Political Quotes

“I rise today to recognize the 50th anniversary of Special Olympics Wyoming, an organization that has made a profound difference in the lives of many Wyoming citizens. In October, Special Olympics Wyoming will celebrate its 50th anniversary held in conjunction with its annual State Fall Tournament in Casper. Special Olympics was founded in 1962 by Eunice Kennedy Shriver. It began in Maryland as a summer camp for youth with intellectual disabilities. Rosemary Kennedy, Eunice's sister, had an intellectual disability and was the inspiration for Eunice. By 1968, Special Olympics had become a worldwide sensation. Over 1,000 participants competed in the first International Special Olympics Games in Chicago. Special Olympics Wyoming was established 10 years later in 1972 by Helen and Lloyd Wampler. Their first event was the Wyoming Summer Games at Natrona County High School, where 215 athletes competed in track and field or swimming. Special Olympics Wyoming offers year-round athletic and sports training for youth and adults who have an intellectual disability. They provide ``opportunities to develop physical fitness skills, express courage, experience joy and participate in the sharing of talents, skills and friendship with their families, friends, other Special Olympics athletes and the community.'' As the Wyoming athletes strive to meet their athletic goals, their participation and success within the program accentuates why Special Olympics Wyoming was started.…”