• New Jersey To Host 2014 Special Olympics Usa National Games
• Special Olympics Usa Games Names First Founding Partner With $1 Million Pledge From The Toys"r"us Children's Fund

• About Our Logo
• The Loretta Claiborne Story
• A Grateful Mom's Story

2014 Special Olympics USA Games Board of Directors

• About Our Logo + —

  The 2014 Special Olympics Games conducted a contest to create a theme for the design of the logo for the 2014 USA Games. The winning design was submitted by Brent P. Anderson, a New Jersey athlete from Waldwick, NJ. Brent’s design focused on the adoption of a red, white and blue national theme, promoting national pride. Brent has been a Special Olympics Athlete for more than fifteen years, participating in basketball, softball, floor hockey and volleyball. The logo that was created for the Games was conceptualized by Meredith Schwinder with inspiration from Brent’s entry.

  The 2014 USA Games logo:

  • Uses the colors: red, white, and blue and promotes “national pride”
  • Represents the concept of “games of unity”
  • Incorporates a visual representation of two figures holding a Special Olympics Torch
  • Incorporates the Special Olympics logo
  • Keeps consistent with the Special Olympics brand
  • Fits the tone: warm, energetic, athletic, sense of motion, sense of unity

  
• The Loretta Claiborne Story + —

  Loretta Claiborne was the middle of seven children in a poor, single-parent family. Born partially blind and intellectually challenged, she was unable to walk or talk until age 4. Eventually, though, she began to run. And before she knew it, she had crossed the finish line of 26 marathons, twice placing among the top 100 women in the Boston Marathon. She's carried the torch in the International Special Olympics, has won medals in dozens of its events, and also holds the current women's record in her age group for the 5000 meters at 17 minutes.

  Today, Claiborne is a celebrated athlete who was honored in 1996 with ESPN's ESPY Arthur Ashe Award for Courage. Her life is recounted in Walt Disney Productions The Loretta Claiborne Story (originally broadcast on ABC-TV and now on videocassette) and in the biography (In Her Stride) published by WorldScapes.

  "I figured if my story could change a person's mind about another person, or especially a child's mind about another child, then it was the right thing to do," Claiborne says. Now in her fifties, the athlete recalls a time when children taunted her for being different and how the taunting turned her into an angry young woman who was expelled from high school and fired from a job. Although she loved to run and used her speed and strength to protect herself in fights against cruel classmates, she credits the Special Olympics with helping her realize that her tremendous athletic talent could be used to do good.

  "If it weren't for sports, I wouldn't be the person I am today. I was very angry before and sports was the arena that turned that around for me," Claiborne says. "I got support from family, community and God -- he is the strength of all and can make anything possible."

  Running is not the only part of Claiborne's life. She holds a black belt in karate, communicates in four languages, including sign language, and holds honorary doctorate degrees from Quinnipiac College and Villanova University, making her the first person with an intellectual disability known to receive such honors, according to the Special Olympics organization.

  However, Claiborne says the most rewarding part of her life has been her involvement with the Special Olympics, and she wants to continue helping people with intellectual disabilities and physical disabilities succeed. She advises them, "Find an opportunity and seize it. Be the best you can be, and never let anyone doubt you."

  Loretta currently serves on the 2014 USA Games Board of Directors. She also serves on the Board of Directors for Special Olympics Incorporated and is the first athlete to serve on the Executive Committee. Loretta is a past member of the Board of Directors for Special Olympics Pennsylvania.

  What are Loretta’s dreams for the 2014 Special Olympics USA Games? “To give athletes, throughout this country, the best sports experience of their lives, so they can compete for their home state and showcase their talents to the rest of the country.”

  www.lorettaclaiborne.com

• A Grateful Mom’s Story + —

  Kelli Tobin is a proud mom and with good reason: her 2 1/2 year old son Colin is blossoming because of the Young Athletes Program and already has his sights set on 2014. Meet Colin and hear one mom's story of how Special Olympics has changed her family's life.

  

  When Colin was first born, we had no idea how much our lives were going to change. To be quite honest, when we were told he had Down Syndrome, we thought all of the things we had hoped for were not going to happen because of his diagnosis. Our experience with those with disabilities was limited and we were just so uncertain about what our future would hold.

  Shortly after Colin was born, a friend of ours created a team that we named CAT Crew in honor of Colin to participate in our first ever Special Olympics New Jersey Polar Bear Plunge. Through our involvement in the plunge, we were introduced to Special Olympics and began to learn what it had to offer to our family.

  Chris and I come from sports-minded families with careers in athletics and had always known that we would introduce our children to sports in some way. When we met Marc Edenzon and his wife after that first Polar Bear Plunge on our tour of the SONJ Sports Complex, they told us about the Young Athlete Program and what we had to look forward to when Colin was a little bit older.

  This past fall when Colin was about 2.5 years old, he made his debut in the Young Athlete Program at the Special Olympics New Jersey Fall Festival. Colin was not quite walking yet, but as he continued to work harder, and we participated more in the YAP on Saturday mornings, we saw his skills blossoming to where he is now.

  We have only just begun to see the potential in Colin to develop his skills in all areas because of Special Olympics and the Young Athlete Program. We are grateful to the staff, volunteers, and most especially, companies like Toys"R"Us who have just donated $1 million from the Toys "R" Us Children’s Fund. We are excited Toys "R" Us will be the Presenting Sponsor of the Young Athletes™ Festival at the 2014 Special Olympics USA Games, which will provide those opportunities we know will improve upon Colin’s cognitive and gross motor skills.

  Colin will be one small piece of a larger puzzle at the 2014 USA Games Young Athletes™ Festival. He will be participating in activities with children from around the country as they demonstrate one of the goals of Special Olympics: full inclusion in sports activities.

