Middleburg Humane Foundation’s Good Friends for a Good Cause Estate Dinners

Ron Bradley, Roma Sherman, John Zugschwert, Diane Russell, John Zugschwert, Danielle Bradley, Will Russell, and Rose Rogers (photo by Joanne Maisano).

By Elaine Anne Watt

Inviting people to an intimate dinner at your home featuring deliciously prepared food and for a beloved cause in our community is the perfect mix for a successful evening. And so it was on Saturday night, January 20th, as ten host homes opened their doors to tables for ten on behalf of the Middleburg Humane Foundation.

LaurieMcClary and Milton Sender at Jill Davis' home enjoying the evening (photo by Joanne Maisano). — LaurieMcClary and Milton Sender at Jill Davis’ home enjoying the evening (photo by Joanne Maisano).

I had the opportunity to join Josh Muss and Bibi de Heller at their lovely home, along with their two canine members of the family. Over lots of laughs, new and old friends relaxed in the welcoming atmosphere in front of a roaring fire in the fireplace.

Joanne Maisano visited Jill Davis’ beautiful home, where her dog Cooper held court as the host. She then joined in the festivities at the home of Roma and John Sherman, the original owners of the Ashby Inn, where Roma was the chef for many years.

The beautifully arranged table at Jill Davis' home. Photo by Joanne Maisano. — The beautifully arranged table at Jill Davis’ home. Photo by Joanne Maisano.

Host Cooper at Jill Davis' home, Alston (photo by Joanne Maisano). — Host Cooper at Jill Davis’ home, Alston (photo by Joanne Maisano).

Melanie Burch, Director of Development for MHF, attended Michael and Lee McGettigan’s gathering at their historic home, Delacarlia. Guests enjoyed fabulous food in the original dining room of the home over engaging and lively conversation.

“What a lovely dinner party,” said Louisa Woodville. “I had such fun with all the guests, in addition to meeting new people I hope to see again. And the food, yikes! Delicious. The McGettigans set the bar high!”

Kelly Hymes and Jim Kleeblat enjoying the evening at Josh Muss and Bibi DeHeller's home (photo by Elaine Anne Watt) — Kelly Hymes and Jim Kleeblat enjoying the evening at Josh Muss and Bibi DeHeller’s home (photo by Elaine Anne Watt)

Host John Sherman (photo by Joanne Maisano).

Other hosts included Lisa and Marvin Jawer, Ms. Jean Perin, Nicky Perry and Andrew Stiffler, Laura “Loki” Van Roijen, Deborah and James Mill and Virginia Jenkins.

Katherine Berger and Barb Batterton at Alston House (photo by Joanne Maisano)

A well-set table at Josh Muss and Bibi DeHeller's gracious home (photo by Elaine Anne Watt). — A well-set table at Josh Muss and Bibi DeHeller’s gracious home (photo by Elaine Anne Watt).

Josh Muss and Bibi DeHeller hosted a delicious home-cooked culinary delight with a lively group of friends and supporters of the Middleburg Humane Foundation. (photo by Elaine Anne Watt).

Participants traveled from as far as D.C. to attend, and it’s easy to see why this annual event is so successful. The Middleburg Humane Foundation is grateful for the many ways their work is furthered by the generosity of the hosts and their guests. If you would like to receive an invitation to next year’s event, please contact admin@middleburghumane.org. ML