Is it a windfall if your gala brings in more than $1 million five years in a row? Windfall or magical trend, the folks at the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation are kicking up their heels over the continued success of the black-tie gala. More than 600 made the Carnevale-themed event that evoked images of Venice.
Kathryn and Jeff Smith swear that this, their third round at chairing this gala, was their last. For Saturday night, they partnered with Liz and José Luis Vittor, who made their debut as JDRF gala chairs.
Rebekah Johnson transformed the ballroom into a Venetian fantasy complete with jugglers on stilts, costumed revelers and glittering ladies
Bergner & Johnson Design's Rebekah Johnson transformed the Hilton Americas Houston ballroom into a Venetian fantasy complete with jugglers on stilts, costumed revelers and glittering ladies. More than a few guests added their own festive notes with sparkling carnival masks.
The evening honored Donna and Tony Vallone and Baker Hughes, represented by Kate and Art Soucy. KPRC Channel 2 meteorologist Frank Billingsley served as emcee and led the wonderfully boisterous live auction that included an African safari, a labradoodle puppy and dinner for 10 at Tony's.
The party crowd included JDRF board chair Pam Fuller and husband Scott, auction chair Rebecca Hlavinka and husband John, Anna and Scott McLean, Mary and Dr. Mark D'Andrea, Rachael and Jason Volz, Patty and Fred Hagans, William Hagans, Kay and Art Soucy, Elizabeth and Tim Vail, Gina and Dr. Devinder Bhatia and Pat and Larry Wright.
Jeff and Kathryn Smith, from left, and Liz and José Luis Vittor chaired the JDRF gala a the Hilton Americas Houston.
