Whimsy: Motown Magic

By Katlean de Monchy–

The Southampton Arts Center ‘s fourth annual summer cocktail party was a big hit. The fundraiser, dubbed Whimsy: Motown Magic, welcomed a large group of Southampton residents, visitors, artists, and community members to support the organization’s mission: to use art and culture to build community.

There were outstanding libations and music for people of all ages provided by That Motown Band.

That Motown Band has ten members, including both vocalists and instrumentalists. (Photo credit: Sean Zanni/PMC)

Who could say no to mini lobster rolls? No one. As soon as the music started, however, some people could not stop dancing.

A generous number of tables and chairs made sure that people had a place to sit and enjoy the day. (Photo Sean Zanni/PMC)

When there was a break in the music, the organizations trustee and event chair Elyn Kronemeyer reminded everyone that the Southampton Arts Center offers free admission to its galleries.

Bill Manger, Mayor of the Village of Southampton, and Elyn Kronemeyer (Photo Sean Zanno/PMC)

She also reminded everyone that there were all kinds of events and programs during the year. Christina Mossaides Strassfield, a key member of the committee, announced that the organization was now in its 11th year.

Kristen Baran, Mitch Kates and Anne Speiser (Photo credit Sean Zanni/PMC)

Hosts included Elyn and Jeff Kronemeyer, Roberta Amon, Kristen Baran, Heather Borstein, Robin and Wendell Brown, Sylvia Hemingway, Deborah Herrick Hare and Noel Hare Jr., Denise and Al Hurley, Zoe Kamitses and Susan Burke, Nancy Kane, Heidi Lee-Komaromi, Ellie Manko Libby, NancyJane and Jeffrey Loewy, Alie Mitchell, Fairley Pilaro and Joe Messina, Tish Rehill, Kara Ross, Nicole and Allen Salmasi, Monique Savarese, Jean and Martin Shafiroff, Jane and Peter Strasser, Helena and Rob Vahradian, and Paula Viscogliosi. Laurie Tortorice.

Robin and Wendell Brown (Photograph Sean Zanni/PMC)

This organization does such good work. You can find out more about their series of art, music, film and speaker programs at

southamptonartscenter.org.