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Pausing to reflect: Malibu marks one year since Palisades Fire

By
Barbara Burke
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City Hall gathering honors lives lost, reflects on recovery, and reaffirms commitment to healing and rebuilding

Colorful knit works created by the Malibu Senior Center’s knitting club warmly embraced those who entered City Hall on Jan. 7 to attend “Palisades Fire Commemoration: Finding Strength in Community,” a remembrance gathering for the entire community marking the one-year anniversary of the Palisades Fire. The purpose of the commemoration, the event program noted, was to provide “a time to recognize the challenges and traumatic losses we have endured, and reaffirm our shared commitment to healing, rebuilding and moving forward.”

The event began with a video recounting the ravenous inferno, including harrowing moments when fire imminently threatened those trying to flee and providing an overview of firefighters’ valiant efforts to stop the flames. The movie also included somber moments — moments that anyone who experienced the devastation experienced when the reality of the disaster’s impact on Malibu came to light. 

The Malibu Senior Choir’s rendition of “What the World Needs Now is Love,” helped inject a little positivity into the gathering. Mayor Marianne Riggins’ comments focused on the significance of the community’s recognizing the first anniversary of the fire. “The one-year mark reminds us both of the pain we experienced and the strength we discovered in one another,” Riggins said. “Through loss, uncertainty, and recovery, our community has shown extraordinary resilience. As we look ahead, we remain focused on supporting every resident, honoring what we’ve overcome, and building a future rooted in hope and long-term restoration.” All city officials, Riggins noted, are committed to increasing the community’s safety, supporting those who are rebuilding and all residents, and fashioning a more resilient Malibu.

Then, it was time to honor those who succumbed to the fire and whose lives were lost on that awful day.  Attendees of all ages respectfully bowed their heads in silence, many painfully aware that they had lost all their material possessions but had at least escaped with their lives. 

Let’s allow the worst to bring out the best of us

Remarks by elected officials followed, with State Sen. Ben Allen noting that he and other public officials are pressing for FEMA reimbursement to hasten the recovery efforts and are seeking to find a way to expedite the granting of permitting, a comment that garnered wide applause from the crowd.

“Thank you to our public workers who worked so hard to help fire victims,” he said. “We know that Malibu is a resilient community, but we all have to take fire resiliency and home hardening very seriously.”

Allen also discussed that communities and homeowners must work with insurance companies to convince them that both the city and owners have done all they can to arm themselves for wildfires.

Assemblywoman Jaqui Irwin discussed how the fire caused not only the loss of lives, but also of livelihoods, stating, “what continues to be profound is that there are those who lost everything who show up for their neighbors however they can, which proves that our community is not just a collection of buildings, but of people.” Irwin added, “We understand that the job of recovering is far from being done — we reaffirm our resolve to help you rebuild stronger, safer, and more resiliently and we will honor your perseverance with our persistence.” 

Fire recovery is not linear

Los Angeles County Supervisor Lindsey P. Horvath remarked about the Malibu community exhibiting tremendous resilience, but added, “I don’t know about you, but some days, I don’t want to be called ‘resilient!’ Please know that I and my staff are here to support you, knowing that fire recovery is not linear. Some days bring promise, while others bring hardship. We aim to provide you with service whatever your needs are.”

Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert G. Luna said, “That we lost seven neighbors in the fire is not lost on any of us and my remarks today are a tribute to them. A remark by Bob Schieffer, a seasoned television commentator, comes to mind: ‘Let’s allow the worst to bring out the best of us.’ That’s what I’ve seen from this Malibu community.”

There was hearty applause when Luna asked all attendees who work for the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department to stand, noting that they and members of the Los Angeles Fire Department went toward the fire even as residents fled. “I have faith in our public leaders that we will get the job done and that those in the Malibu community will get the job done!” Luna said. 

