
DAGSBORO – Delaware Botanic Gardens fundraised $122,000 during the 11th Annual Dinner for operational and facility costs.
“This is the 11th anniversary of our first fundraising farm-to-table dinner created by Matt Haley and Sue Ryan at the Good Earth Market. Tonight, our dinner partners have braved the cloudy day and showers for a glorious celebration of the gardens,” Ray Sander, president of DBG, said in a statement. “We are indebted to: Scott Kammerer and Ronnie Burkle and the amazing SoDel chefs; Riley Quinn & Derrick Kelley of Bin 66 for their beautifully paired wines; Zack McCarthy and his team for the spectacular tent; Vince Varrassi and the 5th Avenue for their musical virtuosity; and Affairs to Remember for their special outdoor lighting.”
The annual dinner included over 300 guests on September 28 with food provided by SoDel Concepts.
“In addition, in memory of our recently deceased Board Member, Peter Carter, Sarah Gilmour sponsored the Welcoming Prosecco. The enthusiasm and high spirits were shared by all and representative of how much Delaware and Sussex County citizens care and support our community non-profits,” Sander said.
Sander also took note of attending supporters including Chuck Pennoni, founder of Pennoni Associates; Sussex County Land Trust; and the distinguished elected officials from across the State, including Lt. Governor Bethany Hall-Long, Senators Gerald Hocker and Russ Huxtable, Sussex County Council Member Douglas B. Hudson, Sussex County Administrator Todd Lawson, New Castle County Executive Matt Meyer and Dagsboro Mayor Brian Baull. “Support from our State, County, and local governments and the private sector is vital to the success of our public garden. Also, without the support of all of you in this tent tonight, there would be no botanic garden in Sussex County,” Sander said.
In her remarks, DBG Executive Director Sheryl Swed saluted the DBG Board Members & Advisory Council members present, dinner sponsors, volunteers and staff, including Stephen Pryce Lea, Director of Horticulture & Educational Programs and Sam Cashdollar, DBG Director of Grounds and Facilities.
Sheryl Swed, DBG executive director, said, “This is a special dinner because it marked the annual gathering of our most dedicated supporters and donors to celebrate the gardens’ progress and to recognize the board, staff and volunteers who make it happen. As a nonprofit, we could not operate without the support of the dedicated volunteers, staff, and our generous community supporters. Thank you!”
The Delaware Botanic Gardens is open to the public Thursday through Sunday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Guided tours are at 10 a.m. Reservations are desired and can be made at the website at delawaregardsns.org/tickets.