The California Science Center's Event Services Department was awarded "Best Nonprofit Event Concept" for their 9th Annual Discovery Ball at the 2008 BizBash Events Style Awards held Thursday, June 5, 2008. The awards show took place at the Los Angeles Convention Center and was sponsored by LA INC.

"We were absolutely thrilled to win the Best Non Profit Event Concept category with our Star Wars themed Discovery Ball. We especially felt so privileged to be in such good company. The events that were showcased this year were nothing less than stellar and it reinforced how sincerely delighted we are to be part of the events industry in LA," said the California Science Center Vice President of Event Services, Chris Sion. The awards ceremony honored stand-out events in the Los Angeles area with awards that ranged from "Best New Venue" to "Best Overall Catering" in a total of 15 categories. The California Science Center was awarded top honors in a category that included 160 entries across Los Angeles County.

The award-winning gala's decor and entertainment were inspired by the exhibit Star Wars: Where Science Meets Imagination, which was showcased at the California Science Center at the time of the event. Guests walked a black carpet lined with Storm Troopers, and dined aboard the "Imperial Star Cruiser" as they were entertained by a light saber battle between Storm Troopers and Rebel Soldiers, and a special appearance from Darth Vader. Over 850 guests attended the event that broke all records when it raised $1.14 million.

The Event Services team, comprised of Sion, Event Services Sales Manager Lori Matsunaga, and Special Events Manager Jennifer Lorio, produces over 200 events each year, ranging from weddings to themed parties and film industry premieres.

About the California Science Center

The California Science Center's mission is as follows: "We aspire to stimulate curiosity and inspire science learning in everyone by creating fun, memorable experiences, because we value science as an indispensable tool for understanding our world, accessibility and inclusiveness, and enriching people's lives."

The California Science Center and IMAX Theater are located in historic Exposition Park just west of the Harbor (110) Freeway at 700 State Drive, Los Angeles. Open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., except on Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day. Admission to all permanent exhibit galleries is free. For recorded information, including IMAX show times, call 323.SCIENCE (323.724-3623). IMAX ticket prices range from $4.75 to $8.00. For advance ticket purchases, group rates, or to make reservations for any visiting group of 15 or more (required), call 213.744-2019. Parking is available in the guest lot at Figueroa and 39th Street at $6 per car, $10 for buses or oversized vehicles. Both the Science Center and IMAX Theater are wheelchair accessible. For further information, please visit our website at .

Media Contact: Kristina Kurasz

(213) 744-7446