The Police Benevolent
Association (
PBA) is a fraternal/social organization dedicated to
the history and memory of the SJPD. With a membership of almost 300,
it enjoys a close relationship with the SJPD Historical Society and
the SJPD Police Chaplaincy Program. The group fosters camaraderie
and remembrances of the SJPD as it was when it was served by the
members of the PBA, 95 percent of whom are retired.
The PBA
conducts a social hour and dinner on the third Wednesday of each
month (with the exception of Dec.), followed by a short business
meeting. The meeting is opened with the Pledge of Allegiance
followed by an invocation by the Police Chaplain, with particular
remembrance to those recently departed -- be they members, spouses,
relatives or friends. Also remembered are the ill and injured of our
vast police family.
A business meeting includes a brief
agenda of new items, old or deferred items, a treasurer's report,
and a report from anyone or any group whose interests can impact the
membership.
An update on the health and welfare of our
members is also reported, as well as organizational news from the
Police & Fire Retirees Assn. and the Keith Kelly Club. Also
covered are reports on negotiations, especially those that pertain
to retirees.
Of particular interest to the membership is the
Police Chaplaincy Program. Available 24/7, this service is of great
importance and held in the highest respect of the membership. The
functions of solace, comfort, caring and support are endeared to our
group, and we take pride in our relationship with both the program
and the chaplains.
The annual Valentine Day's Dinner Dance
in February is a time set aside to honor our spouses or significant
others and the contributions they make to our lives.
This
would be an appropriate time to solicit from all members of our
police family any and all police memorabilia you may wish to donate
to the Historical Society. If, upon the passing of a loved one, the
donation of any police-related items not needed or wanted by family
members would be greatly appreciated by the Historical Society. Any
donated item(s) will be displayed in honor of the
deceased.
Membership to the PBA is open to all sworn members
of the Police Dept., active or retired. Associate membership is open
to all sworn officers of other agencies -- active or retired -- of
any local, state or federal agency. Dues are $8.00 a month for
retired SJPD personnel, $12.00 for active, and $12:00 per month for
associate members. To join, simply show up on the third Wednesday of
the month at the POA Hall after 5:00 p.m. and complete an
application. Remember, we were and still are "Comrades in Arms."
Membership in the PBA has almost reached 300. Subscribers to
the Farsider currently number about 500, although that number
includes non-sworn personnel and a limited number of individuals from
allied law enforcement agencies.
