CLEVELAND — At Almira PreK–8 Academy on the city’s west side, students got a surprise visit from the Highway Patrol during lunch – and troopers didn’t come empty-handed.
They were there to hand out ice cream, share a seat at the table, and engage in conversation with students who were eager to ask questions.
The impromptu ice cream social was held as part of a weekend of events to honor fallen state trooper Kenneth Velez. Velez was killed during a routine traffic stop when he was struck by a driver on Interstate 90 in September 2016.
“Kenny was a public servant beyond his law enforcement career,” says Lt. Rob Gable, commander of the highway patrol’s Cleveland Post. “He gave back to the community in so many different ways.”
And in honor of him, other troopers want to do the same.
Gable added, “this is a way for us to take a negative -- Kenny’s death -- and turn that into a positive for us and for the community.”
Velez wore badge number 511. Naturally, events to honor him are held near the weekend of May 11. This weekend is no different.
But this event is special for troopers who attended today. As they answered questions, gave hugs, and even played a football and tag at recess, the real reward came in knowing they were building relationships with kids in the community.
“Troopers here have an opportunity to spend some positive time with the kids without the negative circumstances that normally bring us into people’s lives,” said Gable.
School principal Jim Greene says students were engaged, excited and glad to see Troopers in their school – and not just for the ice cream.
“They just love it. They love the ice cream, they love the interaction. A lot of smiles here today,” said Greene.
He added that it’s always nice for students to have learning experiences that involve external partners.
“We want to remember him in a very positive way. And this is one of the ways that we can do that,” said Gable.
And it doesn’t stop here. Troopers also participated in a similar event at a nearby women’s shelter. And on Saturday they’ll be in North Olmsted for a “Can the Cruiser” event to benefit Harvest For Hunger and the Cleveland Food Bank. “Can the Cruiser” takes place at Giant Eagle located at 27264 Lorain Road from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.