FLEMINGTON – Joseph Panico of Readington Township and fiancé Angela Rotella of Flemington, who spread the message of Special Olympics New Jersey, edged out other finalist couples in theRoman Jewelers Wedding Contest, which culminated at the Renaissance Plaza in Flemington today.

Moments after winning the contest, Panico excitedly said “We weren’t really expecting to win… it’s an added bonus.”

The young couple receives an all expense paid luxury wedding valued at $100,000 for proving they can work together and make a difference in the community. The prize includes a reception at The Palace at Somerset Park in Somerset, wedding gown and bridesmaid dresses, tuxedos, his and her diamond wedding bands, wedding cake, food, drinks and music.

Panico and Rotella organized for five professional sports teams to host athletes from Special Olympics, which provides sports training and athletic competition to children and adults with intellectual disabilities. The athletes and the programs of the organization were introduced to the crowds at the games of the New Jersey Devils,Camden Riversharks, Lakewood BlueClaws, Newark Bears and the Somerset Patriots.

The couple will also be literally “taking the plunge” at the Crystal Lake in Oakland on November 28 to benefit the Special Olympics New Jersey.

As part of the contest, the ten finalist couples executed their ‘Good Deed Plans’ and raised money and created awareness for local charities – Raritan Valley Habitat for Humanity, The Hunterdon Regional Cancer Center, SAFE in Hunterdon, Hunterdon County YMCA, Special Olympics New Jersey, Hunterdon Art Museum, St. Hubert’s, Bonnie Brae School, The Arc of Hunterdon, and the Flemington Food Pantry.

Rotella said, “We have an amazing amount of respect and appreciation for all of the organizations in our community that offer charitable support to those with needs.”

The contest was judged by jewelry designer Scott Kay, Molly Tully, editor of New Jersey Bridemagazine and Roman Shor, owner of Roman Jewelers.

The wedding date is set for February 14 next year.