A Toast To The Late Mary Hawley Lifts Spirits

By Kendra Bobowick

The warm-hued spectrum of wines captures plumb, cedar, vanilla, and ruby shades of chardonnays, merlots, and shirazes that will appeal to guests on October 27. Between 6 and 8:30 pm at the Edmond Town Hall in the Alexandria Room will be a Gala Tasting of Wines and Single Malt Scotches sponsored by the Mary Hawley Society and hosted by Sandy Hook Wine & Liquor. “You get a taste, and it’s just that,” said society member Jane Sharpe.

With a splash of red or sip of white swirling in a glass, Ms Sharpe said, “You just see if you like this or like that, and scotches too.”

Full Of Flavor

Australia, France, Italy, the United States, and a host of other countries’ wines will be represented at the gala, said Sandy Hook Wine & Liquor Store owner Mike Kerler. Accompanying the different reds and whites are the bitter, sweet, or light flavors bottled as table wines, good for a special occasion, or wrapped as holiday gifts. “There is something for everyone,” Mr Kerler said. “It will be nice for people to try different wines.”

With a quick swish of liquid a wine’s aromas spill from the glass. Cedar, chocolate, hints of raspberry, or a dash of dark cherry will greet both connoisseurs and newcomers who sample the selection. Simpler wines and more “complex structures” are in line for late October’s fundraiser, Mr Kerler said.

“It’s a good way to learn about wines and there is not a lot of pressure.”

Additionally, “Pourers can walk you through the wines,” he said. Mr Kerler hopes that guests can find a new flavor for their dinner table, or take the opportunity to finish some early holiday shopping.

For those who prefer an evening drink either on the rocks or neat, scotches and cognacs will join the wine sampling.

 Sandy Hook Wine & Liquor owners Mike and Jill Kerler will be at the gala.

At The Gala

Guests will receive a complimentary wine glass etched with the new Mary Hawley Society logo created by Bridgeport artist Tina Sommers.

Society members are hoping to tap glasses with guests, including those with a special interest in the Mary Hawley Society. “We’re seeking founding members,” Ms Sharpe explained. “We’ll make a plea that night.”

All are welcome, however. “Come and enjoy the wine tasting and just have fun.” Invitations are in the mail, and tickets are available at Sandy Hook Wine & Liquor or by calling the Board of Managers office at 270-4285. Supporters may also send a check and receive tickets in the mail. As the gala’s date nears, however, society members ask that guests make their reservations and tickets will be held at the door. No tickets are available for purchase at the door. “We need to know ahead of time how many are coming,” Ms Sharpe said. Make checks payable to the Edmond Town Hall and mail to the managers office at the town hall, 45 Main Street. Tickets are $35 per person.

The gala kicks off fundraising efforts to complete capital projects at the town hall, starting with refinishing the kitchen adjoining the Alexandria Room. The society, which has filed paperwork to establish itself as a nonprofit group, is separate from the Board of Managers, which oversees building maintenance and operations.

The society’s Steering Committee co-chairs are Marg and Don Studley, Sandy and Walt Motyka, and Jane and Don Sharpe.