Special Olympics Oregon Official Blog Site

Reaching New Heights

2011-11-06T20:22:00.000-08:00

In everycommunity there are those who go above and beyond their call of duty to supportthose in need and provide people with an opportunity to reach new heights. For thepast 30 years, since Chief Richard LaMunyon Founder of the Law EnforcementTorch Run (LETR) and the five other officers who joined him in carrying the firsttorch into the Summer Games in Witchita, Kansas, Law Enforcement officers havebeen the Guardians of the Flame for Special Olympics. But for those notinvolved with LETR, what does that mean?

“As police officers, our job is toprotect and serve, as Guardians of the Flame we protect the athletes. Not onlydo we give but we also receive more than we give.” Carl Dabadie, from the Baton RougePolice Department said.

LETR hasdeveloped into more than an annual run for Special Olympic Summer Games. For themany involved with LETR it represents honor, respect and pride. LETR is the largest grassroots partnershipthat Special Olympics has. With more than 85,000 law enforcement individualsaround the world, they have raised more than $42 million dollars for SpecialOlympics athletes this year and have raised over $400 million since the TorchRun’s inception.

But why doalmost 100,000 officers around the world jump into frigid bodies of water inFebruary, put on aprons and collect tips at local restaurants or even pull150-ton trains?

“We do these things to help makesure Special Olympics athletes around the world have the opportunity toparticipate in sporting events that not only show them how to win at that sportbut how to win at life.” Ann Rakosi, CommunicationSupervisor for Coos County Sheriff’s Office, Oregon said. “This is the best feel good thing I have ever done.”

Almost 1000Law Enforcement officers gathered to attend this year’s LETR International Conference in Calgary, Canada. “Seeingeveryone that is united for a common goal really lends some credibility to yourmission.” Police Officer Mark Wiesemann, of the Lee’s Summit, MissouriPolice Department said. “This is a majorsupport system and we are doing things here that will allow us to grow ourprogram (LETR) throughout the world.”

This year’sLETR International Conference highlighted LETR programs around the globe,showcased how much money was raised for local programs, honored law enforcementheroes and heard first hand from athletes why Special Olympics has enrichedtheir lives for them and their family.

“To know there are people supportingus and inspiring us, it is truly remarkable. We, the athletes, are alwaysfighting to know there are people supporting us and trying to integrate us intowhat they do. I want to thank LETR from the bottom of my heart for all they dofor us” MathewWilliams, Special Olympics British Columbia athlete and Sargent Shriver GlobalMessenger said.

“Just cometo one event. First 15 minutes you are there, it will change your life andthere is no going back” Rakosi says. “I have been doing this for 6 years and Iwill do this as long as I can push my walker around when I am 100.”

Learn more about how to get involved with LETRin your area
Learn more about Special Olympics Oregon
See the photos from the LETR InternationalConference in Calgary

2011 Project Unify Oregon Youth Leadership Summit

2011-10-27T15:00:00.000-07:00

BEAVERTON, OR –On a beautiful October day change was in the air both outside and inside the Tiger Woods Center at NIKE World Headquarters. More than 400 high school and middle school students representing 10 Oregon schools gathered for the 2011 Youth Leadership Summit to share ideas and enthusiasm about Project UNIFY Oregon.

Guest speakers, inspirational videos, raffle prizes, and even a text-messaging opportunity to win an I-Pod made it an exciting and inspirational gathering of student leaders.
“We have 10 percent of our student body here today,” said Laurie Kash, special education director of Rainier High School. Rainier senior Angela Posch and junior Shaylyn Kinman, described the Project UNIFY Oregon activities at their school, including a unified P.E. class, an “R Word” assembly held last year, and after-school sports such as bocce ball. Their classmate Stanley Stimson was enjoying the activities: “I’m doing good,” he said.
Students and teachers from six schools comprised a school panel that shared their different Project UNIFY Oregon activities, including Forest Grove High School’s Youth Rally, how McMinnville High School raised $1,700 from the play “It’s Our School, Too!” and Sherwood High School’s Breaking Down the Walls campaign and Lunch Bunch, described by one student as “a mix-it-up kind of thing.”
“Last year, I participated in Polar Plunge,” said a panel member from Stayton High School. “The water was freezing, but I knew that once I stepped into the water I was supporting something that I was passionate about. I have personally witnessed in our school hallways other students stopping from using the R Word.”
Chris Crawford, National Sales Director for Team at Nike, shared his insights on working through challenges and how the Nike culture promotes acceptance and inclusion.
Bill and Peggy Self of Portland told of their son Brendon’s athletic achievements through his participation at Grant High School and Special Olympics. Brendon proudly wore his varsity letter jacket from Grant. Brendon, who also is an Eagle Scout, together with his family has raised funds to support a special-needs school in Kenya called the Ndohivyo Project.
Melissa Bowerman, who is the daughter-in-law of Nike co-founder Bill Bowerman, volunteers with her husband, Jon, as the track-and-field coach for the Condon-Wheeler track team. Two years ago, when their son wanted to run track for Condon-Wheeler, the Bowermans discovered that there was no equipment, no uniforms, no transportation…and no track. A Nike connection helped their team get all of the uniforms they needed, and now, “Over half of our students go out for track, and they’re the cool kids.”
Melissa shared her own story about achieving national and world-champion archery medals, and how she worked through obstacles to achieve her dream.
“A lot of people go to a lot of trouble to inspire you, but nobody tells you what do next. I’m going to give you the secret formula on how to get what you want.” She then encouraged the students to write down their plans: “It’s a contract with yourself, and it’s real important.”
Emely Garcia and Bianca Maldonado of Southridge High School were attending the conference for the first year. They were part of a group of 25 students seeking ideas to start Project UNIFY Oregon activities. “At our school people are stuck into dances, and we want to do something better,” said Emely, explaining that special-needs students are not included in activities or lunchtime groups at Southridge. The girls plan to take ideas from the conference, especially Polar Plunge, to their leadership class.
“It was fantastic,” said Matt Parish, special education teacher from Sutherlin High School, who was part of a group of 24 students and teachers. “We have a lot of new students in our Partners Club, and this was a very well-organized day.”

Check out all the PHOTOS on our FACEBOOK page.

2011 Governors' Gold Awards

2011-10-13T16:30:00.000-07:00

This year, the Governors of Oregon – Governor Kitzhaber, Governor Kulongoski, Governor Roberts and Governor Atiyeh – gathered together to host a very special event: The Governors’ Gold Awards, presented by Aequitas Capital Management. With an audience of nearly 1,000 corporate and civic leaders, the annual, high profile, corporate and community, invitation-only dinner event provided a unique opportunity for the Governors to pay tribute to individuals, companies, organizations, and communities that have contributed to the greatness of Oregon. Presented in partnership with and as a benefit for Special Olympics Oregon, the evening was always an inspirational experience.

Learn more about this year's awardees http://www.governorsgoldawards.com/
See all the photos from this year's Governors' Gold Awards

Congratulations to Special Olympics Oregon Coach, Doug Trice

2011-09-26T11:36:00.000-07:00

Special Olympics Oregon is pleased to announce that Doug Trice is a recipient of this year’s NRTA With Our Youth! Excellence Award. Award recipients were chosen for outstanding service to youth in the state, local and individual categories by an independent selection panel. Mr. Trice received one of three Excellence Awards in the individual category.

Doug Trice developed a year-round athletic program for youth with intellectual disabilities used at local, state and national levels. Even while holding a full-time job, Doug volunteers more than 25 hours per month overseeing 15 adult volunteers and 50 athletes. Some of his tasks include overseeing certification of personnel, conducting leader orientations and training sessions, recruiting volunteers and coaching. In addition, he personally donated $5,000 and has raised $8,000 for the program through various fundraisers.

About the NRTA With Our Youth! Program

The NRTA With Our Youth! Program is committed to learning, voluntary service and civic participation. For the first three years of the program, NTRA made a pledge to serve 1.5 million youth in 2,000 communities with a total of 45 million service hours through its affiliated state retired educators associations (REAs). The goal was met and exceeded.

About NRTA

Founded in 1947 by retired educator Dr. Ethel Percy Andrus, NRTA: AARP’s Educator Community is a division of AARP. NRTA is the largest national organization that represents the interests of 50+ educators, with a membership of more than one-million active and retired higher-ed and K-12 educators and school personnel at the local, state and national level. NRTA members are dedicated to continuous educational opportunity, advocacy, and service as a means of safeguarding the economic security, work opportunities, and future well-being of all generations. Visit NRTA’s Website at www.aarp.org/nrta for more information.

About AARP

AARP is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization with a membership that helps people 50+ have independence choice and control in ways that are beneficial and affordable to them and society as a whole. AARP does not endorse candidates for public office or make contributions to either political campaigns or candidates. AARP has offices throughout North and South America. AARP Foundation is an affiliated charity that provides security, protection and empowerment to older persons in need with support from thousands of volunteers, donors, and sponsors.

OREGON TO CELEBRATE EKS DAY

2011-09-20T14:09:00.000-07:00

Eunice Kennedy Shriver, founder of Special Olympics, to be remembered with a day of sports and inclusion

Portland, OR – On Saturday, September 24, 2011, the whole state of Oregon will participate in EKS Day, a worldwide celebration in memory of Eunice Kennedy Shriver, founder of the Special Olympics movement and a leading international advocate for the rights of people with intellectual disabilities. EKS Day is a global call challenging everyone to “Play Unified to Live Unified” because Mrs. Shriver taught us that on the playing field, we forget about our differences and recognize our mutual humanity. Across the globe, people are demonstrating Eunice Kennedy Shriver’s enduring vision by calling upon athletes, families and friends to come together in a day of inclusive sport and play.

In proclaiming EKS Day throughout the world Timothy Shriver, CEO and President of Special Olympics said, “Today, on the second annual global Eunice Kennedy Shriver Day, our movement comes together on playing fields all around the world and we invite everyone to join in by playing unified. Just as my mother tackled injustice with sport, community and friendship, so too are we using these tools to spread a powerful message about the dignity that belongs to every person, regardless of her or his ability.”

EKS Day will be celebrated with a number of sports-related activities involving both people with and without intellectual disabilities, including:
For more information, visit http://www.eksday.org/ or http://www.soor.org/.

Eat at Applebee's and Support Special Olympics Oregon

2011-09-12T10:37:00.000-07:00

OREGON – On Thursday, September 22nd, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., local law enforcement officers and department personnel will trade in their handcuffs and badges for aprons and menus to earn tips at all Oregon Applebee’s Restaurants for Special Olympics Oregon (SOOR). During the event, law enforcement personnel will act as “Celebrity Waiters” collecting tips from restaurant guests. The goal of this year’s “Tip-A-Cop” fundraising event is $30,000.

“Tip-A-Cop” is an official Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) fundraising event. The Oregon LETR Campaign is a series of special events and torch relay runs organized by off duty law enforcement representatives to raise money and public awareness for Special Olympics and has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars each year for local Special Olympics athletes. Over 1,000 individuals including, chiefs, sheriffs, officers, sheriffs, deputies, agents and other law enforcement personnel from virtually every branch of federal, state, county and municipal law enforcement, representing over 80 different agencies participate.

“On behalf of Special Olympics Oregon, we would like to thank local law enforcement and Applebee’s for their great support,” said Margie Hunt, CEO of Special Olympics Oregon. “Efforts like these make it possible for us to continue to provide our athletes with high-quality sports training programs and competition at no cost to them or their families.”This year’s “Tip-A-Cop” event will take place at 21 Applebee’s locations in Oregon. To find the location nearest to you, visit http://www.applebees.com/. For more information on the “Tip-A-Cop” event please visit the Special Olympics Oregon website at http://www.soor.org/.

Portland2Portland, a Coast to Coast Ride for Special Olympics Oregon

2011-09-09T14:29:00.000-07:00

Last summer I rode my bicycle from Canada to Manzanita Oregon, only 400 miles but my longest ride to date. Soon thereafter, I began thinking about riding from coast to coast. I was intrigued by the challenge and the adventure of such a ride. With that in mind I began serious training--riding every day—coastal rain, sleet, hail, and occasional sun.

By late winter I finally made the fateful decision to make the ride from Portland Oregon to Portland Maine. My first step was to find someone to make the ride with me. I asked everyone I know and many whom I didn’t know if they would like to make the trip with me. The common response was “Sounds great, but no thank you,” or, similar words. Early in the spring; a friend of many years, Dave Moss, offered to drive as support. (Commonly called SAG—short for “support and gear”) Quickly I accepted and the planning began.

Question #1: Can we use the trip to raise money for an important cause? Answer: Let’s approach Special Olympics Oregon.

With the help of Kelly Coates of Special Olympics Oregon, we put together a fund raising site, and a blog site to document the trip. Next we selected a route, planned a schedule, a fundraising strategy and literature. I decided to cycle the “northern tier states” essentially following US Route 2. After riding up the Columbia River Gorge and a stop in the sumptuous wine region of Walla Walla, Washington, I joined Route 2 in Spokane and traversed the Idaho panhandle, then across the Rocky Mountains at Glacier National Park. After the grueling climb, things improved as I rode downhill and across the vast Great Plains of Montana and North Dakota, through Minnesota and Wisconsin, and into the Northern Peninsula of Michigan.

Route 2 takes a hiatus for a bit, so I crossed into Canada at Sault Ste. Marie, re-emerging at the northern tip of Lake Champlain. There I rejoined Route 2 in time to struggle with the Green Mountains of Vermont and the White Mountains of New Hampshire before the final segment to the Atlantic coast at Portland, Maine, 3400 miles from the starting point. Dave created a great informational brochure and we put together of all our camping equipment, maps, schedules, supplies, etc. Dave also contacted every small-town media source hoping that we could get some news coverage about our trip and Special Olympics.

Up front I want to recognize a special someone in my life who has a lot to do with this long ride and my commitment to raise as much money as possible for the Special Olympics organization. This special person is known as Lauren. I met Lauren a few years ago and immediately we became friends. Lauren is a niece of a close friend and a Special Olympian from Nebraska. Lauren has been an inspiration to me from the very beginning and is a constant reminder to me that there is nothing that I can’t take on. I may not succeed, but the most important thing is an attitude of the possible.

As Special Olympic Oregon Athletes would say, “Let me win, but if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt.” This trip has been ripe with exposure and experiences regarding the people who work with the Olympians, others who support the Special Olympics activities; and, most importantly, the athletes themselves. Long before I even thought of the long bike ride, I had an opportunity to watch Lauren compete in a Nebraskan Special Olympics equestrian event. Lauren walked with pride as she shared her medals and awards. I walked away with a commitment to do whatever I can to further the efforts of the Special Olympics organization. I find it difficult to express in writing how personally satisfying and rewarding this ride became. Over and over people gave of themselves to make this trip successful, growth provoking, and life affirming.

People, now new friends, opened their homes to us for a comfortable night’s sleep, fine food, and wonderful conversation. Almost on a daily basis people donated what they could to the Special Olympics. The donations ranged from the teenager who gave all of the change he had in his pocket, to the custodian working at a middle school on an Indian reservation in Montana who gave every dollar he had in his wallet, to the couple who I met having stopped to asked directions--they donated $100. Nearly everyone we met had a story to tell of a family member, a relative, a friend, or a neighbor with special needs. Many, probably most, would talk about how important the Special Olympics organization and activities are to those who are involved. Dave’s effort to contact media sources paid dividends in the form of news articles as we crossed the country. Reporters would meet us for brief interviews on our schedule. For instance, Darlene Sawyer in Bagley Minnesota offered us breakfast at the local café. Unbeknownst by us she had invited a group of Special Olympians to join us. They all arrived with medals around their necks from a recent competition. One among them was a man of 75 who was proud that he also rode a bicycle and was “in the Hall of Fame in Washington.”

That is just one of the many examples of how Special Olympics’ events cause people, of all ages, to walk proud. These Special Olympians had taken a break from their work at the local thrift store. Their stories caused me to realize in a very personal way how important it is that we each have an opportunity to be engaged in productive and beneficial work. I quickly reflected on how I felt when I as a 5th grader delivering newspapers, as a high school student pumping gas, as a college student working as a school custodian, as beginning teacher, and as a founder and executive director of a large not-for-profit education firm; and now, once again, as a humble potter on the Oregon coast. We all deserve the opportunity to walk proud having contributed in the form of productive effort. Another high point in the trip was an opportunity to meet numerous Special Olympians in Traverse City Michigan. Again the result of Dave’s pre-ride efforts, the Special Olympics Organization in Michigan arranged for me to ride in the National Cherry Festival Parade in Traverse City.

I rode my bike, Dave drove the decorated truck, and we were followed by 35+ Special Olympians who rode bikes or walked. The day before the parade, a middle-aged lady talked with great pride that she was going to be in the parade. As we passed thousands of people on the parade route, people applauded the Special Olympians. To a person they walked or rode with pride and smiles on their faces. To this day, they talk about their experience in the parade. The organizers had also arranged for me to be interviewed live in studio for radio and TV news (not my favorite thing to do). However, it created more visibility for Special Olympics’ events and efforts. Memories of this adventure will be with me for the rest of my life. Prior to leaving Portland Oregon I was looking forward to the adventure, the challenge, and the opportunity to contribute in a small way to the future success of the Special Olympics.

Never did I imagine how enriching our association with Special Olympics Atheltes would be for Dave and me. In retrospect, it is clear that the Special Olympians and the numerous people associated with them have influenced and enriched my life to a much greater degree than I could ever hope to influence theirs. Much was shared through the blog about our wonderful experiences---the people we met top the list of wonders. However, not enough had been shared about the quality, integrity, and dedication of my friend, Dave Moss. His commitment and effort associated with my success has been there at every turn. All I needed to do was ride my bike. Dave was constantly looking out for my well being. When road or weather conditions were bad, he was always near by. When it was time for nourishment, I knew that he was just up the road a bit ready with either a small café or a picnic lunch under a shade tree or off the tail gate of the truck. At the end of the day he would ride ahead in search of camp sites or motels when weather was at its worst. If we were camping; he would prepare, hot well-balanced, and tasty dinners.

The wine was often open and breathing before I had completed erecting my tent. Each breakfast was preceded by a cup of French press coffee. On the days that required that I be on the road particularly early, he would break camp and follow me after the tents were dry and stored. There is no way that I can adequately express my appreciation for his support on this trek across country. Other cyclists were envious of my SAG driver.

Zero Waste at The Bite of Oregon

2011-08-23T07:45:00.001-07:00

Recology coordinated the sustainability component of this year’s Bite of Oregon on August 12th, 13th and 14th of this year.

This year we are happy to announce because of Recology’s efforts The 2011 Bite of Oregon was a zero waste event. 99% of the materials discarded over the three day period were diverted from going to a landfill. Last year’s diversion rate was 81%, which is not bad at all. Achieving 99% diversion is more impressive though because this year’s Bite had close to 40,000 visitors from both near and far.

