Chamber to honor Law Enforcement & Firefighters At Annual Appreciation Dinner

MARSHALL, TX, September 14, 2009 – The Marshall Chamber of Commerce is set to honor law enforcement and firefighters at their annual Appreciation Dinner on Tuesday, September 22, 2009 with the lines opening at 5:30 PM and the program beginning at 6:30PM at the Marshall Civic Center on Highway 59.

“This event is designed to bring the community together to show the deep appreciation in the form of a meaningful awards ceremony for our brave officers and volunteers who serve us without question,” shared Connie Ware, President and CEO of the Marshall Chamber of Commerce.

Caddo Parish Sheriff Stephen W. Prator is slated as the guest speaker for the evening. Sheriff Prator formerly served as Chief of Police in Shreveport, Louisiana before becoming Sheriff of Caddo Parish. Prator made a name for himself after deploying innovative and effective law enforcement techniques and is highly respected in his field and in the community.

Awards will be presented in the following categories:

· G. O. Cooper Law Enforcement Officer of the Year

· Clay Medrano - Merit Award - Law Enforcement Officer

· Merit Award - Police Officer

· Bill Sullivan Sr. Firefighter of the Year

· Merit Award – Firefighter

· Emergency Medical Technician of the Year

· Sam B. Hall Jr. Special Meritorious Award

· Reserve Law Enforcement Officer

· Volunteer Firefighter Award

· Volunteer EMT Award

· First Responder (new category this year)

The selection of the recipients for the awards to be presented is based on an officer’s overall performance, not on any single incident. The traits characterizing an officer’s performance are based on the following criteria:


· Loyalty

· Initiative and self-motivation

· Dedication to service

· Service to the community above and beyond the normal call of dutyv
· Attitude and integrity

Last year’s response was overwhelming with more than 600 individuals at the banquet. The Chamber is hoping to rally a large response again this year to show overwhelming support for area law enforcement and firefighter personnel, and volunteers for the incredible work they do that affects the quality of our lives every day – putting their lives on the line to serve and protect others.

“The community’s generosity enabled us to present cash awards to the recipients, confirming the community’s appreciation for the service of our law enforcement and fire fighting personnel,” said Ms. Ware.

All support is welcomed, and special recognition will be given to the following sponsorship levels:

· Host $500 and above

· Senior Sponsor $300

· Active Sponsor $150

· Supporters $75

· Donors $50

Two complimentary tickets are included with each $50 donation, if requested. Law enforcement and firefighter personnel plus one guest each may attend free of charge. Public tickets are on sale now for $13 each. Reservations are required and dinner will be catered by Catfish Express.

Ms. Ware added, “The Marshall Chamber of Commerce invites you, your employees and your friends to attend this very important event, and to share in the enthusiasm for these fine public servants and their dedication and work in our communities.”

For more information about becoming a sponsor or to purchase tickets, please contact the Marshall Chamber of Commerce at 903-935-7868 or visit the Chamber at 213 W. Austin.