Rob Giardinelli
Pets & People On Parade In Costumes? Yes, please!
By Rob Giardinelli Photography By Wilson Parish and Jacob Power
THE SCENE: The grounds of Houston SPCA were the setting for a howling-good night of fun and fundraising that those fortunate enough to be a part of will not soon forget. Over 400 of the area’s most notable animal lovers, community leaders, sociables, and philanthropists turned out for the 5th Annual Howl-O-Ween Ball. Benefiting the Houston SPCA, the evening celebrated Halloween in grand style and raised a seven-figure fundraising sum for the organization.
and Trisha Zucker
THE VIBE: The costume-cocktail-chic crowd featured an elegant mix of ensembles that made everyone feel as welcome as dogs happy to see their owners. Looking around the venue, one could see patrons embracing their inner-kid-at-heart by donning full-on Halloween costumes, while others went the more traditional cocktail route of suits and cocktail dresses. One thing all guests had in common was the desire to let their hair down and have a fun evening.
A lively cocktail hour kicked off the evening’s festivities. Partygoers could be spotted enjoying their favorite spirits while mingling with other guests against the backdrop of a singing quartet and costumed stilt walkers. Additionally, patrons perused the impressive lot of silent auction items and spent time in the Equine Rescue Center to visit and learn more about the organization’s rehabilitated horse program.
The night continued with dinner and the main program. KHOU 11’s Ilona Carson served as emcee, keeping the festivities moving at a howlingly fun, brisk pace throughout the night. As revelers enjoyed their delectable, multi-course meals, they were treated to words from organization and event leaders thanking them for being a part of such a memorable evening. The program also honored Hershey Grace and Enterprise Mobility for their tireless, long-term support of the Houston SPCA.
A spirited live auction followed, during which the paddles and fundraising continued to increase. The most popular auction items included a week in Puerto Vallarta, a timeless 8K black onyx and diamond filigree drop necklace courtesy of de Boulle Diamond & Jewelry, and the chance to experience an owl and bald eagle release.
Concluding the night was an epic after-party in the Adoption Center on the Houston SPCA Grounds. Revelers enjoyed desserts and specialty cocktails, while others could be seen cutting a rug on the dance floor to the tunes of DJ L Boogie.
THE NON-PROFIT: The 5th Annual Howl-O-Ween Ball, co-chaired by Annie Graham, Tommy Harper, and Tracy LeRoy, raised over $1 million for Houston SPCA. Proceeds from the event will support programs that advance the organization’s mission to rescue, rehabilitate, and protect animals across the Gulf Coast region.
