Burlsworth Benefit Will Honor Congressman
by July 26, 2010 12:00 am 66 views
Former Congressman John Paul Hammerschmidt spent 13 terms representing the Third District of Arkansas, and years beyond that serving various state and national organizations.
During that time, he often was recognized for his efforts at banquets, awards presentations, etc. These days, he prefers to stay out of the limelight.
“I try to avoid them,” he said with a laugh. “I tried to avoid this one, too.”
Hammerschmidt was talking about the dinner that will be held in his honor Oct. 22 at Fayetteville Town Center. What ultimately convinced Hammerschmidt to participate – in addition to some persuasive talks from the likes of Frank Broyles and Jim Lindsey – was his belief in the work done by the Brandon Burlsworth Foundation.
All proceeds from the dinner will benefit the BBF. Tickets are $200 and sponsorships range from $5,000 to $25,000.
“While I’m sort of the honoree, it’s really about Brandon Burlsworth and all the work the foundation does,” Hammerschmidt said. “That’s where the focus should be.”
The BBF was established to honor the memory and legacy of the former University of Arkansas football great, and aims to support “the physical and spiritual needs of children,” particularly those with limited opportunities. Hammerschmidt said he’s especially fond of “The Eyes of a Champion” program, which provides free eye exams and eyeglasses to low-income, uninsured children.
“That one really got my attention,” Hammerschmidt said.
Speakers at the event will include former United States Secretary of Transportation Norman Mineta, former White House Chief of Staff Thomas “Mack” McLarty, and Alice Walton, an heir to the Wal-Mart fortune and chair of the board of Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art.