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A Record-Breaking Night in Houston: Crime Stoppers of Houston’s 2nd Annual “Raise ‘Em Up for Texas” Gala Unites Over 460 Guests and Raises $2 Million for Safety and Prevention Programs
HOUSTON (November 4, 2025) – More than 460 guests gathered for an unforgettable evening of big hats, big hearts, and bold generosity as Crime Stoppers of Houston hosted its highly anticipated 2nd Annual “Raise ’Em Up for Texas” Gala, presented by Glenda and Russell Gordy and the C. James & Carole Walter Looke Family Fund, on Thursday, October 30, 2025, at The Revaire. Chaired by Brooke Lee, Dana Barton and Kristen Collins, the event generated $2 million to fuel the organization’s vital work of solving and preventing crime, protecting children, and building a safer, stronger Houston for all.
Guided by the theme of “Raise ’Em Up for Texas” and the visionary leadership of strategic chairs Vanessa Ames and Jordan Seff, the evening reached extraordinary heights, delivering an unforgettable program that left a lasting impact on all who attended – including supporters, community advocates, elected officials, and law enforcement from across Texas.
The night kicked off with a lively happy hour that sparked excitement and offered guests the chance to dive into the evening’s thrilling silent auction and raffle. Once seated, guests were welcomed by Johnny Bravo, followed by Crime Stoppers CEO Rania Mankarious. The evening featured a savory Texas-themed dinner, generously provided by Chris Shepherd, Ryan Bouillet of The Revaire, Truth BBQ, and Sysco.
In her opening remarks, Mankarious celebrated the power of unity, saying,
“Look around this room – it’s filled with the people who make our city what it is: caring, courageous, and committed to keeping Houston safe for every child and every family. Tonight’s generosity fuels that mission and proves once again that when Houston comes together, anything is possible.”
Among the evening’s most moving moments was a poignant address from Maurine Molak, co-founder of the David’s Legacy Foundation, who shared a deeply personal message about her 16-year-old son, David, who tragically died by suicide after enduring months of cyberbullying and online harassment. She reflected on the lack of resources and awareness at the time, both in schools and at home, that might have helped prevent his death. To honor him, she helped pass David’s Law, giving schools, parents, and law enforcement tools to address cyberbullying and support student mental health. Her foundation now partners with Crime Stoppers of Houston through The John M. O’Quinn Foundation Million for Million campaign, which has already reached over two million students with safety education and prevention resources. David’s legacy continues to inspire hope, courage, and safer communities for Texas children.
Crime Stoppers CEO Rania Mankarious surprised guests with the presentation of the 2nd McIngvale Family Humanitarian Award, honoring Chris Shepherd and Lindsey Brown of the Southern Smoke Foundation for their exceptional leadership, compassion, and service to the Houston community. Accepting on their behalf was Catarina Bill, Chief Mission Officer for Southern Smoke Foundation. Cat highlighted the couple’s ongoing commitment to providing mental health and family support across Texas.
The festivities soared with an electrifying Live Auction and Paddles Up fundraiser, led by Johnny Bravo, sparking a wave of Texas-sized generosity throughout the room. The evening culminated in a major announcement: Crime Stoppers of Houston is launching a NEW “Women’s Collective” comprised of 50 women who will join Crime Stoppers in their 2026 efforts as well as the organization’s next ambitious goal – to reach 10 million Texas students in 2026 and launch the SafeSpace Student Hub, a first-of-its-kind digital platform offering students a safe, confidential place to seek help, resources, and guidance.
The night wrapped up with toe-tapping, honky-tonk energy from Nobody’s Fool, lively dancing, and a celebration of a Houston community brought together by heart, grit, and a shared mission.
