With a population of 700 plus, the rural community of Milford evokes a rustic ambiance in league with the 1960s American sitcom that embodied small town camaraderie in the fictional town of Mayberry, N.C.

Though The Andy Griffith Show only aired for eight years more than four decades prior, the fictional sheriff’s can-do mettle is evident in the Milford community through a man whose own code of conduct hauntingly parallel’s Mayberry’s main character’s tenacity.

Milford Chief of Police, Carlos Phoenix, has always gone above and beyond the call of duty. He’s served as president on the school board. He is a daily regular at the Senior Citizens’ Center located next door to the police department where he enjoys both a midday meal and a little conversation with the older population.

And remarkably, he maintains affable relationship with the town’s “Otis” population – those citizens who’ve had an unsavory brush with the long arm of the law.

He’s fair, direct and honest.

And he’s a devoted volunteer for Meals-on-Wheels of Johnson and Ellis Counties, delivering lunch to the citizens who are part of the Meals-on-Wheels family. In honor of his selfless service, Chief Phoenix has been named as this year’s recipient for the Shirle Ayers Volunteer Appreciation Award for Ellis County. This is an annual award acknowledging outstanding volunteer service, and is given in memory of Mr. Shirle Ayers, a faithful volunteer for many years. Also, during the week of April 19-15, volunteers were recognized during for their dedication and service to Meals-on-Wheels.

Chief Phoenix personifies this year’s theme, “Celebrating People in Action.” In addition to ensuring that those on his route are safe and sound, Phoenix has even noticed when a client’s home may need a little TLC via a dust rag and broom. He makes a few calls and puts a little bug in the ear of others who are happy to lend a hand for discounted rates or are willing to donate their services to those who can’t afford to pay for housekeeping.

“They really need the extraattention,” Chief Phoenix said. “I’ve always wanted to help people – anything for the community.”

Meals-on-Wheels serves more than 700 people on a daily basis with the help of people from the local communities. “Volunteers are essential for our program to be successful,” said Amy Jackson, director of development. "Without the ongoing dedication of volunteers, we would not be able to impact the lives of the elderly, disabled, and their families.

“Thank you for the invaluable service you provide to our homebound clients!” she added.

Meals-on-Wheels continues to need additional volunteers to help get meals delivered to the homebound elderly and disabled residents throughout the county.

Those interested in volunteering or who may know of someone in need of services is asked to call Meals-on-Wheels at 972-351-9943 or access the organization’s Web site at: www.servingthechildrenofyesterday.org.