The Official Publication of Special Olympics South Dakota - Summer 2011

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1 The Official Publication of Special Olympics South Dakota - Summer 2011 Inside This Issue Page 3-5 State Summer Games Page 6 State Basketball Page 7 Scarf Project Page 8-10 LETR Heroes Behind The Badge Penny Wars Polar Plunge Page 11 World Games Athletes Page 12 Save The Date Page 13 Award Winners Page Development Ground Breaking STWTETW

Contact Us 305 West 39th Street Sioux Falls, SD 57105 1.800.585.2114 or 1.605.331.4117 Fax: 1.605.331.4328 www.sosd.

Bradwisch Torch Run Liaison Katie O Brien Volunteer Coordinator Twila Hansen Office Manager Board of Directors Kim Benning -

Clark Baker - Sioux Falls Thomas Brude - Sioux Falls Tom Farrell - Sioux Falls Dr.

Gayle Kludt - Gettysburg Maynard Konechne - Kimball Mike Markley - Aberdeen Wolf Migge - Watertown Judy Miller - Beresford Ron

Torch Run Director Sgt Joel Perry - Brookings 2011 June 25 July 4 2011 World Summer Games Athens, Greece July 11 & 12 State

Poker Tournament Sioux Falls Sept 24 Truck Convoy Fundraiser Sioux Falls Oct 1 Bocce Ball Demonstration Sioux Falls Oct 14 NE

22 SE Area Unified Bowl Mitchell Nov 11-13 State Traditional Bowl Aberdeen Nov.

Mission Spring Games Mission April 27 BH Area Spring Games Rapid City April 27 NE Area Aquatics Watertown April 28 BH Area

Spring Games (Tentative) Brandon May 17-19 State Summer Games Spearfish Special Olympics Get Into It consists of online

At the core of Get Into It are age-appropriate lessons designed to be taught in the context of class periods.

activity or a community based event and include involvement with local Special Olympics Programs whenever possible.

2 Contact Us 305 West 39th Street Sioux Falls, SD or Fax: State Staff Darryl Nordquist CEO/Executive Director Melanie Frosch Sports Director Johna Thum Special Events Director Todd Bradwisch Torch Run Liaison Katie O Brien Volunteer Coordinator Twila Hansen Office Manager Board of Directors Kim Benning - Redfield (Chair) Jim Boadwine - Sioux Falls (Vice Chair) Abby Schmidt - Sioux Falls (Sec) Lisa Claus - Sioux Falls (Treas) Clark Baker - Sioux Falls Thomas Brude - Sioux Falls Tom Farrell - Sioux Falls Dr. Mark Harlow - Rapid City Matt Hasner - Watertown Jim Hornby - Brookings Kevin Johnson - Aberdeen Myles Kennedy - Spearfish Gayle Kludt - Gettysburg Maynard Konechne - Kimball Mike Markley - Aberdeen Wolf Migge - Watertown Judy Miller - Beresford Ron Stewart - Rapid City Julie Williams - Gettysburg Denelle Wilson - Sioux Falls TORCH Editor Johna Thum - Special Events Director Torch Run Director Sgt Joel Perry - Brookings 2011 June 25 July World Summer Games Athens, Greece July 11 & 12 State Equestrian Huron Aug 27 & 28 Bash To The Colonies Fundraiser Yankton Sept 17 & 18 State Softball Brookings Sept 23 Truck Convoy Poker Tournament Sioux Falls Sept 24 Truck Convoy Fundraiser Sioux Falls Oct 1 Bocce Ball Demonstration Sioux Falls Oct 14 NE Area Unified & Singles Bowl Aberdeen Oct 15 SE Area Singles Bowl Mitchell Oct 21 BH Area Unified & Singles Bowl Rapid City Oct 22 SE Area Unified Bowl Mitchell Nov State Traditional Bowl Aberdeen Nov. 19 & 20 State Unified Bowl Sioux Falls 2012 Feb 27 Scarf Project Deadline March 9 & 10 State Basketball Yankton April 25 Mission Spring Games Mission April 27 BH Area Spring Games Rapid City April 27 NE Area Aquatics Watertown April 28 BH Area Aquatics (Tentative) Sturgis May 4 NE Area Spring Games Watertown May 4 SE Area Aquatics (Tentative) Sioux Falls May 5 SE Area Spring Games (Tentative) Brandon May State Summer Games Spearfish Special Olympics Get Into It consists of online resources that include lessons, activities, videos, athlete stories and supplemental materials. At the core of Get Into It are age-appropriate lessons designed to be taught in the context of class periods. Activities with ties to service learning are completed in a classroom or community setting, as part of a club, an after school activity or a community based event and include involvement with local Special Olympics Programs whenever possible. Visit the website below for important information: Special Thanks To These Major Sponsors Thank You To These Official Partners Created by the Joseph P. Kennedy, Jr. Foundation Authorized and Accredited by Special Olympics International for the Benefit of Citizens with Intellectual Disabilities 2

Our 4 annual State Summer Games may just go down as the best ever.

The weather report for Friday and Saturday had us fearing the potential for the cancellation of events.

Your responsibilities are many and your perks are few. You coach through rain or shine (but who am I kidding, most often it s rain).

