Thursday, March 6, 2025
at 5 PM at the Conservancy Nature Center
The Conservancy of Southwest Florida’s annual fundraiser features an immersive event environment, live entertainment, dinner, and a thrilling live fund-a-need and auction
For questions, please call (239) 403-4200 or email magic@conservancy.org.
Live Auction
Winter Wonderland Breakfast at the Ritz
Donated by The Ritz-Carlton, Naples
The Ritz-Carlton, Naples is delighted to present an exclusive opportunity never before available—a Private Holiday Breakfast Experience for 20 guests in the Winter Wonderland. The winner and guests will indulge in a custom breakfast, curated by the hotel’s Executive Chef and his team. Set within the privacy of the famed Winter Wonderland, this setting features a forest of elegant Christmas trees, festive décor, holiday melodies, and the iconic life-size gingerbread house. Enjoy a private tour of this magnificent creation, guided by Executive Pastry Chef Lerome Campbell. Gain an exclusive behind-the-scenes perspective on the craftsmanship behind this confectionary masterpiece—and leave your own mark by adding the final decorative touches.
Exclusive offer for Magic Under the Mangroves patrons. Restrictions: Must be booked at least 30 days in advance. All dates and times are subject to mutual availability. Blackout dates may apply.
Seven-Night Voyage Aboard The World for 2
Donated by The World Residences at Sea and Crown Jewelers of Naples
Enjoy sumptuous living for a one-week stay for two aboard The World, a luxury residence at sea. At 644 feet, The World is the largest privately owned yacht on the planet. Wake up in a new destination every few days. During the day, curl up with a good book in your private space, indulge in a Balinese massage, sip a cup of coffee in the neighborhood café, or head to the marina for a kayak ride on the open sea. Dine in a world-class restaurant or have an intimate meal in your private condominium. Your luxurious one-bedroom studio residence for two on the sea includes all meals and beverages up to $400 per day, per couple aboard the ship, including select fine wines & spirits, inclusive of all gratuities and port charges. Before your voyage on The World, enjoy a visit to Crown Jewelers of Naples to augment your personal jewelry collection. Crown Jewelers is offering a $10,000 store credit.
Restrictions: This offer from The World is for Ship passage only and excludes air transportation, ground transfers, and any pre-and/or post-voyage hotel accommodations, personal expenditures, Spa/Boutique, and other retail purchases. All seven (7) nights on board must be taken consecutively and within the span of the winner’s selected voyage. There will be no compensation for any unused portion of the voyage. The Winner may upgrade to another category of accommodation and will be responsible for the published difference in the nightly rate. The Winner and Guest must comply with the Ship’s prevailing onboard policies and requirements at the time of sailing. The prize is not transferable. The winning bidder may redeem their certificate for any itinerary on the Ship’s schedule subject to availability from April 7, 2025 through April 15, 2026, by which time the voyage must be completed. The following blackout dates apply: April 22-May 30, 2025; September 17-October 5, 2025; November 10-December 1, 2025; January 25-February 19, 2026; and March 18-April 1, 2026.
Taste of the Conservancy
Donated by the Conservancy of Southwest Florida and CRAVE Culinaire
Tantalize your senses with an exclusive, multi-tiered VIP dining experience celebrating the Conservancy of Southwest Florida as the heart of our community for 60 years. Allow us to showcase the mission of the Conservancy at this intimate reception for 40 guests, hosted by President and CEO Rob Moher. Wow your guests with an innovative and progressive four-course dinner and wine pairing prepared by the culinary experience experts of CRAVE Culinaire. This immersive experience will include a conversation with executive leadership from our four mission-based initiatives: protecting our water, land, wildlife, and future.
Exclusive offer for Magic Under the Mangroves patrons. Restrictions: Date and time to be mutually agreed upon.
