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NEWS RELEASE: June 17, 2002 |
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Commissioner Masilotti Serves as Honorary
Chairman for 2002 Sunshine State Games
County
Commissioner Tony Masilotti welcomed more than 7,000 top athletes from
around the nation to the 2002 Sunshine State Games the week of June 12-16.
For the first time in 10 years, Palm Beach County hosted Florida's own
Olympic-style event, which provides an estimated $3 million boost to the
local tourism economy.
Commissioner Masilotti volunteered his services as Honorary
Chairman because he wanted to help ensure the Games' success in Palm Beach
County. The competition drew athletes from age 5 to 75 in 29 individual and
team sports held at multiple venues across Palm Beach County. All events
were free to the public.
Commissioner Masilotti was one of the guest speakers at the
Celebration of Athletes on Friday, June 14, at MARS Music Amphitheatre.
Similar to the Olympics' Parade of Athletes, all participants in the
Sunshine State Games come together at the Celebration of Athletes in the
spirit of friendship and competition. Other guest speakers included Florida
Sports Foundation President Larry Pendleton and Florida Lieutenant Governor
Frank Brogan.
"In high school I ran track, and I remember how much time and
energy went into training," said Commissioner Masilotti. "The fun part was
the actual track meet, lining up against the best from another school and
giving it your all. These Sunshine State athletes work extremely hard, and
they deserve our support and thanks for participating."
Prior to the Celebration of Athletes, Commissioner Masilotti
attended the grand opening of Masilotti Park, Royal Palm Beach's newest
recreation facility located adjacent to the new Royal Palm Beach Elementary
School. Festivities included a flag-raising ceremony and a special
three-inning softball game for children 10 and under. Masilotti Park was one
of the host sites for the Sunshine State Games' softball competition. |
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