Wednesday, October 21, 2009

Schools Nationwide Receive $12.8 Million in Extra Credit Funds From Target

/PRNewswire/ -- Target announced today that its Take Charge of Education® school fundraising initiative has provided more than $12.8 million in funding to schools nationwide. Until recently, Target donated to schools twice a year. The undesignated funds can be used for whatever schools need most, from books and school supplies to classroom technology, artist-in-residence programs and extracurricular activities. As the program continues its 12th year, Take Charge of Education has donated more than $273 million to more than 100,000 schools nationwide - 75 percent of the nation's K-12 schools.

"As schools nationwide continue to endure sharp budget cuts, they are in need of immediate support and leadership from outside sources more than ever," said Laysha Ward, president, community relations, Target. "Take Charge of Education allows our Target team members to create meaningful relationships with their local schools, while also inviting guests to easily help us make a real difference every day by positively impacting local students' learning experiences."

Take Charge of Education allows Target guests to easily designate an eligible K-12 school of their choice and have Target donate an amount equal to one percent of their REDcard(SM) (Target® Visa® Credit Card, Target Credit Card(SM) and Target Check Card(SM)) purchases made at Target and Target.com*. In addition, Target also donates 0.5 percent of Target Visa Credit Card purchases made everywhere else Visa credit cards are accepted.

Schools like Red River High School in Grand Forks, N,D, use the donations to help fund student groups that don't have budgets and need assistance with registration fees, travel and supply costs. In the past they have funded students involved with Science Bowl and Science Fair competitions. Take Charge of Education, along with the support of parents, helps make good things happen for its students.

Beginning in 2010, Take Charge of Education payouts will be distributed once a year in September, as opposed to twice a year. This is a change from the past, when schools would receive payouts in March and September. By changing the payout schedule from twice a year to once a year, Target will be able to streamline processes and better serve schools - eliminating any confusion with multiple payouts. The September payout is an optimal time to award schools with Take Charge of Education support, as a way of celebrating the start of a new school year and offering schools some additional support to help with needs. Total funds to schools will not be altered or affected.

-----
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page

Fayette County Student Helps Others Through Fundraising

Pictured (l-r) are JC Booth Middle School Students Ashila Jiwani and Razeena Moosa.

Arshila Jiwani, a 13 year-old middle school student, raised over $2,000 to contribute to the funds raised at Atlanta Partnership Run/Walk that will take place on Sunday, October 25, 2009 at Centennial Olympic Park in downtown Atlanta. On top of her extracurricular activities, Arshila developed ideas to raise money for Aga Khan Foundation USA (AKF USA) and reached out to fellow students like Rozina Mossa, Gohar Llalani and Simren Dhani for help with fundraising.

Arshila first began fundraising for the Partnership Run/Walk and reaching out to the community by passing out flyers at school and texting her friends information about the Foundation. With the help of her school principal, Ted Lombard, Arshila expanded her fundraising and outreach activities to organize candy fundraisers, position informational posters around the school, arrange student and teacher fundraising activities and speak on the school’s morning announcements, urging kids to participate in the Partnership Run/Walk and fundraising activities. Recently, Arshila expanded her fundraising efforts to local businesses including the Panda Express in Peachtree City and Bruster’s Ice Cream. At the Panda Express, Arshila was able to raise over $230 by asking the manager to donate 15% of the profits earned in one evening at the eatery to the Foundation.

100% of funds raised at Partnership Run/Walk go directly to the projects supported by the Foundation. The cost of organizing the Run/Walk is completely underwritten by AKF USA and in-kind contributors. No contributions are used for administrative costs. Since 1995, PartnershipsInAction events have attracted over 280,000 participants, raising $32 million.

AKF USA, established in 1981, is a private, non-denominational, non-profit international development organization committed to alleviating poverty, hunger, disease and illiteracy. AKF USA is part of the Aga Khan Development Network (www.akdn.org), a network of private, non-denominational, development agencies around the world, established by His Highness the Aga Khan to empower communities and individuals, often in disadvantaged circumstances, improve living conditions and opportunities.

Last year, over 6,800 youth, families, businesses and community leaders participated in the 2008 Atlanta Partnership Walk, which raised over a million dollars for Aga Khan Foundation U.S.A. projects in the developing world. Encourage your friends, family, co-workers and neighbors to hit the pavement for the 2009 Partnership Run/Walk and show their support for ending global
poverty.

To register for the Partnership Run/Walk please visit http://www.PartnershipsInAction.org/5k

-----
Community News You Can Use
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
Fayetteville, Peachtree City, Tyrone
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page
www.artsacrossgeorgia.com
Arts Across Georgia

Friday, October 16, 2009

The 3rd Annual Hollingsworth House Chair-ity Event Nov. 30th

The 3rd Annual Hollingsworth House Chair-ity Event will be held on Monday, November 30, from 5:00-7:30 pm at The Hollingsworth House in downtown Fayetteville, GA. This will be an elegant holiday affair with delicious food and live entertainment. The event will also feature live and silent auctions of extraordinary chairs and other works of art donated by local artisans.

This is a volunteer driven event and hosts include Congressman Lynn Westmoreland, Senator and Mrs. Ronnie Chance, and Senator and Mrs. Mitch Seabaugh, just to name a few.

All proceeds will help the children who live at Christian City have a wonderful Christmas. Tickets are $25 and can be purchased in advance by calling 770-703-2636.

To become a sponsor of the Chair-ity Event, please contact Heidi Becker at 770-703-2632 or heidib@christian-city.org or contact Belinda Fitch at 770-460-3165. All sponsorships include tickets to the event and recognition for helping less fortunate children to have a wonderful holiday season.

Christian City has been caring for abandoned and abused children in a family centered residential setting since 1965. Over 1,000 children have called Christian City “home.” For more information about this Chair-ity Event, please visit www.chair-ity-event.org. For more information about The Children’s Village, please call770-703-2636 or visit www.christiancity.org.
---
Community News You Can Use
Follow us on Twitter: @gafrontpage
www.FayetteFrontPage.com
www.GeorgiaFrontPage.com
www.PoliticalPotluck.com
www.ArtsAcrossGeorgia.com
---

Thursday, October 15, 2009

National Safe Place Launches New Safety Program 'Txt 4 Help' to Get Immediate Help to Youth in Crisis

/PRNewswire/ -- National Safe Place (NSP) is launching the "Txt 4 Help" program, a 24-hour text-for-support service for youth in crisis. The "Txt 4 Help" program, announced today at a news conference in Washington D.C. hosted by Rep. John Yarmuth, D-Ky., will make getting help for teens easier. Youth in crisis can text the word SAFE and their current location to the number 69866, (e.g. safe 101 main St., Chicago IL), and they will receive an address for the closest Safe Place site and contact number for a local youth shelter. In cities that don't yet have a Safe Place program, the youth will receive the name and number of a youth shelter. If there is not a Safe Place program or youth shelter, the youth will receive the number for the national hotline. The text service will be available across the U.S. on Oct. 15.

The new "Txt 4 Help" program has the ability to reach even more youth in crisis than NSP has reached by traditional means. Almost 90 percent of teens have regular access to a mobile phone, and 66 percent of those teens prefer text-messaging to calling. NSP believes the "Txt 4 Help" program will change lives.

"We strongly believe that by communicating to youth in a way that they're comfortable with, we will reach thousands more youth needing help than we have in the past," said Linda Rutherford, chair of the National Safe Place board of directors. "We are hopeful that this program will encourage teens to ask for help and discourage them from running away."

Jasmine Williams, an 18-year-old homeless youth demonstrated how "Txt 4 Help" works at today's event. Williams came from an abusive household and currently resides at Sasha Bruce Youthwork, one of the largest youth service providers in Washington, D.C.

"Jasmine understands the value of Safe Place locations where kids can get help," said Sandy Bowen, executive director of National Safe Place. "She is moving away from the negative experience that once shaped her life towards a more positive future and because of this, she was so thrilled to share this information with other teens so they can get the help they need in a crisis when they need it - easily and quickly."

Each year an estimated two million youth run away. Most young people do not run away to experience additional freedoms, but rather are running away from a problem that they cannot solve, according to Department of Justice statistics from 2006. A Department of Justice study from 2002 indicates that 21 percent of runaway youth had been either physically or sexually abused within their homes within the year prior to their leaving.

Safe Place was created as a community collaboration that provides easy access to help for young people in dangerous, threatening or vulnerable situations. There are close to 17,000 designated businesses and community buildings displaying the Safe Place sign nationwide.

Since 1983, more than 240,000 youth have accessed help at a Safe Place site, or contacted their local youth shelter after learning about Safe Place at a school presentation.

Each year the U.S. Senate designates the third week of March as National Safe Place Week, recognizing the thousands of businesses, schools, fire departments, law enforcement and volunteers who work to keep communities safer for young people.

"It's hard to find a kid today who isn't constantly keeping in touch with their friends and family through text messages. The Txt 4 Help initiative is an innovative project that harnesses the popularity and power of texting to give kids instant access to assistance when they need it most," said Congressman Yarmuth. "National Safe Place continues to make Louisville proud by developing new ways to help young people in crisis."

-----
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page

Tuesday, October 13, 2009

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Georgia Foundation Donates $25,000 to Red Cross for Flood Relief Efforts in Georgia

/PRNewswire/ -- The Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Georgia Foundation LLC has donated $25,000 to the American Red Cross for the Georgia Flood Relief Effort.

