Middletown, RI (October 17, 2025) — Newport Mental Health’s “Rock the Beach” Gala united a crowd of 250 at the Newport Beach House for an unforgettable evening filled with hope, connection, and generosity. More than a fundraiser, the September 25th event was a powerful reminder of how deeply mental health touches our lives and the strength we find when we come together as a community.
Guests arrived ready to make a difference, and the energy was infectious. Following a welcome by Dayna Gladstein, President & CEO, Auctioneer Lucas Hunt led a lively and competitive auction featuring fabulous trips to Europe and sunny escapes to Mexico. He also led an enthusiastic “paddle raise” where pledges of support were made. Thanks to the generosity and spirited bidding of the crowd, the gala raised nearly $220,000 in support of vital behavioral health programs in Newport County.
The night was filled with heartfelt moments, including a moving message of hope and recovery from a Newport Mental Health client, reminding everyone why this cause is so important. Tyler Bernadyn, a member of the board of directors for both Newport Mental Health and presenting sponsor Lobby Muddy Fest, delivered inspiring remarks about his personal connection to Newport Mental Health’s mission. He then invited attendees to stand if they knew someone who had experienced mental health challenges. In a striking display of unity and compassion, nearly every guest rose to their feet, underscoring the profound and universal impact of mental health in our lives.
Another special highlight was the presentation of a generous $30,000 check from Lobby Muddy Fest, whose ongoing support continues to fuel Newport Mental Health’s mission. “What started as an idea to raise some money and spark some conversation around mental health has now grown into multiple annual events that allow us to donate to an organization that we care about deeply,” said Bernadyn about the Lobby Muddy Fest. “Our small ripple in a big pond is now making waves, and we are happy to join everyone attending the gala in making a difference in this community, and in the lives of people we may know or never even meet.”
Following the auction and presentations, the dance floor came alive with laughter and a celebration of community, as guests enjoyed the vibrant atmosphere thanks to newcomer band, Purple Honey.
“What moved me most at this year’s Rock the Beach Gala was the overwhelming sense of connection in the room,” says Gladstein. “We saw people standing together, openly acknowledging that mental health touches every life. It was a beautiful reminder that none of us are alone in this journey. Thanks to the generosity of our community and partners like Lobby Muddy Fest and our many other supporters and sponsors, we are able to provide hope, healing, and real support to those who need it most.”
Additional sponsorship was provided by Jonathan & Leah Stearns, Aramli Foundation, Bazarsky Family Foundation, Joyce Kirby & Michael Greene, BankNewport, Brown Emergency Medicine, David & Jean Kelly, Lila Delman/Compass, Neighborhood Health Plan of Rhode Island, Newport Hospital, The Hire, Thrive Pilates, Elizabeth & John Brooks, Sue & Peter Metzger, Farrar Associates, and Fifth Ward Liquors.
Honored guests included Senators Louis DiPalma (Middletown, Little Compton, Newport, Tiverton) and Linda Ujifusa (Portsmouth and Bristol); State Representatives Lauren Carson (Newport), Terri Cortvriend (Portsmouth and Middletown), and Chairman Marvin Abney (Middletown, Newport); and Newport City Council member Xay Khamsyvoravong.