Governor Ige attends NTBG fundraiser

National Tropical Botanical Garden’s annual Moonlight & Music fundraiser benefitting plant conservation rocked the South Shore for the 10th year on Saturday. With more than 350 in attendance and a special commendation from Gov. David Ige, this year’s event was one for the record books, organizers said.

“Moonlight & Music is our annual opportunity to celebrate plant conservation, research, education and the NTBG supporters that make it all possible,” said Chipper Wichman, NTBG president, CEO and director. “Thanks to our supporters, NTBG has led conservation efforts in the state of Hawaii and tropical regions around the world for more than 50 years. To be recognized by the state and presented with the governor’s commendation at this year’s event was a tremendous honor.”

Ige commended NTBG for its commitment to protecting biodiversity and helping Hawaii lead the way to a clean energy and sustainable future.

“It wasn’t until I met Chipper personally that I connected the notion of cultural and historical preservation with conservation,” Ige said. “We can do both. We can be sustainable and protect our invaluable cultural resources and biodiversity. It’s time for Hawaii to lead the world in this effort and show that we are all one planet.”

Guests dined on fine food catered by Chef JP Filion of Stone House Catering and danced the night away to the tunes of Kaua’i’s favorite rock band, The Quake. In addition to a traditional silent auction, several live-auction items drew oohs and ahs from the crowd, including two roundtrip Alaska Airline tickets.

For those unable to attend this year’s Moonlight & Music event who have an interest in supporting plant conservation and research, the public is invited to volunteer, visit NTBG gardens on Kauai, Maui and in Miami, Florida, or join the NTBG family as a member or fellow.