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Under the big top

By Angie Frederickson, Staff writer | February 25, 2026

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Lia Vallone, Starlee Sykes, Lee Womble, and Bart Cahir (Photo: Fulton Davenport/PWL Studio)
Andy and Ruth O’Brien and Sara and Phil Gresh (Photo: Fulton Davenport/PWL Studio)
Richard Lynch and Robert and Sydney Eifler (Photo: Fulton Davenport/PWL Studio)
Kassia and Chris Yanosek and Ann and Phillip Fox (Photo: Fulton Davenport/PWL Studio)

Lia Vallone, Starlee Sykes, Lee Womble, Bart Cahir, Andy and Ruth O’Brien, Sara and Phil Gresh, Richard Lynch, Robert and Sydney Eifler, Kassia and Chris Yanosek and Ann and Phillip Fox celebrated at the 51st annual Spindletop Community Impact Partners Under the Big Top ball at The Post Oak Hotel. More than 500 supporters attended the circus-themed, black-tie evening that raised more than $1 million for nonprofit partners that support at-risk youth in Houston. Three honorees were recognized for their support of the organization: Richard Lynch received the Spindletop Award, Lee Womble received the Spindletop Founders Award, and Gabby Jacoby received the Constance White Volunteer Service Award. Guests enjoyed a silent auction and live auction, led by auctioneer Brittany Hebert Franklin, as well as a special performance of the National Anthem sung by second- and sixth-grade students from Étoile Academy Charter School, and a dance performance by The Ensemble Theatre’s Young Performers.

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