Junior League’s Charity Ball Gathers Small Groups Together, Raises $600K

Junior League’s Charity Ball Gathers Small Groups Together, Raises $600K

Lauren Brown, Rachel Regan, Amanda Pritchett

PERHAPS ONE OF the final "virtual" events of the season, the Junior League of Houston's 73rd annual Charity Ball was also one of the most successful. While it's traditionally held over multiple evenings, this year's was hosted on a single night — but by multiple League members who invited small groups into their homes to stream the event.


Watch parties, like ones hosted by Junior League President Rachel Regan and member Beth Zdeblick, gave the gals an excuse to dress up and mingle in a safer way. Before the "Illuminate" ball began — the theme a nod to how the organization spotlights and spreads hope and volunteerism — a floral centerpiece along with candles, sparklers and a three-course dinner with wine and Champagne were dropped off on guests' doorsteps. Then everyone tuned in to the program, which kicked off with a video message highlighting the group's charity efforts and included testimony from community members who benefited from the Junior League's work over the last year.

The "big board" and silent auction were also virtual this year, of course — but that didn't put a damper on contributions. Items up for grabs included tropical vacations, beautiful baubles from Diamonds Direct and Tenenbaum Jewelers, cooking classes, and a clever "Best of Houston" date-nights-for-a-year package.

Together, attendees raised $600,000 for the organization; the funds will assist in serving the 34 nonprofit agencies with whom the Junior League works.

Alexandra Yates, Whitney Walsh, Amy Comiskey, Katie Hackedorn

Lauren Gates, Anat Zeidman

Trey & Julie Comiskey, Rachel & Mark Terpstra

The Salazar watch party

The Regan watch party table setting

Wendy Lewis Armstrong & Vince Armstrong, II

Marie & Kevin Newton

The Zdeblick watch party

Andrea Davidson, Rachel Regan, Marcie Berry, Keli Luce

Parties
Thrive & Inspire: Creating ’Something Bigger Than Ourselves’ Drives Gooch and Pappas of RYDE

Ashley Gooch and Andrew Pappas, Co-Founders

WHAT INSPIRES YOU as you grow RYDE? The RYDE community and our team inspire us every day. The goal from the start was to create something that is bigger than ourselves — our community is just that. We want to push the limits of what a fitness experience can be. Our new Heights studio is a testament to that commitment, offering a high-energy indoor cycling experience in a stunning space. RYDE Heights opens in April, exactly eight years after our first location opened on West Gray in River Oaks.

Keep Reading Show less

How did you get to where you are today? My journey to where I am today is built on a foundation of hard work, dedication, and perseverance. Every step along the way, I faced obstacles, but I approached each one with determination and a “never give up” mindset. Instead of being discouraged by challenges, I used them as opportunities to grow and improve. Consistency was key—I committed to showing up and giving my best effort every day. I also learned not to take “no” as a final answer. Instead, I saw it as a chance to push harder, adapt, and find another way forward. It’s this combination of persistence, resilience, and unwavering focus that has brought me to where I am today.

Keep Reading Show less

Murry & Karen Penner, Owners, M PENNER

How did you get where you are today? We’ve stayed true to the vision of the store’s founder, Morris Penner, who relentlessly sought out unique product, with exceptional quality being a key element. Morris always used to say, “The fastest way to lose a customer is to bore him” and we agree. A percentage of every season’s budget is allocated to something new and unique. While product is key, it’s not enough. Having an excellent staff and discipline in business practices is also critical.

Keep Reading Show less