More than 200 community members gathered recently for Santa Barbara Channelkeeper’s Blue Water Ball, a celebration of the organization’s work to protect and restore the Santa Barbara Channel and its watersheds.
The event raised more than $170,000 to support Channelkeeper’s current and future priorities, including monitoring creeks and coastal waters; organizing volunteers for community cleanups; providing educational experiences for local students about water quality and habitats; and advocating for strong policies to protect the Santa Barbara Channel and its watersheds.
The event, which opened with a welcome by Chumash leaders Art Cisneros and Mia Lopez, featured a visual presentation by filmmakers Howard and Michele Hall, who specialize in underwater natural history productions that raise awareness of and increase appreciation for the marine environment.
“The waters and wildlife of the Santa Barbara Channel featured in Howard and Michele Hall’s underwater films are a large inspiration behind the work that we do,” said executive director Ted Morton.
“Our efforts to protect coastal waters and habitats, engage community in environmental advocacy, and inspire young people to care about the ocean are more important now than ever before,” he said.
“We are grateful for moments like this one in which we can gather together in support of our vision for clean water, healthy habitats, abundant wildlife, and thriving communities,” Morton said.
On view for attendees were water-inspired artwork donated for a silent auction by 14 local artists, including Benjamin Andersen, Morgan Maassen, Michael Irwin, Saul Alcaraz, and Allison Gobbell.
Also on offer in the auction were local dining experiences, Platinum Passes to the Santa Barbara International Film Festival, ocean-adventures from local operators, and nature-based travel to Alaska and the Galápagos.
Morton spoke about Channelkeeper’s environmental education programs, advocacy campaigns, and volunteer efforts to help keep coastal watersheds and habitats healthy.
The Mel McGary Trio offered entertainment for the evening with its jazz music, and Geoff Green was the emcee. Wine was provided by Ampelos Cellars and Catering Connection served a multicourse meal,
Santa Barbara Channelkeeper thanks the community for its support, and thanks event sponsors the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians Foundation, Montecito Bank & Trust, and MarBorg Industries, and the individual sponsors, underwriters, and honorary committee members, artists, auction donors, and guests.
It also acknowledges the John C. Mithun Foundation for matching $30,000 in donations made during the paddle raise.
“This year’s Blue Water Ball was a wonderful celebration,” said Morton. “We are grateful for the community of supporters who believe in Channelkeeper and make it possible for our work to have such a positive impact in our communities.”