Ted's Take

The Blogging Site of Ted Leonsis

Posts Tagged ‘Ted Kennedy’

Teddy and Me

Friday, August 28th, 2009

I was fortunate to know Senator Kennedy for more than 30 years — we shared geography — (Boston — DC and Florida) as mutual touch points — we shared a love of Georgetown and the Jesuits and the Shriver family ,too.

Ted Kennedy was a very funny man. Warm — twinkle in the eye. A hugger.  And he never missed an opportunity to ask for something — a donation to a charity — an internship request for someone; a recommendation to Georgetown for someone else — and he always dropped you a line — a personal hand written letter as follow up. (more…)

The Dream Lives On

Tuesday, August 26th, 2008

I first met Teddy Kennedy in 1976 wile a student at Georgetown University. I was classmates and friends with Maria Shriver. She invited me and some friends to her home and the Senator was there visiting the family. He was very nice to me then and he honestly remembered me and that first meeting every time I see him.

From time to time since then, I have seen him at political or charitable events; in social settings; on the shuttle; or at Caps games. How he acts privately is how he acts in the public’s eye. He is truly an amazing American in that he is totally devoted to the belief that government is here to serve the people in need. Every time I have seen him his warmth, charm and commitment to American ideals shines though in his conversation.

I have to admit that he is one heck of an inspirational speaker and last night I thought he was the highlight of the convention. Seeing my friends Maria, Bobby and Timmy Shriver in the stands rooting Uncle Teddy along was very moving and brought me back to a much better time.

I thought the tribute film by Ken Burns was great but I thought Ted Kennedy’s speech was one that will be remembered for generations.