Lighting Up Augusta's Swamp Soiree

Well, we’ve needed some rain and we’ve gotten a lot of rain lately. It is not always fun to work in, but rainy weather causes me to reflect upon the natural beauty of our CSRA. It also reminds me to tell you about a great local event that is happening this week – The 15th Annual Swamp Soiree.

I am excited about this event for a number of reasons – 1). For several years Outdoor Lighting Perspectives of Augusta and Lake Oconee has had the privilege of lighting up the Swamp Soiree. We are honored to handle all of the event lighting for the Soiree, and to donate some of our lights for their fundraising raffle. 2). We also like to support local non-profit groups (like Southeastern Natural Sciences Academy) as they work to protect and improve our local communities. 3). The Swamp Soiree is a really fun event that raises awareness and funds for a very important cause.

What is the Swamp Soiree? It is a popular event that seeks to raise funds to support ongoing research and education at our local Phinzy Swamp Nature Park. The Soiree is put on by Southeastern Natural Sciences Academy, headed up by former Augusta mayor, Bob Young. SNSA has a critical mission – “The purpose of Southeastern Natural Sciences Academy is to provide leadership to balance sustainable watersheds and economic vitality through solutions-based research, education and public involvement”.

Why Should You Come? Hmm, where should I start… In addition to socializing with other interesting people, the Soiree also offers a fundraiser raffle (with nice prizes ranging from jewelry to vacation packages to our light fixtures), and features interesting guests of honor. This year, Freedom, the Georgia Southern University mascot, will be at the Soiree, as well as a managerie of wild animals from the Center for Wildlife Education. Did I also mention that there will also be incredible food and an open bar set in a beautiful riverfront setting? Ok, you get the idea…

Interested? Want More Info? The 15th Annual Swamp Soiree will be held this Thursday, June 13th, from 6-9pm at the Barrett’s riverfront home on Stevens Creek Rd. Tickets range from a meager $90-50.

To purchase tickets, get directions, or request additional information, you can visit the Swamp Soiree Facebook page or call the Natural Sciences Academy office @ 706-828-2109.

Please consider joining me this Thursday night – come out, have a good time, and support a great local cause.

Hope to see you all there,

Pat Otis, President

Outdoor Lighting Perspectives of Augusta

Outdoor Lighting Perspectives of Lake Oconee