The Sugar Land Citizen’s Fire Academy Alumni Association & Honorary Chairs, Former Mayor James & Mrs. Gay Thompson are pleased to invite you to The Inaugural Sugar Land Firefighters Ball September 11, 2021 This year, the Sugar Land Fire - EMS Department commemorates 61 years of dedicated service to the city of Sugar Land and this event, being held on a symbolic and meaningful historic date for all first responders across our nation will focus on honoring Sugar Land firefighters. The inspiration for this event is found in a quote often stated by Sugar Land Fire Chief, Doug Boeker, “We are part of the community and the community is part of us.” Our firefighters believe this, live this and commit to this day in and day out. A community-driven ambassador organization, The Citizen’s Fire Academy Alumni Association (CFAAA) was established in 2008 and exists to offer meaningful, tangible support to our firefighters, beginning with welcoming new hires, offering support from their date of hire through promotional processes and seeing it through to retirement. Hearts & Hoses Program – a program that supports members recovering from illness, with hospital visits and family assistance. Educational Scholarship program - offering financial support to family members of firefighters. The Firefighter of the Year Award - an annual recognition that honors those who have gone above and beyond their duty. Community Connection – a mission-focus to connect firefighters with the community through hosting Annual Public Safety Extravaganzas and other community education events. CFAAA works alongside Sugar Land Fire - EMS (SLFE) maintaining the traditions and preserving the rich history of the Fire Department while embracing new and innovative ways to serve and support. We invite you to join in the philosophy of this community spirit by supporting us in celebration, honoring our firefighters The Inaugural Sugar Land Firefighters Ball – September 11, 2021. |
Party in the making on 9-11 to benefit Sugar Land Firefighters A thank you for courage and bravery Thank you to everyone who came to kick off our event. Photos by Liz Furman, Elsa Malakoff & Mary Favre
Thank you to everyone who came to kick off our event.
“We’re part of the community and the community is part of us,” – this motto and declaration is often quoted by Sugar Land Fire Chief Doug Boeker, and it’s the genesis of The Inaugural Sugar Land Firefighters’ Ball to be held on the 20th anniversary of September 11th.
The ball is an acknowledgement for honoring and supporting the men and women who willingly serve and sacrifice their lives daily for the safety and well-being of the community. It’s also an opportunity for citizens to show their support. After all, when we call, they answer! The Inaugural Sugar Land Firefighters’ Ball will be on Saturday, September 11, 2021, 6 pm – 11 pm at Safari Texas Ranch,11627 FM 1464 Road, Richmond, Texas. Owners Allison Wen and his wife, Cassandra, are donating the venue and sponsoring a significant portion of the fundraiser to ensure this first ball is a rousing success. “Be sure to save the date and come join us in supporting our firefighters,” said former Sugar Land Mayor James A. “Jimmy” Thompson, who together with his wife, Gay, will serve as the honorary chairs of the inaugural event. Recognizing that Sugar Land did not have a dedicated community force supporting and uplifting its firefighters, or a system in place to fund items for the fire department outside the city budget, the Sugar Land Citizen’s Fire Academy Alumni Association (SLCFAAA), a 501(c) community-driven, ambassador organization, stepped up and today it is organizing and hosting The Inaugural Sugar Land Firefighters’ Ball. “We want all of our businesses and residents to have the opportunity to come, spend time with our firefighters and show support for all of our men and women in the department” said Suzanne Whatley, who serves as President of the SLCFAAA. This event will serve as a strong foundation to support the firefighters enabling their family, friends, neighbors, the business community and so many others in demonstrating the kind of support that will continue to grow in years to come. “And, what a more appropriate date to honor our firefighters than on the 20th anniversary of 9/11,” said Whatley. On the memorable day, event goers will have a distinctive opportunity to be a part of the special acknowledgement to these members of the public safety sector. Sugar Land Mayor Joe Zimmerman will be presenting a proclamation on behalf of the city acknowledging and honoring the exceptional service of the city’s firefighters and emergency responders in taking swift action in life and death matters…all in the name of community. “Participate in honoring these brave firefighters and emergency service responders, witness award presentations, hear testimonials, see exhibits, bid on live and silent auctions, listen and dance to festive music, do a photo-op, and enjoy dinner,” invites event producer Cher Binks, “so you don’t want to miss it.” For more about the ball, being a sponsor, donating and/or becoming a “Friend of Firefighters,” visit: www.slcfaaa.com |