FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
 
April 21, 2006
 
Media Contact:
Amie Dugan
VP, Marketing and Communications
Special Olympics Florida
Cell (407) 402-8599
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TAMPA MAYOR IORIO PROCLAIMS TAMPAÂ’S SUPPORT OF SPECIAL OLYMPICS
April 28th Proclaimed “Special Olympics Day” by City of Tampa on Games’ Opening Day!
 
TAMPA – Tampa Mayor Pam Iorio has proclaimed April 28th to be “Special Olympics Day” in celebration of
the City of Tampa hosting the 34th Annual Special Olympics Florida State Summer Games. The Games will be
held next week on April 28-29 at the University of South Florida.
 
Mayor Iorio says “Tampa is honored to be the host city for the Special Olympics State Summer Games. This
event not only helps to raise public awareness of the talents of people with intellectual disabilities but also
builds a special bond between the athletes and our community's volunteers."
 
“This proclamation recognizes the tremendous support that the residents and businesses of Tampa have given to
our athletes and to the Games,” said Monty Castevens, President and CEO of Special Olympics Florida.
Castevens added “One of the ultimate objectives of Special Olympics is to help our athletes become productive,
respected members of their communities and this proclamation signals the City of TampaÂ’s attitude of
acceptance and understanding.”
 
Over 3,000 Special Olympics athletes, coaches and family members will take part in the two-day event. 
Athletes of all ages and skill levels will compete in athletics (track & field), bocce, cycling, soccer, tennis and
volleyball.  For a full schedule of events or to volunteer please visit www.sofl.org or call Special Olympics
Florida at 1-800-322-HERO (4376). All events are free and open to the public.
 
Also supporting the Summer Games are: the Hillsborough County SheriffÂ’s Association, Target Stores, Bank of
Tampa, the Knights of Columbus, the Florida Pyrotechnic Arts Guild, the Law Offices of Hill, Ward &
Henderson, Ford Motor Company, Old Navy, FAIFA, NewsTalk AM 1040 WWBA and Sports Radio AM 1470
WHBO.
 
Special Olympics Florida provides year-round sports training and competition for over 15,000 children and
adults with intellectual disabilities throughout Florida.  Founded in 1968 by Eunice Kennedy Shriver, Special
Olympics gives people with intellectual disabilities continual opportunities to develop fitness, demonstrate
courage, experience joy and participate in the sharing of gifts, skills and friendship with their peers, families and
communities. For more information, visit www.sofl.org
 

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