special edition - cabrillo marine aquarium · special edition. 2 do it! do it! do it! do it! do it!...

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DO IT! DO IT! DO IT! DO IT! DO IT! DO IT! DO IT! DO IT! DO IT! DO IT!

VOLUNTEERS NEWSLETTER • JANUARY 2011

IN MEMORIAM

John Main Olguin2-18-1921 — 1-1-2011

SPECIAL EDITION

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Remembering John OlguinSusanne Lawrenz-Miller

When I think about John, the first thing that always comes to mind, of course, was his warm, outgoing personality which welcomed absolutely everybody. The second thing is his incredible store of wonderful stories, all true but conveyed in such imaginative, humorous terms. And the third was his tireless efforts on behalf of others. It was an enormous privilege for me to work with John Olguin for so many years. He was always so kind and supportive to me as well as to countless others during good times and trying times alike. Our many years together centered around public education at Cabrillo Marine Museum/Aquarium. I’ve encountered a large number of teachers, professors, and mentors, but John Olguin was the single most effective educator I’ve ever met. Using simple language, engaging his audiences in real physical experiences, and training others to do the same, he brought scientific and historical subjects alive for literally millions of people of all ages and backgrounds. With a deep well of creativity and boundless energy, he created not just one or two but a long list of highly innovative programs that continue today. And he did this with far fewer resources than we have available today, because he knew how to enlist the help of the most important resource of all, people.For example, back in the early 1950s grunion were probably somewhat familiar to southern Californians, I’m sure--probably fishermen, college and maybe high school biology classes. But then John Olguin began inviting the public to come down to Cabrillo Beach late at night to witness grunion runs themselves. I remember him, with just a handful of volunteers, dragging out a huge screen to show the old classic scientific film, “Fish, Moon, and Tides,” outdoors on the beach before the grunion started making their appearance for the evening. But John did this not just a few times a year, but for two nights during every set of grunion runs, every two weeks, over a five-month period, every single year, for decades. This required a tremendous amount of energy but John Olguin had it. Plus he had the energy to enlist and keep those volunteers happy and the ability to publicize creatively to draw the crowds in the first place. But that’s not all. He also had every schoolchild, and many other visitors besides, personally hatch grunion eggs if they came during that 5-month season. Millions of people over the generations have given birth to grunion because of John Olguin, a lesson most of them never forget. Not too many years after he started, he had gained international fame for this program.And this was only one program. John Olguin was never moderate in his efforts; he was a true pioneer with so many programs and always did them in a big way. The whalewatch program has taken millions out to sea to appreciate and help save these huge creatures. The junior docent program built self-confidence in many thousands of pre-teens over the decades. Pre-school programs provided early childhood experiences with marine life for many thousands of little ones every year when most institutions did not even bother with such a young age group. And the list goes on. Deep creativity, boundless energy, big visions, and no boundaries--these were just some of the qualities, born of love for others and for his environment and community, that made John Olguin a man that we will always love and revere.

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CMA Pioneer

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CMA Teacher

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Floyd AndersonI had the pleasure to personally drive John Olguin in the 2010 San Pedro Parade and I have never seen one person so popular in a city before. I only knew John for less than a year, but he already made an everlasting impression on me with the kindness and generosity he showed everyone he came in touch with. Kathie AustinJohn Olguin was a natural teacher. He taught Cabrillo volunteers how to connect with stu-dents to make learning meaningful. He was a grand example to emulate.

Linda AyersCMA won’t be the same without John O., but his spirit lives on in all those he has touched. Thanks for the memories! Paula BoubaryI could listen to his stories for hours. He was the most fascinating man. I will miss him. Robert CarterJohn reminds me of the “John Wayne, American” image. He was always looking for the good, and doing the things that made an improvement in the way people saw the earth and all the people in it. And he took the lead in doing what he believed in, often with somewhat indeter-minate risks. That’s being a true American. I’m extremely gratified to have spent a little time in his presence. Roger ClappRow, Row, Row Your BoatSome years back, a neighbor of mine came home from the Grand Grunion Gala with a unique prize – a chance to have lunch with John O. The “catch”, or more appropriately the “opportunity”, was that you traveled to the restaurant via row boat. The deal was that the boat was launched from the ramp in front of CMA and rowed to the destination, Ports ‘O Call in the Village.

The neighbor, knowing of my involvement with CMA at the time, graciously invited me to go along. A chance like that was not to be passed up, and I immediately accepted. After all, I was well aware the many stories about John and his row boat.At the appointed date and hour, my neighbor arrived at the launch ramp. There was John and his very ordinary-looking boat. It was somewhat larger than I had expected, and also less distinguished. Somehow I thought such a well-known craft that had made so many trips on the open ocean should be fancier.

