More than 400 guests, clad in flapper dresses and pinstripe suits, turned out for Crystal Cove Alliance’s Prohibition-themed 8th Annual Beach Gala, which netted $223,000, a nearly 30 percent increase from last year, to help fund CCA’s mission of restoration, education and conservation and support the expansion of the nonprofit’s educational programs.
The gala, titled the “Rum Runner’s Party and Jazz on the Beach,” was held at the south end of the Crystal Cove Historic District. Brenna Whitaker and her Little Big Band performed early 20th century hits like “Big Spender” and “Hi De Ho/Minnie the Moocher.” Guests dined on gourmet coastal cuisine provided by Pelican Hill Resort and Montage Laguna Beach while performers from the Chapman University theatrical student group CAST, dressed in complete Prohibition-era costumes, danced the Jive and Charleston and enticed guests to join in all the rug-cutting festivities.
Gala proceeds were generated through sponsorships, educational program underwriting, ticket sales, general donations, a live auction and fund-a-need program.
Among the 420 in attendance, notable guests included Rep. John Campbell, Director of California State Parks Ruth Coleman, Newport Beach City Councilwoman Leslie Daigle and Assemblyman Pedro Nava.
Proceeds from the gala traditionally account for 60 to70 percent of CCA’s annual operating budget. Crystal Cove Alliance is the official nonprofit partner of Crystal Cove State Park, dedicated to preserving the cultural, natural and historic resources of Crystal Cove.
For more information, please visit www.crystalcovealliance.org
