Fiesta Verde of ALT Aesthetic and Purposeful

Jonathan & Bettie Pardee

It was one of the most (if not the most) aesthetically stunning parties Newport Seen has attended during the three seasons since its inception; indeed, what better way to illustrate the importance of the Aquidneck Land Trust’s mission of “preserving Aquidneck Island’s open spaces and natural character…” than by holding its annual Fiesta Verde gala at a site showcasing the exquisite natural beauty of the island?

Three Bellevue Avenue estate owners offered up their sweeping Cliff Walk lawns as the stage for several large white tents and smaller bar and raw bar stations: David Ford’s majestic Miramar, the Dick family’s Ocean View, and the elegant Sam Mencoff estate. Although the Land Trust cannot be credited for the weather, they fortunately picked a sunny, breezy evening which tapered into a spectacular pink sunset over the ocean, with the rocks of the Cliff Walk and dark water lit up by large spotlights as the night darkened. It was not something you see every day in Newport!

Entering the party

The soft greens, blues, and pinks decorating the insides of the tents complimented the verdant lawns and marine sea views – not to mention the sunset. Tiki torches lined the Cliffside perimeter, and flowers and other natural accents lended themselves to the décor. A silent auction of garden and nature-themed items was held in one of the tents.

Bettie Pardee and Susan Ruf served as party co-chairs, and Land Trust Executive Director Edward Clement helped to oversee the event. Also attending were Jonathan Pardee, Elizabeth and Bill Leatherman, Esmond Harmsworth, David Ford Jr., Annelisa and sister Christina Gee (daughters of Lillian and Ronnie Dick), Natasha Harrison, Angela and Gary Fischer, Suki and Miguel de Braganca, David Thalmann, Ernst and Nancy Rothe, and others. Dinner was served buffet-style, with square and round tables inside and outside the tent.

Bill Leatherman, Bettie Pardee, Julianna Cerra,

Elizabeth Leatherman

Just before dinner began, Edward Clement spoke to honor the Dick family for generously donating a permanent land easement to the trust: Lillian, Ronnie, Matt, and Maisie Dick all took the stage. Following dinner and a live auction was dancing underneath the tent to the sounds of Skyline Drive Orchestra. On the way out of the party, massive old trees were lit up in blue and green spotlights, creating a mystical effect.

To learn more about the Aquidneck Land Trust, visit www.ailt.org