Once we were aboard, he asked if we would like to row – and I discovered then who was going to do all the work. And work it was – but delightful work, as John regaled us with more of his endless stories while we slipped through the water. At one point we passed beside a moored gigantic tanker, and it seemed it took us forever to row just the length

In Tribute

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of that behemoth. But finally we rounded the point into the main channel and our destination came into sight. After nearly an hour of rowing, I was ready for lunch!

Arriving at our destination, we moored the boat and soon were comfortably seated in the Ports ‘O Call Restaurant, where we enjoyed a fine lunch along with more of John’s stories. I’ve forgotten just how we got home (I do not remember rowing back), but I have not forgotten that memorable lunch and the thrill of having rowed such a famous boat. Nancy CookI feel so lucky to be a part of CMA and I never forget that it was John O who made CMA the exciting place it is. Velma EzrattyJohn had a face that was an artist’s delight, with so much character. I did a pencil drawing a few years ago of his face. I will always see it in my mind. Charles V. FerraroI have only known John Olguin for the last eight years. Despite his age, his spirit was unmatched in any person I have known. He was always promoting causes that benefited his beloved Cabrillo Marine Aquarium and residents of San Pedro. You could always depend on him to brighten your day with his unbridled enthusiasm. God rest this soul, for we will surely miss him and his untiring work for others. Steve FishmanJohn was truly one of the great teachers of our time and he will be missed. Sherry GardnerI didn’t know him very well; however I could feel his concern for others, his humility and positive vibes. He will truly be missed. Bobbie HedgesMy favorite experience with John was when he was trying to get lights on the Vincent Thomas Bridge, and he came to the whalewatch meeting and our docent meeting and asked everyone to donate all the pennies they had saved somewhere toward the project. He told how he went to the schools asking the kids to give him their pennies and they responded with small bags, which became huge amounts when all combined. I brought in all my saved pennies and was extremely surprised to receive in the mail a nice card with his “ Thank you”. That was John…he was never afraid to ask anything of anyone and he always gave a personal thanks in ap-preciation. It still brings tears to my eyes! Ela HeynJohn – I was lucky to be in your last training class. Thank you for being my teacher, my inspiration and my friend! I’ll miss you.

Row, Row, Row Your Boat, continued

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CMA Historian

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Esther ImbagliazzoIt’s hard to imagine life in San Pedro without John Olguin. John’s tireless efforts to help those less fortunate and his crusade to make San Pedro a better place will be his legacy. His passing leaves a hole in the heart of San Pedro and especially here at CMA. As time goes on we will all realize how much we miss his smile, enthusiasm and most of all his energy. Thank you, John. It was an honor to know you. Gerri JohnsonAs a teacher for LAUSD for many years, I was lucky enough to discover the Aquarium and John Olguin’s grunion hatching program. Those school trips were always the highlight of any classroom year, and John’s enthusiasm and playfulness were truly effective and inspiring. Lat-er, when I retired a few years ago, the Cabrillo Marine Aquarium docent program was the very first place I chose to volunteer. It’s been a wonderful experience, especially when John came to our Wednesday spring program every week to give his whale or grunion talk and share his many stories with the group. He was an extraordinary man and I’ll miss him so much. Henry JurgensYou have left a huge footprint on my heart. Kathy KannI was born and grew up in the Chicago area. Lake Michigan does NOT have whales. My first whalewatch excursion a few years ago included John as the narrator. I could not have had a more exciting experience. I saw a whale almost close enough to touch, and listened to John’s remarkable tales! What a natural high! Listening to John that day increased my love for the Aquarium in ways too numerous to count. He will indeed be missed, but has left so much be-hind for me and future generations. Jeff LandesmanJohn built a beautiful “home” on the beach and invited everyone in. He extended his arms and hugged a city. Everyone he met was family. His warmth, sincerity and unconditional love and support will be missed beyond words. John will always be larger than life! Gary LarsonI first met John as a third- grader on a field trip. When I moved to San Pedro in 1980, I would run into John all the time. He seemed to be everywhere. I sometimes wondered how many John Olguins there were. Always promoting a good cause – a one-man show.

Forty five years after my first encounter with John, I found myself back at Cabrillo Beach, on the other side of the table, working as a volunteer at the Aquarium, talking to third-graders about jellyfish. Once in a while John would be standing back there behind the group, and I would wonder how I got there – and thank John.

I always think of you when I am watching a great fireworks show, also! You lit up a lot of lives with your personal spark and that spark will never go out for all the folks you touched. We will miss you, John, but never forget.

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The Man in the Red Jacket

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Carl LundgrenContinually working to help his fellow man and developing innovative programs that ben-efit mankind and all other living things – these are some of the characteristics of one of the friendliest icons ever – John Olguin. Marge LundgrenJohn and his philanthropic and educational efforts have been an inspiration to me and to thousands of others. His friendly enthusiasm will be missed. Mike MasinterWhat can you say about John O? Although we’ve only known him for fifteen years, it seems like a lifelong friendship. Every meeting was an adventure!

