Photo Gallery

This Photo Gallery serves as photo documentation of the history of the MBCPAAA and events to which the Association has become involved.

March 28-29, 2018-Role Playing for SLED/FBI Bomb Training

Our Association was asked to provide volunteer role players for this first ever training in Myrtle Beach. We had over 32 volunteers participate the two-day training. Day one included a morning orientation and demonstration with role playing in the afternoon. Day two continued w/the role playing scenarios in the morning with a huge culminating event in the afternoon session. Role players enacted people in various locations needing to be safely found and bought to safety, however, booby trap explosives were placed throughout the area. The bombs/booby trap explosive devices had to be found, inspected, deactivated, and safely removed. The culminating event included active shooter scenarios with eleven booby trapped "hostages,"each attached to an explosive device. All of the volunteers seemed to have fun while becoming educated in the different types of explosives and the meticulous process SLED and the bomb technicians employ.
A BIG thank you to the Golden Corral on Seaboard street in Myrtle Beach for offering $10 lunches (included drink & tip) to all participants.
WMBF aired two segments on the training, both of which can be viewed on our Media Page.

CPA Class 35 Graduation

The MBPD Winter CPA class held their graduation @ the MBPD Annex in the Market Common. Chief Prock addressed the graduating class, expressing her appreciation for completing the class and stressing the importance of keeping in-touch. Barbara Prescop, MBCPAAA President, also provided comments and encouraged membership in the Alumni Association, to which thirteen graduates are now members! Welcome to our Association!

Myrtle Beach Marathon - March 3, 2018

The Annual Myrtle Beach Marathon involves a tremendous amount of logistical planning. If not for the Myrtle Beach Police Department, the event would not be a success. Our volunteers joined the 5 a.m. MBPD briefing @ the Courthouse off Oak Street and Mr. Joe White Boulevard. The MBCPAAA provided volunteers to help w/pedestrian and traffic control and to cheer and direct the participants. Jack and Sandy Cheape worked their first marathon, alongside Larry Graden, Leon LeClerc, John Moore, Barbara Prescop, and Pam Rochelle. Thank you volunteers for setting your alarms so early and committing to "Support the MBPD."

15th Circuit LEN, February 23, 2018 - Georgetown, SC

The MBCPAAA "Incident Support Canteen" supported the Law Enforcement personnel @ the Traffic Safety Stop in Georgetown, SC. Whenever a good number of MBPD officers plan to participate, the canteen will travel! On this night, Mike Diehl, Susan Gross, and Barbara Prescop operated the Canteen. The night was full of surprises, including the police chase to catch a "runner" who plowed through the cones and took off, headed for the bridge. He ditched his car and a search ensued.

Carolina Ale House Dine-to-Donate Fundraiser
February 13, 2018

The MBCPAAA held their first official fundraiser at the Carolina Ale House, 2915 Hollywood Drive, Myrtle Beach. Between the hours of 11 a.m. - 9 p.m.,the Restaurant generously donated 10% of all food sales. Many people were involved in this successful endeavor, including organizer Dana Bushkin, MBCPAAA Secretary, and Carolina Ale House Special Events and Catering Manager, Caroline McDaniel, not to mention our many volunteers helping to distribute meal tickets. We were astonished and very appreciative of all the people showing up to support our non-profit, including our own MBPD. It was humbling. Thank You.

City of Myrtle Beach Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon and 2017 Volunteer of the Year Award: January 24, 2018

The City of Myrtle Beach held it's Annual Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon in the Ballroom of the Myrtle Beach Convention Center. Over 500 volunteers attended, including many from the MBCPAAA. After a nice lunch with dessert, the 2017 City of Myrtle Beach Volunteer of the Year was announced. The new Mayor, Brenda Bethune, presented Barbara Prescop with a plaque "for her service to the Myrtle Beach community through the Citizens Police Academy Alumni Association and her active participation in Police Department events, especially those that benefit and assist the department's officers and staff while on extended assignments." Barbara accepted the award on behalf of the Association. Following the presentation, each volunteer received a City of Myrtle Beach long-sleeve zip up crew neck shirt.

Membership Meeting and Active Shooter Presentation: January 18, 2018

The first membership meeting of the New Year featured an Active Shooter Presentation by Lt. Mike Guthinger. He captivated our members with his explanation and true to life anecdotes. We all would wonder what choices were available to us if we were put in that situation. To thank him and show our appreciation, he was presented with a Certificate of Appreciation and an Ultimate Myrtle Beach Discount Card.
The MBCPAAA was also proud to present it's second ever Exemplary Action Award to PFC Christopher Voegele. He earned our reward for his outstanding service to the community, volunteering his time to attend classes at Myrtle Beach High School. Each month, Chris would teach and mentor the students about “Street Law” and other facts of life. During the class, Chris was met with a “wall of negativity” by a particular student with local “gang” affiliation and he refused to acknowledge or accept Officer Voegele. The student once stated, “I ain’t talking to or looking at no cop”. This did not stop or hinder Officer Voegele’s perseverance and tenacity and being steadfast in his response and teachings to this one student as well as with all of the other students in the classroom. Near the end of the school year, this one troubled student approached Officer Voegele, asking him if he could give him a hug. He also announced to the rest of the class that he had ONE POLICE OFFICER THAT HE LIKED AND TRUSTED.
Due to the Officer Voegele’s “Dynamic Perseverance and Building Trust" with the Students of this MBHS class, PFC Chris Voegele was presented this Exemplary Action Award for demonstrating the Core Values of the Myrtle Beach Police Department in “protecting life” and for “treating everyone with a professional response."
Our 2017 Volunteers of the Year went to Jim Anderson and Linda Kiger.
Jim received the award for his commitment, dedication, leadership and exceptional volunteer service. For being a “Founding Board Member” as well as serving in the Offices of “Vice President” and “Acting President” of the MBCPAAA. Also for your participation as the “Chairman” of the “Exemplary Action Award “ Committee and many other functions of the MBCPAAA.
We are indebted to him for his dedication and service in helping to get this Association off the ground.
Linda Kiger, a MBCPAAA member and retired English teacher, volunteered to teach all six English Refresher Classes scheduled by the MBPD for a portion of the Department's Spring Inservice. One class was scheduled per week, with two classes scheduled for 6 p.m. and four classes for 8 a.m. Linda had to prepare for each class with approved lesson plans and quite a few worksheets and handouts. The amount of time she devoted to this endeavor over the six weeks was well beyond what most of our volunteers accumulate. We recognized her for her commitment, dedication, leadership, and exceptional volunteer service to our Association in supporting the MBPD. We also appreciate her willingness to set the alarm, though retired, to help our heroes in blue!

LEN: January 18, 2018

This time the 15th Circuit traffic safety check was on University Blvd. at CCU. The briefing was held at the Hackler Golf Course clubhouse and they provided a very delicious dinner. We were very fortunate to be able to provide hot Starbucks coffee to all working the event with thanks to the Starbucks located in the Coastal Grand Mall. They always come through for us, and the officers really appreciated the hot drink on a very chilly night! Thanks to volunteers Toni Benson-Powell, Susan Grose, and Barbara Prescop for running the Incident Support Canteen.

Freedom Parade: January 15, 2018

The MBCPAAA opened the New Year volunteering to help the MBPD with the 2018 Freedom Parade. The briefing was @ 10:30 a.m., so unlike other events, we could sleep in! A BIG thank you to Mike Grehl, Barbara Prescop, and new members: Larry Graden and Pam Rochelle. Everyone looked great in their MBCPAAA safety vest!

Banners were delivered to area businesses as a unique Thank-You for supporting the MBPD through the MBCPAAA.

Some area businesses are proudly displaying their Thank-You banners. WE thank-you for your continuing Support.

Christmas Day Meals: December 25, 2017

Once again, the MBCPAAA provided Christmas Day meals for the officers and support personnel working on this Holiday. There were more than enough volunteers, with Pat & Jim Yost and Susan Grose directing the event. Our volunteers started collecting food from restaurants on the Saturday and Sunday preceding Christmas Monday. There was so much food donated there wasn't enough room in the refrigerator! Graciously, some volunteers took some donations home to store until Christmas Day, meaning they drove back to the station for a second delivery. To add to the delicious meal, Santa (Pat & Jim Yost) obviously delivered stockings full of goodies for the K9's and goodie bags for the officers and support personnel. Many thanks to the volunteers and businesses coming together to make this event a success once again.