It seemed fitting that in Malibu, a town blessed with a myriad of creative residents, the event would end with a reading by Malibu Poet Laureate Charlotte Ward, whose poem “Waveforms” artfully captured the occasion. Ward recited in part, “Protean time dawns another year — remembrance through this window, translucent under opportune skies, brings a healing balm of flow fringing the mountains green. During reassuring daylight, calmed by cascading spindrift and waveforms of tenderest night, dreams evolve ever so slowly … Dilemmas that seemed sisyphean resolve to meaning in the fluted surf. Now, promise evokes a new meridian.”

Overall, attendees remarked that they thought the event struck a balance between, on the one hand, somberly remembering the devastation and loss caused by the largest disaster to strike Malibu since its cityhood — the fire destroyed more than 700 structures, displaced families, and left entire neighborhoods reduced to smoldering ruins — and on the other hand, expressing gratitude for first responders and others who stepped up to help, tempered by measured optimism as Malibu and fire victims carry on with efforts to rebuild. 

Arno Koch noted, “I think it was a nice opportunity to gather. We are now in a place where permits are getting issued and I hope the cadence of permit granting will build up. I believe this is the right time for fire survivors to start the permitting process, even if they only apply for the fee waiver at first. It’s important for people to start the process, even if they want to sell, it’s better to have the permit in place if you want to sell.” 

Ani Dermenjian, whose family lost their home in the fire, commented, “I thought the event was very genuine. I am convinced that all the public officials who spoke definitely want to help and that our healing process is finally beginning.” 

Prolific restaurateur Nando Silvestri returns to Malibu with Prima Cantina MalibuPrima Cantina Malibu

By
Barbara Burke
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With Baja-inspired flavors, the beloved restaurateur celebrates a vibrant January opening along Pacific Coast Highway

“I’m baaaacccck!” An excited Nando Silvestri exclaimed to this reporter when I stopped to take a picture of the sign for his newest eatery, Prima Cantina & Tacos. “I look forward to serving everyone in Malibu again!”

“Hola Malibu!” the sign declares. “Prima Cantina & Tacos will see you in January.” 

Silvestri’s restaurant of the same name in Santa Monica is going strong and, remarkably, he was able to re-open Prima Cantina in Pacific Palisades just in time for Cinco de Mayo, even though the establishment had burned in January.

Malibu’s Prima Cantina opened on Jan. 8 to the delight of many locals. Silvestri welcomed a full house for the soft opening. 

Prima Cantina is a reflection of the spirit and essence of Baja California, Silvestri explains. An experienced restaurateur, he has operated restaurants in Malibu, Southern California, and Texas for more than 30 years, beginning with Spumoni in Westwood back in the day.  

“Baja is a diverse region both in culture and geography, which inspires our cooking,” the restaurant’s website informs. “Our menu blends elements of a deep culinary heritage in mainland Mexico with the lighter, ocean-inspired, unique coastal cooking of the Baja Peninsula, fused with the natural, produce-driven approach of California cuisine.” 

The new eatery has taken over the space where Tramontos Bistro and JUJU Asian Kitchen operated before the fire. As one enters the venue, they notice that where there once was a meeting room in the back, there is now a bar, adding both ambience and enjoyable space to the restaurant.  

Mindful of the physical and mental pain that Malibu has endured since the Palisades Fire, Silvestri and his team first hosted approximately 40 firefighters and sheriffs on Jan. 7 so as to give thanks to our first responders.  

Tasting the flavors

When The Malibu Times arrived for the public soft opening on Jan. 8, the place was hopping, and there was not a table to be had. If one is going to go to a restaurant opening, who better to tag along with than Malibu’s Kerry Clasby, operator of Sterling Farms in Malibu, a mecca for organic and biodynamic farming?  Clasby, who is known as the “Intuitive Forager” and who supplies organic food to area restaurants and to farmers markets, knows a thing or two about cuisine.