Strong storms and continued rains in Georgia have caused widespread flooding and damage throughout metro Atlanta and its surrounding areas - with more than 17 of its counties declared 'disaster areas,' including Carroll, Catoosa, Chattooga, Cherokee, Clayton, Cobb, Crawford, DeKalb, Douglas, Forsyth, Fulton, Gwinnett, Newton, Paulding, Rockdale, Stephens and Walker. Staff from the American Red Cross has been working relentlessly in all the affected counties, providing assistance to those impacted by the storms.

"Our hearts and thoughts go out to those affected by the storms and flooding," said Monye Connolly, president of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Georgia. "These victims are our friends, family and neighbors. Our Foundation is pleased to be able to provide this donation to help them get back on their feet, and we thank the Red Cross for all they are doing for our communities."

The funds will be used by the Red Cross to provide support and assistance to victims of the storms including: food, shelter and clothing; home clean up assistance; temporary housing; emergency medical assistance, such as prescription medication replacement, and help with eyeglass, denture, hearing aid replacement; and mental health services.

"We thank the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Georgia Foundation for their generous donation which will greatly assist our Georgia Flood Relief Effort," said Tim English, chief executive officer of the American Red Cross, Metro Atlanta Chapter. "When disasters strike the generosity of donors and volunteers can make all the difference. I am pleased to count the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Georgia Foundation as a leader in our relief effort."

----
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page

Operation HOPE Provides Financial Recovery Guidance to Individuals and Small Businesses Affected by Flooding in Georgia

(BUSINESS WIRE)--Continuing commitments in partnership with FEMA, The American Red Cross, and as a national member of Volunteer Organizations Active in Disaster (NVOAD), Operation HOPE (HOPE), through its disaster preparedness and recovery division HOPE Coalition America (HCA), is currently assisting individuals affected by the flooding in Georgia communities by providing the following free services: Disaster Recovery Budgeting, Paying a Mortgage on a Destroyed Home, Home Inspections, and Repair Contracts, Assistance with Working with Your Creditors, Referrals to Government and Private Agencies, Assistance with Obtaining Copies of Destroyed Financial Documents, and Insurance Claims Assistance, Recovery Seminars and Case Management.

“This guidance and assistance can be obtained by calling the HOPE National Assistance Hotline at 888-388-HOPE (4673). Individuals will be assisted by our employees and volunteers from our partners in the financial services industry,” said Lance Triggs, Executive Vice President of Operation HOPE. “Anyone who needs help reconstructing their financial records as a result of the recent flood is encouraged to call for assistance.”

Created after 9/11, the disaster preparedness and recovery division of HOPE has assisted over 150,000 individuals and small businesses recover from various federally declared disasters, including Hurricanes Katrina, Ike, and Gustav as well as the wild fires in California last year.

-----
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page

Monday, October 12, 2009

American Cancer Society in Fayette County Seeking Volunteers To Serve on Relay For Life Committee

If you want to help lead the fight against cancer in your community, the American Cancer Society invites you to join the Relay For Life committee in Fayette County. The Relay committee shapes the Relay For Life event in your community, and as a member, you can play a vital role in making Relay the best possible experience for all participants. You can also help the American Cancer Society fight cancer and create a world with less cancer and more birthdays for everyone.

In 2009, Relay For Life in Fayette County raised $426,000 to fight cancer through research, programs and services, education and advocacy. Plans are already under way for the exciting 2010 Relay For Life, so now is the time to sign up and get involved on a Relay committee. In fact, the 2010 Relay For Life Kick-Off is already set for Thursday, November 12th at 6:00 pm at Peachtree City Christian Church. Attending Kick-Off is a great way to meet the current committee and to get more information on the volunteer opportunities that are available to you.

Relay For Life began with one man in Tacoma, Washington in 1985 and is now a worldwide movement to end cancer, with 5,000 events in 50 countries raising more than $345 million dollars in 2009. These funds help make the American Cancer Society’s mission possible, and that helps us all move closer to our ultimate goal: A world with less cancer and more birthdays.

In honor of those who battle cancer 24 hours a day, team members typically take turns walking the track throughout the day and night. For those not walking, there is constant action to keep everyone busy. From entertainment, food and games to touching ceremonies and stories of inspiration, there is something for everyone at Relay For Life.

At every Relay For Life event, we celebrate the lives of those who have battled cancer through our Survivor's Lap and survivor recognition. The strength of survivors inspires others to continue to fight. We also remember loved ones lost to the disease, and those who have survived and are currently battling cancer with our Luminaria Ceremony. At Relay, people who have walked alongside those battling cancer can grieve and find healing. Finally, we fight back against cancer because we want to put an end to the disease. Relay helps individuals make a commitment to save lives by taking up the fight.

For more information or to join a committee, please call Michelle Blose at (770) 631-0625 or email michelle.blose@cancer.org.

The American Cancer Society combines an unyielding passion with nearly a century of experience to save lives and end suffering from cancer. As a global grassroots force of more than three million volunteers, we fight for every birthday threatened by every cancer in every community. We save lives by helping people stay well by preventing cancer or detecting it early; helping people get well by being there for them during and after a cancer diagnosis; by finding cures through investment in groundbreaking discovery; and by fighting back by rallying lawmakers to pass laws to defeat cancer and by rallying communities worldwide to join the fight. As the nation’s largest non-governmental investor in cancer research, contributing about $3.4 billion, we turn what we know about cancer into what we do. As a result, more than 11 million people in America who have had cancer and countless more who have avoided it will be celebrating birthdays this year. To learn more about us or to get help, call us anytime, day or night, at 1-800-227-2345 or visit cancer.org.
---
Community News You Can Use
Follow us on Twitter: @gafrontpage
www.FayetteFrontPage.com
www.GeorgiaFrontPage.com
www.PoliticalPotluck.com
www.ArtsAcrossGeorgia.com
---

Saturday, October 10, 2009

Sandy Creek High School Heroes Help Flooded Cobb County School

Students at Sandy Creek High are the latest to become heroes for the students of Clarkdale Elementary in Austell.

The school, with an enrollment 442 students, was completely submerged in water from the devastating flood last month. Since the flood, heroes from throughout metro Atlanta have been stepping up to help the students by donating school supplies.

Students from Sandy Creek loaded onto a school bus on October 8 and headed to Compton Elementary, where 217 K-2 Clarkdale students have been relocated, to personally deliver a $1,000 check and $500 of school supplies to Clarkdale’s principal.

In just one week, members of Sandy Creek’s Star International Organization raised the money and school supplies. They enlisted the help of other schools, clubs and businesses to make the fundraiser a success: Crabapple Lane and Robert J. Burch Elementary schools, Skills USA, Key Club, Interact Club and Grand Coffee.

Clarkdale principal Marjorie Bickerstaff was so touched by the donation that she called 11Alive news and the television station made Sandy Creek’s students their “Heroes of the Week.”
“I am very proud of my students at Sandy Creek. The whole school community came together to help out another school that lost everything. What they were able to do in just one week is amazing and exemplifies what it truly means to be a Sandy Creek Patriot,” says principal Roy Rabold.

-----
Community News You Can Use
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
Fayetteville, Peachtree City, Tyrone
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page

Wednesday, October 07, 2009

Paper, Plastics, and Shoes? Georgia Recycling Coalition Announces Placement of Shoe Recycling Bins at Drop-off Locations to Benefit Soles4Souls(R) Inc

/PRNewswire/ -- Now, along with their soda cans and old newspapers, Georgia residents can bring their gently worn shoes to recycling drop-off locations throughout the state. In partnership with Soles4Souls®, the GRC announces they will place specially designated bins at their locations to offer an environmentally friendly alternative to residents throwing their worn shoes away.

"We are delighted to be involved with an effort in Georgia to reduce potential waste while supporting a philanthropic cause. Repurposing shoes that we no longer wear is something that everyone can understand and easily accomplish through local community collection programs," said Gloria Hardegree, Executive Director, Georgia Recycling Coalition.

The recycled shoes will be shipped to Soles4Souls who will distribute them to some of the 1.5 billion people world-wide without shoes.

"We are proud to partner with the Georgia Recycling Coalition in this call to action," said Wayne Elsey, Founder and CEO of Soles4Souls, Inc. "This initiative will not only help put shoes on the feet of those in need, but it also furthers the global effort to reuse."

It is estimated, every year millions of shoes across the globe end up in landfills or are disposed of in some other way. Soles4Souls will take your gently worn shoes and repurpose them in one of 125 countries around the world. A small percentage which cannot be distributed will be recycled.

-----
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page

Monday, October 05, 2009

Foresters and community partners volunteer to build new playground in Ben Hill community

/PRNewswire/ -- R.N. Fickett Elementary School in Southwest Atlanta has a brand new playground thanks to a coordinated effort of 200 volunteers from Foresters(TM), students, teachers and the community who erected the facility. This playground will serve the children of Ben Hill where previously there was the original wooden equipment from 1972. Georgia State Representative Roger Bruce, Dr. Sharon Williams, Atlanta Public Schools and Yolanda Johnson, Atlanta Board of Education, joined Stephen Sprague, Foresters Director, Legal, in acknowledging the tremendous contribution made by all the volunteers.

"Foresters is thrilled to provide the children of the Ben Hill community with a wonderful new park where they can play and spend quality family time together," said Stephen Sprague. "This is Foresters' sixth playground build of 2009, and another excellent example of team spirit and of Foresters purpose coming to life. Foresters champions the well-being of families by investing in our communities and by providing opportunities for our members, our agents and staff to help make a difference."

Foresters, a member-based life insurance provider with members throughout Georgia, funded and organized the playground build with KaBOOM!, local parents, R.N. Fickett Elementary School and Atlanta Public Schools. This is the fourth of six playgrounds in the U.S. that Foresters is funding and organizing with KaBOOM! this year. In its 135th anniversary year, Foresters has invested close to $500,000 to provide playgrounds where children and their parents can spend quality time together playing, learning and having fun.

