Shelby's Social Diary

Justice for Children throws a Mardi Gras bash in late May and there is reason tocelebrate

Photo by Roy Nierdieck
Photo by Roy Nierdieck
Photo by Roy Nierdieck
Photo by Roy Nierdieck
Photo by Roy Nierdieck
Photo by Roy Nierdieck
Photo by Roy Nierdieck
Photo by Roy Nierdieck

Could there be a more noble cause than aiding children who are neglected and abused? When the call came to support Justice for Children at its eighth annual fundraiser, supporters turned out in record numbers and raised the most funds ever for the non-profit that provides a safety net of legal support, guidance and monitoring for children needing help.

Laura and Lee Slataper chaired the Mardi Gras-themed fundraiser at Hotel ZaZa where beneath the frivolity there was a serious mission.

With KPRC chief meteorologist Frank Billingsley serving as emcee, the evening honored several Houstonians who have made a difference in the community. Carolyn Farb was honored with the Harvey Houck Jr. Award, recognized for her lifelong commitment to and philanthropy for charities which focus on the welfare of children.

The award was named in honor of the late Harvey Houck Jr., who was one of Justice for Children's most ardent supporters for 24 years until his passing away last year. Rosemary Malone Houck, expressed the family's appreciation for the award being named in her late husband's honor.

Terri Langford received the 2011 Justice for Children Media Award for her body of work in the Houston Chronicle reporting on child abuse issues. KHOU newsman Jeremy Rogalski presented the award.

In thanking guests, Justice for Children executive director Steven Lightfoot said, “The Gala raised over $105,000. It is our primary fundraising event of the year, and is key to our ability to continue to provide our services at no cost to the children caught up in the system due to no fault of their own."

Once the serious business was put aside, guests donned Mardi Gras beads, had dinner and danced to the sounds of Sparky's Jazz Express. In the mix were Margaret Alkek Williams with Jim Daniel, Margaret Smith, Nick Bednorz, Hanna Storm, Bill Kreps, Sarah and Mark Benson, Deborah Colton, Dr. Connie Charalampous, Anthony Kouzounis, Judge Jan Krocker, Judge D'Lisa Simmons and Michael Barnes.

unspecified

Costume Party

Houston nonprofit raises $1 million at spooky Halloween party

Photo by Wilson Parish

Everyone danced at the afterparty.

Houston’s most philanthropic animal lovers traded pumpkin spice for paw prints at the fifth annual Howl-O-Ween Ball, hosted by Houston SPCA on October 24. More than 400 guests braved the moody magic of the Into the Haunted Forest-themed gala held at the Equine Rescue Arena on the William and Evelyn Griffin Campus for All Animals — a fitting venue for a night devoted to four-legged friends and festive fright.

Chaired by Annie Graham, Tommy Harper, and Tracy LeRoy, the event kicked off with a an energetic reception featuring a Halloween-chic crowd sipping cocktails, bidding big in the silent auction, and soaking up spooky sights. Think costumed stilt walkers, a musical trio, and a singing quartet that set the eerie-elegant tone. Emcee duties went to KHOU 11’s Ilona Carson, who kept the crowd howling (in a good way).

Guests took a haunting detour through the Equine Rescue Center to meet rehabilitated horses and hear their rescue tales before settling in for a three-course dinner. Theatre Under The Stars dancers dazzled with a bewitching welcome performance, paving the way for a live auction that conjured up serious funds. Top bids flew for luxe experiences like an owl and bald eagle release, a stay in Puerto Vallarta, and a black onyx and diamond necklace from de Boulle Diamond & Jewelry. Honorees Hershey Grace and Enterprise Mobility were recognized for their vital support.

The night wrapped with a fang-tastic after-party inside the Adoption Center, where DJ L Boogie spun beats while guests snacked on desserts, sipped spooky sips, and cuddled with adoptable puppies and kittens.

By the time the witching hour hit, the event had raised more than $1 million to support Houston SPCA’s programs, including cruelty investigations, wildlife rehabilitation, and emergency rescue.

In the wild were Bob Graham, Brandon Rottinghaus, Brian Smyth, Bruce and Marty Lundstrom, Carlos and Kandace G. Longoria, Cheryl Byington, Cindi Bohannon, Connie M. Bergen, Constable Alan Rosen, Dr. Roberta Westbrook, Ed McMahon, Edna Meyer-Nelson, Frank Billingsley, Jennifer Schechter Rosen, Judge Roberta Lloyd, Kevin Gilliard, L.D. Eckermann, Martha Seng, Patricia E. Mercer, Tricia Hika, and Zane and Brady Carruth.

Photo by Wilson Parish

Everyone danced at the afterparty.

fundraisers spca houston