Cindy DiFazio - Staff Writer

Jerry Taul of the Batesville Police Force headed up the “Shop with a Cop” event this year which was held Saturday morning, December 16, at the Alco Discount Store in Versailles. This is the 15th year for the program that pairs up children with law enforcement officers to provide a merry Christmas for the kids. Taul reports, “This thing gets bigger every year.”

Last year 75 families were served. In 2006, 140 families signed up, showing how much greater the need has grown. This need has also been pointed up at local food banks and other charitable giving locations.
Alco Discount Store in Versailles has been a co-sponsor of the event since its inception. Store manager, Bill Morris, who has participated the last four years, said “Alco has been real good to us.”

Santa and Mrs. Claus were also there to hear the children’s Christmas wishes. Santa noted that they have been traveling all over the area and would soon be visiting a local Amish school. He said he’s been trading horses with his Amish friends for years, but he must have meant reindeer.

Cookies and punch were provided, and door prizes were given away at the end of the 2-hour event. Two stereos, a Christmas tree and a bicycle were awarded to three squealing, excited kids.

As the participating police departments and Alco employees readied for a group picture, Sheriff-elect Tom Grills sang “Have a Holly Jolly Christmas” and everyone agreed they were tired, but, so happy to have been a part.