Past Event Report

May 14, 2011

Stand Up... for the Oceans!, Philadelphia, PA

On May 14th, 2011 Sea Shepherd Philadelphia hosted their largest fundraiser to date. "Stand Up...for the Oceans!" was an evening filled with variety that culminated in a comedy show. The evening began with a Happy Hour and appetizers at The Pub on Main Street in Voorhees, NJ, and then dinner was next door at The Mansion wherein guests enjoyed a wonderful vegan/vegetarian dinner. Dessert of vegan mini-cupcakes were donated by CakeKraft.

During courses, guests were encouraged to peruse the Silent Auction which contained items and artwork donated by businesses and artists who believe in our mission. In addition, guests were given the option to bid upon items from the "No Compromise" Campaign. The Silent Auction was a tremendous success and many guests went home very happy with their new pieces of art and history.

Later, the comedy show began and included comedians Travis Irvine as the emcee, Ryan Conner as the feature comic and Yamaneika Saunders as the headliner. After the laughs, Joe Panz and Al Chernoff of National Geographic's "Rescue Ink" were on hand to discuss the importance of protecting and defending animals both on land and sea. Then guests heard from former campaign crew members Tim Quick and Darius Fullmer as they reminded our generous supporters of the reason for our mission. In addition, a very special guest via recorded message spoke to the supporters of Sea Shepherd Philadelphia, our founder Captain Paul Watson.

The evening was a tremendous success and a significant amount of money was raised for the organization. Regional Coordinators Kevin Burton and Tracy Chafin wish to extend heartfelt and sincere gratitude to every volunteer with Sea Shepherd Philadelphia and to the SSCS Headquarters who helped put this event together. Without the passion and determination of this incredible group of people, this event could not have happened.

Andrew Schade, Wilbert Peji and Kery Shaw at The Pub on Main Street.

Regional Coordinators Kevin Burton and Tracy Chafin welcome guests to the event.

Sea Shepherd Philadelphia volunteers enjoy dinner with the guys of Rescue Ink.

Outreach Coordinator Heather Callin speaks about the accomplishments of the "No Compromise" Campaign.

Supporter Christina Jacobi takes a look at the Silent Auction.

Joe Panz and Al Chernoff of Rescue Ink discuss the importance of defending all animals.

Passionate volunteers, Ravi Sharan, Tyler Kruszewski, Brittany Brubaker and John Kyser.

Hilarious comedian Yamaneika Saunders brought every guest to tears in laughter.

Guests had a great time and the laughter didn't stop.

Former crew member Darius Fullmer and Regional Coordinator Kevin Burton.

Volunteers Angela Christman and Jason Burzynski laugh at the comedy of Yamaneika.

Cove Guardian Tim Quick speaks about his experiences in Taiji, Japan.

Darius Fullmer speaks about his experiences on the whaling campaign.

Raffle winner Zach Hoover assists Regional Coordinator Tracy Chafin with the next winning raffle ticket.

Photos courtesy of Simmone Bray of http://www.simmonevonsydney.com