Wildlife Photograph

Symphony in the Park is Sept. 7

Saturday August 02, 2008
Ashley Cleveland, three time Grammy winner to perform

Join us for the 23rd Annual Symphony in the Park on Sunday, September 7, 2008.  Symphon in the Park is a unique and elegant outdoor event on the beautiful grounds of Ijams Nature Center featuring the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra conducted by Maestro Lucas Richman. 

This year's event will be even more extraordinary, with a guest performance by three time Grammy Winner and Knoxville native, Ashley Cleveland. Ashley's most recent Grammy was received earlier this year for Best Gospel Rock Album Before the Daylight's Shot. In past years, special guests have included Senator Lamar Alexander, Jim Clayton, Coach Pat Summitt, Ambassador Victor Ashe, Mayor Bill Haslam, Coach Bruce Pearl, and actor David Keith.

Serving as this year's emcee will be Knoxville couple, Belinda and Frank Gambuzza, owners of Salon Visage. The evening will be especially memorable as we will recognize Christine "Teenie" Hayworth for her wisdom, passion, and committed support of Ijams for so many years.

Symphony in the Park normally attracts over 450 guests who come to enjoy the beautiful scenery, delicious gourmet fare catered by The Lord Lindsey, and a silent auction with fabulous items such as an acoustic guitar autographed by Vince Gill, two roundtrip coach airline tickets to anywhere in the continental U.S., a luxury yacht cruise for eight to Emma's at Choto Marina for dinner, a cocktail party for 25 with National Geographic guests.  Jim Gray Gallery has donated a beautiful limited edition framed print, "Settling to Fish," that will be available during the silent auction, as well. 

Proceeds from Symphony in the Park will provide funding for Ijams' environmental education programs, caring and feeding of non-releasable animals, and maintenance of the nature park.  With increasing concern on global climate change and a growing public awareness to "Go Green," Ijams Nature Center is leading the way with earth-friendly practices and free or low-cost environmental education programs for all ages.  These programs are designed to increase the knowledge, understanding and appreciation of the natural world.  Additionally, Ijams maintains 175 acres of green space with nature exhibits and hiking trails for the community to enjoy. 

Tickets are $110 each or a table of ten for $1,000.  Sponsorship opportunities are still available.  To purchase tickets or for more information, call 577-4717 ext. 23 or email kdmytro@ijams.org. 

Seating is limited.

- By Sally Judiscak, Development Officer

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