8/16/2005
Media Contact:
Steve Campbell, [317] 327-NEWS |
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Mayor to present soap box derby participant and mentor with Character Counts award
INDIANAPOLIS - Mayor Bart Peterson will present Tyrone Walker, who represented Indianapolis at the All-American Soap Box Derby in Akron, Ohio, and his mentor, Larry Thienes, with the Character Counts award.
WHEN: TOMORROW, Wednesday, August 17
10:30 a.m.
WHERE: Mayor’s Conference Room
25th floor, City County Building
Walker, an incoming freshman at Cardinal Ritter High School, won the local soap box derby competition in June. He was the first African-American to win the local competition. He competed in the national competition on July 30th in the 18th heat of the Master’s Division. Although he was defeated, he represented Indianapolis well.
Through United Northwest Area (UNWA), Larry Thienes of Fishers became involved as a volunteer mentor four years ago to help inner-city youth become competitive in soap box derby racing. A former racer himself, he helped Walker to build his car and provided emotional and financial support so that he could compete in Akron. UNWA is a neighborhood umbrella organization that represents the northwest portion of downtown Indianapolis.
Mayor Peterson created his Character Counts award in January of 2000. He awards students for exemplary acts of kindness and character. The Character Counts award also recognizes Marion County public schools and other organizations for their character education efforts.
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