The Micronesian Conservation Coalition and its supporters raised more than $67,500 at the 3rd Annual Ocean Gala held at the Hyatt Regency Guam on May 11. 

The donation will fund annual programs that allow MCC to do necessary research into our local reefs and fishes, provide education for students and the community, and advise businesses and military on how to safely proceed with planned projects to preserve both our land and ocean resources.

The event further celebrated organizations in the region that are examples of true partners in preserving our region, including 10 Annual Tide Changer Awardees:

For Small Business, Andrew Lee from Amphibious Aquatics is recognized for his outstanding commitment to promoting water safety, community health, and environmental protection on Guam and in the region through Amphibious Aquatics.

William Naden is recognized as a Community Advocate for spearheading the Merizo Pier. From leading the charge to coordinating divers and snorkelers, Naden and the team pulled hundreds of pounds of trash, including fishing gear, car parts and tires, household goods from the ocean waters.

As President of Marine Mania, Caden Poblete from George Washington High School is part of an educational group dedicated to learning about Guam's marine environment and conducts outreach activities to educate students and the community on environmental preservation.

Educator Christine McCormic from St. John’s High School is acknowledged for her dedication to fostering a deep understanding and appreciation for marine biology among students and the community, and for actively supporting and encouraging student learning about marine life.

Hyatt Regency Guam showcases Hospitality for the implementation of a comprehensive sustainability initiative, including various practices such as providing straws only upon request and using biodegradable to-go containers.

Régine Biscoe Lee is honored as well for her tireless efforts to enact policies that promote sustainable practices and combat environmental degradation.

Another honoree, Margie Falanruw, is recognized for her lifelong pursuits in marine research, discovery, international education, and regional leadership.

More honorees like Belinda Baird were also honored for her vital contributions to the success and growth of MCC, John Horeg for his forest inventories and founding the Island Eco Services group, and Laura Biggs for bringing her hypothesis-driven chemistry curriculum to Guam and managing a staff of ten to implement the Let’s Do Science education program. 

Official sponsors of the event included the Environmental Chemical Corporation and Bank of Guam as Coral Reef Sponsors. 

Future Smiles Orthodontics, Unitek Environmental Guam, Phenix Jet, Harmon Loop Dental, and Landscape Management Systems Inc. were Open Ocean Sponsors.

Pre-event partners, donors, media partners, in-kind sponsors, and event partners include:

  • Southern Mountain Gear
  • Carabao Brewing Company
  • The Hare & Hound, Agana Hash House Harriers
  • The Guam Brewery
  • Guam Boonie Stompers
  • Elevated Nutrition
  • Department of Parks & Recreation
  • Pay-Less Supermarkets
  • Iridesce Strategy
  • Virginie A. Ternisien
  • Christina Atwood
  • Glimpses Media
  • The Point
  • Valley of the Latte Adventure Park 
  • Manta Ray Bay Resort & Yap Divers
  • Triple J Enterprises
  • Docomo Pacific
  • House of Holstein
  • Rockstar Charters
  • Tomhom Grill & Bar, Archway Inc.
  • ANZ Wines
  • Hyatt Regency Guam
  • GTA
  • Essense Hair Artistry
  • Coca-Cola
  • Foremost
  • Next Stage Productions
  • Kyle Mandapat
  • Aria Events
  • Numa’Lo Refillery
  • NX Creations
  • Anneliese Wenden
  • Consaga Photo Services