SCOTT SHERIFF PROMOTES PARENTAL TIE

BENTON -- With the holiday season, the Scott County Sheriff's Department again is drawing attention to the relationship between children and parents or guardians.

Since 1977, Scott County Sheriff Bill Ferrell has distributed bumper stickers asking the question "Have You Hugged Your Kid Today?" in recognition of the vital bond that must exist between adults and children.

Finding a solution to the increasing problem of juvenile crime and delinquency is not simple; showing your child that you care is, Ferrell said.

The bumper sticker is designed to convey a message, which, when given genuinely to a child, will be understood, appreciated and reciprocated.

"Communication is the key. Caring for someone cannot be taken for granted," Ferrell said. "It is a feeling that must be demonstrated and communicated somehow."

Bumper stickers are available at the sheriff's department in Benton or from any deputy of reserve member of the department.