News Photo by Julie Riddle Jeanine Kaltz, Hope Shores Alliance representative, presents certificates of appreciation to Alpena Police Chief Joel Jett, Alpena County Sheriff Steven Kieliszewski, and Michigan State Police Community Service Trooper Ashley Simpson on Wednesday morning.

ALPENA — In recognition of National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day, Hope Shores Alliance in Alpena presented representatives of Alpena-area law enforcement agencies with certificates of appreciation and a bagel.

Alpena Police Chief Joel Jett, Alpena County Sheriff Steven Kieliszewski, and Michigan State Police Community Service Trooper Ashley Simpson were honored in a brief ceremony Wednesday at the Hope Shores administration building. Hope Shores serves victims of domestic and sexual violence.

Representatives of Hope Shores seemed light-hearted as Outreach and Services Advocate Jillian Ferguson welcomed the guests of honor, acknowledging a long history of effective collaboration and hopes for more of the same in the future.

“Usually, when we get together, unfortunately, it’s under negative circumstances,” Ferguson told the officers. “Today, in particular, we wanted to take the opportunity to highlight the incredible work you do.”

As part of the event, Jeanine Kaltz, legal advocate for Hope Shores, shared information about stalking, one of the target areas in which the organization works closely with law enforcement.

Simpson also talked about local officers’ collaboration with Hope Shores in dealing with human trafficking, an issue Simpson says is present in Northeast Michigan more than people realize.

The event was a first for Hope Shores, but they hope to celebrate the day in future years in bigger and better ways, Kaltz said.

As one of the area organizations that gets to work closely with Alpena police and sheriff departments, Hope Shores has developed an appreciation for the level of service and commitment offered to the community.

Ferguson reminded the officers of their importance to those in need of their help.

“You’re one of the first people that survivors see,” Ferguson said. “We understand how fortunate we are to have law enforcement officers who really care.”

Julie Riddle can be reached at 989-358-5693 or jriddle@thealpenanews.com.