GALLERY: People Making Norm Meyer Day Special

Norm Meyer, the original owner of Midway Entertainment, a traveling amusement park business, wanted to give back to his community. It was his idea to create a special day specifically for handicapped individuals. Now in its 22nd year, the event is still commonly referred to as the Norm Meyer Special Kids/People Day.

Organized by the Orland Park Lions Club, in conjunction with the Orland Park Special Recreation Department, the day drew about 1,500 special needs kids and young adults from all over the south and southwest suburbs.

“Each invited guest and their sponsors or chaperones had full access to all the rides and games,” said Steve Anton, 2^nd Vice President of the Orland Park Lions Club, and the chairman for this year’s event. “They were treated to lunch and entertainment in the tent. Plus we had a petting zoo and corporate mascots.”

Corporate sponsors, including Andrew Corporation and Waste Management, as well as 100 community volunteers, ensured the day ran smoothly.

 “The kids are so happy,” Anton said. “It’s really something to see.”

Smiles and shouts abounded as people enjoyed the different rides that they ordinarily might not be able to ride.

“It gives them a chance to ride the rides,” said Lions Club member Phil Bell. “They can be set at a reduced speed so it’s safe for them, which isn’t so easy when the event is open to everyone.”

The grounds of Orland Days was closed off for about five hours on Thursday, as people from 32 different schools and organizations that support people with special needs came out. Groups are invited to attend the Norm Meyer day, and it often fills up leaving a waiting list, Anton said.

Orland Park village staff, Orland Park police officers and firefighters from the Orland Fire Protection District were on hands helping with parking and cooking.

“A lot of our special recreation staff give a hand,” said Assistant Village Manager Ellen Baer. “But for this they all come on their own time.”

While village staff flipped and assembled burgers, including Baer, firefighters made the hot dogs.

“We also get pizzas from Papa Joe’s,” Anton said. “Lots of other organizations contribute either goods or money.”