Before the first hole was dug in the ground, children from R.N. Fickett Elementary School helped design the playground of their dreams.

"This KaBOOM! opportunity allows Fickett to be a shining beacon in the community," said Dr. Anthony Dorsey, Principal of Fickett Elementary. "We pride ourselves in being a high performing elementary school in an urban environment. These new additions allow Fickett to transcend tradition and history and become a beautiful educational facility that upholds the standards and expectations of our esteemed community.

"Our goals at Fickett are to come around full circle and display 360 degrees of progress. This playground will energize our students and encourage all Fickett Trojans to complete the circle and attain the 360 degrees of achievement. Fickett has always been a great place to learn. This KaBOOM! partnership will allow us to be a great place to learn and PLAY. And like our funding partner, Foresters, Fickett 'Champions the well-being of Families.'"

The new playground will be nearly 2,400 square feet in size and includes an adaptive swing set, bell panel, catacombs panel, chime panel, drum panel, funnel adventure tube and much, much more. With a duration expectancy range from 15 to 20 years, the playground has the capacity to serve approximately 8,200 children in its lifetime.

Foresters investment in this playground extends beyond the work completed on build day. Foresters volunteers and the community have made a commitment to maintain the playground to ensure it is available for subsequent generations of parents and children.

-----
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page

Georgia Aquarium Hosts 4th Annual Fall Golden Gala

The 4th Annual Fall Golden Gala will be held Saturday November 7 beginning at 7:45 p.m. at the Georgia Aquarium. This entertaining dinner and dance will honor legendary community leaders Lois Blonder and Marty Pollock and feature a raffle and live auction with the theme “A Celebration of Legends.” Attendees will be able to tour the Aquarium prior to the event, starting at 6:45 p.m. $200 per person and $100 for those under 40 years old and over 80. Proceeds will benefit The William Breman Jewish Home and ensure that its elderly residents receive the finest possible care. http://www.wbjh.org/. Contact: carly@spizmanagency.com or 770-953-2040.
---
Community News You Can Use
Follow us on Twitter: @gafrontpage
www.FayetteFrontPage.com
www.GeorgiaFrontPage.com
www.PoliticalPotluck.com
www.ArtsAcrossGeorgia.com
---

Saturday, October 03, 2009

Foot Solutions to Donate $35,000 Worth of Shoes to Flood Victims in Atlanta with Soles4Souls, the Shoe Charity

As areas in Atlanta continue to recover from recent flooding, Foot Solutions stores are pitching in to help their neighbors in need. Foot Solutions Corporate along with Foot Solutions in Buckhead, on behalf of Soles4Souls, have committed to helping hundreds of flood victims by donating shoes to those who have lost everything in a low-income area of Atlanta near the river.

Soles4Souls is an international charity dedicated to providing free footwear to people in desperate need. Seeing the need in our own community, Foot Solutions Buckhead will deliver more than 220 pairs of new shoes valued at more than $35,000 and nearly one-hundred pair of gently used shoes to a small Atlanta area community badly affected by the flooding.

The donation will take place Saturday, October 3 at the First Baptist Church Chattahoochie, 1950 Bolton Road, in Atlanta beginning at 9:30 a.m.

Aadu Allpere, the owner of Foot Solutions Buckhead, learned of the devastation in the area from friend and fellow Rotarian Dr. Jim Haskell who ministers to families hit hard by the floods. Both Allpere and Haskell are members of the Buckhead Rotary Club and they knew they wanted to help.

For more information about the Foot Solutions shoe drive for flood victims call: 404-231-2324To find the Foot Solutions location nearest you call 1-888-FIT-FOOT or log on to www.footsolutions.com.
---
Community News You Can Use
Follow us on Twitter: @gafrontpage
www.FayetteFrontPage.com
www.GeorgiaFrontPage.com
www.PoliticalPotluck.com
www.ArtsAcrossGeorgia.com
---

Flood Victims Can Replace Damaged Food Stamp Supplies

Anyone who lost food supplies obtained with Georgia food stamps as a result of the September 18 - 26 flooding can get replacement provisions by visiting their local Georgia Department of Human Services (DHS) Division of Family and Children Services (DFCS) office.

Citizens in any of the affected counties (Bartow, Carroll, Catoosa, Chattooga, Cherokee, Cobb, Coweta, Crawford, DeKalb, Douglas, Forsyth, Fulton, Gwinnett, Heard, Newton, Paulding, Rockdale, Stephens and Walker) should contact their local DFCS office or call 1-800-869-1150 to receive replacement food stamp benefits (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program – SNAP). Recipients will be required to sign an affidavit stating their food loss was flood-related to have their benefits restored.
---
Community News You Can Use
Follow us on Twitter: @gafrontpage
www.FayetteFrontPage.com
www.GeorgiaFrontPage.com
www.PoliticalPotluck.com
www.ArtsAcrossGeorgia.com
---

Thursday, October 01, 2009

More than 5,000 Gallons of Bottled Water Now Available to Atlanta-area Residents Coping with the Aftermath of Recent Flooding

/PRNewswire/ -- Beginning today at several locations, Atlanta-area residents and organizations will have access to supplemental bottled water to help cope with the effects of recent severe flooding. More than 5,000 one-gallon bottles of Deer Park® Brand Natural Spring Water have been donated by Nestle Waters North America. The water has been delivered to the American Red Cross' Relief Operation Warehouse in Forest Park, GA for distribution to communities beginning Thursday, October 1.

Affected residents in need of potable water can contact the Metro Atlanta Red Cross chapter at 404-870-4440, or one of the three designated distribution locations listed below for availability. American Red Cross mobile response teams will also be distributing donated water to people in remote communities who are unable to travel to these locations.

Area distribution locations:

Powder Springs Police Department
4483 Pineview Drive
Powder Springs, GA

Austell Shopping Center
5875 Love St.
Austell, GA

Westridge Church
3522 Hiram-Acworth Highway
Dallas, GA


"Deer Park strives to be there in times of emergency," said Alex McIntosh, Director of Corporate Citizenship. "In 2008, Nestle Waters delivered more than 2.7 million bottles of water to citizens and relief workers affected by natural disasters and emergencies, and our 8,500 employees are proud to donate their time and bottled water products when communities are in need."

"We are thankful for the support of Nestle Waters North America," said Lauri Rhinehart, Vice President of Development Operations for the American Red Cross. "Through their donation of water, the American Red Cross will be able to meet the needs of the community."

Last Monday, Georgia Governor Sonny Perdue declared a state of emergency in the 17 counties hardest hit by the severe weather. The torrential downpour caused ten deaths and more than $280 million in damage throughout Georgia.

-----
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Georgia Donates $10,000 to Hosea Feed the Hungry and Homeless for Flood Relief Efforts in Georgia

/PRNewswire/ -- Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Georgia (BCBSGA) today announced it is donating $10,000 to Hosea Feed the Hungry (HFTH) for the Georgia Flood Relief Effort. In addition, BCBSGA associates are collecting canned goods throughout the week to provide immediate support to families who have been either temporarily or permanently displaced from their homes.

Strong rains over the course of the past week in Georgia have caused widespread flooding and damage, leaving many families without even the most basic of essentials. HFTH's staff has been actively packaging and dispensing boxes of food items and hygiene kits to individuals and families in need throughout the metro Atlanta area and its surrounding counties.

"Our hearts go out to those affected by the storms and resulting flooding," said Monye Connolly, president of BCBSGA. "As a company, we are committed to making a difference in our communities, but as individuals, we have a responsibility to help others in need be they friends, family or complete strangers. BCBSGA and its associates are pleased to provide support to HFTH and all it does for the community, not only during times of disaster, but year-round."

The funds will be used for disaster relief as well as for direct services and intensive case management for the clients HFTH currently serves, many who are also flood victims. HFTH will be celebrating its 40th year of helping the working poor and others as it kicks off the upcoming holiday season - from its annual Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Birthday and Easter feasts, serving thousands of hungry Atlantans, to its daily dispensation of goods and human services to the needy in the Southeast and around the world.

"The recent storms have exacerbated an already critical situation because of the economy, and BCBSGA's support of HFTH and within the Atlanta community speaks volumes to its charitable giving," said HFTH's executive director, Elisabeth Omilami. "HFTH's financial contributions are down 35 percent, while calls for help from the community have increased 45 percent. The generosity of donors and volunteers can make all the difference during this critical time, and I am thrilled to have the continued support of BCBSGA and its associates in our relief efforts."

-----
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page
www.artsacrossgeorgia.com
Arts Across Georgia

Target Donates $100,000 to Georgia Flood Relief

(BUSINESS WIRE)--Target today announced its commitment to provide $100,000 in cash and product donations to support flood relief efforts in northwest Georgia. Target is working closely with local relief agencies, including The Salvation Army and the American Red Cross, as well as emergency responders, to offer assistance throughout the region.

As part of this commitment, $10,000 in Target GiftCards will be given to teachers and students at Clarkdale Elementary School in Austell, Ga. The school was evacuated after prolonged rains caused the Sweetwater Creek to overflow, nearly submerging the school and devastating homes in the surrounding area.

Leaders from local Target Stores will present the GiftCards, which will be used to purchase basic necessities for teachers and students affected by the flood, to school officials at 3:00 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 1, at Austell Intermediate School, which is located at 5423 Meadows Road in Powder Springs, Ga.

