Good guy effort

Portage fireman Tim Fercik is part of a team of heroes doing something wonderful to raise money for the Special Olympics.

Check his e-mail message out:

"Hey guys! I need your help. I'm sure many of you know my passion for competing in athletic events. Unfortunately, there are many people out there that would like to compete in sports as well, but can't because of disabilities. Thanks to the Special Olympics, however, we can give these unique individuals a chance. On Aug. 11, I will be competing in a contest with some of my friends as a charity event to raise money for the Special Olympics of Indiana. We will be pulling a Boeing 727 jet! Each of the teams competing is asked to raise a minimum of $1,000. If any of you feel like pitching in, please, visit www.firstgiving.com/machogrande where you can make your online donation. My team captain is Dale Holsti, who is extremely committed to the cause. You'll see his name as the creator of the link, so even though it's not my name, you're still at the right page. Thanks in advance, and wish Team Macho Grande good luck!"

Sweet idea

How's this for something offBeat ...

Everybody is riding the new health craze promoting how healthy chocolate can be.

Now, Nestle Nesquik has launched a promotional campaign touting it has 25 percent less sugar than all other brands of powder and syrup chocolate drinks.

Plus, the company's new formula, which contains no artificial sweeteners, has 33 percent more calcium than an ordinary eight ounce class of plain milk, in addition to fortified vitamins C and B6.

Healthy chocolate milk? Who knew?

The opinions expressed are solely those of the writer. He can be reached at ppotempa@nwitimes.com or 219.852.4327.

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