Kazoo Area Foot Chase

Kazoo Area Foot Chase 2011

2011-09-06T09:03:00.000-07:00

Hey All:

We have moved most of our event related communications over to the Kazoo Area Foot Chase Facebook Group, so come join us there! A link is provided below.

Kazoo Area Foot Chase Facebook Group

Hope to see you there!

Until then...

Stay safe!

It's Do-Dah Time...

2011-05-09T06:43:00.000-07:00

Hey All:

Come on out to downtown Kalamazoo on Saturday, June 4, 2011 and catch the Kazoo Area Foot Chase team in action at the annual zany Kalamazoo Do-Dah Parade. This will be our sixth year of participating in the parade, and each year we have more fun than the last. This is also Kalamazoo's annual Super Saturday, so while you are in town for the parade, consider taking in the art fair at Bronson Park and the Dionysos Greek Festival at the Acadia Creek Festival Place.

Funeral for Officer Zapata

2011-04-23T15:43:00.000-07:00

Here is a link for additional information on the arrangements for Officer Zapata. Kalamazoo officials have also announced a moment of silence to occur at 11 AM next Tuesday to coincide with the start of the officer's funeral.

Service details for Officer Zapata

Officer Zapata Memorial Fund

2011-04-20T13:57:00.000-07:00

Here is a link to information regarding a memorial fund that has been established on behalf of Officer Zapata.

Officer Zapata Memorial Fund

Kalamazoo Officer Down!

2011-04-19T12:19:00.000-07:00

It is with great sorrow that we report of the line of duty death of Kalamazoo Public Safety Officer Eric Zapata. Please keep Officer Zapata, his survivors and the entire KDPS family in your thoughts and prayers.
PSO Eric Zapata

Saying goodbye to Trooper Werda

2011-04-10T07:07:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we said goodbye to Trooper Werda. Rest in peace our brother.

Images from Trooper Werda's funeral

Arrangements for Trooper Werda

2011-04-06T17:26:00.000-07:00

Arrangements for Trooper Werda: Viewing will be Friday 4/8/11 at Hall-Kokotovich Funeral Home 440 E. Cedar, Gladwin, MI from 12-9 PM. The funeral will be Saturday 4/9/11 at the Gladwin High School at 11 AM. Please attend if you can, or pause for a moment of silence at 11 on Saturday if you cannot.

A reflection...

2011-04-06T15:55:00.000-07:00

The service guide soaks my tears; another cop is down. Cut too short were his years; I bow my head and frown. Why was this for one who served; I guess I’ll never know. So now support we give his kin, before we let them go. He did not give his life in vein; he lived it value plus. His family now is our concern, as he was one of us.

Another officer down!

2011-04-06T11:55:00.000-07:00

Our thoughts and prayers go to Trooper Werda, his family and co-workers. May peace find them all.

MLive on Trooper Werda's line of duty death

Kazoo Area Foot Chase 2010

2011-01-28T14:24:00.000-08:00

Photos from Kazoo Area Foot Chase 2010

2011-01-25T18:50:00.000-08:00

Here are some photos from our 2010 event which took place in Portage on Saturday, September 11, 2010. Our 2011 event, which will take place on Saturday, September 10, 2011, will be our Tenth and the best yet! Mark your calendar now and plan to be there! Until then...

Stay safe!

Photos from Kazoo Area Foot Chase 2010

Saying goodbye to Officer Nehasil

2011-01-21T19:43:00.000-08:00

Today we said goodbye to Livonia Police Officer Larry Nehasil. The bitter cold and wind outside where we stood in muster was a stark metaphor for the cold hard reality of this tragedy. May Larry's survivors: his family, friends and coworkers, find comfort in today's words, and strength as they move forward from here without him.

Saying Goodbye to Officer Nehasil

Livonia Officer Down!

2011-01-20T05:50:00.000-08:00

With sadness I report that Livonia Police Officer Larry Nehasil lost his life in the line of duty while pursuing an armed felon following a home invasion in the Detroit area this past Monday. Officer Nehasil will be honored, remembered and laid to rest this Friday in Plymouth, Michigan. Details on the funeral arrangement are linked below.

Livonia Police Department

Rest in peace Officer Nehasil.

Kudos to Jackson area law enforcement...

2010-09-16T14:22:00.000-07:00

The Jackson Citizen Patriot today spotlighted Jackson area law enforcement runners who led the field at this year's Kazoo Area Foot Chase. Thanks for joining us Jackson area LEOs, and for putting on such a strong showing at this year's run. We hope to see you again in 2011! Stay safe.

Jackson area officers among the best...

Thank you Delta Zeta of WMU!

2010-09-09T17:25:00.001-07:00

The women of the Delta Zeta sorority at Western Michigan University have been our main source of volunteer support for this event since the start. We met with this year's crew tonight and are looking forward to having such an enthusiastic and dedicated group of young women joining us again at this year's event. If you're running in this year's event, chances are the witnesses that will guide you along the course will be from Delta Zeta. Give'em a "thanks" on your way by...

So how about them Tigers?

2010-09-09T09:47:00.000-07:00

Want to catch a late season Tigers game? Here's your change. Thanks to the generous donation from the law offices of Bush, Seyferth & Paige, PLLC, this year's silent auction includes four prime reserved seats at this Saturday's Tigers vs. Orioles baseball game at Comerica Park in Detroit including pre-paid parking! So grab you checkbook, put on your ball cap and come prepared to be the highest bidder for this great package of Tiger tickets!

WRKR hosts the KAFC Team...

2010-09-08T14:02:00.000-07:00

Calling all Foot Chase fans: Listen up to WRKR at 107.7 FM around 9 AM on Thursday, September 9 to hear Foot Chase team members live on the air with Mike and Diane of the Rocker Morning Show. Can't get to the radio? No problem, listen online at wrkr.com. And plan to joins us at the event in Portage this Saturday, September 11!
WRKR

Check out our new course features...

2010-09-06T19:11:00.000-07:00

OK all you "foot chasers" out there, we're working up a new course with some fun new features, but you've got to join the run to find out what they are. So take the challenge and join the chase this Saturday, September 11. See you there!

Support your local Gazelle Sports!