3 Our 4 annual State Summer Games may just go down as the best ever. The festivities were kicked off with a high energy Opening Ceremonies featuring an emotion filled slideshow to the Miley Cyrus tune The Climb. The weather report for Friday and Saturday had us fearing the potential for the cancellation of events. Thankfully, although some activities were moved inside on Friday, competition went off without a hitch. A Note To Our Coaches ithout you, Special Olympics South Dakota would not W exist period. Your responsibilities are many and your perks are few. You coach through rain or shine (but who am I kidding, most often it s rain). You drive through blizzards to tournaments and live on sack lunches and juice boxes. You stay in dorms and you shower under conditions you swore you would never tolerate again after those college days. Your work is far from glamorous. But you do it anyway, without pay or complaint. We often take for granted the very people who deserve our gratitude the most. Rest assured we do not take you for granted. Thank you for making a difference and know we appreciate you! A Note To Our Volunteers... olunteers do everything there is to do for Special Olympics V and more. You are fundraisers, cheerleaders, administrators, chauffeurs, chaperones, trainers, coaches, policy makers, trash collectors, referees, food servers, score keepers and everything in-between. You serve without salary, without recognition, without honors or awards. Special Olympics could not do without you - your dedication, your work, and your love. Thank you volunteers. You represent the highest values of the human spirit and we are grateful for your service! 3

4 ...May someone be as kind to you as you have been to us. American Legion Auxiliary American Legion VFW Ladies Auxiliary VFW Washington High School South Dakota Cattle Women NOVAK SANITARY SERVICE Big Top Tent Rentals HYVEE ** ORTHOPEDIC INSTITUTE ** SIOUX FALLS SCHOOL DISTRICT BIERSCHBACH EQUIPMENT & SUPPLY ** CASEY S ** SUBWAY STEVE HOWARD FITNESS ** SERVALL TOWEL & LINEN SUPPLY LACEY S PORTABLE RESTROOMS & ROLL OFFS 4

Thank You Event Directors Aquatics High Jump Pentathlon Powerlifting Race Walking Running Long Jump Shot Put Soccer (Team) Soccer (Skills) Softball Throw Standing Long Jump Starter Tennis Ball Throw

Murray John Robbins, Deb Kuntz Brittany Grode Dick Benning Erin Jones Mike Hillbrands LeDawn Netsje Terry Truax Larry Yuen The Special Olympics Healthy Athletes program was developed in 1996.

We are very pleased to have offered Healthy Athlete screenings in two disciplines during our State Summer Games: Special Olympics Special Smiles is one of the core components of the Special Olympics

The mission of Special Smiles is to increase access to dental care for Special Olympics athletes, as well as all people with intellectual disabilities.

total health. During the games, 84 athletes were evaluated. FUNfitness is the comprehensive physical therapy component of the Special Olympics Healthy Athletes initiative.

to provide a hands-on opportunity for participants to learn about physical therapy. Forty six athletes were assessed during the games.

5 Thank You Event Directors Aquatics High Jump Pentathlon Powerlifting Race Walking Running Long Jump Shot Put Soccer (Team) Soccer (Skills) Softball Throw Standing Long Jump Starter Tennis Ball Throw Track Volleyball Medical Track Announcer Barb Sandoval Chad VanderPoel Barb Sandoval Darla Frederick, Joel Lubovich Chad VanderPoel Tiffany Rapp Michelle Carter Ginger Parson Gordon Stewart, Tasia Murray John Robbins, Deb Kuntz Brittany Grode Dick Benning Erin Jones Mike Hillbrands LeDawn Netsje Terry Truax Larry Yuen The Special Olympics Healthy Athletes program was developed in This program is designed to help Special Olympics athletes improve their health and fitness, leading to enhanced sports experience and improved well-being. We are very pleased to have offered Healthy Athlete screenings in two disciplines during our State Summer Games: Special Olympics Special Smiles is one of the core components of the Special Olympics Healthy Athletes initiative, created to focus attention on the overall health issues facing Special Olympics athletes. The mission of Special Smiles is to increase access to dental care for Special Olympics athletes, as well as all people with intellectual disabilities. The athletes are provided with hygiene education to help ensure they are doing an adequate job of brushing and flossing, as well as nutritional education to understand how their diet affects their total health. During the games, 84 athletes were evaluated. FUNfitness is the comprehensive physical therapy component of the Special Olympics Healthy Athletes initiative. FUNfitness is designed to assess and improve flexibility, functional strength and balance; to educate participants, families and coaches about the importance of flexibility, strength and balance; and to provide a hands-on opportunity for participants to learn about physical therapy. Forty six athletes were assessed during the games. Below and Right: FUNfitness clinicians in action Thank You Organizing Committee Co-Games Directors Athlete Village Awards Food Service Hospitality Logistics Torch Run Director Volunteers Lyle Farrand, Steve Jacobson Sadie Mahlen, Chad Kriech Abby Schmidt Carol Jacobs Jen Devine Lisa Claus Joel Perry INSIDE THE NUMBERS Number of athlete participants Aquatics: 177 Athletics: 447 Powerlifting: 40 Tori Hofer, Katie O Brien Race Walking: 57 Soccer (Skills): 87 Soccer (Team): 74 Volleyball: 44 Total Registered Athletes: 494 Total Delegations: 30 A new addition to our State Summer Games line-up was the inaugural Brave In The Attempt 5k run and 3k walk. A huge thank you to Rachel Hensley for organizing this event. Look for race information coming next spring. Thank you to the following sponsors for your support and donations! Thank you clinicians and volunteers for sharing your precious time and expertise. 5

