SACRAMENTO – On August 6, 2005, Karen Chapman, a volunteer from Fresno, was presented with the California Lottery's “Heroes in Education” award on “The Big Spin®” show.
For more than 20 years, Ms. Chapman has volunteered her time to work with disabled children in Fresno. In addition, Ms. Chapman is coordinator for an event called the “Very Special Sports Day” at Addicott Elementary School. This event involves more than two hundred severely disabled students who aren’t able to compete in the Special Olympics. On this special day, these students get the chance to participate in a number of athletic events.
On hand to honor Karen Chapman was actor, Richard Kline, who has appeared in such films as Problem Child, Liberty Heights and Beverly Hills Ninja. He also starred on the NBC sit-com Inside Schwartz and has directed such shows as Harry and the Hendersons and Evening Shade. He is best known as the upstairs neighbor Larry on the television classic, Three’s Company.
The California Lottery’s “Heroes in Education” award has been presented monthly on “The Big Spin®” show, since 1999. The Lottery partners with celebrities to present these awards, which recognize special individuals who volunteer time and resources to their schools and communities.