PEEKSKILL – Today is freshman orientation day in the Peekskill City School District and students are being treated to a unique school tailgate party compliments of the city police department and school district.
The party, sponsored by the Peekskill Police Benevolent Association and several retailers, is designed to improve relations between the police department and community, using high school students as catalysts, said Police Chief Eric Johansen.
This is part of the Real Talk program, a series of round table discussions held throughout the school year where police officers go to classrooms and talk with students about a number of topics. Johansen said it is designed to build relationships between the officers and students “by breaking down barriers and allowing students and police the opportunity to see each other from a different perspective.”
Thursday’s tailgate party will feature police officers hosting a BBQ cookout for the incoming freshman class and their families. The day also includes other activities and games.
In the City of Newburgh, Police Chief Daniel Cameron has been bringing the department’s recently acquired mobile command unit to various neighborhoods, holding BBQs and other events to engage with the community.
