Spring 2025

C A R M E L M A G A Z I N E • S P R I N G 2 0 2 5 141 “PADDLE OUT” PREMIERe A t the 40th Santa Barbara International Film Festival in February, “Paddle Out” made its worldwide premiere as an official selection of the festival. Melissa Pappageorgas, whose life is featured in the film, shares producer and director credits with filmmaker Sebi Lee, and Melissa’s parents Chris and Lori share executive producer credits with others who lent their tal- ent to the documentary. The reception to the film, which highlights both the immense chal- lenges of cystic fibrosis and also brings hope to those living with the disease, has been over- whelmingly positive. Even after her passing, Melissa’s life is bringing joy and hope to many. Photos: Soovin Choi