here, Topanga has a special place in our hearts. It means so much to us, to be able to work here, every day, and to be able to help our friends and clients to make their dreams come true and find their place in the world!
Topanga embraced Jordan’s Grandma, Connie Wright, as a Realtor, here, and now they have embraced The Wright Way Team, as well. Jordan is the only Third Generation Realtor in Topanga! That legacy is important to us. We work every day to uphold the ethics and integrity of that legacy.
Right now, in spite of all the turmoil we are all experiencing, the whole world seems to be moving to Topanga! We know why. It is a secret paradise; far away from the city in spirit, but close by in geography! Right now is the hottest Topanga Real Estate Market that we have seen in several years.
We and other Agents of Compass are working hard to make sure we help to make every change of home ownership as smooth, pleasant, and stress free as possible. As the #1 brokerage in Topanga, we all understand the immense responsibility that comes with that mantle. Compass has quickly pivoted to come up with new industry defining tech tools to adapt to our new reality of a more virtual world, and have made it so much easier to effectively and elegantly market your home to qualified buyers, while allowing us more time for the hands on attention to guiding you forward.
We look forward to continuing this amazing journey with the wonderful people of Topanga, and we hope to have the opportunity to provide our best service for you, for many years to come.
Thank you, from The Wright Way Team. Be safe, be well.
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INTERESTED IN LEARNING HOW COMPASS CAN DELIVER A BESPOKE, WHITE GLOVE, SMOOTH, SAFE, AND SUCCESSFUL TOP DOLLAR SALE OF YOUR HOME? CALL THE WRIGHT WAY TEAM TODAY. WE LOOK FORWARD TO BEING OF SERVICE.
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2020 TOP SELLING COMPASS TOPANGA AGENTS. PASSIONATE LOCAL AGENTS. UNPARALLELED MARKETING REACH. INNOVATIVE TECHNOLOGY. RESULTS DELIVERED. AN EXPERIENCE LIKE NO OTHER.
Adrian Wright Jordan Wright 818.939.6415 818.746.6987 [email protected] [email protected] DRE 00935559 DRE 01952694
Compass is a real estate broker licensed by the State of California and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. License Number 01991628. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only and is compiled from sources deemed reliable but has not been verified. Changes in price, condition, sale or withdrawal may be made without notice. No statement is made as to accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footages are approximate. Market share based on available claw MLS data and any known off market listings. Thinking Out Loud Vote! “...Eternity is in it”
Notice something different about The Canyon Chronicle’s look? That’s because Nira Lichten agreed to sign on as our Creative Publisher / Editor Director, smoothing the way to an efficient process of not only Flavia Potenza laying out the articles but enhancing them with design elements that make them pop.’Twas ever thus: if you want to grow, get the pro. Associate Editor In the lineup this time is our summertime favorite: “The Dog Kait Leonard Days of Summer,” where our Backyard Astronomer, Eric Fitzgerald Creative Director looks at the Dog Star, and contributor Kait Leonard explores the Nira Lichten twelve signs of the zodiac that might explain some of your dog’s behavior. We have dog poems from local poet Jane Marla Robbins’ Media Manager book, Dogs in Topanga 2000-2018, a feature on Service Dogs, and EleanorZeri another on “sniffing” dogs, that can identify the scent of COVID-19. Creative Consultant We invited out-of-state freelance writers to contribute articles, Eiffel Nazaryan one about identifying “Fake News,” and an opinion piece on why schools should not open. It’s good to have other perspectives. Contributors What may be controversial but needs to step into the sunlight is Linda Ballou growing concern about the survival of long-standing businesses in Pine Tree Circle. In an “Open Letter Joel Bellman of Concern” to the owners, two residents are soliciting signatures to see if the community is equally Annemarie Donkin concerned. Kathie Gibboney Paula LaBrot You would hardly know it, but we’re in a presidential election year, the most unusual ever, that Amy Weisberg is breaking decades of tradition due to the pandemic. Step aside for a moment from the chaos of politicking and think now about how you are going to vote on November 3. Social Media Intern Although the County Registrar and Recorder/County Clerk advises that “safe and accessible in- Miranda Anapol person voting options will be available,” our recommendation is to stay home, stay safe, and Vote by Copy Editor/Distribution Mail this year. The mailers are starting to come in advising voters that every registered voter will be Ellie Carroll receiving a Vote by Mail ballot this year. Do not ignore this opportunity. When we observed the long lines on pre-pandemic primary election day in March, we wondered Contact US why people waited until the last minute to vote in person, expecting everything to go smoothly, then [email protected] complaining they had to wait so long. This year, especially, we don’t want to overload the system all at General inquiries: once at the last minute, so take advantage of early voting starting Tuesday, October 6. (Mailing of Vote [email protected] by Mail ballots in all elections begins 29 days prior to Election Day.) Advertising inquiries: The handy-dandy sample ballot that we all mark up and take with us into the voting booth may be a [email protected] thing of the past. Why not have it on your iPhone and save paper? Go Green by receiving an E-Sample P.O. Box 1101 Ballot accessible via email. Voters who subscribe will automatically receive an email containing a link Topanga, CA 90290 (310) 460-9786 to access their E-Sample Ballot 30 days prior to Election Day. Voters who subscribe will no longer receive a hard copy of their Sample Ballot at their home address. To update your registration information by re-registering and for more: LAVote.net; or (800) 815- The Canyon Chronicle is an independent community newspaper published bi-weekly by 2666, Option 2. The deadline to register or re-register to vote for any election is 11:59:59 p.m. Pacific Canyon Media, Inc.©2020. All rights reserved. Time on the 15th calendar day before that election or, in this case, October 19 by our count. thecanyonchronicle.com Now, with that all said, take a slow, deep breath and continue to create ways to enjoy not only the remaining Dog Days of Summer but the rest of this pandemic summer season. Safely. —Flavia Potenza
Honoring the Titans of The Civil Rights Movement
Elijah Cummings read this poem in his first speech to Congress in 1996 I only have a minute. Sixty seconds in it. Forced upon me, I did not choose it, But I know that I must use it. Give account if I abuse it. Suffer, if I lose it. Only a tiny little minute, C.T. Vivian (1924-2020). American minister, author, But eternity is in it. close friend and field general of Martin Luther King Jr. during the Civil Rights Movement. Vivian resided —By Dr. Benjamin E Mays in Atlanta, Georgia, and founded the C. T. Vivian Leadership Institute, Inc. Photo NBC News
COVER ART by Valerie Walsh The art is a “paperscape,” a painted, handmade paper creation titled “Doggies of the Canyon.” I love all of these dogs and know it will mean so much when the owners receive this edition and see their beloved pets. I believe dogs are here to teach us how to see, feel, and behave in The Honorable Elijah Cummings (1951-2020). Served The Honorable John Lewis (1940-2020). U.S. a loving way to each other. The dogs frolicking 13 terms in the House of Representatives representing Representative of Georgia’s 5th Congressional District. here on paper are: Panda and Oscar, Napoleon, Baltimore, MD. “In the House, Elijah was our North “[A]fter many years of silent witness, the truth is still Bruce Wayne, Charlie Parker, Blossom, Zuma, Star….a leader of towering character and integrity whose marching on…. Everyone has to vote in November.” NY Ronin, Tucker, Jersey, Beezy, Yukon, Archie, stirring voice and steadfast values pushed the Congress Times, July 30,2020. Olive, and Harvey. and country to rise always to a higher purpose.” House Majority Leader Nancy Pelosi.
4 August 7, Vol. 1 No. 4 Letters
like any stoner, I loved Jug Band music. They were also Success Story in Crazy Times role models for me. For a while during my tender high Thank you for publishing the article for Canyon school years, they (and the Byrds and Dylan) were Limo about driving people in their own cars (See probably as much of a blueprint of how to be a man as Letters,“Canyon Limo Prevails,” The Canyon the Very Beatles Themselves! Chronicle, June 26, 2020). This has been a big success. Jerry Yester played piano on their first hit, “Do You Almost everyone who calls, wants us to drive them in Believe in Magic,” but didn’t become a full-fledged their cars to the airport and then, after we drop them member of the band until right after “Summer in The off, we return their car back to their house and it’s City” when Zal Yanovsky quit. Jerry and I met when he’d very simple! They feel safe! They feel like no one else come out to Chicago to teach some studio production has been in the car and they feel free from any germs classes that friends of mine were attending. We became during this crazy time! Masked up and away we go bosom buddies and he told me if I ever came out to LA, in their car with our drivers! Call (310) 456-4284 for I could stay with him. information or a reservation. Low and behold, the next spring found me knocking —Jenise Blanc & Randy Chance on his door! canyonlimoservice.com One night soon after I’d moved out here, I went to visit Jerry in the studio to see what he was up to. He was editing A Lovin’ Spoonful of Sugar a song and the phone rang. It was Zal, ex-lead guitarist from the Lovin’ Spoonful, in town to lay down some guitar The Canyon Chronicle is a great paper! I had a lot of fun Randy Chance Remembers tracks for one of John Sebastian’s solo albums. Jerry, Zal and reading about all the bands and those are all the favorite Memories. Having played blues, folk, and rock I got plastered together that night and hit it off perfectly. stations that I love to listen to right now, the ‘50s and the in Chicago since my early teens, I came to LA in It wasn’t until years later, when Joe Butler, the ‘60s over and over and over again with Randy [Chance], 1973 and started a band right away with friends I drummer, and Steve Boone, the bass player, wanted as we drive together! (See,“The Sound of Summer met here. We called the band “Free Gravity” and to put the “Spoonful” back together again and do a Playing,” by Joel Bellman, The Canyon Chronicle, July we played the Topanga Corral for the first time that reunion tour that I got to be in the band. 24, 2020). Anyone who has driven with us has gotten year. We played all the clubs around, shuttling our Those first experiences, you have to understand, how the best stories from Randy (who was lead guitarist in gear in my VW, the bus I’d driven out here from the much they meant to me. I had only been in LA for maybe the Lovin’ Spoonful and the Boxtops at one time and Midwest with the mattress in the bottom and the three months, and here I was, hanging out with people who did play with Philip Sloan amongst other bands). curtains all around. who had been heroes of mine just a few years before! Whenever he is driving you, he will be giving you a little The Lovin’ Spoonful were more than a favorite band —Jenise Blanc & Randy Chance piece of something from that era to think about! for me, because I’d started out with folk and blues, and Topanga Residents
The Legacy of Moira Talan Dwyer Thank You, Supervisor Kuehl Adventures in Trash
“At the end of the day people won’t remember what you Dear Editor, Dear Editor, said or did, they will remember how you made them feel.” As all of you know, we were scheduled to have Like all of the other homeowners in Topanga, our This quote by Maya Angelou is very true of my beautiful our LA County Third District discretionary funds $116 Wastemasters trash bill became $186 overnight. fourth-grade teacher, Ms. Talan, who brought exquisite reduced on the assumption that other revenue I was told the bill was due and payable and the reason energy to Topanga Elementary. I felt happiness and joy in (filming, events, weddings, rentals, etc.) could make for the 60 percent increase was “special trucks”. Now her classroom every day. She made every lesson playful up the difference. Then along came the COVID-19 the story has become a “billing error”. and fun. Each morning we did a check-in to see how we closures and our revenues plummeted to near What was initially surprise turned to anger and were feeling that day, and the practice left an impact on zero. We have reopened all of our trails and many then to stone cold resolve. I immediately cancelled me. I will always remember her in my heart. facilities, but we have been struggling to figure out our Wastemasters account and they picked up their how to bring back our field workforce—now at only bins. Even if the bill returns to the existing rate, those Crossing the Threshold 50 percent strength—so we can restore services such lying cheats will not get another nickle from us. In memory of Ms. Talan as restrooms and grounds maintenance at our most So, we have begun our adventure in trash by heavily used parks. sorting and bagging it and taking it to the dump In the heavens bright above us Supervisor Kuehl’s action suspending reductions ourselves. We already compost all our food scraps The harmonious land is an escape from the for the next two years will have a marked impact, into rich soil and chip all of our green waste into Perilous nonsense of man. especially at the most heavily used parks where useful moisture-retaining mulch, so there’s actually To never return is the burden of life otherwise mundane activities have been challenging, not a lot left over to deal with. We have one bagging But is greatly accepted what with the rush of folks wanting to get back barrel for trash and another for flattened plastic Once lived, as it can. outdoors and individual park revenue nowhere containers and metal cans. When there’s a decent Love leisurely floats near breaking even. That is where the Third District load, which will easily take months, I’ll simply take it Alongside peace, as its friend subventions have been a godsend. to the Calabasas landfill and dump it for $56. For this is where the souls arrive. Thank you, Sheila. Instead of becoming weak, helpless victims whose One may not visit, but live instead —Joseph T. Edmiston, FAICP, Hon. ASLA only power is to complain, we used this situation as And recall individuals Executive Director, a catalyst to take positive responsible autonomous From the memory’s archive. State of California, Natural Resources Agency self-governing action. O the waters and the shimmers Once you get a taste of freedom...you never go Humbly gift you with calm back. And the colors of flowers and marigolds. —Greg Mamishian The journey awaits For every being in this world, The experience is as some say… Crossing the threshold. —Daphne Huffman
