TV's Bob Barker Helps Reopen Pacific Marine Mammal Center

Animal rights activist and media celebrity Bob Barker cut the blue ribbon Wednesday, symbolically reopening the Pacific Marine Mammal Center in Laguna Beach. This was followed by cheers ... and barks ... from those in attendance.

The low-lying areas of the PMMC were destroyed by 4 feet of flood water and mud after a hit Laguna Beach Dec. 22. Restoring the ruined center seemed hopeless.

But, just as members of the PMMC have faith in healing their damaged creatures, Barker showed his faith in mending the center by donating $250,000 in January.

With Barker standing nearby, PMMC Board President Jock Stalker addressed the crowd at the entrance of the newly restored grounds. He talked about the flood being the "worst disaster" to hit the center, and said it "ruined everything in its path."

Stalker added, "Then ... a miracle happened ..."

The crowd burst into whoops and applause.

"We received a call from Bob Barker himself. He agreed to help by donating $250,000."

More cheers erupted. Then Stalker spoke to Barker directly.

"You've been the backbone of our recovery efforts," said Stalker. "We'd like to express our sincerest appreciation and to thank you from the bottom of our hearts."

The PMMC had named one of its recovering California sea lions "Barker" in honor of Barker. 

Mr. Barker pointed to a new sign with a picture of "Barker." 

"Is that my sea lion?" Barker asked. "I'm astounded at the family resemblance. I have relatives that look like her."

Then Barker became more serious.

"Any time there are animals in trouble, I want to help," said Barker. 

He explained that the PMMC performs 300 rescues per year on the average. The center also provides care and treatment for injured sea mammals from other areas of California.

"This is a vitally important part of the coast," said Barker.

PMMC founder John Cunningham and PMMC Director of Development and Marketing Melissa Sciacca escorted Barker on a private tour of the facility. She showed him "Barker," the California sea lion.

"Bob Barker's gift," said Sciacca, "means that our crucial mission of rescuing and rehabilitating marine mammals can continue, and that we are once again in a position to offer seals and sea lions a second chance at life."

When "Barker" arrived at the PMMC, she weighed a mere 29 pounds. Her weight was boosted to a healthy 79 pounds. Later in the day, Mr. Barker would attend the release of the sea lion into the ocean next to the Montage Laguna Beach resort.

Click here for the website of the Pacific Marine Mammal Center. The group can be reached at 949-494-3050.

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