  What a wonderful thing Toys "R" Us…thank you for showing Colin what he is capable of by your generous sponsorship. Words cannot express how excited we are.

  Our lives have certainly changed, but not in the way we initially thought. It has been filled with love, hope and fierce determination. Watch out world for the Young Athletes…they are going to be competing on a national stage because of Special Olympics and Toys "R" Us at the 2014 USA Games.

  Kelli’s Blog

• “In 2014 New Jersey Will Reveal America’s Champions” + —

  The attendees at the 2012 Special Olympics New Jersey Summer Games got a first glimpse at the 2014 Special Olympics USA Games logo and merchandise. Over 500 fans signed up to receive information, while hundreds showed interest in volunteering or supporting the National event taking place in the Garden State.

  T-Shirts, magnets and wristbands all displayed the Games Logo and were a hit among fans.

  The Games tent traveled to Trump National Golf Club the next day to showcase the Games at the Nelligan Sports Marketing Golf Outing (link to pictures) which raised funds for the USA Games. Look for the tent at future Special Olympics events and be sure to stop by for the latest news about the Games.

• Athletes Take Talents to Princeton University + —

  The 2014 Special Olympics USA Games are pleased to announce that Princeton University will be hosting the Aquatics and Athletics athletes. Aquatics athletes will dive into DeNunzio Pool, in a state-of-the-art aquatics center, host to a number of NCAA championship contests. Just outside the doors of DeNunzio Pool, cheers will be heard from Weaver Stadium, where Athletics athletes will compete in a variety of track and field events.

  

  Constructed in 1990, DeNunzio Pool’s design and technology makes it one of the fastest pools in the nation. The pool includes two moveable bulks heads which allow for various course configurations for swimming and water polo. The facility features a fully automatic Colorado timing system and includes complete facilities for diving. DeNunzio Pool has played host to a number of championship events, the most recent being the NCAA Division I men’s water polo championships in 2009.

  Don Paige, who formerly held the world record in the half mile run, is responsible for the innovative design of Princeton University’s Weaver Stadium. The stadium boasts a track, which is eight lanes across and made of durable brick red full-depth polyurethane, which is the safest, fastest and most comfortable surface available, meeting the highest standards of track and field.

  

  Complementing the University’s exceptional facilities is the town of Princeton, which offers a friendly atmosphere with plenty of shopping, dining and entertainment possibilities.

• 2014 Games Announces Hess as Presenting Sponsor of the Schools Enrichment Program + —

  
  
  

  Hess Corporation has joined our team as Presenting Sponsor of the Schools Enrichment Program, which will give students throughout New Jersey and the country the opportunity to learn about the Games, Special Olympics and how to create climates of inclusion and understanding in their schools and classrooms for their peers. Hess is also a Founding Partner for the 2014 Special Olympics USA Games.

• Bobby Fredericks named 2014 USA Games Newest Board of Directors Member + —

  My name is Robert Fredericks, but my friends call me “Bobby”. Recently, I was voted on to the Board of Directors of the 2014 USA Games as an athlete representative. Being a 2014 USA Games Board Member is going to be a learning experience for me, since I will get to see the hard work that goes into planning and organizing an event of this magnitude from the inside and not just as an athlete in a competition.

  

  The Board of Directors, Games Organizing Committee (GOC), and Special Olympics New Jersey will work together just like the way a sports team plays together during a game. Everyone involved has different skills that will contribute to the success of the Games. I hope that my experiences will provide insights from an athlete’s point of view. Special Olympics has changed my life so much that I see this as my chance to give back and I am looking forward to working hard and contributing in any way that I can to help make the GOC’s vision of the most memorable USA Games ever, become a reality. It is going to be an awesome event for all the athletes, coaches, volunteers and families. It is truly an honor for me to represent the athletes of Special Olympics and it is going to be both challenging and exciting.

  As one of the 2014 USA Games athlete ambassadors, I will have the opportunity to speak throughout the state to share the experiences of my fellow athletes. Our goal is to raise awareness and support for the 2014 USA Games coming to New Jersey.

  For me, having the games in NJ means that athletes from across the USA who are selected to attend will get the opportunity to have the same awesome experiences I had competing at the last national games in 2010. It will be a chance not only to compete at a national level, but to make new friends with athletes from other states.

  Hosting the games is going to be very exciting for all of New Jersey. We will get to share our home, our venues, and our volunteers with athletes, coaches, and families from all over the United States.

  BOBBY’S SPECIAL OLYMPICS HIGHLIGHTS & PERSONAL ACTIVITIES

  • Started with Track & Field in 1986
  • Current sports- Track & Field, Floor Hockey, Basketball and Volleyball (soon to be replaced by Soccer)
  • 2010 Special Olympics USA National Games- Team NJ Track & Field
  • Member SONJ Athlete Congress
  • Global Messenger
  • Full-Time volunteer as assistant counselor at Summer Day Camp for children with special needs (Camp Wishes, Wayne PAL, Wayne, NJ)
  • Hobbies & Interests – collecting and operating model trains with my Dad, reading and researching how real railroads operated, railfanning (watching and taking pictures/video of real trains)
  • Athlete Input Council- SOI
  • Guantanamo Bay, Cuba- Torch Run
  • Participating in local 5k Runs
  • 2011 Philadelphia Half-Marathon
  • Lincoln Tunnel Challenge - since 2005
  • Jersey Shore Relay Marathon
  • Interested in coaching Special Olympics someday
• Ann Marie Lammerding will serve as 2014 Games Ambassador + —

  Ann Marie Lammerding has competed in Special Olympics for over 25 years. Her storied career with the organization includes participation in two World Summer Games and one World Winter Games competition. In 1999, she was part of Team USA Soccer and in 2003, she competed in rhythmic gymnastics in Dublin, Ireland. No stranger to winter sports, Ann Marie competed in cross country skiing in Idaho at the 2009 World Winter Games.

