Fiery night of giving raises $835,000 for Houston firefighters

There was no mistaking the dress code, the cause, or the rising temps at Houston’s Red Hot Gala.

With a firetruck parked front and center, 50 shades of red swirling through the crowd, and anticipation building for a parade of chiseled physiques, the evening was generating heat before anyone struck a match.

Pass the hose.

The ninth annual affair, held October 3 at the Royal Sonesta Houston, celebrated the courage, commitment, and compassion of Houston’s firefighters while benefiting the Houston Professional Firefighters Association Charitable Foundation. Firefighters, their parents, spouses, and enthusiastic supporters turned out in force.

Chaired by Elizabeth and Alan Stein, the celebration recognized honorary co-chair Edna Meyer-Nelson and returning presenting sponsors Bobbie Nau, Hallie Vanderhider, and Bobby Dees. Cocktail-hour revelers navigated more than 130 auction packages while The Moment Band kept the energy simmering. Eventually, flickering lights and a musical timeout persuaded guests to abandon their bidding strategies and head to dinner—and a show.