The inaugural Friends of Lovers Key gala was held this past Saturday outside the new Discovery Center at Lovers Key. The gala is the biggest fundraiser of the year for the organization with the money used to help operate the facility.
The Palm City Big Band performed, Black Salt provided the multi-course gourmet dinner and an auction was held with help from auctioneer Jay Zeager with vacation packages and other gifts going for thousands of dollars. The event was hosted by NBC-2 anchor Peter Busch.
The final tally of what was raised should be known later this week as checks were still coming in from bidders at the time we went to print.
Friends of Lovers Key Board President James Remis said the event called Beauty and the Beach was a perfect. “It highlighted Friends of Lovers Key’s transition from focusing on building and equipping the Welcome and Discovery Center at Lovers Key State Park to becoming an important part of environmental education and protection for Southwest Florida. The enthusiasm both in the number of attendees, but also their support in funding our education mission was heartwarming. Transitions in mission of any organization can be difficult, but based on Saturday’s excitement, I believe we are well on our way to becoming a major partner in the future of Southwest Florida.”
FOLKS Vice President of Operations and Gala Committee Chair Karen Woodson said the event was a big success “due to the tireless work over the past year of the gala committee. I would like to thank all of our sponsors, donors, attendees, park staff and volunteers for the fabulous evening.”
Read more about the Friends of Lovers Key HERE.
Follow The Friends of Lovers Key on Facebook HERE.
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