2010-08-24T21:09:00.000-07:00

Gazelle Sports - our region's premier headquarters for all things runner, has rejoined the Kazoo Area Foot Chase as a major sponsor of this year's event. Welcome Gazelle -- we are honored to have you with us. So all you Foot Chase participants out there, be sure to visit your local Gazelle Sports for all of your running and walking event needs!

Gazelle Sports

Taylor Officer Down!

2010-07-24T07:12:00.000-07:00

Another Michigan officer is down. Another hero has been lost. A family, an agency and a community grieves. Please keep Cpl. Matthew Edwards and his survivors in your thoughts and prayers.

Cpl. Matthew Edwards

KAFC 2010 is dedicated to P/O James Bonneau

2010-06-17T18:07:00.000-07:00

The Kazoo Area Foot Chase team is honored to have received permission from the Bonneau family to dedicate this year's event to Jackson (Michigan) police officer James Bonneau for his service and sacrifice. Earlier this year Officer Bonneau responded to a residence in his community to assist a neighboring agency on an investigation of a domestic violence complaint. Upon contact with the suspect, a struggle ensued and the suspect produced a firearm and shot both officers. Officers returned fire and stopped the suspect but not before Officer Bonneau sustained a lethal wound and his colleague officer was seriously injured. Thank God that the colleague officer survived, but in turn he has suffered a tremendous personal loss on many levels himself. Meanwhile, Officer Bonneau's loss was not only felt by his family and department, but throughout his community and the entire state. So now it is in recognition of Officer Bonneau's heroic service and great personal sacrifice that we dedicate the 2010 Kazoo Area Foot Chase in his honor. Find out more about Officer Bonneau at the link below:

Officer Down Memorial Page: JPO James Bonneau

Kazoo Area Foot Chase 2009

2010-05-31T10:55:00.000-07:00

Wondering what the Kazoo Area Foot Chase is all about? If so, watch the video which is linked below. Then plan to join us in Portage on Saturday, September 11 for the Kazoo Area Foot Chase 2010!

Kazoo Area Foot Chase 2009

Funeral Arrangements for Detroit PO Brian Huff

2010-05-04T15:43:00.000-07:00

Map to Officer Huff's Funeral

Funeral Arrangements for Police Officer Brian Huff as follows: Visitation will be held on Friday, May 7, 2010, from 11:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m., at the United Memorial Funeral Home, located at 75 Dickinson, Mt. Clemens, MI 48043, telephone number (586-463-8800). The Family Hour will be held from 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. The Funeral will be held on Saturday, May 8, 2010, at 11:00 a.m., at Greater Grace Temple, located at 23500 W. 7 Mile Road. Private Internment at Woodlawn Cemetery. (Courtesy of the DPD Facebook page).

On behalf of the entire Kazoo Area Foot Chase team, our condolences go out to the family and coworkers of Officer Brian Huff. He died as he lived: a hero! I am sure that by many he will be missed. May their pain diminish quickly and their memories grow fond. And may Officer Huff's wounded coworkers heal quickly on all levels.

Detroit officers down!

2010-05-03T09:04:00.000-07:00

At 3:30 AM this morning officers from the Detroit Police Department's Eastern District responded to a report of shots being fired at a house on Schoenherr south of Eight Mile. When officers arrived they were met with a hail of gunfire that resulted in the death of Officer Brian Huff and the wounding of four additional officers. The suspect was also shot and is hospitalized in temporary serious conditions. The four injured officers are also hospitalized in temporary serious condition. Officer Huff was a 12 year veteran of the Detroit Police Department. He leaves behind a wife and a 10 year old son. Please keep Officer Huff and his survivors in your thoughts and prayers.

Saying goodbye to a fallen hero...

2010-03-15T09:58:00.000-07:00

Thanks goes to the Jackson Citizen Patriot for making available this nice video of Jackson, Michigan officer Jim Bonneau's funeral. Rest in peace Officer Bonneau.
Officer Bonneau's Funeral Video

Funeral Arrangements for Officer Bonneau

2010-03-10T05:09:00.000-08:00

Funeral Arrangements for Officer Bonneau

Officer Bonneau's funeral has been set for this Friday, March 12 in Canton, Michigan. Canton is a western Detroit suburb and easily accessible from either I-94, I-96, M-14 and I-275. Details are available at the link above. A map to the church is linked below. Please continue to keep Officer Bonneau and his survivors in your thoughts and prayers.

Funeral Map

Jackson area officers down!

2010-03-09T10:57:00.000-08:00

Jackson police officer shot to death

It is with great sadness that we report here the death of 26-year-old Jackson Police Officer James Bonneau who was shot and killed early this morning. Shot and wounded in the same incident was Blackman Township Officer Darrin McIntosh. We at the Kazoo Area Foot Chase ask that you keep these officers, their families, colleagues and friends in your thoughts and prayers during this most difficult time.

One lucky deputy...

2010-02-01T19:52:00.000-08:00

">Calhoun County Close Call

Above is a link to a patrol video of a traffic stop involving a Calhoun (Michigan) deputy who had a very close call with a suicidal subject on a traffic stop in late January 2010. This video shows one example of the risks that our law enforcement officers face. Fortunately this incident resolved with the deputy being relatively OK, but sometimes they don't. We at the Kazoo Area Foot Chase applaud the deputy in this case for his calmness and compassion after being feloniously assaulted, and are glad that he remains safe.

To all our LEO followers out there, learn from this video and stay safe!

KAFC Team honored at MI-COPS Annual Holiday Gathering

2009-12-06T17:03:00.000-08:00

Members of the Kazoo Area Foot Chase team attended the annual MI-COPS holiday gathering in Lansing, Michigan today and were surprised to receive MI-COPS' prestigious Carol Law Award for Volunteerism. Kudos to the entire KAFC team for your suburb ongoing efforts at hosting a sterling event that benefits hundreds of law enforcement survivors through the good works of MI-COPS. You and all who sponsor, volunteer and participate in the annual Kazoo Area Foot Chase do more good then you'll ever know, and are appreciated many times over as shown in today's recognition.

Thank you all and have a safe and wonderful holiday season!

- Dave

Update on fund for children of slain Lakewood officers

2009-12-02T17:58:00.000-08:00

Lakewood Police Independent Guild

The Lakewood Police Independent Guild has added several convenient ways on their website for concerned individuals to donate to a fund for the children of the slain Lakewood, Washington officers. This week's tragic and senseless assassination of the four Lakewood officers while they were holding a morning meeting in an area coffee shop left behind nine children between the four. Each child has a long road toward recovery ahead of them, but your financial support will help offset any monetary concerns that they may face now and in the future. God bless them all.

