Fannin County, Texas -- Early estimates are that the 13th Annual “Justice Is Served” fundraiser raised about $54,000 for the Fannin County Children’s Center.  This amount tops the previous best of $50,000 from last year.  In addition, attendance was the largest ever, with more than 400 in attendance at the dinner and auction at the Complex in Bonham.

Since the event was on Veteran’s Day, the organizers chose a patriotic theme.  Many guests joined the fun by dressing in red, white and blue.  Congressman John Ratcliffe, State Senator Bob Hall, State Representative Larry Phillips and several local officials of the justice system served up dinner and cold drinks to the guests.  The James Dering band played jazz music while guests bid on more than 200 items in the silent auction.

Fannin County Game Warden Randolph McGee was the auctioneer for the evening.  Judge Lauri Blake’s turtle brownies were the first item up for bid in the live auction and brought in $1000.  A custom built entry way gate from Jason Garner Welding got the top bid in the live auction, bringing in $3000 for the nonprofit.   A framed Dallas Cowboy jersey autographed by Troy Aikman and donated by Dr. Lee Schreiber sold for $1800.

Adding to the excitement of the evening, McGee brought TV camera crews from “Lone Star Law” with him to the event.  “Lone Star Law” is a documentary show on the Animal Planet channel that highlights the work of game wardens in Texas.

Undoubtedly the star of the evening was Render, the courthouse facility dog and newest member of the Children’s Center staff.  He spent much of the evening at the photo booth, posing for photos with guests and giving kisses when he could.

“This was clearly our best Justice Is Served ever,” said Sandy Barber, Executive Director of the Children’s Center. “This event is such a team effort of our board, staff and volunteers.  The Fannin County community turned out in force this year.  It is inspiring and encouraging to see so much generous support for the children we serve.  We are so grateful to everyone who played a part in making this event so successful.  Funds raised will help us keep up with the growing demand for our services.”

All proceeds from the event will sustain all of the support services provided by the Children’s Center for abused and neglected children, including CASA and the Children’s Advocacy Center. For more about the center, go to www.fanninccc.org.