  

  Today, Ann Marie competes in cross country skiing, aquatics, bowling and golf. She is a member of the Athlete Congress and represents Special Olympics at speaking engagements across New Jersey as a Sargent Shriver Global Messenger.

  Her on and off the field experience with the organization has prepared her well for her role as a 2014 Special Olympics USA Games Ambassador. “Being an Ambassador to the Games means the world to me,” states Ann Marie, “I want to get out there and talk about the Games, so I can help get volunteers to sell souvenirs and get companies to donate money, so our coaches have great facilities in New Jersey to coach me and other athletes.” She also adds, “I can’t wait for the 2014 Special Olympics USA Games, because I love meeting new friends and trading pins with athletes from all over the country.”

  Ann Marie has worked for the Special Olympics New Jersey office for over 10 years as an office assistant and can frequently be heard greeting callers over the phone.

• The 2014 Special Olympics USA Games and The College of New Jersey are a SHORE Thing! + —

  The Special Olympics USA Games is pleased to announce that The College of New Jersey (TCNJ) will be teaming up with the Games to provide housing to the athletes while also hosting Olympic Town, The Healthy Athletes Program, Powerlifting, Bocce and Basketball venues.

  When the national athletes of the 2014 USA Games arrive on campus, bocce athletes will take the field at Lion’s Stadium, the home of TCNJ Lions Football, while inside one of the original buildings on campus, powerlifters will compete on Kendall Hall’s impressive performance theater stage. Buzzer beaters and chants of “d-fence” will take place on the court of TCNJ’s Packer Hall, where basketball talents are showcased.

  Olympic Town will be created to resemble a typical New Jersey boardwalk. Athletes will test their luck at skee-ball and other games of chance & skill, feel the thrill of amusement rides, and enjoy the taste of funnel cakes & other boardwalk fare.

  Earning national recognition for both academics and athletics, TCNJ is one of the finest establishments in NJ, which also has an outstanding history of support for the Special Olympics, having hosted the Special Olympics New Jersey State Summer Games competition since 1990. Founded in 1855, TCNJ was the first teacher training school in NJ and only the ninth in the country. Today, TCNJ has a wealth of degree programs offered through its seven schools–the Arts and Communication; Business; Humanities & Social Sciences; Education; Science; Nursing, Health, and Exercise Science; and Engineering.

• Sports Venues Are Locked + —

  All sport venues have been secured for the 2014 USA Games. We are pleased and excited to announce the following venues and their respective sports:

  Location	Venue/Sport
  	DeNunzio Pool - Aquatics Weaver Stadium - Athletics
  	Alumni Gym - Basketball Student Recreation Center - Volleyball
  	Lion's Stadium - Bocce Kendall Hall - Power Lifting Packer Hall - Basketball
  	Soccer Fields - Soccer Softball Fields - Softball Tennis Center - Tennis Water Front - Triathlon Mercer Oaks East & West - Golf
  	Football Stadium - Flag Football Soccer Fields - Flag Football
  	Main Gym - Basketball Auxiliary Gym - Basketball
  	Ian H. Graham Athletic Center - Gymnastics
  	Carolier Lanes - Bowling
  	Washington Crossing Park - Cycling

• NEW JERSEY TO HOST 2014 SPECIAL OLYMPICS USA NATIONAL GAMES + —

  Projected economic impact for the state of New Jersey could top $50 million; New Jersey Devils announced as hosts of the 2014 Opening Ceremonies at Prudential Center

  NEWARK, NJ (March 15, 2011) – Special Olympics announced today that New Jersey has been selected to host the 2014 Special Olympics USA National Games. The announcement was made at a 1 p.m. press conference at The Prudential Center in Newark. The event was sponsored by the New Jersey Devils and the Prudential Center, who will also be the hosts of the Games’ Opening Ceremonies.

  On hand to make the announcement and discuss the impact of hosting one of the largest national events in 2014, were New Jersey Governor Chris Christie; State Senator Stephen Sweeny; TJ Nelligan, Chairman & CEO of the 2014 Games Organizing Committee (GOC); Marc Edenzon, President of Special Olympics New Jersey (SONJ); and Special Olympics Chairman & CEO, Tim Shriver.

  The 2014 Special Olympics USA National Games will produce an unprecedented level of national awareness through the engagement of the largest media market in the world and engage corporate leadership from the tri-state area and throughout the country, said Nelligan, who also has a son in the SONJ program. -The Games will also provide athletes with the highest quality of sports competition, while creating an environment of understanding and acceptance on the playing field, creating a model for unified schools and communities across the country through our athletes’ achievement in sport.

  The USA National Games will take place June 13 – 21, 2014 and be centered in and around Princeton and the Greater Mercer County area. Venues will include Princeton University, Rider University, The College of New Jersey, and Mercer County Park. The New Jersey Devils have offered The Prudential Center as the venue for the Opening Ceremonies.

  The National Games will feature nearly 3,500 athletes competing in 14 Olympic-style sports, with the support of 1,000 coaches, 8,000 volunteers and an estimated 50,000 family, friends and spectators. Non- competitive special events will include the Final Leg of the Law Enforcement Torch RunTM that will symbolize the start of the competition and Healthy Athletes, a place where the athletes can get vital health screenings. Youth and education events will also be held in conjunction with the Games as young leaders rally around making change for the better of the Special Olympics movement and promoting acceptance of those with intellectual disabilities.

