September 14, 2010

A Certificate of Extraordinary Achievement

Alex woke up smiling today and went to bed smiling tonight, all because of a simple act of kindness by our local town. I wish these acts of kindness occurred more frequently in Alex's life, as they instill pride and confidence.

We were contacted by the Town of Basalt a few days after we returned from the USA National Games in Lincoln. It had come to their attention (now how did that happen?)  that an Olympian was living in their midst. The Town Council asked to recognize Alex's achievements during a town meeting in September. I readily agreed and put the date on my calender.

I opted not to remind Alex of this honor until she saw it on our refrigerator on the weekly posted schedule. As always and not surprising to me at all;  Alex rose to the occasion and came down the stairs this morning in complete Team Colorado regalia, ribbons in hand. Yes, the ribbons she had hidden away because they were not medals. Apparently, when Alex wants to be recognized she gives it her all.

We (or actually Alex) was the first agenda item. There were about 30 people in the room who all applauded as the Mayor read the tribute to a blushing Alex. It read:

CERTIFICATE OF
EXTRAORDINARY
ACHIEVEMENT

HONORING EXCELLENCE IN THE COMMUNITY
ALEX BENDER
2010 SPECIAL OLYMPICS USA NATIONAL GAMES

The Town of Basalt is proud to acknowledge the Basalt High School Junior, Alex Bender. for accomplishing three top-10 finishes in the 2010 Special Olympics. Alex finished fifth in the shot put, sixth in the 200 meter dash and seventh in the 100 meter dash, in a field of more than 3,600 athletes from 47 states. Alex's ability to perform under pressure is noteworthy, and her hard work has paid off. The Town of Basalt is honored to award Alex this Certificate of Extraordinary Achievement.

It was a great day to be Alex and an even greater day to be her mother.

6 comments:

  1. CONGRATULATIONS ALEX!!!! A great accomplishment and well deserved recognition.

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  2. Yay Alex- that town knows what they're doing! A well deserved recognition. How're you all doing- okay I hope?

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  3. Thanks - JEllen and starrlife, nothing like a dose of kindness to help a Mom realize how lucky she is..we are doing good

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  4. Brillient! Congratulations in Romania!!!


    Oana and Floreta Bogdanescu

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