Tom Harrison, a transplant from the West Coast, was on point when he decided to launch Coffee with a Cop in Americus. The concept, which started in California as a community outreach program in 2011, provides the opportunity for law enforcement officers and citizens to interact in an informal environment; in other words, to meet outside of a crisis situation.
In the wake of the shooting deaths of two of our local law enforcement officers in early December, Harrison correctly thought the time was right for the local community to show support for law enforcement. Bittersweet Coffee & Books graciously offered up its downtown space and free coffee for the three-hour event held recently downtown. A large number of law enforcement and citizens participated in the event, and there was a real sense of unity and harmony in the large shop filled with people.
If more of our local citizens would put forth the effort, there are many other causes that would benefit from not only support, but a sharper focus.
Harrison demonstrated that all it takes is one person to step up and represent, and Elena Albamonte, Bittersweet’s owner, showed that cooperation and generosity go a long way in building bridges. We commend these two individuals for their willingness to allow a venue for such a meaningful event. We also want our local law enforcement and other first responders to know how much we appreciate and support them, always.