Several members of the local Riverbank Police Services took a moment to have another Coffee with a Cop event this past week to engage with the community. The event was held at a new place and time but the good vibes and warm welcome continued.
“The event was great,” said RPS Chief Ed Ridenour. “Everyone seemed very excited to see us there as we were greeted with warm welcomes. Conversations ranged from how the weather was, to crime, to just casual conversations. This is what the event is about, to get to know our residents better and for our residents to better know their law enforcement officers.”
With the warm reception they received last month and the positive reaction from the community, RPS hosted another coffee session, this one at Palo Sant Café at 9 a.m. on June 8. During the hour at the café there were a few guests that knew the officers were going to be there and some that were pleasantly surprised.
“I thought the Palo Santo Café was a great location for the second Coffee with a Cop event,” stated Sergeant Howard. “I believe the change in time allowed us to meet and speak with a variety of customers that were not rushing to get to work but had time to stop and ask questions.”
A family entered the café delighted to see the officers. The youth shook their hands and thanked them for their public service to the community.
“I think the highlight is always interacting with all the community members from the business workers to customers,” expressed Howard. “I always find it refreshing when the youth in our community come up to one of our members and thanks them for their service and shows true interest in the public safety field.”
Palo Santo Café opened this year and offers an assortment of coffee, teas, homemade baked goods, custom gelato, breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
“The food and staff were amazing at Palo Santo Café,” added Ridenour. “If you haven’t been, I encourage you to try it out. I had the chilaquiles, absolutely delicious.”
The Chief noted that they are going to try to offer the Coffee with a Cop event once a month. Check the RPS Facebook page for the next date, location and time.