I feel privileged for having served the past eight years with John on the FCMA Board of Direc-tors. His monthly reports were always entertaining and whimsical. I am most impressed with his promise to stay active in many CMA programs (Juan Cabrillo’s landing on San Miguel Island, whalewatches and all special events) “until I die of old age” – a promise he faithfully kept. Karen and I will miss you, John.

Truly a legend in his own time. Evi MeyerWe each carry part of John’s enthusiasm in us as we engage our students and visitors at Cabrillo Marine Aquarium in the wonders and mystery of the ocean. He has left a deep impression on all of us that will last forever. Kathy MeyerI met John in 1975, when my son, who was in kindergarten, came to Cabrillo Beach Program and hatched grunion eggs. He has never forgotten that, or meeting John, and he’s 41 years old now and takes his daughter to Cabrillo Marine Aquarium so I can take her on tours. I got to know John quite well when I started volunteering on Wednesdays, and he always came and did the Whale Station when we had the Beach Program. He was such a wonderful man, and I loved his stories. I learned so much from him, and so has my granddaughter because of him. She loves sea life. He will be truly missed. Barbara MillmanJohn Olguin has been an inspiration of kindness, generosity and caring to our community. I was fortunate to have him as a teacher when I started as a docent at Cabrillo Marine Aquari-um. Later, when I taught science, my students benefited from the knowledge and enthusiasm taught to me by him for marine life. Joe MoellerWhat impressed me most about John Olguin was his genuine interest in the volunteers. Since in addition to whalewatch, I volunteer as a touring docent and in the Education Department, I would meet John frequently at CMA. He took the time to learn my name and expressed interest in what I was doing and always offered words of encouragement.

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CMA Official Greeter

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Chris OkamotoJohn Olguin was one of the most talented individuals that I had ever met. In close to a century, he accomplished more than most people could do in 10,000 years. Even though he is gone, he will never be forgotten and as sad as it is, he lived a very long and happy life, left his mark on the world and he bowed out quietly and quickly. Right now I’m sure he and Bill Samaras are sharing a drink and laughing over old times. Christina OwenI have been privileged to know John for the last ten years. He was a most gracious, gener-ous and enthusiastic man. It was always a delight to be able to spend time talking to him; I learned so much. I will miss him. Jeanne PetersonThe thing I remember best is the way he simply would NOT let me get away during training. No matter if I sat in the back row, he’d still find me and ask some improbable question that, in my ignorance, I simply couldn’t answer. Loved him anyway. Herb RufferI can imagine John teaching “do It – do it’s” to the angels. Sherry RufferJohn – you were a beautiful man – inside and out. I’ll always remember your incredible smile – and your beautiful wife! Jane SeaburnWe all wish to make a difference during our short time in this word, but very few succeed. John Olguin did. He did so very much for so many. What a great man. Sue & Jeff ShawJohn Olguin, through your incredible charm, irresistible smile and unending perseverance, you truly put San Pedro on the map. You were never shy when asking for support (time, money, etc.) for one of your many projects you were so passionate about. But you also were forever grateful and never missed a moment to express your thanks and appreciation. John, I hope we can forever show you our gratitude by our efforts during our time on earth. You were an incredible role model and inspiration. We’ll keep the lights on for you! You will be missed Ahna SmallDear John Olguin – can you see this in heaven? Can you hear me from above? If so, I want you to know how grateful I am to have known you. Participating in your organization(s) has given me knowledge, friendships and a way of giving back to others. You are one of life’s spe-cial treasures. Each time I see a star I will think of you and how you brightened so many lives. Thank you.

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Fashion Icon and Party Animal

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Emily SteckerI became a volunteer at Cabrillo Marine Museum in the days when John was still teaching the “do its”. His enthusiasm was contagious. I learned to “eat like a sea star” in front of our class, and so began my ability to speak to a group, a skill that was totally new to me. More impor-tant even than this ability to bring you in and get you going was John’s acceptance of every-one. He liked everyone and found a place for everyone. He was a leader and his attitude was pervasive. I have had several volunteer jobs, but never, outside of CMA, have I had the feeling of belonging and of value that I felt during my time there. I feel John led by example in show-ing everyone what true appreciation of individual talents is all about. He was a warm and generous man. I’m sorry he has left this earth. Renee Renner WarnacuttI had the privilege of being in the 2010 Fall Docent Class and we had the honor of having Mr. Olguin all to ourselves for over an hour – listening to how his love of the ocean and this area, his love of Muriel, and his love of sharing life-long learning with others helped him “stay the course” and accomplish so much. What an inspiration! What an amazing man! Thank you, John, and God Bless.

To all of you who contributed photos and memories,“Thank You” from Fins & Tales editor, Sherry Ruffer.

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Beloved Friend

Smooth sailing from all of us atCabrillo Marine Aquarium.

special edition - cabrillo marine aquarium · special edition. 2 do it! do it! do it! do it! do it!...

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