FRIENDS of Gazebo plan winery fundraiser, seek more ideas

MILLBROOK — The FRIENDS of the Millbrook Gazebo group is continuing its fundraising efforts following a Feb. 7 brainstorming session at the Millbrook Library to figure out how to finance the Elm Drive structure’s restoration. About 25 participants attended the winter meeting, and the group has been trying to attract more members since to save the what is considered by many a Millbrook landmark.

The gazebo has fallen into disrepair over time and ongoing discussions have been taking place about if the structure should it be demolished, replaced or repaired.

Resident Ashley Lempke founded the FRIENDS of the Gazebo group in the fall of 2020, and its attracted a bit of a following ever since.

The Gazebo is owned by the Millbrook Central School District. Lempke is hoping the quaint gazebo may have a second chance at life.

Ideas at the library brainstorming session were plentiful, including a holding an outdoor cocktail fundraiser, possibly at Orvis Sandanona or the Millbrook Winery, which is now in the works. Incentives were proposed for different levels of donors, possibly with a plaque naming the top donors affixed to the gazebo once it is restored.

It was also suggested that the FRIENDS apply for grants to restore the gazebo, possibly with the Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation, Stewart’s Shops; one person even asked if there is a James Ware Society?

James E. Ware was the New York Gilded Age architect who built Halycon Hall, originally as a hotel, which eventually became Bennett College at the entrance to Millbrook.

Another suggestion was having a booth at the Millbrook Farmers Market to raise awareness and money, either with raffle tickets or a 50/50 sale.

Someone suggested doing mailers, perhaps included in village water bills, which  may or may not be feasible, and doing e-mail blasts along with postal mailers. Also suggested was posting a sign at the village tennis court.

A publicity campaign with articles in local newspapers, such as The Millerton News, which has been covering the issue since the start, was also discussed.

The FRIENDS discussed approaching other civic and community groups like the Millbrook Garden Club, the Millbrook Central School District and the Millbrook Arts Group to help promote its cause.

Other ideas included local stores conducting an art competition for their window displays and the Millbrook Library hosting a kid’s “make your own gazebo craft event”  competition to be displayed on the library lawn.

The FRIENDS group is continuing to seek ideas as well as members, and several leadership positions are open in the group.

The FRIENDS, along with the Millbrook Historical Society, will hold a cocktail party fundraiser on Thursday, May 12, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Millbrook Winery. There will be hors d’oeuvres, music and a live auction.

To get tickets for the Help Save the Elm Drive Gazebo, which are $50 each, RSVP to www.friendsofthegazebo.com/donate.

For more information, go to www.millbrookgazebo.com or e-mail friendsofthegazebo@gmail.com.

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