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The Partners for Kids Patron Checkbook program has been extended through Friday.

"Since the schools closed (last week) in an effort to slow the spreading of the flu, our office has been swamped with calls from consumers who were waiting to buy a copy of this year's coupon book," said Gary Heath, Partners for Kids' campaign coordinator.

"We've been in contact with most of the schools and everyone agreed to extend the availability of the Patron Checkbooks until Friday, September 11. Even though some schools are running low on books, we hope that everyone that wants a book will get one."

The Partners for Kids Patron Checkbook contains more than 200 discounts from area businesses and is a major fundraiser for many local schools. Supporters donate $10 to the participating school of choice and then receive a Patron Checkbook.

Even after all expenses, schools retain 75 percent profit from each book sold. The program has raised over $3 million non-taxed for local education.

Books are available while supplies last through Friday from the following schools:

Alcoa Middle School; Apostolic Christian Academy; Carpenters Elementary School; Carpenters Middle School; Fairview Elementary School; Friendsville Elementary School; Heritage High School; Lanier Elementary School; Mary Blount Elementary School; Maryville Christian School; Middlesettlements Elementary; Montvale Elementary School;

Porter Elementary School; Rockford Elementary School; Townsend Elementary School; Union Grove Elementary School; Union Grove Middle School; and William Blount High School.

For further information, call Heath at 681-1207.