THOSE WHO RISK ALL DESERVE OUR SUPPORT

A Times editorial by Keith McNeill -

We join the rest of the community in expressing our shock, sorrow, sympathy
and support for the four young RCMP officers recently killed in Alberta,
their families and their fellow members of the force.

Police work can be a dangerous way to make a living. Certainly there are
other jobs that statistically are more risky (hand-falling comes to mind),
but there are few occupations in which the dangers can be so personal,
sudden and unpredictable.

There are also few jobs in which the risks are so closely tied to helping
others, whether it's saving an individual in distress, or protecting
society in general.

Every day members of the local detachment stop vehicles on the highway. The
officers follow procedures before approaching the stopped car or truck, but
they still really never can tell what sort of a situation they are walking
into.

Similarly, the local police have taken down a number of major marijuana
grow operations during the past few years, including one last fall that was
located in a series of buried bunkers.

The police have to deal with, on a regular basis, criminals, thugs and
other people whom most of us would not invite into our homes. For the most
part, they do this fairly, dispassionately and professionally.

We sometimes hear that, in the RCMP, Canada has the best police force in
the world. Having seen some of the world's other police forces in
operation, we believe that statement may be true. They deserve our support
in this time of trial.

LATE NEWS FLASH

Clearwater Chamber of Commerce president Sheena van Dyk informs us that
Wells Grey Community Resource Society and Clearwater Secondary School will
hold a Community Resource Day for Youth on Friday, March 11. The day is
designed to provide youth with an awareness of the programs, services and
career options available within the Clearwater area.

If any businesses would like to profile themselves to the youth of CSS,
they may do so free of charge. Information on your business may also be
displayed for the Pow Wow at CSS on March 12 and 13.

For more information or to register please contact Cheryl Thomas at 674-3260.