Thursday’s celebration was supported by many individuals, community partners and generous underwriters, including Meat Sponsor Sysco, Smoke Sponsor Truth BBQ, Entertainment Sponsor Inscription Capital/Team Keller, Auction Sponsor Duckstache Hospitality, Happy Hour Sponsor Marfa Spirit Co, Cocktail Napkin Sponsor Schaefer Outfitter, Photo Booth Sponsor United Protective Services, Water Bottle Sponsor US Anesthesia Partners; Governor Sponsors Chuck and Vanessa Ames and Dylan and Jordan Seff; Mayor Sponsors Brigitte Kalai, Alicia Smith and Hallie Vanderhider, Amerapex, Innovative Legal Solutions, Hildebrand Fund, Sippy and Ajay Khurana; Commissioner Sponsors Harris County Commissioner Tom Ramsey and Kevin and Brooke Lee.
Additional supporters include Tiffany Herd, Eric and Lisa Elder, Alex and Tammy Janos, Hallie Vanderhider, Brigitte Kalai, Kari Lynd, Alicia Smith, Natalie and Steve Mohtashami, Kyle and Erin Cummings, Charlie and Melissa Weldon, George and Price Breen, Snehal Amin and Adrienne Amin, Jessica Leeke, Carla and Tony Maarraoui, Karen and Lohn Zylicz, Ziad Fleyhan, Frank and Jill Stagg, Robert and Dana Clay, Catherine and Peter Badger, Kristen Collins, Pam Connealy, Mayes and Macy Middleton, Megan and Walker Weston, Meredith and Ben Marshall, Seth and Hannah Siegel-Gardner, Sarah and Charlie Boardman, Stacy and Jason Johnson, Anna Reger, Sheri Zucker, Trini Mendenhall, Phillip Royalty, Jeff Nadalo, Farida Abjani, Maria Moncada Alaoui and Omar Alaoui, Susan Boggio, KHOU Great Day Houston Host Deborah Duncan, Laura Ward, Mike Metz, Vuk Vujasinovic and Ofelia Vujasinovic, Tony Bradfield, Donna and Norman Lewis, Barnett Gershen, Fady Armanious, Bill Baldwin, Adrienne and Jared Crane, Eduardo and Maria Morales and many more.
Notable guests include State Texas Senator Joan Huffman, State Representative Lacey Hull, Harris County District Attorney Sean Teare, Houston Police Chief Noe Diaz, Harris County Sheriff Office Captain Ben Katrib, Harris County Commissioner Tom Ramsey, City Council Member Twila Carter, Willie Davis, Fred Flickinger, Mary Nan Huffman and Julian Ramirez, Harris County Precinct One Constable Alan Rosen, Harris County Precinct 5 Constable Terry Allbritton, Harris County District Court Judges Emily DeToto, Lori DeAngelo, Peyton Peebles, Aaron Burdette, Lance Long, Dan Simons, Carolyn Dozier, and Texas Court of 14th Court of Appeals Ken Wise.
For more information, visit crime-stoppers.org.
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Crime Stoppers of Houston’s 2025 Houston’s Heroes Awards Luncheon Delivers Powerful Tribute to Champions of Public Safety
HOUSTON, TX – Crime Stoppers of Houston proudly hosted its annual Houston’s Heroes Awards Luncheon on Wednesday, April 16, 2025, at the Royal Sonesta Houston Hotel. The inspiring afternoon was a powerful and emotional tribute to individuals and organizations whose extraordinary dedication and service to public safety continues to make Houston and Texas safer for all.
From start to finish, the afternoon was filled with moving moments, heartfelt recognition, and critical call to actions. The luncheon opened with remarks from founding members of our new Young Professionals Board, Ryan Dumais, Kaleta Johnson, Whitney Lawson, all rising young professionals who are actively involved in the community. Their passion and commitment set a hopeful tone and highlighted the next generation of leadership in public safety.
Crime Stoppers CEO Rania Mankarious delivered a compelling address, sharing the organization’s growing statewide impact and its unwavering commitment to safety across Texas. She spoke of the critical role Crime Stoppers plays– not only in solving crimes through its trusted Tip Line – but in preventing violence through education, advocacy, and outreach in schools and communities.
