An Olympic achievement (6/21/04)

Is it time to pack for Athens?

A few weeks ago, that might have sounded far-fetched.

But as Stephanie Arnold proved last week, Olympic dreams have a way of turning your world upside down.

Before this month, Arnold was probably best known as the executive assistant to Portland Mayor Bruce Hosier.

Today, she's a member of the U.S. Olympic Archery Team and has won a permanent place in local history.

She's Jay County's first Olympian.

And just saying that phrase is enough to give us goosebumps.

Think of it.

When the Olympic teams from all over the world make their entry march this summer, Arnold — and, by way of extension, all of Jay County and Indiana — will be there.

When she picks up her bow, she'll be competing on behalf of her nation.

And she'll give all of us an extra — very personal — reason for watching and cheering.

For that, Stephanie, we can only say, "Thank you, congratulations, and we're proud of you." — J.R.

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