Back the Blue

16 | Salute Community barbecue ‘Backs the Blue’

An idea to get the community involved in supporting local law enforcement has become a reality.

Gillespie County law enforcement personnel and their families were the guests of honor at a Back the Blue BBQ dinner hosted by Backwoods BBQ.

The barbecue was organized by Trey Block, Dan Garrison and Brandon Vinyard as a way for the people of Gillespie County to show gratitude for members of law enforcement.

“It blows my mind that just one month ago we all sat down at Tabac Haus, and after hearing Trey’s idea, launched this grassroots initiative to show local law enforcement that the community they serve has their back,” said Vinyard, who managed the fundraiser.

“I didn’t know Trey before this, and I never skip an opportunity to work with Dan,” Vinyard said. “We are just the organizers. The people who donated to show support should get all the credit for the event.”

The trio’s original idea was to throw a picnic with food, music and fun for the community and law enforcement to come together to celebrate the men and women in uniform.

However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, that wasn’t an option.

For the safety of everyone, the officers and their families were treated to a barbecue dinner, which was fully funded by members of the community.

“The outpouring of support from members of the community has been nothing short of amazing,” Vinyard said. “In just four weeks, we’ve raised enough to not only

To all of our First RespondersTHANK YOU

for your service & commitment to keeping our community safe. You are a blessing!

514 W. Windcrest St. Fredericksburg, Texas 78624

830.997.0330

815 Front Street Comfort, Texas 78013

830.995.5633

feed our officers and their families, but we will be able to give a substantial donation to the Families of Fallen Officers Fund of the Texas Police Association.”

He said, “With so much anti-police talk going around, I hope that our officers serving Gillespie County can see just how much the people they serve appreciate them and the sacrifices they make to help keep us safe.”

The Back the Blue BBQ event raised just over $20,000, which covered expenses of the dinner and also supported the Families of Fallen Officers through the Texas Police Association.

All donations are tax-deductible through the Texas Police Association.

The organizers said that they are looking at expanding their effort to surrounding counties in the Hill Country.

www.fredericksburgstandard.com

A sincere thank you

www.buildersfirstsource.com

to Gillespie County law enforcement officers, firefighters and first responders

So proud to be part of a community that has the best Law Enforcement, Firefighters &

INSPIRING IDEAS FOR YOUR HOME EMS!who have earned our respect and trust with their commitment to caring for ALL of us

Gillespie County Democrats

ProBuild o ers a complete solution for all of your building needs. With high quality lumber, custom trusses, and a robust selection of building products, we can provide you with the best materials for the foundation of your home. We recognize the importance of o ering products that meet your high standards and lumber and wood products are what we know best. We have the necessary relationships

BUILDING MATERIALS

1119 HWY 16 SOUTH FREDERICKSBURG, TX 78624 830.997.2106

LAKEWAY DESIGN CENTER

1010 RR 620 SOUTH SUITE 101 LAKEWAY, TX 78734