Distinctive Leaders and Distinguished Philanthropists Lauded at the 19th Men of Distinction Luncheon

Distinctive Leaders and Distinguished Philanthropists Lauded at the 19th Men of Distinction Luncheon

For the 19th year, the Men of Distinction Steering Committee celebrated three extraordinary men at its annual luncheon, who have distinguished themselves as business leaders, volunteers and philanthropists. To date, the committee has raised an astounding $7.5 million to support pediatric biomedical research, education, and patient care in the Texas Medical Center, and 100% of the luncheon proceeds remain in Houston to directly benefit those causes.

For the fourth year, Sonic Automotive and Porsche River Oaks served as Presenting Sponsors. Honorees for their lifetime of good works included oil & gas businessman and conservationist John Eads, energy businessman and philanthropist Michael Linn, and John Rydman, owner of Spec’s Wines, Spirits & Finer Foods. They were unanimously chosen by the committee and previously unveiled in February at a VIP reception at Steak 48 to a packed crowd.

The Steering Committee comprises community members dedicated to advancing its charitable endeavors. Its members are: Jonathan Ayre, Oliver Badgio, Dr. Devinder Bhatia, Tony Bradfield, Eric Brueggeman, Robert Dale, Tracy Dieterich, Scott Evans, Tony Gracely, Jay Guerrero, Danny Klaes, Stephen Lewis, Butch Mach, Steve Mach, Ed McMahon, Michael Mithoff, Cody Patel, Austin Quisenberry, Ross Robin, Scott Schwinger, Jesse Tutor, and board chairman David Wuthrich.

Almost 300 people filled the River Oaks Country Club ballroom, vibrantly decorated in shades of red, with stunning luxury red roses by Flowers by Nino atop scarlet linens from EB, Inc. Let It Fly designed the silver-draped stage to match the invitation and created a prominent photo wall, strategically placed in front of the ballroom’s bay window, displaying 18 years of honoree portraits. Gifts for the honorees were graciously donated by Tenenbaum Jewelers.

Once again, former Channel 13 anchor Tom Koch happily handled the emcee duties and introduced MOD Board Chairman David Wuthrich, who greeted the audience and introduced Senior Master Sergeant Promise Harris, who performed a rousing a cappella rendition of The Star-Spangled Banner. She was followed by former Mayor of Kemah and Houston Mayoral candidate, The Honorable Bill King, who delivered the well-received and poignant invocation. Next, Porsche River Oaks General Manager Rob Dale praised the Men of Distinction and its Steering Committee and thanked the crowd for their support.

Receiving the three $100,000 unrestricted grants were Savannah Lusk at Baylor College of Medicine; Charles Cox, Jr. M.D. at Children’s Memorial Hermann at McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston; Michael A. Belfort, M.D., Ph.D., at Texas Children’s Hospital and Baylor College of Medicine; and Cara Buskmiller, M.D. at Texas Children’s Hospital and Baylor College of Medicine.

Honorees were introduced by longtime friends, both in person and via video. Texas A&M University Board of Regents member Dave Baggett lauded Eads. Public relations executive Dancie Ware welcomed Linn. Entertainer “50 Cent” and Glazier executive Jamey Bellan introduced Rydman.

The luncheon is especially noted for always running “on time,” and this year was no exception. Guests were thrilled with the program, the honorees, the food, and all facets of the annual gathering honoring well-deserving men who have given so much to our community over the years! Bravo!

In the Social Scene (not previously mentioned):  Hallie Vanderhider and Bobby Dees, Regina Rogers, Lindy Rydman, Lisa Lindsey, Alan Key, Gina Bhatia, Tara Wuthrich, Bobby and Phoebe Tudor, Joella Mach, Ginger Blanton, Keith and Alice Mosing, Mary Eads, Dr. “Bud” Frazier, Molly and Jim Crownover, Ginni and Richard Mithoff, Joe and Cathy Cleary, Warner Roberts, Anne Neeson, Luke Wuthrich, Cheryl Boblitt King and Honorable Bill King, Anne Neeson, Monica Hartland, Heidi Turney, Jo Ann Petersen, Alicia Smith, Brigitte Kalai, Farida Abjani, Kusum Patel, Jim Ware, Duke Ensell, Nino Shbeeb, Cindy and Joe Bendy, Alan Bigman, Helen and Larry Rose, Tony Chase, Dina Al-Sowayel, Cynthia and Anthony Petrello, Zach Matula