House Resolution 54

(As Adopted by House)

A RESOLUTION COMMENDING AND CONGRATULATING DESOTO COUNTY NATIVE DAN ARATA UPON REPRESENTING THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI AT THE 2018 SPECIAL OLYMPICS NATIONAL GAMES IN SEATTLE, WASHINGTON, ON JULY 1-6, 2018.

WHEREAS, from July 1-6, 2018, DeSoto County, Mississippi native, Dan Arata represented the majestic Magnolia State at the 2018 Special Olympics National Games in Seattle, Washington; and

WHEREAS, among more than 4,000 athletes to participate in the national event, Dan Arata, along with his twin brother Daniel, both members of Ole Miss Unified Champion flag football team, and Jesse Wims, a powerlifting competitor also from DeSoto County, all qualified for nationals during the Special Olympics of Mississippi 2017 Summer Games; and

WHEREAS, Dan's presence in Seattle makes Mississippi history, as he is part of the first flag football team from the state to ever be represented at the national games, which is doubly highlighted because he is able to share the amazing opportunity and moment of recognition with his teammate brother, and further commended for the blended make up of players of traditional college students and Special Olympics athletes playing together on the same team; and

WHEREAS, Mississippi's Special Olympians are supported by numerous family members, area directors and many other dedicated volunteers, and have the added support of the entire state whose citizens are their biggest fans, and regard them each as champions, regardless of the outcome of competition; and

WHEREAS, through his active participation in the Special Olympics for the past several years, this marvelous individual is afforded an opportunity and encouraged to further develop his physical and mental skills, demonstrate courage, experience joy and participate in the sharing of gifts of skills and friendships with his family, other Special Olympics athletes and the community; and

WHEREAS, in Special Olympics the emphasis is not upon the physical strength, speed or endurance of the human body, but upon their faith, spirit and determination that bespeaks the true character and worth of all human beings; and

WHEREAS, it is the policy of the House of Representatives to recognize excellence, especially when evidenced by the citizens of this state, such as this dynamic Special Olympics athlete and Mississippian, Dan Arata:

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI, That we do hereby commend and congratulate DeSoto County native Dan Arata upon representing the State of Mississippi at the 2018 Special Olympics National Games in Seattle, Washington, on July 1-6, 2018, congratulate him as a good will sports ambassador for the great Magnolia State and extend best wishes for continued success in all his future endeavors.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be furnished to Dan Arata, Special Olympics Mississippi and to the members of the Capitol Press Corps.