Optimist Club honors law officers

By By Georgia E. Frye / staff writer
June 15, 2004
Devonne Tingle is thinking about being a police officer when he grows up, even though he knows it would be a hard and dangerous job.
But Tingle, 14, said he likes the police because they make him feel safe.
Tingle, along with about 150 young people at the Multi-County Community Center on St. Paul Street, helped honor four law enforcement officers for their service and dedication to the community.
Meridian Mayor John Robert Smith read a proclamation at the ceremony designating June 14-18 as "Respect for the Law" week. He said he is proud of the work of the local law enforcement.
Those honored were Meridian Police Department officers and twin brothers Derrell and Terrell Thompson; Lauderdale County Sheriff's Deputy Hubert Rivers; and Mississippi Highway Patrol Master Sgt. Eddie Michaels.
The event was sponsored by The Central Meridian Optimist Club; club President Reuben Little presented the awards.
Joe Norwood, a Lauderdale County supervisor and publicity chairman for the club, said before the event that he hopes letting children see and talk to law officers will help them avoid a future in crime.
Besides honoring officers, the club also recognized Norwood; Smith; Keith McCary, Meridian's assistant police chief; and Anne Shadwick, Families First Resource Center program director, for their community service.
MPD Officer Thompson Terrell said being honored means a lot to him.