Thank you for being part of the fundraising gala in celebration of the 20th anniversary of the Franklin Parker Preserve and in honor of Samuel W. Lambert III of Princeton, whose leadership was crucial to the successful preservation of this unspoiled gem! 

Evening Schedule
6:00 - 7:00 p.m.
Cocktail Hour
7:00 - 9:00 p.m.
Honoree Presentation
Dinner
Remarks

In the early 2000s, it seemed impossible that a nonprofit could buy a 14-square-mile former cranberry farm worth $24 million…even when the landowner offered to donate half its value. But thanks to the vision of the Board of Trustees, led by Sam Lambert, and the generosity and commitment of donors, the dream became reality in 2003. The Franklin Parker Preserve is now NJ Conservation’s largest preserve.

Other major long-odds victories over the years include working with partners to protect the iconic Palisades cliffs viewshed in Bergen County when an international electronics giant was building a new corporate headquarters, and stopping the unneeded PennEast gas pipeline in Hunterdon and Mercer counties that threatened thousands of acres of land preserved with public funds.

None of these successes would have happened without the steadfast support of members and friends like you. Your generosity makes everything possible, and we are eternally grateful!

Don't miss out on these one-of-a-kind live auction items!

A Perfect Day in the Pines
NJ Conservation’s Manager of Science & Stewardship Dr. Emile DeVito will treat your group of up to eight people to a "Perfect Day in the Pines", with door-to-door travel provided from your home to the Franklin Parker Preserve and back. See the Pine Barrens that no one else gets to see as we track fauna and find rare and endangered flora, all as you learn the secrets of this ancient place.  There are many enchanting gems hidden in the Pine Barrens - including Arneys Mount, Old Irishgun church, Whitesbog Village, Mount Misery, David Moore cedar swamp. Consult with Emile about what you would like to see as we arrange your ideal day!

Perhaps you would like to start your day early for birdwatching or consider a late start and experience the Pines under the stars. Your day could include paddling on beautiful tea-colored water, surrounded by the sounds of songbirds. Let us help you create an unforgettable experience at one of New Jersey’s wildest places! 

In addition to door-to-door transportation, this tour includes a delicious seafood lunch at the lake with a curated wine pairing! Customizable to your group’s preferences, we’ll provide everything you need for an unforgettable outing! No special gear or prior experience needed.  Must be redeemed in the fall of 2023 or spring of 2024.
 

Wild for a Day
Go wild for a day at the Franklin Parker Preserve in the heart of the beautiful Pine Barrens! Your group of up to eight will enjoy this private opportunity to explore the mysteries of the Pine Barrens with NJ Conservation's Land Steward and Pine Barrens Educator, Russell Juelg and Manager of Science and Stewardship, Dr. Emile DeVito. Let Russell help you sharpen your wilderness skills or let Emile guide you to parts of the preserve not accessible to the public.

Your day could include learning how to forage for wild edible plants, building a roaring campfire, mountain biking on sand roads, exploring a pine forest, paddling canoes and kayaks, or even constructing rustic shelters from materials found in nature, and more! The adventure is customizable to your group’s interests and preferences.
 
This trip includes a delicious lunch at the lake with s’mores for the kids and beer or wine pairing for you! No special gear or prior experience is needed – we will provide everything you need for an unforgettable outing! Must be redeemed in the fall of 2023 or spring of 2024.

Summer Feast of Local Fishes
Metropolitan Seafood & Gourmet will cater a gourmet dinner and cooking demo in your home for a spectacular private party for up to eight people. Mark Drabich, owner of Metropolitan Seafood & Gourmet, will personally prepare the finest quality fresh seafood and delicious homemade recipes with his trademark charisma and twist of humor! This item includes a wine pairing for the dinner and each dish will be cooked in real time in a fun cooking class demonstration. Bon appetit! 
         

Valid for a location within a 30-mile radius of their store in Lebanon, NJ. Must be redeemed by December 31, 2023 to be scheduled at a mutually agreed upon date/time with Mark. 

Under the Tuscan Sun
Escape from the mundane and live the incomparable pleasures of Tuscany's countryside! Your group of up to eight will stay near the pretty hilltop town of Cortona, known for its medieval center and Etruscan museum – and as the main location of the film “Under the Tuscan Sun.” Your adventure begins in the warm atmosphere of your charming villa, completely immersed in nature. Take the time to kick back and relax by the pool or in the garden. 

Live like Etruscan royalty with your very own private chef who will prepare a fresh breakfast each morning for the entire week. Let yourself be carried into Tuscany's gastronomic tradition by savoring traditional homemade dishes and tasting the authentic flavors of the region! Enjoy a cooking class in the comfort of your villa, learning the secrets of fresh homemade pasta, mouth-watering sauces, Tuscan meat dishes, and desserts.
 
Explore nearby villages and take in the incredible scenes of rolling hills, endless vineyards, and vibrant colors. You will have the chance to taste the famous wines of the area and visit wineries to see how they are made. Your free time can be spent on any number of activities, from bike rides to city tours to simply relaxing at your home away from home, for an unforgettable Tuscan getaway!
Included: 
•   Seven nights in a beautiful private Tuscan villa for up to eight guests
•   Fresh daily breakfast prepared in villa by a private chef
•   One full-day wine tour, visiting two wineries, with lunch and transportation included
•   One cooking class in villa followed by a traditional dinner
•   Travel assistance and concierge service
•   Utilities, daily cleaning services, and midweek linen and towel change  
Not included: Airfare, ground transportation, any free time extra activities not mentioned above. Your personal travel concierge will always be at your disposal before and during your holiday for trip details, preparation, and arranging free time extra activities and services. Good for 24 months (April-December).