Norma Baynes Memorial Arts Fest Celebrates Life, Culture and Raises Funds

An afternoon of art, music and culture was on tap at the Norma Baynes Memorial Arts Fest in Somerset, NJ this fall. The inaugural event celebrated the life of the late Ms. Norma Baynes, adored mother-in-law of Vignetic President Michael Rose, and honored her love for all art forms, including artwork, dance, and music.

Hosted by her daughter, Kisha Rose, son-in-law, Michael, and orchestrated by Leonie Infantry and a host of family and friends, the outdoor gathering welcomed 100 guests and raised funds for the SERV Behavioral Health System. Focused on compassionate care and personal empowerment, SERV is an award-winning, not-for-profit behavioral healthcare organization in New Jersey that offers a full spectrum of recovery services for children, youth, and adults living with chronic mental illness, substance use disorder, and intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Ms. Baynes, a New Jersey resident who grew up on the island of Jamaica, passed away in 2015. Guests from all over the Tri-State area gathered and danced to a live Caribbean band and dined on refreshments from Seasons 52 restaurant of Bridgewater, NJ on Oct. 9.

“The rain held up and the afternoon was perfect. We raised money for a good cause and so many of her close friends, coworkers, and even complete strangers came to celebrate her and what her life meant to so many,” said Kisha Rose, who chaired the Norma Baynes Art Fest.

“Seeing her granddaughter celebrate her with a dance tribute would have had her in tears,” Rose said. “She would have truly enjoyed the outpouring of love from so many who love, admired, and miss her so much.”

To donate to the SERV in Norma Baynes’ memory, feel free to donate here: https://servbhs.net/how-to-help/donate.