Open Letter of Concern as for the well-being of our broader community. States, it also serves us with workshops and events of This letter is a request for your consideration of our great diversity, including women’s monthly gatherings, Dear Friends and Neighbors, community at large. We are a tight-knit community karate, African dance, 5 Rhythms Dance class, Sound Below is a letter of concern written in support of whose lives are often interwoven through necessity. Healing, and concerts of diverse music from around our local businesses at Pine Tree Circle. Please read and The Pine Tree Circle has served as an important hub the world. It also has served as a place to celebrate, sign if you would like to show your support by adding in Topanga, which has provided a space for many and as a gathering place to mourn and share our love your name to form.jotform.com/202057173462147. We community businesses, services, and events. Since 3D when tragedy has befallen our community. I imagine will send this to the new owners of Pine Tree Circle Investments has acquired Pine Tree Circle, we have seen you might not know what Yoga Desa means to our after gathering signatures. Please feel free to forward to that many of our businesses have found it much more community, which is understandable since you haven’t those who may be interested. challenging to stay profitable and open, and some have had these experiences. Please consider the larger impact Thanks, closed their doors given the new considerably higher your business decisions will have on our community. —Rick Ellis, Jens Koepke costs to maintain business. With the repercussions of Losing Yoga Desa would be a great loss. Dear Nathan Daneshgar, Joseph Daneshgar, and 3D COVID-19, it has become even more difficult. We are Pacific Canyon Cleaners is another long-time service Investments, worried that we will lose more of our dearest businesses in our community where we connect and do business Welcome to our Topanga community. We are many at a huge cost to our community in Topanga. locally. If either of you has not met Vika, please say hello of the local patrons of Pine Tree Circle. We are writing The businesses and services at Pine Tree are to her. Her consistently great attitude, hard work, and to you as concerned citizens and sincerely hope that integral to many of our lives. Yoga Desa has served as service is an unmeasurable asset to our community. I this letter will inspire you to take a moment to reflect a consistent community resource for nearly 20 years. don’t know if you are aware of Vika’s story, but she also is on the impact your decisions are making and will make Besides being an incredible yoga studio with some of the sole provider for her family and cares for a disabled on our community. Our motivation is personal, as well the finest teachers in Los Angeles and in the United See Letter of Concern, page 6
August 7, Vol. 1 No. 4 5 COMMUNITY NEWS
Topanga Chamber Zooms Meditation Mixer By Annemarie Donkin electric violin serenade. “I’m playing my Other members offering toasts and music to send love and light,” he said. good wishes to the group were Anne Toasting to love and light, the Topanga “This is a great place to get all the Christine Von-Wetter; Joseph and Chamber of Commerce’s Evening gossip,” said Chamber President Kriss Julie Rosendo; Ron Fomalont; Kirsty Zoom Mixer on July 30 aimed to open Perras. “Topanga is making it through Iredale; Cecilie Stuart; Julie Levine; the hearts and minds of its members. disaster as one community; we are Kathleen Gildred; and Ron Kramer. The Mixer was facilitated by strong together,” Kristina Rocco Levy After the toasts, socializing and Topanga healer Dianne Porchia of received praise from the members, music, Selvage played another piece Porchia’s Wish—Whole Integrated Self honoring her for her outstanding that worked to lead into the guided Health, A Path to Loving, Healing and work delivering Rocco’s Cucina meals meditation with some improvisations Living Consciously. to seniors three times a week in the and well-known songs, such as “Welcome to this Zoom meeting Canyon and also providing meals “Amazing Grace,” to put everyone in a with your open mind and heart while to the Los Angeles County Grant contemplative mood, and offered one reconnecting with the people you know Meal Program, Topanga Cares, at the Chamber members enjoyed their last affirmation and his definition of and cherish in our unique mountain Topanga Library each week. first virtual that included a healing “heal” as “Heaven’s Energy Around community,” Porchia wrote in the email “The SAGES are keeping me busy meditation led by Dianne Porchia. L ov e .” Photo by Dianne Porchia inviting the community to log on. with food deliveries. I have friends Porchia then closed her eyes and Porchia urged each Chamber to feed; I’d rather be helping rather facilitated a guided healing meditation member to offer a toast to celebrate than sitting at home,” Rocco Levy forefront of good from when it started for the members, giving each “Topanga’s resilience, reducing said. “I want to propose a toast to this 12 years ago; it’s at the core of Topanga, participant permission to relax into a mental-emotional stress, and future incredible Topanga community who the core group in the community as blissful state. It was divine! n visioning for your Self, your work and gives so much; to Tony with love and a force for good. I want to keep the your community.” music; Joseph [Rosendo] is tireless history of Rocco’s going in Topanga, For information on the Topanga Topanga musician Tony Selvage in protecting Topanga. The Chamber keep the legacy and my father’s recipes Chamber of Commerce: opened the meeting with a beautiful of Commerce has always been at the alive!” topangachamber.org.
Trash Warriors’ Trash Report July 12-26 By Beth Goode construction dumps that continue to rise palm fronds and trimmings unloaded as folks re-carpet their homes in which there. This is because the park is a good Another Sunday morning, another big they are now for the most part hunkered alternative to the dump. This is sarcasm ol’ mess…and then, a pristine natural down. Apparently, all that pacing going because it’s not a good place to dump environment for all of us to enjoy. This on as we socially distance from the rest trash of any kind. lasts for a few hours so get out and enjoy of humanity in our homes has worn the We had some new blood this it by two o’clock. carpets threadbare. We found roll after past Sunday. Brody and his daughter, One week’s collection found eight roll of used carpets and the padding Catalina, Bill and his son, Vishwa, joined bagged or toweled up human feces, and that goes under it. There was disposable us along with a recently returned Ric and eight was more than enough for us! everything scattered all around these his family members (who clean later in Sorry, no photos. Over the last three carpet dumps. the morning). It is not easy for teenagers Sundays, masks and gloves kept their I discovered the “Trash Tree,” which to rise and get out of the house in the place high on the list of collectables. used to be rare, but is now popping up wee hours of the morning on a weekday; The all-time winner for I don’t know all over the place. Trash billows in the on a Sunday, it is an act of heroism and how many weeks in a row now? Empty breeze from the branches of the tree. It’s tremendous resolve. We thank you. containers of alcohol in all shapes, sizes, a sight to see, not pleasant. Piles of mail Waking early enough in the morning to and materials from plastic to glass to On April 22, Caltrans presented the Topanga continue to appear on the sides of the hit the Boulevard by 7 a.m. has its upside. metal. It’s been a rough year. This Covid Trash Warriors with the Volunteer of the Year Boulevard, along with the usual sauce The sunrises are magnificent. thing is really taking a toll on the livers award. In June, a blue-ribbon plaque was packets (my personal nemeses), masks Although we experience defeat of mankind. By the end of my own jaunt affixed to their Adopt-A-Highway sign along and fast food cups found in little piles up every week as we watch the trash pile Topanga Canyon Boulevard. through the refuse, when I found myself and down the roadside. Cigarette butts up, sometimes, before the full bags have looking to see if there was any whiskey from the valley, stopped and asked me if are everywhere. Just outside of Edelman been removed, we continue to make our left in any bottle I retrieved, I knew it was I’d like some help. My faith in humanity State Park, we found a used condom way out each Sunday morning to clear time to quit and go take a shower. fully restored, I carried on with the task and two bright green plastic spoons that the trash that manifests after we have I felt so forlorn about the state of of cleaning up after the masses. Thank had been used to eat the ice cream from gone. humanity and our irreverence toward our you, bicycle stranger. cups tossed across the parking lot, away Come join us in our exercise in planet, it was almost overwhelming. This The usual car wreck debris was taken from the other remnants of the evening’s futility because it feels good, the hillsides was right around the time I contemplated care of. Recently, drivers are treating the activities. will love you for it, and the relationships drinking out of the discarded bottle. As I canyon road as if it were the Daytona For our early-morning efforts over forged among the Warriors provide all pulled, tugged and gracefully grunted (or 500. It’s not a big surprise that wreckage the last three Sundays, we have filled the fulfillment you could ever need. We maybe no so gracefully) in an attempt to litters our roadsides more than usual 79 Caltrans bags with trash. There was also have all of the equipment to get the get my overstuffed Caltrans bag out of even though the number of motorists is also a perfectly good large doghouse job done. the cart I used to wheel it up and down extremely depressed. left in a ditch. At two different locations Join us at Topanga Post Office, 7 a.m., the canyon road, a nice man bicycling up Also, up in numbers are the in the State Park, we found very dry every Sunday. n
Letters
Open Letter of Concern, from page 5 do occasionally support the local stores, it is We are writing to you in hopes of not losing many loving husband and beautiful young daughter. Pacific overwhelmingly Topangans who provide the core of our finest resources and businesses. We are asking Canyon Cleaners has been serving our community for revenue for the businesses in Pine Tree Circle. you to deeply consider finding ways to work with more than twenty-one years. Please understand what a unique benefit it is in our longtime local businesses, adjusting costs to help These businesses matter to us and are the fabric of today’s world to be able to support and enjoy local them thrive and finding ways to make it through this our community. We could elaborate on what all these businesses that are embedded in a community. COVID crisis and beyond. businesses bring beyond their obvious services. Jane We want to make clear that we value these local Although we may only seem to represent a figure at Topanga Homegrown, Peter at Canyon Gourmet, businesses. We’ve heard that you have some creative on your spreadsheet, we sincerely hope you will Maria at the Waterlily, Gidget at Flower Power, Nancy ideas for Pine Tree and have expressed some interest also see that those figures are actually intertwined at Canyon Chiropractic, Larry at the Canyon Bistro, in working with our community to achieve that. businesses, families, and lives that matter here in this Paul and Melissa at Coldwell Banker, Ron at Kramer This is our hope. community. If these businesses thrive, the new tenants Insurance, Jessica at Bouboulina, the Topanga Canyon Our concern is that you may misjudge the you bring will as well. We are hoping to get behind Gallery, Jocelyn at Pilates In Topanga, Glynn Design uniqueness and traditions in our community and try your plans and the creative spark you may bring in a Build, The Topanga Historical Society, and City Hearts, to impose a business model that ultimately doesn’t win-win scenario. are all folks who have invested in our community with work here for you or us. This is not Santa Monica or Thank you for taking the time to listen and consider their businesses and lives. Malibu Cross Creek or Brentwood. We are Topanga. our views. Please let us know if we can be of any help. Although visitors from the city or even tourists Most of us who live here, celebrate our uniqueness. —Concerned patrons of Pine Tree Circle
