The Opening Ceremonies began Thursday, May 23rd at 7:30 PM. Athletes from 17 areas of Arkansas were led into the Harding University stadium by twelve Honor Guard members consisting of 4 from Mountain Home Assembly 2060, 5 from Hot Springs Village Assembly 2316, and 3 from Heber Springs Assembly 2919. The Honor Guard was well regimented and did an outstanding and impressive job presenting the Colors. The Knights of Columbus Olympic Town was very successful, with nearly 1200 athletes plus other attendees visiting our games. We had 56 volunteers, consisting of 23 Knights of Columbus members, 19 spouses, and 13 others compiling a total of 1829 hours. The Friday night meal catered by Golden Corral served KofC volunteers, spouses, 3 members of the Arkansas State Special Olympics Board, and Bruce Kelley from the Batesville Council. Bruce is responsible for our receiving a prime and large location with the extra tents, tables and chairs needed for Olympic Town. We are also grateful to other councils who provided game prizes, beads, and Tootsie Rolls. Next year, we hope to add another tent and at least two more games to accommodate the large numbers who visit, participate, and enjoy Olympic Town, fondly called "the happenin' place" by the athletes. We are growing, and it is wonderful to bring joy to these athletes. The response from our volunteers was that this is a truly special and heart-warming experience.
See pictures in the Photo Gallery. |