In addition to its donation to Clarkdale Elementary, Target is providing the following items to assist in flood relief efforts throughout northwest Georgia:

* 3,000 food relief kits (which include items such as granola bars, tuna and other food items), and 3,000 toiletry relief kits (which include toothpaste, a toothbrush, body wash or bar soap, hand sanitizer and deodorant) were given to The Salvation Army of Atlanta. The kits were distributed by Target and The Salvation Army volunteers last weekend.
* 4,500 food relief kits will be given to assist in the American Red Cross relief efforts.
* Five pallets of water were distributed to emergency responders.
* Financial donations will also be made to the American Red Cross and The Salvation Army.

“We extend our thoughts of comfort and hope to all who have been impacted by these floods, including the students of Clarkdale Elementary School,” said Laysha Ward, president, Community Relations, Target. “We appreciate the tremendous work being done by relief agencies in this area.”

Target stores throughout the region remain open for business and stocked with disaster supplies such as rain gear, batteries, water, plastic storage totes and cleaning supplies.

Target will continue to work with local relief agencies and emergency responders to assist with disaster relief needs and clean-up efforts in the region.

-----
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page
www.artsacrossgeorgia.com
Arts Across Georgia

Bank of America Announces Customer Disaster Relief Program in Wake of Severe Storms and Floods in Georgia

/PRNewswire/ -- Bank of America today announced its disaster relief program for 17 counties in Georgia that have been designated disaster areas by the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

The Bank of America Charitable Foundation also announced it will donate $50,000 to the American Red Cross to support relief efforts for people impacted in the region by the recent severe storms and floods.

The counties include: Catoosa, Carroll, Chattooga, Cherokee, Cobb, DeKalb, Douglas, Fulton, Gwinnett, Newton, Paulding, Rockdale, Stephens, Bartow, Coweta, Heard, and Walker.

"These storms and floods have caused significant damage and suffering throughout our state," said Geri Thomas, Georgia president for Bank of America. "Bank of America is pleased to help our neighbors get through this difficult period."

Under the company's disaster relief program, Bank of America customers affected by severe storms and floods in those counties may qualify to:

-- Receive emergency credit line increases on their existing Bank of
America Visa® card and MasterCard®
-- Modify or extend payments on loans, credit cards or lines of credit
-- Access a new home equity loan through the bank's special loan program,
with no fees and preferential pricing below the current rate
-- Purchase a new primary residence through the bank's special mortgage
program and we will waive loan fees and expedite the loan process.
This purchase program is available to all qualifying residents of
impacted counties, not just existing customers.
-- Avoid bank early withdrawal penalties on certificates of deposit (CDs)

Small businesses may also qualify for similar benefits on both business and personal loans.

Customers may apply for assistance under the program through November 13 in any Bank of America banking centers or by calling 1.800.831.5586. For assistance with a credit card account, the phone number on the back of the card or on a bank statement may be called. The offers are subject to credit approval and current credit standards apply. Insurance is required for mortgage and home equity loan products. These offers cannot be used in combination with other offers, and certain restrictions may apply. Tax penalties may still apply to IRA withdrawals before age 59 1/2. Bank of America, N.A. is an equal housing lender and a member of the FDIC.

-----
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page
www.artsacrossgeorgia.com
Arts Across Georgia

Tuesday, September 29, 2009

Cox Enterprises Donates $175,000 to Aid Metro Atlanta Flood Victims

/PRNewswire/ -- Cox Enterprises, Inc. announced today a combined cash donation of $175,000 to three non-profit aid agencies to support flood recovery efforts in metro Atlanta. More than 20,000 homes and other structures suffered major damage across 17 Georgia counties, which have now been declared federal disaster areas.

"Cox Enterprises has a legacy of helping our employees in times of great need," said Jimmy Hayes, president and CEO of Cox Enterprises. "Cox is also committed to helping our community-at-large, so we're supporting two long-time partners on the front line of this disaster."

The donation will be shared among the Cox Employee Disaster Relief Fund ($75,000), the United Way of Metropolitan Atlanta's Disaster Relief Fund ($50,000) and the American Red Cross (Metro Atlanta) Disaster Relief Fund ($50,000). Created in 2005, the Cox Employee Disaster Relief Fund aided company employees during Hurricane Katrina and the California wildfires and will now assist Cox's affected Atlanta-area employees.

In addition to Cox Enterprises' $175,000 donation, many of its Cox Media Group properties in Atlanta provided vital information during the crisis. The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, WSB-TV and WSB-AM, News Talk 750 experienced record-breaking ratings and online usage as each news team covered the event around the clock. They released flood warnings over the air, online, mobile text alerts, in print and on Twitter. The media properties continue to provide updates and share how metro Atlantans can help those impacted in the community.

Basic paper items such as paper towels, toilet paper and diapers are in extreme need. In partnership with the United Way, Cox companies with local office locations including Cox Communications, AutoTrader.com and The Atlanta Journal-Constitution have placed collection containers for these items in their office lobbies and are encouraging employees to donate.

Individuals interested in providing assistance can find information by calling 404-614-1000 (United Way) or 1-800-REDCROSS (American Red Cross).

-----
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page

Monday, September 28, 2009

Homes of Georgia Extends a Helping Hand

Touched by shocking scenes of flooding and sad stories of devastation played out nightly on local TV stations, Atlanta home builder Tony Pourhassan of Highlight Homes felt the need to help those whose lives had been touched. “My family and I were lucky – the lake near our home in Newnan rose, but the dam held and only our yard was flooded,” explains Pourhassan. “Sadly, there were many families around town who were not so fortunate. I’ve been building and restoring homes for more than 25 years, and my company recently launched a restorations division – I just kept thinking ‘There has to be something I can do to help.’” Tony shared these thoughts with Highlight Homes Superintendent, Chris Gilliam, and the two men quickly put their heads together.

“We decided that we could offer families in need a couple of hours of our services, completely free of charge,” says Pourhassan. “Because we restore and renovate homes for a living, we can work quickly to help these people put their homes and lives back together. With the aid of several team members, within a short amount of time we can help pull up carpet and pads, remove damaged drywall, and assist in general clean-up. We can also offer our expertise regarding further repair and maintenance, as well as suggest possible steps that can be taken to safeguard against future damage.”

All homeowners in and around the Atlanta area whose homes suffered damage during the recent floods are invited to contact Highlight Homes/Highlight Home Restorations to submit a request for assistance. In the event of an overwhelming response, Highlight Homes cannot guarantee that they will be able to assist everyone who calls. Requests will be fulfilled on a first come-first serve basis. Please submit requests by phone at 404.841.8910 or via e-mail at helpatlanta@highlighthomesga.com. To learn more about Highlight Homes, visit their website at www.highlighthomesga.com. Tony Pourhassan, Chris Gilliam, and the rest of the Highlight Homes team look forward to your call!

-----
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page

Saturday, September 26, 2009

Lisa's Ride; 5th Annual Ride to Raise Awareness and Advocacy for Suicide Prevention

Saturday, Oct 10; Registration starts at 10 a.m. at King Kustom Cycles, 304 Fairburn Industrial Blvd., Fairburn. Ride leaves at 12 noon and end at 1 p.m. at Longbranch Steak and Seafood, 692 Glynn St. N. $20 per rider and $10 per passenger (includes a great ride and t-shirt). Join the group for lunch at Longbranch and a percentage of the purchase will be donated to SPAN-GA. Raffle prizes, Lifekeeper Quilts will be displayed. Proceeds from the Ride go to SPAN-GA, http://www.span-ga.org/.

---
Community News You Can Use
Follow us on Twitter: @gafrontpage
http://www.fayettefrontpage.com/
http://www.georgiafrontpage.com/
http://www.politicalpotluck.com/
http://www.artsacrossgeorgia.com/
---

Friday, September 25, 2009

Stein Mart Once Again Teams with Salvation Army for Give & Receive Event

/PRNewswire/ -- Based on the success of two previous events, Stein Mart has again partnered with The Salvation Army for the national Give & Receive clothing drive, October 1-3. In a year that has brought financial challenges to many Americans and with the winter months fast approaching, Stein Mart and The Salvation Army have decided to team up for the second time in 2009 to help those who might be in need of clothes for the winter season. Shoppers who bring clean, gently used garments in good condition to any Stein Mart store during the Give & Receive event will receive savings on new fall fashions and much more.

Stein Mart previously teamed with The Salvation Army for Give & Receive events in October 2008 and February 2009. In total, approximately 800,000 pieces of clothing have been donated by Stein Mart shoppers to help replenish The Salvation Army Thrift and Family Stores. All proceeds from the Thrift and Family Stores directly support The Salvation Army's Adult Rehabilitation Centers, where over 340,000 men and women turned their lives around in 2008.

For each item donated, contributors will receive a coupon for 20% off any item.* Those who donate will have the opportunity to redeem their coupons on a variety of items including fashion apparel for women, men and children from many top designers and brands, as well as accessories, gifts, linens and shoes.

"We are proud to once again partner with Salvation Army," said Stein Mart chairman Jay Stein. "Our loyal customers continuously step up to join us in our efforts to support this valued organization. We are honored to again have this opportunity to help those in need and hope to make this an ongoing initiative."

"We were greatly encouraged by the success of last year's partnership with Stein Mart, which demonstrated that even during times of economic uncertainty, people are still able and willing to give generously," said Major George Hood, National Community Relations and Development Secretary for The Salvation Army. "With winter months fast approaching, The Salvation Army appreciates the continued support of Stein Mart and its customers, who have allowed us to provide critical services to those in need."

For more information about The Salvation Army, please visit www.salvationarmyusa.org. For more information on Stein Mart or to find your nearest location, please visit www.steinmart.com.

*Coupons can be redeemed at Stein Mart locations October 1-3, 2009. Limit four coupons per customer while supplies last. Customers can donate as many items as they like. Tax receipts are available for donations.

