The Malibu Times Publishers Arnold and Karen York announce the 2011 Dolphin Award winners. The awards recognize contributions made by individuals or groups to the Malibu community. Those recognized are in many ways more than contributors; rather they help make up the backbone of the community.
Shelby Basso
Operator of Malibu Garden Center; involved in numerous school and community garden-related activities, including Malibu Green Machine, a nonprofit environmental organization.
ChocolateBox Caf‚ owners
Zare and Seda Baghdasarian, who practice being both good businesspeople and citizens.
Rod Bergen
President of Trancas Riders and Ropers; worked with Malibu Township Council prior to cityhood; a Los Angeles County Reserve Deputy and 50-year resident.
Steve and Debra Cole
Supporters of local music programs, including the Malibu High School Music Department, where they attend and host rehearsals, set up concerts, provide transportation and moral support.
Violet Miehle
Malibu High School senior, Boys and Girls Club of Malibu member for many years, 2011 Malibu Boys & Girls Club Youth of the Year; aspires to be a special education teacher.
Justine Petretti
Serves on city?s Public Safety Commission; member of Malibu Library Task Force, head of Juan Cabrillo Elementary School PTA and founder of Friends of Trancas Park; has previously worked for Santa Monica Women?s shelter and delivered food to local firemen.
Robyn Ross
Has served on Point Dume Elementary School PTA for seven years, last two as president; on board of directors for Venice-based St. Joseph Center; working to establish West Coast presence of Vital Voices, an organization that provides mentoring services to women.
Ray Singer
Designer of the City of Malibu?s logo; docent at the Getty Museum and Villa; member of the Optimist Club; participant in Malibu Volunteer Patrol and 35-year resident.
Dick Van Dyke
Longtime local who has donated a great deal of his time and talent to numerous local charities and the community.