NEWS RELEASE FROM COMMUNITY BANK

     Americans replace nearly 130 million cell phones every year.  That means about 130 million old cell phones end up crammed into the back of a closet or drawer.  But now, area residents can donate their old cell phones to a good cause at CommunityBank of Texas.   Through ‘Cell Phones for Soldiers, ' a non-profit group that turns old cell phones into pre-paid calling cards for U.S. troops serving overseas, CommunityBank is making it easy for families to clear out some clutter and help connect loved ones separated by duty and distance.

            "Cell Phones for Soldiers is a non-profit program our people are excited about supporting, as a bank and as individuals who appreciate the sacrifice our soldiers and their families make," said J. Pat Parsons, chief executive officer of Community Bank.  "Anyone can come into a CommunityBank branch and drop off their old cell phone to us. We're sending all donated phones to Cell Phones for Soldiers.  They, in turn, sell the phones to a recycler.  The money made from recycling is then used to purchase prepaid calling cards for our troops stationed in Iraq and other locations across the globe."

 Parsons noted that any brand or type of cell phone is accepted, and in any condition.  Phones do not have to have batteries or chargers.

            "It's always a good idea to erase your personal information from your old cell phone before you donate it," added Parsons.  "You can find simple directions for erasing contacts and numbers from your particular phone brand and model on the Cell Phone for Soldiers website."

            "We encourage everyone to donate their old phones so more soldiers can receive these free pre-paid calling cards.  A number of our customers and employees have family members serving overseas.  We know how much it means to them when they can talk with their son or daughter or spouse.  This is such an easy way to show support for them and all our soldiers serving in foreign countries," said Parsons.

            Individuals who wish to donate to Cell Phones for Soldiers may do so at any of CommunityBank's 13 locations during regular business hours.