Grizzard ride benefits Ferst childhood literacy effort
By NICHOLE GOLDEN
nichole@newnan.com
The Ferst Foundation for Childhood Literacy’s primary fundraiser is the Lewis Grizzard and Catfish Memorial Bike Ride, to be held Sunday with good weather expected.
“It’s always been such a beautiful day,” said Ferst Board Member Janie Lore about past rides. “Knock on wood.”
Cyclists may obtain a registration form online at cowetaferst.org . Larger cycling groups should contact Lore to register by email to Lore at: janielore@bellsouth.net .
Lore said that a delicious pasta lunch will be included for each rider. On-site registration is $40 per rider, and there is a discount for families of $75 per family.
Rest stops will be provided every 10-15 miles with complimentary refreshments for all participants. The entire route will be sagged (until 5 p.m.), and a roving bicycle repair vehicle will cruise the route for on-the-spot bike repairs.
Every cent raised from the Grizzard and Catfish Memorial ride goes to purchase books and distribute them to Coweta children enrolled in the program.
The Ferst Foundation for Childhood literacy reports that one in four Georgia adults operates at a low literacy level, costing Georgia businesses $7 billion each year.
The process of learning to read begins at birth, and Coweta’s Ferst Foundation for Childhood Literacy works to provide the tools parents need to help young readers. Enrolled children, between the ages of birth and 5 years, receive free, age-appropriate books through the fundraising efforts of an all-volunteer force.
A parent’s guide to reading is a new feature of the local Ferst Foundation website.
The Ferst Coin Drive in Coweta Schools is currently running and will continue through Oct. 19.
Students can bring in their spare change to help make a difference.
