Lake City bakes up Capitol venture

Every spring, during National Police Week, the names of peace officers killed in the line of duty are carved into the marble of the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, D.C.

This year, Lake City Police Officer Shawn Schneider’s name will join the more than 19,000 names that already cover the memorial. Schneider was shot Dec. 19 while responding to a domestic call; he died Dec. 30.

A group of Lake City police officers will be at the memorial to see Schneider’s name dedicated during a candlelight vigil May 13. And, to help with the officers’ travel expenses, about 20 Lake City businesses are holding a bake sale Friday.

“Our whole town has been through a lot,” said Jil Garry, owner of Treats and Treasures and one of the sale’s organizers. “But … they’ve been through a lot emotionally. If they want to be there, we can help a little.”

Garry said she, along with Julie Fjetland of Serendipity Gallery, decided on a bake sale because it could be organized and pulled together easily. The pair asked businesses in the neighborhood group The Washington Street Experience to donate baked goods.

However, anyone is welcome to bring cookies, pies, bars or any other treat.

“Everybody has a favorite thing that they bake,” Garry said.

Bryce Hinck has volunteered space in his store, Bryce’s Flooring at 108 S. Washington St., to hold the sale.

Aside from the candlelight, the officers will also be able to attend other events in Washington, D.C. during National Police Week, including conferences, an expo and other memorial services and ceremonies.

“I think it’s important for them to go,” Garry said.

The group’s members don’t have a goal for the amount of money they want to raise, Garry said, adding that they’re just “doing whatever we can.”

“We hope everybody comes and buys the stuff,” Garry said. “There’s always a lot of things going on, but this is one that’s near and dear to our hearts.”

If you go...

What: Bake sale fundraiser to send Lake City police officers to Washington, D.C.

When: Friday March 30, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. (Donated baked goods should be dropped off at Bryce’s Flooring at 8 a.m.)

Where: 108 S. Washington St., Lake City

More information: 651-345-2882

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