“Pat has been a good friend to the OI for many years, we’re delighted to have her serve on the board, and look forward to her unique contribution in helping us better serve the tens of thousands of students who visit the Institute every year.”

Ocean Institute Welcomes

Supervisor Patricia Bates to Board

Dana Point, CALIF., – The Ocean Institute is pleased to welcome Patricia C. Bates, a member of the Orange County Board of Supervisors, to its Board of Directors.

“Pat has been a good friend to the Ocean Institute for many years,” remarked Dan Stetson, the Ocean Institute’s president.  “We’re delighted to have her serve on the board, and look forward to her unique contribution in helping us better serve the tens of thousands of students who visit the Institute every year.”

Bates began her career in public service in the 1970s.  She was the driving force behind Laguna Niguel’s cityhood campaign.  Upon the city’s incorporation in 1989, she served as its first mayor and continued serving as a member of the city council until her election to the California State Assembly in 1998.  Bates was elected to the Board of Supervisors in 2006, and represents the 5^th district.

Bates is married to husband John.  They live in Laguna Niguel.  The couple has two adult children, and four grandchildren.

Founded in 1977, the Ocean Institute is a non-profit organization dedicated to ocean preservation through education, setting the standard for educational excellence and serving as a leading resource for universities, museums, teachers and all others seeking to increase their knowledge of the ocean.  The Ocean Institute is open to the general public on weekends, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.  Cost:  $6.50 adults, $4.50 children (ages 4-12), Ocean Institute members free.  Unique maritime and ocean-themed items are available in the Chambers Gallery everyday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Institute address: 24200 Dana Point Harbor Dr., Dana Point.  Website: www.ocean-institute.org.  Phone: (949) 496-2274.

Jim Graves