Sequim Gazette staff

Tip-A-Cop 2011 was a big success, with law enforcement officers from four different agencies pitching in at the Sequim Applebee’s to raise money for Washington Special Olympics.

From 5:30-9 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 22, the officers served as celebrity waiters, gathering tips for the cause.

In 2010, the cops collected $2,500, which Undersheriff Ron Peregrin said was second in the state — second only to much larger Lakewood.

This year they topped that impressive figure, bringing a $3,369.

“We’ve got some really generous people in Clallam County,” Peregrin said.

Clallam County Chief Deputy Ron Cameron added, “It’s amazing. With the economy the way it is, people still step up.”

Cameron said he picked up one unmarked envelope with a $100 bill in it.

County officers on duty at the Applebee’s included Peregrin, Cameron, Sgt. Ronnie Pieper, Sheriff Bill Benedict and Animal Control Officer Tracey Kellas.

Chief Bill Dickinson and Lt. Sheri Crain of the Sequim Police Department also served as celebrity waiters. With a laugh, Cameron said, “All of the Sequim officers came and ate and donated, so count them, too.”

Chief Terri Gallagher of the Port Angeles Police Department, state troopers Mark Hodgson and Grant Clark, and Port Townsend officers Luke Bogues and Garin Williams also pitched in.

Special Olympics of Washington provides year-round sports training and competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities.