Proving prognosticators wrong on at least one point regarding the oil slump's effects on the city, the American Heart Association Houston "Heart Ball" raked in a record-breaking $2.6 million Saturday night, exceeding what many would consider an already ambitious goal of $2.4 million. The unprecedented total was reached thanks to an anonymous donor ponying up $250,000 in the ballroom that night.
"This by far was one of the most memorable Heart Balls held in our event’s 33-year history," one team player noted.
Applause, applause for Lacey and Matthew Goossen, who chaired "The Romance of Havana" gala held at the Hilton Americas-Houston. (They are the youngest individuals to have ever chaired the black-tie gala.) Kudos also to auction co-chairs Mel Johnson and Eric Weiser. And muchas gracias to presenting sponsors Lexus and Silver Eagle Distributors.
The eminence of the honorees likewise contributed to the evening's success with Molly and Jim Crownover as community honorees, Silver Eagle Distributors as the corporate honoree (CEO John Nau a long-time supporter of the AHA), and Dr. David McPherson as medical honoree.
The excitement began in the ballroom foyer where a combo played Cuban-inspired tunes while stilt walkers, costumed as birds of the Caribbean, entertained guests. Inside the ballroom, A Memorable Event filled the space with shades of Havana at sunset. Chandeliers of pink, orange and gold ribbons swayed above the dinner tables while the space above the dance floor was strung with party lights.
Joining the energized scene were AHA board chair Jason Few and wife Arvia, board president Dr. Miguel Quinones and wife Maria, Kristin and Jay Waring, Steph and Al Walker, Joanne Houck and Timothy Singletary, Jenn and Jeff Parent, Beth Wolff, Leslie and Jack Blanton, Roxann and Tim Neumann and Lilly and Thurmon Andress.
Thomas Stenack, Catherine Brooker.
