Sal Gerbino Wins Award

Retired Sargeant Sal Gerbino Inducted Into Hall of Fame

The amazing Sal Gerbino was inducted into the Richard E. LaMunyon Hall of Fame during the 25th Anniversary International Torch Run conference in Buffalo, New York. The Hall of Fame, the most prestigious award given in the Law Enforcement Torch Run community, recognizes volunteers who demonstrate a sustained and significant contribution to Special Olympics at the local, national, and international levels.

For almost 20 years, Sgt. Sal Gerbino of Gates Police Department has carried Special Olympics Flame of Hope, within his heart and through his many actions on behalf of New York’s athletes. As long-time volunteer, Sal has taken lead on many Torch Run events; organizing final legs, polar plunges, planes pulls, and by being an active and inspiring committee member. "Sal has given everyone at Special Olympics New York; excitement, hope and inspiration as he and fellow members always carry the Flame of Hope, time and time again, into many a stadium. Tonight we honor Sal and his devotion with these same feelings. He has given so much to us over the years and there seems to be no better recognition than this,” said Special Olympics New York Torch Run Liaison Renee Snyder.

Sal has managed the Polar Plunge in Rochester for the past seven years. This Polar Plunge, the most successful in New York State, has raised over $150,000 to support Special Olympics athletes. Sal participated in the Torch Run for World Games in Ireland. A modest man by nature, Sal would probably tell you his greatest honor has been becoming friends with all the athletes. We at Special Olympics respectfully disagree, and know that the honor is ours to count him among our friends.

Bowling Competitions

Equestrian Competition

Chocolate for Champions Successful

Chocolate for Champions a Sweet Success!!

75 guests joined Special Olympics New York Genesee Region at Artisan Works art gallery on Sunday, October 22 to indulge in some of the most delicious chocolate in the Rochester area. The event was emceed by Genesee Region athletes Garret Royter and Joe Best. Seven talented chocolatiers created amazing samples which guests voted on. The favorite and gold medal winner was the New York Wine and Culinary Center. A silver medal was awarded to the Strathallen, and a bronze medal was awarded to Affair de Chocolat. Other competitors included Seawards Candies, the Special Touch Bakery from the School of the Holy Childhood, I Scream and the bakery at Heritage Christian Services. It was a wonderful event, and everyone is looking forward to next year. Save the date for Friday, October 5, 2007!!

2nd Annual Wine Tasting

Our 2nd Annual Wine Tasting event was a great success! Heron Hill Winery provided the wines and a beautiful backdrop for our event. Six Heron Hill wines were presented to our guests by the winery staff. Genesee Region athlete Andy Marshall emceed the event. Andy opened and closed the event and told the guests about what sports he competes in through Special Olympics, and about being a Global Messenger. Andy did a great job and was a wonderful representative for the 3200 athletes in the Genesee Region. Thank you for your support!