Houston Mayor John Whitmire brought the room to its feet with a rousing speech that emphasized the importance of collaboration and shared responsibility by all public officials, dignitaries, victim advocates and community leaders.
Following the luncheon, the celebration continued with a deeply moving awards ceremony, during which each honoree was presented by a surprise guest uniquely connected to their work and impact – adding a profound layer of meaning and resonance to the recognition. One of the most emotional moments of the program came during the presentation of The Johnny Klevenhagen Award to K-9 Rocky of the U.S. Marshals Service, a 1- and 1/2-year-old Belgian Malinois who was recognized for his heroic efforts at apprehending suspect Robert Lee Davis earlier this year. Davis tragically took the life of Brazoria County Deputy Sheriff Jesus “Jesse” Vargas. The room observed a solemn moment of silence in memory of the life and service of Sheriff Deputy Vargas.
The event culminated with a closing award presentation by beloved Houston Media Icon Dave Ward, whose longtime support of Crime Stoppers and heartfelt delivery brought joy and applause. Ward presented the Dave Ward Excellence in Media Award to Shelby Hodge, a moment that served as both a celebration of excellence and a reminder of the enduring power of storytelling in advancing public safety.
The 2025 Houston’s Heroes honorees, recognized for their outstanding commitment and service, include:
- The Johnny Klevenhagen Award – K9 Rocky, U.S. Marshals Service. Award given by Tena Faust and Tama Lundquist.
- The Fenner Weller Award – April Aguirre. Award given by Andy Kahan.
- The Leiv Platou Award – Deborah Duncan, KHOU-TV, Great Day Houston. Award given by Brigitte Kalai and Alicia Smith.
- The Corporate Citizen Award – Lisa and Michael Holthouse, Holthouse Foundation for Kids. Award given by Rania Mankarious.
- The Safe School Award – Justin J. Watt Foundation
- The Women Who Shape Houston Award – Frances Moody Buzbee. Award given by Sheridan Williams.
- Partner of the Year Award – Jordan Seff and Vanessa Ames. Award given by Dylan Seff and Chuck Ames.
- The Dave Ward Excellence in Media Award – Shelby Hodge, PaperCity Magazine. Award given by Dave Ward.
“Honoring Houston Heroes is more than a tradition – it’s a celebration of courage, compassion, and unwavering dedication,” said Crime Stoppers CEO Rania Mankarious. “This year’s honorees represent what is best about our city and state. Whether it’s a brave K9, a visionary leader, or an advocate who’s been quietly moving mountains, each of them reminds us that real heroes walk among us.”
Wednesday’s celebration was supported by many individuals, community partners and generous sponsors, including Safety Partners Frances Moody Buzbee, Jordan Seff and Vanessa Ames; Safety Champions Advanced Body Scan of Houston, Amerapex, Innovative Legal Solutions, Brigitte & Bashar Kalai/Alicia & Lance Smith, Strake Foundation; Safety Supporters Stacy & Jason Johnson / MetroNational, Tena & Tyson Faust and Tama Lundquist & Dr. Peter Farrell; Safety Friends CenterPoint Energy, Houston Police Officers’ Union, Meg and Dick Weekley, PPI Security, Scott and Lindsay Aronstein / Connectivity Source, Sheridan & John Eddie Williams, Susan and Jim Baker and Whitney Lawson; Friends Patricia and Tom Ritter, and United Protective Services.
Among supporters were Crime Stoppers Chairman Chris Massey, Ingrid Moody, Tony Buzbee, Steve and Natalie Mohtashami, Brooke Lee, Tyson Faust, Shafik Rifaat, Patricia and Tom Ritter, Robert Arriaga, Lindsay and Scott Aronstein, Michelle Heinz, Kim Ogg, Ricardo Nazario, Mayte Sera Weitzman, Sandra Smith Cooper, Russell Molina, Chief Tony Leal (Retired), Lilac Guzman, Amber Elliott and many more.
