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The First Annual Responders Ball is set for Saturday, March 23 at the Demopolis Civic Center from 6 p.m. to midnight. Proceeds from the night will benefit the Citizens Public Safety Alumni Association’s scholarship fund and other community activities.

The adult-only, BYOB event requires formal attire and will feature a catered dinner, dancing, DJ entertainment, a memorial table for fallen first responders and special recognition for the Demopolis Police and Fire Departments.

It will also serve as a chance to honor and thank everyday “heroes behind the badge,” according to CPSAA President Jennifer Wearbon.

“Lately the cops have been coming together for a funeral, and so why not come together for a different occasion, not a sad occasion,” she said.

Wearbon said she hopes that enough money is raised through the event so that all six kids eligible for the scholarship fund, those who have parents in the police or fire department, will receive a one-time contribution of $2-5,000.

This would be the first year that the scholarship fund, which was started by former Police Chief Tommie Reese, is an active part of CPSAA’s mission.

“We just want them to go get more education because the more that you learn means the better jobs that you’re able to receive,” she said.

Wearbon has invited first responders from all over the state, as well as state officials such as Attorney General Steve Marshall, Gov. Kay Ivey and Rep. Terri Sewell, to the event.

The addition of a First Responders Ball has been on Wearbon’s mind since she became president of the organization in August of last year.

“I just got a clear vision of what I wanted to do,” she said.

To RSVP by March 9, contact Wearbon at 334-216-9057, dcpsaa17@gmail.com or wearbonjennifer@gmail.com. After receiving the RSVP, Wearbon will send directions for payment and write the name on an admittance list.

If unable to attend the event, the RSVP name can be changed to another attendee. Refunds are not available. Wearbon said that responses to emails or calls can be expected within two days. Admission is $25 for a single attendee and $40 for a couple.

(This article originally appeared in the Wednesday, February 6 issue of the Demopolis Times.)