Welcome to the jungle

Dr. Monte and Deborah Stavis hosted a party at their River Oaks home to kick off the Barbara Bush Houston Literacy Foundation’s fifth annual Jungle Book Gala. More than 150 guests mingled amid the jungle-themed décor including snakes, orchids, a succulent wall and a backdrop in the shape of a book. Guests then proceeded to the tented lawn for remarks from the Stavis family and gala co-chairs Amy and Kyle McCully and Morgan Stautzenberger and Cameron Stubbs. They were treated to a concert by Constantine Maroulis, a two-time Tony Award nominee, star of Broadway hit musicals Rock of Ages and Jekyll and Hyde and Top 10 finalist on American Idol, who kicked things off with Guns N’ Roses’ Welcome to the Jungle. Proceeds from the Jungle Book Gala, which will take place Friday, Nov. 8 at The Revaire, will benefit children’s programs of the Barbara Bush Houston Literacy Foundation.

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