Officers trade cuffs for aprons to benefit Special Olympiads

In a bid to raise money for Northern Nevada special Olympians, members of the thin blue line will dole out more than speeding tickets Wednesday when they take on the formidable task of successfully delivering hot food to hungry patrons.

The Department of Public Safety is hosting "Tip-a-Cop" at the Carson City, Sparks and Reno Applebee's Grill and Bar locations.

Uniformed officers from the Nevada Highway Patrol and Carson City Sheriff's Department will work at the Carson City restaurant at 3300 S. Carson St. for lunch from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and dinner from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.

"The tips that people want to donate to Special Olympics are separate to any gratuity due the waiter or waitress," said Trooper Chuck Allen of the Nevada Highway Patrol.

Allen said each officer, who is volunteering his or her time, will have envelopes he or she will leave at the table. If customers choose to donate, they can stuff it with cash or a check.

The event gives the troopers and deputies an excuse for an in-house competition to see which officer raises the most money, Allen said.

All "special tips" raised will stay in Northern Nevada to allow athletes to attend their Olympics at no cost.

There is never a charge to athletes for participation, so donations to support the Special Olympics movement give individuals with intellectual disabilities the opportunity to become physically fit and productive through sports training and competition, according to the Special Olympics Web site. In all, 1.4 million children and adults take part in Special Olympics.

n Contact reporter F.T. Norton at ftnorton@nevadaappeal.com or 881-1213.

IF YOU GO

What: Special Olympics fund-raiser "Tip-a-Cop"

When: Wednesday - lunch 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and dinner 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Where: Applebee's at 3300 S. Carson St.; 4805 Kietzke Lane, Reno; and 693 North McCarran Blvd., Sparks.

ON THE NET:

http://www.specialolympics.org