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"The gala went fabulously, the music was fantastic, everybody was happy and cheerful. It was truly a beautiful event and was a tremendous outpouring of love and support," said Maria Taylor, a broker with Washington-based Klemm Real Estate who, along with her colleagues, spearheaded the event. "I am so appreciative of everyone coming together making this happen."
Ava Jean's parents, Jason Perillo and Kimberly Osborne of Watertown, learned the day she was born that their daughter would need substantial care throughout her life. As of Wednesday, last Saturday's benefit had raised $43,000 and donations were continuing to arrive in the mail.
"Country Loft was just magical inside and out with all the donated flowers and fall leaves, [and] the food was divine," said Carole Winer-Sorensen, owner of Country Loft Antiques. "Our collective committee, with all the volunteers, really came through. It is just amazing the awareness that was brought to the forefront and everyone talking about it."
Ms. Taylor wasn't sure if the benefit would lead to an annual event, but said those who reached out to Ava Jean's family are very committed to helping. A trust has been established and an attorney is in place to help manage the money for the baby.
"We are not sure where it's going to go, but it's going in the right direction," said Ms. Taylor. "It shows how the human spirit and heart work when we're called on."
The event included food tables and six wine stations representing California, Italy, France, Australia, South America and Connecticut. The wine tables were sponsored by Clare and Craig Carragan, the Siemon Company, Mr. and Mrs. Robert McEneany, Klemm Real Estate and Cristine and Eugene Shugrue.
Connecticut wine distributors, organized by Mountview Plaza Wine and Liquors in Naugatuck, had hosts at each wine table and food for the evening, organized and prepared by Susie Stone, Sue Balutis and Sharilyn Jensen, was donated by LaBonne's Market, Ovens of France, Hen of the Woods and Senor Pancho's.
Guests were also regaled with musical entertainment, including the Pomperaug High School String Quartet, Madeline "Muggy" McCord, Jack K. Saleeby, William Linster, Nicole Lopez, Joseph Loglisci, and Mike Blaszczak, with a special guest appearance by soprano Marianna Vagnini.
A silent auction was held during the event, and items included baseball jerseys autographed by Alex Rodriguez and one by David Ortiz, a private plane ride to Nantucket, 18 holes of golf for four with golf cart and weekend accommodations in New York City. Local merchants and residents also contributed to the silent auction.
"It was just lovely to see all of these people coming and completely supporting this. I want to thank all of my colleagues at Klemm Real Estate, I am so proud of my colleagues," said Ms. Taylor.
"The best part is when people really focus on an event such as this. It is amazing all the magical things that could happen. There was tremendous focus and dedication," said Ms. Winer-Sorensen.
For more information, contact Ms. Taylor or Sindy Butkus at Klemm Real Estate in Woodbury at 203-263-4040. Donations may be made to TD Bank North c/o Judith L. Molnar, P.O. Box 390, Woodbury, CT, 06798. Donations are non-tax deductible.
