CMFS opener a success

To the editor: A lovely evening, beautiful music and delicious food welcomed guests who celebrated the opening of Chamber Music Festival of Saugatuck’s 20th season.

The party began at the Timmel Collection, where guests strolled through the gardens and gallery enjoying appetizers and listening to harpist Shari Farber, followed by a champagne toast to the festival.

Guests proceeded to the Saugatuck Woman’s Club and were greeted by music of the Amici trio. Dinner was served with musical interludes between courses, culminating in a live auction and performance by Joan Conway and Robert Byrens.

The benefit committee wants to thank Joel Timmel, who underwrote the event and graciously hosted its beginning portion. Thank you to Lee de Lisle, who did a magnificent job as auctioneer. Special parties were auctioned off thanks to the generous contributions of Suzie Blair, Herb Bills and Joan Conway.

Thanks also to Lora Kolean, Chris Meyer, Tammy Clark and of course Joan Conway and Robert Byrens for the music. Chris Ferris’s catering was outstanding.

Thank you to the board members who helped with the event. A wonderful team made the night successful. Joining me on the benefit committee were Herb Bills, Janeen Fowler, Bill Galligan, Mary Ann Quick, Pati Ricket, Mary Schaf and Richard Scro.

Judy Oberholtzer
Saugatuck