6 August 7, Vol. 1 No. 4 Positive Changes for Education | By Amy Weisberg, M.Ed.
“There can be no keener revelation of a Access Awards for student parents attending the will be provided two years of free tuition and $41.8 society’s soul than the way in which it University of California, California State University, million will be provided to increase the number of treats its children.” or California Community Colleges. This will help Cal Grant scholarships from 25,750 to 41,000 for —Nelson Mandela students complete their education and by doing so, income-eligible Californians. increase their future earning potential and provide To assist student parents with dependent children additional support to their children. and in the process increase degree completion, On June 27, Governor Gavin Newsom signed qualifying new or renewal Cal Grant A recipients will his state budget for the fiscal year 2019-2020 and receive an access award of up to $6,000, Cal Grant educators couldn’t be happier! The new budget IMPROVEMENTS IN EDUCATION B recipients will receive an increase in their award contains the largest-ever investment in not only Governor Newsom’s new budget makes a huge from $1,648 to $6,000 and Cal Grant C recipients K-12 education, but in early childhood education, investment in education for all Californians with will receive a book and supply award increase from childcare, and college loan assistance to help the path towards universal preschool, recruiting and $1,094 to $4,000. fill a statewide teacher shortage. This funding, retaining qualified educators, and facilitating tuition In what Governor Newsom calls a “cradle-to- according to EdSource, will make up 45 percent freezes at the UC and CSU systems. career education strategy,” $50 million is dedicated to of the state’s general fund. This is going to have a Addressing the needs of K-14 education, spending child savings accounts that aid families in managing noticeable impact for California’s families. Here will include approximately $5,000 more per K-12 pupil future higher education expenses. According to are some of the highlights according to the official than eight years ago. This long-needed investment in an article by Felicia Mello in the East Bay Times, announcement from the Governor’s office: our students and in the future of California is a great January 28, 2019, fans of the child savings accounts beginning to a collaboration between school districts say they help children envision themselves attending and the state and may lead to a more reliable funding college from a young age. IMPROVEMENTS FOR PARENTS of education. Also included is the investment of $90 These changes and additions to funding will The Parents Agenda addresses specific cost-of- million to recruit and retain qualified educators to help provide a more stable foundation for parents living issues faced by parents of young children. It teach in high-need fields such as special education, and young infants and children. It is an investment includes the expansion of paid family leave from six STEM (science, technology, engineering and math), in families, children, and the future of the state, weeks to eight weeks for each parent or caretaker of and bilingual education and will address California’s and highlights Governor Newsom’s priority on a newborn child. This potentially allows a child to teacher shortage. education. benefit from as much as four months of paid family Additionally, $43.8 million will be invested in We all will benefit from aspects of this budget focus, leave, bringing California closer to the goal of six providing training and resources for classroom whether we are parents of young children, educators months of paid family leave and is especially helpful teachers and paraprofessionals to build capacity receiving additional support, students aspiring to to lower-wage workers who pay into the system and around key state priorities including California attend college, higher education students accessing will be able to take the benefits. standards, teaching excellence, student success, and their education or citizens of California, who will The new budget puts California on the path to accountability. In response to the concerns from surely benefit from an educated population of future provide universal preschool access for all four-year school districts about rising expenses for students employers, employees, and community leaders. n olds and full-day kindergarten funding for childcare with disabilities, a 19.3 percent increase in funding “Education is the most powerful weapon workers (some districts still do not offer this) and for special education is included in this budget. which you can use to change the world.” will expand state-subsidized facilities and increase –Nelson Mandela slots. Resources will also be provided for low- INCREASES IN HIGHER income parents including home-visiting services, Amy Weisberg, M.Ed.—Named LAUSD and LA Black infant health programs, developmental and EDUCATION County Teacher of the Year, 2018-2019, she teaches trauma screenings, temporary cash assistance to The new budget includes increased funding Kindergarten/Transitional K at Topanga Elementary families with children to meet basic needs, child for higher education including the facilitation of Charter School. With 40 years of teaching experience, savings accounts to support future higher education tuition freezes and increased enrollment slots at she consults with teachers and parents and provides expenses and a sales tax exemption on diapers and the University of California and the California State support for students. menstrual products. University systems for the upcoming school year. For more information: CompleteTeach.com; The budgets will establish or increase Cal Grant First time, full-time Community College students [email protected].
Opinion Don’t Open Schools By Victoria Tralies whose lives and upbringings will indelibly be marred that continue to exist in impoverished communities by this national tragedy. Precautions such as mandatory nationally. Schools feed students, provide emotional Schools in the Los Angeles Unified School District mask mandates, earlier stay-at-home orders, and ethical counseling, distribute medical information, offer will not be opening on time as planned. On July 29, leadership may have prevented these deaths. It is up childcare, and provide networks of support for crisis LAUSD superintendent Austin Beutner gave a press to teachers and educators everywhere to help prevent and care. In 2018, eighty percent of 2.4 billion breakfasts release that emphasized how important it is to prioritize further loss of life. provided under the School Breakfast Program were students and their needs in this time of crisis. “I don’t While I understand that teachers are expected to free, according to the United States Department of believe one-size-fits-all, top-down, compliance-driven go well beyond the responsibilities their job entails, I Agriculture. School districts are doing their best to bureaucracies are the answer,” he said. also know that no one understands classrooms like we continue providing these services even while students The answers lie at the grassroots in the classrooms do or advocates for children like we can. Hence, this are being taught remotely. of the communities we serve. I implore other responsibility again falls on us to stand up for the rights Additionally, teachers and their students are not superintendents, in Los Angeles and nationally, to share of children and families, especially those who live at all alike. Though the coronavirus has demonstrated the same vision and remember what education is really or below the poverty line. Though this is not ideal by that national mandates can work well in times of about: doing what’s best for the students. any means, the notion that returning students to the public health crises, the same does not always apply Unequivocally, the most important truth I held after classroom and business as usual is absurd and violates to education. Classrooms, student bodies, types of my first year of teaching was simple: no one understands our moral obligation to protect American youth. education, and needs differ between and within school students’ academic, emotional, and social needs quite While the White House claims that “young people do districts. While working at a public school in Phoenix, I as well as teachers. The teachers understand what is best extraordinarily well” with COVID-19, current statistics recognized early on that rules and regulations depended for them, next to parents and the students themselves. tell a different story. In Los Angeles County alone, 4,213 on the students and families in each community. While Teachers are the changemakers, the midwives of equity, people have died from the virus, while the entire state I urge public officials and school board members to act justice, and growth in the lives of the students they of California has seen 8,049 deaths. The truth is that quickly and ethically, I also call on them to do justice to teach. I am confident that most teachers and students not only can young people die from COVID-19, they the specific communities they are serving.n should not return full time to school in person this fall. can pass it on to at-risk family members. If going back It may have disastrous consequences for the health and to school means putting students, faculty, and staff at Victoria Tralies is a high school teacher and has safety of all stakeholders if they do so. risk, especially in underserved areas, that risk is one instructed English for the past two years in public COVID-19, thus far, has already impacted that educational leaders should not take. schools in Phoenix, Arizona. She has a M.Ed. from Americans tremendously, infecting 3.8 million and Part of the reason this topic is difficult is the fact that Arizona State University and a B.A. from Saint Joseph’s killing more than 141,000 people. This is devastating schools do more than educate students. Repercussions University. She specializes in teaching English as a not just for the gross loss of life, but for the children from COVID-19 highlight the disparity of resources second language and literacy strategies.
August 7, Vol. 1 No. 4 7 COMMUNITY NEWS Ferreting Out Fake News Online By Sinead Hawkins news, chances are multiple newspapers The intention is for the fake news to assist you with choosing neutral news and websites will cover the story. Read spread without readers taking the time organizations and news wires that are The 2020 election is only a few months other articles that are similar and compare to properly verify it, although, easier to written with objectivity. Finding non- away and the amount of information the content. Multiple sources reporting the spot, these types of stories are common. biased content and consuming stories available to the public is overwhelming. same news will more than likely confirm Make sure a news story is legitimate with a perspective different from your Social media sites, blogs, online that it’s from a legitimate source. by fact-checking information. Become own views will give you a deeper publications, and videos provide a familiar with organizations like Snopes, understanding of the widely disputed plethora of information, making it a Could it Be a Joke? factcheck.org and American Press issues and events happening now. challenge for the average news consumer There are stories that will introduce a Institute which specialize in filtering the to discern facts from false reports, real news topic and then slowly become media for inaccuracies, rumors, half- References: whether written in articles, or viewed comedic toward the end of the piece. The truths and satire stories. n bloomberg.com/news/ in videos. In the world of technology, purpose of these articles is to entertain articles/2020-05-14/how-disinformation- opinion, and data overload, how can you and give a funny perspective, not to Look Out for “Deepfakes” has-morphed-for-the-2020-election- be sure sources you are consuming are inform the public on correct information. Artificial intelligence technology is quicktak real? Here are a few ways to know the advancing, making it possible to create n theguardian.com/technology/2020/ stories on social media are accurate. Beware of Misleading Headlines fake videos of real political figures, news jan/13/what-are-deepfakes-and-how- Clickbait, provoking headlines anchors, and celebrities. These videos can-you-spot-them Is the News Source Real? designed to drive readers to advertiser’s have audio and imagery convincing n forbes.com/sites/ Fake news sites tend to copy well sites, is often used to lure in people enough to seem realistic. According to johnbbrandon/2019/10/08/there- known organizations by giving a “real who are scrolling through the web. the world’s first visual intelligence threat are-now-15000-deepfake-videos- look” and mimicking a similar title, logo, The article written may not reflect the company, Deeptrace, at least 15,000 on-social-media-yes-you-should- URL, and style of a reputable source. If you headline. Read through the entire article manipulated videos have appeared on worry/#398b8f1c3750 are quick to trust the site without double- before sharing it or have a conversation social media platforms. n freedomforuminstitute.org/first- checking, you could fall for the visual with a friend about the headline. If you Many deepfake videos are difficult to amendment-center/primers/fake-news- trick. Another smart practice is to read the want another telltale sign, the comment spot but there are obvious signs such as primer/ “about” page of a site and check to see if sections of articles like these are usually the subjects of the video not blinking, n prattlibrary.org/research/tools/index. an email or phone number is listed. Is it a filled with angry warnings about the strange lighting, or audio that is out aspx?cat=90&id=4735 private blog, political satire, or is it written headline being misleading and different of sync with the person speaking on n freedomforuminstitute.org/first- by an organization that’s unfamiliar? Was from the rest of the body paragraphs. camera. amendment-center/primers/fake-news- the article published today or is it from primer/ years ago? News circulating online at Misinformation Check Your Confirmation Bias n psychologytoday.com/us/blog/social- times isn’t current or verified. Research the There are some stories that are Many podcasts, YouTube shows, dilemmas/201711/how-spot-fake-news n author’s name and other published content outright, fake news. The intention is blogs, and news outlets have direct before deciding to trust information. to persuade a targeted demographic bias towards the political left or the Sinead Rose Hawkins is a storyteller who on social media that the story is true. right. It’s important to challenge your has a fiery enthusiasm about politics, Have Other News Outlets Covered Look for grammatical errors, unusual personal views when consuming news culture, history, and adventure. She has This Story? punctuation, font in all caps, and lack of that doesn’t confirm your political a lifelong fascination with news. ENFP. If there is a piece of major breaking organization in the story. ideologies. Research news bias charts to Artist. Confident. Journalist. Sheriff Villanueva Holds a Virtual Town Hall with Topangans criminal complaint; the helicopter was very well during the Woolsey Fire; we used for surveillance and the suspect is learned from that.” in custody,” Captain Becerra said. Captain Becerra also addressed the As many residents continued to issue of Canyon evacuations. “We need By Annemarie Donkin express their concerns during the town to improve the evacuation situation,” hall, the majority of the questions he said. “We need early evacuations of Topangans expressed concerned illegal road racing, excessive the homeless, homebound seniors, and noise violations, the Wednesday night animals with trailers. We need to have their concerns at a virtual motorcycle club, and speeding on Old the people who are most vulnerable town hall meeting with Topanga Canyon Road. ready during a Public Safety Power L.A. County Sheriff Alex “I live and work in Topanga, on Old Shutoff (PSPS). We will go house to Canyon; my question is in two parts,” house with door knocks, loudspeakers, Villanueva and Captain said Karen Dannenbaum. “Traffic on facilitate people driving out, and Old Canyon is on the increase and the evacuate them in a short matter of time.” Salvador Becerra of the L.A. County Sheriff Alex Villanueva Malibu/Lost Hills Sheriff’s road racing at night and on the weekends Sheriff Villanueva said more than … someone totaled a car on a pole in ourselves, after the three-four or five once that the effectiveness of his Station. front of my house. The second part— days that we left our houses unlocked?” Department was a matter of what he there are three kids that race mini-bikes Sheriff Villanueva answeredconsidered to be proposed budget Fires, evacuations, crime, motorcycles from Fernwood to Old Topanga, to the without hesitation. “Lock your house cuts by the Los Angeles Board of and illegal street racing led the Skyline loop every day, they had a BMW and leave,” he said. “If, there is any Supervisors. conversation as about 100 Canyon boxed in; I am concerned about the lives reason for firefighters to get in, you “This is a process by which we can residents asked questions of the Los of those kids.” have many more problems than that, have this conversation to provide more Angeles County Sheriff on July 16. Captain Becerra considered so lock your doors.” public safety to Topanga,” he said. “An “I want to thank you for dialing in Dannenbaum’s questions carefully. Taylor continued with concerns almost 50 percent reduction of the and attending,” said Sheriff Villanueva. “We had an accident on Old Topanga about evacuations out of Topanga: County budget is falling on the Sheriff’s “The deputies that work, especially Canyon Road just last week,” he said. “A great many of the houses are on Department, especially for the detectives. those in Topanga, are dedicated and “We are trying to get the California dead-end streets,” she said. “There is We have a three-front problem with the determined, putting their lives on the Highway Patrol to patrol more up only one way in and one way out. The budget crises to provide services and line, that’s what speaks volumes.” there; we will be looking for the three notion of people trying to get out when we need you to speak with the Board of Captain Becerra said it had been mini-bikes to see if we can stop that for emergency responders are trying to get Supervisors, to reach out to them; they decades since the Sheriff communicated their own safety.” in, I don’t know what the protocol is, need to hear from you.” directly with Topanga and asked for Tam Taylor of the Canyon Sages evacuate early, while at the same time, The Malibu/Lost Hills Sheriff’s questions from the residents. said she had two questions regarding you can easily get locked in because Station is comprised of LASD Reserve One concerned resident inquired evacuations. it won’t take very long for Topanga Deputies and civilian volunteers from about the resolution of the situation “We were told to leave your door Canyon Boulevard to get jammed up all professions, who provide their of an armed man on Old Topanga open unlocked when you evacuate so with traffic. We need to have suggestions expertise to aid residents and visitors Canyon early that morning that fire fighters can enter quickly when of what to do when we can’t get out. of the Santa Monica Mountains resulted in about a dozen patrol needed,” she said. “During the Woolsey Again, Sheriff Villanueva did not recreation area (lasd.org). Text your vehicles, two armored trucks and the fire, we left our doors unlocked for mince words. “When we pull the Zip Code to 888777 to receive city- EMT positioned at Pine Tree Circle. seven days with lots of people coming trigger and decide to evacuate, we will specific alerts. The Sheriff’s Dispatch “We served a search warrant on in and out of the Canyon during that create an uninterrupted flow out of the Non-Emergency number is (818) 878- the suspect this morning and filed a time… so how do we best protect Canyon,” he said. “That didn’t happen 1808. n
8 August 7, Vol. 1 No. 4 Steampunk GoesViral PlagueBy Sari ScheerPunk: opanga Canyon Gallery is pleased to present “Plague Punk: Steampunk Goes Viral by Kitonius V Plumii,” aka Kit Plumridge, that opened August 1. The gallery will be open Saturdays and Sundays from noon–5 p.m., for three Tweeks on August 8, 9, 15, 16. The gallery will stay open later on August 8 to ensure social distancing. This fantastical show will also be shown by appointment. From the subtropical shores of South Africa’s east coast, to the vibrant shores of the U.S. west coast, Kit Plumridge has managed to create a diverse portfolio that reveals his unique, inter-continental skill set through a variety of media. Discovering his entrepreneurial and artistic talents at a young age, Kit honed his craft over the years, with his passion for sailing and surfing a source of endless inspiration. His growing years provided a comprehensively eclectic palette, evident even in his more modern steampunk collections. His school days at a traditional Irish Catholic boarding school were interspersed by unforgettable holidays with family spent avoiding sharks in the KwaZulu-Natal surf. Conscripted into the South African army at 18, Kit’s death-defying encounters with a rogue African elephant and a pride of lions further deepened a love for the African wildlife that will forever remain. At the age of 36, Kit relocated with his family to California, finding a home Topanga Canyon Gallery in Malibu where he has resided the past 27 years. Drawing on inspiration from his is an artist-owned mutual African heritage, his family and the natural world, Kit creates vibrant seascape pieces on benefit corporation. canvas and wood panels using an austere palette of oils and acrylics. His signature series It is located at 120 N of brightly-colored lifeguard towers, inspired by Ed Massey, reflect his detailed, complex, Topanga Canyon Blvd., often photo-realistic style. Topanga CA 90290. For more information: info@ Kitonius V Plumii topangacanyongallery.com; Once a year, Kit unleashes his alter ego, Kitonius V Plumii, aka The Unstable Genius, creator TopangaCanyonGallery. of his notable steampunk artwork. His 2019 collection, “Steampunk Drawing Machine,” was incredibly Photos by com. August Gallery well-received and precipitated his 2020 showcase, “Steampunk Instruments,” which features seven handmade Rich Schmitt Hours: Saturdays and musical instruments and accompanying characters in the style of Jules Verne and H.G. Wells. The characters— Photography Sundays, noon to 5pm. either a torso or head-and-shoulder vignette—are donned in headgear crafted from burnished and Verdigris hand- stitched leather with natural waxed sinew. In line with the steampunk genre, Kit has taken a modern approach to the traditional by creating strong female characters which didn’t feature in the original 1800 narratives. n —Megan Plumridge
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August 7, Vol. 1 No. 4 9 The Theatre Theatre 31 Goes Zoom!
