A Day of Adventure: Unleashing Fun with Cops and Klaus!

Author: Chris Studor

Engaging in games of tag with law enforcement officers, meeting Santa, enjoying face painting, and unwrapping numerous gifts were merely a portion of an extraordinary day for 17 children who attended the Hinckley Police Association’s yearly Cops, Kids and Claus festivities on December 14.

The day commenced with a hearty breakfast in the previous fire station bay area. Organizers, including Hinckley Police Chief Dave Centner, Officer Jim Ascherl, and their assistants, crafted a delightful breakfast of pancakes, sausage, bacon, and juice for their young visitors.

Ascherl mentioned that the names of the children were provided by Hinckley Elementary to include “children who could benefit from a little extra during their daily lives.” Ascherl’s spouse and township Trustee Monique Ascherl noted that preparations involved asking each child for a list of desired gifts so they could be ready for the children to unwrap that morning.

The officers and volunteers transformed the bay area into a winter wonderland adorned with inflatable holiday figures. There was a designated area for visits with Santa, and tables were embellished with festive treats. Among the attractions was a craft area, a balloon artist, and a face-painting booth. Dubbed “Enchanted Roo by Eva,” children and adults queued up to have their faces painted as elves, Santas, fairies, and superheroes. One officer after another demonstrated their good spirits by taking a seat in the artist’s chair to be changed into a fantastical character.

Jim Ascherl spoke about the kindness shown by donors who made the event feasible and shared a moving anecdote.

“One child misplaced their violin,” he said. “We contacted Royalton Music to see if they could assist us with the cost of replacing it. Royalton Music graciously covered the full expense. Employees at Aldi prepared and donated food baskets for each child’s family, including a turkey with all the trimmings for a Christmas feast. The Hinckley Women’s Club contributed gloves and hats for every child.” The children spent all morning bonding with members of the Hinckley Police Department, fostering friendships. Toward the conclusion of the event, both children and officers convened for a photograph filled with joyful smiling faces.

photo caption: Santa ensures he visits with all the children to inquire about their Christmas wish lists this year.Photo by Chris Studor.