As Hermann Park Conservancy revs up for a milestone centennial anniversary — a year that includes the groundbreaking of the $5 million Grand Gateway in August and the 15-acre, $30 million McGovern Centennial Gardens in September — officials are sure engaging the active young professionals ensemble that supports the nonprofit's social and fundraising activities.
That was the motivation for the Wednesday afternoon gathering at Tony Mandola's, where 120 brightly dressed twenty and thirtysomethings plus a handful of young at heart guests packed the restaurant's private party room.
Taking over the leadership from former chair Brittany Sakowitz is J.P. Morgan associate Catherine Bradley, who alongside director of development Meghan Miller and marketing manager Adrienne Saxe greeted Urban Green members and friends while making plans for the "Run in the Park" race on Nov. 9 and the group's Nov. 21 bash.
Happily supporting the cause were restaurateurs Phyllis and Tony Mandola with a spread of crab balls with rémoulade sauce, tomato bruschetta and pork tenderloin scallopini, paired with a selection of house red and white wines.
Spotted amid the chatty crowd were Eliza Wright and Brandon Lauderdale, Courtney and Brandon Siegmund, Adam Curley, Jerry Peruchini, Marni Rutan, Paula Padgett, Sandy Sanderson, Nancy Rohr, Andre Deshotels, Adam Carr, William Fitzgerald, Gira Desai, Stratton Borchers, Hannah Russell and Dr. Michael Yafi.
Sabrina and Chris Skiles, from left, Vanessa Stiver and Ryan Tietz at the Urban Green happy hour.
