Jay Heritage Center’s “Jay Soirée” a ‘Glorious Night’
The Jay Heritage Center, one of Rye’s most historic landmarks, held the “Jay Soirée” on Saturday, September 14. The center’s President Suzanne Clary called the occasion a “glorious night for supporters” –– which included over 200 in attendance. Guests enjoyed cocktails in the Jay Estate Gardens, a private viewing of fine art exhibit “Rich Soil”, autumn-themed dinner, live music, and more throughout the evening. Several speakers also spoke at the event to highlight the recent fundraising efforts at the JHC.
The Event
- 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
- Guests were offered botanical cocktails with a hint of thyme by the reflecting pool in the Jay Estate Gardens
- Guests enjoyed a private viewing of JHC’s first fine art exhibit, Rich Soil, created by contemporary artist Kristine Mays
- Scarborough Fair Catering catered dinner, which was paired with New York State wines from Millbrook Vineyard
- The band Naked Soul provided live music throughout the night
- Lucas Hunt hosted an auction, which awarded several exclusive prizes
Funding Progress
JHC President and Interim Executive Director Suzanne Clary announced that the first phase of a $5 million campaign had been completed, with over $3.6 million raised to date. “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,” Clary said in a press release on Thursday, September 26.
Speakers
After Clary gave the numbers, Fenway Donegan, Shannon Stemper, and Wena Teng took turns at the microphone. The three are all JHC Fellows and thanked those in attendance for helping them and the Heritage Center in general.
NY State Senator Shelley B. Mayer and NY State Assemblyman Steve Otis were also in attendance.
