CPS Open House: what a great intro to New Mascot, Cst. Joy

OUT and ABOUT with Seeker Chick Mai-Liis visited the Cornwall Police Service Open House (Wednesday, May 14th), an event that was part of the celebration of National Police Week (May 11 to 17).

Hundreds turned out on the beautiful afternoon to check out the many Police and also City related services that we are lucky to have in our community.

Police Chief Shawna Spowart and Sergeant Dave MacLean, organizer of the Open House were our guests on the Seeker “Monday Morning Motivation” podcast (May 12th) and you can listen to this show as well as all other Seeker podcasts, here on our website: https://theseeker.ca/videos/

One of the reasons to have this Open House was to assert the CPS’ Mission: “In partnership with diverse communities, we are committed to the pursuit of excellence and keeping our city safe” and to show the public that despite always being in uniform, the members of CPS are approachable and here to help us.

The second reason happened after we found out that an important member of the CPS Teams, beloved police facility dog, Joy, is retiring after years of service as a therapy dog in our community mainly helping children to overcome stressful situations. However, she will still come to work with her trainer Dianne who is now adopting her as a family pet.

We were thrilled to meet the Cornwall Police Service’s newest (and furriest) team member — Cst. Joy, the adorable new mascot created in honour of beloved police facility dog, Joy. This heartwarming tribute came to life thanks to the creative minds of the 2024 Youth in Policing students (3 of who are seen above).

The official reveal of Cst. Joy was nothing short of epic! Suddenly members of the Emergency Response Team rappelled down the CPS headquarters, followed by a grand entrance from the Armored Rescue Vehicle… and then, out of the back of the vehicle appeared Cst. Joy as everyone in the crowd cheered and clapped!

Chief Spowart swore Cst. Joy in and a dance party began with the song “Who let the dogs out” as many Mascots from different organizations appeared and joined in the dancing.

With her friendly face and paws-itively joyful vibe, Cst. Joy will be spreading smiles across Cornwall at future events — keeping Joy’s legacy alive while boosting community spirit. A big shoutout to all the amazing partners who set up booths and to the Optimist Club of Cornwall for the BBQ treats – this event definitely had a great impact bringing large crowds to downtown Cornwall.