FOUNDER’S LETTER FIRST Malibu
Malibu has always been a tight-knit community.
And nothing proved that more than the success of our pro-preservation candidates in the 2024 Malibu City Council election.
We witnessed an astounding win for Malibu residents fed up with the pro-development majority despite big money funneled into the opposition’s campaign from out-of-town developers.
The community came out in droves to vote for Malibu and the future is brighter because of it.
With Bruce Silverstein and Steve Uhring taking the #1and #2 spots this election cycle to secure a second term, it showed residents are committed to electing officials who want to solve critical problems, increase and secure resources to improve quality of life, and create an environment where residents feels seen, heard and valued.
The road to re-election was not an easy one, and required a writein candidate, longtime local and renowned surfer, Andy Lyon, to step in during the last three weeks to support the pro-community slate.
Andy rallied the base in what is sure to be one of the most prolific “sacrifice bunts” in local politics taking 986 votes away from pro-development candidates and diverting many of those to Bruce and Steve.
Re-electing pro-community candidates showed voters hold extraordinary power and that when we commit to building strong, supportive communities, the impact ripples far beyond what we can see.
Cece Woods
Cece Woods
Instagram, Tik Tok: @cecewooods
Twitter: @ceceswoods
COVER PHOTO: CHASE HIRT
Photos this page: The Malibu First campaign crew at Duke’s Malibu shortly before the November 5th election.
CECE WOODS
Founder, Publisher, Editor in Chief Creative Director
CHASE HIRT
Cover Feature Photographer
ADDISON ALTENDORF Managing Editor, Director of Distribution
CHASE HIRT Contributing photographer Imaginaire Media
CHRISTY CALAFATI Fashion Contributor
INGRID JENSEN Lifestyle Contributor
PHOTO : JEREMY BISHOP
Bobbi BENNETT
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Artist Bobbi Bennett’s is nothing less than stoked with the success of her latest show featuring iconic Guy Webster Photography, and her iconic Stoked Surfboards line of functional art featured at her gallery in Cross Creek.
Steve UHRING
Bruce SILVERSTEIN
Despite every attempt by the opposition to knock out Malibu City Council member Bruce Silverstein in his bid for re-election, he snagged the top spot for the second time to secure another four years protecting the citizens of Malibu. Silverstein is this issue’s, Bu Who - Local Icon.
A champion for Public Safety, committed to putting residents first, and dedicated to upholding Malibu’s Vision and Mission Statement, are just some of the legendary qualities that secured Steve Uhring a second term on Malibu City Counciland why he joins Bruce Silverstein as this issue’s Bu Who - Local Icon.
BRUCE SILVERSTEIN BU / WHO LOCAL ICONS
Bruce Lee Silverstein has been a prominent figure in Malibu’s civic landscape since his election to the City Council as the highest vote recipient in 2020.
With a distinguished career as a business lawyer spanning nearly four decades, Silverstein brings a meticulous and analytical approach to local governance. He has consistently emphasized transparency, accountability, ethics, and the protection of Malibu’s unique environment.
Silverstein’s legal acumen has been central to his contributions on the City Council. His tenure is marked by a strong commitment to putting residents first, with a focus on enhancing public safety—particularly along Pacific Coast Highway—and preserving Malibu’s rural character from overdevelopment. His legal background provides a critical foundation for navigating complex municipal issues, ensuring decisions are both well-reasoned and legally sound.
Silverstein’s deep commitment to the community was especially evident after the 2018 Woolsey Fire, when he spent countless hours volunteering at donation centers and organized the “Lawyer Project” under “Operation Recovery.” This initiative aimed to reduce legal fees for fire-affected residents, potentially saving the community significant costs. His proactive stance on public safety, environmental stewardship, fiscal responsibility, and responsive government underscores his dedication to addressing the challenges facing Malibu residents.
In the 2024 election, Silverstein sought re-election to continue his work on the City Council. Despite facing a well-organized smear campaign led by pro-development interests, he once again emerged as the highest vote recipient. This marks only the third time in Malibu’s history that a candidate has achieved this distinction twice, the first occurrence in the past decade, and the only instance where the leading vote-getter received more votes in their re-election than in their first term.
Beyond his professional contributions, Silverstein is known for his accessibility and engagement with residents. He and his wife, Mindy, have been part of the Malibu community for over a decade, sharing their home with their beloved German Shepherd, Rain-Bu. These personal connections inform Silverstein’s resident-focused approach to governance.
Bruce Silverstein’s tenure on the Malibu City Council reflects a unique blend of legal expertise, community advocacy, and steadfast dedication to preserving Malibu’s character. His continued efforts aim to balance responsible development with environmental protection and the overall well-being of the community, ensuring a sustainable and vibrant future for Malibu.