  The 2014 Games will bring an estimated 80,000 people to the greater Mercer/Middlesex County areas. It is projected, based upon past Special Olympics Games, that hotel room nights, dining, shopping, car rentals, tourism and more could reach $50 million during the week of the Games.

  Hosting the Special Olympics USA National Games is about making an impact, said Shriver. -It’s about impacting the lives of Special Olympics athletes who have trained, worked hard and are ready to compete at the national level. But even more importantly, it’s about impacting the lives of guests, spectators, families and fans that come to watch the competitions and enjoy the events and end up going through a transformation so powerful it changes entire communities. It’s about impacting the local and state economies that will reap the benefits of having an estimated influx of 80,000 people staying at hotels, eating in restaurants and shopping in local stores while experiencing the great state of New Jersey. It’s about the everlasting impact these Games will leave behind after those seven days in June—the legacy of acceptance, inclusion and respect.

  New Jersey’s selection was based on many factors from the proximity of major media markets to the potential of large corporate support as well as the financial strength of the Special Olympics New Jersey (SONJ) program and its history of volunteer support and innovative programming.

  As an organization, Special Olympics New Jersey is prepared to provide technical assistance to the 2014 GOC and share our established resources and experience to ensure that these Games are the best in US history, said Marc Edenzon, President of SONJ. -These Games will lay the strategic groundwork for growth in our program and produce an unprecedented culture of acceptance and unity in communities across New Jersey and the country for many years to come.

  The USA National Games are held every four years. The last were held in Lincoln, Nebraska in June of 2010. The next Special Olympics World Summer Games will be held in Athens, Greece, June 25 to July 4, 2011.

  For more information on the 2014 USA National Games, please visit www.2014specialolympics.org.

  About Special Olympics

  Special Olympics is an international organization that changes lives by encouraging and empowering people with intellectual disabilities, promoting acceptance for all, and fostering communities of understanding and respect worldwide. Founded in 1968 by Eunice Kennedy Shriver, the Special Olympics movement has grown from a few hundred athletes to nearly 3.5 million athletes in over 170 countries in all regions of the world, providing year-round sports training, athletic competition health screenings, and other related programs. Special Olympics now takes place every day, changing the lives of people with intellectual disabilities in all regions of the world and in community playgrounds and ball fields in every small neighborhood’s backyard. Special Olympics provides people with intellectual disabilities continuing opportunities to realize their potential, develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage and experience joy and friendship. Visit Special Olympics at www.specialolympics.org.

  Download PDF Version
• Special Olympics Usa Games Names First Founding Partner With $1 Million Pledge From The Toys"R"Us Children's Fund + —

  Building on a Company-wide Commitment to Supporting Children with Special Needs, Toys"R"Us^® will Serve as the Presenting Sponsor of the 2014 Games First-ever Young Athletes™ Festival

  (PRINCETON, NJ) March 15, 2012 – The Organizing Committee of the 2014 Special Olympics USA Games and Toys"R"Us^® today announced a $1 million commitment from the Toys"R"Us Children's Fund, making Toys"R"Us the first Founding Partner of the 2014 Special Olympics USA Games. In addition to its Founding Partner status, Toys"R"Us will be the Presenting Sponsor of the Young Athletes™ Festival, a first-of-its-kind feature at a Special Olympics USA Games event.

  The Toys"R"Us Young Athletes Festival will provide opportunities for children, ages 2-7, and their families to take part in the Special Olympics Young Athletes program, Healthy Athletes^® activities and family seminars geared toward the future stars of Special Olympics.

  "Toys"R"Us signing as the first Founding Partner of the 2014 Special Olympics USA Games continues their on-going support of our movement," said Timothy Shriver, Chairman and CEO of Special Olympics. "Their vision and leadership in the area of inclusive play will only add to the unity that these National Games will create throughout New Jersey and the nation."

  "As a New Jersey-based organization with a long-standing commitment to children of all abilities, we are tremendously proud to partner with Special Olympics as they bring the 2014 Special Olympics USA Games to our home state for the first time," said Kathleen Waugh, Chairman, Toys"R"Us Children's Fund. "We look forward to deepening our enduring relationship with Special Olympics in welcoming athletes to New Jersey and enriching their overall experience at the first-ever Young Athletes Festival."

  The 2014 Special Olympics USA Games will take place at sporting venues throughout New Jersey, June 14 through June 21. More than 3,500 Special Olympics athletes from all 50 states and the District of Columbia will compete in 17 sports. An estimated 10,000 volunteers as well as 50,000 additional spectators will be in attendance.

  The Toys"R"Us-sponsored Young Athletes Festival will build on the Young Athletes program, an inclusive, innovative play program for children with and without special needs that develops critical early cognitive, social and motor skills and introduces kids to the world of sports. In addition to the Young Athletes Festival, youth-centered and educational events will be held in conjunction with the Games, rallying young leaders from across the country to raise awareness and call for action amongst their peers in support of the Special Olympics movement by promoting acceptance and respect for people with intellectual disabilities.

  "We are thrilled to welcome Toys"R"Us as our first Founding Partner," added TJ Nelligan, Chairman & CEO of the 2014 Special Olympics USA Games Organizing Committee. "Toys"R"Us has embraced a dimension of these Games that will introduce children and their families to the Special Olympics Young Athletes Program, and through their unprecedented support, change the lives of these future athletes and their families for many years to come."

