Law enforcement hold community event at Clark

The Henry County Sheriff’s Office, New London Police Department, VFW Auxiliary and Clark Elementary School joined forces Saturday, Nov. 11 at the middle school/high school Lorber Gymnasium. The group provided many activities which brought law enforcement and the community closer together. While participating in the activities, it was possible for people to visit with officers informally and ask questions.

Mr. Palmatier, Principal of Clark, was present in the gym hallway. Clark sent flyers home with all the children to let parents and guardians know about the event. Outside the gym, a New London Police vehicle sat beside a Henry County car. Officers from both units assisted children of all ages by explaining the various items needed in squad cars. As always, sitting in the driver’s seat pretending to drive and be a policeman was a huge hit with both boys and girls. ran. A few instances of siren sound kept everyone on their toes.

In the gym lobby, child identification kits were available. These kits contain everything needed to fingerprint children and take a DNA sample. Officers helped children use the kits properly. The kit is then taken home by the parents or guardians and placed in the family safe. The best-case scenario is the kits remain there and are forgotten. Should an occasion arise where identification is needed, a good set of fingerprints and reliable DNA sample are available. Kits can actually be picked up at law enforcement offices, taken home, use and placed in a safe. At events like these, parents get the advantage of officers trained in proper print taking helping.

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A table designed to familiarize parents and guardians with currently available street drugs was manned by a helpful officer. The handouts gave help hints on visiting with your child about avoiding drugs. A little-discussed issue, the accidental poisoning of youngsters using prescription drugs, was addressed. Envelopes were available to help everyone dispose of these medicines. Many law enforcement offices have a container designated to receive these envelopes so the drugs are properly thrown away.

The children did very well throughout the event. The last table contained many interesting items for children to choose from as a reward. There were sunglasses, coloring books and small toys. The most fun, however, was having their picture taken. The Polaroid photo was given to the child. They waved it heartily and saw their image appear.

At the final activity, the VFW Auxiliary provided hot dogs, chips, and water to hungry children. Perhaps the most difficult decision of the day was between ketchup and mustard on the hot dog and the variety of chips desired. Families could go to the high school commons to eat and get a preview of life in the “big” school.