By Annemarie Donkin and camps that give students an opportunity to strengthen their abilities to perform and collaborate, Adapting live theatre to the Zoom world enhance their skills of interpersonal awareness, and build self-confidence.” is a challenge for any company, yet with a As anyone can see from the music videos found on group of actors between the ages of 7-14, the Theatre 31 website, these students are dedicated, Theatre 31 has accomplished the feat with disciplined, and motivated to perform to the best of their abilities regardless of the quarantine. The main benefits style and panache! of performing arts for young people include improving life skills and academic performance, so despite am not throwing away my shot!” COVID-19, Theatre 31 was determined to conduct its What can you do when a worldwide summer classes…remotely. They will also continue with pandemic hits and no one can gather together a full curriculum of remote classes in the fall. in the dark to experience the magic of a play, “Iespecially when your mission is to provide a theatrical THEATRE 31 SUMMER CAMP summer camp and education for student performers? Scheppner recalled how his summer camps were The answer is: Adapt, because the show must go on! conducted prior to COVID-19. For Chad Scheppner, a Shakespearean-trained actor, “Some programs ran up to 25 students, some had founder and artistic director of Theatre 31, this is exactly more than 100 students involved as actors and technicians what his theatrical summer camps and school programs producing a weekend of performances,” he wrote. “The strive to accomplish. summer programs had about 40 students per session and The hit song, “My Shot,” from Hamilton, performed ended in a single presentation.” by his students and streaming on the Theatre31 website Essentially, Scheppner feels his classes play an essential this summer (theatre31.com) is the perfect example of this part in elementary and middle school education. adaptation. This is due to the dedication of Scheppner and “There are several different theatres and schools that we his multi-talented staff members with experience ranging work with on the Westside, from Malibu to Santa Monica from Broadway to Cirque Du Soleil. and the Venice area,” Scheppner said. “We run after-school “Theatre 31 is fortunate to enjoy professional programs as well as programs that are held during the school “Dick Van Dyke came to the show and did a relationships with many accomplished artists who day at public and private elementary and middle schools. workshop with the students at the end of the 2016 are passionate about the arts and about sharing their We also rent out theater spaces like the Electric Lodge and performance of Mary Poppins while the audience wealth of knowledge and experience with our students” Beyond Baroque in Venice, and the Lincoln Middle School watched,” Chad Scheppner wrote. “At the end, we all sang “Let’s Go Fly a Kite” together; it was a really Scheppner wrote. Auditorium in Santa Monica, which has a capacity of about a magical moment with tears of joy coming from The Mission Statement for Theatre 31 is “to provide 600 seats. many of the kids who had no idea he was coming!” fun, non-competitive, all-inclusive theatre arts classes Scheppner said they are fortunate to have many funding streams, depending on the school. “With some programs, we are funded by the parents of our students. In others, we receive grants from PTSA’s, and organizations such as the Santa Monica Education Foundation, which is a great reason why we are involved in the schools in Santa Monica,” Scheppner said. “Some funding also comes directly from the schools, on a case-by- case basis.
THEATRE 31 IN THE TIME OF ZOOM The Canyon Chronicle asked Scheppner if Zoom limits or expands teaching options and if it can sign up many more kids than might otherwise be able to participate? “It allows us to reach out beyond the Los Angeles area, which is really cool,” Scheppner wrote back. “We’ve had students over the summer from all over California and even participating from different states. However, because distance learning has such a negative connotation in most people’s households, our camps have a third of their usual enrollment. I’m hoping, however, that as we move forward and more people see what we are able to do in this format and our intentions with distance learning, that parents and students will be excited to add this to their learning schedules.” Regarding their first music video of the summer, “My Shot” from Hamilton, Scheppner wrote, “For some, it was their very first theatrical experience, and I was very pleased with what they were able to collaborate to create.” On the video, one can also see that he also joined in on the fun. Theatre 31 will soon be posting their second music video of the summer, a rock version of “I Won’t Grow Up” from Peter Pan (in collaboration with Greg Hilfman, accomplished Topanga musician and producer), and will end its final distance-learning summer camp of the year with “Mean Girls,” a musical with a strong message of standing up for what is right regardless of how others may judge you. “In this camp we will collaborate to create a video recording of “I See Stars” and much more.” Scheppner said. “With this camp, we’re beginning a new and exciting program called “Speak Up” that will be offered to schools in the Fall, along with our already existing performing arts curriculum.” From Once On This Island, Lincoln Middle School, 2018. Photo courtesy of studiosigal.com For more information and to register for Fall: theatre31.com.
10 August 7, Vol. 1 No. 4 All photos were taken pre-pandemic at the Lincoln Theatre production of Mary Poppins in 2016. Photos courtesy of Theatre 31 Theatre 31 Goes Zoom!
Above: Chad Scheppner, Founder and Artistic Director of Theatre 31. Photo courtesy of Chad Scheppner Left: Dick Van Dyke visited with actors and the audience from the Lincoln Theatre production of Mary Poppins that Chad Scheppner directed in 2016 at the Lincoln Auditorium.
Theatre 31 Zooms Online in the Fall
Mean Girls, a musical with a strong message AN ACTOR PREPARES Theseus in A Midsummer Night’s Dream.” of standing up for what is right, will end Chad Scheppner was born in Fresno, California and had It was the meeting with Megan that created a real the distance-learning summer camp and a his first acting experience in elementary school. connection with him at the Theatricum. “My family migrated to the Central Valley from “The first time that I saw Megan was in 2002 at her collaborative video recording of “I See Stars.” Oklahoma during the Dustbowl Era—real life Grapes of mother’s house for the first read-through of The Merchant a new and exciting program, “Speak Up” will Wrath style—and my mom’s mother’s side immigrated from of Venice. I remember seeing her wander in and out of the also be offered to schools in the Fall, along the Azore Islands in Portugal. My first experience with kitchen during our read-through and I was immediately with the theater’s existing performing arts theatre was with the winter programs that our elementary struck by her beauty,” he wrote. “It wasn’t until a few years curriculum. school did each year.” He laughed as he recalled “being a later, after we both ended long-standing relationships, that duck one year for a play about Thanksgiving. I really liked we connected and I, of course, learned to love her for much Zoom Meetings. Students meet with the it and recall how seriously I took the role,” he said, laughing more than just her looks!” instruction team each morning at 10 a.m. again. Yet, acting didn’t occur to him until he met a certain He’s been a company member at the Theatricum for for one hour, with instruction in theater and teacher in high school. years now, playing many roles including Richard III in improvisation games, script/scene work/ “I didn’t do anything theatrical after elementary school Richard III; Valere in The Miser; Dracula in Dracula, and the until my senior year of high school when I decided to try out role of Caesar in Antony and Cleopatra. acting/dancing and singing for a Shakespeare play because my friends in English class “I also was part of their educational programs, where we Tutorial Videos. At least one hour of thought I read Hamlet well when we were studying the play would tour shows to schools and played several other roles instruction is available per day in dance, in class. I enjoyed performing in that play but thought that including Romeo in Romeo and Juliet and Brutus in Julius choreography and singing, Self-taping it would be the end of acting for me until auditions for the Caesar, Scheppner wrote. (recording from home), acting for the camera, musical came,” Scheppner wrote. “I wasn’t going to audition costuming your character and more. Students until my high school drama teacher, Robert Bullwinkle, a THEATRE 31 man of giant stature at 6 feet, 7 inches, told me that if I didn’t Scheppner founded Theatre 31 in 2005. may access a private folder with videos audition for this play it would be the worst mistake I made “Theatre 31 began about 15 years ago, when I turned posted on YouTube. in my entire life. I auditioned and ended up getting the lead. 31-years-old,” he said. “The company name came from my Culmination. Students will be assigned roles It was one of those ‘magical experiences’ on the stage that age at the time, but also from some friends of mine, who in at least one scene and/or song from the left me wanting more. I then went on to pursue Theatre Arts called me Chad 31 or just 31 when we were younger. I had musical we are studying and will be asked in college.” an affinity for that number and some of its meanings in to learn their parts from home. They will be After college Scheppner performed roles at many numerology. I was going through big transitions in my life Regional Theatres across the country, including Don John at the time, and the name made sense to me. This was the asked to record themselves performing their in Much Ado About Nothing and Valentine in The Two point when I stepped out on my own, focusing on my own parts and send in their recordings. Theatre 31 Gentlemen of Verona at the Idaho Shakespeare Festival; educational theater company.” will edit the recordings together and create a Edmund in King Lear and Orlando in As You Like It at the We asked Scheppner what drove him from acting to “Showcase” video that will be made available Heart of America Shakespeare Festival in Kansas City, MO; teaching theatre. to all families involved. and the Lover/Hawker in The Who’s Tommy at the Pacific “I came to a point in my career where I felt more inspired Conservatory of the Performing Arts. by teaching, directing and writing instead of being on the Requirements stage,” he wrote, “I had been working as an instructor and • Access to the Internet with a reliable THEATRE 31 AND WILL GEER’S an actor in tandem for years, and absolutely love the creative connection that will allow students to be part THEATRICUM BOTANICUM process of both, but started to find that I was enjoying my of our Zoom classes. Scheppner lives in Topanga with his wife, Megan Geer- work as an instructor more. I really loved seeing what kind Alsop, an acclaimed stained-glass artist, who, with Willow of direct effect the classes were having on young people and • Earphones, earbuds, or headphones and a Geer-Alsop, is one of the daughters of Ellen Geer and Peter it felt more important to me. I also found that the transition device on which students can listen to music Alsop. Chad and Megan have two children; their daughter to focusing on theater education allowed me more time to (computer, iPod, telephone, etc.) graduated from Topanga Elementary Charter School this be with my family.” • Access to YouTube and a place where they year, where their son will start third grade in the fall. He didn’t do this all on his own and credits his fellow can practice their dances. Asked how, as a young actor, he discovered the theatre instructors. • Students will need to download the music Theatricum, he told a fun story. “I do feel lucky, and couldn’t create this company without “I was making my way back to California after having a lot of people I’ve met over the years who inspire me as tracks that will be sent to them via Dropbox. been a part of several Shakespeare Festivals and Regional an artist and have a dedication to inspiring and sharing • Access to a video recording device Theatres,” Scheppner wrote. “A dear friend I met at the their experience and expertise with our young students.” he (separate from the one mentioned above). A Idaho Shakespeare Festival, David Anthony Smith, told said. “Theater education is especially important right now phone with a video camera will work great. me about Ellen Geer and the Theatricum. He had played because there is a real depression that I am seeing in young • Parents may need to help our younger several roles, including Hamlet at the Theatricum, and told people as they deal with this pandemic. I think that theatre campers with their home recordings. me about the amazing work that was happening there. I education is a great way for them to get to express themselves auditioned and was cast as Bassanio in The Merchant and what they are experiencing during this difficult time. In For more information and to register: of Venice (alongside Alan Blumenfeld as Shylock) and many ways, I see what we do as Art Therapy.”n theatre31.com.
