Monet in May Supports Hill-Stead Programs

Hill-Stead Museum's 20th Annual Benefit Dinner Auction, Monet in May, brought over 400 art lovers and museum supporters to the festively decorated West Lawn on May 24, 2012 to raise essential funds in support of the Museum's educational programs and preservation projects. 

Event Co-Chairs Barbara Hess and Dana Pescatello led the successful effort, run by the Museum's core volunteer group, the Hill-Steaders, that netted close to $220,000 for museum operations and an additional $20,000 in support of Hill-Stead's outstanding education programs, reaching over 35,000 students, families and adults every year.

The evening began with cocktails on the Mount Vernon-style veranda, tours of the historic house and a silent auction. Auctioneer Mark Polon expertly guided enthusiastic guests through the live auction, featuring such items as a week in San Miguel de Allende, a golfers’ vacation for eight just north of Palm Beach, and a single malt tasting of rare scotch for four. Russell Pryzbek of Russell’s Creative Global Cuisine treated guests to exquisite fare accompanied by wines from M&R Liquors of Farmington.

The museum's Board, staff and The Hill-Steaders extend their deep appreciation to Presenting Sponsor U.S. Trust Bank of America Private Wealth Management, and to all additional sponsors and supporters.

Submitted by Hill-Stead Museum.