The Roaring 20's Gala was a Roaring Success! On September 19th, supporters of DSAH gathered at the Hilton-Americas to have fun and raise money to sponsor programs for individuals with Down Syndrome.

The evening started with cocktails and the opening of the Silent Auction. Guests were welcomed by self-advocates and students from Klein ISD. Everyone was wowed by the musical performance of the Jazz Combo from St. Thomas High School! The jazz music played by those six musicians really added to the 20's theme, as well as many party goers wearing Roaring 20's attire. Feathers were flying from boas around the necks of modern flappers and vintage photographs captured the magic of the night.

At 8 PM, the ballroom doors opened to beautifully decorated tables containing the favors of the night-2010 DSAH Calendars, Celebrating Love and Hope. The Master of Ceremonies, Mr. Renzo Heredia, greeted the guests warmly and kept the program running smoothly throughout the evening. Mr. Massey Villarreal and Mrs. Rosa Rocha, the Co-Chairs of the Gala, each took turns addressing the guests with moving personal stories and memories. The appetizing meal was blessed by the Most Reverend Joseph A. Fiorenza, Archbishop Emeritus of Galveston-Houston. The impressive dinner menu of filet mignon and jumbo shrimp was finished off with a choice of wonderful Checkmate Cake or Key Lime Cheese Brulee. Pianist Deborah St. Onge entertained while the "Special Angels" slide show of members with Down Syndrome was shown on oversized screens.

Attendees were captivated by the remarks of our honored guest, Fox 26 Special Projects reporter Greg Groogan, who was accompanied by his beautiful wife,
Michelle Casas. Mr. Groogan shared that he covers the stories about individuals with disabilities to show that this unique group is ever present in our minds and to show how we all benefit from their presence in our lives.

Self-advocates participated in the live auction and dance that followed dinner. Their presence reminded us what the evening was all about-celebrating individuals with Down Syndrome and raising money to continue and expand programs to brighten their future and the future of all our members!

The DSAH extends a Texas-sized thank you to all who made the evening possible: our guests, sponsors, volunteers, and donors!

Things do indeed keep looking up!

Click here to view our 2009 Gala pictures