What does a zero waste success mean?

It means only 260 pounds of true waste were generated and sent to a landfill. Among those materials were soiled shrink wrap, soiled aluminum foil, wrappers, non-compostable packaging and baby diapers. It means the event was clean from start to finish, facilitated by great communication, education and effort.
It means that beyond the 99% diversion, over 1,200 people took the Recology pledge to reduce, reuse, recycle and Recologize™! There are now 1,200 more people who understand what we mean by WASTE ZERO.

Thank you Recology, and all those who helped in sorting through waste, for making this year’s Bite of Oregon truly sustainable. If you’re in the Portland area, get in touch with Recology by visiting their website.

Check out photos from this year's Bite of Oregon on our Facebook page.

The Bite of Oregon Kicks-off Year 28 with Momentum

2011-08-12T06:51:00.000-07:00

Oregon’s top culinary showcase, the Bite of Oregon - now in its 28th year, follows a successful 2010 with a new 2011 presenting sponsor – Amica Insurance. An expected gathering of nearly 50,000 foodies, Oregon wine, and Oregon craft beer lovers will descend on Portland’s Waterfront Park August 12th through 14th to experience some of the best that Oregon has to offer.

The 2011 Bite promises to build on the popular new additions that debuted at last summer’s event: the Oregon Dessert Pavilion presented by Boyds Coffee, Portland Food Cart Cuisine, the Gerry Frank’s Oregon Chef’s Table presented by The Oregonian and the U.S. Bank’s Kids’ Faire. Important mainstay features return including the very popular Iron Chef Oregon competitions presented by NW Natural, the expanded Sysco’s Oregon Chef Stage, the popular Oregon Craft Beer Gardens featuring greater selection, continuous music and entertainment, and one of the largest Oregon wine tastings in the state taking place in the MIX Wine Pavilion.

“Special Olympics Oregon welcomes Amica Insurance to our family of Bite sponsorship partners,” Bite of Oregon, General Manager, Patty Brandts stated recently. “Amica Insurance was a great addition to the Bite in 2010 and we
welcome them to the Bite in 2011 and are thrilled to have them as our presenting sponsor.”

Debuting in 2011 is a brand new area called Sustainable Oregon, presented by Recology Portland, which will feature some of the state’s best “green” options. Oregon is knows as one of the top U.S. “green” cities in America.

The Bite of Oregon, burst onto the Portland event scene in 1984, and has introduced hundreds of the latest dishes from new and well-known restaurants, helped establish the popularity of the Oregon wine industry, and, most importantly, has raised needed dollars for Special Olympics Oregon. This year, Special Olympics Oregon encourages food, beverage and fun lovers to come and enjoy this always-improving Oregon summer tradition!

What: 28th Annual Bite of Oregon presented by Amica Insurance

When: August 12 – 14, 2011
- FRI, Aug 12, 2011 – 11am-10pm
- SAT, Aug 13, 2011 – 11am-10pm
- SUN, Aug 14, 2011 – 10am-8pm

Where: Tom McCall Waterfront Park: Portland, Oregon

Who: Oregon Restaurants and featured Chefs, over 120 menu Items,
over 25 Oregon wineries, celebrity chefs, over 30 flavors of
Oregon craft beer, 2 entertainment stages, Iron Chef Oregon
Competitions, Oregon Chef’s Stage, Oregon’s Chef Table, Dessert
Pavilion, Portland Food Cart Cuisine, and much more.

Why: Benefits Special Olympics Oregon

Check out The Bite of Oregon's Facebook for deals and giveaways that will be posted throughout the weekend

About Amica
Amica Mutual Insurance Company, the nation's oldest mutual insurer of automobiles, was founded in 1907. The company, with corporate headquarters in Lincoln, RI, is a national writer of automobile, homeowners, marine and personal umbrella liability insurance. Life coverage is available through Amica Life Insurance Company, a wholly owned subsidiary. Amica employs more than 3,200 people in 40 offices across the country.

Do You Want to Meet Michelle Kwan?

2011-08-05T16:35:00.000-07:00

WHEN: Tuesday, August 9, 2011 at 10:30 a.m.

WHERE: Portland Airport Red Robin restaurant
10005 NE Cascades Pkwy.
Portland, Ore. 97220

WHO: World-renowned figure skater, Member of the Special Olympics International Board of Directors and Coca-Cola Special Olympics Ambassador, Michelle Kwan; Special Olympics Oregon board chair Kerry Tymchuk along with Special Olympics representatives and athletes; local law enforcement; The Coca-Cola Company; and Red Robin Gourmet Burgers, Inc. (Red Robin)

WHAT: Michelle Kwan will present a check in the amount of $744,615 to Special Olympics on behalf of Red Robin Gourmet Burgers and The Coca-Cola Company. The funds were raised through in-restaurant fundraisers where 50 cents from every pairing of a Red Robin burger and Coca-Cola product sold at Red Robin benefitted Special Olympics, as well as during record-breaking Tip-A-Cop events. Tip-A-Cop is a program where law enforcement across the country trade in their handcuffs and badges to earn tips from Red Robin restaurant guests by filling beverages, and serving guests gourmet burgers and Bottomless® Steak Fries to benefit Special Olympics. Tip-A-Cop is part of the Law Enforcement Torch Run® (LETR) for Special Olympics which is the Movement's largest grass-roots fundraiser and public awareness vehicle, encompassing a variety of events including Torch Runs, Polar Plunge® events and the World's Largest Truck Convoy® fundraisers.

WHY: Red Robin and Coca-Cola have been long time supporters of Special Olympics. Red Robin has been hosting Tip-A-Cop events for more than six years and has donated nearly $2 million to Special Olympics. One of Special Olympics’ longstanding corporate partners, The Coca-Cola Company has been supporting the organization since 1968. This is the first time Red Robin and Coca-Cola have teamed up to support Special Olympics together.

During a special check presentation, Michelle Kwan will present more than $744,000 to Special Olympics International on behalf of Red Robin and Coca-Cola. Special Olympics Oregon Board Chair Kerry Tymchuk will accept the funds on behalf of Special Olympics International.

2011-07-13T08:51:00.000-07:00

My name is Joel Goodwin, and I am a Sergeant with the Corvallis Police Department. I have worked for CPD for about 13 years, and have been involved with the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics the entire time. I found out fairly quickly that it is easy to become involved, and the Athletes I meet as a result are inspiring.

I had the distinct honor of being chosen to represent Oregon law enforcement in the Final Leg of the Law Enforcement Torch Run for the 2011 World Summer Games in Athens, Greece. I was one of just over 100 law enforcement officials from around the world selected for this three week mission of helping to spread the word about the World Games and Special Olympics. We were split into three separate routes to maximize our efforts.

From June 6th through June 27th I was part of a team covering Cyprus and the Greek Isles. All told we made close to 50 presentations during our journey, stopping a cities large and small. It was an incredible experience on many levels; getting to see so much of Greece on our whirlwind tour was just the icing on the cake.

I was impressed with the reception we received from the Greek (and Cypriot) people. No matter where we went, people stopped what they were doing to cheer for us as we carried the Flame of Hope through the streets to various presentation sites. We were warmly welcomed with kind words, applause, dancing, and food. There is no way to replicate the hospitality we received.

Just as significant was the experience of getting to know the other Torch Runners. We had people from all over the world on our route: Ecuador, Poland, Latvia, Australia, Paraguay, Portugal, and of course Greece and the USA. It was impressive to see the worldwide dedication we shared to the Torch Run and Special Olympics. We started the trip as a bus full of strangers, but by the end of our journey we had become a family, building on our common tie to the Law Enforcement Torch Run.

There was one Torch Runner in particular that I was fortunate to have as a room mate. You see, we also had three Special Olympics athletes on our route: Stephanie, Panos, and Adam. Adam and I were room mates for the duration of the trip, and if given the choice I wouldn’t have anyone else to share the adventure with. I will admit I was a little stressed out during the first few days as Adam and I figured each other out, but it was an eye-opening experience to really see how someone with intellectual disabilities overcomes life’s challenges. I was impressed by Adam’s confidence as he spoke to audiences large and small (15 speeches during the trip!). I was proud of Adam’s determination in earning his Associate’s Degree at his local Community College. But most of all I was awestruck by Adam’s attitude. No matter how tired, hungry, sweaty, sunburned, thirsty, or sore he was he maintained a positive demeanor that was fairly contagious. Adam could not be defeated; he is an inspiration to us all.

Make sure to check out all the World Games Photos at our Facebook Page!

Officers to Carry Special Olympics Torch to Newberg

2011-07-08T12:37:00.000-07:00

LETR continues long tradition of igniting Flame of Hope and officially opening Summer State Games

The Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) represents a long-standing tradition within the Special Olympics family. During the week of July 11-16, over 800 law enforcement volunteers (Guardians of the Flame) and Special Olympics Oregon athletes will relay the Flame of Hope to Summer State Games, their destination being the Games Ceremonies at Newberg High School Stadium.

The Final Leg of the Torch Run will take place on Saturday afternoon from McMinnville to Newberg and will arrive at Newberg High School at 5:00 p.m. Then, LETR officials will convene for the final Torch procession. Led by more than 75 law enforcement officers, athletes and their coaches will parade into the Newberg High School stadium for Games Ceremonies at 7:30. At the close of ceremonies, a torch bearer and Special Olympics Oregon athlete will run a final lap around the stadium and light the cauldron.
This year’s Torch Run route includes the following legs:

Troutdale to Newberg – 60 miles
Thursday July 14th:
Troutdale to Milwaukee
Jeff Kaer, Portland Police Bureau jeff.kaer@portlandoregon.gov

Friday July 15th:
Milwaukee to Washington County to Sherwood
PJ Steigleder, Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office paulste2@co.clackamas.or.us
Pat Tapley, Washington County Sheriff’s Office Patrick_tapley@co.washington.or.us

Ashland to Newberg – 270 miles
Monday July 11th:
Ashland area to Roseburg
Ericka Doran, Medford Police Department ericka.doran@cityofmedford.org

Tuesday July 12th:
Roseburg area to Eugene
Matt Bowersox, Oregon State Police- Roseburg matt.bowersox@state.or.us

Wednesday July 13th:
Eugene to Corvallis
Julie Smith, Eugene Police Department julie.a.smith@ci.eugene.or.us

Thursday July 14th:
Corvallis to Jefferson
Joel Goodwin, Corvallis Police Department joel.goodwin@ci.corvallis.or.us
Alan Lynn, Albany Police Department alan.lynn@cityofalbany.net

Friday July 15th:
Jefferson to McMinnville
Erik Douglass, Marion County Sheriff’s Office edouglass@co.marion.or.us
Brian Frazzini, Salem Police Department bfrazzini@cityofsalem.net
Eric Davenport, Oregon State Police eric.davenport@state.or.us
Adam Dean, McMinnville Police Department adam.dean@ci.mcminnville.or.us

Saturday July 16th:
McMinnville to Newberg
Adam Dean, McMinnville Police Department adam.dean@ci.mcminnville.or.us
Gwen Johns, Newberg-Dundee Police Department gwen.johns@newbergoregon.gov
The torch will arrive at Newberg High School at 5:00 PM.

Brookings to Reedsport – 135 miles
Judy Macho, Reedsport Police Department jmacho@cityofreedsport.org

That weekend—July 15, 16 and 17—some 3,000 Special Olympics Oregon athletes, coaches, and other volunteers will converge on the Newberg area to compete for Olympic medals and ribbons in softball, golf, bocce, track and field, and gymnastics. Athletes have been training for a minimum of eight weeks for the State Summer Games, and must have participated in one of many regional competitions to be eligible to compete this weekend. The public is welcome to come out and watch the competition. Admission is free.

During the Games Ceremonies, an LETR member from an Oregon sheriff’s office will receive the 2011 Ken Davis Unsung Hero Award. This year’s winner is Rock Rakosi, Chief of Police in Myrtle Point. Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics is a year-round campaign in which officers support Special Olympics Oregon athletes by running the Torch, attending competitions, participating in medal ceremonies, and raising funds through special events so athletes can participate without fees in the sports offered by Special Olympics. In 2010, the Law Enforcement Torch Run program collected nearly $500,000 for Special Olympics Oregon through events like the Torch Run, Tip-A-Cops and the Polar Plunge.

The Law Enforcement Torch Run began in Wichita, Kansas in 1981. Now a year-round global event, all 50 states and more than 30 foreign countries participate in the Law Enforcement Torch Run relay. In Oregon, more than 1,000 law enforcement personnel from federal, military, state, county and local agencies participate in the Torch Run, Special Olympics Oregon’s largest grassroots fundraising and public awareness program.

Make sure to check out all the Summer State Games Photos on our Facebook Page

2011 Special Olympics Global Youth Activation Summit

2011-06-30T17:02:00.000-07:00

Two of our very own Project UNIFY Oregon youth leaders, Chris Sullivan and Skylar Sharp from Forest Grove High School are attending the 2011 Special Olympics Global Youth Activation Summit in Athens, Greece. Also joining Chris and Skylar from Forest Grove High School is Adaptive PE teacher, Jill Hertel, as well as over 100 other young people with and without intellectual disabilities, representing 30 different countries. These youth are all committed to making a difference in their schools and communities through Special Olympics.

During the Summit, participants are attending youth-led leadership training programs and interactive sports experiences. They are also acting as journalists, reporting on the 2011 Special Olympics World Games and are publishing their stories and photos daily on Special Olympics websites and other social networking sites. The summit will also include a Global Youth Rally that will gather thousands of young people from the Athens, Greece area and around the world for an exciting, motivational, multi-media event to address key issues young people face regarding intellectual disabilities and society.

On Monday, participants at the summit joined Special Olympics Chairman and CEO Tim Shriver at the Hellenic Parliament to interact with Greek government officials and also delivered a proclamation to the President of the Hellenic Parliament, Mr. Philippos Petsalnikos. Following their visit to the Hellenic Parliament, participants took a trip to the Acropolis.

Kayla Harrison: Expect Nothing Short of Greatness!

2011-06-24T10:22:00.000-07:00

Below is the transcript of Kayla Harrison’s speech she delivered at this week’s Breakfast With Champions benefiting Special Olympics Oregon. Kayla is a basketball and volleyball coach for Multnomah County.

It is my privilege and an honor to be here this morning to share my side of the story in the amazing world of Special Olympics Oregon.

If I were asked to give this speech less than six months ago, my words would be heartfelt and passionate but in all honesty, it has always been difficult for me to put into words why I do what I do because I work countless hours and get paid in hugs, not a paycheck.
I’ve always told people that I love what I do and I love my athletes dearly. It’s simple and true. But today I stand here with a newfound perspective on the world and what I do for SOOR. I now have more than a few words to explain why I love my work at Special Olympics.

But let me back up a little bit and explain why I’m standing up here today. My sophomore year of college, I sat in Kelly Coates class completely obliviously to the world of Special Olympics however, it only took two classes of her casually bringing up the need for coaches and I was magically signed up as a volleyball coach.

I went online before ever meeting my athletes and took in as much information as I possibly could because I knew I was entering into unknown territory and as a college student, obviously I thought a Google search would clarify it all. But the one statement or I should say volunteer oath that inspired and continues to inspire me as a coach is "I promise to give the time in my life so that Special Olympics athletes can have the time of their lives. I promise to support Special Olympics not just as an expression of charity, but as a form of respect for my fellow human beings. I promise to spread the word of volunteerism because, in giving, I receive so much more in return."

So with these inspiring words, I was ready to go.

However, when I walked into that gym the first day I was instantly petrified that I was going to do absolutely everything wrong and would quickly be fired.
As a 19 year old, I knew I was walking into a gym full of the individuals that had endeared the butt of countless crude jokes and hateful words, so my plan was to be quiet and stay below the radar and simply observe because I was doubting they would accept an outsider from such an unforgiving society.

But my plans lasted about 4 seconds. I was greeted with hugs and got the 20 questions, including if a boyfriend would be joining me and if not, could we get married. No ring so clearly, they got their answer. The gym was loud and I made it even louder with running drills and scrimmages. Within a 2 hour time period, my life was forever changed and I was hooked.

My job as the Sports Manager of Multnomah County in all honesty, has provided me with an addiction to starbucks and my blackberry but the work I put in pays off not for me but the volunteers and athletes. I love being behind the scenes and getting new volunteers involved as coaches, helping and watching them go through the exact process I did. Hopefully minus a few marriage proposals, but still experiencing that unconditionally love and respect our athletes give and then getting them hooked as a coach

And if you ask any of the athletes on my team you will learn in .5 seconds that they run and train more than any other team, especially if they say bad words or drink soda. But the best pay off for all the hard work is that we get to dance at timeouts during competition and I get to bake really amazing cupcakes for them, their words, not mine. We work hard and progress for 10 weeks to do our absolute best at competition and get those medals placed around their necks.

Which brings me to one of my favorite memories from Special Olympics.
One of the opposing teams my volleyball athletes faced was not evenly matched to our skill level. This team was thrilled to simply serve the ball over the net and to get a pass or two over in a game. My team is full of very talented yet stubborn individuals so I sometimes struggle keeping their attitudes in check when facing a team with lower skill level but one girl that stood 4'11 did the speaking for me.

The coach told me prior to the game that she has never hit the ball over the net, not once. She plays because she simply loves it. With the score at a significant difference, my team served the ball over with grace, not power. The 4'11 volleyball player, whom has never hit the ball over the net, got the serve right to her and she bumped the ball over to our side and the ball hit the ground on our side without anyone touching it.

I've never heard such excitement come out of such a small body. The gym erupted as the game came to an exciting halt as everyone, including my team, hugged her, cheered and watched her body shake and tears fall from under her glasses.
There was not one person in that gym that wasn't fighting back tears or that didn't have chills covering their body.
For five minutes the world belonged to this one Special Olympics athlete.
And this ladies and gentlemen, is the one of the million reasons I absolutely love my job as a coach.

These competitions mean the world to our athletes and volunteers. We train all season and they can’t wait to showcase their abilities and coaches are beyond excited to witness the hard work pay off. Since I have been involved with Special Olympics I have only experienced one competition on the State level. It was so exciting and a great way to end a season. However, we were all devastated when budget cuts prevented the competition from returning. We made do and amped up the regional competitions as much as physically possible but the level of excitement since it was announced that Summer State Games would be returning has blown our normal level of energy out of the water.

Now, as I said in the beginning, my speech would be completely different six months ago and six months ago this is where I probably would end my speech and if you are sitting there thinking… yep you’re right, I promise it’s worth it.

Less than six months ago I suffered a traumatic brain injury and fractured my 7 of my vertebras along with a slew of other injuries when I fell 3 stories. I spent the first week fighting for my life, the first month fighting for a hint of normalcy, the next five adapting to a new life of seizures and memory loss and now I stand here back in the game.

Every single doctor that has met me and read my chart has told me, I should not be alive or even walking, I usually tell them "well, that’s rude" but that’s beside the point.

