Philharmonic Guild holds fashion show luncheon

The Las Vegas Philharmonic Guild supports the orchestra in its musical performances and educational initiatives. Guild volunteers raise funds, assist at performances and develop other projects to further the goals of the orchestra.

One such activity was the Champagne reception, silent auction, luncheon and fashion show held recently at the Tuscany.

Toni Carpenter chaired the delightful sold-out event. The Philharmonic’s violin quartet entertained as guests including C.J. and Art Woolston, Bud Pattengale, Joan Barre, David Fuller, Matthew McRae, Sondra Lynch, and Jeri and Rick Crawford bid on 25 auction items.

Well-known hat designer and Southern Nevadan Louisa Voisine attended and offered her derby-style hat accented with chiffon, toile and silk flowers for an auction item. Other auction packages were a round of golf at Bear’s Best in Summerlin, Tea for Two at the Four Seasons, a two-night stay at the Tuscany, and a custom-designed dress made especially for the top bidder by the luncheon’s guest of honor, Aldo Mencatto.

Philharmonic Guild President Juliana McRae welcomed all and spoke of the organization’s activities.

A lovely luncheon was served while Philharmonic musicians Voltaire Verzosa played the piano accompanied by violinist Rebecca Ramsey and cellist Moonlight Tran.

Carpenter introduced famed Brazilian designer Mencatto, who is now a Las Vegas resident. His fashions are seen on the runway, on the street and at formal events. His style is cheerful and modern in mixed fabrics and bold colors, embellished with Czech crystals and French silk.

Among the professional models were Debora Mattoso, Brazilian international model from New York, and Emilio Rodrigues, Mr. Brazil USA Nevada 2015.

Members of the Philharmonic who were models for the day were DeAnn Letourneau, concertmaster; Tina Castellanos, flutist; Sabrina Cozine, project manager; and Monica Fuller, Guild education chair.

More guests attending were Gayle Anderson, Patricia Fink, Susan Houston, Amy Wiles, Persia Golden, Rosita Kanes, Sheila Taylor, Suzie Farrell, Carol Terry, Vaughn Richard and Sandra Frank, Donna Cuttler, Kathy Hussey, Orene Albrecht, Beverly and Mike Mykisen, Doreen Hannum, Zahava Gerstenfeld, Char Gundell, Dianne Clark, Miranda Cohen and Debra Mills.

New organization: Children’s Medical Advocacy Coalition is a new nonprofit that provides advocacy, resources and support for community agencies that serve Nevada’s medically fragile children.

The organization is made up of physicians and physician groups chaired by Dr. Ron Kline and chair-elect Dr. Andy Eisen.

A meet and greet social/fundraiser took place recently at Ferguson’s Gallery on Grand Canyon Parkway, a high-end store of bath and kitchen fixtures.

Charli Carter, fundraising and membership chair greeted supporters and their guests including Marcy Farris, Wendy Distiller, Kjersti Wyatt, Sadie Cornejo and Carmel Widner.

Glass artist Leslie Rankin sold her colorful creations. Jewelry artist Margaret Jung offered her lovely jewelry pieces, and well-known fine arts painter Terry Ritter displayed her beautiful paintings.

Chef Darnell Harness gave a live cooking demonstration.

More supporters attending were Andrea Rapanos, Peggy Sanders, April Tonkin, Bertie Tettamanti, Kathly Kubik and Lorri Jackson.