Boots, Bling, and Big Impact

Lamplighter Gala Fuels Disaster Relief Mission
Interactive Event MDR Volunteers1
Courtesy Minuteman Disaster Response

More than 300 guests gathered for the 2025 Lamplighter Gala benefiting the North Texas-based nonprofit organization Minuteman Disaster Response (MDR), which provides disaster relief services at no cost to those it serves.

Main Judy and Paul Pogue MDR Founder and President
Judy and Paul Pogue, MDR Founder and President

Dressed in “Boots & Bling,” attendees enjoyed a night of celebration with CBS News Correspondent Jason Allen as emcee and Local Yocal’s Matt Hamilton as auctioneer. The event raised over $600,000 to fund equipment, vehicles, and operational support, allowing MDR to deploy trained volunteer teams who provide critical relief after disasters.

A new addition this year was the Interactive Experience, which gave guests an inside look at disaster response in action through photos, videos, and hands-on demonstrations from MDR volunteers. In 2024 alone, MDR deployed 262 volunteers to 17 disasters across eight states.

“The Lamplighter Gala really reflects the heart of Minuteman — its people showing up and giving their time and resources so others in need can be served,” said Founder and President Paul Pogue. “It was a great evening, and I’m so thankful for the support that helps us keep going when disaster strikes.”

Read more about Minuteman Disaster Response and the positive impact they’re making in the aftermath of disasters at MinuteManResponse.org.

default

At The Ready

MDR deployed almost immediately after the gala to support the flooding in the Rio Grande Valley — and it’s been all hands-on deck to support that effort.

You May Also Like

National Charity League Star Chapter recognizes Senior Class of 2024

Shining Stars

Top Row (standing): Shruti Godbole, Kendall Cooley, Faith Piper, Allison Reuber, Karlianna Kapche, Hannah ...

Mansfield Award Courtesy: Methodist Mansfield Medical Center

Awarding Excellence

Courtesy: Methodist Mansfield Medical Center Methodist Mansfield Medical Center was among 94 nationwide and ...

Dirk Nowitzki retires

The Texan From Germany Hangs It Up

After 21 seasons, DFW’s greatest basketball star retires   DIRK NOWITZKI, THE “BIG GERMAN” ...

Luka Dončić posing with Dallas areas kids he surprised with gifts during the holidays

A Big Heart

This year, the four-time All-NBA First Team and All-Star, who has been with the ...

ACC Awards $77,950 in Scholarships to Students in 2022

The Alvin Community College Foundation awarded $77,950 in scholarships to students at area high ...

Out of Many - One

Presidential Painter

Out of Many, One: Portraits of America’s Immigrants, by President George W. Bush brings ...