Membership Appreciation Month 2024

To show our gratitude, we're dedicating an entire month to thank our over 1,000 members for their dedication to our Foundation and the environmental education of our community (young and young at heart). To do this we host several events throughout the month exclusive to members and their family. 


Columbia Sportswear Employee Store 

August 24th – September 18th 

With such an active community, we know how much 50%-60% off brand-new active clothing from top brands mean to you! That’s why we partnered with the Columbia Sportswear Employee Store to give members exclusive access to their private employee store in Carlsbad. Bonus: Columbia donated 10% of all sales made by AHLF members back to the Foundation! 


Adult Lecture Series ~ “Killer Algae” 

September 4th 

Over 15 members joined us for a compelling presentation by Carolyn Lieberman of California Fish & Wildlife on the fight against Algerian sea lavender, also known as "Killer Algae.” Members discovered how the Agua Hedionda Lagoon Foundation and its partners are tackling this urgent issue and learn how they can help protect our ecosystem. 


Thank you: Carolyn Lieberman 

Hubbs Seabass Hatchery Tour 

September 12th 

30 Members joined us for a VIP Tour of the Hubbs Seabass Hatchery, the inspiration behind our scenic “Hubbs Trail.” They discovered the fascinating process of replenishing the White Seabass population in our oceans and witness each stage of this vital conservation effort in action. 

 

Thank you: Hubbs-SeaWorld Research Institute Carlsbad Team and AHLF Team members Larissa Fullmer and Alyssa Sandoval for greeting all our members onsite! 

Oyster Art Night 

September 18th 

20 of our members tapped into their creative side for a unique event blending crafts with conservation! Oyster shells donated by local restaurants, are usually repurposed for oyster wattles in erosion control efforts (learn more about that initiative here: https://www.aguahedionda.org/oyster-shells-are-helping-to-prevent-coastal-erosion-at-agua-hedionda-lagoon). However, local artist Theresa saw beyond their typical use. After cleaning the shells with vinegar, they became the perfect canvas for painting, decoupage, and more! 


Our members sipped on wine and beer while crafting beautiful oyster shell art, guided by Theresa's expert touch. As the sun set, painting the sky in hues of pink and purple, members proudly posed with their finished creations against the backdrop of the lagoon. Thank you to everyone who joined us for a fun-filled, eco-friendly evening! 

 

Thank you: 

That Pizza Place 

Pizza Port, Carlsbad Village 

Theresa from Studio ACE 

Gallegos Wine Tasting 

September 27th 


If there’s one thing our members love, it’s a stunning sunset paired with a crisp glass of fine wine. Over 70 members joined us at the Discovery Campus on the last Friday of September to enjoy award-winning Gallegos Wines from Napa. With light bites, live music from Endless Blue, and dancing down Mayor Matt Hall Hill, the evening was filled with fun. Guests even had their portraits drawn by a caricature artist, making it a night to remember! 


Thank you: 

Wine Tasting Sponsor 

Gallegos Wines 

Entertainment Sponsor 

Senor Grubby's 

Beer Sponsor 

Alesmith Brewing Company 

Entertainment  

Endless Blue 

Caricature artist 

Decor & Supplies Sponsor 

The Socials 

Food/Drink Sponsors 

Bits & Bites Graze Board 

Mendocino Farms, Bressi Ranch 

Open Water 

Prontos' Gourmet Market & Eatery 

Strawberry Shack 

Sprouts Farmers Market, San Marcos 

Stator Bros 

Topo Chico 

 

Thank you to everyone who made our Member Appreciation Month a success! From conservation lectures and creative oyster shell art to wine tastings and exclusive shopping deals, we loved celebrating with you. A special thanks to our sponsors and volunteers who made it all possible. We’re grateful for your continued support in helping us protect and educate our community. 

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