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The evening included a cocktail hour and dinner, awards presentation, silent auction, a live auction conducted by famed auctioneer Pat Tully, and a 50/50 raffle.

Englewood Mayor Michael Wildes congratulated the honorees and presented each with a procla-

Jen Maxfield presents to Susan Klausner for John Hendrick.

Sandy Pinto, Jen Maxfield, and Rosemary Russell. NBC New York correspondent Jen Maxfield, honoree Annette Hollander, Englewood Mayor Michael Wildes, honorees Marc and Helene Jerome and Donnett Verley with Stephen Wiessner. Photos via Hillary Viders. mation signed by Sen. Gordon Johnson (D-37).

Wildes then extolled Flat Rock Brook Nature Center as an oasis in the city of Englewood and

Englewood Mayor Michael Wildes presents a proclamation. thanked everyone at the gala for supporting it.

Revenue from the 2022 gala will go to the Flat Rock Brook Nature Centerʼs upkeep and educational programs.

Flat Rock Brook Nature Center, a 150-acre preserve and education center in Englewood, was established in 1973 by citizens who were committed to land conservation and environmental education. It is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization supported by donations and grants. Its trails and picnic area are free and open to the public 365 days a year from dawn to dusk.

The preserve is managed by the Flat Rock Brook Nature Association. It draws people from all over Bergen County and beyond. It is known for its wide array of array birds and other wildlife which can be seen on the many nature trails. The center, also offers nature guides and environmental education programs for thousands of students and the general public.

The Associationʼs goal is to foster an understanding and appreciation of nature and to instill a sense of responsibility to protect it.

Executive director Stephen Wiessner told Northern Valley Press, “Preserved open spaces like Flat Rock Brook Nature Center are important places for people to congregate in nature, and for wildlife to have a place to thrive.”

He added, “Our 150 acres of pristine open space includes 3.6 miles of wooded trails that provide visitors with the opportunity to expand their physical and mental well-being, while also enjoying the splendor and beauty of nature in our urban/suburban setting.”