Gateway diners ‘tip’ law enforcement folks – but don’t get arrested for bribery

See those fine men and women in green from the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office bus tables at the Gateway Red Robin – and find out why they were “working for tips” on this day …

Mandalin Austin – she’s holding Ava Richards – says the pair is pleased to be served by Multnomah County Sheriff’s Deputy Bryan White, during the annual Tip-a-Cop fund drive supporting Special Olympics, at the Red Robin Restaurant.

Story and photos by David F. Ashton
More than one group of diners coming to the Gateway Red Robin Restaurant looked surprised to find themselves being served by officers from the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) on April 17^th.

“This is our annual ‘Tip-a-Cop’ fundraiser,” explained MCSO spokesperson, Lieutenant Mary Lindstrand. “We’re raising money to support ‘Special Olympics Oregon’ by working as ‘celebrity servers’, hosts, and hostesses.”

Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office’s Lt. Mary Lindstrand, Red Robin Restaurant Manager Mike Schneider, and MSCO Sgt. Travis Gullberg, pause between waiting tables – and collecting tips for Special Olympics.

Tips the deputies received will go directly to Special Olympics Oregon – to provide training and competition opportunities for athletes with special needs, Lindstrand explained.

“We really get a big kick out of this,” said Mike Schneider, Manager of the Red Robin Mall 205 restaurant at 9880 SE Washington Street. “It’s a great cause – and it’s our way of being part of the community. We’re happy they’re here.”

Throughout the day, about 20 of MCSO’s staff and sworn law enforcement personnel helped out. “It’s a great way for us to raise funds for this cause – and, at the same time, let people meet us in a friendly environment, here at Red Robin,” Lindstrand added.

> Want to learn more about the law enforcement “Torch Run” for Special Olympics Oregon? See their website: CLICK HERE.

Talking with the family they’ve just served at Red Robin are MSCO Captain Jason Gates and Reserve Deputy John Griener, who are with the organization’s River Patrol.

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