Keynote speaker Rep. Mikie Sherrill with a tribute to Jay DeLaney
MORRISTOWN, NJ – The Great Swamp Watershed Association (GSWA) announced today their upcoming annual Gala Celebration and Silent Auction is slated for Thursday, October 5, 2023. This much-anticipated event takes place from 6:00 to 9:00 PM at the prestigious Brooklake Country Club in Florham Park, New Jersey. For event details and tickets information, visit GreatSwamp.org.
This year’s Gala features the distinguished Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill as the Keynote Speaker. Serving as the U.S. representative for New Jersey’s 11th congressional district, Congresswoman Sherrill leads legislation against climate change, supports clean energy and conservation, fosters collaboration for a greener future, and drives forward policies that address critical issues in New Jersey, including flooding, PFAS, and harmful algal blooms.
“Protecting our environment is not just our duty and moral obligation, but also an economic imperative for future generations,” stated Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill. “The impacts of climate change are far reaching and touch everything from jobs and infrastructure to national security and public health. We must come together, across party lines, and take bold action for a cleaner and more sustainable world.”
In a heartfelt gesture, GSWA will also pay tribute to John J. DeLaney, Jr., an avid GSWA supporter and former board member. As the Mayor of Morristown for eight impactful years, Jay DeLaney left a lasting impact on the community.
“We fondly remember Jay DeLaney for his remarkable sense of humor. It is an absolute pleasure to pay tribute to this wonderful man who cared so deeply about the environment, GSWA’s mission, and the town of Morristown, where he lived his entire life,” remarked Sally Rubin, Executive Director of GSWA.
Gala guests are in for a special experience this year with entertainment from Simon Mandal, a nationally touring professional magician, comedian, and mentalist. Mandal’s up-close magic and captivating illusions are certain to engage and delight the audience throughout the evening.
GSWA’s Gala is not only a celebration but also their largest fundraising event of the year. It encompasses a lively cocktail hour, fine dining featuring a vegan meal option, and an exciting silent auction with over 140 items for spirited bidding. VIP ticket holders are granted exclusive access to a private reception of cocktails and gourmet hors d’oeuvres at 5:00 PM, preceding the main event. GSWA’s commitment to cultivating the next generation of environmental stewards is evident in the offering of Young Professionals tickets at half the price of regular admission.
For those interested in participating in this event and providing further support to GSWA’s vital mission, tickets, and event details, including underwriting and program advertising opportunities, are available at GreatSwamp.org or by calling Melanie at (973) 538-3500.
GSWA is thankful to their current generous Gala Underwriters: New Jersey American Water, Atlantic Health Systems, Adrienne & Reed Auerbach, Avelino Law, BASF, Agi & Matt Krauser, PSEG, and Valley Bank.
Proceeds from all underwriting, ticket sales, and auction purchases support water quality monitoring, environmental education, land preservation and stewardship and advocacy initiatives of the Great Swamp Watershed Association.
GSWA is an Accredited Land Trust and the official Waterkeeper Alliance Affiliate for the Passaic River.