7 Our 28th annual State Basketball Tournament was held in Yankton on March 11th and 12th.

Thank you to the city of Yankton and to our organizing committee: Steve Adamson, Jason Bietz, Barb Clayton, Sheri Duke, Tracey Grotenhuis,

5th Team Black Sioux Falls All Stars Parkston Area Yankton Eagles Mitchell Black Blue Golden Eagles Blue Sioux Falls Force BHWS Wildcats

Brandon Valley SESDAC Green Sioux Falls Storm Aspire Sioux Falls Air Balls Watertown 02 Red Sioux Falls Constrictors Aberdeen Thunder Yankton

Brookings Bullets Golden Eagles Gold NHTC 01 White Oahe-Pierre Green Yankton Sharp Shooterz Golden Eagles Black Brookings Bulldogs Yellow

Brookings All Stars Unified Division 1 Black Hills Bobcats 01 Black Hills Bobcats 02 BHSSC Project Friendship Division 2 Sioux Falls Unified

Pederson, Kaylie Semmler, Angie Division F4 Conner, Kara Division F5 Williams, Amanda Mayer, Lisa Wren, Clara Division F6 Zuraff, Carol Auch,

Dahl, Jarred Bielicki, Eddie Division M2B Bolyard, Adam Rowbotham, Carson Division M3 Bender, Stephen Johnson, Cameron Division M3B Steen,

Division M5B Diekmann, Kim Dvorak, Jonee Nguyen, Phuong Division M7 Olson, Jordan Division A Sioux Falls Jesse s Spicy Girls Oahe-Pierre

6 7 Our 28th annual State Basketball Tournament was held in Yankton on March 11th and 12th. Twenty-two delegations comprised of 494 athletes competed in Team, Unified, Skills, and Cheerleading. Thank you to the city of Yankton and to our organizing committee: Steve Adamson, Jason Bietz, Barb Clayton, Sheri Duke, Tracey Grotenhuis, Lindsay Hovden, Todd Larson, Jan Putnam, Lisa Scheve, Chris Specht, Charles Tielke, Chuck Turner, Byron Williams YOU RE THE BEST! 5th Team Black Sioux Falls All Stars Parkston Area Yankton Eagles Mitchell Black Blue Golden Eagles Blue Sioux Falls Force BHWS Wildcats Brandon Groove Bronze NHTC 02 Golden Eagles White Watertown 04 Sioux Falls Canaries Gold Huron NESC Sr. Brandon Valley SESDAC Green Sioux Falls Storm Aspire Sioux Falls Air Balls Watertown 02 Red Sioux Falls Constrictors Aberdeen Thunder Yankton Lil rascals Sioux Falls Wild Cats Canton C-Hawks Purple Sioux Falls Eliminators Vermillion Yankton Crushers Watertown 03 Silver BHWS Cougars Brookings Bullets Golden Eagles Gold NHTC 01 White Oahe-Pierre Green Yankton Sharp Shooterz Golden Eagles Black Brookings Bulldogs Yellow Watertown 01 Oahe-Pierre White Sioux Falls Red Thunder Mitchell Gold Juniors Brookings Powerhouse NESC Jr. Brookings All Stars Unified Division 1 Black Hills Bobcats 01 Black Hills Bobcats 02 BHSSC Project Friendship Division 2 Sioux Falls Unified Yankton Grinders Mitchell Unified Skills Division F1 Krier, Janelle Mashlan, Josie Division F2 Whitney, Addison Edelman, Autumn Division F3 Pederson, Kaylie Semmler, Angie Division F4 Conner, Kara Division F5 Williams, Amanda Mayer, Lisa Wren, Clara Division F6 Zuraff, Carol Auch, Diana Truong, Lay Division F7 Roberts, Rita Heimes, Ashley DeZeeuw, Cassie Division F8 Olson, Chasidy Division M1 Dykstra, Dakota Division M2 Dahl, Jarred Bielicki, Eddie Division M2B Bolyard, Adam Rowbotham, Carson Division M3 Bender, Stephen Johnson, Cameron Division M3B Steen, Dylan Frazee, Logan Division M4 Noyer, Billy Division M6 Warnock, Patrick Reiter, Ed Reed, Mike Cheerleading Division M5 Haibeck, Michael Division M5B Diekmann, Kim Dvorak, Jonee Nguyen, Phuong Division M7 Olson, Jordan Division A Sioux Falls Jesse s Spicy Girls Oahe-Pierre Division B Mitchell NESC - Hayti...May someone be as kind to you as you have been to us. Yankton Area Foundation August 27 & 28, 2011 Yankton School District Riverside Productions Subway Coca-Cola Bottling Co. Riverfront Events Center Peace Presbyterian Church Christ The King Lutheran Church Riverview Park Reformed Church Calvary Baptist Church St Johns Lutheran Church 6

IT S A LAUNCH! SOSD has joined 38 other States as a participant in the 2012 Scarf Project. In 2011, 26,000 scarves were distributed nation-wide, including 939 in South Dakota alone.

