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Photo Gallery: Friends of Christopher Columbus Park Celebrate at Gala Fundraiser

Posted on Author Matt ContiComments(2)

“An Elegant Evening to Support the Gem of the North End and Waterfront” brought out hundreds on Friday night in support of the Friends of Christopher Columbus Park. To accommodate the tremendous growth of the non-profit group, FOCCP moved their annual gala fundraiser to a larger venue at the Boston Harbor Hotel.

Neighbors and sponsors came out in force to support one of the most successful “Friends” groups in Boston. Yours truly was humbled to be this year’s ‘guest of honor.’ Joining in the celebration were Mayor Marty Walsh, City Councilor Sal LaMattina and Boston Parks Commissioner Chris Cook. Guests included a “who’s who” of community and business leaders along with several Boston Bruins players and local celebrities.

FOCCP is an all-volunteer group that puts up the trellis lights every year, cares for the Rose Kennedy rose garden, helps replace trees and sponsors events, such as the family-friendly Columbus and Independence Day celebrations. The annual gala makes up the bulk of FOCCP’s annual budget.

Organizing the successful event was FOCCP President, Joanne Hayes-Rines with Gala Chairs Ann Babbitt, Meghan Denenberg and their extensive volunteer committee. After a cocktail reception and dinner buffet, there was dancing to the Luke Marantz Quintet and a silent auction. Especially popular this year was a “treasure chest” raffle game where the winner took home over $2,000 in prizes and gift certificates.

Next up for FOCCP is the trellis lighting on Monday, November 24th where the outdoor festivities take place at the park, starting at 5:15 p.m. This event is free and open to the public. See FOCCP.org to learn more about the group.

Photos by Rosario Scabin, Ross Photography.

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2 Replies to “Photo Gallery: Friends of Christopher Columbus Park Celebrate at Gala Fundraiser”

  1. Thank you for the wonderful photos and coverage of our Gala fund raiser Matt. We were so thrilled to honor you. You are one of those rare human beings who doesn’t have an enemy. Your philanthropy is well known. You are a wise and good friend AND you are wicked smaht, to boot. That’s all. Carry on… 😉

  2. Congrats Matt~~~Well deserved~~~sorry I wasn’t there to honor you in person! After winning 6,000 in FAKE MONEY last year at the Casino Event~~I couldn’t top that~~so I was a NO-SHOW! ha ha ha Only kidding~~~sorry I missed the Gala!

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