Angelo's - 2311 S. Kings hwy - 1 lg pan Italian meatballs (Angelo)
Carolina Ale House - mashed potatoes (pick-up TBD)
Dickey's Barbecue Pits - 3737 Oleander Dr. - 2 lg pans of baked beans (Jack & Sandy Cheape)
Golden Corral - 120 pieces of chicken
Kroger - Garden City - 2 cooked spiral hams (Jack & Sandy Cheape)
Paula Deen's - yam casserole and collards
BBQ House - (Surfside) - one smoked turkey
turkey donated by Donna Conklin and cooked by Maxine McIntee
NextDoor Social Media loaned a 45-cup coffee maker
3 pumpkin pies; whipped cream, K9 & Officer goodie bags, sandwich size zip-lock baggies, small candy canes, coffee, creamer, sugar - Pat & Jim Yost
EVENING MEAL ONLY: 2 turkeys, 2 hams, 4 gal. gravy, mashed potatoes, stuffing/dressing, mac & cheese, brocolli casserole (sides are enough for 20 people) - Roy Sizemore
cookies, brownies, pies, & cool whip - Dennis Brogna
EVENING MEAL ONLY: rolls, butter, 1 gal. sweet tea - Susan Grose
corn & mixed veggies - Becky Hyman
forks - Linda Aikey
dressing/stuffing, 1 gal sweet tea, 2 gal lemonade & home made brownies! Polarini family
green bean casserole - Dillon & Nora Key
rolls & butter (1st meal)- Theresa & Vinny Dorio
36-48 cans of Sprite - Reena Artz & family

Thanksgiving Day Meals: November 23, 2017

Every year for the past four years we have provided two Holiday Meals for the MBPD and support personnel working on Thanksgiving Day. Every year we have people and businesses step up to make it a huge success. This year we've had more businesses help us out than in the last three years and we have our loyal MBCPAAA volunteers who go the extra yard year after year. The meals would NOT be a success without the help and dedication of ALL involved. Our reward is seeing the gratefulness in the eyes of those enjoying the meals, and we're tickled when they return for seconds or sneak an extra goodie bag to take with them in their cruisers. It gives us pleasure to serve those that put their life on the line everyday - for us.
The MBCPAAA owes a special thank you to Pat & Jim Yost. They just graduated from the most recent CPA Class, #34, and they jumped right in and went above and beyond in what they contributed to the meals and what they had others contribute. You two are a great addition to our Association.
Kudos also go to the following:
Angelo Antonucci owner of Angelo's for your unyielding support providing two pans of meatballs
Dennis Brogna - for the cokes, Dr. Pepper and helping w/the early meal
Dana Bushkin for the various types of butter and helping w/set-up and the early meal
Heather Caplan-Brass, her husband and two adorable twins - community members who brought cookies and helped w/the evening meal
Jim & Bonnie Carlson for the cooked & sliced turkey, gravy, and coming early to help w/the evening meal
Ada Carman - for the VitaWater and your time helping w/the set-up and the evening meal
Sandy & Jack Cheape for obtaining food from Dickey's and Kroger's (4 years straight) and working both meals plus set-up and clean-up
Michael Chestnut, owner Mike's Soul Food - cooking/frying one turkey
Jim Cutler, GM at the Golden Corral - two cooked & sliced turkey breasts
Sue di Monda and her two friends - for the zip-lock baggies and helping w/the evening meal & clean-up
Susan Grose - for the cooked turkey, water, running to the store for last minute items, and your time helping w/both meals and clean-up.
Pat Hayes - community member for your monetary donation
Becky Hyman - for the lemonade, sweet tea, a pie, and donating your time helping w/the early meal
Leon LeClerc - helping w/set-up and the early meal
Mike Lowder and Phil Render for donating scripts for turkeys
Caroline McDaniel, Special Events and Catering Manager Carolina Ale House for the mashed potatoes
Maxine McIntee, South Beach Neighborhood Watch; for donating your time helping w/set-up and the early meal
John & Sara Moore for the sterno warmers, napkins, takeout containers, utensils, and helping w/the evening meal & clean-up
Danyque & Art Pollari - community members who made those awesome brownies, several types of stuffing, several casseroles, and helped w/the early meal.
Judy Widenhouse - for the green bean casserole & rolls
Pat & Jim Yost for the 3 pumpkin pies & whipped cream, cranberry sauce, mixed veggies, plates, cups, Sprite & extra goodies,obtaining "other donations" and helping w/both meals, set-up & clean-up
Carol Zuck - a community member: for the homemade Apple Cider Donut Cake
Dickey's BBQ Pit; 3735 Oleander Dr, MB - 2 pans of baked beans (4 years!)- thanks to Sandy & Jack Cheape
Kroger's - Garden City - ham (4 years!) - thanks to Sandy & Jack Cheape
Paula Deens - yam casserole and green beans
Sams - $100 gift card thanks to Pat & Jim Yost
Select PT - monetary donation
Simply Southern - 2 cooked turkeys and one cooked ham
South Beach Neighborhood Watch - donating over $200 in cash/checks as well as some food items

If I left someone out, it is not intentional. Everyone was so helpful!

Former MBPD Chief Warren Gall's Retirement Celebration @ Angelo's Steak & Pasta Restaurant: November 16, 2017

Angelo, owner of Angelo's Steak & Pasta Restaurant, 2311 S Kings Hwy, Myrtle Beach, gave us a private dining area to hold our celebration. It was an opportunity for the MBCPAAA to recognize and thank Warren Gall for his 37 years of dedicated service to the City and residents of Myrtle Beach. He was awarded with an Honorary Membership to the MBCPAAA and a personalized, engraved, keepsake box. Everyone enjoyed the evening which was filled with laughter, fellowship, and good food!

34th CPA Class Graduation: November 13, 2017

The 34th session of the Myrtle Beach Police Academy graduated from the 10-week course with ceremonies at the Law Enforcement Center Annex. Students were able to get a behind-the-scenes look at law enforcement, including ride-along opportunities with Myrtle Beach police officers. MBCPAAA acting president, Jim Anderson gave a short presentation about the Alumni Association and invited the graduates to join the group. New Class 34 members include Dana Bushkin and Pat and Jim Yost. We look forward to volunteering with you as we "Support the MBPD!"

2nd Annual Cops & Bobbers: October 27, 2017

The 2nd Annual Cops & Bobbers event was held @ the Market Common. The MBCPAAA provided lunch, snacks, and beverages for the event. A BIG thank-you is extended to the Carolina Ale House for generously donating cheeseburger sliders, chicken tenders, and chips for all of the adults attending the event and Wings & Co. for donating 30 kids' box lunches. John Reeves, owner of A Teacher's Touch donated two $25 gift certificates for the teachers involved in this special event. It is wonderful to find community businesses that are so willing to donate to worthy causes. In addition, MBCPAAA members Dan Connolly, Connie MacDougal, and Barbara Prescop donated their time to help procure the lunches and assist at the event. Thank you, volunteers, for helping to make a difference!

A Special Thanks to the following:

Carolina Ale House provided the chicken, hamburger sliders, and chips - enough to feed an army. 150 ea. Our contact is
Caroline McDaniel
Special Events and Catering Manager
Carolina Ale House - Myrtle Beach, SC
843.907.2492 (work cell)
myrtlebeachmarketing@cah-sc.com
2915 Hollywood Dr, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577

Wings & Co. in the Coastal Grand Mall provided 30 box lunches for the kids: (chicken fingers & cole slaw). Our contact is:
Ahmad Abdelhalim, the owner/GM
2915 Hollywood Dr, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577

A Teacher's Touch donated two $25 gift cards which I gave to the teacher (second year for his donation); contact is the owner
John Reaves
2610 S Kings Hwy, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577

The following items were included in the "goodie bag" the MBCPAAA provided each student participant:

The City of Myrtle Beach Sports Tourism, located @ the softball fields in the Market Common, gave us the earbuds, lanyards, and clips - my contact: Blake Barbee; he's done this for two years
The City of Myrtle Beach Rec Division gave us visors. My contacts: Anna Beth & Pam Jones; last year they gave us hats, this year, visors.
The company overseeing the mini-marathon gave us the bags and koozies.
The company overseeing the full marathon gave us bags, socks, sunglasses, and t-shirts.

Guns 'n Hoses Benefit Softball Game: October 22, 2017

The charity softball game against the Horry County Police Department was held at Pelican Stadium. Proceeds benefited Project Lifesaver/ SOS Healthcare specifically to provide a search and rescue tracking program for “at risk” individuals who are prone to wandering (persons with Alzheimer’s, autism, Down syndrome, dementia, and other cognitive conditions). The $5 admission also included free food, snacks, and drinks (no alcohol), though donations were accepted. Free pumpkins were available for the taking as you exited the stadium. The MBPD Blue put on a good show, but errors were their downfall as the Horry County Police prevailed. Maybe next year guys!

Myrtle Beach Mini Marathon: October 22, 2017

The MBPD requested volunteers to help during the mini-marathon. Following the 6 a.m. briefing, volunteers were assigned to specific intersections to help w/the safety of runners and pedestrians. Dan Connolly, Susan Grose, and Barbara Prescop volunteered to "support the MBPD." Thank you volunteers for representing the MBCPAAA!

K9 Alli's Retirement: August 8, 2017

A retirement party was thrown for K9 Officer Alli @ the Train Depot in Myrtle Beach. There was quite a crowd and Alli received many awards and gifts for her 6 years of dedicated service. Barbara Prescop, MBCPAAA founder, gifted Alli w/a supply of tennis balls and a PetCo gift card. We were so happy to hear that her partner and handler, Cpl. Chris Smith will be taking Alli to live in his home w/his family. In addition, Cpl. Smith will be attending training at the end of this month in Georgia w/his new K9 partner.

