The Department of Geography came up trumps with its latest annual Fall Barbecue at Goleta Beach. The weather was warm, the ocean was pacific, the food was fab, and the turnout was terrific.
This year, the Graduate Entertainment Committee went far beyond the call of duty in organizing and setting up the event, held on Friday, October 8, at Goleta Beach from 3:30 on. Not only were staff members let off the hook in terms of setting up and cleaning up, but they were given “free passes.” Of course, most folks contributed side dishes to complement Dan Montello’s famous barbecued tri-tip and chicken, and culinary donations ranged from jumbo shrimp and a myriad of salads to homemade desserts and fresh fruits and veggies (organic, natch).
Sustainability was a buzz word at this year’s fest. Participants were encouraged to bring their own cutlery, plates, and glasses; a washing-up station and recycling/compost bins were provided; and utensils, et al., were available to those who forgot for a nominal fee. Geography is strongly committed to sustainability, insofar as Mo Lovegreen, our Executive Officer, and Katie Maynard, a Campus Sustainability Coordinator based in our Department, were among the initiators of the UCSB Campus Sustainability Plan that was approved by the Campus Planning Committee and Chancellor Henry Yang on April 21, 2008. The Department of Geography has major bragging rights regarding UCSB’s commitment “to global leadership for sustainability through education, research, and action” – hats off to graduate students Emily De Moor and Amy McNally for “greening” this year’s Fall Barbecue so successfully.
Another innovation of this year’s fest was a raffle for two prizes of $20 each. While not exactly on par with the California Lottery, the raffle afforded a lot of interest and amusement for all. Ian Raubal, aged 9, was deemed the only barbecue attendee impartial enough to do the draw, although there are lingering suspicions about Dan Montello’s announcement of the ticket numbers chosen by Ian…
Needless to say, a keg of beer and a case of assorted wines helped to complement the fine fare and adjust attitudes accordingly. All in all, the setting was glorious, the weather was kind, the turnout was good, and the company was happy. To quote an Irish proverb, “laughter is brightest where food is best.” Thanks to everyone who pitched in for keeping up the tradition and for making our Fall BBQ a resounding success. As they say, a family that plays together stays together.
Editor’s note: A plethora of photographs of the event, taken by Mo Lovegreen and Bill Norrington, have been posted on the Event Photos section of our web site.
