Special Olympics Michigan - Summer 2019

MICHIGAN

SUMMER GAMES

STORIES FROM THE SPECIAL OLYMPICS www.cm-life.com

Athletes, volunteers and organizers share their experiences from the 51st SOMI Summer Games

INSIDE PAGE

5 Celebrating Opening Ceremony 9 Family is everything 13 Unified Sports creates a platform 16 Bay City Central Unified sports 19 Rev it Up celebrates ten years 21 Grand Marshal Q&A 22 Teamwork & community 28 7-Eleven snack destination 31 Young Athletes Program 35 The joy of covering Special Olympics 37 What SOMI taught me 39 Athletic coordinator Q&A 41 Healthy Athlete Village 43 My first photojournalism assignment 48 Closing Ceremony

From the Editor Special Olympics Michigan Summer Games took place May 30-June 1 at Central Michigan University. My team of reporters and photographers spent the entire weekend at the event, talking to as many people as we could so you could learn more about their stories.

Telling these stories was the most fun we’ve had so far this summer, even though we were completely exhausted by the end. To be honest, it barely felt like work. Sometimes, it felt like we had been welcomed onto one of the teams.

The Summer Games are by far the biggest event that happens on campus during the summer. There were about 3,000 athletes and almost 3,000 coaches, chaperones and spectators. There were also almost 700 volunteers involved with the event.

When my team and I were in the newsroom at 11 p.m. on Friday, we were sharing stories about the interactions we had with athletes and their families. It was nice to be surrounded by such sweet and friendly people the entire weekend.

Because we were in such a friendly atmosphere, we were able to get some amazing photographs and stories. We had so many, in fact, we decided to put them together in this digital magazine, so you can see all of them in one place.

I want to thank a few people for making this magazine possible. First of all, thank you Special Olympics Michigan for giving us such great access to all of the events that happened this weekend. I also want to thank all of the coaches, volunteers and athletes for welcoming us and sharing their stories. Finally, thank you, to my amazing team: Michael Livingston, Austin Chastain, Cody Scanlan, Rachael Yadlowsky, Taylor Rainier and Delaney Brickley. Without these fabulous staff members, we wouldn’t have any of this content.

I hope you enjoy reading these stories as much as we enjoyed telling them.

Sara Kellner Editor-In-Chief Central Michigan Life

STAFF EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS

SARA KELLNER

RACHAEL YADLOWSKY TAYLOR RAINIER

STAFF WRITERS AUSTIN CHASTAIN MICHAEL LIVINGSTON

2

SOCIAL MEDIA REPORTER DELANEY BRICKLEY

PHOTO EDITOR

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

CODY SCANLAN

CLAIRE FELDHISER

|

PROFESSIONAL STAFF DIRECTOR OF STUDENT PUBLICATIONS..............DAVE CLARK ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF STUDENT PUBLICATIONS..............................KATHY SIMON PRODUCTION COORDINATOR.........................DAWN PAINE BUSINESS MANAGER............................................TRICIA KIERST

SPECIAL OLYMPICS MICHIGAN SUMMER GAMES • MAY 30 - JUNE 1, 2019 • CENTRAL MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY • MOUNT PLEASANT • PUBLISHED BY CENTRAL MICHIGAN LIFE

Central Michigan Life, the independent voice of Central Michigan University, is edited and published by students of Central Michigan University every Monday, and Thursday during the fall and spring semesters. The newspaper’s online edition, cm-life.com, contains all of the material published in print, and is updated on an as-needed basis.

Central Michigan Life serves the CMU and Mount Pleasant communities, and is under the

jurisdiction of the independent Student Media Board of Directors. Dave Clark serves as Director of Student Media at CMU and is the adviser to the newspaper. Articles and opinions do not necessarily reflect the position or opinions of Central Michigan University. Central Michigan Life is a member of the Associated Press, the Michigan Press Association, the Michigan Collegiate Press Association, the Associated Collegiate Press, College Newspaper Business & Advertising

SPECIAL OLYMPICS MICHIGAN SUMMER GAMES • MAY 30 - JUNE 1, 2019 •

Managers Association, the Mount Pleasant Area Chamber of Commerce, Central Michigan Home Builders Association, Mount Pleasant Housing Association and the Mount Pleasant Downtown Business Association. The newspaper’s online provider is SN Works.

Central Michigan Life is distributed throughout the campus and at numerous locations throughout Mount Pleasant. Non-university subscriptions are $75 per academic year. Back

copies are available at 50 cents per copy, or $1 if mailed. Photocopies of stories are 25 cents each. Digital copies of photographs published in Central Michigan Life are available upon request at specified costs.

Central Michigan Life’s editorial and business offices are located at 436 Moore Hall, Central Michigan University, Mount Pleasant, MI 48859, telephone (989) 774-3493 or 774-LIFE.

CENTRAL MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY • MOUNT PLEASANT • PUBLISHED BY CENTRAL MICHIGAN LIFE

|

3

OPENING CEREMONY

4

|

SPECIAL OLYMPICS MICHIGAN SUMMER GAMES • MAY 30 - JUNE 1, 2019 • CENTRAL MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY • MOUNT PLEASANT • PUBLISHED BY CENTRAL MICHIGAN LIFE

More than 3,000 athletes celebrate beginning of Special Olympics State Summer Games at opening ceremony

By Sara Kellner Editor-In-Chief

At 5 p.m. on Thursday, May 30, the residence halls that had been bustling for the first time in three weeks quickly emptied again.

Hundreds of Special Olympics athletes and volunteers in brightly-colored shirts flooded out of the lobbies to jump on school buses on their way to Kelly/Shorts Stadium.

Other groups decided to walk to the stadium. Members of the Michigan National Guard stood at every crosswalk with hand-held stop signs, making sure the crowds safely crossed Broomfield Street.

Athletes from each region, which SOMI refers to as areas, gathered in front of the gates to the stadium. Each one had a unique t-shirt, which helped chaperones and spectators identify their area. Groups of people in purple, orange, red, green and yellow t-shirts flooded into the north entrance of the stadium.

The ramp on the north end of the stadium was lined on both sides with Michigan Knights of Columbus in full uniform, along with dozens of law enforcement officers. At the bottom of the ramp, the line continued with volunteers and college athletes holding their hands out for high fives.

Included in the lineup were Central Michigan volleyball and football players, along with Michigan State cheerleaders.

SPECIAL OLYMPICS MICHIGAN SUMMER GAMES • MAY 30 - JUNE 1, 2019 •

As athletes went down the line, giving high fives and hugs to everyone in it, they rounded the corner of the football field and walked toward the stage on the east edge of the turf. Each area gathered at a designated spot on the field, where they stayed before and during the ceremony.

Before the ceremony officially began, music played on the field and the athletes danced like no one was watching. During “24K Magic” by Bruno Mars and “Cupid Shuffle” by Cupid, athletes formed dance circles, staged dance-offs, and began doing “the worm.”

The athletes who weren’t dancing introduced themselves to athletes from other areas; many of them carried markers and had their new friends sign their t-shirts.

The time before the ceremony began served as a family reunion - a 3,000-person family. Many of the athletes from different areas only see each other at the Summer Games, so they used the time to catch up from last year.

The ceremony began at precisely 6:15 p.m. with an introduction from WXYZ morning team anchor and longtime supporter of SOMI, Ann Marie LaFlamme. She thanked SOMI’s many sponsors and announced each area in the parade.

“This is my favorite time of year,” LaFlamme said. “This is part of our worldwide, nationwide movement that promotes respect, acceptance, dignity, inclusion and, of course, unity that is changing people’s perspectives.”

– (continued on page 6) –

CENTRAL MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY • MOUNT PLEASANT • PUBLISHED BY CENTRAL MICHIGAN LIFE

|

5

The parade, which was led by Grand Marshal Don Stabenow, included law enforcement officers, members of the Michigan Knights of Columbus and representatives from each Special Olympics area. As LaFlamme announced each area, the athletes on the field competed to see who could cheer the loudest. Area 16 from Kalamazoo and Calhoun appeared to win the unofficial competition.

The entire day had been cloudy, but the sun came out just in time for the opening ceremony. WZZM anchor Juliet Dragos noted this in her speech.

“Were any of you worried it might rain tonight?” she asked. “I wasn’t. The sun always comes out for you guys.”

Dragos introduced SOMI’s most notable donors: SpartanNash and the Michigan Knights of Columbus.

6

|

SpartanNash presented a check for $165,000 at the opening ceremony, and the Knights of Columbus presented a check for $10,000.

Two officials were celebrating their first year at Summer Games. Timothy Hileman, who became president and CEO of SOMI just ten months ago, shared his excitement about Special Olympics and the Summer Games. Central Michigan University President Bob Davies was also celebrating his first Summer Games.

“At CMU, we are also all about inclusion and acceptance,” Davies said. “Thank you for honoring that pride.”

The ceremony concluded with the Law Enforcement Torch Run. The Torch of Hope was lit at 10 a.m. at the State Capital Building in Lansing, and law enforcement officers

SPECIAL OLYMPICS MICHIGAN SUMMER GAMES • MAY 30 - JUNE 1, 2019 • CENTRAL MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY • MOUNT PLEASANT • PUBLISHED BY CENTRAL MICHIGAN LIFE

“This is part of a worldwide, nationwide movement that promotes respect, acceptance, dignity, inclusion, and, of course, unity that is changing people’s perspective.”

