Moya Mowbray (right) and Roland Schroeder (second from left) are seen with fellow volunteers at the Shorewood Nature Preserve.
Congratulations to our 2024 Fourth of July Parade Grand Marshals Moya Mowbray and Roland Schroeder, longtime Shorewood residents who were selected from among nearly a dozen nominees this year.
Moya and Roland are founding members — and secretary and president, respectively — of the Friends of the Shorewood Nature Preserve, a group of volunteers working to revitalize and preserve the village’s eight-acre natural area along the Lake Michigan shoreline. The couple were nominated by fellow Friends member Helen Bolgrien, who called them “wonderful ambassadors for this hidden gem.”
“Using Moya’s expertise as an environmental educator and naturalist, and their shared passion for protecting and preserving this wonderful property, Moya and Roland tirelessly weed invasive plants, remove trash, clean up the beach, keep trails clear and protect native plantings,” Helen said. “They lead volunteer workdays, spearhead fundraising efforts, organize nature and bird walks, and represent Shorewood and the Nature Preserve at community-wide events.”
Last season, she said, Moya and Roland also designed and planted a demonstration pollinator garden at the entrance of the Nature Preserve to showcase native plant species that grow well in Shorewood’s clay soil.
“With Moya and Roland at the helm, the new Friends Group has worked with the Village, the Shorewood Foundation and other community partners to develop and formalize a comprehensive conservation and land management plan for Shorewood Nature Preserve,” Helen said. “These ongoing efforts will ensure that the Nature Preserve continues to be a vibrant part of Shorewood for years to come.”
Moya and Roland said they are honored to represent the Friends as Parade Marshals, but stressed that the Friends of the Nature Preserve is a team effort of “devoted and talented volunteers.”
“We are grateful for the Shorewood Foundation for supporting our efforts,” Moya said. “And thanks to all who support and improve this treasured space. See you at the Parade and down in the Preserve!
The Shorewood Foundation also thanks Eastmore Real Estate, which is continuing to co-sponsor our Fourth of July Fireworks this year. If you’d like to make a gift to support this year's Fourth of July festivities, please click here.