Rob Giardinelli
Imagine Muny III Hosts 100th Anniversary Gala Of Historic Green Space
By Rob Giardinelli Photography by Amy Price and Tyler Schmitt of Mill Photography Studio
THE VIBE: The Texas Cocktail-meets-Texas Tuxedo attire featured a mix of tuxedo jackets and jeans along with ballgowns and casual-chic wear that created a welcoming environment for everyone who attended. The festivities began on the al fresco terrace outside of The Moody Theatre for a cocktail reception.
After VIPs posed on the green carpet to commemorate the evening, they cozied up to the bar to grab their favorite spirit. Drinks in hand, guests proceeded to mingle catching up with old friends and making new ones in the process.
The action then headed into The Moody Theatre for the main program. JHL Company produced the event, leading the fabulous execution of the family-style barbecue meal that allowed the cocktail conversations to flow freely over the dinner tables as well. As guests were winding down dinner, they were treated to a touching tribute video showcasing the historical value of the state’s first integrated golf course and how it continues to be a gathering space for children of all backgrounds today.
Next came a dazzling live auction and fund-a-need. Heath Hale of Cowboy Auctioneer helmed an impressive list of items that included a VIP experience during Master’s Week in Augusta with the signed flags from Master’s Tournament Winners Ben Crenshaw and Sergio Garcia being the most coveted.
The evening was capped off with a once-in-a-lifetime musical performance lineup by acclaimed artists including Ray Benson and Asleep at the Weel, Larry Gatlin, Jimmy Vaughan, and Gary P. Nunn. Their generosity and love of the Muny course were felt throughout the room during their singing of many classic tunes that often brought the crowd to their feet and capped off a night of fundraising that those fortunate enough to be a part of will talk about for years to come.
THE NON-PROFIT: Imagine Muny III, co-chaired by Ben Crenshaw and Scotty Sayers, raised over $1 million for The Muny Conservancy. The organization was founded to preserve one of Austin’s most iconic green spaces, Lions Municipal Golf Course. Proceeds raised from the event will go towards raising funds to preserve the course so current and future generations can enjoy the 141-acre green space in Central Austin.
