The Garrison School’s Environmental Education Committee is planning a festive educational cocktail party this Saturday, Nov. 9, at 5:30 p.m. “This is a fundraiser and an ‘awareness-raiser,’” said event planner and Garrison mom Christine Foertsch. “You don’t always think ‘education’ when you think ‘cocktail party,’ but we’ll provide the perfect blend at our first annual Think and Drink!”

The educational component of the evening includes an overview of the importance of environmental education in our schools and in our homes and a brief review of the GUFS School Forest Day. Renowned environmental writer and Garrison resident Andrew Revkin will give a talk on the interface between environmental education and technology.

Pete Salmansohn leads stream study Forest Day (file photo)
Pete Salmansohn leads a stream study at Forest Day. (file photo)

After all that “thinking,” guests can enjoy one-of-a-kind, woodland inspired cocktails expertly mixed by Garrison mom and botanist Patricia Mulligan. “I’ve been collecting herbs from Boscobel and other local sources all season,” says Mulligan.  “We’re creating a Rosemary Vodka, a Spiced Brandy Alexander, and a “Sage Rush” for everyone to enjoy.”

Also on the menu will be delectable hors d’oeuvres inspired by the season. “Food connects us to the earth every day,” says food writer (and Garrison mom) Celia Barbour. “There are so many wonderful ingredients available to us in the Hudson Valley – from farms, orchards, and woods.” The menu will include local venison meatballs, wild mushroom tarts, and a selection of autumnal desserts.

The fundraiser is dedicated to raising money for environmental education at Garrison School throughout the year, but particularly to funding School Forest Day, the annual celebration and exploration of the Garrison School Forest. Since 2008, the entire school (students and faculty) spends a “day in the woods,” hiking and learning in workshops and activities provided by local environmental educators. The theme last year was SLOW (SunLight, Oxygen, Water), and students learned everything from making fairy houses in younger grades to orienteering and survival skills in older grades.

Join friends and neighbors on Nov. 9 for this special event. The location of the benefit is 14 Cutler Lane, Garrison. Tickets are $35 per person in advance, $40 at the door. To pay in advance, please mail a check payable to GUFS EE Fund, P.O. Box 257, Garrison, NY 10524.

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