-----
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page

Lowe’s Donating $250,000 to American Red Cross for Flood Relief Efforts; Activating Customer Donation Program and ‘Racing for Relief’

(BUSINESS WIRE)--In response to the flooding in the Atlanta area, Lowe’s is making a $250,000 donation to the American Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund. In addition, all Lowe’s stores in Georgia are serving as official cash donation sites to benefit the American Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund, which helps people affected by disasters like the recent floods. Store employees will also be on hand to answer questions and provide tips for flood clean up.

“At Lowe's, we are committed to forging alliances with well-respected organizations like the American Red Cross, so we can make sure our contributions and donations from customers will get to those in the hardest-hit areas as efficiently as possible,” said Larry D. Stone, Lowe’s president, chief operating officer and chairman of Lowe’s Charitable and Educational Foundation. “In addition, Lowe’s command center is in full activation, and we are expediting emergency product into affected communities to help customers recover.”

In addition, Lowe’s, three-time NASCAR Sprint Cup champion Jimmie Johnson and American Le Mans Series division champions Adrian Fernandez and Luis Diaz will be “Racing for Relief” at the Dover International Speedway and Road Atlanta this weekend to add to the contribution. Funds raised will help to provide shelter, food, emotional support and other assistance to victims of disasters like the recent floods.

As part of Racing for Relief, Lowe’s has decided to donate $48 for every lap of the scheduled 400 laps that Johnson completes in the Dover 400 on September 27. If Johnson wins his race, Lowe’s will donate an additional $4,800. Lowe’s will donate $15 for every mile of the scheduled 1,000 miles that the Lowe’s Team 15 completes in the Petit Le Mans on September 26, and if Team 15 wins its race in flood-affected Atlanta, Lowe’s will donate an additional $15,000. The total amount of donation if both teams win will be $54,000. The Red Cross logo will be displayed on the deck lids of the No. 48 Lowe’s Impala SS and the No. 15 Lowe’s Acura.

“This has been an incredibly devastating event for Atlanta-area residents, and I know there are so many people who need our help right now," said Johnson. “The Lowe's 48 team will do everything we can to get to victory lane so we can raise as much money as possible. The American Red Cross helps so many people, and it's the least we can do to show our support.”

“This is the first time that we have been able to participate in Lowe’s ‘Racing for Relief’ program,” said Adrian Fernandez, one of the two Lowe’s Team 15 drivers. “Luis and I will do everything we can to make sure we win this race and get $30,000 for the Atlanta area. Since the race is in Atlanta this weekend, we are especially excited about the opportunity to help the local community.”

Lowe’s first introduced Racing for Relief in April 2000. To date, the program has helped disaster relief efforts for hurricanes, tornados and floods by raising more than $294,000. Since partnering with the Red Cross in 1999, Lowe’s has raised more than $18.6 million for disaster relief.

Anyone interested in making a donation to the American Red Cross may visit participating Lowe’s stores, donate online at www.redcross.org, or call 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

-----
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page
www.artsacrossgeorgia.com
Arts Across Georgia

Thursday, September 24, 2009

Electric Co-op Employees Volunteer During Hands on Georgia Week

/PRNewswire/ -- Employees of Electric Membership Corporations (EMCs) throughout Georgia, Georgia EMC, Oglethorpe Power Corp., Georgia Transmission Corp. and Georgia System Operations Corp. will join forces during Hands on Georgia Week, September 26-October 2, to benefit a variety of community service projects.

Volunteer efforts this year will range from holding food drives in communities throughout Georgia, sorting perishable goods for area food banks, clearing trees and debris at a local park and other beautification projects.

Hands On Georgia (HOGA) Week is an initiative launched by Georgia Gov. Sonny Perdue in 2004. Since 2007, GEMC, OPC, GTC and GSOC have been statewide sponsors, and last year joined ranks with more than 100 EMC employees across Georgia who volunteered during HOGA week.

"EMCs are proud to support Governor Perdue's focus on the importance of volunteerism and community service, since nearly 5,000 EMC employees across the state invest thousands of hours giving back to their communities throughout the year," notes Georgia EMC President/CEO Paul Wood.

"EMCs work hard to cultivate a commitment to our state and her communities, and HOGA week provides us the opportunity to honor that commitment in a concerted effort statewide."

This year, EMCs will cast a wide net during the week and enlist hundreds of volunteers from Blue Ridge Mountain EMC, Young Harris; Canoochee EMC, Reidsville; Carroll EMC, Carrollton; Cobb EMC, Marietta; Colquitt EMC, Moultrie; Diverse Power, LaGrange; Georgia EMC, Georgia Transmission Corp. and Oglethorpe Power Corp., Tucker; GreyStone Power, Douglasville; Jackson EMC, Jefferson; Mitchell EMC, Camilla; North Georgia EMC, Dalton; Ocmulgee EMC, Eastman; Oconee EMC, Dudley; Okefenoke REMC, Nahunta; Slash Pine EMC, Homerville; Snapping Shoals EMC, Covington; Southern Rivers, Barnesville; Tri-County EMC, Gray; and Walton EMC, Monroe.

In addition to individual EMC service projects, GEMC, OPC, GTC and GSOC will encourage participation in a statewide food drive coordinated with the Georgia Food Bank Network which provides assistance through member food banks to Georgians fighting hunger and food insecurity throughout the state.

This year, HOGA Week projects are planned in all 159 counties in the state. Communities will perform Hands On projects to address local needs such as environmental clean ups, building restorations, wheel chair ramp construction, playground builds and tutoring sessions with children, among many other efforts.

For more information, visit www.georgiaemc.com, www.opc.com, www.gatrans.com and www.gasoc.com.

-----
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page
www.artsacrossgeorgia.com
Arts Across Georgia

SpaceMax Offers Free Storage to Georgia Residents Affected by Recent Flooding

(BUSINESS WIRE)--It’s been hard to make it through the past few days without talking to someone who was affected by recent Atlanta flooding. The result is that many area residents are suddenly finding themselves in need of relocating their belongings while their homes are being repaired. In response to this disaster SpaceMax Storage, an Atlanta based self storage facility, has decided to help Georgia residents whose homes were either lost due to flooding or had suffered flood damage by offering a month and a half of free storage. There are no costs associated for the use of their facilities during the free period for victims of the flooding. Furthermore, SpaceMax is offering free use of their moving trucks to affected residents who qualify.

“SpaceMax is a new company in the Atlanta Market,” says John Rinehart, manager of their Midtown Atlanta location. “Our rationale for helping is simple. Our facilities are extremely large so we still have plenty of rentable square feet empty and available. There’s no way we can possibly rent all of that out over the next few months while local residents are cleaning up, and we know that people in our community are in need of what we have right now, so we can’t think of a better way to put this space to good use.”

SpaceMax Storage is a climate controlled multi level self storage facility located in Midtown Atlanta, the Virginia Highlands area of Atlanta and in Decatur near the DeKalb Medical Center. SpaceMax, a locally owned Atlanta chain in business for over three years, is a safe, clean and highly secure storage alternative offering state of the art security surveillance which is monitored 24/7 and offers a wide selection of boxes and moving supplies. Its three locations are (ATLANTA/VA HIGHLANDS) 1248 Zonolite Road, Atlanta, GA 30306 [404-888-9688], (ATLANTA/MIDTOWN) 680 14th St. NW, Atlanta, GA 30318 [404-733-1400] and (DECATUR) 2910 North Decatur Road, Decatur, GA 30033 [404-292-0606].

-----
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page
www.artsacrossgeorgia.com
Arts Across Georgia

Wednesday, September 23, 2009

Outback Suwanee Donates 381 Meals to Benefit Gwinnett Seniors

Outback Steakhouse donated 381 meals to benefit Gwinnett County Senior Services. This is the tenth year the restaurant has relentlessly given back to the community to help provide meals to seniors.

Volunteers and members of The Friends of Gwinnett County Senior Services (Friends) delivered scrumptious meals consisting of “choice” beef, flame-grilled chicken, seasoned green beans, mashed potatoes, and a roll across Gwinnett County. The annual event has generated more than $90,500 in the past ten years.

“I wanted to give back to the seniors and thought this is a good way to do it,” said Outbacker staff member, Christi Solsbeery.

Funds from the Outback at Work Charity lunch will help to subsidize the 135,000 home delivered and congregate meals which are prepared and delivered by the Gwinnett County Senior Services on an annual basis.

“It is anticipated that we will get another great turnout for the next event on Wednesday, October 21,” says Linda Bailey, Manager of Gwinnnett Senior Services. For a minimum order of ten meals at $15 each, you can get your meal delivered to your worksite, please call Melanie Miller at 770.822.8842 or send her an e-mail at melanie.miller@gwinnettcounty.com.
---
Community News You Can Use
Follow us on Twitter: @gafrontpage
www.FayetteFrontPage.com
www.GeorgiaFrontPage.com
www.PoliticalPotluck.com
www.ArtsAcrossGeorgia.com
---

The Home Depot Foundation Donates $100,000 in Atlanta Flood Clean Up and Rebuilding Effort

/PRNewswire/ -- The Home Depot Foundation and associates from The Home Depot(R) are joining in the relief efforts in the aftermath of the floods that have caused significant damage throughout the Metro Atlanta area this week. The Home Depot Foundation has committed $100,000 in donations, with $50,000 going to the American Red Cross for immediate emergency disaster assistance and another $50,000 to go to the longer term rebuilding process.