The Games Organizing Committee for the 2009 Special Olympics World Winter Games requested donations of scarves for each of the 2,100 participating athletes, and by Games time, nearly 60,000 homemade

This nation-wide initiative gives knitters and crocheters the opportunity to contribute to the Special Olympics Program(s) of their choice, and to know that in doing so, they were contributing to an

Purchase Yarn: There are no guarantees that the yarns will always be in stock at every given store location, so you are encouraged to call ahead: Joann's / Michaels / Wal-Mart Hobby Lobby / Fred

com Official yarns and Colors: Red Heart Super Saver Cherry Red 0319 Red Heart Super Saver Soft Navy 0387 Red Heart Soft Navy 4604 Red Heart Soft Really Red 9925 PLEASE NOTE: You can choose to work

Deadline to Receive Scarves: February 27, 2012 Shipping Address: Now - September 1, 2011 SOSD 305 W. 39 th St. Sioux Falls, SD 57105 Red Navy After September 1, 2011 SOSD 800 E.

At the end of 2010, SOSD joined more than 30 other Special Olympics Programs throughout the U.S. as participants in the first-ever Special Olympics Scarf Project. A goal of 500 scarves was set.

*AL, AR, CA, GA, IA, KS, MD, MI, MN, MO, NC, ND, NE, NJ, NM, NY, OR, PA, SD, VA, WA, WI, WY **Aberdeen, Belle Fourche, Big Stone City, Brandon, Brookings, Buffalo, Canton, Chancellor, Dell Rapids,

7 IT S A LAUNCH! SOSD has joined 38 other States as a participant in the 2012 Scarf Project. In 2011, 26,000 scarves were distributed nation-wide, including 939 in South Dakota alone. The Scarf Project began as an opportunity to provide a gift of welcome to the athletes of the 2009 Special Olympics World Winter Games held in Boise, Idaho. The Games Organizing Committee for the 2009 Special Olympics World Winter Games requested donations of scarves for each of the 2,100 participating athletes, and by Games time, nearly 60,000 homemade scarves were produced from every state in the U.S. and 12 countries around the world. This nation-wide initiative gives knitters and crocheters the opportunity to contribute to the Special Olympics Program(s) of their choice, and to know that in doing so, they were contributing to an unprecedented sense of unity and support for the Special Olympics athletes and the Movement as a whole. Want To Get Involved? Purchase Yarn: There are no guarantees that the yarns will always be in stock at every given store location, so you are encouraged to call ahead: Joann's / Michaels / Wal-Mart Hobby Lobby / Fred Meyer / Duckwall AC Moore / Pamida You can also purchase the yarn at shopredheart.com Official yarns and Colors: Red Heart Super Saver Cherry Red 0319 Red Heart Super Saver Soft Navy 0387 Red Heart Soft Navy 4604 Red Heart Soft Really Red 9925 PLEASE NOTE: You can choose to work with the Red Heart Super Saver or Red Heart Soft Yarns - or a combination of both - please just use both a red and a blue in your scarf design! Deadline to Receive Scarves: February 27, 2012 Shipping Address: Now - September 1, 2011 SOSD 305 W. 39 th St. Sioux Falls, SD Red Navy After September 1, 2011 SOSD 800 E. I-90 Lane Sioux Falls, SD Scarf Distribution Information: Scarves will be distributed at our State Basketball Tournament to be held in Yankton on March 9 & 10, 2012 IT S A WRAP! At the end of 2010, SOSD joined more than 30 other Special Olympics Programs throughout the U.S. as participants in the first-ever Special Olympics Scarf Project. A goal of 500 scarves was set. Much to our amazement, 939 scarves from 23* U.S. States and 28** South Dakota communities were received. *AL, AR, CA, GA, IA, KS, MD, MI, MN, MO, NC, ND, NE, NJ, NM, NY, OR, PA, SD, VA, WA, WI, WY **Aberdeen, Belle Fourche, Big Stone City, Brandon, Brookings, Buffalo, Canton, Chancellor, Dell Rapids, Hill City, Lead, Madison, Mitchell, Parker, Parkston, Pierre, Rapid City, Redfield, Renner, Rutland, Sioux Falls, Spearfish, Sturgis, Vermillion, Volga, Wagner, Wentworth, and Yankton. These scarves were distributed to athletes, coaches and volunteers during our State Special Olympics Basketball Tournament. A huge THANK YOU to all crocheters and knitters from across the state and nation who carefully crafted these scarves with skill and love. You have touched us with your kindness and generosity and we are grateful for your support! Scarf Goal: 900 Guidelines: Your scarf should be between 54" and 60" long, and approximately 6" wide. Please include fringe or other adornments within these measurements. You are welcome to knit or crochet any pattern that you choose or want to create on your own. We encourage you to get creative! For much for information visit: This group of ladies from the Waterford senior retirement community in Sioux Falls were just a few of the folks who graciously contributed to this project. Thank you, ladies! 7

LETR Makes A Difference Law Enforcement Personnel and special guests became the Guardians of the Flame when the Flame of Hope was lit on Sunday May 15th and carried through

Fifteen Law Enforcement Core Runners and two athlete runners Ashley Clark (Canton) and Matt Bosch (Aberdeen) shared their message of inspiration, gratitude and hope during

Our LETR participants work tirelessly to increase public awareness and to fundraise. In 2010 their goal of $400,00 was reached and succeeded.

