Christmas ornaments now on sale at a local retail store will help raise money to promote business education and international commerce.

Students in Fayette County High School's Tiger Import/Export Group recently formed at alliance with Fayetteville retailer Pam's Hallmark to sell the ornaments, to raise funds for upcoming Achievers International projects.

Now in her second year if directing TIG, Dr. Annette Ford said she believes the fund-raiser can be a huge success.

The brass ornaments are in the shape of Georgia and sell for $5 at Pam's Hallmark in the new Fayetteville Towne Center shopping center, anchored by the new Kroger on Ga. Highway 85 south near Ga. Highway 92. Proceeds benefit TIG.

“We really appreciate [store owner] Pam [Jones'] support,” said Ford.

Money raised will be used by TIG students to start this year's import/export business. Teaming up with students from Doon Academy in Dalmellington, Scotland, TIG students will import Scottish-made bracelets to sell in the community, and will export products to Scotland.

As part of the cultural and business exchange program, Doon Academy students are scheduled to visit Fayette in early March. Money raised by the students will help pay for the trip.

FCHS students also plan to visit Scotland two weeks later.

Ford said Jones and the Hallmark shop were helpful in TIG projects last year as well. “She has made a real difference in what we've been able to do in our program,” said Ford. “She's gone out of her way to help us.”

Store manager Alexis Jones, one of Ford's former students, said the ornaments are selling briskly.

“We're glad we could help with this project,” she said. “I think it's a great ornament. It's a great price at $5, and the money supports a great group of students.”

For information on TIG and the Christmas ornament, as well as photos on-line, see www.fayettecounty.org.