AUSTIN, Texas — The 100 Club of Central Texas has officially announced the recipients of its 2020 Outstanding First Responder Awards.
Every year the organization honors men and women who have gone above and beyond the call of duty for their communities. They were nominated by their departments and were selected by a panel of community members, business leaders and other first responders.
The 37th Annual Awards Banquet is open to the public on April 4 at the Westin Domain. The banquet will also feature live and silent auctions to support the organization's mission to provide immediate financial and emotional support to first responders and their families.
The award recipients will include:
Outstanding Administrative Technician – Kim Rendon, Round Rock Police Department
"Kim Rendon has worked with the Round Rock Police Department for 12 years, never wavering in her commitment to service. She is an invaluable asset for every shift, goes out of her way to ensure all the officers and dispatchers know they are appreciated at all times, and stands by to provide comfort during difficult times."
Outstanding Firefighter – Lieutenant Christopher Wood, Lake Travis Fire Rescue, and Firefighter Justin LaPree, Austin Fire Department
"Lieutenant Wood and Firefighter LaPree were both off-duty, traveling separately, in May 2019 when a small plane crashed near the intersection of The Hills Drive and Lakeway Boulevard in Lakeway. The firefighters independently chose to stop and render aid to the two pilots, ultimately saving the life of one."
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Outstanding Law Enforcement Officer – Sergeant Glenn Bennett, Belton Police Department
"Sergeant Bennet is responsible for the safe return of two young children to their family after they were abducted in the spring of 2019. He worked tirelessly and coordinated with departments across the country to track and apprehend the suspect."
Outstanding Team – Buda Fire Department and Hays County Sheriff’s Office
"Members of Hays County Sheriff’s Office and Buda Fire Department were dispatched to a home where a young child had been discovered at the bottom of a swimming pool during a party. Thanks to their valiant efforts, that child is now healthy and at home with his family."
Chair Award – Chris Connealy, Williamson County Emergency Services
"Chris Connealy has worked in every role of the fire service during his storied career. He began in Houston and worked his way up to Fire Chief before moving to Austin. He has since served as the State Fire Marshal and is currently the Senior Director of Williamson County Emergency Services."
Lifetime Achievement – Heidi Wittie, Austin Police Department
"Heidi Wittie has dedicated 18 years of her life to serving the officers of the Austin Police Department. In addition to putting in her all every day in the office, she volunteers with the Blue Santa Program each year, earned her Criminal Justice degree while working full time, and has provided invaluable insight and support to projects like the RISE Team."
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