Maynard Thanks Sheriff Peter J. Koutoujian for Hosting Successful Youth Public Safety Academy

For Immediate Release
Monday, August 18, 2014

Contact: John Guilfoil
Phone: 978-841-9948
Email: john@jgpr.net

Photos: Middlesex Sheriff Peter J. Koutoujian’s Youth Public Safety Academy

163 Kids from Maynard, Hudson, Acton, and Westford Graduated Friday

MAYNARD — Police Chief Mark W. Dubois, Fire Chief Anthony Stowers, and Town Administrator Kevin Sweet wish to convey their gratitude to Middlesex Sheriff Peter J. Koutoujian and his office for putting together last week’s highly-successful Youth Public Safety Academy.

Police and fire crews from the towns, as well as the Sheriff’s office, worked with 163 cadets to introduce them to public safety. There were trucks and police cars, K-9 demonstrations, SWAT Team presentations, and fire department and emergency medical demonstrations throughout the week.

“Events like this are a wonderful way to introduce young people to their public safety agencies,” Chief Dubois said. “It helps build safe, trusting relationships between public safety groups and our community members, and we are grateful for the chance to be a part of the Youth Public Safety Academy.”

“The Maynard Fire Department looks forward to this event every year because it gives us an opportunity to help deliver an important message of safety to kids in our area,” Chief Stowers said.

Sheriff Koutoujian recognized each cadet on Friday at a special graduation ceremony.

“This Academy provides us the opportunity to introduce children, their parents and guardians to the Middlesex Sheriff’s Office,” said Sheriff Koutoujian. “It also allows the cadets to get to know their local public safety officials and learn valuable safety and life lessons in a fun environment.”

As a special surprise during this last week of the Academy, cadets also had a visit from WCVB-TV meteorologist Danielle Vollmar who spoke with them about hurricanes, tornadoes and other weather-related issues.

This is the 15th year of the YPSA program for children from across the county. Over the course of six weeks, in various communities, approximately 1,000 cadets participated in the program this summer.

Chief Dubois would also like to recognize the hard work of Detective William Duggan, who works extensively on youth programs in town, and Chief Stowers would like to recognize Captain Sean Kiley for his hard work last week.

A special thank you also goes out to the Maynard Boys and Girls Club for supporting the event and the Maynard McDonalds for donating 300 cheeseburgers and french fries!

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