August 7, Vol. 1 No. 4 11 Zodiac Dogs Hey Baby(dog)! What’s your sign? Kait Leonard
The Dog Days of Summer span from July 3 to August 11, 2020. Let’s celebrate the Dog Star, Sirius, by checking out what the heavens have to say about our own pooches. If you don’t know your dog’s birthdate, read each sign. If the description sounds familiar, you can be pretty sure you’ve found your dog’s sign.
WHAT THE ZODIAC REVEALS ABOUT YOUR POOCH Aries (March 21-April 19) – Represented by the ram and ruled by Mars, the planet of courage and combat. Think leader of the pack. These ram-like pooches will need to be trained by a patient but firm hand. They can be bullies or they can be leaders. Which one you share your life with has a lot to do with early training. Aries dogs want to go on adventures, get physical, prove their courage. Hiking the trails, off-leash running, and ultimate frisbee prove to be tons of fun, but serious training, like carrying the family’s items in a backpack, guarding their people or home, and protection work will suit them nicely as well.
Taurus (April 20-May 20—Represented by the bull and ruled by Venus, the planet of love, beauty, and physical comfort. These dogs love to love and they want all the comforts, fine food, a cozy bed, and even a beautiful collar. They are also practical and dependable, but they have the Stella the Taurus appreciates life’s simple pleasures. reputation as being one of the most stubborn signs of the
The Backyard Astronomer: The Dog Days of Summer By Eric Fitzgerald latitudes of our little planet is caused by the tilt of bright, blue star like Sirius A before blowing up Earth’s rotational axis in relation to the plane of our into a red supergiant, consuming most of its atomic The dog days of summer are upon us. Those orbit around the Sun. When we reach that time of fuel and collapsing back into a white dwarf. Very steaming days in August when the warmth of the year when our hemisphere points toward the Sun, the patriotic, Sirius B—it’s been red, white and blue, or spring and early summer wears out its welcome and days are longer and hotter. blue, red and white in turn. the heat can become downright oppressive. The term Sirius is not one star at all, but actually two stars. So, as the sultry dog days wear on this summer, “dog days” has its roots in astronomy. The majority of stars we can see in the night sky are remember the Dog Star for which they are named The brightest star in the sky is Sirius, the Dog binary systems of two or more stars. Sirius A is twice and look for Sirius’ glittering white light low in the Star. Sirius is so-called the Dog Star because it is also as massive as our sun and 25 times more luminous. southeast sky just before dawn. n the brightest star in constellation Canis Major, or So, Sirius is much bigger and more luminous than the the Big Dog. The Big Dog can be found nipping at Sun and very close to us. No wonder the Dog Star Questions, comments or stellar observations the heels of the Hunter, Orion. Orion is perhaps the blazes so brightly in our winter sky. for The Backyard Astronomer? most recognizable winter constellation. If Orion and Sirius B is a white dwarf star that was once a Email: [email protected]. Canis Major are winter constellations, why then, you may ask, are they associated with the sweltering days of summer? The answer lies in the fact that our Sun inhabits the winter stars in the summer which is why we obviously can’t see them in the summer. As we spiral through the year, the upcoming season’s stars start to appear briefly in the sky just before dawn, ahead of the rising Sun. The dawn is like the “coming attractions” trailers for the next two seasons of stars and constellations. When a star first becomes visible before dawn in the course of the year, it is called the heliacal rising of that star. Given that Sirius is the brightest star in the sky, the Dog Star’s heliacal rising has been carefully noted by faithful sky-watchers throughout history. It wasn’t lost on our ancestors that Sirius’ heliacal rising coincided with the scorching days of the waning summer. The ancient Greeks and others believed that the combination of the Sun and Sirius’ energy caused the unpleasantly hot weather. The ancient Greeks knew the star as Seírios or “Scorcher.” The reappearance of the Dog Star in our morning sky also occurs just as the Nile River regularly floods each year, so Sirius’ heliacal rising was a red-letter day on the ancient Egyptian calendar. While the Dog Star is so bright and one of our nearest neighbors in space at 8.6 light years, there is no meaningful heat added to our summer from its energy. The warmth of summer in the temperate
12 August 7, Vol. 1 No. 4 zodiac. Like Aries, they do best with consistent training. no matter the size of the pup, this cannot be tolerated. Aquarius (January 21-February 20—Represented by the They like regular routines. Don’t worry about providing They also tend to be jealous, so they do best in single water bearer and ruled by Uranus, the planet of freedom a variety of toys or food. They enjoy going into nature, so pet families. These canine companions get stressed and independence. This is the sign of the rebel. These hiking and trips to the park will get tails wagging, but just easily and need plenty of daily exercise. When handled dogs want to go their own way. If you say, “No digging!” snuggling on the couch with plenty of petting and treats correctly, Scorpios love time with their favorite you won’t have to search long to find holes in the yard. is paradise to the loving Taurean. human, especially when the activities are kept low-key. Train, train, train. Depending on the breed, Aquarians Advanced obedience training will stimulate them and can do well in team activities like flyball, relay, or even Gemini (May 21-June 20)—Represented by the twins keep them in check without causing too much anxiety. herding. This is also the dog that could enjoy being on the and ruled by Mercury, the planet of communication surfboard with you. They love other animals, all kinds of and travel. These furry friends are sociable, talkative Sagittarius (November 21-December 20)—Represented animals, so bring in that guinea pig you’ve been longing (think of those yappers) and smart. They keep everyone by the archer and ruled by Jupiter, the planet of expansion, for. Don’t get hurt feelings if your dog doesn’t always laughing and count on their people to provide tons of exaggeration, and generosity. These happy dogs want want cuddles. They need time alone to recharge, so they fun and an ever-changing menu of activities. They also to travel far and wide. Take them on trips and find can come back and amaze you with their brilliance. want to greet every person and dog they meet, so make opportunities where they can run free, but not too free. sure they are well socialized as puppies. This will give These pooches tend to take off and just keep going. It’s not Pisces (February 20-March 20)—Represented by the them the skills they need to maintain positive canine that they want to run away from you. It’s just that like the fish and ruled by Neptune, the planet of idealism and relationships. Channel their curiosity and energy into arrow being released from the archer’s bow, they want to spiritual union. These sensitive souls live to cuddle. sports like agility, flyball, or scent tracking and don’t fly free. They can also be so enthusiastic they break social They are empathic and will feel all your emotions, so overlook the simple things like taking them on errands, etiquette rules, which can make other dogs angry. To keep they don’t do well in chaotic environments and don’t do letting them run, and arranging doggie playdates. them safe, start training the recall (“come”) command well with rambunctious children. In the right setting, from the second you bring your pal into your life. (Pro tip: like adult wards of hospitals and senior homes, they Cancer (June 21-July 22)—Represented by the crab This is not as easy as some people think. Get professional can make brilliant therapy dogs. They enjoy activities and ruled by the Moon, the planet of emotion and advice to get started.) Having a Saggi that will come on like doggie dancing and canine yoga but don’t let their nurturing. Cancerians are sensitive souls who probably command will help ensure they don’t run away if they sweetness fool you. They have an independent streak prefer to stay close to home, although they will venture escape the leash, and it can help bring them back when and use stealth when they want to break a rule but out as long as they feel secure with their favorite person. other dogs look like they’ve had enough. These sociable when they do, get ready for the eyes of remorse when Those born under this sign can be prone to anxiety, and pups do well in multi-pet households, so feel free to you catch them. “fear biting” can be a problem. Cancer canines need to incorporate another fur-baby into the family. be conditioned from the time they’re puppies to accept In honor of Sirius, the original dog star, the long the absence of the pet parent and to be okay when Capricorn (December 21-January 20)—Represented dog days provide canine lovers everywhere extra they go into unknown places. Avoid over-coddling, by the mountain goat and ruled by Saturn, the planet of time to deepen their relationships and find new ways as this will only reinforce fear, but don’t hold back on discipline, ambition, and boundaries. These dogs love of honoring their fur friend’s unique gifts. Flyball the physical affection. This pet is easy to please. Just rules, so they love training. They can become nervous if probably won’t start up again until our world returns to hanging out with the family is all the party necessary. they don’t understand what’s going on. Bringing a new something that resembles normal, but the trails are just puppy into the home can be a problem because Cappies waiting to be explored and doggie dance lessons can be Leo (July 23-August 22)—Represented by the Lion and don’t like it when others misbehave. They might take found on YouTube. Samba anyone? n ruled by the Sun, the planet of personal identity, the the little one’s training into their own paws. If you ego, and authority. These dogs like to shine. They have do incorporate a puppy or kitten into the household, Kait Leonard is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst, who energy to burn, and one way or another, they’re going move slowly when introducing, supervise closely, and applies research-based techniques to train dogs and other to find ways to burn it. They want to play. They want to make sure you teach the youngster how to respect his animals. She is also a professional psychic who gazes at compete. Their strong wills can be either an asset or a or her Cappy elder. These intense characters do well the stars, Tarot cards, and a crystal ball to provide a wide problem, depending on how they’re managed. Leo pups with activities that give them a purpose, like carrying a range of astrological and spiritual services. She will be need to start obedience training as early as possible. It backpack, guarding, or protecting. They may also enjoy contributing a monthly astrology column (for humans) will harness their physical and mental energy but don’t hiking the trails but above and beyond all else, they love starting in September. Her website and YouTube channel, stop with puppy classes. These pooches want to show off the rules of advanced obedience. Stir the Cauldron, will be launching in August. their skills. Consider activities like guard dog training, tracking, and even fun sports like flyball, dancing, and agility. The worst thing you can do with Leo pups is ignore them. Leaving these dogs in the backyard all day will lead to neurotic behavior and property destruction.
Virgo (August 23-September 22)—Represented by the virgin (but think fussy schoolmarm) and ruled by Mercury. Like Leo, Virgos want to be in charge, but their way of taking control is to manipulate. You know those puppy dog eyes kids make? Get ready to see where that expression came from. These picky pups tend to be finicky eaters, choosy about toys, and will only go on walks in one direction. Why? Because that’s the right way to do it. Obvi! These dogs can also be talkative. Training them to accept changes in the environment, like taking different routes on outings, playing fetch with a different ball, and even offering different treats, will prevent rigidity. Beyond that, they do well with all activities that keep their minds active, so search-and-retrieval and advanced obedience training suit them well.
Libra (September 21-October 20)—Represented by the scales and ruled by Venus. These pooches are Bowie, the Aquarian, loves everyone often physically attractive, flirtatious and social, but sometimes also indecisive and a bit scattered. They require positive, consistent training, and their tendency to distraction means you need to be patient. It’s not that they lack intelligence, but rather that they flit from one idea to the next. They want to be with you everywhere you go, and they want to interact with everyone they meet. Socialize them early with people and other dogs. It is important they learn to greet others appropriately. They love the outdoors, so they adore walks on trails where interaction with nature, people, and fellow fur babies all come together. They also enjoy lunch at that trendy outdoor café. You know. The one where all the other beautiful people are hanging out.
