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Jacob Sell Hicks
July 16, 2025
An Afternoon of Community, Conservation, and Celebration

The Indian River Lakes Conservancy (IRLC) is thrilled to announce the return of our annual Celebration of the Lakes fundraiser an afternoon gathering that brings together conservation supporters, nature lovers, and neighbors from across the region.

This year’s event will be held on Sunday, August 3, from 2:00 to 5:00 PM at the scenic Thousand Islands Winery, located at 43298 Seaway Ave, Alexandria Bay, NY. Nestled beneath the Thousand Islands Bridge, this beautiful venue sets the stage for an unforgettable celebration.

Guests will enjoy a delicious hors d’oeuvre buffet by 24 Carrots Catering, local wine from Thousand Islands Winery, live music by the talented Kaydence Timerman, and a vibrant atmosphere full of connection and purpose. Our live and silent auctions will be emceed by celebrity host Jay Matteson, and feature a wide range of unique items and experiences donated by generous community members and businesses.

Live Auction Highlights Include:

  • Handcrafted Adirondack Chairs and Table by local artisan Richard Edgar
  • Pleasant Lake Cabin Getaway
  • Zipper Cruise Experience at the Antique Boat Museum
  • Custom Kayak Rack donated by Riverbay Too

Silent Auction Sneak Peek:

  • “Heron at the Water” Stained Glass Hanging – A 15″ x 23″ handcrafted copper-foil art piece featuring a serene heron, lotus, and water scene
  • August 15 Concert Tickets for Bonnie Castle
  • Evening Out in Clayton – Includes a $50 gift certificate to the Clayton Opera House (valid for any show within a year) and a $40 gift certificate to O’Brien’s Restaurant
  • Guided Nature Hikes
  • Locally Handcrafted Arts, Gifts, and More

All proceeds support IRLC’s mission to conserve the lands and waters of the Indian River Lakes region while providing educational programs that inspire the next generation of environmental stewards.

“Our annual Celebration of the Lakes event is the largest gathering of the year of supporters of the Indian River Lakes Conservancy,” said John O’Driscoll, IRLC Board Chair. “A short presentation will inform everyone on how this year’s Elizabeth May Duvall Kids Camp and WHIRL program went, as well as other ways the IRLC serves our community. It is a fun, relaxed event at a great venue beneath the Thousand Islands Bridge.”

As a special thank you, every attendee will receive a limited-edition Michael Ringer Giclée print, titled “Indian River Flats”, numbered and signed by the artist himself. (The print is pictured above.)

“The Celebration of the Lakes is a fun and lively event that raises critical funds for conservation, education, and stewardship across the Indian River Lakes region,” said Stephen Diehl, IRLC Board Member and COL Committee Chair.

We hope you’ll join us for this meaningful and memorable event. Your early RSVP helps make this event as special as the lakes we’re celebrating.

Click here to purchase your tickets now.