Notable guests include Harris County District Attorney Sean Teare; Harris County Commissioner Tom Ramsey, Houston Mayor John Whitmire, Vice Mayor Pro Tem Amy Peck; Houston Police Department Chief Noe Diaz; Houston Council Members Sallie Alcorn, Twila Carter, Willie Davis, Mario Castillo, Fred Flickinger, and Julian Ramirez; Piney Point Village Mayor Aliza Dutt; Harris County Precinct One Constable Alan Rosen, Harris County Judges Emily DeToto, Beverly Armstrong, Lori Chambers Gray, Maritza Antu, Tonya McLaughlin, Brad Hart and Chad Bridges; and members of the Houston Police Officer’s Union Douglas Griffith, Kenneth Nealy, Rhonda Williams, Tim Whitaker, and Terry Seagler.
Proceeds from the luncheon will directly benefit Crime Stoppers of Houston’s year-round crime prevention and public safety programming, helping to fuel their mission of solving and preventing serious crimes through innovative, community-driven initiatives.
For nearly 45 years, Crime Stoppers of Houston has led the charge in solving and preventing serious crime. From its renowned Tip Line (713-222-TIPS) to its comprehensive safety education initiatives, the organization reaches millions through its Safe School Institute, Safe Community Institute, Victim Services & Advocacy Program, The Glenda Gordy Research Center, and The Balanced Voice Podcast.
This year, through its Million for Million Campaign, Crime Stoppers is committed to reaching one million students and families with vital safety resources – empowering communities across Texas with the tools to prevent violence before it occurs.
For more information, visit www.crime-stoppers.org.
Crime Stoppers of Houston Raises Over $2 Million Dollars at Raise ‘Em Up for Texas Annual Gala
The theme of the Crime Stoppers of Houston’s annual gala, “Raise ‘Em Up for Texas”, was all about big hats, big hearts, and grand celebration of wins. Chaired by dynamic couples Dr. Elizabeth McIngvale-Mackey and Matt Mackey, along with Michelle and Jonathan Zadok, the event took place on Thursday, October 24, 2024, at The Revaire and raised over $2 million to support Crime Stoppers’ mission to combat crime and keep children across Texas safe through its Safe School Institute. The event soared to new heights thanks to strategic chairs, Vanessa Ames and Jordan Seff, whose leadership and wide-ranging vision created an unforgettable evening for all.
The lavish celebration united over 400 generous supporters, community advocates, elected officials, and law enforcement from across the state for a lively Texas-themed party which kicked off with an energetic happy hour, offering guests opportunities to support the night’s exciting silent auction and raffle.
Houston Media Icon Dave Ward welcomed guests into the main ballroom with pre-recorded messages, followed by an entertaining opening from emcee and auctioneer Johnny Bravo, including a message from Houston Mayor John Whitmire who thanked Crime Stoppers for its steadfast support to help keep our city safe. Before dinner, Crime Stoppers CEO Rania Mankarious spoke about the important mission of Crime Stoppers, offering insights on the organization’s unique safety programs and highlighting the work of the Safe School Institute, which tirelessly strives to keep schools across Texas safe.
Guests were entertained by the band Nobody’s Fool while savoring a delicious dinner featuring steaks donated by Ben Berg and the Berg Hospitality Group.
The action-packed program continued with remarks from special guest Dr. Renu Khator, Chancellor and President of the University of Houston, who joined to celebrate the community efforts of Crime Stoppers. In her speech, she highlighted a campus incident where many lives were potentially saved when an anonymous tip to Crime Stoppers helped prevent a mass shooting.
The festivities continued with a thrilling live auction by Johnny Bravo, designed to raise funds in support of the Crime Stoppers mission. Then, special guest and recent Stratford High School graduate Seven “Shamir” Francis shared his story reflected of experiences faced by millions of teenagers. He expressed his heartfelt gratitude for Crime Stoppers, highlighting how it serves as a counterbalance to the serious challenges kids face today by providing positive messaging and resources to help them make safer choices regardless of their circumstances.
