World
Fundraiser Raises Awareness About Injured, Orphaned Marine Animals
By Lisa Regardie
Dec 9, 2006 - 7:25:49 AM

VENICE - A fundraiser entitled "Rescue Me" for The Whale Rescue Team (WRT) took place on Saturday, Dec. 2 at the Epoxy Box Gallery in Venice to raise awareness about entangled or beached whales, dolphins, seals, sea lions and sea birds along the California coast. For 20 years, WRT volunteers have come to the aid and rescue of these marine animals. The jam-packed event was hosted by Deborah Guyer-Greene, Peter Wallerstein, Kris Kelly, Jane Velez-Mitchell and Lena Nozizwe.

   Wallerstein, who is the founder and director of, and a marine rescuer for WRT, has been in his line of work for about 22 years because it filled a void in marine mammal rescue in Los Angeles County.

   "Before WRT got involved, parking enforcement officers and animal control officers were responsible for responding to marine wildlife calls. As individuals they did the best they could, but without training and utilizing inappropriate rescue equipment, this left many animals suffering on L.A. County beaches. I've worked to change that," Wallerstein said.

   The total marine mammals and sea birds that he has rescued through the decades numbers in the thousands.

   In terms of what is the most rewarding and challenging aspect of what he does, Wallerstein had this to say: "To help. To provide another chance at survival to those injured, orphaned or sick marine animals."

   Wallerstein thought the fundraiser had a good turnout and said he raised some money.

   "We still need more for our much needed new truck," he said.

   The evening, which started at 7:00 p.m. and ended at 11:00 p.m., was filled with food, music and fun. Vegetarian cuisine and a hosted bar satisfied many palettes as guests mixed and mingled with other attendees. Entertainment was provided by Brittney Elizabeth, Clive Kennedy, Sky and The Vegan Vixens and Themba Sound Design. There were even raffles, a silent auction, and limited edition rescue art on display in the gallery.

   "Everyone seemed to have a good time!" he said.

   More information can be found at whalerescueteam.org.

Photo courtesy of Branimir Kvartuc