2. Table of Contents
3 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 Staff
Alexi Holford, Editor and Writer
Andrew Reitsma, Graphic Designer
Cecile Fisher, Editorial Advisor and Copy Editor
3. A Celebration of the
Aquarium and Staff
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Aliqui Tin tueraestrud modolenibh er si measures ranging from reducing peak period energy usage to
implementing environmentally friendly construction in an ef-
The Aquarium’s multifaceted Catch a Wave program featured fort to increase energy efficiency, reduce GHG emissions, and
numerous exhibits, programs, and events on the science, demonstrate leadership in sustainability.
power, and beauty of waves. Catch a Wave was a truly cross- The Aquarium of the Pacific continued to play important roles
departmental effort that resulted in an educational and en- in our community and in making positive change in soci-
tertaining experience for guests. They not only learned about ety. One of the Aquarium’s most important roles is to bring
tsunamis and wind waves, but also the history of surf culture together experts, policy- and decision-makers, and diverse
and animals that live in the surf zone. stakeholders to identify and explore alternative strategies to
The Aquarium was pleased to introduce three new sea lions deal with ongoing issues that affect our ocean and our planet.
and a seal in 2007. Our Shorebird Sanctuary also opened in For example, we hosted a city-wide forum on making Long
2007, providing opportunities to learn about tidal wetlands, Beach a greener city in October 2007. Through an expanding
shorebirds, and several species of fishes and plants. And we number of collaborations, we bring the resulting ideas to the
were pleased to break ground on a new public exhibition on public through the Aquarium. We take the long view and do
watersheds and classroom that will open in 2008. not shy away from complex, often controversial issues and
The Aquarium continued its partnership with Cesar Chavez strategies.
Elementary School in Long Beach in 2007. The improvement
in science scores at Cesar Chavez Elementary since the begin-
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ning of the partnership with the Aquarium in spring 2005 is
dramatic. The school’s academic performance for the 2006- The Aquarium continues to expand its portfolio of programs
2007 schoolyear demonstrates marked progress in relation in education, conservation, and outreach. Many of these
to its scores in prior years as well as in comparison to other programs are possible only because of our growing network of
schools in Long Beach and California. partnerships with outstanding organizations across the coun-
The Aquarium became the first among U.S. zoos, aquariums, try, such as the City of Long Beach, the State of California, the
and museums to earn the status of a Climate Action Leader™ National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and the
by successfully certifying its greenhouse gas (GHG) emis- National Research Council. Helping visitors become environ-
sions inventory with the Climate Action Registry in 2007. By mental stewards who are committed to conservation is a key
joining the Registry, the Aquarium demonstrated its concern part of the Aquarium’s mission. Thank you for your support.
regarding global climate change. In addition to participating
in the Registry’s rigorous program, the Aquarium developed
4. Aquarium Exhibits
Engage and Inspire Guests
Each year the Aquarium of the Pacific offers a new program and
exhibit that is debuted in the summer.
Ocean on the Edge opened in June 2008 and included a new Gulf of California
exhibit in the changing gallery, as well as a corresponding film, In April the Aquarium reopened the Gulf of California exhibit,
lectures, and programs. Other highlights were the opening of formerly called the Sea of Cortez exhibit. This updated
the Our Watersheds: Pathway to the Pacific and the updated exhibit is a component of the Aquarium’s partnership with
Gulf of California exhibit. Through educating 1.5 million the World Wildlife Fund to provide public education on this
guests with these presentations, exhibits, and programs, the fragile ecosystem. Featuring graphics in both English and
Aquarium is able to inspire stewardship and further advocacy Spanish, the displays highlight the animals that rely on the
for the ocean and its inhabitants. Gulf of California, the threats they face, and what we can do
to help protect them. In addition, a new free film created by
Ocean on the Edge: Top Ten Ocean Issues the Aquarium about this region, entitled A Sea on the Edge,
In celebration of the Aquarium’s 10th Anniversary, the Ocean began showing daily in the Honda Theater concurrent with
on the Edge: Top Ten Ocean Issues gallery opened in June the exhibition opening.
with exhibits showcasing the ten top issues facing the World
Ocean today, including subjects such as climate change, by- Ocean Today Kiosk
catch, overfishing, pollution, and ocean literacy. The Aquarium In coordination with the September opening of the Sant
utilized animal exhibits, interactives, graphics, and videos to Ocean Hall at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural
engage guests to explore the most important issues facing History in Washington, D.C., the Aquarium unveiled an Ocean
our ocean planet. This exhibit furthered our vision to serve Today kiosk in the Northern Pacific Gallery. Linked to the kiosk
as a communicator of ocean science issues to the public, and in the Sant Ocean Hall, the Aquarium’s kiosk provides guests
many of the guest speakers in 2008 focused on these themes. with a national feed of ocean news and video features as well
Because of the complexity and high level of public interest as local stories created by the Aquarium. The Aquarium was
in these issues, additional educational staff provided “mini one of the first five pilot interactive stations that also included
tours” throughout the summer in this gallery to engage guests the Shedd Aquarium, National Aquarium, JL Scott Marine
in conversation about these topics. Center, and the Mississippi River Museum. Ocean Today
kiosks will be ultimately featured in the entire network of 21
Our Watersheds: Pathway to the Pacific Coastal Ecosystem Learning Centers throughout the United
In November 2008 the Aquarium announced the opening States and Mexico.