After perusing the ample menu featuring carne asada and lobster tacos, shrimp ceviche, street corn esquites, and a full array of fajitas and main dishes, we ordered the enchiladas and two lobster tacos. For libations, Clasby enjoyed a signature margarita, and this journalist had a virgin Paloma — a delicious concoction of grapefruit and lime juices.

“The margarita is superb — very full of flavors!” Clasby declared. “The food tastes fresh and full of herbs!” 

Silvestri welcomes residents to stop by the venue, located at 22235 Pacific Coast Highway, and to enjoy dining in, savor seasonal specials, and participate in all the excitement at the Fiesta Hours when there are discounted food and drink items.

At Prima Cantina, one indulges in delicious Baja Mexican cuisine, savoring the flavors, including the smoky dried chilis. Most importantly, on a cold, wintery, windy Malibu January evening, not only was the food delicious and the drinks satiating, the very best part of the evening was to infuse oneself in the wonderful, spirited crowd, leading many to realize that the spirit of Malibu is reviving.  

Avaryl Halley 1985-2025

By
The Malibu Times
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0

Avaryl Halley, born November 6, 1985, left us too soon at the age of 39 on  October 30, 2025. She will forever be celebrated and cherished as a gift who came into our lives and made the world a better place.

Avaryl was an inspiration to all those fortunate enough to come into her orbit. She made living an art form, taking every opportunity to make life beautiful through her style, her décor, and the many creative arts she immersed herself in — including her handmade blankets, painting, cooking, playing music, and filmmaking.

Avaryl even found a way to make chemotherapy look glamorous, finding joy in hats and scarves and dancing with her mom to keep spirits high.

Film was a central part of Avaryl’s life, from the first movie club she set up in high school, through her degree in film and filmmaking, to her much-loved Movie Bitches channel, which she created with her best friend and collaborator, Andrew Galdi, bringing joy and connection to thousands of followers.

Avaryl also designed houses with her dad and built and rebuilt homes in Malibu — passion projects that fed her love of art, creativity, and family connection.

It brings comfort to all who loved her that Avaryl lived so fully, enjoying travel and adventures with friends throughout Europe, New Zealand, and Australia.

Avaryl’s passion and authenticity are a testament to the boundless love she received from her adoring parents, Scott and Aricia Halley, and her sisters, Erin Garnero and Morgan DiVenere. Avaryl will live forever in the hearts of family and friends, and her darling nephews Luca, Grey, and Bailey, and niece Lexi will always be told stories of their Auntie Avaryl.

There will be a celebration of Avaryl’s life in Malibu on February 14th. For information, please email: celebratingav@gmail.com

Norman L. Lefkovits, Jr. 1948-2025

By
The Malibu Times
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0

Agoura Animal Shelter Pet of the Week, Meet Krypto: Thursday, January 15

By
The Malibu Times
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0

Meet Krypto! 

Krypto (A5655309) is a 1.5 year old shepherded husky mix who entered the shelter system as a puppy in 2024. He is a star at the care center’s weekly playgroups with other dogs. He has a soft side and enjoys time with volunteers, giving and receiving affection. Krypto has medium to high energy, walks nicely on a leash, and would thrive with an adopter who enjoys hiking, running, and walking.

Come meet this amazing boy.

Care Center Hours:
Monday-Saturday 11am-5pm
Closed* on Sunday and holidays

29525 Agoura Road, Agoura Hills, CA 91301
agoura@animalcare.lacounty.gov

Malibu’s Santa Sleigh rolls on, rain or shine

By
Barbara Burke
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Although the weather outside was frightful, Malibuites found ways to celebrate and enjoy local events

Santa, legend has it, is notoriously unstoppable. Through rain, sleet, snow, winds, tornadoes, cyclones, tsunamis andmudslides — through whatever Mother Nature throws at him — Jolly Old St. Nick carries on sharing his Christmas magic and delivering gifts all over the world. Malibuites, legend has it, are also unstoppable. Indeed, many long-time residents’ years of experience coping with wildfires, winds, and mudslides have proven that point time and again. 

