“Crimestoppers Blue Night” honored law enforcement officers with a benefit concert by NOLA greats and blues legends, including: James Andrews, Irvin Mayfield, Walter “Wolfman” Washington, Blinddog Smokin, Billy Branch of Chicago, Charmaine Neville, Bo Dollis and the Wild Magnolias and Rockin’ Doopsie Jr.
Bryan Batt served as event emcee and Jay Batt served as Event Chair, assisted by Caryn Rodgers and Darlene Cusanza.
Members of Law Enforcement present included: JPSO Sheriff Newell Normand, St. Charles Sheriff Greg Champagne, NOPD Chief Michael Harrison; St. John Sheriff Michael Tregre, Covington Police Chief Tim Lentz, Orleans Sheriff Marlin Gusman, Gretna Chief Arthur Lawson Jr., US Marshal Genny May, FBI SAC Michael Anderson and New Orleans DA Leon Cannizzaro.
The event featured a special tribute song by Dr. Donnie Markowitz, entitled “How Much I Love You,” which honors law enforcement officers who died in the line of duty. Jason Villemerette of Fire on the Bayou produced the music video. Families of slain officers joined the Crimestoppers GNO family to preview the emotional tribute, which is available on YouTube.
More than 600 patrons attended the event, which raised approximately $90,000.
EVENT AT A GLANCE
What: “Crimestoppers Blues Night,” benefiting Crimestoppers GNO
When: Wednesday, September 9
Where: House of Blues
