Think Pink Partygoers “In the Pink” Supporting Important Social Cause

Beacon Rock estate dazzled like a tropical flamingo with guests dancing in dresses of pinks, purples, sequins and other flamboyant cocktail attire. Men too sported colorful blazers and pants. After a brief, passing rain shower, the night stayed lovely and the sunset glowed with rosy clouds beyond the Newport Bridge, as if to celebrate the theme of the night: “Think Pink,” a fundraiser to benefit The Ally Foundation of Boston, whose mission is “to prevent opportunities for violent sex offenses, to educate the public and advocate for necessary changes in culture, attitude and policy."

Connie Brown (Event Chair) & Alec Stern

The crowd was a mix of ages, with many of the young and beautiful coming out to show their support. Chairwoman Connie Brown spearheaded the event, along with co-Chair Lisa Simons, whose husband, Ron Simons, also attended. Host Brian Cunha opened up Beacon Rock to the foundation for the event, which an estimated 200 attended (or even more, according to the driver who shuttled us back to parking at Fort Adams). Many guests traveled from Boston, New York, and even Florida. Attendees included August Murko, Jennifer Gower, and Phillip Stevens.

A band, “The Rolling Who?” played sizzling rock tunes on the front deck overlooking a pool, hot tub, and an unbelievable view of Newport Harbor. Event goers Nelse Clark, Gregg Nourjian, and Tony Harwood consumed raw bar delicacies, hand-served hors d’oeuvres, danced, mingled, and lounged on pool furniture. The night featured a silent auction of various items, as well as a sparkling display of jewelry by Blesk for sale .

Lisa Simons (Event Co-Chair) & Ron Simons

An old-time photo booth gave partygoers the chance to print out memories of the evening. In the columned courtyard in front of the house, a DJ played old jazz standards, inspiring some couples to slow dance. Past years have chosen other colors as the theme for recommended attire, but pink gave a fun and romantic aura to the event, especially when paired with green (as in the ALLY pins) – a classic Newport combo. And all for a great cause.

.” The foundation was created after the untimely murder of 30-year old Boston and Newport resident Alexandra Zapp in 2002. Although the theme and decorations were fun and light-hearted, a strong sense of poignancy and purpose could be felt in the fundraising efforts that night, as photographs of a young, smiling Alexandra graced various parts of the silent auction room and guests were able to purchase pink-and-green “ALLY” pins to support the cause.

By Amanda M. Grosvenor