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Fort Oglethorpe, Ringgold swimming pools set to open

200 hear Johnny Carr at Bethany banquet

What: More than 200 guests attended a fundraising banquet at The Chattanoogan hotel to hear Johnny Carr, author of "Orphan Justice: How to Care for Orphans Beyond Adopting."

Benefits: Bethany Christian Services, a nonprofit offering pregnancy counseling, adoption assistance and a Foster Care program.

Credit Union supports STARS

What: Tennessee Valley Federal Credit Union made a donation of $37,275 to Students Taking a Right Stand. The donation was raised through proceeds of the Judy Wilson Memorial Benefit Golf Tournament held at Black Creek Golf Course.

Benefits: STARS' programs in area schools, which include bullying prevention, peer mediation training, positive choices curriculum and support groups.

VECustomers Share Awards $2,500

What: Volunteer Energy Cooperative's VECustomers Share program recently awarded $2,500 in grants to Hamilton County community organizations.

Benefits: Ooltewah High School Dance Team Boosters Club received $2,000, and New Shepherd Hill Baptist Church Youth Group received $500.

About the Program: The foundation's funds come from VEC members who allow the organization to round their electric bills up to the next whole dollar. The extra change is distributed by the foundation's board of directors, who all serve as volunteers. Grant applications are available at any Volunteer Energy Cooperative Customer Service center, by calling 334-7051 or at www.vec.org.