Our family experienced one of those moments that will go down in our family history as a true proud and unforgettable time in our lives. You see, my nephew CJ Inverso is a celebrity (no surprise to those who know and love him, of course)... out of over 2000 athletes who qualified to compete in state-level Special Olympics for New Jersey, CJ was chosen to light the Olympic torch during the opening ceremonies on Friday evening at the College of New Jersey (Trenton State College). 
We've known for a little while now, but had to keep it a bit of a secret until right before the big day. I don't think I'll ever forget this moment in our lives... to see the tears of pride and joy in the eyes of my sister Lynne, brother-in-law Chuck and niece Hailey right at the moment CJ climbed the ladder, tilted the heavy hand-held torch of fire, and lit the cauldron warmed my heart like nothing else. CJ must have had almost a hundred personal fans in the stands cheering him on (among the thousands there), and there was barely a dry eye in the bunch. The look of absolute surprise on his face as the flame ignited was absolutely precious... I am the most proud Aunt on the face of this earth!!
We've known for a little while now, but had to keep it a bit of a secret until right before the big day. I don't think I'll ever forget this moment in our lives... to see the tears of pride and joy in the eyes of my sister Lynne, brother-in-law Chuck and niece Hailey right at the moment CJ climbed the ladder, tilted the heavy hand-held torch of fire, and lit the cauldron warmed my heart like nothing else. CJ must have had almost a hundred personal fans in the stands cheering him on (among the thousands there), and there was barely a dry eye in the bunch. The look of absolute surprise on his face as the flame ignited was absolutely precious... I am the most proud Aunt on the face of this earth!!
The ceremony leading up to the torch lighting was quite a sight... like nothing I've ever seen. They did such a fantastic job with the event... right down to the fireworks choreographed with a Bruce Springsteen cover band (how Jersey!) that closed out the evening. "Amazing" doesn't even seem to describe the event, but I think it comes pretty close! Here are some of the pictures I took Friday night (6/13/2009)... 
(Yes, that's Zachary in the corner... totally didn't even try to do that on purpose... too funny!)
(Yes, that's Zachary in the corner... totally didn't even try to do that on purpose... too funny!) 
CJ qualified for and competed in two events... one on Saturday, and one on Sunday. He also medaled in both of those events... bronze in the 50 meter dash and silver in the tennis ball throw. Our little athlete is quite the sportsman... you really could tell he truly enjoyed his time in the spotlight!
I'm just so impressed with the entire experience... so much thought and attention was applied to every last detail (the carnival for the athletes, the medal ceremonies with music and all, the food provided for everyone free from Shoprite, the volunteers and everything they did to make it a wonderful experience, the health fair in the Student Center... I could go on and on!). It was an incredible experience - both for the athletes and their spectators! I can't wait for 2010!!
Here is a link to an article with more pictures and info... http://www.robbinsvillereview.com/specolympics.htm
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