News Release June 18, 2004

"‘OKEMOS CARES" TO ACCEPT DONATIONS AT MERIDIAN FARMER'S MARKET

Supporters of Okemos Schools will have a late chance to donate to the district's "Okemos Cares" fundraising initiative on Saturday, June 26 at the Meridian Township "Farmer's Market." From 8 a.m. - 2 p.m., representatives will be set up to answer questions about the campaign and to accept donations.

"This is a pretty convenient opportunity for supporters of the campaign to take care of their donation this year," said "Okemos Cares" Chairman Mick Baughman. "And to anyone unfamiliar with it, we're happy to explain our mission."

Baughman says over $100,000 has already been collected in the campaign, which runs until July 1. The money will be used to preserve classes, programs and personnel currently jeopardized by the district's $3-million budget shortfall for the 2004/2005 school year.

Baughman also acknowledges that enough money has already been raised to extend a popular 5th grade strings music program for another year. "For two years running, supporters of music education in Okemos have demonstrated their desire to preserve this impressive program. We're very grateful."

Donors to "Okemos Cares" can target their donations to specific area and programs or contribute to an unrestricted fund.

The Meridian Township Farmer's Market takes place at 5151 Marsh Rd, behind the Meridian Township offices. For more information on the 2004 "Okemos Cares" campaign, contact any Okemos school principal or dial 349-9460, x5.

"Okemos Cares" is a two-year project of the Okemos Education Foundation.