Jackson PAL teams honored

From staff reports

1palprogram10Boys in Jackson who participate in the Jackson Police Department’s PAL (Police Athletic League) program were recognized with a resolution from Jackson Mayor Tony Yarber at the Sept. 6, City Council meeting for their recent athletic accomplishments. The Jackson PAL Tiger team consisting of youth age 8 and older won the division championship title in the City of Jackson Parks and Recreation Department 2016 Slamming Jamming Tournament.

The Jackson PAL Elite team consisting of youth age 17 and younger were the 2016 Slamming Jamming Basketball Tournament champions. Marshand Crisler, chief administrator for the city, described the youth as those who have established themselves beyond their peers and as some of the finest athletes in Jackson. Through the program the youth are taught educational and recreational activities to not only learn athletic skills but also what it takes to be responsible citizens.

PAL is a national youth-crime prevention program to promote a positive interaction between police and youth. In some departments across the nation, PAL stands for Police Activities League, because events are not limited to sports. The Jackson Police Department has had an active PAL program since 2006. Officers give their personal time to coach and mentor the youth. Officers include Deputy Joseph Wade, Officer Chelsea Gross and Sgt. Malcom Macon.

“The PAL program is one of the Jackson police department’s greatest successes,” Chief Lee Vance said. “I take very little credit for it. The only thing I do is support them and whatever Chief Wade asks for, that’s what he gets.”

Be the first to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.


*