Crystal Cove Alliance, 8th Annual Beach Gala "Rum Runner's Party & Jazz on the Beach"

Fringe, feathers and fedoras made a comeback Saturday night at the Crystal Cove Alliance’s 8th Annual Beach Gala: Rum Runner’s Party & Jazz on the Beach presented by Pelican Hill Resort. More than 400 guests, clad in flapper dresses and pinstripe suits, turned out for the Prohibition-themed affair, which honored the beach community’s development during the early 1930s. The event 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.

“We couldn’t be more pleased with the results of this year’s gala,” said Laura Davick, founder and director of external affairs for Crystal Cove Alliance. “The event has sold out every year, and this year was no exception. We are honored to have so many members of the Orange County community fighting alongside us for the continuous preservation of this historic coastal gem.

” Rum Runner’s party guests arrived at 6 p.m. and were led onto the beach on the south end of the Crystal Cove Historic District where the gala was held. Attendees enjoyed authentic Prohibition cocktails, including the “Dark and Stormy” and “Rum Runner’s Grog” while indulging in various butler-passed canapés, such as bluefin tuna tartar and Scottish smoked salmon with caviar.

After a slow sunset on the sandy speakeasy, Brenna Whitaker and her Little Big Band took the stage, performing early twentieth 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. The auction featured several exclusive items, including a science-themed two-night stay package in the Crystal Cove cottage #22 Park and Marine Research Facility. Also up for bids, a seafood grill for 12 at Dennis Morin’s “Rock House” included table service provided by CCA President Harry Helling, Laura Davick and event chairs Teddie Ray and Linda Kennedy.

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.