MAGIC UNDER THE MANGROVES

PRESENTED BY



SUPPORTING SPONSOR


ARSENAULT

PRESENTED BY
SUPPORTING SPONSOR
ARSENAULT
We are delighted to welcome you to this year’s Magic Under the Mangroves Gala, hosted by and supporting the Conservancy of Southwest Florida! We’d like to extend a heartfelt “thank you” to those of you who have been supporting Magic and the Conservancy in the past as well as to all who are new to Magic.
Tonight, you will hear and see much about the mission of the Conservancy of Southwest Florida and the extraordinary work done by the people who power its programs. The Conservancy’s many successes are due in large measure to its recruitment of and staffing by the best and brightest experts in their fields, the selfless and amazing efforts of our many volunteers who work 365 days a year, and the interns who provide critical assistance while receiving valuable hands-on experience in all areas of conservation.
Magic Under the Mangroves was initiated in 2004 as a way to introduce people to and raise awareness of the Conservancy’s mission and to provide critically important funding for its operational budget. Magic has successfully accomplished these goals for the past 20 years and has raised more than $21 million. We are proud to have received recognition in 2024 by The Naples Community Choice Awards as Best Fundraising Event.
It is up to all of us tonight to ensure that the Conservancy continues its success by providing the funds necessary to support the people who power our programs. To that end, we invite and encourage you to generously support the Conservancy of Southwest Florida’s funding needs tonight and to bid high and often during our fabulous live auction!
We hope you all enjoy tonight’s program and entertainment, and the camaraderie of friends and fellow supporters. On behalf of the Conservancy and the Magic Under the Mangroves 2025 Gala Committee, please accept our gratitude for your generous participation.
Linda & Victor Grijalva | Toni & Charlie Mueller
Linda & Victor Grijalva
Toni & Charlie Mueller*
Shannon B. Arquilla
Desma Borland
Kathy Boyle
Emily Caraco
Kim Collins
Susan Dalton*
Darlene DeMichele
Vanessa Gilvarg
Robin Hamilton*
Linda Koehn
Maureen Lerner*
Katrina Lundmark-Kash*
Robin McClanathan
Laura Nolte
Linda Orlans
Jane Pearsall
Pam Sasser
Sue C. Schulte
Lynne Shotwell*
Jenn Suden
Jenny Sutton
Debra A. Tagliaferro
Sharon von Arx
Carol Walter*
Cynthia Weston
Nancy G. White*
An asterisk indicates past Magic Under the Mangroves chairs. Italics indicate Honorary Committee members.
Vanessa & Martin Gilvarg
& Sharon von Arx
Edie Andrew
Barbara Chur
Mary Lockton & Michael Murphy
Robin & Joe McClanathan
Giselle Wagner & Paul Myerson
Carol & John Walter
Wendy & Tom Watkins
Jane & Jim Fitzgerald
Linda & Victor Grijalva
Lynne & Chip Shotwell
Jenny & Kermit Sutton
Karen & Patrick Walsh
Nancy & Bob Anthony
Venanzio & Shannon Arquilla
Kathy & John Boyle
Sue Dalton
Susan & Phil Gresh
Donna Hall
Kathy & John Hayes
Toni & Charlie Mueller
Laura & Jim Nolte
Linda Orlans & Gerry Padilla
Nanette Rivera & Gene Wordehoff
Pam & Greg Sullivan
The Weston Family
Myra & Van Williams
Barbara & Larry Wilson
Dawn & Lew Allyn
Desma & Doug Borland
Linda & Rick Flewelling
Leslie & Alain Frécon
Jill & Steve Miller
Ann & Jerry Nerad
Pam & Fred Sasser
Toshiko & Jay Tompkins
Barbara Weyand
Nancy White
Georgia & John DallePezze
Elaine & Dick Grant
Julie & Bruce Groves
Julie & Jon Kukk
Donna & Rob Reiley
Kathy & Greg Spier
Patti Swope
Bill & Lisa Byrnes
Jennie Cheng & Stefan Bothe
Kyle Chudom
Elaine & Ken Cole
Audrey Danocup
Judy Dolan & John Green
Jacki & Max Guinn
Laurie Hamachek
Raynelle Heidrick
Melinda & Michael Heim
Judy & John Hushon
Jo Ann Jany
Linda & Tom Koehn
Maureen & Arnold Lerner
Katrina Lundmark-Kash & Rick Kash
Diane & Ron McGinty
Juliana Meek & Kristine Meek
Mary Alice & Craig Miller
Eliza & Hugh Nevin
Linda & Nick Penniman
Sue & Fred Schulte
Karen & Sam Smith
Debra & Robert Tagliaferro
Susan & Ed Turville
“There are no other Everglades in the world. They are, they have always been, one of the unique regions of the earth; remote, never wholly known. Nothing anywhere else is like them.”
