DURST ORGANIZATION & EVERGLADES FOUNDATION

The Everglades Foundation


Real estate developers and philanthropists Douglas and Susanne Durst, and The Durst Organization, will host a benefit on September 26, 2018 at 4 Times Square to support The Everglades Foundation, a nonprofit 501(c)3 working to protect and restore America's Everglades through science, education and advocacy.



The evening will begin at 7 p.m. with remarks from The Everglades Foundation CEO Eric Eikenberg and Mr. and Mrs. Durst. Renowned conservation photographer Mac Stone, author of the award-winning book "Everglades: America's Wetlands," will take guests on a visual journey of the wetlands: a series of photographs showcasing the natural beauty of this wild and endangered habitat. A reception with light fare by NOMA co-founder Claus Meyer will follow. Lonnie Quinn, CBS 2 and WLNY 10/55’s Chief Weathercaster, will emcee the evening's program.



America's Everglades are the largest subtropical wilderness reserve in North America, the fresh water supply to nearly eight million Floridians, and home to over 70 threatened or endangered species. Nearly 100 years of diking, damming and development has reduced the wetlands to nearly a third of its original size, and contributed to the current widespread toxic algae blooms that have resulted in two states of emergencies since 2016.



"Florida is being ravaged by a perennial algae crisis that is destroying our beaches, fisheries, tourism and real estate industries," said Everglades Foundation CEO Eric Eikenberg. "New York, like Florida, is facing a similar challenge with toxic algae blooms affecting bodies of water both in the city and upstate. Our two states share so many important cultural and economic connections, so it’s only natural that we should come together in the interest of protecting one of the last truly unique wildernesses in the country – America’s Everglades – and preserving the integrity of our water."



The Dursts, who are pioneers in sustainable building, are long-time supporters of The Everglades Foundation.



“Toxic algae blooms are not just an issue for the Everglades, but for all our waterways, lakes, ponds and coastal waters,” said Douglas and Susanne Durst. “We are proud to support the Everglades Foundation as they fight this scourge and provide invaluable insight and information to communities across the world dedicated to eradicating this problem.”



About The Durst Organization:


The Durst Organization, founded in 1915 by Joseph Durst, is the owner, manager and builder of 13 million square feet of premiere Manhattan office towers and 1,950 residential rental units with 3,400 in development. The Durst Organization is recognized as a world leader in the development of high-performance and environmentally advanced commercial and residential buildings.



About The Everglades Foundation:


The Everglades Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit dedicated to leading efforts to restore and protect the greater Everglades ecosystem. Since its founding in 1993 by a group of local outdoor enthusiasts, the Foundation has become a respected and important advocate for the sustainability of one of the world’s most unique ecosystems. For more information, please visit EvergladesFoundation.org


Photo Courtesy of: Lawlor Media GP

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