alright, alright, alright

Matthew McConaughey headlines upcoming Houston virtual literary brunch

Treasured Texan Matthew McConaughey will star in this virtual, space-themed event.

Photo courtesy of Texas Cultural Trust

Some bookish Houstonians will be feeling alright, alright, alright when A-lister and Texas treasured celebrity, Matthew McConaughey, headlines the iWRITE Literacy Organization’s Virtual Book Signing Brunch.

The space-themed event, which will take place on November 14 at 11 am, celebrates the diversity of 100 newly published students from around the world, while also raising awareness about iWRITE’s mission to build student confidence through writing. The brunch also raises funds to support Houston-based iWRITE’s after-school writing programs as well as plans for expansion, according to a press release.

Josephine and Ibrahim Firat will serve as the event co-chairs; Houston TV host Deborah Duncan will serve as the event emcee. During the program, viewers can take in readings from their Editor’s Choice Recipients, hear from an astronaut, and McConaughey will meet the newly published students.

The Oscar-winning McConaughey is also an author, having penned the tome, Greenlights, which sparked the actor’s connection to the event. “In addition to being an Academy Award winning actor who has starred in films about space, Matthew McConaughey is also a recently published author who kept a journal since he learned how to write, so he has many things in common with iWRITE's 100 newly published authors and illustrators,” Melissa Williams Murphy, children's author and Founder of iWRITE, tells CultureMap.

“His passion for children’s education and desire to encourage all kids to reach for the stars inspired him to join this Houston-based literacy program's virtual brunch and book signing on November 14th.”

For more information on the event or to donate or sponsor, visit iWRITE online.

books fundraisers celebrities

Party Watch

Distinguished Houston gents gather for Brioni’s grand opening

What: Brioni Grand Opening with Men of Distinction

Where: Brioni Boutique in River Oaks District

The scoop: Italian menswear designer Brioni celebrated the grand opening of its Houston flagship at River Oaks District with a luxurious evening that merged high fashion with philanthropy. The November 7 event featured a private preview of Brioni's Bespoke Trunk Show, spotlighting the brand’s tailored craftsmanship. Men of Distinction, a nonprofit honoring Houston's community leaders, took the opportunity to recognize its esteemed researchers and honorees, celebrating milestones in raising funds for critical medical research at Texas Medical Center.

Dr. Michael A. Belfort of Texas Children’s Hospital delivered remarks that highlighted Men of Distinction's contributions to pioneering medical procedures, such as life-changing surgeries for spina bifida. Guests enjoyed Italian prosecco, old-fashioned cocktails, and tastings from The Macallan’s 12- and 15-year single malts, along with Italian bites by Bari Ristorante. Attendees left with luxurious parting gifts, including a Brioni crocodile leather keychain and a spa experience at The Post Oak Hotel.

Photo by Gary Fountain

A.J. Williams with Andi and Ballard Infante.

Who: Jesse Tudor, Gary Peterson, Mike Linn and Carol Linn, Keith Mosing and Alice Mosing, David Wurthrich, Tom Perich and Debra Perich, Dancie Ware and Jim Ware, John Serpe, Molly Crownover, Kevin Gilliard and Frank Billingsley, Tracy Dieterich, Robert Bernard, A.J. Williams, and Andi and Ballard Infante.

brioni river oaks district fundraisers men of distinction