Stay safe!

Lakewood Police IGBF accepting donations for fallen officers

2009-11-30T03:42:00.000-08:00

The Lakewood Police Independent Guild Benevolent Fund is accepting donations for the families of their four fallen officers. Checks should be made payable to LPIG Benevolent Fund and mailed to:

LPIG Benevolent Fund

PO Box 99579

Lakewood, WA 98499

Stay safe!

Tragedy in Lakewood

2009-11-29T15:19:00.000-08:00

Seattle Times

We at the Kazoo Area Foot Chase are deeply saddened by the tragic and senseless murder of four Lakewood, Washington police officers today. God bless these officers and their survivors, and God speed to those working to apprehend the shooter.

Thanks again Kalamazoo Gazette!

2009-10-11T17:37:00.000-07:00

Continuing their ongoing great coverage of the Kazoo Area Foot Chase, the Kalamazoo Gazette published another piece for us on this year's event in today's edition. Read more at

Foot chase benefits police charity

Here's Your Photo Op...

2009-09-23T14:01:00.000-07:00

Dear 2009 Kazoo Area Foot Chase Participants:

We have amassed over 600 digital images from this year's event including those taken by our local professional photographer Sam Zomer (thank you Sam!). We've got some good action shots from the adventure run and also of the crowd. If you'd like us to send you copies of the images that we have that may include you, please e-mail us at Kazoo Area Foot Chase with your name and bib number if you recall it and we will reply with scaled down copies of any images that we happen to find in our collection with you in them. Then, if there are specific images in any that we send that you would like higher resolution files of, please reply with those image numbers and we will gladly share those with you as well. However, due to limitations of our e-mail server, please limit the requests for higher resolution files to one or two images per request. Unfortunately we will only be able to send images to you if you are identifiable by your event bib number or otherwise easily recognizable in the images that we have. Still we're happy to see what we have and share with you what we find.

For those who have requested copies of our video of the Taser demonstrations, it is in the editing and production stages so stay tuned. We hope to have it in the mail soon.

Thanks again to all who participated in this year's adventure run and walking events. You helped make this year's event our best yet!

Another suspect is taken down...

Thank You

2009-09-16T21:43:00.000-07:00

As we are in the midst of wrapping up the details from last weekend's eighth annual Kazoo Area Foot Chase, I am compelled to post a short note of thanks to all who helped make this our best event yet.

But who is "all?" All is a broad collection of: 1) our event participants, 2) our very generous, caring and supportive sponsors, 3) Mike McKelly and WRKR, 4) volunteers including the awesome crew from Delta Zeta and the Kalamazoo Valley Law Enforcement Training Center, 5) the City of Portage and its Parks and Police departments for their continued support, 6) the families of the event organizers who give away a chunk of the latter part of the summer of their time with their event staff family member, 7) all of the participating law enforcement agencies including those who share patrol cars, exhibits, displays, demonstrations and personnel with us at the event, and last but not least, 6) Michigan Concerns of Police Survivors who placed their trust and faith in our local group way back at the start in 2002.

Thank you all for making this a successful and meaningful event for the Kazoo Area Foot Chase team, and hopefully one for you too! We look forward to seeing you again as part of next year's event.

The chase...

2009-09-16T08:29:00.001-07:00

Photo courtesy of Sam Zomer

Sirens rang out and engines roared breaking the morning quiet. A police chase was making its way around the usually quiet streets of Portage. A robbery had occurred and police were in hot pursuit of the suspects in their vehicle. As the chase neared the Celery Flats Park, the fleeing vehicle crashed through a fence and slid to a stop. Just as quick as the vehicle came to a stop; its occupants jumped out and continued to flee from the police on foot. But soon dozens of officers were off after them combing the area, collecting contraband and apprehending the suspects. The results: all of the suspects were captured and their contraband was recovered.

Was this a story ripped from the local police blotter? No, it was the setting of the eighth annual Kazoo Area Foot Chase which took place in Portage on Saturday, September 12, 2009. Close to 150 brave runners set out on a 3.5 mile adventure course around central Portage to chase suspects who fled from the scene of a staged criminal incident that they just witnessed. Meanwhile another 20 heroic walkers combed a 1 mile stretch of Portage’s Bi-Centennial Parkway for another group of wanted individuals before they too were all apprehended.

The Kazoo Area Foot Chase is a pair of zany running and walking events held each September in Portage by a group of Kalamazoo area police officers. The event benefits Michigan Concerns of Police Survivors (MI-COPS), a non-profit group that helps family members and co-workers when a law enforcement officer is killed in the line of duty. Dave Ostrem, one of the event organizers and a police officer in Mattawan, has experienced first hand how MI-COPS can help both an officer’s family and his or her agency after a line of duty death. In 2005 Ostrem’s co-worker, Officer Scot Beyerstedt, of the Mattawan force was killed when his police cruiser crashed into a tree during a police chase. Ostrem contacted MI-COPS almost immediately and they soon were in town helping Beyerstedt’s family and co-workers deal with their loss as well as arranging and coordinating the officer’s funeral. “They (MI-COPS) were like a band of angels who swooped in and lifted us up during a very difficult time” Ostrem said. Ostrem added “Planning a full scale law enforcement funeral is like planning a 300 guest wedding reception except that with the funeral you only have a few days to pull it together.” In the case of a small agency like Mattawan, they couldn’t have done it without MI-COPS’ help.

Beyond planning and coordinating law enforcement funerals, MI-COPS is around to support a fallen officer’s family and co-workers for as long as need is there. Assistance is given through a variety of support groups and events to help the survivors cope with their loss. Yet, MI-COPS never charges for their services, noting that the price paid by a fallen officer’s survivors is already too great. Therefore, fundraisers like the annual Kazoo Area Foot Chase are important to keep the support available.

In addition to the running and walking events, those who showed up at Celery Flats Saturday morning were also treated to a wide range of police related exhibits and demonstrations. Police tactical teams, The Kalamazoo County Sheriff’s underwater rescue team, the sheriff’s mounted division and a Taser demonstration were part of the mix. Next year’s event will take place on Saturday, September 11, 2010. Visit www.kazoofootchase.com for more information on the Kazoo Area Foot Chase or MI-COPS.

