Veterinarians International To Honor Dr. William Karesh At Hamptons “One Health Benefit”

Veterinarians International (VI) is returning to Bridgehampton Tennis and Surf Club on Saturday, August 3 to host its annual One Health Benefit.

“We are thrilled to be honoring legendary wildlife veterinarian Dr. William Karesh, who coined the term ‘One Health’ which recognizes that the health of people is connected to the health of animals and the environment,” Dr. Scarlett Magda, Veterinarians International Founding President, shared. “Thus, our One Health gala, which is the creative genius of civic entertainment group beautifully embodies the theme with a healing herb and spice station, Liberian rainforest room, animal adoption center and mesmerizing sound baths with world-class performers.”

The evening will feature an immersive cocktail experience with an animal adoption wall, a late night bonfire on the beach with music from DJ Angelica Morrow and drumming with Jay Schneiderman and friends, an evening program with Christine Evangelista, Dwayne Hill and entertainment with Biet Simkin and Mezzo-soprano Anna Cley, and more.

Dr. William Karesh, a leading wildlife veterinarian, and global health expert, is a founding board member of Veterinarians International and President of the World Organization for Animal Health (OIE) Working Group on Wildlife Diseases. He also chairs the International Union for the Conservation of Nature Wildlife Health Specialist Group and is a member of the Council of Foreign relations. Dr. Karesh has published more than 200 scientific papers and spearheaded initiatives in over 45 countries with “one health” as the guiding principle.

A live auction will boast artwork by Steven Klein, Caswell Sculpture, and expeditions with Dr. Magda to explore Veterinarians International’s work with Sri Lanka’s baby elephants and Liberia’s rescued chimpanzees firsthand.

The One Health Benefit Committee is encompassed of Dr. Stacey Collé + Jill Alcott Ferreday co-chairs, Andy Arons, Antonella Bertello, Elisabetta Bartolini, Michael Braverman, Christine Evangelista, Gabby Karan de Felice, and Gianpaulo de Felice, April Gornik, Jane Gill and Jack Kelly.

Through the animal adoption wall, a healing herbs and spices exhibit, and other unique touches, the summer benefit will highlight the sights, tastes, and sounds of the remote destinations that VI works in. Veterinarians International’s goal is to offer veterinary care, as well as training to underserved communities worldwide.

“It will be an evening to remember,” she added.

Tickets to One Health start at $475. The benefit will begin at 6:30 p.m.

Bridgehampton Tennis and Surf Club is located at 231 Midocean Drive in Bridgehampton. For more information, visit www.onehealthgala.org.