My world completely changed because my injuries were not visible and were completely affected my cognitive abilities. I appeared the same on the outside because I was lucky enough to not break the money maker, but when I tried to do any sort of normal interaction or simple everyday tasks, my brain simply did not function correctly and I still struggle today.

I now have a disability that some of my athletes are diagnosed with and in one heartbeat my life was left to fate and my perspective on everything I’ve ever thought I knew about Special Olympics changed.

Our athletes struggle to be accepted into our society because of something that is completely out of their control.
They have thoughts, wonderfully, beautiful thoughts that simply cannot be expressed because of misfiring neurons
They are so unbelievably intelligent yet doubted instantly because of their appearance.
They are so talented as athletes but are ridiculed because of their disabilities.

As I experienced first hand with a brain injury, it is a battle within yourself to put on a front as best as you can to appear normal and to not show that you are struggling to keep up with the outside world because as we know, our society is not very forgiving to differences. Any type of disability is not confined to your medical chart, it is emotional, frustrating and can at times be unbearable.
With all my heart and honesty I will tell you our athletes are the most inspiring and amazing people you will ever meet and our my heroes.

This is why the work I do with Special Olympics is the best thing I have ever done. Special Olympics provides a safe haven to everyone with an intellectual disability, we turn no one away and charge them nothing. However, the most important part is that within our community we all understand that the internal and external battles are happening but once you’re in that gym or on the field everything about you is accepted, cheered and embraced.

And we expect and witness nothing short of greatness.

Thank you.
- Kayla

Make sure to check out all the photos from this year’s Breakfast with Champions on our Facebook Page.

SPECIAL OLYMPICS OREGON ATHLETES HEAD TO GREECE

2011-06-17T15:45:00.000-07:00

Oregon Athletes Join 315 Athletes and 125 Coaches From Special Olympics Team USA as They Journey to Greece for the Country’s Largest Sporting Event of the Year

After months of rigorous training and preparation, Special Olympics Oregon athletes are finally on their way to the most spectacular sporting event happening this year - Special Olympics World Summer Games ATHENS 2011. Special Olympics Team USA, comprising 315 athletes as well as 125 coaches, will unite from June 25 – July 4 with 7,000 athletes from nearly 180 nations to compete in these World Games. In addition, this vast event will draw more than 25,000 volunteers, 3,000 event officials and thousands of families, spectators and journalists from every continent.

Six athletes from all over Oregon will join 315 athletes from every state and the District of Columbia and 125 coaches and managers uniting to comprise Special Olympics Team USA. They will all come together in Baltimore, Maryland on June 18 before the entire team departs for Greece that weekend. These World Games will be the milestone event of a long-lasting movement, founded in 1968 by Eunice Kennedy Shriver, to create a world of inclusion and acceptance. In Athens, the birthplace of modern sport, where the true values of competition were born, the talents and skills of Special Olympics athletes will remind us what the World Games are really about, where all participants are winners in their struggle for respect, inclusion and unity.

“Special Olympics World Summer Games are an amazing opportunity for these select athletes and coaches to experience first-hand the worldwide impact of our global movement. We are proud of the dedication, hard work and determination that each of them has displayed. They will do a wonderful job representing the United States, Oregon and their hometowns and will be an inspiration to many on and off the field of play during their time in Greece,” said Margaret Hunt, CEO of Special Olympics Oregon.

The Special Olympics Team USA athletes from Oregon include: Mason Coad, age 16, from Portland (aquatics) ; Christie Clark, 36, from Portland (track & field); Martin Fulcher, 37, from McMinnville (track & field); Mitchell Isham, 43, from McMinnville (bowling); Jillian Smalley, 20, from Hermiston (bowling); and Kevin Zwart, 21, from Salem (aquatics).

There will also be 6 coaches representing the state of Oregon at the 2011 Special Olympics World Games. Pat Church (golf), Paul Harvey (bowling) & Jake Mahon (aquatics) from Eugene, Jill Fummerton (aquatics) from Roseburg, Jill Olson (bocce) from Amity and Doug Trice (track and field) from LaGrande are all coaches from Special Olympics Oregon who will be traveling to Greece this summer.

Make sure to follow, read, see and hear what Oregon athletes and caoches are doing during the World Games at www.Facebook.com/SOORstate (Click on the World Games Photo Album.)

Lovin’ Scoopful Honors Compassionate Youth

2011-06-06T11:39:00.000-07:00

Lovin’s Scoopful Ice Cream announced its new Lovin’ Compassion Award that recognizes young visionaries, ages 8-15 who are involved in Project UNIFY and programs that foster respect, inclusion and a true personal connection for people with differences.

This year’s winner is one of Oregon’s own! Caitlynn Cantrell from McMinnville Oregon. Caitlynn was nominated by school and non-profit staff members based on work with Project UNIFY. After attending a Youth Rally, Caitlynn was so inspired that she went back to her middle school and immediately went to work arranging programs to benefit those with intellectual disabilities.

Caitlynn coordinated adult and youth guest speakers with intellectual disabilities to share their stories to help educate her middle school peers. Students and teachers alike were inspired by her passion and dedication. Alix Wasteney of Special Olympics Oregon said she is a true leader and is dedicated to spreading the message to all of her peers, educators, and family. “She understands the importance of advocating against injustice, neglect, bullying, exclusion, and abuse. I know that this will not be a onetime thing for Caitlynn, but yet a lifetime commitment to fighting for equality, inclusion, and unconditional acceptance for children, youth, and adults with and without intellectual disabilities.”

So many individuals nominated Caitlyn and had beautiful things to say about her. David Holmes, teacher, said “In a world of middle school students who struggle to see or reach beyond themselves, Caitlynn has found meaning in helping others. She has given up electives to reach out to Life-Skills students and make their experience in middles school more meaningful… She has found a way to be compassionate, caring, and confident at the same time. This is a rare quality in a person, much less a teenager.”

Many others lifted Caitlynn up and referred to her as a wonderful young lady with a big heart who is changing the face of middle school. Caitlynn, we are humbled by the work you have accomplished at such a young age. Thank you for all that you’re doing and keep up the great work!

Special Olympics Oregon to Partner with the Portland Timbers

2011-05-17T04:49:00.000-07:00

UPDATE:

Teams exchanged pre-game gifts after an opening ceremony and player introductions.

The SOWA Sounders scored the opening goal after a few minutes of even play. SOOR Timbers then responded with an equalizer before SOWA netted a couple more goals just prior to halftime to take a 3-1 lead. In the second half, the SOWA Sounders took advantage of some great scoring opportunities and were bolstered exceptional goalkeeper play. In the end, the SOOR Timbers applied plenty of pressure but could not close the gap. Final Score: SOWA Sounders 6, SOOR Timbers 2.

After the game, everyone headed to Qwest Field to participate in some exhibition and skills activities inside the stadium gates prior to joining each other in the stands to watch the MLS match between the Portland Timbers and the Seattle Sounders.

Will SOOR be able to defend its home field in July? We will just have to wait and see! Remember The Portland Timbers will be hosting the Special Olympics Sounders on Sunday, July 10th at Jeld-Wen Field– don’t miss the action!

Check out pictures from this event on our Facbook Fan Page now!

Special Olympics Washington and the Seattle Sounders Football Club, as a Global Football partner, have invited Special Olympics Oregon to partner with the Portland Timbers to participate in the Cascadia Championship Series. A ground-breaking series featuring two Special Olympics teams with affiliations to their home state MLS clubs. This match-up is the first game of the home and away series. The Portland Timbers will be hosting the Special Olympics Sounders on Sunday, July 10th at Jeld-Wen Field– don’t miss the action!

The Special Olympics Oregon Unified Sports gold medal winning soccer team from Bend High School will wear the Timbers uniform in Seattle on May 14th. Unified Sports teams are comprised of individuals with intellectual disabilities playing alongside teammates without intellectual disabilities.

“We are so grateful to have a partnership with the Portland Timbers and are excited to be a part of this ground-breaking event,” said Margaret Hunt, CEO of Special Olympics Oregon. “Opportunities like this have such a positive impact on the growth of our soccer program.”

Will you be in Seattle this weekend? If so come out and support Special Olympics Oregon!

Special Olympics Cascadia Championship Series – First Leg
Saturday, May 14th Event Details

COMPETITION
• Start time: 2:30pm, Starfire Soccer Complex
• Game: 5 on 5 Match featuring high school aged Unified Sports 5 aside soccer teams
• Played at the Seattle Sounders FC training grounds at Starfire Soccer Complex
• Admission is FREE

EXHIBITION
• North Parking Lot, Qwest Field
• 5:30pm: Opening Ceremony
• 6:00pm: 3v3 Unified soccer exhibition
• Both teams will also be featured with an on-field recognition ceremony during the course of the MLS match day festivities.
• Exhibition game highlights will be played prior to the match and at half-time, on the field monitor.
• 8:00pm - Both teams will watch the match sitting together in stadium seating.

For more information about Special Olympics Oregon, go to www.soor.org or Facebook.com/SOORstate

Special Olympics Oregon to Partner with the Portland Timbers

2011-05-11T11:58:00.000-07:00

Special Olympics Washington and the Seattle Sounders Football Club, as a Global Football partner, have invited Special Olympics Oregon to partner with the Portland Timbers to participate in the Cascadia Championship Series. A ground-breaking series featuring two Special Olympics teams with affiliations to their home state MLS clubs. This match-up is the first game of the home and away series. The Portland Timbers will be hosting the Special Olympics Sounders on Sunday, July 10th at Jeld-Wen Field– don’t miss the action!

The Special Olympics Oregon Unified Sports gold medal winning soccer team from Bend High School will wear the Timbers uniform in Seattle on May 14th. Unified Sports teams are comprised of individuals with intellectual disabilities playing alongside teammates without intellectual disabilities.

“We are so grateful to have a partnership with the Portland Timbers and are excited to be a part of this ground-breaking event,” said Margaret Hunt, CEO of Special Olympics Oregon. “Opportunities like this have such a positive impact on the growth of our soccer program.”

Will you be in Seattle this weekend? If so come out and support Special Olympics Oregon!

Special Olympics Cascadia Championship Series – First Leg
Saturday, May 14th Event Details

COMPETITION
• Start time: 2:30pm, Starfire Soccer Complex
• Game: 5 on 5 Match featuring high school aged Unified Sports 5 aside soccer teams
• Played at the Seattle Sounders FC training grounds at Starfire Soccer Complex
• Admission is FREE

EXHIBITION
• North Parking Lot, Qwest Field
• 6:15pm Opening Ceremony
• 6:30pm Unified Soccer Exhibition, Fan Fest Area, North Plaza, inside Gates of Qwest Field
• Both teams will also be featured with an on-field recognition ceremony during the course of the MLS match day festivities.
• Exhibition game highlights will be played prior to the match and at half-time, on the field monitor.
• 8:00pm - Both teams will watch the match sitting together in stadium seating.

For more information about Special Olympics Oregon, go to www.soor.org or Facebook.com/SOORstate

Law Enforcement and Krispy Kreme Team Up!

2011-04-28T10:06:00.000-07:00

Krispy Kreme and the Law Enforcement Torch Run® are teaming up for Cops on Doughnut Shops to raise awareness and funds for Special Olympics Oregon and Special Olympics Washington. Officers will take to the roofs of Krispy Kreme retail stores in select locations across the country during the last weekend of April from 6:00 a.m. on Friday, April 29, until 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, May 1.

Cops on Doughnut Shops is taking place at the Beaverton Krispy Kreme at 16415 NW Cornell Road and the Vancouver Krispy Kreme at 8517 NE Andresen Road. The funds are being raised through the Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR), a program of Special Olympics composed of members of the law enforcement community. The Beaverton store will host officers from Oregon Air National Guard, and the Vancouver Krispy Kreme will host volunteers from the Centralia Police Department.

LETR hopes to raise $5,000 during this year’s event. Customers who donate $5 or more to the cause will get a sweet treat from Krispy Kreme. For generous corporations, organizations, or individuals donating $1,000 or more, these Krispy Kreme participating locations will give a complimentary doughnut party.

Cops on Doughnut Shops is a Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) event in which all proceeds benefit Special Olympics Oregon. LETR is Special Olympics’ largest grass-roots fundraiser and public awareness vehicle. The LETR is present in all 50 U.S. states, Canadian provinces and 46 nations around the world. In 2010, the LETR raised more than $38 million for Special Olympics programs around the world and has raised more than $300 million since its inception in 1981.

For more information about Krispy Kreme, visit www.krispykreme.com.
For more information about the LETR, visit www.torchrunoregon.com.

Come out and join us! Let us know you’ll be there at www.Facebook.com/SOORstate

Youth Rally Empowers Oregonians To Help Spread the Word

2011-04-14T13:49:00.000-07:00

Over 500 students from 42 different schools (24 High schools, 14 middle schools and 4 elementary schools) attend this year’s rally. Our goal was to introduce them to Project Unify activities that they could take back to their schools and duplicate and we have already had several students and teachers email us activities that they plan to offer this school year; these are schools who have previously not been involved in any Project Unify or Special Olympics activities.

Highlights from the Rally include:

• Videos produced by high school students (Bend HS and Lake Oswego HS) about their PU activities

• Amelia Abel -Special Olympics athlete who encouraged students to hold school assemblies, share lunch with a student with intellectual disabilities, include students with intellectual disabilities on school committees and take time to get to know students with intellectual disabilities)

• LazD , local Rap artist who has Down Syndrome. He spoke of his new CD and his support for the Spread the Word campaign.

• Jay Dunn spoke of the difference between his life experience and his twin brother Todd. (Todd has Down Syndrome and Jay does not).

• Hannah Kasal, former Sutherlin HS student spoke of how her involvement in PU led her to Western Oregon to pursue a career in Special Education. She also shared how she and Dony Knight (Sutherlin HS SO athlete) have become best of friends through unified sports and other PU activities.

• Students participating in many of the 13 activity booths. These were all PU-related activities that you can replicate at your school as part of an assembly or school rally (poster-making, button-making, tattoos, making a “rally in a box” to share with others, r-word awareness booths etc.)

Check out all the photos and comments from the rally on our Facebook Fan Page and learn how you can get involved with Project Unify.

Safeway's April Promotion Allows For More Oregon Athletes to Compete!

2011-03-31T19:14:00.000-07:00

Special Olympics Oregon is pleased to once again be a beneficiary of Safeway's People with Disabilities fundraising campaign which kicks off on April 1st.

“We’re honored to work with Safeway again and commend its dedication to enhancing the lives of our athletes,” said Special Olympics Oregon CEO Margie Hunt.

For more than 20 years, Safeway has provided financial support and encouraged employees to make a difference in the lives of people with disabilities in communities it serves. Each spring, 1,700+ Safeway U.S. and Canadian stores participate in a point of service fundraising campaign that has generated significant revenue for charities supporting programs and services that provide opportunities for people with disabilities.

"We want to thank our customers and employees that shop and work at 116 store locations in Oregon and SW Washington. Every year, they make our April People with Disabilities campaign a huge success. We are proud to support Special Olympics Oregon, and we thank our own employees for participating and volunteering at the local Special Olympics Games," said Dan Flyod, Safeway's Director of Public Affairs and Government Relations.

The money raised from Safeway’s Campaign will help support this year’s participants in the returning Special Olympics Oregon Summer State Games. More than 2,500 athletes from across the state plus thousands of spectators, coaches and volunteers will converge in Newberg, Oregon July 15-17th.

Safeway's People with Disabilities campaign will run from April 1 – May 1, 2010! Visit Safeway.com for more information. Find out other ways you can get involved and help support nearly 8,000 participants who we, at Special Olympics Oregon, serve every day, every month, every year by visiting soor.org!

Oregon Senate President Peter Courtney: No child should be referred to as 'mentally retarded'

2011-03-31T18:31:00.001-07:00

SALEM, OR — The Oregon Senate unanimously approved a bill today that replaces the words “mental retardation” with the more palatable “intellectual disability" in state statutes.

‘No child in our state should ever be referred to as mentally retarded. We are better than that. Oregon is better than that,” said Senate President Peter Courtney, D-Salem.

Joining him in speaking in favor of Senate Bill 3 were Sen. Chris Edwards, D-Eugene, and Sen. Jason Atkinson, R-Central Point.

“Words matter and the word retarded is not only offensive, but a close-minded label that fails to recognize the differences in those who are disabled,” Edwards said.

SB 3 modifies education statutes to reflect the new term. Children could no longer be labeled as having "mental retardation" in individualized education programs.

Should the Oregon House concur, the bill probably would become known as Katey’s law in honor of Katey Crawford, 16, of Tualatin.

Katey is now a freshman at Tualatin High School. When she was in the first grade, school officials wanted to label her with "mental retardation" in order to allow her special learning services. Katey’s parents balked at the term.They would have felt differently had she been labeled as having "intellectual disabilities," said mom Libby Crawford.

Crawford said today that her daughter is “super-excited” and “very proud” and hopes to see Gov. John Kitzhaber sign the bill into law.

“The term ‘celebutard’ or ‘that was so retarded’ is used much too frequently by others in society. This referral insinuates being stupid, unintelligent and dumb — none of which describes my daughter or any other child with her disability,” she said in written testimony before the education committee.

Letter To The Oregonian on Recent Charity Navigator Rating

2011-03-22T14:40:00.000-07:00

Last week, The Oregonian printed a story on Senate Bill 40 that was accompanied by a textbox reporting the ratings given to many of Oregon’s notable charities by Charity Navigator, a self-appointed, charity watchdog organization. Many well-known and respected Oregon charities, including Special Olympics Oregon, were given a low rating. Sadly, this article dramatically misled The Oregonian’s readers.

The potential donor, like thousands of others who support the 60 organizations listed by Charity Navigator in this article, was a victim of incomplete and, therefore, flawed information. Charity Navigator claims to help donors “find a charity you can trust.” Yet each report includes this caveat (buried in the website): “…we do not recommend using our ratings as the only factor in deciding whether to support a particular organization.” Unfortunately, most donors would accept Charity Navigator’s report as complete and authoritative. This does a profound disservice to both donor and charity.

The source of the problem? The one-dimensional 990 upon which Charity Navigator bases its evaluations. Form 990 is an annual reporting return that most federally tax-exempt organizations must file with the IRS. The 990 essentially provides a snapshot, based on limited data, of an organization’s general financials. However, it does not review an organization’s audited financial report, nor assess scope or quality of service. It simply presumes that, if an organization’s spending is up, services are growing. GuideStar – a much larger charity watchdog than Charity Navigator– says: “[Form 990s] tell us nothing about the ultimate or relative effectiveness of an organization with respect to meeting its objectives.”