Anne Marie LeFlamme WXYZ Morning News Anchor

ran it relay-style from Lansing to Mount Pleasant. When it finally arrived at Kelly/Shorts Stadium, the officers passed the torch off to several Special Olympics athletes. The final athlete, who brought the torch to the top of the stadium to light the Gauntlet, was Area 11’s Jacqui Bunt, last year’s Inspirational Athlete of the year. This year’s winner was announced during the closing ceremony May 31.

After the torch was brought to the top of the stadium, the Summer Games officially began. At the conclusion of the ceremony, music played on the speakers again with the Special Olympics unofficial anthem: “Who Let the Dogs Out.” Competition began at 8 a.m. Friday, May 31 at multiple sports venues on CMU’s campus. The closing ceremony was at 7 p.m.

Friday, May 31 in Kelly/Shorts Stadium, followed by the victory dance party.

SPECIAL OLYMPICS MICHIGAN SUMMER GAMES • MAY 30 - JUNE 1, 2019 • CENTRAL MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY • MOUNT PLEASANT • PUBLISHED BY CENTRAL MICHIGAN LIFE

|

7

“I enjoy every minute of it. I love to see the opening ceremony and all of the different colored shirts, everybody’s theme and the sea of people.”

Ashley Schafer Summer 2019 Michigan Special Olympic Gold Medalist 8

|

SPECIAL OLYMPICS MICHIGAN SUMMER GAMES • MAY 30 - JUNE 1, 2019 • CENTRAL MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY • MOUNT PLEASANT • PUBLISHED BY CENTRAL MICHIGAN LIFE

Family is everything Near-tragedy brings Special Olympics athlete’s family together

By Austin Chastain Staff Writer

Ashley Schafer is just like most other 29-year-olds. She loves movies, going to concerts and camping with her family.

Ten years ago, she was studying nursing at Mid-Michigan Community College and participating in competitive cheerleading.

When she was 19 years old, Ashley underwent a tonsillectomy. The procedure was routine and successful, at first.

Six days after the operation, Ashley and her mom, Julie, were spending time with family friends. Suddenly, Ashley told her mom she couldn’t breathe. Then she began convulsing.

After arriving at the local hospital, she went into cardiac arrest. She was flown from Mount Pleasant to Saginaw for emergency treatment.

Ashley was dead for 47 minutes.

Doctors struggled to revive her, until they came up with one final idea to save Ashley.

They determined that she had blood clots in her lungs, which joined together in the center and cut off her breathing.

They attempted to use a clot-busting drug to allow her to breathe. It worked, but caused severe complications.

The clot buster caused hemorrhaging in her brain. She was in a coma for eight weeks, with no brain activity for the first two.

On April 10, 2009, which was Good Friday, the Schafers watched their oldest daughter wake up for the first time in eight weeks. When she did, she could only see out of the corner of her left eye and the equivalent of a pinhole out of her right.

She also had no memory. She had to relearn everything.

She was on a “long road” to recovery, which lasted roughly 10 months and included rehabilitation at Mary Free Bed Children’s Hospital in Grand Rapids and speech therapy at Riversbend in Bay City. In 2012, Ashley found a new normal with Special Olympics Michigan.

“I have a blast. I enjoy every minute of it,” Ashley said. “(I love) to see the opening ceremony and all of the different colored shirts, everybody’s theme and the sea of people.”

SPECIAL OLYMPICS MICHIGAN SUMMER GAMES • MAY 30 - JUNE 1, 2019 •

Ashley competed in the tennis ball toss and the 25- and 50-meter walks. She won gold in all three events.

The Schafer family works as a team to get Ashley over the finish line in the walking events. Their old method in the 10-meter walk was to have Ashley’s younger sister, Katelyn, walk backward in front of her and give directions to keep Ashley in her lane. Ashley wore a watch on her left hand, so when Katelyn said “watch” she went left, and when Katelyn said “no watch,” she went right.

This year, Special Olympics received a complaint, saying that Ashley should not be able to compete in the assisted walks, which she has competed in since she started. She switched to the longer races, and her family had to come up with a new method to help her. At the summer games this year, they used a rope with Julie at the starting line and Katelyn at the finish line.

Julie said their job is paramount to keep Ashley in the competition.

“A track lane is two and a half feet wide, and you have to stay in those white lines or you’re disqualified,” Julie said. “We’re at either end holding the rope trying to keep her in those white lines. We’re going to try it. It’ll be an adventure.”

All of Ashley’s events took place on the basketball courts in the Student Activity Center on May 31. (continued on page 10)

Courtesy Photo Ashley Schafer with former CMU running back Anthony Garland (left) and tight end Jarrett Fleming (right) at the 2012 Special Olympics Opening Ceremony at Kelly/Shorts Stadium.

CENTRAL MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY • MOUNT PLEASANT • PUBLISHED BY CENTRAL MICHIGAN LIFE

|

9

Family is everything A letter to Dan Enos Each year, the Central Michigan football and cheer teams gather at Kelly/ Shorts Stadium for the Summer Games Opening Ceremony. They cheer on the Special Olympic athletes and provide encouragement during the weekend.

“It boosts our confidence,” Ashley said. “Here are these college athletes, rooting us on. That’s really cool.”

After Ashley’s first Summer Games in 2012, Julie was touched by the football team’s gesture. She wrote a letter to former head coach Dan Enos explaining how grateful she was that his team cheered on the same people that cheer for his team in the fall.

Enos gave a copy of the letter to each player to hang up in their locker to serve as a reminder of the impact they can have as collegiate athletes.

“I ran into a player the following year that was still here,” she said. “I said it was good to see him back, he asked ‘you wrote that letter?’ and I said yes. It was so heart-warming to see young people act like they wanted to be there.”

Julie joked that the team’s attitude toward the Games were indicative of its season ahead. The 2012 team, that received the letters from Julie, went 7-6 with a win in the Little Caesar’s Bowl.

MEET THE ATHLETE

Blake Douroujalian

Photo by Austin Chastain | Staff Writer Special Olympics athlete Blake Douroujalian poses with his medals at the Special Olympics Closing Ceremony May 31 in Kelly/Shorts Stadium.

10

|

With gold and bronze medals draped around his neck and a Weather Channel baseball cap, Blake Douroujalian gave his forecast for the night and the following day.

He said there would be heavy thunderstorms the night of May 31 following the Special Olympics Closing Ceremony at Kelly/ Shorts Stadium. His prediction was spot on, as severe weather forced the running events onto Jack Skoog Track in the Indoor Athletic Complex at Central Michigan University on June 1.

He has competed in bocce ball in both of the years that he has traveled to Mount Pleasant with Area 30, which is based in Midland. This year he won two medals in bocce ball: a bronze and a gold. Douroujalian said his favorite part of Special Olympics is the Opening and Closing Ceremonies.

Douroujalian said he is fascinated by extreme weather, with a major emphasis on hurricanes. He has a vast knowledge of the “big four” hurricanes that hit the United

SPECIAL OLYMPICS MICHIGAN SUMMER GAMES • MAY 30 - JUNE 1, 2019 •

States in 2004: Charley, Frances, Ivan and Jeanne.

Fittingly, his favorite meteorologist is The Weather Channel’s popular extreme weather expert, Jim Cantore.

“I’ve been watching the Weather Channel since I was 12,” The 29-year-old said. “I love extreme weather.”

He loves extreme weather so much, he knows the exact day a given storm hit land, including the date and the day of the week, and all from memory.

The Hope, Michigan native can also recall how much damage storms caused, both in monetary figures and fatalities caused by hurricanes.

Douroujalian is a certified SKYWARN storm spotter for the National Weather Service, a volunteer program that requires a training course to become certified. He tracks storms for the NWS in Midland and Gratiot county.

CENTRAL MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY • MOUNT PLEASANT • PUBLISHED BY CENTRAL MICHIGAN LIFE

(continued) ‘Both my parents are pretty awesome’ With what has transpired in the last 10 years for the Schafers, there was a new sense of closeness created within their family.

The Schafer family goes to the movies, the bar and concerts.

Their favorite is the Faster Horses Festival at Michigan International Speedway.

“We’re very close; a lot closer than we were,” Julie said. “We do a lot together.”

Ashley said both of her parents, Julie and her dad Russell, took on the role of super-parent to take care of her when she needed them most.

“With everything that we had to go through, they were both there,” Ashley said. “They were both there, 24/7 for the first couple of weeks and finally said, ‘we have to take turns.’ Someone was there everyday, if it wasn’t my mom, it was my dad.”

Much of the closeness they have as a family came from a neartragedy, but they have grown into one cohesive unit.

“I know I couldn’t do half the stuff I do now if it weren’t for my mom, dad and sister,” Ashley said.

Photo by Cody Scanlan | Photo Editor TOP LEFT: A Special Olympics athlete holds their gold medal on May 30.

