So my story for Wednesday's edition is about the city's Citizens' Academy Programs - the Citizens' Police Academy, Citizens' Academy and the brand new Citizens' Fire Academy - and I have to tell you, if you don't know anything about them ... you should.

I've heard about them here and there during the last month or so, but after talking with some of the graduates, I truly believe these unique programs are valuable assets to the city. I've lived several other places and I don't know of any similar programs that give the experiences these do shy of enrolling in college courses to become a firefighter or police officer.

Personally, I am enrolling in the fire academy because it is something I have always been interested in and would love a better understanding of the lesser-known duties of firefighters. By the way, I plan to take pictures and blog about this experience when I can.

What is your interest? What part of the inner workings of the city would you like to know more about? All of the programs are free and are relatively easy to accommodate in your schedule since they are only one night a week.

As Citizens' Police Academy graduate Queen Batts said, "Every time an officer steps out of the patrol car, they come across danger. They are putting their lives in jeopardy for the citizens, so why can't you make time to attend these classes and learn about what we can do to help? It was very beneficial to me and I encourage everyone to go."

The deadlines are fast approaching for applications so get yours in today. For more information on these programs, go HERE.