Work Concerns.....

My job is very rewarding at the Arkansas Sheriffs' Association (ASA). I get to call schools around the state & set up drug awareness programs. There are 2 programs, P.C. the Patrol Car with K-3rd grade and a slide show for 4th - 6th. I also call the local Sheriff's Departments and try to get a uniformed officer to the programs.

Usually when I call to schedule the schools I end up speaking with the Counselor or the Principal, somewhat intelligent people I would hope. They usually ask really good questions. Usually........But yesterday, one Counselor asked me a question I hadn't been asked before and therefore; I didn't have an answer prepared: "Do you know McGruff the crime dog?" I tried not to laugh as I answered, "Not personally". The counselor was very embarrassed about her choice of words. I laughed at it the rest of the day. So I now have my answer ready the next time I am asked if I know McGruff.

Another alarming question I receive is about our Program Reminders. After the program is scheduled, a reminder is sent out to the school. It JOKINGLY says, "Something will arrive at your school in a few days, please don't throw it out". And then goes on to tell about the dates and times of the programs. I have had schools call and say they have never received their package from the ASA and they are concerned. I then have to explain it was a joke & that P.C. arriving for the program would be the package. And these are the people educating students??