Oct 16, 2025 — Special Olympics: Rocky Mountain Ninjas

Bulletin for October 16, 2025

Featured Speaker: Debbie Shackelford

Special Olympics Colorado — Athletes, Advocacy, and Community

OPENING

Benny led the opening prayer, and Marlene led the Pledge of Allegiance.

"Moral courage — doing what has to be done because it is the right thing to do — is the mark of a true hero."

— Thomas G. Kelley, United States Medal of Honor

CLUB ANNOUNCEMENTS

• Membership Roster: Current roster updated and cleaned. Members can review and request corrections.

• New Membership Application: Application received from Randy Carty. Transportation may be a consideration since Randy doesn't drive.

• Club Visit — Soaring Eagles Community School: Thursday, November 6 at 11:45 AM, 4710 Harrier Ridge. Bring a driver's license. Tour the school, meet students, and have lunch.

• Brown Palace Hotel Tour: Maximum 12 participants; Saturday scheduling likely. More details to follow.

• Missionary Mike Recognition: Mike is the 32nd travel leader of the year. Congratulations!

• Christmas Party: Holiday party at Patty Jewett, Wednesday, December 17. More to follow.

• Board Meeting: October 28 at 4:30 PM at Way Point Bank.

MEMBER UPDATES

Paula Linares — Community Highlight

The club recognized Paula's community work and many contributions. She was commended for her outstanding volunteer leadership and media engagement — particularly her published letters in the Gazette and her work with Citizens College, which meets every evening for three hours with county residents. Her leadership in that program was described as exceptionally impressive and unique among club members.

Update on Walter

Walter is doing well. Efforts are underway to have him attend a meeting in November or December.

Heart Day Recognition

The board approved naming 'Heart Day' for survivors — a meaningful recognition of those who have faced serious health challenges.

KEYNOTE: SPECIAL OLYMPICS COLORADO

Today's keynote was presented by Debbie Shackelford, Program Coordinator and Coach for Special Olympics Colorado, along with Special Olympics athletes Edward 'Eddie' Hudson, William 'Billy' Smith, and John Smits.

About Debbie Shackelford

Debbie's career in workforce development and education has included roles at the Colorado Workforce Center, as an apprenticeship consultant at the Colorado School of Higher Education, and as a Youth Engagement Specialist. She volunteers with Special Olympics Colorado and the Jay Coleman Race for the Cure, and holds a B.A. in Organizational Communication from University of Colorado, Colorado Springs.

Special Olympics Athletes

The highlight of the presentation was hearing directly from athletes Eddie, Billy, and John — whose participation in Special Olympics has built confidence, community, and competitive spirit. Their stories were both inspiring and deeply moving to the entire group.

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