CITY OF SAN ANTONIO

                                                           P. O. BOX 839966          

SAN ANTONIO TEXAS 78283-3966

 

                                                                               

                                                                                    Request for Coverage

                                                                                    SA Parks and Recreation Dept.

 

Date: Aug. 31, 2005                       Contact: Kelly Irvin/207-3075 Pager #603-9418

                                                            Or Jody Garcia/207-3078, Pager #894-3385

 

Verizon Yellow Pages to donate $30,000

for computers to benefit area youth

 

 

Doing homework and Internet research is about to get a little easier for youngsters who participate in recreational and educational programs at Melendrez Community Center, 5909 W. Commerce, thanks to a $30,000 donation by Verizon Yellow Pages to the Sonny Melendrez Foundation.

Eight computers with software and Internet access will be unveiled at the center, which is operated by the San Antonio Parks and Recreation Department, at 11 a.m. on Friday, Sept. 2, with a group of fifth graders from Loma Park Elementary School utilizing them for the first time.

“Connecting San Antonio’s kids to computers to provide educational opportunities from which they’ll benefit forever is a community objective of Verizon Yellow Pages,” says Lou Laste, director of community relations for Verizon Yellow Pages. “We’re pleased to partner with Sonny Melendrez.”

The Parks and Recreation Department lauded Verizon’s commitment to the community. “In this age of technology, children are really at a disadvantage if they don’t have access to computers,” says Brenda Burton, recreation superintendent for department. “We’re thrilled that Verizon has partnered with Sonny Melendrez to assist us in filling the gap for kids who might not have that access at home.”

Melendrez, a local radio personality and community philanthropist, does a number of fund-raisers throughout the year to bolster recreational and educational programming and facilities at his namesake center, which serves youngsters ages six to 19.

“The realization of a youngster’s dream is often determined by the tools and encouragement caring adults are willing to give him,” Melendrez explains. “Verizon Yellow Pages' generous contribution will help make that dream come true for West Side San Antonio children who dare to imagine a bigger life.”

The Loma Park students will also receive free school supplies, as well as lunch, which will be provided by Papa John’s Pizza.

 

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