Former Oscar host Billy Crystal is turning his emcee skills to a different audience: the Special Olympics. "It is thrilling to take part in an event that plays such an important role in promoting pride and self-worth in some truly remarkable people," Crystal told the Associated Press. The Special Olympics World Summer Games, which will feature 7,000 athletes from 150 countries, open June 26 at Carter-Finley Stadium in Raleigh, N.C. Others expected to perform at the opening ceremonies are rock act Sugar Ray and gospel singer Kirk Franklin.