Photo credit: Janet Donovan
Dana Landry of Washington Fine Properties said it’s absolutely his favorite party of the year, rain included.
The Children’s Hearing and Speech Center holds its annual “Country Barbeque” at Villa Firenze, the residence of the Italian Ambassador, and has gained a reputation as one of the best spring parties in DC.
This year, the event coincided with the “Year of Italian Culture in America,” making it a particularly special occasion.
“We support as many charities as we can,” Landry noted. “Some are fun, some are more formal, some are more stuffy, but this is not only such a great cause, but so much fun. There are so many young people here tonight and we couldn’t be more proud to support the Children’s National Medical Center.”
As for rain…er flood? “You know, there’s a coziness about it and the grounds here are spectacular. To be in the middle of the city on this much land is so unique. We not only support the cause monetarily, but also lend a big hand in the production.”
Although the scene could have been an advertisement for stylish umbrellas, the weather was not a deterant. There were no empty dinner chairs which says a lot for the event in a city where Washingtonians stay home at the first sign of inclement weather. Was kind of like a rainy day at camp noted one guest.
Rocklands, everyones favorite barbeque stop, weighed in with some heavy duty fare.
“I feel it’s imperative when people have supported their own children through speech and occupational therapy to find another family to support the effort as such,” said Stephanie Polis.
“Every year this barbeque supports that cause, otherwise it would not be possible. Speech and occupational therapy is extremely expensive. When people come to this event they know they are supporting children verbatim. The benefits are provided to every child that needs it. There is nothing more daunting than being the parent who is being told that their child needs the therapy.”
As of the year 2010, the Center provides diagnostic and therapy services to over 10,000 children each year, providing them with more than 19,500 appointments yearly.
