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08.28.15

Surfrider Foundation kicks off Two Coasts: One Ocean Events in Montauk, NY

Montauk, NY is a very special place with beautiful coasts, great surf and a rich maritime history. This picturesque setting at the eastern end of Long Island, was the perfect place to host our first annual Two Coasts: One Ocean event. On Saturday, August 8th, at an estate high atop the hills of Montauk, with sweeping sunset views, we raised $150,000 for Surfrider Foundation's water quality and coastal preservation initiatives. This was the inaugural year for Surfrider Foundation’s Two Coasts: One Ocean events – in Montauk, NY on August 8th and in Malibu, CA on September 19th. The goal of these events is to unite our efforts on both coasts to preserve our favorite beaches and ultimately, protect our ocean.

We didn't just choose Montauk for it's beauty and waves—it's a microcosm for the issues Surfrider is addressing nationally. Montauk is one of those sought -after surf spots that has become a destination. As crowds flock there to enjoy the beaches, the locals struggle with how to handle the capacity.  The town simply does not have the infrastructure to handle the summer crowds—and the beaches suffer. At our event, guests listened intently as our East Long Island chapter activists discussed local issues: high bacteria levels in Montauk Lake, the discovery of cyanobacteria in Fort Pond and the eroding coasts. Most importantly, guests of the event left with a deep understanding that local threats to our coasts are global in consequence.  

At the event, coastal activists mingled with notable guests from the music, art, fashion and surf industries. As the sun set over Montauk Lake, big wave surfer DJ Keala Kennelly played retro surf tunes for guests Bruce Weber, Cynthia Rowley, Ben Watts, hotelier Sean MacPherson, and pro surfers Quincy Davis and Mikey Detemple. Priceless auction items included a handmade bicycle by Shinola, as well as an afternoon ride and lunch with supermodel Carolyn Murphy, Paris Fashion Week with Kenzo, a surf session with Quincy Davis, and a day out on the waves with singer and surfer Donavon Frankenreiteir.

After a successful event in Montauk, we hope you will join us as we come together for another memorable evening in Point Dume, Malibu on September 19th. This is your opportunity to protect the places you love on the West Coast. Space is limited. To sponsor the event or attend as a guest, please visit the event page.

We hope to see you there!