New England Escape for 2
Donated by the Opal Collection, Louis Vuitton, Fred & Sue Schulte
Begin your New England adventure on the island of New Castle located in New Hampshire. Enjoy one night at the historic Wentworth by the Sea resort hotel. Since 1874, Wentworth by the Sea has stood as a beacon of elegance among the grand Portsmouth, New Hampshire hotels that once graced the coastline. Then, travel to Rockport, Maine, and enjoy two nights at the Samoset Resort. This incredible resort features stunning views and an oceanfront championship golf course. Enjoy four rounds of golf during your stay. Your last stop is Bar Harbor, Maine where you will spend three nights at the Harborside Hotel and Marina. Bar Harbor offers a quaint downtown with boutique shopping and endless outdoor activities including Acadia National Park. Guests will enjoy a whale-watching excursion and a lighthouse tour. Also included: An icon since its appearance in 1930, the Louis Vuitton Keepall embodies the spirit of modern travel. Light, supple, and always ready for immediate departure, the bag lives up to its name. It can easily fit a week’s wardrobe into the generously sized (and cabin-friendly) Keepall 55. Monogram Canvas, with a strap for casual cross-body wear. Travel in style with 200,000 United or Delta Airlines miles included in this package, to be used at your discretion.
Restrictions: Subject to projected availability and type. Certain black-out date restrictions will apply. Sunday through Thursday arrivals only. Valid until November 1, 2026.
Preserving Our Paradise Python Experience
Donated by the Conservancy of Southwest Florida
Journey with the world-famous Conservancy python team into the Greater Western Everglades to advance this ground-breaking science to protect our native wildlife. Accompany Conservancy biologist Ian Bartoszek and his team on a unique field experience to release a male “scout snake.” The day will start with a briefing in the Andrew Family research lab at the Conservancy, and then you and a guest will prepare for a day out into the field and participate in the release of the snake so that it can be tracked to assist with removal of large breeding female pythons. You will enjoy lunch out in the field.
Exclusive offer for Magic Under the Mangroves patrons. Restrictions: Date and time to be mutually agreed upon.
Dinner & Art Experience with Paul Arsenault
Donated by Paul & Eileen Arsenault, Paradise Hospitality, and Gina Birch
A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for up to 4 individuals to join renowned Naples artist and historian Paul Arsenault and his wife, Eileen, for a progressive dinner around their historic Naples property. Enjoy extraordinary paired wine by expert Gina Birch and a catered dinner by Paradise Hospitality drawing inspiration from Old Florida while Paul and Eileen share their stories of the rich artistic and cultural life of Naples over the last 50 years. At the end of a Magical evening, guests will have an opportunity to select a unique piece of Paul's work.
Exclusive offer for Magic Under the Mangroves patrons. Restrictions: Date and time to be mutually agreed upon.
Green Glades West
Donated by Alligator Ron & Ali Bergeron
The private and exclusive experience of the Florida Everglades at Green Glades West is truly unique. Experience the wilderness like the early settlers and enjoy the weekend of a lifetime when you immerse yourself and tour the majestic Florida Everglades in its original habitat. Eight guests will experience the thrill of riding aboard a big-wheeled safari jeep or a fleet of Honda ATVs traveling through private land on the Big Cypress Preserve. Discover the wonders and beauty of nature in the heart of the Everglades and observe wildlife such as deer, bears, wild hogs, hawks, eagles, and, if you are super lucky, a Florida panther too! All are indigenous to this part of “God’s Country.” Accommodations include all the luxuries of home, including private suites, three delicious meals prepared daily, plus fine wines and beverages for 3 days and 2 nights.
Restrictions: Date and time to be mutually agreed upon. Available March 2025 through March 7, 2026.
For information on purchasing a patron package, please email magic@conservancy.org.
Most Magical
Sunset Cruise and Dinner for Eight at Pelican Isle Yacht Club
Donated by Pamela & Roger Weston
Enjoy a one-hour champagne sunset cruise for up to eight people aboard the vessel “Big Popsie” (40ft Intrepid) along the Cocohatchee River to the white sandy beaches of Delnor-Wiggins Pass and beyond. You may encounter natural wonders, such as manatees, dolphins, and a variety of native bird species. Relax and allow your cares to drift away with us. Following your cruise, indulge in a delicious dinner at Pelican Isle Yacht Club in the Commodore’s Private Dining Room overlooking the water. Reservation date and other restrictions may apply.
