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The three winning categories are Most Obcean, Most Original, and Most Nostalgic \u201cOde to Mae\u201d (celebrating OBWC\u2019s garden history). A new judging category, Most Luminous, has been added to this year\u2019s contest mix commemorating the debut of the OB\u2019s first Luminosity Festival, a drone and laser light show to replace the fireworks on Independence Day.<\/p>\n
The inspiration for the Hat Contest came from a book by Kathy Blavatt: \u201cOcean Beach: Where Land and Water Meet.\u201d On page 115 is a photo of Mae Clarke wearing a tall, elaborately decorated floral hat circa 1960. It was that image that led the club to revive the tradition and update it for the 21st\u00a0century.<\/p>\n
Besides fundraising, Winkie said the event serves a more important purpose within the community. \u201cWe make a little money but it is doing something fun and helps us return back to the community, which is the main point,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
Alexandra Watkins, a former Hat Contest participant, gave her thoughts about the event. \u201cThe Hat Contest is a fun way for our community to express their creativity,\u201d she said. \u201cEveryone is encouraged to participate, even if that’s just showing up to have a good time and vote for your favorite silly and sensational hats. We have five \u2018hategories\u2019 this year including Most Luminous. The evening will be a festive atmosphere that puts a fresh spin on an old tradition and lets people connect with members and friends of the Ocean Beach Woman’s Club outside of our clubhouse.\u201d<\/p>\n
Whether people come to complete, vote, have fun or all three at the annual Hat Contest, everyone is given a silent ballot to choose their contest favorites in each category. Winners earn the coveted 2023 category sash and the challenge of coming back to defend it in 2024.<\/p>\n
OCEAN BEACH WOMAN\u2019S CLUB<\/p>\n
Established in 1924, Ocean Beach Woman\u2019s Club has served the beach community for nearly a century. Today, OBWC continues to support the community through philanthropy. In the past, OBWC has supported numerous organizations including OB Library, OB Historical Society, OB Scholarship Fund, Fostering Opportunities Scholarships, Dana Instrumental Music Association, Pioneer School, OB Elementary, First Friday Music Club, OB Recreation Center, Spay-Neuter Action Program, and Urban Surf 4 Kids.
\nSome historical club milestones:
\n\u2013 1929 the OBWC planted trees and shrubs on five streets in OB;
\n\u2013 1939 the OBWC was instrumental in getting lifeguards year-round;
\n\u2013 1942 after Pearl Harbor the OBWC created a Servicemen\u2019s Club that was open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. every day providing food and rest for the service members guarding the ocean front;<\/p>\n