The Most Laid Back Gala Ever Raises $625,000

Skeet Shooting, Virtual Golf and Tailgating with UH’s Shasta and Sammy The Owl

By Shelby Hodge // Apr 19, 2018

Photography Dave Rossman

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Periwinkle Foundation gala at the Royal Sonesta Hotel

Shasta, Lisa Malosky, Sammy the Owl and friends

What: The Periwinkle Foundation‘s 35th anniversary Championship Gala

Where: The Royal Sonesta Hotel

PC Moment: Not really a “gala” gala, this laid back evening featured several interactive experiences including virtual skeet shooting and driving range, live painting by artist Taft McWhorter, and tailgating with the University of Houston mascot, Shasta, and Rice University’s mascot, Sammy the Owl. The 550 guests dressed accordingly in school jerseys, jeans and other game day gear.

Debbie and Ozzie Bauer chaired the festivities that raised nearly $625,000 for the Foundation’s Camps, Arts and Survivor Programs which serve more than 4,000 children and families challenged by cancer and other life threatening illnesses.

Receiving special recognition were Marilyn and Louis Mogas and Melinda and Matt Mogas, honored for their long-term support of the non-profit.

Who: Dr. Paul Gerson, Dr. David Poplack, Dr. ZoAnn Dryer, Drs. Jayne Finkowski Rivera and Carlos Rivera, Mary Farish Johnston and Dennis Johnston, Brad Marks, Sherelle and Michael Jackson, Julie and Doug Osburn, Maria and Neil Bush, Michelle and Julius Young and Lesha and Tom Elsenbrook.