The Great Swamp Watershed Association (GSWA) is throwing it back to the 1980s for a milestone celebration. The non-profit environmental organization will host its 45th Annual Gala and Silent Auction on Oct. 22, from 6:00 to 9:30 PM at the Brooklake Country Club.
The signature highlight of the evening will be the official opening of a time capsule sealed during the 1980s, offering attendees a nostalgic look back at the grassroots beginnings of the organization’s regional environmental advocacy.
Honoring decades of conservation leadership
The event will pay tribute to the dedicated individuals who shaped the organization’s legacy. GSWA will honor its early founders—Abbie Fair, Helen Fenske, Candy Ashmun, Sally Dudley, and Anne Morris—as well as the “next generation” leaders who sustained and expanded the mission in subsequent decades. Honorees include Julia Somers, David Budd, Dot and Frank Stillinger, Michael and Marilyn Dee, and Pam and Dan Harding.
“Reaching 45 years is a powerful testament to the dedication of our supporters,” Bill Kibler, Executive Director of GSWA, said. “Opening our 1980s time capsule is more than just a fun trip down memory lane, it’s a reminder of how far we’ve come since our early days of grassroots protection.”
Kevin Murphy, Director of Business Development at the Morris County Chamber of Commerce and the Morris County EDC, will emcee the evening.
Gala schedule and special features
- VIP Cocktail Reception (5:00 – 6:00 PM): Offers gourmet hors d’oeuvres, patio cocktails, and exclusive access to honorees. VIP ticket holders are also invited to contribute a small item to a new GSWA time capsule, scheduled to be unsealed at the organization’s 50th Anniversary Gala in 2031.
- ’80s Attire: Guests are encouraged, though not required, to embrace the decade with themed clothing.
- Young Professionals Discount: To foster the next generation of environmental stewards, GSWA is offering tickets for young professionals at half the cost of regular admission.
Supporting local water and land protection
Proceeds from ticket sales, underwriting, and the evening’s silent auction directly support GSWA’s core environmental programs, which include water quality monitoring, local land preservation, stewardship, education, and advocacy across the Passaic River region.
Top sponsors for this year’s event include Call 3 Degrees (Sapphire / 45th Anniversary Sponsor), alongside Bald Eagle Sponsors Atlantic Health System, Opella, and Valley Bank.
