Elected officials serve as guest bartenders as Chalmette bar and grille has fundraiser to donate money for protective vests for sheriff’s deputies

Sheriff James Pohlmann draws a beer for a customer.

Rae Ann and Chuck Williams, owners of Me Me’s Bar and Grille, during the fundraiser in their restaurant and bar.

Four St. Bernard Parish elected officials served as guest bartenders at Me Me’s Bar and Grille in Chalmette for two hours the evening of Aug. 17 during a fundraiser to donate money for protective vests for sheriff’s deputies. More than $11,600 was raised.

Rae Ann and Chuck Williams, owners of Me Me’s at 712 West Judge Perez Drive, said they were donating all funds from alcohol sales during a two-hour period Wednesday night.

Sheriff James Pohlmann, Parish President Guy McInnis, District Attorney Perry Nicosia and Assessor Jaylynn Bergeron Turner served as the guest bartenders.

“We as a community are proud of our Sheriff’s Office and want to do what we can to make sure the men and women are safe so they can protect the parish,’’ Rae Ann Williams said. That was why she and her husband wanted to donate money for vests for deputies, she said. “We wanted to give something back to them.’’

The community being safe because of the Sheriff’s Office was a main reason residents returned after the devastation of Hurricane Katrina, Williams said.

She said more than $11,600 was raised and will be donated to purchase the protective equipment for deputies.

“It was a fantastic night and we appreciate the generosity of those who attended,’’ Williams said.

Sheriff Pohlmann said the men and women of the Sheriff’s Office appreciate what the Williams’ have done and the continuing support the community has shown for law enforcement.

A similar fundraiser to donate equipment for sheriff’s deputies will be held Saturday, Aug. 20 at 9 p.m. at Katz Lounge in Chalmette, sponsored by Katz Lounge and J & K Pawn & Jewelry.