by Sara Adams
How can we protect those who protect us? The men and women of the Sugar Land Police Department leave their families every day and risk their lives to protect us. As a direct result of our Police Department, SecurityChoice.com recently recognized Sugar Land as one of the Top 50 Safest Cities to Retire in America. While the officers of the Sugar Land Police Department are keeping our community safe, what can we do to ensure their safety?
On October 11, 2018 Smart Financial will present the Second Annual Back the Blue fundraiser in support of the Sugar Land Citizens Police Academy Alumni Association (SLCPAAA). The SLCPAAA is a 501(c)(3), fully volunteer organization that funds crime prevention programs, purchases much needed law enforcement equipment, and engages in volunteer activities that assist the Sugar Land Police Department’s efforts. Last year’s Back the Blue event resulted in a $75,000 contribution to SLCPAAA. Co-chairs, KK and Scott West, and Amy West and Gary Becker, have set this year’s goal in excess of $100,000.
Funds raised will provide life-saving equipment (like medical bags in patrol cars that could save lives of private citizens as well as police officers), tactical vests and other equipment that greatly increases the chances of officer survival when faced with an attack. Additionally, funds will be used to purchase new crime fighting technology and training equipment that will support the Sugar Land Police Department’s continued efforts to keep Sugar Land safe. Sugar Land Police Chief Robins says, “We are so grateful to our community for all the support it has given us through the years. We could not be as successful without our citizens and community partners.”
Gary Becker, President of Smart Financial Centre, promises, “Back the Blue will be unlike any charity event you’ve experienced. Prior to dinner in the lobby, guests will interact with members of the Sugar Land Police Department, test their skills in simulated interactions with the bad guys, see hi-tech CSI investigative techniques, and learn more about public safety. After dinner, the event will move into the audience chamber for a live concert where multi-platinum rock band Loverboy will perform an intimate show for sponsors and their guests. The artist has been underwritten by one of our caring and generous community leaders. The Smart Financial Centre stage has state of the art audio and lighting. The acoustics are phenomenal. This is one event you won’t want to miss.”
Captain Chris Thompson reminds us that all a police officer really wants to know is that the community they serve appreciates what they do. He says, “Our officers feel that appreciation every day in Sugar Land. They come to work happy and ready to serve.”
Be a part of this year’s Back the Blue fundraiser on October 11th where you can show your appreciation and support for those who protect and serve our community
For More Information contact:
Ingrid Gunn-Otero
Smart Financial Centre
281-207-9580
BACKTHEBLUE@SmartFinancialCentre.net
Back the Blue 2018 (1152) Left to right – Gary Becker, President Smart Financial Centre and Event Co-Chair, Amy West – Event Co-Chair, Michelle Allen, Assistant Police Chief SLPD, Tony Manna, Fundraising Committee Chair, Chris Thompson, Captain SLPD, KK West, Event Co-Chair and Scott West, Event Co-Chair
BACK THE BLUE SPONSORS:
Title Sponsor
Smart Financial
Chief Level
Becker / Markowitz Family Foundation
The West Law Firm
Captain Level
Jill and Jim Gibson, Susie and Doug Goff, Sarah and Kevin Matocha & Laura and Mark Millis
Live Nation/Ticketmaster
Spectrum Concessions & Catering
Lieutenant Level
Mercedes Benz of Sugar Land
PJ & Roxanne Meyers – Advanced Geodetic Surveys, Inc.
Silver Eagle Distributors
Spectacular, Inc.
Upstage Center
Sergeant Level
ACE Parking
Karen and Darren Beyer, Lori and Chuck Bramlett, Melissa and Matt Hayslip, Tracey and Bucky Richardson & Johnnie and Jimmy Wright
Classic Chevrolet Sugar Land & Johnson Development
Cloud 9 Travels
The Gerke Law Firm
KHOU Channel 11 & NewFirst Bank
LD Systems
Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital
Pritchard Sports & Entertainment
Tate, Moerer & King, LLP
Back the Blue Supporters
Les Newton
UpClose Magazine