of its Our Watersheds: Pathway to the Pacific exhibition and
classroom, the largest expansion since Shark Lagoon. An Online Media
interactive model demonstrates how local watersheds func- The Aquarium of the Pacific uses its website and the internet
tion, how watersheds affect us, how we affect them, and what as an educational tool to immerse the public in ocean topics.
we can do to reduce human impacts on these vital freshwater In 2008 the Aquarium was selected as a laureate finalist
pathways. A new LEED-certified by the international Computerworld Honors Program for its
platinum classroom, adjacent to Web 2.0 efforts. The Aquarium’s entry featured FISH TV, the
the watershed exhibit, provides live feed from our exhibits to the families of Miller Children’s
a venue for small classes and for Hospital; our Oceanpedia website, which provided a forum
bringing together stakeholders on for national scientists to develop the content for the Ocean on
various topics for meetings. The the Edge gallery; and the Build-a-Fish educational interactive
interactive exhibit, classroom, on the Aquarium website. The Aquarium’s online guests can
and surrounding native garden also find videos of guest lectures and aquacasts on a variety
educate both visitors and school of topics. A photo group on Flickr and YouTube videos of the
groups on what we can do to help Aquarium were also added in 2008.
conserve water and protect these
ecosystems.
4 2008 Annual Report
5. Being Green
is a Priority
The Aquarium sets a strong example of sustainability
and stewardship for the environment.
A leader in its efforts to be environmentally friendly, the The Aquarium’s annual Endangered
Aquarium’s internal business practices are in line with what is Species Habitat Restoration Day is a
advocated to guests throughout the Aquarium. In addition to collaborative event with the Seal Beach
recycling and participating in conservation efforts in the com- National Wildlife Refuge. The refuge was
munity, the Aquarium makes numerous decisions on day-to- established nearly 40 years ago to protect
day choices that lessen the impact on the environment. the California Least Tern and the Light-
footed Clapper Rail, two of the state’s most-
Sustainable Building threatened avian subspecies. Each year
The Aquarium’s new watershed classroom (see page x) volunteers prepare habitat for these birds in
was built using sustainable practices and is expected to be anticipation of the breeding season.
certified as LEED (Leadership in Environmental and Energy The weekend-long Earth Day celebra-
Design) platinum. To achieve this standard, the Aquarium tion hosts over a dozen organizations with
used nature-inspired design choices that incorporated a environmental and conservation-oriented
sustainable site, energy efficiency, water conservation, and missions. The Aquarium encourages the public to properly Del dipismo lor-
green materials and resources wherever possible. The 1,300 recycle common electronics and prevent pollution by offering pero do eugait
square-foot building is powered by solar energy. Landscaping discounted admission for those that bring in e-waste. am quis dolore
around the exhibit uses native plants representing the coastal California Coastal Cleanup Day takes place every year modolobor at,
regions of California’s watersheds, and reclaimed water ir- on the third Saturday in September. Each year the Aquarium consequipit,
sum quis-
rigates the 4,000 square-foot garden area. The classroom’s participates in the state-wide beach cleanup by hosting
modit, verit
green roof allows water to be absorbed and reduces runoff. several locations. volesti smol-
The classroom also uses materials that do not release toxic ortie magna
gases to ensure good air quality. Marine Conservation Research Institute
conummy nos
In its second year of reporting to the California Climate The Aquarium’s Marine Conservation Research Institute alissed te eugait
Action Registry, the Aquarium took further initiative by supports ocean research and brings the results of research ex ese feugait
reporting its emissions for all six Kyoto Protocol greenhouse into the conservation process through forums. Two impor- iurem quat vent
gases (GHGs) in 2008. The Aquarium decided to begin tant forums were held at the Aquarium in September 2008. wis adiat.
reporting carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, hydrofluo- The Aquarium brought together government agencies,
rocarbons, perfluorocarbons, and sulfur hexafluoride in ad- aquaculture entrepreneurs, environmentalists, academic
vance of what the Registry requires. By joining the Registry scientists, and other stakeholders to explore solutions for
and exceeding its requirements, the Aquarium demon- dealing with the looming seafood crisis. Also in September
strates its concern regarding global climate change and its the Aquarium brought together water managers and other
commitment to being a leader in working on this threat to water experts in Southern California to discuss how we will
the ocean planet. In 2007 the Aquarium certified its GHG address losses to our water supply due to pumping restric-
emissions inventory with the Registry to become the first tions to protect threatened fish species.
among museums, zoos, and aquariums in the United States MCRI funded research included the fifth
to earn the status of a Climate Action Leader™. year of sending an Aquarium aviculturist to
The Aquarium also continued
In 2008 the Aquarium signed up for increased coverage Matinicus Rock off the coast of Maine for two
with several ongoing research
from its insurance broker, Alliant Insurance Services, Inc. weeks in July 2008 to participate in research on projects, including…
Participating in their new Upgrade to Green add-on program Atlantic Puffins and other sea birds that is being
will pay for environmentally friendly upgrades if portions of conducted by a group called Project Puffin. • Crested Auklet Research
the Aquarium facility ever needs to be rebuilt. Also, Curator of Fishes Sandy Trautwein and • Hydrodynamic Study
Assistant Curator Chris Plante participated in a of Vertebrates
Community Outreach four-day abalone population survey cruise with
• Kelp Reforestation
The Aquarium’s annual neighborhood street cleanup the California Department of Fish and Game Project (see page x)
brought together local families, students, and Vice Mayor at San Clemente and Santa Barbara Islands.