Heroes Behind The Badge This annual holiday blood drive is a friendly competition between the Sioux Falls Fire Rescue and Sioux Falls Police Department to see who can recruit

As their charity of choice, the Police Department made a $300 donation to SOSD. A huge thank you to the Police Department for your on-going support of SOSD!

funds for and increase awareness of Special Olympics. The Torch Run has evolved into the largest grass-roots fundraiser and public awareness vehicle for Special Olympics.

competitions, State Games, National, and World Games.

8 LETR Makes A Difference Law Enforcement Personnel and special guests became the Guardians of the Flame when the Flame of Hope was lit on Sunday May 15th and carried through 17 South Dakota communities. Fifteen Law Enforcement Core Runners and two athlete runners Ashley Clark (Canton) and Matt Bosch (Aberdeen) shared their message of inspiration, gratitude and hope during their many stops along the way. The Flame made its way to Sioux Falls on May 19, and was delivered to the Opening Ceremonies of our State Summer Games. Our LETR participants work tirelessly to increase public awareness and to fundraise. In 2010 their goal of $400,00 was reached and succeeded. With a goal of raising $450,000 this year they will do almost anything to secure money for our athletes. Heroes Behind The Badge This annual holiday blood drive is a friendly competition between the Sioux Falls Fire Rescue and Sioux Falls Police Department to see who can recruit the most blood donors. The cops came through with a close victory this year. The real winners, however, are the folks who receive this invaluable gift of life. As their charity of choice, the Police Department made a $300 donation to SOSD. A huge thank you to the Police Department for your on-going support of SOSD! Athlete runners Ashley Clark (Canton) and Matt Bosch (Aberdeen) The Torch Run began in 1981 when Wichita, Kansas, Police Chief Richard La- Munyon saw an urgent need to raise funds for and increase awareness of Special Olympics. The Torch Run has evolved into the largest grass-roots fundraiser and public awareness vehicle for Special Olympics. At its most basic level, the Torch Run is an actual running event in which officers and athletes run the Flame of Hope to the Opening Ceremonies of local Special Olympics competitions, State Games, National, and World Games. At its most fully developed, the Torch Run initiative encompasses a variety of fundraising vehicles in addition to the Torch Run itself. Our local law enforcement personnel host multiple fundraising projects each year, including Polar Plunges, T-shirt sales, Truck Convoys, Tip-A-Cops, and various other zany endeavors. LETR Director Sgt Joel Perry (Brookings) and Lia Tarbox (Huron) Penny Wars This was the 5th consecutive year the students at Axtell Park Middle School have participated in this contest, raising $1,745 for SOSD. A big thank you to Officer Doug Simmons for his outstanding work on this event. 8

he Polar Plunge train T made 13 stops this past winter and spring on its tour of the

Now that the cannon balls have stopped and those crazy outfits have INSIDE THE NUMBERS

thrown away, we are pleased to report this has been another record breaking year.

The number of plungers has increased to over 1,000, and we have broken the $400,000

A huge thank you to our plunge organizers, sponsors, and participants.

Location Date $ Raised Plungers Huron January 15 $27,132 49 Mitchell January 22 $26,749

9 he Polar Plunge train T made 13 stops this past winter and spring on its tour of the state. Now that the cannon balls have stopped and those crazy outfits have INSIDE THE NUMBERS Total Plunges: 13 Total Plungers: 1,293 Money Raised: $402,816 either been put away or thrown away, we are pleased to report this has been another record breaking year. Three new plunges were added, bringing our total to 13. The number of plungers has increased to over 1,000, and we have broken the $400,000 threshold for donations. A huge thank you to our plunge organizers, sponsors, and participants. We will be back next year bigger and better then ever! Location Date $ Raised Plungers Huron January 15 $27, Mitchell January 22 $26, Brandon January 29 $22, Pierre February 5 $8, Watertown February 12 $47, Rapid City February 26 $38, Spearfish March 5 $23, Madison March 26 $10, Brookings April 1 & 2 $39, Aberdeen April 10 $33, Vermillion April 10 $18, Sioux Falls April 16 $52, Yankton April 17 $35,

10 10

World Games Sport: Aquatics 200 Meter Individual Medley 100 Meter Breaststroke Relay Special Olympics Sports: Athletics Aquatics Basketball Bowling Years Involved: 3 Accomplishments that make you

What does attending World Games mean to you? This is an opportunity for me to meet new people and make new friends from around this country and the world.

