Residents, elected officials, environmental advocates, students, and community leaders gathered at the Rye Free Reading Room recently for the Rye Sustainability Foundation’s 2nd Annual Green Cocktails & Conversation, an event focused on sustainability, civic engagement, and the future of Rye.
“This event is really about connection,” said Donna Providenti, co-founder of the Rye Sustainability Foundation, in her opening remarks. “Bringing together people who care deeply about Rye, learning from one another, and inspiring action.”
During the evening, RSF leaders shared updates on several initiatives, including a $70,000 grant award from the Long Island Sound Partnership to complete a Natural Resources Inventory for the City of Rye.
RSF also included an update on RSF’s “250 Acorns to Oaks” initiative. The original goal to plant 250 oak saplings in Rye ahead of America’s 250th anniversary, has already exceeded expectations, thanks to partnerships with Rye Nature Center, Rye Country Day School, and School of the Holy Child. Volunteers collected and germinated acorns from native Rye oak trees, ultimately growing more than 1,000 saplings. More than 250 oak trees have already been planted throughout the community, with many more still available for adoption.
The event concluded with the Rye Sustainability Foundation’s Annual Leadership Awards.
The Youth Leadership Award recognized Rye Country Day School students Miles Dinger, Keaton Greenberg, and Caden Powers for developing legislation to reduce fertilizer impacts on the environment.
Jaxson Mack, former director of conservation at the Rye Nature Center, was honored for his leadership on the 250 Acorns to Oaks initiative.
Barbara and Paul Hicks were recognized for their ongoing advocacy and work in Rye tree preservation, while the New York Blood Center received recognition for its transition to electric operations.
Attendees included local elected officials and city leadership, including Mayor Josh Nathan, Deputy Mayor James Ward, members of the City Council, City Manager Brian Shea, and Rye City Schools Superintendent Tricia Murray.
Guests enjoyed green cocktails provided by Vaccaro’s Wine & Spirits while wearing plantable name tags from Give Good Parties.
