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The Red Queen Kicks Off Riotous Dance Party — and Raises Major Funds for Fresh Arts

Charlie Horse
The Red Queen Kicks Off Riotous Dance Party — and Raises Major Funds for Fresh Arts

Marita Fairbanks, Palmer Schooley, Kasi Kubiak and Connor Estes

STILL RECOVERING FROM a devastating fire at its HQ in 2022, Fresh Arts expanded on its Instagram-worthy dance-party fundraiser by adding a dinner to this year’s gala, themed The Wonder Ball. Dressed in lavish Alice-in-Wonderland-themed costumes, guests were transported down the rabbit hole as they arrived to Silver Street Studios, which was completely transformed into Lewis Carroll’s fantasy land.

The decked-out patrons perused a silent auction featuring art exclusively from Houston artists to the sounds of The Charlie Trio Band, and enjoyed cocktails from LALO Tequila and Boheme. Following cocktail hour, a dinner from Hungry’s was served while radio personality Sarah Pepper emceed the night, and also hosted a live auction that included a trip to Paris!

Fresh Arts executive director Angela Carranza was cut off during her closing remarks by the White Rabbit, who announced that everyone was very late for an important date! As the lights dimmed “Heads Will Roll” by the Yeah Yeah Yeahs played, and a 10-foot Red Queen appeared to usher all the guests to the awaiting dance party!

DJ Hiram kept revelers on their feet, while bubbles, with the gas from dry ice trapped inside, poured onto the dance floor. One touch of the bubble released the gas to dazzling effect.

“The Wonder Ball transported guests into a world of wonder and imagination,” said Carranza of the over-the-top evening. “Every detail spoke to the power of imagination, and our supporters wholeheartedly embraced the theme, showcasing an impressive diversity of creativity.”

Pizza from Betelgeuse Betelgeuse and popsicles from Wonder Pops HTX were served on the dancefloor as the party continued until close to midnight. Funds raised from the gala will go toward supporting Fresh Arts long-anticipated return to Winter Street Studios following the 2022 fire.

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Rouzi and Eva Sagisaka

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Annabeth Turcios, Christopher Manriquez, Ruby Rivera and Cynthia Rojas

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Spa-tacular Getaway Opportunity: Retreat to Mexico this Fall with a Houston Wellness Expert

Spa-tacular Getaway Opportunity: Retreat to Mexico this Fall with a Houston Wellness Expert

Palmaïa The House of AïA

THIS SUMMER, LEBRINA Jackson, owner of Escape Spa in Cypress, is taking her wisdom and joie de wellness to the jungle. Far beyond the walls of her beautiful spa, she’s aiming to create a quiet space for people to work on their personal growth in a community-centric atmosphere. She shares what participants will get out of the trip and why it’s important to take time for self-care in 2025.

Why is it important for people to “retreat”? Life can feel like a non-stop marathon, and sometimes we forget to just... breathe. Retreating offers a chance to step off the treadmill for a bit and hit the reset button. It's about giving your body and mind some much-needed TLC, allowing for genuine relaxation and rejuvenation. Beyond the personal perks, retreats often create a cool sense of community, connecting you with others on a similar path. By carving out space for self-reflection, you can recharge and return to your daily life with a clearer head and a bit more pep in your step.

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Wellness+Giving Back
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Thousands of Kids Have 'A Place to Dream' Thanks to Record-Breaking Furniture Bank Event

Dean Todd, Stacey Todd, Cinde Matocha, Gary Matocha

HUNDREDS OF GUESTS packed River Oaks Country Club for The Furniture Bank's annual fundraising event. They hit the ballroom floor to ensure no kid sleeps on the floor!

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Fabulous Food at the Four Seasons! Star Chefs Raise Funds for Camp H-Town

FOR THE SIXTH time, the ballroom of Four Seasons Hotel Houston became an expo for sampling dishes by the city’s hottest chefs — and raising funds for a great cause!

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