On August 30, Elaine and Doug Muchmore hosted their third annual Garden Concert to benefit Eastern Sierra Land Trust. Held outdoors in their beautiful backyard in La Jolla, CA, the eveningwas truly exquisite – we cannot thank Elaine and Doug enough for their remarkable hospitality! From start to finish, the party was such a lovely gathering of friends. We are delighted to share here with you a bit of the magic that wasfelt on that special night.

 

As guests arrived, they werewelcomed with flutes of sparkling wine:an ideal treattoset the tone for the remainder of the evening. And with an assortment of delicious dishes prepared by Elaine -including vegetables picked from her garden, homemade jams, freshly baked bread, and pizzas prepared in their outdoor oven – the menu was perfect for an elegant backyard soiree.

Musicians perform at Elaine and Doug's Garden ConcertGuestsrelishedthe spread of appetizers, thenproceeded to mingle and learn more about the important work ESLT accomplishes in the Eastern Sierrafrom ESLT Vice President Tony Taylor. As the time approached for the concert to begin, everyonetook a seat in Elaine and Doug’s terraced garden to enjoythe musical talents of two world-renowned Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra musicians, Kate Hatmaker (violin) and Trevor Handy (cello). Their duet performancewas simply marvelous!

Following Kate and Trevor’srendition of the music ofMaurice Ravel, Erwin Schulhoff and othergreats, the evening ended with an assortment of wonderfulhomemade desserts and conversation. I shared incredible and in-depth discussionswith some folks who had been attending the Muchmore’s annual gathering since 2013, as well as with otherswho were new to the experience and unfamiliar with our work.We left that night withthewarmth feltfromconnecting with friends and supporters, both old and new – and all proceeds contributed during the event went to support our work to savethe rural valleys and mountain vistas we all treasure.

We are incredibly gratefulfor Doug and Elaine’s generosity in hosting such a marvelous evening in our honor, and were delighted bythe enthusiasm we encountered from all guests. Our thanksgo to Doug and Elaine, and to all who joined us onthat special evening: your contributions helpprotect the Eastern Sierra’smost cherished landscapes, and your dedication to our region’s identityand future inspiresus deeply, each and every day.

Best,
Kay