Motorcycle ride to benefit Midland City officer

One of the last calls Midland City Police Chief Dexter Hammond wants to get is that one of his officers has been injured while on duty.

A call a few months ago informing him that one of his officers had a heart attack while off duty was just about as bad.

Now, with officer Mike Naro recovering, Hammond is setting out to start an annual event in Midland City to raise money to assist someone who works in emergency services.

Saturday is expected to mark the police department’s first official motorcycle ride for the cause. All proceeds from the first ride are expected to go to Naro’s family, Hammond said.

“I was at a chief’s conference in Mobile when I first got the call about Mike and when I got here, it was very humbling knowing that could have been me,” Hammond said.

“This bike ride was first intended to help with the financial strain from hospital bills and other expenses the family has, but I think this is something we’ll do to help someone in need.”

Hammond said city business and government officials, including councilman Charles Gary and food chain Subway, have stepped in to offset any costs incurred with the bike ride.

In case of inclement weather Saturday, Hammond said riders can call the Midland City Police Department at (334) 983-3591 for alternative plans.

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The Ride
$30 per motorcycle
Registration begins at 9 a.m. at Horizon Gas Station in Midland City on U.S. 231
Ride begins at 10 a.m. from Midland City through Ozark and Enterprise, Wicksburg and Pinckard
First 50 to register will get free T-Shirts
Full Subway meals for $3