Jacksonville, AL – The Alabama Law Enforcement Appreciation Foundation (ALEAF) hosted its annual Police Week Luncheon from May 12 to May 15 at Jacksonville State University (JSU) Stadium, providing meals, recognition, and camaraderie to law enforcement officers and dispatchers serving the 7th Judicial Circuit.
The event ran daily from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., offering lunch for approximately 1,600 officers and dispatchersthroughout the week. The luncheon featured door prizes and awards recognizing outstanding service and dedication within the law enforcement community.
On Monday, May 12, retired officers were especially invited to attend. JSU Head Football Coach Charles Kellydelivered the keynote speech, sharing his appreciation for law enforcement. He was introduced by JSU President Dr. Jimmy C. Killingsworth. That same day, Ryder Greenwood was honored for heroism after saving his neighbor from a dog attack. The recognition was presented by Sheriff Fallon Hurst.
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Monday: Calhoun Steakhouse provided beef tips, mashed potatoes, green beans, rolls, and apple and peach cobbler, sponsored by Oxford Lumber.
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Tuesday: WM Grocery hosted a taco bar with cookies and dessert cups, sponsored by WM Grocery.
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Wednesday: Cooter Brown’s Rib Shack served ribs, chicken tenders, baked beans, potato salad, cole slaw, bread, and banana pudding, sponsored by the Republican Party.
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Thursday: Nett’s Catering offered loaded alfredo, lasagna, garden salad, garlic bread, rolls, and dessert cups, sponsored by Sunny King.
ALEAF was established as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit by local citizens dedicated to showing appreciation for law enforcement service. Their mission is to provide a week filled with food, prizes, and fellowship for law enforcement personnel in Calhoun County during Law Enforcement Appreciation Week each year.
Several officers were recognized by their agencies with Officer of the Year awards during the week, including:
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Tim Lewis – Adult Probation
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Lucretia Smith – Alabama State Forestry
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SAS Kevin Walker – ALEA SBI
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ST Justin Curvin – ALEA Troopers
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Officer Christopher Bush – Anniston PD
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Deputy Eathan Heard – Calhoun SO
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Deputy Clay Smith – Cleburne County SO
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Mike Powell – GSCC PD
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Cole Painter – Heflin PD
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Dalton Finch – Jacksonville PD
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Officer Nick Harbison – JSU PD
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Colby Norred – MCU
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Brian Staude – NEALE Academy
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Officer Mike Willis – Ohatchee PD
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Investigator Seth Waits – Oxford PD
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Officer Jarred Dawson Ruark – Piedmont PD
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SRO Bryan Tumlin – Ranburne PD
The Alabama Law Enforcement Appreciation Foundation is guided by a dedicated board of members, including Tobi Burt, Henry Mullinax, Mike Webb, Shea Miller, Andy Green, Rev. Grinstead, Steven Lines, and Holly Box.
The week-long event exemplified community support and recognition for the men and women who serve and protect across the 7th Judicial Circuit.
