An unforgettable night of music, memories, and honoring the Founding and Evolution of GSWA

MORRISTOWN, NJ – September 2026 — The Great Swamp Watershed Association (GSWA) announced today that it will celebrate its 45th anniversary at its annual Gala and Silent Auction on Thursday, October 22, 2026, from 6:00 to 9:30 PM at the Brooklake Country Club in Florham Park, New Jersey.

This year’s ’80s-themed event will feature the opening of a time capsule sealed in the 1980s, offering a nostalgic look back at the early days of the organization's environmental advocacy.

A special VIP Cocktail Reception will run from 5:00 to 6:00 PM, offering attendees gourmet hors d'oeuvres, patio cocktails (weather permitting), and exclusive access to the evening’s honorees. VIP ticket holders are also invited to bring a small item to contribute to a new GSWA time capsule, set to be opened at the organization’s 50th Anniversary Gala in 2031. All guests are encouraged, though not required, to dress in '80s attire.

The organization will pay tribute to GSWA’s early founders: Abbie Fair, Helen Fenske, Candy Ashmun, Sally Dudley, and Anne Morris. The evening will also recognize the vital "next generation" leaders who sustained and expanded GSWA's mission following its founding era, including Julia Somers, David Budd, Dot and Frank Stillinger, Michael and Marilyn Dee, and Pam and Dan Harding, along with the many community members who played a big part in the organization's legacy.

"Reaching 45 years is a powerful testament to the dedication of our supporters," said Bill Kibler, Executive Director of GSWA. "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. By honoring our founders and early supporters, many of whom remain active with us today, we are bridging our rich history with our ongoing commitment to clean water and land for generations to come.”

Kevin Murphy, Director of Business Development at the Morris County Chamber of Commerce and the Morris County EDC, will serve as the evening's emcee. "Widely known across the area, Kevin brings dynamic energy and enthusiasm that will set a fantastic tone for our celebration," said Lynne Applebaum, GSWA’s Director of Development.

To encourage participation from emerging conservation leaders, GSWA is offering a discounted Young Professionals ticket at half the cost of regular admission, reflecting the organization's dedication to cultivating the next generation of environmental stewards.

Tickets & More Ways to Support: To purchase tickets, explore underwriting and advertising opportunities, or donate to the silent auction, visit e.givesmart.com/events/PWo/ or contact Izzy Filippini at 973-538-3500.

GSWA gratefully acknowledges its top Gala sponsors and underwriters to date:

Sapphire / 45th Anniversary Sponsor: Call 3 Degrees; Bald Eagle Sponsors: Atlantic Health System, Opella, and Valley Bank; Black Bear Sponsors: Adrienne & Reed Auerbach, BASF Corporation, and The Winifred M. and George P. Pitkin Foundation

Proceeds from ticket sales, silent auction purchases, and underwriting directly fund GSWA's core programs across the region, including water quality monitoring, environmental education, local land preservation, stewardship, and advocacy.

GSWA is an Accredited Land Trust and the official Waterkeeper Alliance Affiliate for the Passaic River.

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About the Great Swamp Watershed Association

Protecting the waters of the Great Swamp watershed region for nearly 45 years, the Great Swamp Watershed Association (GSWA) is a non-profit organization dedicated to protecting and improving the water resources of the Passaic River region, from the Great Swamp headwaters to Newark Bay, for present and future generations. Through education, advocacy, science, land preservation, and stewardship, in collaboration with partners, we work to instill in our communities an awareness of water’s effect on health and the beauty of the environment, from source to sea.

For more information about the Great Swamp Watershed Association, please visit GreatSwamp.org