Nora’s Home Hosts a $750,000 Party at Houston’s Hottest New Hotel

What: Nora’s Home Gala

Where: The Post Oak Hotel

PC Moment: Gala chairs Paige and Todd Johnson, Ashley and Curt Langley, and Ann and John Smither led the dinner evening, attended by more than 550 guests, to a generous $750,000 in proceeds. The funds will aid in the expansion of the hospitality home for organ transplant patients and their families. Phase two of the Nora’s Home project is expected to be completed this summer thereby doubling the number of rooms to 32.

Emceed by Lisa Malosky, the evening honored Linda Strickland and her late husband, Jerry Strickland. The couple was recognized for its long-time support of the non-profit. Also in the spotlight were Drs. Lillian and Osama Gaber, who founded Nora’s Home in 2013.

While the event included its serious moments — Malosky introducing the transplant story of Nora’s Home guest 8-year-old Ximena and Linda Strickland, a Nora’s home board member, relating the story of her husband’s organ failure — there were playful notes. The tribute band the Rat Pack entertained with Sinatra, Dino and Sammy Davis Jr. faves followed by David Caceres and his band, which closed down the night with dance tunes. The night included an auction led by Stephen Lewis, casino games and a mission market.

Who:   Catherine and Walter Christopherson, Allison and Jack Jensen, Mary Lee and Jim Wallace, Colleen and John Kotts,  Khaled Rady, Dr. Manal Affara, Maria and John Zerr, Caroline and Eddie Kuntz, Laura and Mark Hobeika, Casey and Will Hedges, Gayle and Tom Kennedy, Linda and Steve Webster, Dr. Stephanie Yi and Terence Padden, Eric Boerwinkle,  Elizabeth and Alex Dwyer, Geer and Libba Blalock, Matt and Jennifer Girotto, and Virginia and Dan Steppe.