Party Watch

Houston Public Library Foundation marks 120 years of inspiring learning

What: The Houston Public Library Foundation 120th Anniversary Luncheon

Where: Julia Ideson Building

The scoop: To celebrate the 120th anniversary of the Houston Public Library, more than 200 guests, including academics, elected officials, industry leaders, and philanthropists, gathered for a luncheon inside the historic Julia Ideson Building. Event chairs Michele Leal Farah and Mimi Brown hosted the affair, which featured a compelling keynote by Pulitzer Prize-winning author and University of Houston professor Cristina Garza, who shared personal reflections on the power of literature.

Mayor John Whitmire added remarks on the importance of keeping one’s imagination active through reading. The luncheon raised $235,000 to support the foundation’s mission of lifelong learning, thanks in part to sponsors including the Astros Foundation and H-E-B.

Who: Becky Reyes, Cindy Garza, LaDonna Weems, Federico Salas-Isnardi, Alice Hahn, Sally Evans, Jose Medrano, Rome Street, Neha Goyal, Susan Hanzik, Kate Dentler, Sarah Lenny, Hope Obika, Sofia Gonzalez, Rosalinda Martinez, Cathryn Martinez, Katy Bacon, Sofia Jimenez, Nicole Jimenez, Rocio Mendoza, Lucia Mendoza, Cathy Shu, Ada Wang, Julie Finck, Katy Tsuru, Christina Gola, and Lauren Gottlieb-Miller.

Houston Public Library Foundation luncheon 2024

Photo by Quy Tran

Pastor F.N. Williams II and guests.

Voices Reclaimed

Stories of strength shine at Houston Aphasia Recovery Center luncheon

Houston Aphasia Recovery Center luncheon 2025

Photo by Chloe Kissner

Mary Genung, Cameron Shepherd, Lauren Tucker, and Sloan Andrews.

The sound of triumphant voices filled The Junior League of Houston as more than 250 supporters gathered for the Houston Aphasia Recovery Center’s (HARC) 15th Annual Let's Talk Luncheon. Marking a milestone year, the event celebrated resilience and recovery while raising more than $250,000 to support individuals living with aphasia.

Photo by Chloe Kissner

Mary Genung, Cameron Shepherd, Lauren Tucker, and Sloan Andrews.

Co-chaired by Madison Henderson and Allie Leman, the luncheon offered a heartfelt program anchored by Texans TV personality Drew Dougherty, whose approachable humor kept the afternoon lively. A highlight was the emotional performance by the HARC Herald Choir, alongside testimonials from participants whose lives have been reshaped through the organization’s mission.

Inside the venue, vibrant floral arrangements by Freedom Floral and HARC-themed cookies by Hayley Cakes and Cookies added festive flair, while a bustling raffle and silent auction with items from Brennan’s Houston, Katie Kime, Tootsies, Raintree Boutique, La Petit Market, Ciro’s Italian Grill, and Bella Madre Jewelry offered a little something something for guests to shop for a cause.

In the crowd were Melanie Strake, Challie Strake, Scot Ison, Ginny and Alex Jackson, Jeanie and Don Sweet, Terry and Jeff Weiner, Anna Reckling, and David Underwood Jr.

fundraisers houston aphasia recovery center