By Sarah Stephens
Elmore Autauga News
Top Photo: Elmore County Commissioners Bart Mercer and Desirae Lewis Jackson made generous donations in advance of the fundraiser this weekend.
The Millbrook Police Department’s Reserve program celebrated with a dinner Sunday night at Habanero’s and recognized their Reserve Officer of the Year.
Roger Groves was awarded the Officer of the Year plaque by Reserve Coordinator Sgt. Sean Brosius.
Brosius said that Roger always goes above and beyond, working long hours while volunteering his time.
Mayor Al Kelley attended the dinner, praising Roger, as well as all the volunteer Reserve officers, saying they make a huge difference in the city.
“I just can say enough about what you do for this city and the Millbrook Police Department,” Kelley said. “I do not know what we would do without you, and I hope in the future we can do more for you.”
Millbrook Police Chief P.K. Johnson echoed those sentiments, pointing out that the Reserves do not receive any financial benefit from their free service to the city. Yet, they show up to help wherever they are needed, they ride with certified officers on patrol, help at events, direct traffic and so much more.
This coming Saturday, the Punishers LEMC Three Rivers Chapter is holding a Reserve Officer Fundraiser to help with equipment needs, training, or anything that could continue to support the Reserve Officers. It is open to the public.
Many donations have already flooded in for the silent auction and raffle that will be held Saturday, Dec. 14 at the Punisher’s Clubhouse off Friendly Pines Road at 184 HOTROD LANE, Elmore.
Elmore County Commissioners Bart Mercer and Desirae Lewis Jackson recently made donations amounting to $3,000 for the fundraiser. Many local businesses have donated items, and the support has been outstanding, according to Sgt. Brosius.
Johnny Stiles is a former law enforcement officer and past President of the Punishers LEMC Three Rivers Chapter. Today he works with the National Punisher’s LEMC organization as the National Enforcement Captain. The current Punishers LEMC Three Rivers President is James “Pablo” Winters is also a former law enforcement officer. Both men encouraged the community to come out to the upcoming fundraiser and show appreciation and respect for the work the Reserve program does throughout Millbrook.
Stiles said that the Punishers LEMC is an international organization, made up of many members including law enforcement and current or retired military veterans.
As for the Poker Run and After Party Saturday, this is from the Punishers LEMC Three Rivers Chapter:
“Registration is from 11am-12:30 pm at our clubhouse. It will be a shotgun style poker run making four stops. The last bike must be back at the clubhouse NLT 5 pm. We will have raffle items, auction items, door prizes and best/worst poker hand.
The registration fee is $20 for the rider and $10 for the passenger.
Come out and help support our Poker Run benefiting the Millbrook Police Department Reserves. These men and women give their time to our community, so let’s help them with the equipment they need to get home safe. We will have Jeff Roberts playing the after party. You already know we will have some great food and ice-cold drinks. You must be 21 years or older to attend the after party.”