One Week at Baja Point Resort in Los Cabos, Mexico
Donated by Pamela & Roger Weston
Enjoy a one-week getaway in Los Cabos, Mexico for up to five people. This beautiful Mexican paradise features beach side relaxation, world-class golf, some of the best angling action in the Americas, and prestigious restaurants. This spectacular luxury villa at Baja Point, Westin Los Cabos is conveniently located between the resort cities of Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo. This exclusive two-bedroom villa can sleep up to five people. Reservation date and other restrictions may apply.
Luxury Florida Keys Resort Stays for 2
Donated by the Opal Collection
Enjoy a luxury stay across the Florida Keys for two. Begin your trip with three nights at the Sunset Key Cottages, a private island getaway minutes from Key West. The vibrant and stylish accommodations offer serene views and reflect the relaxation of the area. Then, travel to the Reefhouse Resort & Marina and embrace the laid-back luxury of Key Largo. Unwind in style in chic waterfront accommodations with spectacular views of the bay. Special excursions included. Reservation date and other restrictions may apply.
Custom Live Edge Coffee Table
Donated by Naples Live Edge Wood
The winner of the item will select a sustainably sourced Live Edge Wood slab from our inventory to then create his or her own customized Live Edge Wood project. Artist and FL ISA Certified Arborist Ian Orlikoff has been assisting the team at the von Arx Wildlife Hospital renesting birds for many years. The wood selection and type of project are all customizable and range from “floating” bookshelves to grand and formal dining room tables. Restrictions may apply.
Glassblowing in the Garden Private Experience for 6
Donated by Conrad Williams and Paradise Hospitality
This experience is for the art lover! Make your unique design, then sit back and watch the magic. Conrad’s refined artistic skills, alongside his unique ability to articulate his process, make for a one-of-a-kind evening in his garden studio. Work with Conrad to design a color palette for your piece. Then, let it transform molten glass into your unique platter, right before your eyes. Enjoy delicious appetizers and wine provided by Paradise Hospitality. Reservation date and other restrictions may apply.
Handmade Ceramic Light Sculpture
Donated by Victoria Block
This ceramic light sculpture was made especially for the 2025 Magic Under the Mangroves Gala and was created to evoke coral. Each sculpture is created through an arduous process of molding strips of clay into a pot that finds its own shape through her hands. Hundreds of tiny holes are pierced with a needle, the inspiration for the designs evolving as she works.
Composite Fiberglass Sea Turtle Shell
Donated by Ed Koehler Designs
One winner will select a composite fiberglass sea turtle shell inspired by the vibrant colors and intricate patterns of sea turtles. Using fiberglass, each piece is sculpted and hand-painted to reflect the distinctive markings of these majestic creatures. Measuring approximately 30 inches tall by 24 inches wide, these unique works are designed for both indoor and outdoor spaces. No sculptures are ever the same, so each one is as unique as the turtles that inspire them.
One-of-a-Kind Sea Turtle Quilt
Donated by Laura Kay Hauser
This one-of-a-kind, handmade quilt was created by Laura Kay Hauser, owner of the Little Quilt Store. The Little Quilt Store’s recent event, Harbor Hookin’, raised money for the Conservancy and its sea turtle research program. This beautiful custom piece is 45”x57” and was handcrafted specifically for the Conservancy as Laura Kay Hauser wished to support the Conservancy’s mission through her handwork.
2025 MAGIC COMMITTEE
CHAIRS: Linda & Victor Grijalva and Toni & Charlie Mueller*
Edie Andrew
Shannon B. Arquilla
Desma Borland
Kathy Boyle
Emily Caraco
Kim Collins
Susan Dalton*
Darlene DeMichele
Vanessa Gilvarg
Donna Hall
Robin Hamilton*
Linda Koehn
Maureen Lerner*
Katrina Lundmark-Kash*
Robin McClanathan
Laura Nolte
Linda Orlans
Jane Pearsall
Pam Sasser
Sue C. Schulte
Lynne Shotwell*
Jenn Suden
Jenny Sutton
Debra A. Tagliaferro
Sharon von Arx
Carol Walter*
Cynthia Weston
Nancy G. White*
An asterisk indicates past Magic Under the Mangroves chairs.
Italics indicate Honorary Committee members.
See the full 2025 event program
For questions, please call (239) 403-4200 or email magic@conservancy.org.
Presented by
Supporting Sponsor
Community Sponsors
