The Crete Police Department has a long and proud history with Special Olympics Illinois, raising at least $15,000 a year for SOI athletes.
CPD’s most recent fundraiser, Tip-a-Cop, had officers bussing tables, serving diners, and taking orders at Aurelio’s Pizza Crete. They collected almost $2,000 for their efforts.
“We have supported the Special Olympics as a department for as long as I can remember,” said Chief Scott Pieritz. “I have been at CPD for 23 years. When I became Chief 6 years ago, we expanded our support and fundraising efforts.
“We now raise a minimum of $15,000 a year for the Special Olympics, and we get the award of having our names on the official Illinois Torch Run T-shirts that come out every year. Also, we have plaques in our lobby showing the funds we have raised in the past six years.”
Joining Chief Pieritz were Deputy Chief Groszek, Records Supervisor Gould, Police Administrator Swanson, Detective Lucia, Officer Krenner, Sgt. Konvalinka. ‘Paw-ciffer Lilly’ (our therapy/comfort dog), Sgt. Garcia, Officer Lowry, Officer Niemeyer, Officer Rodd, Officer Tobias, and Sgt. Walz.
“We had staggered times, with most officers working half, and some of us working the whole night,” Pieritz noted.
“Everyone had a great time. The public really came out and supported us, and Aurelio’s staff was fantastic!
“All the police brought menus, utensils, napkins to the tables,then brought pizzas and drinks, and helped clear tables of dirty dishes.
Pieritz was unsure if any of the others had any experience as wait staff, but noted that “years ago (college) I was a waiter at Chicago Dough in Bourbonnais and Steak ‘n Shake in Champaign.”
There were a few mishaps, he admitted.
“I dropped a few dishes while bussing tables. I also got ‘reprimanded’ by the staff not to drag tables across the tile, but to pick them up. I believe Lilly stole a few pieces of pizza off someone’s table.”
Asked which is harder – police work or restaurant service – the chief replied, “Well, they both deal with a fickle public, so although vastly different, they do have some similarities. Although the law frowns on police taking tips on the street.”
So far, Crete PD has raised about $14,000 for SOI, $1,752 of it from Tip-a-Cop at Aurelio’s.
“We normally do the 5-0 at the Dirty-0 police demolition derby to end our year – but our squad isn’t ready, so won’t be participating this year. We may do one more small fundraiser to get to our $15,000 mark.
“I am extremely proud of the men and women – and Lilly – of the department,” he said.
“We do a lot of work planning and engaging in these fundraisers. It is important for us to give back, support the community, and be engaged with our public. Special Olympics is really a great organization that helps these kids be inclusive, compete, and have fun.
“Police and community relationships are essential for good communication and overall public safety,” he added.
“In Law Enforcement, there is a time for arrest and ticketing, but mostly, there must be time for empathy, problem-solving, and service to your community. True service to your community is a cornerstone of any good police department, and I am proud to say we place service as a priority at Crete Police Department.”