Here in the Santa Maria Valley, we are perhaps most known for two things: our world-famous barbecue and small-town hospitality.
Now, both will be on full display as Santa Maria has been chosen as an official Host Town to entertain 100 international delegates in advance of the 2015 Special Olympics World Games to be held in Los Angeles July 25 – August 2.
On July 21, a group of athletes and coaches from France, Mauritius and the Republic of Congo will arrive in Santa Maria to enjoy cultural activities distinctive to the region while they train for the games. Entertainments will include an outing to Santa Maria’s famed Pacific Conservatory Theatre; a day at Boomer’s arcade and fun park; evening dance parties; and special lunches and dinners featuring local fare such as Santa Maria Style Barbecue, hosted by community leaders.
Well wishers will be cheering on the athletes when they arrive at the Santa Maria Inn and Radisson Hotel on July 21. Santa Maria also has its own local athletes competing in the Special Olympics World Games. These include a softball team as well as a golfer. The public is invited to register for free tickets to any of the Special Olympics sporting events.
It’s all just another example of how our homegrown cuisine can help bring people together in amazing ways!
