Oceana Gala 2013: a vision of blue

Photo courtesy of Oceana

Someone once asked me if I was a professional "gala goer".  I guess the answer is yes.  Especially when it comes to causes that I admire and want to support.  OCEANA is one of those organizations.  I'm not sure that anyone who learns about what Oceana does could resist joining the cause as well.  As the largest international ocean conservation organization, Oceana continues to impress me with its countless legislative changes made globally that protect and save our oceans and its inhabitants. (greatly in part to the focused vision of CEO Andrew Sharpless)  Things like banning shark finning in California and the E.U., stopping offshore drilling in the coral reefs of Belize, banning wild sea trout fishing in Finland and many more.  I strongly urge you to check out their website and get more info!

Chris Hemsworth, Susan Rockefeller and Elsa Pataki
 Photo courtesy of Oceana

So I guess when I get invited to the inaugural NYC gala for Oceana, chaired by Susan and David Rockefeller in New York at Christy's, I have to go.  And bring friends with me...  The evening started with cocktails in the beautiful space of Christy's featuring the splendid photography of various artists.

Inside the ballroom, we entered through tunnels of submarine-like windows and doors.  The decor was simple and beautiful with video images of our beautiful oceans and beaches surrounding the room.  Survivorman, Les Stroud, kicked off the evening by reminding us how powerful our oceans and ocean creatures are.

Kate on point

With the mermaid herself, Sue Rockefeller!
blue shift Lisa Perry

The beautiful Kate Walsh followed with her own story of involvement with Oceana, proving that the SoCal bred actress is passionate about our oceans and especially the survival of Sea Turtles.  My friend and reason for getting involved with Oceana, Susan Rockefeller, also spoke on the importance of remembering why we were gathered there that evening.  Oceana rarely lets you forget why you may be dressed up and eating steak…

Kay Fernandez raising her paddle!

O.C.A.D and Olivia Cipolla surprised everyone with an energetic and slightly erotic performance after dessert.  The live auction was a hit, raising over $150,000, including a dinner with President Bill Clinton.  (I tried, but alas was outbid)

Table mates Cameron Silver, Amber Hackett, Jennifer Tilly with  Frank Fernandez and sponsor  Rick Taylor, President and COO of Konica Minolta 

with milliner extraordinaire Rod Kennan and Valentino's Robin Hermelee

The night was a huge success, raising close to $1m for Oceana that will go towards saving your Oceans.  My Oceans.  Our Oceans.  I'd say that's worth getting dressed up and dragging friends out for!