Riverkeeper’s Fishermen’s Ball Turns Into a Star-Studded Karaoke Bash for Clean Water
May 2012 – New York, NY — What started as a celebration of clean water advocacy quickly morphed into an unforgettable night of celebrity karaoke and high-energy fundraising. The 2012 Riverkeeper Fishermen’s Ball brought together environmental leaders, local advocates, and Hollywood stars—all united to support Riverkeeper’s mission to protect the Hudson River and safeguard drinking water for over nine million New Yorkers.
A Night of Advocacy and Applause
The evening honored two standout environmental champions: musician and activist Sting, and Scenic Hudson President Ned Sullivan. Both received Riverkeeper’s “Big Fish” award for their tireless work in defense of the Hudson and their commitment to grassroots action.
Hosted at Chelsea Piers, the event attracted over 800 guests and raised crucial funds for Riverkeeper’s patrol boat program and water quality testing efforts.
From Formal Gala to Wild Karaoke Free-for-All
Then the evening took a turn.
Sting, looking relaxed in a fitted blazer, opened the karaoke floodgates by performing “Every Breath You Take”. However, this was only the beginning. Celebrities like Mark Ruffalo, Laurie David, and Susan Sarandon couldn’t resist the mic. Before long, a chorus of public figures, politicians, and also Riverkeeper supporters belted out everything. That’s from ‘80s classics to Motown hits.
The karaoke stage quickly stole the show, turning the Fishermen’s Ball into an impromptu, joy-fueled concert—all in the name of clean water.
Why Water Matters
The Hudson River has long been at the heart of New York’s environmental movement. Riverkeeper, founded in 1966, is most notably one of the nation’s oldest clean water watchdogs. The group monitors pollution, investigates environmental violations, and also works with communities. Essentially to defend public waterways from industrial abuse.
As climate change and urban development pressure the region’s water systems, Riverkeeper’s work is more critical than ever. Events like the Fishermen’s Ball raise both awareness and funds, empowering the organization to act swiftly when polluters threaten the river or public health.
Riverkeeper Fisherman’s Ball: Karaoke with a Cause
The Fishermen’s Ball celebrated Riverkeeper’s legal victories and advocacy wins. However, it was also the raw joy of the night that made headlines. For people sang, danced and support clean water. More importantly, they also supported a cleaner, safer future for generations of New Yorkers.
In true Hudson River spirit, the event also finally showed that protecting the planet also doesn’t have to be dull. Sometimes, it sounds a lot like karaoke.
Source: Riverkeeper