• Reef Check Surveys
Bonnie Lowenthal to pick up trash that might have otherwise Officials from the California Department of Fish
ended up in the ocean or on local beaches. Using Cesar and Game inspected the abalone in our exhibit • Sea Turtle Monitoring
Chavez Park and Cesar Chavez Elementary School as the as part of a two-year certification process, which • Sediment Circulation
meeting place, the cleanup had 340 participants who picked may ultimately allow the Aquarium to display Studies
up over 1,200 pounds of trash. and possibly breed endangered white abalone.
2008 Annual Report 5
6. Educational Programming
for All Ages
The Aquarium’s education department
offers a selection of more than 40
interactive classroom, theater, and
auditorium programs that align with
California science standards.
Of the 1.5 million people who visited in 2008, more than Day Camps
260,000 students and teachers participated in self-guided Seven choices of day camps were offered during the winter
tours, sleepovers, standards-based classes, theater programs, school break and the summer season in 2008. At summer
or visits from the Aquarium on Wheels. The Aquarium also camps in 2008, almost 500 children, ranging from 3- to
offers programs for the public, such as Aqua Tots, Preschool 14-years-old, participated in science activities and helped
Programs, family classes, day camps, and birthday parties. feed the fishes through the week-long Ocean Adventure,
Job Shadow, Junior Biologist, Marine Science Sleepover, Sea
AFFY Award Squirt, and Fish Fry Camps. The half- or full-day classes pro-
In April the education department received the 2008 AFFY moted the building of science skills though interactive activi-
Award from the Alliance for Distance Education in California ties, games, and crafts. Catering to pre-K through ninth grade
(ADEC), the California chapter of the United States Distance levels, students are given the chance to go behind the scenes,
Learning Association. ADEC’s AFFY Awards recognize interact with husbandry staff, and help take care of animals at
outstanding distance learning projects that incorporate the Aquarium. Many of the students continue to participate in
cooperation between education segments (K-20 and lifelong these programs year after year.
learning), innovative uses of educational technology, and the
involvement of community institutions. Outdoor and Up-close Programs
The 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
Del dipismo lor- various trips, Aquarium guests have been able to see blue,
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am quis dolore Newly added for 2008 was the Dolphin Sea Life cruise, in
modolobor at, which bottlenose, common, Risso’s, and Pacific white sided
consequipit, dolphins were seen. The Aquarium also increased its schedule
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of Behind-the-Scenes Tours onsite as to meet the increased
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alissed te eugait Almost 2,000 homeschoolers came to the Aquarium for spe-
ex ese feugait cial Homeschool Days in 2008. In September the Aquarium
iurem quat vent hosted two days with approximately 1,500 students and
wis adiat. 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.
6 2008 Annual Report
7. Miller Children’s Hospital Ocean Art Contest (L-R) The Our
The Aquarium continued its partnership with the Miller The Aquarium of the Pacific, in partnership with the Watersheds: Pathway
Children’s Hospital in 2008. In addition to live video be- Coastal America organization, hosted an Ocean Art to the Pacific exhibit;
ing fed from Aquarium exhibits to video monitors in the Contest in 2008. The contest was open to students winners of the national
hospital lobby, Aquarium volunteers visited the hospital of all ages, from kindergarten through the university Ocean Art Contest met
President George Bush
monthly to share educational information, hands-on level. Original paintings and drawings were submitted
in Washington D.C.;
activities, and crafts with patients. Bed-side versions by more than 2,000 students nationwide to contests students observe a
of the program are offered to those children who are hosted at Coastal Ecosystems Learning Centers (CELC). Giant spider crab in the
unable to attend the program in the hospital playrooms. Each piece was accompanied by a written narrative Northern Pacific Gallery;
Aquarium-designed activity books as well as small toy explaining how the art reflected essential principles of Aquarium staff brings
sharks were given to the patients. Through an endow- ocean literacy. Each CELC’s first- and second-place re- out an American kestrel,
ment, this program will be offered in perpetuity. gional winners’ artwork advanced to a national competi- one of the program
tion in Washington, D.C. Eight national winners came animals
Cesar Chavez Elementary Partnership from the Aquarium of the Pacific, and two were flown to
The Aquarium partners with Cesar Chavez Elementary Washington D.C. in September for a ceremony in which
School, a Title I School that would not be able to provide they met Dr. Sylvia Earl and President George W. Bush.