World Games Sport: Athletics 3,000 Meter Run 10,000 Meter Run Relay Special Olympics Sports: Athletics Aquatics Basketball Bowling Years Involved: 8 Accomplishments that make you most proud: Winning

What does attending World Games mean to you? It makes me proud to be a member of Team USA. I can t wait to compete and have fun.

my state and country! How has Special Olympics Changed your life? I have made many friends over the years because of Special Olympics. What does attending World Games mean to you?

11 World Games Sport: Aquatics 200 Meter Individual Medley 100 Meter Breaststroke Relay Special Olympics Sports: Athletics Aquatics Basketball Bowling Years Involved: 3 Accomplishments that make you most proud: Competing in my favorite Special Olympics sport of aquatics. How has Special Olympics Changed your life? I am more confident in myself and in what I can do. What does attending World Games mean to you? This is an opportunity for me to meet new people and make new friends from around this country and the world. Special Honors: I won the 2009 Sportsmanship Award for basketball. World Games Sport: Athletics 3,000 Meter Run 10,000 Meter Run Relay Special Olympics Sports: Athletics Aquatics Basketball Bowling Years Involved: 8 Accomplishments that make you most proud: Winning the gold medal at National Games and finishing a half marathon. How has Special Olympics Changed your life? I have met many new friends, plus it keeps me busy and active. What does attending World Games mean to you? It makes me proud to be a member of Team USA. I can t wait to compete and have fun. World Games Sport: Bowling Doubles Singles Team Special Olympics Sports: Athletics Basketball Bowling Softball Years Involved: 17 Accomplishments that make you most proud: Being selected to represent my state and country! How has Special Olympics Changed your life? I have made many friends over the years because of Special Olympics. What does attending World Games mean to you? I have accomplished something that I have worked very hard at. Special Honors: I won the 2010 Sportsmanship Award for basketball. World Games Sport: Bowling Doubles Singles Team Special Olympics Sports: Athletics Aquatics Basketball Bowling Softball Volleyball Years Involved: 21 Accomplishments that make you most proud: Working hard to become a better bowler. Also traveling to Alaska, Mexico, and Hawaii. How has Special Olympics Changed your life? I have met many new friends and have worked with some good coaches who have inspired me. What does attending World Games mean to you? It will give me the chance to travel all over the USA and the world I can t wait! Special Honors: I was a member of Team South Dakota at the 2010 National Games. I was also the high scorer in my bowling league. 11

Friday, September 23, 2011 Fairgrounds (Expo Building) Sioux Falls Location: Lewis &

Prepare for great food, fun and games, including a corn hole tournament.

Admission: Free - Everyone welcome! For more information: 605.665.2680 www.

com All proceeds to benefit SOSD August 27, 2011-10am Race Starts -Fun & Games All Day

-Food, Fun & Games All Day 4:00p - 8:30p 5:00p - 7:00p 7:00p Dusk Truck Registration

Saturday, September 24, 2011 Truck Convoy (Fairgrounds) Sioux Falls $100 donation per

- 4:00p 12:45p 3:00p 3:00-4:00p Registration Welcome & Presentations Lead Truck

12 Friday, September 23, 2011 Fairgrounds (Expo Building) Sioux Falls Location: Lewis & Clark Lake Yankton, SD Date: August 27 28, 2011 Description: Sailboats race the length of Lewis and Clark Lake in Yankton. This is an all day event for all types of sailboats. Over 50 boats are expected. Prepare for great food, fun and games, including a corn hole tournament. Directions: entrance into Marina & Resort 4 miles west of Yankton on Hwy 52. Admission: Free - Everyone welcome! For more information: All proceeds to benefit SOSD August 27, am Race Starts -Fun & Games All Day -6:30pm BBQ & Awards -7pm Live Music August 28, pm-5pm Live Music at Hobie Beach -Food, Fun & Games All Day 4:00p - 8:30p 5:00p - 7:00p 7:00p Dusk Truck Registration Poker Tournament Registration Poker Tournament Play Vermillion Amped Truck Light Show Saturday, September 24, 2011 Truck Convoy (Fairgrounds) Sioux Falls $100 donation per truck 6:30a - 8:45a 8:45a - 9:30a 9:40a 10:00a - 10:15a 10:15a 11:30a - 1:00p 11:30 a - 4:00p 12:45p 3:00p 3:00-4:00p Registration Welcome & Presentations Lead Truck Bidding Trucks Line Up Trucks Leave Lunch Truck Show Auction Raffle Awards & Trophies State Softball Tournament ** September 17 & 18, 2011 ** Brookings, SD To Volunteer, please contact Jessie Kuechenmeister (jkuechenmeister@yahoo.com) or

Congratulations to all of our award nominees and winners! We thank you for your outstanding dedication and contributions to Special Olympics South Dakota.

Athlete Of The Year Award: Presented to the Special Olympics athlete who has demonstrated the true spirit, courage, sharing, and joy of Special Olympics.

NOMINEE: Kara Conner Brookings, Wade Hughes Redfield WINNER: Kathie Herrera Vermillion Don Baker Award: The Don Baker Award is the highest honor presented by Special Olympics South Dakota.

The award is given annually to an individual, organization, business, or agency that has given outstanding support to Special Olympics South Dakota.

