Aquarium of the Pacific 2008 Annual Report

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Table of Contents3 Introduction

5 Message from the President and Chairman

7 New Exhibitions and Programs

11 Educational Programming

15 Festivals and Guest Speakers

17 Conservation

21 Volunteers

23 Fundraising Successes

29 Major Donors

33 Financial Overview

34 Administration

Annual Report StaffAlexi Holford, Editor and WriterAndrew Reitsma, Graphic DesignerCecile Fisher, Editorial Advisor and Copy Editor

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A Celebration of the Aquarium and Staff

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The Aquarium’s multifaceted Catch a Wave program featured numerous exhibits, programs, and events on the science, power, and beauty of waves. Catch a Wave was a truly cross-departmental effort that resulted in an educational and en-tertaining experience for guests. They not only learned about tsunamis and wind waves, but also the history of surf culture and animals that live in the surf zone.The Aquarium was pleased to introduce three new sea lions and a seal in 2007. Our Shorebird Sanctuary also opened in 2007, providing opportunities to learn about tidal wetlands, shorebirds, and several species of fishes and plants. And we were pleased to break ground on a new public exhibition on watersheds and classroom that will open in 2008.The Aquarium continued its partnership with Cesar Chavez Elementary School in Long Beach in 2007. The improvement in science scores at Cesar Chavez Elementary since the begin-ning of the partnership with the Aquarium in spring 2005 is dramatic. The school’s academic performance for the 2006-2007 schoolyear demonstrates marked progress in relation to its scores in prior years as well as in comparison to other schools in Long Beach and California. The Aquarium became the first among U.S. zoos, aquariums, and museums to earn the status of a Climate Action Leader™ by successfully certifying its greenhouse gas (GHG) emis-sions inventory with the Climate Action Registry in 2007. By joining the Registry, the Aquarium demonstrated its concern regarding global climate change. In addition to participating in the Registry’s rigorous program, the Aquarium developed

measures ranging from reducing peak period energy usage to implementing environmentally friendly construction in an ef-fort to increase energy efficiency, reduce GHG emissions, and demonstrate leadership in sustainability. The Aquarium of the Pacific continued to play important roles in our community and in making positive change in soci-ety. One of the Aquarium’s most important roles is to bring together experts, policy- and decision-makers, and diverse stakeholders to identify and explore alternative strategies to deal with ongoing issues that affect our ocean and our planet. For example, we hosted a city-wide forum on making Long Beach a greener city in October 2007. Through an expanding number of collaborations, we bring the resulting ideas to the public through the Aquarium. We take the long view and do not shy away from complex, often controversial issues and strategies.

Aliqui Tin tueraestrud modolenibh er siThe Aquarium continues to expand its portfolio of programs in education, conservation, and outreach. Many of these programs are possible only because of our growing network of partnerships with outstanding organizations across the coun-try, such as the City of Long Beach, the State of California, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and the National Research Council. Helping visitors become environ-mental stewards who are committed to conservation is a key part of the Aquarium’s mission. Thank you for your support.

Ocean on the Edge opened in June 2008 and included a new exhibit in the changing gallery, as well as a corresponding film, lectures, and programs. Other highlights were the opening of the Our Watersheds: Pathway to the Pacific and the updated Gulf of California exhibit. Through educating 1.5 million guests with these presentations, exhibits, and programs, the Aquarium is able to inspire stewardship and further advocacy for the ocean and its inhabitants.

Ocean on the Edge: Top Ten Ocean IssuesIn celebration of the Aquarium’s 10th Anniversary, the Ocean on the Edge: Top Ten Ocean Issues gallery opened in June with exhibits showcasing the ten top issues facing the World Ocean today, including subjects such as climate change, by-catch, overfishing, pollution, and ocean literacy. The Aquarium utilized animal exhibits, interactives, graphics, and videos to engage guests to explore the most important issues facing our ocean planet. This exhibit furthered our vision to serve as a communicator of ocean science issues to the public, and many of the guest speakers in 2008 focused on these themes. Because of the complexity and high level of public interest in these issues, additional educational staff provided “mini tours” throughout the summer in this gallery to engage guests in conversation about these topics.

Our Watersheds: Pathway to the PacificIn November 2008 the Aquarium announced the opening of its Our Watersheds: Pathway to the Pacific exhibition and classroom, the largest expansion since Shark Lagoon. An interactive model demonstrates how local watersheds func-tion, how watersheds affect us, how we affect them, and what we can do to reduce human impacts on these vital freshwater

pathways. A new LEED-certified platinum classroom, adjacent to the watershed exhibit, provides a venue for small classes and for bringing together stakeholders on various topics for meetings. The interactive exhibit, classroom, and surrounding native garden educate both visitors and school groups on what we can do to help conserve water and protect these ecosystems.

Gulf of CaliforniaIn April the Aquarium reopened the Gulf of California exhibit, formerly called the Sea of Cortez exhibit. This updated exhibit is a component of the Aquarium’s partnership with the World Wildlife Fund to provide public education on this fragile ecosystem. Featuring graphics in both English and Spanish, the displays highlight the animals that rely on the Gulf of California, the threats they face, and what we can do to help protect them. In addition, a new free film created by the Aquarium about this region, entitled A Sea on the Edge, began showing daily in the Honda Theater concurrent with the exhibition opening.

Ocean Today KioskIn coordination with the September opening of the Sant Ocean Hall at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History in Washington, D.C., the Aquarium unveiled an Ocean Today kiosk in the Northern Pacific Gallery. Linked to the kiosk in the Sant Ocean Hall, the Aquarium’s kiosk provides guests with a national feed of ocean news and video features as well as local stories created by the Aquarium. The Aquarium was one of the first five pilot interactive stations that also included the Shedd Aquarium, National Aquarium, JL Scott Marine Center, and the Mississippi River Museum. Ocean Today kiosks will be ultimately featured in the entire network of 21 Coastal Ecosystem Learning Centers throughout the United States and Mexico.

Online MediaThe Aquarium of the Pacific uses its website and the internet as an educational tool to immerse the public in ocean topics. In 2008 the Aquarium was selected as a laureate finalist by the international Computerworld Honors Program for its Web 2.0 efforts. The Aquarium’s entry featured FISH TV, the live feed from our exhibits to the families of Miller Children’s Hospital; our Oceanpedia website, which provided a forum for national scientists to develop the content for the Ocean on the Edge gallery; and the Build-a-Fish educational interactive on the Aquarium website. The Aquarium’s online guests can also find videos of guest lectures and aquacasts on a variety of topics. A photo group on Flickr and YouTube videos of the Aquarium were also added in 2008.

Each year the Aquarium of the Pacific offers a new program and exhibit that is debuted in the summer.

Aquarium Exhibits Engage and Inspire Guests

4 2008 Annual Report

Being Green is a Priority

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A leader in its efforts to be environmentally friendly, the Aquarium’s internal business practices are in line with what is advocated to guests throughout the Aquarium. In addition to recycling and participating in conservation efforts in the com-munity, the Aquarium makes numerous decisions on day-to-day choices that lessen the impact on the environment.