comprehensive science education to students without the
Aquarium’s help. Cesar Chavez Elementary faces some Aquarium on Wheels
of the greatest challenges among elementary schools in The Aquarium’s popular outreach vehicle provides a
Long Beach Unified School District and in California as a tidepool exhibit for children and adults. By providing direct
whole. Over 95 percent of Chavez students have incomes interaction with marine animals such as sea stars, swell
low enough to qualify for free school meals and 49 percent sharks, anemones, and sea cucumbers, the Aquarium
learned English as a second language. The 2007-2008 on Wheels brings an ocean experience to schools and
schoolyear established a marine science and ocean literacy community groups. The activities are accompanied by
program that will bridge integral themes of the language standards-based auditorium and classroom programs
arts and science curriculum at Chavez Elementary. focused on topics such as waves and marine animal adap-
tations. With 199 visits in 2008, over 37,000 children and
University Partnerships adults were served by this unique mobile learning tool.
In 2008 the Aquarium had partnerships with the
University of Southern California (USC); California State Iliff Infectious Enthusiasm Fund Award
University, Long Beach (CSULB); and the University In honor of Warren Iliff, the Sophak Kong
of California, Irvine (UCI). Through the COSIA Aquarium’s founding president, with
(Communicating Ocean Sciences to Informal Audiences) the Iliff Infectious Enthusiasm Fund
program, Aquarium educators were awarded a subcon- was created in 2006. Thanks to the
tracting position on a National Science Foundation Grant. support of donors, the Aquarium
Through this program they co-teach with a USC professor established an endowment to fund
a class on how to communicate science. Graduate and a program in which teachers spend
undergraduate science students from USC learn teach- three to five days at the Aquarium
ing theory and how to apply this theory on the floor of learning about marine science,
the Aquarium. Through CSULB, the Aquarium hosted ocean literacy, and conservation
five workshops for pre-service teachers in 2008. The issues. In 2008 Lakewood teacher
Aquarium continued to provide UCI students the oppor- Sophak Kong became the first re-
tunity to serve as Aquarium interns, observing classroom cipient of the Warren Iliff Infectious
programs and working at the exhibits as volunteers. Enthusiasm Fund Award.
2008 Annual Report 7
8. Volunteers Make
It All Possible
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.
The 2008 team of 656 active volunteers contributed 118,457 education volunteers in 2008, which helps the Aquarium
hours of work, the equivalent of 57 full-time employees, keep its education programs cost efficient.
extending the operating budget by $2,311,096.* Another noteworthy volunteer program is the
The Aquarium’s dive team had 215 volunteer divers in 2008. VolunTEENs program, with 69 students enrolled in 2008.
These specialized volunteers logged a total of 14,017 dives for the Through collaboration with St. Anthony High School’s
year, which adds up to just over 294 consecutive days underwa- Marine Science Academy, 20 students contributed almost
ter. This included 2,983 presentation dives for the public. 1,000 hours in 2008. University of California Irvine volun-
The Aquarium’s education department had over 400 teer interns also increased their presence at the Aquarium
volunteers in 2008. Over 44,000 hours were donated by the this year. These programs enhance our exhibit interpretation
presence.
Rhonda Kurtz the responsibilities of her Lorikeet Forest job description,
so she started to look for another way to volunteer at the
Volunteering as a
Aquarium.
Life’s Purpose
Kurtz soon began working in the development depart-
Since May 1999 Rhonda ment on mailings, organizing the filing system, preparing for
Kurtz has volunteered at the and staffing special events, and contributing to numerous
Aquarium in many roles: as office improvements. “Whatever needs to be done, I do. It’s
an educator, working with my Aquarium,” says Kurtz. “It’s second nature. I don’t know
the lorikeets, interacting with why it’s such a big deal,” she says.
guests, and providing behind- While Kurtz has been able to do the same jobs as many
the-scenes support for the other volunteers, her hearing disability has enabled her to
development department. Her connect with some guests in a special way. Kurtz recounted
enthusiastic attitude makes her a natural when it comes to many instances where she met guests with hearing disabili-
engaging with people. ties. She has given tours to groups of children who are deaf.
Working outside at the Ray Touchpool one day, Kurtz She also interpreted for the volunteer services manager when
noticed a young boy and his mother using sign language to a new volunteer who was deaf came on board.
talk. Kurtz joined them, explaining that rays are related to One of the biggest contributions that Kurtz has made
sharks and the spines on their tails are clipped. The child’s at the Aquarium is spear-heading additional accommoda-
mouth dropped open in surprise. Kurtz signed to him that tions for people with hearing disabilities. “When there is
she is deaf too. Because Kurtz reads lips very well, most no communication, you cannot learn,” she explains. “You
people do not even realize she is deaf. She certainly does not go somewhere hoping to learn, but you are sitting in the
define herself by her disability. dark. It’s frustrating.” Over time Kurtz provided input to the
Kurtz started to volunteer at the Aquarium in the guest Aquarium on how to improve the experience for people who
services department. She and other volunteers were respon- are deaf or hard of hearing.
sible for welcoming school children to the Aquarium. After So that guests who cannot hear can still enjoy education
six months, Kurtz moved to the education department to presentations, Kurtz helped to develop written scripts, which
give presentations in the galleries. She also did behind-the- can now be checked out at the Information Desk. For movies
scenes tours and worked at the discovery labs. Next Kurtz in the Honda Theater, headsets that translate the audio into
moved into a position in husbandry, working in Lorikeet Forest. infrared text are now available due to Kurtz’s help. Closed
Eventually some significant health problems interfered with captioning was added to the LCD monitors with video com-
Kurtz’s ability to stick to her volunteer commitments. In 2002 ponents throughout the Aquarium as well.
