Seafarers’ House Golden Compass Gala honored Dr Guy Harvey
It was a beautiful evening for the maritime community as they celebrated with Seafarers’ House the 2016 International Golden Compass Award at Hyatt Regency Pier 66 in Fort Lauderdale.
Host Jessica Koussevitzky was on hand as the community honored Dr. Guy Harvey. The artist, conservationist and entrepreneur was selected as this year’s recipient of the award, which 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 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. The event raised more than $300,000.
“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.
ABOUT SEAFARERS’ HOUSE
Seafarers’ House at Port Everglades is a non-profit organization supported by the faith-based community as well as by labor, business and civic leaders with a mission “to offer refuge, resources, renewal and respect to the maritime community through multi-faith service.” Open throughout the year, Seafarers’ House is a safe, friendly place where mariners can connect with their families, relax, or get emergency assistance if needed. With the help of its supporters and volunteers, Seafarers’ House offers many services including low cost international phone calls, free transportation, Internet access, counseling services, liaison with authorities as well as recreational facilities. Seafarers’ House was honored as the 2015 Seafarer Advocate of the Year by Lloyd’s List North America and received the 2014 Salute to Business award from the Greater Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce. In 2012, Seafarers’ House was honored with the Seafarers’ Center of the Year award from the International Committee on Seafarers’ Welfare – the first American agency to receive this international honor. Seafarers’ House annually hosts more than 150,000 visits by cruise and cargo ship crew members. For additional information visit www.seafarershouse.org.
ABOUT GUY HARVEY
Guy Harvey is a unique blend of artist, scientist, angler, diver, conservationist and explorer, fiercely devoted to his family and his love of the sea. Born in Lippspringe, Germany on September 16, 1955 while his father was serving as a Gunnery Officer in the British Army, Guy is a 10th generation Jamaican of English heritage. Growing up on the south coast of Jamaica, Guy learned to fish and gained an appreciation for the marine environment from his parents, both very accomplished anglers.
