b'Welcome to the Sands Point Preserve ConservancysGarden Party Gala!W e are delighted to host this evenings gala festivities to mark the official opening and unveiling of the new, spectacular Hempstead House Garden. We are thrilled to celebrate with local, organic, biodynamic wine-tastings, artists creating garden-inspired masterpieces in real-time, the building of a historic time capsule, and an eclectic mix of live music.As we reflect on the century-long history of the Hempstead House Garden and create dreams and visions for its future, we feel compelled to mark this pivotal moment in time.While we honor the Preserves rich past, we look forward to the next chapter. A chapter of fun. Openness. Relevance. We aim to create a Preserve that is interesting and accessible to all, that creates opportunities for connection and community, that promotes environmentalism, and that allows individuals and families to find joy, peace, and purpose here.In the last year, we have implemented a host of new programs to achieve our vision for a new and innovative Preserve experience. In May 2023, we hosted the inaugural Long Island Fairy Festival at the Sands Point Preserve, which brought 2,000 people from near and far to delight in the magic of nature.In March, we invited children to the first Princess Day at the Castle, where they could visit princesses in each room of Hempstead House.We expanded our concert offerings, introducing two performances by the Northwinds Symphonic Band and extending our Music on the Lawn series to four concerts in 2023 (from two in 2022). We hosted a biodynamic wine tasting event in Hempstead House and we began a new Introduction to Ballroom Dance series in July.This summer, we will be offering new programs in the garden including native plant workshops, garden tours, and nature-based meditations.We also take pride in the work weve done to restore and improve our historic buildings and grounds. We watched as an innovative coastal erosion pilot program took hold on our bluff, received a grant from the GreenTree Foundation to defend against the invasive species enveloping our forests, and secured funding from the NYS Senators office to repair and upgrade parts of the Hempstead House Garden.We hope that you enjoy all the Preserve has to offer. Whether its hiking the trails, touring our historic mansions, visiting the playground, pond, beach, or dog run, or attending one of our programs, every person who steps foot onto the Preserve breathes life into it.With our most sincere gratitude, we thank you for all your support in making the Preserve the most special treasure that it is.Karli HagedornJeremiah Bosgang Chairman of the BoardExecutive Director'