Signature Chefs Gala raises $785,000 for moms & babies

 

HOUSTON (Nov. 3, 2015) ­–“Hope” for families who have suffered the trauma of a premature birth, birth defect or infant loss was the focus of the evening at the March of Dimes Signature Chefs Gala at Hilton Americas on October 29. Hosted by Chairmen Rachel Regan and Michelle L. Smith, the event raised $785,000 to benefit Texas moms and babies.  The $785,000 raised will go directly to research and programs that support the March of Dimes mission to improve the health of babies by preventing birth defects, premature birth and infant mortality. 
 

The March of Dimes Signature Chefs Gala, presented by Wells Fargo, is Houston’s original and largest culinary affair, attracting more than 500 of the city’s best-known and well-healed philanthropists for an evening of foodie and wine connoisseur heaven. Guests sampled tantalizing creations from 25 celebrated local chefs, including Culinary Honoree Charles Clark, recognized for contributions to the Houston culinary scene and community. 
 

The evening’s other honorees were: 
Cynthia and Anthony Petrello, Community Honorees
Texas Children’s Hospital, Corporate Honoree
Dr. Huda Zoghbi, Director of the Jan & Dan Duncan Neurological Institute at Texas Children’s Hospital, Medical Honoree

Chef Rafael Morales (Grace’s) Tuna Stack was named “Best Culinary Creation” and Chef Harold Wong’s (The Fish) was awarded “Best Presentation” for his sous-vide Angus chuck with peanut crumble, pickled red onions and savory peppered Tamari. 
 

The auction, chaired by Marcie Berry and Heather Layton, included a deep sea fishing excursion and dinner prepared by Chef Bryan Caswell, a progressive dinner for 10 by Chef Charles Clark, trips to London, South Africa and New York City’s Fashion Week, and Valobra Jewelry and Antiques’ earrings that were custom made for the event. A “VIP Luxury Getaway”, which allowed winning bidders to choose from one of 17 Exclusive Resorts’ properties around the world, sold three times at $20,000 each.

 

The March of Dimes-Houston Division also expressed their gratitude to Christie Sullivan, Culinary Chairman, Katy Holt & Allison Lewis, Wine Chairmen, all their volunteers and culinary sponsors for making the Signature Chefs Gala successful. 

 

 

About March of Dimes 

 

With chapters nationwide, the March of Dimes works to improve the health of babies by preventing birth defects, premature birth and infant mortality. About 4 million babies are born in the United States each year, and the March of Dimes helps each and every one through 75 years of research, education, vaccines, and breakthroughs.  For the latest resources and information, visit marchofdimes.com