Thus, even though, according to officials at the Los Angeles County Department of Public Works Department’s Water Resources Division and the National Weather Service, a total of 3.05 inches of rain fell in Malibu on Christmas Eve, Malibu’s traditional Santa Sleigh that locals have enjoyed for decades carried on.  Undaunted and cheerful, Santa and accompanying participants joyfully spread holiday cheer.

Stormy conditions didn’t rain on their parade

 “Thank you to all those who worked on this year’s sleigh and to the guys at (Fire Station) 71!” Laureen Sills posted on social media after participating in Malibu’s Santa Sleigh ride on Christmas Eve. “Best tradition ever and the rain elves parted the skies for everyone to enjoy!”

“It stopped raining during our sleigh — it sprinkled a bit, but man, it was amazing.” said Darlene Addison, an event organizer. “We snow globed it!” 

Brian Merrick, a Point Dume native, commented about the cherished tradition. “The sleigh ride is an over 50-year tradition created by the lifeguards to spread holiday cheer. It’s a great opportunity to get a Christmas card photo for the following year. Some families dress up to have a photo with Santa — this year, a family all had matching pajamas,” Merrick noted. “They have been stopping at our house since the beginning because my father, Judge Merrick, was a big supporter. Originally, it was exclusively Point Dume but recently, they eliminated stops on Point Dume and expanded it to Malibu West, Gathering Church, Point Dume Mobile Home Park, and Paradise Cove.”

With many merry Malibuites dressed as elves and boasting other happy holiday attire, Santa and his entourage first ho-ho-hoed their way through western Malibu, starting in Malibu West at Paseo Canyon Drive and Monte Lado Drive. Then, the merry, mirthful menagerie proceeded to Malibu Gathering Church on Busch Drive and joyfully jaunted to Sea Lion Place and a drive down Dume Drive. Next, the cavalcade ventured on to Wandemere Road and to Point Dume Club, proceeding to Wildlife Road near White Sands Place and finally, winding up at the Paradise Cove playground.  

For many in Malibu, it’s not Christmas if there is not a Santa Sleigh on Christmas Eve. Longtime Malibuite Deborah Ruth remembers the Santa Sleigh during the early ’90s, an event that always infused joy into the season. “God put Santa Claus on Earth to remind us that Christmas is supposed to be a happy time!” Ruth declared. Chiming in, her husband, Marvin Chan, simply said, “Believe in the magic of Christmas!” 

A lot of work goes into organizing the Santa Sleigh each year, and those who enjoyed the event have the parade organizers — the Addison, Mullen, and Baldwin families — to thank. Kudos also go to the firefighters from Station 71, who participated as they always do. But, most of all, the community has Santa to thank, of course! He came through to infuse joy and wonder into the festive season for Malibuites even as they coped with terribly inclement weather near the end of a terribly challenging year. 

Thus, the legend of residents’ resilience and adherence to time-honored celebrations continues. Merrick summed it up best: “The sleigh ride is a great tradition keeping the spirit of Christmas alive in Malibu.” 

The parade wasn’t the only festive event held despite terrible weather

In eastern Malibu, despite the paralyzing post-fire consequences befalling businesses in Malibu, The Awoken Space, a wellness studio and metaphysical shop, still hosted an event featuring yoga with Santa! What fun! All who attended enjoyed it, according to Jesse Rakusin. Indeed, what’s not to like?

Candace Bowen and her family kept up their family tradition, enjoying a Christmas breakfast at Kristy’s Restaurant, while John Zambetti and other musicians entertained those visiting the créche. “I was privileged to lead the community caroling at the créche,” Zambetti stated. “It’s a great and fun Malibu event that brings the community together to sing some carols over the Christmas season. I especially thank Fr. Larry Goslin for his poetry reading, the other musicians who accompanied me as well as all the folks who showed up to sing the carols with us. It was a great way to slow down from the frantic holiday pace and get into the Christmas mood.”

