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Paralympics Begin Today
The Paralympics begin today in Salt Lake City. The Games feature disabled athletes from 36 countries competing in 100 medal events. Get links to the details here.
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(Mar. 7, 2002)------View Real Video - Click On Desired Bandwidth
Carole Mikita Reports (from Eyewitness News at Noon)
The Paralympic Journey of Fire is underway today in Salt Lake City.
More than 100 torchbearers will carry the flame that will ultimately light the cauldron at Rice-Eccles Stadium tonight.
The relay visits the State Capitol, Liberty Park (noon), and Shriner's Hospital (3:00). It also will go to the Administration Building of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (5:00).
The torch passed by the Medals Plaza at 11:00.
For a map of the torch route, click here.
At Liberty Park, a new park will be unveiled when the torch stops there. The "All Abilities Play Park" is a new state-of-the-art playground for children with disabilities.
The playground features things like dramatic activities, raised letters and surfaces for children with visual impairment, and a foundation surface firm enough for wheelchairs or walkers.
At Shriner's hospital, there will be a presentation and cauldron lighting ceremony outside the hospital's main entrance. Bonnie St. John, a medalist in the 1984 Paralympic Games, will share her inspirational story before lighting the cauldron.
At the Church Administration Building, the First Presidency will be involved in passing the flame. Church President Gordon B. Hinckley is expected to make a brief comment.
Tonight's Opening Ceremonies are sold out. Gates open at 4:30 pm. The program begins at 7 pm, and you are asked to be in your seat by 6:30. If you have tickets to attend, dress warmly, and take a shuttle from your nearest Park and Ride lot.
You can see highlights from Opening Ceremonies Saturday at noon on Channel 5.
Paralympic Links
