Hot Springs Chamber, City Police Announce Youth Commendation Award Program Awards Provide Recognition for Good Behavior from Young Members of the Community What would you think if you were stopped by a police officer and were issued a “ticket” that gave you money to spend within your community? The City of Hot Springs Police Department in partnership with the Hot Springs Chamber of Commerce are doing just that! Titled the ‘Youth Commendation Award Program,’ City of Hot Springs Police officers during their normal patrol duties will be recognizing area youth (those 18 and under) for their good behavior within the community. Whether using a designated crosswalk, wearing a helmet while bicycling, picking up litter, or any other behavior that enhances the Hot Springs community, the Hot Springs police officers will seek to reward and recognize area youth by offering them both a certificate and $5 of Chamber Bucks, redeemable at any Hot Springs business. “The motto, ‘To Protect and Serve’ has been the creed of many law enforcement agencies across the nation, in fact
Chamber of Commerce Director Scott Haden (right) presents funding for the Youth Commendation awards to Chief of Police Mike Close.
it is a part of the City of Hot Springs Police Department’s mission statement,” said Chief of Police Mike Close. “All too often law enforcement is thought of as a reactionary force, but to be truly effective, we must also be proactive in ensuring safety, security and well-being for all. We see this program as the service component of the call to protect and serve, where we are working proactively to build our community by reaching its young members in a positive way.” “Think of it as a ‘positivity ticket,’” said Chamber Director Scott Haden. “This is an opportunity to reward the young members of our community for making great decisions that directly improve the well-being of our town.” The Hot Springs Chamber of Commerce has committed up to five, $5 Chamber Bucks awards to be given each month for up to six months. Officers will inform youth demonstrating positive behavior that they are eligible for the award during the officer’s normal patrol duties. Once notified, the award recipient can then go to the Hot Springs Police Department to collect a certificate along with the $5 in Chamber Bucks. Alternatively, community members are encouraged to write nominating letters to the Chief of Police for young members of the community they feel are deserving of the Youth Commendation Award. To learn more about the Youth Commendation Award please contact Mike Close, Chief of Police, at 605-7455200 or email pdchief@hs-sd.org. MAY 2015
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