With Super Bowl XLIX only 24 hours away, supporters of Camp for All drummed up close to $1 million in team spirit with the "Super Ball Gala," held Saturday at the Bayou City Event Center.
A record 800 guests stepped out in "game day" attire, probably none having more fun with it than cheeseheads Amy and Ross Turner or "referees" Jennifer and Dr. Scott Jarriel. Houston Texan cheerleaders contributed to the team spirit, posing for photos with guests many of whom sported Houston Texans jerseys.
There was cheering all around for chairs Kathy Johnson and Laurie Vander Ploeg for bringing in a record $960,000 for support of the more than 10,000 campers, adults and children with disabilities, who attend each year.
Youngster Daniel Kay shared the story of his fun at Camp for All where he was not defined by his personal challenges and where he could romp and play in a safe environment.
In a nod to the gridiron theme, organizers brought in the dynamic Willowridge High School Marching Band for a parade around the ballroom. Applause sounded for the band and for Jay Munisteri and Amegy Bank for years of Camp for All support.
Joining the Super Bowl preview party included Camp for All president and CEO Pat Sorrells, board president Liz Rigney and Camp for All Founders Larry Neuhaus, Dr. Bob Zeller and Dr. Paul Gerson. The party throng included Joanie McLeod and John Kirksey, Dr. Jayne Finkowski-Rivera and Dr. Carlos Rivera, Melinda and Matt Mogas, Robin and Jerry Mueck and Lisa and Mike O'Leary.
Amy and Ross Turner take the game day attire protocol very seriously.
