Seventeen law enforcement officers from four area agencies participated in the annual Missouri Law Enforcement Torch Run Wednesday, May 29, in Warren County. The annual event is held to raise money for — and heighten awareness of — the Missouri Special Olympics. "One thing many people don't realize is how many Special Olympics athletes we have in Warren County who participate," remarked Greg Houdyshell, chief of the Warrenton Police Department. "It becomes apparent when they at the reception with the huge smiles on their faces. It's really a cool experience." Law officers from police departments in Warrenton, Truesdale and Foristell and the Warren County Sheriff's Department participated this year. There were seven runners from the Warrenton Police Department, three from Truesdale, one from Foristell and six from the Warren County Sheriff's Department, Houdyshell noted. The law enforcement officers were joined along portions of the route by athletes who will participate in the Missouri Special Olympics this year. The runners began their route at Fastlane in Foristell and proceeded along Veterans Memorial Parkway to Warrenton. Along the way, the runners passed by several Warrenton area businesses, including Gastorf Chevrolet, the Coca-Cola plant, Dairy Queen, Subway, Denny's and Imo's. "Businesses along the route graciously allowed us to do fundraising which was a huge addition to our event this year," Houdyshell stated. "We look forward to working with them in the future." The Torch Run concluded at Warrenton City Hall were Houdyshell and Warren County Prosecuting Attorney Mike Wright both made remarks following the event. Torch Run photo