Sponsor Statement for SJR 19

SJR 19 offers the support of the Alaska State Legislature to the efforts of the Special Olympics World Winter Games Committee to secure Anchorage as the site of the 2001 World Winter Games.

Chaired by Patti McGuire, of Anchorage and honorary chairman Senator Ted Stevens, the committee is preparing for a site inspection in April and formal presentation of its bid in May. Mrs. McGuire has stated that the support of the Legislature is crucial to the success of this effort.

The Special Olympics World Winter Games play a vital part in the mission of Special Olympics International, founded by Mrs. Eunice Kennedy Shriver. Special Olympics seeks to provide year-round sports training and athletic competition for children eight years old and older and for adults with mental retardation.

Holding the 2001 Winter Games in Anchorage will put the Alaska Special Olympics program in the spot light. The games will leave a legacy that will allow Special Olympics in Alaska to expand and include more of the indigenous people of our State.

The Game will also spotlight Anchorage and all of Alaska, attracting as many as 6,000 athletes, coaches, family members and volunteers.

Holding the Games in Anchorage will leave the community with permanent improvements to existing winter sport facilities and highlight Alaska for ten days during the Winter months.

Throughout the quest to locate in Games in Anchorage, the Special Olympics World Winter Games Committee will continue to emphasize the real importance of this event. That is the opportunity it will give to Special Olympians from around the world to experience the joy of competition, demonstrate courage and share in the gifts, skills and friendship that personify Special Olympics International.