Crime Stoppers CEO Rania Mankarious continued the evening by introducing the McIngvale Family Humanitarian Award, named in honor of the McIngvale Family for their outstanding benevolent efforts and support to the community during times of crisis, as well as their investment in the work of Crime Stoppers. Dr. Elizabeth McIngvale-Mackey and ‘Mattress Mack’ Jim McIngvale joined Rania on stage to present the inaugural award to The John M. O’Quinn Foundation, represented by Board of Trustees Chairman Rob Wilson. This award recognized the foundation’s support of the Safe School Institute through a historic $500,000 gift, marking a significant first step in helping Crime Stoppers provide safety resources to children across Texas. Immediately afterward, Crime Stoppers debuted a video announcing its 2025 Million for Million campaign, which aims to reach one million students with safety resources. To help achieve this goal, Johnny Bravo led a Paddles Up call for donations, resulting in an impressive additional amount of $500,000 raised.
To help celebrate this huge accomplishment, Oscar award-winning actor and Crime Stoppers friend Matthew McConaughey sent a special video message.
The evening wrapped up with Zadok Jewelers announcing Oscar Martinez as the lucky winner of the ring raffle, followed by some fun country dancing!
Thursday’s celebration was supported by many individuals, community partners and generous underwriters, including Entertainment Sponsor Inscription Capital/Patrick Keller; Provisions Sponsor Berg Hospitality Group; Auction Sponsor Connectivity Source/Scott and Lindsay Aronstein, Printing Sponsor Kelley Stephen Lubanko, Water Bottle Sponsor Erin Stetzer Homes, Happy Hour Sponsor Marfa Spirit Company, Valet Sponsor Porsche River Oaks and Porsche West Houston; President Sponsor C. James & Carole Walter Looke Family Fund; Governor Sponsor Seff and Ames Family; Mayor Sponsors Brigitte Kalai, Alicia Smith, Susan Boggio, Amerapex, Innovative Legal Solutions, Jane Johnstone – in Memory of the Honorable Mike McSpadden, Sheridan and John Eddie Williams, The McIngvale Family, Hildebrand Foundation and Zadok Jewelers; and Commissioner Sponsors Charlie and Melissa Weldon, Deborah and William Walker, Harris County District Attorney’s Office, Kevin and Brooke Lee and Natalie and Steven Mohtashami, Meg and Dick Weekley.
Additional supporters include Dylan and Jordan Seff, Chuck and Vanessa Ames, Eric Elder, Caroline and Matthew Monday, John Eddie and Sheridan Williams, Brooke and Kevin Lee, June and Steve Barth, Laura and Dave Ward, Dana Barton and Robert Clay, Charlie and Melissa Weldon, Laura and Ned Davenport, Natalie and Steve Mohtashami, Shane Treleaven, and Jillian and Yuri Waldo.
Notable guests include United States Senator Ted Cruz, Harris County District Attorney Kim Ogg, Harris County Commissioner Tom Ramsey, City Council Member Willie Davis, Houston Police Chief Noe Diaz, and Harris County Precinct One Constable Alan Rosen.
Visit www.crime-stoppers.org for additional information on Crime Stopper’s programs, resources and events.
Crime Stoppers of Houston’s Annual Gala Raises Over $1 Million Dollars at Powerful Evening with Honoree GOYA Cares and Actress Mira Sorvino
The Crime Stoppers of Houston ‘Leading the Way to a Safer Houston’ Annual Gala, chaired by Jennifer and Chris ‘Kip’ Hohman, was held on Thursday, October 12, 2023 at the Hilton Americas Houston Hotel and raised over $1 million dollars to further the Crime Stoppers crime-fighting mission. The event, graciously presented by C. James and Carole Walter Looke Family Fund, brought together 380 generous supporters, courageous survivors, devoted community advocates, elected officials and law enforcement from across Texas for a poignant evening that put the spotlight on the movement against human trafficking.
The Thursday affair began with a lively cocktail reception, program booths, fun photo stations, opportunities to support the important work of Crime Stoppers and more.
