Benton Police Department will join forces with other Saline County law enforcement agencies from 5 to 9 p.m. Thursday, May 1 at Colton’s Steakhouse, located at 1925 Landers Road in Benton, to raise funds for Special Olympics Arkansas via the annual Tip-A-Cop event.
Officers will don their aprons as servers, accompanied by Colton’s wait staff to ensure quality, and tips collected throughout the evening will support the year-round Special Olympics Arkansas events for athletes.
“This has really become a signature event since its start in 2007 for everyone involved with Special Olympics Arkansas,” said Captain Kevin Russell. “It means a lot to officers, athletes and customers, and many friendships have formed throughout the years. Plus, it’s your one chance a year to give officers orders, so it’s a lot of fun for everyone.”
He added that customers will also have the opportunity to throw a friend or family member in mock jail at the restaurant throughout the evening.
“For $5 minimum donation, an officer will come to your table and lead the ‘offender’ to the jail cell. Good behavior will allow them to return to their table.”
More than anything else, Russell says the community support is priceless.
“The officers always look forward to seeing the athletes and vice versa,” he said. “Saline County has always been very supportive of the athletes, and we can always count on them when we need their continued support.”
Visit www.specialolympicsarkansas.org for additional ways to get involved with Special Olympics Arkansas.