Malibu’s Best Shot: Following a rainstorm, the Malibu sun

By
The Malibu Times
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0
Following a rainstorm, the Malibu sun sinks slowly behind luminous clouds. Photo by Shiree

Following a rainstorm, the Malibu sun sinks slowly behind luminous clouds. Photo by Shiree

For a chance to be featured email us at editorial@malibutimes.com

Malibu High athletes earn postseason honors across multiple sports 

By
McKenzie Jackson
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Malibu High linebacker and tight end Tony Martinez was named second team All-CIF and first-team all-Frontier League, one of nine Sharks players to earn postseason recognition.

Sharks football standouts and league MVPs in volleyball, tennis, cross country, and water polo, get kudos

Malibu High football player Xavier Godbille, 18, was one of the squad’s few bright spots in its 34-9 loss to the Desert Christian Knights in the first round of the CIF Southern Section playoffs on Nov. 7.

Godbille, a senior linebacker and team captain, was all over the gridiron defensively for the Sharks, making a career-high 18 tackles in the matchup. 

“Playing that final playoff game was really fun despite the loss,” he recalled. 

The game capped a season of highlights for Godbille. He finished Malibu’s 10-game campaign with 114 tackles, six forced fumbles, and one interception. Offensively, Godbille added 43 catches for 515 yards and five touchdowns. 

Malibu High linebacker and receiver Xavier Godbille was one of over 40 players from Southern California named first-team Football 8 All-CIF Southern Section Division II and was the Sharks Defensive Player of the Year for 2024.

Due to his success, Godbille was one of over 40 players from Southern California named first-team Football 8 All-CIF Southern Section Division II last month. He said receiving the honor was exciting. 

“I have proof that I did well in the sport,” he said. “It’s something I will forever remember.” 

Godbille was also named All-Frontier League first team, selected for the league’s All-Academic Team, and named the Sharks’ Defensive Player of the Year. 

He wasn’t the only Malibu athlete to receive postseason recognition last month. Eight of his teammates, along with Sharks athletes from cross country, tennis, water polo, and volleyball, also earned honors.

Senior football player Tanner Kies, who starred at running back on offense and defensive back on defense, was named to the All-CIF Southern Section first team for the second straight season. Kies, also a team captain, was selected as the Frontier League Defensive Player of the Year, named to the league’s first team, and to its All-Academic team. He was also the Sharks’ MVP.

Senior linebacker and tight end Tony Martinez, the team’s third captain, was named second team All-CIF and first-team all-league. 

Malibu High linebacker and tight end Tony Martinez was named second team All-CIF and first-team all-Frontier League, one of nine Sharks players to earn postseason recognition.

Martinez said receiving the honors was a result of his hard work on and off the field. 

“Since I’m a senior, I feel like it is the perfect way to go out,” he stated.

The football player also received Malibu’s Ray Humphrey Leadership Award.

Winning the leadership award, named after beloved former Sharks coach Ray Humphrey, who died in January 2024, overjoyed Martinez because it showed he had earned the respect of his teammates and coaches. 

“I hope I inspired the future captains of Malibu football to become even better captains,” he explained. “The way I lead is to put myself in other people’s shoes and try to understand what they’re feeling during the game when something doesn’t go their way. I tell them to let it go and move on to the next play. I try to keep their heads high when things are going south.” 

Senior lineman Lucas Nunez was selected for the league’s first team. Linebacker and tight end Adham Abdul, lineman Hudson Wilcox, and wide receiver and defensive back Maxson Chiate — all juniors — were named to the second team. Wide receiver and safety Remington Runyan and lineman Dan Morris were named honorable mention all-league. 

Malibu cross country, tennis, and volleyball performers garnered awards from the Citrus Coast League.

