Mission in Motion

Flash mob sets tone for Houston hospital's $4 million gala

Memorial Hermann Foundation’s annual gala lived up to its “Can’t Stop the Feeling” moniker with an electrifying display of energy, emotion, and philanthropy — all sparked by a surprise backflip and a flash mob. The event took place at the Hilton Americas.

Guests were barely settled into their seats when a dancer flipped the night into high gear. A troupe of professionals kicked off a flash mob, soon joined by gala chairs Cheryl Boblitt King and Bill King, honorees Lisa and Jerry Simon, Memorial Hermann leaders, and foundation board members. The choreographed moment captured the essence of the evening: High-spirited, heartfelt, and fully in sync.

The festive vibe was reinforced by a thoughtful musical program. Guitarist and composer Hunter Perrin provided a sophisticated sonic backdrop during the reception, while a soulful invocation by Houston United Voices honored the late Stacy Methvin, Memorial Hermann Health System board chair.

The evening’s deeper mission was clear: Raising crucial funds for the expansion of the Memorial Hermann Life Flight helicopter fleet. Memorial Hermann Health System president and CEO Dr. David Callender emphasized the life-or-death stakes.

What drew a roar from the crowd was learning that more than $4 million had been raised.

Before guests could hit the dance floor, they fueled up on a decadent four-course dinner crafted by Houston favorite Aaron Bludorn. Once the band The New Millennials cranked up their high-energy playlist, it didn’t take long for the dance floor to fill and stay that way well past bedtime.

Seen were Brad and Jill Deutser, Christine and Brent Secrest, Erin Asprec, Albert Yen, Beverly and Jim Postl, Tonya and Dr. David Callender, Gary Moss, Melissa Juneau, Ken and Kathy Wells, Barbara and Bill Easter, Trent and Pamela Aulbaugh, Lawson and Lauren Gow, Lisa and Jerry Simon, Marguerite Swartz, Tony Bradfield, Mary Sage, Mark and Laurie Lashier, Julie and Keenan Lashier, Marty and Liane Phillips, Angie and Zach Matula, Scott and Geraldina Wise, Trini Mendenhall, Philip Royalty, Scott and Lorraine Wegmann, Michael Roussos, Lillian Liao, Steve Trauber, Dr. Jamie McCarthy, Frank Jones, Vitaly and Zhanna Golodryga, Dr. Michelle McNutt, and Dr. Billy Gill.

Photo by Daniel Ortiz

Scott and Lorraine Wegmann, Lillian Liao, and Michael Roussos.

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remembering richard flowers

Richard Flowers, mastermind behind Houston's $1 million galas, has died

Houston Ballet Ball Richard Flowers Lynn Wyatt

Photo by Michelle Watson

Richard Flowers with Lynn Wyatt ah the 2026 Houston Ballet Ball.

The man who planned some of Houston’s most fabulous parties has died. Richard Flowers, founder of The Events Company, passed away over the weekend. He was 75.

Part of Fertitta Entertainment, The Events Company executes a wide array celebrations, galas, fundraisers, corporate events, and other experiences. Flowers provided the vision for noteworthy happenings in Houston and beyond, such as the annual San Luis Salute and The Texas Black Tie & Boots Inaugural Ball in Washington D.C.

“We relied on and appreciated Richard’s incredible creative talent across our entire portfolio from hotels to casinos and every special event the company staged for decades,” said Tilman Fertitta, the Houston billionaire owner of Fertitta Entertainment and current U.S. Ambassador to Italy and San Marino, in a statement. “His masterful décor and production left an imprint on every signature event hosted at The Post Oak Hotel from unforgettable weddings to the grandest of galas.”

A native of San Antonio and an alumnus of the University of Texas, Flowers entered the energy business prior to founding The Events Company. He partnered with Fertitta Entertainment in 2003, which led to executing events across the United States, Europe, and Mexico.

Richard Flowers and Angel Rios Richard Flowers is survived by his husband Angel Rios.Courtesy of Carrie Brandsberg-Dahl

Among his many achievements, Flowers created events for the Houston Grand Opera, Houston Symphony, Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, Alley Theatre, and Houston Ballet, which honored him at its 2026 gala. Overall, he’s helped Houston nonprofits raise millions.

“I’ve lost track of how many events I’ve attended shaped by Richard’s unmistakable touch,” CultureMap society contributor Joel Luks shares. “He saw the world as a canvas, one he transformed into moments of wonder, surprise, and joy. Philanthropy in Houston is stronger because of his generosity, creativity, and vision. And if you walked into a room and felt transported, chances are, it was because of him.”

Flowers also planned a destination wedding for Hallie Vanderhider, his friend and a member of the Houston Ballet board of trustees executive committee, to Saks Fifth Avenue general manager Bobby Dees in 2024. "Richard was truly one of a kind. His creativity and ingenuity could only be eclipsed by his humble kindness. We will miss him dearly but hold him close in our hearts forever," Vanderhider recalls.

Flowers earned a number of accolades during his career, including being named the “Ultimate Event Planner in Houston” by the Houston Chronicle and serving on Town & Country magazine’s Wedding Advisory Board. He served on numerous boards for local nonprofits, including the Houston Grand Opera. He is survived by his husband, Angel Rios.

Fertitta Entertainment shares that The Events Company will continue, guided by Flowers’ “creative legacy built on imagination, integrity, and an unwavering pursuit of excellence.”

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