  For 38 years, Toys"R"Us, Inc. has been based in New Jersey and today has more than 4,500 employees statewide across 45 stores, regional offices, the corporate headquarters and the company's largest retail distribution center in the country. Toys"R"Us, Inc. and the Toys"R"Us Children's Fund has a long history of giving back to the communities it serves by keeping kids safe and helping them in times of need. Since it was founded in 1992, the Toys"R"Us Children's Fund has provided millions of dollars in grants to leading special needs organizations, including the American Society for Deaf Children, Muscular Dystrophy Association, National Down Syndrome Society and Autism Speaks, among others. Toys"R"Us, Inc. and the Toys"R"Us Children's Fund also work with the National Lekotek Center, a nonprofit organization dedicated to making play accessible for children of all abilities, to create the Toys"R"Us Toy Guide for Differently-Abled Kids. Released annually, the Guide provides qualified toy recommendations to help aid in the skill development of children who have physical, cognitive or developmental disabilities.

  The 2014 Special Olympics USA Games will mark the third time a Special Olympics USA Summer Games has been held. More information about the Games can be found at 2014specialolympics.org. Follow the Games on Facebook (Facebook.com/USANationalGames) or Twitter (Twitter.com/2014USAGames).

  About the 2014 Special Olympics USA Games

  The 2014 Special Olympics USA Games will be hosted by New Jersey, June 14-21, 2014. Nearly 3,500 athletes will compete in 17 Olympic-style team and individual sports, with the support of 1,000 coaches, 10,000 volunteers and an estimated 50,000 family, friends and spectators. The Games will celebrate the Special Olympics movement, promote the ideals of acceptance and inclusion through sport, and showcase athletes from all 50 states and the District of Columbia, as they demonstrate the transformative power of sports to educate and inform others about the abilities of people with intellectual disabilities. In addition to sports competition, the 2014 Special Olympics USA Games will highlight Special Olympics' work in sport, education, health and communities including special events and programs, such as Opening and Closing Ceremonies, a Young Athletes Festival, Healthy Athletes Program screenings, and symposiums addressing health, youth leadership, and more. Delegates will also enjoy recreational and cultural programs in their free time, introducing them to the culture and history of the New Jersey/New York area. The Games will be held at venues throughout the state, with most of the athletic competitions taking place in and around Princeton, NJ. Learn more about the 2014 Special Olympics USA Games at 2014specialolympics.org and follow the Games on Facebook at Facebook.com/USANationalGames.

  About the Toys"R"Us Children's Fund

  The Toys"R"Us Children's Fund is a public charity affiliated with Toys"R"Us, Inc., a company that unabashedly declares "We love kids!" The core mission of the Toys"R"Us Children's Fund is to keep children safe and help them in times of need. Since it was founded in 1992, the Toys"R"Us Children's Fund has contributed millions of dollars to qualified organizations that support that mission, including those providing disaster relief to children and families who are victims of large-scale crises. The Toys"R"Us Children's Fund also provides grants to leading organizations that support children with special needs.

  About Toys"R"Us, Inc.

  Toys"R"Us, Inc. is the world's leading dedicated toy and juvenile products retailer, offering a differentiated shopping experience through its family of brands. Merchandise is sold in 874 Toys"R"Us and Babies"R"Us stores in the United States and Puerto Rico, and in more than 630 international stores and over 130 licensed stores in 35 countries and jurisdictions. In addition, it exclusively operates the legendary FAO Schwarz brand and sells extraordinary toys in the brand's flagship store on Fifth Avenue in New York City. With its strong portfolio of e-commerce sites including Toysrus.com, Babiesrus.com, eToys.com and FAO.com, it provides shoppers with a broad online selection of distinctive toy and baby products. Headquartered in Wayne, NJ, Toys"R"Us, Inc. employs approximately 70,000 associates annually worldwide. The company is committed to serving its communities as a caring and reputable neighbor through programs dedicated to keeping kids safe and helping them in times of need. Additional information about Toys"R"Us, Inc. can be found on Toysrusinc.com. Follow Toys"R"Us, Babies"R"Us and FAO Schwarz on Facebook at Facebook.com/Toysrus, Facebook.com/Babiesrus and Facebook.com/FAO and on Twitter at Twitter.com/Toysrus and Twitter.com/Babiesrus.

  Download PDF Version
• PSE&G NAMED FOUNDING PARTNER OF 2014 SPECIAL OLYMPICS USA GAMES WITH $1 MILLION PLEDGE + —

  National Games Expected to Involve 80,000 People and Bring $50 Million in Economic Activity to New Jersey

  PSE&G will Serve as Presenting Sponsor of Youth Leadership Initiative

  (PRINCETON, NJ) JULY 23, 2012 – The Organizing Committee of the 2014 Special Olympics USA Games today announced a $1 million commitment from PSE&G, making the company a Founding Partner of the 2014 Special Olympics USA Games. The Games are expected to have a $50 million impact on New Jersey's economy as thousands of athletes, coaches, and supporters descend upon the Garden State for the Games. The Games will be the largest Special Olympics national games since they began in 2006.

  PSE&G will be the Presenting Sponsor of the Games' Youth Leadership Initiative, which will challenge high school students to develop strategies to bring together students with and without intellectual disabilities. Activities will start next year in schools throughout New Jersey, challenging students to become leaders who create cultures of acceptance in their schools and communities. PSE&G will also sponsor the Games' national Youth Leadership Summit, which will bring to New Jersey youth from throughout the country for a week of activities that teach them how to become advocates for each other. These efforts are designed to lead to greater acceptance of Special Olympics athletes in the classroom.

  "We're proud to help bring a world-class event like the 2014 Special Olympics USA Games to New Jersey. We have great respect for the impact that this organization has had in showcasing the incredible spirit and abilities of athletes with intellectual disabilities," said Ralph LaRossa, president and chief operating officer of PSE&G. "The Games will bring an influx of people and investment to New Jersey, and provide tens of thousands of the state's residents an opportunity to get involved in activities that bring people together. We're strong and steady supporters of initiatives that strengthen the communities we serve."

