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Editorial: Benefits show support to all police officers

The slaying of four Lakewood police officers shook the South Sound community.

Still stunned from the tragedy, thousands gathered along sidewalks to show support last week as the procession made it’s way to the Tacoma Dome for the memorial service. Even more watched the services at home.

Across the state, businesses and organizations have stepped forward to find ways to make tangible contributions to the families of the fallen.

Last weekend, Zumba instructors hosted a Zumbathon at Competitive Edge in Puyallup, raising $1,800 for families of the Lakewood officers and $500 for the Forza baristas who were present during the shooting. Several hundred participants showed up to help lend their support.

This week, Emerald Ridge’s comedy group, the Hypokritz, will donate money from two shows (at 7 p.m. Dec. 17 and 18 in the school’s auditorium) to the families of officers. The tragedy hit close to home for Emerald Ridge students — one of the officers killed was the father of their classmate.

Not only are these gestures and others taking place in neighboring communities, an attempt to reach out to the families, they are also a wonderful way to show support to all officers who risk their lives each and every day.