Guests attending the Arthur R. Marshall Foundation for the Everglades River of Grass Gala held Dec. 6 couldn’t decide which was more fun — the pre-boarding party at the dock or the spectacular full moon, holiday lights cruise aboard the 170-foot Lady Windridge yacht.
The annual Marshall Foundation fundraiser supports the restoration and preservation of the greater Everglades ecosystem and its historic “River of Grass” through science-based education and outreach programs the organization provides throughout Palm Beach County.
The evening began with a pre-boarding party at the City of West Palm Beach waterfront docks, with a champagne toast.
Guests boarded the Lady Windridge for the cocktail reception, which quickly gravitated to the open, top deck to see the full moon and lights along the Intracoastal Waterway. Dinner, an awards presentation and live auction followed, then entertainment and dancing.
“It was a beautiful evening,” said Bonnie Lazar, chair of the River of Grass Gala and a Marshall Foundation board member. “The support we received was overwhelming.”
The honorary chairs for the event were Thais and Matt Piotrowski and Bernadette and Bob Shalhoub. Nathaniel P. Reed was honored and received the Champion of the Everglades Award from Marshall Foundation Chair John Marshall. Reed is one of Florida’s most influential environmental advocates. He served six Florida governors and two presidents in many positions and was instrumental in passing important legislation regarding the preservation of South Florida’s environment.
Also honored was Pine Jog Elementary School, which received the second annual Josette George Kaufman Leadership Award.
Entertainment for the evening was provided by Monique McCall and Jeff Taylor.
For more information about the foundation, call (561) 233-9004 or visit www.artmarshall.org.
ABOVE: Marshall Foundation CEO Mark Pafford, with Gala Honorary Chairs Matt and Thais Piotrowski and Board President Michael Davis aboard the Lady Windridge for the River of Grass Gala.
