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Despite what we learn every now and then about some bad actors in police departments, we know our Mid-Ohio Valley officers do an excellent job serving, protecting -- and bringing a little extra Christmas joy to those who need it most.
Over the weekend, officers from the Vienna, Williamstown and Parkersburg police departments, the Wood and Ritchie county sheriff's offices, the West Virginia State Police, the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources, the Marietta Police Department and the Washington County Sheriff's Office all took part in Shop With a Cop events across the region. Much of the effort was coordinated with the help of the Fraternal Order of Police Blennerhassett Lodge 79, Fraternal Order of Police Pioneer Lodge 12 and Fraternal Order of Police Gold Star Lodge 188.
But the community effort didn't stop there. Walmart was a significant partner, of course, but others such as Vienna pastor Nate Gibbons (who filled in for Santa Claus) and volunteer Laurea Ellis make sure the event is all pulled together for local children who not only need a boost of holiday cheer, but also benefit from a very positive interaction with law enforcement officers.
In fact, Ellis said screening for participants helps ensure those children who have had a negative experience with law enforcement get preference.
Toys are a big focus for the day, of course, but these kids also get warm clothes, coats, boots, hats and gloves. Many needs are met.
Sure, Shop With a Cop is hosted to give children a wonderful experience, but it's easy to see the officers involved get plenty out of it, too.
Vienna Police Detective and Lodge President Ryan Black said his favorite part is "The joy and the happiness that we bring to the children ... Seeing their faces light up ... It's awesome."
Awesome, indeed. Thank you, to all who had a hand in bringing children and officers together for a day filled with laughter and smiles.