Jennifer Salo, right, Geauga County Horseman’s Council President presents Executive Director Christine Davidson with a donation.

On Thursday, September 12, the Foundation for Geauga Parks held its annual Twilight Soirée at Fowler’s Mill Golf Course in Chesterland. This seventh-annual benefit raised funds for the organization and its mission.
The Foundation for Geauga Parks’ (FGP) mission is to raise funds to support efforts of conservation, preservation and nature education projects in Geauga County.
“While there are many ways to experience the outdoors, we place particular value on projects that preserve and conserve natural spaces for the long-term benefit of our community, while providing the opportunity to educate and celebrate our county’s natural assets, character and history,” Christian Hunter, marketing and communications director, said.
Nearly 200 guests attended the benefit at which $58,235 was raised from ticket sales, the live and silent auctions and sponsorships.
“By attending the Foundation for Geauga Parks’ Twilight Soirée, one is celebrating the efforts of a community dedicated to protecting Geauga County’s natural resources to ensure a rich legacy for future generations,” Executive Director Christine Davidson said.
The Geauga County Ohio Horseman’s Council, an organization committed to everything horsemen including the expansion of riding trails in Geauga County, presented a $2,000 check to the FGP.
During the event, fifth graders from the park’s Nature Scopes program were present to talk about outdoor exploration in which they participated with binoculars. After completing the program, students were able to keep their binoculars.
Jeff Hyde, a Twilight Soirée Committee member, presented the Geauga Pollinator Project 2025. This project has a focus on Geauga County residents where members educate others and will turn area yards into pollinator sanctuaries.
Members would get discounts at local nurseries, invitations to member-only activities and yard signs, Mr. Hyde said.
“We will partner with any program that supports our mission,” Mr. Hyde said.
The Chagrin Valley Astronomical Society was set up to watch the night sky outside during the warm September weather. Auctioneer Bob Hale of Benefit Auction Services announced the 10 live auction items that included experiences, football tickets and wine and bourbon related items.
Guests mingled while snacking on a variety of options from the Hungry Bee presented around the venue in stations that included charcuterie, sliders, salads, noodles, a made-to-order pasta station and a sweets station. They also had Mark’s Wood Fire Catering and Baking Food Truck at the event.
Crooked Pecker Brewing Company and 8th Day Brewing Company were also there serving their local craft beer.
Thorne Musica, a duo of Caroline King and Paul Kovac, serenaded the guests during the event. STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHS BY KALEY RICHARD