Photographs by Seitu Oronde
More than 500 young New Yorkers gathered at Central Park’s Conservatory Garden (Fifth Avenue and East 105th Street) on Wednesday, June 19, 2019, for the 14th annual Evening in the Garden.
The flagship summer damp benefit was hosted by the Greensward Circle, the Central Park Conservancy’s network of young professionals.
A little rain didn’t stop guests from enjoying beautiful views of Central Park’s only formal garden and leisurely strolls through its lush landscapes. Live music and food from some of New York City’s best restaurants made the evening even more special.
Nicholas D’Angelo and Lauren Junge served as the event co-chairs. Serving on the host committee were Alice Cash, Kushal Choxi, O’Neill Dewey, Maximilian Edwards, Alexandra Hancock, Rachel Hunter, Scott Jeffrey, Rebecca Kerns, Joanne Liu, JP Panier, Chelsea Raleigh, Lindzi Rebernik, Chloe Schachter, Courtney Steers, Allie Talavera, Julia Zamorska, Irina Zheleznyak, and Marie Zinn.
The Greensward Circle, much like the people you see every day in Central Park, is a wonderful mix of New Yorkers and people from around the world who come together to meet new friends through their love and support of the Park,” said Nicholas D’Angelo. “I’ve met some of my dearest friends through Greensward and enjoy all the work we do together to keep New York City’s backyard beautiful for everyone to enjoy.”
“Central Park is the heart of New York City,” said Lauren Junge. “It’s where we all go to get away from urban life — to enjoy the outdoors, go for a run, picnic on the lawn, and more! It’s thanks to the Conservancy’s commitment to maintaining the Park that we can truly enjoy this oasis, all year long, no matter the season. Because of this, I am so proud to lead the Greensward Circle in support of keeping everyone’s favorite park beautiful.”
The Greensward Circle is a group of philanthropists committed to preserving Central Park for future generations through annual support. Greensward Circle members are invited to a variety of volunteer, networking, and benefit events throughout the year. Members receive complimentary admission to Evening in the Garden.
Food was provided by Italian steakhouse Davio’s, Latin and Caribbean-inspired Angel of Harlem, seafood favorite Ocean Prime, modern South Asian street food The MasalaWala, and Mexico City-style taqueria La Chula. Georgetown Cupcake SoHo, and Dorée’s Spirited Sorbet Scoops from Erv’s on Beekman provided desserts. Specialty cocktails were provided by New York heritage distillers Coppersea, the award-winning Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Skurnik Wines & Spirits, Torres Magdala Orange Liqueur, Quinn Rosé, and artisanal mezcal Tres Papalote. Spindrift sparking water was also served. The Sugartone Brass Band played live music, with additional tracks by DJ SMA.
The Central Park Conservancy is a private, not-for-profit organization that manages Central Park and is responsible for raising the Park’s annual operating budget. The Conservancy’s staff of more than 300 is responsible for all aspects of the Park’s stewardship, from day-to-day maintenance and operations to continued restoration and rebuilding projects. The Conservancy also operates the Park’s visitor centers, provides public programs, and serves as a resource for other NYC parks and for public-private partnerships.
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