PORT ANGELES — About 55 people showed up Sunday to shake the hands of the men and women who work to keep the area communities safe.
About 25 law enforcement and fire personnel showed up at the inaugural Safe Community Appreciation Day as well.
“A lot of firefighters and law enforcement don’t really like putting ourselves on stage like this, but the sentiment means a lot to us,” Capt. Terry Reid, of the Port Angeles Fire Department, said after the presentation.
The event was put on by the Port Angeles Business Association and held at Vern Burton Community Center.
The honorees were served coffee and cake along with multiple rounds of applause at the event.
Port Angeles City Manager Kent Myers was the guest speaker for the event.
“I hope that this is an annual event and that it grows larger and larger,” he said.
People feel safe
“This is a very safe community to be in, and I know many people who feel safe to walk the sidewalks of the downtown late at night.
“I happen to know Mayor [Gary Braun] takes a walk at 6 a.m.
“We feel safe and secure here, and that is a tribute to all of these people that keep us safe.”
Sheriff Bill Benedict also spoke at the event.
“Clallam County has always had one of the lowest crime rates, and that is because the citizens care,” Benedict said.
“They support us, and they will not tolerate lawlessness in the community.
“That helps us do our jobs.”
Port Angeles Police Chief Terry Gallagher and Port Angeles Fire Chief Dan McKeen also spoke to say a word of appreciation.
Craig Johnson, who helped organize the event and is the CEO of Capacity Provisioning, said he was pleased with how the event went.
“I am so pleased with the turnout this year — I also hope to double or triple it next year,” Johnson said.
“This just goes to show that the community appreciates those that keep us safe.
“We know that if we need help in the middle of the night they are just a phone call away.”
Another event next year
Johnson said another event will be created next year, but the time of year and other elements are still being worked out.
“We are thrilled with this year and will work on how to make next year even better,” he said.
Ted Simpson, vice president of the Port Angeles Business Association, said the event was long overdue.
“We are so thankful for and want to support these people who keep our community from harm,” Simpson said.
Dan Sterling, a member of the Port Angeles public safety advisory committee, and Barbara Richmond, a member of the Clallam County Sheriff’s Office public safety advisory committee, both said the event was an honor.
“It is great to give a little special attention to them, because they work so hard for us,” Richmond said.
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Reporter Paige Dickerson can be reached at 360-417-3535 or at paige.dickerson@peninsuladaily news.com.
