Town Talk

TOASTS

KIWANIS Club of Brainerd donated $1,000 to the Jewish Federation Philanthropy Camp.

"A contribution from such a strong community-based organization solidifies the concept of the camp, teaching young people about philanthropy. Teaching children about giving back allows us to generate a renewable resource for the entire community. We appreciate the generosity of the Kiwanis Club. It makes a difference," said Michael Dzik, executive director of the Jewish Federation of Greater Chattanooga.

Philanthropy Camp was designed three years ago by parents looking for a way to teach their children how they could make a positive difference in the world, according to a news release.

"A joint program of the Jewish Federation of Greater Chattanooga and the First Church of the Nazarene, this week-long summer camp consistently has received acclaim from parents and campers for its unique programming," Dzik said. "Each day, campers explore ways in which we can take care of our environment, our community, our world and our neighbors through hands-on experiences and field trips."

Philanthropy Camp teaches that philanthropy requires action that goes beyond the donation of money to charity. The camp's motto is "I came. I saw. I gave," Dzik said.

Philanthropy Camp will be Aug. 1-5 and is open to rising first- through sixth-graders. The cost is $100 for the first camper and $90 for each additional sibling. Campers are asked to bring their lunch. Snacks are provided. For more information or to register for camp, contact Ann Treadwell at 493-0270 or atreadwell@jewishchattanooga.com.

The Jewish Cultural Center, funded by the Jewish Federation of Greater Chattanooga, offers programs, classes, exhibits, social services and a preschool, all rooted in Jewish values. It is located at 5461 North Terrace.

EAR TO THE GROUND

RIVER GALLERY in the Bluff View Art District is featuring the work of artist Julie Sewell. According to a news release, Sewell creates ceramic and mixed-media pieces inspired by textures found in nature and man-made objects. Found objects such as clock parts often are incorporated into her work.

The artist said she sees "beauty in aged and discarded objects, and I love to search for unique items from the past."

FUNDRAISER

JIMMY'S KIDS, a bike ride and boating fundraiser for the children of the late Jimmy Hess, is scheduled July 24. Bikers will meet at noon at the Diamond Billiard Club, 3600 Hixson Pike. Boaters will meet in the water at Chickamauga Dam (the lake side) from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. At 5 p.m., boaters and bikers will gather at Bart's Lakeshore for entertainment, auctions, raffles, food/refreshments and card games ($10 per hand; $20 for three).

Biker registration will begin at noon at Diamond Billiard Club, with the ride starting at 1 p.m. There will be four stops along the way before ending at Bart's Lakeshore at 5 p.m.

"Jimmy died in a boating incident in June 2011 leaving behind three children, Ethan 11, Gracie 9, and Drake 7," said Nancy Draper, who is hosting the event with Jim Thompson and Kellady Phillips. "Jimmy was loved by all. Many know him from the ball fields in Hixson, where he coached. Some know him from Hess Tile, the company he owned. But most know him for just being Jimmy, a true friend and dedicated family man."

The money will help with the children's school supplies, Christmas presents and more, Draper said.

"We are doing this because there was no life insurance, no real property to be inherited and no money in the bank," she said.

"He really was one of the good guys," she said. "He never had a harsh word for anyone. He had many friends who loved him and miss him so much."

For more information, contact Draper at 619-6752.