The Malibu Times publishers Arnold and Karen Portugal York announce the 2009 Dolphin Awards, recognizing individual or group contributions to the Malibu community. As in years past, many of those being honored this year are more than just individuals or groups who have made significant contributions to Malibu; they are in many ways the heart and soul of the city. More complete biographies on the Dolphin winners will be published in the coming weeks.
Sharon Barovsky
Malibu mayor and longtime city champion; served on city’s General Plan Taskforce before cityhood, as well as on Civic Center Specific Plan Advisory Committee.
Ann Buxie
Founder and director of Tales by the Sea, a free, community oriented storytelling program that introduces professional storytellers from throughout the country to Malibu.
Leon Cooper
Served city in many capacities; a World War II veteran whose documentary “Return to Tarawa” brought national notice to the plight of forgotten marines killed in action in the Pacific Theater.
Cindy Ludwig
Director of Malibu Presbyterian Preschool since 1991, whose influence and effect on many of Malibu’s children and their parents has helped build bridges throughout the community.
Ron Merriman, Lifetime Achievement Award
Longtime teacher for Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District; served as principal for several local schools.
Erica Posey, Youth Dolphin Award
Malibu High School senior; involved in youth clubs, city youth commission and volunteer at community-oriented events and charitable works.
Andy Stern
Malibu city council member; served city in various ways, including as planning commissioner, and was also was vice chair of the Los Angeles County Beach Commission.
John Zambetti
Mentor to Pepperdine University students, volunteer and supporter of local sports, church activities and the Malibu Labor Exchange. Founder and organizer of the annual Malibu Christmas “Woody” classic car parade.