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WASHINGTON (February 22, 2001) -- Education Advocacy Days
As Congress reconvenes at the start of the new Administration, the USCC's Annual Congressional Advocacy Days, Sunday March 4 through Tuesday, March 6 are more important than ever for focusing the Catholic community's efforts for Education. This annual event sponsored by the USCC's Department of Education and the Office for Parental Rights Advocacy brings representatives of the Catholic school community to D.C. to be briefed on federal issues that impact schools and to lobby the members of Congress and the Administration on issues and concerns. This years efforts will focus on reauthorization of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act and of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). "Our Congressional Advocacy Days are intended to bring educators and parents together to make a difference,"says Father Bill Davis, USCC's Interim Secretary for Catholic Schools and Public Policy. "Constituent involvement in the process is one of the most effective ways to influence members of Congress."
Father William Davis may be reached at 202/541-3132.
U.S. - Ireland Business Education Initiative
The St. Patrick's Day holiday March 17 is a time when Irish Americans celebrate their heritage. An Irish and American Inter-Church Committee helped initiate and actively supports the Business Education Initiative, begun as a pilot program in 1994 by the NI Employment and Training Agency, with the cooperation of the associations of Presbyterian, Catholic, Methodist and Episcopal colleges and universities. The program brings over 150 Catholic and Protestant college students, most from disadvantaged backgrounds, to study business for one year in about 100 Presbyterian, Catholic, Methodist and Episcopal colleges throughout the United States. The program has grown steadily since its inception. Funded by the International Fund for Ireland and the NI Employment and Training Agency, the Catholic, Presbyterian, Methodist and Episcopal college associations help recruit colleges, select students, and administer the program. "The Business Education Initiative is a way the churches in the United States are using their resources to give new opportunities to mostly disadvantaged students who have grown up in the midst of conflict" says Gerard Powers, Director of the USCC Office of International Justice and Peace. "This is one of the biggest educational exchange programs between the United States and the United Kingdom."
Gerard Powers may be reached at 202/541-3196.
The Face: Jesus in Art Premieres at Radio City Music Hall
Radio City Music Hall will premiere the extraordinary new film The Face: Jesus in Art for one show only March 31 at 8:00 p.m. This wonderful production dramatically traces the different ways that Jesus has been represented in art throughout history and around the world. In an unprecedented wide-screen travelogue of artworks from the early 3rd century to the present, The Face: Jesus in Art takes viewers from ancient Rome to 20th century America, from Europe to the Middle East. The stories behind the images are both fascinating and spiritually compelling. "This unique film deserves a unique opening venue," says Patricia Ryan Garcia, Director of Distribution for the Catholic Communication Campaign. "Coming during Lent, the premiere at Radio City Music Hall is an ideal opportunity for parishes and other groups to share a powerful experience." Tickets for the premiere can be purchased at the Radio City Music Hall box office, through local Ticketmaster outlets or online from www.ticketmaster.com. Ticket prices are $10.00, $20.50, and $30.50 (with those ordered through Ticketmaster requiring additional service fees). For more information on group sales, please call Radio City Music Hall at (212) 465-6100.
Pat Ryan Garcia is available at 202/541-3204.