Officer Brian Moscicki contemplating whether to place an order from Detective Matthew Wojtaszczyk.
Story and photos BY MIKE PETTINELLA
For Video News Service
For two hours on Thursday afternoon, several members of the City of Batavia Police Department extended their service to the community by dishing out scoops of ice cream during the “Cones With Cops” promotion at Blondie’s Sip-N-Dip, 670 East Main St.
Detective Matthew Wojtaszczyk, left, and Officer James DeFreze scoop the ice cream for their fellow City of Batavia Police Department officers during Thursday afternoon’s “Cones With Cops” event at Blondie’s Sip-N-Dip.
“We love our police,” said shop owner Laura Pedro, who said it is important that children learn to respect how valuable law enforcement is to society. “We wanted to do this to get kids to meet the cops and see how nice they are. They’re here to support and protect us, and they’re good people.”
The event drew a steady stream of customers. Owner Laura Pedro is at left.
Katie Steinocher of The Painted Pixie works her magic on 3-year-old Wrenlie Wall
The event included face painting by Katie Steinocher of The Painted Pixie, a Batavia business.
Pedro’s husband, Andy, works part time for the city, issuing parking tickets and assisting with animal control.
The couple bought Blondie’s about six years ago, Laura said, but is in the process of selling it. She said that she plans to help the new owner as an employee.
Batu, the department’s 6-year-old K-9 officer, enjoys ice cream for the first time in his life. DeFreze holds the tasty treat while Officer Steve Quider looks on
Detective Wojtaszczyk proudly displays his creation, complete with sprinkles, with the approval of Melissa Pedro. The same can’t be said for DeFreze’s initial attempt at the soft serve machine
Adaline Cordes and mom, Rebecca, get into the spirit of the festivities.
Chris Saraceni holds onto little Cora Zalenski who couldn’t wait to greet Batu and Officer Quider.