13 Congratulations to all of our award nominees and winners! We thank you for your outstanding dedication and contributions to Special Olympics South Dakota. We would also like to thank those who took the time to submit an award nomination. We are grateful you recognized the importance of identifying the best of the best. Athlete Of The Year Award: Presented to the Special Olympics athlete who has demonstrated the true spirit, courage, sharing, and joy of Special Olympics. The nominated Special Olympian must have attended at least one competition during the year. Each nomination will be reviewed for individual effort, enthusiasm, sportsmanship, and achievement. NOMINEE: Kara Conner Brookings, Wade Hughes Redfield WINNER: Kathie Herrera Vermillion Don Baker Award: The Don Baker Award is the highest honor presented by Special Olympics South Dakota. It is given in honor of Don Baker who was a volunteer and official starter for Special Olympics events for many years. The award is given annually to an individual, organization, business, or agency that has given outstanding support to Special Olympics South Dakota. NOMINEE: Bob Salmi Aberdeen, Judy Miller Beresford, Jhett & Kathy Albers Spearfish WINNER: Barb Sandoval Sioux Falls Family Of The Year: Presented to family member(s) including parent(s); group home parent(s); brother(s); sister(s); etc. who have demonstrated unique and outstanding support of Special Olympics athlete(s), have fostered the athlete s physical and personal development through their participation in Special Olympics, and have demonstrated outstanding support for Special Olympics. Each nomination will be reviewed for the effort, enthusiasm, and support shown for the athlete. NOMINEE: Foote Family Spearfish, Krcil Family Wagner, Bradwisch Family Mitchell WINNER: Kuechenmeister Family Brookings Outstanding Coach (Ron Stewart Award): Presented to a Special Olympics Coach who best demonstrates a high degree of technical skill and personal commitment to their program. Criteria for selection include training, enthusiasm, attendance at competitions and the amount of effort put into coaching. NOMINEE: Scott Carroll Brandon Valley, Brent & Tracey Steinbach Spearfish, Patrick Schuster Watertown WINNER: Cathy Grubb Belle Fourche Volunteer Of The Year (Lyle Farrand Award): Presented to the person who has exhibited the best example of voluntary action to improve the quality of Special Olympics. The nominee should have provided a full year of service to Special Olympics. Members of local programs, area committees and the State Board of Directors may be nominated. Length of service and the quality and amount of participation in SO will be used as selection criteria. NOMINEE: Joselyn Schmitz Aberdeen, Mike Mogard Brookings, Prairie Berry Winery Hill City, Beth Lalim & Salena Engels Watertown WINNER: Don Rieck Spencer Champion Award (DJ Mertens Award): Presented to any business, organization, or media outlet which has made a major contribution to Special Olympics South Dakota. NOMINEE: Powershop Gym Brookings, Spearfish Middle School Spearfish, Globe University Sioux Falls, LETR (Joel Perry) Brookings WINNER: Watertown Kiwanis Watertown The Athlete Of The Year and the Outstanding Coach Of The Year will be recognized at the annual South Dakota High School Coaches Association awards luncheon to be held in Aberdeen on July 27, All award winners will recognized during the banquet at the State Bowling Tournament on November 12,

Thank You Kouri Family The family of Randy Kouri recently donated $7,095 in memorial gifts to Special Olympics South Dakota. These monies will be used for the SOSD new building project.

Taco John s Makes Donation This past January, Taco John s presented Special Olympics South Dakota a check for $7,042.86. This donation was a result of the Taco John s holiday Nachos Navidad promotion.

Brandon, Pierre, Watertown, Madison, Brookings, Aberdeen, Vermillion, Sioux Falls, and Yankton.

Taco John s has 27 restaurants located in the following communities: Aberdeen, Brookings, Brandon, Canton, Brandon Athlete Eric Lien is pictured with a Taco John s employee Pictured left to right:

Thank you Taco John s for your generous donation and support of Special Olympics South Dakota!

Participants, through their local groups, can qualify for financial assistance to selected events.