Kazoo Area Foot Chasse 2009... Some early images; more soon...

2009-09-13T18:17:00.000-07:00

Foot Chase Eve...

2009-09-11T18:59:00.000-07:00

Twas the night before Foot Chase and all through the house are my running shoes ready; say good night to my spouse. Tomorrow will bring an event like no other. I sure hope I finish before my old brother. Will there be fences, maybe steep walls? I hope I run fast and that nobody falls. But in the end what really matters? That we all get back safe while our feet pitter-patter. So another year's run; I'll give it my best. And in my own dust I hope are the rest...

Good luck Foot Chasers 2009!

Remembering 9/11

2009-09-11T05:10:00.000-07:00

My teenage daughter commented this morning that 9/11 seemed like it happened longer than eight years ago to her. She was very young then and time at that age takes forever. For me, it seems like yesterday; maybe because the vivid images of the second plane hitting the tower, people jumping from the burning towers to their certain death, and watching the towers fall on live television are etched in stone in my memory.

As we prepare for tomorrow's event to remember Michigan's fallen officers, I will take a moment today to pause and remember all those who lost their lives in New York, Washington D.C. and a Pennsylvania field eight years ago this morning. God bless them all!

Thank you John Walsh and America's Most Wanted

2009-09-10T15:56:00.000-07:00

Well Kazoo Area Foot Chase fans, we have been honored once again by television's America's Most Wanted's host John Walsh with a special introduction to this year's event. John is a true American hero who has done more to hunt down America's criminals on the loose than probably any other single individual. Thank you John for your continued support of the Kazoo Area Foot Chase and Michigan's fallen officers, and moreover, thank you for all you do to help us take the bad guys off the streets.

America's Most Wanted

Some times...

2009-09-10T12:32:00.000-07:00

If you're planning to join us this Saturday, here is the morning's tentative schedule:

0700 Event Day Registration and Check-In Opens
0830 Event Day Registration and Check-In Closes
0840 Pre-Event Announcements and Presentatoins Begin
0855 Event Scenario Begins
0900 Running Event Starts
0905 Orientation for Event Walkers is held by the Grain Elevator
0910 Walking Event Starts
1000 Public Safety Demonstrations Begin
1045 Race Prizes are Awarded
1130 Event Closes

Delta Zeta Rocks!

2009-09-09T21:32:00.000-07:00

The Gamma Pi Chapter of the Delta Zeta sorority at Western Michigan University has been a major supporter of the Kazoo Area Foot Chase since our first event in 2002. Thank you Delta Zeta! Last evening, Foot Chase team members spoke with the Gamma Pi Chapter and not only met several members who have participates in past year's events, but we were overwhelmed by the number of those who committed to support this year's event. These women of the Gamma Pi Chapter of Delta Zeta are part of America's future. And their commitment to this event and what it stands for gives our team hope for the future of our great country! Thank you Delta Zeta for all you do!

Down to the wire?

2009-09-09T19:55:00.000-07:00

Just found out about the race and would still like to pre-register? Well, up until this Friday at noon you still can. Although its too late to mail your registration, you can still pre-register by completing a form ASAP and sending it to us by fax at 269-321-9268; by e-mail at race@kazoofootchase.com, or by dropping it off for Diane at the front desk at Portage PD on Shaver at South Westnedge in Portage, all by noon this Friday, September 11.

If miss that or you'd prefer, you can still show up this Saturday morning at Celery Flats in Portage between 7:00 and 8:30 AM and register on-site. However, you better your chances of reserving an event shirt the sooner that you register.

Hope to see you Saturday!

Going once, going twice, SOLD!

2009-09-09T10:34:00.000-07:00

Don't forget the Silent Auction that is returning as part of this year's Kazoo Area Foot Chase. Our team has assembled a nice collection of items for you to bid on. And remember to bring a check or cash as, sorry, we don't take American Express or any other credit cards for that matter.

The weather forecast looks good and we've added additional event exhibitors for everyone to take in and enjoy so come on out to Celery Flats this Saturday for the eighth annual Kazoo Area Foot Chase and join in the fun!

Taser! Taser! Taser!

2009-09-08T14:18:00.000-07:00

Ever wonder what a Taser hit feels like? Want to find out? If so, come join us at Saturday's Kazoo Area Foot Chase at Celery Flats in Portage. Representatives from Michigan Taser Distributing plan to be on hand to display, explain and demonstrate Taser's widely used products as well as to show off some of their latest technologies. If you are a consenting adult and willing to sign the appropriate waiver, this is your chance to find out firsthand why Tasers are such effective law enforcement tools without landing in jail afterward. And remember, its over in just 5 seconds...

Taser! Taser! Taser!

Thank you Rebecca Bakken and the Kalamazoo Gazette!

2009-09-08T11:16:00.000-07:00

Here is a link to Rebecca Bakken's article on the Kazoo Area Foot Chase that appeared in today's Kalamazoo Gazette. Thank you Rebecca and thank you Gazette!

It's almost here!

2009-09-08T08:15:00.000-07:00

This year's Kazoo Area Foot Chase is almost here. Saturday, September 12 is just a few days away and everything is falling into place for another great event! Even the weatherman is smiling on us with a forecast of partly cloudy skies and moderately cool morning temperatures. So plan on joining us to help make this our best event yet!

There is still time to register for this year's walk or run; even at the event that morning. But if you want to better your chances for securing an event shirt of your size, you should register in advance. You may do so by completing a user-fillable registration form at www.kazoofootchase.com and faxing it to 269-321-9268 by noon this Friday. And for those who would like to volunteer this year, please e-mail us at race@kazoofootchase.com and we'll be in touch. We hope to see you at Celery Flats this Saturday. Until then, stay safe!

Weather, weather, weather...

2009-09-07T19:14:00.000-07:00

We can't control it; only hope for the best since the event is held RAIN or SHINE. So with that, here's the current forecast for this year's event:

	Friday Partly sunny. Highs in the upper 70s.
	Friday Night Partly cloudy. Lows in the upper 50s.
	Saturday Partly sunny. Highs in the upper 70s.

KAFC 2009: Running Event Participant Guidelines

2009-09-06T07:57:00.000-07:00

Running Event Participant Guidelines

Æ The Kazoo Area Foot Chase is patterned as a police foot chase in pursuit of fleeing suspects.

