Laughter, smiles, high fives, cheers and even some pies in the face were all part of a recent celebration hosted by Hermiston-Pendleton Special Olympics.
Communications manager Kristi Smalley said more than 150 athletes, coaches, volunteers, family, friends and special guests gathered Nov. 27 at The Arc Building in Hermiston. After enjoying a catered dinner, the evening’s program included celebrating the accomplishments of bowling and swimming athletes and presenting special awards for 2022 and 2023.
Smalley said the evening provided additional reason for applause because the yearly event was paused at the onset of the global pandemic. After a welcome from Angela Schneider, local program coordinator, Rep. Greg Smith delivered an inspirational message. Oregon State Police troopers Isaiah Johnston and Blake Chamberlain presented the awards.
Athlete of the year awards went to Jenniffer Pease, Shirley Fell, Jose Garcia and Adolfo Zuniga. Each of the recipients, Smalley said, epitomizes the spirit of sportsmanship.
In addition, Midge Harris, who coaches golf and basic basketball skills, received coach of the year, and Schneider was named volunteer of the year. Also, a pair of business owners — Stuart Rice, of Midway Bar & Grill, and Ken Huber, of Burns Mortuary of Hermiston — were applauded for their ongoing support for the program.
The event included recognition for the efforts of athletes during Special Olympics Bowl-a-thon events, held Oct. 27 at Desert Lanes Family Fun Center, Hermiston; and Oct. 28 at Quaking Aspens Lanes at Wildhorse Resort & Casino. More than $12,000 was gathered, including top fundraisers, Shirley Fell, David Andrews and Jillian Smalley.
In addition, Smalley said pies in the face brought lots of laughter during the celebration — the result of a pair of contests held Oct. 20-21 between athletes and coaches from Hermiston and Pendleton. After scores were averaged, the winner of each matchup earned the right to “pie” a member of the losing team.
Pendleton athlete Charles Nageali was the recipient of a pie in the face by coach Kris Nuestel. And Schneider wore a pie face, courtesy of Hermiston athletes Ashley Waite and Vivian McEachran.
Special Olympics provides year-round training and athletic competitions for people of all ages with intellectual disabilities. There is no charge for athletes to participate. Training for the winter season, which includes basketball and powerlifting, begins in January.
For more about Hermiston-Pendleton Special Olympics, search Facebook via rebrand.ly/mirhl6g. For questions about participating, email Schneider at hpspecialolympics510@gmail.com.
