Fans of college basketball fans may be excited for March Madness but they have nothing on those who participated in the MRDD basketball event Thursday.

The Lawrence County Board of Mental Retardation / Developmental Disabilities hosted its 9th Annual “March Madness” Basketball event to increase community awareness of individuals with developmental disabilities and mental retardation.

This year’s theme for MRDD Awareness Month is “JUST LIKE YOU.”

The Lawrence County Open Door School Jets, winners of the 2003 Ohio Special Olympic Division III State Championship, played the Open Door School Alumni in game one. Open Door School beat the Alumni 44-39.

The second game featured a team of employees from Tri-State Industries, Inc. vs. the “Media All-Stars,” a team comprised of representatives from local media. Tri-State Industries beat the media once again, 47-45.

“Last night was a classic example of the integrated activities we strive for,” said superintendent, Paul Mollett. “I believe the community came together and saw a ball game that truly accomplished the goal of this year’s MRDD Awareness theme, that individuals with disabilities are “Just Like You.”

The Lawrence County Board of MRDD serves more than 500 children and adults with developmental disabilities and mental retardation.

Awareness Month kicked off March 2, with a Dr. Seuss Soup and Sandwich Night Celebration at the Early Childhood Center.

The first-ever Science Night will be from 3:30 to 6 p.m. Thursday at the Open Door School in Ironton. The month ends with a Chili Fest and craft show at Dawson-Bryant High School Gym from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. March 28.

For more information about MR/DD Awareness Month, call (800) 231-MRDD or (740) 532-7401.