More than 300 guests came out on Saturday, May 21, to honor artist, conservationist and entrepreneur Guy Harvey as this year’s recipient of the Seafarers’ House International Golden Compass Award.
The award is given each year to those who have achieved distinction in the maritime world, those whose vocation or avocation has been the sea, or those who have ministered to or otherwise assisted seafarers.
The event, which took place at the Hyatt Regency Pier 66 in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., raised more than $300,000. The evening began with a VIP reception that included a list of who’s who in the South Florida maritime and philanthropy community. This year’s co-chairs were Ann M. Burris and Captain Eugene Sweeney.
Harvey, who posed for photos with guests and signed autographs, has been a champion of the seas since an early age. The Guy Harvey Ocean Foundation is well-known for its research in the marine biology field and the message of stewardship and conservation of our oceans.
“Ninety percent of world trade is carried by the global shipping industry and the Seafarers’ House helps to care for the hard working men and women who keep this industry moving. Your support is crucial to their success and I thank everyone for their contributions to the cause,” Harvey told the crowd. “The sea can mean many things to different people. It can be a place for fun and recreation, or a place for quiet reflection. It can sustain civilizations, or be a community’s greatest threat. It powers the global economy and the global climate. And, one thing is for certain, the planet's health and people's health are dependent on maintaining healthy oceans.”
Guests were treated to a night of Caribbean-themed entertainment featuring Junkanoo performers and a Reggae singer. Gordon Latz got the crowd going with a live auction, during which guests were able to bid on a number of spectacular items including: a diamond starfish pendant donated by Windsor Diamonds; a Guy Harvey original painting; an African safari package donated by the Zulu Nyala Group; a Napa Valley Backroads and Railways package donated by Winspire; and a cruise donated by Azamara Club Cruises.
Jewelry, gift baskets, sports memorabilia and artwork, all donated by Seafarers’ House supporters, also were up for bids during the evening’s silent auction.
“This year’s gala was a huge success thanks to the incredible support from our donors and those who worked so hard behind the scenes to make it all come together,” said Seafarers’ House Executive Director Lesley Warrick. “The money we raise will go toward furthering our mission to offer refuge, resources, renewal and respect to the maritime community.”
Past award recipients include international seafaring hero Captain Richard Phillips; Joseph Farrell, Resolve Marine Group; Roberto Giorgi, V.Ships; Dan Sten Olsson, Managing Director and CEO, The Stena Group; Adam Goldstein, Royal Caribbean International; Stein Kruse, Holland America Line; Captain Nicola Arena, MSC Cruises; and Thomas B. Crowley, Jr., Crowley Maritime Corp., among others.