Kurtz had to undergo three surgeries in six months as well as In November 2008, on National Philanthropic Day,
chemotherapy. Kurtz kept telling herself, “Once I get back to Kurtz was honored for being an outstanding volunteer by
the Aquarium, I know I’m better.” She was grateful that the the Association of Fundraising Professionals. After meeting
husbandry team would let her come in for as little as an hour Rhonda Kurtz, it is very easy to see that one person can make
a week, just to be among her human and feathered friends. a difference. One can only begin to imagine the collective
After two more surgeries, Kurtz decided she could not fulfill impact people can make for each other and our planet.
*According to figures provided by The Independent Sector in Washington D.C.
8 2008 Annual Report
9. Cultural Festivals
and Guest Speakers
Provide Learning Experiences
The Aquarium is a resource for the community as an
alternative option for lifelong learning.
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.
Festivals and Honorees
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.
Festival of Southeast Asia Day
Human Abilities Pich Yon
Glenn McIntyre
Baja Splash
African Jose Zertuche
Heritage Festival
Reggie Harrison
Dia del Nino
Emily Brooke Pearson Autumn Festival
FilAm ARTS
Pacific
Islander Festival
Mona Porotesano
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Moompetam olobor at, consequipit, sum quismodit, verit volesti
Anthony Morales smolortie magna conummy nos alissed te eugait ex
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2008 Annual Report 9
10. 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.
Income Sources
were trained and provided with educational tools to share
General Support with their classrooms, these Aquarium experiences contribute
The Aquarium of the Pacific relies on unrestricted gifts from to the greater understanding of the World Ocean and the
members, donors, corporations, foundations, and other environment around us. Including offsite programs such as
partners to fulfill its day-to-day operating needs, and the the Aquarium on Wheels, our educational programs served
Aquarium’s 10th anniversary year was no exception. In 2008 over 243,000 students, educators, and community members
we were able to advance our efforts to promote science and in 2008. Major contributions to the Aquarium Education Fund
ocean literacy among a broad reach of learners of all ages, were provided by Wells Fargo Foundation, The Capital Group
boost student involvement, expand our reach to underserved Companies, and many other dedicated donors.
communities, and ensure that a vast and growing audience is
able to share in the excitement that comes from understand- Ocean Conservation Awards Gala
ing and learning about the natural world. American Honda The annual Ocean Conservation Awards Gala honors the
Motor Co. Inc.’s continued status as the Aquarium’s largest June anniversary of the Aquarium’s opening by presenting
corporate sponsor with more than $387,000 in multiple gifts awards to key individuals and institutions making significant
and The Annenberg Foundation’s continued support of our contributions to the environment. At the 10th Anniversary
operating budget with a grant of $150,000 were just two of Gala celebration in 2008, we honored Governor Arnold
the important donors who made our success possible. Schwarzenegger and the State of California along with Vice
Admiral Conrad C. Lautenbacher, Jr. (U.S. Navy Retired)
Membership and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
Membership continues to be the Aquarium’s largest source (NOAA). Approximately 700 guests enjoyed a gourmet
of unrestricted income. For the 2008 fiscal year, $3,226,040 meal in a clear-top tent that was set up on the Aquarium’s
in operating revenue was generated through membership and front lawn. Those that attended were the first to see the
its related programs. The Aquarium’s members are entitled to Aquarium’s 10th Anniversary tribute film and the new exhibit,
unlimited visits throughout the year as well as the opportunity Ocean on the Edge: Top 10 Ocean Issues. This black-tie event
to participate in special events, activities, and promotions surpassed all others in attendance and support, bringing in
created exclusively for them. Our members take great pride in over $565,000 for the Aquarium’s conservation and educa-
knowing that their membership dollars help in supporting all tion programs. The success of 2008’s Gala was greatly sup-
of the Aquarium’s efforts. ported by major sponsorship grants from lead sponsor KUD
International, major gifts from the Earl B. and Loraine H. Miller
Pacific Circle Foundation, and significant support from Molina Healthcare,
In 2008 Pacific Circle members contributed more than Inc.; The Simons Foundation; and Occidental Petroleum
$530,000 in support of the Aquarium’s programs. Individual Corporation and their subsidiaries THUMS Long Beach
donors, foundations, and corporate supporters that join the Company and Tidelands Oil Production Company.
