Mountain Mayhem: A spectacular evening on the lake
MarySue Bonetti/Courtesy photo
Each spring when Aspen Center for Environmental Studies (ACES) releases tickets and tables for their summer event, Evening on the Lake, they sell out instantly for this beloved benefit. This year was no different, as supporters flocked to the fundraiser held on July 18 at Hallam Lake, a hidden gem in the heart of Aspen. It’s the one time of year canoes are permitted on the property — truly a highlight of the night to paddle around and see beaver dams and ospreys overhead and take in the views of the preserve from the water.
After the cocktail reception, dinner was served under a clear top tent with wreaths of flowers suspended from the ceiling and beautifully-dressed tables of ten. An array of generous sponsors, all sustainable all-stars in their industries, made the evening possible.
Evan Martin of Martin Woods Winery, one of the biggest contributors to this event in the past few years, donated all the wine for the event from his Willamette Valley winery. The entire dinner menu was sourced from Rock Bottom Ranch.
Aspen Vodka, the first distillery to receive North America’s LEED Platinum certification, sponsored the cocktails. Aspen One and The Little Nell, leaders in the ski and hospitality industries for sustainability efforts, helped underwrite part of the program. Event partners Jen Hartley of Aspen Event Solutions, Mark Hardin of Field to Fork catering, and Susan Peters and Heath Manning of Halcyon Productions all added their magic, as well.
Mike Phillips was recognized with the 2024 Elizabeth Paepcke Visionary Award for his work as executive director of the Turner Endangered Species Fund, working to restore gray wolves to the Southern Rockies Ecoregion of western Colorado.
“We were thrilled to see so many passionate and dedicated individuals come together to support ACES’ mission of promoting environmental science education for all ages and fostering a love for nature,” said Development Director Christy Mahon.
Support for ACES helps to raise critical funds to expand educational programs to reach more schools and communities, enhance conservation efforts to protect local wildlife and habitats, and to develop new initiatives that inspire a deeper connection to the natural world.
“ACES is excited about our future and the positive impact we can achieve together,” she continued. “Any donation to ACES makes a significant difference and supports our vital work, from engaging people of all ages in environmental science and nature-based learning to preserving the beautiful ecosystems we all cherish.”
Sea Island: An exclusive getaway
Sea Island Resort is the ultimate exclusive getaway. There, 5 miles of pristine, white sand beaches along Georgia’s coast pair seamlessly with exquisite dining and service — plus a host of recreational activities.
