Treasurer pitches college savings at ball park
Released April 12, 2005

           CHARLESTON -- State Treasurer John Perdue has found a new place to spread his message of saving for college – the pristine new ball orchard at Appalachian Power Park.
        Administered by the Hartford Financial Co., the treasurer’s college savings program is sponsoring the SMART529 Fun Zone at the park, during the 4,500-seat stadium’s inaugural season. The fun zone will emphasize the importance of starting a college savings plan when children are still young.
       “This is a great opportunity for families to combine a great time at the Fun Zone with learning more about college savings,” Perdue said.
        SMART529 is a state-sanctioned college savings plan, so named for a section of IRS code. It provides tax advantages and allows parents, grandparents and others to start early to save for a child’s future college expenses.
         Money saved can be used to pay for tuition, room, board, books and supplies at most higher education institutions anywhere in the country.
         The SMART529 Fun Zone is designed for kids and features games and activities, including speed pitch, a moon bounce and slide. It is also a destination for special group parties, such as birthday and youth team parties.
         Treasurer Perdue’s SMART529 program was one of the first sponsors to sign on with the West Virginia Power. SMART529 will be sponsoring contests, with the winners receiving starter college savings accounts and distributing information on the program.
          “As the team builds a tradition at its new home, it is our sincere hope that West Virginia residents develop a tradition of saving for college through SMART529,” Perdue said.