Salt Lake Bees fans were caught off guard on the Fourth of July. Before the singing of "Take Me out to the Ball Game," fans viewed a video featuring Lou Gehrig and his famous "I consider myself the luckiest man" retirement speech. It was the 70th anniversary of the speech. Lou Gehrig died two years later of ALS, a disease that would later bear his name.

Alan Alderman is another man who has been forced into early retirement. Since being diagnosed with ALS in 2001, Alan has worked tirelessly to raise funds and help others with the disease. He lobbied Congress for the ALS Registry Act, which was passed.

Lou Gehrig and Alan Alderman are great Americans whose lives are an inspiration to all of us. Because of the bad economy this year, Alan was not able to hold his annual fundraising event. I hope Bees fans and everyone inspired by these great Americans can help find a cure for ALS.

Brian Richardson

Bountiful