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Wynona Judd
The Christus Southeast Texas Foundation Gala has become one of the most anticipated fundraising events each year and has drawn some of the biggest names in entertainment such as Aretha Franklin, Harry Connick Jr., Sheryl Crow, Hall & Oates, Ray Charles, Lionel Richie, James Taylor, Chicago and Keith Urban. The pandemic forced cancellations and virtual formats, but for the first time since 2019, the gala returns to an in-person event Saturday, April 15, at the Beaumont Civic Center at 7 p.m. and will feature a headlining performance by Country music superstar Wynona Judd.
Once dubbed by Rolling Stone as “the greatest female country singer since Patsy Cline,” Country Music Hall of Fame member Wynonna Judd is one of the most celebrated artists in Country Music history. Wynonna first rose to fame as part of one of the most successful music duos of all time, “The Judds,” becoming music royalty to fans and critics alike.
Respected by the millions of fans who are drawn to her music and undeniable talent, Wynonna’s rich and commanding voice has sold over 30 million albums worldwide, holding multiple gold, platinum, and multi-platinum certifications from the RIAA. A five-time Grammy Award winner and “New York Times” Bestselling Author, Wynonna is the recipient of over 60 top industry awards, countless charting singles and 21 No. 1 hits including “Mama He’s Crazy,” “Why Not Me,” and “Grandpa (Tell Me ‘Bout the Good Ole Days).”
“We are ecstatic to bring a caliber of talent, and legend, like Wynona to our hometown,” said Teri Hawthorne, executive director of the Christus Southeast Texas Foundation. “It speaks to how important this gala is and that our patrons have a fantastic time while all for a great cause.”
A limited number of $375 individual seatings and $3,000 sponsorship tables are available by viewing christussoutheasttexasfoundation.org or calling (409) 236-7555.
Once inside the black-tie affair, patrons will enjoy a complimentary hour of adult beverages, a sit-down dinner from Bando’s, then experience an intimate concert by Wynona.
Now in its 40th year, this is the largest fundraiser of the year for the Christus Southeast Texas Foundation, which is the fundraising arm for three local hospitals and numerous clinics. Millions of dollars have been raised to help offer the best in cancer detection and treatment for women and men at Christus facilities. Funds have also included equipment updates including digital 3-D mammography equipment for the Outpatient Center Mid County; 3-D mammography biopsy capability for the St. Elizabeth Outpatient Pavilion; screening equipment for catheterization lab; renovation of the Creole Building and a $1.5 million renova¬tion of the Christus-St. Elizabeth Neo¬natal Intensive Care Unit, which is the largest not only in Beaumont, but Southeast Texas.
“This year, the money raised will benefit women’s and children’s services in Southeast Texas,” said Hawthorne. “We want to ensure that all individuals are able to get the best quality of care at Christus. By raising these funds, we have the most technologically advanced equipment as well as programs and services to serve those individuals.”
During the gala, the Christus Foundation will honor both the Penland Foundation and the Valero Foundation.
“Both of these wonderful foundations were two of the lead sponsors for the maternal and child unit renovations,” said Hawthorne. “The Penland Foundation was the lead donor for the building and will have naming rights for the new center. The Valero Foundation was the lead donor on new equipment, which included new birthing cableless fetal monitors, among other equipment, that enhances the birthing experience for mothers in Southeast Texas.”
The chairs of the 40th Gala are Sally and Dr. Randy Lombardo. “Dr. Lombardo is a past president of the Christus Southeast Texas Foundation,” said Hawthorne. “While president, we were unable to have an in-person gala, so this is a great chance for he and his wife Sally to host.”