Panhandle Butterfly House to host gala fundraising event

Beth McCandry

Preparations for an autumn opening are in full swing at the Panhandle Butterfly House & Nature Center.

To this end, the organization’s president, Jenny Weber, has announced a gala fundraiser for July 16th from 6pm to 9pm at the Panhandle Butterfly House & Nature Center at 4966 Henry St. in Milton.

“This event is going to be a great housewarming party,” said Weber. “It will be a chance for people to see the potential of a beautifully restored home that will be repurposed for everyone.”

Guests are greeted on the porch with a champagne toast from the event’s title sponsor, Bruce Baker Remax Realty.

Milltown Makers created the custom frames for the butterfly displays.

“A saxophonist will play on the front porch and an acoustic guitarist on the back porch, who will serenade the guests and set a jazzy tone for the evening,” said Weber. “We’ll have samples from local restaurants. And then of course there is a wine tasting! We have a few special wines that we offer in wine glasses specially made for the event. “

The interior of the house will be decorated with original paintings from the Quayside Gallery available for purchase. Several gift baskets will be raffled throughout the evening and a live auction will include a piece from Beres Jewelers and a piece from Tiffany’s of New York, donated by title sponsor Bruce Baker.

Matt's Pressuring Washing Service recently prepared the Panhandle Butterfly House for painting.

“We have been blessed through and through with the support of the community throughout the renovation process,” Weber said. “Local companies have assisted us with everything from removing trees and stumps to making bespoke showcases for butterflies and kitchens. Not only the renovation of the house is amazing, but the mural by a local artist in the bathroom alone is worth seeing. “

Weber went on to say that 501c3 status has been applied for for the organization and is still pending.

“It allows us to streamline our efforts and be responsible for the entire project,” she said. “We have more painting to do and we’re almost ready to start landscaping. Volunteers are cordially invited to help every Monday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. “

Tickets to the event are $ 100 per couple or $ 60 per person and can be purchased on eventbrite.

“It will be a relaxed yet elegant evening,” said Weber. “I look forward to sharing all of the hard work we’ve done so far with the community.”