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OXNARD — The Channel Islands Maritime Museum (CIMM) proudly hosted its sold-out Nautical Night of Lights gala on December 14, 2024, and the evening was nothing short of extraordinary. Set against the festive backdrop of the Channel Islands Harbor during the annual Parade of Lights, this highly anticipated event brought together community leaders, art enthusiasts, and maritime lovers to celebrate the Museum’s mission and accomplishments and to raise money for this treasured resource.
The gala featured an impressive lineup of speakers who shared inspiring insights into the intersection of art, culture, and maritime history. Hunt Nelson, President of the Nelson Maritime Arts Foundation, opened the evening by speaking passionately about the his families history in founding the museum and the museum’s importance in our community. David Yashitomi, Arts & Culture Manager for the Ventura County Executive Office, continued with a thought-provoking speech highlighting the importance of preserving and celebrating our local heritage. Rounding out the evening’s speakers was Brittany Botts-Volaski, co-owner of Fish with the Finest, who captivated the audience with her perspectives on the vital connection between the ocean and our community and her company’s latest partnership with the Maritime Museum to provide educational experiences and field trips to children in Ventura County.
Among the attendees were prominent leaders from Ventura County and the Port of Hueneme, further underscoring the significance of the Museum’s role in the region. The event provided a platform for fostering meaningful connections and sparking collaborative ideas to enhance community engagement with maritime history and ecology.
The gala’s success was evident not only in the turnout but also in the electric energy that filled the room. Guests were treated to a beautifully curated evening featuring exquisite cuisine provided by Food Affairs, live entertainment, and a silent auction that showcased unique maritime-themed items and fun experiences. The funds raised will support the Museum’s ongoing educational programs, exhibitions, and preservation efforts.
CIMM’s Executive Director, Doug Riffenburgh, expressed his gratitude to all who contributed to the evening’s triumph: “The Nautical Night of Lights gala truly demonstrated the incredible support that our community has for our Museum and our mission. We’re thrilled to see such enthusiasm and commitment to preserving and celebrating maritime heritage.”
As the night came to a close, attendees left with a renewed appreciation for the rich maritime history that defines our coastal community. The success of this event marks a bright future for CIMM and its ability to inspire and educate for generations to come. Thank you to everyone who joined us for this memorable evening. We extend our deepest gratitude to our corporate sponsors, the County of Ventura, the Port of Hueneme, Karl’s and US Bank whose generous support helped to make this event possible. Together, we continue to illuminate the past, present, and future of maritime culture.
To support the Channel Islands Maritime Museum and its ongoing mission, please consider riding the wave of generosity to help us continue our important work.