By By Arthur McLean Editor
They were cuffed and stuffed and bailed out of jail. Some of Atmore's most prominent citizens spent time behind bars April 22, for a good cause.
On April 22, the American Heart Association held Cardiac Arrest in Atmore that raised more than $13,000.
"It was the best ever," said Judy Pylate, parol board chairman. "The parol board worked very hard to get arrestees in."
"Many of Atmore's citizens surrendered themselves to the Heartless Jail and Judge with Bail Money in hand. The event raised a total of over $13,000 to date with more money arriving daily," said Dennis Hurley, regional director of the American Heart Association. Making sure the 'criminals' made good on their bonds, Hurley said, "If you are still trying to collect your bail please mail it to the American Heart Association office at 900 Western America Circle, Suite 209, Mobile, AL. 36609 Attention: Dennis Hurley."
The jail was held at City Hall Audtorium and the participation was overwhelming the day of the event. "Judge Heartless" Steve Billy charged everyone as being guilty and sentenced them to a heartless punishment. The "most wanted" jailbird that raised the most Bail Money was Deborah Hammons.
In addition to the arrests, during th week-long event, United Bank sponsored a women's health fair with lunch lectures and CPR classes. "We really appreciate the bank's efforts on behalf of the American Heart Association," Pylate said. "I appreciate their support of this event and the people Atmore for their support of a very good cause."
Cardiac Arrest is an event that combines fund raising and fun into one event. The purpose of this event was to acquire donations, which will assist the American Heart Association in its fight to reduce death and disability due to cardiovascular disease and stroke. As the number 1 killer in Atmore, and the United States, heart disease or stroke affects everyone. In fact, this year the American Heart Association has invested over $11 million in funds for research and education throughout the southeast. The American Heart Association also reaches thousands of people face-to-face, with lifesaving public education and community service programs.
"The Parole Board members made this event a success and special thanks should be expressed to each for the time and hard work they dedicated," Hurley said. The Parole Board members are: Chairperson Judy Pylate and board members Samantha Bennett, Chuck Bodiford, Ann Glavan, Ronnie Johnson, Foster Kizer, Jackie Lee, Nerissa Salter, Vicky Sellers, Susan Smith, Bill Spurlin, Leigh Shaughnessy, Allen Walston and Jane Woods.
"Special thanks to Sponsors United Bank of Atmore and 1st National Bank of Atmore and the food sponsors Arby's, David's Catfish House and Pepsi of Atmore for helping with the jailbirds lunch while they served their time. And thanks toCity Hall for letting us turn their Facility into our "heartless Jail," Hurley said.