Æ Shortly before the start of the race (approximately 9:00 AM), you and fellow participants will witness an incident as it unfolds near the starting line. During the course of this incident, you will see some “suspects” flee from the scene. Pay particular attention to what the suspects look like and what they are wearing.

Æ Later, when you are released to chase them, if you are fast enough to catch up to one of the suspects along the way, and you are the first “officer” to reach him or her within an arm’s length, you may capture the suspect’s blue bandana by simply telling him or her that they are under arrest. Each suspect has been instructed to hand his or her bandana over to the first person that catches and places him or her “under arrest.” Please do not attempt to physically apprehend these suspects, or otherwise attempt to restrain them in any way.

Æ The suspects will take off in advance of you. You will see them leave the scene and head off on foot. Do not start chasing them at that time. You will be signaled when to run by the sound of multiple gunshots. Do not start running until you hear the actual gunshots.

Æ While in pursuit of the suspects, you will encounter “witnesses” along the way. These witnesses have been strategically placed along the course route. Each should be wearing a bright colored ID tag bearing the event logo and a large black “W”. The witnesses will direct you where to go next. Stay on your course between witnesses. Do not take a different direction or path than that which a witness directs you toward.

Æ As you pass the “witnesses”, you may ask them if they have seen the suspects, and what the suspects were wearing if you wish. Also, you may ask them if the suspects were armed.

Æ As with a real chase, you may find “contraband” that has been discarded by the suspects along the way. If you find and recover contraband, it may be redeemed for a prize at the end of the run. All event-related contraband will be red in color and marked with the event’s initials: KAFC. If you think something is contraband but it’s not red or doesn’t bear the event’s initials, than it’s not part of our event, and therefore, you might want to leave it alone.

Æ As in a real foot chase, fleeing suspects sometimes cross over or run through a variety of obstacles. If you encounter an obstacle, it is your responsibility to determine the safest way to expediently get past it. For instance, if the suspects have crossed over a fence, but there is an open gate close by that you can and would rather pass through, feel free to use the opening if you prefer. It is up to you to pick your lines along the course, and to do so safely.

Æ Suspects sometimes double back or hide. Keep your eyes open to your surroundings along the way. Don’t let a suspect get away by hiding, or surprise you.

Æ As in a real foot chase, the surfaces that you will pass over will vary, and at times they will be uneven and rough. Watch your steps carefully. It is your responsibility to pick your footing safely.

Æ Efforts will be made to have traffic on major road crossings controlled for this event. However, there are a number of minor roads, alleys, driveways and many parking lots that the course takes you over, across and through that will be open to traffic. Please use caution and watch for moving vehicles when crossing over or running along any roadways, parking lots or other vehicular travel-ways. It is your responsibility to navigate through traffic safely.

Æ If you need help: There will be a refreshment stand serving water along the course route. An aid station will be situated near the refreshment stand should you or anyone else needs assistance. There will be additional refreshments and an aid station near the finish line as well. Further, event staff will be patrolling the course on mountain bikes, and police officers will be out and about directing traffic along the way. Any of these officials can summons assistance for you or anyone else should you need it. Also, many of the witnesses will have cell phones and can contact event staff directly with information including their location if you need assistance including rides back to the event site.

Æ It is your sole and ultimate responsibility to watch out for your own safety during the event, and if you see a situation and or condition that presents a risk of injury to yourself, you must avoid the situation and or condition, or immediately withdraw from the race. It is your responsibility to ensure that you return safely.

Æ When crossing the finish line, you will be directed along a chute where your final position will be recorded. It is important that you remain in line in the order in which you crossed the finish line until you are waived out of the chute at the end. Please stay in line in the order in which you crossed the finish line.

Remember, no matter what you see unfold at the incident that is about to happen in front of you, do not start running until you hear the actual gunshots.

Prizes will be awarded to the fastest 2 runners in each age and gender category. Prizes will be awarded to the fastest overall male and female runners outside of their age categories. Additional prizes will be awarded to the first male and female law enforcement professionals and police recruits to cross the finish line. Finally prizes are awarded for recovering contraband or apprehending a suspect, but only one prize in this special category will be awarded per participant.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding any of these guidelines, please contact event staff for clarification. Have a safe, fun and successful run!

We'll provide the coffee and donuts...

2009-09-03T13:03:00.000-07:00

No cop themed event would be complete without coffee and donuts and the Kazoo Area Foot Chase is no exception. So come and join us on September 12 for a cup of the hot stuff and a donut of your choice.

Kazoo Area Foot Chase proudly features Biggby Coffee and Sweetwater's donuts.

The Police Academy Challenge...

2009-09-02T17:00:00.000-07:00

Last year the Kazoo Area Foot Chase introduced the POLICE ACADEMY CHALLENGE to see who sends us the fastest police recruits. Last year the trophy went home to Grand Rapids Community College's academy. This year we expect to see the fleetfooted recruits from Grand Rapids Community College, Kalamazoo Valley Law Enforcement Training Center, Ferris State University and the Mid Michigan Police Academy compete in the academy challenge. If you know of any current police training academy recruits who are not part of this mix but would like to participate in this challenge, please have them contact us at 269-321-9264 or race@kazoofootchase.com for a special event entry form. In addition to the possibility of taking this prize trophy home to her or his academy, the fastest male and female recruits this year will also be presented with a brand new pair of Crimson Trace laser sighting grips. Now how can you beat that!

There's Still Time

2009-09-02T00:38:00.000-07:00

If you missed our posted event shirt guarantee cut-off date, worry not. We've ordered a bunch of shirts such that if you register soon you'll PROBABLY still get one. And chances are that there may be some left for those who show up and register on the day of the event. But since they are first-come-first serve, to better your chances to latch onto your event shirt to show that you've run the CHASE, enter sooner than later. To enter, go to our website at Kazoo Area Foot Chase and complete and print our user friendly PDF registration form and mail or fax it to us. Forms can be mailed to PO Box 2545, Portage, MI 49081 or faxed to 269-321-9268. Faxed registrations will require entry fee payment in the form of cash or check at check-in on the morning of the event.

On a related note, our seasoned team of event planners reviewed this year's "confidential" course this week and they were very impressed, saying it may be our best yet! It promises to be a fun and exciting course for all!

Calling all Motor Officers...

