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Perth Amboy Police Officers Participate in Torch Run

Perth Amboy Police participate in the Torch Run on Smith Street
*Photo by Carolyn Maxwell

PERTH AMBOY – 4 Police Officers from Perth Amboy participated in the Special Olympic Torch Run called the “Flame of Hope.” This year was the 34th Annual Law Enforcement Torch Run. Lt. Joseph Sulikowski is shown with the torch in his hand. Alongside him are Officers Danny Gonzalez, Special I Officer Luis Almanzar and Special II Officer Joe Holland. Holland had retired from the PAPD after 25 years of service and came back to the Force as a Special II Officer.

The Amboy Guardian had a chance to speak to Officer Holland about his participation in this run. He stated, “This year’s run began at 4:45 a.m. on Friday, June 9, 2017 from Island Beach State Park. The 4 Officers from Perth Amboy who participated waited on the Sayreville side of the Victory Bridge to receive the torch from the participants from the Sayreville Police Department. All 4 of us were able to run with the torch on our route. After crossing over the Victory Bridge, we made a right hand turn onto Smith Street, then continued and made a left-hand turn onto State Street and then another left hand turn onto Fayette Street to finish the run at Shop Rite, Perth Amboy. There, we were met by the top executives of Shop Rite and were presented with commendations for our participation. I participated in 17 Torch Runs and I am the oldest participant. The only year that I missed was in 2011 due to injury. I like to get up around 5:45 a.m. in the morning to run. I participate in local runs if my schedule permits. I did a Frog Hollow Run (in South Amboy) 2 years ago. In the 1980’s, I participated in a full mile race for a fundraiser. The YMCA also used to have 3 mile runs in the 1980’s called “Shape Up Amboy.” I’ve also participated in 2.5 mile runs that St. Mary’ Church used to have.”

The Torch Run is held nationwide. According to www.letr.org: The mission of the Law Enforcement Torch Run is to raise awareness for the Special Olympics movement. So far, the LETR has raised over $600 million for the Special Olympics.

To find out more about the Torch Run and it’s benefactors, go to Law Enforcement for the Special Olympics or www.letr.org

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