Picnicking at the park

In a unique twist on the traditional gala format, this year’s Twilight Gala benefiting the Nature Discovery Center provided two event options: an afternoon family picnic featuring the Center’s signature nature walks, crafts, and ambassador animals plus entertainment by the School of Rock House Band, followed by an elegant, evening alfresco soiree. NDC supporters gathered in Russ Pitman Park – the first gala hosted at the park after nearly two decades in other venues. Co-chairs were Kristin Berry and Jayne Johnston. Longtime Center neighbor and Twilight Gala host Tom Koch emceed from the front porch of the historic Henshaw House. This year’s gala honored Mary Ann Beauchemin for her 32 years of service to the Center as an educator, birder, naturalist, and park steward. Many guests said the Twilight Gala was their first in-person event in more than a year. The event raised nearly $50,000. Pictured (from left) are current and former NDC board members reuniting at the soiree: Jayne Johnston, Lisa Derenthal, Brenda Cauthen, Ben Cowan, DeAndra Ramsey, Aileen McCormick, and Caroline Quenemoen. 

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