Every volunteer involved in the Show is special, but the members of the Special Children's Committee are unique. This committee was formed to ensure that 6,000 mentally and physically challenged children and adults can experience the Show like other attendees. From September to November, every member personally interviews representatives of social service agencies, schools and support groups, to make sure that the $60,000 worth of tickets donated by the Show each year are distributed in the most equitable manner possible. In January, committee members deliver tickets to the agencies and review arrival procedures with them. During each of the three special children nights, committee members act as hosts to 2,000 guests and their chaperones. A portion of the parking lot is flagged off and the East gate entrance is set aside to receive these guests. Hosting includes assisting the guests in unloading from cars, vans and buses; seating them together as groups; serving refreshments; and escorting the excited group members safely back to their vehicles after a very memorable evening. As one could imagine, it is difficult for 121 committee members to keep track of so many visitors. In order to safely keep tabs on these large groups, the committee provides wristbands and stickers with agency names and numbers for each guest to wear. Although the feat of hosting all these special guests in a three day period makes for some achy bodies and weary minds, the members involved have a simple request for repayment. The smiles, laughter and an occasional hug are all they need to keep going. "Our committee is not looking for badges, ribbons or recognition, " said Chairman Nano Scherrieb. "Knowing that we have made a difference in a child's life, by sharing such a unique experience, is what the Show is all about." In addition to hosting their guests each night, the members of the Special Children's Committee also are responsible for overseeing two additional events, the Exceptional Rodeo, initiated in 1983, and the Top Hands Horse Show, which premiered during the 1997 Show. The Exceptional Rodeo, sanctioned by the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association, pairs real cowboys and cowgirls, along with clowns, with 30 special-needs children to experience modified rodeo events, such as barrel racing on stick horses, riding a stuffed bull, "steer dogging" and roping, and even riding a real horse. Each participant receives a hat, T-shirt, bandanna, trophy and belt buckle for demonstrating excellent rodeo skills. Held just prior to three select evening performances, the Exceptional Rodeo is a way for some special children to be in the spotlight and have fun. The Top Hands Horse Show, the newest event for the committee, gives physically and mentally challenged individuals an opportunity to compete in riding events. Participants invited to this show are riders from established therapeutic riding programs affiliated with the North American Riding for the Handicapped Association and/or Special Olympics. "This event is so important because the riders gain a huge sense of accomplishment and pride in themselves," said Jerry Johnston Andrew, officer in charge. She added, "The most rewarding part of the Special Children's Committee is the feeling of pride and respect that these three nights of activity give the kids we host. Hugs and smiles from enamored children make the hard work throughout the year more than worthwhile."
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