Community support sought for POAL's golf tournament

The Lodi Police Department first formed the Police Officers Association of Lodi in 1982. Although originally formed as a bargaining unit for police officers, the POAL is also involved in helping the community in a variety of ways.

In 1989, under the leadership of Dennis Lewis, the POAL sponsored the first Lodi Adopt-a-Child to provide gifts for children in need during the holidays. That program has now grown into its own nonprofit organization providing gifts of toys and clothing to thousands of children each year.

Throughout the past 26 years, POAL has given to local charities, the American Cancer Society, police Partners, cadet programs and school grants. You may have attended one of their fundraising events involving our Lodi Police Officers facing off with professional athletes in a charity basketball game.

The POAL is organizing the Lodi Police Department's 3rd annual golf tournament set for September 8, 2008, at the Woodbridge Golf and County Club.

In years past, we have had great success thanks to the community's support. Together, we were able to raise enough money to support local charitable organizations as well as send the department's Honor Guard and Traffic Unit to Washington, D.C. in 2009 to attend the Annual Peace Officer's Memorial Service. In addition to honoring officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice, our Honor Guard and Traffic Unit will attend to commemorate the 10-year anniversary of the loss of our own Motor Officer Rick Cromwell.

The Lodi Police Department golf tournament is successful because of the support received throughout the community. There are three ways to show your support:

• Join us on the course! Get a foursome together or sign up as an individual. Cost is $125 per person and includes cart, range balls, lunch, drinks, prime rib dinner and tee prizes!

• Not a golfer? Sponsor a hole for $100. Your name or business name will be placed on a professional-quality sign at a hole.

• Donate a raffle prize. Any products or services are welcome!

Thank you in advance for your support. Together, we will make a difference.

Kelly Michaels is a Traffic Services Officer with the Police Officer Association of Lodi.

If you would like to take part in this event, or have any questions, you may call Cpl. Scott Bratton at (209) 625-7197 or Cpl. Val Chaban at (209) 333-6856.

Comments, questions or advice for Behind the Badge can be e-mailed to jbiskup@pd.lodi.gov or mailed to 215 W. Elm Street, Lodi, CA 95240, phone (209)333-6864.