Friday, June 10, 2011

TOP STORY > >Gwatney helps Red Cross

Gwatney Chevrolet in Jack-sonville presented a check for $18,400 to the American Red Cross of Greater Arkansas to support disaster-relief efforts in the state. The dealership pledged $100 to the Red Cross for every new vehicle bought in May during the Neighbors Helping Neighbors promotion.

The dealership sold 92 vehicles and pledged $9,200. Gwatney Chevrolet CEO Harold Gwatney matched the amount to bring the donation to $18,400.

“Funds will be designated for tornadoes, floods and fires in the state,” said Leo Perreault, vice chair of American Red Cross of Greater Arkansas.

He said it will include Vilonia, the flooded areas near Pocahontas and individuals who had damages from the high winds.

“The Red Cross is seeing people who are just getting their lives back together,” Perreault said.

Gwatney Chevrolet executive manager Jamie Cobb said the Red Cross can go through reserves during disasters. He said Arkansans have been generous to Gwatney and the dealership wanted to give back to them.

Arkansans wishing to help American Red Cross disaster relief can make donations at www.redcross.org or at www.arkansasredcross.org.