Fall fundraiser a hit!

(L to R) FMR fall fundraiser host Joel Barker, FMR Executive Director Whitney Clark, fall fundraiser host Susan Barker and FMR Conservation Director Tom Lewanski.

Photo: Matt Holland

Friends of the Mississippi River has been holding a fall fundraiser, An Evening Celebration the Mississippi River, since 2001. This year, our generous hosts Susan and Joel Barker opened their Prairie-style home on St. Paul's river bluff for a wonderful evening that culminated in a stupendous sunset over the St. Paul river valley.

Friends of the river and our organization gathered to celebrate successes of 2011 and learn about the impact FMR has had in the community. After a brief introduction by FMR Executive Director Whitney Clark, six people took a few minutes each to highlight aspects of our work and share the impact they have experienced. St. Paul Mayor Chris Coleman started the speakers off, followed by Dakota County Farmland & Natural Areas Program's Al Singer, FMR Super Volunteer Michelle Garvey, the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency's Deputy Commissioner John Linc Stine, Minneapolis Park & Recreation Board Commissioner Liz Wielinski and Department of Natural Resources Scientific & Natural Area Program Manager Peggy Booth. Attendees had plenty of time to mingle and share their own river stories as well!

Part of the evening's fun was a silent auction featuring such items as a ride on a working towboat, river-themed artwork, event and food packages, guided eagle and swan-viewing trips and more. Every item went home with a happy bidder!

Nothing could top the evening off better than a stunning sunset.

Photo: Matt Holland

The wine and beer was provided by East Lake Liquors; the great food was provided by Fabulous Catering, and music by The Shiny Lights. Photos from the event are available on photographer Matt Holland's online event gallery.

To get on the mailing list for 2012's Evening Celebrating the River, please email your name and address to Heather via out contact form.