Radio Advertising Works, at Least for this Cynic.

Many of us in marketing are numb to the actual message in advertising as we are too busy picking it apart to see if it is on brand or has the proper call to action. So, the other day, during my very short drive to the office an ad came on for the Citizen's Police Academy — the city police force's community outreach program. Touting such features as a tour of the 911 Operations Center, squad car ride alongs and live firearms training, how could I resist?

Further research on their website proved this was a hands-down, not-to-be-missed winner — sign me up. I completed a brief application, passed the security screening (whatever that means) and I was officially enrolled in the nine week program.

My first class found me amongst 28 of my fellow citizens also curious about their local law enforcement operations, or like me, wanting a reason to do SWAT moves on the spot. Turns out, the class is really quite interesting. I'm beginning to learn the ins and outs of being a cop, the challenges they face daily just doing their jobs, the effect of suiting up 30 pounds of gear, and realizing I'm happy they do the job and not me.

While we all know they are the good guys, we all still try to avoid them as much as possible. This community outreach program definitely shines a new light on our city's finest. I highly recommend you turn up your radios, check the city's website notifications, and if the police ad's are served up, think about taking action.