Help support the programs and projects of the Susquehanna National Heritage Area (SNHA) while enjoying a night out at the Summer Soiree. The event will be held on Friday, Aug. 18, from 5:30 to 9 p.m. in the River Room at John Wright Restaurant, 234 N. Front St., Wrightsville.

"We will have some really great catered food, a cash bar and some samples from area vineyards and breweries," said Bill Wright, director of community giving for SNHA. "We'll have live jazz music from Tom Pontz, and we'll have a silent auction with items and experiences related to SNHA." Auction items will include a sunset cruise for 12 on the Chief Uncas, SNHA's vintage 1912 electric vessel; a weekend getaway at Rock Lititz Hotel; art from a local artist; a guided hike into Hellam Hills Nature Preserve by Lancaster County Conservancy plus a wine and cheese reception; and a variety of regional goods and services.

All proceeds from the evening will benefit SNHA, which seeks to preserve, enhance and promote the history and natural resources of America's 55th National Heritage Area, Wright said. "This event will help support all of our educational programs and our efforts to promote this area and its resources," he commented. "Heritage tourism is a big economic engine in America. People are always looking for local history, regional history and things to do and experience."

A major focus of SNHA is the Susquehanna River, which Wright called the "primary geological and historical feature of our area."

Holding the event at John Wright Restaurant is especially appropriate, he noted, because the site overlooks the river. "It's a special location, on the second floor, and it offers a really beautiful view of the river and the Memorial Bridge between Columbia and Wrightsville," he said.

Along with food and entertainment, the Summer Soiree will feature an opportunity for people to hear updates from SNHA on current projects as well as information about future projects.

"The Summer Soiree is a nice way for people to directly support what we're doing, meet some really interesting people and talk to people who are making SNHA possible," Wright remarked.

Tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis. To purchase tickets for the Summer Soiree, visit https://susqnha.org/programs/snha_soiree.