Municipal News

Last Updated on Sunday, 02 October 2016 12:31

By Jill Brown

Many residents of Charleroi and surrounding areas expressed gratitude to police officers and raised money for K-9 officer Rex in honor of Charleroi Police Appreciation Day on August 27, 2016.

Officer Billy Gardner, K-9 Rex and Nancy Ellis, an event organizer, come together to raise money for the canine fund.

They also showed pride in their community with all the participation and involvement generated for the day. Recognized for his generosity was David Barbe, owner of Fourth Street Barbeque, where the event was held. He presented the Charleroi Regional Police Dept. Canine Fund with a donation of $750.

A group of individuals, with former Mayor Nancy Ellis in charge, organized the event. Three primary people responsible for the day were Ellis, Speers Mayor Bill Lee, and Charleroi Mayor Terry Newstrom. Auction items were on display in front of the restaurant, donated from local retailers. Ellis raised “jail bail” by submitting to time spent near 308 Fourth St. until $2,000 in “bail” money was raised. All proceeds benefit the K-9 retirement fund for the future.

K-9 Rex and Officer Billy Gardner have shared a special bond over the years. Gardner said, “He’s my best friend, family, partner. I got lucky with him. We’ve been together for about 9 years.” Gardner continued that the Belgian Malinois is “not retiring anytime soon.” He said, “He’ll be with me until I say he’s ready, and he’s still going strong.”

Silent auctions were held online and during the day. Also, there were guest bartenders and servers from 4-10 p.m. at Fourth Street Barbeque. Ellis said of the day, “I think it is successful—a lot of people are getting involved.” Officials included: State Senator Camera Bartolotta, Caroll Township; former Washington County District Attorney Steven Toprani; Charleroi Council President Paul Pivovarnik; Speers Mayor Bill Lee; and Ellis.

Mayor Lee said, “K-9 Rex is turning 10—so we’re using this to fund his retirement. Several of our businesses and revenues have donated toward the Charleroi Regional Police Dept. Canine Fund. We’re doing this because we want [the police department] to know we appreciate all the efforts they put into the job.”