Scorpio (October 21-November 20)—Represented by the scorpion and ruled by Pluto, the planet of obsession, transformation, and even violence. These pooch pals can be tough and need humans who are up to the job of bringing out their best. Socialize and train throughout life. They can have a tendency toward aggression, and This competitive fly-ball champ shows Leo at his best
August 7, Vol. 1 No. 4 13 Christin Karr with her Service Dog, Ralfie According to its manager, Malibu’s Marmalade Cafe sees many fake service animals. Service Dog Fraud
By Judith Brister Meanwhile, if a restaurant employee confronts the Karr’s service dog, Ralfie, is expected to follow owner of a service animal they believe to be fake they specific protocol in public, according to his training. Malibu businesses are facing a puppy are subject to a $2,500 dollar fine if the animal is in “He’s invisible,” Karr said. “He’s a fly on the fact genuine. Because of this, most restaurants will not wall. He doesn’t move. He doesn’t sniff around. He problem as patrons continuously commit push beyond “Is that a service animal?” although the shouldn’t be looking at things. His only focus should service dog fraud, bringing untrained law does allow one more follow-up question, “What b e m e .” Fidos into restaurants and bars. service does it provide?” When in restaurants, the protocol is similar. Malibu’s Marmalade Cafe sees many fake service “They have to be on the floor off of the tables,” Due to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), animals. “I know that 90 percent of people lie to me Ramos said. “They technically are supposed to be those with service dogs are entitled to bring them because their dogs will be barking and on the chairs, working animals. They’re not supposed to be fed or eat places without presenting documentation of their sitting on their lap, and licking our plates,” said General while they’re at the restaurant. They’re supposed to be disability. The flipside of this is that people without Manager Laura Lee Seimears. helping people.” disabilities can bring their dogs to places and expect Despite popular opinion, service dog fraud is not It is very obvious when someone lies about their not to be questioned. a victimless crime, service dog owner Christin Karr dog,” Seimers said. “Service dogs are trained not to Kaya Ramos, manager of three Malibu Restaurants said. bark or beg. When a dog misbehaves even a little, it including Ollo, Bui Sushi, and Ollie’s Duck and Dive, “It’s very frustrating and it’s actually a danger to my gives itself away.” n says he handles service dog fraud daily. dog because oftentimes people will have their [fake] “Going to the bathroom in the restaurant has service dog in public and it’s aggressive,” Karr said. Editor’s Note: Ms. Brister, a graduating student at happened before,” Ramos said. “We’ve had dogs bite “My dog is not replaceable. That’s a minimum of a Pepperdine last May, wrote this as an intern for the servers before, dogs fighting with other dogs, which year-and-a-half of training.” Messenger Mountain News when the COVID-19 in turn usually causes conflict between the owners or Service animal vests are freely available for purchase pandemic changed our lives. Consequently, it was never management and the owners of the dogs.” on Amazon with no documentation required, making published when MMN suspended publication. While According to California Penal Code 365.7, it easier than ever to commit service animal fraud. restaurants and bars are closed for the most part, that service dog fraud is “knowingly and fraudulently “People will just slap a service dog vest on their setting does not apply, but service dog fraud remains a representing yourself, verbally or in writing, to be the dog and call it a service dog and it’s like that’s not reality. It seemed appropriate to publish it in our Dog owner or trainer of a Service dog.” If a customer lies fair because it creates problems for those of us who Days of Summer theme. Brister is safely ensconced about their dog, they are committing a misdemeanor actually need the service dogs,” Karr said. “We in Texas with her grandmother where they are, like fraud punishable by up to six months in jail and/or a are questioned constantly and they give us a bad us, riding out the pandemic. We thank her for her $1,000 fine. reputation.” contribution.
14 August 7, Vol. 1 No. 4 Dog days of summer
Dogs In Topanga Memory’s Fool
These spirits, these fakers, Dancer, when I open adventurers out to filch your crate in the morning a bone, a bowl of water, treats, and scratch under your cheek, can charm you to death with their your long pink tongue playfulness, coyness, flirting, unfurls itself on my wrist. their wisdom, their knowing sometimes it is more than right, You came to me starving, bleeding, shaved, simply, gloriously, to lie down, now everyone calls you “Fluff Ball.” do nothing and be. Four inches of white obscure your shape, but I know who you are— I wear your perfume on my wrist. Dog Spirit The first year, when I called, My neighbor’s Black Lab I’d shout your name, again and Holds up his right front paw again, screaming down the ravine, And will not step on it, it’s hurt and still you wouldn’t come, And then that little pup just walks around On three legs only--walking!-- and now you seem to take a joy Walking, as a matter of course, in running to me when I call. Not about to take this lying down, Perhaps you smell your perfume on my wrist. Oh, no, instead, Resolved to get around, And live his life No matter what. Jane Marla Robbins enjoys licks and laughs from her dog, Dancer.
From Dogs in Topanga 2000-2018 (Shining Tree Press ©2019) by Jane Marla Robbins
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The SAMO Fund Thanks Its Online Donors By Annemarie Donkin seniors from select high schools to apply for a salaried mentorship program, where they learn Top Ten Reasons to The Santa Monica Mountains Fund directly from NPS mentors how to maintain trails, conduct plant and wildlife research and Visit SMMNRA supports mountain lion research protect the mountains. Escape Los Angeles’ urban jungle to and preservation, fish, wildlife, “This year, due to COVID-19, we have invited find truly wild places. native plants and vital youth 11 students from Ventura and Los Angeles for an n Enjoy the mild Mediterranean eight-week youth mentoring program,” she said. programs inside the largest urban climate, one of five such rare places in “It’s a smaller version of the program running the world. this year—safe and social-distanced—that gives national park in the United States. n Relax at the Visitor’s Center at King young people a job during the summer.” Gillette Ranch right in the heart of the “Love Our Parks” was the theme for a fun, upbeat Santa Monica Mountains. online presentation and silent auction hosted by A National Recreation Area the Santa Monica Mountains Fund (SAMO) on Hidden in plain sight from Greater Los n Marvel at the Milky Way at night. July 24 to raise money for research, wildlife and Angeles, the Santa Monica Mountains National n Climb a mountain, soak your feet in youth programs. Recreation Area (SMMRNA) is a 153,000-acre the Pacific Ocean, eat a fish taco…all According to its organizers, all proceeds from national park that stretches from the Hollywood before noon. the event will go to the general fund of the Santa Bowl to Ventura County and a coastline that n Step back in time and discover what Monica Mountains Fund to help support local stretches from Santa Monica to Point Mugu. Southern California looked like wildlife, outdoor education for high school youth King Gillette Ranch, which was funded by before major urban development. and children in under-served communities, and constructed on 588 acres for the National n Learn how Native American maintain trails, and nurture propagation of native Park Service (NPS), California State Parks, the communities lived in the mountains plants and trees in the Park. Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy, and for more than 10,000 years. “I want to thank everyone who supported our the Mountains Recreation and Conservation event and who values this amazing resource—the Authority, in a building that was repurposed n Explore more than 500 miles of largest urban national park in the country,” said from the former horse stable for the Gillette trails available for hikers, runners, Charlotte Parry, Executive Director of the SAMO Mansion to serve an anticipated 35 million mountain bikers, and equestrians. Fund, to all those who contributed to the event to annual visitors. n n See wildlife like bobcats, quail, raise most of its goal of $50,000. coyotes, dolphins, and maybe even Under Parry’s guidance, the fund has To donate or for more information about the elusive mountain lion. contributed more than $1 million to fund mountain lion research, SMMRNA and the n Did we mention our perfect weather National Park Services Programs for three of the SAMO fund, go to: (https://samofund.org/santa- and year-round recreation? last four years. monica-mountains-wildlife-preservation/). “We raise a lot of the money that contributes The Visitor Center is located at 26876 Mulholland Courtesy of the National Park Service For to the park,” Parry said of the SAMO fund. “It has Highway, Calabasas, CA 91302; (805) 370-2301 more information, go to nps.gov grown…we receive income from a wide range of sources including grants and programs. The donations are just one source of income; we very much appreciate that the public appreciates the work and wants to support it.”
SAMO Programs Parry said she wanted to share some of the SAMO fund’s particularly interesting programs, such as wildlife preservation, mountain lion protection, numerous educational programs, and myriad hiking and biking opportunities in the mountains. According to Parry, SAMO has been funding the vital mountain lion research for about 20 years and supports the proposed Wildlife Crossing over the 101 Freeway in Agoura Hills. “These programs inspire us in what we do,” she said. Parry said that each year, its Summer Youth Program invites 22 college-oriented juniors and Photos Courtesy flickr.com/photos/santamonicamtns
August 7, Vol. 1 No. 4 17 covid-19 A COVID Diary—Coping with COVID-19
By Jean Colonomos horrible tasting drink, throw up and have diarrhea for Ann Coulter or Sean Hannity but I’ll order anything. I the next three hours, then repeat this regime every day. keep forgetting to add “The Splendid and the Vile,” by I began writing this daily diary out of a need to keep At some point three pills a day worked and after twenty Eric Larson, to our best-selling books. It really resonates connected to my family, friends, acquaintances where years of drug development, there’s one pill a day.” with readers as he describes a horrific situation (the some have become friends, and to the outside world. Blitz) but portrays a unifying and inspiring leader. It It’s a joy to be in contact with people in many states, July 24 just keeps selling.” England, and France. What I write about on any given Washington Post has published Alexandria Ocasio- day is based on what hits me at the moment. I thank Cortez’s eloquent and powerful rebuff of Republican July 28 all the contributors who enrich my days during this House member Ted Yoho’s apology for his verbal abuse We mourn the death of African American civil difficult time. to her on our nation’s Capitol steps. The press recorded rights leader, John Lewis, who practiced nonviolence the assault. Hers is moment of light in defense of male and endured many beatings and jail time. His sacrifices July 15 verbal abuse targeting women. I see Icarus in AOC. She showed us how our country needed to change. Email from Dede: “Last Saturday I decided to iron takes up the challenge, flies to the danger-ridden Apollo Representative John Lewis spent his life fighting for most of the day and listen to music. I don’t need that male sun. The taking of the risk is itself a triumph, justice, created a better America by invoking Democracy’s many ironed napkins, but it was soul-calming to know which is Jack Gilbert’s point in his poem, Failing and better self. Though voter suppression is still widespread, they are deeply pressed for the next dinner party of Flying. The first line is: “Everyone forgets that Icarus John Lewis never stopped working for it. eight. (Never!)” also flew.” Wall of Moms is a nationwide collective of activist Poem from Anita M.: Touch Nothing/How are Moms currently visible in Portland, Oregon. They link you she asks/From across the road/One foot pointed July 26 arms to form a human barricade between protesters toward/Her fuzzy white dog/the other toward a quick A good omen. Jupiter sextiles Neptune tomorrow. and federal agents. Sometimes they sing lullabies. Some getaway/Not bad for a/Geriatric liability/possible These two positive change-inducing planetary hand out sunflowers. Some wear respirators, gas masks, casualty/I say/I’m holding in place/I do wish I would connections promote deep reflection. Dreams of and helmets, and some carry leaf blowers to redirect stop/Washing my hands/Peering through blinds/At the harmony and growth take center stage now. It’s a time the tear gas federal agents have used. They chant, “Feds silent street/but I can’t/I have no patience for questions/ to revisit our dreams and make them real or make steer clear, the moms are here,” and “Mama, Mama.” I’m squeezed tight/There is no place to set my glass/ amendments to them. George Floyd’s final plea while white policeman, Derek No one to hold my hand. My daughter comes to California in eleven days, Chauvin, cut off Floyd’s air supply for eight minutes and From Mariam manager of Velvet in Brentwood, a this state leading the country in corona virus cases. I’m forty-six seconds. clothing store for women and men. She tells me that in scared. Sometimes I consult the I Ching for messages. Praise for Topanga Creek’s General Store owners Dallas’ Velvet store, it now requires customers to wear I wonder what it’ll tell me today. Maybe I’ll look Helen and Simon. When the pandemic first hit and masks at all times. People can try on clothes there— tomorrow. essentials were gone from big stores’ shelves, our though not in Brentwood—but the male manager Mary Trump’s book sold 950,000 copies the General Store had plenty of these items. When I’m makes sure the room curtains stay open because face first day. John Bolton’s memoir, “The Room Where in the store, Helen often shows me a new sanitizing coverings must be worn as this state has among the it Happened,” sold over 780,000 copies the first product to check if I have enough sanitizers. The other highest coronavirus cases. Shocked, Mariam asks, week. Some book sellers have objections to carrying day I was buying the wrong size throw away gloves and “You mean the women don’t mind being naked?” Bolton’s book. Bob Lingle, owner of Off the Beaten Helen ran back to get the small. I appreciate the store’s “No,” he replies. Path Bookstore in Lakewood, N.Y., who only took welcoming atmosphere. pre-orders says: “If people want to give me money Another shop is The Canyon Gourmet. Owner July 23 for the book, I will take their money. But I’m not a Peter [Kagan], buys from organic open market sellers, Excitement today was when my hairdresser, Andre, fan of a man who, when he had the opportunity to do seduces us with fresh produce and heaven-sent cut my hair outside. We were surrounded by trees and something, did nothing and is now trying to profit breads like baguettes, fruit breads, and whole wheat Topanga’s clear mountain air. off his experience.” Two stores in Portland, ME, and sourdoughs. They carry meat, American and European From L.: “It costs 2.8 billion dollars to develop a one in Rosendale, NY don’t stock the book and won’t cheeses, and the emporium feels like I’m in France. The new drug. The rate of approval for a new one is less accept special orders. These owners echo Bob Lingle’s workers are head manager Cieran (hard C), Rian, Joe, than 12%.” We segue into the fact that there wasn’t a complaint. and Karen, among others. When I leave, I love when vaccine for HIV, also a SARS virus. “During the cure’s From Bloomsbury Books in Ashland, Oregon: they open the door for their customers, easing our way first stage, one of my housemates had to swallow this Sheila emails: “I won’t stock certain books including back to the outside world. n
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18 August 7, Vol. 1 No. 4 I’m Isolated for Health, and Addicted to Law & Order Should I be Worried?