Sustainable BuildingThe Aquarium’s new watershed classroom (see page x) was built using sustainable practices and is expected to be certified as LEED (Leadership in Environmental and Energy Design) platinum. To achieve this standard, the Aquarium used nature-inspired design choices that incorporated a sustainable site, energy efficiency, water conservation, and green materials and resources wherever possible. The 1,300 square-foot building is powered by solar energy. Landscaping around the exhibit uses native plants representing the coastal regions of California’s watersheds, and reclaimed water ir-rigates the 4,000 square-foot garden area. The classroom’s green roof allows water to be absorbed and reduces runoff. The classroom also uses materials that do not release toxic gases to ensure good air quality.

In its second year of reporting to the California Climate Action Registry, the Aquarium took further initiative by reporting its emissions for all six Kyoto Protocol greenhouse gases (GHGs) in 2008. The Aquarium decided to begin reporting carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, hydrofluo-rocarbons, perfluorocarbons, and sulfur hexafluoride in ad-vance of what the Registry requires. By joining the Registry and exceeding its requirements, the Aquarium demon-strates its concern regarding global climate change and its commitment to being a leader in working on this threat to the ocean planet. In 2007 the Aquarium certified its GHG emissions inventory with the Registry to become the first among museums, zoos, and aquariums in the United States to earn the status of a Climate Action Leader™.

In 2008 the Aquarium signed up for increased coverage from its insurance broker, Alliant Insurance Services, Inc. Participating in their new Upgrade to Green add-on program will pay for environmentally friendly upgrades if portions of the Aquarium facility ever needs to be rebuilt.

Community OutreachThe Aquarium’s annual neighborhood street cleanup brought together local families, students, and Vice Mayor Bonnie Lowenthal to pick up trash that might have otherwise ended up in the ocean or on local beaches. Using Cesar Chavez Park and Cesar Chavez Elementary School as the meeting place, the cleanup had 340 participants who picked up over 1,200 pounds of trash.

The Aquarium’s annual Endangered Species Habitat Restoration Day is a collaborative event with the Seal Beach National Wildlife Refuge. The refuge was established nearly 40 years ago to protect the California Least Tern and the Light-footed Clapper Rail, two of the state’s most-threatened avian subspecies. Each year volunteers prepare habitat for these birds in anticipation of the breeding season.

The weekend-long Earth Day celebra-tion hosts over a dozen organizations with environmental and conservation-oriented missions. The Aquarium encourages the public to properly recycle common electronics and prevent pollution by offering discounted admission for those that bring in e-waste.

California Coastal Cleanup Day takes place every year on the third Saturday in September. Each year the Aquarium participates in the state-wide beach cleanup by hosting several locations.

Marine Conservation Research InstituteThe Aquarium’s Marine Conservation Research Institute supports ocean research and brings the results of research into the conservation process through forums. Two impor-tant forums were held at the Aquarium in September 2008. The Aquarium brought together government agencies, aquaculture entrepreneurs, environmentalists, academic scientists, and other stakeholders to explore solutions for dealing with the looming seafood crisis. Also in September the Aquarium brought together water managers and other water experts in Southern California to discuss how we will address losses to our water supply due to pumping restric-tions to protect threatened fish species.

MCRI funded research included the fifth year of sending an Aquarium aviculturist to Matinicus Rock off the coast of Maine for two weeks in July 2008 to participate in research on Atlantic Puffins and other sea birds that is being conducted by a group called Project Puffin. Also, Curator of Fishes Sandy Trautwein and Assistant Curator Chris Plante participated in a four-day abalone population survey cruise with the California Department of Fish and Game at San Clemente and Santa Barbara Islands. Officials from the California Department of Fish and Game inspected the abalone in our exhibit as part of a two-year certification process, which may ultimately allow the Aquarium to display and possibly breed endangered white abalone.

The Aquarium sets a strong example of sustainability and stewardship for the environment.

The Aquarium also continued with several ongoing research projects, including…

Crested Auklet Research•

Hydrodynamic Study •of Vertebrates

Kelp Reforestation •Project (see page x)

Reef Check Surveys•

Sea Turtle Monitoring•

Sediment Circulation •Studies

2008 Annual Report 5

Of the 1.5 million people who visited in 2008, more than 260,000 students and teachers participated in self-guided tours, sleepovers, standards-based classes, theater programs, or visits from the Aquarium on Wheels. The Aquarium also offers programs for the public, such as Aqua Tots, Preschool Programs, family classes, day camps, and birthday parties.

AFFY AwardIn April the education department received the 2008 AFFY Award from the Alliance for Distance Education in California (ADEC), the California chapter of the United States Distance Learning Association. ADEC’s AFFY Awards recognize outstanding distance learning projects that incorporate cooperation between education segments (K-20 and lifelong learning), innovative uses of educational technology, and the involvement of community institutions.

Day CampsSeven choices of day camps were offered during the winter school break and the summer season in 2008. At summer camps in 2008, almost 500 children, ranging from 3- to 14-years-old, participated in science activities and helped feed the fishes through the week-long Ocean Adventure, Job Shadow, Junior Biologist, Marine Science Sleepover, Sea Squirt, and Fish Fry Camps. The half- or full-day classes pro-moted the building of science skills though interactive activi-ties, games, and crafts. Catering to pre-K through ninth grade levels, students are given the chance to go behind the scenes, interact with husbandry staff, and help take care of animals at the Aquarium. Many of the students continue to participate in these programs year after year.

Outdoor and Up-close ProgramsThe Aquarium offers several ways to see nature up close through educator-led kayaking tours, coastal and wetland tours, and whale and dolphin watching trips. Throughout various trips, Aquarium guests have been able to see blue, fin, gray, humpback, minke, sperm whales, and even orcas. Newly added for 2008 was the Dolphin Sea Life cruise, in which bottlenose, common, Risso’s, and Pacific white sided dolphins were seen. The Aquarium also increased its schedule of Behind-the-Scenes Tours onsite as to meet the increased demand to learn more about the animal collection.

Homeschool DaysAlmost 2,000 homeschoolers came to the Aquarium for spe-cial Homeschool Days in 2008. In September the Aquarium hosted two days with approximately 1,500 students and parents in attendance. During their visit, homeschoolers got a chance to interact with education staff, including in classroom programming that involved hands-on activities and through a chance to meet an Aquarium diver. An additional 477 home-schoolers attended a Homeschool Day in December that was added to accommodate requests.

The Aquarium’s education department

offers a selection of more than 40

interactive classroom, theater, and

auditorium programs that align with

California science standards.

Educational Programming for All Ages

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(L-R) The Our Watersheds: Pathway to the Pacific exhibit; winners of the national Ocean Art Contest met President George Bush in Washington D.C.; students observe a Giant spider crab in the Northern Pacific Gallery; Aquarium staff brings out an American kestrel, one of the program animals

Miller Children’s HospitalThe Aquarium continued its partnership with the Miller Children’s Hospital in 2008. In addition to live video be-ing fed from Aquarium exhibits to video monitors in the hospital lobby, Aquarium volunteers visited the hospital monthly to share educational information, hands-on activities, and crafts with patients. Bed-side versions of the program are offered to those children who are unable to attend the program in the hospital playrooms. Aquarium-designed activity books as well as small toy sharks were given to the patients. Through an endow-ment, this program will be offered in perpetuity.