PHOTO: CHASE HIRT
STEVE UHRING BU / WHO LOCAL ICONS
Steve Uhring, is a steadfast community leader and a cherished local icon whose deep love for Malibu is evident by his unwavering commitment to protect our unique coastal paradise and has made him a go-to voice for residents navigating the challenges that come with living in our rural coastal paradise.
Uhring has spent years advocating to uphold Malibu’s Vision and Mission Statement and has consistently emphasized the importance of protecting Malibu’s unique character, while also taking into account the pressures of inevitable growth. His efforts to mediate between preserving Malibu’s legacy and planning for its future, have earned him widespread respect.
Entering his second term on Malibu City Council with the second highest vote count for the second time, Uhring continues to be a steadfast advocate for public safety.
After the tragic accident that killed four Pepperdine students on October 17th, 2023, Uhring was an integral part of facilitating the long-term contract negotiations with California Highway Patrol to increase law enforcement presence and deter speeding motorists.
PHOTO: CHASE HIRT
Bobbi Bennett is
Stoked
A Creative Life in Color
Photography by Chase Hirt
Bobbi Bennett’s life is a mosaic of creativity, resilience, and inspiration. From her earliest years, she seemed destined to leave her mark on the world of art. Growing up as a self-described “creative soul,” Bobbi found joy in exploring mediums from painting to music, and even furniture-making in her teens. Her artistic talents were undeniable, earning her awards in school for her exceptional painting and drawing. But her journey was far from conventional—it was a winding path shaped by her fearless pursuit of passion.
EARLY BLOOMER
From the start, Bobbi’s life was brimming with artistic expression. A started playing piano by the age of six. At 17, she mastered eight sonatas for a judged recital. Music wasn’t her only talent; she also played the French horn in her high school orchestra. For a time, it seemed music would be her career path—until a pivotal moment during her senior year of high school.
“I took a photography class, and three days in, I told my parents I wanted to be a photographer and go to art school,” she recalls. To her delight, her parents supported her dream, leading her to Philadelphia’s Moore College of Art. Her time there solidified her artistic identity, and she embraced fine art photography over commercial work, believing deeply in her ability to succeed.
CALIFORNIA DREAMIN’
The early 1990s recession altered Bobbi’s plans to move to New York City, but it didn’t deter her ambition.
At just 22, she relocated to Santa Barbara, California, where she found a welcoming and thriving art scene. Santa Barbara became the canvas for her next phase.
Bobbi flourished, opening her own gallery and showcasing her photo series across California. Her work was celebrated not only for its beauty but also for its thematic depth.
"The coolest thing about Stoked is I created functional art for the ocean. Seeing pro surfers on my designed boards in the water was truly an amazing experience."
Whether creating surreal studio environments with painted backdrops or exploring themes of Native American culture, superheroes, or goddesses, Bobbi’s photography resonated deeply with audiences. She also found joy in mentoring local teens, teaching them photography and entrepreneurial skills.
STOKED FOR SURF
One of Bobbi’s most innovative ventures emerged from her time curating Gallery Montecito. Tasked with creating a playful concept for a hotel installation, she decided to combine her art with a quintessential Californian symbol: the surfboard. Using a vintage Channel Islands surfboard, she applied her “Sexy Palm” photograph using a specialized resin-coating technique. The result was a stunning, glass-like piece that quickly caught the attention of collectors.
Her art boards, as she calls them, became so popular that she founded “Stoked Surfboards” in 2020. As one of the only female-owned surf companies in the U.S. at the time, Bobbi’s designs have been commissioned by celebrities like Miley Cyrus, Dennis Quaid, and members of the Beach Boys. The boards, which blend fine art with surf culture, have solidified her reputation as a trailblazer in both worlds.
ABOVE: Bobbi and mentor Guy Webster.
A SPIRITUAL CONNECTION
Fifteen years ago, Bobbi’s journey led her to Ojai, a small town reminiscent of a more bohemian Santa Barbara. There, she met legendary photographer Guy Webster at a local coffee shop, and the two instantly connected.
“He became a mentor of mine,” Bobbi shares. “We’d talk shop about photography, and I’d visit his studio regularly.”
Their friendship was a creative partnership, with Webster sharing his storied career and Bobbi absorbing his wisdom.
As Webster’s health declined, Bobbi became a source of encouragement, organizing a gallery show inMontecito to reignite his passion. The event was a success, drawing fans and revitalizing Webster’s spirit. His final series, MASK, was shot in his Ojai studio and exhibited shortly before his passing.
After Webster’s death, his family asked Bobbi to take over his studio and continue sharing his work with the world—a testament to the deep bond they shared. “Of all the galleries and people they knew, they chose me,” she says with humility.
