The 2026 Code Blue Gala
The lights of Marina Del Rey reflected on the water on October 1st, 2026, but inside, the room was shining brighter.
The Code Blue Youth Committee Corp. — founded in 2016 with a mission to bridge youth and community — hosted its inaugural gala. The theme was simple and powerful: representing law enforcement, community leadership, public service and professional excellence, each making an impact through their service and commitment to others.
It wasn’t just a dinner. It was a reunion of service.
At one table, NYPD leaders who protect the Bronx every day — Detective 1st Grade Hector Lopez from the 103rd, Captain Julieann Stapleton commanding the 49th Precinct, Lieutenant Ralph Lopez of the Options Program, Deputy Chief Steven Mauriello from Transit, and retired Detective Walter “Wally” Brant from PSA 2.
At another, community pillars who hold neighborhoods together — Lilyanna Pekic, whose public service work is felt across the borough, and Miriam and Regina Sanchez of the Monroe Houses Resident Association, mother and daughter, president and treasurer, leading by example.
Among them, a retired lieutenant turned youth mentor and boxing coach, Dave Siev — known to the kids as “Smoker Talk” — and mortgage professional Steven Paul Ross, who has quietly become one of the strongest advocates for first responders and first-time homebuyers.
Then PURA CEPA took the stage. Live salsa filled Marina Del Rey, and the dance floor filled just as fast. Badges and suits gave way to music and laughter.
And just when the night felt complete, the final special honoree was revealed live — a moment that brought the whole room to its feet.
$160 a ticket. One night. A decade of service in the making.
Photography by Charles Diaz