"Many neighborhoods were deeply affected by severe flooding this week, and we want to contribute to their immediate needs through the American Red Cross," said Kelly Caffarelli, president of The Home Depot Foundation. "But we also know that repairing the damage will be a long process for homeowners, business and communities. That's why we will also support the longer-term efforts by investing in organizations that will rebuild these homes and communities in a healthy, sustainable way."

Several local Home Depot stores have already been involved in emergency relief efforts through product donations to local cities. These donations have included tarps, wet patch roof cement, bottled water and buckets.

"We have almost 20,000 associates who live and work throughout the Atlanta area, so this is a very personal effort for all of us," said Caffarelli. "Store associates are already planning Team Depot volunteer events to help their communities clean up and get back on their feet. We are ready to roll up our sleeves to help our associates, neighbors and customers."

"People helping people are at the heart of our humanitarian mission," said Timothy M. English, regional CEO for the American Red Cross in North Georgia. "When good neighbors partner with the Red Cross to make disaster relief possible, it not only helps the families who are affected, it strengthens entire communities."

-----
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page

Tuesday, September 22, 2009

Monday Oct 5 is World Habitat Day

The United Nations has designated the first Monday each October as World Habitat Day.

This year on Oct. 5 in Washington, D.C. and around the world, please join Habitat for Humanity in support of this global observance as we come together and declare that the lack of decent, affordable housing is unacceptable.

According to the United Nations, more than 100 million people in the world today are homeless. Millions more face a severe housing problem living without adequate sanitation, with irregular or no electricity supply and without adequate security.

Worldwide, more than 2 million housing units per year are needed for the next 50 years to solve the present worldwide housing crisis. With our global population expanding, however, at the end of those 50 years, there would still be a need for another 1 billion houses. (UN-HABITAT: 2005)

Raising awareness and advocating for change are the first steps toward transforming systems that perpetuate the global plague of poverty housing. World Habitat Day serves as an important reminder that everyone must unite to ensure that everyone has a safe, decent place to call home.

More information: http://worldhabitatdaynews.com/
---
Community News You Can Use
Follow us on Twitter: @gafrontpage
www.FayetteFrontPage.com
www.GeorgiaFrontPage.com
www.PoliticalPotluck.com
www.ArtsAcrossGeorgia.com
---

Wren Sponsors Fulton County Fraternal Order of Police 'Shop with a Cop' Program

/PRNewswire/ -- Wren , providers of physical security solutions that create safe learning environments, is proud to sponsor the 2009 Fulton County Fraternal Order of Police "Shop with a Cop" program. For over 12 years, the annual community initiative has successfully helped pair underprivileged children with a police officer for a fun shopping experience for items from school supplies to holiday gifts. This year, Wren serves as one of the local businesses in the Dunwoody community to sponsor children whose families are experiencing economic hardships.

The Shop with a Cop concept has programs nationwide through the involvement of various law enforcement agencies and fraternal order of police organizations in local areas. Financial support for the programs is driven through fundraising with community businesses, retailers, and citizens. The program gets its name, however, from the volunteer work provided directly by police officers, who spend off-duty time the day of the event with children shopping at a designated store. The time the officers give helps the program deliver on its promise and signifies both the officers' commitment to community service in addition to establishing relationships with children who live in the very locales they're sworn to protect.

"While most citizens see police as agents who enforce the law, at the end of every day served, our officers want nothing more than to be the good guy and protect the community," said Captain Greg Lauth, Fulton County Fraternal Order of Police. "Our officers donate their time to be involved in the Shop with a Cop program because it allows them to achieve the goal of being the good guy, but in a fun and relaxed environment where they can connect with kids to build respect and a chance for both the officer and the child to see the other for who they really are. For myself and our other volunteers, it is an honor and a privilege to be able to help the children in our communities in need, and to provide them with a memorable event."

Wren is closely tied to both schools in the Atlanta community and nationally through its commitment to publishing a Network Video + Education blog and designing solutions that help schools make their learning environments safe. Wren demonstrates its commitment to law enforcement officers by offering members of the National Association of School Resource Officers (NASRO) an annual scholarship awards program. Wren also conducts its own independent school security research series to help identify, address and solve school officers' security needs.

In 2008, company president Andrew Wren volunteered through "Principal for a Day" as the principal of a local school to experience first hand the challenges and joys that school administrators face every day. Wren's decision to support children in its immediate Atlanta neighborhood through the Shop with a Cop program was a natural extension of the organization and its employees' philanthropic efforts.

"We're honored to support not only local school children through this program, but to also show our appreciation to the officers for their contributions to the community through their service and for the time they volunteer out of their busy schedules to be involved," said Andrew Wren, president of Wren.

For more information about how to get involved or donate to the Shop with a Cop program, please contact the Fulton County Fraternal Order of Police at 770-457-5603 or visit their website at www.fultoncofop64.org.

-----
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page

Monday, September 21, 2009

U-Haul Offers 30 Days of Free Storage to Families Affected by Recent Storms and Flooding Throughout Georgia

/PRNewswire/ -- The U-Haul Companies of Central, Northern and Western Georgia are offering 30 days of free storage to residents whose homes have been affected by recent storms and flooding.

In addition to the 30-days-free self-storage assistance being offered, people needing boxes can take advantage of the U-Haul Take a Box, Leave a Box Program. The program enables customers to return their reusable boxes and allows others to take them as needed - FREE. U-Haul encourages anyone who has any type of reusable box to drop it off at the nearest U-Haul location and allow another family to reuse the box, free of charge, instead of throwing the reusable box into the recycling bin.

Families needing more information about the 30-days-free self-storage assistance program should contact the following U-Haul regional offices to find a storage location closest to home.

U-Haul Company of Central Georgia
300 Peters Street SW
Atlanta, GA 30313
(404) 332-3188

U-Haul Company of Northern Georgia
543 Cobb Parkway S.
Marietta, GA 30060
(888) 560-8724

U-Haul Company of Western Georgia
5390 Old National Highway
College Park, GA 30349
(877) 211-0240


"These storms have caused tremendous damage and inflicted extreme hardship on the communities we serve," stated Doug Weston, area district vice president (ADVP) for Georgia operations. "I hope this effort will provide assistance to families that truly need a helping hand. We will continue to help our friends and neighbors in this time of need."

-----
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page

Sunday, September 20, 2009

Angel Flight Pilot Jack Cantrell Paves Way for New Branch Office in St. Simons

“We are incredibly blessed to have pilots and friends like Jack Cantrell,” states Jeanine Chambers Biron, Executive Director of Angel Flight. “It’s through their dedication and continued commitment that we are flourishing. We are delighted to announce the opening of a new branch office at Malcolm McKinnon Airport in St. Simons with grand opening festivities on September 25 & 26. We are especially grateful to Jack and Kay Cantrell and their network of friends in the area who are making this new office possible so that we can extend our work in the region.”

About 15 years ago Jack Cantrell, who was living in Atlanta at the time, was searching for a way to make use of his plane to help out in the community. In passing, he mentioned this to the minister at his church who told him about Angel Flight. Cantrell was intrigued with the idea of flying passengers in need of transportation to medical treatments. He called Angel Flight the next day, oriented immediately and was flying for them within about a week!

“On one of my first flights I took a man from Georgia to Florida who was going to get a kidney transplant,” enthuses Cantrell. “The man and his wife had taken a taxi to the small airport to meet me and they were waiting patiently by the side of the runway. They weren’t able to fly commercially because his immune system was suppressed due to the drugs he was taking in preparation for the transplant. They were so happy to see me and I was a bit overwhelmed. I was glad to be able to help them out. After that I was hooked! I flew nearly 30 missions that first year. I love to fly and now I have a bigger purpose. I see the difference it makes in people’s lives and that’s something you can’t put a price on!”

“My father was an airline pilot and I always loved flying, Cantrell explains. “But when I was looking at careers I decided to go into medicine. I became a pharmacist and then went into the medical research field, working for Eli Lily in Indianapolis. An opportunity came up to come to Atlanta so I moved here and wound up as a home builder and real estate developer!”

“In the back of my mind though, I always wanted to help people and I also wanted to fly,” he says. “I started taking flying lessons about 25 years ago. Once I learned to solo, I’d get up early and fly before I went in to work.” When asked about what keeps him flying for Angel Flight, Cantrell says, ”You get to know people really well when you are flying them back and forth for treatments. They are so inspiring. They just want to get home and get back to work. I admire their fighting spirit.”

Cantrell has so many wonderful stories and memories of his many flights over the years. “You know, every mission is memorable,” he explains. “I am so thankful to be able to do this. We take a lot of burn patients. They have it really rough. Sometimes they can’t take any pain medicine before going in for surgery. It’s very gratifying to also see them afterwards. The difference is incredible.”

Jack and his lovely wife Kay are the founders and owners of Cantrell Properties, a successful building/development/real estate company. They both thrive on activity and they make a great team. In the 1960’s they spent their honeymoon on St. Simons and fell in love with the area. About five years ago they moved from Atlanta to St. Simons. Shortly after that, Cantrell started thinking about how he could improve the availability of pilots and Angel Flight services in the area and over the last couple of years he’s seen the growing need for an office there.

“I was able to secure the space at the Malcolm McKinnon Airport for a branch office and got in touch with Jeanine and the office in Atlanta to set things in motion,” he continues. “With the generous help of Renn Gruber of Renn Gruber Aviation we are throwing a big opening celebration on September 25 & 26 at our new office!”

On Friday, September 25th there will be a luncheon and ribbon cutting ceremony with area dignitaries and VIPS. Festivities will begin at 11:30AM with lunch and a tour of the new Angel Flight office. A fly-in will be held on Saturday, September 26th with brunch and new pilot orientation from 9AM to 1PM. Come out and join the festivities.

