Special Olympics MA
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE -- West Springfield, Mass. -- September, 2009
THE BIG E SALUTES SPECIAL OLYMPICS MASSACHUSETTS
The Big E will salute the people and work of Special Olympics Massachusetts (SOMA) Oct. 4 with a variety of special activities. Special Olympics Massachusetts has been a leader in providing healthy lifestyles through sports and healthcare-related programs year-round for individuals with intellectual disabilities for close to 40 years.
It all gets started at 10 a.m. with Opening Ceremonies at the Flag Plaza by Gate 5 featuring welcoming remarks from Eastern States Exposition President Wayne McCary, the National Anthem, Athletes and Coaches Oath and an outline of the day's activities. The highlight of the ceremony will be a law Enforcement Torch Run beginning at Gate 1 taking runners along Hampden Avenue and by the Brooks Building to light the Special Olympics Caldron at the Flag Plaza.
Information, dance demonstrations and speeches will be offered throughout the day in Storrowton Village. Mountain View Dance Inclusion dance troupe will perform at 11:30 a.m. at the Gazebo. SOMA will hold a Unified Young Athletes exhibition on the Green at 3:30 p.m. which will be open for participation by up to 50 children, age two and a half to seven, at the Fair that day. Global Messenger speeches are scheduled for 1 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. The entire Special Olympics contingent will then march in the Daily Parade at 5 p.m.
Fairgoers will be able to learn more about the success of this statewide organization and meet the 2010 Special Olympics Massachusetts National Games Team by visiting their table on the Green which will be manned by staff, athletes and parents from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Special Olympics helps athletes gain confidence and build a positive self image they can take into their daily lives at home, school, work and in the community. This is accomplished through year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of well-coached Olympic-type sports for individuals with intellectual disabilities. They also provide continuing opportunities to develop physical fitness. Through sports training and competition, and the increased exposure to quality healthcare screenings and professionals, individuals with intellectual disabilities are living healthy, vibrant lives by their association with Special Olympics.
Join us for The Big E, Sept. 18-Oct. 4, 2009 in West Springfield, Mass. For more information, visit TheBigE.com or call the Info Line at 413-205-5115.
ABOUT SPECIAL OLYMPICS:
Special Olympics is an international organization that changes lives by promoting understanding, acceptance and inclusion between people with and without intellectual disabilities. Through year-round sports training and athletic competition and other related programming for more than 1.4 million children and adults with intellectual disabilities in more than 150 countries, to include over 11,000 Massachusetts athletes, Special Olympics has created a model community that celebrates people's diverse gifts. Founded in 1968 by Eunice Kennedy Shriver, Special Olympics provides people with intellectual disabilities continuing opportunities to realize their potential, develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage and experience joy and friendship. There is no cost to participate in Special Olympics. Visit Special Olympics Massachusetts online at http://www.specialolympicsma.org.
-30-