WASHINGTON - In 1997 Gael Hammer, along with Ted Hine and John Trainor, instituted Tea for Two Hundred as a memorial to Gael's partner Timothy Mawson and as a way to raise funds for AIDS awareness and other charities in western Connecticut. In 2001, Gael's new partner, Gary Goodwin, became involved in Tea for Two Hundred.

Now in its 20th year, the event held at the beautiful gardens of Gael Hammer and Gary Goodwin is widely considered one of Litchfield County's major social events of the season and draws hundreds of participants.

Tea for Two Hundred has generated net proceeds approaching $1 million for area organizations.

The 20th annual event will be presented Saturday, August 12, from 4 to 7 pm. Proceeds this year will benefit Gunn Historical Museum and Interfaith AIDS Ministry of Greater Danbury.

Guests will revel in an afternoon of delicious food, wine, and dancing to the legendary "Beehive Queen" Christine Ohlman (Saturday Night Live Band vocalist) and her band Rebel Montez, featuring Michale Colbath, Cliff Goodwin, and Larry Donahue. There will again be a silent auction, including trips, dining experiences and spa packages; and the hat contest, with guest judge and renowned milliner Laura Daly. Prizes will be awarded for Fashionably Floral, Best Tea Theme, Best Couple, Alice, and King Hatter.

Special guest Larry Kramer, the American playwright, author, public health advocate and LGBT activist, will interview Honorary Chair Sheila Nevins, president of HBO Documentary Films and author. In addition to interviewing this year's honorary chair, Mr Kramer will sign copies of his historic and satirical novel Faggots. Ms Nevins will also be offering a book signing, and reading from her highly acclaimed book You Don't Look Your Age and Other Fairy Tales.

The Home Town Hero for this year's event is Kirsten Peckerman, a Washington resident and dedicated conservationist.

Dress code is summer white. The garden party will be held rain or shine.

Tickets are $75 each, with sponsorship levels also available and ranging from $250 to $10,000.

Registration is requested and can done online through teafortwohundred.net. Additional information is also available by contacting Lisa Breese at Gunn Historical Museum, 860-868-7756 or info@gunnhistoricmuseum.net.

The mission of the Gunn Historical Museum is to collect, preserve, and share the objects and stories that illuminate the history of Washington. A part of Gunn Memorial Library, Inc since 1908, the museum's beginnings date back to 1899 when the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) opened the Judea Historical Room.

The museum has received national awards for its exhibits, conducts original research, and creates educational programs for children, adults and seniors.

Interfaith AIDS Ministry of Greater Danbury, Inc (IAM), formed in 1989, offers unconditional support services to individuals and their families infected/affected with the HIV/AIDS virus. IAM also provides vital educational and prevention programs that respond to the community.

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