Tonight's email tugs at two emotions for me, one which although I find very sad, it is a story of celebration. The other one of triumph, both touch on the lives of so many. 
Fred Work
It saddened me to learn of the recent passing of Fred Work, an attorney who claimed Lake County his home and one who was often found in state and Federal court rooms. There are few law enforcement officers in Lake County who are unaware of the name of Fred Work and for good reason. Our paths first crossed some 20 years ago when he represented a police officer who I had investigated for various corrupt activities. The officer was alleged to have been involved in using, stealing and selling illegal drugs, in fact, he admitted all to me and he had signed a confession to the charges. Pretty solid case, until Fred showed up. To this day I am not sure how he convinced a jury to see things the other way and reduce the charges from severe felony raps to slap on the hand misdemeanors.
Perhaps it was his tall stature and deep voice that coaxed a few of the jurors to convince the others? Maybe it was the strategy he utilized during the trial, maybe his closing statement got to them? I will never know, but, despite my disappointment at the verdict I knew I had met a special person and one heck of a lawyer. As much as I enjoyed my meetings with him over the years, never did I look forward to facing him in the courtroom. Fred was a dedicated lawyer who worked hard for all he represented. He was extremely well respected by his peers and he is a man whose presence will be missed by all.
A story of his passing can be found on page 16 of the Post-Trib today, in my book, he deserved front page news. Rest in peace my friend.
Cops For A Cure
I hope you were able to join us yesterday for the 5K event that began at the YMCA in Portage? I will have more on the event once all of the money is tallied, but it appears that our goal of 200 runners/walkers was attained and in fact, I have heard that over 300 were in attendance. Our goal was to generate at least $15,000 via the sales of the magnetic pink cancer ribbons and the proceeds from the 5K. I feel pretty confident that we far surpassed those goals.
Since Officer Flora Ryan was diagnosed with breast cancer, she has been an inspiration to many who also suffer and must deal with this hideous disease. She has plowed through this challenge admirably and although I am sure she has had some dark moments, she has pledged to Fight Like A Girl and in so doing, has helped to raise funds for research so that perhaps others will not have to face the fight in the future.
I mentioned I had two stories dealing with emotions tonight. Yesterday during the event, one of our officers suggested that we gather up the finishers and have them ready to join Flora as she made the turn off of Robbins and run along side of her for the final 500 feet. What a great idea! I will long recall that moment when Flora turned for the fenced area leading to the finish line--accompanied by hundreds of supporters!
Someone once said that it is not the number of breaths you take that measure a life, but rather the number of quality breaths you experience during your life.
Yesterday was a quality day!
Quick reminder, please join us for Mayor Velazquez's Public Safety Summit this Tuesday in the west auditorium at the Portage High School.
The program runs from 6:30-8:30pm. See you there!