Agencies, man recognized for contributions to Special Olympics

Wal-Mart and the Cape Girardeau Police Department were recently recognized as the Outstanding Business/ Organization and Outstanding Law Enforcement Agency of the Year for Southeast Area Special Olympics Missouri. Bill Mack of Cape Girardeau was named Coach of the Year.

During its annual Night of Inspirational Stars Awards Banquet, held recently at Chateau on the Lake in Branson, Special Olympics Missouri presented its most prestigious awards to those who have contributed significantly to the Special Olympics movement.

Lt. J.R. "Buddy" Davis of the Cape Girardeau Police Department received three awards for the southeast region:

Greatest percent increase in agency participation, an 18 percent increase

Greatest percent increase in gross dollars raised, a 43 percent increase

Greatest percent increase in Torch Club Members (those agencies that raise at least $1,000), a 17 percent increase

Other awards presented at the banquet included Athlete of the Year, Family of the Year, Volunteer of the Year, Media Supporter of the Year and the Award of Excellence.

Special Olympics Missouri is a year-round sports program for children and adults with mental disabilities. For more information about the program, visit www.somo.org.