A “Rip-Roarin’” “Two-Steppin'” Good Time at Sunshine Kids “Boots & Bourbon” Gala

A “Rip-Roarin’” “Two-Steppin’” Good Time at Sunshine Kids “Boots & Bourbon” Gala

Sunshine Kids, an organization that provides exciting, positive group activities and opportunities for children with cancer, brought a “roped-in” “Boots and Bourbon” Gala to the Ballroom at Bayou Place, where 350 of its supporters were welcomed by country musician Blake Harlow and his band as they entered the ballroom to cheer for and celebrate these special children.

The two chairpersons, Chelsea Collmer and Laurie Sanders, “two-stepped” their way into a “boot-scootin’” successful roundup with a record-breakin’ $450,000 raised! Former Houston Astro and longtime supporter Craig Biggio was on hand to present his eponymous Community Impact Award to Talos Energy for their many contributions over the years. Talos VP Megan Dick proudly accepted on its behalf. The Champion of Children Award was presented to Dr. Michael Taylor, Chair of Pediatric Neuro-Oncology at Texas Children’s Hospital, renowned neurosurgeon, and cancer researcher.

Before the evening program, a sold-out raffle and bourbon pull brought in extra “sawbucks!” A “Hooves and Horns” game, wine toss, bourbon tasting, and silent auction kept things lively as emcee and auctioneer Johnny “Bravo” Holloway led the evening. He introduced Executive Director Jennifer Wisler, who greeted everyone and brought Bobbie Baker to the stage. Her daughter Nova passed away in July. Bobbie was honored and proud to share Nova’s brave and difficult journey. Her moving and inspiring story brought the teary crowd to their feet, not once, but twice! Johnny “Bravo” returned to the microphone for the appeal and live auction. Paddles flew, especially when dinner with Craig Biggio at BCN was announced.

At night’s end, guests knew this “rip-roarin’” event was not put together with a “lick and a promise.” Francisco + Co., Kirksey Gregg Productions, Ballroom at Bayou Place, All Show Plus  and H-E-B, knew their good work would “make that dog hunt!”

In the Social Scene (not previously mentioned):  Bret Sanders, Patty Biggio, Maria and Josh Hader, Kat and Ryan Pressly, Courtney and Zac Harmon, Margaret and TJ Farnsworth, Lisa Helfman, Vicki Luna, Laura Moore and Don Sanders, Senator Carol Alvarado, Presenting Sponsors Kristin and Jack Fusco, Julia Morales and Matt Clark, Rae Lee and Aaron Boag, Heather and Wade Clark, Dr. Frank Lin and Dr. Will Parsons, Megan Cornelius, Lisa and Sean McCoy, Margot and Josh Delaronde, Laura Kay Sanders