Addie McCluskey
Elmore Autauga News
Local businesses, churches, and organizations joined together this holiday season to give back to the Millbrook Police Department during their annual luncheon, Dec. 12, 2025, at the Millbrook Civic Center.
The Millbrook Police Department is known for its selfless service and dedication to keeping the community safe. For many years, Police Chief P.K. Johnson personally prepared a steak dinner as a “thank you” to his officers and staff, but, as the department grew, so did the responsibilities and size of the annual celebration.
Approximately 15 years ago, Millbrook resident Sarah Stephens volunteered to take the reins, bringing with her an enthusiasm and generosity that transformed the meal into a true community event. With the help of friends, she made sure the tables were always overflowing with homemade sides and desserts, while Johnson continued supplying the steaks and baked potatoes. Stephens even gathered gift cards and door prizes, and before long, others across Millbrook began pitching in.
“Once I put the word out each year, so many citizens would call to say what they would cook, or to help decorate, or how many gift cards they could provide,” said Stephens. “They have always been wonderful with that and took a big load off of me over time.”
This year, however, brought a change no one expected. After suffering a serious health issue, Stephens—who is now recovering and doing well—decided it was time to pass the torch. With the event continuing to grow, she knew it needed many hands.
In her absence, Millbrook City Council President Michael Gay stepped up, reaching out to the community for support, and once again, Millbrook delivered.
From the Punishers Law Enforcement Motorcycle Club Three Rivers cooking steaks and potatoes to the West Elmore Lions Club serving up a full holiday-style feast provided by local churches, everyone’s kindness filled not just the tables but the entire room. The spirit of giving was also felt as officers and staff each received gift cards and entered to win a door prize, which was all funded by local businesses.
“I thought today was just going to turn into a steak and potatoes event, but I should have known better than that because our good friends from around the community stepped up,” said Johnson.