TOP RIGHT: Ashley Schafer recieves her gold medal in the 50-meter walk May 31 in the Student Activity Center RIGHT: Ashley Schafer’s family escorts her through the court after her 50-meter walk May 31 in the Student Activity Center.

“I know I couldn’t do half the stuff I do now if it weren’t for my mom, dad and sister.”

Ashley Schafer Michigan Special Olympic Gold Medalist, Summer 2019

SPECIAL OLYMPICS MICHIGAN SUMMER GAMES • MAY 30 - JUNE 1, 2019 • CENTRAL MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY • MOUNT PLEASANT • PUBLISHED BY CENTRAL MICHIGAN LIFE

|

11

Photos by Cody Scanlan, Photo Editor | Photos by Taylor Rainier, Staff Photographer TOP LEFT: Special Olymipics athletes practice before their race May 30 at Bennett Track.

BOTTOM LEFT: Supporters of Unified athletes hold signs May 30 at Bennett Track.

RIGHT: A Unified sports athlete competes standing jump May 30 at Bennett Track.

12

|

SPECIAL OLYMPICS MICHIGAN SUMMER GAMES • MAY 30 - JUNE 1, 2019 • CENTRAL MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY • MOUNT PLEASANT • PUBLISHED BY CENTRAL MICHIGAN LIFE

Unified Sports creates a platform for inclusion and acceptance The Special Olympics Michigan Summer Games were approaching, and excitement was rising for SOMI’s biggest event of the year. The organization prides itself on providing opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage and experience joy.

At the same time, the organization attempts to create a learning platform for inclusion, acceptance and teamwork. The Unified sports program does just that by placing people with and without intellectual disabilities on the same team.

SOMI’s website explains, “(Unified sports) was inspired by a simple principle: training together and playing together is a quick path to friendship and understanding.”

Training and playing with an intramural team can forge bonds that last a lifetime, and Unified sports does the same. Unified sports are offered at all Special Olympics state-level competitions.

“What’s special about Unified sports is that it recognizes similarities as opposed to differences,” said Dan Ekonen, senior director of program leadership for SOMI. “A lot of people love sports, and they love to experience winning or losing as a team.

It doesn’t matter if it’s a Unified partner without a disability or an athlete with a disability.”

Ekonen said the emergence of Unified sports could be traced back to the 90s in community-based programs. Unified sports were added to the SOMI State Summer Games more than five years ago, and there has been significant growth in the past two.

This is due to the partnership formed in 2017 between SOMI and the Michigan High School Athletic Association. This provided the opportunity to share resources and networks to widen the reach of Unified sports. (continued on page 15)

By Michael Livingston Staff Writer

Photos by Cody Scanlan | Photo Editor TOP: Unified sports athletes recieves their medals May 30 at Bennett Track.

BOTTOM: Sparta athletes rest before their track and field event May 30 at Bennett Track.

SPECIAL OLYMPICS MICHIGAN SUMMER GAMES • MAY 30 - JUNE 1, 2019 • CENTRAL MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY • MOUNT PLEASANT • PUBLISHED BY CENTRAL MICHIGAN LIFE

|

13

Photos by Cody Scanlan Photo Editor TOP LEFT: A spectator holds up a sign at the Unified sports events May 30 at Bennett Track.

BOTTOM LEFT: Sparta athletes run in a race during Unified sports competition May 30 at Bennett Track.

BOTTOM MIDDLE: A Unified sports athlete gives the crowd a thumbs up after recieving his medal in track and field May 30 at Bennett Track.

BOTTOM RIGHT: A Unified sports athlete smiles after winning gold in bocce ball May 30 at the Soccer/Lacrosse Complex.

14

|

SPECIAL OLYMPICS MICHIGAN SUMMER GAMES • MAY 30 - JUNE 1, 2019 • CENTRAL MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY • MOUNT PLEASANT • PUBLISHED BY CENTRAL MICHIGAN LIFE

UNIFIED SPORTS

(continued)

“For us this has been a great relationship, because it’s promoting inclusive sports and participation through high school athletic departments for student populations that have never had this before.” Ekonen said.

John Thompson, who oversees scheduling and event management in the Brighton High School Unified program, said the program at Brighton includes more than 50 general education students and about half as many special education students.

“Any school in the state can be involved in Unified (sports).

It’s an opportunity to really spread a message about inclusion,” Thompson said. “It’s not a hard sell, kids want to be a part of this.”

Unified sports are offered at the collegiate level as well. In April 2018, Central Michigan University’s Unified intramural program was named one of five National Unified Champion Schools by Special Olympics International.

According to SOMI’s research overview, 79 percent of Unified sports teammates without intellectual disabilities reported increased understanding of people with intellectual disabilities. Coaches and family members also saw increased confidence, better communication skills and improved social inclusion among athletes.

Unified sports coaches work hard to give every athlete opportunities to be a team player. They identify athletes’ individual abilities and use them to create a more inclusive game.

“Not everyone is going to score the same amount of points because that doesn’t happen on a traditional team,” Ekonen said.

“It’s about identifying everyone’s strengths and using that to their advantage.”

Coaches and coordinators urge students to consider signing up for Unified sports.

The SOMI State Summer Games took place May 30 to June 1 on CMU’s campus. The Unified Sports competition was from 11-4 p.m., Thursday, May 30 at the field hockey field and Bennet track.

For all SOMI sporting events, volunteering is highly encouraged. Volunteers are needed for all occasions, from handing out awards to just being extra fans in the stands. Anyone can sign up to volunteer on the SOMI website or at the volunteer registration booth in front of the Student Activities Center.

“What’s special about Unified sports is that it recognizes similarites as as opposed to differences.”

Dan Ekonen Senior director of program leadership

SPECIAL OLYMPICS MICHIGAN SUMMER GAMES • MAY 30 - JUNE 1, 2019 • CENTRAL MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY • MOUNT PLEASANT • PUBLISHED BY CENTRAL MICHIGAN LIFE

|

15

Bay City Central team exemplifies the goal of Unified sports Although they placed second, the wolves of Bay City Central High School could have placed first in terms of spirit From the pop of the starting gun to the last gray shirt crossing the finish line, the Unified track team from Bay City erupted with joy at every pass of the baton. Every member was met with congratulations and pats on the back like they just won a world championship.

After the race, National Guardsmen placed medals around their necks. Although they placed second, the wolves of Bay City Central High School could have placed first in terms of spirit, exemplifying what Unified sports are about.

The Unified sports program is a division of Special Olympics that places people with intellectual disabilities (Special Olympics athletes) and without (Unified partners) on the same team. By doing this, Unified sports teaches people the value of inclusion, acceptance and teamwork.

At the Special Olympics Michigan Summer Games, Unified sports competitions took place Thursday, May 30 before the opening ceremony.

The Area 9 team, which includes Bay and Arenac counties, impressed spectators both athletically and emotionally.

On the back of their gray shirts, the Area 9 team proudly displayed a famous quote from J.K. Rowling: “It is our choices that show what we truly are far more than our abilities.”

Justin Viaw Jr., a Special Olympics athlete, turned to Unified

Photos by Cody Scanlan | Photo Editor TOP:Bay City Central Unified track members Dylan Steele (left) and Charles Elankenship (right) walk off the track after their race May 30 at Bennett Track.

MIDDLE: The Bay City Central Unified track team celebrates after their finish in the track and field events May 30 at Bennett Track.

LOWER LEFT: Unified partner Dylan Steele runs in a relay race May 30 at Bennett Track.

LOWER RIGHT: Members of Bay City Central Unified track team celebrate after their race May 30 at Bennett Track.

16

|

By Michael Livingston Staff Writer

sports as his last option to be involved in athletics before he graduated. High school Spanish teacher Penny Hildinger suggested he join. He signed up, not knowing what to expect.

Viaw competed in bowling his first year in Special Olympics, the next he added basketball, and this year he’s in as many sports as he can be in.

“I recommend any beginners try out for a (Unified) team,” Viaw said. “You can join sports that you may have never been able to join in life.”

His favorite memory of Special Olympics is when he attempted a half-court shot in the first quarter of a basketball tournament. Even though he barely missed, he remembers receiving a lot of support from his family and teammates.

“With Unified (sports) it’s not only a team to us, it’s a family,” Charles Elankenship said. “It’s a support system for those who need it. Even if they aren’t from Bay City, I still feel like there’s that family connection.”

Special Olympics entered Elankenship’s life when he was 6 years old. He competed in track, soccer and basketball before he transitioned to Unified sports in eighth grade.

“My favorite memories were made just now, being with this group and seeing how it impacts the community,” Elankenship said. “I need this positivity for my depression. Every time I’m back here they cheer me up.”

The team began training for track and field in early March.

Practices were two or three days a week, and the team enjoyed every moment.

“It’s such a positive atmosphere, the only thing we don’t put up with is negativity,” said Dylan Steele, a Unified partner on the BCC team.

Steele found out about Special Olympics from Hildinger, who was cheering on the team during the relay. Since then, Steele has participated in Unified basketball, golf, soccer and more.

He worked to get his friends involved and founded a youth activist committee for Special Olympics and Unified sports at his school. The committee’s goal is to elevate Unified to the same level as junior varsity and varsity high school sports.

“People think Unified sports and Special Olympics is just about the sports, but it’s so much more than that.” Steele said.

