Chattanooga Times Free Press

VISUAL, PERFORMING ARTS PARTNER FOR CARES

- STAFF REPORT

“The arts community has always been such a supporter of the Chattanoog­a CARES’ mission. This city is overflowin­g with talent. We are grateful that so many of these talented people will be joining the fight against HIV at Arts For CARES.” MITZI WARD, CARES DEVELOPMEN­T AND EVENTS COORDINATO­R

Chattanoog­a’s visual and performing artists are pooling their talents in a fundraiser for Chattanoog­a CARES on Saturday, Sept. 9, from 7 to 10 p.m.

The mission of CARES is to assist and support individual­s with HIV, Hepatitis C or sexually transmitte­d infections.

“The arts community has always been such a supporter of the Chattanoog­a CARES’ mission. This city is overflowin­g with talent. We are grateful that so many of these talented people will be joining the fight against HIV at Arts For CARES,” says Mitzi Ward, CARES developmen­t and events coordinato­r.

Last year’s benefit was so successful that the location of this year’s party is moving to allow guests a little more elbow room. Arts For CARES will be held at 901 Lindsay (formerly known as Lindsay Street Hall).

“The venue is absolutely gorgeous. We don’t want to get away from the intimate atmosphere of Arts For CARES, but are happy that we can offer a bit more space,” says Ward.

“We’re going to use tall cocktail tables to ensure a good crowd flow. Two small lounge areas will also be offered — one indoors, the other outside under the tent space. Flowers by Gil and Curt will provide centerpiec­es.”

Original artwork donated by local artists will be up for bids in a silent auction.

Entertainm­ent will be presented throughout the night beginning with flutist James Hall. Ballet Tennessee will perform two pieces during the event.

“The Jazz Machine quintet, which features Dennis Bauer from Uptown Big Band, will be performing. The group will be accompanie­d by vocalist, Melanie Willetts. An acoustic guitarist, Josh Driver, will perform throughout the evening on our patio area,” says Ward.

The benefit is black-tie optional. Tickets are $120, which includes heavy hors d’oeuvres and open bar.

For more informatio­n, check Chattanoog­a CARES website: www. chattanoog­acares.org.

 ?? CONTRIBUTE­D PHOTOS ?? Thomas McKay and PJ McKay will emcee Arts For CARES on Sept. 9. The pair recently made a TV pilot, “Down to the Studs,” that aired on HGTV.
CONTRIBUTE­D PHOTOS Thomas McKay and PJ McKay will emcee Arts For CARES on Sept. 9. The pair recently made a TV pilot, “Down to the Studs,” that aired on HGTV.

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