Join a Political Dynasty Lickety-Click
Author and aspiring genealogist A.J. Jacobs is on a mission to prove mankind is one happy family — a theory that has borne out previously unknown connections to a who’s who of political heavies.
Jacobs’ digital sleuthing is projected to become flesh on June 6 during the Global Family Reunion , a day-long get-together expected to fill New York’s Hall of Science with would-be relatives from across creation.
The fundraiser, which is geared toward combating Alzheimer’s, promises activities galore, including interactive exhibits, space age-y mini golf, a family-themed scavenger hunt, the world’s biggest family photo, a potentially record-breaking sing-along with Sister Sledge and global dining options (think: food carts). In addition to getting everyone to hang out for a good cause, Jacobs has partnered with a number of ancestry services to help trace potential genetic overlap among the billions of others who have spent time on the big blue marble we collectively call home.
Per contributing researchers, Jacobs’ kin cut across the political spectrum.
His family ties include:
Presidents Barack Obama, Bill Clinton, George Bush (who is expected to share a pre-recorded message with attendees) and John Quincy Adams.
Hawaiian Democratic Sen. Brian Schatz.
Former Rep. Gabrielle Giffords, D-Ariz.
Presidential contender Hillary Rodham Clinton.
Former GOP presidential nominee Mitt Romney.
Former GOP vice presidential nominee Sarah Palin.
Former Secretary of State (and “Private Practice” fan ) Madeleine Albright.
Political scions Chelsea Clinton and Meghan McCain .
Founding Father Benjamin Franklin.
The late-Elizabeth Taylor, one-time spouse of former Sen. John Warner, R-Va.
Actor Kevin Bacon (but within how many degrees?).
Tickets to the unifying rally start at $30 for general admission and rise to $50 for VIP access. Kids under 5 are admitted free of charge.
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