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More Than $450,000 Raised During 2006 Waterman's Weekend
The Surf Industry Manufacturers Association (SIMA Environmental Fund estimates more than $450,000 was raised for ocean-environmental organizations during the 17th annual Waterman's Weekend environmental fundraiser.
"SIMA is confident that we have met the ambitious goal set by the SIMA
Environmental Fund Board of Directors of raising $450,000," said Paul
Naudé, chairman of the SIMA Environmental Fund and CEO of Billabong USA.
"Actually, we believe we have exceeded that goal and the question we'll
be working to answer this week is by how much. SIMA is greatly
appreciative of all the sponsors and attendees who made the Waterman's
Weekend a phenomenal success and allows us to grant substantial funds to
projects that will have a tangible and measurable effect on protecting
and preserving our oceans. The surf industry has a genuine commitment to
protecting the oceans waves that are crucial to our businesses. As we
continue to experience growth in our industry, we hope the surf industry
will continue to support the very deserving Waterman's Weekend
environmental beneficiaries."
The proceeds raised will be distributed in the form of grants to 13
environmental organizations selected by the SIMA Environmental Fund
Board of Directors based on their commitment of funds to specific
projects that will protect and preserve oceans, beaches and/or surf
breaks. The 2006 SIMA Environmental Fund grant recipients are: Surfrider
Foundation, Ocean Institute, Wildcoast, Heal the Bay, Orange County
CoastKeeper, Surfing Education Association, Alaska Wilderness League,
Seymour Marine Discovery Center, Algalita Marine Research Foundation,
Save the Waves Coalition Reef Check, KAHEA, SINADES.
In addition to raising funds for the environment, the 850 Waterman's
Ball attendees paid tribute to some of the surf industry's most
influential people. This year, SIMA honored Quiksilver's Bob McKnight as
Waterman of the Year for his leadership and ongoing dedication to the
surf industry and for exemplifying all things surf. Surfer and recording
artist Jack Johnson and his wife, Kim, were honored as Environmentalists
of the Year for their commitments to saving the North Shore of Oahu from
development, as well as for always sharing the importance of caring for
and respecting the environment through Jack's music and
environmentally-friendly tours. Legendary Waikiki Beach Boy Rabbit Kekai
was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award for inspiring and
impacting the growth and development of surfing's greatest athletes.
"Bob, Jack, Kim, and Rabbit have all inspired us and left an indelible
mark on the surf industry, earning everyone's respect," said Dick Baker,
president of SIMA and president of Op. "The evening was a great way for
the industry to say 'thank you' for their commitment to surfing and our
oceans."
The SIMA Environmental Fund is a 501(c)(3) charitable foundation formed
by the Surf Industry Manufacturers Association to provide support in the
form of grants to environmental organizations. The annual Waterman's
Weekend serves as the primary fundraiser for the SIMA Environmental Fund
through the Waterman's Classic Golf Tournament and Waterman's Ball and
Auction. More than 160 golfers turned out for the Waterman's Classic on
August 4 at the Monarch Beach Golf Links. The Waterman's Ball and
Auction on August 5 attracted more than 850 people and filled the
ballroom of The St. Regis Monarch Beach Resort & Spa to capacity.
The Surf Industry Manufacturers Association (SIMA) is the official
working trade association of more than 300 surf industry suppliers.
Founded in 1989, SIMA is a non-profit organization that serves to
promote awareness of the surf industry and participation in the sport of
surfing through public relations efforts and a variety of services,
educational programs and research.
Written By: adisgladis
Date Posted: 8/9/2006
Number of Views: 178
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