Go Inside The Success Of The True Blue Gala In Houston

16^th Annual Gala Raises Over $1.1 Million For The Houston Police Foundation

Photography by Alexander’s Fine Portrait Design

THE SCENE: The home of Houston philanthropists Lauren and Tilman Fertitta was the setting for one of Houston’s most anticipated fall fundraising events. A sold-out crowd featuring over 600 of Space City’s top community leaders, elected officials, sociables, and philanthropists was on hand for the 16^th Annual “True Blue” gala. Benefiting the Houston Police Foundation, the night featured fun, philanthropy, and a night that ended with a bang.

THE VIBE: The “Blue-Jeans and Blue” attired crowd at the “True Blue” gala featured a mix of classic denim with some men taking the liberty to don their favorite blue blazer while other women opted to wear their favorite blue cocktail attire. This created a fun, festive environment for everyone attending the Salsa: A “Fiesta Fantastico”-themed event.

The magic could be felt in the air when revelers arrived as they were treated to music from a strolling mariachi band. Partygoers then cozied up to the bar to order a drink of choice, with many ordering a top-shelf margarita from the tequila towers that donned the bars. During the cocktail hour, guests could view live training elements demonstrated for patrons, while others opted to pose for an image with the Houston Police Department Robotic K-9 “SPOT” to commemorate the evening.

Legendary event producer Richard Flowers of The Events Company was responsible for creating the fun, festive space for the “True Blue” guests for dinner al fresco. Attendees then obtained food from a delectable array of food stations featuring many top Houston dining establishments including The Post Oak Hotel, McCormick & Schmicks, Cadillac Bar, La Griglia, Willie G’s, The Palm, and Saltgrass Steakhouse before taking to their seats for the main program.

During the program, attendees were treated to words from event leaders as well as Houston Mayor John Whitmire, highlighting the important work the Houston Police Foundation does to help provide the Houston Police Department to enhance public safety for its residents. The night was capped off with a bang––courtesy of a 15-minute fireworks spectacular that capped off a dazzling evening of fun and philanthropy.

THE NON-PROFIT: The 16^th Annual True Blue Gala, co-chaired by Tilman Fertitta and Houston Police Chief J. Noe Diaz, with Laura Ward serving as the dinner chair, raised over $1.1 million for the Houston Police Foundation. Proceeds raised from the event will go towards funding a new firearms training facility for the Houston Police Department.