14 Thank You Kouri Family The family of Randy Kouri recently donated $7,095 in memorial gifts to Special Olympics South Dakota. These monies will be used for the SOSD new building project. Kouri, a long time supporter of Special Olympics, passed away on March 2, Thank you Kouri Family for your kindness and generosity! Taco John s Makes Donation This past January, Taco John s presented Special Olympics South Dakota a check for $7, This donation was a result of the Taco John s holiday Nachos Navidad promotion. These monies were used to support our State Basketball Tournament this past March, along with 11 Polar Plunges held between January 15 - April 17, 2011 in the following communities: Huron, Mitchell, Brandon, Pierre, Watertown, Madison, Brookings, Aberdeen, Vermillion, Sioux Falls, and Yankton. Chamberlain, Huron, Luverne, Madison, Milbank, Mitchell, Mobridge, Pierre, Sioux Falls, Sisseton, Vermillion, Yankton, Watertown and Worthington. Taco John s has 27 restaurants located in the following communities: Aberdeen, Brookings, Brandon, Canton, Brandon Athlete Eric Lien is pictured with a Taco John s employee Pictured left to right: Members of the Kouri family, Bryan and wife Dana, Marcia, and Kim. Also pictured are SOSD staff Katie O Brien, Melanie Frosch, and Darryl Nordquist. Thank you Taco John s for your generous donation and support of Special Olympics South Dakota! LEAP Program The Special Olympics South Dakota Life Enhancement Assistance Program (LEAP) is an income assistance program. Participants, through their local groups, can qualify for financial assistance to selected events. The program s goals are to increase participation in SOSD events by helping local groups with expenses related to their team s participation. LEAP support is now being offered at SOSD s six state events. Through continued support of our donors, LEAP will expand as a partnership program with local groups across the state in an effort to get more participants involved in SOSD s many beneficial events. LEAP is a Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) eligible program. If you would like to know more about the LEAP program from either a donor standpoint or local group support, please contact Darryl Nordquist, CEO/Executive Director. Take a LEAP and join us at our next event! Estate Planning Are you aware of the many ways you can give the joy and pride of Special Olympics even when you are gone? Leave your legacy and consider Special Olympics in your estate planning. Contact Darryl Nordquist, CEO/Executive Director for more information. I would love to help Special Olympics athletes for many years to come. New School Program Funds Available SOSD has partnered with the Northwestern Mutual Financial Network - Theobald Financial Group to help grow Special Olympics statewide. Northwestern Mutual will help new school based start-up programs with donations to offset expenses. Contact Darryl Nordquist, CEO/Executive Director for more information. Capitol Hill Day Wednesday, March 2, 2011 was Capitol Hill Day for Special Olympics. Delegates from across the nation assembled in Washington, DC to meet with their respective political representatives. Matt Hasner represented the state of South Dakota on behalf of our athletes. Matt had a chance to meet with John Thune and representatives from Tim Johnson and Kristi Noem offices. The meetings were exceptionally critical this year as budget cuts nationwide have affected many Special Olympics state organizations. Thank you Matt for an outstanding job! SOSD Athlete and Board Member Matt Hasner (Watertown) 14

hanks to the support of the South Dakota community, Special Olympics South Dakota (SOSD) is moving in a very positive direction.

communities in which they live. With positive growth comes the need for expanded programs to help more of those in need.

Expanded programs mean more staff and, for us, more storage space for equipment and better organization.

Construction began in April, 2011 for the new SOSD facility which will include office and storage space. Expected completion date will be mid to late September.

Call Darryl Nordquist, CEO for more information on how to help (605.376.8613).

On April 1, 2011 Modern Woodmen Of America, in partnership with the Sioux Falls Stampede, hosted their annual Matching Funds Project.

The event included a Chuck a Puck competition for which the winner received two American Airlines tickets.

Including the matching funds from Modern Woodmen, this event raised $6,235 for SOSD. Thank you to everyone involved. Look for this fun event again next spring.

15 hanks to the support of the South Dakota community, Special Olympics South Dakota (SOSD) is moving in a very positive direction. T SOSD is alive and well with its mission of giving those with intellectual disabilities the ability to become healthy, active, and contributing members of the communities in which they live. With positive growth comes the need for expanded programs to help more of those in need. We need to expand our Healthy Athlete program and start the Young Athlete program. Expanded programs mean more staff and, for us, more storage space for equipment and better organization. The exciting news is the reality of growth for SOSD is near. Construction began in April, 2011 for the new SOSD facility which will include office and storage space. Expected completion date will be mid to late September. SOSD has a matching funds program to help pay for the new facility. Our new home will be located at 800 E. I-90 Lane. Call Darryl Nordquist, CEO for more information on how to help ( ). City officials and SOSD representatives participate in the official groundbreaking ceremony on May 4, 2011 Sioux Falls Athlete Micah Kallhoff stirs up the crowd On April 1, 2011 Modern Woodmen Of America, in partnership with the Sioux Falls Stampede, hosted their annual Matching Funds Project. This year the proceeds from the event were donated to Special Olympics South Dakota (SOSD). The event included a Chuck a Puck competition for which the winner received two American Airlines tickets. Wellmark Blue Cross Blue Shield also got involved by sponsoring a Shoot for the Loot contest. Including the matching funds from Modern Woodmen, this event raised $6,235 for SOSD. Thank you to everyone involved. Look for this fun event again next spring. Joe Sztapka presented Lyle Farrand with the Modern Woodmen s Hometown Hero Award during the festivities tudents from Brandon Valley Middle School, S Brookings Camelot (4-5) and Hillcrest (K-3), Harrisburg, and Rapid City Central participated in the second annual Spread The Word To End The Word activities. Banners were hung in each school encouraging students to take the pledge to stop using the R- word. Bookmarks featuring a photo of local students were also disseminated. On the day of the event, computers were made available for all students to take the on-line pledge. Pictured are participating students from Hillcrest elementary in Brookings Thank you to the administrators, teachers, and students who saw the importance of spreading this message of tolerance and acceptance. The next STWTETW will be held on

Freezin for a. Presented by Law Enforcement for Special Olympics South Dakota

Freezin for a. Presented by Law Enforcement for Special Olympics South Dakota Freezin for a REASON! www.plungesd.org Plunger Tool Kit Presented by Law Enforcement for Special Olympics South Dakota 1 Welcome Plunger! Thanks for signing up to take the Plunge for Special Olympics South