Quogue Wildlife Refuge Celebrates 7th Annual Wild Night For Wild Life

The Quogue Wildlife Refuge hosted its seventh annual “Wild Night for Wild Life” at the home of Paul and Jane Dietche on Saturday, July 20. The night consisted of interaction with wild life rescues, live music from The Times Square Orchestra, food prepared by Buoy One, beer from the Southampton Publick House, cocktails feauturing Tito’s Handmade Organic Vodka, wine from Lieb Cellars and Wolffer Estate Vineyards, coffee by Hampton Coffee Company, and delicious desserts prepared by Phillip Stone Caterers.

Program Director Marisa Nelson noted the importance of the event saying, “This is our biggest fundraiser of the year, which raises about $100,000 for wildlife, and we are proud to celebrate our 7th year. It is a needed benefit especially since the state removed funding.”

To raise funds for the Wildlife Refuge, silent auctions went on all night, and ABC’s Bill Ritter served as auctioneer during the live auction which consisted of several amazing items and opportunities like a meet and greet with CNN’s Anderson Cooper. All of this occurred at Quogue’s only remaining boarding house that retains many of the original characteristics from the era known as the “gay 90’s” with ornate woodwork and eleven fireplaces.

Executive Director, Michael Nelson was delighted by the turnout of nearly 500 guests in support of the refuge, and was touched by the generosity of everyone that helps the organization remain. “Each year the wildlife refuge teaches over 150 educational programs, we maintain 7 miles of trails, beautiful ponds on the refuge property, and animals that are injured and cannot be released into the wild that we care for on a daily basis, and it is all done with the support of individuals who love the refuge,” said Nelson. “Tonight’s events, donations throughout the year, and continued support makes the refuge able to keep our gates open free of charge. I want to thank everyone for their support and continued support throughout the year.”

The night was enjoyed by all from the volunteers to the supporters to the refuge employees to the attendees. President and Co-Chair Mary Post Board stated, “I’m so happy people came out tonight to celebrate the refuge, it is truly a treasure on Long Island.”

The Quogue Wild Life Refuge is located on 3 Old Country Road. For more information call 631-653-4771 or visit quoguewildliferefuge.org.