NJ Cops | Page 59

Local 154 holds spirited fundraiser Franklin Township Local 154 held its inaugural Wine and Spirits Tasting on April 17 at the Imperia in Somerset. More than 200 local residents and officers from nearby locals in Middlesex and Somerset Counties showed up to support Local 154’s efforts in raising funds for organizations in the community. “The fundraiser helped us out with (organizations) and charitable events we give money to,” said Lieutenant Darrin Russo, president of Local 154’s Superior Officer Association. “The more money we can bring in the more we can do for the town.” Franklin Township Mayor Chris Kelly attended along with NJ State PBA President Patrick Colligan, who is a member of Local 154. With a combination of ticket sales, raffles and a 50/50, the event raised more than $10,000. The tasting consisted of wine, cocktail mixers and rum tables stationed throughout the event and a cigar-rolling table set up outside. Russo emceed the night and with the From left, Somerset County Freeholder Brian Levine, Franklin Township SOA President Lieutenant Darrin Russo, Franklin Township Mayor Chris Kelly, Local 154 State Delegate Ken Daly, Local 154 Vice-President Brian Quigley and Local 154 Member Kevin Frizziola. help of the event’s chairman, Sergeant Anthony Bisignano, the night was a resounding success. “We never had one before and knew other Locals that had done them,” Russo noted. “We thought it might be nice to get people from the town and our Locals together and we got great reviews. We’re definitely doing it again next year.” d www.njcopsmagazine.com ■ MAY 2015 59