Conservancy Gala: Havana Nights

Conservancy Gala 2019 co-chairs, Trish Munro and Josephine VanDevender transported us to a fabulous night in Havana! Greeted by flame twirlers on the white carpet at the entrance to the Parthenon I knew we were in store for a fun and fantastic evening. Honorary chairs, Clare Armistead, Ellen Martin and Hope Stringer provided fashion inspiration in festive looks of Cuban-influenced couture. There were cocktails at the bar at the feet of Athena followed by dinner in a tented area next to the Parthenon.

We were lead into the dining area by a conga line. The first course was a salad of autumn greens, squash panna cotta, beets crisps and blackberries with pecan and apple vinaigrette. The entree was grilled beef tenderloin and seared scallops accompanied by Parmesan polenta cake, tomato coulis, cauliflower puree, roasted asparagus and heirloom carrots.  The dessert was a chocolate ganache tart with toasted meringue, pureed mango, coconut snow and fresh berries. During dinner there were remarks from Conservancy Executive Director, John Tummineilo, founding president, Sylvia Rapoport and Metro Parks chair, Michelle Steele. Guests were treated to the smooth Cuban sounds of Yosvany Y Su Son Tropical. The decor design, event planning and flowers were provided by Big Events. Since 2010 this fundraiser has supported programs, services and initiatives for two of Nashville’s treasured icons – the Parthenon and Centennial Park.