By Donna Hales
More than 300 parents, teachers and students kicked off a Campaign for Kindness at the free Tuesday showing of “The Mighty.”
The campaign is slated to continue drawing attention to how random acts of kindness can make one’s day — year — or life.
It also is to be a tool to help “stop bullying now” at each of Muskogee Public Schools.
The event at the Fine Arts Auditorium is just one of many planned during the campaign, said Madison Tomlinson, the chief organizer.
The evening got off to a good start — with fresh, hot popcorn and cold pop.
“I learned one thing — next time we need another popcorn popper,” Tomlinson said.
Debra HorseChief, the Early Childhood Center’s principal, was seen high-fiving and laughing with a young student and his brother after the movie. The little boys were just bubbling.
It was a night for parents and kids — hosted by the teachers and administrators of Muskogee Public Schools.
The movie ,“The Mighty” with Sharon Stone, was the highlight of the evening.
It was a show about two misfits — one boy, Max, of enormous stature compared to his classmates. He was taunted and teased but chose not to retaliate.
He came to be best buddies with his next-door neighbor, Kevin, also an outcast. The friendship brought much joy to their lonely lives.
Kevin was afflicted with a debilitating disease and couldn’t walk without crutches.
Wise beyond his years and not afraid to speak his mind, Kevin soon relied on Max, whom he tutored in reading.
“I need legs, you need a brain, and the Wizard of Oz doesn’t live in Cincinnati,” Kevin told Max.
Before long, Kevin was riding atop Max’s shoulders and they were functioning as one — an entity that became known as “Freak the Mighty.”
The movie brought laughter and tears to viewers.
After the movie, Muskogee School Superintendent Mike Garde reminded everyone that the night was just the beginning of the Campaign for Kindness.
He also denounced bullying at Muskogee Public Schools.
Several contributing to the Campaign for Kindness had booths in the lobby before and during most of the movie.
Many teachers were sporting T-shirts designed for the campaign.
The Character Council passed out papers about tolerance, what it means and how it encourages sportsmanship and acceptance. Another table was for the Citizens Academy and/or Extra Eyes, programs through the Muskogee Police Department. Stamp Out the “R” Word, an initiative by Special Olympics to eliminate the use of the word “retard,” also manned a table.
About the campaign
The stated purpose for Muskogee Public School’s Campaign for Kindness: “An anti-bullying initiative and a campaign for greater civic-mindedness through community service.”
Source: Muskogee
Public Schools
Reach Donna Hales at 918-684-2923 or Click Here to Send Email
