Social Column, Social Life Magazine, June 2012
By Jean Shafiroff
I love New York, though when it comes to the summer, there is no place better to be than the Hamptons. The excitement, beauty, and spirit of the Hamptons is hard to equal.
A weekend in the Hamptons begins on the jitney where you can meet many outgoing and fascinating people.
If you enjoy parties, then the Hamptons has more than you could ever hope to attend. The beaches are spectacular and never too crowded. There is something here for everyone regardless of age. The Hamptons has it all — beautiful people, celebrities, swimming, boating, tennis, shopping, restaurants, and culture.
One of the great attributes of both summer residents and permanent inhabitants is their incredibly strong spirit of giving back. If you trace the history of our great country, giving back is deeply ingrained in our culture. For generations, those residing in the Hamptons have embraced this spirit — helping those in need is simply part of the culture. Since giving back and holding parties are both so much a part of life in the Hamptons, it’s easy to understand why some of the best parties held here are those for philanthropic causes.
Every weekend there are several great parties given for various charitable endeavors. So if you like to get a little dressed up, attend fabulous parties, and support good causes, then you are indeed, in the right place. Of all the forthcoming charity-related events this summer, I’m recommending four, each supporting an excellent cause.
For all of you art and performance lovers, two parties are young, hip, and always promise to be great fun. I highly recommend the July 14 Parrish Art Museum Gala. For tickets: parrishart.org or 631.283.2118.
Then on July 28, there’s the 19th annual Watermill Center’s The Big Bang gala. For tickets: watermillcenter.org/benefit or call Pinki Patel at 212.253.7484.
If you like your pets — and I am assuming you do — then why not support the Southampton Animal Shelter’s gala on Saturday, July 21. This shelter is ranked among the top ten in the United States because the animals receive the best of care. However, to maintain this level of care, the shelter needs to raise funds. The gala will take place under tents at the spectacular waterfront property of Sandra McConnell. Chuck and Ellen Scarborough will be honored and NBC’s Jane Hanson will emcee. The party will be glamorous, chic, and very beautiful. As the chairwoman, I promise this. Who will be attending? The guest list reads like a who’s who of the Hamptons. Also attending will be some very cute dogs — all available for adoption! For tickets: southamptonanimalshelter.com or call 631.287.PETS, ext.243. Under-30 junior tickets ($100) are available for 9:30 PM admission.
Are you afraid you might need the hospital in an emergency? For sure, you will receive the best of care at the Southampton Hospital. This hospital is ranked among the five leading community hospitals in the United States, thanks to the stellar leadership of its president, Robert Chaloner. Why not support the hospital by attending the 54th annual Southampton Hospital gala, which will take place on Saturday, August 4. The party, to be held on Wigapogue Road in Southampton, is always chic and elegant. As the past chairwoman of the 2010 and 2011 Southampton Hospital Summer Parties, I can attest to this. This year’s theme is Monaco –– Grand Prix. So, if you are the proud owner of a racing car why not drive it this party? Or, alternatively, walk or bike to the event. Tickets: southamptonhospital.org/calendar or call 631.283.4066.
Enjoy!
