Today, 9,000 schools across the country will begin collecting spare change as part of the Pasta for Pennies/Pennies for Patients program to support The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.

The 3,200 students in the Princeton School District, which ranked top in the region and second highest in the nation in collections last year, are out to defend their honor.

The collection campaign runs through Feb. 14.

"This is something that has grown tremendously at Princeton," said Amy Goohs, campaign coordinator. "Our students and teachers really get into this. It is something that has become a real source of pride for our students."

She said last year the high school raised $21,532 during the three-week period of the campaign. Junior high students raised about $4,000. The top three schools qualify for gift certificates for school supplies and equipment.

Lisa Schare, campaign manager for the school and youth program for the Southern Ohio Chapter of the society, said $9 million was raised nationwide last year.

"Our chapter raised $320,000 from 22 counties, the highest amount among 59 chapters across the country," she said. "This is a very giving community."

Ms Schare said leukemia is still one of the leading causes of death of children under age 15.

"Twenty years ago the survival rate was very low. Now, since more research has been done, 81 percent of children who get the disease have a chance of survival," she said.

There are about 180 schools in the Tristate that participate in the campaign.

The Olive Garden Restaurants provide the top fund-raising classroom in each school with a special pasta luncheon.

US Bank is conducting a fund drive to raise money for the children of Fanisca Achoe, 31, who was killed in an auto accident Jan. 9.

Ms. Achoe had been employed at the bank as a teller for seven years. She is survived by a 6-month-old boy and a 12-year-old daughter. Contributions may be made to any US Bank branch.

The 30th annual Catholic School week started Sunday and will run through Saturday, highlighting the theme: "Catholic Schools: Making a World of Difference."

Students at St. Bartholomew Consolidated School, Springfield Township, will deliver posters and baked goods today to police and fire departments in the township.

The parent-teacher organization's spirit committee will treat the whole school to ice cream sundaes Tuesday.

Peace Pals at Prince of Peace School, Madisonville, will read and lead peace activities Wednesday.

Students at Ursuline Academy, Blue Ash, will wear a shirt or sweatshirt instead of their uniforms Wednesday.

Students at St. Cecilia, Oakley, will see a puppet show and deliver meals to Tender Mercies in Over-the-Rhine.

Allen Howard's "Some Good News" column runs Sunday-Friday. If you have suggestions about outstanding achievements, or people who are uplifting to the Tristate, let him know at 768-8362, at ahoward@enquirer.com or by fax at 768-8340.