On Friday, January 17, 2020, the Union County Crime Stoppers (UCCS) held its 28th annual fundraising BBQ at the Union County Agricultural Center. This yearly fundraiser supports the rewards given to the UCCS Tip Line. Plates were heaped with pork and turkey BBQ, baked beans, coleslaw, bread and were served with a cold glass of iced tea and a slice of cake. This year, they raised over $30,000 and beat what they raised last year. However, none of this would have been possible without the support of the community and local sponsors including presenting sponsor Hendrick Chevrolet Cadillac Monroe.

The 2020 UCCS Law Enforcement Officer of the Year was presented to Tiffany Hill. Hill is a school resource officer and was instrumental in saving a child during a choking incident. The Board of County Commissioners’ issued a proclamation for “Reid Helms Day” on January 17, 2020. Reid Helms, UCCS President, was surprised during the lunch portion of the BBQ with a plaque recognizing his service to the community and thanking him for all he has done. Village Greene sand and played for the crowd. The American Legion #535 of Unionville, NC was in attendance to present the colors. Miss North Carolina 2020, Alexandra Badgett, was one of the guests of honor along with six WW2 Veterans. Other special guests include Eddie Cathey (Union County Sheriff), Trey Robinson (Union County District Attorney), and Dan Bishop (US House of Representatives).

Dylan Hales, a Board Member for UCCS, explained, “Ray Cook and his family from Ray Farms prepares our BBQ every year. He wasn’t sure how many pounds they cooked, but I would say a special thank you to them for donating their time. We also want to thank Miss NC, Dan Bishop, the American Legion who brought out local WW2 Veterans, Sheriff Eddie Cathey, and all our law enforcement officers. They all came out and helped to promote our event.”

More information about UC Crime Stoppers can be found at www.uccrimestoppers.com