After a fire tore through Sag Harbor’s Main Street in mid-December of 2016, gutting a number of buildings – including the iconic Sag Harbor Cinema, Bay Street Theater and the Sag Harbor Center for the Arts rallied the community during A Night of Thanks, a benefit concert that raised funds for the Village’s Volunteer Ambulance and Fire Departments.
The event, held on Thursday, January 19th, was wildly successful, raising over $15,000. The proceeds will be split evenly between the two organizations: the Ambulance Department plans to allot the donations to new ambulance or ancillary equipment, and the Fire Department will use it for gear.
“It is wonderful that Bay Street was able to help support our community in the aftermath of the fire with a donation of $15,507 for fire and ambulance teams,” shared Tracy Mitchell, Executive Director of Bay Street Theater. “Of course it took a village to support this night – so bravo to Gary Hygom who produced the event, as well as to all of the musicians who are always first in line to donate their talents.”
Nancy Atlas and the Nancy Atlas Project, Hoodoo Loungers, and Gene Casey and the Lone Sharks were the evening’s headliners.
“And a shout out also goes to our volunteers, sponsors, local artists, stores and restaurants all around the East End who donated towards the raffle and auction,” added Mitchell. “Sag Harbor has always pulled together in time of need, and as long as Bay Street is able, we will continue to do our part.”
The incredibly successful fundraising event serves as a representation of the Village’s incredible sense of community and each individual’s willingness to support each other and their home in their little niche on the harbor.
“I’m grateful every day for being a part of such a caring community, and for being able to help in any way we can,” Mitchell expressed.
Bay Street Theater is located at 1 Bay Street in Sag Harbor. For more information about the theater, visit www.baystreet.org.