- Marjory Stoneman Douglas
From Pre-K through gray, the environmental education department actively connects and educates all ages. Sound environmental education provides a foundation for making responsible decisions in the future.
We reach more than 10,000 local school students each year though field trips at our Nature Center, outreach programs with the Learning Adventures Bus (LAB), summer programs and camps, boat trips in Rookery Bay, outreach events, and more.
Our policy and advocacy team helps protect our wild lands, wildlife, and waters. We steward smart growth in our area by advising on transportation planning, land use decisions, and helping to preserve habitat and waterways.
Keeping our region healthy, livable, and functional is an endless and complex task. It’s about balancing conservation with economic health and making sure decisions and actions are supported by science-based information and policies.
The work of the environmental science department includes ecological research and monitoring programs, restoration initiatives, and ongoing collaboration with universities, state and federal agencies.
Conservancy biologists specialize in a wide variety of research initiatives that focus on Southwest Florida’s unique habitats and wildlife, ranging from our estuaries to our uplands, urban environments, to the Greater Western Everglades.
The wildlife rehabilitation team and a group of dedicated volunteers provide supportive care at the von Arx Wildlife Hospital with the goal of releasing as many “patients” as possible back to their natural habitats.
Approximately 4,000 injured, sick, and orphaned native animals are admitted each year. Most of those injuries stem from interactions that involve humans – including car strikes, domestic pet attacks, window collisions, fishing line and hook injuries, gunshots, and more.
We are a proud sponsor of Magic Under the Mangroves and support the Conservancy of Southwest Florida in their tireless efforts to protect and preserve the natural beauty and integrity of our water, land, wildlife, and future. We are fortunate to share in this wondrous community we eagerly call our home.
PATRON PARTY SPONSOR
Edgewater Beach Resort
Opal Collection
PATRON PARTY MUSICIAN
Jonathan Moody, a representative for Brian Sutherland
CREATIVE CUISINE
The Ritz-Carlton
FLORAL DESIGN
Focus Floral
TLC Plant Rental
MUSIC PERFORMANCE & PRODUCTION
Kurt Stephens
Lovebirds Music
Peter Lake
Tropical Chick Music
MASTER OF CEREMONIES
Lindsey Sablan
AUCTIONEER
Lydia Fenet
GENEROUS VENDORS
5 Star Valet
Abacus Security Systems
AUC Consultants
CRS Technology
Diesel Direct
Drew & Karen’s Photography
Elements & Accents
Greater Naples Fire Rescue
Harmon’s Audio Visual
In-Tents
John-to-Go
Leaphart’s Specialty Air & Power
Luxe Flush, a Restroom Trailer Co.
M&M Multimedia
Naples Envelope & Printing
Olde Naples Chocolate
OneCause
Over the Top Linen Rentals
Paradise Hospitality
Presstige Printing
Priority Marketing
Taylor Rental
Thank you to all who volunteered to make this event a success.
Conrad Williams
Ed Koehler Designs
Laura Kay Hauser
Naples Live Edge Wood
Opal Collection
Pamela & Roger Weston
Alligator Ron & Ali Bergeron
CRAVE Culinaire
Crown Jewelers of Naples
Fred & Sue Schulte
Gina Birch
Louis Vuitton
Opal Collection
Paradise Hospitality
Paul & Eileen Arsenault
The Ritz-Carlton, Naples
The World Residences at Sea
Federal tax ID#: 59-1157084. A copy of the official registration and financial information may be obtained from the division of consumer services by calling toll-free within the state. Registration does not imply endorsement, approval, or recommendation by the state. (800) HELP-FLA (435-7352), Freshfromflorida.com. Registration number CH8300. Your donation may be tax deductible. Please ask your tax advisor to see if you qualify.
