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Police to host community engagement events

The Estevan Police Service (EPS) is looking forward to having a number of special events and programs this year.

The Estevan Police Service (EPS) is looking forward to having a number of special events and programs this year.

Police Chief Paul Ladouceur said that people can look forward to seeing the return of their annual open house, their police run and the youth nights.

He credited community programming officer Monica Rae for the work she has done so far, and her willingness to bring these events back.

“She was a fantastic addition to this organization,” said Ladouceur. “I can’t speak highly enough of her, and the engagement that she has brought into the community and for this police service.”

The open house was last held in 2016. When it happened previously, it was a popular attraction for families.

A specific date hasn’t been finalized.

“Our open houses have been fantastic,” said Ladouceur. “When we look back in the past, there was tremendous turnout with families, and overwhelming support for it.”

People enjoyed the tours of the police station, which allowed them to see the EPS cell block, firing range, cruisers and technology. The police car bouncy castle is always a hit with the kids, he said, and they love the snacks and barbecue.

The police run was held in 2015 and 2016. It was halted a few years ago, because the EPS had some initiatives on the go.

“We just didn’t find that we could … give it the attention it deserves,” said Ladouceur.

The event will likely take place in the fall. Ladouceur said the EPS isn’t sure if they will offer a half-marathon, or if it would be a fun run of five or 10 kilometres.

Proceeds from the marathon would be directed to local charities or youth sports.

The youth nights were offered by the EPS in 2017, and they proved to be a big hit in the community. The police offered them through a grant.

“We were able to acquire a bunch of sporting equipment, everything from floor hockey to dodgeball to basketball and so forth,” said Ladouceur. “We’re looking forward to doing that again.”

It would not be geared towards just sports this time. Rather, the youth nights could have some other activities, such as a barbecue.

They would still be free for all kids.

“We are so pleased with the engagement that we have as a police service. It’s something to be proud of. I would challenge most communities to say they have such a great relationship between their police service and their community, as we do in Estevan.”

The youth nights will likely begin once school is out for the summer. Rae has been busy in the schools, doing drug awareness presentations, and once that load lightens, Ladouceur expects she would have time for other commitments.