To the editor:
The Willow Springs community has a lot to be proud of when it comes to its local law enforcement officers, and the recent I Ran From the Cops 5K & Walk was a wonderful example of that community connection.
The Willow Springs Chamber of Commerce would like to recognize Officers Joe Barnhouse, Corey Clark and Katie Kreusen of the Willow Springs Police Department for the role they played in this year’s event.
Officers Clark and Kreusen went beyond simply providing support for the race. They became part of the event, chasing down runners, encouraging participants and spending time visiting and laughing with people along the course and at the finish line. Their positive attitudes helped create the fun, lighthearted atmosphere that makes the I Ran From the Cops event so special.
Officer Barnhouse brought his own brand of fun to the event by driving the course, interacting with runners and “chasing” participants in his vehicle. His presence along the route added another element of excitement and helped make the event enjoyable for runners and spectators alike.
Officer Clark deserves special mention for the commitment he made to this year’s race. After participating in the event last year, he spent the following year taking up running and training for the next race. Running a 5K is challenging enough, but doing it repeatedly while wearing full police gear is no small feat.
Clark repeatedly chased runners across the finish line, then stopped to visit with participants before heading back out to chase down the next group. His willingness to participate alongside the community showed a strong commitment to making the event successful.
What stood out most was that these officers were not simply providing police support for a community event. They were actively participating in it. They laughed with residents, encouraged runners, created memories and showed the community a different side of the men and women who serve Willow Springs every day.
The I Ran From the Cops 5K is designed to bring law enforcement and the community together in a fun and positive way. Officers Barnhouse, Clark and Kreusen embraced that mission wholeheartedly.
The Willow Springs Chamber of Commerce is grateful for their service, their time and their willingness to go above and beyond. Their participation helped make this year’s event one that participants will remember and is another example of the strong relationship between the Willow Springs Police Department and the community it serves.
Sometimes building a stronger community happens one mile, and one good-natured police chase, at a time.
Kim McCormick, Director,
Willow Springs Chamber of Commerce
