Amy Krzanik reports from Germantown. Straddling the line that separates Columbia and Dutchess counties, Clermont State Historic Site is considered a gem in the crown of each area. Some of its popularity can be traced back directly to the efforts of Mary Kay Vrba, the executive director of Dutchess County Tourism. The Hudson Valley advocate was honored for her tireless support of the region by the Friends of Clermont on the mansion’s grounds this past Saturday, Aug. 5. The event doubled as the nonprofit’s summer fundraiser, and guests soaked in the Hudson River views while enjoying cocktails, hors d’oeuvres from Simply Gourmet catering, and the sounds of Moonshine Holler. After being honored by Clermont board president Richard McKeon and John Midwood from the office of NYS assembly member Didi Barrett, Vrba spoke about how the beauty of the region makes her job easy. She cited local attractions that can only be found here, such as Clermont and the other Livingston mansions, Val-Kill (the only National Historic Site dedicated to a first lady), and Millbrook School (the only high school in the country with a zoo). But it’s the friendly faces of the people who live here, said Vrba, that really make a visit to the region an unforgettable experience.
Clermont’s executive director Jennifer Hemmerlein with board president Richard McKeon; Vern Bergelin, Adelia Geiger and Ron Wagner.
Clermont board member and Hudson Hall co-director Tambra Dillon, former honoree Joan Davidson and Mary Kay Vrba.
Adrienne Westmore, board member Patricia Falk, and Robin Berrington of Washington, D.C.; board members Mary Ellen Ross and Judith Keefer.
John Midwood, a representative for Didi Barrett, and Emily Midwood with Brenda Bassett and Gary Bassett, the mayor of the Village of Rhinebeck.
Leigh Bahnatka and Ed Bergstraesser; Glenda Law, Jim and Noell Sottile, and Alison Lankenau.
Richard McKeon, board member Hermes Mallea, Norah Burden and Joe Macgillis; Mike and Michele Zagorski.
Moonshine Holler performs for the crowd; board president Richard McKeon presents Mary Kay Vrba with a plaque and accolades
