On Jan. 28, Trancas Riders and Ropers held its annual Awards Banquet at Duke’s Malibu restaurant and, once again, it was incredibly successful. Because this dinner allows TR&R the opportunity to recognize the outstanding achievements of our local equestrian youth during the preceding year, it has become one of Malibu’s main annual events.
Mayor Andy Stern, council members Sharon Barovsky and Jeff Jennings as well as Los Angeles County supervisor Zev Yaroslavsky’s chief deputy, Susan Nissman, were joined by over 130 people as the awards were distributed to all of the extremely deserving kids – and some oldsters as well. Of special note was a very special guest, Ms. Mayisha Akbar who is the founder and current leader of a group known as the Compton Jr. Posse. This organization helps inner city youngsters find positive lifestyle alternatives to “guns and gangs” through horses.
Ms. Akbar was previously named the California Woman of the Year and has been featured in the New York Times, CNN and the Los Angeles Times because of her outstanding work. On this evening, she received a special proclamation from Supervisor Yaroslavsky. Throughout the year, TR&R provides space for Ms. Akbar and her kids at many local events.
Conspicuously absent from your paper was any significant mention of this event. While I’m sure that everyone was extremely pleased to see that your front page featured a picture of a 2,000-year-old statue and a 36-year-old photo of Dale Smith and friends holding a trophy on page 7. What gives? I could understand if this was the Pacoima Times but I thought the name was the Malibu Times.
Rod Bergen, president
Trancas Riders and Ropers, Inc.