A Bell-Ringer of a Night

(Above) Dinner guests toast the night at PDE’s 2024 Experience the Estuary Celebration.

The weather was great, the band was smooth, and the oysters were fresh from local waters. It was the perfect recipe for a fabulous night in Philadelphia as PDE celebrated its programs and the amazing partners who support them.

Nearly 300 people turned out to network, enjoy cocktails, bid on treasures in the silent auction, and more. Guests interacted with PDE staff who turned the party into a science and education fair, giving everyone a sneak peek into their work adventures.

During dinner, PDE introduced a "Ring the Bell" campaign to garner support for the freshwater mussel hatchery that will be built at Bartram’s Garden. The campaign raised more than $7,000 for signs that will be featured in the welcome center of the complex. Guests who made a donation rang a bell at their table to announce their generosity. Aqua, an Essential Utilities Company, announced its $100,000 donation to support construction of the hatchery.

PDE is incredibly grateful for everyone who came, sponsored, and donated, and can’t wait to see you again next year!

PDE Board President Nicole Brown talks with Philadelphia Water Department Commissioner Randy E. Hayman, Esq.

Mike and Becky Iaconelli of the Ike Foundation enjoy the mild weather in the courtyard at Vie by Cescaphe in Philadelphia where PDE held its celebration.

Krista Seng, head of Corporate Giving and Community Affairs at Aqua, an Essential Utilities Company, enjoys some fresh, local oysters during the dinner’s cocktail hour. Photo courtesy of Krista Seng.

For more photos from the evening, visit: bit.ly/2024PDECelebration