Good works at schools and elsewhere

Getting an education is a full-time job these days for students at every level, from elementary school to college. I've got to say I'm happy that I'm not a student. I'm not sure if it's more difficult in 2009 than decades ago, or just seems that way.

Kathy Keebler of Braden River Elementary School got my attention this week with an email where she relayed that students at her school collected 1,672 cans to benefit the Salvation Army.

At Gullett Elementary, school guidance counselor Monica Rice wrote to say students there collected 1,848 canned good items for the Salvation Army. The two top classrooms were Mrs. Huber's and Mrs. Meckley's. And in those classrooms, respectively, student Collin Herbert brought in 265 cans and Victoria Lapek brought in 295.

Also at Lakewood Ranch, Kenneth Jarvis PLLC, a certified public accounting firm, is inviting new, unwrapped toys to be dropped off 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday -Friday through Dec. 18 at 6311 Atrium Drive, Suite 206. The toys will go to needy children.

At Little Bookworms, through Dec. 18, customers can help brighten the holiday for a local child by purchasing a gift for the Giving Tree. All that's necessary is to select an ornament at the store with a child's first name and age and pick out a book or toy you think the child might enjoy. Little Bookworms is located at 8111 Lakewood Ranch Main Street.

Have a project to benefit children or the needy this holiday season? Let us know and we'll help you get the word out.

Jim