'Coffee with a Cop': BPD program aims to humanize police

BEMIDJI—Since they purchased the house on Lake Boulevard Northeast last March, Dick and Jill Beardsley's residence has become a safe haven for local law enforcement.

The Beardsleys have used the house, which will open as a Lake Bemidji Bed and Breakfast this spring, to host holiday meals for police unable to spend time with their families while on duty, and have held frequent breakfasts for officers. On Friday, the couple opened their home to the public for a "Coffee with a Cop" event meant to allow citizens to get to know local police.

http://www.bemidjipioneer.com/news/local/4211563-coffee-cop-bpd-program-aims-humanize-police