SALEM — Good food. Good friends. Good fun. It’s all happening on Sunday, September 15, starting at 4 p.m. For the seventh year, the House of the Seven Gables and its community of supporters come together for an evening of merriment and mingling to help The Gables preserve, share and continue the American story.
“Taste of The Gables is a fundraiser,” says Pilar Garro, Director of Development, “and it is also a friend-raiser. It’s an opportunity to bring people into The Gables to introduce them to all that we do — not just Hawthorne, not just preservation but, also, the work of the Settlement Program that supports our immigrant population as they establish themselves.”
Jeffrey and Justin Rubiera came to Salem from the Dominican Republic last year and immediately signed up for Caribbean Connections at The Gables. They were thrilled to discover Salem’s public library while on a field trip. “How often can I come here? How long can I stay?” they asked. There are no libraries where they grew up.
For seven years The House of the Seven Gables has combined fundraising with friend-raising with much success. “The number seven is significant to The Gables for likely obvious reasons. We are truly looking forward to celebrating this milestone Taste of the Gables anniversary with both old friends and new,” says Kara McLaughlin, executive director of The Gables.
The Gables and the community it serves have long had a productive, supportive relationship. Congressman Seth Moulton last year spoke of the historic ties. “Our community already does share responsibility for the preservation of the house,” he said. “In turn, The Gables provides programs like Caribbean Connections for children who’ve recently come from other countries, Community Conversations where so many new residents attend and share stories, ESL and citizenship classes and Seven Lectures at Seven Gables. The Gables is an active part of the community today and that’s what keeps it alive.”
Taste of The Gables is, most certainly, a time to celebrate these valued friendships. The event kicks off at 4 p.m. Twenty-one vendors, including Alma Fusion, Finz, Hawthorne Hotel, Sea Level Oyster Bar, Stella’s and Ledger, present impressive table-scapes, delicious food, local spirits and craft beers. At the same time, guests are invited to participate in a silent auction featuring more than 40 items. A live auction follows at 6:15 p.m. Because fundraising at The Gables is also fun-raising, comedian Mark Scalia is the auctioneer.
Among the items up for bid are three nights at Red Mountain Resort in Utah, a sculpture by Beverly Benson Seamans, and “the best kart-racing experience in New England” from X1 Boston. Should bidders desire an adventure of another kind, consider a breakfast with Congressman and candidate for president Seth Moulton.
Taste of The Gables is always a bit of a fun-infusion, but this lucky-seven year there are lots of new surprises. Salem’s official magician, Anton Andresen, promises “a night of unforgettable experiences” as he roams the beautiful seaside grounds and gardens. Magic in a magical setting. And Latin guitarist Gian Carlo Buscaglia, from Puerto Rico, serenades on the lawn overlooking Salem Harbor. To better capture the spirit of the evening for posterity, there’s a photo booth run by photographer John Andrews of the North Shore’s Creative Collective. And for the first time, Brew Box offers a coffee house experience after the live auction. Those who participate in the popular raffle stand a good chance at winning a $2,000 gift certificate from Long’s Jewelers.
Tickets are $100 for members and $125 for general admission. All are welcome to take part in the fund- and fun-raiser. To reserve a spot, those interested may register online at 7gables.org/Taste-of-The-Gables.
About The House of the Seven Gables Settlement Association and its mission
Vision: To preserve, share and continue the American Story.
Mission: To be a welcoming, thriving historic site and community resource that engages people of all backgrounds in our inclusive American story. For more information visit www.7gables.org.
Website:
https://7gables.org/event/save-the-date-taste-of-the-gables/
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