Junior Police Academy Graduation: August 4, 2017

The first MBPD Junior Police Academy kicked off on August 2, 2017 with a full schedule of age-appropriate activities beginning with first aid/CPR instruction, then presentations which included Telecommunications, Motor (Police Cruisers), Jail, and DARE. They returned on August 3 for several K-9 demonstrations, and presentations on SWAT, School Shootings, and Gangs. On the last day, August 4, they were treated to a shopping spree @ WalMart before lunch. Upon returning, lunch was hosted by the MBCPAAA, but provided by Surfside Bojangles. The participants enjoyed chicken strips and fries and the adults munched on BBQ sandwiches and coleslaw and/or rice. The meal wouldn't be complete without some of their delicious sweet tea. We are very thankful to Bojangles for their generosity in supporting the MBPD and their youth programs. Pam Rochelle, a MBCPAAA member was successful in getting the WalMart on Walton Drive (near the "back gate" in the Market Common) to donate a gift card which covered sodas, water, and ice. In addition, the MBCPAAA provided an assortment of chips to complement the lunches and two cakes to celebrate the graduation Everyone seemed to enjoy the special day!

We say goodbye to another wonderful volunteer.

Law Enforcement Hospitality Center: May 25-29, 2017

The third year of providing the Law Enforcement Hospitality Center surpassed expectations once again. We had a record number of businesses contributing and raised slightly over $700 in monetary donations. The support from the community was astounding! Of course the success in large part is due to the generosity of the management and staff at the Regency Towers. The meeting room was warm and inviting, and included a full kitchen. In addition, the room provided privacy and a "homey" atmostphere. Our volunteers provided the heart and soul of the Center. They worked extremely hard, especially those that cooked in the hot kitchen. We had "runners" driving around the City to the supporting businesses picking up and delivering the prepared foods. Of course, we had volunteers monitoring the room around the clock for over 80 hours! This year. NewSpring Church, under the direction of Kaleb Dees, provided much needed food, drink, and volunteers. They certainly filled in the gaps and helped so much. I don't know how we would have survived without them steppin in! We also had volunteers participate from the South Beach Neighborhood Watch and owners in the Regency Towers. This certainly took "a village" to make this a success. A BIG Thank You to all involved. See the Kudos tab in the menu bar above to read some of the Thank You notes we have received.

Veterans Parade, May 27, 2017

This parade was held in The Market Common on the Saturday during our Law Enforcement Hospitality Center event. We still had three faithful MBCPAAA volunteers help with the event. A BIG thank you to Dennis Brogna, Dan Connolly, and Roy Sizemore. In the bottom left picture, one of our volunteers can be seen leaning over and picking something up from the ground. Those vests certainly help our volunteers look professional!

May 20, 2017 Shriner's Parade

The MBCPAAA volunteers were able to sleep in a bit as compared to the marathon start times. The briefing was held at the main PD on Oak Street in Myrtle Beach at 9 a.m. The volunteers were given their assignments and went to their posts. A thank-you is extended to MBCPAAA members: Jim Anderson, Dennis Brogna, Dan Connolly, Dickran Mgrdechian, Barbara Prescop, Gerry Wetherell, and a seventh mystery person who showed up late.

participants lining up @ the start of the parade

Barbara Prescop looking official wearing the MBCPAAA safety vest

May 15, 2017 Membership Meeting

This membership meeting focused on the upcoming Law Enforcement Hospitality Center scheduled for May 26-29. Discussion involved volunteer staffing and collection of food and other donations to make this event another success. Joey Crosby was the special guest from the MBPD to discuss "the loop," navigating to the Regency Towers during Bike Week, and volunteering for the upcoming parades. We thank Joey Crosby for taking the time out of his very busy schedule to address the membership.

April 18, 2017 - Law Enforcement Network

The 15th circuit Law Enforcement Network (LEN) held their event near Cherry Grove Beach. Since some MBPD were participating, the MBCPAAA Incident Support Canteen supplied cold drinks and snacks. Our hospitality was greatly appreciated!

April 13, 2017 - Calli Baker's Firehouse Bar & Grill comes through for a last minute request

Every once in awhile, we get a call for an emergency need by the MBPD. This time, there were unplanned mandatory debriefings of departmental staff members due to a few recent traumatic incidents. We were asked to provide 25 lunches, if possible, with very little turn around time. We just about ran out of sources when Meche Williams once again came through with one of her contacts. Calli Baker's Firehouse Bar & Grill, 910 Lake Arrowhead Road, Myrtle Beach, 29572, really came through for us and the MBPD! They generously donated more than 25 boxed lunches consisting of fresh Turkey, Ham, or Roast Beef Sub Sandwiches and Chips. The rolls were very soft and fresh, with fresh meat, cheese, lettuce, and tomatoes rounding out the excellent sub. I was amazed at the inside of the Bar & Grill. It was like a museum dedicated to the brave firemen and women and policemen and women from around our country. I had heard the owner was a former police officer and firefighter. You have to see the place for yourself. The staff is very friendly and upbeat. If you are in the area, going to Barefoot Landing, or to the Tanger Outlets, I encourage you to stop in for a bite to eat. It would be a nice way to thank those that help support our MBPD.

March 27, 2017 - CPA Class 33 Graduation

Another appreciative CPA class graduated @ the MBPD Annex, in the Market Common. Chief Gall thanked and congratulated members of the class, and encouraged them to consider becoming involved in community activities. Class speaker, Jim Andrew, spoke about his experiences and favorite highlights. He urged members in the audience to signup for the class if they hadn't already graduated. CPA Alumni member and current VP, Jim Anderson, gave an encouraging summary of mutual feels upon graduation and summarized events of the Alumni Association. He encouraged these new graduates to keep the experience alive and to give back to the MBPD as an Alumni member. DeWayne Wilkerson, President of the MBCPAAA, invited all in attendance to attend the upcoming MBCPAAA membership meeting to get a feel for the Association. Following all of the guest speakers, Chief Gall presented each graduate with their diploma, providing a photo op for all. Refreshments and the opportunity to join the Alumni Association completed the nights' festivities.

March 13, 20, 29 and April 3, 10, 19, 2017 - MBPD Spring Inservice - English Grammar Refresher

The MBPD searched the membership of the MBCPAAA for qualified English teachers to teach a series of Grammar Refresher Classes to the officers. Initially, Mrs. Betty Mar Little, a respected authority on the English language, worked with Sgt. Bryan Murphy to develop a lesson plan. The final product covered all of the identified areas of Grammar needing attention when writing police reports. This lesson plan was tweaked and approved by the powers that be. MBCPAAA member, volunteer, and former English teacher, Linda Kiger volunteered to teach all six classes scheduled by the MBPD, assisted by Barbara Prescop, also a retired teacher of 33 years. We appreciate their dedication and willingness to set the alarm, though retired, to help our heroes in blue!

March 11, 2017 - CPA Class 33 Driving Lesson and Cook-Out

It was a picture perfect day, with temperatures in the fifties and no breeze! Class members nervously awaited their turn to sit in the driver's seat of a police cruiser. To begin their adventure, they needed to maneuver the cruiser weaving through a long line of cones - backward if they dared! A three-point turn and parallel parking awaited them later in the drive. Meanwhile, Chief Gall was back at the Annex, preparing burgers and hot dogs for the traditional after-drive meal. While dining, enthused class members discussed their driving experience and the fun they are having taking the MBPD CPA course. They shared stories of their ridealongs and discussed their anticipation of upcoming lessons. Barbara Prescop, Founder of the MBCPAAA, was on hand to answer questions and promote the CPA Alumni Association. Quite a few class members expressed their interest and intent on joining after their graduation.

March 4, 2017 - Myrtle Beach Marathon - It was another very early morning w/a 5 a.m. briefing in the Court Room @ the Law Enforcement Center on Oak Street and Joe White Boulevard. Following the briefing and receiving their assignments, breakfast sandwiches and orange juice were provided by the MBPD.
Volunteers were at their posts at approx. 6:15 a.m., with the race beginning at 6:30 a.m.
A special thank you to Jen Forsyth and Abbey Temple, Directors of Volunteers for the Myrtle Beach Marathon, for giving each MBCPAAA volunteer a complimentary 2017 Myrtle Beach Marathon Volunteer t-shirt.
Following the marathon, Barbara and Leon were allowed entrance into the Runners' Village to obtain some donations from the Marathon Organizers. Though weary, their time was well spent as they received plastic bags, sun glasses, socks, and t-shirts on behalf of the MBCPAAA to use as gifts toward the annual Cops & Bobbers event. These items are greatly appreciated! Thank you again, Abbey!
Thank you to our diehard volunteers, esp. knowing the 5 a.m. meeting time: Angela Kegler, Leon Leclerc, Dickran Mgrdechian, and Barbara Prescop.

