By FRANK LEWIS

PDT Staff Writer

The community will get more exposure to the Special Olympics athletes Saturday, March 21 at Shawnee State University gymnasium.

That’s when fans will be treated to an extra special basketball game between the Special Olympics Shooting Stars and the Celebrity Comets, a team made up of community volunteers, including players from area radio stations, and the Portsmouth Daily Times.

Besides the Special Olympians, other team members will include employees of Southern Ohio Correctional Facility, local professionals and public officials.

Other highlights of the event include a half time foul shooting contest with a cash prize and a split-the-pot drawing.

“March is MRDD Awareness Month,” said Julie Monroe, Scioto County Special Olympics coordinator. “And we decided this year we needed to do more to get MRDD in general out into the community to raise awareness of our services.”

Doors open at 2 p.m. with the game set to begin at 2:30 p.m. Tickets are $1 and will be available at the door.

“All of the proceeds will benefit Special Olympics,” Monroe said. “It’s being sponsored by Shawnee State, and Star Workshop is sponsoring the half-time foul shot contest, and they’re going to give cash prizes.”

Monroe said she expects a good crowd with players bringing family members and other members of the community.

Frank Lewis may be reached at (740) 353-3101 Ext. 232.