Jackson Free Press

Even though Cindy Clegg is busy making last-minute preparations for tonight's "Take a Tasty Bite Out of Crime" fundraiser, she is eager to explain the importance of raising money for the public-safety initiatives in the metro area.

The fundraiser is expected to bring 1,700 people to Highland Village and raise more than $100,000 for the Jackson Police Foundation, a non-profit organization that provides support for public-safety initiatives in the metro area. The event features food from more than 50 area restaurants, drinks from area beverage distributers, and live music by musicians such as Greg "Fingers" Taylor, Hunter Gibson and the Gators, and Chris Gill.

The Jackson Police Foundation includes Madison, Rankin and Hinds County and the money raised will support Metro One Law Enforcement, an aerial law enforcement air support service

"They are putting their lives in danger's way," Clegg says about police officers on duty.

The Baton Rouge, La., native is an event coordinator who works on fundraisers for other organizations such as the Boys and Girls Club of Central Mississippi, and the Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame and Museum.

Clegg says she is inspired by the generosity of Mississippians, which is evident in the work she does.

"(Mississippi) is the most charitable state. We are at the bottom of the totem pole in a lot of things, but in charity we are No. 1," she says.

"Take A Tasty Bike Out Of Crime," is at 7 p.m. today at Highland Village. The Metro One helicopter will land at 6 p.m. in the Highland Village parking lot. Tickets are $50 in advance or $60 at the gate and are available from the event website or at Bebop Record Shops. Admission is free for law enforcement officers who show a badge or dress in uniform.