Donated by Pamela & Roger Weston
Enjoy a one-hour champagne sunset cruise for up to eight people aboard the vessel “Big Popsie” (40ft Intrepid) along the Cocohatchee River to the white sandy beaches of Delnor-Wiggins Pass and beyond. You may encounter natural wonders, such as manatees, dolphins, and a variety of native bird species. Relax and allow your cares to drift away with us. Following your cruise, indulge in a delicious dinner at Pelican Isle Yacht Club in the Commodore’s Private Dining Room overlooking the water. Reservation date and other restrictions may apply.
Donated by Pamela & Roger Weston
Enjoy a one-week getaway in Los Cabos, Mexico for up to five people. This beautiful Mexican paradise features beach side relaxation, world-class golf, some of the best angling action in the Americas, and prestigious restaurants. This spectacular luxury villa at Baja Point, Westin Los Cabos is conveniently located between the resort cities of Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo. This exclusive two-bedroom villa can sleep up to five people. Reservation date and other restrictions may apply.
Enjoy a luxury stay across the Florida Keys for two. Begin your trip with three nights at the Sunset Key Cottages, a private island getaway minutes from Key West. The vibrant and stylish accommodations offer serene views and reflect the relaxation of the area. Then, travel to the Reefhouse Resort & Marina and embrace the laid-back luxury of Key Largo. Unwind in style in chic waterfront accommodations with spectacular views of the bay. Special excursions included. Reservation date and other restrictions may apply.
The winner of the item will select a sustainably sourced Live Edge Wood slab from our inventory to then create his or her own customized Live Edge Wood project. Artist and FL ISA Certified Arborist Ian Orlikoff has been assisting the team at the von Arx Wildlife Hospital renesting birds for many years. The wood selection and type of project are all customizable and range from “floating” bookshelves to grand and formal dining room tables. Restrictions may apply.
Donated by Conrad Williams and Paradise Hospitality
This experience is for the art lover! Make your unique design, then sit back and watch the magic. Conrad’s refined artistic skills, alongside his unique ability to articulate his process, make for a one-of-a-kind evening in his garden studio. Work with Conrad to design a color palette for your piece. Then, let it transform molten glass into your unique platter, right before your eyes. Enjoy delicious appetizers and wine provided by Paradise Hospitality. Reservation date and other restrictions may apply.
Donated by Victoria Block
This ceramic light sculpture was made especially for the 2025 Magic Under the Mangroves Gala and was created to evoke coral. Each sculpture is created through an arduous process of molding strips of clay into a pot that finds its own shape through her hands. Hundreds of tiny holes are pierced with a needle, the inspiration for the designs evolving as she works.
Donated by Ed Koehler Designs
One winner will select a composite fiberglass sea turtle shell inspired by the vibrant colors and intricate patterns of sea turtles. Using fiberglass, each piece is sculpted and hand-painted to reflect the distinctive markings of these majestic creatures. Measuring approximately 30 inches tall by 24 inches wide, these unique works are designed for both indoor and outdoor spaces. No sculptures are ever the same, so each one is as unique as the turtles that inspire them.
Donated by Laura Kay Hauser
This one-of-a-kind, handmade quilt was created by Laura Kay Hauser, owner of the Little Quilt Store. The Little Quilt Store’s recent event, Harbor Hookin’, raised money for the Conservancy and its sea turtle research program. This beautiful custom piece is 45”x57” and was handcrafted specifically for the Conservancy as Laura Kay Hauser wished to support the Conservancy’s mission through her handwork.
