The “St. Jude in the Big Easy” benefit for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, A Legends for Charity Event presented by The Solomon Family and The von Kurnatowski Family, raised nearly $400,000 for the kids of St. Jude.
The event honored Doug Thornton, Executive Vice President of SMG, for his dedication and service to the city of New Orleans and the rebirth of the city after Hurricane Katrina. Ken Trahan, sports director of WGSO, served as the Master of Ceremonies for the evening.
Hugh Hamilton, a local patient’s father, along with ALSAC CEO Richard Shadyac, talked about the extraordinary research and work being done at St. Jude.
More than 750 guests were treated to an evening of cocktails, New Orleans cuisine and a live performance by Deacon John and The Ivories. The silent and live auctions included art, jewelry, shopping experiences, dinners, hotel stays and more. Top auction items included a James Taylor-autographed guitar, an autographed Saints football, fishing trips and Saints suite tickets. The top item at the live auction was the Emeril’s-inspired weekend and a painting by Richard Thomas.
EVENT AT A GLANCE
What: “St. Jude in the Big Easy,” a Legends for Charity Event benefiting St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital
When: Thursday, August 20
Where: Hyatt Regency New Orleans