Girls volleyball player Reghan Marlowe, a senior captain, was the league MVP in her sport, and five of her teammates received recognition. Junior Francis Hughes was named to the first team, while freshman Sadie Saxton was selected for the second team. Senior Charlotte Johnson, sophomore Layla Soliman, and junior Mayeeda Wang earned honorable mention honors. 

Senior cross country runners Jaslen Hooke and Zoe Retts were named the league’s second team. 

Girls tennis players Ana Mitrovic, a junior singles, and sophomore doubles tandem Freyja Jacobsen and Lukensia Michaels-Rhoades were selected for the first team. 

Mitrovic is honored to receive the recognition in consecutive seasons. 

“Making all-league isn’t about being one of the best — it’s more of having the opportunity to play people at the same level than learn from it,” she explained. “I’m so incredibly proud of Freyja and Lu for being named doubles all-league as well. It really shows how much they grew as players this year.”

Senior captain Rylan Borress was selected for the second team. Juniors Vivian Griffin-Jasby and Kenley Bell, and sophomore Cole Ovsiowitz were named honorable mention.

Mitrovic said the number of Sharks’ all-leaguers shows the group’s talent. 

“We’re going in the right direction for next year,” she said.

Coach Joyce Stickney praised the squad, noting that Mitrovic was the team MVP, Michaels-Rhoades was the most improved player, and Borress had amazing team spirit. Stickney added that Jacobsen was the Sharks’ diamond.

“She shines under pressure,” Stickney said. 

Six Malibu boys water polo players were honored in the Tri-Valley League. However, coach Hayden Goldberg believed more of the squad deserved league recognition due to how successful their 2025 campaign was.

“I was the most surprised by how many gamers I had on this team,” he stated. “We were ready to play anyone, anywhere. It was a blessing to have this group this year.” 

Ryder Lippman and Costes Jensen, both senior captains, were named to the first team. Another senior captain, Taj Petretti, was selected for the second team, along with junior Nikau Webb. Junior Martin Kurial and sophomore Luke Trujillo were named honorable mention. 

Godbille, the football player, said during his freshman year a handful of Malibu football players garnering league and CIF recognition would have been unimaginable. 

“Three years later, you see all these people who have been playing really improve,” he explained. “Anyone can improve over time in this sport.” 

Boys & Girls Club of Malibu brings message of kindness to Rose Parade, wins Animation Award

By
Hayley Mattson
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The Boys & Girls Club of Malibu participated as part of the Rose Parade float “Building Kinder Communities,” created in partnership with Kindness Is Free Org and Boys & Girls Clubs of the West San Gabriel Valley and Eastside.

Following a year of wildfire recovery, Malibu youth helped lead the parade with ‘Building Kinder Communities’ float

Against a backdrop of steady rain and renewed hope, the Boys & Girls Club of Malibu (BGCM) once again took part in one of the world’s most iconic celebrations, participating in the 137th annual Rose Parade on New Year’s Day. For the third consecutive year, BGCM members marched and rode alongside partners from Kindness Is Free Org, fellow Boys & Girls Clubs, and community leaders — but this year’s appearance carried deeper meaning following an unprecedented year marked by the Palisades Fire and the long road to recovery for local families.

As Malibu continues to rebuild, the opportunity to ring in 2026 on Colorado Boulevard was both a celebration and a statement. For BGCM members, many of whom have spent the past year supporting neighbors, friends, and families affected by wildfire, the parade symbolized resilience, compassion, and the power of youth-driven service.

“This year’s float reflected everything our kids and staff live every day — cooperation, kindness, and showing up for your community when it matters most,” BGCM leaders shared. 

BGCM participated as part of the float “Building Kinder Communities,” created in partnership with Kindness Is Free Org and Boys & Girls Clubs of the West San Gabriel Valley and Eastside. The float told a powerful story of neighbors lifting one another up, a theme that resonated strongly in a year shaped by loss, rebuilding, and collective healing.