Donated by The Ritz-Carlton, Naples
The Ritz-Carlton, Naples is delighted to present an exclusive opportunity never before available—a Private Holiday Breakfast Experience for 20 guests in the Winter Wonderland. The winner and guests will indulge in a custom breakfast, curated by the hotel’s Executive Chef and his team. Set within the privacy of the famed Winter Wonderland, this setting features a forest of elegant Christmas trees, festive décor, holiday melodies, and the iconic life-size gingerbread house. Enjoy a private tour of this magnificent creation, guided by Executive Pastry Chef Lerome Campbell. Gain an exclusive behind-the-scenes perspective on the craftsmanship behind this confectionary masterpiece—and leave your own mark by adding the final decorative touches. Exclusive offer for Magic Under the Mangroves patrons. Restrictions: Must be booked at least 30 days in advance. All dates and times are subject to mutual availability. Blackout dates may apply.
Enjoy sumptuous living for a one-week stay for two aboard The World, a luxury residence at sea. At 644 feet, The World is the largest privately owned yacht on the planet. Wake up in a new destination every few days. During the day, curl up with a good book in your private space, indulge in a Balinese massage, sip a cup of coffee in the neighborhood café, or head to the marina for a kayak ride on the open sea. Dine in a world-class restaurant or have an intimate meal in your private condominium. Your luxurious one-bedroom studio residence for two on the sea includes all meals and beverages up to $400 per day, per couple aboard the ship, including select fine wines & spirits, inclusive of all gratuities and port charges. Before your voyage on The World, enjoy a visit to Crown Jewelers of Naples to augment your personal jewelry collection. Crown Jewelers is offering a $10,000 store credit.
Restrictions: This offer from The World is for Ship passage only and excludes air transportation, ground transfers, and any pre-and/or post-voyage hotel accommodations, personal expenditures, Spa/Boutique, and other retail purchases. All seven (7) nights on board must be taken consecutively and within the span of the winner’s selected voyage. There will be no compensation for any unused portion of the voyage. The Winner may upgrade to another category of accommodation and will be responsible for the published difference in the nightly rate. The Winner and Guest must comply with the Ship’s prevailing onboard policies and requirements at the time of sailing. The prize is not transferable. The winning bidder may redeem their certificate for any itinerary on the Ship’s schedule subject to availability from April 7, 2025 through April 15, 2026, by which time the voyage must be completed. The following blackout dates apply: April 22-May 30, 2025; September 17-October 5, 2025; November 10-December 1, 2025; January 25February 19, 2026; and March 18-April 1, 2026.
Donated by the Conservancy of Southwest Florida and CRAVE Culinaire
Tantalize your senses with an exclusive, multi-tiered VIP dining experience celebrating the Conservancy of Southwest Florida as the heart of our community for 60 years. Allow us to showcase the mission of the Conservancy at this intimate reception for 40 guests, hosted by President and CEO Rob Moher. Wow your guests with an innovative and progressive four-course dinner and wine pairing prepared by the culinary experience experts of CRAVE Culinaire. This immersive experience will include a conversation with executive leadership from our four mission-based initiatives: protecting our water, land, wildlife, and future.
Exclusive offer for Magic Under the Mangroves patrons. Restrictions: Date and time to be mutually agreed upon.
Donated by the Opal Collection, Louis Vuitton, Fred & Sue Schulte
Begin your New England adventure on the island of New Castle located in New Hampshire. Enjoy one night at the historic Wentworth by the Sea resort hotel. Since 1874, Wentworth by the Sea has stood as a beacon of elegance among the grand Portsmouth, New Hampshire hotels that once graced the coastline. Then, travel to Rockport, Maine, and enjoy two nights at the Samoset Resort. This incredible resort features stunning views and an oceanfront championship golf course. Enjoy four rounds of golf during your stay. Your last stop is Bar Harbor, Maine where you will spend three nights at the Harborside Hotel and Marina. Bar Harbor offers a quaint downtown with boutique shopping and endless outdoor activities including Acadia National Park. Guests will enjoy a whale-watching excursion and a lighthouse tour. Also included: An icon since its appearance in 1930, the Louis Vuitton Keepall embodies the spirit of modern travel. Light, supple, and always ready for immediate departure, the bag lives up to its name. It can easily fit a week’s wardrobe into the generously sized (and cabin-friendly) Keepall 55. Monogram Canvas, with a strap for casual cross-body wear. Travel in style with 200,000 United or Delta Airlines miles included in this package, to be used at your discretion.
