Local nonprofit awarded Nike grant
The Northwest Association for Blind Athletes announced Monday that it had been selected to receive a $2,500 grant from Nike for its sporting programs.
"This wonderful grant from Nike will enable us to continue to provide programs and opportunities to blind and visually-impaired people in the Northwest," said NWABA President Nick Wilks.
Vancouver-based NWABA provides opportunities for blind and visually-impaired children, teenagers and adults to become engaged in physical activity and sports. The organization also provides scholarships and hosts events to build confidence and physical fitness.
NWABA was one of 200 nonprofits across the nation to receive a Back Your Block 2009 Nike grant. The Beaverton, Ore.-based sporting giant logged 600,000 votes for nearly 1,100 applicants in this year's contest.
Vancouver Walmart reopens
A remodeled Walmart on N.E. 104th Avenue in Vancouver reopened this week. The result of a three-month project, the new store includes wider aisles, a new floor plan, enhanced lighting, easy-to-read signage and low-profile shelving.
"The new layout is easier to investigate, which will save our customers time as they shop for necessities," said Walmart store co-manager Susan Lanier.
The remodel includes an expanded electronic department and a new merchandise area, the Celebration Station, offering party supplies, greeting cards, balloons and gift wrap.
At the reopening event on Wednesday, store associates presented $7,000 in grants from the Walmart Foundation for local service organizations like the Boys and Girls Club and the Vancouver Police Department's "Shop with a Cop" program.
Along with its N.E. 104th Avenue location, Walmart has stores on Highway 99 in Hazel Dell and S.E. 192nd Avenue in East Vancouver.