The 990 is a particularly misleading evaluation tool for organizations like ours that rely on in-kind products and volunteer support, and organizations that receive endowment or restricted monies. Significantly, it does not account for in-kind support of human services (volunteers), even if it represents direct budget relief. (GAAP properly includes this support in our audited financial report.) Ironically, for Special Olympics Oregon to receive a higher Charity Navigator rating, we would need to pay cash for the $2 million in program support we receive at no cost! Although in-kind services comprise nearly half our program expenses, the 990/Charity Navigator process punishes rather than rewards us for this efficiency.

The 990 only tracks service growth in terms of bankable dollars. Special Olympics could double the number of individuals served in a year, but if we’re not spending a lot more to do so, our Charity Navigator ranking remains low. For this reason and others, I suspect these ratings and the 990 will continue to be controversial. Just consider a few things they don’t tell you about Special Olympics Oregon:
* 73 percent of our dollars in 2010 went to program services; 19 percent to fundraising; and 8 percent to administration.
* Program services for the largest disability population in Oregon grew by17 percent last year.
* Revenue increased by 25% over the last two years.
* Our in-kind support by 18% over the last three years.
* We received accreditation from the Better Business Bureau’s Wise Giving Alliance.

I earnestly encourage all who give so generously to our organization and other Oregon charities to go directly to the audited financials of an organization you wish to support. There, you will find an accurate and transparent, picture of a charity’s financial health, efficiency, and sustainability.

Thank you.

Margaret H. Hunt, CEO
Special Olympics Oregon

Teens to rally April 9 in Portland to support acceptance and inclusion

2011-03-18T10:20:00.001-07:00

On Saturday, April 9, teens from around Oregon will gather at Grant High School in Portland to celebrate inclusion at the Special Olympics Oregon-hosted Youth Rally. The event, 100 percent planned and promoted by Oregon teens, will help “Spread the Word to End the Word” and will educate hundreds of youth about Project UNIFY, the national Special Olympics education and awareness initiative.

Grant High School has been a hotbed of Project UNIFY activity since the Jan. 10 all-school assembly, where students from the high school, along with Special Olympics Oregon staff members and the Self family of Portland made a powerful presentation about Project UNIFY and the R-word campaign. Grant Principal Vivian Orlen took the lead in bringing the Youth Rally to her school.

The Rally, which is free and open to any student or parent of a student, will start at 2 p.m. and end at 5 p.m. A full schedule of activities, presentations and entertainment is being organized. Everyone who attends the Youth Rally will also receive a free ticket to the Nike Hoop Summit basketball tournament that same evening at the Rose Garden in Portland.

For more information, contact Alix Wasteney, Special Olympics Oregon at 503-248-0600 ext 43 or email: projectunify@soor.org

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It's time for Winter Regional Indoor Games

2011-03-04T10:01:00.000-08:00

Nearly 1,200 athletes from across the state will compete in the upcoming Special Olympics Oregon Winter Regional Indoor Games for basketball and powerlifting. Events will be hosted in 3 cities over the next two consecutive weekends. Hundreds of coaches, volunteers and families will join in to support the athletes.

Winter Regional Indoor Games, presented by Les Schwab Tire Centers, kick off on March 5th with a basketball tournament and powerlifting events at Willamalane Center for Recreation and Sports and various Springfield school venues. Regional-level competition will continue with basketball competitions that will take place at Cascade Middle and High School in Turner on Saturday, March 12. The final Regional Basketball competition of the season will take place at Tualatin Hills Parks and Recreation Athletic Center in Beaverton and at Liberty High School in Hillsboro on Sunday, March 13th.

Special thanks to Les Schwab Tire Centers, the official sponsor of the Winter Regional Games and our many other amazing games sponsors including Safeway, Law Enforcement Torch Run, Ralph Hull Foundation, Roth’s Fresh Markets, Key Bank, Bank of America, Jiffy Lube, Day Wireless Systems, Dex and Event Medical Services.

Schedule of events:

Saturday, March 5
•Basketball – Willamalane Center for Recreation and Sports, Springfield Middle School, Thurston MS & HS and Agnes Stewart Middle School in Springfield – 9:30am to 4:30pm
•Powerlifting – Willamalane Center for Recreation and Sports in Springfield – 9:30am to 5pm

Saturday, March 12
•Basketball – Cascade High School & Middle School in Turner – 9:30am to 4pm

Sunday, March 13
•Basketball – Tualatin Hills Parks & Recreation, Terpenning Recreation Complex Athletic Center in Beaverton and Liberty High School in Hillsboro – 9:30am to 4pm

The R-word Campaign | Spread the Word to End the Word

2011-03-02T09:46:00.000-08:00

Please Make Your Pledge For Respect Today!

The basic message of the R-word campaign is that the casual use of the word "retard" or "retarded", while perhaps not intended to denigrate someone with intellectual disabilities, is nonetheless extremely hurtful to those with intellectual disabilities and those who love them. Young people have been the driving force for elimination of this derogatory word. To take the pledge please visit the website listed below. You can also help spread the word via facebook and Twitter.

Links:

R-word website
Facebook
Twitter

Winter Regional Games Kick Off in Bend

2011-02-24T16:45:00.000-08:00

We urge everyone to travel carefully as winter conditions exist.

Beginning Friday evening February 25th through Sunday February 27th, the Bend community will be host to the 2011 Special Olympics Oregon Winter Regional Games Snow Sports presented by Les Schwab Tire Centers.

Expected to attend are more than 180 athletes, hundreds of coaches and volunteers as well as numerous spectators who come out to enjoy the competition and special events happening during the weekend.

Included in the weekend activities for athletes and volunteers are the Saturday evening dinner, ceremonies and dance. There will be two full days of competitions at Mt. Bachelor for Alpine Skiing, Snowboarding, Cross-Country Skiing and Snowshoeing.

Supporting sponsors include Mt. Bachelor, Safeway, Law Enforcement Torch Run, Ralph Hull Foundation, Roth’s Fresh Markets, Key Bank, Bank of America, Jiffy Lube, Day Wireless Systems, Dex and Event Medical Services.

For information about the Winter Games Snow Sports as well as the upcoming Winter Indoor Games being held in March please visit our Winter Games Snow Sports page.

Special Olympics Oregon athlete Eric Thompson honored at 2010 Oregon Sports Awards

2011-01-31T22:17:00.000-08:00

Special Olympics Oregon Coach Emaan Behboodi also recognized

PORTLAND, OR-Eric Thompson, a 24-year-old Special Olympics Oregon athlete from Medford, has been selected as the recipient of the Lou Burge Special Olympics Athlete of the Year Award.

Thompson was honored along with other outstanding Oregon athletes and sports figures such as former Grant HS standout and current NFL star Ndomukong Suh, University of Oregon football coach Chip Kelly and wide array of the state’s best college & high school athletes at the 2010 Oregon Sports Awards on Sunday, January 30, 2011 at Nike World Headquarters.

Upon accepting his award from host Ahmad Rashad— who called presenting the Lou Burge Award his “favorite part of the show every year”— Thompson told the audience about the challenges he has faced and overcome as individual with autism. He explained the impact Special Olympics has had on his life and gave credit to his coaches, teammates and family for his growth and success. His rousing speech earned him a standing ovation and more than a few tears among the 850 people in attendance. During the post-event reception, Eric spent time signing autographs and taking photos with many of his new fans.

The Oregon Sports Awards, hosted by Nike and presented by The Portland Tribune and Comcast Sportsnet, honor top athletes from Oregon at a reception and ceremony in the Tiger Woods Center at the Nike World Headquarters. Past Lou Burge awardees include Meagan Paxton of Gladstone, Kevin Zwart of Salem, Jennifer Hill of Turner, Darrick Yarbrough of Bend, Amelia Abel of Eugene, Rebecca Taylor of Newberg, Jennifer Deras of Portland, Debra McDougald of Portland and John Paul Monroe of Powell Butte.

About Eric Thompson
Eric Thompson lives in Medford. He has participated in basketball, golf, softball, volleyball and track & field in his 10 year Special Olympics career. He has spoken at various Special Olympics Oregon fundraising and board meetings and has competed in several marathons and other community based long distance running events. A 2005 graduate of South Medford HS, Eric earned his Eagle Scout and currently attends classes at Rogue Community College while also working as a mail carrier for the city of Medford. He has never let his diagnosis of autism keep him from tackling new challenges. You can see him compete live at the 2011 Special Olympics Oregon Winter Regional Games Basketball on March 5 in Springfield.

About the Lou Burge Award
The Lou Burge Award goes to the Special Olympics Oregon athlete who has inspired greatness in other athletes, volunteers and the community. Known as “Coach Lou,” Lou Burge touched countless lives through 19 years of service to Special Olympics. He coached track and field, roller skating, softball, basketball and bowling and was a Coach of the Year for Special Olympics Oregon.

Emaan Behboodi – Terry Porter Make it Better Award
Special Olympics Oregon basketball coach and Wilson High School senior football and basketball player, Emaan Behboodi, received the first-ever Terry Porter Make It Better Award at the event. This award goes to the athlete whose contributions in sport and community help local children and their families in the areas of live, learn and play.

Special Olympics Oregon Mourns the Loss of Sargent Shriver

2011-01-19T15:56:00.000-08:00

Washington, D.C. (January 18, 2011) – Robert Sargent Shriver, Jr. died at Suburban Hospital in Bethesda, MD, surrounded by his family. He was 95 years old. Near him at the time of his death were his five children: Robert “Bobby” Sargent Shriver III, Maria Owings Shriver, Timothy Perry Shriver, Mark Kennedy Shriver and Anthony Paul Kennedy Shriver, as well as their spouses and all of his 19 grandchildren.

Husband of 56 years to the late founder of Special Olympics, Eunice Kennedy Shriver, Sargent Shriver was Chairman of the Board Emeritus for Special Olympics and served as president of the Special Olympics Movement from 1984 through 1996 before his son, Timothy P. Shriver took the helm as current Chairman and CEO. Sargent Shriver also served Special Olympics as Chairman of the Board of Directors from 1990 to 2003. As an international lawyer and administrator, ambassador and an advocate for the poor and powerless, Sargent Shriver compiled an unparalleled record of public service at every tier, from the local level to the world community.

“Sargent Shriver was a pioneer for our movement, helping us establish and build programs in the far corners of the globe,” said Special Olympics President and COO Brady Lum. “Today we celebrate the life of a man who saw the athletes of Special Olympics as ambassadors for peace. We honor a man who was able to transform the roots of violence and discrimination against people with intellectual disabilities by promoting Special Olympics throughout the world and we will continue his legacy by providing opportunities for people and communities to unite in harmony through sport.”

Shriver’s greatest legacy to the Special Olympics organization was the establishment of the Sargent Shriver International Global Messengers. These Special Olympics athletes serve four-year terms as spokespeople for the global Special Olympics Movement. This current class of Sargent Shriver International Global Messengers will continue Shriver’s commitment to promoting a spirit of peace and unity across the world.

Sargent Shriver was born November 9, 1915 in Westminster, Maryland. He attended Yale University in 1934 and during college, Shriver was the senior editor of the Yale Daily News. Shriver enrolled in Yale Law School in 1938, receiving his L.L.B. in 1941 and went on to serve five years in active duty in the U.S. Navy during World War II.

In 1953, Shriver married Eunice Kennedy, sister of John F. Kennedy. Shriver’s commitment to public service made him one of the most effective leaders of John F. Kennedy’s New Frontier and Lyndon Johnson’s Great Society in the 1960s. He inspired, directed, or founded numerous social programs and organizations, including Head Start, VISTA, Job Corps, Community Action, Upward Bound, Foster Grandparents, Special Olympics, the National Center on Poverty Law, Legal Services, and the Peace Corps, serving as the program’s first director under President Kennedy. Shriver also ran the War on Poverty during Johnson’s tenure as president. Shriver also served as U.S. ambassador to France from 1968 to 1970.

In 1972, Shriver was nominated by the Democratic Party as a candidate for Vice President with presidential candidate Senator George McGovern in the campaign against President Richard Nixon and Vice President Spiro Agnew. In 197 8, Shriver began the Kennedy Institute of Ethics “Trialogue” between leaders of Christian, Jewish and Muslim religions, the first such forum for discussion since medieval Spain.

Shriver is survived by his five children; and his 19 grandchildren who range in age from one to twenty-three years.

Out of respect for the privacy of the family, no interviews are being granted at this time.

Save Money While Supporting Special Olympics Oregon - P&GbrandSAVER

2010-12-24T11:23:00.000-08:00

P&GbrandSAVER Promotion Coupons out on December 26th

Coupons for a Cause: For 30 years, P&G has been a loyal supporter of Special Olympics, and this year is no exception. It’s almost time for the annual P&GbrandSAVER promotion! On Sunday, December 26, 2010, keep an eye out for your P&GbrandSAVER coupon book in your local newspaper. With more than $94 in savings in each book, you can feel good about purchasing your favorite products, especially when the savings also translate into funds for Special Olympics. For each coupon redeemed, P&G will donate 3 cents to Special Olympics. And there’s no limit! So get your coupon books and help change someone’s life. To find your local newspaper that carries the P&GbrandSAVER coupon book. click here!

Help Us Reach Out to One More Athlete with a Year End Gift

2010-12-11T11:40:00.001-08:00

At Special Olympics Oregon with your help, we are changing the world one individual at a time. One year's involvement in our signature programs forever changes the life of a person with intellectual disabilities (formerly referred to as mental retardation).

For the more than 8,000 participants we serve every day, every month, every year, Special Olympics Oregon is a basic need. And yet, we have more work to do as an estimated 100,000 more Oregonians could benefit from our programs.

By Sponsoring an Athlete, you'll be supporting participation in our life changing programs. A gift of $500 supports participation for one full year or $250 supports participation for one-half year. You can make a gift of any amount you choose which will immediately be put to use here in Oregon to support the athletes.

Please make a year-end gift to Special Olympics Oregon. Help us reach out to many more Oregonians who need our support. You can easily donate online or mail a check to:

Special Olympics Oregon
Attn: Development Department
5901 SW Macadam Ave, Suite 200
Portland OR 97239

Thank you for your generous support and Happy Holidays!

Fall Regional Games to be Held Statewide

2010-10-26T17:00:00.000-07:00

Several communities throughout Oregon will once again host Special Olympics Oregon Fall Regional Games on consecutive weekends in Late October and November 2010. More than 2,000 athletes will compete in one of 10 competitions in seven cities. Hundreds of coaches, volunteers and families will join in to support competitors.

The Fall Regional Games, presented by Les Schwab Tire Centers, officially begins Sunday, October 31st with a bowling competition at Lakeshore Lanes in Albany. Regional competitions continue the following weekend with Corvallis hosting aquatics on Saturday, November 6th and soccer and volleyball on Sunday, November 7th. Mt. Hood Community College in Gresham will also host aquatics on November 7th. November 13th & 14th will conclude the fall season with bowling competitions in Beaverton, Bend, Hermiston, Medford and Portland.

“We are excited to see continued growth in our program – especially significant increases in youth participation. Special Olympics Oregon Games are an opportunity for our athletes to showcase their talents and for communities across the state to demonstrate their continued support,” said Margaret Hunt, Special Olympics Oregon CEO.

Les Schwab Tire Centers is the official sponsor of the Fall Regional Games. Other sponsors who support Fall Regional Games include Safeway, Law Enforcement Torch Run, Ralph Hull Foudation, Walmart, Roth’s Fresh Markets, Jiffy Lube, William G. Gilmore Foundation, Therapeutic Associates Physical Therapy, Event Medical Services, Day Wirelss Systems, Pepsi and Dex.

2010 Special Olympics Oregon Fall Regional Games Schedule

Sunday, October 31
• Bowling – Lakeshore Lanes in Albany – 9:30am to 4pm
Saturday, November 6
• Aquatics – Osborn Aquatic Center in Corvallis - 9:30am to 4pm
Sunday, November 7
• Aquatics – Mt. Hood Community College in Gresham – 9:30am to 4pm
• Soccer – Corvallis High School – 9:30am to 5pm
• Volleyball – Corvallis High School - 9:30am to 4pm
Saturday, November 13
• Bowling – Desert Lanes in Hermiston – 9:30am to 3:30pm
• Bowling – Lava Lanes in Medford – 9:30am to 4pm
• Bowling – Sunset Lanes in Beaverton – 9:30am to 2pm
Sunday, November 14
• Bowling – AMF 20th Century Lanes in Portland – 9:30am to 2pm
• Bowling – Sun Mountain Fun Center in Bend – 9:30am to 3pm

The Amy Roloff Charity Foundation Awards $10,000 to Special Olympics Oregon

2010-09-30T14:23:00.000-07:00

Portland, OR and Los Angeles, CA (September 30, 2010) — Amy Roloff, star of TLC’s hit show “Little People Big World” and celebrated author, and the Amy Roloff Charity Foundation (Tax ID 27-0288736) proudly awarded Special Olympics Oregon $10,000.00 (US) as a beneficiary of their 2nd annual dinner and celebrity charity golf tournament, “Starry Night, Summer’s Day ‘A little help for a BIG WORLD’”.

Attendees and participants at the event were able to hob knob with local and national celebrities while raising needed funds for Special Olympics Oregon and Portland’s Shriners Hospital for Children.

“Special Olympics Oregon is a truly wonderful organization that has done so much for individuals in the Oregon community with intellectual disabilities”, states celebrity charity founder Amy Roloff, “I am thrilled and proud to be able to help Special Olympics Oregon continue their efforts.”

“We are extremely grateful to Amy and her entire team at the Amy Roloff Charity Foundation for this wonderful donation” said Margaret Hunt, CEO of Special Olympics Oregon. “This donation will help us continue to provide opportunities of joy, compassion, inclusion and encouragement through sport for those with intellectual disability in our state.”

About Amy Roloff Charity Foundation
Founded in 2009, by reality television celebrity and celebrated author Amy Roloff (TLC’s “Little People Big World”), the Amy Roloff Charity Foundation serves children, at risk youth, single parents, families and disability groups via fundraising and partnering with other charities in which new opportunities are created through financial assistance, sports activities and education. Fundraising events include Amy Roloff Charity Foundation Celebrity Tee Off Dinner, the Amy Roloff Charity Foundation Celebrity Golf Tournament and Amy Roloff Charity Foundation Royal Caribbean Celebrity Cruise. More information can be found at www.amyroloffcharityfoundation.org

About Special Olympics Oregon
Every Day. Every Month. Every Year. Special Olympics Oregon is serving more than 8,000 participants with intellectual disabilities through participation in Olympic-style sports. Through our signature sports programs, athletes gain self-confidence, social competency and other enhanced skills giving them continuing opportunities to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy, and participate in a sharing of gifts, skills, and friendship with their families, other Special Olympics athletes, and the community. To volunteer, coach, donate or become an athlete visit www.soor.org

Eunice Kennedy Shriver Day' events planned worldwide to honor late Special Olympics founder

2010-09-24T13:22:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, September 25, 2010, the first annual Eunice Kennedy Shriver (EKS) Day will be held around the globe as an annual celebration of her life and a global call to action for people to commit actions of inclusion, acceptance and unity for and with people with intellectual disability. Eunice Kennedy Shriver Day has been created to inspire new fans to experience her legacy and embrace the movement she founded in her backyard. What started as an inclusive sports camp in the early 1960s has blossomed into a worldwide movement transforming lives in over 170 countries.

