High Society

Two of the season’s most glamorous galas took over the ballroom of Downtown’s new Marriott Marquis hotel. The Houston Symphony’s annual ball — this year helmed by the organization’s executive director and CEO, Mark Hanson, and wife Christina — featured a lively performance by Frankie Moreno and his band, who flew in for the Vegas-themed event. ... A couple weeks later, Michael Bolton took the stage at the Audrey Hepburn Society Ball. Actress and Unicef ambassador Angie Harmon was honored with the Spirit of Compassion award in front of 500 black tie-clad guests, who raised an impressive $900,000 for Unicef, which helps children around the world obtain basic rights and resources.


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Leadership in Action: Clothiers Murry and Karen Penner Celebrate Family Business’ 50-Year Anny

Murry & Karen Penner, Owners, M PENNER

How did you get where you are today? We’ve stayed true to the vision of the store’s founder, Morris Penner, who relentlessly sought out unique product, with exceptional quality being a key element. Morris always used to say, “The fastest way to lose a customer is to bore him” and we agree. A percentage of every season’s budget is allocated to something new and unique. While product is key, it’s not enough. Having an excellent staff and discipline in business practices is also critical.

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The patio at Heights & Co.

IT'S ALMOST TIME for summer vacations, but Heights & Co. is offering escapes on its newly redecorated patio in the form of wine and movie nights — no passport needed! Visit France, Italy, Greece, Spain, and more through wine pairings and tasting menus, all complemented by movies set in each location.

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Food

Ally Shell and Martijn van Koolwijk

BLAME IT ON the Moon! Mercury Chamber Orchestra’s 2025 gala at the Thompson hotel — themed “Moonlight Serenade and chaired by Ally Shell and Martijn Van Koolwijk — was a night of glamour and big band vibes, raising more than $350,000 for the company.

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Art+Culture