News Release: July 11, 2008

For Immediate Release

Media Contact: Sgt. Greg DePiano, 609-226-1560

 

Pleasantville PD to Share Christmas Spirit This Weekend

 

Linwood. Law enforcement officials here are today thanking Pleasantville Police for coming to the rescue when the spirit of Christmas is celebrated this Sunday. The 9^th Annual Christmas in July Block Party begins at 12 noon at Wabash and Davis Avenues in Linwood.

            Santa Claus will make an appearance and be available for photos, according to Sergeant Greg DePiano of the Atlantic County Department of Public Safety. The public need only bring a new unwrapped toy to enjoy the party and Santa’s two hour visit. The party ends at 5 p.m.

            Just four days before the Block Party, Atlantic County Sheriff Jim McGettigan canceled his office’s participation in the event. The Sheriff’s Office fingerprinting unit and child car seat safety unit had promised to be there, according to Sgt. DePiano. The free services were even advertised in the publicity for the event.

On Wednesday, Chief Sheriff Officer Clint Warren called him to cancel their participation. Budget cuts and manpower issues were cited as the reasons for pulling out of this special event, said Sgt. DePiano.

To fill the void and to save embarrassment from the previously publicized services, the sergeant turned to Pleasantville Police Captain Frank Balles. Moved by the holiday spirit, Balles asked Chief Duane Comeaux to expand the department’s participation. Pleasantville’s canine (K-9) unit has been a participant of the Christmas in July Party since its inception, said Captain Balles.

“Officers from this department agreed that we needed to get together and make Sunday a great day for the families and kids who come to the Block Party,” said Balles. Pleasantville children will benefit from the donated toys this weekend because of the department’s contributions. Toys are distributed during the actual Christmas season.

“Pleasantville officers will fulfill the mission to fingerprint kids as part of our child safety services and to offer technical assistance to parents on the proper installation and use of child car seats,” Balles explained. 

Sergeant DePiano said the Atlantic City Fire Department’s Sandpipers will perform for the folks who will also enjoy games, raffles, crafts and food. He offered a Merry Christmas in July to Pleasantville police officers for their continuing support.

For more information on the program visit www.toysforkidsprogram.org.