That message did not go unnoticed. The float earned the Animation Award for Best Use of Animation, one of the most coveted honors awarded by the Tournament of Roses. Judges recognized the float’s creative and effective use of animated elements to promote kindness — perfectly aligning with the 2026 Rose Parade theme, “The Magic in Teamwork.”

For BGCM members, many experiencing the Rose Parade for the first time, the recognition was both thrilling and affirming. Riding in the parade alongside peers from other clubs and community leaders, they saw firsthand how collaboration can amplify impact — a lesson mirrored in their work back home in Malibu.

Despite persistent rain — a rarity for the Rose Parade — the spirit along the 5½-mile route remained electric. Spectators lined the streets, cheering as floats rolled by, celebrating not just floral artistry but the stories behind them. For BGCM, the rainy conditions felt symbolic: even amid challenges, the community showed up.

Rose Parade highlights and award winners

In total, 21 floats were honored at the 137th Rose Parade, showcasing creativity, craftsmanship, and teamwork across communities, cities, and organizations.

The parade’s most prestigious honor, the Sweepstakes Award, went to Cal Poly Universities’ student-built float, “Jungle Jumpstart,” which was recognized as the most beautiful float overall. Designed and constructed entirely by students from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo and Cal Poly Pomona, the float told the story of rainforest animals working together to restore a robot friend — a vivid interpretation of teamwork that captivated both judges and spectators.

Other award-winning entries celebrated a wide range of themes. Travel South Dakota earned the Americana Award for “Carved in Stone; A Legacy of Teamwork,” while Trader Joe’s received the Wrigley Legacy Award for “You Float Our Boat!” and also shared the Americana Award with “You Are Invited.”

The Bob Hope Humor Award went to the City of Alhambra for the playful “Bee Magical Together,” while the Crown City Innovator Award recognized innovation and technology in “We’re Getting There. Together,” inspired by the Apple TV+ series “Shrinking.”

Community-built floats were also celebrated, including the Founder’s Award winner “The Glow of Achievement” by the Downey Rose Float Association, and the Judges Award recipient “Pancake Breakfast” from the Sierra Madre Rose Float Association.

Floral excellence was honored across several categories, with OneLegacy Donate Life earning the President’s Award for “Treasure Every Moment Together,” City of Santa Fe Springs receiving the Queen’s Award for its presentation of roses, and Elks U.S.A. winning the Isabella Coleman Award for color harmony with “Elks Care, Elks Share.”

Additional honors went to floats from cities including Burbank, Torrance, South Pasadena, La Cañada Flintridge, and organizations such as Shriners Children’s, Lions International, San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, California Community Foundation, and America250, each interpreting the parade’s theme through storytelling, artistry, and community pride.

From Malibu youth championing kindness in the aftermath of fire devastation to college students engineering an award-winning jungle masterpiece, the 2026 Rose Parade highlighted the extraordinary power of teamwork across generations.

For the Boys & Girls Club of Malibu, the experience was more than a parade appearance or an award win. It was a moment of pride, healing, and inspiration — proof that even after one of the most challenging years in recent memory, Malibu’s young people are helping lead the way forward with compassion, creativity, and hope.

George W. Womack 1935-2025

By
The Malibu Times
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0

George William Womack, of Malibu, passed away in his sleep on December 31, 2025. He was 90.

Born on March 30, 1935, in Sacramento, California, to Jasper Cecil and Irene, George attended the University of Southern California, where he would meet Sally Jean McArthur. They married and made Malibu their home, where they raised their two sons. George’s career in civil engineering and construction project management spanned over fifty years. George was an avid car enthusiast, in particular, Porsches. He enjoyed construction and remodeled and expanded their Malibu residence. George was especially fond of the long line of German shepherds that graced their household for decades.   

George was preceded in death by his grandson Jake, and is survived by his wife of sixty-eight years, Sally, and brother Jim, and sons, David and Steven, and grandchildren Katie, Andrew, Samantha, Miranda, and great-grandchildren Kamdyn and Henry. He will be missed by family and friends greatly.

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