On September 13 Wellington Estates held its first block party. Through pure divine intervention, the rain cleared at 4 p.m. in time for the event, and everyone brought amazing food to share. Knowing my neighbors to be outgoing and friendly, I was certain the event would be a complete success and it was!
Before the event, I contacted Sergeant Mark Lee at the West Windsor Police Department, who promised me that a patrol car would come by to attend the event and speak with the kids. But what Officer James Collins did was so much more than I ever expected.
Officer Collins developed an easy rapport with the parents. He also spoke to the kids, explaining all of the equipment in the police vehicle, letting them try on his bulletproof vest and talking about gun training and safety, and overall assuring them of his ability to keep them safe. He was so kind, respectful, and funny, answering quite a range of questions (including what types of video games he likes to play) and above all, showing our kids that a police officer is a protector, not someone to be feared! He made quite an impression on all of us and even fed my Law and Order/spy novel obsession with descriptions of the rigorous training police officers endure.
I am truly appreciative of the WWPD’s community outreach efforts. We are lucky to live in a town where the police force goes above and beyond the basic tenets of “to serve and protect” even though their budget hasn’t increased in years despite a 30 percent growth in residents. In speaking with residents, I hear about how the WWPD has increased police patrols in areas experiencing break-ins and has trained the residents on creating a neighborhood watch. Sgt. Lee has organized numerous community outreach programs to meet residents and enhance the WWPD’s service to the community. This is clearly a police department that understands West Windsor and responds well to its needs.
Please take a moment to think about what a great community we have and think about how, just like Sgt. Lee and Officer Collins, we can be good role models of safety, honor, and respectability for our children.
Ayesha Krishnan Hamilton, Esq.
