PUBLISHED SEPT. 22, 2016
SouthShore Chamber to host
Coffee with a Cop
By LOIS KINDLE
LOIS KINDLE PHOTO
Master Cpl. Gregory Wynn, Dist. IV traffic coordinator, will be one of the HCSO deputies on hand at Coffee with a Cop from 7:30 to 9 a.m. Sept. 29 at the SouthShore Chamber of Commerce.
The only time most residents interact with law enforcement is when they’re pulled over for a traffic violation or need help with a crime-related issue. In both instances, there’s little chance to get to know the officer who protects and serves them.
The SouthShore Chamber of Commerce has partnered with the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office Dist. IV Command to provide that chance by hosting Coffee with a Cop.
Open to the public, the event will take place from 7:30 to 9 a.m. Sept. 29 at the chamber office at 137 Harbor Village Lane in Apollo Beach. There will be no agenda or speeches — only coffee and casual conversation.
“People generally associate talking with a deputy when something goes wrong,” said Melanie Rimes, the chamber’s executive director. “We want to change that perception.
“Coffee with a Cop is an opportunity for area residents and business owners to meet and speak with law enforcement, ask questions, learn what’s going on in the community and comment on their concerns.”
Maj. Rob Bullara, commander of Dist. IV, is looking forward to the event.
“We consider this a part of community policing,” he said. “It’s a chance for folks to meet some cops without having done something wrong. This will be just a time for them to socialize with us and get to know their sheriff’s office.”
Bullara, Capt. Christi Esquinaldo, several lieutenants and numerous Dist. IV patrol deputies will be on hand.
“I urge everyone, especially area business owners, to take advantage of this opportunity,” Rimes said. “And while everyone is here, we’ll have the chance to express our appreciation for the work our sheriff’s office deputies do to keep our homes, streets and businesses safe.
“We want them to know the businesses that are here and any discounts these businesses offer them.”
John Smith, co-owner of H&R Block offices in Sun City Center and Apollo Beach plans to attend.
“I think it’s important for everyone in the community to develop some kind of a relationship with the police,” he said. “They’re our public servants. And they need our trust as much as we need their protection.”
There is no need to RSVP for Coffee with a Cop. Simply drop by the chamber between 7:30 and 9 a.m.
For additional information, call 813-645-1366.