Cesar Chavez Elementary PartnershipThe Aquarium partners with Cesar Chavez Elementary School, a Title I School that would not be able to provide comprehensive science education to students without the Aquarium’s help. Cesar Chavez Elementary faces some of the greatest challenges among elementary schools in Long Beach Unified School District and in California as a whole. Over 95 percent of Chavez students have incomes low enough to qualify for free school meals and 49 percent learned English as a second language. The 2007-2008 schoolyear established a marine science and ocean literacy program that will bridge integral themes of the language arts and science curriculum at Chavez Elementary.

University PartnershipsIn 2008 the Aquarium had partnerships with the University of Southern California (USC); California State University, Long Beach (CSULB); and the University of California, Irvine (UCI). Through the COSIA (Communicating Ocean Sciences to Informal Audiences) program, Aquarium educators were awarded a subcon-tracting position on a National Science Foundation Grant. Through this program they co-teach with a USC professor a class on how to communicate science. Graduate and undergraduate science students from USC learn teach-ing theory and how to apply this theory on the floor of the Aquarium. Through CSULB, the Aquarium hosted five workshops for pre-service teachers in 2008. The Aquarium continued to provide UCI students the oppor-tunity to serve as Aquarium interns, observing classroom programs and working at the exhibits as volunteers.

Ocean Art ContestThe Aquarium of the Pacific, in partnership with the Coastal America organization, hosted an Ocean Art Contest in 2008. The contest was open to students of all ages, from kindergarten through the university level. Original paintings and drawings were submitted by more than 2,000 students nationwide to contests hosted at Coastal Ecosystems Learning Centers (CELC). Each piece was accompanied by a written narrative explaining how the art reflected essential principles of ocean literacy. Each CELC’s first- and second-place re-gional winners’ artwork advanced to a national competi-tion in Washington, D.C. Eight national winners came from the Aquarium of the Pacific, and two were flown to Washington D.C. in September for a ceremony in which they met Dr. Sylvia Earl and President George W. Bush.

Aquarium on WheelsThe Aquarium’s popular outreach vehicle provides a tidepool exhibit for children and adults. By providing direct interaction with marine animals such as sea stars, swell sharks, anemones, and sea cucumbers, the Aquarium on Wheels brings an ocean experience to schools and community groups. The activities are accompanied by standards-based auditorium and classroom programs focused on topics such as waves and marine animal adap-tations. With 199 visits in 2008, over 37,000 children and adults were served by this unique mobile learning tool.

Iliff Infectious Enthusiasm Fund AwardIn honor of Warren Iliff, the Aquarium’s founding president, the Iliff Infectious Enthusiasm Fund was created in 2006. Thanks to the support of donors, the Aquarium established an endowment to fund a program in which teachers spend three to five days at the Aquarium learning about marine science, ocean literacy, and conservation issues. In 2008 Lakewood teacher Sophak Kong became the first re-cipient of the Warren Iliff Infectious Enthusiasm Fund Award.

Sophak Kong with


The 2008 team of 656 active volunteers contributed 118,457 hours of work, the equivalent of 57 full-time employees, extending the operating budget by $2,311,096.*

The Aquarium’s dive team had 215 volunteer divers in 2008. These specialized volunteers logged a total of 14,017 dives for the year, which adds up to just over 294 consecutive days underwa-ter. This included 2,983 presentation dives for the public.

The Aquarium’s education department had over 400 volunteers in 2008. Over 44,000 hours were donated by the

education volunteers in 2008, which helps the Aquarium keep its education programs cost efficient.

Another noteworthy volunteer program is the VolunTEENs program, with 69 students enrolled in 2008. Through collaboration with St. Anthony High School’s Marine Science Academy, 20 students contributed almost 1,000 hours in 2008. University of California Irvine volun-teer interns also increased their presence at the Aquarium this year. These programs enhance our exhibit interpretation presence.

Volunteers Make It All Possible

*According to figures provided by The Independent Sector in Washington D.C.

Rhonda Kurtz Volunteering as a Life’s PurposeSince May 1999 Rhonda Kurtz has volunteered at the Aquarium in many roles: as an educator, working with the lorikeets, interacting with guests, and providing behind-the-scenes support for the development department. Her

enthusiastic attitude makes her a natural when it comes to engaging with people.

Working outside at the Ray Touchpool one day, Kurtz noticed a young boy and his mother using sign language to talk. Kurtz joined them, explaining that rays are related to sharks and the spines on their tails are clipped. The child’s mouth dropped open in surprise. Kurtz signed to him that she is deaf too. Because Kurtz reads lips very well, most people do not even realize she is deaf. She certainly does not define herself by her disability.

Kurtz started to volunteer at the Aquarium in the guest services department. She and other volunteers were respon-sible for welcoming school children to the Aquarium. After six months, Kurtz moved to the education department to give presentations in the galleries. She also did behind-the-scenes tours and worked at the discovery labs. Next Kurtz moved into a position in husbandry, working in Lorikeet Forest. Eventually some significant health problems interfered with Kurtz’s ability to stick to her volunteer commitments. In 2002 Kurtz had to undergo three surgeries in six months as well as chemotherapy. Kurtz kept telling herself, “Once I get back to the Aquarium, I know I’m better.” She was grateful that the husbandry team would let her come in for as little as an hour a week, just to be among her human and feathered friends. After two more surgeries, Kurtz decided she could not fulfill

the responsibilities of her Lorikeet Forest job description, so she started to look for another way to volunteer at the Aquarium.

Kurtz soon began working in the development depart-ment on mailings, organizing the filing system, preparing for and staffing special events, and contributing to numerous office improvements. “Whatever needs to be done, I do. It’s my Aquarium,” says Kurtz. “It’s second nature. I don’t know why it’s such a big deal,” she says.

While Kurtz has been able to do the same jobs as many other volunteers, her hearing disability has enabled her to connect with some guests in a special way. Kurtz recounted many instances where she met guests with hearing disabili-ties. She has given tours to groups of children who are deaf. She also interpreted for the volunteer services manager when a new volunteer who was deaf came on board.

One of the biggest contributions that Kurtz has made at the Aquarium is spear-heading additional accommoda-tions for people with hearing disabilities. “When there is no communication, you cannot learn,” she explains. “You go somewhere hoping to learn, but you are sitting in the dark. It’s frustrating.” Over time Kurtz provided input to the Aquarium on how to improve the experience for people who are deaf or hard of hearing.

So that guests who cannot hear can still enjoy education presentations, Kurtz helped to develop written scripts, which can now be checked out at the Information Desk. For movies in the Honda Theater, headsets that translate the audio into infrared text are now available due to Kurtz’s help. Closed captioning was added to the LCD monitors with video com-ponents throughout the Aquarium as well.