2009-08-31T18:17:00.000-07:00

For years now the Kazoo Area Foot Chase has been honored by the presence of the motor officers from the Battle Creek PD. Bravo to BCPD for your ongoing support. But are they the only motor unit in our fair state? I don’t think so… So what other motor officers are out there who dare to join the BCPD riders at this year’s event? Your reward: Coffee and donuts on us. So ride safe and ride steady to this year’s Kazoo Area Foot Chase in Portage on September 12

Welcome Hanger Bar & Grill

2009-08-31T14:13:00.000-07:00

The Kazoo Area Foot Chase team is happy to welcome Kalamazoo's Hanger Bar & Grill to our list of distinguished sponsors. We are pleased to have the Hanger in our corner and hope that our many supporters and followers will stop in at Hanger and help us tell them "thanks!"

The Hanger Bar & Grill is located at 4301 W Main Street [east of Drake] in Kalamazoo.

Who's that on the air?

2009-08-30T14:26:00.000-07:00

Tune in to WRKR 107.7 FM tomorrow morning between 9 and 10 for a surprise visit by distinguished members of the Kazoo Area Foot Chase team. Listen as our team attempts to stay cool during the blistering interrogation about the event by THE ROCKER'S MORNING SHOW hosts Diane and Mike McKelly. Will our team of seasoned law enforcement professionals crack under pressure or can they keep their cool? Only time will tell...

If you can't tune in over the air, listen in on-line at:

WRKR On-Line

So what's it all about?

2009-08-30T13:50:00.000-07:00

The Kazoo Area Foot Chase is a benefit for Michigan Concerns of Police Survivors. So OK, you've already got all that, but what's the event actually like? Well, its a simulated police foot pursuit of suspects who have fled from an incident scene. To give you a better idea of what the event is like, here's a short video curtesy of the Kalamazoo Gazette.

Kazoo Area Foot Chase

KAFC Classic Police Car Show

2009-08-29T14:39:00.000-07:00

Word has it that classic police cars may again be appearing at this year's Kazoo Area Foot Chase. Here are some images of those that have shown up at past events.

So where is this place called Celery Flats?

2009-08-27T08:49:00.000-07:00

This year's Kazoo Area Foot Chase will start and end at Portage's Celery Flats. This unique place serves as a tribute to Portage's history and heritage, and is also a great venue for events such as this. But where is it located? Well, that's simple. From I-94, head south on S. Westnedge Avenue -- that big road with all of the restaurants and shopping opportunities. Continue south to Garden Lane, which is the next traffic light just past Culver's restaurant on the right. Turn left to head east on Garden Lane and Celery Flats will be on your right just past the railroad tracks. Uniformed officers will be there to direct you to parking in the area. For those who prefer maps, here's a link that should help get you there.

Map to Celery Flats

See you on September 12!

WRKR Rocks!

2009-08-27T08:47:00.000-07:00

Kalamazoo's premier rock station WRKR continues their support of the Kazoo Area Foot Chase. Thank you WRKR for all you do!

WRKR

Hurray to the new FireKeepers Casino!

2009-08-26T15:57:00.000-07:00

We learned just today that the newly opened FireKeepers Casino near Battle Creek has chosen to support Michigan Concerns of Police Survivors by sponsoring this year's Kazoo Area Foot Chase. We at the KAFC team thank FireKeepers for their generous support and recognition of all that MI-COPS does for the survivors of Michigan's fallen law enforcement officers who have sacraficed so much. To show your appreciation for this support, please visit the FireKeepers Casino in person and also on-line at FireKeepers Casino.

This is Your Police Department

2009-08-26T14:36:00.000-07:00

Detroit PD circa 1951.

The Silent Auction is Back!

2009-08-26T05:00:00.001-07:00

Last year we introduced a silent auction at the event allowing those attending a chance to bid on a whole range of cool items. The auction was such a hit that our team is bringing it back again this year. And our busy team has been rounding up another cool collection of items for you to choose from. So bring your cash (or check) and come prepared to bid on the items of your choice.

See you on September 12!

[All proceeds from the auction go directly to MI-COPS]

Thank you Crimson Trace!

2009-08-25T12:16:00.000-07:00

Crimson Trace, makers of outstanding laser sighting devices for firearms, continues to support the Kazoo Area Foot Chase, Michigan Concerns of Police Survivors and law enforcement overall by joining us again this year as a major sponsor of this event. In fact, as a result of Crimson Trace's generous support we will be able to award some of their fine products to the fastest law enforcement professionals who run in this year's event. What a great prize for our fleet-footed law enforcement runners to win! So if you are a law enforcement professional and would like a chance to win a pair of Crimson Trace laser grips, join us on Saturday, September 12 for this year's Kazoo Area Foot Chase!

For more information on Crimson Trace and their line of fine products, check them out on-line at: Crimson Trace

Check out 2008's Chase...

2009-08-23T14:51:00.000-07:00

Here is a link to a show from last year's Kazoo Area Foot Chase. Remember, this year we'll have an all new course, so come and JOIN IN THE CHASE!

Kazoo Area Foot Chase 2008

Thank you Meijer!

2009-08-23T12:16:00.000-07:00

The Meijer store on Shaver Road in Portage has supported the Kazoo Area Foot Chase from the start and they are joining us again this year. Thank you Meijer for your continued support that helps make this event possible!

Meijer.com

Prospective Sponsors: There's still time left!

2009-08-19T12:52:00.000-07:00

Dear Prospective Kazoo Area Foot Chase Sponsors:

We still have a few days left before we need to let the printer know whose names should be proudly displayed on our event shirts. So if you would like to be among those recognized for their generous support of MI-COPS through our event, please contact me at ostrem@kazoofootchase.com or 269-321-9264 as soon as possible. We'd love to see your name on our shirts!

- Dave

Guardian Wear joins in the Chase!

2009-08-13T11:57:00.000-07:00

Guardian Wear, makers of duty wear for public safety heroes, has committed its support to the Kazoo Area Foot Chase and will be providing some of its products as prizes for our fleet footed event participants. But you have to enter to win!

Check out Guardian's products online at: Guardian Wear

Thank you Guardian Wear!

