When you wish upon an ARVO
FROM THE VAULT: July 27, 2012
Starting today, and for the next two weeks, the world will come together to regale in heartwarming tales of Olympic triumph. Stories of adversity met head-on with grit and determination. Willpower and heart. Sacrifice and teamwork. Bob Costas will no doubt spotlight the Icelandic synchronized spreadsheeting team, and their unprecedented 86-year streak of gold medal domination. Watch in amazement as the Korean 400 meter relay team of Joo, Joo, Ju and Dong Joo quickly and efficiently destroy the competition. And wonder in disbelief as American powerlifter Nick Agin hoists Big Ben with one hand while punching out the Queen with his other.
Thousands of miles away from these Games, here in our very own office, we too have a melt-your-heart moment unfolding. Get your hankies ready, ladies, this one's a tearjerker.
Long touted as Italy's best shot at summer Olympic glory, John Malozzi was universally considered a shoe-in winner for the 100-meter strut. Endorsement deals with Adidas, Arthur Avenue renamed in his honor and a guest appearance in Beyonce's new exercise video "Struttin'" were slam dunks too. But John, as a true testament to living generously, gave it all up to make a little boy's dreams come true. Or in this case a REALLY big boy's dreams come true.
Year after year, while growing up in Colorado, Gunnar's parents had to sit him down and break the news no kid wants to hear. Son, they'd say, we can't go to Disneyland this year. You're just TOO tall to ride the rides. No tea cups, no Magic Mountain and especially no It's a Small World After All. We're sorry, son. There's always basketball camp. Or a summer job changing street lamp light bulbs.
Poor Gunnar was devastated. Years would pass. He buried his pain in brand architecture and bad country music. But his childhood itch was always there, waiting to be scratched.
Folks, starting this Sunday, John Malozzi is that scratch. Instead of heading to London for sure Olympic glory, he and a wide-eyed Gunnar are flying to Anaheim. In advance of the Disney project's Way-Forward presentation, they'll be touring the amusement park together. Saying that he "knows a guy who knows a guy," Malozzi's having all the rides retro-fitted to accommodate Gunnar's, ahem, challenges. But Gunnar, don't blow all of your allowance on cotton candy and Mickey Mouse ears! Mike Del Vecchio will not approve such out-of-pocket expenditures.
Team, please join us at 4 pm today to salute Malozzi's act of personal sacrifice. Oh, and for the Future Friday presentation too. Knowing us, we'll probably go out afterwards too. But that location - like the look on the face of the 8–year old kid in front of Gunnar on Splash Mountain – has yet to be determined.