It is an event where success is measured more by smiles and memories than by any gold or silver medals, but the Lawrence County Special Olympics remains an important event for so many of our youth.

Scheduled for Thursday, the Special Olympics here has been a key opportunity for nearly three and a half decades.

This event is so important to the nearly 350 youth who will participate, leveling the proverbial playing field in terms of opportunity, giving them a chance to get their competitive fires going and just have a good time.

We applaud all the organizers for their hard work to keep this great event going.

Like many of the great programs here in our region, it may only happen for one day but it takes countless hours of work behind the scenes to make everything go off without a hitch.

For their efforts and commitment to the youth of Lawrence County with special needs, we recognize all the men and women involved with this week’s “Good News, Good Neighbors” spotlight.

The Special Olympics may not get the publicity or international fanfare of the actual Olympics, but the thrill of victory and pride of playing for a cause bigger than one’s self are just as powerful at this event right here in Lawrence County.