Eunice Kennedy Shriver, founder of the Special Olympics movement and long-time supporter of Best Buddies, was the leading international advocate for the rights of people with intellectual disabilities. In awarding her the first “Sportsman of the Year Legacy Award,” Sports Illustrated called Eunice "one of those revolutionaries who saw opportunity where others saw barriers, someone who started a movement and changed a world.”

Eunice Kennedy Shriver’s actions helped open the minds of all people to the gifts and talents of individuals with intellectual disabilities. Eunice Kennedy Shriver demonstrated an unrelenting indomitable spirit in action that one person could make a difference and change the world. Her lasting legacy must be our continued commitment to improve and transform the lives of the 200 million people worldwide with intellectual disabilities that still live with diminished opportunities and social disrespect, and are often neglected and hidden away.

On September 25, 2010, Special Olympics and Best Buddies will lead the world in a celebration of the inspiration, impact and indomitable spirit of Eunice Kennedy Shriver.

Please join the athletes of Special Olympics and buddies of Best Buddies, the real heroes of this movement that is unifying communities and expanding opportunities around the world. Help them honor Eunice Kennedy Shriver on September 25th. Become an agent of acceptance and action throughout the world. Embrace the spirit of Eunice Kennedy Shriver Day, and ACT. For more information please visit www.eksday.org

Volunteer Local Program Coordinator, Sue Wallace Honored

2010-09-07T16:41:00.000-07:00

Sue Wallace, Special Olympics Oregon Local Program Coordinator for Multnomah County has been chosen as a 2010 Oregon Governor’s Volunteer Regional Winner in the Outstanding Adult Volunteer (19-54) category. Sue has been a volunteer in this role for the past 7 years.

The Oregon Governor’s Volunteer Awards recognize individuals and organizations for their dedication, commitment and determination in promoting and supporting volunteerism throughout Oregon with the purpose of inspiring individuals to make a positive difference in strengthening of their Oregon communities.

Sue’s nomination for the award came from Special Olympics Oregon Field Director, Kelly Coates who noted in her nomination that when she first met Sue in the Fall of 2006, she was touched and impressed by Sue’s compassion, direction and attentiveness to the Multnomah County Local Program needs. “Sue has an amazing ability to lead the program without micro-managing or being overbearing to the hundreds of volunteers who serve either as coaches or as members of the local program management team”, said Coates.

Sue will be recognized among other Regional and Statewide winners at the Governor’s Volunteer Awards Luncheon at the Salem Conference Center in October. For more information and a list of this year’s winners please visit www.oregonvolunteers.org/events/gva

Amy Roloff Charity Foundation Announces Special Olympics Oregon as a Beneficiary for Annual Dinner & Golf Tournament

2010-08-17T11:16:00.001-07:00

Celebrities Amy Roloff, (TLC’s “Little People Big World”), Jason Kennedy (E! Entertainment’s “E! News”), and Many More August 22-23, 2010 for Celebrity Benefit Event

Portland, OR and Los Angeles, CA (August 12, 2010) — Amy Roloff, star of TLC’s hit show “Little People Big World” and celebrated author, and the Amy Roloff Charity Foundation (Tax ID 27-0288736) proudly announce Special Olympics Oregon as an additional beneficiary to their 2nd annual dinner and celebrity charity golf tournament, “Starry Night, Summer’s Day ‘A little help for a BIG WORLD’”.

Attendees and participants will be able to hob knob with celebrities while raising needed funds for Special Olympics Oregon and Portland’s Shriners Hospital for Children. Those interested in registering for the event as an attendee, sponsor and/or donor can register online. Click here.

“In 2009 I formed the Amy Roloff Charity Foundation”, states celebrity charity founder Amy Roloff, “Special Olympics Oregon is a truly wonderful organization that has done so much for individuals in the Oregon community with intellectual disabilities and I am thrilled to have Special Olympics Oregon join us as a beneficiary of the ARCF’s celebrity dinner and golf event.”

“We are very grateful to have been chosen as one of the beneficiaries of the 2nd Annual Amy Roloff Charity Foundation Dinner and Golf Benefit,” said Margaret Hunt, CEO of Special Olympics Oregon. “Partnerships such as this are an important aspect of charities working together to benefit others including the 8,000 Special Olympics Oregon participants we serve every year.”

About Amy Roloff Charity Foundation
Founded in 2009, by reality television celebrity and celebrated author Amy Roloff (TLC’s “Little People Big World”), the Amy Roloff Charity Foundation serves children, at risk youth, single parents, families and disability groups via fundraising and partnering with other charities in which new opportunities are created through financial assistance, sports activities and education. Fundraising events include Amy Roloff Charity Foundation Celebrity Tee Off Dinner, the Amy Roloff Charity Foundation Celebrity Golf Tournament and Amy Roloff Charity Foundation Royal Caribbean Celebrity Cruise. More information can be found at www.amyroloffcharityfoundation.org

About Special Olympics Oregon
Every Day. Every Month. Every Year. Special Olympics Oregon is serving thousands of individuals with intellectual disabilities through participation in Olympic-style sports. Through our signature sports programs, athletes gain self-confidence, social competency and other enhanced skills giving them continuing opportunities to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy, and participate in a sharing of gifts, skills, and friendship with their families, other Special Olympics athletes, and the community. To volunteer, coach, donate or become an athlete visit www.soor.org

2010 Special Olympics USA National Games Results

2010-07-21T10:22:00.000-07:00

The 2010 Special Olympics National Games have begun! There are several ways to keep in touch with all the action going on in Lincoln, Nebraska.

1. On our Official Special Olympics Oregon Facebook page Joann Stoller, Head of Delegation for Team Oregon is on site at the games sharing news and information. Visit our Facebook page at this link - Special Olympics Oregon on Facebook

2. The Special Olympics 2010 USA National Games website where results are being posted and updated. Click on this link for results -- Special Olympics 2010 National Games Results

3. Right here on our local site where you can find info and additional results for Team Oregon under the Sports section 2010 National Games

Be a fan of Achievement -- Go Team Oregon!

Team Oregon set to compete at USA National Games in Nebraska

2010-07-14T16:43:00.000-07:00

Lincoln, Nebraska —Special Olympics Oregon delegates will participate in the 2nd Special Olympics USA National Games on July 18-23, 2010 in Lincoln, Nebraska. Approximately 3,000 Special Olympics athletes representing all 50 states are expected to compete at the games. The 2010 USA National Games will be one of the largest multi-sporting events taking place in the United States this year.

As part of Team Oregon, Special Olympics Oregon is sending 30 delegates to the 2010 Special Olympics USA National Games. All competitors qualified for selection by first earning a gold medal at a sanctioned Special Olympics Oregon competition in their respective sport during the past year.

Individual Special Olympics Oregon athletes from around the state will compete in aquatics, athletics (track & field) and bowling. In addition, a Unified Sports® 5aside soccer team from Sutherlin High School will represent Team Oregon. Unified Sports is a program that combines approximately equal numbers of Special Olympics athletes (individuals with intellectual disabilities) and partners (individuals without intellectual disabilities) on sports teams for training and competition. In Unified Sports 5aside soccer, three athletes and two partners must be on the field of play at all times. They will compete in a division featuring other youth-aged Unified Sports® teams from around the country. For a complete list of Team Oregon members, please see below.

“Special Olympics Oregon is very proud of the group chosen to represent our state," said Margaret Hunt, Special Olympics Oregon CEO, "As Special Olympics expands its programs to over 150 countries across the globe, programs in the U.S. have continued to grow as well. These National Games are an opportunity for us to celebrate this growth and for our athletes to compete against their peers across the country.”

In addition to 3,000 athletes representing all 50 states, more than 9,000 volunteers, 1,000 coaches and official delegates, and 12,000 family members and friends of athletes are expected to converge on the University of Nebraska campus in Lincoln. Many of the Oregon athletes’ families plan to be in Lincoln for the entire event.

Sports competition for the 2010 Special Olympics USA National Games includes competition in 13 different Olympic-type sports. There will also be spectacular Opening and Closing Ceremonies, health and wellness services, celebrity appearances, and educational symposiums. For more information, please visit http://www.2010specialolympics.org .

Special Olympics Oregon is a year-round program offering training and competition in a variety of Olympic-style sports to thousands of Oregonians with intellectual disabilities aged 8 years and older. In the Special Olympics Oregon program, athletes gain self-confidence, social competency and other enhanced skills, both physical and social. Please visit our web site at www.soor.org for more information.

2010 Special Olympics Oregon – TEAM OREGON
30 Delegates - 17 athletes, 4 unified partners and 6 coaches

Aquatics – 1 coach, 4 athletes
• Coach: Paula Moe, North Powder
• Athletes: Zackary Childers, Eugene; Danielle Pschick, Happy Valley; Margot Sonnenschien, Portland; Johnny Waller, North Bend

Athletics (Track & Field) – 1 coach, 4 athletes
• Coach: Doug Trice, La Grande
• Athletes: Duane Means, Salem; Jeremy Petty, The Dalles; Rebecca Simms, Redmond; Lorna Wynn, Redmond

Bowling - 1 coach, 4 athletes
• Coach: Paul W. Harvey, IV, Eugene
• Athletes: Kayla Clore, Milwaukie; Norman Feigert, Gold Beach; Nick Pearce, Coquille; Denise Reairdon, Oregon City

Unified Sports® Soccer – Sutherlin HS – 3 coaches, 5 athletes, 4 unified partners (hometown is Sutherlin unless noted otherwise)
• Head Coach: Matt Parrish
• Assistant Coaches: Pam Erickson, Jill Fummerton (Roseburg)
• Athletes: Devon Colburn, Garrett Hoppe, Donald Knight, Brittany Thompson (Roseburg), Heather Tooth
• Partners: Lucas Erickson, MacKenna Hainey, Jillian Johnson, Hannah Kasal

Roth's Launches Fourth Annual "Round Up" for Special Olympics Oregon

2010-07-01T13:01:00.000-07:00

[Salem, OR] – Special Olympics Oregon will be the beneficiary of the fourth annual Roth’s Fresh Markets “Round Up” at Roth’s 10 Salem-area grocery stores. This year the Round Up, kicks off on Wednesday, June 30th, and runs through Sunday, July 18.

Again this year, through a special partnership with Roth’s, Kettle Brand Foods will match donations to Special Olympics Oregon from Roth’s customers (up to $10,000). So when a customer decides to “round up” their change at the check stand, Kettle Foods is rounding up to help raise funds too. New Supporting Partners include Papa Murphy's and Regal Cinemas.

The Round Up fundraising promotion offers Roth’s customers the opportunity to “round up” their grocery receipts to the nearest dollar amount donating the difference to Special Olympics Oregon. “Each year our customers show strong support for Special Olympics Oregon in the local communities we serve, said Melinda Roth. “Special Olympics Oregon athletes, volunteers and coaches depend on donations to fund their life-changing sports programs. I know the Salem community will continue to show their support by participating in the Round Up as they have each year since we started the program.”

About Roth’s Fresh Markets
Owned and operated by the Roth family of Salem since 1962, the privately owned, 10-store retail group has been supporting Special Olympics Oregon programs for more than 20 years. Melinda Roth, daughter of company founder Orville Roth, has volunteered as a winter sports coach for Special Olympics Oregon and each year personally spearheads the Roth’s “Round Up” campaign in the company’s stores. Her brother Michael Roth, is President of the company. More information at www.roths.com

About Special Olympics Oregon
Special Olympics Oregon is a year-round program offering Olympic-style sports and athletic competition to athletes with intellectual disabilities. Through Special Olympics, people with intellectual disabilities gain self-confidence, social competency and other enhanced skills, both physical and social. Additional information can be found at www.soor.org.

Officers to Carry Special Olympics Oregon Torch

2010-06-22T17:41:00.000-07:00

Law enforcement personnel from around Oregon team up to bring the Olympic Flame to Special Olympics Oregon Competition

[Portland, OR]– The Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) represents a long-standing tradition within the Special Olympics family. From June 18 through June 26, more than 600 officers from across Oregon will participate in a relay that will bring the Flame of Hope to Special Olympics Oregon Regional Competitions at Mt. Hood Community College. There, the torch will ignite the Special Olympics Oregon Cauldron during Opening Ceremonies.

During the Opening Ceremonies, Sgt. Joel Goodwin of the Corvallis Police Department will receive the 2010 Ken Davis Unsung Hero Award. Goodwin has been immersed in Special Olympics Oregon activities for more than 13 years, starting when he ran in the Torch Run as a cadet and then as an officer for the Corvallis Police Department. Goodwin took his dedication to LETR and Special Olympics to a new level when he volunteered to become the Chair of the LETR Executive Council. The award will be presented by Lt. Dixon Andrews of the Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office who is the 2009 recipient of the Ken Davis Unsung Hero Award.

About Law Enforcement Torch Run:

Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics is a year-round campaign in which officers support Special Olympics Oregon athletes by running the torch, attending competitions, participating in medal ceremonies, and raising funds through special events. The Law Enforcement Torch Run began in Wichita, Kansas in 1981. Now a year-round global event, all 50 states and more than 30 foreign countries participate in the Law Enforcement Torch Run program. In Oregon, more than 600 law enforcement personnel from federal, military, state, county and local agencies participate in the Torch Run, Special Olympics Oregon's largest grassroots fundraising and public awareness program.

About Special Olympics Oregon:

Special Olympics Oregon, founded in 1972, is a statewide organization serving thousands of individuals with intellectual disabilities through participation in Olympic-style sports. Special Olympics offers people with intellectual disabilities the opportunity to participate year-round in safe, supervised athletic competitions at no cost to the athlete. Through our signature sports programs, athletes gain self-confidence, social competency and other enhanced skills, both physical and social. For more information on how to become involved please visit www.soor.org

Schedule of Events

Saturday June 26, 2010

Approximate Schedule at Mt. Hood Community College for the Final Leg:

7:30AM - Final Leg of Torch Run begins at Floyd Light Middle School, 10800 SE Stark, Portland, OR

9:30AM - Opening Ceremonies including presentation of the 2010 Ken Davis Unsung Hero Award, culmination of Torch Run and the lighting of the cauldron

10:00AM - Special Olympics Oregon Regional Athletics Competition (Track and Field)

Ken Davis Unsung Hero Award Announced

2010-06-14T10:53:00.000-07:00

Special Olympics Oregon is happy to announce that Sgt. Joel Goodwin of the Corvallis Police Department is the recipient of the 2010 Ken Davis Unsung Hero Award!

While there were many incredible nominees, Joel was chosen to receive this honor after he was nominated by Dala Johnson of the Lebanon Police Department. In her nomination, Dala remarked that Joel’s values and achievements will be noticeable many years down the road, just as Ken Davis’s were. "Ken would be proud that such a worthy individual and fellow law enforcement officer would be the next unsung hero for Special Olympics Oregon and the Oregon Law Enforcement Torch Run.” said Johnson. Joel currently serves as the Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) Executive Council Chair and is leading Oregon’s LETR efforts this year.

Joel will receive his award on Saturday, June 26 during the Opening Ceremonies of the Special Olympics Oregon Regional Games at Mt. Hood Community College in Gresham. The ceremonies are also where the Torch Run will culminate with the Final Leg. Please consider joining the Final Leg of the Torch Run on Saturday, June 26, 2010

Final Leg Schedule

6:45-7:00am - Staging at Floyd Light Middle School 10800 SE Stark, Portland, OR
7:30am - Run begins (8.8 miles with relief team vans following for breaks)
9:10am - Staging at Mt. Hood Community College for Torch Run to enter Stadium (All runners and motors are welcome. Unfortunately, no cars allowed on the track)
9:30-10:00 - Opening Ceremonies and presentation of the 2010 Ken Davis Unsung Hero Award

We look forward to seeing you all there!

Special Olympics Oregon & Denny's Partnership

2010-06-07T10:32:00.000-07:00

Consumers Can Now Help Support Special Olympics Oregon at Denny’s

Portland, OR – June 1, 2010 – Special Olympics Oregon and Denny’s (NASDAQ: DENN) announced a year-long, national partnership to raise awareness and support for people with intellectual disabilities across the country. Denny’s Gold Medal Program, the first of two national Special Olympics initiatives, provides guests the opportunity to benefit Special Olympics Oregon by purchasing a paper “Gold Medal” for $1 or more. 100% of the funds raised from the Gold Medal Program will help support athletic training and competitions for athletes with intellectual disabilities. Guests can conveniently benefit Special Olympics Oregon by purchasing a paper “Gold Medal” at more than 1,000 Denny’s locations across the country now through July 12, 2010. Additionally, starting August 24th and continuing through summer 2011, Denny’s will donate 10 cents to Special Olympics for every All-American Slam® sold at participating locations.

“We are truly grateful for this wonderful new partnership that will benefit thousands of individuals we serve across Oregon,” said Margaret Hunt, CEO of Special Olympics Oregon. “Corporate Partners like Denny’s make it possible for us to continue our mission of offering our life-changing programs to those in the community who benefit so greatly from them.”

“Our recent partnership with the Special Olympics is consistent with our mission to serve the diverse needs of the many communities we serve across the nation,” stated Nelson Marchioli, CEO and President of Denny’s. “Through our involvement and promotion of this worthwhile campaign, we hope to be able to build awareness for and make a distinctive contribution to an important cause that is all too often overlooked.”

Denny’s guests participating in the Gold Medal Program will receive a special lapel sticker with the slogan: ‘I’m a Fan, I gave today’.

About Special Olympics Oregon
Founded in 1972, Special Olympics Oregon is a year-round program offering Olympic-style sports and athletic competition to athletes with intellectual disabilities. Through Special Olympics, people with intellectual disabilities gain self-confidence, social competency and other enhanced skills, both physical and social. Additional information can be found at www.soor.org.

About Denny’s
Denny’s is one of America’s largest full-service family restaurant chains, with more than 1,500 locations. For more than 50 years, Denny’s has been serving up real breakfast 24/7. Home of the famous Grand Slam® breakfasts, Denny’s provides a variety of flavorful food and beverage choices. For more information on Denny’s, please visit www.dennys.com.

Very Important: Regional Games Weather Updates

2010-06-02T15:46:00.000-07:00

IMPORTANT!
WEATHER-RELATED UPDATES for 2010 SOOR Summer Regional Games competitions around the state:

Due to continued rain and poor field conditions, the BOCCE and SOFTBALL competitions in Eugene scheduled for Saturday, June 5th are both cancelled.
The GOLF competition in Eugene on Saturday, June 5th remains on schedule.
The ATHLETICS (track & field) competition in Milton-Freewater on Saturday, June 5th also remains on schedule.

