Athens Public Education Foundation members raised $32,000 during their recent “Casino Night” fundraiser, which will fund several classroom grants for Athens ISD teachers to be awarded in the next few weeks. The grants, which the foundation began awarding in 2010, are used to fund educational programs, tools and projects that are outside AISD’s budget. APEF is not part of the Athens Independent School District, but the district is the sole beneficiary of the foundation’s financial support. To make a tax-deductible contribution, send a check, made out to APEF, to 104 Hawn Street, Athens, Texas 75751 or visit athenspef.org. Pictured (from left) are APEF Board President Sarah Grey, Vice Presidents Lyndi Briggs, Kari Wilmeth and Stan Brown, Secretary Sarah Tinsley, Treasurer Armondo Rincon, and members Tracye Smith, Rita Curington, Denise Swartwood, Paige Gatlin and Ed McCain. (Toni Garrard Clay/AISD)