CORE does not usually promote fundraisers. However, we have learned of an opportunity that we think all of you should know about. On January 23, 2010, the 85th East-West Shrine Game will be held in the Citrus Bowl. It will be televised live on ESPN2. www.shrinegame.com

This is the oldest all-star game in history. Throughout its history, the game's proceeds have benefited the Shriners Hospitals for Children. The same is true this year. However, this year, for the first time, some of the proceeds will directly benefit OCPS school-based organizations.

This is, basically, how it works: all OCPS school-based organizations, PTAs, bands, etc., have the opportunity to sell tickets to this game. The tickets are all reasonably priced ($15, $25 or $50). A large percentage of the face value of all tickets sold by the organization will go directly to the school-based organization that sells the tickets. This is an opportunity to raise a lot of money for your school organization.

NFL Hall of Fame member and University of Florida football legend Jack Youngblood is a key supporter of this year's game. Former NFL coaches Romeo Crennel and Marty Schottenheimer are this year's team coaches. Many highly-rated college players have already accepted the invitation to play and many more acceptances are expected. In April 2009, 90 percent of players from the 84th East-West Shrine Game (played on Jan. 17, 2009) were either drafted or signed as free agents by NFL clubs. These tickets should be easy to sell, because it will be a great game to watch.

This is a partnership between the Shriners, OCCPTA and OCPS. Every OCPS school and PTA unit may be handling the details somewhat differently, but all schools have the opportunity to be involved. If you want to participate on behalf of your school or your particular school-based group, you should check with the school office to find out how it is being handled at your school.