Please refer back to this site for updates.

SOOR Athletes Compete at College Track Meet

2010-05-24T17:00:00.000-07:00

GRESHAM - Thirteen Special Olympics Oregon athletes from across the state recently competed in exhibition races at the 2010 NAIA Cascade Collegiate Conference Track & Field Championships at Mt. Hood Community College on Saturday, May 15th. Races were held in two events – 100m dash and 400m dash.

“This was a great chance for our athletes to show their abilities and compete in front of some of the best college level track coaches, athletes, and officials in the Pacific Northwest,” said Mark Hanken, SOOR Sr. Vice President of Sports. “We look forward to building a lasting partnership with the Cascade Collegiate Conference and its’ member schools so we can have more of these opportunities in the future.”

Track Meet Race results:

Female 100m Dash
1. Kortni Vaughn, Eugene/Springfield – 16.09 seconds
2. Atheena McClaughry, Baker – 17.36
3. Shana Johnson, Eugene/Springfield – 17.87
4. Meagan Paxton, Clackamas – 18.31
5. Rachelle McClaughry, Baker – 21.76

Male 100m Dash
1. Jeremy Petty, Wasco/Sherman – 14.28
2. Christopher Steen, Jackson – 14.34
3. Kris Latham, Josephine – 14.41
4. Aaron Aarseth, Jackson – 14.54
5. Ross Martin, Jackson – 15.56
6. Michael Ekelman, Jackson – 16.30
7. David Taylor, Jackson – 17.96

Female 400m Dash
1. Meagan Paxton, Clackamas – 1 minute 39.03 seconds
2. Rachelle McClaughry, Baker – 2:55.62

Male 400m Dash
1. Ryan Hopt, Marion – 1:03.66
2. Christopher Steen, Jackson – 1:10.85
3. Kris Latham, Josephine – 1:14.04
4. Aaron Aarseth, Jackson - 1:15.67
5. Michael Ekelman, Jackson – 1:18.78
6. Ross Martin, Jackson – 1:19.06

To learn more about the Cascade Collegiate Conference and the NAIA Champions of Character program go to http://www.cascadeconference.org

2010 Special Olympics USA National Games

2010-05-14T10:02:00.000-07:00

The 2010 Special Olympics U.S.A.. National Summer Games, the second-ever U.S. national Games (first were held in Iowa in 2006), are expected to bring 3,000 Special Olympics athletes from across the United States, as well as more than 1,000 coaches and official delegates, and 9,000 members and friends. Competition and special events will be held at the University of Nebraska and the surrounding area on July 18-23, 2010

The Official 2010 Special Olympics US National Games Web site - http://www.2010specialolympics.org

2010 Special Olympics Oregon – TEAM OREGON

Special Olympics Oregon will be sending a delegation of 31 people (17 Athletes, 5 Unified Partners, 6 coaches and 3 additional staff) to the 2010 Special Olympics USA National Games.

AQUATICS (4 athletes & 1 coach):

* Coach - Paula Moe, Baker
* Female – Margot Sonnenschein, Multnomah
* Female – Danielle Pshick, Clackamas
* Male – Johnny Waller, South Coast
* Male – Zackery Childers, Eugene/Springfield
* Female Alt – Michele Amaral, Josephine
* Female Alt – Robin Cassidy, Marion
* Male Alt – Mark Bryan, Wasco/Sherman

ATHLETICS (4 athletes & 1 coach):

* Coach - Doug Trice, Union
* Female – Rebecca Simms, High Desert
* Female – Lorna Wynn, High Desert
* Male – Jeremy Petty, Hermiston
* Male – Duane Means, Marion
* Female Alt – Stephanie Johnson, Union
* Male Alt – Bruce Muller, South Coast
* Male Alt – Daniel Rooper, Wasco/Sherman

BOWLING (4 athletes & 1 coach):

* Coach - Paul Harvey, Eugene/Springfield
* Female – Kayla Clore, Clackamas
* Female – Denise Reairdon, Clackamas
* Male – Norman Feigert, Curry
* Male – Nick Pearce, South Coast
* Female Alt – Maranda Blueback, Jefferson
* Male Alt – Dustin Contreras, Eugene/Springfield
* Male Alt – Jason Miller, South Coast

UNIFIED SPORTS® SOCCER TEAM

Sutherlin High School (5 athletes, 5 partners & 3 coaches):

* Head Coach – Matt Parrish
* Assistant Coaches – Pam Erickson & Jill Fummerton
* Athletes – Devon Colburn, Garrett Hoppe, Donald Knight,
Brittany Thompson, Heather Tooth
* Unified Partners – Lucas Erickson, MacKenna Hainey, Jillian Johnson,
Hannah Kasal, Nena Twedell

Special Olympics Oregon. Charitable Tax Checkoff. Check it!

2010-02-15T16:24:00.000-08:00

Getting a Tax Refund? CHECK IT! Special Olympics Oregon is on the list of Oregon charities in the shaded Charitable Checkoff Donations box on your state tax forms this year.

Your donation will help inspire greatness in people and communities across Oregon through the transformational power of participating in sports.

Check it for Special Olympics Oregon this year--and tell your friends and family to follow your lead!
www.soor.org/taxcheckoff

Special Olympics Oregon athlete Meagan Paxton honored at Oregon Sports Awards

2010-02-09T15:20:00.000-08:00

See Meagan compete live on March 14 at Winter Regionals Basketball in Beaverton

PORTLAND, OR—Meagan Paxton, a 30-year-old Special Olympics Oregon athlete from Gladstone, has been selected as the 2010 recipient of the Lou Burge Special Olympics Athlete of the Year Award.
Paxton was honored along with other outstanding Oregon athletes like Brandon Roy, NFL first-round draft pick-to be Ndamukong Suh, University of Oregon Football coach Chip Kelly and wide array of the state’s best high school athletes recently at the Oregon Sports Awards at Nike World Headquarters.

Upon accepting her award from host Ahmad Rashad— who called presenting the Lou Burge Award his “favorite part of the show every year”— Paxton told the audience that her proudest moment as a Special Olympics athlete was competing in Nagano, Japan with Team USA in 2005. She gave a rousing speech that got a standing ovation and more than a few tears from the 850 people attendance

The Oregon Sports Awards, presented by The Portland Tribune, Comcast Sportsnet, and Nike, honor top athletes from Oregon at a reception and ceremony in the Tiger Woods Center at the Nike World Headquarters. Past Lou Burge awardees include Kevin Zwart, Jennifer Hill of Turner, Darrick Yarbrough of Bend, Amelia Abel of Eugene, Rebecca Taylor of Newberg, Jennifer Deras of Portland, Debra McDougald of Portland and John Paul Monroe of Powell Butte.

About Meagan Paxton
Meagan Paxton lives in Gladstone and has worked for United Western Grocers for the last 11 years. You can see her compete live in Winter Regionals Basketball on March 14 in Beaverton. She has participated in aquatics, basketball, cross-country skiing, cycling, gymnastics, soccer, softball and tennis in her storied 20-year association with the organization. She has competed as part of the Special Olympics Team USA in four World Games, is a Shriver Greatness Award winner and received Varsity letters as a student at Rex Putnam High School in track and swimming.

About the Lou Burge Award
The Lou Burge Award goes to the Special Olympics Oregon athlete who has inspired greatness in other athletes, volunteers and the community. Known as “Coach Lou,” Lou Burge touched countless lives through 19 years of service to Special Olympics. He coached track and field, roller skating, softball, basketball and bowling and was a Coach of the Year for Special Olympics Oregon.

Get the Persian Rug of Your Dreams for Less & Help Special Olympics Oregon

2010-02-01T17:20:00.000-08:00

Calling all homeowners and potential Super Bowl widows-to-be in need of a high-quality Oriental rug for less than you ever thought possible -- February 4-7, 2010 is your time to act.

What's more, you can help yourself to a once-in-a-lifetime deal and help Special Olympics Oregon at the same time.

9 x 12-foot Persian rugs worth thousands of dollars selling for $350, or less.
Persian runners that ordinarily retail for $800 will sell for $85, or less.
Hundreds more incredible deals to be had.

Net proceeds will be donated to Special Olympics Oregon.

A friend of Special Olympics Oregon, Mr. James Opie, has graciously released a large collection of his Oriental rugs for a complete liquidation sale February 4-7 at the former Kitchen Kaboodle location on the second floor of the building at 535 SW 6th Avenue in downtown Portland.

Mr. Opie guarantees the satisfaction of every customer with a return policy and has also graciously agreed to offer a light buffet and wine at the evening events February 4 and 5.

Get more details on this event, including sale times and parking information, here.

Still Time To Pick up and Redeem Your "Coupons for a Cause" to Benefit Special Olympics Oregon

2009-12-30T14:19:00.000-08:00

All of you on the hunt for post holiday deals....it's not too late to secure your copy of the December 27, 2009, Sunday Oregonian for this special insert with $88 of coupons from Proctor & Gamble. Get your back copy of the paper now by calling The Oregonian at 503.221.8242.

For every P&GbrandSAVER coupon redeemed between now and January 31, 2010, a 3-cent donation will be made to Special Olympics. The more you save, the bigger the impact you have to change a life today.

Thank you for your continued support and Happy New Year from Special Olympics Oregon.

Former Oregon QB Joey Harrington challenges Beavers to ‘Plunge’ in Support of Special Olympics Oregon

2009-12-01T09:21:00.001-08:00

Harrington commits to Polar Plunge Oregon fundraising plunges in Portland & Eugene
Former Oregon Ducks star quarterback Joey Harrington always had a knack for staying cool under pressure. On January 30, 2010 in Portland, and on February 20, 2010 in Eugene, he’s going to be cooler than cool when he takes the plunge for Special Olympics Oregon.

And on the eve of the biggest Civil War game in the rivalry’s 115-year history, Harrington called on his fellow Ducks—friends, teammates, alumni and faculty—to take it to the Beavers off the field as well by creating Polar Plunge teams on behalf of the UofO, their graduating classes, fraternal organizations or whatever makes them proud, and then challenge their Beaver counterparts to do the same during one of five Polar Plunge fundraisers scheduled for 2010 throughout the state this winter.

That includes the same-day Plunge-Off in Eugene and Corvallis on February 20.

“In this rivalry, nobody loses,” Harrington said. “I do believe Duck fans will come out on top in terms of raising funds for Special Olympics Oregon through its Polar Plunge fundraisers, but if not, that’s one Beaver victory I could actually live with.

“Special Olympics Oregon is truly a wonderful organization doing amazing things for families and communities throughout Oregon,” he added. “I urge you to join me in supporting them in this event or in any way you can to help people with intellectual disabilities reach their full potential.”

Harrington joins fellow NFL and northwest star QB Drew Bledsoe (Washington State) as a plunger this year. Bledsoe, a Plunge veteran who lives in Bend, will Plunge that city’s event on February 26.

This year, Polar Plunge Oregon storms these five cities:

Portland – January 30
Medford – February 6
Eugene – February 20
Corvallis – February 20
Bend – February 26

Learn more now at www.plungeoregon.com.

Polar Plunge Oregon is brought to you by Law Enforcement Torch Run. The statewide sponsor for Polar Plunge Oregon is Fred Meyer. This event is possible through vital ongoing support from Lithia, Mattress World, Hooker Creek, Starbucks Coffee Company, OregonLive.com, Sysco, and Harry’s. Other supporters include North Coast Electric and Corvallis Police Officers’ Association. Polar Plunge Oregon media partners are: Portland: Willamette Week, KGW, 101 KUFO, 95.5 The Game, 750 KXL, Freedom 970, KINK 101.9, KUPL 98.7. Medford: Rock 106.3, KISS FM, KMED , The Mail Tribune and KOBI. Eugene and Corvallis: 106.3 KLOO and KOOL 99.1. Bend: The Bulletin, BendBroadband, KOHD and Rock 98.3

Get More Social with Special Olympics Oregon

2009-11-18T13:33:00.000-08:00

It's time to chat...

Join the conversation.
Create one of your own.
Share Special Olympics Oregon news, notes and more with friends and family.

You can do all of this by following us on the official Special Olympics Oregon Twitter page or visit the just-launched Special Olympics Oregon Facebook page to become a fan. You'll receive athlete updates, fundraising and volunteer opportunities, interesting and inspiring stories showcasing abilities and more.

Get inspired and share what inspires you.

Oregon’s Best and Brightest Shine at The 2009 Governors’ Gold Awards

2009-10-30T14:40:00.000-07:00

Ducks and Beavers and Blazers—and Governors—oh my!

The 2009 Governors’ Gold Awards presented by KeyBank were supercharged with excitement this year with sports stars, captains of industry, philanthropy and politics, and other Oregonians of great stature and enthusiasm all shoulder-to-shoulder in support of Special Olympics Oregon.

NBA Hall of Famer Bill Walton, Blazer greats Maurice Lucas, Bobby Gross, Bill Schonely, Harry Glickman; U.S. Senator Ron Wyden, and a fitting tribute to Eunice Kennedy Shriver from her friend, Gert Boyle of Columbia Sportswear, made for a magical evening at the annual gala celebrating greatness in Oregonians.

The 7th Annual Governors' Gold Awards also welcomed a new addition to the event —
The Oregon Experience Auction — to add even a little more spice to this year’s festivities. The auction featured Oregon-based experiences throughout the state that were kindly donated by individuals and companies in Oregon who hold Special Olympics Oregon athletes close to their hearts.

Fueled by The Oregon Experience Auction, a Civil War Football Experience live auction package donated by Reser’s Fine Foods, and timely paddle raises from corporate and individual supporters to get the ball rolling, the event raised $130,000 for Special Olympic Oregon’s year-round and statewide sports programs.

This year’s event celebrated Oregon’s Sesquicentennial by honoring eight extraordinary Oregonians and Oregon companies spanning 133 years of service to our state. Awardees for 2009 were:
• Dave Frohnmayer
• The Standard
• Hoffman Construction Company
• Patricia C. “Patsy” Smullin
• Michael Nelson
• The 1977 Portland Trail Blazers NBA Championship Team
• Powell’s Books
• LAIKA, Inc.

In addition, Governor Victor Atiyeh was honored by his fellow governors, Barbara Roberts, John Kitzhaber and Ted Kulongoski, with a Lifetime Achievement Award.

Shining stars of the night also included the 12 athletes, 4 coaches and 2 Law Enforcement Torch Runners from the Oregon delegation of the U.S.A. Team that represented the state at the 2009 Special Olympics World Winter Games in Idaho. They helped register guests, greet governors and show the audience throughout the night that Special Olympics Oregon and its athletes are focused on abilities.

Other Highlights included:

• The University of Oregon Fighting Duck and Oregon State’s Bennie the Beaver put rivalry aside for the night and fired up the crowd during Mr. Reser’s Civil War Rivalry live auction package
• U.S. Senator Ron Wyden of Oregon made a surprise visit to the podium to speak of the mission of Special Olympics Oregon and called upon all in attendance to join him in supporting the organization and its spirit of inclusion for people of all ages and abilities.

• Bill Walton greeted all comers during the auction and during the night with a smile, kind words, hand shakes and hundreds of personalized photo opps before he took the mike—speaking from his heart about his desire to regrow his Oregon roots and help Special Olympics Oregon and other organizations succeed.

Special thanks for a wonderful evening goes out to The 2009 Governors Gold Awards Sponsors:

KeyBank

The Standard

Aequitas Capital Management

R.B. Pamplin Corporation

Fred Meyer

Nike, Inc.

D.A. Davidson Company

The Portland Business Journal

Les Schwab Tire Centers

Founded in 1972, Special Olympics Oregon serves individuals statewide with intellectual disabilities – the largest disability population in the state that impacts one-in-five Oregon families. We empower our participants and inspire our communities on and off the field. Every Year. Every Month. Every Day.

Governors' Gold honors Blazers, "Big Red" and others Friday night Oct. 16

2009-10-13T12:35:00.000-07:00

NBA Hall of Famer Bill Walton, Blazer greats Maurice Lucas and Bobby Gross, and other special guests will join the Governors at the 2009 Governors’ Gold Awards this Friday, Oct. 16 at the Oregon Convention Center.

The 7th Annual Governors' Gold Awards and its inaugural Oregon Experience Auction will be a star-studded and lively affair this year, starting at 5:30 p.m. on Oct. 16 in The Oregon Ballroom of the Oregon Convention Center.

Even The University of Oregon Fighting Duck and Oregon State’s Bennie the Beaver will put rivalry aside for a night to celebrate statewide greatness – both promising to be on their best behavior. The annual gathering benefiting Special Olympics Oregon takes on even greater significance this year by also representing a snapshot of historical achievement and commitment to our beloved state as we continue to celebrate Oregon’s Sesquicentennial.

Awardees and event participants:

DaveFrohnmayer, President 1994-2009, University of Oregon, former Attorney General

The Standard – J. Greg Ness, President & CEO

Hoffman Construction Company – Wayne Drinkward, President & CEO

Patsy Smullin, Owner & President, California Oregon Broadcasting, Inc.

The 1977 Portland Trail Blazers NBA Championship Team –with special guests Bill Walton, Maurice Lucas, Bobby Gross, Harry Glickman, Bill Schonley

Michael Nelson – Owner, Nelson Real Estate

Powell’s Books – Michael Powell, Owner & President

LAIKA, Inc. – Travis Knight, President & CEO

Event hosts Governor John Kitzhaber, Governor Barbara Roberts, Governor Vic Atiyeh; and a tribute to Eunice Kennedy Shriver by Gert Boyle, Chairman, Columbia Sportswear

Founded in 1972, Special Olympics Oregon serves individuals statewide with intellectual disabilities – the largest disability population in the state that impacts one-in-five Oregon families. We empower our participants and inspire our communities on and off the field. Every Year. Every Month. Every Day.

The 7th Annual Governors’ Gold Awards

2009-09-22T14:53:00.000-07:00

Celebrate Oregon’s 150th Birthday at the Governors’ Gold Awards

Join Oregon’s leaders past and present to celebrate Oregon’s 150th birthday and its pioneering spirit in business, politics and entertainment.

Get a seat or a table at the 7th Annual Governors’ Gold Awards on October 16, 2009 to enjoy dinner, local wine and The Oregon Experience Auction. Bid on an extraordinary array of experiences sure to unearth your inner Oregonian. All proceeds from the dinner and auction benefit Special Olympics Oregon.

For details or the latest news on “Special Guests” or auction items visit www.governorsgoldawards.com.

Discover the mission of Special Olympics Oregon and everything it is doing in your community now!