Restrictions: Subject to projected availability and type. Certain blackout date restrictions will apply. Sunday through Thursday arrivals only. Valid until November 1, 2026.
Donated by the Conservancy of Southwest Florida
Journey with the world-famous Conservancy python team into the Greater Western Everglades to advance this ground-breaking science to protect our native wildlife. Accompany Conservancy biologist Ian Bartoszek and his team on a unique field experience to release a male “scout snake.” The day will start with a briefing in the Andrew Family research lab at the Conservancy, and then you and a guest will prepare for a day out into the field and participate in the release of the snake so that it can be tracked to assist with removal of large breeding female pythons. You will enjoy lunch out in the field.
Exclusive offer for Magic Under the Mangroves patrons. Restrictions: Date and time to be mutually agreed upon.
Donated by Paul & Eileen Arsenault, Paradise Hospitality, and Gina Birch
A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for up to 4 individuals to join renowned Naples artist and historian Paul Arsenault and his wife, Eileen, for a progressive dinner around their historic Naples property. Enjoy extraordinary paired wine by expert Gina Birch and a catered dinner by Paradise Hospitality drawing inspiration from Old Florida while Paul and Eileen share their stories of the rich artistic and cultural life of Naples over the last 50 years. At the end of a Magical evening, guests will have an opportunity to select a unique piece of Paul's work.
Exclusive offer for Magic Under the Mangroves patrons. Restrictions: Date and time to be mutually agreed upon.
Donated by Alligator Ron & Ali Bergeron
The private and exclusive experience of the Florida Everglades at Green Glades West is truly unique. Experience the wilderness like the early settlers and enjoy the weekend of a lifetime when you immerse yourself and tour the majestic Florida Everglades in its original habitat. Eight guests will experience the thrill of riding aboard a bigwheeled safari jeep or a fleet of Honda ATVs traveling through private land on the Big Cypress Preserve. Discover the wonders and beauty of nature in the heart of the Everglades and observe wildlife such as deer, bears, wild hogs, hawks, eagles, and, if you are super lucky, a Florida panther too! All are indigenous to this part of “God’s Country.” Accommodations include all the luxuries of home, including private suites, three delicious meals prepared daily, plus fine wines and beverages for 3 days and 2 nights.
Restrictions: Date and time to be mutually agreed upon.
Available March 2025 through March 7, 2026.
This year’s Live Fund-A-Need program is all about preserving the paradise we all call home. You will have the opportunity to raise your paddle and fund programs at the Conservancy that we depend on every day to preserve Southwest Florida.
All contributions are 100% tax deductible, so bid high and feel free to bid often. Your support will enable underserved kids to attend summer camp, it will allow us to fight for clean water in our estuaries, it will help us advance science-based strategies to promote resiliency of our community, and so much more.
You love living in paradise – help us protect it through this Live Fund-A-Need portion of our magical evening!
Continuing education and career training allow Conservancy staff to develop new skills, stay up-to-date on current trends, and advance our mission.
Environmental Education Policy & Advocacy
Environmental Science Wildlife Rehabilitation
$1,000 • $2,500 • $5,000 • Other _____
$1,000 • $2,500 • $5,000 • Other _____
$1,000 • $2,500 • $5,000 • Other _____
$1,000 • $2,500 • $5,000 • Other _____
Tools and equipment are crucial because they help us accomplish tasks more efficiently, safely, and effectively.
Environmental Education
Environmental Science
$1,000 • $2,500 • $5,000 • Other _____
$1,000 • $2,500 • $5,000 • Other _____
Policy and Education staff work to empower individuals to be part of the solution, ensuring that their voices are heard, and strengthening the connection between the community and their environment.
Environmental Education Policy & Advocacy
$1,000 • $2,500 • $5,000 • Other _____
$1,000 • $2,500 • $5,000 • Other _____
Conservancy staff ensures that both our resident animal ambassadors and wildlife in our care are kept healthy, comfortable, and safe. This includes providing adequate food, clean water, shelter, and medical care when needed.
