BY THE EXAMINER STAFF
Logan County Board of Developmental Disabilities Recreation Coordinator Rose Canter, along with Special Olympics Coach Mike Predmore and Athlete Leader DJ Casey shared updates on the Logan County Special Olympics Program at the recent LCBDD meeting.
The mission of Special Olympics is to provide year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of sports for children and adults with disabilities, giving them continuing opportunities to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy, develop skills and friendships.
The first Special Olympics Games took place 1968. Special Olympics has been vital for the last five decades and remains active today, the speakers related.
To make the program possible in Logan County for 80 participating athletes, there are eight dedicated coaches, eight athlete leaders and many volunteers. Eight Olympic sports are practiced locally, along with unified bowling leagues. Canter, Predmore and Casey shared their memorable experiences and the impact that Special Olympics has had on their lives and the lives of many others in Logan County over the years.
The motto of the Logan County Braves is: Let me win. But, if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt.
If you are interested in becoming a coach or volunteer with the Special Olympics, contact Rose Canter at (937) 292-5877.
In other news, Superintendent Krista Oldiges reported that Early Intervention numbers continue to increase. A new developmental specialist position was approved at the May board meeting and Heather Barns began serving in this position July 10.
Additionally, two new instructors have been hired at the Discovery Center. Kayla Gauze and Caitlyn Young will begin on Aug. 14.
The Discovery Center is gearing up to begin the 2023-24 school year. Open house is set for Aug.15. Classes begin for IEP students on Aug. 21 and for tuition/peer mentor students on Aug. 28. There are still spots open for tuition students. If you are interested in more information about the Discovery Center or enrollment, call (937) 592-2009.
LCBDD was able to sell two non-working county vehicles through Gov Deals, with the assistance of County Administrator David Henry. The board appreciates Henry’s assistance in facilitating this transaction. The funds will go toward the purchase of new vehicles for the LCBDD, including a handicap-accessible minivan.
In state updates, Oldiges discussed the state approval of provider rate increases, parents becoming eligible to be paid providers, increases in funding for technology and youth with complex needs and funding for universal changing tables. Recently, the Board of DD set up a universal changing table at the Logan County Fair, making it accessible and easy for families and providers with children or adults with disabilities to be able to attend the fair and have a place where their needs could be met while there.
Another goal is to be to purchase some of these tables to have at different county events or public spaces.
Lastly, LCBDD announced that their annual chicken barbecue fundraiser is slated for Oct. 5. Order forms and tickets will be available soon. If you have questions or need more information, contact Becky Robison at (937) 292-3008.
Board meetings are typically conducted the first Thursday of each month at 5:30 p.m. at 1973 W. State Route 47, Bellefontaine. The next meeting is Sept. 7.
Logan County Braves members enjoy meeting Brutus during Special Olympics Ohio activities. (LCBDD PHOTO)