Sep 21, 2004
SEATTLE - 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 Seattle Seahawk defensive end Grant Wistrom for the
Sharpie Retractable "Autographs for Education" program. Seattle is the
second 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, Wistrom is
bringing the program to Seattle by delivering school supplies and
raising funds for the Ballard Boys & Girls Club. Wistrom, 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.
"As one of the newest members of the Seattle Seahawks, I am excited to
lend a hand to Sharpie's Autographs for Education program this year in
my new hometown," said Wistrom. "I have witnessed, first hand, the
impact this program makes on students in our communities and I am
thrilled to continue to be involved in a program that focuses on kids
and makes education fun."
The Sharpie Retractable Autographs for Education event at the Ballard
Boys & Girls Club is among four local-market events this year that will
occur at designated community programs and schools across the United
States. The program, which kicked off in Cleveland in July, will also
visit Green Bay and Tampa to benefit select community-based education
organizations and schools for a total of up to $30,000 in cash and
school supplies. In each city, local professional sports figures and
celebrities will seek autographs from teachers, children, and parents to
benefit designated community education programs.
"We're look forward to having Grant visit our club to discuss the
importance of learning," said Mark Hendricks, director of the Ballard
Boys & Girls Club. "As we build more programs for the kids, we have an
ongoing need for funding and the proper supplies to keep our activities
moving. Not only is Sharpie providing the necessary tools, but they are
also providing inspiration through great role models, which really hits
home with our kids."
"Sharpie is thrilled to team up with high-caliber athletes like Grant
Wistrom 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 like the
Boys & Girls Clubs here in Seattle, 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 Boys & Girls Clubs of King County
The Boys & Girls Clubs of King County exists to inspire and enable all
young people, especially those from disadvantaged circumstances, to
realize their full potential as productive, responsible, and caring
citizens. With 12 full-service Clubs and 27 before- and after-school
program sites, the organization is one of the largest of its kind in the
nation, serving more than 19,000 annual members. Program areas offered
to youth include character & leadership development, education & career
development, health & life skills, the arts, computer training and
sports/fitness/recreation. For more information, visit
www.positiveplace.org.
# # #