Three graduates and four promoters were recognized for their accomplishments in the Gustine Police Department’s Explorer Academy Program inside the Gustine City Council chambers on Sept. 15.

The program focuses on building a path for young people and encouraging them to focus on their future after high school. Chavez previously told the Westside Connect that people can join, even if they don’t plan on pursuing a career in law enforcement.

Yasmin Ruiz, Fernanda Leveada and Madeline Villnow were the program’s recent graduates. Villnow was not present as she’s currently attending college, Chavez said.

Ruiz said her time in the academy was “very cool” and educational as she got to learn more about law enforcement. She added that making new friends helped her get through her final year.

Alongside Ruiz and Leveada, Hazelmarie Lopez and Monica Ornales were promoted within the program. Officer Arthur Rincon praised Ruiz and Lopez for their leadership and for being a "tremendous help” for the Explorers program. He added that both helped since the start of the program when there weren't as many Explorers as today.

“All four of them are outstanding and always do a great job,” Rincon said of the promoters. “As you can see, they do a great job with their explorers that are here today.”

Mayor Patrick Nagy, afterwards, recognized all four explorers for their accomplishment.

Gustine PD explorer program receives donation from rotary club

Early in Tuesday’s meeting, Nagy and Chavez recognized a $3,000 donation from the Rotary Club of Pacific Grove towards the Police Department’s explorer academy program.

John Shuman, who spoke on behalf of the rotary club, thanked Chavez and the explorers for their commitment. He said the donation was a part of a major fundraiser.

Nagy, Chavez and Shuman stood together for a photo, where they held a large custom check with the donation amount shown. The actual check was given to the city’s clerk.