A paw-fect celebration

Friends and family members gathered for a dog-themed surprise 60th birthday party for Steve Smith at the home of Phebe and Mark Ward. Hostesses, including Steve’s wife Patti Osburn, Phebe Chen and Joni Hoffman, had it all planned out. Steve received a “fake” Evite inviting him and Patti to a supposed graduation party at Phebe’s home. It was all hush-hush until an email reminder about the real surprise party accidentally ended up in Steve’s inbox. He was a great sport. Fajitas, margaritas and a personalized cake with a paw print and Steve’s picture was served up to guests. Steve is an active volunteer at Bellaire United Methodist Church and enjoyed having his fellow congregants, neighbors and employees share in the celebration. Pictured are (front row, from left) Lori Young, Claire Ellington, Tori Baker, Jarnell Rainey, Zac Osburn, Patti Osburn, Steve Smith, Phebe Chen, Kathleen Ransleben, Christina Stone, Joni Hoffman, Jim Love, Carla Burekle, (second row, from left) Paula and Greg Buhr, Karen Love, Claude and Linda Eckhert, Maurice Rainey, Melinda and Frank Gerow, Randy Ransleben, Mike and Suzie Bow, Mark Ward, Bill Stone, Ralph Cox and Gary Flaharty, and (not pictured), Chelsea Self, Garrett Self, Emma Self, Ashley and Zac Koletar, and Luke Koletar.