Boston Mayor Thomas M. Menino: "I'm pleased Shawn will conclude his extraordinary cross-country bike ride in Boston. Not only is Boston a bike-friendly city, but it's a place where volunteerism makes an impact on our community every day. It's great that Shawn will be able to share his spirit of giving the extra effort with a number of Bostonians on his final stop."
Philadelphia Mayor Michael A. Nutter: "On behalf of all Philadelphians, I'd like to welcome Shawn to our great city. Shawn's journey demonstrates a commitment to inspiring others to reach their highest potential while giving back to their communities. I'm proud to see Philadelphians coming together every day in the spirit of volunteerism and Shawn's message reinforces how this spirit can build bridges. Philadelphia is a fitting stop for the Extra Mile America Tour. Among the nation's tenth largest cities, Philadelphia has the highest percentage of workers per capita who commute to work on a bike. We really love bicycling and value its positive impact on personal health and the environment. Philadelphians wish Shawn the best of luck as he rolls forward in going the extra mile."
Baltimore Mayor Sheila Dixon: "Shawn's journey across this country finding those in this nation going the extra mile for the benefit of others is as inspiring in its humanity as it is as a physical feat. As a fellow biker and Mayor of Baltimore, I am pleased Shawn has decided to stop in our city. We are a city full of individuals that go that extra mile every day to make this city cleaner, greener, healthier, and safer. From our plan to End Homeless in 10 years to our Neighborhood Ambassadors program to our Be Fit Baltimore and Peace Baltimore initiatives, there isn't an issue we are facing that we don't have good hearted individuals donating their time and talents for the benefit of our most vulnerable residents and neighbors."
Washington, D.C. Mayor Adrian M. Fenty: "I commend Shawn on his journey across the country highlighting those individuals who go the extra mile in their communities, and welcome him to the District of Columbia. We share Shawn's vision for giving back to the community through SERVE DC, the District's service agency that works to strengthen and promote the District of Columbia's spirit of service through partnerships, national service, and volunteerism."
Warwick, Rhode Island Mayor Scott Avedisian: "From those who give their time as volunteers in Warwick schools, to our seniors who spend thousands of hours each year at hospitals and nonprofit agencies, and from citizens of every age who participate in civic groups to our City Year corps activities, the City of Warwick is a community that prides itself on volunteerism. I'm proud to recognize November 1 as Extra Mile Day in Warwick and applaud Shawn Anderson for his remarkable and inspiring efforts to spotlight the selfless works of people throughout the United States."
Greensboro, North Carolina Mayor Yvonne Johnson: "Shawn Anderson serves as an inspiration that reminds us that we are our brother's keeper. I hope we are all inspired to take up our own individual journey to refocus our lives on what is truly important."
Little Rock, Arkansas Mayor Mark Stodola: "Here in Little Rock, Arkansas, we take Shawn Anderson's message to heart; that is why we go the extra mile to instill a passion for volunteering and an orientation toward service in our youth. The Youth Council I lead allows high school students in Little Rock to participate in volunteer projects and learn how to make the community a better place. We are happy to lend our support to Shawn Anderson and his Extra Mile America Tour, and we thank him for going the extra mile to inspire us."
Seattle Council President Richard Conlin: "Seattle is a city of people who exemplify the volunteer spirit. And Shawn Anderson is someone whose extraordinary cycling efforts demonstrate that community service is indeed the life blood of a community. He shines a light on what truly matters in our community; that nonprofit organizations provide invaluable service to those in need."
Dublin, Ohio Mayor Marilee Chinnici-Zuercher: "Shawn Anderson inspires us and reminds us what it means to go the 'extra mile' in our everyday lives. His solo bicycle tour across the country is bridging the gap between cities and towns and reminding us that when everybody pitches in to help in a community, all our journeys are improved. On Nov. 1, the City of Dublin, Ohio will join Shawn in celebrating Extra Mile Day. I encourage everyone to go the distance by volunteering to lend a hand."
Nampa, Idaho Mayor Tom Dale: "Shawn Anderson's ability to go the extra mile physically shows us that nothing can stop us from going the extra mile in our own lives. His tour reminds us of the importance of acknowledging our local heroes and following in their footsteps. The residents of Nampa, Idaho embody this 'extra mile' spirit, as will be evidenced on November 14, when volunteers will pick up a rake and lend a helping hand by raking the leaves of their neighbors who are unable to do so themselves. We wish Shawn the best of luck on the rest of his tour and look forward to Nampa's Extra Mile Day on November 1, 2009."
Pittsburgh Mayor Luke Ravenstahl: "Pittsburghers know how important it is to give back, as was illustrated on September 12 when well over 1,000 citizens came out to assist with litter pick-ups and other activities to green our City. That is why I am so pleased to welcome Shawn Anderson and his Extra Mile America Tour to our town. Shawn's dedication to going the extra mile, literally, as he bikes across the country is a reminder to all of us that doing just a little bit more can make a huge impact on our community. I encourage all Pittsburgh residents to follow Shawn's lead, go the extra mile, and donate their time to a good cause."
Columbus Mayor Michael B. Coleman: "Columbus is known for our tradition of assisting the most vulnerable members of our community, and we are honored to be part of Shawn Anderson's inspirational cross-country journey. I urge all citizens to join Shawn in going the extra mile and giving back through community involvement and volunteerism."
Fayetteville, Arkansas Mayor Lioneld Jordan: "As Mayor of Fayetteville, I am grateful to Shawn Anderson for biking many miles on a path of inspiration that is capturing America. Shawn's tribute to volunteerism and the many volunteers who have made our communities, states, and nation great is commendable and inspirational. When we go the extra mile, we increase value in our own lives, our communities, our environment, and in the quality of life for others. Way to go!