Environmental Education Wildlife Rehabilitation
$1,000 • $2,500 • $5,000 • Other _____
$1,000 • $2,500 • $5,000 • Other _____
The funding will be utilized to enhance our initiatives in the following ways:
Support for our summer programs.
Care and maintenance of our animal ambassadors.
Integration of interactive technology and artifacts into our programs. Professional development opportunities for our staff, including training sessions and attendance at conferences hosted by the North American Association for Environmental Education, as well as local and regional workshops.
Supporting staff attendance at the Everglades Coalition Conference and other training and professional development opportunities. Protecting the endangered Florida panther and preserving vital habitat corridors.
Advocating for the conservation of wetlands and improving water quality.
Participation in the Greater Everglades Ecosystem Restoration Conference and local and regional workshops.
Tagging and tracking equipment, a Qubit fluorometer for genetic research purposes, and monitoring efforts for the Python Project.
Acquisition of a modified boat, motor, and trailer, and tagging and project equipment for the Keewaydin Sea Turtle Project.
Procurement of a Utility Terrain Vehicle to support field projects.
Staff attendance National Wildlife Rehab Symposium and local and regional workshops.
Veterinary care for the 4,000 animals admitted to the wildlife hospital. Rehabilitating and releasing wildlife to give animals a second chance at life while ensuring the continued health and resilience of our natural world.
Outdoor rehabilitation enclosure upkeep and maintenance.
1.
To bid on an item during the live auction, simply raise your bid paddle with your assigned number until acknowledged by the auctioneer. You may also raise your program, raise your hand, or otherwise get the auctioneer’s attention to place your bid. We encourage you to bid frequently and generously. Proceeds from the auction go directly to the Conservancy of Southwest Florida.
2.
3.
If an item has an expiration date, it is the responsibility of the winning bidder to comply with the expiration dates and to finalize transactions within the time frames specified on the item certificate. All taxes, applicable fees, or reservations are the responsibility of the successful bidder.
While every reasonable effort has been made to describe each item correctly, all items and services are sold “as is.” Values of items offered for auction are donors’ estimates and are not warranted by the Conservancy.
These guidelines along with your invoice are your agreement with the donors and the complete and only terms and conditions on which all property is offered for sale. A bid constitutes a legal contract to buy. You are required by law to pay for the item for which you were the successful bidder. All sales are final. Items are nontransferable and cannot be exchanged.
4. We reserve the right to withdraw any property before or during a sale and shall have no liability whatsoever for such withdrawal. We reserve the right to reject any bid. The highest bidder acknowledged by the auctioneer will be the purchaser. In the event of any dispute between bidders, or in the event of doubt on our part as to the validity of any bid, the auctioneer will have the final discretion either to determine the successful bidder or to re-offer and resell the article in dispute. If a dispute arises after the sale, our sale record is conclusive.
5. Any mistakes in invoicing after the sale will be recognized as such by the buyer and the buyer will be obligated to the price as announced to the audience and by the auctioneer during the auction.
6. Total liability of any type or for any cause of the Conservancy and/or Auctioneer shall be limited to monies paid at said auction. In addition, the Conservancy and/or Auctioneer and such persons shall not be liable for any cause or event beyond their control.
8. Thank you for your generous support of the Conservancy of Southwest Florida as we raise funds greatly needed to continue protecting Southwest Florida’s unique natural environment and quality of life…now and forever.
7. No video without written permission. Auction services are copyrighted, intellectual property.
Charles Mueller, Chair
Jim Nolte, Vice Chair
John R. Walter, Treasurer
Rob Moher, President & CEO
Kimberly Leach Johnson, Secretary
Nancy Anthony
Nicolas "Nick" Batos
Stefan R. Bothe
William “Bill” Byrnes
Barry Frank
Leslie Frécon
Vanessa von Arx Gilvarg
Phil Gresh
Linda Harvey Grijalva
Bruce Groves
Dr. Judith Hushon
Dr. Terri Jump
Katrina Lundmark-Kash
Jon Kukk
Paul Myerson
Nicholas G. Penniman IV
Nanette Rivera
Penny Taylor
Tom Watkins
Roger Weston