A Stellar Night For Annual Starlight Children's Foundation Gala

GEORGETOWN -- Washington’s philanthropic stars came out on Saturday evening for the Starlight Children’s Foundation’s annual mid-Atlantic gala, held at the Georgetown Four Seasons hotel.

Returning for its 13th consecutive year, the prestigious affair boasted a brand new format compared to years past with the traditional sit-down dinner eschewed in favor of a ‘moveable feast’ (a series of buffet stations featuring everything from gourmet tacos to All-American hot dogs) presided over by Executive Chef Douglas Anderson.

The 2012 event chairs, Karen & Tim Lohnes, Annie & Mike Magruder, and Kirsten & Dave Pollin, enlisted E! News anchor Ashlan Gorse as Mistress of Ceremonies for the gala, which boasted a glamorous ‘Stellar Night: Taste of the Stars’ theme.

Gorse, of course, is a familiar face amongst D.C.’s philanthropic circles, along with fiancée Philippe Cousteau and future mother-in-law Jan Cousteau, who were also both in attendance on Saturday to show their support.

VIP guests began their evening with a cocktail reception and silent auction before making their way inside the hotel’s lower-level ballrooms for the gala’s main program. Beyond the gourmet spread and affable company, the main entertainment draws of the night were the musical musings of the Honey Island Swamp Band and a competitive live auction.

Indeed, while the live auction boasted everything from priceless works of art to luxurious prize package, it was an adorable puppy that caused a protracted bidding war, with top bidders Anne & James Bolduc eventually earning bragging rights to one of the cutest new family members in the area for an impressive $8,500.

At approximately 10:00 p.m., the evening received a further influx of support from some of Starlight’s younger champions, who were provided with the opportunity to enjoy the after party for a more modest ticket price – the goal being to make the night as festive and accessible for everyone as possible, while still helping the organization raise much needed funds.

For nearly 30 years, Starlight Children's Foundation has been dedicated to improving the quality of life for children around the globe with chronic and life-threatening illnesses and life-altering injuries by providing entertainment, education and family activities that help them cope with the pain, fear and isolation of prolonged illness.

Its programs have been proven to distract children from their pain, help them better understand and manage their illnesses, and connect families with others facing similar challenges so that no one feels alone.

A stellar cause for celebration to be sure.