BOURNE – Twenty-three Cape Cod teens have completed this year’s July summer camp, sponsored and run by the Barnstable County Sheriff’s Office.
“This is a critical time,” Sheriff James Cummings told those the youth and family members at the graduation ceremony in Hyannis. “Where your life goes from here will likely have much to do with the choices you make. And remember, the person who will have the greatest effect on the rest of your life isn’t a teacher, a coach, a friend, or even a parent. It’s you!”
The 12 to 16-year old academy graduates spent four weeks learning life skills that will make them better decision-makers. The program mixes life-lesson instruction with physical fitness drills, all of it infused with a modified dose of boot-camp style discipline. Self-reliance is blended with teamwork and punctuality with pushups. The value of thinking things through as opposed to following first impulses is emphasized.
The program is managed by Sheriff’s Deputy Shaun Cahill, the Sheriff’s youth coordinator and he was assisted this year by Sheriff’s Deputies Bob Roth and Tracey LaGrassa. Sandwich and Barnstable police officers helped as well, as did two or three seasoned military veterans who once again donated a part of their summer to improve the odds for 24 Cape juveniles
Media release and photo furnished by Barnstable County Sheriff’s Office
