The Texas Citizen Police Academy Alumni Association hosted its annual convention July 9-12 in Wichita Falls. It was a great event and was attended by various organizations throughout Texas. Events included classes about awareness, problems within our community and a benefit concert featuring The Bellamy Brothers, with proceeds helping further educate and train graduates of local Citizen Police Academies around the state. The Mesquite Citizen Police Academy Alumni Association took three of the four awards at the banquet. Officer Don Williams of the Mesquite Police Department received the Peace Officer of the Year award, LeeAnn Winkler the Alumni Member of the Year, and The Mesquite Citizens Police Academy won The Texas Alumni Association of the Year.

It was a great day for the city and the MCPAAA. The Mesquite Citizens Police Alumni organization was rewarded for its hard work and dedication by recieving these prestigious awards for excellence. Lt. Bill Hedgpeth of The Mesquite Police Department attended the event and was very pleased and proud of the organization. The MCPAAA supports the MPD in various endeavors within the community, and its members also volunteer helping out by working the jail, answering phones, fingerprinting or helping with whatever else the department may need. These awards  prove that citizens can make a difference. Special thanks go to President Barbara Dunn and all members of the association and the Mesquite Police Department.