Inspiring support of the Special Olympics

Their slogan is “Inspire greatness.” The Orange County chapter of

the Special Olympics of Southern California held a mid-week cocktail

reception at the Marriott’s Newport Coast Villas.

The host committee comprised some of the most caring and

philanthropic folks in the community. This was not an evening about

fashion or social position, this was a cocktail party for people who

care about other people. Other-abled people who want to participate

in the full range of life’s blessings and opportunities.

Ed Arnold, local TV news anchor at KOCE, embodies this spirit of

humanitarian purpose. Arnold’s commitment stems from a deep faith

that commands him to give as much as he possibly can to help make a

difference.

Having just recovered from a serious health challenge, Arnold was

front and center to make his commitment known right along side local

supporters of Special Olympics including Betty Belden-Palmer, Shirley

Gilbert, Luanne Hallett, Joann Waldron, Lana Chandler, Peggy

Goldwater and Bob Clay and Ron Osbrink.

The crowd arrived at the Newport Coast Villas as a spectacular

sunset emblazoned the Pacific Coast horizon. The magnificent backdrop

did not distract from the seriousness of the purpose of the evening.

Chair Burdett Hallett greeted supporters Claire Burt, Harry Adler,

Kelly Gonis, Paul Hoffman, Charlene Immell, Suzanne Hurlbut, Tim

Redmond, Sandra Ouellette and special guest Patrick McClenahan,

senior vice president and station manager for KCBS 2/KCAL 9.

The young and energetic TV executive had come in from Los Angeles

for the event. He approached the microphone, getting the crowd’s

attention as a calm fell over the reception. Then, McClenahan began

his delivery on why the Special Olympics are so important to him.

It is significant to note that first impressions are deceiving. In

the case of McClenahan, a handsome and successful TV boss on top of a

very competitive heap, it is easy to assume that life is a walk in

the park. The executive addressed the crowd concerning all of the

particular facts associated with supporting Special Olympics, and

then he shared the fact that his teenage daughter has cerebral palsy

and is confined to a wheelchair.

As McClenahan explained how important participating in the Special

Olympics is to his child, the evening did “inspire greatness.”

The catering for the event was provided by Soiree, donated to the

Special Olympic cause. Also supporting the Orange County program were

Vince Ferragamo, Ron Knievel, Phil Pierson and Richard Hardy.

* THE CROWD appears Thursdays and Saturdays.