Gala reminder...only 19 days to go
Donna Hakim
Hello all,
I'm sure we are all still trying to absorb the heartbreaking news about the passing of Karen Smith. She was someone who radiated perpetual good cheer, and her presence at any gathering made it that much more enjoyable. I will miss Karen and remember her fondly.
It's difficult to focus on the business of the Alice Austen House's gala at such a time, and, truthfully, I was hesitant about sending this email to the board. Incredibly though, Paul Smith, even in the midst of dealing with the loss of his beloved wife, has expressed to Janice that he supports our continued hard work for the gala and wishes he were able to join us in promoting the event. With this in mind, please keep Paul and Karen in your prayers, and let's carry on.
Thanks to the efforts of the Gala Committee, everything's in place to ensure that this year's gala, "Rhapsody and Views," will be its usual impressive affair. Framboise has created a delicious menu; John Castellano's "Good and Plenty" band is ready to play; Jeanine Otis -- and friends -- are once again headlining the cocktail hour; a roomier tent has been reserved; and, beautiful jazz age style centerpieces have been selected, underwritten AND under budget. As always, it promises to be an evening to remember.
So, with the gala less than three weeks away, the support of the board is greatly needed to make this a successful fund-raiser. Here's how you can help:
Tickets - If you haven't done so already, please purchase your gala tickets as soon as possible and consider taking advantage of the Clear Comfort Circle package at $550 (2 tickets PLUS a full page ad). We're honoring our own Paul Moakley, and noted photographer LaToya Ruby Frazier. We're also giving special recognition to former board president/executive director Margaret "Peggy" Buckwalter (1920-2014), and other Austen House "history makers." Be sure to spread the word and invite your friends, family and associates.
Journal Ads - Back by popular demand, we're offering a printed journal this year. In honor of the Austen House's 30th anniversary, it will be a special keepsake journal with photos and narrative documenting the history of the house. Please consider taking an ad and, most importantly, solicit journal ads from businesses and individuals you know. It's an effective form of advertising for them, and a great source of revenue for the gala.
Sponsorships - Having a cocktail, appetizer, or wine labelled with your name or your company's name is a fun way to support the gala. There are several sponsorship opportunities still available from $250 to $600 - first come, first served. Tell your friends and don't miss out!
* * Please note: The Staten Island Foundation will match all sponsorships and underwriting for the gala (up to the $15,000 grant maximum), effectively doubling these donations. * *
Underwriting - There are a number of benefits available to those wishing to be major underwriters of the gala. Please call our new Development Officer, Alison Weeks, for more details.
Silent Auction - Dorri is heading up the silent auction and is asking board members to please contribute lotto tickets, bottles of fine wine, and restaurant gift cards. In particular, she'd like to be able to create a Dine-Around package of "30 restaurants for 30 years of the Austen House." We are also seeking "unique experiences" as auction items, such as behind-the-scenes access to special events or locations.
The gala ticket/journal/sponsorship form is attached for your convenience, which you can share online or print as needed.
Lastly, there is a Gala Committee meeting scheduled for Thursday, June 4 at 3pm at the Austen House. In addition to finalizing details for the event, we'll be discussing what further steps we need to take to maximize fund-raising. All are welcome and encouraged to attend.
Please let me know if you have any questions or need additional information. Caroline and I are extremely grateful for all that the Gala Committee has accomplished, and with your support we look forward to reaching the gala's fund-raising goals.
Thank you and best regards,
Donna
The Rev R Richard Marchand
Dear Donna,
I am working to secure gift certificates to the restaurants I frequent for the auction, as well as donating a bottle of wine. I’ll keep you and Dorri posted once I have them.
Will purchase my ticket now!
R+
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