The Departmental Progressive Club, an organization founded 82 years ago by seven black federal government workers to encourage character, fellowship and wholesome recreation to encourage the welfare of Alexandrians of all races, honored Chief of Police Earl Cook and City Attorney James Banks last Friday.

Cook was recently named the citys first black police chief after a 30-year long career in the Alexandria Police Department.

Banks was named city attorney earlier in the year, replacing Ignacio Pessoa, and is the first black city attorney in the citys history.

The organization is one of the citys oldest private clubs, but is more than just a social club. Its members are involved in various causes around the city.