February 16, 2017 - Special BOD Meeting

A "special BOD meeting" was called by Dick Temple to (1) approve previous BOD minutes, and (2) remove Barbara Prescop from the BOD. He had sent a letter to all members and Chief of Police outlining his accusations against the MBCPAAA Founder. In response, a letter of rebuttal was sent to all MBCPAAA members. Dick Temple invited "witnesses" to testify to the accusations, and Barbara Prescop asked a MBCPAAA member to speak on her behalf during the proceedings. Once the meeting was called to order and the minutes adjusted and approved, a motion was made and seconded by BOD members to remove Dick Temple as President due to a "lack of confidence" by the majority of the BOD. As a matter of procedure and since the agenda was not approved before addressing the first item on the agenda, motions and other business could legally be discussed during the meeting. After much discussion and debate, a vote was taken to remove Dick Temple from the officer position of President with a 4-3-0 majority vote as outlined in the SC Code of Laws - Corporations, Partnerships and Association Section 33-31-843B. Following the vote, Dick Temple and his witnesses dramatically left the meeting, thus leaving the last item on his agenda unaddressed. Jim Andersen, MBCPAAA Vice President, called a second Special Meeting to order. Motions were made, seconded, and voted upon for the following: DeWayne Wilkerson; acting Secretary was voted in as interim president; Meche Williams, acting Business Liaison was voted in as interim Secretary. Jim Andersen retained his position as Vice President, Dickran Mgrdechian retained his position as Treasurer, and Barbara Prescop retained her position as Past President. At this point, though both not present, Dick Temple retained his position as a BOD member, and Janis Nelson retained her BOD position as Membership Director. Minutes of the ensuing meeting will be available during every subsequent membership meeting and/or by request from the Secretary.

January 23, 2017 - CPA Class 33 Orientation - Jim Andersen, MBCPAAA Vice President, Lt. Tommy Chestnut, MBCPAAA BOD member and MBPD Liaison, and Dick Temple, MBCPAAA President, all attended the first session of the new CPA class. Jim spoke to the class and gave a little insight about the class and what the Alumni Association is all about. (No photos available)
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January 19, 2017 LEN (Law Enforcement Network) - the MBCPAAA Incident Support Canteen @ University Drive and University Boulevard at CCU - The dinner and briefing took place @ the Hackler Golf Course Club House, CCU, 107 Citadel Drive, Conway. This time, end of year statistics for the 15th Circuit Law Enforcement Network jurisdictions showed improvements in almost all categories. Agencies were commended on their diligence in focusing on behaviors to make our roads safer for drivers, passengers, and pedestrians. Barbara Prescop and Dick Temple represented the MBCPAAA at this LEN, a third volunteer failed to show. This was the first LEN to be held at a traffic light. The positives to this: traffic lights in all directions were set to flashing red and the lights helped to illuminate the area. The weather was very mild, just a bit chilly with no wind. Almost perfect weather. The LEN started with approx. 50 Law Enforcement personnel, but that number dwindled quickly. It seemed as soon as the first CCU bus went through the intersection, social media lit up around campus. It was a slow night. Several cars were alerted by the State drug sniffing dog and drugs were found, however, no arrests were made. Tickets were given rather than arrests being made. This we did not understand. We are so glad in the City of Myrtle Beach, our officers would show no tolerance and these same people would've been arrested.
The Canteen was stocked with two very large carafes of hot coffee donated by Starbucks @ Coastal Grand Mall. They also provided Half & Half, sweeteners, stirrers, napkins, cups, & lids. This business really doesn't hesitate to support our MBPD. This was the highlight of the evening and truly appreciated by the officers. We thank you for your support.
Of course, we had other items such as soda, water, Gatorade and some snacks which satisfied the cravings of some of the officers. Another success story for the MBCPAAA!

January 18, 2017 - Annual City of Myrtle Beach Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon - The City of Myrtle Beach thanked its many volunteers on a beautiful Wednesday at noon in the Ballroom at the Sheraton Myrtle Beach Convention Center Hotel. The city has 600+ volunteers who generously donate their time by serving on boards and commissions, volunteering at the library and recreation centers, and helping in other departments, including police and fire. One Volunteer of the Year was announced: Mrs. Fannie Brown.
Brown retired after 30+ years as an Horry County teacher, but she can’t escape the classroom. She has created after-school and summer programs at the Historic Myrtle Beach Colored School Museum and Education Center to fill a void in children’s lives. Nearly 20 youngsters attend her classes. She also takes care of the historic school as its volunteer executive director. And Mrs. Brown serves as the Neighborhood Watch coordinator for the Booker T. Washington community, gathering and sharing information. (http://wbtw.com/2017/01/19/city-of-myrtle-beach-names-fannie-brown-2016-volunteer-of-the-year/)
The luncheon was by invitation only, and the news media covered the event. The MBCPAAA was well represented with members and guests sitting at four tables. It appeared everyone enjoyed the meal, had fun, and walked away with a nice gift, compliments of the City of Myrtle Beach.

January 16, 2017 - Martin Luther King, Jr Parade

It is my understanding that ten MBCPAAA volunteers helped man barricades for the parade. The briefing was at 10:30 a.m. at the main MBPD station on Oak Street. I believe some of the volunteers did wear our new MBCPAAA vests for safety purposes, identification, and making the community aware of our Association. Thank you to all volunteers who gave up their time to help.

January 12, 2017 -
Lt. Tommy Chestnut, MBCPAAA BOD Member and MBPD Liaison gives more than his time! Several of the MBPD employees donated blood to the American Red Cross. Lt. Tommy Chestnut was happy to give the gift of life! (courtesy of the MBPD Facebook page)

(L to R) Rob Gillians, Barbara Prescocp, Lt. Tommy Chestnut

January 11, 2017 - Rob Gillians Retirement from the MBPD

On behalf of the MBCPAAA, MBCPAAA BOD member and MBPD Liaison, Lt. Tommy Chestnut and MBCPAAA Past President, Barbara Prescop, presented member Rob Gillians with a certificate and engraved police figurine to commemorate his retirement from the MBPD. Congratulations Rob!

January 5, 2017 - Full Membership Meeting and Swearing in of New Officers

2017 started off with a bang. The first membership meeting brought a farewell from Barbara Prescop as the first MBCPAAA Founding President. Her first order of business was recognizing the 2016 Volunteers of the Year. Congratulations to Janice Billings who, in her quiet, unassuming way, faithfully volunteered for numerous events throughout the year. She especially came through for the MBCPAAA for overseeing the Christmas Meals when many of the supervisory volunteers wound up ill or taking care of ill family members. She was supposed to be playing Mrs. Santa and hand out the goodie bags to the officers and support personnel. Thank you Janice for stepping in and up when the Association needed you the most! The second Volunteer of the Year Award went to one of our Founding Members, Jack Ellis. This guy would most often be the first to volunteer when the call went out. Sometimes he would contact the Association just to see if there was anything he could do. He was the ideal volunteer, hard working, and never complained. Accepting the Award on his behalf, Diana Knighting, his long-time girlfriend, his daughters: Brandi and Heather, and grandchildren, Wayne, Will, and Victoria. Jack died way too young, at the age of 56, may he rest in peace. Barbara then briefly reviewed the history of the MBCPAAA from its inception to the present day. She thanked everyone for their service and committment in the Association under her watch.
Lt. Tommy Chestnut, a certified Notary, gave both Dick Temple and Dickran Mgrdechian, each separately, the oath of office. The oaths were signed by the appropriate parties, thus making the transition official.
Following the transition ceremony, Lt. Chestnut announced a new BOD position, as created and voted upon according to the Bylaws, called: Past President. This voting BOD position will be occupied by each Past President when a new President assumes office for as long as the new President is in that position.
At this point, the meeting was resumed by the new President, Dick Temple. He proceeded to lay out his vision of changes he would like to make to the Association. Details can be found in the minutes of the meeting - to be posted at a later date.

December 29, 2016 - Remembrance Ceremony and Reception for Officer Joe McGarry

Following the Annual Remembrance Ceremony, there was a small reception held in the MBPD station on Oak Street. It just so happened that Janice Billings and Barbara Prescop were in the building and able to provide the goodies and refreshments. They just happened to be in the right place @ the right time. They were very happy to represent the MBCPAAA on this impromptu happenstance. Chief Warren Gall posed with each to show his appreciation!

Christmas Meals 2016 - a Great Way to End the Year and Show the Officers & Support Personnel That We Do Care!

These Christmas Day meals were certainly a community effort to show our support and appreciation to the MBPD and support staff. It was a combined effort of donations and volunteers from the South Beach Neighborhood Watch, residents of The Market Common, local businesses, and the MBCPAAA. A Big thank-you is extended to MBCPAAA member Janice Billings for stepping up and supervising both meals after illness befell other arrangements. The K9 handlers were astonished by the hand made stockings and expressed their gratitude for remembering their partners. They said each K9 officer was overjoyed with their goodies! Likewise, the gift bags were appreciated by each diner, but it was the meal and desserts that put smiles on their faces! For those that truly support the MBPD, the smiles and appreciative looks are the only rewards needed.
We are deeply grateful to the following for their support, donation, and/or time in making a difference for people on this day.

Dear Jack -- Oh how you will be missed!

Jack Tony Ellis, Jr.
31 May 1960
7 Dec 2016

It is with a very heavy heart for me to relay the news that Jack passed away on Wednesday morning. In the picture, he's the guy in the middle with Monica Newman on the left and Don Flickinger on the right. This picture was taken on October 4, 2016 when he represented the MBCPAAA at the National Night Out event at Kathi Longoria's house in the Pine Lakes Community. It was a short notice request because members of the Pine Lakes Community were donating items to our Association and it was just proper to have some of our members present to represent our Association. As Jack often did, he readily volunteered. He really loved our Association, volunteering for the Active Shooter Role Playing, Thanksgiving 2015, freezing our butts off during the 2015 mini marathon, helping out w/the MLK, Jr Parade, sometimes he would just call and ask "what can I do?"