“Since the program started at our school, nobody sits alone at lunch anymore, there’s no more bullying in the hallways, kids with intellectual disabilities feel like they belong.”

SPECIAL OLYMPICS MICHIGAN SUMMER GAMES • MAY 30 - JUNE 1, 2019 • CENTRAL MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY • MOUNT PLEASANT • PUBLISHED BY CENTRAL MICHIGAN LIFE

“It’s not only a team, it’s a family.”

Charles Elankenship Bay City Central Unified track member

SPECIAL OLYMPICS MICHIGAN SUMMER GAMES • MAY 30 - JUNE 1, 2019 • CENTRAL MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY • MOUNT PLEASANT • PUBLISHED BY CENTRAL MICHIGAN LIFE

|

17

Special Olympics provides year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities, giving them continuing opportunities to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy and participate in a sharing of gifts, skills and friendship with their families, other Special Olympics athletes and the community.

SpecialOlympics.org

18

|

SPECIAL OLYMPICS MICHIGAN SUMMER GAMES • MAY 30 - JUNE 1, 2019 • CENTRAL MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY • MOUNT PLEASANT • PUBLISHED BY CENTRAL MICHIGAN LIFE

Rev it Up Riders celebrate 10 years of charity at Special Olympics Closing Ceremony

By Michael Livingston Staff Writer

The Michigan Moose Riders celebrated the 10th annual Rev it Up Ride at the 2019 Special Olympics Michigan Summer Games. The Moose Riders raised more than $13,000 for SOMI and Moose Charities during a statewide motorcycle trek on Friday, May 31.

The Rev it Up Ride is a well-celebrated tradition at the State Summer Games. Moose Riders hailing from various lodges across the state gather in Mount Pleasant to tour the streets of Central Michigan University’s campus.

“These are great volunteers, they come from all over to make this happen, now it’s become like a main stage event (for Special Olympics),” said Moose Riders State Chairman Greg McCarty. “We hope to be back next year and many years to come.”

McCarty said there were only about 45-50 bikes at the first Rev it Up in 2009; now there are almost 100. The Moose Riders have raised more than $100,000 for Special Olympics in the past ten years.

After participants arrived on Harley Davidsons, Hondas and more, they ate burgers and hot dogs as McCarty, law enforcement, and athletes addressed the crowd at the closing ceremony.

The ride began in the south parking lot of Kelly/Shorts Stadium, peeling out onto West Campus Drive. Special Olympics athletes watched with glee and admiration as bikers revved their engines along East Preston Street and East Campus Drive.

After the riders revved their engines in unison around the perimeter of Kelly/Shorts, they joined the athletes on the field to converse and sign autographs.

“In years past I let (the athletes) sign my papers because to me, they are the stars” Karrol Cowdrey, a St. Louis, Michigan

Moose on Bikes rider said. “They are the reason I’m here” Max Imiano Ramirez, president of the St. Louis M.O.B., said the lodge brings in more than $1,500 each year, excluding personal donations.

“We’re getting so (many) more people involved in the biker community,” Ramirez said. “It opens us up to different types of people, different hearts, new love.”

The Moose Riders are a subgroup of the Loyal Order of The Moose, a fraternal and service organization founded in 1888. The Moose members conduct approximately $70 million worth of community service annually, including monetary donations and volunteer hours worked.

After 10 years, the Moose riders still consider the Special Olympics Rev it Up Ride to be the most rewarding event for the organization.

“I have 12 grandchildren and they are all healthy, wealthy and wise. I feel a special pull around these kids and adults,” rider Ron Folts said. “This is one of the greatest things I get to do, I’ll be up here in rain or snow.”

Photos by Rachael Yadlowsky | Staff Photographer The Rev it Up Ride is a well-celebrated tradition at the State Summer Games. Moose Riders from various lodges across the state gather in Mount Pleasant to tour the streets of CMU’s campus arriving at Kelly/Shorts Stadium May 31, 2019.

SPECIAL OLYMPICS MICHIGAN SUMMER GAMES • MAY 30 - JUNE 1, 2019 • CENTRAL MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY • MOUNT PLEASANT • PUBLISHED BY CENTRAL MICHIGAN LIFE

|

19

The biggest thing is the smiles. They have a real sincere effort, and the sportsmanship is always there.

Courtesy Photo | Michigan Special Olympics

Don Stabenow SOMI Summer Games Grand Marshal

20

|

SPECIAL OLYMPICS MICHIGAN SUMMER GAMES • MAY 30 - JUNE 1, 2019

Don Stabenow poses with a Special Olympics Michigan athlete. Stabenow was the Grand Marshal at the SOMI State Summer Games this year.

CENTRAL MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY • MOUNT PLEASANT • PUBLISHED BY CENTRAL MICHIGAN LIFE

Summer Games Grand Marshal Don Stabenow reflects on four decades of volunteering

Q&A

By Maddox Rowland Staff Writer

Don Stabenow served as a Central Michigan University faculty member for 33 years and a Special Olympics volunteer for 46 years. In recognition of over four decades of service, Stabenow will serve as the Grand Marshal for the Special Olympics Michigan State Summer Games for the second time.

He led a parade to the opening ceremony Thursday, May 30 at Kelly/Shorts Stadium.

He originally became involved with Special Olympics while working at CMU as a coach for intramural sports. He was asked to lead the Special Olympics track program because of his background in planning track meets.

Stabenow spoke with Central Michigan Life to reflect on his experience volunteering with Special Olympics and other organizations.

Why is Special Olympics so important to you?

It’s the passion (the athletes) show. The biggest thing is the smiles. They have a real sincere effort, and the sportsmanship is always there. I’ve seen a little trash talking once in a while, but not too often.

This may be the only time (the athletes) really get out once a year – maybe if they go to the Winter Games, twice a year – to an event like this where they’re the key focus.

What are you most looking forward to in the Summer Games?

Watching the joy on each athlete’s face as they cross the finish line.

What is your responsibility as Grand Marshal?

My responsibility is to lead the opening ceremony

parade into the stadium. It’s a nice honor and a way for Special Olympics to express their appreciation for years of volunteering.

What is your favorite part about volunteering for Special Olympics?

My favorite part of Special Olympics is that my daughters, grandson, and wife have also volunteered with me for the track meet. I knew the core group of volunteers will be there on Friday morning to assist in making a great experience for the athletes.

You and your wife recently participated in a charity dance competition at Alma College, what was that like?

This was the first and probably only year we’ve done that. We went to it last year because we had some friends dancing. The director of the program asked us if we would dance so we did, and it was very enjoyable.

It was a lot of work, and we ended up raising the most money and winning the competition. It’s about how much money you raise, not on how well you dance. It was fun.

We enjoyed it and we raised around $10,000 for United Way of Gratiot County. Overall, everybody raised over $38,000.

Do you do any other volunteer work?

I’m a Kid’s Hope Mentor (at my church). Kid’s Hope is a program across the country where they team up mentors with high-risk children. It’s a program that’s in conjunction with elementary schools in Mount Pleasant that our church is involved with.

Right now it’s my fifth year doing that, so one boy has gone on to high school now. I recently got a little first grader that I’m mentoring.

We have about a 110 mentors that help work with these children that are recommended by teachers and staff of these various schools that they need someone else in their life to give them some attention.

SPECIAL OLYMPICS MICHIGAN SUMMER GAMES • MAY 30 - JUNE 1, 2019 • CENTRAL MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY • MOUNT PLEASANT • PUBLISHED BY CENTRAL MICHIGAN LIFE

|

21

It’s about teamwork & community Summer Games require collaboration between SOMI, CMU and Mount Pleasant to be successful Special Olympics Michigan hosted the 51st Summer Games May 30-June 1 with more than 4,400 athletes, coaches and chaperones in attendance.

Central Michigan University and the city of Mount Pleasant have hosted the games since 1972.

The Summer Games are the biggest event that occurs at CMU during the summer. The normally quiet campus quickly livens up with nearly 5,000 people coming for three days of activity.

Despite having less than a month after students depart after the school year, the university works closely with Special Olympics organizers to accomodate housing and facility use.

Many of the people involved, including athletes, chaperones and volunteers eat in CMU’s dining halls and stay on campus during the weekend.

While most of the hard work happens behind the scenes, the planning and coordination that goes into these games takes months to complete.

Kellie Murphy, the manager of sports and wellness for SOMI said the bulk of the planning begins in February. As the housing coordinator for the games, Murphy must collect

22

|

rosters from every coach to begin planning. Once she knows how many people are coming, she communicates with the Office of Residence Life to figure out which rooms are available.

This year, she said 4,400 people registered for the games.

That includes 3,000 athletes and more than 1,000 coaches and chaperones.

Murphy said athletes and coaches fill almost every available residence hall. This year, they used every hall except the North campus community and Campbell Hall in the Towers.

Typically, Murphy allows each coach to make requests about which hall they want to stay in. She tries to grant those requests when she can.

“Some of them have been coming for 30 years,” she said.

“They usually want to stay in the exact same hall.”

There is a strict four-to-one ratio of athletes to chaperones.

