Dear Editor:
On behalf of the 300 student-athletes, volunteers and families participating in the 2001 Hudson County Special Olympics, thanks to Hudson Reporter Sports Writer James Hague for again promoting the mission and joy of this day long event.
Each year, when the volunteers and athletes see Mr. Hague, everyone gets a good feeling. We know these athletes, their commitment, and efforts will get headline news and public recognition. The athletes train hard and compete with dedication in a variety of Olympic-type sports. These athletes are very courageous and they are an inspiration to everyone. They share their gifts of love of competition and compassion to other athletes who don’t come in first place.
We would also like to thank Hudson County Executive Bob Janiszewski, Hudson County Parks Director Tom McCann, North Bergen Mayor Nicholas Sacco, and North Bergen Commissioners Frank Garguilo and Peter Perez for hosting the Special Olympics and providing the support services needed to make the event at North Hudson Braddock Park a success. Special Olympics only began in the early 1960’s for children with special needs. The event provided a wonderful shock to the world! It demonstrated that persons with disabilities were far more capable in sports and physical activities than many experts believed. When you volunteer with Special Olympics, your eyes and your heart make you understand that everyone can learn, enjoy and benefit from participation in individual and team sports. The Special Olympics athletes benefit physically, mentally, socially and spiritually; families are strengthened, and the community at large, is united in the understanding to treat everyone with equality, respect and acceptance. We need your help. Join us next year!!
Richard Dwyer, PSE&G
corporate sponsor,
Special Olympics Advisory
Board