Joe & Sue Paterno Named to Special Olympics Hall of Fame

Special Olympics Pennsylvania (SOPA) announced that four of its finest athletes and four of its most dedicated volunteers will be among its 2008 Hall of Fame inductee class including Sue and Joe Paterno who will be inducted as Chairman's Choice awardees. They will be honored at the highly anticipated event on Thursday, May 1 at the Hyatt Regency Philadelphia at Penn's Landing. The Presenting Sponsor of the 2008 Hall of Fame is 121 Direct Response. The event is also proudly supported by SAP, Quality Ford Dealers, Gilbane, Pepsi Bottling Group, Philadelphia Insurance Co., Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield and Penn State University. A reception will kick off the celebration at 5:30 p.m. with dinner and induction ceremony immediately to follow at 7:00 p.m. Adam Taliaferro, former Penn State Nittany Lion will present the Chairman's Choice Award to Sue and Joe Paterno. Other special guests attending include Governor Edward G. Rendell, Mayor Michael Nutter, Dr. Graham Spanier, President of The Pennsylvania State University, Rev. Peter Donahue, President of Villanova University and Loretta Claiborne. "Induction into Special Olympics Pennsylvania's Hall of Fame is the highest honor available to any athlete or volunteer," said Janine Cesare, president, SOPA. "Each year we proudly induct a handful of our finest ambassadors into our Hall of Fame, and each year we continue to be inspired and encouraged. It truly is a highlight for Special Olympics Pennsylvania athletes, families, volunteers, staff, friends and supporters."

2008 inductees include:

Sue and Joe Paterno, Chairman's Choice Awardees
Timothy H. Cody, athlete from Delaware County
Travis L. Reading, athlete from Blair County
Paul Riley, athlete from Bedford County
Jean M. Steinour, volunteer from Adams County
Joni Talavera, athlete from Bethlehem City
Judith Williams, volunteer from Bedford County