There was a smattering of talk about charitable acts, a spotlight thrown on shocking A.I.D.S. statistics that reflected there is a growing crisis on these shores, a few ubiquitous references to a political issue, and a round of uplifting live entertainment.
Of course, it was the opening ceremony for the annual A.I.D.S. walk, which kicked into high gear earlier today in West Hollywood.
Actor John Schneider - known of late for his role as Superman's father in the popular TV series, but best loved for his stint on "Dukes of Hazzard" - appeared before enthusiastic A.I.D.S. "walkers" to sing the theme song: "You'll never walk alone".
The sexy actor elicited a stir from the audience when he sauntered to the mic in blue jeans and boots topped with a white dress shirt sprayed with red sequins which sparkled like stardust in the early morning sun.
Each year, the song - one that tests the vocal ability of the best of crooners - is performed by a special guest just before the walk starts up.
The uplifting ballad - usually sung by a female - was well-suited to Schneider's distinctive masculine voice. In fact - his phrasing and shading of notes hit their mark so beautifully - a number of eyes teared up.
Soulful - and a bit bluesy at times - the heartfelt rendition was somewhat reminiscent of Elvis' early song stylings.
John, you should sing more often!
The strapping star dedicated the "Walk" to three men who died of A.I.D.S.
In a poignant moment, he noted that it is difficult enough to die around those you love, but more so, if you are dying and the "Government" is trying to tell you who that person should be.
Of course - he was referring to Proposition 8 - and the measure on the November Ballot to ban gay marriages in the State of California.
Loretta Divine (Eli Stone, ABC) pointed out that tomorrow was the last day to register to vote, and she urged everyone in attendance to sign up if they hadn't already - and to be sure to vote nay on Proposition 8."We must stop California from becoming a State of bigots," she cried out to the audience who cheered wildly in response.
But the big focus was on the topic of A.I.D.S., for obvious reasons.
The discovery of drug cocktails in recent years managed to quell a handful of the opportunistic infections in some and bring about a turn-around in deaths due to HIV complications.
For this reason, it appears that many have become complacent about the killer disease - and likewise - are under the mistaken impression that the epidemic is over.
No cause for alarm?
The keynote speaker - Rachel Griffiths (who plays a character on "Brothers & Sisters") - cited some disturbing statistics for the audience to mull over."To date, over twenty-five million people have died from A.I.D.S. And, 56,000 new infections are reported each year. Remarkably, twenty-five percent who are infected don't know they've contracted the disease."
Ms. Griffiths stressed that there was a particular cause for concern because one trial for a new treatment was just halted.
There are no new drug options just now."We all must take a stand."
And, that's what 30,000 walkers were doing today.
Taking a queue from Ms. Griffiths - one Congressman in attendance - further added that it was important voters demand that the next President of the United States have a definite policy on A.I.D.S. and a mandate to fight the killer disease.
Craig Miller - an eloquent speaker (who founded the A.I.D.S. Walk twenty-four years ago) - was on hand to give thanks, too.
In the wake of the big brouhaha about "Joe the Plumber" last week political circles, he was inclined to chat about "Joe the Walker".
"No, I'll call them Josephine Walkers. Because sixty-percent of the marchers today are women. They have such a generosity of spirit. They're compassionate and decidedly earnest, too. And, we thank them."
Also, Schneider applauded the sponsors who gave generously this year, in spite of the dismal economic climate.
"So, go out to "Bed Breakfast and Beyond" (Mervyn's outlet) and show your support to them, as well."
Once again, the Hilton Family played host to the high-profile event.
Paris was conspicuously absent, however.
One lucky fundraiser should be thanking her, though.
All "walkers" were entered into a draw eligible to win a three-day expense-paid stay at any Hilton location in the world!
Generous, eh?
At the top of the ceremony, a handful of Hilton employees led a vigorous warm-up to get the walkers limbered up for their 10-mile stroll.
Other sponsors included the Katzenberg's, Disney, Bank of America, Starbucks, Macy's, Time Warner Cable, and The Abbey.
Cast members from the production of "Kiss of the Spider Woman" wowed the crowd with a spirited performance of one of the popular songs from the hit stage show.Later, the talented kids dashed out once again to display T-shirts and caps top fundraisers would win.
There must be a prerequisite that male cast members sport chiseled abs.
