Jack O'Neill To Be Honored At OSO 10 Year Anniversary

O’Neill Sea Odyssey (OSO) will hold its 10th Anniversary Celebration on Friday, October 6. The guest of honor will be OSO founder, Jack O'Neill. The O’Neill Sea Odyssey is a non-profit organization that was created by Jack O’Neill to inspire environmental stewardship. “I want kids to learn that the ocean is alive, and that we’ve got to protect it.” said O'Neill.



The educational program engages 4th - 6th grade school groups with lessons in navigation, sailing, conservation, and marine science. OSO’s mission is: "To provide a hands-on educational experience to encourage the protection and preservation of our living sea and communities."



Students experience the thrill of sailing the Monterey Bay aboard the “O’Cat”, the 60ft Team O'Neill Catamaran. The O'Neill Sea Odyssey's newly renovated education center at the Santa Cruz Harbor provides a space for hands-on activities, the perfect complement to the catamaran voyage.



“O’Neill Sea Odyssey has served over 32,000 kids from 1,100 classrooms in just ten years,” said Celebration Committee Chair Lisa O’Neill. "I encourage the community to participate in supporting this milestone event, which will assist in keeping this amazing program thriving".


Said OSO Board of Directors Chair Bridget O’Neill: “Because O’Neill Sea Odyssey does not charge the schools or the families it serves, we are able to serve kids who would otherwise not have the opportunity to participate in this quality, ocean-going program. We hope the community will join us and help support this important effort.”



In December 2004 the program received the California Governor’s Environmental and Economic Leadership Award in Children’s Environmental Education. In May 2005 OSO received the Conservation Champion Award from Senator Barbara Boxer.


In addition to a tribute program recognizing Jack O’Neill for his accomplishments with the Sea Odyssey, the Event will feature hearty hors d’oeuvres, beverages, music by the Parafins, and both live and silent auctions. Among those also being recognized at the event are the significant donors to our recent education center renovation. Celebration sponsors include Ocean Chevrolet-Honda, and Cornish & Carey Commercial.