(Pleasanton, California)
Ever since I left KTVU, many people have asked me if I am going to continue my personal appearances for various charities, which usually totaled about 80 per year. The answer is yes, although my presidential campaign schedule may limit the number!
This morning I was blessed to be "emcee" for the Special Olympics Northern California East Bay Track and Field & Volleyball games. I love the Special Olympics and have been involved for 30 years. My youngest stepsister Katie is a Special Olympian in Wisconsin, and that's where I got hooked.
One of the biggest complaints I hear on the campaign trail is, "politicians make all kinds of promises, but don't follow through!" I can't argue with that. It's part of politics and I know it frustrates the public, no matter what your party affiliation.
But I do want to salute one political family today, for making, then keeping a promise. It was the Kennedy family that launched, then maintained the Special Olympics. In particular, it was Eunice Kennedy Shriver, who lead the charge. Despite all the well known politicians in the Kennedy family, many people forget the late President had a sister Rose, who was severely physically and mentally disabled. In many respects, Rose was the inspiration.
Later other politicians joined in. On October 30, 2004, President George W. Bush signed into law the "Special Olympics Sport and Empowerment Act," Public Law 108-406. The bill authorized funding for its Healthy Athletes, Education, and Worldwide Expansion programs. The bills were passed by unanimous consent in both chambers. So for once it was nice to see bi-partisan support, with the Bush's and the Kennedy's, the "first families" of American politics, carrying through on an all too rare occurrence in American politics: promise made; promise kept! Today hundreds of Special Athletes are competing at Amador Valley High School in Pleasanton, California, thanks to the students and staff there!
Special Olympics was officially founded in 1968, so this year we celebrate the 40th anniversary. I want to salute the many employees of law enforcement around the nation who support the cause through fundraisers. "Tip-a-Cop" at many restaurants and through the "Law Enforcement Torch Run" which this year takes place in the San Francisco Bay Area on June 5 and 6, leading up to the state Special Olympic Games at UC Berkeley that weekend.
If you'd like to help, you can volunteer or make financial contributions to www.Sonc.org. Also, don't forget the big charity basketball game between the Fremont Police and Fire Department known as "Guns n' Hoses." Last year's inaugural event was a blast, so the 2nd annual promises to be another thriller, all to raise money for Special Olympics! I will "emcee" that event as well, Saturday, May 17, 2008,6:00 pm, Washington High School
38442 Fremont Blvd, Fremont, CA.
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38442 Fremont Blvd, Fremont, CA.
Tomorrow I travel to Charlotte to cover the North Carolina and Indiana primaries which are Tuesday, 5/6. It's going to be another fight to the finish in both states between Clinton and Obama. Check in often this week at www.MarkCurtisMedia.blogspot.com
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. Please tell a friend, too!
Wondering what's for Dinner Tonight? Get new twists on family favorites at AOL Food.
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