By Coach Kathy Kemper
Published on February 2007
Washington Live Magazine
One of the crowning achievements of Mayor Tony Williams’ tenure was his success in bringing the nation’s pastime back to the nation’s capitol. Beyond the revitalization of SE Washington and the positive economic impact Major League Baseball is having on the district, Mayor Williams has given all of Washington something to be proud of. While some individual athletes make good role models for our children and others do not, the sport as a whole continues to exemplify the values of dedication, preparation and teamwork. Because of Mayor Williams’ efforts, parents can bond with their children on a sunny day at the ballpark. Old friends can catch up over hot dogs and soda. Even politicians can forget about party labels, if only for a while.
Mayor Williams understands the importance of baseball to the American experience. Baseball is above all a wonderful bonding experience, bringing together a diverse and sometimes divided community. That notion of “being in it together” is one of the primary benefits that sports can bring to athletes and fans. In this era of ever-more-partisan politics, the Nationals give this town something to agree on. Democrat or Republican, we can all root for the home team. Thanks, Tony.
Coach Kathy Kemper is the founder and CEO of the Institute for Education.
