Big Fans.
Carol-Anne Meehan of CJOH Television is front and centre at Arnprior's Be a Fan Day in support of Special Olympics.
Sherry Haaima
Arnprior is a big fan of Special Olympics.
And it was never as evident as last Thursday when a large group of officials, athletes, students, emergency personnel and other supporters gathered at the police station for Be a Fan Day.
The event was designed to highlight the red laces fundraiser being held across the country in support of the program.
Arnprior Mayor David Reid, Arnprior OPP Staff Sgt. Julie Cyr, and CJOH Television’s Carol Anne Meehan were among guests who turned out to don the red laces and show support for the vital local program.
Locally, said Special Olympics co-ordinator Barb Cosman, 62 athletes participate in nine sports.
She thanked local law enforcement for their continued support of Special Olympics, particularly for their involvement in the Torch Run each year.
“We are eternally grateful,” she said. “You are without a doubt our biggest fans.”
There are more than 70 volunteers in this area who are key to keeping the program running, said Cosman. She joined others in expressing thanks to those who continuously give of themselves.
Staff Sgt. Cyr said she is continuously impressed with the athletes, volunteers and organizers that make up Special Olympics. Officers are always quick to get on board to support the organization.
“We’re delighted with the partnerships we’ve developed,” she said.
A Sept. 10 softball game that pitted local emergency officials against the athletes only strengthened the partnership, as well as providing laughs and fun for all involved, she noted.
Mayor Reid, athlete representatives and others paid tribute to the program in their addresses to the crowd.