I feel compelled to write this letter because the reputation of one of the most giving and caring individuals in our community has been wrongly and most unfairly impugned. Philanthropy: goodwill to fellowmen; active effort to promote human welfare. (Webster’s Dictionary) A gentleman that fits this description perfectly is Ozzie Silna.
He has demonstrated his generosity to many charitable organizations both inside and outside of Malibu. Following are some of the organizations to which Mr. Silna has contributed significantly: Webster PTA, Malibu High School PTA, Shark Fund, Malibu Foundation for Youth, Malibu Ballet Society, Ballet By The Sea, Cystic Fibrosis, Free Arts for Abused Children, Barbara Sinatra Center for Abused Children, Serra Retreat, Chabad, Malibu Community Center, The Midnight Mission, Pepperdine University, Malibu Film Foundation, Malibu Stage Co., California State Parks, Malibu CAN, and many other environmental organizations.
His Action Embroidery Company has donated numerous embroidered items to Malibu High School, to Webster School, and to other local organizations. When his son played in Little League, Ozzie donated team jackets to the entire team. He donated large embroidered emblems of the 101st Airborne insignia to the City, and has contributed the majority of funds toward the Malibu-sponsored “welcome home party for the 101st Airborne return from Iraq.”
Ozzie Silna, whom I consider a friend, continues to demonstrate his generosity and goodwill to the City of Malibu, and last year received the “Dolphin Award” for his philanthropy. Malibu is fortunate to have such a caring person in its midst.
Richard Carrigan