Museum Fundraiser To Be Held Virtually Next Month

By Brian M. Johnson, The Bristol Press

August 18, 2021

The American Clock & Watch Museum’s 5th Annual “Wine, Women & Watches” fundraiser will be held virtually Sept. 16, with several local businesses joining in the fun.

Those who purchase tickets to the event will get a “wine party package” and will be emailed a link to join the livestream 7 p.m. Sept. 16. All proceeds support the collections, exhibitions, and education programs at the American Clock & Watch Museum.

The program will include wine specialist Jim Smith from Global Wines of Boston, who will be discussing wine and food pairings. Local restaurant owner JR Rusgrove will also demonstrate how to create a festive charcuterie board. Additionally, there will be segments featuring area businesses, including Cafe Real and Rich Farm Ice Cream, creating wine-based drinks with some of the museum’s watch experts.

American Clock & Watch Museum Executive Director Patti Philippon added that participants will also get a taste of history, learning about Candace Roberts – an early clock face painter and “party girl.”

Philippon said that Wine, Women & Watches made a successful transition to a virtual format last year.

"Last year, ticket holders found creative ways to gather with friends in smaller groups,” she said. “We had a great turnout and received positive feedback. We have a fun-filled evening planned again this year, so we hope that people will join us.”

Event co-chair and Board of Directors President, Kim Ciccarello said a virtual format was chosen again this year since organizers were unsure what the environment with the pandemic would be like. But, she is excited to see it going forward with strong community support.

“We are celebrating the 5th anniversary of Wine, Women & Watches and we are excited to be partnering with some great local businesses,” she said.

“Gold Watch” Sponsors for the event include Barnes Group Inc., Noble Wealth Advisors of Janney Montgomery Scott LLC, and Stanley Black & Decker.

“Silver Dial Sponsors” include Briar Rosa Networks, Victoria Rose Biondi, MD; Bristol Health, CCOG Women’s Health Group, Quinoco Energy Services and Torrington Savings Bank.

“Brass Gear Sponsors” include A. Ciccarello Building Company, LLC; Allied Insurance Center, Coppermine Advisors, LLC, Della Porta Eye Care LLC, Dynamic Manufacturing Company, Inc., Main Street Community Foundation, Roland Dumont Agency, TD Bank, Thomaston Savings Bank, Tracy-Driscoll Insurance and Walmart of Bristol.

Watch Crystal Sponsors include Timothy Bobroske Construction Services, LLC.

Individual tickets are $50. Patron tickets are $100. The Special 5th Anniversary Party Package is $250.

Tickets must be purchased by Sept. 12 and can be ordered at the museum at 100 Maple St., online at clockandwatchmuseum.org/events or by calling the museum at 860-583-6070.

Brian M. Johnson can be reached at 860-973-1806 or bjohnson@bristolpress.com.