2011 River of Grass Gala a success!

 FROM A RECENT PRESS RELEASE...
Nancy Marshall, president of the Arthur R. Marshall Foundation, which champions the restoration and preservation of the greater Everglades ecosystem, today announced that the nonprofit organization raised more than $100,000 at the recent sixth annual River of Grass Gala.

More than 200 people attended the gala, which was co-chaired by Bob & Michelle Diffendorfer and Harvey Oyer III & Monique McCall, with Joyce McLendon of Palm Beach serving as Honorary Chair.

With a “Back to Nature” theme, the fundraising event included the presentation of the Marshall Foundation’s fourth annual Champion of the Everglades Awards to individuals and organizations that have made an outstanding contribution toward Everglades restoration over many years. The 2011 recipients were Palm Beach County Commissioner Karen Marcus (elected official), Charlie Pelizza of the US. Fish and Wildlife Service (individual) and the National Wildlife Refuge Association (organization).

Additional highlights of the gala included one-of-a-kind centerpiece-sculptures (“Let the Dance Begin”) by renowned artist Norman Gitzen and high tech, pro-green, virtually paperless silent auction.

centerpiece sculptures by Norman Gitzen

 “As always, I am humbled by the number of people who tirelessly volunteer, sponsor and support our annual River of Grass Gala that funds 100 percent of our grassroots environmental projects throughout the year,” said Nancy Marshall. “In fact, 100 percent of all funds raised at the Gala goes directly toward educating the next generation about the critical importance of the Everglades, our national treasure, on the entire state of Florida.”

Click to see a photo gallery from the 2011 River of Grass Gala