Fiesta Verde of Aquidneck Land Trust a "Fete Champetre"

Ted Clement & Boonsuay Clement

Under tents on the grounds of the architecturally distinguished Bellevue Avenue home of the late Mrs. Eileen Slocum, the 2009 “Fiesta Verde” was a lively, elegant, interesting garden party with dinner and dancing, attended by devoted supporters of the group “dedicated to preserving Aquidneck Island's open spaces and natural character for the lasting benefit of our community.”

Jerry Kirby & Philip Bilden

Hundreds of guests relaxed on the lawn, and moved between two tents for the al fresco, buffet-style dining, and dancing to Mac Chrupcala’s orchestra.

Jerry Slocum was seen chatting with guests, and Chairman of the Board of Trustees Ted Clement was natty in shorts and a tie. While the dress was specified as casual, the dresses were elegant, and most of the gentlemen wore ties.

In deep conversation were Jerry Kirby and Philip Bilden, who is rumored to an agent or cousin of film star Pierce Brosnan. Author Bettie Pardee, a member of the Board of Trustees, attended with husband Jonathan Pardee, while, Michael and Patricia Kedder, and Cathy and Jeffrey Siegal served as party

Bettie Pardee & Bill Wood Prince

hosts. Betsy Ray talked with David B. Ford, while Bob and Brynne Peck, and Michelle and Jan Eckhart mingled.

Since 1990, the Aquidneck Land Trust has conserved of 2,000 acres of scenic vistas, agricultural land, recreational open space, and wildlife hapitat, greatly defining the quality of life in and around Newport. The group has just earned national recognition from the Land Trust Accreditation Commission, an independent program of the Land Trust Alliance.