This past weekend, passionate ocean advocates gathered at the Surfrider Foundation‘s One Ocean event in Montauk, where the foundation celebrated its 40th anniversary. The event was a powerful reminder of the community’s unwavering dedication to protecting the beautiful ocean and coastlines of the Hamptons, with a special tribute to the late Janet MacPherson, a surfing pioneer whose legacy continues to inspire.
Guests enjoyed an evening of excellent cocktails followed by silent and live auctions, live music, and a seated dinner prepared by the renowned Crow’s Nest culinary team. Guests enjoyed their evening of activity while facing the beautiful views of Montauk’s water. The event recognized Rachelle and Sean MacPherson for their commitment to preserving the ocean and coasts in Montauk. Their contributions, along with the support of everyone in attendance, including actors John Slattery and Liev Schreiber and artist Julian Schnabel, aided Surfrider in surpassing last year’s achievements, raising over half a million dollars to further its critical work.
This year’s event was especially significant, as it provided the funding necessary to hire a new full-time staff member on the East End. This new team member will focus on implementing nature-based solutions to protect local beaches from erosion and other climate-related threats. The success of the night brings Surfrider one step closer to launching its coastal restoration program in New York, ensuring that our oceans and coastlines remain safeguarded for future generations.
Photography by Paul Brooke Jr.