Sussex Preservation Coalition to host inaugural Green Gala May 14

The Sussex Preservation Coalition will host its first major fundraising event to help protect local waterways and woodlands, the Green Gala, from 4 to 7 p.m., Wednesday, May 14, at the Clubhouse at Baywood Greens, Long Neck. 

SPC Green Gala festivities will include gourmet hors d’oeuvres, a silent auction, 50/50 raffle, cash bar and entertainment. 

The coalition plans to share 30% of gala proceeds with the Delaware Center for the Inland Bays. “It’s clear the federal government is stepping back from its role of protecting the environment,” said Jill Hicks, SPC president. “This policy shift means local organizations, especially groups like ours and the Center for Inland Bays, which have received federal support in the past, must fill in the gaps.”

SPC comprises local environmental groups in Sussex County dedicated to preserving and protecting local ecosystems. Its mission is to increase the impact of groups and individuals through working together to educate, organize, advocate and act.

CIB provides critical, science-based planning and monitoring of the three Delaware Inland Bays – Rehoboth, Indian River and Little Assawoman – plus their watersheds. These shallow waterways are home to hundreds of species and generate $4.5 million annually in economic activity from tourism, outdoor activities and real estate.

“If you have an interest in the environment, if you like to walk our forest trails or kayak our waterways, or if you just enjoy a quiet moment in nature, we ask that you join with us and support us on May 14,” Hicks said.

To learn more, go to sussexpreservationcoalition.org and inlandbays.org.