This includes coaches, parents and volunteers who are registered to be chaperones. Murphy said parents who are not registered chaperones are responsible for finding a place to stay if they come up for the games.

The week of the games, the university’s Summer

SPECIAL OLYMPICS MICHIGAN SUMMER GAMES • MAY 30 - JUNE 1, 2019 • CENTRAL MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY • MOUNT PLEASANT • PUBLISHED BY CENTRAL MICHIGAN LIFE

“4,400 people registered for the games. That includes 3,000 athletes and more than 1,000 coaches and chaperones.”

Kellie Murphy Manager of Sports and Wellness Special Olympics Michigan

By Sara Kellner and Austin Chastain CM Life

Conferences staff prepares the residence halls for the influx of temporary residents.

Executive Director of Auxiliary Services Cal Seelye, who serves on the Games Committee and was the Summer Conferences Coordinator from 1999-2009, said preparing the rooms is a lot of work. The staff has to put linens on every bed and rearrange furniture in the rooms in case there are athletes with wheelchairs or other physical disabilities. They also provide special linens for athletes with specific medical needs.

Seelye said, unlike other events where they have the guests strip the beds and return the linens, after the athletes and chaperones leave, Summer Conferences staff members strip the 4,000 beds.

Beside housing the athletes and chaperones, Seelye said another challenge is feeding them.

“From a campus dining perspective, it’s a completely different menu compared to what we serve everyone else,” he said. “It’s also a different way to feed them. We’re feeding 3,000 people and they all want to eat at the same time.”

To streamline the process, Campus Dining limits the choices while Special Olympics is in town. The dining halls serve pre-

made salads and one entree. They provide milk and water to drink. By eliminating the amount of food and drink options, everyone can grab food and go. It prevents long lines from forming and making people wait 20-30 minutes to get their food.

Other than the 4,400 people that are housed on campus, Special Olympics is also responsible for finding housing for nearly 650 volunteers.

Special Olympics Michigan helps its volunteers and staff who are also coming into town by utilizing the newly popular hotel industry in Mount Pleasant.

“We use hotels for our volunteers,” Murphy said. “However we don’t house any athletes or area delegations in hotels.”

Murphy also said sponsor volunteers, scorekeepers and medal awarders are given a discounted rate, but pay for their own rooms. The Games Committee, SOMI Board of Directors, law enforcement volunteers and staff members all have their rooms covered the by organization.

The tourism industry in Mount Pleasant is also heavily affected by the thousands of people who flock to Mount Pleasant. (continued on page 25)

SPECIAL OLYMPICS MICHIGAN SUMMER GAMES • MAY 30 - JUNE 1, 2019 • CENTRAL MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY • MOUNT PLEASANT • PUBLISHED BY CENTRAL MICHIGAN LIFE

|

23

24

|

SPECIAL OLYMPICS MICHIGAN SUMMER GAMES • MAY 30 - JUNE 1, 2019 • CENTRAL MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY • MOUNT PLEASANT • PUBLISHED BY CENTRAL MICHIGAN LIFE

TEAMWORK & COMMUNITY

(continued)

Chris Rowley, executive director for the Mount Pleasant Area Convention and Visitors Bureau said the event is a strong money-maker for local businesses. Many businesses in town count on a big weekend for sales during the games each year.

“Special Olympics is one of the biggest events that Mount Pleasant is host to,” Rowley said. “This event sells out local hotels, fills up the restaurants, gives local stores business and is one that they look forward to all year.”

The business side of the city’s involvement with Special Olympics is important, of course. But the way residents embrace the games is what makes the event the most important of the summer.

Local businesses welcomed the athletes on their marquees and with signage throughout the city. Employees of those

businesses also take time to volunteer for the Games and buy into the institution that is Special Olympics.

As for safety, Murphy said there are multiple groups who contribute to the safety of the athletes, chaperones and visitors. She said there is a team of medical volunteers who inhabit multiple areas near the sports venues, and there are usually at least two medical volunteers at each event.

The CMU and Mount Pleasant Police Departments enlist extra personnel during the games, and many of them act as cheerleaders during the competitions. The Michigan National Guard sends volunteers to manage crosswalks on Broomfield Street and in the parking lots by the sports venues.

SPECIAL OLYMPICS MICHIGAN SUMMER GAMES • MAY 30 - JUNE 1, 2019 • CENTRAL MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY • MOUNT PLEASANT • PUBLISHED BY CENTRAL MICHIGAN LIFE

|

25

Photo by Cody Scanlan | Photo Editor 400-meter dash medalists receive their awards May 31 at Bennett Track.

The medalists were: Julian Borst (gold), Neil Chamberlin (silver) and James Carlstrom (bronze).

26

|

SPECIAL OLYMPICS MICHIGAN SUMMER GAMES • MAY 30 - JUNE 1, 2019 • CENTRAL MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY • MOUNT PLEASANT • PUBLISHED BY CENTRAL MICHIGAN LIFE

MEET THE ATHLETE

Julian Borst Special Olympics athlete Julian Borst’s love for running and competing led him from middle school sports to the 2019 Boston Marathon.

The 22-year-old Kalamazoo native said he first fell in love with running in middle school when he joined the cross country team.

“What drew me to running was the feeling it gave me,” he said. “It just feels good. It also takes me places, like new cities and new races, and gets me friendships and relationships.”

Although he loves the sport, there were times when Borst struggled to become motivated.

“Sometimes it was hard for me to get out the door because I didn’t feel like running, but I forced myself to and now it just comes naturally.”

Borst joined Special Olympics in December 2016. He competed in snowshoeing after a friend suggested it.

“I first heard it from a friend of mine who was a power lifter and it sounded like fun and I wanted to (compete in) running,” he said. The person who signed him up suggested he try snowshoeing to stay active during the winter. Now he competes in cross-country skiing in the winter and track in the summer.

This summer, Borst competed at the Special Olympics Michigan Summer Games in Mount Pleasant. He competed in the 5K, along with the 400-, 800- and 1500-meter races.

Borst came out of the games with four gold metals around his neck. He finished the 5K in 17 minutes, 4.05 seconds, the 400-meter dash in 1 minute, 4.21 seconds, the 800-meter in 2 minutes, 30.78 seconds and the 1500 meter in 4 minutes, 43.83 seconds.

He said his favorite race to run is the 5K. “The longer, the better,” he said. “I have better form and technique and I usually (get a) Personal Record on the longer runs.”

Just two months ago on April 15, Borst tackled his biggest race yet - running in the Boston Marathon.

Photo by Cody Scanlan | Photo Editor Special Olympics athlete Julian Borst smiles after placing first in the 1500-meter dash May 31 at Bennett Track.

Borst was one of five Special Olympic athletes to run this year and was the first ever Special Olympics Michigan athlete to run in the marathon. He crossed the finish line in 3 hours and 8 minutes.

To prepare for the race, Borst set up a training schedule that would track his workouts and milage.

The Boston Marathon was Borst’s third time running a 26.2mile course, but it still posed some challenges for him.

“The course a little rough because there was a lot of hills and it was raining, but the crowds were amazing,” he said. “Overall, it was really fun and a great experience.”

He plans to compete in another marathon this fall and wants to tackle the Boston Marathon again next year.

The state summer games is the largest Special Olympics Michigan (SOMI) event each year with approximately 3,000 athletes.

Revealing the champion in all of us SpecialOlympics.org SPECIAL OLYMPICS MICHIGAN SUMMER GAMES • MAY 30 - JUNE 1, 2019 •

CENTRAL MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY • MOUNT PLEASANT • PUBLISHED BY CENTRAL MICHIGAN LIFE

|

27

7-Eleven serves as go-to snack destination during Special Olympics Summer Games

By Austin Chastain Staff Writer

When Special Olympics athletes and volunteers make their way to Mount Pleasant and Central Michigan University for the annual State Summer Games, local businesses thrive.

Many of the athletes, parents and chaperones head to various restaurants and stores throughout the city.

A hotspot is the 7-Eleven convenience store located at 302 W Broomfield Street, mainly because the store is within a stone’s throw from the Towers Residential Complex. It is also within walking distance from most of the sports venues.

The chain’s iconic “Slurpee” was the beverage of choice for almost every athlete in the store. Many also bought snacks. The line stretched out the door and onto the sidewalk following the closing ceremony on May 31.

For the athletes, it was well worth the wait.

28

|

Jonathan Byrne, 29, has been participating in the Games for 21 years in swimming.

Every year during the summer games, he goes to 7-Eleven with his family to get his favorite blueberry Slurpee. His reason why is simple: Because I love it,” Byrne said.

The atmosphere in the store was controlled chaos. Customers were roaming around the store, many flocking to the Slurpee machine, where the wait was around five minutes. As for the wait to check out, roughly three minutes. The two cashiers on the job were expediting their customers through the line and out of the door.

7-Eleven employee Ryan Brown said the lively atmosphere is normal during the Summer Games because of the influx of people coming in to the city.

“I would call it energetic,” Brown said. “Everyone who comes in here is really excited to be here not just for their events, but they always get super excited about the Slurpees and candy.”

