Oct 26, 2004
GREEN BAY, WIS.- Sharpie, the popular brand of permanent markers widely
known as the autograph pen of choice for celebrities, professional
athletes and their fans and among the leading brands from Newell
Rubbermaid (NYSE: NWL) is partnering with Green Bay Packers wide receiver
Donald Driver for the Sharpie Retractable "Autographs for Education"
program. Green Bay is the third stop for the program that supports the
community-based education, helping encourage quality -learning experiences
for kids.
To support the launch of Sharpie Retractable markers, Driver is bringing
the program to Green Bay by delivering school supplies and raising funds
for King Elementary School on the city's southwest side. Driver, along
with other professional athletes, is asking for the autographs of area
teachers, parents, children this year in exchange for Sharpie donating
much-needed school supplies and funds.
"The future of Green Bay is right here at King Elementary School," said
Driver. "We depend on great teaching and great programs like this to
help our kids achieve their dreams. I am proud to be associated with
this program that makes learning even more fun."
The Sharpie Retractable Autographs for Education program has visited
Cleveland, Seattle and today, Green Bay. The four city nationwide
program will conclude in November at a school in Tampa for a total of up
to $30,000 in cash and school supplies. In each city, local professional
sports figures and celebrities are seeking autographs from teachers,
children, and parents to benefit community education programs.
"We're true green and gold Packer fans here at King Elementary," said
Steve Kimball. "I know our kids will love to hear from Donald on why
education is so important and will also love the great school supplies
from Sharpie. It is the inspiration of role models like Donald that can
make a big difference in a child's future."
"Sharpie is happy to be teamed up with fantastic athletes like Donald-
and even more importantly, a great person like Donald - for this
worthwhile education program," said Rory Leyden, president of Sanford,
makers of Sharpie. "This program has been an influential way to support
to community education initiatives and schools like King Elementary in
Green Bay, as well as around the country."
Sharpie Retractable markers are available in 8-colors: black, red, blue,
green, orange, berry, lime and turquoise. The suggested retail price
for 2-, 3-, 4-, and 8-packs are $4.89, $7.33, $9.78, and $19.56,
respectively. Available at office supply stores and other retailers
nationwide, Sharpie Retractable joins significant innovations in 2004
that target a wide range of enthusiasts from the hobbyist to the
do-it-yourselfer.
About Sanford®, Makers of Sharpie®
Sharpie is the popular brand of permanent markers celebrating its 40th
anniversary this year. Sanford, maker of Sharpie permanent markers, is a
division of Newell Rubbermaid Inc. (NYSE: NWL), a worldwide leader in
the manufacturing and marketing of writing instruments, art products and
office organization, including such well known brands as Paper Mate®,
Sharpie®, Parker®, Waterman®, EXPO®, Foohy®, uni-ball®, and Rolodex®,
among others. Sanford makes more than 6,000 products, ranging from
markers, pens and pencils to professional art products, fine writing
instruments and office organization products. Visit sharpie.com or
sanfordcorp.com for more information.
About King Elementary
Opened in 1992, King Elementary aspires to provide a healthy, positive
learning environment with an emphasis on service, where each classroom
participates in a community service activity. Parents actively support
the school and its learning goals. In keeping with the name of the
school, teachers and staff encourage students to develop a positive
attitude, respect and appreciation of other people and cultures, with an
emphasis on lifelong learning. ** # # #