Freedom of the Press Gala

Need to know

We look forward to seeing you

The first Freedom of the Press Gala is Saturday, September 26. We look forward to seeing you and raising a glass together. The evening will include music, a conversation about journalism, and live and silent auctions in support of the Plymouth Independent.

The auction information is below, followed by the schedule, parking, and shuttle details.

Dress code: Semi-formal or cocktail attire.

Live auction preview

All eight live auction packages

Harry Santa-Olalla will lead the bidding. Select a package below to read more about it.

The evening will also include a Fund a Need in support of the Plymouth Independent newsroom.

Gala tickets are still available

Know someone who would like to join us? Tickets and tables can still be purchased online.

26September

Saturday

Gala reception at 6:00 p.m.

Program begins at 7:00 p.m.

158 Sandwich Street Plymouth, Massachusetts

Semi-formal, cocktail attire

Dress code: Semi-formal or cocktail attire.

A quick note: The evening will take place under a tent on the grounds, so we recommend wearing shoes that are comfortable on grass. We are monitoring the forecast and will post any weather-related updates at PI-Gala.org. Please check the site as the event approaches.

Please share with your table guests

If you purchased a table or invited guests, please share this page with everyone attending with you. We may not have an email address for each guest, and anyone who is not on our email list will not receive these updates by email.

Why we are holding the Gala

Supporting local reporting

The Plymouth Independent provides reliable, fact-based reporting about Plymouth. Its coverage helps residents follow decisions affecting local schools, neighborhoods, taxes, and daily life. Gala proceeds support the nonprofit newsroom and help keep its reporting available to everyone.

The program

A conversation about journalism and accountability

Martin “Marty” Baron, former editor of The Boston Globe, will join Walter Robinson, Editor at Large at The Boston Globe, in conversation about journalism, accountability, and the importance of a free press. Shirley Leung will serve as host.

Meet the band

Michael Dutra and the Rat Pack

Michael Dutra and the Rat Pack, a Simply Sinatra Band, will perform during the evening. Dutra has built a loyal following with his tribute to Frank Sinatra and the music of the Rat Pack.

Leading the live auction

Harry Santa-Olalla

Known as “The Fundraising Guy,” Harry is a professional auctioneer and fundraising consultant who has worked with nonprofit organizations at gala events for years. He will lead the live bidding.

Getting there & parking

Parking and shuttle options

There is no guest parking on the private estate, but we have arranged several options nearby:

  • 139 Sandwich Street, the old medical building, with parking attendants on site
  • Stevens Field, with additional parking available
  • Surrounding side streets, which will also be open for parking

Shuttle service is also available

Two limo buses, each holding 22 guests, will loop between Plymouth North High School and the Gala entrance throughout the evening.

Departing Plymouth North: Shuttle service will run throughout guest arrival. The last bus will leave at 6:30 p.m.

Returning to Plymouth North: Beginning at 9:00 p.m. and continuing until 10:30 p.m.

We will continue to post updates at PI-Gala.org before the Gala.

With thanks

Thank you to our sponsors

Their support helps fund independent local reporting in Plymouth.

Rye Tavern
Tiny & Sons Auto Glass
Bradford’s Liquors
Powder Horn Press
South Shore Event Solutions

Thank you for supporting the Plymouth Independent.

We look forward to seeing you there.