Saratoga Bridges’ Annual Gala is July 21

by Emily Marcason-Tolmie

2006, has been committed to providing the highest quality services to people with disabilities and their families. Saratoga Bridges currently serves over 830 individuals and families in Saratoga County. The dedicated staff and volunteers focus on the individual, helping them to live full, active lives while allowing them to achieve their personal goals.

On July 21, Saratoga Bridges will host its annual gala and largest fundraising event of the year: The White Party. Last year’s event raised more than $113,000 for the Saratoga Bridges Foundation. The foundation’s mission is to ensure Saratoga Bridges has a visible, positive reputation that attracts public support in the community while raising funds to cover the costs of programs and services that are not sufficiently supported by public agencies. “Saratoga Bridges is committed to advocacy for people with disabilities by providing resources that enable them to live enriching lives in the communities where they are valued for their abilities and contributions,” said Valerie Muratori, Executive Director of Saratoga Bridges. “Saratoga Bridges has been providing the highest level of programs to people with disabilities and their families for more than 60 years. We are proud and dedicated to work together with them to ensure that they are able to work, volunteer and socialize in the community while pursuing the quality of life each person values. For us, every day is full of possibilities!” she said.

Saratoga Bridges’ gala Co-Chairs, Christianne Smith Potts and Sarah Samascott, and their committee members invite everyone to attend this year’s gala at the Saratoga National Golf Club. Samascott promises the gala to be a fun night. “There is champagne and a white carpet. You will feel like a celebrity for the evening. Everyone is dressed up, there is great music for dancing and delicious food to eat,” she said. “It is a really fun night and the best part is that it is all for a great cause – helping to raise money so that Saratoga Bridges may continue to serve people and families that need it.”

Samascott confirmed Mr. and Mrs. Vincent Riggi will be honored at the gala as the honorary chairs. However, the gratitude of Saratoga Bridges extends to Turbine Services, Ltd. and the entire Riggi Family, as well as, Ketel One Vodka for their support as Presenting Sponsors for The White Party. “We are extremely grateful to all of our sponsors, especially to our honorary chairs,” she said. Samascott is quick to acknowledge the many local businesses that support the gala through sponsorship and donations. “So many businesses around Saratoga County are making a difference for the families of Saratoga Bridges by supporting the White Party,” she said. “This is an event that the community gets behind.” Benita Zahn, of News Channel 13, will emcee the event.

One of this year’s signature auction prizes is a new deck from Curtis Lumber and Homes by Malta Development and a celebration deck party for 6 from Hattie’s Restaurant. Doug Ford, VP of Sales and Purchasing at Curtis Lumber, was approached last year by Malta Development regarding the idea of partnering up on a donation for the annual Saratoga Bridges White Party fundraiser. “Malta Development have been great customers for many years and share the same interest in supporting the not-for-profits within our communities as does Curtis Lumber, Inc.” he said. “So it was an easy decision to combine our resources to provide a signature item that showcased their craftmanship along with our quality products.” The custom deck, including materials and labor, is valued at about $5,000. After the success of last year’s deck, Ford was happy to partner with Malta Development again this year. “The winner can work with the talented designers at Curtis Lumber to design a deck and the craftsmen at Malta Development will then construct the dream deck at their home,” he said.

Partygoers at this year’s gala will enjoy delicious food from Mazzone Catering and complimentary cocktails courtesy of Ketel One Vodka. The event will also feature live and silent auctions, artwork from our talented Creative Endeavors Artists, festive décor by Fine Affairs and Rain or Shine Tent Company, entertainment from GRAVITY and a cigar roller from James & Sons Tobacconists. Heather Bohm-Tallman Photography will, once again, capture many fun moments at the event. The evening will also feature fireworks courtesy of Fireworks by Santore.

Samascott attended her first White Party a few years ago and it left a lasting impression on her. “Saratoga in the summer is filled with parties and events all supporting great causes,” she said. “The White Party is on point. It is supporting a great cause and it is a really fun evening.” After attending her first White Party she knew she wanted to volunteer for Saratoga Bridges in some capacity and support the organization’s mission. “I wanted to be a part of it,” she said. “There is such a wonderful partnership between Saratoga Bridges and the community.”

Ford attended his first White Party in 2017. He was blown away after meeting staff and clients of Saratoga Bridges. “The care and resources they provide to people with disabilities to enrich their lives is overwhelming. I will never miss this event again and look forward to working with Wayne and Sarah Samascott (Malta Development) on future opportunities to support this fundraiser.”

Reservations by June 30: $175; $125 (Under 35) – Price increases by $25 after June 30

For more information please visit the gala’s website: http://www.saratogabridges.org/fundraising-events/annual-gala/

Photos courtesy of Heather Bohm-Tallman Photography.