This year the annual gala thanking Boynton Society members for their financial support of Björklunden took place on Saturday afternoon, August 10th. Attendees could choose to participate in two one hour-long programs on a wide variety of topics. Jane Whitney, Tim Crain, Nikolas Hoel and Bill Urbrock were the presenters receiving great reviews. Attendees were also treated to musical performances by Patrick Davis, vocalist, and Tim Fitzgerald on the guitar.
Two individuals were honored with awards for their outstanding volunteerism. The first award was the Winifred Boynton Creative Spirit Award which recognizes someone who, through imagination and tenacity, has created something of significant impact and enduring value to Door County. This year the recipient was Anne Haberland Emerson whose contributions to the Door County community began in 1969 when she started the Edgewood Orchard Gallery. She has also played key roles in projects that helped to create the Door County Auditorium and Write On Door County. Linda Laarman received the Richard Warch Outstanding Service to Björklunden award for her 12 years as chair of the Björklunden Advisory Committee and now continues to play a significant role as a member of the Friends of Björklunden Leadership Team.
Near the end of the afternoon, the art auction of paintings generously donated by the Dobrinska Painters concluded. The auction raised over $5,000 for Boynton Chapel restoration. This is a great start for starting some of the much needed repairs. Finally, there was plenty of time to socialize over a wide variety of delicious sandwiches, appetizers, and desserts and share Björklunden experiences.