  The 2014 Special Olympics USA Games will take place at sporting venues throughout New Jersey, June 14 through June 21. More than 3,500 Special Olympics athletes from all 50 states and the District of Columbia will compete in 17 sports. An estimated 10,000 volunteers as well as 50,000 additional spectators will be in attendance.

  "The impact of these Games on New Jersey will go far beyond the new dollars it brings to the state," said TJ Nelligan, Chairman & CEO of the 2014 Special Olympics USA Games Organizing Committee, "PSE&G's support will help create a legacy of acceptance in our schools and a new generation of leaders who are committed to ensuring that all people are valued and fully included in our society."

  "Young people are the future of our Special Olympics movement and we are thrilled that PSE&G will help power their leadership leading up to and during the 2014 USA Games," shared Timothy Shriver, Chairman and CEO of Special Olympics. "By providing youth the opportunity to engage with athletes with intellectual disabilities, they will be helping pave the way for more inclusive and accepting communities."

  The PSE&G sponsored Youth Leadership Initiative has two distinct initiatives. The first is the 2013 Special Olympics New Jersey Leadership Institute, which will engage New Jersey students as leaders to create cultures of acceptance in their schools and communities through sport. The second element is 2014 Special Olympics USA Games Youth Leadership Summit, which will assemble youth from throughout the country to participate in a week of idea exchanging and leadership development, including taking on leadership roles during the Games, in preparation for implementing programs of inclusion and acceptance in their home schools and communities.

  Learn more about the Games at 2014specialolympics.org. Follow the Games at Facebook.com/SpecialOlympicsUSAGames.

  Public Service Electric and Gas (PSE&G) is New Jersey's oldest and largest utility, serving nearly three-quarters of the state's population. PSE&G is frequently named one of the most reliable utilities in the nation, winning the regional and national ReliabilityOne Award for superior electric system reliability. PSE&G is a subsidiary of Public Service Enterprise Group Incorporated (PSEG) (NYSE:PEG), a diversified energy company. The company has a long tradition of caring for the people and communities it serves. Each year, the energy company and its employees invest millions of dollars and thousands of hours to improve the quality of life in New Jersey. The company's culture dictates that service to customers and community go hand-in-hand. For more, visit http://www.pseg.com/community and engage @PSEGcares on Twitter.

• Barnabas Health Announced as Founding Partner and Presenting Sponsor of Families + —

  Barnabas Health to Welcome Families from Across the Nation to the Games

  PSE&G will Serve as Presenting Sponsor of Youth Leadership Initiative

  (LAWRENCEVILLE, NJ) October 3, 2012 – The Organizing Committee of the 2014 Special Olympics USA Games today announced Barnabas Health as the newest Partner of the 2014 Special Olympics USA Games. Barnabas Health will be the Presenting Sponsor of the Games' Family Programs, welcoming the thousands of family members from throughout the U.S. expected to attend the Games.

  Barnabas Health will provide families with hospitality centers, information, and will play host to various special events. Barnabas Health is also a Contributing Sponsor for Special Olympics' first-ever Healthy Young Athletes program, designed to assist families of future Special Olympics athletes (ages 2 – 7) to meet the challenges they face in identifying their child's medical needs through free educational programs, medical screenings, and family consultations.

  "Barnabas Health is excited to be a Presenting Sponsor of Family Programs for the 2014 Special Olympics USA Games. As New Jersey's largest healthcare system, we are proud to contribute the expertise of our physicians and employees to the success of the programs for families and healthy young athletes," said Barry H. Ostrowsky, President and Chief Executive Officer, Barnabas Health.

  Special Olympics provides families with a support network and the chance to cheer with pride. One family that knows first-hand the remarkable difference Special Olympics can make in the life of an athlete is the McAuliffe family of Cranford, NJ.

  The heart of "Team McAuliffe" is fourteen-year-old athlete Brian, who competes in soccer, basketball, swimming, and track. Dad, Bob, coaches Brian's basketball team, and sisters Erin and Kelly volunteer with their brother's Special Olympics track and basketball teams.

  "Special Olympics has been part of our lives now for the past six years since Brian was first eligible to participate. It has provided for Brian the stage to be able to express himself, to compete, make friends and an outlet to be successful and excel. Children will be identified with academics, some may play an instrument, Brian is an athlete and Special Olympics is a big part of his identity. It is his stage and the place he outshines a family of athletes." Bob McAuliffe added "Special Olympics brings a sense of perspective about what is good about athletics and the spirit of competition. Seeing Brian being able to compete with his friends and against his competitors and the smiles on their faces is a humbling and gratifying experience."

  The 2014 Special Olympics USA Games will take place at sporting venues throughout New Jersey, June 14 through June 21. More than 3,500 Special Olympics athletes from all 50 states and the District of Columbia will compete in 17 sports. An estimated 10,000 volunteers as well as 50,000 additional spectators will be in attendance.

  Learn more about the Games at 2014specialolympics.org. Follow the Games at Facebook.com/SpecialOlympicsUSAGames.

  Barnabas Health is the largest not-for-profit integrated health care delivery system in New Jersey and one of the largest in the nation, with more than two million patient visits and delivery of more than 17,600 babies annually. The system includes six acute care hospitals, two children's hospitals, a freestanding behavioral health center, ambulatory care centers, geriatric centers, the state's largest behavioral health network and comprehensive homecare and hospice programs. Barnabas Health includes 18,200 employees, (second largest private employer in NJ) and 4,600 physicians (one-fifth of the actively practicing physicians in NJ). For more information, visit www.barnabashealth.org.