All the actors took everyone's breath when they revealed their hot bods ; not surprisingly, there was a lot of hooting and hollering and stamping of feet amid a raucous roar of approval in the aftermath.
The "Girls Next Door" (Playmates cast) got a big round of applause, as did Michael Molloney from Extreme Makeover.
There were a few impromptu funny moments, too.
Rachel was about to introduce the Mayor of West Hollywood when she reached the bottom of the scripted material with no name in sight!
One of those - crawl-under-the carpet moments - fer sure!
But she was quick to quip why she didn't know his name off-hand.
"I'm a Valley girl," she shrugged.
Don't feel badly, Rachel.
The Mayors in West Hollywood rotate every couple of years.
Frankly, I thought John Duran was still in the top dog's office!
Craig Thompson - living with A.I.D.S. for twenty-five years - expressed his anger about key issues when he stood up to address the enthusiastic crowd.
"We're one of the wealthiest nations in the world, yet we allow this disease to kill our people."
He asserted there was still a lot of stigma attached to HIV and A.I.D.S.
"We're still in a bad place."
This year's theme for the walk was an inspiring one.
"The journey to change a million lives starts with one step."
General Hospital was quick on the uptake years ago in that regard.Jason Thompson and Kimberly McCullough were on hand to discuss a storyline that was developed around Kimberly's character on the popular daytime soap.
She compassionately noted:
"It's a story about a woman living with HIV and not dying from it."
Kimberly thanked the fans for reaching out and pledging their generous support for the cause.
General Hospital raised $73,000.00 for the cause this year alone!
As to the walkers, the turn-out was high-energy and festive.
Smiling - outgoing teens - handed out free granola bars, fresh fruit, and Tiger Gatorade to all in attendance.
Many of the high-spirited "walkers" wore shirts that proudly blared out the name of their "fundraising" teams.
Volunteers wore eye-catching tee-shirts with Keith Harin designs on their face.
Harin, if you recall, was a well-known innovative artist with a distinctive artistic style, who died of A.I.D.S. several years ago.
A memorial was installed at Grace Cathedral (San Francisco) shortly after his death.
The "InterFaith" chapel opened its doors for the first time on December 1st, 1995, after the bell tolled at Grace in Honor of "World AIDS Day".The Chapel is essentially a memorial for those who died from AIDS.
The sacred altar is a place of meditation and healing and remembrance for caregivers and those who are still fighting the disease.
Throughout the ages, stories of each community have been told through their house of worship by virtue of artifacts, stained Glass and sermons.
San Francisco's chapter in the "AIDS" epidemic is recalled through the auspices of the Interfaith Chapel.
The Chapel is a holy place where many go to pay their respects.
But, in the final analysis, Interfaith Chapel underscores that the San Francisco community is one that is compassionate, embracing, and concerned.
The altar was made possible due to the persistent fundraising efforts of community members, local celebrities, and politicians alike.
Inside, there is a stunning altarpiece:
"The Triptych of the Life of Christ"
Mr. Haren - who was commissioned to craft the piece - started off spontaneously with a simple mound of fresh clay.
Then, the talented visionary facilitated a bronze and white gold patina for the original castings.
The center panel depicts the Christ child, cradled by a number of arms below a radiant heart.
Also, there is a healing shower of tears etched below an image of Christ which rests on a cross above.
On the right panel - figures ascend to heaven - as an angel falls on the left.
The Interfaith Chapel is a sacred place where generosity of spirit prevails.
Critics hail the Harin piece as a masterful work that is not only accessible but one that speaks to many people.
In addition, there is a handmade "Book of Remembrance" that is preserved under glass. Within its precious pages, the names of people who have died of AIDS - along with the dates of their birth and death - are inscribed.
The book serves as a testament to the loss shared by the community.
If you're ever up on Nob Hill, don't miss the opportunity to utter a prayer before the sacred memorial.
By the way, I spied a number of garbage receptacles sprinkled about the grounds, with the WET lubricant logo on their face.
That was a subtle, but important touch, which reminds us of one thing.
Play Safe!
Today, I was impressed with the fact quite a few young people showed up to walk, rustle up funds, and raise the consciousness about A.I.D.S. awareness.
Looks like the younger generation have taken up the torch.
Thankfully.
A.I.D.S. is not a gay disease and it does not discriminate.
It's imperative that everyone take up the cause if we are to lick this evil killer.
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