A Fundraiser for Upper Hudson Planned Parenthood at Rivertown Lodge
On January 31st, Rivertown Lodge hosted Ladies Choice, a galvanizing event for Upper Hudson Planned Parenthood that drew people from all over the Hudson Valley and provided a much-needed night out after weeks of uncertain change. Rivertown Lodge owner Kim Bucci and local cookbook author Colu Henry worked with Creative Director and Founder of BEST Alison Matheny and Community Events Organizer Tracy Martin to increase awareness and raise money for Planned Parenthood, an organization that is at risk to lose funding due to the current administration. “Over the years, my girlfriends — and myself included — have called on Planned Parenthood for important healthcare needs,” explains Kim. “The organization has always been there for us at points in our life when we needed it and it’s important that stays the case. We wanted to host an event that not only supported Planned Parenthood, but one that was able to directly impact the Upper Hudson chapter.”
Chelly Hegan, the President and CEO of Upper Hudson Planned Parenthood, attended the event and spent the evening enthusiastically chatting with guests and keeping spirits high with her infectious laugh and boundless energy. New York Assemblywoman Didi Barrett also came to back the organization, which she has so fiercely supported. “Everyone who loves Columbia County knows this is a special place and the event at Rivertown Lodge was a perfect example,” says Chelly. “Wonderful people came together to put a stake in the ground and say ‘Enough is enough — Planned Parenthood isn’t a political football, it is an important part of our community and our public health system.’”
Chef-owner Gabby Gulielmetti and Rachel Sanzone of Bonfiglio & Bread worked with local farms such as Ironwood Farm, Kinderhook Farm, Blue Star, Northwind Farm, and Sparrowbush Farm to conceptualize a hearty menu of seasonal dishes consisting entirely of donated meat and produce. Gaskins owners Sarah and Nick Suarez also contributed their culinary expertise to help execute the night’s fare. Brooklyn-based textile artist Mia Fabbri created a one-of-a-kind textile piece entitled “In Utero” to hang in the lobby, while other thoughtful touches included feminine-forward embroidered pink cocktail napkins by artist Hilary J. Corts and gorgeous flower arrangements from Flowerkraut.
Ladies Choice was a sold-out event and a huge success on many levels. Not only did it bring the community together, but it raised close to $16K that will now directly impact Upper Hudson Planned Parenthood. Thank you to everyone who made this night possible. Events like these are a needed reminder of the power a small community can have on the world.
If you would like to make a donation to Planned Parenthood to ensure safe and affordable care for all women, please feel free to do so here.
Photos and words by Emma Tuccillo