SPECIAL OLYMPICS MICHIGAN SUMMER GAMES • MAY 30 - JUNE 1, 2019 • CENTRAL MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY • MOUNT PLEASANT • PUBLISHED BY CENTRAL MICHIGAN LIFE

“Everyone who comes in here is really excited to be here” Ryan Brown 7-Eleven Employee

Photos by Austin Chastain | Staff Writer Special Olympic attendees and athletes gather at 7-Eleven to purchase snacks.

SPECIAL OLYMPICS MICHIGAN SUMMER GAMES • MAY 30 - JUNE 1, 2019 • CENTRAL MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY • MOUNT PLEASANT • PUBLISHED BY CENTRAL MICHIGAN LIFE

|

29

Special Olympics

Young Athletes™ 30 30

| |

SPECIAL OLYMPICS MICHIGAN SUMMER GAMES • MAY 30 - JUNE 1, 2019 • CENTRAL MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY • MOUNT PLEASANT • PUBLISHED BY CENTRAL MICHIGAN LIFE SPECIAL OLYMPICS MICHIGAN SUMMER GAMES • MAY 30 - JUNE 1, 2019 • CENTRAL MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY • MOUNT PLEASANT • PUBLISHED BY CENTRAL MICHIGAN LIFE

Future competitors Young Athlete clinics prepare kids for Special Olympics During the Special Olympics Michigan Summer Games, there were multiple Young Athlete clinics in McGuirk Arena. The Young Athletes program is for children between 2-7 years old who have intellectual disabilities.

Athletes must be at least eight years old to compete in Special Olympics. The Young Athletes program is a way for children to socialize, make friends and become familiar with Special Olympics competition.

The June 1 clinic included sports-themed activities such as tee ball, bowling, basketball, soccer and tennis. There was also an obstacle course with hoops and tunnels. Volunteers at each station taught participants basic skills like running, kicking and throwing.

Throughout the year, clinics for Young Athletes are hosted across the state.

Programs are eight to 12 weeks long. A program in Mount Pleasant is offered at Mary McGuire Elementary School and serves children from Clare, Gladwin, Isabella and Gratiot counties. Learn more about the Young Athletes program at www.somi.org.

Photos by Cody Scanlan, Photo Editor | Photos by Sara Kellner, Editor-in-Chief Young Athletes teaches children healthy habits while they are young. Parents say their children in Young Athletes also develop better social skills. The confidence boost makes it easier for them to play and talk with other children on the playground and elsewhere.

SPECIAL OLYMPICS MICHIGAN SUMMER GAMES • MAY 30 - JUNE 1, 2019 • CENTRAL MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY • MOUNT PLEASANT • PUBLISHED BY CENTRAL MICHIGAN LIFE

|

31

Special Olympics Young Athletes is a sport and play program for children 2-7 years old with and without intellectual disabilities.

The program focuses on basic sport skills like running, kicking and throwing.

32

|

SPECIAL OLYMPICS MICHIGAN SUMMER GAMES • MAY 30 - JUNE 1, 2019 • CENTRAL MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY • MOUNT PLEASANT • PUBLISHED BY CENTRAL MICHIGAN LIFE

Photos by Cody Scanlan, Photo Editor | Photos by Sara Kellner, Editor-in-Chief Young Athletes introduces basic sport skills, like running, kicking and throwing. Children learn how to play with others and develop important skills. It is a fun way for children to get fit. Most Young Athlete programs are 8 to 12 weeks and meet once or twice a week. Each week athletes focus on the basic skill designated toward that week in a fun atmosphere.

SPECIAL OLYMPICS MICHIGAN SUMMER GAMES • MAY 30 - JUNE 1, 2019 • CENTRAL MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY • MOUNT PLEASANT • PUBLISHED BY CENTRAL MICHIGAN LIFE

|

33

Photo by Sara Kellner Editor-in-Chief A girl runs through an obstacle course during the Young Athletes clinic in McGuirk Arena June 1

34

|

SPECIAL OLYMPICS MICHIGAN SUMMER GAMES • MAY 30 - JUNE 1, 2019 • CENTRAL MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY • MOUNT PLEASANT • PUBLISHED BY CENTRAL MICHIGAN LIFE

The overwhelming joy of covering Special Olympics

By Sara Kellner Editor-in-Chief

I have experienced many emotions while working as a reporter.

Some positive, like pride and inspiration, some negative, like sadness and anxiety. However, covering Special Olympics left me with an emotion I have felt before, but never at my job.

I felt complete and utter joy every second I was there.

Unfortunately, I didn’t get to spend much time at the Summer Games during the first day. As the summer editor-in-chief of CMU’s student newspaper Central Michigan Life, I not only have to coordinate all of my staff, but I also have to write a lot of news myself. Most of that day was spent in my office writing briefs and hearing about my staff’s excitement as they returned for lunch.

When I finally got to leave my office, it was for the opening ceremony. I met with the coordinators for Area 7, the local Special Olympics program, a few nights before the ceremony. Area 7 serves athletes from Isabella, Clare, Gladwin and Gratiot counties.

The coordinators were extremely friendly and welcoming to me and my staff. They even invited us to join them on the field during the opening ceremony at Kelly/Shorts Stadium.

It was fun meeting the athletes and volunteers from Area 7.

Knowing they are the local program, it gave us a team to cheer for during the competitions. I felt proud whenever someone from that area won a medal or received recognition.

Not only did Area 7 welcome us with open arms, but many of the athletes and volunteers from other programs did as well. We immediately became part of the 5,000-person family that gathers once a year in Mount Pleasant.

During the first official day of competition, I spent the entire day exploring the sports venues and cheering on athletes. Every time I walked past an athlete with a medal, I held up my hand and was always given a high five. I started conversations with many of them as well. I asked which sports they played, how long they have competed in special olympics, and what they are interested in other than sports. Over the weekend, I had conversations about weather, glasses, dresses and science.

I loved how friendly all of the athletes were. As a reporter, I typically approach people to conduct interviews. Sometimes the person is happy to talk to me; other times they are not – one time a girl literally ran away from me when I mentioned I was a reporter. At the Special Olympics events, however, it was usually the athletes who approached me. They loved showing me their medals and asking me questions.

I also witnessed many joyful moments. I watched an athlete throw a mini javelin 19 feet, which is pretty impressive

considering it was about as aerodynamic as a NERF dart. I saw a young woman nearly spit out her water when her dad started making funny faces while she drank. I saw a young boy’s face light up when the Special Smiles volunteer told him his teeth were in great shape. I couldn’t help but smile every time I saw one of these moments.

One thing I thought was great was the volunteers who were at each event just to cheer the athletes on. Those who were acting as cheerleaders did a great job of making sure each athlete received the same amount of praise. After every single race, every single throw, each athlete was met with high fives and affirming words.

As I walked through the parking lot of the Student Activity Center, I thought about how special it was to have this event happen every year at my university. It makes me proud to know that my university has such a strong relationship with one of the greatest nonprofit organizations in the nation. It is also really cool that on a campus known for “out-nicing” other universities, each summer we get to welcome 5,000 of the nicest people in the state of Michigan.

I am very grateful that I had the opportunity to experience the joy and celebration that happens each year at the Special Olympics Michigan Summer Games. I know that everyone says this, but I think anyone would enjoy attending the event, whether they know the athletes or not, just to experience the pure joy the event is filled with.

It will immediately make a bad day better, and it will inspire you to celebrate every little victory, just like these athletes do.

“We immediately became part of the 5,000-person family that gathers once a year in Mount Pleasant.”

Sara Kellner Editor-in-Chief

SPECIAL OLYMPICS MICHIGAN SUMMER GAMES • MAY 30 - JUNE 1, 2019 • CENTRAL MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY • MOUNT PLEASANT • PUBLISHED BY CENTRAL MICHIGAN LIFE

|

35

Photo by Cody Scanlan Photo Editor A team of Special Olympics athletes cheer before competing in the mini javelin throw May 31 outside the soccer/lacross complex.

36

|

SPECIAL OLYMPICS MICHIGAN SUMMER GAMES • MAY 30 - JUNE 1, 2019 • CENTRAL MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY • MOUNT PLEASANT • PUBLISHED BY CENTRAL MICHIGAN LIFE

What SOMI Summer Games taught me about inclusion I knew to expect a busy weekend and late nights while covering the Special Olympics Michigan Summer Games, typing away at whatever I was assigned to cover. Little did I realize I would be covering the most important event of my journalism career thus far.

With help from a small team of Central Michigan Life staff, a biker organization and hundreds of Special Olympics athletes, I emerged from the 2019 State Summer Games with a better understanding of natural inclusion and the importance of community.

My first job was to observe and understand Unified Sports. These are competitions where Special Olympics athletes are grouped with Unified partners without intellectual disabilities.

While the runners weren’t as fast as Usain Bolt, the crowd of family, friends, coaches and volunteers could have rivaled a full stadium with their energy and support.

I watched a team from Bay City Central High School erupt with excitement as their teammate crossed the finish line. I will never forget the group of boys I interviewed after their relay race and how they said their team is like a family.

Watching the athletes was eye opening to say the least but experiencing inclusion and acceptance first-hand was far more gratifying.

I was also assigned to write a story about the Rev it Up Ride, an annual State Summer Games event and a favorite for the athletes.

