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 SETTING: ACL Live at The Moody Theatre was the recent setting for an epic fundraising night in support of one of Austin’s most iconic public spaces. Imagine Muny III benefiting The Muny Conservancy, drew 500 sociables, and an additional thousand music lovers from every corner of Austin’s philanthropic community, for an evening with special friends and great music. The night took on an extra special feeling as it celebrated the 100th anniversary of one of Austin’s largest public green spaces, Lions Municipal Golf Course.
THE STYLE: After the cocktail party, the action 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 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 Wheel, 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 PURPOSE: 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 from the event will go towards preserving the course, so current and future generations can enjoy the 141-acre green space in Central Austin.