Pacific Circle provide critical support for the Aquarium’s op-
erating budget. Nearly 65 percent of Pacific Circle members Sea Fare
have been members since the Aquarium opened in 1998, and The 10th Anniversary Sea Fare fundraising event exceeded all
new donors continue to join each year. previous years’ earnings, bringing in more than $143,000 from
ticket sales, auction bids, and sponsorships. Approximately
Aquarium Education Fund 580 guests enjoyed food, beer, wine, and desserts from local
The Aquarium is a valuable partner in the greater educational restaurants while bidding on unique auction items and playing
community. Whether through a class attended by students, the “Go Fish” opportunity game. All auction items were 100
an informational lecture for adult learners, or teachers who percent donated to the Aquarium.
10 2008 Annual Report
11. Honda Dream Raffle
Every 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 Animal
The 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 and performance in science and environmental learning. The Children
nearly $25,000 in 2008. Water Replenishment District of Southern California, the Earl explore the
B. and Loraine H. Miller Foundation, and The Boeing Company Aquarium’s Our
Item Donations were among the many supporters who renewed their support Watersheds:
In addition to the hundreds of companies that contribute for the Aquarium Scholarship Fund in 2008. Pathway to the
Pacific exhibit.
items to the Sea Fare auction, the Aquarium also receives
The interactive
in-kind gifts that help to increase income and reduce costs. Chavez Elementary School Partnership display il-
These donations include everything from business services to Since 2005 the Aquarium has partnered with Cesar E. Chavez lustrates the
animals. The Aquarium partnered with ECO-CELL to recycle Elementary School, a local Title I school that would not watersheds
cell phones, with commissions supporting the Aquarium’s otherwise have been able to provide comprehensive science of San Pedro
mission. In addition, supporters donated cars to the BLOK education to its students. Over the last four years science Bay region,
Charity Auto Clearance where the proceeds benefitted the test scores of Chavez students have drastically improved, as demonstrating
Aquarium. measured by California Standards test scores released by the how freshwater
California Department of Education in 2008. Major funding flows from the
Matching Gifts for this project in 2008 was provided by California Coastal mountains to
the ocean.
Many employers encourage employee donations by providing Commission from its Whale Tail funding and from Occidental
matching gifts that double or triple the effect of individual con- Petroleum Corporation and THUMS Long Beach Company.
tributions. In 2008 matching gift companies that contributed
to the Aquarium for multiple employees included The Boeing Kelp Forest Restoration
Company, California Community Foundation, The Capital The Orange County Kelp Restoration Project has made sig-
Group Companies, Chevron, Texaco, ExxonMobil, GE, Los nificant headway towards the restoration and monitoring of
Angeles Times, Merrill Lynch & Co., Microsoft Corporation, Orange County’s historically important kelp beds. In 2008, 49
Nissan North America, Inc., and many more. 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
Education Projects
meters of restored kelp beds in Crystal Cove and Laguna
The Aquarium of the Pacific conducts several unique education
Beach. In addition, more than 1,350 students have become
projects that extend our reach to the disadvantaged and under-
citizen scientists, learning about kelp and marine ecology,
served communities of Long Beach and the greater Southern
growing kelp in their classrooms, and teaching the public
California region. To learn more about the Aquarium’s education
about this vital habitat.
programs, please see page xx.
Aquarium Scholarship Fund Abalone Captive Rearing, Education, and Outreach
In 2008 the donations from individuals, foundations and To support the objectives laid out in NOAA’s National Marine
corporations allowed more than 20,000 students to visit Fisheries Service (NMFS) Abalone Draft Recovery Plan
the Aquarium or have the Aquarium on Wheels visit them. (2006), the Aquarium developed captive abalone rearing and
This valuable scholarship program introduces students cultivation techniques for red abalone in 2008 and began a
from Title I schools and community organizations—many of two-year certification process to ensure the abalone facility is
whom have never seen the ocean before—to the wonders of free of disease. In addition to the conservation and research
the underwater world. Hands-on activities and standards- components of the project, the Aquarium will also create an
based classes provide each scholarship recipient with a solid interactive educational display to inform its visitors of the
foundation to further increase their interest, enthusiasm, ecological, economic, and cultural significance of this valuable
2008 Annual Report 11
12. coastal species. The abalone project is the first of its kind at the Greater Los Angeles area, seafood consumption is more
the Aquarium, paving the way for us to serve as an additional than twice the national average and more than 80 percent
West Coast abalone culturing and out-planting resource of the seafood is imported. Seafood for the Future will build
while contributing to the conservation efforts of a statewide on local, national, and international markets that are from
initiative. NMFS, the key funder of the Aquarium’s project, sustainable, healthful, and socially responsible sources, thus
officially designated white abalone (2001) and black abalone making a difference in protecting wild fish stocks and pro-
(2009) as endangered under the federal Endangered Species tecting the marine environment by reducing harmful fishing
Act. With these designations, there is an increasing need to practices, overfishing, and bycatch.