Members of the Michigan Moose Riders gather in Mount Pleasant to tour Central Michigan University’s campus in a “motorcycle parade.”

I remember the Moose Riders destroying the “Hell’s Angels scary biker” stereotype after I approached the group for an interview.

I watched them register their bikes, and turn over thousands of dollars to benefit Special Olympics.

Every leather vest was willing to be interviewed, and all of them said the same thing: they are dedicated to making the athletes

By Michael Livingston Staff Writer

radiate happiness. Ultimately, the Moose Riders raised over $13,000 this year and well over $100,000 in the 10-year history of Rev it Up. Even after several interviews, I was still intrigued by the bikers’ dedication to charity. So, what better way to put myself in the story than to ride one of the motorcycles?

The thought of an accident frightened me, but I knew the opportunity was likely to never present itself again.

After asking around, Christy, a blonde-haired biker volunteered to chaperone this scared reporter. I was visibly shaking, but she and the rest of the bikers from the St. Louis Moose Lodge made me feel safe and secure on top of the screaming engine.

A few minutes later I was seeing campus from a new perspective.

With wind blowing through my hair and a smile on my face, I began to reflect on what I had experienced over the past two days.

The articles no longer felt like work, they felt like a privilege.

Throughout the games, I was also growing closer to that small team of press junkies. I remember triumphantly piling into a small sedan with them after the closing ceremony to go to 7/11. We joked around and reflected on the day as we drove past the heroic athletes.

Photographers went from being artists to friends; editors went from bosses to kind human beings. I emerged from Special Olympics knowing I have a home at CM Life. Those are emotions that are hard to illustrate but even harder to forget.

I will remember covering the State Summer Games while I type away at another story 20 years down the road. I’ll remember the smiles on the athlete’s faces as the medals were placed around their necks and remember the patience and kindness from every coach, volunteer and law enforcement official.

I drove home from CMU cherishing Special Olympics as an organization. Their message of inclusion and partnership is something I will reflect in my actions for years to come.

SPECIAL OLYMPICS MICHIGAN SUMMER GAMES • MAY 30 - JUNE 1, 2019 • CENTRAL MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY • MOUNT PLEASANT • PUBLISHED BY CENTRAL MICHIGAN LIFE

|

37

“I thought to myself, ‘if general education students had to do this, they would be grumbling the whole time,’ but our athletes can have fun in any situation.”

Marilyn Zerbe

SOMI Athlete Coordinator, Area 7

38

|

Photo By Austin Chastain Staff Writer Marilyn Zerbe, athlete coordinator for Special Olympics Michigan, Area 7, and granddaughter Samantha Buckmaster pose for a photo outside Kelly/Shorts Stadium on May 28, 2019.

SPECIAL OLYMPICS MICHIGAN SUMMER GAMES • MAY 30 - JUNE 1, 2019 • CENTRAL MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY • MOUNT PLEASANT • PUBLISHED BY CENTRAL MICHIGAN LIFE

Athlete coordinator Marilyn Zerbe discusses experience with Special Olympics as a volunteer and parent

By Michael Livingston Staff Writer

As a mother of three special needs children, Marilyn Zerbe understood the challenges that were forthcoming. When her adopted granddaughter, Samantha Buckmaster, expressed interest in becoming an Special Olympics athlete Zerbe unknowingly had the next 14 years sculpted before her.

She started doing small jobs at annual events and later became the volunteer coordinator for the surrounding area. She eventually took on a role as athlete coordinator as well, keeping records of physical examinations for athletes.

Zerbe has created a lasting impact for Special Olympics in Mid-Michigan. She sat down with Central Michigan Life to reflect on her years of service to Special Olympics and offer a unique perspective as both a parent and volunteer.

CM Life: How did Special Olympics enter your life?

Zerbe: I grew up in Isabella County, it’s something that’s just

always been here. I’ve been doing my part for about 14 years, ever since Samantha was 10. Swimming was her first sport and I volunteered and chaperoned. When I started to realize she would become more involved, I became more involved.

What were other sports Samantha showed interest in?

Soccer came next when she was maybe 11 or 12. When we went to our first competition, we realized some of these athletes were like linebackers. They were huge and competitive while others like Samantha were doing it just for fun. I was scared she was going to get hurt, but the other athletes were very protective of her. These athletes really watch out and care for their teammates.

After that she started doing track and field, then she started doing cheerleading, too.

Q&A What were your responsibilities when you started to volunteer more heavily?

It started with working closely with our search director.

Then one thing led to another and I developed a pamphlet of information that I wish I would have known when I first became involved. What was the criteria for an athlete? Do they need to sign up every year? When are their physicals due? Who do I contact if I want to learn this?

The first event I helped with was the golf outing. My job was to gather sponsors for each hole and get things for the silent auction.

It started with just two or three but now I can get 20-30 sponsors for an 18-hole golf course.

How did you know you could feel confident contributing to Special Olympics?

Some of the athletes I knew before because I substituted in Mount Pleasant Public Schools. Some were in my daughter’s class. The joy they had while competing made me know it was a worthwhile organization. If Samantha wouldn’t have joined, I probably wouldn’t be involved.

What is one of your favorite memories of Special Olympics?

One year at the Summer Games it poured Thursday morning through Saturday night. Some of the events could be moved inside but you can’t do that with the running events. So, they were outside running in the rain still with smiles on their faces.

I thought to myself, ‘if general education students had to do this, they would be grumbling the whole time,’ but our athletes can have fun in any situation.

Do you ever see yourself passing the torch and stepping away from the program?

Well, I have slowly turned over my duties to other people. I’m not the volunteer coordinator anymore and I have the spreadsheet for the athlete’s physicals so that whoever takes it over will have an easy time doing the job. Samantha moved into her own apartment about a year and a half ago and my husband and I have been focused on traveling. So yes, eventually we will be out of it. I’ve brought a lot of organization to the jobs I do, which I hope will stick around for many years.

SPECIAL OLYMPICS MICHIGAN SUMMER GAMES • MAY 30 - JUNE 1, 2019 • CENTRAL MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY • MOUNT PLEASANT • PUBLISHED BY CENTRAL MICHIGAN LIFE

|

39

Photos by Austin Chastain | Staff Writer TOP: An athlete practices using a toothbrush on a stuffed animal at the Healthy Athlete Village in the Indoor Athletic Complex May 31.

BOTTOM LEFT: A sign is displayed at the Healthy Athlete Village in the Indoor Athletic Complex May 31.

BOTTOM RIGHT: An athlete practices agility and balance at the Healthy Athlete Village in the Indoor Athletic Complex May 31.

40

|

SPECIAL OLYMPICS MICHIGAN SUMMER GAMES • MAY 30 - JUNE 1, 2019 • CENTRAL MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY • MOUNT PLEASANT • PUBLISHED BY CENTRAL MICHIGAN LIFE

Promoting Healthy Habits Healthy Athlete Village provides health screening and education to Special Olympics Athletes

By Austin Chastain Staff Writer

For many Special Olympics athletes, the Healthy Athlete Village serves as a yearly check-up and educational opportunity.

During the Special Olympics Michigan Summer Games, health screenings were held in the turf bay of Central Michigan University’s Indoor Athletic Complex . Volunteers were located at various booths across the turf.

Each booth provided different services and education to the athletes that they may not have access to otherwise.

There were seven booths: Fit Feet, FUNfitness, Health Promotion, Healthy Hearing, MedFest, Opening Eyes and Special Smiles.

Special Smiles, provided dental screenings to check athletes’ oral health. There were also volunteers teaching the athletes proper hygiene. They used various stuffed animals to demonstrate how to properly brush and floss teeth and gave each athlete toothbrushes and floss to try the techniques at home.

There was also a booth named “Competition Readiness,” which taught athletes about the importance of nutrition and hydration. Volunteers used corn hole boards that had four food groups sectioned off. Volunteers discussed the food group of each section the bean bag landed on.

“In the Village, we are the nutrition area,” said Madeline Aittama, a volunteer who is enrolled in the CMU College of Medicine. “We’ve incorporated games to talk about the four main food groups: protein, vegetables, fruit and grains.”

“Competition Readiness” also measured the athletes’ height and weight. Athletes performed a variety of tests such as sit-and-reach, jumping jacks, pushups and situps.

SPECIAL OLYMPICS MICHIGAN SUMMER GAMES • MAY 30 - JUNE 1, 2019

Every athlete that went through the booth made a goal for improving their fitness.

The ever-popular Opening Eyes booth provided free vision screenings to athletes. Athletes had their eyes checked and were given free glasses if necessary.

Fit Feet returned to the IAC. Volunteers examined athletes’ feet and provided free running shoes that would better suit their feet.

FUNFitness was a physical therapy spot for athletes to alleviate pain or stretch out before and after their competitions. MedFest provided sports physicals for the athletes.

“The health of our Michigan community is vital as we face mounting statistics about obesity and disease, especially in our diverse communities,” said Bridget G. Hurd, director of community responsibility at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan on the program’s website. “From physical activity to wellness and obesity prevention, we focus on promoting healthy lifestyles for Michigan residents.”

