Catalina Island News

2008 Conservancy Ball Plans Underway

2007-12-30
Catalina Island Conservancy

General tickets will go on sale Friday, February 1, 2008 for the 13th Annual Catalina Island Conservancy Ball themed "Earth, Wind and Fire," to be held Saturday, April 12, 2008 in the Avalon Casino. The Ball will feature dinner, dancing to Pete Jacobs and his Orchestra, live and silent auctions, and some new surprises.

For those wishing to participate in the Pre-Ball sponsorship party, sponsorship opportunities are now available and can be purchased online at our website listed below.

Sponsorship levels begin at $1,500 for two tickets. All sponsors and their guests not only receive admission to the Ball, but also an invitation to the Pre-Ball Sponsor Party at historic Casa del Monte.

Designed by architect D.M. Renton in the signature Spanish style he used for the town of Avalon, and originally owned by  Philip and Helen Wrigley, the multi-level house was constructed in 1927, and takes full advantage of its birds-eye view of Avalon and the harbor.

Recently, an extensive four-year renovation of the property was completed, with an eye toward preserving the rich history of past generations who have lived there, while also adding the personal touches of its current residents, Geoff Rusack and Alison Wrigley Rusack.

An added highlight for sponsors at the $20,000 level will be a private tour of Casa del Monte given by Alison Wrigley Rusack.

The Ball, hosted this year by the Conservancy, is a celebration of the natural wonders of this beautiful Island.

 "Earth" honors the land, the animals and the unique geology of the Island in addition to the plant life, and hikers, bikers and campers that use the its lands as a recreational destination. 

"Wind" represents the air that surrounds the Island, supporting bird life and the Island's endemic insects including the beautiful Avalon hairstreak butterfly. Wind also represents the Island's dedicated boating community along with the pilots and visitors who travel by plane to the Airport in the Sky.

"Fire" focuses on the re-growth and resiliency of the Island's plant communities after the recent fire, whose seed bank lying dormant beneath the earth's surface, will come alive in the spring, blanketing the hillsides with greenery and colorful wildflowers.