Morgan Freeman and Glenn Close were honored this weekend at the SeaChange Summer Party hosted by Oceana, the largest international organization focused 100% on ocean conservation. Oceana’s various boards include actors Pierce Brosnan, Kelsey Grammer, Sam Waterston as well as co-founder Ted Danson.

Danson co-hosted the event which was held at the Villa di Sogni, a private residence in Laguna Beach.

Before the event, Valarie Whiting, Oceana Board Member and SeaChange Co-Chair, said, “We are thrilled that Ms. Close and Mr. Freeman will be this year’s honorees. We’re confident that the involvement of Ms. Close and Mr. Freeman will guarantee a second major SeaChange success, generating significant funding enabling Oceana to continue its crucial work toward restoring and protecting the world’s oceans.”

CTN News was there to cover the event. Above photo by CTN.

Last night at Christies Auction House in NYC, Oceana hosted it annual “Love for the Oceans” cocktail reception. One of the evenings speakers was Actor Sam Waterston. Sam joined Oceana’s board this year spoke a few words to the packed room about protecting our oceans. Michael Hirshfield, Chief Scientist for Oceana also spoke a few words how they are helping to protect bluefin tuna from becoming extinct. The evening showcased many interesting pieces related to the oceans. My most favorite piece was a life jacket from the Titanic — on display for the first time to the public. The evenings main sponsors were Nautica and AIG Environmental. For more information check out www.oceana.org

[Pictured: Actor Sam Waterson]

Photos by Melissa Rosenberg

“I got involved with Oceana initially because I grew up beside the ocean in New England and loved it, When I learned that the collapse of the New England cod fishery was final, with all that meant for the communities and fishermen there, I wanted to help,” noted Waterston. “I started to read more and more scientific reports clearly showing that our oceans are headed towards an irreversible collapse and I learned that Oceana was actually doing something about it. I like their science-based, results driven approach. When asked to join the board, I felt that I had to join and do all that I could.”

Ted Danson had nothing but praise for Waterston’s decision. “What a coup for Oceana,” said Danson. “I love Sam’s work as an actor and I am very excited to have an excuse to spend more time with him. I know he will help Oceana get even more done. It really is incredible how much we’ve been able to get done in the past few years.”

Oceana recently became a partner in Discovery Channel’s Planet Green Network. Since 2001, they’ve won over fifteen major victories for the oceans — including the protection of one million square miles of ocean habitat. For more information on the org, or how you can help, check out their official site.