Donald Riegle: “I am pleased to support S. 1860, the 1995 Special Olympics World Games Commemorative Coin Act, as an amendment to S.…”

“I am pleased to support S. 1860, the 1995 Special Olympics World Games Commemorative Coin Act, as an amendment to S. 1275. S. 1860, introduced by Senator Dodd, authorizes the minting of a $1 coin to commemorate the 1995 Special Olympics World Games. I strongly support the minting of this coin which will augment the fundraising efforts for the international event which will be hosted by the State of Connecticut. The surcharges collected from the sale shall be used to provide a world class sporting event for athletes with mental retardation; to demonstrate to a global audience the extraordinary talents, dedication, and courage of persons with mental retardation; and underwrite the cost of staging and promoting the 1995 Special Olympics World Games. The World Games will bring together special athletes from around the world for 9 days of international sport competition. Mentally retarded adults and children will compete in the Olympic Games with the assistance of coaches, parents, friends and countless volunteers. This international event will, no doubt, touch a record number of people. In a world where hopes are often dashed by crises of the day, special olympians inspire us with their spiritual and physical strength and their moral value. They are, in fact, everyday profiles in courage. More than 6,500 special olympic athletes from over 130 countries will bring spectators together for 9 days. The Special Olympics bring out the best in all involved.”