The Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Celebrates Ten Years of Coastal Protection!

This September marks the 10th anniversary of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, and you’re invited to join in the celebration festivities! The Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary and a variety of regional partners are hosting a series of events to promote ocean awareness and conservation of the rich coastal ecosystem of central California.

Saturday, September 7, 2002 – 10th Anniversary Celebration, San Simeon
Guided kayaking trips, environmental fair and beach barbeque at Hearst Memorial State Beach, dedication of new Sanctuary interpretive exhibit at the Hearst Castle Visitor Center, and special one-night showing of Living Edens: Big Sur at the National Geographic Theater. For more information, call (805) 927-2145.

Saturday September 14, 2002 – 10th Anniversary Celebration, Half Moon Bay
Festivities at Half Moon Bay State Beach from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. include the grand opening of a new State Parks visitor center, environmental exhibits, children’s activities, and a volunteer recognition ceremony. From 11:00 a.m. to Noon, join us for the grand opening of our new National Marine Sanctuaries Office at 625 Miramontes Street. For more information, call (650) 712-8909.

Friday, September 20, 2002 – Ocean Conservation Forum, Monterey
Hon. Leon Panetta will lead an hour-long panel discussion on important ocean conservation issues with guests Jean Michel Cousteau and Ms. Julie Packard at the Steinbeck Forum, Monterey Conference Center beginning at 7:30 p.m. Dessert and coffee following the presentations. For more information, call (831) 644-9600. (Reserved seats are $10.00.)

Saturday, September 21, 2002 – Oceans Fair and 10th Anniversary Celebration, Monterey
Festivities at Custom House Plaza from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. include ocean exhibits from around the nation, boat rides and tours, street performers, face painting, birthday cake, speeches by dignitaries, blessing of the sanctuary ceremony, special hands-on children’s activities including an ocean treasure hunt, puppet show and performance by children's recording artist Linda Arnold. For more information, call (831) 647-4255.

Saturday, September 21, 2002 –10th Anniversary Celebration Dinner, Monterey
A reception, dinner and program to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the Sanctuary beginning at 6 p.m. at the Beach Resort ($50 per person). For more information, call the Association of Monterey Bay Area Governments at (831) 883-3750.

Saturday, September 28, 2002 – Shark Festival and 10th Anniversary Celebration, Santa Cruz
Festivities on the Santa Cruz Wharf from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. include ocean exhibits and hands-on activities, live sharks, children’s treasure hunt and puppet show, live music, birthday cake, and formal ceremonies. For more information, call (831) 420-1630.

We hope to see you at one or more of these celebration events!