Temple Sinai of Cinnaminson knows that township Police Chief Richard Calabrese loves his work, and it’s aware of his efforts in the community, for which it honored Calabrese at a special luncheon in October.
“Working with him has dated back as far as he’s been around in Cinnaminson,” Temple Sinai congregant Stacey Blacker said. “Rich and the Cinnaminson police department never, ever hesitate to help. No matter what goes on, they’re always available …
“It’s always been a very tight-knit community.”
Calabrese was presented with a certificate of recognition at the luncheon. Guests were members of the school district, local and state government officials, and others in the police department.
“I am honored and humbled to see so many people come out to show their appreciation,” Calabrese said in a Facebook post after the event.
The chief has made it a point to curate long-term relationships with the community in his nearly half-decade tenure as chief and nearly 20 years overall in the department. His relationship with the Jewish community includes showing police support during high holidays and other events to ensure the safety of congregants.
Those efforts are even more appreciated now with the ongoing conflict in Israel.
“It’s my job to make sure everyone feels safe,” Calabrese remarked. “I’ve been doing that for years with (the congregants at Temple Sinai) and they’re very appreciative of what I’ve done … I try to be transparent. I try to be at every event that they have … We try to make sure everyone coming and going is safe.”
The recognition of Calabrese’s work goes beyond that, to the Cinnaminson community. He has supported different township initiatives, been present at events and dealt with issues that have affected the town, including cracking down on boom parties along the Delaware River. Those efforts have made Calabrese a staple of the township.
As the holiday season gets closer, the chief and his department will continue to be out in full force to serve the community and strengthen relationships.
“It’s comforting and humbling at the same time to know that the fruits of your labor are being appreciated by the people you serve,” Calabrese noted. “It’s one thing to go out there and make sure everything is being done properly, but sometimes a simple thank you goes a long way.
“It reaffirms the positive relationships that we have with the community.”
