President Obama Promotes Community Service in NBA All-Star Game Message

THE WHITE HOUSE

Office of the Press Secretary

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For Immediate Release                  February 14, 2009

During a pre-taped message that will air during halftime of tomorrow evening’s NBA All-Star game in Phoenix, President Obama will once again discuss the importance of serving others and encourage Americans to visit usaservice.org to find ways to serve in their community.

An excerpt of the message can be viewed at the link below:

Text of excerpt: "In this time of so much need in our communities and across our country, we are blessed with endless ways to restore hope and opportunity in places that yearn for both.  Prepare a care package for a soldier.  Read to a child.  Or fix up a local basketball court so the next generation can play and grow.  I encourage everyone to join the NBA in the spirit of service to others.  Just log on to USA service DOT org to find or create a project near you, then gather some friends and lace ‘em up."

After the complete message is broadcast during halftime, you can visit whitehouse.gov/blog to view the message in its entirety.  The All-Star game will tipoff at 8pm EST and will be broadcast on TNT.