raise public awareness about the plight of all of California’s
diminishing abalone populations. Our Watersheds: Pathway to the Pacific
With the November 2008 opening of Our Watersheds:
Special Projects Pathway to the Pacific exhibit and environmental classroom,
Funding from private sources is essential to ensure that the the first phase of the expansion began the process of connect-
Aquarium can continue to engage in unique projects and provide ing visitors to critical environmental stories. The classroom
educational experiences. Special projects such as new exhibits, is expected to be the first LEED® (Leadership in Energy and
enhanced education programs, and innovative conservation Environmental Design) certified Platinum building in Long
projects continue to serve the needs of our community in fresh Beach. This addition illustrates the Aquarium’s commitment
and interesting ways. to environmentally responsible practices that educate the
With increasing annual attendance already meeting the public on sustainable building design, native landscaping,
capacity limits of the current Aquarium facility, the Aquarium and the critical nature of our water resources in Southern
needs additional space, exhibits, and educational programs to California. An anonymous foundation provided a $100,000
continue in its role as a leader in ocean and environmental educa- grant in 2008 to complete the solar energy installation that
tion. A new campus masterplan was developed by staff and the powers this exhibit and classroom.
Board of Directors and now guides a series of important projects.
Major gifts received in 2008 to support the general expansion Animal Care Center
plan were contributed by The Boeing Company, Breslaur-Soref A new 18,000-square-foot Animal Care Center, due to open
Foundation, Ed & Maryann Feo, SAVOR…, and many others. in June 2010, will centralize state-of-the-art diagnosis, treat-
ment, and recovery facilities for the more than 11,500 animals
Endowment at the Aquarium. In the spirit of the Aquarium’s commitment
Endowment funds are unique because they provide a per- to interactive learning, the Animal Care Center will reach
manent source of income. Funds are kept in perpetuity, while beyond the confines of an animal hospital and serve as an
only the interest is spent on programs and exhibits each year. interactive public exhibit, including a public viewing area
This creates a very stable form of funding that continues to where visitors can watch surgeries, animal examinations,
grow in time, making sure that the Aquarium’s mission can and interact with veterinary staff. Through this direct and
be fulfilled far into the future. All bequests and other planned unique experience, visitors will be provided with a new sense
gifts help fund the Aquarium’s endowment fund, unless of awareness and animal conservation that can translate into
otherwise restricted by the donor. Nautilus Society members how they interact with animals in the natural world. Gifts
are those supporters who have named the Aquarium of the received in 2008 to support this project were received from
Pacific as one of the beneficiaries of their will, trust, 401(k), or Molina Healthcare, Inc., Mario and Therese Molina, Janet and
insurance policy. In 2008, the Aquarium received a bequest of Laurence Watt, and other members of the Molina family, for
$53,505 from David L. Kiesling. whom the new center will be named.
Sea Otter Habitat Enhancements Pacific Visions and Changing Exhibit Gallery
We marked the second year of our four-year expansion plan Blending technology, entertainment, science content, and
for the popular Sea Otter Habitat exhibit, thanks to a gift groundbreaking research, Pacific Visions will tangibly show
from the BP Foundation. In June the exhibit designers and the interconnectivity between individual animals, habitats,
Aquarium staff met with sea otter experts to discuss the and the global environment. The two-story multi-sensory,
new habitat design, which will be based on the habitat of the multi-dimensional immersive center will be a groundbreak-
Southern sea otter, the species at the Aquarium of the Pacific. ing interactive experience designed to transport our guests
All visual and habitat upgrades to the exhibit will be based into the furthest reaches and deepest mysteries of the Pacific
on the California coastal region where this species lives, from Ocean. Working in tandem with the changing exhibit gallery,
Monterey Bay to Santa Barbara. which will be doubled in size, the combined exhibit space will
not only reinforce stories told in our permanent exhibits, but
Seafood for the Future also will continuously reinvent the visitor experience, intro-
With the support of a $142,000 annual installment on a duce new themes, and foster repeat attendance. During 2008
multi-year grant from Pacific Life Foundation, the Aquarium the Aquarium of the Pacific received a $75,000 grant from
has embarked on a new project to enlist Southern California The Kresge Foundation to support a planning project to reach
restaurants to provide sustainable seafood on their menus. In LEED Platinum certification for the project.
12 2008 Annual Report
13. 2008 Major Donors
The mission-driven programs mentioned throughout this annual In 2007 the donors and members of the Pacific Circle generously
report are made possible largely through contributions from indi- supported the conservation, education, and environmental pro-
viduals, foundations, corporation, and government partners. grams of the Aquarium with gifts of $1,000 or more. We deeply
appreciate and thank each donor recognized below.
$250,000+ DeMenno Kerdoon Los Angeles County Board of Lettuce Entertain You
American Honda Motor Co., Inc. The Green Foundation Supervisors: Don Knabe Enterprises, Inc.
BP Foundation Inc. Bob and Jennifer Hagle Steven and Niko Mayer Michael and Vanessa Lewis
Molina Healthcare, Inc. Halbert, Hargrove/Russell Jack and Mary McFerran Edmund and Teresa Lohr
Roy and Elda Hearrean Paul and Patti Mickelsen Barbara Long and Bill Waterhouse
$100,000+ Institute of Museum and Library Phyllis Miller Gary and Gretchen Marlotte
The Annenberg Foundation Services Robert and Georgia Nichol Raul and Sabrina Martinez
The Boeing Company KCSWest Parker Covert LLP Margaret A. Maw
Edison International KUD International Steven and Robin Roffer Neil McClean and
Allen Charlotte Ginsburg Peri Marek and Peg Urvoas Eunice Knight Saunders Foundation Hilary Garland
Wilderness Experience Foundation Milbank, Tweed, Hadley Sidney Stern Memorial Trust Kelly Sutherlin McLeod and Steven B.
