February 23, 2007

Special Olympics Ontario Winter Games

Mr. Larry Miller (Bruce—Grey—Owen Sound, CPC):
Mr. Speaker, the city of Owen Sound recently made history when it became the smallest community in Ontario to ever host a Special Olympics Ontario Winter Games.

Owen Sound Police Services Detective Chris Hartley, chairman of the event, his committee and move than 700 volunteers are to be commended for their hard work in putting this very successful event together.

This city of 21,000 people opened its doors and welcomed 299 athletes and their coaches to the games. Over $260,000 was raised in the community, and the community continues to donate by purchasing over 70 winter games jackets which are being given to the local special Olympics athletes.

We could learn a lot about ourselves from these athletes who showed us their determination and enthusiasm. They displayed a very happy, cheerful attitude and a fierce but always fair competitiveness.

We thank them for the memories and once again, a big thank you and congratulations to everyone involved in the 2007 Special Olympics Ontario Winter Games.