Once in the Americas Ballroom, the program kicked off with a welcome message from Crime Stoppers Board Chair Lindsay Aronstein who spoke about her personal dedication to the Crime Stoppers mission before calling for a moment of silence recognizing what is taking place in Israel and around the world. Immediately following, a Crime Stoppers mission video was played, and the night continued with remarks from Crime Stoppers CEO Rania Mankarious who expressed gratitude before pausing for dinner.
“On behalf of the board, staff and gala chairs, I want to express our heartfelt appreciation to all those who supported this special event! I also extend my sincerest thanks to the victims who came and shared their stories. The Crime Stoppers’ mission means we work to thwart criminal activity before it starts while also supporting every aspect of the criminal justice system once it’s set in motion. This event helps us raise critical funds to serve in those ways and beyond. We remain thankful to all.” said Crime Stoppers OF Houston CEO Rania Mankarious
A committed ally and advocate in the fight against human trafficking, gala chair Jennifer Hohman took the stage and delivered a heart-felt, emotional message reflective of her family’s commitment by sharing the “voices” of real women in the room whose lives were forever changed by human trafficking. As Hohman read the stories, each survivor boldly stood at their seats and received a standing ovation from the room.
The festivities then continued as Crime Stoppers honored GOYA Cares and Bob Unanue, President and CEO of Goya Foods for their significant contributions to the anti-trafficking movement, disaster relief and much more. A special announcement was made that the Crime Stoppers city block will be named The Sergeant John Allen Wall Public Safety Block in honor John Wall, the founder of the Human Trafficking Rescue Alliance (HTRA) which brings agencies together to collaborate and find solutions.
As guests began to partake in dessert, KHOU 11 News anchor Mia Gradney welcomed special guest Mira Sorvino for a moderated conversation about the local and global fight of human trafficking. As a UNODC Goodwill Ambassador for Global Fight Against Human Trafficking and Actress from ‘Sound of Freedom’, Sorvino offered insight about her passion to help others, how her involvement in anti-trafficking started, her personal experiences turned into advocacy, her career and much more.
The evening closed with a Paddles Up call for donations and exciting “Last Paddle Standing” led by Johnny Bravo Entertainment. Zadok Jewelers made a generous donation of two gift cards that were bid on by the audience with one lucky winner, Vanessa Ames!
Thursday’s celebration was supported by many individuals, community partners and generous underwriters, including Presenting Sponsor C. James and Carole Walter Looke Family Fund, Legacy Leader sponsors GOYA Cares and Walter Oil & Gas Corporation Fund; Safety Trailblazers Alicia Smith and Brigitte Kalai, Dylan and Jordan Seff, Hildebrand Foundation, Holthouse Foundation for Kids, Jane Johnstone, Sheridan and John Eddie Williams, and The McIngvale Family; Community Front-Runners Zadok Jewelers; and Prevention Partners Frances Moody Buzbee and Tony Buzbee, Jennifer and Chris ‘Kip’ Hohman, Memorial Hermann and State Senator Mayes Middleton.
Additional guests included Joanne King Herring, Tena and Tyson Faust, Mayte Sera Weitzman, Jonathan Zadok, Susan Boggio, Jordan Seff, Matt Mackey, Dr. Elizabeth McIngvale, Sam and Barney Gershen, Kim and Dan Moody, Vanessa and Chuck Ames, Kay and Fred Zeidman, Akash Patel, Cathy and John Crapitto, Sean Stewart, Wendy Craven, Chris Massey, Scott Aronstein, Oscar Martinez, Michelle and Mike Heinz, Omar and Maha Khan, Patricia and Tom Ritter, Ricardo Nazario, Don and Nancy Woo, Kathy and Paul Castro, Ali and Mark Katz, Genny and John McIntyre, Vicki Rizzo, Leisa Holland Nelson, Anna and John Reger, and many others.
