Capt. Edgar Springer: Police Beat

The holidays are a typical time for family gatherings and celebrations. Because of the different faiths and cultures, holidays in the Richmond District and throughout San Francisco have a special flavor.

The holidays also bring out the caring and sharing nature in us. Members of the Richmond District have again been very generous in their donations of games and toys for children in need. There were also numerous donations dropped off for patients at Laguna Honda Hospital. I would like to give a special thank you to the mysterious lady who again graciously this year dropped off bags of beautiful stuffed animals and dolls for our district toy program. She zips in, slips out and has yet to be identified. A true Santa's helper.

This is my third holiday season at the Richmond Police Station. I am very fortunate to have a residential and commercial community that is so supportive of the men and women who work at the station. I have enjoyed working with all the groups within the district and I look forward to continuing the relationships that we have established.

There was a good turnout once again for our holiday Community/Police Forum and I'm told the potluck dinner was outstanding. Unfortunately, due to an injury I was unable to attend. I was told that there was some wild tap dancing, which included members of my command. This was led by a spry Jean Anderson, a lady who provided both music and tap-dancing instruction. Lieutenant Foley, I understand, will shortly be going on the road exhibiting his talents as a tap dancer. Thank you to all who attended and thank you for the childrens' gifts.

The Richmond Senior Central had to deal with a particularly disabled Santa - something about slipping on some snow on the reindeer's launching pad.

Santa also managed, with a lame leg and the assistance of several elves, to appear at the Westside Courts as part of Operation Dream. The children at Westside much appreciated the support of the community.

In the new year, the men and women at the Richmond Station will continue to work hard and remain sensitive to the needs of the community.

My wish for you is that your holidays and the coming year are filled with joy, peace and happiness. I am looking forward to working with you in 2002.

The Richmond District's next Community/Police Forum will be held on Tuesday, Jan. 15, 2002, at the Richmond Station, 461 Sixth Ave., at 7 p.m. The forum's topics of discussion will be parking and traffic issues and street and sidewalk repairs. I am looking forward to seeing you there.

Capt. Edgar Springer is the commanding officer at the Richmond Police Station.