Laguna Beach Magazine digital_LB120_12.23 | Page 28

UPFRONT PLACES | PERSPECTIVES | HAPPENINGS
1 . Daniela Moore , Gabriella Dunlap 2 . Glenn Gray , Jay Longley 3 . Marisa Matthews 4 . Zack Krone , Duke Aipa
SPLASH ! Pacific Marine Mammal Center supporters made a splash by raising more than $ 550,000 in support of pinniped care , programming and education during the nonprofit ’ s fall gala . Held on Nov . 5 at the Festival of Arts grounds , over 220 guests were welcomed with a silent auction and beverages before enjoying dinner from chef Leo Bongarra . During the meal , Zack Krone hosted a live auction with prizes like a flight on a private jet , on-the-field experiences at Angel Stadium , a custom surfboard by Duke Aipa and more . Also during the reception , the center recognized two special $ 1 million pledges : the first from the Massen Greene Foundation in support of PMMC ’ s expansion of the education space , which will be named the Massen Greene Educational Center , and the second from a longtime supporter , the late Bob Barker , whose estate is helping fund the Bob Barker Visitor Center and Underwater Viewing Pool . In addition , the center unveiled two new trucks — complete with lift gates and extra lights for nighttime rescues — donated by the Theodore Robins Ford dealership in Costa Mesa and Jay Longley , who founded the Rainbow Sandals Foundation . The event concluded with a performance by vocalist Marisa Matthews and pianist Andrew Weidlein before guests danced the night away . ( pacificmmc . org ) — A . R .
WYLAND FOUNDATION FALL GALA As a champion for marine conservation and healthy waterways , Wyland has long been an advocate for ocean health , both through his artwork and his foundation ’ s campaigns . More than 300 people gathered at [ seven-degrees ] to support the Wyland Foundation on Nov . 12 , raising over $ 350,000 in support for community outreach programs like the Clean Water Mobile Learning Experience and the National Mayor ’ s Challenge for Water Conservation as well as waterwise park projects and art materials for schools . During the event , guests were treated to a speech from the foundation ’ s president , Steve Creech , about the group ’ s efforts ; live Hawaiian music from Tom Joliet and the South Laguna Garden Band ; silent and live auctions ; and a live painting demonstration by Wyland himself ; there was also a moment of silence for those affected by the wildfires on Maui . The fundraiser concluded with a segment inviting supporters to contribute directly to the foundation ’ s initiatives like beach cleanups , educational experiences and leadership training ; the Wyland Foundation relies entirely on donor support so events of this nature are crucial to its success . ( wylandfoundation . org ) — A . R . g
1 . Carlton Lund 2 . Fire dancer 3 . Auction items 4 . Wyland ’ s live painting demonstration 5 . South Laguna Garden Band 6 . Steve Creech 7 . Jim and Cynthia Harris
TOP SECTION : DOUG GIFFORD PHOTOGRAPHY ; BOTTOM SECTION : CAPTURING LIFE PHOTOGRAPHY
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