Knights of Columbus Make Smokin’ Donation to Owatonna Area Special Olympics

The Owatonna Knights of Columbus #945 made a check presentation to the Owatonna-Area Special Olympics organization from last summer's Smokin' in Steele event.

The $8,000 check was handed to the local Special Olympics group as part of pre-jump activities for the second annual Polar Plunge at Lake Kohlmier in Owatonna on Saturday. The Knights' donation is from money raised during the Smokin' in Steele BBQ competition held each summer at the Steele County Fairgrounds. The 2016 event is June 3-4.

Saturday's Polar Plunge was a fundraiser for Special Olympics Minnesota. The Owatonna group raises money for its own operations. Thanks to support from local businesses and individuals, the Owatonna Area Special Olympics offers year-round sports competition for more than 100 athletes. Owatonna has bowling, flag football, basketball, swimming, poly hockey, softball and track and field. Gopher Sport of Owatonna recently made a generous donation to the Owatonna team. Money raised locally goes toward uniforms, sports equipment, rental fees and charges for competing at state tournaments. Athletes participate at no charge to them.

Saturday's Polar Plunge featured about 175 people jumping into Lake Kohlmier to raise money for more 8,100 athletes state-wide that are served by Special Olympics Minnesota.