Drug addiction, funding and safety were discussed during the ride-along
By Tom Waring
The Times
U.S. Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-8th dist.) marked the start of Police Week 2017 with a ride-along with members of the Middletown Township Police Department.
During the ride-along and station visit, Fitzpatrick and officers discussed community policing challenges, the battle against drug addiction, funding and safety.
“As a member of the law enforcement community, I saw firsthand the service and profound commitment to duty of police around our county and our community,” said Fitzpatrick, a former FBI special agent. “The dedication and sacrifice of our blue line deserves to be respected every day, but Police Week is a special time to thank those serving, those who have served and those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. To each, we are eternally grateful. So, in recognition of National Police Week 2017, I join with grateful communities around the nation in thanking all police and law enforcement.”
Earlier this year, he introduced the Children of Fallen Heroes Act [H.R. 949] — legislation providing a boost of education aid for the children of law enforcement and first responders who have died in the line of duty. The bill is supported by the Fraternal Order of Police, International Association of Fire Fighters, National Association of Police Organizations, Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association and Major Cities Chiefs Association.
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In other news, Fitzpatrick marked Teacher Appreciation Week with visits to schools throughout the district, engaging with students from pre-kindergarten to high school.
“Teachers change lives each day and across generations, shaping our students and communities. Each of us can probably remember a teacher who made an impression on our life — as an educator, a coach or a mentor, often beyond the walls of the classroom,” Fitzpatrick said. “I’m proud to recognize Teacher Appreciation Week and the amazing work they do across Bucks and Montgomery counties. Let’s carry that appreciation with us all year long.”
Fitzpatrick read to preschool students at Elbow Lane School in Warrington, discussed the national debt with eighth-graders at Newtown Middle School, marked the Sanctuary Model accreditation of the Valley Day School in Morrisville and held a student town hall with AP Government students at Bensalem High School.
This year’s Teacher Appreciation Week theme was “Teachers Deliver.” ••
