story & photos
by Josie Kapral
While the summer months had plenty of activities in the area, September did not disappoint. The Special Olympics of Connecticut held three different exciting events over the second weekend in September. Festivities began where any good party should start: Mohegan Sun.
Several people from the area repelled from the casino between the hours of 9 am and 6 pm, raising money for the Special Olympics. Each individual repelled 30 stories and were met at the bottom by Special Olympic athletes thanking them for their support and generosity. Many of Mohegan Sun’s own employees participated including: Kevin Brown, Chairman, Mohegan Tribe, Mark Brown, Tribal Councilor, Mohegan Sun, Jason Griffing, Johannes Vu, and Bobby Soper, President and CEO, Mohegan Sun.
J.L. Vancho, dressed as Wonder Woman, raised $2,000 in two days so that she could repel. “I told people that if I could raise this money in two days, then I would wear a costume for this.”
“That was sick!” exclaimed Brian Galek, as he landed and greeted his team members from Team Ices, a group supporting autism awareness.
The second event, held on Saturday and Sunday, was the sailing regatta at the Wad Club in Stonington. The athletes walked in a parade down Water Street lead by torch bearers, Kathleen Ledwidge and Caleb Cook. Joining the athletes and sponsors in the parade were Lynn Malerba, her husband, Paul, and Cal Buxton, Commodore, Wad Club. They held the opening ceremonies, and athlete Nicki Dubiago gave the Special Olympic oath. Then they were off and sailing!
The last event was a croquet competition, which was held on the beautiful grounds of the Ocean House in Watch Hill, RI. The athletes partook in friendly competition under the sun and enjoyed the scenery and the breeze from the Atlantic Ocean.
All of these events were not possible without volunteers from the area and the local businesses.