In November 2008, on National Philanthropic Day, Kurtz was honored for being an outstanding volunteer by the Association of Fundraising Professionals. After meeting Rhonda Kurtz, it is very easy to see that one person can make a difference. One can only begin to imagine the collective impact people can make for each other and our planet.

Volunteers play a significant role at the Aquarium. Almost every department benefits from

their passion and dedication, which inspires and ignites the energies of our paid staff.


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Cultural Festivals and Guest Speakers Provide Learning Experiences

With one of the most diverse audiences of any aquarium in the United States, the Aquarium of the Pacific brings people of many cultures and backgrounds together during its cultural festivals. The Aquarium also draws scientists, researchers, photographers, filmmakers, and authors from across the country to speak on relevant topics.

Notable figures such as authors Carl Safina and Richard Ellis, Los Angeles Times environmental journalist Ken Weiss, and climate expert Bill Patzert were among the 37 guest speakers at the Aquarium in 2008. The series presented informative lectures on a vast array of topics, ranging from elephant seals to urban design. These lectures offer an edu-cational resource for Aquarium guests who are interested in lifelong learning.

Festival of Human AbilitiesGlenn McIntyre

African Heritage FestivalReggie Harrison

Dia del NinoEmily Brooke Pearson

Pacific Islander FestivalMona Porotesano

MoompetamAnthony Morales

Southeast Asia DayPich Yon

Baja SplashJose Zertuche

Autumn FestivalFilAm ARTS

The Aquarium is a resource for the community as an alternative option for lifelong learning.

Every year the Aquarium hosts cultural festivals represent-ing our diverse community. Each event honors distinguished community members with the Aquarium’s Heritage Award. A list of those honored is below.

Festivals and Honorees


Income Sources

General SupportThe Aquarium of the Pacific relies on unrestricted gifts from members, donors, corporations, foundations, and other partners to fulfill its day-to-day operating needs, and the Aquarium’s 10th anniversary year was no exception. In 2008 we were able to advance our efforts to promote science and ocean literacy among a broad reach of learners of all ages, boost student involvement, expand our reach to underserved communities, and ensure that a vast and growing audience is able to share in the excitement that comes from understand-ing and learning about the natural world. American Honda Motor Co. Inc.’s continued status as the Aquarium’s largest corporate sponsor with more than $387,000 in multiple gifts and The Annenberg Foundation’s continued support of our operating budget with a grant of $150,000 were just two of the important donors who made our success possible.

MembershipMembership continues to be the Aquarium’s largest source of unrestricted income. For the 2008 fiscal year, $3,226,040 in operating revenue was generated through membership and its related programs. The Aquarium’s members are entitled to unlimited visits throughout the year as well as the opportunity to participate in special events, activities, and promotions created exclusively for them. Our members take great pride in knowing that their membership dollars help in supporting all of the Aquarium’s efforts.

Pacific CircleIn 2008 Pacific Circle members contributed more than $530,000 in support of the Aquarium’s programs. Individual donors, foundations, and corporate supporters that join the Pacific Circle provide critical support for the Aquarium’s op-erating budget. Nearly 65 percent of Pacific Circle members have been members since the Aquarium opened in 1998, and new donors continue to join each year.

Aquarium Education FundThe Aquarium is a valuable partner in the greater educational community. Whether through a class attended by students, an informational lecture for adult learners, or teachers who

were trained and provided with educational tools to share with their classrooms, these Aquarium experiences contribute to the greater understanding of the World Ocean and the environment around us. Including offsite programs such as the Aquarium on Wheels, our educational programs served over 243,000 students, educators, and community members in 2008. Major contributions to the Aquarium Education Fund were provided by Wells Fargo Foundation, The Capital Group Companies, and many other dedicated donors.

Ocean Conservation Awards GalaThe annual Ocean Conservation Awards Gala honors the June anniversary of the Aquarium’s opening by presenting awards to key individuals and institutions making significant contributions to the environment. At the 10th Anniversary Gala celebration in 2008, we honored Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger and the State of California along with Vice Admiral Conrad C. Lautenbacher, Jr. (U.S. Navy Retired) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Approximately 700 guests enjoyed a gourmet meal in a clear-top tent that was set up on the Aquarium’s front lawn. Those that attended were the first to see the Aquarium’s 10th Anniversary tribute film and the new exhibit, Ocean on the Edge: Top 10 Ocean Issues. This black-tie event surpassed all others in attendance and support, bringing in over $565,000 for the Aquarium’s conservation and educa-tion programs. The success of 2008’s Gala was greatly sup-ported by major sponsorship grants from lead sponsor KUD International, major gifts from the Earl B. and Loraine H. Miller Foundation, and significant support from Molina Healthcare, Inc.; The Simons Foundation; and Occidental Petroleum Corporation and their subsidiaries THUMS Long Beach Company and Tidelands Oil Production Company.

Sea FareThe 10th Anniversary Sea Fare fundraising event exceeded all previous years’ earnings, bringing in more than $143,000 from ticket sales, auction bids, and sponsorships. Approximately 580 guests enjoyed food, beer, wine, and desserts from local restaurants while bidding on unique auction items and playing the “Go Fish” opportunity game. All auction items were 100 percent donated to the Aquarium.

Fundraising for Our Mission of Stewardship

The Aquarium depends on private donations and grants to

realize our mission and provide our 1.5 million annual guests

with a world-class educational experience.


Honda Dream RaffleEvery year since 2004 American Honda Motor Co., Inc. has donated the prize for a summer-long raffle as an additional contribution to the Aquarium. The 2008 raffle featured a Honda Pilot and raised just under $70,000 towards the Aquarium’s general operating fund. The winner was Kathy Nash of Yorba Linda.

Adopt an AnimalThe Aquarium’s Adopt an Animal Program continued as an opportunity for our supporters to sponsor the care and feeding of a favorite animal. All of the “parents” received a personalized certificate, a photo of the chosen animal, and a fact sheet about the species. They also receive an invitation to the annual Parent Night when they can participate in animal crafts, explore the Aquarium free of charge, and meet the staff members who are responsible for the care and feeding of their adopted animal. The Adopt an Animal Program raised nearly $25,000 in 2008.

Item DonationsIn addition to the hundreds of companies that contribute items to the Sea Fare auction, the Aquarium also receives in-kind gifts that help to increase income and reduce costs. These donations include everything from business services to animals. The Aquarium partnered with ECO-CELL to recycle cell phones, with commissions supporting the Aquarium’s mission. In addition, supporters donated cars to the BLOK Charity Auto Clearance where the proceeds benefitted the Aquarium.

Matching GiftsMany employers encourage employee donations by providing matching gifts that double or triple the effect of individual con-tributions. In 2008 matching gift companies that contributed to the Aquarium for multiple employees included The Boeing Company, California Community Foundation, The Capital Group Companies, Chevron, Texaco, ExxonMobil, GE, Los Angeles Times, Merrill Lynch & Co., Microsoft Corporation, Nissan North America, Inc., and many more.

Education ProjectsThe Aquarium of the Pacific conducts several unique education projects that extend our reach to the disadvantaged and under-served communities of Long Beach and the greater Southern California region. To learn more about the Aquarium’s education programs, please see page xx.

