June 7, 2004

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contacts:
Rebecca Zinger (805) 963-1622

ENVIRONMENTAL DEFENSE CENTER HOSTS 11TH ANNUAL BENEFIT AUCTION &
2004 ENVIRONMENTAL HERO AWARDS

SANTA BARBARA - Please join the Environmental Defense Center (EDC) for its 11th Annual Benefit Auction and 2004 Environmental Hero Awards on Sunday, June 27th from 2-5:30 p.m. at Nu Restaurant (1129 State St.). The event will feature hors d'oeuvres, Sanford wines, a silent and live auction and live music by Leslie Lembo & Friends. Jay Thomas will serve as the event's Master of Ceremonies and Assemblymember Hannah Beth-Jackson will act as the Auctioneer. Proceeds will directly support EDC's work as a nonprofit, public interest environmental law firm to protect our Central Coast environment and quality of life.

The Environmental Defense Center is pleased to honor the following Environmental Heroes for their commitment to a sustainable and healthy environment on the Central Coast (see attached bios):

Public Leader: Congresswoman Lois Capps
Lifetime Achievement: Selma Rubin
Advocates: Connie Hannah and Jean Holmes
Business: Island Seed and Feed
Special Tribute: Wanda Michalenko

In addition to joining EDC in honoring these heroes, guests at the Auction will have a chance to bid on a variety of exciting live auction items, some of which are described below:

Enjoy Spectacular Fall Scenery in Vermont: Relax for five days and nights at this magnificent home located on a Christmas tree farm in rural Vermont. It is the ideal location for skiing, hiking and viewing gorgeous fall foliage. This would be a perfect romantic getaway or vacation with friends.

A Spicy Evening for Twelve: Enjoy a fabulous Cajun dinner for 12, prepared by chef David Postada of the Big Easy Catering Company and served by your charming EDC staff. Be treated to the flavors of Louisiana, and create your own menu to satisfy the spicy cravings of all your guests.

Landscape Painting of Your Choice: Whitney Abbott, the acclaimed Oak Group artist, will create a 16Í20-canvas painting of any local landscape you choose. A perfect anniversary gift or commemorative piece, the commissioned painting is a rare and wonderful opportunity. Let nature be your inspiration.

Rejuvenate in Sedona, Arizona: Six adventurous days and seven tranquil nights await you at the Arroyo Robles Resort situated on breathtaking Oak Creek Canyon. Savor the majestic countryside while fishing, hiking, playing tennis or simply relaxing in the resort's rejuvenating pool and soothing hot tub.

Individual tickets are $65 per person, of which $40 is fully tax-deductible. Please RSVP by June 11. For sponsorship and underwriting information, or for tickets and reservations, please call EDC at (805) 963-1622, ext. 103 or visit EDC's website at www.edcnet.org.

EDC's 2004 ENVIRONMENTAL HEROES

Public Leader: Congresswoman Lois Capps
As a congresswoman for the 22nd Congressional District, Capps has been an advocate for health care, education and the environment since her election in 1998. Her accomplishments include combating oil development, protecting the Gaviota Coast and opposing drilling in the Los Padres National Forest. In addition to serving on many committees, her roles as a nurse, a teacher and an active member of many community groups reflect Capps' overall commitment to public service.

Lifetime Achievement: Selma Rubin
Since moving here in 1964, Selma has been fully absorbed in the political and social arenas. She helped found many local groups such as the Environmental Defense Center, Community Environmental Council and Legal Defense Center. Throughout her life, she also served on the boards of some 18 organizations including the Sierra Club, the ACLU, and the League of Conservation Voters. Selma's lifelong dedication to the people and City of S.B. has had an everlasting impact.

Advocates: Connie Hannah
A Santa Barbara resident for 30 years, Connie has been actively involved in multiple organizations including the League of Women Voters (where she was President for two terms), the S.B. Environmental Coalition and the S.B. Waterfront-Vision Project. Her work on multiple energy, development and coast-related issues has had a profound and optimistic effect on the local environment. Connie's multiple awards reflect her ongoing dedication to our community.
Jean Holmes
As a long-time member of the League of Women Voters, Jean's contributions include serving as President for two terms, being on the board of directors and chairing multiple committees. Over the years, she has increasingly concentrated on energy, sustainability, coastal and marine issues. She is also involved in the Environmental Coalition and the Environmental Resources Management Committee for the City of S.B. Her many accomplishments are obvious all around us.

Business: Island Seed and Feed
Guided by the principle of sustainability, the owners of Island Seed and Feed have used their 35 years of experience with organic gardening and landscaping to promote ecological agriculture. They offer organic gardening supplies, natural pet products and expertise on maintaining a healthy and sustainable community. As a locally owned and operated store, Island Seed and Feed supports other local businesses by carrying their products and donates to organizations and schools in the area.

Special Tribute: Wanda Michalenko
Throughout her lifetime, Wanda was a living example and active leader for the preservation of open space, the conservation of clean water and the restoration of creeks. She founded the Isla Vista Credit Union and the Santa Barbara Urban Creeks Council, while also dedicating herself to "Save Ellwood Mesa." In addition to these remarkable feats, Wanda still found time to be a devoted mother and mentor for many people. She will be forever in our hearts!

MENU
Nu's delicious menu will feature poached salmon, a garden crudités basket, an imported and domestic cheese board with fruit and exotic crackers, quesadillas, pizza cooked on a wood-burning stove, spanakopita, Asian vegetable spring rolls and sugar cane shrimp.

ABOUT EDC
The Environmental Defense Center is the only nonprofit environmental law firm on California's Central Coast. EDC works with community groups on environmental issues such as improving air and water quality, preserving precious open spaces, saving species from extinction and guarding public health.

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