The International SeaKeepers Society hosts its Founders Dinner in Fort Lauderdale on October 24. The event is an excellent networking opportunity as well as a great way to raise the funds necessary for the organization to continue its diverse programs. Among them is the newly introduced Scientific Vessel of Opportunity program, which matches private boats with scientific projects and programs, as well as an Adopt-a-Buoy program.

All of ISKS’s initiatives and programs are designed to provide the scientific community with data concerning the declining health of the ocean and to hopefully help develop tools to aid in its restoration. Concerned yacht owners can purchase scientific equipment for their yacht or make their boat available as a research platform. But anyone, even those who do not own a seagoing craft, can donate online or attend, for a fee, one the society’s beautifully crafted events, including the upcoming Founders Dinner.

Each year, this well-attended dinner is held on the eve of the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show. Before dinner and an auction held at the Lauderdale Yacht Club, ISKS, in conjunction with the Superyacht Builders Association, invites its guests to preview the yachts on display at the show. Roundtrip water taxi transportation will be available to registered guests to and from the yacht club.

Adding dramatic and artistic flair to this year’s event, the ISKS invited American singer and actor Franc d’Ambrosio to provide part of the evening entertainment. D’ambrosio, considered by some the best “Phantom” ever (as in Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Phantom of the Opera’s phantom), has sang many other memorable parts from New York to San Francisco.

A live auction will follow the dinner. If you attend, you will be able to bid on a private jet card, a dinner with Judge Judy, a wonderful tour of Napa Valley experience and an expedition to Belize and Guatemala, just to name a few. You can view the auction booklet here. Tickets are $750 per couple.

For more information or to RSVP, contact Carmen Howell at 305-448-7089 ext. 141 or by email at [email protected]