COVID19 By Jane Marla Robbins a way to balance my Life. To heal. So much of what we see outside makes many of us sick. And disgusted. i When I understood the seriousness of the And outraged. These shows may not be everyone’s best The sun doesn’t know Coronavirus, I took to my bed. I don’t know how many road to healing but this seems to work for me. At least episodes of Law & Order a person can watch in a day. I in the episodes I see, when people get shot, injured, or there’s a coronavirus. haven’t counted. But I’m grateful for the original series sick, they are taken to hospitals and given immediate He shows up daily – and the spinoffs. At least I haven’t been rushing out to assistance. Tests. Care. not burning, but smiling, get a video, getting sick, and dying. And each show’s DA, ADA, the detectives, the warming. Day and night, even before I go to sleep, I watch the police—they all say what they mean and do what show. A certifiable addict. It’s not just that watching TV they promise. (Though not always if they’re talking to If you listen, he tells you is apparently a balm for our brainwaves. It’s the show. criminals. Democrats take note.) Who would not want People warn me that all the violence, blood, and deaths to live in such a parallel universe, where, in practically he’ll be here tomorrow will give me nightmares. How could these shows help every episode, Justice and Goodness triumph? and next week me sleep, they wonder. Not that anyone is sleeping all Plus, the series is well-written, intelligent. I am and a thousand years from now. that well these days, anyway. hungry for Intelligent. Not an administration that I’m not alone. It turns out hundreds of us are changes its mind from day to day and says inoculating ii hunkered down in front of our TVs. Prisoners. And us with disinfectant will get rid of the virus. Not smart. we all feel a little guilty, or embarrassed, or stupid for I love that even the old episodes deal with thought- The mustard flowers on the side of the road watching. I’m actually a little shocked and disappointed provoking issues that are still relevant. Racism; elder don’t know about it. in myself for not reading well-written novels, or stories, abuse; powerful people who are sure they can get away It’s only early March and still, a few showers before I go to sleep. with the crimes they commit. And on and on. The and they’ve rushed out like an army. Many of the addicts, like me, are single women regulars’ minds are all creative, their sense of humor living alone, possibly lonely, with no man in their bed. smart, even ironic or sardonic; their wisdom grounded, They only wash their hands But now, in my bedroom, on my 36-inch screen, are or homespun. of all the panic men, and a few women, many even in uniform, all They all have integrity, moral compasses, unlike and wait for rain. “fighting for right.” All smart. All kind. It’s certainly what we too often see in the news—senators making better than sleeping alone (or with someone not smart illegal millions from the virus, with information they iii or kind). And in the news there are, alas, a lot of people got before the rest of the country. A president letting not smart, not kind, not fighting for right. hospital workers go without masks and protection. My neighbors’ bougainvillea flowers I’ve seen so many shows, the cast is now very How many weeks ago did we hear, “Everybody can get only know the brilliant fuchsia of their faces familiar. Family, you might say. Awake or asleep, it’s a test!”? And still, not everybody can. which shine in sunlight, mirrors good to have family around. It feels like home. Home, Of course I sleep better after watching the shows. I of our own amazing light. where you go to feel safe. And be safe. And loved. And watch their nurses saving lives, instead of real hospital well. In a time of sickness, “well” is good. nurses exhausted and in danger; and the bad guys get Plus I love the show’s regulars. I love—how they caught. That’s what I want to see before I go to sleep. By Jane Marla Robbins look and talk and think. Love is healing. Good feelings So I sleep. I wake. I watch. I sleep. I wake. I watch. are healing. Just smiling produces a chemical in our I heal. bodies that strengthens our immune systems. So we And finally, little by little, I begin to wean myself get stronger when we love. A kind and loving husband off the show. I start to write this article. I even write a might be nice; but in his absence, this seems to be short poem about the virus, send it to people I know. helping. My articles and poems, I realize, are nothing but my Because now, in the Age of the Coronavirus, the experience put into some kind of Order. old laws and order of my body and my mind are People write me that they are comforted by the chaotic. It isn’t easy keeping up with the new Rules poem. This comforts me. Maybe most because it makes of Survival. Stay six feet away from other humans me feel that I am, in some way, helping other people (and we’re pack animals). Learn what to spray, how get through this horrific time, people who, like me, are to spray, and how soon to spray — everything from hungry for more Law. And Order n cardboard, to metal, to vegetables, to ME. And the data keeps changing. Jane Marla Robbins is an essayist, Los Angeles Times, When should I wear rubber gloves, when take them author of Acting Techniques for Everyday Life and off? Where to put them when I do take them off, and Poems of the Laughing Buddha. The poem mentioned where to put the clean gloves so I can remember where above can be found at JaneMarlaRobbins.com. they are? Of course I miss the Old Order. Jane’s postal address: 20621 Callon Drive, Topanga, CA I don’t only watch these shows for the company. It’s 90290. 310-455-1579
Topanga Christian Fellowship “The Little Church That Could”
310-455-1048 topangachristianfellowship.org 269 Old Topanga Canyon • Topanga, CA 90290
August 7, Vol. 1 No. 4 19 Sniffing Dogs and Covid By Paula LaBrot us for the better. The old truism, “We 94 percent of the time. Try and write ready and Covid-19 sniffer dogs are shape our tools, and afterward our tools an algorithm for that. already at work in airports in the United I love dogs, so, it is a great pleasure shape us,” dogs have made us better. Arab Emirates. At the University of to bring this information to you, dear FURTHER STUDIES Helsinki, researchers are using urine readers. ON THE FRONT LINES Further studies on canine samples to detect Covid-19 and, again, Roger Caras, American wildlife OF THE COVID FIGHT identification of Covid 19 from saliva the dogs can pick up a positive result photographer, wildlife preservationist, So, here we are, in the middle of samples have been done in England and days before symptoms show up. writer and television personality, the worst pandemic since 1918, and in the United States. Dr. Claire Guest once wrote, “Dogs have given us their who is fighting it with us? Dogs! At of the British Medical Detection Dog DOG VERSUS MACHINE absolute all. We are the center of their The current testing for Covid 19 universe. We are the focus of their love takes several days right now, even up to a and faith and trust. They serve us in week or ten days to get results because of return for scraps. It is without a doubt overloaded labs. Dogs take 30 seconds. the best deal man has ever made.” Most dogs who will work for treats can They have helped us in war and be trained as a sniffer dog. That nose! peace, and, wouldn’t you know, they “The sense of smell that dogs have are right there on the front lines of the is millions or even billions of times Covid19 Pandemic wars. Yes, dogs! better than the machines that are used In the high-tech, data-driven Covid- to look for molecules. The dogs can testing medical world, it turns out find molecules in extremely small that dogs seem to be able to sniff out- concentration,” says Professor Anna patients who test positive for the virus. Hielm Bjorkman of The University of Helsinki (Finland). “For example, if you A LITTLE HISTORY had a glass of water containing between According to petguide.com, your one and 100 molecules of whatever “dog actually has two air passages, one you’re looking for, a dog could find for breathing and one for smelling. As it, whereas the best types of machine your dog inhales, the air coming in is detection systems would need 18 million separated by a flap and 12 percent of molecules.” Think of how much faster it is directed into a special smelling and so much cheaper it is to be tested by chamber. This area is filled with a sniffer dog than in a laboratory! hundreds of tiny compartments that sift through the odor molecules, breaking THE NOSE KNOWS down the air itself to detect even the From sniffing out Covid-19 slightest traces of odor.” Humans have to cancer, Parkinsons, malaria, taken advantage of dogs’ sense of smell bombs, drugs, currency, contraband since their relationship began. electronics, firearms, fugitives, etc., Penn State anthropologist Professor right down to little lost children, dogs Pat Shipman talks about humans’ early continue to be humans’ best friend. connections with dogs “tracking game, One of the Helsinki sniffer dogs, Kossi, destroying rodents, protecting kin and the University of Hannover Medical Charity, has a Cocker Spaniel named was found on the side of a road stuffed goods, providing wool for warmth, School in Germany, dogs were able Asher who, along with five other “Super in a box in Spain. He was brought moving humans and goods over long to discriminate among saliva samples Six Covid Dogs, ” has been stationed at home with his researcher and became distances, and (even) providing milk to infected with Sars and non-infected airports and is able to detect the odor a brilliant dog serving humanity. human infants.” Best of all, they love us. samples. Why not try it with Covid-19? of Covid 19 before people even show You can’t cuddle an algorithm or According to Time Magazine, it CNBC reports, “To conduct the symptoms. Professor Dr. Maren Von a mechanical sensor or a test kit. You turns out that Canis Lupus Familiaris, study, researchers trained eight dogs Köckritz-Blickwede of the University get it all with a dog. Be kind to these the domestic dog, carries, “on from Germany’s Armed Forces for Veterinary Medicine Hannover says, beautiful animals as we continue to Chromosome Six in particular, three one week. The trained dogs sniffed “We think this works because metabolic evolve into the future together. Let us genes that code for hyper-sociability— the saliva of more than 1,000 people processes in the body of a diseased know if you have any great stories of and they are in the same spot as similar that were either healthy or infected patient are completely changed, and we your dog to share with us. genes linked to sweetness in humans.” with the virus. Samples infected with think that the dogs are able to detect a Vamos a ver! n Humans have had a parallel evolution Covid-19 were distributed at random specific smell of the metabolic changes with dogs, Megan Garbar, writing and neither the dog handlers nor the that occur in those patients.” Paula LaBrot is a 30-year resident for The Atlantic, wrote, “dogs were an researchers on site knew which ones Similar programs are popping up of Topanga, a futurist with a special evolutionary technology, they may were positive.” The dogs were able to around the world. The University of interest in the uncharted waters of have been a technology that changed identify the Covid-19 saliva samples Pennsylvania has an eight-dog team cyberspace.