Hawaii State Representative Karen Awana: "As our country embarks on uncertain times, the Extra Mile America Tour & National Extra Mile Day acknowledges those who keep pace and continue to sacrifice their time toward the betterment of their neighborhood, county and state. Shawn Anderson exemplifies this worthy initiative by riding his bicycle across our nation. Although we are not being requested to do the same, his action encourages others to stand up and contribute in their own way because no task is too difficult if performed by all. The State of Hawaii commends Shawn for his leadership and extends best wishes to others who strive to make their community a better place."
Honolulu Councilmember Ikaika Anderson: "Aloha is a special word that means both 'hello' and 'goodbye.' Aloha means, 'We love you.' Aloha means, 'I'll be there for you.' It has never been more important than right now that we all exemplify the true meaning of Aloha. Shawn Anderson is doing just that in his goal to reach out across America in public service to his comrades and his country. Shawn's Extra Mile Tour on a bicycle from San Francisco to Boston is his invitation to everyone who is able to pitch in to help our neighbors, to share what is ours, to boost our economy, and to be better citizens. Honolulu extends its Aloha to Shawn as he sets the example for all of us to make the difference."
Houston Councilmember Pam Holm: "Recognition of volunteerism, particularly during the economic times of today, is a noble cause. Volunteers are noble; they give of their time and resources with no expectation of a return and often without notice or recognition. Shawn Anderson reminds each of us, one person makes a difference; one person helping another person quickly builds a strong team."
Arizona State Senator Amanda Aguirre: "It is energizing to hear stories of people going the extra mile with positive action in their lives. We see it daily in the stories of the men, women and children in Arizona. I congratulate Shawn Anderson on his quest to bike across America with the Extra Mile America Tour and wish him the best on his journey."
San Jose City Councilmember Sam Liccardo: "Shawn's solo ride across the country demonstrates that one person going the 'extra mile' can make a difference. The Extra Mile America Tour invites us to bring that spirit to our own community. It's an inspiring commitment to community service."
Salt Lake City Mayor Ralph Becker: "We are pleased Shawn will stop in Salt Lake City on his tour across the country. Going the extra mile is what our City is all about. With a rich history and tradition of volunteerism in our City, our community appreciates the sacrifices and the benefits of serving our neighbors. Shawn's visit will strike a chord with Salt Lake City's local everyday heroes and will no doubt inspire more of us to go that extra mile."
Colorado State Representative John M. Kefalas: "Volunteerism and civic engagement are key elements of a healthy, compassionate, and vibrant community that works together for the common good. Our community, Fort Collins, Colorado, exemplifies these qualities in the highest degree as we work to address the problems and issues that many of our families, neighbors, and businesses face. The 'Extra Mile America Tour' being carried out by Shawn Anderson is another wonderful example of the human spirit carrying the message that we are all in this together while shining light on local heroes and organizations doing the good works."
Reno Mayor Bob Cashell: "As Shawn makes his way across the country on his solo journey, we are honored that he has selected Reno as one of the 21 cities he will stop in to meet with our local heroes. We certainly have a number of outstanding citizens here who go 'the extra mile' to make our community a better place for everyone. Shawn and local heroes from around the country, including the residents of Reno, show one person can really make a difference."
Sacramento Mayor Kevin Johnson: "I recently launched the Volunteer Sacramento initiative not simply to emphasize the importance of community service, but to also inspire people to act as examples for others. That is exactly what Shawn Anderson is doing as he embarks upon his 'Extra Mile America Tour.' As he rides from city to city across this amazing country, he is not only serving the America community, but enriching it by shining a light on those who we should look up to as inspiration. As Mayor of Sacramento, it is my honor to host Mr. Anderson in this great city and join him as we renew America's commitment to community service."
Congresswoman Barbara Lee, U.S. House of Representatives: "Oakland is filled with 'extra mile people' working hard every day to make their community a better place. We are happy to welcome Shawn Anderson on his Extra Mile America Tour and support his mission to acknowledge local heros across the country and inspire Americans to do more to help each other."
Oakland Mayor Ron Dellums: "The challenges of our current times have demonstrated to all Americans that now, more than ever, it is necessary for us to work in cooperation to achieve real change in our communities. Shawn Anderson's unique undertaking is an inspiration to all Americans to reach beyond the ordinary and truly achieve their own 'extra mile." As a pioneering force in creating a new green energy economy, Oakland's vision as a model city embodies the goals of the Extra Mile America Tour, reflecting our belief that the motivation and hard work of our citizens is the key to building a better future."
Congresswoman Doris Matsui, U.S. House of Representatives: "In these times of need, many Sacramentans are going the extra mile to make a genuine difference in our community. We are thrilled Shawn Anderson is including our city on his Extra Mile America Tour, and I know that he will find many local heroes throughout Sacramento. Volunteerism and service strengthen our communities, fosters respect and compassion throughout our society, and make a real difference in the lives of both those who serve and those who benefit from their service."
San Francisco Mayor Gavin Newsom: "As host to the National Conference on Volunteering and Service, San Francisco embodies the spirit of making a difference. Our city is the perfect starting line for Shawn Anderson's Extra Mile America Tour. One person riding his bike across the country -- helping to shine the light on local heroes and organizations such as Project Homeless Connect -- inspires us all to go the extra mile, help someone, and acknowledge those tirelessly working in the trenches."
Congresswoman Lynn Woolsey, U.S. House of Representatives: "People like Shawn Anderson show us that when we push beyond what we think our limitations may be -- we can inspire others to do the same. As our nation faces extraordinary challenges together, Shawn's solo ride across the country, and the Extra Mile America Tour, invites every American to find the 'Extra Mile" inside, and bring that spirit forth in his or her own community-- proving that one person really can make a difference."
