The Big Ice Cream Social: Union Police and Magic Fountain Serve Free Ice Cream to Residents

UNION, NJ –The Union Police Department held its annual Big Ice Cream Social, hosted by Magic Fountain Union Creamery and Atlantic Credit Union on Monday, July 22.

“This is an opportunity for people to come out and enjoy free ice cream donated by Atlantic Credit Union, and to interact with law enforcement and meet new business owners,” Union Police Officer Jessica Santiago said. “It's an opportunity for kids to see us in a more friendly environment. We're usually in the middle of an emergency, so this is a more friendly environment. Today gives them the opportunity to come and say hello and not feel nervous.”

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Hundreds of people stood in line waiting for their free ice cream, beginning at 5:00. Many police officers, EMS workers, and Magic Fountain employees were busy scooping ice cream or handing out napkins and spoons to hungry individuals.

“It's just really good for people to come out and talk with us; get to know a little more about the police department. And get to know us more on a personal level rather than just ‘Hey, I call you when I need you’,” Union Police Chief Barry Cohen said. “We are here just to talk with them. Any concerns that they may have. Hopefully, we can address any questions, things happening in town, things that they want to know. We're certainly more than happy to oblige.”

“We're really excited," said Magic Fountain Creamery owner Johanie Jean-Louise, who has hosted the event for four years. "We love to partner with the police department here and bring the police, the kids, and the community together. It's a great thing for these young ladies to do for their community. All the girls [employees] here are from Union. It's a great way to show that we're a business here in the community. But we're not just physically here, we employ here, we support the businesses, we support the police, we support all community aspects.”

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