The Friends 3rd annual Ruby Dance Stewardship Dinner marked the annual return of Hylebos Creek salmon and the annual gathering of people to support conservation of stream, wetland and open space in the Hylebos Creek Watershed.

The 200 assembled guests raised more than $25,000 for conservation of Hylebos Creek and the West Hylebos Wetlands!

The evening kicked off with complimentary sparkling wine provided by Banrock Station Wines. As guests enjoyed the wine, many viewed the trove of incredible auction items, or enjoyed lively conversation with fellow Hylebos friends.

Following dinner, Friends Executive Director Chris Carrel explained why people are the key to conservation. "Someone once said that environmentalists make great ancestors," Carrel concluded his presentation. "I look around the room and see a room full of great ancestors in the making."

Keynote speaker Dr. Elliott Norse of the Marine Conservation Biology Institute gave a passionate and inspirational speech, describing the plight of the world's oceans and connecting local conservation in the Hylebos with global results.

All photos provided through the courtesy and talent of Joni Atkinson at Simply Stated Photography.

This event could not have happened without our generous sponsors, auction & in-kind donors and table captains.

Congratulations to our 2007 Hylebos Award Winners!