2014 All Sports Special Olympian Award Winner Given Key to the City
By: Kaylin Parker – Crestview Bulletin
CRESTVIEW — Special Olympics USA Games athlete and gold medalist was awarded a “key to the city of Crestview” during the city council’s regular meeting Monday night.
Crestview resident Harrison Mauldin competed in July at the 2018 Special Olympics USA Games in Seattle, Washington.
Mauldin explained his medals to the crowd at the city council meeting. He was sporting two gold medals, one bronze medal, and a quartz medal around his neck. He received the gold medals after placing first in the 10,000-meter run and the 4-by-400-meter run.
Mayor David Cadle then asked Mauldin about his experience.
“It was wonderful. To be honest, the weather over there was a bit nicer. It’s still nice here,” Mauldin said.
After Mauldin spoke about his experience, Cadle then presented Mauldin with the wooden plaque with a large golden key placed at the top. “The key to the city” award is typically given to honor someone of significance to a city.
“You did us proud. The highest award that I can present to you is the key to the city,” Cadle said.
Mauldin received a roaring applause and standing ovation from the crowd at the city council meeting. According to a Facebook post on the Special Olympics Florida Okaloosa County page, Mauldin and his family members finished out the night with a celebratory dinner at Hideaway Pizza.