Aquarium Scholarship FundIn 2008 the donations from individuals, foundations and corporations allowed more than 20,000 students to visit the Aquarium or have the Aquarium on Wheels visit them. This valuable scholarship program introduces students from Title I schools and community organizations—many of whom have never seen the ocean before—to the wonders of the underwater world. Hands-on activities and standards-based classes provide each scholarship recipient with a solid foundation to further increase their interest, enthusiasm,

and performance in science and environmental learning. The Water Replenishment District of Southern California, the Earl B. and Loraine H. Miller Foundation, and The Boeing Company were among the many supporters who renewed their support for the Aquarium Scholarship Fund in 2008.

Chavez Elementary School PartnershipSince 2005 the Aquarium has partnered with Cesar E. Chavez Elementary School, a local Title I school that would not otherwise have been able to provide comprehensive science education to its students. Over the last four years science test scores of Chavez students have drastically improved, as measured by California Standards test scores released by the California Department of Education in 2008. Major funding for this project in 2008 was provided by California Coastal Commission from its Whale Tail funding and from Occidental Petroleum Corporation and THUMS Long Beach Company.

Kelp Forest RestorationThe Orange County Kelp Restoration Project has made sig-nificant headway towards the restoration and monitoring of Orange County’s historically important kelp beds. In 2008, 49 Aquarium volunteer divers conducted 260 dives accounting for 1,028 hours of kelp planting, urchin removal, and monitor-ing surveys. This equates to approximately 10,000 square meters of restored kelp beds in Crystal Cove and Laguna Beach. In addition, more than 1,350 students have become citizen scientists, learning about kelp and marine ecology, growing kelp in their classrooms, and teaching the public about this vital habitat.

Abalone Captive Rearing, Education, and OutreachTo support the objectives laid out in NOAA’s National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) Abalone Draft Recovery Plan (2006), the Aquarium developed captive abalone rearing and cultivation techniques for red abalone in 2008 and began a two-year certification process to ensure the abalone facility is free of disease. In addition to the conservation and research components of the project, the Aquarium will also create an interactive educational display to inform its visitors of the ecological, economic, and cultural significance of this valuable

Children explore the Aquarium’s Our Watersheds: Pathway to the Pacific exhibit. The interactive display il-lustrates the watersheds of San Pedro Bay region, demonstrating how freshwater flows from the mountains to the ocean.


coastal species. The abalone project is the first of its kind at the Aquarium, paving the way for us to serve as an additional West Coast abalone culturing and out-planting resource while contributing to the conservation efforts of a statewide initiative. NMFS, the key funder of the Aquarium’s project, officially designated white abalone (2001) and black abalone (2009) as endangered under the federal Endangered Species Act. With these designations, there is an increasing need to raise public awareness about the plight of all of California’s diminishing abalone populations.

Special ProjectsFunding from private sources is essential to ensure that the Aquarium can continue to engage in unique projects and provide educational experiences. Special projects such as new exhibits, enhanced education programs, and innovative conservation projects continue to serve the needs of our community in fresh and interesting ways.

With increasing annual attendance already meeting the capacity limits of the current Aquarium facility, the Aquarium needs additional space, exhibits, and educational programs to continue in its role as a leader in ocean and environmental educa-tion. A new campus masterplan was developed by staff and the Board of Directors and now guides a series of important projects. Major gifts received in 2008 to support the general expansion plan were contributed by The Boeing Company, Breslaur-Soref Foundation, Ed & Maryann Feo, SAVOR…, and many others.

EndowmentEndowment funds are unique because they provide a per-manent source of income. Funds are kept in perpetuity, while only the interest is spent on programs and exhibits each year. This creates a very stable form of funding that continues to grow in time, making sure that the Aquarium’s mission can be fulfilled far into the future. All bequests and other planned gifts help fund the Aquarium’s endowment fund, unless otherwise restricted by the donor. Nautilus Society members are those supporters who have named the Aquarium of the Pacific as one of the beneficiaries of their will, trust, 401(k), or insurance policy. In 2008, the Aquarium received a bequest of $53,505 from David L. Kiesling.

Sea Otter Habitat EnhancementsWe marked the second year of our four-year expansion plan for the popular Sea Otter Habitat exhibit, thanks to a gift from the BP Foundation. In June the exhibit designers and Aquarium staff met with sea otter experts to discuss the new habitat design, which will be based on the habitat of the Southern sea otter, the species at the Aquarium of the Pacific. All visual and habitat upgrades to the exhibit will be based on the California coastal region where this species lives, from Monterey Bay to Santa Barbara.

Seafood for the FutureWith the support of a $142,000 annual installment on a multi-year grant from Pacific Life Foundation, the Aquarium has embarked on a new project to enlist Southern California restaurants to provide sustainable seafood on their menus. In

the Greater Los Angeles area, seafood consumption is more than twice the national average and more than 80 percent of the seafood is imported. Seafood for the Future will build on local, national, and international markets that are from sustainable, healthful, and socially responsible sources, thus making a difference in protecting wild fish stocks and pro-tecting the marine environment by reducing harmful fishing practices, overfishing, and bycatch.

Our Watersheds: Pathway to the PacificWith the November 2008 opening of Our Watersheds: Pathway to the Pacific exhibit and environmental classroom, the first phase of the expansion began the process of connect-ing visitors to critical environmental stories. The classroom is expected to be the first LEED® (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certified Platinum building in Long Beach. This addition illustrates the Aquarium’s commitment to environmentally responsible practices that educate the public on sustainable building design, native landscaping, and the critical nature of our water resources in Southern California. An anonymous foundation provided a $100,000 grant in 2008 to complete the solar energy installation that powers this exhibit and classroom.

Animal Care CenterA new 18,000-square-foot Animal Care Center, due to open in June 2010, will centralize state-of-the-art diagnosis, treat-ment, and recovery facilities for the more than 11,500 animals at the Aquarium. In the spirit of the Aquarium’s commitment to interactive learning, the Animal Care Center will reach beyond the confines of an animal hospital and serve as an interactive public exhibit, including a public viewing area where visitors can watch surgeries, animal examinations, and interact with veterinary staff. Through this direct and unique experience, visitors will be provided with a new sense of awareness and animal conservation that can translate into how they interact with animals in the natural world. Gifts received in 2008 to support this project were received from Molina Healthcare, Inc., Mario and Therese Molina, Janet and Laurence Watt, and other members of the Molina family, for whom the new center will be named.

Pacific Visions and Changing Exhibit GalleryBlending technology, entertainment, science content, and groundbreaking research, Pacific Visions will tangibly show the interconnectivity between individual animals, habitats, and the global environment. The two-story multi-sensory, multi-dimensional immersive center will be a groundbreak-ing interactive experience designed to transport our guests into the furthest reaches and deepest mysteries of the Pacific Ocean. Working in tandem with the changing exhibit gallery, which will be doubled in size, the combined exhibit space will not only reinforce stories told in our permanent exhibits, but also will continuously reinvent the visitor experience, intro-duce new themes, and foster repeat attendance. During 2008 the Aquarium of the Pacific received a $75,000 grant from The Kresge Foundation to support a planning project to reach LEED Platinum certification for the project.


