Malibu's Incorporation Anniversary Festivities Take Place in Legacy Park

• Hopes Are High that Week of Rain Won't Dampen Event

BY BILL KOENEKER

They can't call it "Independence Day," but it was 20 years ago when Malibu established its independence from Los Angeles County and became a city.

Malibu city officials issued another press release last week firming up their plans for the 20 anniversary celebration.

To mark the historic event, a committee of local volunteers has been planning the community celebration that will take place on Sunday, March 27, starting at noon.

That is one day before the actual anniversary date of incorporation.

Former City Councilmember Sharon Barovsky, who is on the committee, said they had secured several sponsorships.

She said the celebration is taking place without the use of city funding. "With those sponsorships we will be eating more than popcorn," quipped Barovsky.

Former Councilmember Joan House and Public Safety Commissioner Carol Randall are co-chairing the citizen's group, which announced some of the events and activities that will be part of the celebration.

The day will center around an old-fashioned community "Picnic in the Park," and will feature food and refreshments donated by local restaurants and citizens. Anyone interested in bringing a dish can volunteer to do so, or folks can pack their own picnic lunch and enjoy the activities.

Children will be entertained by face painting, magicians, jugglers and storytellers will be on hand for kids of all ages.

Music to suit everyone will feature local professional musicians performing from noon onward. There is also supposed to be a surprise guest.

There will be stuff to buy, of course, with T-shirts, sweatshirts and coffee mugs commemorating the occasion for sale to help underwrite the cost of the event.

Barovsky said her daughter designed the shirts and mugs. For free, of course," she added.

The City of Malibu established its independence when it incorporated on March 28, 1991. A second celebration will be held on March 28, the actual date of incorporation at the new city hall when the city council meets.

A bevy of ceremonial presentations are planned. After the pledge of allegiance and approval of the agenda, there will be a musical interlude. That will be followed by a Chumash blessing.

The next order of business will be a recognition of former city council members, followed by a recognition of city commissioners and volunteers.

The agenda notice indicates the next scheduled item is a recognition of the municipal staff.

Conclusion of the ceremonial presentations will be turned over to other agencies and dignitaries honoring the city for its 20 years in existence.

There are two housekeeping items scheduled for the council, including approval of payroll checks and warrants or payments to consultants, vendors, suppliers and other expenditures.

The council will resume its regular schedule of business on Monday, April 11, followed by another regular meeting on Monday, April 25, and a quarterly meeting on Wednesday, April 27.