Governor Ted Kulongoski
Governor John Kitzhaber
Governor Barbara Roberts
and
Governor Victor Atiyeh

…are pleased to announce the 2009 Governors’ Gold Awards recipients:

Dave Frohnmayer
President, Emeritus
University of Oregon
Established 1876

The Standard
J. Greg Ness, President CEO
Established 1906

Hoffman Construction Company
Wayne Drinkward, President and CEO
Established 1922

Patricia C. “Patsy” Smullin
Owner and President, California Oregon Broadcasting, Inc.
Established 1933

The 1977 Portland Trail Blazers
NBA Championship Team
Portland Trail Blazers
Established 1970

Michael Nelson
Owner, Nelson Real Estate, Inc.
Established 1976

Powell’s Books
Michael Powell, Owner and President
Established 1971

LAIKA, Inc.
Travis Knight, President and CEO
Established 2005

Lifetime Achievement Award
Governor Victor Atiyeh (Governor of Oregon, 1979 - 1987)

2009 Shriver Greatness Award
Presented to the Oregon delegation of the 2009 Special Olympics
World Winter Games Team

SPONSORS

Special Olympics Mourns the Loss of Eunice Kennedy Shriver

2009-08-11T08:04:00.000-07:00

HYANNIS, MA (August 11, 2009) - Eunice Kennedy Shriver died early this morning at Cape Cod Hospital in Hyannis, Massachusetts, surrounded by her family. She was 88 years old. Near her at the time of her death were her husband, R. Sargent Shriver; her five children: Robert "Bobby" Sargent ShriverIII, Maria Owings Shriver, Timothy Perry Shriver, Mark Kennedy Shriver and Anthony Paul Kennedy Shriver, as well as their spouses and all of her nineteen grandchildren.

The younger sister of President John Fitzgerald Kennedy,Shriver was the founder and honorary chairperson of Special Olympics, and executive vice president of the Joseph P. Kennedy, Jr. Foundation. She has been a leader in the worldwide movement to improve and to enhance the lives of individuals with intellectual disabilities for more than six decades. Born in Brookline, Massachusetts on July 10th, 1921, she was the fifth of nine children of Joseph P. and Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy. She received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Stanford University along with numerous other honors and awards. In 2006, Pope Benedict XVI bestowed upon her the title of Dame of the papal Order of St. Gregory the Great.

We are tremendously grateful for the extreme outpouring of support and prayer from the public as we honor our beloved founder, said Special Olympics President and COO Brady Lum. Today we celebrate the life of a woman who had the vision to create our movement. It is an enormous loss, but I know we can rest assured that her legacy will live on through her family, friends, and the millions of people around the world who she touched and transformed. In her memory, we will continue to work to bring her powerful vision to life to change the lives of those with intellectual disabilities, their families and communities, using sports as the catalyst for respect, acceptance and inclusion.

Shriver is survived by her husband of 56 years, R. Sargent Shriver Jr.; her five children; and her nineteen grandchildren who range in age from two months to twenty-two years.

Out of respect for the privacy of the family, no interviews are being granted at this time.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made to Special Olympics and Best Buddies . Condolence cards may be sent to Special Olympics headquarters: 1133 19th Street NW, Washington DC, 20036.

Please visit the Eunice Kenndy Shriver Website to share a tribute online.

Tribute areas are also being set up at Special Olympics Headquarters in Washington D.C., The John F. Kennedy Presidential Library & Museum in Boston and the JFK Museum in Hyannis.

Funeral details and other memorial information will be posted at www.eunicekennedyshriver.org as they become available.

LPGA Tickets Help Support Special Olympics Oregon

2009-08-04T15:09:00.000-07:00

Support Special Olympics Oregon with the Safeway Classic’s TICKETS Fore CHARITY™ program. Participating organizations will keep 100% of the money raised from the sale of tickets. Together with your help, we are looking for new growth in our impact on the community by improving the quality of life for children in Oregon.

Founded in 1972, Tournament Golf Foundation (TGF) is a non-profit organization managed by a volunteer Board of Directors and six full-time paid staff. TGF brought the LPGA Tour to Portland in 1972 and has been the managing organizer of the Safeway Classic since then. In its 38 year history, the tournament has generated more than $13 million for local Portland charities. The 2008 Safeway Classic donated $1,000,000; the third straight year of one-million dollars or more. TGF donates the net proceeds of the tournament to The Safeway Foundation for distribution to select charities in the community.

Download our informational PDF or go to the Safeway Classic website to purchase tickets.

Special Olympics Oregon honors Summer Games Athlete Pride in Performance winner

2009-08-01T10:47:00.000-07:00

[Warrenton] – Leroy Palmrose [pictured far left], a long-time athlete with the Special Olympics Oregon - Clatsop County local program, has been named the 2009 Summer Games recipient of the Les Schwab Tire Centers Pride in Performance award for outstanding athletes. Leroy was presented with his award by John McCall, store manager of the Warrenton Les Schwab Tire Center on Tuesday, July 28, 2009. Leroy’s coach, Randy Anderson, a key volunteer with the Special Olympics Oregon - Clatsop County local program, proudly stood by his side when he accepted the award.

Leroy has been an athlete with the Clatsop County local program for more than twenty years. He does athletics (track and field) in the Summer season and plays basketball during the Winter season. According to Karen Cly, one of Leroy’s coaches, “Leroy always puts in 150%. He helps out his opponents with encouragement and always thanks the officials.” Through his participation in Special Olympics Oregon, Leroy has grown as an athlete and as a person. As Karen says, “He went from a shy and standoff-ish person to an outgoing person who is willing to do anything.” In addition, his participation has made him a better member of the community. According to Karen, he holds a job and is always on time.

The Les Schwab Tire Centers Pride in Performance awards are named for Les Schwab Tire Centers, the Official Sponsor of Special Olympics Oregon. Two winners—an athlete and a volunteer—are honored each sports season. They are selected from among nominees put forward by others involved in Special Olympics Oregon.
The 2009 Summer Regional Games, presented by Les Schwab Tire Centers, took place throughout the state in May and June. Ten regional-level competitions took place featuring athletics, bocce, golf, gymnastics and softball.

Eunice Kennedy Shriver Tribute Site Unveiled

2009-07-27T21:03:00.000-07:00

July 20 not only marked the forty-first anniversary of the first Special Olympics Games, held at Chicago's Soldier Field in 1968, but also the 88th birthday of one of the most extraordinary women in the world: Special Olympics Founder, Eunice Kennedy Shriver. In honor and celebration of Mrs. Shriver's work, a new tribute site was unveiled this month.

The site, entitled "Eunice Kennedy Shriver: One Woman's Vision" looks at the worldwide impact of her work, shares her story, includes letters from some of the world's biggest luminaries, and gives you the opportunity to post your very own tribute to Mrs. Shriver.

Please be sure to visit www.eunicekennedyshriver.org for more information

Special Olympics Oregon Athlete Runs the Distance, Makes Friends Along the Way

2009-07-22T07:39:00.000-07:00

Aaron Aarseth (pictured above right) a Special Olympics Oregon athlete from Jackson County can certainly feel a sense of accomplishment and pride. Aaron was chosen to represent Special Olympics Oregon as a member of a group of athletes that ran with Law Enforcement Officers during the 2009 World Winter Games in Boise, Idaho. While participating in the week long event, Aaron logged over 60 miles running with the Special Olympics Law Enforcement Torch Run Relay Team. During that time, he made friends with athletes from all over the world, as well as law enforcement officers.

One of the officers Aaron became friends with invited him to participate in a Torch Run through the Lincoln Tunnel in NYC! Aaron jumped at the chance, and flew to New York in order to participate. After the run in NYC he was presented with his very own torch to commemorate the experience.

On the way back home from NYC, Aaron ran into a bit of a challenge. He had to change planes in San Francisco but when he arrived he found out that the flight from San Francisco to Medford was cancelled. Aaron had difficulty receiving assistance at the airport to get another flight to Medford so he immediately called his mom, who immediately called Aaron’s friend in Law Enforcement - an officer in Oklahoma City. The officer told Evie Aarseth not to worry and that he had a friend who worked in law enforcement in San Francisco. He committed that he would make sure Aaron got safely to a new flight. The officer in Oklahoma City then made the call to his friend in San Francisco who was off-duty but came to Aaron’s aid. He drove out to the airport, found Aaron, and got him safely on a new flight home.

These officers went above and beyond the call of simply “serving and protecting.” They jumped in to help a Special Olympics Oregon athlete who was also their new friend. As a result of Aaron’s experience, these two officers from different states are now working together, along with additional officers across the nation, to help airport personnel become more understanding of people with special needs.

2009-05-22T11:36:00.000-07:00

Special Olympics Oregon Summer Regional Games To Be Held Statewide

Communities around Oregon will once again play host to Special Olympics Oregon Summer Regional Games in the coming weekends of May and June 2009. Over 1,700 athletes will each compete in one of these 9 competitions held around the state. In addition, hundreds of coaches, volunteers and family members will support the competitors.

The Summer Regional Games, presented by Les Schwab Tire Centers, officially begin on Saturday, May 30 with a track meet in Milton-Freewater and bocce competition, golf competition and softball competition in Eugene. Regional level competition continues the following weekend with a track meet in Grants Pass and a track meet and bocce competition in Gresham on Saturday, June 6. Quail Valley Golf Course in Banks will host another golf competition on June 20. Finally, there will be gymnastics and softball competition in Beaverton on Saturday, June 27 to conclude the summer season.

“Around the state, our athletes are training weekly with their coaches in preparation for their chance to compete at one of these upcoming Summer Regional Games. This is their opportunity to test their skills and showcase their talents.” says Margaret Hunt, Special Olympics Oregon CEO.

Les Schwab Tire Centers is the official sponsor of the State Summer Games. Other sponsors who support Summer Games include Fred Meyer, The Standard, Bank of America, DEX, Day Wireless, Roth’s Fresh Markets, Fisher Farm & Lawn, Chipotle, Atlas Track & Tennis, Providence Health Services, Pepsi and Panda Express.

2009 Special Olympics Oregon Summer Regional Games Schedule

Saturday, May 30
• Athletics (Track & Field) – Shockman Field in Milton-Freewater - 9am to 3pm
• Bocce & Softball – Shasta Middle School in Eugene – 9am to 5pm
• Golf – River Ridge Golf Course in Eugene – 9am to 4pm

Saturday, June 6
• Athletics (Track & Field) – Grants Pass High School – 9am to 4pm
• Athletics (Track & Field) & Bocce – Mt. Hood Community College, Gresham* – 9am to 4pm
*Featuring Law Enforcement Torch Run Final Leg at 9:30am

Saturday, June 20
• Golf – Quail Valley Golf Course, Banks – 9am to 4pm

Saturday, June 27
• Gymnastics – Oregon Gymnastics Academy, Beaverton – 9am to 2pm
• Softball – Tualatin Hills Parks & Recreation District Complex, Beaverton – 9am to 5pm

Spread the Word to End the Word

2009-03-31T15:05:00.000-07:00

Today, 3.31.09 is a National Awareness Day to raise the consciousness of society about the dehumanizing and hurtful effects of the word “retard(ed)” and encourage people to pledge to stop using the R-word.

This morning Rebecca Marshall from KXL interviewed Sutherlin High School student Hannah Kasal. In February, Hannah attended the Special Olympics Youth Activation Summit in Boise in February and just yesterday, she helped organize a school-wide assembly whereover 150 students signed the R-Word pledge. Hannah is also Special Olympics Oregon's lead student trainer for our Project Unify Conference (educate, motivate, activate).

Listen to Hannah's interview.

2009-03-27T13:21:00.000-07:00

Spread the Word to End the Word is a National Awareness Day to raise the consciousness of society about the dehumanizing and hurtful effects of the word “retard(ed)” and encourage people to pledge to stop using the R-word.

Special Olympics Oregon now has several schools conducting activities to raise awareness. Part of this awareness includes putting up posters, passing out buttons, and handing out wrist bands to students who sign the R-Word pledge.

Visit r-word.org to learn how you can Spread the Word to End the Word. Show your support and take the pledge!

President Obama Apologizes To Special Olympics

2009-03-20T12:11:00.000-07:00

Link to News Release from Special Olympics

ABC News Story

FOX News Story

BBC News Story

A Splashing Success!!

2009-02-24T14:27:00.000-08:00

More than 500 brave souls took the plunge on Saturday, February 21 for Special Olympics Oregon. Sunny skies and a brisk east wind made for a bright, yet chilly back drop for plungers as they lined up at Broughton Beach on the Columbia River. At last count, more than $127,000 in donations have been collected by plungers who took place in Polar Plunge Columbia presented by Mattress World. Teams included Oregon law enforcement agencies, Oregon companies, high schools, colleges and various clubs, including a large team of Dragon Boat Paddlers. Also taking the plunge were local celebrities including Sherri Hiner of Mattress World, Drew Carney of KGW, Cort and Fatboy of KUFO and Portland Police Bureau Assistant Chief of Police Brian Martinek. The community support was overwhelming, and it was a great start to what we expect will be an Oregon tradition.

Photos for the Polar Plunge Columbia can be found here.

While the Polar Plunge Columbia is behind us, we are still gearing up for Polar Plunge Deschutes! This Friday, February 27 we invite you to join us for the third annual Polar Plunge Deschutes at Riverbend Park in Bend, OR. Check-in begins at 4:30 and plungers will leap into the Deschutes at 6:30 PM. It’s not too late to register!

If you aren't plunging this year, we would like to encourage you to support Special Olympics Oregon athlete Chris Rukaveno in his plunge. Make your pledge at his FirstGiving page.

Proceeds from the event will go towards Special Olympics Oregon’s mission: to deliver sports training and athletic competition to thousands of athletes in local communities state-wide during the winter, summer and fall sports seasons.

Polar Plunge Columbia is Here!

2009-02-20T10:33:00.000-08:00

If you haven't heard, the Polar Plunge taking place on the Columbia is tomorrow, February 21st!

At 11:00am on Saturday morning, individuals and teams from throughout the Portland area – led by business leaders, celebrities and law enforcement – will make a mad dash into the Columbia River from the beach on NE Marine Drive.

All plungers have to raise a minimum of $50 to take the icy dip. If you haven’t signed up yet, it's not too late to register online at our FirstGiving page, today between 4pm and 8pm at the Delta Park Joe’s Sports, Outdoor and More Location (1140 N. Hayden Meadows Dr., Portland, OR 97217), or on-site tomorrow morning starting at 8:30am. Every little bit helps us to reach our fundraising goal of $290,000.

If you aren't plunging this year, we would like to encourage you to support Special Olympics Oregon athlete Chris Rukaveno in his plunge. His page can be found at: http://www.firstgiving.com/deannarukaveno.

Proceeds from the event will go towards Special Olympics Oregon’s mission: to deliver sports training and athletic competition to thousands of athletes in local communities state-wide during the winter, summer and fall sports seasons.

And don’t forget: Polar Plunge Deschutes is just a week away. For more information about both Polar Plunges, visit www.soor.org/plunge/.

Special Olympics Oregon athlete Kevin Zwart Honored at Oregon Sports Awards

2009-02-12T12:20:00.000-08:00

PORTLAND, OR—Kevin Zwart, a 19 year-old Special Olympics Oregon athlete from Salem, has been selected as the 2008 recipient of the Lou Burge Award. Zwart was honored along with other outstanding Oregon athletes at the Oregon Sports Awards on Sunday, February 8, 2009 at Nike World Headquarters.

The Lou Burge award is bestowed annually on a Special Olympics Oregon athlete who epitomizes the ideals of Special Olympics competition and sportsmanship. Zwart, who has been diagnosed with autism, loves to swim. He competes in the Special Olympics Oregon program and on his community swim team - the Bearcat Swim Club. Kevin is a graduate of Sprague High School. Kevin recently achieved a personal best in the 200m freestyle at the 2008 Special Olympics Oregon Fall Games. He earned multiple gold medals at the 2006 Special Olympics U.S. National Games in Iowa. He hopes to someday compete at the Special Olympics World Games.

Upon accepting his award from host Ahmad Rashad, Zwart told the audience at the
Standford Theatre: “Thank you for having me here and giving me this honor. There are many excellent athletes who compete in Special Olympics. It took Special Olympics for me to realize that I love to swim. Swimming for the last eight years has been very inspirational and motivating. This sport helps me a lot and I love it so much. I would like to thank my teammates, my family, my friends all my coaches and volunteers. Finally, I would like to give a very special thank you to Sue Hill, who was my first Special Olympics swim coach. She really encouraged me. Thank you, Special Olympics.”

Special Olympics Oregon & the Economy: Challenge & Opportunity

2009-01-20T19:39:00.000-08:00

Dear Friends of Special Olympics Oregon,

Special Olympics Oregon has been popular with the media this week! Many of you may have seen a TV story or read a newspaper article about Special Olympics Oregon. While well intended, these stories contained some inaccuracies. So, just to set the record straight, here’s the story:

Special Olympics Oregon Responds Proactively to Economy

Like nearly all non-profit and for-profit companies, we have looked responsibly at our budget and determined that, given the uncertainly of the 2009 economy, we should scale back a bit to protect both our athlete's year-round experience and the organization's future. Our decisions were driven by one overriding consideration: what is best for the thousands of individuals with intellectual disability that we serve statewide?

Special Olympics Oregon Programs Continue to Serve Athletes Statewide

The answer was clear: we needed to maintain our athletes’ regular Special Olympics involvement in all sports and in as many year-round competition experiences as possible, while at the same time, take some of the financial pressure off the volunteer-driven Local Programs who serve our constituency in nearly every county and major city in the state. With those goals, we determined that we should shelve – for 2009 only – the three largest, most expensive, and least frequent state games. This would provide a measure of financial relief for both the state office and the Local Programs. We retained – in fact, we expanded – the number of remaining statewide competitions we do, which is now nearly 30. This means that our athletes will continue to have the regular, weekly, year-round participation in Special Olympics Oregon that they are accustomed to. In addition, we took a sharp pencil to the state office to be sure every dollar was best utilized in this economy - the result was a reduction of three staff (we now have 22 instead of 25).

2009...Challenge and Opportunity...and YOU can help!

Here at Special Olympics Oregon, we feel very positive about the New Year! We have built a strong base of corporate and community support that continues to further the important mission of Special Olympics Oregon. That said, we will need the help of our friends to weather the current economic climate. We invite your support as we inspire greatness in our amazing constituency - an extraordinary group of children and adults who teach us every day that giving up is not an option. They do hard things…and so can we.

Thank you for your help. It is greatly appreciated.

Best regards,

Margie
_______________________
Margaret H. Hunt, CEO
Special Olympics Oregon

2008-12-18T09:22:00.000-08:00

Sports Illustrated honored Special Olympics founder Eunice Kennedy Shriver with the first Sportsman of the Year Legacy Award at the 2008 Sportsman of the Year celebration in New York City. The Sportsman of the Year Legacy Award was created to recognize those who have, over the course of their lifetime, demonstrated the ideals of sportsmanship.

In addition to recognizing Mrs. Shriver’s lifetime of contributions, this week’s issue of Sports Illustrated includes a special feature on Special Olympics. Sports Illustrated senior writer Jack McCallum takes a look back at the 40-year-history of the Special Olympics and the first Special Olympics Games in 1968.

