With most non-profits feeling the pinch of the current economic slump, supporters of Houston Children's Charity are singing a joyous tune after their gala brought in a cool million dollars.

True to form, the black-tie evening at the Hyatt Regency pampered 650 guests with free-flowing wines and good food, inspiring them to part with big bucks. The cash rolled in from the live auction that featured everything from a BMW Z4 Roadster convertible (thank you, Momentum BMW) to a road trip with the Houston Rockets including travel on the Rockets' chartered jet.

DeeDee and Wallis Marsh were big buyers, taking home both the car and a trip to London. HCC patrons Melissa and Brad Juneau also successfully raised their bidding paddles for more than one of the hot items.

The dollars also rolled in for HCC's "A Better Night's Sleep" program that provides beds and bedding for impoverished children. Cornelia and Meredith Long got the ball rolling early on the beds program, committing $10,000.

Key players in the evening were honorees Carol and Mike Linn, Linn Energy CEO, outgoing HCC board president Edna Meyer-Nelson, HCC board chair Tilman Fertitta and wife Paige, HCC executive director Laura Ward and hubby Dave Ward, who served as emcee.