The Valparaiso Police Department graduated 12 students from their Citizens’ Police Academy on June 9, 2011. The Academy is designed for community members to meet officers, learn what officers do on a daily basis and become involved in their community. The Academy covered topics such as investigations, Indiana law, daily traffic laws and enforcement, crash investigations and patrol division duties, including many specialties within the patrol unit such as K-9 presentations, bicycle team, taser usage and firearms scenarios. ValpoLife’s own Natalie and Trevor Mahlmann were fortunate enough to participate in this 10 week program and learn so much from Michael Grennes, who leads the program, and each of the officers that taught the classes or brought each of the students on their ride-along.
The following is a note from Citizens’ Academy participant Linda Goble:
Too soon it’s over.
It’s been enlightening and fun.
I experienced so many surprises
That sometimes I just felt dumb.
But, I now know a lot more about the Valparaiso Police Department TODAY, than I did about the department 50 years ago when my husband went to play part-time as a Special Officer. For 21 years it was JOY in his life. But, I worried then as a young mother and his wife.
TODAY, Valparaiso Police Officers are dedicated and well-trained.
I no longer want my grandson to be one with the knowledge that I’ve gained.
This new world is more dangerous than 50 years ago.
Valpo’s finest keep honing skills as on and on they go.
The officers are so proud of Chief Brickner and all the improvements he has made.
Each one of our teachers were enthusiastic, no matter how long they’ve stayed.
I am grateful for this opportunity, and time and energy spent
To educate this academy of citizens how police officers earn their rent.
I have more respect than ever of the duties they all must do
To keep our city safe…WONDERFUL MEN and WOMEN in BLUE!