WILKES-BARRE — Cops are known for handing out citations, but a bunch of Wilkes-Barre police officers have been distributing trading cards of themselves — a flashback to a 1990s community policing initiative.
More than half of the department’s officers volunteered to be photographed for a card and write a biography and/or personal message on the back. The department’s two K-9 posed as well — and purportedly are fan favorites out of all the collectibles.
“The point of it is just some outreach to the community. We want to show we are a part of the community and we are approachable,” said Sgt. Steven Lada, of the department’s community policing unit. “The reaction so far has been positive.”
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Wilkes-Barre police Sgt. Steven Lada and Officer Justin Morris pose with their trading cards outside police headquarters. (Bob Kalinowski / Staff Photographer)
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Wilkes-Barre police Sgt. Steven Lada and Officer Justin Morris pose with their trading cards outside police headquarters. (Bob Kalinowski / Staff Photographer)
There are 63 cards in all, featuring dozens of officers, two police dogs, the bicycle and emergency services units, the honor guard and Mayor George Brown. A total of 500 copies were printed of each card.
Each card was sponsored by a business or person.
“It was done all on sponsorships. It didn’t cost the city anything,” Lada said.
While there is no official contest, some people, especially children, are trying to collect as many cards as possible.
“I showed my 2-year-old daughter. She loves the dogs,” Lada said.
The department created a checklist of all available cards that are available to pick up at some of the sponsors such as CricNics restaurant, Schiel’s Family Market. Franco’s Pizza, Hall Auto Service, Loyalty Barber Shop, and Circles on the Square.
Many officers carry the cards on them in their uniform pockets or in their patrol vehicles.
“It’s a way to make us more approachable. It’s almost like an icebreaker,” said Officer Justin Morris, who came up with the idea to bring back the trading cars.
The department last printed trading cars of officers in the 1990s before most current officers joined the force.
All cards featured a biography of the officer the back. Some issued a personal message of motor.
“People follow who they respect, not who they fear. Fear breeds obedient losers. Respect breeds competent warriors,” wrote Capt. Michael Boyle, the department’s second in command.
Detective Jim Fished joked, “I still enjoy coming to work, so retirement will have to wait.”
Officer Melissa Benson’s card says, “While on patrol, she will stop to pet your dog.”
Brown said he was glad to see the return of the trading card tradition. He said he told a group of second graders about the card during a recent speech at Kistler Elementary School and they kids immediately swarmed an officer who was present for his card.
“It’s nice to see children approaching police officers asking for their card,” Brown said. “It’s a great idea. It’s a great community policing initiative.”
Personal messages
“People follow who they respect, not who they fear. Fear breeds obedient losers. Respect breeds competent warriors.” — Capt. Michael Boyle
“I still enjoy coming to work, so retirement will have to wait.” — Detective James Fisher
“In a world where you can be anything, be kind.” — Lt. Christopher Maciejczyk
“Blessed are the peacekeepers, for they shall be called the children of God (Matthew 5:9).” — Jacob Kaluzny
“Do what you can, with what that you have, where you are (Theodore Roosevelt).” — Officer Peter Cordaro
“Don’t be afraid of failure, learn from your mistakes, and keep trying till you succeed.” — Officer Justin Morris
“Live life to the fullest, you can’t take it with you when you go!” — Officer William Ardoline
“The more you seek the uncomfortable, the more you will become comfortable.” — Randy Santiago
“While on patrol, she will stop to pet your dog.” — Melissa Benson
