The Reminder is making its archives back to 2003 available on our website. Please note that, due to technical limitations, archive articles are presented without the usual formatting.
Collectable cards have for decades represented a passionate hobby among young people. Whether it's hockey legends like Steve Yzerman or stars from the dugout like Pedro Martinez, those cardboard cutouts share a common bond Ð youths look up to the featured individuals. And although the subjects aren't famous athletes, the newest cards to hit the streets of Flin Flon carry that attribute as well. Now available from your local RCMP officer are complimentary cards depicting the men and women who keep us safe. "It's an avenue that opens up communication between particularly young people and the detachment members," said Staff Sgt. Len Hordijk. "Young people like collecting the cards, and it's one way for the young people to get a hold of the individual members in a non-confrontational way." The cards have a layout similar to their counterparts in the sports world. On the front is a photo of one of the 10 Flin Flon cops. On the back, you'll find information about that officer as well as his or her message to young people. The cards will be distributed when an interested individual approaches an officer on the matter, or vice-versa. Youths will gain not only a collectable, but also an opportunity to ask the police questions. "It's a positive way of contacting the police," said Staff Sgt. Hordijk. The card program has operated at various RCMP detachments across the country, and many officers involved feel it has had a positive impact on their relationship with the public. Flin Flon's cards have been sponsored by local businesses at no cost to the public.
