The Malibu community is coming together to celebrate and preserve its natural beauty and heritage through various initiatives aimed at fostering environmental conservation and artistic expression. Among these efforts, the creation of butterfly gardens, literary endeavors, and emergency preparedness training are shining examples of local commitment to sustainability and community resilience.
Two former Malibu residents, Laura Ford and her husband, are at the forefront of one such initiative, working tirelessly to cultivate and protect local butterfly populations. Though currently residing in Laguna Beach, the couple travels to Malibu every weekend to finalize the setup of a monarch butterfly and pollinator garden at Legacy Park. Their inspiration stems from their fond memories of living in Malibu, where they enjoyed the unique climate and rich natural beauty.
Ford, who founded the Pollinator Protection Fund (PPF) in 2021, aims to create habitats for monarch butterflies, which are struggling to survive due to habitat loss. "Monarchs are having a really tough time surviving, finding places to feed, and finding places to breathe," Ford explained. With financial support from the Forest Service and the charity Monarch Joint Venture, the couple is constructing the butterfly garden, which will feature plants native to the Malibu area.
The garden is not just for butterflies; it serves as an educational space for the community. Ford envisions creating signage to enlighten visitors about how they can contribute to butterfly conservation efforts at home. “A garden opens your eyes to things you might not even know exist,” she remarked, highlighting the sheer joy of witnessing butterfly metamorphosis.
The grand opening ceremony for the garden is set for March 16, 2025, and will include activities such as a plant giveaway to encourage local residents to start their own butterfly gardens. Ford hopes this initiative will inspire others to get involved with nature. “It can be really good for the psyche and very good for healing,” she added.
Similarly, the literary contributions of Suzanne Guldimann, another lifelong Malibu resident, reflect the community's connection to nature and history. Guldimann recently released her debut novel, "The Goblin Harp," which blends elements of fantasy, music, and friendship. The story revolves around Kate, a young girl who discovers the magic of traditional Irish harp music on her 12th birthday. Even though the novel is set on an unnamed island off the coast of Maine, its themes resonate with Guldimann's upbringing and love for the coastal landscapes of Malibu.
"There’s adventure, there’s mystery. There’s elements of the supernatural," Guldimann explained, weaving her personal history of activism and passion for nature throughout the narrative. With plans for future novels, Guldimann continues to contribute to Malibu’s cultural fabric.
Not only does Malibu celebrate its artistic voices, but it also focuses on practical preparedness for emergencies. The city is offering free Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training starting February 2025 at Malibu City Hall. This initiative reflects the city’s dedication to community safety by equipping residents with skills to manage emergencies, including wildfires and earthquakes.
The CERT program, developed by the Los Angeles City Fire Department, teaches basic first aid, search and rescue techniques, fire safety, and disaster psychology. It’s particularly valuable during disasters when professional responders may be delayed, ensuring residents are empowered to take charge of their safety and assist neighbors.
By participating, residents not only gain knowledge but also bond as neighbors united by the goal of safety and preparedness. This training is part of the city's larger commitment to fostering resilience within the community.
These community events and initiatives --- from butterfly gardens to literary achievements and emergency preparedness training --- exemplify Malibu's dedication to enhancing its environmental, cultural, and social landscapes. Through shared efforts, residents are ensuring their community remains vibrant and connected to nature, heritage, and each other.