“The health of our Michigan community is vital as we face mounting statistics about obesity and disease, especially in our diverse communities” Bridget G. Hurd Director of Community Responsibility, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan

• CENTRAL MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY • MOUNT PLEASANT • PUBLISHED BY CENTRAL MICHIGAN LIFE

|

41

Let me win.

But if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt Special Olympics Athlete Oath

42

|

SPECIAL OLYMPICS MICHIGAN SUMMER GAMES • MAY 30 - JUNE 1, 2019 • CENTRAL MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY • MOUNT PLEASANT • PUBLISHED BY CENTRAL MICHIGAN LIFE

My first photo assignment

By Taylor Rainier Staff Photographer

This past weekend I took photos for Central Michigan Life at the Special Olympics Summer Games. I had the honor of shadowing a past CM Life photo editor, and he taught me so much over the weekend about journalistic photography. I will be forever grateful for that.

When I met the summer editor-in-chief of CM Life, I mentioned that I would love to take photos for the publication. She instantly gave me the opportunity to shadow the former photo editor for Special Olympics. I accepted as fast as I could.

I took the task of capturing it seriously. This was also my very first time at Special Olympics, so I was super excited to see all of the athletes through my camera lens. I couldn’t have asked for a better first assignment as a photographer for CM Life.

When I arrived at the field where Unified sports competitions were taking place, I got right to work. It was still pretty early in the day. The only sport being played at the time was bocce ball.

Once the track and field events began, I was in my element. One of the athletes saw me take her photo, so she smiled big every time she was in front of the camera. Even when she was clearly in pain after a race, she posed for a photo. I saw her the next day too. A soon as she saw me, she threw me a thumbs-up and gave me some great photo opportunities.

Taking photos during the Special Olympics weekend was super rewarding and I had a blast.

SPECIAL OLYMPICS MICHIGAN SUMMER GAMES

MAY 30 - JUNE 1, 2019 • CENTRAL MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY • MT PLEASANT • PUBLISHED BY CENTRAL MICHIGAN LIFE

|

43

44

|

SPECIAL OLYMPICS MICHIGAN SUMMER GAMES • MAY 30 - JUNE 1, 2019 • CENTRAL MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY • MOUNT PLEASANT • PUBLISHED BY CENTRAL MICHIGAN LIFE

“I was super excited to see all the athletes through my camera lens.”

Photos by Taylor Rainier | Staff Photograhper TOP LEFT: Athletes recieved their medals for the walking competition May 31 TOP MIDDLE: Athlete accepts medal from National Guardsman after Unified sports May 30 TOP RIGHT: An attendee holds a therapy dog during the weekend festivities May 31 LOWER LEFT: Athlete blows a kiss during the swimming competition LOWER MIDDLE: Athletes of the walking competition wait for their race LOWER RIGHT: Unified sports team competes in bocce ball May 30

Taylor Rainier Staff Photographer

SPECIAL OLYMPICS MICHIGAN SUMMER GAMES • MAY 30 - JUNE 1, 2019 • CENTRAL MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY • MT PLEASANT • PUBLISHED BY CENTRAL MICHIGAN LIFE

|

45

Photos by Taylor Rainier | Staff Photographer LEFT TOP: An athlete waits his turn to compete in powerlifting LOWER LEFT: An athlete gets ready to throw in shot put LOWER MIDDLE: Athlete prepares to throw her javelin in the track and field sports event LOWER RIGHT: Athlete in mid throw during a shot put game RIGHT: Attendees and Athletes show support for Unified sports

46

|

SPECIAL OLYMPICS MICHIGAN SUMMER GAMES • MAY 30 - JUNE 1, 2019 • CENTRAL MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY • MOUNT PLEASANT • PUBLISHED BY CENTRAL MICHIGAN LIFE

Revealing the champion in all of us SpecialOlympics.org

SPECIAL OLYMPICS MICHIGAN SUMMER GAMES • MAY 30 - JUNE 1, 2019 • CENTRAL MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY • MOUNT PLEASANT • PUBLISHED BY CENTRAL MICHIGAN LIFE

|

47

CLOSING CEREMONY

Special Olympics Closing Ceremony ends with a dance party and high hopes for the future

By Michael Livingston Staff Writer

The turf of Kelly/Shorts Stadium was filled with Special Olympics athletes, volunteers and medical personnel on Friday night. Some athletes wore their competition t-shirts, while others sported pressed polos and glamorous dresses. Chatter filled the field as athletes united with friends and family.

The motorcyclists of the Michigan Moose Riders had positioned themselves around the top of the stands. Below, the stage was set for the fabulous closure of the 2019 Special Olympics Michigan State Summer Games.

Athletes were posing for photos, showcasing their gold, silver and bronze medals. Some carried a green autograph sheet, which was signed by volunteers, the Moose riders, and their fellow athletes.

WXYZ reporter and passionate Special Olympics volunteer, Ann Marie LaFlamme, led the announcements and precessions. Her voice was full of enthusiasm as she engaged the audience of accomplished athletes.

The festivities began with crowning the Special Olympics King and Queen.

Then LaFlamme announced the 2019 Inspirational Athlete of the Year, Michael Currie. He has been involved in Special

48

|

Olympics for more than 10 years, competing in five sports.

He is a high school graduate and has worked for the same company for 10 years. He also raised more than $40,000 for Special Olympics during the Polar Plunge.

Grinning ear to ear, Currie accepted the award.

Following the ceremony, the Moose Riders revved their engines in unison. Paired with the roaring of athletes, the sound was enough to excite the whole stadium.

After months of vigorous training, now was the time to celebrate.

Members of local police stations and armed forces kicked off the dance party. The servicemen performed a rendition of YMCA. Athletes looked on with animated expressions as they mirrored the iconic dance.

Outside the stadium, on the crosswalk across Broomfield, National guardsmen danced along as they conducted traffic.

Athletes looked to the servicemen with great admiration, asking for autographs or photos.

“I love seeing the interaction between the athletes and law enforcement,” Law Enforcement Supervisor John Card said.

“Year after year they come and seek us out. They recognize us,

SPECIAL OLYMPICS MICHIGAN SUMMER GAMES • MAY 30 - JUNE 1, 2019 • CENTRAL MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY • MOUNT PLEASANT • PUBLISHED BY CENTRAL MICHIGAN LIFE

especially in the uniform.”

From end zone to end zone, more than 3,000 athletes danced like no one was watching. This year had the most athletes participating since the 2004 Summer Games.

Along with the athletes, 635 volunteers sang, danced and signed autograph sheets. SOMI events are famous for their day-of volunteering, so large numbers enlist their help at every occasion.

“This is my first time doing this and I’ve never interacted with this kind of population” said volunteer Mario Rodriguez. “Every athlete I’ve met has been so genuinely nice.”

Volunteer Erika Vichales agreed.

“This community is so positive and uplifting, it’s infectious,” Vichales said.

As the dance party wound down, a rainbow of colored shirts could be seen funneling out of Kelly/Shorts. The Moose Riders revved their engines one last time as they peeled away from campus.

“When I think of natural inclusion, I think of my daughter who loves Special Olympics and can’t wait to be a Unified partner,” President and CEO of Special Olympics Tim Hileman said. “She did Polar Plunge this year, and when I asked her why, she told me it’s because ‘everyone deserves a chance to play sports.’ If that message continues to spread, what an incredible future we have.”

SPECIAL OLYMPICS MICHIGAN SUMMER GAMES • MAY 30 - JUNE 1, 2019 •

CENTRAL MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY

Photo by Cody Scanlan Photo Editor LEFT TOP: Special Olympic athlete high fives police officer during closing ceremony on May 31 at Kelly/ Shorts Stadium.

RIGHT TOP: Special Olympics athletes dance after the Summer Games Closing Ceremony on May 31 at Kelly/Shorts Stadium.

MOUNT PLEASANT • PUBLISHED BY CENTRAL MICHIGAN LIFE

|

49

CLOSING CEREMONY

Special Olympics unleashes the human spirit through the transformative

50

|

SPECIAL OLYMPICS MICHIGAN SUMMER GAMES • MAY 30 - JUNE 1, 2019 • CENTRAL MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY • MOUNT PLEASANT • PUBLISHED BY CENTRAL MICHIGAN LIFE

Photos by Cody Scanlan, Photo Editor Photos by Rachael Yadlowsky, Staff Photographer LEFT: Participants celebrate during the closing ceremony dance May 31 in Kelly/Shorts Stadium.

LEFT BOTTOM RIGHT: Following the ceremony, the Moose Riders revved their engines in unison. Paired with the roaring of athletes, the sound was enough to excite the whole stadium.

RIGHT TOP: The 2019 Summer Games King and Queen, Joe Gyergov and Lucie Queen pose for a photo at the closing ceremony on May 31 in Kelly/Shorts Stadium.

RIGHT CENTER AND BOTTOM: The entire community gets into the groove at the Special Olympics closing ceremony dance.

power and joy of sports every day around the world.

– SpecialOlympics.org

SPECIAL OLYMPICS MICHIGAN SUMMER GAMES • MAY 30 - JUNE 1, 2019 • CENTRAL MICHIGAN UNIVERSITY • MOUNT PLEASANT • PUBLISHED BY CENTRAL MICHIGAN LIFE

|

51