Bismarck Tribune - North Dakota News - Bismarck missing in Special Olympics

Bismarck missing in Special Olympics

Jun 06, 2007 - 08:54:22 CDT

By KRISTEN THOMASON
Fargo

For several years now, my family attended the state Special Olympics in Fargo to support my Uncle Paul. This had become one of the activities I looked forward to each year since I was a little girl. Sadly, my uncle passed away last summer and is no longer with us.

My family decided to pass out tribute bracelets in his name to his Bismarck teammates, but to our disappointment, his team wasnâ€™t able to attend this year due to a lack of funding and coaches.

I ask: What is wrong with our society when Bismarck canâ€™t raise enough money for these great athletes to come to one of the most important and exciting events of their lives?

My grandparents even drove from Minot to cheer for Paulâ€™s teammates. We were so disappointed and unbelievably sad that they could not be here.

These people deserve to be helped out.

Even teams from smaller cities like Belcourt and Valley City were competing.

Next year, I hope the city of Bismarck becomes more resourceful in raising enough money and recruiting volunteers so these athletes can achieve their dreams.

News > Opinion

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Comments

Beesh wrote on Jun 6, 2007 10:17 AM:

" I don't recall seeing any promotion of this event or activities. Kristen needs to get hold of some public promotion BEFORE the event, not whining afterwards. "

agree wrote on Jun 6, 2007 10:17 AM:

" I agree with Bob N.! How is it that they were not aware of their team's fundraising goals or shortfalls? Were they not contributing....just watching? While time and support and cheering is great and also needed and appreciated, volunteerism and dollars from family and friends is even more important. This two things are what make all the others possible. I hope that for next year, the family and friends of these team members can be more involved in the entire process along with more of our local community members. That's the way to create a great event for those who will benefit most - the participants. "

Bob N. wrote on Jun 6, 2007 7:57 AM:

" Kristen puts the blame on Bismarckers by asking "What is wrong with our society when Bismarck can’t raise enough money". Yet I wonder what is wrong with Kristen's family and friends when THEY can't raise enough money? Why is always someone elses fault. Too many people these days fail to look within for answers; and instead look only to blame others. "

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