For the second year in a row, the West Shore SWAT is sponsoring a 5K (3.2 mile) run. Race day is Sunday, May 18. SWAT Commander and Lakewood Police Officer Pat Fiorilli said, “Our first race last year was a great success. We raised over $4,500, which went to the Ohio Chapter of Concerns of Police Survivors [COPS].”

 

Ohio COPS assists the surviving families of officers killed in the line of duty with peer support to help rebuild their shattered lives. The group holds an annual picnic, Blue Light Memorial Dinner and assists surviving families during National Police Week. Furthermore, Ohio COPS also provides travel assistance to the National COPS hands-on programs such as COPS Kids Camp, Outward Bound Adventure and various retreats.

 

Fiorilli pointed out that the money raised last year came from generous sponsorships of local businesses and individuals. The Lakewood Observer is a proud sponsor of this event and will have articles highlighting sponsors in the next few issues.

 

In addition to the 5K run, a one-mile run/walk is being added this year for those who wish to participate at a shorter distance.

 

The run is in Westlake at the Westlake Holiday Inn. Entry blanks and all race details can be found at Geiger’s Sporting Goods, First Federal Savings and Loan or at www.hermescleveland.com.