WELCOME to Jan and Gary Beeker
-- our new County Co-ordinators of Special Olympics of Tippecanoe County!!!

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Statement of Newsletter Purpose: To inform the entire Tippecanoe County Community about the opportunities available for participation as athletes, partners, coaches and volunteers in our local Special Olympics Program.

As new County Co-ordinators we would like to thank Russ and Pat for their many years of leadership for Special Olympics.  They are a tough ac to follow, but we will do our best to continue the gold medal tradition.  While we are learning our new position, we hope the great support will continue from all the volunteers, because without your help the program would not run as smoothly as it does.  If you need assistance for any reason, just contact us by phone: (765)589-8252, fax: (765)589-3238 or email: beeker4@gateway.net.

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Special Recognition Given at Awards Banquet
Special Olympics of Tippecanoe County's Athletes' Awards Banquet was held in November to recognize the efforts of the athletes during the past year.  Congratulations to the following who were given special recognition:  Athlete Jennifer Hoover received the Tom Adams Memorial Awards; Jessica Moore received the Partner of the Year Award; Pat and Russ Boardman received the Jean Ralston Award for their many years of service as coaches, volunteers and County Co-ordinators.  Congratulations to all!!

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Join Your Friends for a Spring Outing at the Indianapolis 500 Track
Each year in May special needs individuals and their families and volunteers are treated to "Arnold Day" at the Indianapolis 500 race track.   Admission to the track, close parking, the museum and dinner are FREE.   Those attending can watch practice for the 500, can take in the 500 museum, are treated to a pork bar-b-que dinner, can visit with friends and wander the grounds to their hearts content!  This day is provided by Mari Hulman-George, the Indianapolis 500 Motor Speedway and Jug's Catering.
  This is a terrific way to get "fired up" for the Big Race!  If you are interested in attending this year's "Arnold Day" on May 6, 2001, contact Jan and Gary Beeker at 589-8252 to let hem know how many tickets and car passes you will need. 
  We hope to see you there!!

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Special Olympics is Fun

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In April 1998, Area 4 - which includes Tippecanoe County - established the first Area Athlete Input Council in the state. 
  Tippecanoe County athlete and coach Brian Glick has been chair of the council since its inception.  Also on the council from Tippecanoe County are Jennifer Hoover and Jeff Neff. 
  The council meets three to four times a year to discuss issues and makes recommendations to the Area Director about the Special Olympics program in Area 4.
  Among the successes of the council have been the initiation of the area-wide Valentine's Dance in February and the area-wide summer picnic.  In addition, there will be more athlete involvement in the opening ceremonies at State Games.
  Other issues that the council has discussed include adding different sports, food at competitions, changing misconceptions about Special Olympics athletes, and how athletes can move to coach and volunteer roles.
  Athletes with ideas for discussion should contact Jennifer, Jeff or Brian.   Any athlete interested in becoming involved in the Athlete Leadership Program, which includes the council and other leadership opportunities, should contact Brian or Lyn Doyle, council facilitator and Tippecanoe County coach.

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Swim with Your Friends while Working on Your Skills
Swimming instruction continues to be offered for first graders and up at the YMCA on Tuesday and Thursday evenings.  Learn stroke development, build endurance and have lots of fun at the same time.  We swim from 6:30  to 7 pm.   Call Gary Beeker at 589-8252 for more info or call the YMCA to register. 

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All three teams have had games about every weekend.  Congrats to the Hornets and Shooters for winning their tournament in South Bend.  Great Job Men!!!
  Jill Moder, who coaches the women's team arranged for our girls to meet the Purdue Women's Team.  They received pictures and autographs of the Purdue team.
  I want to thank all the coaches and volunteers for running the basketball program while Pat and I were in Florida for ten days.  Everything went great.  Thank you so much.
  The State Tournament is coming up in March.  All teams will do the best they can.  Good Luck!!

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The athletes had a GREAT time again this year at the "Meet of Champions"!!!!!

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United States Canoe Assn.
WASK - K105
CTS
Phyllis Newton
American Legion Auxiliary #11
West Lafayette Lodge #136 (Fraternal Order of Police)
Eli Lilly

Your support is greatly appreciated!!!