Wednesday, June 9, 1999
Sparky the Fire Dog is helping spread the word on fire safety

Fayetteville and Fayette County children are learning early about fire safety through an educational program in both day care centers and local public schools.

Recently, learning became a little more fun when Sparky the Fire Dog began to visit classrooms, thanks to Coweta-Fayette EMC's Operation RoundUp program.

The program allows the EMC's members to contribute funds by “rounding up” their bills to the next highest dollar. The funds allowed Fayetteville's Fire Department to purchase Sparky's costume.

“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.”

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