$250,000+American Honda Motor Co., Inc.�

BP Foundation Inc.�

Molina Healthcare, Inc.�

$100,000+The Annenberg Foundation�

The Boeing Company�

Edison International�

Allen & Charlotte Ginsburg �

Wilderness Experience FoundationMario and Therese Molina�

National Marine Sanctuary Foundation�

Port of Long Beach�

Port of Los Angeles�

$75,000+Long Beach Water Department�

$50,000+Steve and Fran Conley�

California Coastal Conservancy�

Earl B. and Loraine H. Miller �

FoundationJohn and Michelle Molina�

Water Replenishment District of �

Southern CaliforniaWells Fargo�

$25,000+Bank of America�

Croul Family Foundation�

Employees Community Fund of Boeing �

CaliforniaEdwin and Maryann Feo�

King’s Seafood Company�

Kenneth T. and Eileen L. Norris �

FoundationThe Pepsi Bottling Group�

Savor... Catering by SMG�

Jerry R. and Margaret H. Schubel�

University of California Berkeley�

$10,000+Josephine M. Molina-Battiste and �

Michael BattisteBrek Manufacturing Company�

The Breslauer-Soref Foundation�

Jeanne M. Brodeur�

BT Infonet�

California Coastal Commission Whale �

Tail License PlateThe Capital Group Companies�

John W. Carson Foundation, Inc.�

Esther S.M. Chao�

Citi Foundation�

Dominic and Margaret DeCristofaro�

DeMenno Kerdoon�

The Green Foundation�

Bob and Jennifer Hagle�

Halbert, Hargrove/Russell�

Roy and Elda Hearrean�

Institute of Museum and Library �

ServicesKCSWest�

KUD International�

Peri Marek and Peg Urvoas�

Milbank, Tweed, Hadley & �

McCloy LLPMoffat & Nichol International�

Northrup Grumman Corporation�

The Olson Company�

Stephen and Brenda Olson�

Ms. Lynne M. Preslo and Dr. Wayne �

N. SawkaKurt Schulzman and �

Richard NeriThe Simons Foundation�

Jeanne B. Sleeper�

Michael and Mildred Sondermann�

UBS�

University of Southern California�

$5,000+Anonymous�

The Abbey Company�

Barratt American, Inc.�

Evalyn M. Bauer Foundation�

Begin Today for Tomorrow Charitable �

FoundationBoeing Gift Matching Program�

BP America Inc.�

Carlton Forge Works�

Doug and Holly Carpenter�

City Light & Power, Inc.�

Donald and Sally Clark�

Comerica Bank�

Kenneth and Jeanne Conklin�

Crevier BMW�

Farmers & Merchants Bank�

John Fielder and �

Donita Van HorikFirst In Our Hearts Foundation�

Ron and Susan Gastelum�

Grand Prix Foundation of �

Long BeachHDR Engineering, Inc.�

Bess J. Hodges Foundation�

Keesal, Young & Logan�

Coral and Ron Levin�

Long Beach Area Convention & �

Visitors BureauLong Beach Transit�

Los Angeles County Board of �

Supervisors: Don KnabeSteven and Niko Mayer�

Jack and Mary McFerran�

Paul and Patti Mickelsen�

Phyllis Miller�

Robert and Georgia Nichol�

Parker & Covert LLP�

Steven and Robin Roffer�

Eunice Knight Saunders Foundation �

Sidney Stern Memorial Trust�

Sims Metal�

Richard and Elizabeth Steele Fund�

THUMS Long Beach Company�

Tidelands Oil Production Company�

Tom Turney and Jill Boivin�

Union Bank of California�

Union Pacific Foundation�

$2,500+Anonymous�

Dr. Mary Jane Adams�

ADJG�

Daniel and Theresa Aranda�

Bank of the West�

John and Corinne Bertrand�

Yvonne M. Bogdanovich�

Bonnie Brae�

Barbara A. Pollack and John A. �

BurkholderCatalina Express�

Stephen and Patricia Chazen�

Citi Community Relations�

Dameron Family Foundation�

Gordon and Susan DesCombes�

ERM Foundation�

James and Sue Femino/Femino �

FoundationElla Fitzgerald Charitable Foundation�

William A. Garlin Jr.�

Frederick and Leslie Gaylord�

Geosyntec Consultants�

Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP�

John and Elizabeth Hancock�

Ron Heiman and Janice Riley Heiman�

Madeline and Donald Heimark�

Radm John and Nancy Higginson�

Mark and Mary Hoover�

Matt and Lisa Humphreys�

Dr. Masashi and Teruko Itano�

David and Lindley Hasenauer�

Gary and Cheryl Justice�

Kim Ketterman and Art Rodriguez�

Graham and Mary Ellen Kilsby�

The Kleiner Cohen Foundation�

Patrick M. Kohler�

Trish and Don Lange�

Lettuce Entertain You �

Enterprises, Inc.Michael and Vanessa Lewis�

Edmund and Teresa Lohr�

Barbara Long and Bill Waterhouse�

Gary and Gretchen Marlotte�

Raul and Sabrina Martinez�

Margaret A. Maw�

Neil McClean and �

Hilary GarlandKelly Sutherlin McLeod and Steven B. �

McLeodMona and Dr. Jeffrey W. Morris�

William and Kathleen Mudd�

Marsha Naify�

Michael K. Nakashoji�

Occidental Petroleum Corporation�

Orange County Teachers Federal �

Credit UnionPatrick V. Gough Co., Inc.�

Dennis C. Poulsen and Suzanne M. �

PoulsenJonathan and Barbara Roth�

Securitas Security �

Services USA, Inc.Richard C. Smith and �

Patricia FrobesSony Pictures Entertainment�

Paul and Marcia Stelling�

Barbara H. Stevens�

Scott Sweetow and �

Lisa Green-SweetowPeter and Virginia Ueberroth�

Mick and Louise Ukleja�

Verizon Communications, Inc.�

The Weiler Foundation�

$1,500+Anonymous (2)�

Tamara Achauer�

Doug and Connie Baker�

Mark and Joyce Barnett�

Rob Bellevue and Agnes Mulhearn�

Barbara Bixby Blackwell�

Phil and Charlene Bosl�

Richard Boucher and Andrea Amram�

George and Judy Breshears�

Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.�

Lee and Joseph Cerrell�

Bill and Wren Chais�

Charles Durnin Apartments�

Andrew and Portia Cohen�

Consortium for Oceanographic �

Research & EducationMarjorie Countryman�

John Crochet�

The mission-driven programs mentioned throughout this annual report are made possible largely through contributions from indi-viduals, foundations, corporation, and government partners.

In 2007 the donors and members of the Pacific Circle generously supported the conservation, education, and environmental pro-grams of the Aquarium with gifts of $1,000 or more. We deeply appreciate and thank each donor recognized below.

