“Taking Flight” at the 22nd Annual Catalina Island Conservancy Ball

[UPDATE: An estimated crowd of 500 people attended the Conservancy Ball, with the April 1 event reportedly raising more than $600,000.]

AVALON – The Catalina Island Conservancy’s theme for this year’s 22nd Annual Conservancy Ball is “Taking Flight.” Held at the historic Avalon Casino Ballroom on April 1, the Conservancy Ball will introduce the new President and CEO, Tony Budrovich.

The Catalina Island Conservancy, one of California’s oldest land trusts, was created in 1972 to preserve the natural beauty and legacy of the island. The Conservancy is “taking flight” on various strategies to enhance the island experience. The ball is an occasion to celebrate the successful progress of the Conservancy’s Imagine Catalina crusade on two achievements: the groundbreaking for The Trailhead and the launch of Trekking Catalina. The Trailhead, where the Conservancy’s new visitors’ center will be located, is expected to open in 2018. The Trekking Catalina project, the most extensive enhancement of the Island’s trail system since the opening of the Trans-Catalina Trail in 2009, is scheduled for completion this summer.

“We encourage everyone to join us in celebrating the Conservancy’s 45 years of accomplishments and its exciting future under the leadership of Tony Budrovich, who is deeply committed to ensuring that the organization continues to evolve and advance its expertise to serve not only beautiful Catalina island, but a greater good that goes beyond its shores,” said Suzy Gardner, Conservancy chief development officer. “The Conservancy also extends its thanks to all the sponsors, especially our Presenting Partner, Toyota Motor Sales, USA, Inc., and our Sponsor Reception Partner, US Bank.”

Those attending the ball will enjoy dinner with the big band sounds of Society Beat as well as live and silent auctions.

“We look forward to enjoying another memorable evening celebrating our collective passion for the Conservancy’s mission,” said Gardner. “Please reserve your seats today and support the continued protection of this beautiful Island.”

This 22nd Annual Catalina Island Conservancy Ball takes place on Saturday, April 1 at the Avalon Casino Ballroom on Catalina Island from 6-11 p.m. It is a black tie event. To purchase tickets or provide sponsorship, go online to CatalinaConservancy.org. Catalina Express will offer a late-night return boat at 11:58 p.m. on April 1. For more information, call 562-437-8555 ext. 1239 or email Ball@CatalinaConservancy.org.

Shana Cassidy Photography photo