Billings News

Officers learn to "serve" restaurant-goers

Posted: Apr 17, 2010 5:55 PM by Amanda Venegas
Updated: Apr 17, 2010 5:55 PM

BILLINGS - Local law enforcement officers are giving a whole new meaning to the saying "serve and protect."

Officers from the Yellowstone County Sheriff's Office and MSU Billings put on a different hat this afternoon, and helped serve up food at Red Robin's as part of the Tip-A-Cop fundraiser. All of the tips earned from patrons at the restaurant go to the Law Enforcement Torch Run, which helps benefit Special Olympic athletes in Montana. In the torch run, officers will carry the torch from downtown Billings to Big Timber.

Restaurant employees say the officers "served" their customers well.

"We're having a good time and we're getting to know some great people that are taking time out today to take part in community service. We've had a really good reaction from the guests in the restaurant and it's going great," said Margie Smith, Red Robin General Manger.

The Tip-A-Cop fundraiser runs until 8 pm Saturday at Red Robin. Last year, the Torch Run raised nearly $400,000 for Montana's athletes.