On Oct. 5, the Mastic Beach Conservancy held its third annual Bivalve Ball at the Moriches Yacht Club, attracting more than 130 attendees and raising over $40,000 through ticket sales and a silent auction. The funds will support various initiatives dedicated to preserving the environmental health of the Mastic Beach waterfront.

“We are deeply grateful to our event sponsors and the community for their unwavering support,” said Maura Spery, president of the Mastic Beach Conservancy. “This event demonstrates the power of partnerships in driving forward our conservation efforts.”

This year’s Bivalve Ball celebrated the achievements of environmental trailblazers Sue Wicks, founder of Violet Cove Oyster Co., and Aiden and Alex Kravitz, founders of Relic. Each honoree received a handcrafted award by local artist Jessamyn Go of Femme Sole, recognizing their outstanding contributions to environmental sustainability. Dignitaries in attendance included county executive Ed Romaine, town supervisor Dan Panico, assemblyman Joe D. Stefano, councilwoman Karen Dunne Kesnig, and Suffolk County Legis. Jim Mazzarella.

Guests enjoyed a festive evening featuring local oysters courtesy of Violet Cove Oyster Co., wines from Macari Vineyards, McCall Vineyards, Wölffer Estate Vineyard, Dandelion Wines, beer from Blue Point Brewery, and custom cocktails named after the evening’s honorees. Entertainment was provided by DJ Ray Knives and Kimbe Meares, keeping the energy high throughout the night.

Event sponsors included Haugland Energy Group, The Frances and Peter Robotti Foundation, the Radical Relief Fund, Sunrise Wind, The Nature Conservancy, and NOAH. Brooklyn-based New Information Studio provided support through signage and design.

Proceeds from the event will fund the Conservancy’s ongoing projects, including the development of blue/green trails, environmental education programs, aquaculture initiatives, regular community cleanups, and summer internships for local youth.

“Our mission is to protect and enhance the Mastic Beach waterfront, making it a space for everyone to enjoy while ensuring its long-term environmental health. I’m thrilled to see the community come together to support our work,” said event organizer Alex de Toth. “We could not have asked for a more beautiful evening for this year’s sold-out Bivalve Ball. It’s a truly unique experience to enjoy a sunset right on the bay while also fundraising for a great cause.”