What: “All in for the House”
Where: Bayou City Events Pavilion
The scoop: More than 300 guests gathered at the Bayou City Events Pavilion to raise critical funds for the beloved Ronald McDonald House Houston.
The casino-inspired “All in for the House,” chaired by Debbie and Ozzie Bauer and Karen and David Smith, raised nearly $700,000 for the organization that provides a home away from home to families with seriously ill children being treated in the Texas Medical Center member institutions.
In true casino form, the night featured a quarter slots raffle, spin the wheel with Tenenbaum and Tootsies for surprise bags, a bourbon pull, and casino games.
Popular Houston sommelier Sean Beck hosted a premium, rare whiskey tasting. For some ring-a-ding-ding, Dean Martin (a lookalike, more accurately) crooned onstage alongside a pianist. Guests noshed on bites from Monarch Hospitality.
Emcee Johnny “Bravo” Holloway kept the festive energy going and recognized honorees Lesha and Tom Elsenbrook, who have been long-term supporters for the Ronald McDonald House Houston. A video presenting their support and volunteerism was gleefully applauded.
Cristina Vetrano, CEO, expressed her appreciation for the ongoing support in these difficult times for the organization. “The need for care does not stop, we have to continue to provide a safe, happy environment for these families as they struggle to care for an ill child,” Vetrano told the audience.
Good-hearted gamblers included: Maria and Neil Bush, Emily Crosswell, Paige Fertitta, Emma and Seth Elsenbrook, Evan Elsenbrook, Seliece and Lee Womble,Allison and Dan Connally, Mady and Ken Kades, Marilyn and Louis Mogas, Dr Susan Blaney, Teresa and Martijn van Oort and Cookie and Larry Hanrahan, Cyndy Garza Roberts and Thomas Roberts, Pam and Rob Doty, Ken and Gretchen Sheirr, Maggie and Will Stacy, Ruth and Charles Pulido, and Nancy and Jack Dinerstein.
Karen and Dave Smith, Lesha and Tom Elsenbrook, Cristina Vetrano, and Debbie and Ozzie Bauer.
The winner bidders spent a Rodeo record $325,000.Courtesy of RodeoHouston