The Special Olympics State Games begin Friday in Wichita, and local Special Olympians got a boost from lots of community members heading into the annual event.
Ron’s Ride, KVOE General Manager Ron Thomas’ ride from Emporia to Olpe, generated $5,000, thanks to numerous community donations and a one-day matching amount from station owners Steve and Bobbi Sauder. Thomas heartily praised the community for its support.
Special Olympians paraded south down Commercial Street, torch in hand, shortly after 9 am. After a stop at Hetlinger Developmental Services, local law enforcement and Thomas headed to Olpe to culminate Ron’s Ride.
Law enforcement will end the day in El Dorado. The torch then continues to Wichita for the Special Olympics State Games, which begin Friday night and continue through Sunday.
Photos by Chuck Samples and Tagan Trahoon/KVOE News
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Photos courtesy Ken Rodriguez/Emporia Police Department
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