The Sports Illustrated issue featuring Special Olympics, with Olympic Swimmer Michael Phelps on the cover, is now available on newsstands.

An awesome morning at Applebee's!

2008-11-26T12:42:00.000-08:00

The Nov. 15 Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill & Bar Pancake Breakfast Fundraiser for Special Olympics Oregon raised nearly $20,000 from sales of $5 all-you-can-eat breakfasts, icon sales and related donations to the nonprofit organization.
There were 13 Applebee’s participating in the two-hour breakfast. Most locations exceeded $1,000 in ticket sales revenue, with the Roseburg location leading the way with nearly $2,500 in ticket sales. Combined sales for stores in the Salem and Eugene/Springfield areas were strong as well.
The event invited members of the community to enjoy a pancake breakfast with bacon, eggs, juice or coffee for only $5. All proceeds raised will go directly to support the athletes of Special Olympics Oregon, primarily assisting them with travel expenses to the monthly games across the state.
The 13 participating Applebee’s locations across the state:

• Beaverton
• Lloyd Center
• Happy Valley
• Lancaster Mall
• North Salem
• South Salem
• Lake Oswego
• Corvallis
• Roseburg
• Springfield
• Albany
• Eugene
• Gresham

Fundraising, One Pancake at a Time!

2008-11-26T12:33:00.000-08:00

Thanks to the participating Applebee's for their support on Saturday, Nov. 15. Their pancake-breakfast-loving customers raised nearly $20,000 for Special Olympics Oregon!

Fall Games: All Sports, All Day!

2008-11-21T10:51:00.001-08:00

Saturday is the biggest day of the fall season for the athletes, coaches and volunteers of Special Olympics Oregon. Fall Games brings some 1,500 participants to Beaverton and Hillsboro for a full day of bowling, volleyball, swimming, soccer and celebration. Visit www.soor.org for details!

Joyful Youth: The Next Generation of Athletes

2008-11-18T14:44:00.000-08:00

Our latest initiative--Joyful Youth: Bringing Special Olympics to the Next Generation—is hitting on all cylinders! We all recognize that our future lies with the next generation of athletes, coaches and volunteers. To reach out to them we have launched the Joyful Youth campaign to welcome more young people into our programs. Over the last year, more than 300 youth between the ages of 8 and 18 have come aboard! This initiative builds on our highly successful Youth Games, a partnership with Nike that brought hundreds of young people to the Nike World Headquarters in 2007 and 2008 to sample our sports programs. Now, we are branching out, taking our message and our mission out into the community so that more families can enjoy the benefits of participation in our life-changing programs.
Going forward, Joyful Youth has six objectives that we believe will leverage the gains we’ve made in the last several years. They are:

1. Expanding Outreach by staging additional Youth Games
2. Strengthening and expanding in-school contacts
3. Training and support for Local Program volunteers in serving youth
4. Expanding Coaches Education and Certification as we work to attract coaches for this younger generation
5. Developing Special Olympics Oregon competitions to fit the growing numbers of youth
6. Developing partnership with other sports organizations for inclusive competition opportunities

The excitement throughout Special Olympics Oregon over Joyful Youth’s success is palpable. Next time you’re at a regional or state competition, take a look around at the fresh young faces competing alongside our veteran athletes. You’ll be looking at the future of the organization!

Countdown to Fall Games!

2008-11-17T11:47:00.000-08:00

Are you ready for one blockbuster day of sports competition? Fall Games 2008 takes place this Saturday at Park and Sunset bowling lanes and Tualatin Hills Parks & Rec Center in Beaverton. If you want to see more than 1,000 Special Olympics Oregon athletes in action for state medals in swimming, bowling, volleyball and soccer, come on down and cheer our athletes to victory! Visit www.soor.org/sports/fall.htm for details!

Enjoy a short stack for a tall cause!

2008-11-10T09:35:00.000-08:00

Come have breakfast at Applebee's and support your favorite cause! This Saturday from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m., selected Applebee's around the state will hold a pancake breakfast with bacon, eggs, juice or coffee for only $5. One hundred percent of the funds raised will go directly to supporting Special Olympics Oregon athletes by assisting them with travel expenses to games. Click on the Applebee's button on this web site to find the participating Applebee's in your area.

Oregon shines at LETR conference in Dallas!

2008-11-04T09:28:00.000-08:00

There was exciting news from the the International Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) Conference at the end of October in Dallas! (LETR is a fundraising arm of Special Olympics run by law enforcement personnel.)
Although only eight of the roughly 1,000 people in attendance were from Oregon, they certainly made their presence felt. Highlights included:
For the second year in a row, Oregon LETR received the Sapphire Award (for state LETR groups raising more than $250,000 gross).
Long time LETR volunteer and LPC Judy Macho of Reedsport (in photograph) received one of three 2008 John Carion Unsung Hero Awards that were given at the conference. Over 30 people were nominated for their service and dedication to LETR in their community. Judy was among those singled out by the International Executive Council!
PJ Steigleder of Clackamas County Sheriff's Office ran successfully for the position as Region 8 Coordinator on the LETR International Council. He will oversee LETR programs in Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Alaska, Montana and Wyoming, and we are looking forward to having more of a voice at the International level. This is also a first for Oregon!
Jackson County athlete Aaron Aarseth was one of only TEN athletes in the world that were chosen to participate in the 2009 World Games Final Leg. These 10 athletes will join officers from all over the world (including Oregon's representative, Lt. Dixon Andrews of Clackamas County Sheriff's Office) who will relay the torch to Boise, Idaho to kick off the World Winter Games.

Celebrate! Polar Plunge Portland is coming!

2008-10-31T15:28:00.000-07:00

Why are these girls so happy? They must have just heard that the wildest, wettest and wackiest fundraiser ever is coming to Portland! That's right, you and your pals can now take The Polar Plunge in Bend and Portland in February, and help raise money for Special Olympicss Oregon. Click on Polar Plunge for details.

Eugene Sprinters Honored at Governors' Gold Awards

2008-10-16T15:19:00.000-07:00

The Governors' Gold Awards held Oct. 4 at the Oregon Convention Center was a glittering success! More than $130,000 was raised to support our programs, and the award recipients comprised an outstanding group of Oregon businesses and individuals. Our very own US Olympics Trials sprint team (pictured above) received the Shriver Greatness Award. These delightful men and women were the stars of a star-studded show, and we offer our congratulations to the team members, their coaches, family and friends who supported them in their quest to compete in Eugene.

Ally Orbock: Our Dancing Queen

2008-10-13T10:29:00.000-07:00

This is another in an occasional series of articles about our athletes and volunteers written by Rebecca Harburg, a student at Grant High School.
With live music playing on the stage in front of her, Ally Orbock can’t resist dancing. She dances without any sign of self-consciousness, as if a huge crowd weren’t sitting behind her.
Ally is a Special Olympics athlete, but while dancing at the Bite of Oregon this is not why she stands out. She stands out among the other dancers because she is the best one.
After the song ends Ally is interviewed onstage about Special Olympics, which receives the proceeds from the waterfront event. The performer interviewing her comments on Ally’s dancing skill and asks her which sports she plays. “I play basketball, softball, soccer, swimming…everything!” she answers, receiving a round of applause from the audience.
Special Olympics means a lot to Ally, 16. “I love the sports, dancing, and people,” she says. A junior next fall, Ally has been competing in Special Olympics since seventh grade.Her family is very supportive; her mom and sister Ashley, 18, accompanied Ally to the Bite. “She loves to go to the movies, she loves Playstation, and of course, Special Olympics has been a huge chunk of her life,” her mom says.
In particular, the social aspect of her participation has helped Ally. “Because of the other kids she’s been around I think she’s okay with her disability,” her mom says.
The Orbocks moved to their current residence in Beaverton from Albuquerque, New Mex. “By comparison,” her mom says, “Oregon is wonderful.”
The day substantiates her statement. The sun is shining, bringing in the crowds and support for Special Olympics.
Ally is greeting people in the sun. “‘Stranger danger’ means nothing to her,” says her mom.
Coupled with her love of dancing, this means Ally often ends up with many different partners on the dance floor, to her boyfriend’s dismay. “At dances,” says her sister, “she’ll turn around and go find another guy, and [her boyfriend] will chase her everywhere.” To her parents’ dismay, Ally and her boyfriend do everything together, and have done so since they became an item in first grade.
Special Olympics provides a safe environment for Ally, even with her tendency to approach strangers taken into consideration. Since she has probably played every sport offered by the non-profit, Ally can’t choose just one as her favorite. “She’s really good at basketball,” says her mom. “Whatever she’s playing at the moment, she’ll tell you it’s her favorite sport.”
Ally continues to add to the list of sports she has played for Special Olympics. She has taken swim lessons for three years and just started competing in swimming. “She informed me she wants a gold medal in swimming,” says her mom.
Ally has quite the fan club in her family. If she wants a gold medal in swimming, her mom says, “I think she’s got a really good shot at it.”

Everyone into the pool!

2008-09-24T14:00:00.000-07:00

Photographer Scott Brown captured some magic moments of our swimmers at Youth Games Saturday.

Michael Johnson's sprinters go for the gold

2008-09-23T14:15:00.001-07:00

This wonderful photo and the preceding ones from Saturday were taken by Joanie Speidel.

A Gold Medal volunteer: Michael Johnson

2008-09-23T14:11:00.001-07:00

Going for a personal best

2008-09-23T14:07:00.000-07:00

Another Super Youth Games at Nike!

2008-09-23T13:51:00.000-07:00

Nike World Headquarters hummed with energy and excitement Saturday, as 400 youths and hundreds more volunteers and family members descended on the campus for Youth Games. With celebrity volunteers like Olympic Gold Medalist Michael Johnson, Trail Blazers Larry Miller (president) and Channing Frye (forward) and the OSU women's varsity swim team, the young people who came not only had fun but top quality instruction in the sport of their choice. Youth Games are made possible by a grant from Nike, which participates through its Let Me Play initiative. Some 400 volunteers took part, many of them from Nike.

Next up: Youth Games at Nike!

2008-09-15T09:58:00.000-07:00

Saturday morning, hundreds of volunteers and staff from Special Olympics Oregon and Nike will be ready to greet the next generation of our athletes as our third Youth Games takes over the Nike World Headquarters. Just click on the "Youth Games" tile on this web site to learn all about this exciting initiative made possible by Nike!

Getting to know you: Stephanie Johnson

2008-09-03T14:03:00.000-07:00

This summer, Grant High School student Rebecca Harburg spent time interviewing some of our athletes and coaches. She then wrote a series of profiles of these terrific folks. We'll be posting them from time to time, so our viewers can get to know us better. We'll start with a piece on Stephanie Johnson, a top sprinter from Union County who placed first among women in a showcase 110 meter dash at the US Olympic Trials in Eugene in July. Please hit "click here for entire post" to read the full profile.
With runners occupying their own lane, trying not to psyche themselves out before the start gun goes off or the finish line is crossed, track is often perceived as an individual effort. Stephanie Johnson sees it differently.
“In Eugene, one of the girls was looking up to me, doing whatever I do,” Johnson recalls. “It’s a teamwork thing.” Johnson, 17, participated in the U.S. Track & Field Olympic Trials in Eugene, Ore., on July 5, 2008.
Within track & field, Johnson participates in a variety of events. “I do the run and long jump, 100-meter race, and the relay,” she says. The relay gives her the greatest sense of pride because it involves the most teamwork.

Johnson has also participated in snowboarding, bowling, and cross country skiing—in under two years of Special Olympics involvement. She has friends who run track outside of Special Olympics. “Some of my friends are normal,” she says. “They’re not in special ed. but they do participate in track at school.”
Though she doesn’t play for a Special Olympics team, Johnson likes soccer the best. “I was on a team in elementary school,” says Johnson.
Perhaps she stresses teamwork because, with three brothers and two foster sisters, her household needs it in order to run smoothly. When she has some free time around the house, Johnson enjoys playing her guitar.
She plans to use her guitar-playing fingers to help others, as one day she hopes to become a massage therapist.
Johnson has her hands full until then. They could either be holding schoolwork, a guitar, or a variety of sports equipment.
Whatever task faces her at any given moment, Johnson is prepared to tackle it with teamwork. “I’m confident in what I do and I like to help out,” she says.

Torch Riders roll out to raise funds for Special Olympics

2008-08-26T13:00:00.000-07:00

On a sunny Saturday in August, some 110 motorcycle mamas and papas met at the Salem Harley Davidson for the Law Enforcement Torch Ride. This first-time event took the riders from the store through Silver Falls State Park and on to Salem's Waterfront Park, where Outback Steakhouse donated lunch for all. The best part of the ride was its purpose: to raise funds for Special Olympics Oregon. The Torch Ride was organized by Joel Goodwin of the Corvallis Police Department, Dala Steward of the Lebanon PD and Brian Frazzini of Salem PD. Thanks to all who worked so hard to make this happen!

Don't miss Cat Cora, Saturday at The Bite of Oregon!

2008-07-29T13:17:00.001-07:00

Up next: The Bite of Oregon celebrates 25 years!

2008-07-29T13:12:00.000-07:00

Get set for the best Bite of Oregon ever! 2008 marks the 25th anniversary of this blockbuster fundraiser for Special Olympics Oregon. From Aug. 8 to Aug. 10 on the waterfront in downtown Portland, you can sample the finest in Oregon food, wine, beer and music.The Bite of Oregon this year features celebrity chef Cat Cora on our SYSCO Oregon Chef Stage on Saturday. From Friday through Sunday, enjoy music by Oregon musicians. Visit the Oregon Brewed Craft Beer Garden, and the MIX Wine Pavilion. And, of course, you can sample the fare of more than two dozen Oregon restaurants. Don't miss it!

Trail Blazers Street Jam this weekend!! BE THERE!!

2008-07-16T17:33:00.000-07:00

A borrowed post from Rinniepoobutt in California

2008-07-16T17:09:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago, DH and I went to Boise to watch my little brother participate in Special Olympics. For him, this is one of the things that makes life worth living. His self confidence is amazing and he is so proud of himself. We really felt like we needed to support him and when he asked if we were coming, there was no way I could not go.

The olympics were held in a new, state of the art YMCA Facility that blew my socks off. There were several different pools for the participants to swim in, according to their levels and races. As we were all gathered, waiting for the swim walk that Bear was going to participate in, he introduced me to a fellow olympian named Steve. In talking with Steve, we both realized that I had gone to school with his sister-in-law. After that, there was bond between us. He zoned in on that and talked to me every second he could. His mind was amazing, as he could remember everything--dates, names, etc. He and Bear had to race against each other and as the race ended, Bear turned around, waited for Steve and high fived him.

This is why I love them! No matter who wins, no matter who fails, they are there for each other! It didn't matter who won, they were both so incredibly proud of themselves and each other. As they exited the pool, they put their arms around each other and told each other what a great job the other had done in their own language. I have a picture to prove it!

I admit, I got teary eyed watching it and realized then that they aren't the one with "problems"--we are. They have it all figured out. We don't. They know the right way to live. They know the right things to say. And they do it without hesitation. I was amazed at the lessons I learned by watching these olympians, these heroes. I realized that life should be seen as they see it. Our view is way too clouded. Way too junked up. Their view is as clear as can be.

After their races, we all went outside for the medal ceremony. I was so in awe, I could not even speak. I stood in amazement and watched every single olympian, whether they had won or not, absolutely grin from ear to ear at their medal and even bigger at each of their opponent's medals. I watched them help each other up to the podium and help each other down. I watched them cheer louder for their competitors than themselves. I watched them look at their competitors medals, and when realizing they were on backwards, gently lift it off and place it on correctly. I realized I am absolutely in love with Bear and so thankful that he is a part of our lives. I realized all the lessons I was being taught that day....

The men were awesome!

2008-07-08T09:21:00.000-07:00

Stephanie wins with hair flying!

2008-07-08T09:12:00.000-07:00

Our moment to shine in Eugene!

2008-07-08T09:09:00.000-07:00

Eric Keck and Stephanie Johnson took first place in the men's and women's 100m dash at the Special Olympics Oregon exhibition last Saturday at the US Olympic Trials in Eugene. Congratulations to the entire 16-person competition squad!

Judy Macho accepts the Unsung Hero Award from PJ

2008-07-02T13:47:00.000-07:00

Our athletes beat the heat at Summer Games!

2008-07-01T16:58:00.001-07:00

Summer Games Pride in Performance Athlete Barry Moffett, with Brian Capp of Les Schwab Tire Centers and Special Olympics Oregon CEO Margie Hunt

2008-07-01T16:47:00.000-07:00

Dave Erickson: Pride In Performance Volunteer Winner

2008-07-01T16:43:00.000-07:00

Forget surfing this weekend--Come to Summer Games!

2008-06-24T13:20:00.001-07:00

Get your Independence Day celebration off to an early, fun and inspirational start! Please join the athletes, coaches and volunteers of Special Olympics Oregon for an evening of music, celebration and pageantry at the Opening Ceremonies of the State Summer Games in Hillsboro on Friday, June 27th! The Opening Ceremonies festivities are free and open to the public. The excitement begins at 7:30 p.m. with the traditional Parade of Athletes, followed by the lighting of the Olympics Games Flame of Hope by Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) officers. Once the torch is lit, the music will crank up.
Saturday, the State Summer Games will be underway by 9 a.m. These games represent the culmination of weeks of training by Special Olympics Oregon athletes from all parts of the state. Competition in a variety of Olympic-style sports—softball, golf, bocce, gymnastics and athletics—will take place on Saturday and Sunday at the Stadium. I hope to see you in Hillsboro for a fabulous weekend of family-style fun!
Visit www.soor.org for details!

Summer Games are just days away!

2008-06-23T09:10:00.000-07:00

We are expecting a record turnout this weekend for our State Summer Games presented by Les Schwab Tire Centers. Whether you are an athlete, coach, volunteer, family member, friend or fan, you are in for an exciting and competitive weekend!

We’d like to call one very special event to your attention: The Pentathlon. We have three athletes competing in this five-event spectacle: Christopher Steen and Aaron Aerseth of Jackson County, and Will Durfee of Milton Freewater. The five events comprising the pentathlon are the 100 meter run, long jump, shot put, high jump and 400 meter run. This weekend, our athletes will compete over a two-day period (Saturday and Sunday).

For Christopher Steen, the battle for Pentathlon supremacy will be just part of a very big couple of weeks. Next weekend, he will have the opportunity, along with 15 other Special Olympics Oregon athletes, to compete in a 100-meter-dash exhibition race at the U.S. Olympic Trials at historic Hayward Field on the campus of University of Oregon. The race takes place on Saturday, July 5. Good luck to our Olympic Trials contingent!

Our athletes are getting ready for Hillsboro!

2008-06-05T11:51:00.000-07:00

Check out this link for some terrific family photos from a recent Regionals meet.