Michigan Taser returns to the Kazoo Area Foot Chase

2009-08-13T08:20:00.000-07:00

THIS JUST IN: Ron Dehne of Michigan Taser Distributing plans to return to this year's Kazoo Area Foot Chase. Ron has shocked Foot Chase crowds in the past with his electrifying Taser demonstrations. Dave Ostrem of the Kazoo Area Foot Chase says: "We're not sure what Ron has up his sleeve for this year's event but we hope for another high energy show." South Lyon based Michigan Taser is Michigan's exclusive distributor of Taser less-lethal law enforcement products. Taser's expanding line of Electronic Control Devices has revolutionized police tactics by giving officers a highly effective means of controlling violent situations while reducing the possibility of injuries to both officers and suspects alike. Michigan Taser can be found on-line at www.michigantaser.com.

The Chase Route Has Been Set

2009-08-09T18:54:00.000-07:00

OK chase fans, our nimble team of course planners has mapped out a new course for this year's event. We still have some "obstacles" to incorporate, but the geographical aspects have been mapped. As always, no foot chase course is the same as the year before. Moreover, the course is kept secret to all but a few on our event team. The only way to find out where the course will take you is to participate in the chase and follow where the witnesses point you in pursuit of the suspects. So although we will not tell you where this year's course goes, we'll bet you'll have fun figuring it out on your own. Remember: watch for the witnesses.

There's still time to register for this year's Kazoo Area Foot Chase. User-fillable registration forms are available at:

KAFC 2009 Registration Form

But get your registration in soon to 1) guarantee your event shirt, and 2) to get in before we reach our maximum number of participants.

With that, we'll look for you on September 12!

Thank you Roe-Comm!

2009-08-04T17:37:00.001-07:00

Roe-Comm has not only supported the Kazoo Area Foot Chase from the start, they have remained a loyal supporter of MI-COPS and this event through thick and thin. Roe-Comm is our area's premier telecommunications provider; the go-to place for two-way radio, cellular and all wireless communications needs.

Thank you Roe-Comm for your continued support!

Roe-Comm

In Honor of PSO Mason Samborski

2009-08-04T16:45:00.000-07:00

This year's Kazoo Area Foot Chase is dedicated to Oak Park Public Safety Officer Mason Samborski (EOW: 12/28/2008). Please join us on September 12 in honor of PSO Samborski and his survivors for his service and sacrifice.

ODMP: PSO Mason Samborski

Area youths have their entry fees waived

2009-06-18T15:32:00.000-07:00

This week the Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety is hosting a Youth Leadership Academy at the Fort Custer Military Training Center near Battle Creek for three dozen or so area youths. We at the Kazoo Area Foot Chase applaud KDPS for reaching out to our area youth and giving them such a tremendous opportunity that may positively shape their lives forever. In support of the program, tonight the Kazoo Area Foot Chase team, represented by Steve Seiser, is speaking with the program's participants and offering to waive their entry fee for this year's foot chase event. Lets hope that these leaders of tomorrow join us at the run this September.

More on the Youth Leadership Academy can be found at:

Youth Leadership Academy Article

90 people have joined the Kazoo Area Foot Chase Cause on Facebook and you can too!

2009-06-17T09:18:00.000-07:00

Simply click on the link below to find the cause then click to join. We look forward to seeing you at the cause soon...

Kazoo Area Foot Chase on Facebook

Thank you Halpert, Weston, Wuori & Sawusch, P.C.!

2009-06-11T06:35:00.000-07:00

Last year the Kalamazoo law firm of Halpert, Weston, Wuori & Sawusch, P.C. joined the Kazoo Area Foot Chase team by becoming a Gold level major sponsor. The Halpert firm's generous sponsorship helped make last year's event a huge sucess and it contributed greatly to the support that MI-COPS was able to give to the survivors of Michigan's law enforcement officers. Thank you Halpert, Weston, Wuori & Sawusch, P.C. for your support!

More on this Kalamazoo based Gold sponsor law firm can be found at: www.hwwspc.com.

Law Enforcement Candlelight Service

2009-05-04T21:00:00.000-07:00

Tonight was the State of Michigan Law Enforcement Officers Candlelight Memorial Service, held on the steps of the state capitol in Lansing. This was the sixteenth annual service sponsored by MI-COPS. The service was well attended and it went off seemlessly. Thank you MI-COPS for organizing this tremendous event and for recognizing the contributions and sacrafices that Michigan's law enforcement officers make on a regular basis on behalf of us all! Here are just a few images from tonight's ceremony.

Stay safe!

Thank you Bush Seyferth & Paige PLLC

2009-02-22T17:00:00.000-08:00

Bush Seyferth & Paige PLLC (aka: BSP) has been a loyal sponsor of the Kazoo Area Foot Chase since the firm's inception in 2003. In an effort at full disclosure, I am an employee of this firm. Still, they have had no obligation to support MICOPS or this event, but they have chosen to do so willingly every year since the firm's start.

BSP is a national caliber law firm that represents Fortune 500 clients in product liability and catastrophic personal injury matters, commercial litigation and bankruptcy law throughout the entire United States. More information on BSP is available at www.bsplaw.com.

Thank you BSP for your ongoing support of MICOPS and the Kazoo Area Foot Chase.

Thank You McDonald's Towing and Rescue!

2009-01-26T10:15:00.000-08:00

McDonald's Towing and Rescue has been providing quality road service, towing and recovery services to the greater Kalamazoo area for years. They have also been a strong supporter of the Kazoo Area Foot Chase since 2003. We appreciate McDonald's Towing for their ongoing support and look forward to working with them for many years to come.

Check McDonald's Towing and Rescue on-line at: www.mcdonaldstowing.com.

McDonald's Towing and Rescue

2975 Interstate Parkway

Kalamazoo, MI 49048

269-342-0973

Thank you WRKR!

2009-01-11T13:52:00.000-08:00

In 2008, Kalamazoo's premier rock station 107.7 WRKR's morning personality Mike McKelly joined the Kazoo Area Foot Chase team, bringing the support of WRKR with him. We credit Mike and WRKR for our greatest turnout to date. Thank you Mike, and thank you WRKR! Maye next year you'll bring Diane with you...

For more on our latest partners, check out WRKR.

Thank you Crimson Trace!

