FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Successful ‘Circus Soiree 2002’ Raises Funds for Caumsett Foundation
09/30/02
A vast red and white striped tent filled with hundreds
of balloons generated smiles and a sense of circus fun among the over 800 guests
who attended the fifth annual benefit of the Caumsett Foundation, held September
28 in Lloyd Neck, NY. With the theme, "Circus Soiree 2002," the event was
inspired by a party in 1932 hosted by Audrey and Marshall Field III at their
former estate, which is now Caumsett State Historic Park. "We are privileged to
have Louise and Marshall Field VI graciously serve as Honorary Chairpersons and
we welcome the continuing interest of all Field family members in the Caumsett
Foundation's preservation and archival efforts," stated Cold Spring Harbor
resident Margie Howe, who chaired the Benefit Committee with Jane Greenleaf of
Mill Neck.
A special dressage demonstration performed in the walled garden by Bettina Field
Drummond, granddaughter of Marshall and Ruth Field, preceded the event. Barbara
Bliss, another Field descendant, contributed photos and a memoir entitled, "A
Grandchild Remembers Caumsett." In it she notes, "I am happy to know that an
active group of private citizens has decided not to let this magnificent place
disintegrate and has taken the initiative to restore it to its former glory.
Bernadette Castro, New York State Commissioner of Parks, Recreation and Historic
Preservation, donned a white, ruffled clown collar as she conducted an auction
of works by local artists. "God Squad" member Rabbi Marc Gellman, who wore a
flag-inspired top hat, assisted her. In all, over 125 pieces of artwork in a
wide variety of media were available during both live and silent auctions. Over
$180,000 was raised to fund on-going projects, such as the restoration of the
walled garden and dairy barn complex.
In keeping with the circus theme, entertainment was provided by wandering
magicians and circus performers, including stilt-walkers and jugglers. Guests
could try their hand at plate spinning and balloon twisting while enjoying
freshly made popcorn from an old-fashioned machine. Partygoers also had the
opportunity, as did guests such as George Gershwin, Vincent Astor and Ogden
Phipps at the original Field party, to pose for take-home photos behind cutout
figures of brawny strongmen, agile bareback riders and daring trapeze artists.
For More Information Contact:
The Caumsett Foundation
25 Lloyd Harbor Road - Huntington, New
York 11743
Tel: 631 123-4567
FAX: 631 123-4567
Internet:
air8271@aol.com