• Cessna Launches Seventh Citation Special Olympics Airlift + —

  

  Cessna Launches Seventh Citation Special Olympics Airlift

  'Everybody needs a lift every now and then'

  Orlando, Fla., Oct. 29, 2012 — Cessna Aircraft Company, a Textron Inc. (NYSE: TXT) company, today launched their signature community endeavor — the Citation Special Olympics Airlift (CSOA) — and began its call for Citation owners and operators to help transport more than 1,000 athletes and coaches from across the nation to the 2014 Special Olympics USA Games in New Jersey in the Greater Princeton/Mercer County area.

  Cessna launched the CSOA campaign at a press conference at the National Business Aviation Association 65th Annual Meeting and Convention.

  "We, along with our many volunteer partners, are extremely proud to kick off our seventh CSOA in support of bringing athletes and coaches to the 2014 Special Olympics USA Games," said Roxanne Bernstein, Cessna senior vice president of marketing. "This is a signature community endeavor for Cessna and unique opportunity that enables everyone from our employees to our customers to get involved and be a part of the Games."

  With its seventh occasion of organizing the CSOA, which is held every four years, Cessna hopes to recruit at least 175 Citations owners to transport 1,000 athletes to New Jersey on June 14, 2014 and then return them to their home bases on June 21, 2014.

  Cessna President & CEO Scott Ernest with Corey Brunson of Special Olympics Florida. Corey's first flight — ever — was during the 1999 World Summer Games Cessna Citation Airlift to Raleigh, NC. He was a part of the 2006 Airlift to the USA National Games in Ames, Iowa as well.

  "The Citation Special Olympics Airlift is one of the most spectacular traditions of our national Games," said Bob Gobrecht, President and Managing Director of Special Olympics North America. "The generosity of Cessna, their industry partners and the Citation owners not only provides our Programs with a much needed solution to the costs associated with transporting delegations, but it also gives our athletes a once-in-a-lifetime aviation experience."

  The first CSOA in 1987 involved more than 130 Citations carrying athletes to and from South Bend, Ind. The last airlift, in 2010, included 165 Citations transporting 830 athletes to and from Lincoln, Neb.

  Corporations and individual Citation owners and operators in every state are needed to donate their Citation business jet(s), pilots and fuel for the airlift. While the Games are located in the Northeast, more than 3,500 athletes will travel from all over the U.S. to compete; more than 1,000 of those athletes will arrive in Cessna Citation business jets.

  "Organizing and coordinating the airlift for the seventh time is a great honor for Cessna. The team effort behind-the-scenes with all of our many partners — Citation customers, the FAA, Ronson Aviation, Cessna employees and so many others — is unbelievable and makes the airlift a great success," said Rhonda Fullerton, Citation Special Olympics Airlift director. "But, the most important part is bringing the athletes to the Games and taking them back home safely — what a joy it is to see their smiling faces as they fly through the air, some for the first time, in Citation aircraft."

  Registration is exclusively online at www.cessnaairlift.com/registration.

  The 2014 Special Olympics USA Games will take place in New Jersey, June 14 through June 21. More than 3,500 Special Olympics athletes from all 50 states and the District of Columbia will compete in 17 sports. An estimated 10,000 volunteers as well as 50,000 additional spectators will be in attendance. Learn more about the Games at 2014specialolympics.org. Follow the Games at Facebook.com/SpecialOlympicsUSAGames.

• MIDJersey Chamber of Commerce Partnership + —

  (Lawrenceville, NJ) November 29, 2012 — The MIDJersey Chamber of Commerce and the 2014 Special Olympics USA Games formally announced their partnership today at the Special Olympics New Jersey Complex in Lawrenceville, NJ.

  The MIDJersey Chamber (MJCC) has pledged to serve as a catalyst for participation and involvement for businesses in the mid-Jersey region for the 2014 USA Games. By raising awareness about the 2014 Special Olympics USA Games, businesses and the community alike will be able to embrace the overall mission of Special Olympics, and directly impact the Games and those who compete and attend. The MJCC will also serve as the area information source for the families, spectators and fans attending the Games.

  The 2014 Special Olympics USA Games will take place at sporting venues throughout New Jersey, June 14 through June 21. More than 3,500 Special Olympics athletes from all 50 states and the District of Columbia will compete in 17 sports. An estimated 10,000 volunteers as well as 50,000 additional spectators will be in attendance.

  Robert D. Prunetti, President and CEO of the MJCC was joined at the announcement event by Tom Varga, Senior Vice President of the 2014 Special Olympics USA Games and Lillian Narvaez, COO of the Games.

  "This partnership is a win for everyone involved. Aligning with the Chamber's mission of social responsibility, businesses can donate and volunteer at the 2014 Games through the Chamber. The MIDJersey Chamber will be the resource for athletes, coaches, families and volunteers participating in the Games. Our members will experience first-hand the economic impact that this event will bring to our mid-Jersey region," stated Robert D. Prunetti, President & CEO of the MIDJersey Chamber of Commerce.

  "We want these to be the Games of welcome and acceptance," said TJ Nelligan, Chairman & CEO of the 2014 Special Olympics USA Games Organizing Committee, "the MIDJersey Chamber of Commerce is making sure everyone has the opportunity to enjoy not just the Games, but all that the region has to offer. In light of recent events, we feel these Games give the resilient citizens of New Jersey something to look forward to and be proud to host."

  The MIDJersey Chamber of Commerce will also serve as the Presenting Sponsor of the Special Olympics Unified Sports^® Festival scheduled for the Friday of the Games, prior to Closing Ceremonies. This event is a "call to action" event where sports activities are organized to include community members in interactive play with the athletes. The event will bring to life the inclusive message of the Games.