2008-10-23T14:03:00.000-07:00

Greetings All:

I would like to take the opportunity to spotlight a Foot Chase sponsor in my next several posts. In this post I would like to give the honors to Crimson Trace, the makers of laser sighting tools for firearms, particularly handguns. In the interest of full disclosure, I use Crimson Trace products on both my duty sidearm and my off-duty handgun. But that is because I found their products first and became a believer in them before I approached the company about sponsoring this event. I have found that the my laser sights give me pinpoint accuracy with my shot placement, particularly in low light situations. And that not only makes me safer, but also innocent members of the public who might be in the area if I am forced to make lethal force decisions.

For several years now, Crimson Trace has donated sets of laser grips that we have used as prizes for the fastest law enforcement professionals who have participated in our events. Through their generous donations, Crimson Trace has not only helped to support MICOPS, but they have also helped to make Michigan officers safer on our streets, and our public safer overall. Bravo Crimson Trace!

You can find Crimson Trace on-line at www.crimsontrace.com.

PS: Our law enforcement winner from 2005 took home a pair of Crimson Trace laser grips to his suburban Detroit agency. Not long afterward, he found himself confronting a subject in the nighttime shadows of a dark backyard who was armed with a handgun. He aimed his sidearm at the subject and without thinking about it, the red dot from his laser sights appeared on the subject's chest. The subject realized it and immediately dropped his weapon. I credit Crimson Trace for possibly saving a life that night. Again, Bravo Crimson Trace!

Thank you Western Herald

2008-09-08T17:15:00.001-07:00

The following article appeared in today's edition of Western Michigan University's newspaper the Western Herald. Thanks goes to this publication for covering our event.

http://www.westernherald.com/?p=250

Police chase themed race provides fun and charity

Josh HolderbaumWestern Herald

Six guys run out of a car with 115 people chasing them. This isn’t a mob scene, however: it’s a race.

On Sept. 7 the annual Kazoo Area Foot Chase benefit run was held at Celery Flats Canoe and Bicycle Livery.

The race, which was open to all entrants, featured runners pursuing volunteer “suspects” around the course.

“The race is a three-and-a-half mile run,” Officer Jim Lord, Portage Police Department and Foot Chase committee member, said. “It is timed, but it’s not as serious as other races. It’s patterned after a real foot chase.”

The chase began at 9 a.m. with a short situation being played out over a police radio involving a car full of suspects. The suspects, wearing blue bandanas, crammed into a rusty car before running off after the car filled with smoke.

After the suspects were given a head start, gunshots signaled the start of the chase which included 115 runners and walkers.

Participants were given no maps of the route and relied on witnesses situated around the track for information about where to go. The route included trails, fences and a nearby house. Suspects were also allowed to hide anywhere on the course.

Runners received prizes for collecting contraband such as guns and knives dropped by the suspects or by “arresting” the suspects and taking their bandanas.

This year’s run was better attended than before, Lord explained.

“Usually we have about 60 or 70 runners, but this year we had 115,” Lord said. “We have more tables and vendors this year. Everything’s been very good.”

The runners also enjoyed the pursuit.

“It was very entertaining,” Scott Boelman, a first-year runner from Richland, said. “I think it was uphill all the way. I was trying to get the witnesses to give the other runners the wrong information, but they wouldn’t listen.”

However, tracking down suspects was a bit harder.

“I didn’t even see any suspects,” Boelman admitted. “As soon as we rounded the bend and got to the field everyone had spread out. I never saw a one.”

Benefits to the race went to MI-COPS, a non-profit group that aids family members of fallen police officers. Prior to the race, Rich Migala of the Southwest Michigan 100 Club presented MI-COPS with a donation of $13,000.

The event also featured booths from various safety departments in the area, as well as classic police cars, an Army rock wall, silent auction and K-9 demonstrations by the Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety.

One of the more popular booths for kids was “Crime Scene Interactive,” which gave kids a chance to dust for fingerprints, analyze blood samples and hand out identification packs to parents, which included both fingerprinting and swabbing their mouth for DNA.

The booth also featured facial reconstruction “portraits” of kids by Lt. Pali Matyas, Portage Police Department, who used computer software to recreate the faces of visitors.

“Mainly our booth is to give kids something to do,” Kathy Mirakovits, Portage Northern High School science teacher and CSI booth worker, said. “Mostly it’s to let them use science. If they look at blood samples, they use chemistry. If they dust for prints, they’re using physics.”

The event also honors one slain officer each year. This year’s event honored Officer Jessica Nagle-Wilson of the Hazel Park Police Department. Nagle-Wilson was gunned down on July 28, 2002 by a suspect when she responded to a call about a dog barking.

Nagle-Wilson’s family set up a booth devoted to her, featuring news clippings about her and information on the foundation in her honor.

“I’m really honored to see Jessica remembered,” Debbie Nagle, Nagle-Wilson’s mother, said. “I think it’s great that they recognize those from the past. It’s been about six years now for Jessica. As a mom, you always want them to remember.”

Nagle’s experience was also good enough to look forward to next year’s event.
“It’s my first year here,” Nagle said. “I think I’m going to get in shape so I can run it next year.”

For more information on the Foot Chase or MI-COPS, visit www.kazoofootchase.com or www.mi-cops.org.

Thank you Kalamazoo Gazette

2008-09-07T16:39:00.000-07:00

The Kalamazoo Gazette has graciously posted a nice video from this year's Kazoo Area Foot Chase on their website. You can view it at:

http://videos.mlive.com/kzgazette/2008/09/kazoo_area_foot_chase.html

Thank you Kalamazoo Gazette!

Kazoo Area Foot Chase 2008

2008-09-06T13:43:00.000-07:00

Saturday, September 6, 2008 marked the seventh annual Kazoo Area Foot Chase. We can hardly believe it! Time has gone by so fast. This sure has been fun!

This year's event was host to a couple of hundred participants, onlookers, volunteers and law enforcement representatives. The weather was perfect -- sunny and in the upper 60s, and the crowd enjoyed our many law enforcement related exhibits and demonistrations. This year's event was dedicated to fallen Hazel Park, Michigan police officer Jessica Nagle-Wilson who was shot and killed while responding to a call in July 2002. We were honored to have Jessica's parents, Bill and Debbie Nagle, Jessica's husband, Matt Wilson, and two of her colleagues from the Hazel Park force with us at the event.

Two firsts for this year's event were the addition of a 2.5 mile walking event, and a police academy team competition. Both additions were widly received and hopefully will be expanded on in future years.

Here are some photos from Saturday's event.