The Women’s Committee of the Central Park Conservancy hosted its annual Fall Luncheon at four locations throughout Central Park, highlighting the 843-acre green space’s varied landscapes and architectural marvels.
Generously sponsored by The Shops at Columbus Circle and South Flagler House, the event raised nearly $430,000 in support of the Conservancy’s mission to maintain Central Park as a respite from the pace and pressures of city life for the millions of New Yorkers and visitors who come every year.
Event co-chairs, Shelley Carr, Arlene Cruz, Cathy Lorenz, Leticia Presutti, Women’s Committee President, Tracey Huff, and Central Park Conservancy President & CEO, Betsy Smith, welcomed supporters of the Conservancy on the picturesque fall afternoon.
“The Park would not be the picturesque sanctuary we and millions of New Yorkers and visitors enjoy year-round without the Central Park Conservancy and those who support it,”, remarked Women’s Committee President, Tracey Huff.
“I am so grateful to the Women’s Committee for organizing this beautiful event which raises much-needed funds for our beloved Central Park,” said Betsy Smith, Central Park Conservancy President & CEO. “This support is crucial for the Park’s daily operations and care.”
The over 430 guests, seated between Bethesda Terrace, Conservatory Water, Glade Arch, and King Jagiello Plaza, included Judy Hart Angelo, Katherine Gage Boulud, Bryan Cho, Kate Davis, Ainsley Earhardt, Stephanie Fink-Plakoudas, Gillian Hearst, Sharon Jacob, Elizabeth Kurpis, Susan Magrino, Gillian Miniter, Margo M. Nederlander, Yesim Philip, Fiona Rudin, and Barbara H. Scott. The tables were set with autumn-inspired decor, florals provided by Flowers by Philip, and lunch from Canard Inc.
Following the seated lunch, all guests were invited to gather for a reception and glass of Whispering Angel rosé, provided by Château d’Esclans, at Bethesda Terrace, overlooking the southern point of The Lake. Guests at the reception also enjoyed petite sweets from Porter House Bar & Grill, in partnership with The Shops at Columbus Circle, and a champagne cart courtesy of South Flagler House.
Image credit: Yvonne Tnt, Deonté Lee/BFA