October 31, 2016
For Immediate Release
Contact: Kate Sann, Communications & Programs Manager
914.234.6992 ext. 15, kate@westchesterlandtrust.org

New Nature Documentary, PONDEMONIUM, Captivates Crowd
and Draws New Support for Land Trust’s Work in Southern Westchester

MAMARONECK, NY — On Thursday, October 20th, Westchester Land Trust supporters were treated to a sneak peek of a locally-produced nature documentary—PONDEMONIUM—that demonstrates the need for land protection in suburban areas. More than 50 enthusiastic attendees turned out for the Pondemonium Party – a fall fundraiser hosted by Dr. David and Marjorie Kaufman at their home which is situated across the street from WLT’s Otter Creek Preserve. The 35-acre preserve is open to the public at no cost, and is the largest privately owned tidal wetland designated and protected as a nature sanctuary in Westchester County. WLT took ownership of the preserve in 2015 and raises private funds to ensure its long-term stewardship and maintenance.

The evening’s high point was PONDEMONIUM, the soon-to-be released documentary by Academy Award nominated filmmakers, Susan Todd and Andrew Young (Archipelago Films). Ms. Todd—a WLT Director—and Mr. Young were on hand to share a unique behind-the-scenes look at the making of their latest project which, remarkably, was filmed almost entirely around their Croton home on land that is permanently protected by a WLT conservation easement. PONDEMONIUM draws upon their experiences raising a family in, as Mr. Todd aptly put it, “the age of screens,” and serves to elevate the diverse and dynamic world of nature in our own backyards.

Guests were captivated by the film’s artistry and its relatability. Ms. Todd and Mr. Young have filmed extensively all around the world but, as Ms. Todd reminded the audience, we “needn’t travel to Alaska or Madagascar to marvel at the wonders of biodiversity so long as we learn to turn our gaze outwards.” Once completed, PONDEMONIUM will be shown in natural history museums and nature centers around the world.

Additional highlights included a guided tasting of regionally produced whiskeys curated by Colin Goundrey of Bar’lees in Mamaroneck. Guests sampled an array of artisanal spirits from Berkshire Mountain Distillers (Sheffield, MA), Catskill Distilling Company (Bethel, NY) and New York Distilling Company (Brooklyn, NY).

Committee members planning the event included: Nanette Bourne & Dr. John Delfs (White Plains), Catherine & James Diao (Irvington), Courtney Donohoe (Pelham), Ellen & David Freeman (Mamaroneck), Dr. David & Marjorie Kaufman (Mamaroneck), Allyson Redpath Mawe (Mamaroneck), and Susan Todd & Andrew Young (Croton). The event was sponsored by Houlihan-Parnes Realtors, LLC, Dr. David & Marjorie Kaufman, Archipelago Films, Ellen & David Freeman, and Serendipity Magazine.

Proceeds from the evening benefited the Westchester Land Trust’s land conservation and stewardship work in in southern Westchester.