Milestone Moments

Supporters of the Junior League of Houston gathered to celebrate the organization at its 70th annual Charity Ball, this year inspired by all things France — from the Paris lights to the glamour of Versailles. The weekend raised $800,000. … The Good Samaritan Foundation also toasted a milestone anniversary during its 30th Pearl Ball, held at the River Oaks Country Club. Foundation chairman Jason Fertitta thanked guests for their support of nurse education and training. … And Lester and Sue Smith surprised attendees of the Seven Acres Jewish Care Services’ 75th annual gala with a $1 million contribution to the facility’s Harvey recovery efforts — and an additional $1 million through a matching grant.

Mike Charlton, Wilson Parish and Daniel Ortiz

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Men of the Hour

A pair of black-tie bashes toasted dapper dudes with great food, wine and cigars. The Museum of Fine Arts’ annual One Great Night gentlemen-only fundraiser featured a surprise appearance by the World Series trophy. And at Festari for Men’s Una Notte in Italia gala and fashion show, sports stars — like Jeff Bagwell and Whitney Mercilus — gathered in support of the Houston Area Women’s Center. Thanks to a rowdy live auction, the night raised $320,000 for the organization.

Priscilla Dickson

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Lunch Bunch

The inaugural Women of Substance luncheon honored a dozen local ladies for their philanthropic contributions, and raised $400,000 for the Mission of Yahweh shelter. ... Meanwhile, supporters of the Houston Botanic Garden also raised nearly $500,000 at the organization’s lunch. ... A sold-out event benefiting Houston’s Ronald McDonald House thanked Southwest Airlines for its support. ... The second annual Power of Literacy luncheon, hosted by the Barbara Bush Houston Literacy Foundation’s Ladies for Literacy Guild, celebrated the unveiling of the 30-foot Curiosity Cruiser mobile library. ... Finally, Rob Lowe was the ballyhooed keynote speaker at the Council on Recovery’s fall lunch, which raised $520,000.

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