Towson, Md. (October 5, 2008) — Below is the text of Baltimore County Executive Jim Smith’s remarks at Saturday night’s Star Spangled Olympic Celebration at Fort McHenry.
"Two months ago, Olympians from around the globe came together in Beijing to compete in the 29th Olympiad. One athlete made Olympic history. For one week in August, our very own Michael Phelps held the world’s attention in event after event as he set seven world records and won eight gold medals, more than any athlete ever in a single Olympic games, establishing himself as one of the world’s greatest athletes.
His achievement inspires us all. But Michael Phelps is not an inspiration purely because of his Olympic gold. His humility and well-grounded, natural poise compliment his self-discipline, concentration and hard work.
Before we go any further I want to be joined on stage by Michael’s biggest fan and Johnson and Johnson’s Olympic Mom of the 2008 Games. Let’s have a warm welcome for Hillary’s mom, Whitney’s mom, and Michael’s mom, the principal of Baltimore County’s Windsor Mill Middle School – Debbie Phelps!
Debbie, in honor of Michael and all of Baltimore County’s Olympians, I am pleased to announce that Baltimore County will re-dedicate to our Olympic champions Towson Circle Park on York Road as Baltimore County's Olympic Park.
This park will have special recognition of all Baltimore County’s Olympic medalists. Michael, you will be the first Olympic athlete specially honored in the park and it is my pleasure to present you with a framed artist's rendition of the newly named Baltimore County Olympic Park."
Courthouse 