The Interfaith Alliance Foundation is seeking candidates for its Walter Cronkite Faith & Freedom Award.

        Kim Baldwin, communications director for the foundation, said the award recognizes people of various backgrounds and religious faiths.

        “These are people who have worked toward increasing respect, tolerance and cooperation through defending religious liberty,” she said. “This could include fostering cooperation and unity among faiths, fighting for inclusion and understanding, and bringing their communities together for healing in the face of division.”

        She said the applicants may be community activists, public officials or religious leaders.

        “Usually there are three people chosen for the awards, one national figure and two locals,” she said.

        Deadline for nominations is Dec. 3. The award will be presented in the spring in New York City.

        A nomination form may be obtained from the Web site: www.interfaithalliance.org or by calling Jason Kangal, membership services at 202-639-6370.

        The award was established in 1999.

        Eight area schools received grants from Fifth Third Bank totaling $813,000 for improvement projects and scholarships

        Seven Hills High School, 5400 Red Bank Road, Madisonville received $250,000 to establish an endowment for female scholarships.

        “This is the first time we have received an endowment for female students,” said Gary Monnier, development director. “It will be used primarily for students who have shown an interest and aptitude for math and science.”

        The RITSS(Regional Institute for Torah and Secular Studies) High School for Girls, 2209 Losantiville Ave., Golf Manor received a $50,000 grant.

        Rabbi Nechemah Kibel, principal, said the money will be used to install an elevator in the school where 43 girls attend.

        “We are excited about the grant,” Rabbi Kibel said. “As soon as we get the money we will get estimates and get started on the construction.”

        Others receiving awards are:

        • Bishop Fenwick High school, Middletown, $75,000 for new school construction.

        • Ohio Foundation of Independent Colleges, 21 East State St., Columbus,, $57,500 for scholarships.

        • Cincinnati Bible College and Seminary, Price Hill, $75,000 for new multi-use facility.

        • Marva Collins Preparatory School, Roselawn, $50,000 for a kitchen renovation.

        • Roger Bacon High School, St Bernard, $25,000 for Our Lady of Angels Education Fund Scholarship.

        • Mount Notre Dame High School, Reading, $75,000 for theatre renovation.

        Allen Howard's “Some Good News” column runs Monday-Friday and Sundays. If you have suggestions about outstanding achievements, or people who are performing acts of kindness that are uplifting to the Tristate, let him know at (513) 768-8362; at ahoward@enquirer.com; or by fax at (513) 768-8340.
       

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