Contra for Conservation! Huyck Preserve's 84th Anniversary Benefit Gala

It’s that time of year again where we celebrate 84 years of being a independent non-profit nature preserve, and we want you to celebrate with us! This year we are so excited to host a Contra dance at the beautiful shore of Lincoln Pond on Saturday, August 22nd. Whether you’re a novice or experienced dancer, we welcome Set Americain, a talented six-part multi-instrumental band versed in the traditional and neo-traditional dance music of Quebec, Ireland and throughout Europe. Joining them will be caller Gail Griffith who will explain the dance while the band is playing. She has had over 30 years teaching and calling fun, easy traditional dances for beginners and groups with special needs. (No experience or partner is needed, just dancing shoes and good humor.) 

We are also pleased to welcome the tasty talent of our friends at Heather Ridge Farm as they prepare a delectable array of seasonal fare for dinner, starting at 6:30pm. As always, there will be a Live and Silent Auction of quality items, such as original artwork by our friends and neighbors; cooking class from The Cook’s Resource; gift cards to some of your favorite local businesses; yoga and Pilates classes, and so much more! (Continue to check back as we add to the list of donated items.) Also, don’t forget to purchase raffle tickets for your chance to win the latest Apple iPad! Click here to buy raffle tickets - you do not need to be present to win!

Your $55 ticket includes dinner, auction previews, one raffle ticket, and all the dancing your heart and feet desire!
New this year, we are offering a discounted ticket for entertainment admission only, starting at 8pm, for only $20! 
So bring your family and invite your friends to a wonderful party at the pond! Click here to purchase benefit tickets online!

Refreshing beverages will be available throughout the event by donation. Children activities ongoing at our Activities Table!
Meal tickets are limited and must be reserved in advanced. Please inquire about children's rates, not available online - contact us to purchase a children's ticket. 

5:30 - 6:30 pm Cocktail hour while you peruse our auction items. Beverages available by donation at our porch bar.
6:30 - 7:45 pm Seasonal fare by Heather Ridge Farm.
Dinner is buffet style and consists of a delicious arrangement of locally prepared and harvested goods.                            
Dinner is only available for attendees with a meal ticket and must be purchased in advanced. (Menu below) 
8 pm Music and Dancing begin!
8:30 pm Live Auction and Raffle will be announced by our Auctioneer and Board Member, George Frangos
8:45 - 11 pm Music, dancing, libation!


Farm Fare from Heather Ridge
Garden Salad
Local salad greens, cucumbers, heirloom tomatoes, red peppers, and fennel served with choice of farm made dressings
(served with vegan and non-vegan dressings)

Rice and Garbanzo Pilaf
Wild and jasmine rices with herbs and garbanzo beans
(gluten free, vegetarian)

Seasonal Pasta and Pesto
Farfalle pasta tossed with vegan basil and herb pesto, seasonal vegetables, 
and served with Cooperstown Cheese’s Toma Celena cheese on the side.
(vegan)

Chicken and Corn Fricasse
Our own pastured chicken slow cooked with Barber’s Farm corn in a creamy sauce
(gluten free)

Dessert
Fresh Seasonal Fruit Cocktail
An assortment of local fruits, based on seasonal availability, dressed with agave and lime juice
(vegan, gluten free)

Panna Cotta
Creamy Italian custard topped with honeyed peaches
(gluten free)

Fair Trade Organic Coffee
Selection of Teas, herbal and caffeinated

For more information and to make reservations, contact Emileigh by calling our main office at (518)797-3440 or emailing [email protected].

All proceeds benefit our four-part mission of Research, Education, Recreation, and Conservation. With your help, we look forward to another successful 84 years. Why the Huyck not?

---