  About the 2014 Special Olympics USA Games

  The 2014 Special Olympics USA Games will celebrate the Special Olympics movement, promote the ideals of acceptance and inclusion through sport, and showcase athletes from throughout the U.S. and the abilities of people with intellectual disabilities. The Games will also highlight Special Olympics' work in sport, education, health and communities. Learn more about the 2014 Games at www.2014specialolympics.org. Follow the Games on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/USANationalGames.

  About MIDJersey Chamber of Commerce

  For 145 years, the MIDJersey Chamber of Commerce has represented and supported the diverse Central New Jersey business community through growth-driven solutions and services. The Chamber unites the region with a common goal of collective economic, social and cultural growth, and serves as the hub for business resources and valuable relationships. Please visit www.MIDJerseyChamber.org for more information.

  Support Team Chamber
• WWE^® BECOMES FOUNDING PARTNER FOR 2014 SPECIAL OLYMPICS USA GAMES + —

  East Rutherford, NJ – April 7, 2013 - WWE (NYSE: WWE) announced today it has become a Founding Partner for the 2014 Special Olympics USA Games, a national sporting event taking place in New Jersey June 14-21, 2014. The announcement was made on stage during WrestleMania^® 29 at MetLife Stadium with New Jersey Governor Chris Christie, 2014 USA Games Chairman & CEO TJ Nelligan, President of Special Olympics, North America Bob Gobrecht, President of Special Olympics New Jersey Marc Edenzon, WWE Executive Vice President, Creative Stephanie McMahon and Special Olympics athletes Ashley Weber of New Jersey and David Dennin of Connecticut.

  

  Nearly 3,500 athletes will travel to New Jersey for the 2014 Special Olympics USA Games to compete in 16 Olympic-style team and individual sports, with the support of 1,000 coaches, 10,000 volunteers and an anticipated 70,000 spectators. The 2014 USA Games will celebrate the Special Olympics movement, promote the ideals of acceptance and inclusion through sport and showcase the abilities of athletes with intellectual disabilities. The 2014 USA Games will be staged throughout Mercer County, NJ including competitions at Princeton University, Rider University, the College of New Jersey and Mercer County Park, with the Opening Ceremonies taking place at the Prudential Center in Newark.

  “New Jersey is honored to have been selected to host the 2014 Special Olympics USA Games. We are excited for these games to not only bring participants and spectators to our state, but we are thrilled at the opportunity to show others from around the nation, the true spirit of New Jersey,” said Governor Chris Christie. “These Games expand the reach of inclusion and acceptance and allows a wider audience to recognize and applaud the talents of the athletes who are participating in the 2014 Special Olympics USA Games.”

  WWE will utilize all of its platforms, including TV broadcasts, live events, digital and social media to generate awareness and raise funds in support of the USA Games. WWE will serve as the Official Production Partner of the Games, filming the Opening Ceremonies as well as producing daily recaps of the sporting competitions and special events throughout the Games. WWE will also produce an hour-long television show highlighting the Games. WWE Superstars and Divas will participate in various events in conjunction with the promotion of the 2014 USA Games, and WWE employees will serve as volunteers at the Games. Additionally, WWE will make a financial contribution to support the Games.

  “As evidenced by WWE?s Be a STAR anti-bullying alliance, which aims to build a positive and equitable environment through education and awareness, we knew we found a perfect partner in the WWE for the 2014 Special Olympics USA Games,” said TJ Nelligan, Chairman & CEO of the 2014 USA Games. “The drive behind Special Olympics is to build communities of inclusion and acceptance for individuals with intellectual disabilities through sport. The 2014 USA Games is a celebration of these efforts on a national scale. We are proud to partner with the WWE so that we can expand our reach and showcase how remarkable our athletes truly are.”

  “WWE is proud to serve as a Founding Partner of the 2014 Special Olympics USA Games and utilize our global platforms to bring more attention to the accomplishments of so many determined and extraordinary athletes,” said WWE Chairman and CEO, Vince McMahon. “WWE, its Superstars and employees look forward to being a part of these important events.”

  About the 2014 Special Olympics USA Games
  The Special Olympics USA Games will be hosted by New Jersey June 14-21, 2014. Nearly 3,500 athletes will compete in 16 Olympic-style team and individual sports, with the support of 1,000 coaches, 10,000 volunteers and 50,000 family, friends and spectators. The Special Olympics USA Games will celebrate the Special Olympics movement, promote the ideals of acceptance and inclusion through sport and showcase athletes from throughout the U.S. and the abilities of people with intellectual disabilities. The 2014 USA Games will also highlight Special Olympics’ work in sport, education, health and communities. Founding partners for the 2014 Special Olympic USA Games include Barnabas Health, Hess, PSE&G, Toys “R” Us and WWE. Learn more about the 2014 Special Olympics USA Games at www.2014specialolympics.org and follow the Games on Facebook at Facebook.com/SpecialOlympicsUSAGames and Twitter @2014USAGames.

  About WWE
  WWE, a publicly traded company (NYSE: WWE), is an integrated media organization and recognized leader in global entertainment. The company consists of a portfolio of businesses that create and deliver original content 52 weeks a year to a global audience. WWE is committed to family friendly entertainment on its television programming, pay-per-view, digital media and publishing platforms. WWE programming is broadcast in more than 145 countries and 30 languages and reaches more than 600 million homes worldwide. The company is headquartered in Stamford, Conn., with offices in New York, Los Angeles, London, Miami, Mumbai, Shanghai, Singapore, Istanbul and Tokyo.

  Additional information on WWE (NYSE: WWE) can be found at wwe.com and corporate.wwe.com. For information on our global activities, go to http://www.wwe.com/worldwide/.

Staff