Leaders from the city, county and state were all involved in the nonpartisan event. Notable guests include representatives from Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee’s office, Deanna Harrington representing House Representative Mano DeAyala, Harris County District Attorney Kim Ogg, Roger Bridgewater representing Harris County Pct 3 Commissioner Tom Ramsey, Mayor Pro Tem Dave Martin representing Mayor Sylvester Turner, Houston City Council Members Sallie Acorn, Mike Knox, and Amy Peck, Harris County Constable Precinct One Alan Rosen, Metro Police Department Chief Vera Bumpers, Houston Police Department Lieutenant Tiffany Jefferson and Sergeant Joe Hughes, Spring Branch ISD Police Department Chief Larry Baimbridge, and Judges Erika Ramirez and Katherine Thomas.
If you were not able to attend, you may still support the Crime Stoppers mission online here: https://fundraise.givesmart.com/f/4ac7/n?vid=11lb31
Visit www.crime-stoppers.org for additional information on Crime Stopper’s programs, resources and events.
Crime Stoppers Slams One Out of the Park at Annual Gala
Crime Stoppers of Houston Slams One Out of the Park at Annual Gala – Over $1,355,000 Raised for Crime Solving and Prevention Programs
A Historic Evening ‘On the Field’ Honors Houston Leaders, Remembers Crime Victims and Calls for Community to Unite to Fight Crime
HOUSTON (November 18, 2022) – Crime Stoppers of Houston’s ‘Leading the Way to a Safer Houston’ Annual Gala, chaired by Sheridan and John Eddie Williams, was held on November 13, 2022 on the field at Minute Maid Park and raised a record-setting over $1,355,000 for crime prevention programs and critically-needed victim services. This memorable event brought together 500 generous supporters, courageous victims of crime, devoted community advocates, elected officials and law enforcement from across Texas for a moving evening that honored Houston leaders, remembered innocent lives lost to senseless violence, and called for communities to come together and unite with Crime Stoppers in making Houston a safer place for all.
“During a time when we all agree crime is the number one issue in Houston, we look forward to working with all community members and all community leaders on solutions. Public safety must be the place where partnerships begin and politics ends. For the sake of all who call Houston home, we are committed to doing our part and are thankful for the growing community behind us.” said Crime Stoppers of Houston CEO Rania Mankarious and Gala Co-Chair Sheridan Williams
As guests stepped on the field at Minute Maid Park, the Home of World Champions, they were met with many surprises – a thrilling World Series Championship video, a chance to take a photo with the World Series Trophy, a fun #UnitedforPublicSafety photo station and much more. The lively cocktail reception, with décor designed by Richard Flowers at The Events Company reflected the uniqueness of the evening.
Once at their seats, the program kicked off with a compelling welcome message from Houston Media Icon and longtime Crime Stoppers supporter Dave Ward. Immediately following Dave, a group of Crime Stoppers’ children, whose mothers work at the organization, took to the stage to introduce mistress of ceremonies AT&T SportsNet and Astros sideline reporter Julia Morales. The celebration continued with remarks from supporters Jim and Whitney Crane who welcomed the crowd and shared their commitment for Crime Stoppers and the need for all of us to make the safety of Houston a priority.
Committed to public safety, gala co-chair Sheridan Williams, who has made it her personal mission to help victims of violent crime, took to the stage to address the audience. Sheridan delivered a heart-felt and important message about the need for the community to come together and was joined by Houston Police Department Chief Troy Finner to honor three police officers recently involved in a shoot-out. Sheridan then continued with the honoring of Professional Baseball Hall of Famer Jeff Bagwell, United States Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee and Jim McIngvale, Mattress Mack. The honorees have a history of supporting Houston and Crime Stoppers but this year, have all risen to do so much more. All three mentioned the need for the community to come together to address crime and Jim McIngvale closed the comments with a call to do “what’s right” and made a historic and emotional gift of $300,000 to the organization.
After dinner, Crime Stoppers CEO Rania Mankarious offered a powerful delivery that touched on overcoming adversity and the work of Crime Stoppers, followed by remarks from Crime Stoppers Chairman of the Board Justin Vickrey.
