Putnam Land Trust Benefit to Honor Retiring Conservationist

The Putnam County Land Trust will honor the retiring Executive Director of the Hudson Highlands Land Trust at its upcoming benefit April 16.

The Annual Benefit Dinner and Auction is open to the public and, PCLT officials point out, is an inspiring and meaningful way to support open space preservation and the creation of trails and amenities allowing public access to these natural areas for recreation.

"The PCLT dinner committee is planning an evening that will be both old and new at the same time," PCLT President Judith Terlizzi said in a prepared statement. "We invite all those interested in the mission of the PCLT to come out for an enjoyable and fun evening."

A reception featuring live entertainment will be followed by a gourmet buffet dinner and a live auction run by Ivan and Laura Cohen of the Cohen Putnam Agency in Carmel.

This year’s dinner honoree, Andrew Chmar, the Retiring Executive Director of the Hudson Highlands Land Trust, will be receiving the 2016 Blue Heron Award.

The award was created in 2002 to recognize those individuals and groups who have played a leadership role in land conservation and/or environmental education. Since 2004, Andy has led the HHLT in protecting the natural resources, rural character and the scenic beauty of the Hudson Highlands, PCLT officials said.

The event will be held at the Starr Ridge Banquet and Conference Center at 38 Starr Ridge Road in Brewster on Saturday, April 16. Seating is limited and reservations are required. The event is BYOB. Take advantage of special dinner pricing of $60 per person if paid by April 6th. After April 6th, a ticket goes up to $65. To make a reservation, inquire about advertising space or donate goods or services for the auction, call 914 621 8466 or email events@pclt.