Oceana’s beloved annual summertime soiree dazzled its 335 guests this year with a cocktail hour on the lawn overlooking the breathtaking shoreline of the Montage Laguna Beach followed by a program in the ballroom that included a multicourse meal, remarks from the nonprofit’s CEO, Jim Simon, and award-winning actor Sam Waterston (who hosted the event), a performance by Grammy-winning artist Charles Kelley, and recognition for the evening’s honorees, Barbara and Greg MacGillivray.
The MacGillivrays’ large-format IMAX films showcase the majesty of the world’s natural wonders, interests that align with Oceana’s mission. The group is credited for protecting close to 1.4 million square miles of seafloor stretching from California to the Arctic, from bottom trawling which destroys marine habitats. It’s the largest international advocacy group dedicated solely to ocean conservation.
“We have produced more than 10 films about the ocean, many with a special focus on ocean conservation, and we believe it will take all of us filmmakers, scientists, Oceana, and other advocates to keep pushing for meaningful protections of our seas,” said Greg MacGillivray. And the more than $1.7 million raised from this year’s party will help ensure Oceana’s efforts continue.
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