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    we love the '80s

    Cyndi Lauper and Houston A-listers love the '80s at $2.8 million totally rad children's charity gala

    Steven Devadanam
    Oct 11, 2021 | 5:48 pm

    Could it be Cyndi Lauper’s jaw-dropping soprano notes at the astounding age of 68? Perhaps the image of noted and universally loved Houston philanthropist Laura Ward working the ballroom in sneakers?

    Or, was it the announcement that Ward’s venerable Houston Children’s Charity Gala raised a record-breaking $2.8 million for local underprivileged, abused, and disabled children? (For some perspective, that’s considerably more than the operating budget for local myriad nonprofits.)

    Yes, let’s go with the latter as the pivotal moment — as the 24th annual Houston Children’s Charity Gala’s nearly $3 million haul is nothing short of historic for a city already famous for its charity.

    Some 600 supporters packed the grand ballroom at The Post Oak Hotel went cocktail and totally ’80s — ditching their black tie and ball gowns in favor of on-theme Wall Street/Gordon Gecko, Miami Vice, all-denim, and even Boy George (April Salazar!) looks. Gala chairs Frances and Tony Buzbee were a vision in their own attire (Tony’s shimmering jacket made quite the statement).

    Emcee Gina Gaston welcomed guests and the Rev. Mary Gracely, of One Spirit Interfaith Community, who offered the invocation.

    A comical moment came when Houston Children’s Charity president and CEO, the aforementioned Ward (the personal powerhouse behind the organization’s quarter century of caring) honored 2020 gala chair Hallie Vanderhider and called her to the stage. The always-humble Vanderhider waved and quickly made her way off the stage, charmingly declining to address the crowd.

    Big board auction items included diamonds, designer handbags, shopping excursions, furs, and dining experiences with baseball royalty, art, trips to Argentina, Colorado, the Buzbee Ranch in Montana, and much more.

    Another buzzy item was a gift chip from Tenenbaum Jewelers to be scanned for a chance to win gift bags.

    Snappy auctioneer Vikki Vines revved up the excitement with the chance to bid on a 2022 BMW 4 Series Convertible donated by BMW of West Houston and Momentum BMW Southwest. (Winner Michael Hoctor sped off with that ride.)

    More good news: After five vans were donated during the pre-event underwriter party, the charity ultimately secured a total of 22 new vans for the children.
    And oh, Cyndi Lauper and her effortless She Bop. Bringing the house down with classics such as “Time After Time,” “Girls Just Want to Have Fun,” and “True Colors,” she paused for inspiring speeches, salutes, and to invite April Salazar’s beaming (and totally shocked) mother onstage for a photo.

    In all, a stellar night for a worthy nonprofit. Cheers to Ward and her work: No doubt, she will ensure — time after time — that needy Houston kids will enjoy a better life.

    Rad guests included: Paige Fertitta, Margaret Alkek Williams, Maria Moncada Alaoui and Omar Alaoui, Tommy Kuranoff and Veronica Nemeth, Rachel and Jeff Bagwell, Lisa and David Atkins, Gary and Amy Becker, Dr. Susan Blaney, Dan D’Armond, Grant Guthrie,Dr. Jorge and April Salazar,John Johnson, Melissa Juneau, Gary and Marcie Justice, DeeDee and Wallis Marsh, Edna Meyer-Nelson, Bob and Debbie Ogle, Amy and Rob Pierce, Kristina and Paul Somerville, Carol and Tom Sawyer, Morris and Toni Smith, Robin Young Ellis, Constable Alan Rosen, Mario Elie, Dr. Lois Moore, Melanie Lawson and John Guess, Art and Patti Rascon, Dr. Laura Murillo and Rick Noriega, Trini Mendenhall, Rod and Amy Ryan, Brian and Norelle Becker, Shelby Hodge and Shafik Rifaat, Ramy and Rania Mankarious, Robert Horry, Jim and Paulina McGrath.

    Mario Elia, Tamara Washington, Gina Gaston, and Laura Ward.

    Houston Children's Charity Gala 2021 Mario Elia, Tamara Washington, Gina Gaston, Laura Ward
      
    Photo by Gary Maltz/Alexander's Fine Portraits
    Mario Elia, Tamara Washington, Gina Gaston, and Laura Ward.
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    Tasting Table Recap

    Foodies feast at CultureMap Houston's first Tasting Table dinner

    Eric Sandler
    Jun 24, 2025 | 3:45 pm
    CultureMap Tasting Table B.B. Italia Land Rover Southwest
    Photo by Daniel Ortiz
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    A select group of food-obsessed Houstonians had a very special Monday night meal at the first CultureMap Tasting Table. Held at B.B. Italia Bistro & Bar in Sugar Land Town Square, the sold-out affair celebrated good food, refreshing drinks, and the special twists that make every CultureMap event a night to remember.

    The evening began with a cocktail hour that featured sips from event sponsor Weber Ranch Vodka. Under the watchful eyes of Berg Hospitality Senior Vice President of Operations Arthur Mooradian and B.B. Italia general manager Jason Fletcher, the restaurant’s staff glided through the crowd offering filet skewers and the fan favorite meatballs. Guests also had the opportunity to admire a well-appointed Land Rover Defender, courtesy of presenting sponsor Land Rover Southwest Houston.

    Once inside, guests had the opportunity to pose for a caricature from NXTLVL Events — yes, the same Bob Ross-inspired robot that was such a hit at the CultureMap Tastemaker Awards. Prior to the meal, Gow Media CRO Lindsey Harvel welcomed everyone and gave a little special recognition to CultureMap Houston editor Eric Sandler (a.k.a, this author).

    B.B. Italia served a three-course meal that highlighted their most popular dishes. Diners could opt for either a classic Caesar or Burrata Citrus Salad to start. From there, they chose either Shrimp Scampi over linguini, a classic Chicken Parmigiana, or the Grandma’s Ravoli — a brisket-filled take on the classic that was served with an appealing cream parmesan sauce. The meal finished with a sample tray of the restaurant’s most popular desserts, cheesecake, cannoli, and tiramisu.

    Happy and full, everyone returned to the Land Rover Defender for gift bags and swag from the night’s sponsors.

    Seen in the crowd were Houston influencer Nicole Kestenbaum, Gow Media CEO Jacob Swain, a team from the PR mavens at Public Content, Brynn Lehman from Weber Ranch Vodka, and the night’s very special guests Land Rover Southwest general manager Chris Parker and his wife, Brand Strategy Director at Sonic Automotive Ashley Parker. We also extend a hearty congratulations to Dulles High School principal Corey Stewart and his wife Megnon, who celebrated their 24th wedding anniversary at the meal.

    CultureMap Tasting Table B.B. Italia Land Rover Southwest
      

    Photo by Daniel Ortiz

    The team from Land Rover Southwest showed off this new Defender.

    For those who missed all the fun, fear not. We'll be announcing more Tasting Table events in the very near future.

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