Your view: Efforts appreciated

The purpose of this letter is to recognize the outstanding efforts of the Sikeston Police Department, Miner Police Department and Missouri State Highway Patrol Troop E.

You and your readers may not be aware of the impact law enforcement makes on Special Olympics. Hundreds of agencies work year-round to help raise the necessary funds to provide sports training and competition programs for 13,960 children and adults with mental disabilities in Missouri.

The Law Enforcement Torch Run raises funds and awareness for Special Olympics around the world. Missouri's Torch Run was recognized as the fifth highest grossing program in the world. This is a grassroots effort that requires cooperative teamwork between various law enforcement agencies. This teamwork has paid off tremendously for Special Olympics Missouri (SOMO). SOMO's Torch Run reached a phenomenal goal for 2004 of raising over $1 million for the organization! One-third of these funds came from the sale of Torch Run T-shirts, which many of your readers purchased.

One hundred seventy-three agencies from around the state helped SOMO this year, including those from your area. They are to be commended for their strong belief in supporting their communities and the individuals within them through participation in the Law Enforcement Torch Run. It is through their efforts that SOMO is able to provide an opportunity for our athletes to experience the thrills and accomplishments that participation in sports can bring, free of charge.

Thank you for the opportunity to express our gratitude to the Missouri Law Enforcement Torch Run. They make a difference in other people's lives and this is something we can all be proud of.

Sincerely,

Mark C. Musso, president

Special Olympics, Missouri