Jack was kind of a quiet guy, kept to himself, but once you got him talking.... what an interesting, sensitive, intelligent guy. He was a very proud US Veteran. He loved the USA, his girlfriend, Diana, and his family. He found the beach and ocean to be very comforting and relaxing, which brought him peace.

Like many Veterans, his service for his Country left scars. I was saddened with what he was left to deal with, yet he was open enough to talk about his experiences. I can't imagine anyone going through the horrors of war and society expecting them to come out unscathed. I kept thinking, "you poor guy." At the same time, he became my hero. He's the reason I can live here in Myrtle Beach .... ON the beach .... breathe in the salt air .... live in a free Country. Thank you, Jack, for your service and your sacrifices.

Jack had trouble sleeping, Diana said. Tuesday night/Wednesday morning he went into his shop/man cave. Diana had actually called in sick to work, because she had been fighting the bug that's been going around and was running a fever. She texted him around 7:15 am and heard the ping go off for a text message. She realized he didn't have his phone with him, so a little later she went out to check on him, because she was getting concerned. So it was somewhere around 8 am that she found him. It looked like he had simply fallen. They think he had a heart attack, but the results won't be back for a long time. The videos show him going into the room at around 4 am, so this happened between that time and 8 am. Thank God he didn't appear to suffer.

Everyone, including his adult children are in shock. There were no signs of heart disease. Diana is having a very hard time, I suspect, just going through the routine of getting through each day right now. They don't expect to have a local service. They may plan something in the future, but that most likely will be held in NC. In lieu of flowers or any other gifts, it was Jacks' wish for donations to be made in his memory to the MBCPAAA. This request absolutely stunned me. He never lost his focus. His heart was always there to help someone else. What an amazing final gesture. I thank you so much, Jack.

Lt. Tommy Chestnut will be accepting donations on his behalf. Checks can be made out to: MBCPAAA and mailed to:
Lt. Tommy Chestnut
Myrtle Beach Police Department
Office of Professional Standards
1101 Oak Street
Myrtle Beach, SC 29577

He loved this Association so much, he wanted it to flourish. He was one of our founding members and helped this Association grow. Give up the bickering. What does it accomplish? Let's make these Christmas meals a huge success, in Jack's memory. Let's come together.

Please go to this link if you feel so inclined to sign the guest book
http://www.legacy.com/guestbooks/myrtlebeachonline/jack-tony-ellis-condolences/183036400?
and go to this link to leave a tribute
http://www.goldfinchfuneralhome.com/obituaries/Jack-Ellis-5/

Published by Barbara Prescop, President and Founder, MBCPAAA, December 10, 2016

December 3, 2016 - Election Meeting: According to the MBCPAAA ByLaws, "voting for board positions can take place in an annual meeting, special meeting, via electronic means, use of proxies, US Postal Service, or any combination." Since the positions of President and Treasurer were up for election and nominations were made via email, an election committee was appointed and it was decided the election would take place by US mail via the ballot system. Ballots and instructions were mailed to all current members, and an election meeting was scheduled. This election meeting was intended for any member to collect their mailed ballot and submit a new ballot for any reason a member might want to resubmit their vote (forgot to check a name on the ballot, changed their mind on their vote, perhaps a member submitted their candidacy late, etc). The election meeting was also where all sealed envelopes were opened and votes counted in the presence of all attendees.
The election committe consisted of the Chair: Meche Williams, and committee members: Lt. Tommy Chestnut, Jack Cheape, and Sandy Cheape. Members present: Dennis Brogna, Dickran Mgrdechian, Barbara Prescop, and Roy Sizemore.

Election Results:
Membership total as of December 3, 2016 = 79
Quorum = 40 members needed
total number of valid ballots: 51 (quorum met)
one ballot = quorum purpose only
one ballot = no vote
*note: unsigned ballots = 9 - which committee decided to use as valid votes
one ballot returned after the vote count
one mailed envelope returned by post office
members not returning a ballot = 25

President:
Barbara Prescop = 23 votes
Dick Temple = 26 votes
Mike Grehl = 1 vote

Treasurer:
Dickran Mgrdechian = 39 vote
Sheri Walton = 9 votes
Mike Grehl = 1 vote
________________________________________________________

Thanksgiving 2016 - a True Team Effort! Another successful Thanksgiving Day of meals provided to our MBPD and support staff @ the main PD station at 1101 N. Oak Street. In the USA, Thanksgiving Day is an annual National Holiday marked as a traditional time to gather with family and friends to give thanks for the many blessings enjoyed by the nation and their citizens. The MBCPAAA volunteers had so much fun working together as a team with the common goal of providing a quality meal to our heroes on a day when they could not share in this tradition. Our members were hoping the meal would give them something to look forward to during their long, 12-hour shift. I don't think anyone was disappointed! Local businesses and community members showed their appreciation to our local law enforcement and generously donated to our cause (I apologize if I inadvertently left anyone off the list).

November 21, 2016 - Gun Violence Awareness Presentation - members of the MBCPAAA were asked to attend the presentation, not only as a show of community support, but to help the MBPD with various tasks, such as directing people to sign-in, hand out packets, help w/seating, and help w/clean-up. We had a good turnout of volunteers proudly wearing their blue shirts. A big thank-you to Dan and Glenda Connolly, Don Flickinger, Linda Kiger,Leon LeClerc, Debbie and Jeff McAfee, Jean Nelson, Barbara Prescop, Dick Temple and his wife, and Josephine Valzoano. It was a nice surprise to hear Chief Warren Gall openly commend the MBCPAAA for their continued support and attendance during this presentation. The presentation was held at the Myrtle Beach Train Depot @ 851 Broadway Street. Damons Restaurant opened the presentation by serving dinner beginning @ 6:30 p.m. Lt. Joey Crosby welcomed everyone and provided opening remarks. he introduced Mayor John Rhodes who said a few words and introduced some council members in attendance. Members from the Horry County Law Enforcement were introduced then Chief Warren Gall gave a brief presentation from a Law Enforcement perspective. Detective Sergeant Tony Allen spoke about gun violene in the Myrtle Beach area. Deputy Solicitor Scott Hixson spoke about State gun laws and case prosecution. Senior Supervisory Agent, Gerod King, presented Federal Gun Laws, case prosecution, and what we can do in our communities. The impact of gun violence on our community and personal stories were presented by Mothers Against Violence, with Mrs. Elizabeth Bowens leading the presentation. Myrtle Beach High School counselor, Cookie Goings spoke about community partnership and ending gun violence. Lt. Joey Crosby provided the closing remarks.

November 19, 2016 LEN (Law Enforcement Network) - the MBCPAAA Incident Support Canteen @ the Robert Grissom Parkway and US 501 intersection in Myrtle Beach - The briefing took place @ the Hilton Garden Inn, 2383 Coastal Grand Circle, Myrtle Beach. Law Enforcement Officers represented many jurisdictions yet they were all one. After enjoying a full breakfast for dinner, several updates and humbling statistics were presented to the group. Awards were presented to each jurisdiction of the 15th Circuit Law Enforcement Network for their participation in the 2016 effort to crack down on behaviors which put South Carolina in the top of the deadly accident-related statistics. Jim Andersen and Barbara Prescop represented the MBCPAAA, with a third member canceling out at the very last minute. The weather was a bit cold, but that didn't deter the officers one bit from doing their job. I believe they said they had issued approx. 35 tickets and had 6-7 arrests in approx. 2 1/2 hours of work. This did not include the totals from the State Troopers. Yes, drugs and weapons were confiscated as well.

November 14, 2016 - CPA Class 32 Graduation - Another enthusiastic class graduates from the Citizens Police Academy @ the MBPD Annex in the Market Common. The room was packed with family and friends of the graduates as each walked forward to receive their certificate from Chief Gall. Guest speakers included MBCPAAA Vice President, Jim Andersen, who assured them the good times did not have to end. He invited them to join the Alumni Association, and join they did. They set a new record w/10 members joining that night and 3 members joining later. We are so pleased to welcome new members to our family!

November 6, 2016 - Guns & Hoses Charity Softball Game for Project Lifesaver

Project Lifesaver International is the first pioneer to apply tracking technology for the search and rescue of individuals with cognitive disorders. The primary mission of Project Lifesaver is to provide timely response to save lives and reduce potential injury for adults and children who wander due to Alzheimer’s, Autism, Down syndrome, dementia, or other cognitive conditions or disorders. They provide police, fire/rescue and other first responders with a comprehensive program on the use of specialized electronic search and rescue equipment, technology and procedures, as well as teaching rescuers how to effectively communicate with people afflicted with cognitive conditions, all of which are essential to a successful rescue.
We'd like to thank every MBCPAAA member who participated in selling tickets to the game or attending as a cheerleader! The tickets are a tax deductible contribution as Project Lifesaver International is a 501c3 nonprofit organization.
The games were held at Grand Park in the Market Common on the wonderful synthetic fields. I believe the MBPD fielded a much more competitive team than last year, losing the first game by only one run.