2008 Major Donors


Jamie Lee Curtis and Christopher �

GuestDisney© “EARS to You” Program �

Steve and Jackie Dodge�

Laura and Andria Dougherty�

David and Adrianne DuMond�

Don and Gay Durward�

Steven L. and Karen M. Eakle�

Viktoria Engel Tyer and �

Emily EngelCharles Z. and Meri L. Fedak�

Cecile Fisher and Isaias Castellanos�

Adele W. Fortune and �

Steve NashRuss and Karen Frerer�

Fugro West�

Debbie and Bob Fults�

Geof Garth and Jean Egan�

Sandra B. George�

Jacky Glass�

Rob Bellevue and Agnes Mulhearn�

Gray Grimm and �

Linda Dakin-GrimmDr. Carl, Elise and Shelby Hartman�

Otto and Shirley Henke�

Ann M. Herring�

Joseph Herron and Patricia Baird�

John and Corinne Heyning�

Albert C. Hu and Michele E. Brantner�

Hans and Valerie Imhof�

International Resources Group�

Christopher and Karen Jennings�

Michael and Diane Jensen�

Mary F. Kiddie�

Michael and Catherine King�

Jeanne and Ron Kipp�

Irene Kurata�

Richard and Linda Landes�

Robert and Nancy Latimer�

Thomas and Jae Lee�

Mike and Georgie Lynch�

Ed and Deb Lyszczek�

John and Jacklyn Marcus�

Cindy L. Matsumoto and Gary Y. �

Matsumoto, Ed.D.Norman and Suzanne Metcalfe�

Henry J. Meyer�

Lee and Saundra Minshull�

David and Cynthia Mirsky�

Barry Molnaa�

Lindsey Philpott and �

Kim E. MooreJeffrey Morgan and Kim Knepper�

National Charity Support Foundation�

Charles and Rennee Nicholas�

David and Tina Nishida�

Nissan North America, Inc.�

NOAA Coastal Services�

Alex and Margie Norman�

Luther and Ginger Nussbaum�

Rosellen and Harry Papp�

Joan B. Pauloo�

Nancy and Byron Pinckert�

Lyn and John Pohlmann�

Will J. Reid Foundation�

Janet and Fred Riedman�

John and Susanne Rouse�

Nicholas L. Saakvitne and Sharon L. �

HeritageJonathan and Jamie Saltman�

Russell S. Schwartz and Susan D. �

GolandJohn T. Shadden, Smith Barney�

Cynthia K. Shelton�

Jenny and Dave Shlemmer�

Sidley Austin LLP�

Marilyn and Ron Sion�

Jean Bixby Smith�

Sondria Stephens�

Eiko and Floyd Stewart�

Alexandra and Terrence Sullivan�

The Ruth and Vernon Taylor �

FoundationJanie Thompson�

William and Karen Timberlake�

Richard and Amy Toyama�

John and Judi Uphold�

Chris and Peter Valli�

Wal-mart Stores, Inc.�

Wells Fargo Foothill�

Howard and Jane Wright�

Leah C. Young�

$1,000+Anonymous�

David and Merryl Alpert�

Ivan Altamirano and Christina Olivas�

Beverly T. Anthony�

Arts Council for Long Beach�

Len and Karen Atkins�

Robert and Debbie Autrey�

Kam Babaoff�

Bernard and Debbie Babcock�

Ellis Beesley and John Silkey�

Catalina Water Company�

CBS Productions “CSI Miami”�

John F. Cermak�

Vince and Devon Cichoski�

Andrew and Diana Cohen�

David Comer and Elsie Tucker�

Deanna Davisson�

Deemer Family Foundation�

Councilmember Gary and Dawna �

DeLongVito and Theresa Demonte�

Desert Commercial II, LLC �

Alan Erlbaum and Jane George�

Virginia S. Frankenfield�

Taylor, Deacon, and Otis Frey�

Ann Gardener�

Neil McClean and Hilary Garland�

Rocky and Deborah Gentner�

Jim and Gail Gray�

Gregg Young and the 2nd Street Band�

Muriel Horacek�

HSBC North America�

Richard Katz�

Q. Scott and Hiroe Kaye�

Jean and Charles Lane�

Sam Lantinga and Lauren MacDonell�

LBS Financial Credit Union�

Laura Loftin�

John and Linda Loftus�

Mark IV Capital, Inc.�

Margie and Jon Masterson�

Virginia McCallum Charitable Trust�

Jerry and Colleen McDonald�

Robert McNeel and �

Ronald RulisonAlex G. Nason Foundation, Inc.�

Richard and Donice Pancost�

Anthony Pichardo and Morgan �

BarrowsSecuritas Security Services �

USA, Inc.Sam’s Club Foundation�

Tina and Brian Sarty�

Ned and Irene Sasaki�

Bob and Gail Schack�

Charles and Ellen Steinmetz�

Dr. Preston and Nancy Smith�

Valin Corporation�

Paul and Stacey Von Berg�

Whitney Young Children’s Foundation�

Mike and Lorri Whitney�

Windes & McClaughry�

Randy and Nancy Wolfe�

Dicky and Dottie Yee�

In Kind DonorsThe following contributors donated �

goods or services to the Aquarium in 2007 valued at $1,000 or more:

American Honda Motor Co., Inc.�

Anthony W. Batts, Chief of Police�

Belmont Brewing Company�

The Boeing Company�

Bradford Renaissance Portraits�

Brew-Haus Coffee & Tea�

Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.�

Buono’s Authentic Pizzeria�

California Pizza Kitchen�

The Camello Family�

Casco Group�

Cha Cha’s Caribbean Fusion Cuisine�

Chipotle Mexican Grill�

The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf�

The Daily Grill Long Beach�

Gary and Dawna DeLong�

Extreme Pizza�

Farmers & Merchants Bank�

Gippy’s Internet Solutions, LLC�

Rebekah E. Halpern�

Islands Fine Burgers & Drinks �

RestaurantJBS & Associates�

Bob and Jennifer Hagle�

JetBlue�

Ken Kurtis�

King’s Fish House�

King’s Seafood Company�

KTLA TV�

Los Angeles Lakers�

Mrs. Lynne M. Preslo and �

Dr. Wayne N. SawkaMai Tai Bar�

Parkers’ Lighthouse�

Rossmoor Pastries�

Rowley Portraiture�

Shark Trust Wines�

Sheridan & Associates Law �

CorporationSidley Austin LLP�

SMG Catering�

Southern California Edison�

Taco Beach Cantina�

Ten Salon Inc.�

The Portofino Hotel & Yacht Club�

Tokyo Wako�

Trump National Golf Club�

Wilson Creek Winery�

Wyland Worldwide�

In Honor ofTo commemorate a special occasion, �

milestone, or birthday, donations can be made to the Aquarium of the Pacific. The following individuals have been honored in 2007:

