Saturday, September 14 was a glorious night for supporters of the Jay Heritage Center (JHC) to enjoy botanical cocktails with a hint of thyme by the reflecting pool in the award-winning Jay Estate Gardens. Over 200 people helped raise money for more free public programming at the Jay Estate. The Jay Soirée was co-chaired by Lindsay Bello Martin and Tim Martin, Suzanne and Rich Clary, Anne and Ryan Prime and Victoria and Paul McMahon. During the golden hour, guests enjoyed a private, illuminated viewing of JHC’s first fine art exhibit, Rich Soil, created by noted contemporary artist Kristine Mays. An elegant fall-flavored dinner by Scarborough Fair Catering followed paired with New York State wines from Millbrook Vineyard. Phenomenal music by Naked Soul got A++ rave reviews from the crowd. Auctioneer Lucas Hunt had everyone raising their paddle to win exclusive items including a Greek Islands cruise and private dinners at the 1838 Jay Mansion.
After thanking everyone, JHC’s Interim Executive Director Suzanne Clary formally announced that the first phase of a $5 million campaign had been completed with over $3.6 million raised to date for improvements to the 23-acre park and its buildings. The balance of public fundraising efforts will go towards raising monies for community programming and expanded staff to support JHC’s mission of accessible education in American History, Social Justice and Environmental Stewardship.
Three JHC Fellows, Fenway Donegan, Shannon Stemper and Wena Teng explained to the crowd how pivotal their fellowships were to them and confirmed that their work would not have been possible without a place of inspiration and support like the Jay Estate. NY State Senator Shelley B. Mayer and NY State Assemblyman were in attendance. Otis applauded JHC as one of the most dynamic nonprofits in New York State. Magnanimous sponsors of the evening included Veronica Beard, Variety Cruises, Andrea Martone, Rye Professional Firefighters Local 2029, Kelco and Greenwich Tent Company.
Photos by Kim Crichlow