November 4, 2016 - First Annual MBPD Cops and Bobbers Event

This event was the brainchild of Officer Kenneth Harlow. It was originally scheduled to be held in October, but Hurricane Matthew decided to postpone the event. Officer Harlow worked hard to get enough fishing supplies for 18 school children but needed help with snacks, drinks, and lunches for 50+ people. He turned to our Association and asked if we could help. Our motto being "We Support the MBPD" and his cause being to develop a positive rapport with at risk youths, we couldn't turn him down. Many thanks to MBCPAAA member Kathi Longoria for arranging for the lunches. Our Association didn't have to pay $.01 on food! Carolina Roadhouse provided 40 sandwiches, cookies, chips, lemonade, and tea; Chick-Fil-A provided 20 children's lunches of nuggets, chips & a cookie, along w/a child's meal gift card for each student (how awesome is that!); and Deb Duncan, owner of Firehouse Subs on 38th St. N, provided 7 Turkey subs for our MBCPAAA volunteers. Barbara Prescop, MBCPAAA President, was busy running around getting little things to supplement the event. John Reaves, owner of A Teachers Touch, provided two $25 gift cards to the teacher for all of her hard work preparing for and supervising the field trip. The Mini Marathon race organizers gave us enough backpack bags for the children which we stuffed w/goodies. Thanks to Pam Stone, Director of the Myrtle Beach Recreation Department for the Myrtle Beach visors and hats; the Myrtle Beach Sports Tourism Department for the ear buds, lanyards, and pins; and Ofc. Henry Bresadola of the MBPD for the plastic cups, pencils and magnets. MBCPAAA volunteers Carson & Cherie Hardy arrived very early for the briefing and to represent the MBCPAAA. They provided refreshments and snacks throughout the event and stuffed the gift bags. MBCPAAA volunteer and current CPA class member, Kathi Longoria, queen of the lunches, arrived w/the final fixings for lunch! Debbie & Jeff McAfee, also MBCPAAA volunteers, arrived around lunch time to help with the madness of distributing the lunches and making sure everyone was happy w/the type of chips, cookies, and drinks they preferred - and this wasn't just for the kids! Everyone chipped in and helped w/clean up. Whew! A BIG thank you to every volunteer who helped make this event a HUGE success!

October 24, 2016 - Myrtle Beach Mini Maration -- Inauguration of the MBCPAAA Safety Vests

This was the first time the safety vests were worn by members performing service to the community. I can tell you from first hand experience, we received many positive comments. Lt. Joey Crosby was very impressed as well as many of the participating runners. Not only did the vests make us look very official and aid in our safety, but we were easily recognizable from blocks away. I'm glad we finally made this purchase. Yes it was a chilly morning and we had to be at a 5 am briefing at the police station, but we had a blast! We were also able to provide some officers w/a commemorative mini-marathon t-shirt and each officer w/a Mini-marathon bag. Each of our volunteers received a mini marathon bag, along w/a volunteer t-shirt and a race t-shirt - just a little something from the race organizers for getting up so early! Thank you to Linda Audino, Susan Grose, Mike Lee, Dick Mgrdechian, Barbara Prescop, and Dick Temple.

October 15, 2016 - Membership Meeting and Presentation from MBPD Animal Control

It was nice to see familiar faces again at our annual Fall meeting and to catch up on agenda items. Quite a few members have been busy behind the scenes and our Association is branching out. There are more volunteer opportunities for those wishing to find their nitch, such as with the following committees: Holiday meals, the Canteen, and fundraising. Anyone with the desire and/or experience in these areas are encouraged to contact the Association @ mbcpaaa@gmail.com. In addition, anyone interested in running for the offices of President or Treasurer were instructed to provide their resume/profile to the same email address to be published on the webpage for membership review. Voting may be done via electronic means or via US mail. No nominations were presentated at the meeting.

October 12, 2016 - Helping an Officer in Need

Hurricane Matthew ripped through Myrtle Beach and left its mark all over the City. One officer's house suffered severe damage and he needed some quick help. Thank you to Carson Hardy and Dick Temple for dropping everything to help this officer. You two came through for the MBCPAAA!

October 4, 2016 - National Night Out

The National Night Out was moved to October this year and it seemed to be a huge success. To make it even more successful, the Pine Lakes Community incorporated donations to the MBCPAAA. It was the brainchild of Kathi Longoria, a current CPA student. What a wonderful and innovative idea! The result was 120 bottles of waters, three six packs of Gatorade, and $60. The South Beach Neighborhood Watch also donated a total of $20. A BIG thank you to these communities and MBCPAAA members Jack Ellis, Don Flickinger, Monika Newman, and Barbara Prescop for representing our Association at the event.

September 19, 2016 - CPA Class presentation

Class 32 of the Myrtle Beach Citizens Police Academy is underway. Their 2nd class meeting was held at the Police Annex in The Market Common. The MBCPAAA was asked to briefly talk about the Alumni Assoc. Lt. Tommy Chestnut and Barbara Prescop said a few words about the great things the MBCPAAA is doing for the MBPD.

September 17, 2016 - Shriner's Parade

We didn't get a good response to the call for volunteers for this event. Part of the reason is the late notice the MBCPAAA received for volunteers. We understand a 4-5 day notice is not ideal. Hopefully we will receive more advanced notice for future parades.
A BIG thank-you to Carl Siversten and Leon LeClerc for their dedication and giving up their Saturday afternoon to volunteer for this parade. Way to go guys, you represented us well!

August 28, 2016 - The Inauguration of the MBCPAAA Incident Support Canteen @ the North Carolina/South Carolina US 17 border LEN (Law Enforcement Network)

This was one of the most impressive joint operations I have ever seen. I can honestly say I was amazed at the set-up, the number of LE officers involved, and the precision which the event flowed. Traffic really wasn't affected for long periods of time. We saw officers from all over the State incl. our own City of Myrtle Beach, Horry County, Surfside Beach, Sumter, Dillon, and some towns in NC that I can't even pronounce, just to mention a few. We were honored to be able to provide refreshments to the officers not only for this event, but also for the job they do every day in dedication to keeping us safe. Thank You.

August 16, 2016 - Presentation on the Heroin Epidemic that Affects our Community.

Our Association was asked to attend the presentation as a supporting community Association. It was an excellent presentation w/over 400 in attendance. Our members also pitched in to help w/the sign-in table, refreshments/water, and clean-up. Thank you Mike Lee, Barbara Prescop, Kendra & Pat Shortz , and Carl Siversten.

August 14, 2016 - MBCPAAA Sponsors Hole in the Annual Judge D.C. Lambe Memorial Golf Tournament - Thanks to our MBPD Liaison and Board Member, Lt. Tommy Chestnut for showcasing our Association and helping to promote the camaraderie between the Law Enforcement Agencies and the MBCPAAA.
Just a little history of the tournament ……. In the 1980’s, a former Judge for the City of Myrtle Beach, D.C. Lambe, started the tournament to promote camaraderie between all of the local Law Enforcement Officers/Agencies in Horry and Georgetown Counties. The Tournament spread across the State and now includes the participation of several Federal Agencies as well.
After Judge Lambe retired and passed, several members of the MBPD restarted the tournament in his name. The tournament helps to raise funds toward a one year scholarship given to a local student to attend Horry Georgetown Technical College in the Criminal Justice Field.

July 23, 2016 - Membership Meeting, FATS Training, and Picnic Lunch for the MBPD & Support Staff

Our Association held it's first summer meeting and instructional seminar on the new MBPD FATS (Firearms Training Simulator). Since the simulator could only handle three people at one time, we held a hamburger and hot dog cook-out hosting the MBPD and Support Staff. Members brought plenty of side dishes from potato salad, macaroni salad, and beans, to wonderful home-made desserts. A BIG thank-you to Officer Michelle Cox for taking time out of her day to teach us to use the FATS system.

June 12, 2016 -Meeting w/delegation from the National CPA Association

The National Citizens Police Academy Association will be holding their 2017 National Conference in April right here in Myrtle Beach. Several of the MBCPAAA members met w/the NCPAA members and shared experiences and ideas. Not only did we make new friends, but the MBCPAAA has offered their support with the conference. For more information, visit their website at: https://www.ncpaa.us

June 4, 2016 - Sun Fun Festival Parade

The return of the Sun Fun Festival brought a parade to Ocean Boulevard. Several MBCPAAA volunteers showed up to help the MBPD with manning barriers. All were assigned to 16th Ave N, where the parade would end and participants would turn east off Ocean Blvd. A big THANK YOU to volunteers Mike Grehl, Becky Hyman, Dick Mgrdechian, and Barbara Prescop.

