"When

I came here two years ago, I was very impressed with the

city's educational program," said Fayetteville Lt.

Jeff Sanders.

Sanders

added that Sparky made such a huge impression on children

in his hometown of Thomaston that he started a campaign

to bring the dog to Fayette.

"We're

very grateful for the contribution, which allowed us to

raise funds for a fan inside the costume and to pay

associated fees," he said.

Since the

program started in 1993, it has raised more than

$900,000, which has been used for organizations,

individuals in need and high school scholarships.

"It's

amazing what we can do when we chip in," said

Michael Whiteside, president and CEO of Coweta-Fayette

EMC. "When you combine the resources, even if it's

just one cent each of over 50,000 members, we can really

have an impact on our community."

According

to Sanders, Sparky is "something the kids can touch,

and they just go crazy over him."

He added

the department borrowed a costume last year and

introduced the character to local children during last

year's Pumpkin Walk.

Reactions

to Sparky were such that he knew getting one for the

community could only enhance the education program.

The Coweta

Trust Board of Directors, which represents the entire EMC

area, meets every other month to review applications and

make grants to deserving parties.

Currently,

a number of outstanding high school graduates are being

awarded the Melissa Segars Scholarship, while other

students' essays have won a space on the annual

Washington Youth Tour.

"We're

grateful to our members for volunteering to participate

in RoundUp," said Whiteside. "This is one of

the most important initiatives in regard to serving our

community that the EMC has undertaken. The Coweta Trust

Board should be commended for their work, as well."

<!--##############