20 August 7, Vol. 1 No. 4 health
Dr. Bret Feldman, MSPAS, PA-C, doing an examination on the street. Photo provided by Brett Feldman, Director of Street Medicine at the Keck School The street medicine team from Keck School of Medicine of USC getting ready to go out. of Medicine Photo provided by Brett Feldman
Dr. Susan Partovi, Medical Director of Homeless Healthcare Los Angeles, and nurse treating a patient on the street. Photo provided by Dr. Partovi Dr. Coley King treating patient on the street. Photo provided by Venice Family Clinic Providing House Calls to the Unhoused By Kait Leonard has a similar philosophy. “I try to build trust. That’s with other people and with the virus. where it all starts,” she says. Partovi describes seeing “Our mission since COVID-19 is much more urgent Medical teams bring old-fashioned a man slumped on a filthy mattress on a sidewalk in and defined, and that is finding people with symptoms, Koreatown. Dirt, necrotic skin, and oozing sores covered contacting public health, and getting them transferred house calls to unsheltered homeless his legs. From several feet away, she smelled human to quarantine,” says King. The second priority is communities. waste. “It was nasty,” says Partovi, Medical Director of identifying people in high-risk groups, people over 65 Homeless Healthcare Los Angeles. “I look for the sickest, and those with serious health conditions, and getting Back in the day, when patients couldn’t get to the most isolated person, and then I see what I can do,” she them into Project Roomkey, a collaboration between doctor’s office, the family physician packed up a little says. “The visit on the street can open doors to getting the State, County, and Los Angeles Homeless Services black bag and brought the medicine to the home. them additional help. It’s the start of a relationship.” Authority to place those at risk in motel or hotel rooms. Today, street medical teams follow that model, taking Clearly, house calls have changed in many ways As Los Angelenos do their best to maintain social primary care services to the unsheltered, no matter since their heyday in the 1930s. Even the reasons for distance and follow other safety precautions, street where they call home. Examining and treating people patients needing to be seen where they live are different. medicine carries on. With little thought to their own on the streets of Skid Row, on freeway embankments “Our patients can’t come to us because of physical well-being, these medical specialists continue to make and under highways, can be tricky during the best of disability, mental disability, transportation issues, and house calls throughout the county, bringing treatment, times, and these aren’t the best of times. the need to protect their lifelong belongings that will resources, and compassion to the most vulnerable The pandemic has forced street teams to adjust be stolen if left unattended,” explains Dr. Coley King, citizens. their practices to keep their patients and themselves Director of Homeless Health Care at Venice Family What happens next? Project Roomkey has taken safe. This has come at a great cost according to Brett Clinic. It isn’t only these practical hardships that keep thousands of people off the streets and placed them in Feldman, Director of Street Medicine at the Keck unhoused people out of more traditional medical temporary shelters. What will happen as the city returns School of Medicine. “Medical care comes after love. settings. Many simply don’t trust the system. “Especially to something more like normal? “People are indoors,” Now we have to try and keep our physical distance. IV drug users who often get treated like crap when they says King. “Let’s keep them in there.” He worries that Wearing masks and gloves, it’s really hard to make that go in to be seen,” says Partovi. these men and women, still among the most vulnerable intimate connection we strive for,” he says. Since the onset of COVID-19, ensuring care for in the unhoused population, will be returned to the Feldman’s crew is trying to overcome this problem people living on the streets, in the alleys, and on freeway streets when the current crisis passes. Right now, this by learning to make their eyes as expressive as possible. embankments has become even more urgent. Though question remains unanswered. Sadly, they haven’t found a way to offer the hugs they “in a cruel way, the vast majority were already physically One thing we know for sure, some people will usually dole out freely. “Most of the people on the distanced, living in small encampments and having little continue to live unsheltered for the foreseeable future. streets haven’t been touched in many years other than contact with the outside world,” says Feldman. It isn’t And because of this, teams of dedicated medical out of anger,” says Feldman. His whole team will be possible for the unhoused to stay indoors completely. professionals will continue to make house calls to the happy when they can hug again. The harsh reality of their lives forces them out to take unhoused, providing prescriptions, treatments, and Dr. Susan Partovi, known as the Skid Row Doctor, care of basic necessities, and this brings them in contact hopefully soon, those much-needed hugs. n
August 7, Vol. 1 No. 4 21 TRavel
At Least We Can Dream
By Joseph Rosendo Due to the widespread coronavirus infections in the United States we are not welcomed in most Not willing to let the grass wither under his feet countries and travel on our own is risky. Yet, that during a pandemic quarantine, Joseph Rosendo, doesn’t mean we need to give up our travel hopes award-winning producer and host of Joseph and dreams. Rosendo’s Travelscope, continues his online “Travelscope has been a dream weaver for a long Travelscope magazine, with the summer issue. With time. Through my travel articles, magazine, blogs, nowhere to go, he also fulfilled another dream. podcasts, social media, radio, and television shows, The Short Happy Pursuit “The lockdown allowed me to collect my stories we’ve offered up a world of travel possibilities of Pleasure and Other Journeys written over thirty years for the print version of the that entertain, educate and enlighten. While the magazine. Musings, The Short, Happy Pursuit of challenges are great, now is not the time to back Joseph Rosendo Pleasure and Other Journeys, will be available in away from that mission, but rather to push ahead print and as an ebook on Amazon very soon. with greater optimism and energy. “Musings is a collection of crisp, entertaining, For the latest issue of Travelscope magazine, the humorous, and inspirational stories tightly written content was chosen out of a spirit of anticipation to and drawn from my travel and life experiences. whet your appetites. The festivals, events, resorts, Each tale takes readers on a journey of discovery. restaurants, and destinations were gathered for From travel tips and destination explorations to your consideration now, if possible, or for your exotic adventures and intimate tales, these stories wish lists for better times. will arouse, amuse, and move you. To pre-order your copy: [email protected]. “This is a strange time to be promoting travel. Happy Traveling! n Book Cover design by Nira Lichten Nira by design Cover Book health Stress and Weight Gain By Jane Hammond, PA-C, boss, bills to pay, relationship troubles, this on some of his overworked Hormone Specialist and now this COVID-19 Quarantine. medical students. He found that The same physical process is high cortisol actually changed “Stop nagging me! You forgot your happening as with the caveman. the texture of the student’s lunch! We’re late! Hurry up! Oh no!! The Adrenaline pumps, heart races, cortisol white blood cells, making cat has the hamster!” dumps sugar into the blood…to do them sticky. These sticky Stress! Stress! Stress! It can take over what? Run! But we don’t and the stress cells attach themselves your life and Web MD says it not only response doesn’t end. It continues, day in to blood vessel walls and causes weight gain but is the cause of and day out and does some bad things creates what we call plaque. many chronic diseases. (webmd.com/ to our bodies. It becomes chronic stress. It is what clogs your arteries balance/stress-management/features/10- The adrenal glands produce two and leads to heart attacks. fixable-stress-related-health-problems#1) main stress hormones: adrenaline and Cortisol also raises blood sugar cortisol, both necessary for survival. The and blood pressure, contributing WHAT IS STRESS? problem is when we have too much of to an increased risk of diabetes and Our bodies have not changed much these hormones for too long. other chronic diseases…and weight gain. since the days of the cavemen. Here Normally, cortisol is high in the When cortisol is elevated for a long he is, walking through the forest on morning. It helps us deal with our day time, as it is with chronic stress, several a beautiful day. He sees a tiger and and get things done. By midnight it things happen in the body that can lead Watch tells us: “Exercise reduces levels immediately, adrenaline is pumped into is low so we can sleep. When we have to weight gain. of the body’s stress hormones, such his veins, his heart starts pounding, his chronic stress, however, cortisol can First, it raises our blood sugar. as adrenaline and cortisol.” Even 15 cortisol rises and dumps sugar into his be high all the time. Registered dietitian, Dina Aronson, minutes of walking after a meal can help. blood to prepare him to run. He runs In his book, The Stress Effect, Author explained in her article in Today’s Sleep. Christopher M. Barnes, and runs, outrunning the tiger. When R Weinstein writes, “Cortisol actually Dietitian: “When blood sugar goes up a Professor at the University of he gets safely back to the cave, he helps your body lower inflammation. and down, it sends signals to the brain Washington states, “those in the sleep- laughs and tells all his buddies just how But when the cortisol is too high for that makes us think we are hungry and deprived condition experienced higher fast he ran from the tiger. The stress is too long, it loses this ability. This causes crave more sugar. All that sugar gets levels of stress.” A good night’s sleep of over! The chemicals in his body return inflammation to go wild. Long-term stored as belly fat. at least seven to eight hours helps the to normal. He is safe. He can sleep. chronic inflammation damages blood Remember, when our bodies are body down-regulate and balance the For modern man, the stressors are vessels and brain cells. It leads to diabetes stressed, we are in fight-or-flight stress hormones. Sleep is one of the most different, yet the effects on the body are and heart disease.” mode, but we’re not running from important activities we can do to reduce the same. We experience stress everyday: A researcher at Harvard Medical tigers when we are driving on the stress and help the body to heal. freeway traffic, raising children, an angry School, Mattias Neherendorf, tested freeway. Therefore, stress just makes Meditation. New research from us gain weight. (todaysdietitian.com/ the Shamatha Project at UC Davis newarchives/111609p38.shtml) talks about meditation: “Focusing Stress to the body is not just from on the present rather than letting the too many daily activities. It can also mind drift may help to lower levels of be from not sleeping enough, eating the stress hormone cortisol.” junk food that makes your blood sugar Stress is here to stay. But it doesn’t go up and down, and inflammation have to make you sick. Find ways every from food allergies, arthritis, and other day to reduce your stress and calm your inflammatory diseases. mind. Not only will your adrenal glands The more we can control all of these thank you, so will your waistline. factors, the better our health will be Next time: The Truth About Adrenal with less chance of developing chronic Fatigue. n diseases, fatigue, and weight gain. Jane Hammond, PA-C received her HOW DO WE REDUCE STRESS? Physician Assistant degree from the Most of us can’t quit our jobs or hire University of Southern California Keck a fulltime nanny for the kids but we can School of Medicine and specializes in Bio- change how we respond to stress. identical Hormone Replacement Therapy Exercise. Everyone is different and (HRT) She has more than 20 years of needs to find the way that makes him or experience in internal, integrative, and her feel the best. Harvard Men’s Health functional medicine.
22 August 7, Vol. 1 No. 4 Pritchett-Rapf Realtors Offices in Malibu & Topanga TOPANGA (310) 455-4363 • PRTopanga.com
Medley Lane 3 Bed | 2 Bath Listed at $1,495,000 Welcome to an inspiring home. Think architectural meets New York loft. Extraordinary views sweeping through walls of glass in front, back and interior. Industrial modern flair creates an exciting living space, that accommodates many furniture styles. The innovative, flexible, open floor plan and abundant sunlight make this home a joy to be in. Combination of wood, glass, concrete and metal. Floating metal staircase accesses the master suite. Bathroom includes a claw tub and beautiful raindrop shower head, open to the mountain views. 2 car garage plus an office. Adjacent additional space is perfect for your wine cellar. Landscaped for drought tolerance. Furniture in photo is no longer there.
Listed by Chryssa Lightheart (310) 663-3696
IN ESCROW Bonnell Drive 4 Bed | 2 Bath $1,499,000 Hillside Drive 3 Bed | 2 Bath $1,099,000 Christine Kapetan - (310) 804-8336 Chryssa Lightheart - (310) 663-3696 Delightful and inviting home with guest studio overlooking private, A magical Topanga setting with stunning views on 1.3 acres. A neighborhood owned Bonnell Park! Located in the heart of the private knoll top is perfect for picnics or meditations. Large flat Canyon, two level miles from town Center with easy access to garden area, 10 fruit bearing trees, Oaks and others. A 500sf brick beach and both sides of the Canyon. patio, perfect for entertaining. Enough flat land for potential addition. Vacant Land
PANORAMIC OCEAN AND CITY VIEW LOT AMAZING VIEWS OF SADDLE PEAK & RED ROCK PARK TOPANGA CANYON DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITY Vista Del Mar Road $799,000 Portage Circle Drive $499,000 Callon Drive $439,999 William Preston Bowling 5.02 acres William Preston Bowling 5.64 acres William Preston Bowling 0.44 acres (310) 428-5085 (310) 428-5085 (310) 428-5085
PERFECT FERNWOOD CORNER LOT 2+ ACRES WITH BIG ROCK SUNSET VIEWS PEACEFUL SADDLE PEAK MOUNTAIN VIEW LOT Bainum Drive $214,000 Oak Drive $190,000 Vesey Road $85,000 William Preston Bowling 0.17 acres Chryssa Lightheart 2.05 acres Christine Kapetan 0.49 acres (310) 428-5085 (310) 663-3696 (310) 804-8336 LOCAL & GLOBAL Pritchett-Rapf Realtors CalBRE 00528707 YOUR FERNWOOD OASIS AWAITS.
The promise of Topanga living is kept, here. Inhale deeply, as the morning scents of rosemary, lavender and sage waft on coastal breezes, across the nearly ¾ acre usable lot. Dew sparkles along the lengthy deck. Sunlight floods the new, bright, white, kitchen, where French doors open to view decks, and a covered patio. Cement floors, cool underfoot, lead through the skylit beamed living room, and spacious view dining room. Flower filled Mediterranean gardens welcome the bees and hummingbirds to drink deeply of the nectar. Rugged Sandstone rock outcroppings frame the amazing views. You are close enough to walk to Mimosa cafe, for morning coffee and croissants. As the breeze hints, the beach is very close. Your dream life is even closer.
$1,699,000 5 Bed 4 Bath Nearly 3/4 Acre Lot
High in Fernwood, fog seeps through the hollows in the canyon below. Your 2 acres of privacy, with that rarity, a flat yard with a view. 3020 sq ft of comfort and elegance, soaring ceilings, views, a wet bar, and decks. Walk out into the peace and tranquility of the landscaped yard, vast patios for entertaining, sports, or raised garden beds. A hot tub beckons. Fragrant fruit trees are ripe for the picking. Make creative space in a finished 2 car garage. Country living, close in. Minutes to the village, the beach, the city. Exhale.
$1,799,000 4 Bed 3 Bath 2.2 Acres
INTERESTED IN LEARNING HOW COMPASS CAN DELIVER A BESPOKE, WHITE GLOVE, SMOOTH, SAFE, AND SUCCESSFUL TOP DOLLAR SALE OF YOUR HOME? CALL THE WRIGHT WAY TEAM TODAY. WE LOOK FORWARD TO BEING OF SERVICE.
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Compass is a real estate broker licensed by the State of California and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. License Number 01991628. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only and is compiled from sources deemed reliable but has not been verified. Changes in price, condition, sale or withdrawal may be made without notice. No statement is made as to accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footages are approximate. Market share based on available claw MLS data and any known off market listings.