Make A Difference: Write an op-ed

The account of how I stumbled onto the project, Down But Never Out is covered fully in the November/December issue of Celebrate Life. I had thought that I could simply hotlink you to the magazine's website but I learned from the editor that my story didn't make the cut to the web -- so write me if you just must see the whole thing. Part of the story can be found within the News & Info section of www.charlieredner.com

LA Buddy Walk a "Wow" event

Sunday, November 11, 2007 -- a day to remember! There were celebrities: John C. McGinley, star of SCRUBS and national DS Buddy Walk spokesman; William Petersen, star of CSI; and the stand-in for the late Seabiscuit from the movie of the same name. The Grand Marshal, Rosario Marin, former U.S. Treasurer led the Walk. There was a dance troop from Japan, "Love Junx" and a fabulous singers whose name I'll pass along as soon as I get it. Mark Wallengren of KOST handled MC duties and kept the program moving. And perhaps best of all, a young, new musical talent in the making, Alexander Arntzen who wrote the words and music to a song produced just for this year's DSALA Buddy Walk, appropriately called, "I'll Walk With You." Not too embarrassed to tell you that I shed a tear when I first heard it and probably will next time too. It's got a real emotional tug. The record was produced by Michael Woodrum, arranged by Bill Brendle, and sung magnificently live on stage by Jessica Purse. Held at Santa Anita Park it was truly a day I'll always remember. Naturally we walked and hopefully raised a lot of money for the Down Syndrome Society of Los Angeles. As my custom, a salute to the major sponsors: Santa Anita Park, U.S. Air Force, Nestle, SCRUBS, Farmer John, KOST FM 103.5, Arrowhead, Ralphs, Sound Moves, gv creative, and Excellent Entertainment. Also a major "well done" to DSALA executive director, Gail Williamson who seemed to be everywhere at the same time ensuring at that the program went off as planned, and it did. Can't wait for Number 14 next year.