Warm skies on Thursday, May 3, prompted South Precinct officers to ignite their propane barbecue and stand back as nearly two-dozen community members brought in a selection of chicken, hamburgers, and ribs for an appreciation dinner. From 6-8:30 between 30 and 35 officers working the second and third watch passed through the break room and helped themselves to some spectacular home cooking.
"The officers took turns covering each other so they could come in and eat," said Mariana Quarnstrom, the Southeast Seattle Crime Prevention Council chair. "We're trying to make it a yearly thing."
According to Quarnstrom, the idea originated more than two years ago with members of the crime prevention council as well as members of the South Precinct Advisory Council. The first year for the annual officer appreciation picnic was in 2005, with 2006 seeing no such event due to a scheduling problem, said Quarnstrom.
This year the council worked out the barbecue's timing with South Precinct Captain Tom Byers. It was decided mid spring was the best time, for it fell after the holiday season and before the increased 911 call time of summer when the officers log mandatory overtime shifts to cover events related to SeaFair and other South End activities.
The reason for the feed is to show the officers they are appreciated, according to Quarnstrom.
"In 2005, the officers were pretty much slammed," Quarnstrom recalled. "They were way down in numbers and there were a whole lot of morale issues."
She added that the dinner is primarily hosted by crime prevention council's executive board due to space constraints in the lunchroom and back patio and inherent security concerns inside the precinct. Despite the community involvement restrictions, Quarnstrom estimates the council members fed more than 50 people with food set aside for officers coming on duty for Friday's first watch.
"I think it makes them feel good that they're supported by the community," Stated Quarnstrom, who made 60 burger patties by hand for the event. "We try to make it something special."
Quarnstrom noted that she was present, along with Grover Haynes and other crime prevention council executives, at the roll call between second and third watch to thank the officers for their service to the South End community. Calling the precinct unique, Quarnstrom noted that out of Seattle's five precincts, only the south station releases a regular newsletter. She also stated that the precinct's command staff is "pretty accessible" and that all the officers who were fed during the special event were grateful.
This attitude of gratitude was echoed by Capt. Byers.
"The officers loved it," said Byers, who came to the barbecue with his wife and two golden retrievers, Abby and Honey. "They really appreciate it. They know it's the community's way of thanking them. They're very grateful, and the officers really appreciate the time, effort, and money that the community members dedicated to it."
Capt. Byers singled out Leslie Miller's ribs for praise. Miller is the chair of the South District Council. He also gave Quarnstrom kudos for consistently helping out the community and his officers.
"Marianna's support has been beyond comprehension," Byers said. "She gives her soul to the community, believe me," Byers said. "She's a good partner."
Erik Hansen may be reached via editor@sdistrictjournal.com.[[In-content Ad]]