Angel Fight is a non-profit organization that provides free air transportation for people that have a medical need that can’t be filled in their local area. Their services are available throughout Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, Tennessee and the Carolinas. They actively seek both new patients to serve and experienced pilots to fulfill missions.

For more information about the new Angel Flight branch office in St. Simons, Georgia or to schedule a flight call 1-877-4 AN ANGEL or 770-452-7958. Angel Flight is celebrating 26 years of service...find out how you can help hope soar by visiting www.angelflightsoars.org.

---

Angel Flight is a non-profit 501(c)(3) volunteer pilot organization. They provide free air transportation for medical treatments that are not available locally and for other compassionate purposes for the benefit of the community. This service is available for any medically stable and ambulatory patient demonstrating a financial need and/or anyone who cannot utilize or access commercial transportation. They help families by eliminating the concern of how to get to necessary medical care, so they are able to focus on a resolution for the medical condition. Hopefully, this will help the patient to a more speedy recovery and will enable the family to resume participation in their communities and workplaces. This organization of volunteer pilots and earth angels (ground volunteers) are totally committed to their mission and has increased over 733% in flights coordinated since the year 2000. The majority of the people served live in Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee. Angel Flight and their service is funded entirely by corporate and private donations. To request a mission or support the cause, call or go online.
---
Community News You Can Use
Follow us on Twitter: @gafrontpage
www.FayetteFrontPage.com
www.GeorgiaFrontPage.com
www.PoliticalPotluck.com
www.ArtsAcrossGeorgia.com
---

Thursday, September 17, 2009

Books A Million Bookfair Benefits Advo-Kids CASA

Books A Million in Peachtree City is partnering with CASA to raise funds through their Bookfair program, a special day of discounts and matching contributions. This is a great time to pick up the new book or magazine that you've been wanting.

On Saturday, September 19th from 10 AM until 4 PM all purchases presented with our special Books A Million CASA coupon will earn a 10% discount. Not only will you receive a discount, but Books A Million will contribute a matching amount to Advo-Kids CASA! Click this link to open and print your copy of the coupon flyer.

You can help our contributions grow by forwarding this flyer to your friends and family and urging them to shop at Books A Million on September 19th.

Books A Million is located at 258 City Circle in The Avenue Shopping Center in Peachtree City. Please note that this offer excludes the use of the BAM card or other offers and the coupon must be presented at the cash register with your purchase between the hours of 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM.

Advo-Kids CASA wishes to thank you as well as Books A Million and their Peachtree City store staff for the kind and willing support!
---
Community News You Can Use
Follow us on Twitter: @gafrontpage
www.FayetteFrontPage.com
www.GeorgiaFrontPage.com
www.PoliticalPotluck.com
www.ArtsAcrossGeorgia.com
---

Wednesday, September 16, 2009

Borders(R) Increases Teacher Discount to 30% During Educator Appreciation Week at Borders and Waldenbooks Stores Nationwide Sept. 29 Through Oct. 7

/PRNewswire/ -- A great 30% discount, networking opportunities, activities, giveaways and fun for the whole family -- this and much more await educators during Educator Appreciation Week, Sept. 29 through Oct. 7 at nearly all Borders stores as well as select Waldenbooks stores nationwide. During this special week, Borders will honor current and retired teachers, librarians, licensed homeschoolers, school administrators and daycare facilitators with 30% off the list price of nearly everything in stores including books, teaching resources and materials, music, movies, educational toys and games, gifts and stationery and even Seattle's Best Coffee cafe products. To take advantage of the 30% discount, educators need only present proof of educators status, which can be a paystub or an identification card with a current date. (Homeschoolers must present their homeschool certification.) Borders recently increased its everyday classroom discount to 25% off classroom purchases, but the special 30% discount during Educator Appreciation Week can be applied toward classroom purchases as well as items for personal enjoyment.

Educator Appreciation Week - Highlights

Educator Appreciation Week will officially kick off Tuesday, Sept. 29 with a "Teacher Town Hall" reception at 7 p.m. in virtually all Borders stores and select Waldenbooks stores nationwide. During the reception, educators will be encouraged to share their inspirations, challenges, and triumphs - whatever is on their minds - with other educators in an open and sharing atmosphere. The Borders' Kids' Specialists will be on hand to make product recommendations and answer questions about the retailer's new expanded Kids Department, which includes hundreds of educational toys and games, and Borders' new "Teaching Zones," which feature educational workbooks, curriculum development books, inspirational narratives and many non-book items. Attendees can enjoy various giveaways throughout the evening including bookmarks and posters.

The marquee event of Educator Appreciation Week will take place Friday, Oct. 2 at 6 p.m. when the retailer will host a "Wild Rumpus Teacher Celebration," themed after the book -- and upcoming feature film --"Where the Wild Things Are." Educators are encouraged to bring their whole families to this event for an evening of fun including arts and crafts and storytelling activities for the kids as well as giveaways, a raffle of the "Where the Wild Things Are" movie poster -- and of course, the opportunity to shop and get a 30% discount on Borders' huge selection of books, music, movies, toys and games as well as other items for the whole family.

Everyday Classroom Discount

While enjoying Educator Appreciation Week, educators are encouraged to sign up for the free Borders Classroom Discount Card, which provides an everyday 25% discount off the list price of all books, music CDs, toys and games, and 10% off DVDs for classroom use. In addition, for the first time, educators can now combine their classroom purchase discount with their free Borders Rewards membership and earn $5 in "Borders Bucks" for every $150 in annual qualifying purchases as well as valuable discounts and offers.

Daily Inspiration

Borders has created an online resource trove at www.borders.com/teaching dedicated to meeting the professional needs of educators. The site is rich with expert recommendations for classroom materials for all stages of learning and development as well as enriching features, such as the Teaching Zone Video Channel where educators can garner a daily dose of heartwarming inspiration from such bestselling authors as Pat Conroy and Kate DiCamillo, who talk about the importance of learning and the critical roles teachers played in their lives. The site also includes "postcards to inspire," touching e-messages that can be quickly and easily sent to special teachers -- just because.

In addition, Borders has also created the "Borders Teaching Zone" Facebook page where educators can muse about the latest developments in the world of education, learn about hot new and upcoming titles and get the lowdown on upcoming events at Borders.

-----
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page

Tuesday, September 15, 2009

Atlanta Braves' Tim Hudson to Host Benefit Weekend for Hudson Family Foundation

Atlanta Braves Pitcher Tim Hudson and his wife Kim have announced that their Foundation will host their Inaugural Hudson's Honky Tonk Benefit Weekend on November 20 and 21 in Peachtree City, Georgia. The highlight of the weekend is a Country Music Spectacular featuring country music superstar Blake Shelton and American Idol finalist Josh Gracin performing live at the Fredrick Brown, Jr. Amphitheater in Peachtree City.

Shelton was handpicked by the Hudson's to headline the event for their Foundation because of his strong commitment to children and his deep-rooted devotion to his family, fans, and friends. With over ten years on the country music scene, Blake has had five number one country hits, and a total of fifteen Top 20 hits in his career. Josh Gracin, a former Season 2 American Idol finalist, has seen his own success on the country charts, compiling an amazing ten Top 40 hits.
“This weekend will be a unique experience that we hope will be the one you put on your calendar every year, the one event you don't want to miss,” says Tim Hudson.

Tickets for the Country Music Spectacular are available at the Fred box office, online at http://www.ticketmaster.com/, or by calling 1-800-745-3000. Tickets are $60.

VIP ticket packages with access to the entire weekend's festivities are also available and include a private VIP dinner party on Friday, November 20 at the Flat Creek Country Club featuring celebrities, professional athletes, live and silent auctions, DJ, and open bar, as well as VIP seating to Saturday's concert, access to a private backstage after party, and logo or name recognition for your company or family on all signage throughout the entire weekend. VIP ticket packages are available now for $2,500 and $5,000. For more information call the Hudson Family Foundation at 404-584-0095 or visit http://www.hudsonfamilyfoundation.com/.

About the Hudson Family Foundation:

Tim and Kim Hudson formed the Hudson Family Foundation in February 2009 and officially launched on June 28 during a private party at the W Atlanta Downtown raising over $28,000 for children and families in need. The Foundation is committed to making a long lasting impact in the lives of children who have a genuine need for assistance with regard to a specific physical, emotional or financial circumstance.

About Tim and Kim Hudson:

The Hudson's have worked tirelessly in the community since Tim began playing baseball for the Oakland Athletics in 1999. Kim is a member of the Board of Directors of the Make-AWish Foundation of Georgia and Alabama. Kim and Tim are Wish ambassadors for Make-AWish, and throughout the baseball season, they fulfill the wishes of critically-ill children by hosting batting practice visits with the team's players and coaches. Kim and Tim serve as honorary co-chairs for the annual Celebration of Wishes gala, and each Christmas, the Hudson's take 75 Make-A-Wish children and their siblings on a holiday shopping spree.

The Hudson's also actively support Children's Healthcare of Atlanta. They host a golf tournament each year during Spring Training called Birdies and Baseball and also co-host a 3-course golf tournament each summer.

The Hudson's charitable work has not gone unrecognized. On September 4, 2009, Tim became an eight-time Roberto Clemente Award recipient, which recognizes those players who best exemplify the game of baseball through sportsmanship, community involvement, and positive contributions to their teams.
---
Community News You Can Use
Follow us on Twitter: @gafrontpage
http://www.fayettefrontpage.com/
http://www.georgiafrontpage.com/
http://www.politicalpotluck.com/
http://www.artsacrossgeorgia.com/
---

Monday, September 14, 2009

Welfare Watch - Tax Revenues Down Further

Georgia is in trouble. We are like a family in bad economic times whose worse fear is being realized. Our income is going down even further in an already bad economy. Governor Sonny Perdue announced today that net revenue collections for the month of August 2009 (FY10) totaled $1,052,466,000 compared to $1,259,631,000 for August 2008 (FY09), a decrease of $207,165,000 or 16.4 percent. The percentage decrease year-to-date for FY10 compared to FY09 is 13.1 percent.

