Free Kona Ice will be served as those of all ages can meet and greet Lower Gwynedd Police
The Lower Gwynedd Township Police Department wants to get to know you, and they have created a perfect opportunity for the introductions, too.
On Wednesday, Aug. 21, from 5:30 to 7 p.m., at Gerhard’s Appliances, located at 909 N. Bethlehem Pike in Spring House, will host a “Kona with Cops” special event. Gerhard’s Appliance is the sponsor of the events, in addition to the host location.
This event is part of a series, and the department is now participating in its second year.
“This year, we have five [events] planned,” said Chief Paul Kenny. “The idea came from Coffee with a Cop, which many departments have done for years now.”
By bringing in some flavored ice, the police hope that younger community members might be interested in the event.
“Kona is more kid-friendly and brings parents with kids to interact with police officers,” said Kenny. Kona Ice is a mobile shaved ice truck, offering refreshing ice drinks with a variety of colorful flavors kids can add themselves (or with a bit of help from mom and dad).
Kenny said that events like these are a great way for the department to get to know the residents they work to serve and protect each and every day.
“This is just one example of how policing is changing to be more active with the community,” he said. “We find that these events are more inviting for residents to meet police officers.”
The chief said that getting to know local police ahead of time, in a social atmosphere, prior to any other interaction, goes a long way at forming community bonds.
“Police stations can be intimidating, so when we have an opportunity to meet in parks or neighborhoods, we find conversation and questions that would never happen inside the station,” said Kenny.
He said that the police want to have positive interactions and also be available to answer any questions the residents may have, especially children.
“It is a chance to talk with kids while parents are present to answer questions,” said Kenny. “We want the interaction to be a positive one for all.”
While children may dress-up and play as cops and robbers, Kenny said that events such as Kona with Cops provide a chance to make the occupation more real.
“It is a great chance to meet and talk with police officers who are just normal people who wear uniforms,” he said. Children get to see that police may seem frightening sometimes, with loud sirens and flashing lights, but by meeting face-to-face in a friendly environment, they can get to know local cops and learn to trust and respect the role.
All ages are invited to attend the event, and free Kona Ice will be served.
Kona with Cops is presented by the Lower Gwynedd Township Police and its Community Relations Unit (CRU) as part of its Connect with Cops initiative. For more information or to answer any questions, call 215-646-5303.
Linda Gerhard, owner of Gerhard’s Appliances, coordinated the efforts to sponsor these events. Gerhard’s Appliances has many locations throughout Greater Philadelphia. The Spring House location offers a variety of state-of-the art appliances, appliance service, and assistance. With 75 years of experience, Gerhard’s brings experience and expertise to its sales and service departments. For more information, visit on the appliance stores, https://www.gerhardsappliance.com/locations/spring-house or call 215-268-3779.
In addition to Kona with Cops, there is also a Coffee with Cops on Saturday, Aug. 24 from 9 to 11 a.m. at the Giant location in Spring House, 1121 N. Bethlehem Pike. The public is invited to come in to have a cup of coffee with those that serve and protect the Lower Gwynedd Township. The sponsor of this event is the Giant of Spring House.
For more information on this Giant grocery store, call 215-283-4585.