Jeanne Brodeur�

Esther Chiu-Chao’s Birthday�

Pat Fisher and Ed Hunter’s Wedding�

Ron and Coral Levin�

Will Sherwood’s Birthday�

Terry Tibor�

Tom Turney and Jill Boivin’s Wedding�

Terry Whittlinger and Dennis Gill’s �

Wedding

In Memory ofFriends and family donated thoughtful �

gifts in memory of their loved ones, recognizing their love for the ocean and support of the Aquarium. All of us at the Aquarium extend our deepest sympathies to the family and friends of:

Beverly Anthony�

Shannon (Shane) Balazy�

Robert Boles�

Elizabeth and Alice Henderson�

John Heyning�

Warren Iliff�

Evelyn Kronick�

Virginia McCallum�

Michael and Lillian Preslo�

Mary Sawka�


Aquarium Board of DirectorsMr. James Breslauer�

Mr. Howard Chambers�

Mr. José Collazo,� vice chairmanMr. Stephen Conley�

Mr. Edwin Feo�

Mr. John Fielder�

Ms. Jennifer Hagle,� board secretaryMr. Roy Hearrean�

Mr. Russell Hill�

Mr. Samuel King�

Mr. Steven Mayer�

Ms. Janice Mazyck�

Mr. John Molina�

Dr. J. Mario Molina,� chairmanMr. Stephen Olson�

Mr. Douglas Otto�

Ms. Lynne Preslo�

Mr. Christopher Rommel�

Dr. Jerry Schubel�

Mr. Michael Sondermann�

Mr. Marvin Suomi�

Mr. Thomas Turney�

Mr. Stephen Young�

Marine Conservation Research Institute Board of DirectorsDr. Wolf Berger�

Dr. Barbara Block�

Dr. Laurel Harrison Breece�

Dr. Gerard Capriulo�

Mr. Russell Hill�

Dr. Roy Houston�

Mr. Gary Justice�

Dr. Lee B. Kats�

Dr. Laura Kingsford�

Dr. Anthony Michaels�

Dr. Linwood Pendleton�

Ms. Lynne Preslo,� vice chairDr. William Reeburgh�

Dr. Jerry Schubel,� directorDr. Nancy Steele�

Mr. Craig Taylor�

Mr. Thomas Turney,� chairmanDr. Dallas Weaver�

Trustees of the PacificDr. Mary Jane Adams�

Mr. Doug Carpenter �

and Mrs. Holly CarpenterMs. Esther Chao�

Mr. Donald Clark and Mrs. Sally Clark�

Mr. Tom Dean and Mrs. Annamarie Dean�

Dr. Dominic DeCristofaro and Mrs. Margaret �

DeCristofaroMr. Gary DeLong and Mrs. Dawna DeLong�

Mr. John Dupuy and Mrs. Vickie Dupuy�

Mr. Walt Florie and Mrs. Linda Florie�

Mr. Geof Garth and Mrs. Jean Egan�

Mr. Dan Gilbao and Mrs. Felicia Gilbao�

Mrs. Charlotte Ginsburg,� co-chair, and Dr. Allen GinsburgMr. Robert Gordon and Mrs. Sonia Gordon�

Mr. Jim Gray and Mrs. Gail Gray�

Mr. John Hancock and Mrs. Elizabeth Hancock�

Mr. Jim Hankla and Mrs. Jorene Hankla�

Mr. Jeff Headon and Mrs. Julie Headon�

Ms. Corinne Heyning,� co-chairRadm John Higginson and Mrs. Nancy Higginson�

Mr. Matt Humphreys and Mrs. Lisa Humphreys�

Mr. Doug Jenkins�

Mr. Michael Jensen and Mrs. Diane Jensen�

Mr. Richard Katz�

Mrs. Renee Handler-Klein and Mr. Jim Klein�

Supervisor Don Knabe and Mrs. Julie Knabe�

Mr. John Knight and Mrs. Joan Knight�

Mrs. Jean Lane�

Dr. Glen March and Dr. Cabrini March�

Ms. Phyllis Miller�

Mr. John Molina and Mrs. Michelle Molina�

Mr. James Montgomery and Mrs. Mary Montgomery�

Captain Charles Moore and Ms. Sam Canon�

Mr. William Mudd and Mrs. Kathleen Mudd�

Dr. Beverly O’Neill and Dr. William O’Neill�

Mr. Gainer Pillsbury and Mrs. Lynne Pillsbury�

Dr. Bill Ralston and Mrs. Patty Ralston�

Mr. Fred Riedman and Mrs. Janet Riedman�

Ms. Cathy Rigby and Mr. Tom McCoy�

Mr. Kurt Schulzman and Mr. Richard Neri�

Mr. John Shadden and Mrs. Patricia Shadden�

Mr. Bill Simmons,� Jr. and Mrs. Melody SimmonsMs. Jeanne Sleeper�

Mr. Ric Trent and Mrs. Resa Trent�

Dr. Jack Vance and Dr. Dori Vance�

Mr. Ken Walker and Mrs. Nancy Walker�

Mr. Bill Waterhouse�

Mr. Steve Young and Mrs. Marlene Young �

Aquarium Executive OfficersDr. Jerry R. Schubel,� president and CEOMs. Vanessa Lewis,� vice president of finance and CFOMs. Barbara Long,� vice president of government relations

and strategic planning and corporate secretary

Aquarium Senior StaffMs. Mary Beth Armbruster,� director of membershipMs. Jeanne Brodeur,� vice president of developmentMs. Amy Rosenberg,� director of educationMs. Cecile Fisher,� vice president of communications and

marketing

Mr. Perry Hampton,� director of husbandryMs. Kathie Nirschl,� vice president of human resourcesMr. John Rouse,� vice president of operationsMs. Tina Sarty,� controllerMr. Jeff Spofford,� director of retail

In 2007 the Aquarium achieved its sixth consecutive year of attendance increases, serving 1.4 million visitors. Operating revenue and consistent donor support continued to increase in conjunction with attendance. The Aquarium’s operating expenses continued to focus on programs, with 85 percent directed toward creating programs, exhibitions, and communications. In 2007 corporate support was the largest source of restricted revenue (for such special projects as described on page 23) with the majority of the funding designated for new exhibits and construction.

2007

Total Attendance 1,389,000

Admissions Revenue 15,003,000

Other Earned Income 7,467,000

Unrestricted Contributions, Fundraising, and Membership

8,167,000

Total Unrestricted Revenues 30,637,000

Restricted Project Revenues 7,952,000

Total Revenues 38,589,000

Programs and Marketing Expenses 27,337,000

Development and Membership Expenses 2,064,000

Administration Expenses 3,079,000

Total Expenses 32,480,000

Total Change in Net Assets 6,109,000

Foundation

Government

Individual

Corporation

Unrestricted Contributions, Fundraising, and Membership

Other Earned Income

Admissions

Administration Expenses

Development and Membership Expenses

Programs and Marketing Expenses

Education and Conservation Programming

Exhibit and New Building Construction

Scholarships

Unrestricted Revenues Operating Expenses

Restricted Revenue Sources Restricted Project Expenditures

27%

49%

11%4%

55%

30%

23%14%

63%

9%6%

85%24%

Aquarium of the Pacific 2008 Annual Report

Documents

Transcript of Aquarium of the Pacific 2008 Annual Report