Wishes come true

John and Carly Whitehurst and Claudia and Brad Freels (pictured, from left) served as honorary chairs for the 2024 Make-A-Wish Texas Gulf Coast and Louisiana gala. The Wish Ball was held at The Post Oak Hotel and welcomed more than 750 guests. Celebrating 40 years of granting wishes, and honoring Kay and Tommy Austin, the black-tie affair raised more than $1.7 million to fulfill wishes for children with critical illnesses. The evening held a special meaning for elementary school teacher Carly Whitehurst, the daughter of Claudia and Brad Freels as 2024 marks the 10-year anniversary of her wish to attend the Country Music Awards. Emcee Deborah Duncan welcomed guests to the gala, and supporters enjoyed surprise videos from JJ Watt and Charles Barkley, who granted wishes for two children. The crowd was also entertained by former Make-A-Wish children Franklin Ingalls, who played the grand piano, and Andrew Marshall, a finalist from The Voice who sang several songs for the crowd.  

Be seen in Buzz About Town. Send your high-res photos and community news to [email protected]. Items are published on a space-available basis. Also share your upcoming-event listings here.