May 27th beginning @ 6 am - May 30th ending @ noon - Law Enforcement Hospitality Center

For the second year in-a-row, we have worked very hard to put together THE BEST Law Enforcement hospitality center in Myrtle Beach. Officers from all over the State, from Georgia and NC returned to help the MBPD keep peace during the Memorial Week Bike Fest. Though most hospitality centers provided snacks and refreshments, our hospitality center offered a variety of hot meals and many home cooked specialties. Through the hard work of our members, more businesses donated and more members volunteered. We probably averaged 150 officers/day, plus lifeguards from the South Beach area, and the workers manning the barriers from 21st Street S to 29th Street S. I was surprised to see a few city workers, some were delivering box lunches on Sunday to police officers and some were driving the workers hired to man the barriers. I don't know how word got out about our hospitality center, but it seemed EVERyBODy knew about it. Guess we did a pretty good job! There are so many people to thank, but I especially want to recognize and thank our great MBCPAAA shift volunteers: Jim Anderson, Janice Billings, Lisa Bowes, Dennis Brogna, Carson Hardy, Janis Kniley, Carl Knuth, Leon LeClerc, Dickran Mgrdechian, Janis Nelson, Barbara Prescop, Kendra & Pat Shortz, Dick Temple, and Meche Williams. These people covered this center to make sure it was open around-the-clock for 78 straight hours, and there was plenty of fresh food. Awesome Job! Then we had members like Cindy Nycum and her family that helped obtain gift cards, monetary, and other donations from local businesses. Another member, Anthony Antonucci always provides a donation from his restaurant, Angelo's. This time it was 30 meatball sliders. The South Beach Neighborhood Watch has members who donated cash along with other items. Jimmy Skipper is well known for his home-made Chicken Bog, and he certainly didn't disappoint us this year. Of course, I would be remiss if I didn't thank the BOD of the Regency for allowing us to use the Regency Room in the building where I live. Steven Floyd, representing management, couldn't have been more accommodating, making sure we had everything we needed and more. He even had a budget of $250 to purchase food in addition to cases & cases of water. Staff members set the room up, emptied trash, made sure we had kitchen supplies, and broke down and cleaned the room when we finished. The hospitality was a huge success in large part to the facility and hospitality of the staff and guests of the Regency. Following the photo gallery are photos of the businesses that donated and supported our Law Enforcement heroes. If you get a chance, please visit and thank these businesses for their generosity and support.

April 30, 2016 - Membership Meeting & Presentation by Sgt. Shannon Castle - Forensic Hypnotist - This was a fantastic meeting, one of the best we ever held. We were reminded to recite the Pledge of Allegiance prior to holding business, which will be common practice for every meeting in the future. Richard Bellamy spoke about his non-profit Youth Organization and his upcoming fundraising play. He was recruiting volunteers to play the role of police officers, for which he was successful. Each MBCPAAA BOD member gave reports, t-shirts were distributed and available for purchase, and the Law Enforcement Hospitality Center was discussed. We also have a new procedure for all members and new members. Upon initially joining the MBCPAAA, when completing the application, a Release of Liability form will be completed as well. This protects everyone if/when someone gets injured while volunteering.
What made this meeting fun, besides the food and refreshments, was the camaraderie, jokes, and laughter while still accomplishing the business at hand.
However, nothing could top the guest speaker with his presentation and demonstration. Participants are still talking about how much fun it was to learn about the topic, participate, and observe. We will look forward to utilizing his offer to incorporate his skills into a fundraiser for our Association.

April 21, 2016 - Role Playing for the Hostage/Critical Incident Negotiations Team Training

This was another opportunity for members of our Association to role play a scenario to help in training the hostage/critical negotiations team. There was only one scenario this time. Each role player was given the script to read and time to focus on their role. As before, the role players were in one room and had no contact with and could not hear what was going on w/the negotiators. Likewise, the negotiators could only hear what was being transmitted over the telephone by the role players. Periodically, the negotiators were give more information about the hostage taker or the "bad guy" as they would in a real situation, i.e., background info., arrest records, etc. This scenario also included interviews of several witnesses, i.e., the neighbor that ultimately called 9-1-1, the DSS worker that was a hostage for a short period of time, then released, and the DSS worker's supervisor.
A big thank you is extended to volunteers Carlene Carmen, Barbara Prescop, Kendra & Pat Shortz, and Roy Sizemore and a special thank you to Lt. Tommy Chestnut for lunch from Toffino's!

April 9, 2016 - Cone Painting - Finishing the Job

April 8, 2016 - CPA Class 31 Graduation - graduation ceremonies were held at the MBPD Annex on Mustang Street in The Market Common. The MBCPAAA Vice President, Jim Andersen addressed the graduates about the Alumni Association and encouraged their participation. As it turns out, the MBCPAAA had 11 graduates from this class join the Association, which to date, is the most from any one class. During the ceremony, Police Chief Warren Gall presented each graduate with a certificate.

April 2, 2016 - Cone Painting and Barricade Labeling

This was a joint effort by the MBCPAAA and the Ambassador program to help with two daunting projects. The MBCPAAA focused on painting "MBPD" on 2000+ traffic cones and the Ambassadors focused on putting reflective strips on 7000 traffic barriers. Both tasks faced their challenges, but peeling the backing off the reflective strips was probably the most frustrating of all. Neither task was fully completed, but a definite dent was made thanks to some very dedicated and determined volunteers. A BIG thank you is extended to all who sacrificed a part of their day to help.

March 26, 2016 - Utah Non-Resident Concealed Firearm Permit Class taught by Shooting Solutions

Along with our SC Concealed Weapons permit, this permit will allow us to legally carry in a total of 39 States. In comparison, Utah carry rules make a lot of practical sense. Too bad other States, including SC, don't adopt those common sense laws as well.

March 26, 2016 - SC Concealed Weapons Class taught by Shooting Solutions

What an opportunity! Shooting Solutions is a very impressive partnership with many years of expertise between them. I like the idea that it's a family business in that members of their families all have an active role in making the class run smoothly. Their facility is comfortable and spacious, yet practical, with a feel of being part of that "family." In an instant a participant feels they can ask questions without being made to feel stupid or foolish. I highly recommend this company for the CWP class, the Utah CWP class, and the advanced CWP class. I definitely see the Advanced CWP class in the MBCPAAA members' future.

March 23, 2016 - Role Playing for Law Enforcement Active Shooter Training - The Finale

A big thank-you to all of the members that volunteered throughout the 7 weeks of training. I know you committed 4 hours of your time to volunteer, with most of you volunteering more than once, and many volunteering every week. Not only did we learn how the MBPD are taught to respond, but more importantly, I believe we made a difference.

March 16, 2016 - Role Playing for Law Enforcement Active Shooter Training

There was a large group of officers on this night. We had 3 groups resulting in three runs of each scenario. It's been very nice of Kendra Shortz these last two weeks to spoil us w/sweets. Last week she brought Dunkin Donuts, this week it was a variety of cookies. In the short critique following each scenario, we often wonder if the officers really listen to our comments or do they think we don't know what we are talking about? Guess some do, some don't. We hope they do because many of our members have experience in law enforcement, public safety, public education, and public office. We really want the MBPD to be the best they can and to act w/knowledge and professionalism when they are posed with the "real deal."

March 9, 2016 - Role Playing for Law Enforcement Active Shooter Training

Sixth week of role playing and it's still not getting dull for the volunteers. Actually the role players are feeling very comfortable in what they are doing. They've come a long way since the very first night 5 weeks ago. We're hoping we are making a difference for the officers.

March 5, 2016 - Myrtle Beach Marathon

It was a very early morning w/a 5 a.m. briefing in the Court Room @ the Law Enforcement Center on Oak Street and Joe White Boulevard. Breakfast sandwiches and orange or apple juice were provided by the MBPD along w/donuts, courtesy of MBCPAAA volunteer Dennis Brogna. We were at our posts promptly at race time, approx. 6:20 a.m.
A special thank you to Lynn Welden, Director of Volunteers for the Myrtle Beach Marathon, for giving each of us a complimentary 2016 Myrtle Beach Marathon Volunteer t-shirt and post game party ticket to the House of Blues in Barefoot Landing. The complimentary $20 ticket included food and refreshments from 5 - 7 p.m. followed by live entertainment.
Below are some of our volunteers @ their posts. Not pictured: Dennis Brogna, stationed @ 4th Ave N & Ocean Blvd. & Janis Kniley, assigned as a "roamer."

March 2, 2016 - Role Playing for Law Enforcement Active Shooter Training

Our largest turnout of MBCPAAA volunteers for a single night yet! Lucky number 13!

February 24, 2016 - Role Playing for Law Enforcement Active Shooter Training
Half way through the MBPD Active Shooter Training series and still going strong. Thanks to all of the volunteers for making this training more real for our officers!

February 17, 2016 - Role Playing for Law Enforcement Active Shooter Training

Week three of the training for the officers. Role players are beginning to feel like old hands, the only newbies this time were Ellie and Ron McCue. It didn't take any time for them to become Academy Award winning actors! A great big thank you extended to them as well as to Janice Billings, Dennis Brogna, Carlene Carmen, Donald Flickinger, Carson Hardy, Janis Kniley, Carl Knuth, Leon LeClerc, Jean Nelson, Barbara Prescop, Kendra Shortz, and Carl Sivertsen.

February 10, 2016 - Role Playing for Law Enforcement Active Shooter Training

Week two of the Active Shooter Training for the officers. There were again 11 MBCPAAA members participating in the 4 hour training event. A big thank-you extended to Lisa Bowes, Carlene Carmen, Peter Correia, Lee Edwards, Don Flickinger, Carson Hardy, Jean Nelson, Barbara Prescop, Kendra Shortz, Carl Sivertsen, and Roy Sizemore.

February 3, 2016 - Role Playing for Law Enforcement Active Shooter Training

The first night for role playing, which was a learning event for all participants. There were 11 MBCPAAA members participating in the 4 hour training event. A big thank-you extended to Jim Andersen, Linda Audino, Carlene Carmen, Peter Correia, Janis Kniley, Jean Nelson, Barbara Prescop, Kendra Shortz, Ginny Simko, Carl Sivertsen, and Dick Temple.

