Special needs children enjoyed unique festival ice exhibit
Ashley Willet
Each year, a local non-profit organization called Miracle League of Plymouth does a sensory-friendly event the night before the Plymouth Ice Festival for children and families with special needs. Deb Madonna founded Miracle League of Plymouth. She had a passion for encouraging the community to come out and play some baseball with some amazing special needs children. She served as president of the league for 10 years until she passed the “bat” to her son Mark Madonna. Deb Madonna still can be seen cheering at the games, sitting in the stands and giving high-fives to
every player she meets. This event is an especially important event for Miracle League of Plymouth because not many children with special needs like large and loud crowds.
The special ice festival event was held on Thursday night from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. because children with special needs do not like major crowds and the festival draws huge crowds each year. This special event was low-key, quiet, sensory friendly and family oriented. There was ice sculptures visitors were be able to touch as a sensory experience and music, along with food trucks on site offering refreshments. Children were able to dance and enjoy the games offered which include special prizes and arts and crafts projects.
The special event took place at The Gathering across from Kellogg Park on Thursday, Feb.1.at 6:30 to 8:30p.m. in the heated pavilion, downtown Plymouth.
