It was a gamble, perhaps, to switch from a dinner-with-headline-entertainment format to a casino party, but the bet sure did pay off for the Huntington’s Disease Society of America.
A little over a week has passed since Monte Carlo Nights had its full-house run at the Marriott City Center, and with donations continuing to trickle in, organizers are saying the net profit will easily surpass the $50,000 that was initially recorded.
The night wasn’t all fun and games, though. As its subtitle, A Celebration of Hope, suggests, Monte Carlo Nights had its serious side.
Huntington’s Disease, for which there is no cure, is a rare, inherited affliction that involves degeneration of neurons in certains areas of the brain. Huntington’s is most frequently discovered in people between the ages of 30 and 45; however, it has been diagnosed in children as young as 2.
With that in mind, guests gave a sustained round of applause to the HDSA Family of the Year: Dennis Gallagher, who was diagnosed two years ago, his wife, Fran, and son, Scott. Dancer-choreographer Cleo Parker Robinson also was warmly received as she accepted the Hope Award for her lifelong efforts to serve the disenfranchised.
Distinguished Leadership awards went to Irv and Pat Brown; the Cherry Creek Shopping Center; Paula Newberry Arnold; and Elbra Wedgeworth.
George and Gail Johnson chaired Monte Carlo Nights. Roselyn Saunders was the honorary chair; Mary McNicholas organized the auction that was called by Jake Jabs; and CBS4’s Ed Greene emceed.
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Society editor Joanne Davidson can be reached at 303-809-1314 or jdavidson@denverpost.com. She also contributes at .
