Boardman police sergeant fitted for ‘blue coat’

Staff report

A township police officer was presented with the “Blue Coat Award” at the trustees’ meeting Monday.

More than 60 people watched as Sgt. Michael Hughes, who joined the Boardman Police Department in 1989, earned the award for his character, integrity and upholding the reputation of the Knights of Columbus, which gives out the “Blue Coat Award.” Hughes attends St. Charles Church in Boardman.

“He’s one of those guys who never lost his enthusiasm for the job. He gives 100 percent every day,” said Chief Jack Nichols.

Retired Police Chief Jerre Patterson awarded the plaque to Hughes, and was himself the recipient of a township proclamation that officially removed the word “acting” from his title. Patterson served as acting chief from July 21, 2006, to Feb. 20, 2007.

Also at the meeting, Nichols announced a fundraiser to help pay for the new police dog from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday at Southern Park Mall.

Retired police dog Robby and active police dog Yuma will be at the mall with their handlers in the concourse between Dillard’s and the Food Court. Face painting and balloons will be offered, and all donations benefit the police-dog fund.

Also announced at the meeting:

Designated trick-or-treating hours will be from 5 to 7 p.m. Oct. 31.

The Boardman Community Foundation will have public for- ums Sept. 11 at 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. at the Community Center in Boardman Park to generate ideas about what should be done to make Boardman an even better place.

A prescription-drug drop-off is scheduled for Sept. 25 at the township building so residents can get rid of unneeded medications.

From 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sept. 25, elected township officials and employees will have a picnic in the parking lot of the township building for residents.