Midcoast Conservancy’s annual fundraising gala “Champagne on the Sheepscot” was a rousing success this year, raising more than $34,000 and attracting over 220 attendees to Alna on a September afternoon that thankfully did not include the effects of Hurricane Dorian.

Alna residents Prudence and Roger Kiessling welcomed the crowd to Kingsford, their spectacular riverside property, where music from the Lincoln Academy 5 O’Clock jazz combo complemented the scene perfectly. Lincoln Academy was also the source of the fleet of volunteer servers. Delicious food from Café Maranda and oysters from Nice oysters, along with an endless dessert spread contributed by volunteers, ensured that no one left hungry. Treats of Wiscasset helped make four cases of champagne appear; the enthusiastic attendees made them disappear! Sponsors Cellardoor Winery and Sheepscot Valley Brewing provided local wine and beer. Flowers donated by Hannaford and Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens were arranged by master florist volunteers.

Alna artist Kate Nordstrom donated a fabulous triptych painting of a salmon for the evening’s art raffle, particularly appropriate in this, the International Year of the Salmon. Over 60 people bought more than 200 tickets for a chance to take the piece home; the lucky winners were Ellin and Stephen Sheehy of Whitefield.

Midcoast Conservancy is grateful for the over $1,100 the raffle contributed to the event’s proceeds, all of which will go to support Midcoast Conservancy’s work conserving wild lands; protecting waters from the head of the Sheepscot River to Westport Island, and throughout the Medomak River and Damariscotta Lake watersheds; and providing community access to recreational gear, instruction and opportunities to experience the joy of stewardship.

Next year’s event will be at a very special property in Bremen, on the Medomak River. Details will be on the Midcoast Conservancy website next spring.