Letter to the Editor: A great big swashbuckler 'thank you'

Dear Editor,

Barrier Island Parks Society (BIPS) extends heartfelt thanks to all who contributed to making our 2013 “Swashbuckler’s Ball” fundraiser a great success. The Boca Bay Pass Club provided a lovely setting for this year’s Green Gala, featuring a picture-perfect sunset from the tent on the lawn.

This casual evening of good fun, good food and goodwill supports the Boca Grande Lighthouse, our own and nearby barrier island parks, and many educational programs for adults and children in our community.

Sincere thanks to the many dedicated members and directors who helped with all aspects of this event: Florida Park Rangers Chad Lach and Mark Duncan, Sharon McKenzie, Mike Giobbe, Pam Hannah, Jim and Lynda Grant, Mary Lou Humphrey, David and Joyce Ferrie, Lyndy and Kathy Hustedt, Chrys Hyde, Susie Stringer and Pete Roberts. Kudos as well to our generous fishing guides: Capts. Charlie Coleman, Nat Italiano, Mark Liberman, Tommy Locke, Gary Peeples, Mike Reark and Doug Stewart. Del Bourree-Bach’s donated painting, “Tidal Treasures,” was the highlight of the live auction. Special thanks to our valued underwriters: Gulf to Bay Sotheby’s International Realty, Michael Saunders & Company and the Law Offices of Bret Shawn Clark, Mike Giobbe, Lynda and Jim Grant, Pam and Larry Hannah, George Robinson and Donna Moore and Barbara and Bruce Stirling.

Also, many thanks to the all-important donors to the silent auction, which is always the highlight of the Green Gala.

Finally, we must mention the superlative efforts of all the BIPS volunteers, Terry Bisset, Chef Jimmy Searle and the Boca Bay Pass Club staff, the Florida Park Service staff and live auctioneer Ron Thompson.
The Swashbuckler’s Ball was a memorable, fun event; the enthusiastic support of our guests as well as our donors is essential to our mission of conserving and preserving the bountiful natural assets of our island paradise. Last, but certainly not least, thank you Boca Beacon for your wonderful publicity and photos every year!

Sincerely,

Joan Ardrey and Larry Hannah
Green Gala Co-Chairs