It’s a beautiful day in this neighborhood – particularly because Carroll ISD schools are back in session. But Southlake DPS also helped put a few smiles on our faces thanks to their latest social media video.
On August 16, Southlake DPS released a video of their own Officer Rogers as Mr. Rogers covering some traffic tips for those heading back to school. He spoke about some important route changes as well as updates to car flow all while sporting that iconic red cardigan.
Southlake DPS’ Public Information Officer Brad Uptmore said that he wanted to present this essential information in a catchy way so it would stick with students and parents as they went about their morning routines.
“There's so many changes to traffic patterns and so much construction this year that I felt there was no way to cover all of those in an interesting/creative way,” Uptmore says. “The audience would only scan over it and not absorb the information. So with those two things falling into place, it seemed natural for our Officer Rogers to be THE Mr.Rogers to promote awareness and kindness in one little package.”
The video also featured another kid-friendly character: a puppet dressed as another police officer. Boasting a Southlake PD patch and a navy tie, this proper puppet advised all to stay calm during morning and afternoon carpool.
The puppet, which was Uptmore’s kids’ a few years ago that Uptmore integrated into a past PSA, is expected to make more video appearances in the future. But this time, he acted as a guest of Officer Rogers to remind people to be kind.
“Mr. Rogers always had cute guests and fun visitors so I thought we needed at least something that wasn't a human featured,” Uptmore says.
Another video guest included Southlake’s transportation officer Stephanie Taylor, who reminded locals to leave a little earlier for the next few weeks as people settled into the semester.
But Uptmore says the overall goal was to inform locals about changes while also reinforcing the thought that everyone should drive kindly and safely.
“We want people to be patient, and kind, and caring and set good examples for their kids,” Uptmore says. “We want them to drive safely and understand that everyone is stressed this time of year but to make the best about it.”