January 27, 2016 - Role Player Training Meeting for Law Enforcement Active Shooter Training

We had a good turnout for the Role Player briefing at the MBPD Annex in the Market Common. Lt. Eric DiLorenzo and Sgt. Mike Guthinger, officers in charge of training the MBPD in the Active Shooter Scenarios, thoroughly explained what the role players should expect and what is expected of them. Everyone seemed very willing and anxious to help the police train in this very important real life scenario.

January 21, 2016 - Role Playing for the Hostage/Critical Incident Negotiations Team Training

This was a fairly short notice request, but thankfully MBCPAAA members Peter Correia, Don Flickinger, Kendra Shortz, Ginny Simko, Barbara Prescop, and Carl Siversten were able to show up mid-day to act as role players. The scenarios were read and explained with really no time to practice the scene. The role players had to ad lib on the spot w/help from one of the supervising officers. The role players were given direction on how long to be tough, when to give some slack, when to compromise, etc. The role players were in one room and had no contact with and could not hear what was going on w/the negotiators. Likewise, the negotiators could only hear what was being transmitted over the telephone by the role players. Periodically, the negotiators were give more information about the hostage or the "bad guy" as they would in a real situation, i.e., background info., arrest records, etc. After the situation played out, which took about an hour, all parties involved came together to discuss how everything went and to share insight on interpretations of verbiage, sensitivity of the negotiator, etc. It was a great learning experience for all involved. I was amazed at how each person really got into the role they were playing. I'm sure we could hold our own Academy Awards after we finish w/the next round of role playing for the Active Shooter training.

January 18, 2016 - Martin Luther King, Jr Parade

A BIG thank you to Peter Correia, Jack Ellis, Leon LeClerc, Barbara Prescop, Ginny Simko, Roy Sizemore, and Dick Temple for volunteering to man barricades for this parade, thus freeing up 7 officers to perform more important duties. It was a bit chilly, but it was a load of fun. The secret service was there w/their dogs making sure everything was safe for presidential candidate Ben Carson.

January 13, 2016 - City of Myrtle Beach Volunteer Recognition Luncheon

Several of the MBCPAAA members attended our first Volunteer Recognition Luncheon hosted by the City of Myrtle Beach. The Association received very late notice about the event and personal phone calls were made to all current 2016 members less than 24 hours before the deadline. Next year we will have plenty of notice and more of our members can plan to attend.
Our representatives Jim Anderson, Janice Billings, Carlene Carmen, Jack & Sandy Cheape', Peter Correia, Dotty Diehl, Lee Edwards, Tim & Rebecca Hyman, Leon Leclerc, Dan Martin, James McBride, Barbara Prescop, Ginny Simko, and Roy Sizemore all seemed to enjoy themselves. The lunch and dessert were awesome and we saw more of our members doubling as representatives for other volunteer groups. I believe we won't miss this event next year or in years to come.

Christmas Meals 2015

MBPD 30th CPA Class makes donation to MBCPAAA

Lisa Bowes, President of the MBPD 30th CPA class, presents Barbara Prescop with a check for $270.00. It is a gift from the CPA class to the MBCPAAA. Barbara accepted the gift on behalf of the Association and expressed her gratitude for their generosity and thoughtfulness. It is the MBCPAAA's first donation of this nature.

THANK YOU MBPD 30th CPA CLASS!

Thanksgiving 2015 - another Success!

Thank You's are extended to Linda & Anthony Audino, Dickran Mgrdechian, Lisa Bowes, Janis Kniley, Janice Billings, Sandy & Jack Cheape', Jack Ellis, Jean Nelson, Jim & Kathy Anderson, Dotty Diehl, Kendra & Patricia Shortz, Tommy Chestnut & Bonnie for giving up their time on Thanksgiving to help serve the meals at the station.
A special thank you is extended to those helping to obtain donations from businesses, those making individual donations, and those baking various dishes and desserts. These unselfish individuals were from the MBCPAAA, the South Myrtle Beach Neighborhood Watch, residents & guests from the Regency Towers, and other friends & neighbors in the community.
Agape Church members of Myrtle Beach, under the guidance of Pastor Al Philley, contributed substantially by supplying most of the side dishes and the much appreciated "goodie bags."
Once again, thank you to our special guests, City Manager Jon Pedersen and his wife, for taking the time to visit and personally thank the officers & support personnel for the work they do to keep our city safe. In addition, they must've loved the pies, because they did not last very long!

October 18, 2015 Myrtle Beach Mini Marathon
Thanks are extended to Jack Ellis, Barbara Prescop, Carl Silvertsen, and Ginny Simko for braving the cool temperatures and helping to control traffic on Ocean Boulevard.

October 3, 2015 MBCPAAA Membership Meeting

As published on the City of Myrtle Beach Local Government FB Page:

Three police officers receive Exemplary Action Awards
Three of Myrtle Beach's finest were honored Saturday morning by the Citizens Police Academy Alumni Association. Police Officers First Class Zachary Cooper, Sean Donovan and Michael Householder each received Exemplary Action Awards.

The three were recognized for their calm handling of a recent situation which could have ended much differently. Following a traffic stop, the officers were confronted by a subject possessing a handgun. They disarmed the subject after a brief struggle, but he fled on foot.

They pursued the man, who then turned around and claimed he had a gun and was "going to shoot." The officers determined that he was brandishing a cell phone, not a weapon. They took him into custody following another brief struggle. This time, the subject tried to grab one of the officers' guns, but he was restrained successfully, with no
injuries and no shots fired.

The award states that the officers demonstrated the core values of the Myrtle Beach Police Department in "protecting life" and "treating each citizen with a professional response." Each officer also received a police figurine as part of the awards presentation.

The Citizens Police Academy Alumni Association also recognized and thanked Lieutenant Tommy Chestnut for his 35 years of service to the Myrtle Beach Police Department.

The Alumni Association is made up of citizens who've attended the Myrtle Beach Police Department's Citizens Police Academy. The 10-week academy is offered twice a year.

September 27, 2015 Guns & Hoses Softball Game

Kudos to our TOP Ticket Sellers:
Roy Sizemore: 30 tickets for a total of $150.00
Kendra Shortz: 10 tickets for a total of $50.00 + $20.00 in donations for a grand total of $70.00
Kelly Conlon: 10 tickets for a total of $50.00

A grand total of $2000.00 was raised for Project Lifesaver

September 18, 2015 Shriners Parade

Once again, our MBCPAAA volunteers manned barriers at intersections. By taking over at these posts, these 11 volunteers freed police officers allowing them to perform their regular duties. Many thanks to Kelly Conlon, Carson Hardy, Janis Kniley, Ron & Ellie McCue, Barbara Prescop, Kendra Shortz, Carl Silvertsen, Roy Sizemore, Dick Temple, and Gerry Wetherell.

September 1, 2015: Chief Gall presents Lt. Tommy Chestnut with

a Challenge Coin

Chief Gall presented Lt. Tommy Chestnut with a challenge coin to recognize his 35 years of service with the Myrtle Beach Police Department. Thank you Lt. Chestnut for your years of dedicated service to this agency and this community! (Posted by Myrtle Beach Police Department on Tuesday, September 1, 2015)
Still going strong as our MBCPAAA liaison, among his many other responsibilities.
Congratulations Tommy!

August 7, 2015 National Night Out

May 26, Firehouse Subs - 1211 38th Avenue North, Myrtle Beach

(L to R) Meche Williams, MBCPAAA Local Business Liaison; Barbara Prescop, MBCPAAA President; Lt. Tommy Chestnut, MBPD Liaison, Deb Duncan, Firehouse Subs Franchise Owner

Thank you so much!
Your generosity was greatly appreciated by all.

Firehouse Subs franchise owner, Deb Duncan, is presented with a Thank-You banner from the MBCPAAA for the Duncan's generous donation to a very important meeting of Law Enforcement Personnel. Deb and Steve Duncan donated (28) boxed lunches, including chips, cookies, and four varieties of subs, with only spur of the moment notice. They went above and beyond for our organization and Law Enforcement Personnel.

Firehouse Subs has a history of supporting our Nation's first responders. Their non-profit, "Firehouse Subs Public

Safety Foundation," provides the opportunity for local first responders to apply for grants. Any interested and eligible

first responder can find all information on the grant process at the below link.

Click on Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation Link:

http://www.firehousesubs.com/firehouse-subs-public-safety-foundation/ then click on Foundation

May 22-25, Law Enforcement Hospitality Center - 2511 S. Ocean Blvd., Myrtle Beach, SC 29577-4757

May 16, 2015 Veterans Day Parade

Lt. Crosby thanked the 10 volunteers. These volunteers were assigned to man barricades, thus freeing 10 officers to be utilized elsewhere. Dora Ascione, Carlene Carmen, Peter Correia, Carson Hardy, Dickran Mgrdechian, Jack Ellis, Ginny Simpko, Gerry Wetherell, Meche Williams, and Barbara Prescop.

MBPD 30th CPA Class makes donation to MBCPAAA

September 18, 2015 Shriners Parade

September 1, 2015: Chief Gall presents Lt. Tommy Chestnut with ​a Challenge Coin

September 1, 2015: Chief Gall presents Lt. Tommy Chestnut with

a Challenge Coin