On Saturday, Sept. 15, 2007, over 8,500 walkers invaded Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia on a windy, rainy morning. The sun came through and the sky and clouds showed blue for the opening ceremonies and Walk start. CBS 3's News anchor Larry Mendte along with the legendary Sid Mark, the voice of Sounds of Sinatra, hosted the event. Pennsylvania House Speaker Dennis O'Brien received the Janssen Autism Hero Award. A special guest,
View highlights from the Philadelphia Walk
country recording star Mark Leland, entertained the crowd with his song "Missing Pieces," devoted to accelerating autism research and awareness. Mascots, Star Wars characters, jugglers and magicians along with 60 resource fair vendors rounded out the event. To date, the 2007 Philadelphia walk has raised nearly $750,000 to support Autism Speaks!
Visit the Philadelphia walk page or go to Walk Now for Autism site to find a walk in your area.