Crime Stoppers Director of Victim Services Andy Kahan joined Rania to facilitate a conversation with surviving family members, Aimee Castillo and Glinda Martin, Lourdes Medina and Bob Nuelle who joined to courageously share their stories:
– Aimee Castillo and Glinda Martin, Aimee is the sister and Glinda is the mother of Joshua Sandoval who was murdered during a home-invasion robbery.
– Lourdes Medina, daughter of Martha Medina. Martha was a beloved wife, mother and grandmother who was tragically killed during an attempted robbery while getting breakfast for her family
– Bob Nuelle, father of Elizabeth Barraza, who was murdered in her own driveway while setting up for a garage sale.
The Fireside Chat with the victim families concluded with a video in memory of lives cut short allegedly by defendants released on multiple felony bonds, felony pr bonds, and/or bond forfeiture. Victim families were recognized on stage as their loved ones’ photo was shown.
The evening closed with an exciting “Last Paddle Standing” led by gala co-chair John Eddie Williams, who was joined on stage by Jim and Whitney Crane, Hall of Famer Jeff Bagwell, Houston Police Chief Troy Finner, and Houston Astros Executive Director Paula Harris. Zadok Jewelers made a generous donation of two gift cards that were bid on by the audience. In close, Jim and Whitney Crane promised to match the generous and historic gift from Jim McIngvale causing this evening to the be most money raised for the organization in its 42-year history.
Sunday’s celebration was supported by many individuals, community partners and generous underwriters, including Legacy Leader sponsors Sheridan and John Eddie Williams, The Astros Foundation – Jim and Whitney Crane, Jim and Carole Walter Looke, Russell and Glenda Gordy; Safety Champions Brigitte Kalai, Alicia Smith, and Hallie Vanderhider; Safety Trailblazers Hildebrand Fund; and Community Front-Runners Clear Channel Outdoor, Faust Family, Tama Lundquist and Dr. Peter Farrell, Jordan Seff, Jennifer Hohman, and Zadok Jewelers.
Additional guests included Paula Harris, Dror and Helen Zadok, Jonathan Zadok, Margaret Alkek Williams, Susan Boggio, Rachel Bagwell, Dancie Ware, Jim Ware, Laura Ward, Akash Patel, Cathy and John Crapitto, Travis Dorroh, Krislyn Vickrey, Logan Leal Dresser, Anna Reger, Jill and Charlie Talisman, Hazem Ahmed, Lawrence and Linda Levy, Matt Mackey, Michelle and Mike Heinz, Shana Jones, Nancy and Don Woo, Oscar Martinez, Scott and Lindsay Aronstein, Tena and Tyson Faust, Amy Leibman, Vivian King, Chris Massey, Trip McIngvale, Genny and John McIntyre, Patricia and Tom Ritter, Tissy and Rusty Hardin, Jay Ziedman, Franco Valobra, Vicki Rizzo, Dr. Richard Stasney, Kathryn Stasney Childers, Jeff Stearns, Sean Stewart, Carvana Cloud, Sonya and Jeff Vaden, Andy Allen, Wendy Baimbridge, Ryan Patrick, Darcel and Fenner Weller, and many others.
Leaders from the city, county and state were all involved in the nonpartisan event. Notable guests include Senator Joan Huffman, Senator John Whitmire, State Representative Ann Johnson, Harris County District Attorney Kim Ogg, Harris County Commissioner Tom Ramsey, Houston City Council Members Amy Peck, Mike Knox, Mary Nan Huffman, and Abbie Kamin, Harris County Constable Precinct One Alan Rosen, Metro Police Department Chief Vera Bumpers, Bellaire Police Department Chief Onesimo Lopez, and Katy Police Department Chief Noe Diaz.
If you were not able to attend, you may still support the Crime Stoppers mission online here: https://fundraise.givesmart.com/f/3u1w/n?vid=sh9l6
Visit www.crime-stoppers.org for additional information on Crime Stopper’s programs, resources and events.