“Leone, his wife, told me it was because I ‘got him.’ And I did.”
Today, Bobbi continues to honor Webster’s legacy while building her own. Whether through her evocative photography, groundbreaking art boards, or her work in galleries, she remains a force of creativity and a beacon of inspiration for artists everywhere.
Bobbi Bennett’s story is one of perseverance, innovation, and passion for a life lived in full color. stokedforsurf.com
Although “Rockstar” featuring the iconic photographer Guy Webster has left Malibu, Webster’s work will be featured just a few hours up the coast in Montecito through December 31st.
Allora by Laura I
1269 Coast Village Rd. Montecito, CA.
Guy Webster’s iconic portraits of Cher and Joan Didion.
The Beach Boys, by Guy Webster
IPS MALIBU MOVES
IPS Global known for their unparraled home security services, is the title sponsor for Malibu’s newset marathon, IPS Malibu Moves, yet another example of their unwavering commitment to supporing the community.
Tribute PROJECT
Stylist to the stars Dani Stone creates her one-of-a-kind collectible rock-starworthy jackets and flannels with a inspired by the bygone 90s Sunset Strip era - and yet somehow theses iconic Tribute Project pieces simultaneously scream with a vicious, yet sexy, Malibu local vibe.
Emerson BRADY
Malibuite Emerson Brady is an up-and-coming ripper with the O’Neill surf family, sharing their passion for surfing and the ocean. Her love for the sport runs deep, rooted in her DNA as a fourth-generation Malibu local.
Malibu in Motion
The Inaugural IPS Malibu Moves Marathon Brings the Community Together
Malibu Moves, a brand-new running and movement festival, kicked off its inaugural event in spectacular style, uniting the community and raising an impressive $22,100 for the Malibu Education Foundation. Held against the stunning backdrop of Malibu’s coastline, the event was a celebration of health, fitness, and the power of togetherness.
IPS CEO Aaron Jones at the inaugural IPS Malibu Moves event.
Organized by Erica Segel, whose vision for a community-driven, health-focused event has long been in the works, Malibu Moves was more than just a race—it was a full-fledged movement festival. Participants of all ages and fitness levels gathered to take part in a half marathon, 10K, and 5K races, followed by a lively festival featuring wellness booths, fitness classes, and live entertainment.
A Community United
The event showcased Malibu’s unique ability to bring people together for a common cause. Attendees ranged from local residents to visitors from neighboring cities and even other states, each contributing to the event’s vibrant, inclusive atmosphere.
IPS, a prominent local leader in home security services and a trusted partner in protecting the community during catastrophic events, consistently goes above and beyond to serve Malibu. Through IPS Global, the company regularly supports impactful local events aimed at enhancing the quality of life for Malibu residents.
As the main sponsor of Malibu Moves, IPS Global has committed to a three-year partnership, combining community engagement, fitness, and fundraising to support education.
CEO Aaron Jones shared his gratitude and admiration for the event’s meaningful impact on the community.
“Malibu Moves was an absolutely wonderful event,” Jones shared. “Erica Segel is a visionary who has the incredible ability to bring people together to do great things. It was an amazing experience to see the city, county, state, as well as people from near and far, come together for a great time. Malibu is a melting pot of people who truly appreciate life and making it the best it can be. We at IPS are extremely honored to be the main sponsor this year and for years to come.”
Malibu Moves founder, Erica Segel.
Looking Ahead
“This is only the beginning,” Segel added. “We’re already planning how to make next year even bigger and better.”
The IPS Malibu Moves Marathon was a shining example of how community-driven events can create lasting change. Whether running for fitness, fun, or philanthropy, participants left with a sense of pride and connection that will resonate for years to come. Malibu Moves isn’t just about movement—it’s about moving forward together.
The second annual IPS Malibu Moves Marathon will be held October 25th & 26th, 2025. malibumoves.com
Giving Back to the Community
The $22,100 raised during the event will directly benefit the Malibu Education Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to enhancing educational opportunities for students in the area. Segel emphasized the importance of giving back, noting that the funds will help provide critical resources and programs to local schools.
“This event is about more than just fitness,” Segel remarked. “It’s about community, support, and making a positive impact where we live.”
Aaron Jones, the visionary CEO of IPS Global, is not only a leader in the business world but also a dedicated supporter of the Malibu community. With a strong commitment to innovation and excellence, Aaron has transformed IPS Global into a trailblazer in its field, setting new standards for industry success.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Aaron is deeply invested in the well-being and growth of Malibu, championing initiatives that enrich the community and foster sustainable development. His passion for making a difference has earned him recognition as a dynamic leader and a valued advocate for positive change in Malibu and beyond.
