LAPD Officer Michael Scott, Mission Area Station, is the recipient of the 2008 North Hills West Neighborhood Council (NHWNC) Community Service Award.

The coveted award was presented to Officer Scott by NHWNC President Lewis Brown at the council's July meeting.

The commendation states, in part: "To Officer Michael Scott in appreciation for his exemplary commitment, unselfish dedication to, and special interest in, our neighborhood and for making the safety of our residents a priority. Officer Scott has earned our respect, trust and friendship."

For four months this year, Officer Scott was acting Senior Lead Officer, Basic Car 19A61, which covers most of the North Hills area west of the 405 freeway.

During his tenure as acting SLO, Scott became a familiar face in the neighborhoods and at Neighborhood Council meetings.

He made his presence known on the streets and getting to know the neighbors a priority, often stopping just to say "Hi, how's it going" and ask if there were any problems in the area.

OfficerScott let everyone know he was there for them and he always was. He made everyone feel safer. Officer Scott endeared himself to the residents in a very short time and it was they who nominated him for the Community Service Award.

In accepting the award, Scott said, "I just feel this is part of my job, this is what I came here to do, take care of you guys, the citizens out there, and anything I can do to help, I'm there. Just call me. We'll all be there in a second if you call us, so don't ever be afraid to do so. I learned a lot from being a Senior Lead Officer and it's really helped me. Now that I'm back on patrol, I see things in a different light. I learned a lot from the citizens about what your problems are and what you need solved by us. The only way we're able to solve crimes is through you. You guys have to make the phone calls, you have to identify the suspects so we can go get them. So keep making the phone calls, keep giving identities and we're there for you."

Brown told Officer Scott, "You not only filled in, but you made a difference for us. You came to meetings and you responded to calls. We really, really appreciate it. Thank you again, sir."

Officer Scott is also the event coordinator for Project Living Hope, the annual San Fernando Valley LAPD Christmas Toy Giveaway. Upcoming events to raise funds for the giveaway include the LAPD Baseball Charity First Annual Poker Tournament and Silent Auction.

The event will be held at the Police Academy, 1880 N. Academy Drive, Los Angeles at 6:30 p.m., Friday, Aug. 29.

The Toy Giveaway and concert are scheduled for Sunday, Dec. 14, at Sepulveda Recreation Center in Panorama City.

According to Officer Scott, LAPD distributed 12,000 new toys to needy children last year and the goal is to double that number this year.

For more information, contact Officer Scott at 661-755-6720 or e-mail scottsoldier@aol.com.