Certainly policy and budget makers will be looking at these numbers with renewed concern. Already, all State agencies have been asked to cut their present budget by 5%. These cuts are on top of cuts that they sustained in the budgetary process in the legislature. Further cuts can be anticipated.

But where can they cut further?

The State has grown by almost a million people since 2004, yet it expects to collect the same amount of revenue as it did in 2004.

This year's budget was balanced by combining budget cuts, dipping into various reserve funds and Federal Stimulus dollars. A $3 billion deficit was met by requiring cuts to needed human services, medical care, and education. State employees who do the work of the State were ordered to take additional furlough days. With news of continuing declining revenues of over one billion dollars, more cuts will be required to makeup the deficit.

If nothing else happens.

DHR's workforce has been devastated with requirements to take 9 additional furlough days. While this is the most expedient means of cutting the budget while preserving infrastructure, needed services will be cut back significantly. Aging services were particularly hit hard. The gains in child wellbeing, safety and permanency for foster children are threatened by cuts of more than 15% to family support services and the furlough days for direct care workers.
Reserve funds have been tapped out as much as possible. Further Federal stimulus money has not been promised and what has been promised has been spent.

The family of Georgia just does not have anymore to cut unless it wants its children to suffer.
Waste and fraud has been eliminated as much as possible.

Efficiencies that were realized are now threatened. In DHS, caseloads have been reduced by increased investments, effective practices and management. It takes people to do the work and 80% of the budget is people. "We the willing, led by the unknowing, have done so much, for so long, with so little, we are now qualified to do anything with nothing.” is the cynical mantra of those doing the work.

It will take the best of our leadership to make the best policy decisions to address what is a mounting crisis. A balanced approach is needed. Cut, cut, cut across the board is not what Georgian's are looking for. They are looking for Georgia to be the best in the country in child welfare, health care, public safety and education. Cuts must be balanced with revenue increases.

In my family in bad economic times we not only cut our expenditures, we also had to figure out how to bring in additional income. Georgians understand that cuts are needed. These cuts need to be balanced with revenue enhancements.

Welfare Watch, an email newsletter of the Georgia Association of Homes and Services for Children as a public service.
http://www.gahsc.org
Normer Adams, Editor

---
Community News You Can Use
Follow us on Twitter: @gafrontpage
www.FayetteFrontPage.com
www.GeorgiaFrontPage.com
www.PoliticalPotluck.com
www.ArtsAcrossGeorgia.com
---

Sunday, September 13, 2009

Animal Assisted Education

We thought this might be of interest to some of our readers:

http://www.dogshelpkids.org/

We had a hard time trying to decide which blog to put this in! It could easily go in our education or pet / animal blog... but ultimately it's all about helping to educate children so we'll start here! If we get more info via press releases or stories we'll spread the wealth and include in other blogs.

Saturday, September 12, 2009

Shoe Carnival Announces Humanitarian Effort with Soles4Souls, the Shoe Charity

Popular Footwear Retailer Reaches Out to Communities Across the U.S. to Spread Hope and Engage Customers in Giving Program

For the third time in less than two years, the popular footwear retailer, Shoe Carnival, is partnering with shoe charity Soles4Souls, Inc. to give away shoes to those in need.

Beginning September 2 through September 29, customers of all 314 Shoe Carnival locations will have the opportunity to donate $1 at the register. Shoe Carnival hopes to raise at least $140,000 through the in-store program. All funds will be applied toward sending a new pair of shoes to victims of natural disasters or those living in extreme poverty, both here in the United States and around the world.

Additionally, Shoe Carnival and Soles4Souls will join forces to donate new shoes to local charities in St. Louis, Memphis, Birmingham and Mobile, where thousands of shoes will be given to needy people.

“Shoe Carnival is proud to continue our support of Soles4Souls,” said Todd Beurman, Senior Vice President of Marketing for Shoe Carnival. “The ongoing partnership with Soles4Souls fits the core of what our brand strives to do, and that is to provide shoes for people that need them.”

"Shoe Carnival has taken on our cause as their own, and we are extremely proud to partner with them to reach thousands of people who are suffering," said Wayne Elsey, Founder and CEO of Soles4Souls. "Their generosity directly benefits people who need our assistance, and we invite everyone to stop by a Shoe Carnival location to become personally involved," he said.

For more details on the Shoe Carnival / Soles4Souls partnership, visit www.giveshoes.org.

About Shoe Carnival
Shoe Carnival is a chain of 314 footwear stores located in the Midwest, South and Southeast. Combining value pricing with an entertaining store format, Shoe Carnival is a leading retailer of name brand and private label footwear for the entire family. Headquartered in Evansville, Indiana, Shoe Carnival trades on the NASDAQ Stock Market LLC under the symbol SCVL. Visit www.shoecarnival.com for more information.

About Soles4Souls
Nashville-based Soles4Souls facilitates the donations of both new and used shoes, which are used to aid the hurting worldwide. Soles4Souls has distributed more than 5 million pairs (currently donating one pair every 13 seconds) to people in over 125 countries, including Guatemala, Kenya, Nepal, and the United States. The charity has been featured in Runner's World and the Green Guide by National Geographic. It has also appeared on TODAY, CNN, ABC, FOX, CBS, NBC Nightly News and hundreds of regional outlets around North America. Soles4Souls is a 501(c)(3) recognized by the IRS; donating parties are eligible for tax advantages. Visit www.giveshoes.org for more information.
---
Community News You Can Use
Follow us on Twitter: @gafrontpage
www.FayetteFrontPage.com
www.GeorgiaFrontPage.com
www.PoliticalPotluck.com
www.ArtsAcrossGeorgia.com
---

Friday, September 11, 2009

Covenant Presbyterian Church to Host Second Annual Lynn Wheeler Benefit Golf Tournament, Sept. 30

Covenant Presbyterian Church in Fayetteville, Ga., will be hosting the Second Annual Lynn Wheeler Benefit Golf Tournament at Durham Lakes Golf and Country Club in Fairburn, Ga., on Wednesday, Sept. 30.

The wife of Dr. Douglas Wheeler, music coordinator in the Department of Visual and Performing Arts at Clayton State University, Lynn Wheeler personifies determination and courage. Diagnosed with cancer in February 2005, she went into remission in September of that same year, only to suffer a serious spinal injury in an auto accident on Christmas Day, 2005, an accident that has confined her to a wheelchair and breathing with the help of a respirator.

Undaunted, the Wheelers have remained strong members of Covenant Presbyterian, and Lynn continues to serve in the church’s children’s ministry and to teach piano. On their part, the members of Covenant want to be able “to bless Lynn as she has blessed us.” Thus, the church held the first benefit tournament in July 2008. This year’s find-raiser will tee off at 1 p.m. at Durham Lakes. Single players are $85, four-member teams are $340. Donations are also accepted.

For more information on the tournament, contact Joseph Starr at (678) 637-2731.
A unit of the University System of Georgia, Clayton State University is an outstanding comprehensive metropolitan university located 15 miles southeast of downtown Atlanta.
---
Community News You Can Use
Follow us on Twitter: @gafrontpage
www.FayetteFrontPage.com
www.GeorgiaFrontPage.com
www.PoliticalPotluck.com
www.ArtsAcrossGeorgia.com
---

Verizon Employees in Georgia Donate $5,662 Worth of School Supplies to Assist Area Schools

/PRNewswire/ -- Verizon employees at employee work locations across Georgia collected $5,662 worth of school supplies to donate to Woodland Elementary School in Atlanta and Mimosa Elementary School in Roswell, Ga., during a recent Tools for School drive.

More than 500 Verizon locations throughout the country took part in the three-week campaign to collect new pens and pencils, rulers, crayons, backpacks and other items children need to start the school year. In all, employees donated more than $500,000 worth of supplies to more than 400 schools and nonprofits across the U.S., with a specific focus on schools with a large population of students from low-income families. A complete list of organizations receiving the donations can be found at: http://foundation.verizon.com/toolsforschool/docs/TFS2009_Beneficiaries_Final. pdf.

"Verizon has a long history of supporting education," said Michelle Robinson, Verizon president -- Southeast region. "Whether it's by providing free interactive educational resources for parents and teachers through Verizon Thinkfinity.org or by volunteering to assist an after-school program, Verizon will continue support efforts to provide the tools children need to succeed in the classroom."

Verizon Thinkfinity.org contains thousands of free educational resources including interactive games, videos and activities that make learning fun. Lesson plans, in-class activities and homework help can be found quickly and searched by grade level, keyword, or subject.

The Verizon Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Verizon Communications, supports the advancement of literacy and K-12 education and fosters awareness and prevention of domestic violence. In 2008, the Verizon Foundation awarded more than $68 million in grants to nonprofit agencies in the U.S. and abroad. It also matched the charitable donations of Verizon employees and retirees, resulting in an additional $26 million in combined contributions to nonprofits. Through Verizon Volunteers, one of the nation's largest employee volunteer programs, Verizon employees and retirees have volunteered more than 3 million hours of community service since 2000. For more information on the foundation, visit www.verizonfoundation.org.

-----
www.fayettefrontpage.com
Fayette Front Page
www.georgiafrontpage.com
Georgia Front Page
www.artsacrossgeorgia.com
Arts Across Georgia