Mario and Therese Molina McCloy LLP Sims Metal McLeod
National Marine Sanctuary Foundation Moffat Nichol International Richard and Elizabeth Steele Fund Mona and Dr. Jeffrey W. Morris
Port of Long Beach Northrup Grumman Corporation THUMS Long Beach Company William and Kathleen Mudd
Port of Los Angeles The Olson Company Tidelands Oil Production Company Marsha Naify
Stephen and Brenda Olson Tom Turney and Jill Boivin Michael K. Nakashoji
$75,000+ Ms. Lynne M. Preslo and Dr. Wayne Union Bank of California Occidental Petroleum Corporation
Long Beach Water Department N. Sawka Union Pacific Foundation Orange County Teachers Federal
Kurt Schulzman and Credit Union
$50,000+ Richard Neri $2,500+ Patrick V. Gough Co., Inc.
Steve and Fran Conley The Simons Foundation Anonymous Dennis C. Poulsen and Suzanne M.
California Coastal Conservancy Jeanne B. Sleeper Dr. Mary Jane Adams Poulsen
Earl B. and Loraine H. Miller Michael and Mildred Sondermann ADJG Jonathan and Barbara Roth
Foundation UBS Daniel and Theresa Aranda Securitas Security
John and Michelle Molina University of Southern California Bank of the West Services USA, Inc.
Water Replenishment District of John and Corinne Bertrand Richard C. Smith and
Southern California $5,000+ Yvonne M. Bogdanovich Patricia Frobes
Wells Fargo Anonymous Bonnie Brae Sony Pictures Entertainment
The Abbey Company Barbara A. Pollack and John A. Paul and Marcia Stelling
$25,000+ Barratt American, Inc. Burkholder Barbara H. Stevens
Bank of America Evalyn M. Bauer Foundation Catalina Express Scott Sweetow and
Croul Family Foundation Begin Today for Tomorrow Charitable Stephen and Patricia Chazen Lisa Green-Sweetow
Employees Community Fund of Boeing Foundation Citi Community Relations Peter and Virginia Ueberroth
California Boeing Gift Matching Program Dameron Family Foundation Mick and Louise Ukleja
Edwin and Maryann Feo BP America Inc. Gordon and Susan DesCombes Verizon Communications, Inc.
King’s Seafood Company Carlton Forge Works ERM Foundation The Weiler Foundation
Kenneth T. and Eileen L. Norris Doug and Holly Carpenter James and Sue Femino/Femino
Foundation City Light Power, Inc. Foundation
The Pepsi Bottling Group $1,500+
Donald and Sally Clark Ella Fitzgerald Charitable Foundation
Savor... Catering by SMG Anonymous (2)
Comerica Bank William A. Garlin Jr.
Jerry R. and Margaret H. Schubel Tamara Achauer
Kenneth and Jeanne Conklin Frederick and Leslie Gaylord
University of California Berkeley Doug and Connie Baker
Crevier BMW Geosyntec Consultants
Mark and Joyce Barnett
Farmers Merchants Bank Gibson, Dunn Crutcher LLP
$10,000+ Rob Bellevue and Agnes Mulhearn
John Fielder and John and Elizabeth Hancock
Josephine M. Molina-Battiste and Barbara Bixby Blackwell
Donita Van Horik Ron Heiman and Janice Riley Heiman
Michael Battiste Phil and Charlene Bosl
First In Our Hearts Foundation Madeline and Donald Heimark
Brek Manufacturing Company Richard Boucher and Andrea Amram
Ron and Susan Gastelum Radm John and Nancy Higginson
The Breslauer-Soref Foundation George and Judy Breshears
Grand Prix Foundation of Mark and Mary Hoover
Jeanne M. Brodeur Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.
Long Beach Matt and Lisa Humphreys
BT Infonet Lee and Joseph Cerrell
HDR Engineering, Inc. Dr. Masashi and Teruko Itano
California Coastal Commission Whale Bill and Wren Chais
Bess J. Hodges Foundation David and Lindley Hasenauer
Tail License Plate Charles Durnin Apartments
Keesal, Young Logan Gary and Cheryl Justice
The Capital Group Companies Andrew and Portia Cohen
Coral and Ron Levin Kim Ketterman and Art Rodriguez
John W. Carson Foundation, Inc. Consortium for Oceanographic
Long Beach Area Convention Graham and Mary Ellen Kilsby
Esther S.M. Chao Research Education
Visitors Bureau The Kleiner Cohen Foundation
Citi Foundation Marjorie Countryman
Long Beach Transit Patrick M. Kohler
Dominic and Margaret DeCristofaro John Crochet
Trish and Don Lange
2008 Annual Report 13
