The Heart of Houston

The American Heart Association’s virtual gala, The Heart of Houston, chaired by Lisa and Jerry Simon, raised $1.5 million to fund research and education programs to help save lives from heart disease and stroke. Hundreds of community members, medical professionals, and corporate leaders, including April and Dr. Jorge Salazar, joined the live, virtual event honoring Shirley and Skip Allen (pictured) from living rooms all over Houston. Some attendees dressed up in gowns and tuxedos, while others stayed cozy in their loungewear, and enjoyed charcuterie boxes and crudités from A Fare Extraordinaire that were delivered to their doors. Emcee and Fox 26 anchor Melissa Wilson kicked off the digital experience, and virtual party-goers had the opportunity to watch a performance by Grammy Award-winning cellist Yo-Yo Ma.

Editor’s note: The Buzz congratulates associate editor Jordan Steinfeld and her husband Matthew on the recent arrival of baby Sloane. Jordan is taking a short break to spend time with Sloane. In the meantime, Buzz writer Angie Frederickson is handling this column. As usual, please send your high-res photos and community news to [email protected]. Items are published on a space-available basis.