MEMPHIS, Tenn. (June 14, 2011) – Jane Fraser, president, the Stuttering Foundation (www.StutteringHelp.org) issued the following remarks concerning Ken Venturi and the U.S. Open:
“As much of the nation tunes in this week to watch the U.S. Open Golf Championship at Congressional Country Club, it is impossible not to think about our friend Ken Venturi. Ken overcame many challenges to win the Open at Congressional in 1964 and go on to become the voice of golf for more than three decades.
“However, Ken faced no bigger obstacle than stuttering. Ken Venturi is a champion to those who stutter, going out of his way to share his personal experience when consulted by a colleague, friend, or child who stutters.
“Ken was the first national spokesman for the Stuttering Foundation nearly two decades ago. As was his way, he offered to fill that role for us because his concern for those who stutter was unparalleled. He had corresponded over several years with my father, our founder Malcolm Fraser, and said he wished to do whatever he could to help people who stutter.
“As he presents the trophy to this year’s winner, I look forward to seeing our friend Ken and hearing his smooth voice once again.”
About the Stuttering Foundation
Malcolm Fraser, a successful businessman and stutterer, went on to establish and endow the nonprofit Stuttering Foundation in 1947. The Stuttering Foundation provides a toll-free helpline, 800-992-9392, and free online resources on its Website, www.StutteringHelp.org, including services, referrals and support to people who stutter and their families, as well as support for research into the causes of stuttering. Please visit us at www.StutteringHelp.org.
