The setting was idyllic and the weather cooperated for the 24th year in a row Sunday as 450 music and nature lovers gathered at Ijams Nature Center to share a casual outdoor dinner and hear the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra play.
Organizers wisely streamlined the evening this year by shortening the program and holding the live auction in a stand-up format before dinner. Grateful attendees were on the way to their cars by 8:30, commenting on what a pleasant evening it had been. It is attention to details such as this that keeps Symphony in the Park one of the most popular and enjoyable fundraisers of the year. The event benefits Ijams and this year recognized the Alcoa Foundation with a “Spirit Award” in honor of its contributions to environmental causes.
Some highlights from Sunday:
Cocktails come first, natch.
From left: Daniel and Diane Carter, Bruce and Tami Hartmann
From left: Jeannie and Rick Bennett, Sarah Stowers, Barbara Arant, Susan Tisdale and Ross Faires
From left: Keith Richardson, Kim Trent, Ann and Richard Ince
David and Ellen Keim
Since David left his job as a journalist two months ago and started working for the Feds, he carries a lot more gear (see belt). Still no pocket protector, though.
On to dinner. Here’s the Moxley Carmichael table. The two folks missing from the photo are Peter Acly, who was off table-hopping and me (taking photo).
From left: Tami and Bruce Hartmann, Ellen Robinson, Jim and Phyllis Nichols, Gay and Bill Lyons and Alan Carmichael.
At this event, there was only one thing more important than the wine: bug spray.
Bill Lyons displays everyone's favorite fluid on Sunday!
Stephen and April Harris were presenting sponsors of Symphony in the Park
Sara Hedstrom, John Kelley and Dorothy Stair
Winston Frazier and Louise Fogarty
Rick and Jeannie Bennett
Maestro Lucas Richman conducting
An appreciative audience enjoys the evening
A lovely evening turns into a beautiful night
Great evening and great story!
That has always been one of my very favorite events. There’s something about hearing the best music of Western civilization in a beautiful outdoor setting. Of course, my sinuses still haven’t recovered! Thanks for joining us, Gay.