Bloomington, Minn., (February 14, 2012) - Thirty-six accomplishment awards were presented at the 2011 Annual All Hands Meeting honoring the Security Officers of Mall of America for their outstanding performance, consistent leadership and contribution to Mall safety and security initiatives. Among those presented were four life saving awards, 20 achievement awards and 12 guest service awards. The following officers were recognized for their tireless effort as a team member to achieve high levels of performance and make corporate and/or community contributions:

Meritorious Service Award Jessica Hinz

Will Bernhjelm

Tom Schroedl

Roy Nielsen

Officer of the year Neil Throndson

John Steele

Darrell Pridgen

Jon Stetler

Officer of the month Kyle Waterstreet

Life Saving Award Kyle Waterstreet

Nathan Johnson

Deflection of the month Joseph Kauser

Achievement Award Joseph Osuji

Cody Pearson

Joseph Cowzer

Sean McArdle

In 2011 more than 4,500 hours were spent on significant Mall events including the 10 year anniversary of 9/11, celebrity appearances drawing crowds exceeding 5,000 and a midnight opening on Black Friday- an event MOA had never experienced. On all of these incidences, officers persevered and handled themselves professionally, said Captain Will Bernjhelm.

Over the last year security officers responded to over 113,500 calls for service, up from 110,750 in 2010 and acted in response to 4,000 reports. This experience does not come without proper training and intense preparation. Mall of America held four instructor courses, two of which were hosted by the Mall. Four K-9 handlers were certified with the United States Police Canine Association, two instructors in Crisis Intervention, and ten bike officers through the International Police Mountain Bike Association. Mall of America is proud to honor the continued high level of performance, established leadership and exceptional courage of our security officers.

About Mall of America®

Mall of America is the nations largest retail and entertainment complex. At 4.2 million square feet, MOA is home to more than 520 world-class shops; Nickelodeon Universe®, the nations largest indoor family amusement park; SEA LIFE Minnesota Aquarium, a 1.2 million gallon walk-through aquarium; Moose Mountain Adventure Golf; Theatres at Mall of America® - a 14-screen movie theater with VIP theatre and more. The Mall opened in August of 1992 and is located in Bloomington, Minn., just minutes from downtown Minneapolis and St. Paul. Follow Mall of America on Facebook and Twitter or visit our blog.

Bridget Jewell

Mall of America

952-883-8846

Bridget.Jewell@moa.net

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