25 Years in the Making Hails “Lost is not Alone,” as Texas EquuSearch’s Most Successful and Inspiring Gala

25 Years in the Making Hails “Lost is not Alone” as Texas EquuSearch’s Most Successful Gala

“It is in your moments of decision that your destiny is shaped.” This ancient quote sums up the life of Tim Miller, a former construction executive and now the founder of Texas EquuSearch, a horse-mounted search and recovery team. In 1984, Tim’s 16-year-old daughter, Laura, was kidnapped and murdered in Galveston County. For sixteen years, Tim searched for a way to honor Laura’s memory and give his life meaning. In 2000, this organization was established to support families of missing persons and ensure that no family feels alone in their darkest hour. Twenty-five years later, more than 470 guests gathered at The Post Oak at Uptown to unite their voices and reconfirm that “Lost Is Not Alone” and raise over $750,000 to support this global volunteer charitable endeavor.

Honorary Chairs spotlighted were Debbie and Roger Clemens, Andre Johnson, and Dan Pastorini. Those celebrated and honored for their support of the organization’s mission included Roy Moffitt of Moffitt Services, Sheriff Ed Gonzalez, and Robert Tijerina.

Houston’s own Johnny “Bravo” Holloway served as emcee and began the evening by introducing speakers who shared personal stories and emotional tributes. Founder Tim Miller shared his journey, as mentioned above, and received the first standing ovation of the night. Families affected by the recent Hill Country floods were represented at the event, as fathers Thad Heartfield and David McCown, who lost their daughters Aiden Heartfield and Linnie McCown, gave grateful prayers to Texas EquuSearch for their search efforts and invaluable emotional support. Once again, those in the ballroom rose to their feet with non-stop applause for the courage and strength of the parents during unimaginable tragedy.

Rarely do Presenting Sponsors make heartfelt appeals on stage, but sponsor Gary Petersen took the opportunity to express the importance of Tim and the foundation’s legacy to him personally, as well as to the nation and the world at large.

During the evening, guests were treated to a wine pull (that was sold out in short order), a raffle, a silent auction, and a live auction, which included an Ultimate Sports Package with items from the Rockets, Texans, and Astros, which were combined into one luxurious featured auction selection. Over $250,000 was raised from the efforts of these event categories. Donating floral centerpieces was the gift of the always generous team at H-E-B.

Former American Idol finalist and winner of The Voice 2016, Sundance Head, was the gala’s featured performer. The Porter, Texas native performed his viral original song about the Hill Country Floods, leaving the audience inspired and ready for more! Sundance’s father, Roy Head, a famed singer of the international 1965 hit “Treat Her Right,” was a personal friend of Tim Miller and helped him with searches early on, as the 501(c)(3) was being formed.

To date, Texas EquuSearch has assisted in more than 2,000 cases across the U.S. and internationally. Many will remember the disappearance of the beautiful, young student Natalie Holloway in Aruba. Tim and his team were called to help, and without question, jumped in to lend their support. The charity operates entirely on donations and volunteer efforts, never charging families for its services. For more information or to lend your financial or volunteer support, please visit their website or call 281.309.9500.

In the Social Scene (not previously mentioned):  Dana and Blake Fertitta, Katie and Patrick Fertitta, Blayne Fertitta, Paige Fertitta, Kacy Clemens, Ann and Ted Kergan, Aimee Snoots, Carin and Todd Barth, Gina and Dr. Devinder Bhatia, Larry Satterwhite, Laura Ward, Pamela Morse, Samantha Kennedy, Jody Merritt, Edna Meyer-Nelson, Michel Hoctor, Paula Goldstein, Debbye Crofoot, Kim and Todd Nelms, Lori and JJ Isbell, Jennifer and Constable Alan Rosen, Christine and Steve Johnson, Linda and David Johnson, Mechelle Tran, Duke Ensell, Christine and Andy  Kahan, Tom Butler and The Honorable Linda Garcia, Beth Holloway (mother of Natalie Holloway), Chief J. Noe Diaz and Sheila Diaz, Chris Swanson, Joy and Stewart Morris and Shayna Andrews