Watertown, CT, September 7 and 8, 2011 - Cablevision's Power to Learn, in conjunction with ESPN, presented popular author and motivational speaker Kevin Carroll in three separate events over September 7 and 8 at Watertown High School. Also participating in the events were Congressman Chris Murphy, Lieutenant Governor Nancy Wyman, Senator Rob Kane, and Representative Sean Williams. Following welcoming remarks by Principal Matt Geary and the elected officials present at each event, Cablevision's Vice President of Education Trent Anderson spoke about the importance of literacy and following through. ESPN Senior Director Pete O'Connell then introduced author Carroll, who spoke about the path his life took him to get him where he is now. He also referred to his book, What's Your Red Rubber Ball? which leads readers through a series of exercises designed to help them discover their Red Rubber Ball - a dream to chase for a lifetime. Carroll engaged students in the audience by testing their attention and awarding them with 'doves' and their own red rubber balls. After both student assemblies, Carroll stayed to speak with enthusiastic students who were moved by his presentation. He then joined school administration for 'break-out sessions' in the classrooms.
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Congressman Murphy noted, "Kevin Carroll delivered an inspired presentation, and I applaud his efforts with helping young people to achieve their maximum potential. I was very pleased to participate in such a unique event with the students at Watertown High School."
"Listening to these students today made me extremely proud to represent such fine young men and women," observed Lieutenant Governor Wyman. "With the help of people like Kevin Carroll and the wonderful administrators and staff at Watertown High School, each of these teens will create a future as magnificent as they dare to imagine. All they need do is keep believing in themselves."
Senator Kane commended Cablevision's Power to Learn and ESPN for the program, saying, "Kevin Carroll is a truly dynamic individual who is committed to getting his message across to teens in an interesting way. He motivates and encourages them to believe that they can indeed achieve whatever goals they have set for themselves."
Representative Williams added, "Carroll provides the encouragement that young people so often need to shoot for the stars. He enables them to see beyond their present-day problems and find something they can aim for."
Principal Geary remarked, "I'd like to thank Cablevision and ESPN for bringing this program to our school. Clearly today's featured author knows how to connect with students, encouraging them to achieve their goals and have a great time doing it. I am sure everyone who participated came away with a positive message about personal growth."
ESPN Senior Director O'Connell said, "We are proud to join with Cablevision for this program that enables teens to interact with celebrated authors like Kevin Carroll and also helps them better understand themselves and realize that their goals in life are indeed achievable."
