By Alyssa Schnugg
Staff writer
alyssa.schnugg@hottytoddy.com
Campers from the Oxford Police Department’s Camp Cops summer program spent Friday morning adding to the natural beauty of Pat Lamar Park by planting a willow tree.
Officer Zak Anderson said Friday was Community Service Day, one of several topics covered this summer at the camp.
“We talked about helping the elderly, picking up litter and being kind to their neighbors,” Anderson said.
Campers learned about basic life lessons, like being polite and courteous and helping the environment. They also learned a bit about law enforcement, including firearm safety.
“They know we’re not just here to stop them and write them tickets,” Anderson said. “We’re here because we love them.”
The campers gathered at Pat Lamar Park at noon and planted the young willow in the west side of the park.
Mayor Robyn Tannehill was present at the tree planting and thanked the children for their community service.
“I think this exemplifies what the Oxford Police Department does well and that is to connect with our community,” Tannehill said. “This is a perfect example to connect with our younger generation and teach them the importance of leaving things better than they found it.”
