More than 160 guests filled the historic Masury Estate Ballroom on Sept. 27 for the fourth annual Bivalve Ball, a Roaring 1920s-themed celebration that raised over $50,000 to protect and restore the Mastic Beach waterfront.

Proceeds from the event will help create accessible blue and green trails, expand aquaculture initiatives, and advance environmental, arts, and community education programs within the community.

Guests stepped back in time for an unforgettable evening featuring a 12-piece jazz big band, lively dancing, craft cocktails, an oyster and raw bar cocktail hour, and a spirited silent auction and raffles.

This year’s honorees included guest of honor NOAH, and Trailblazers Sally Wellinger of CEED and Timothy Rothang of the Suffolk County Legislature for their leadership in sustainability. Suffolk County executive Edward P. Romaine and Legis. James F. Mazzarella joined the celebration, honoring the Conservancy’s growing impact on local conservation and community engagement.

“Tim Rothang has been an invaluable asset to the 3rd Legislative District and to the residents of our community,” said Mazzarella. “His vision, dedication, and deep roots in Mastic have guided efforts to preserve open space, protect the Forge River, and expand recreational opportunities for our residents. This award is a well-deserved recognition of his tireless work and passion for the community. I also want to congratulate this year’s other honorees—Sally Wellinger, executive director of the Center for Environmental Education and Discovery in Brookhaven Hamlet, and NOAH, the guest of honor. Sally’s leadership at CEED has been instrumental in advancing environmental education, conservation, and community engagement across our region. It’s been a pleasure working closely with her to protect and promote our natural resources, and this recognition is truly well deserved.

NOAH’s commitment to blending creative culture with ethical business practices, responsible sourcing, and environmental progress also serves as a great example of how sustainability and innovation can go hand in hand.”

Major sponsors included Haughland, Ørsted/Sunrise Wind, The Frances and Peter Robotti Foundation, and Mariah Serrano of Studio Knew New York. Trailblazer sponsors included Antoinette Kenmuir-Evans, Robert Miller, The Nature Conservancy, Amber Otto of Eastport General Store, and Rebecca Sinclair of McBride Consulting. Supporting vendors brought local flavor and craft excellence to the evening: Violet Cove Oyster Co., Bedell Cellars, Super Gay Spirits, Macari Wines, Cazcanes Tequila, Blue Point Brewing, Mastic Seafood, Sparkling Pointe, Wölffer Estate Vineyard, Tend Coffee, and Flourbud Bakery.

“The Bivalve Ball is a true reflection of our community’s commitment to protecting the bays we love,” said Maura Spery, president of Mastic Beach Conservancy. “Thanks to our generous sponsors and supporters, we can continue restoring oysters, building trails, and educating the next generation of environmental stewards.”

Building on the success of this year’s event, Mastic Beach Conservancy will continue its work through the remainder of 2025, carrying that momentum into 2026 with expanded volunteer opportunities, invasive plant removal projects, and youth education programs focused on local ecology and stewardship. Together with members and residents, the Conservancy continues to reimagine what a resilient, sustainable waterfront community can be.