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BENTONVILLE, Ark. — Walmart announced that it is committing $5 million in cash and in-kind donations for emergency relief efforts in response to Japan's recent earthquake and resulting tsunami.

Additionally, Walmart operations around the world are planning to implement or already have implemented fundraising drives among associates and customers to provide additional relief funds for the victims.

STERLING, Colo. — The value in enabling innovation and niche marketing at the store level was evidenced in a Journal-Advocate report Tuesday around the introduction of an innovative healthcare product that was picked up across three individual Walgreens.

The full report can be found here.

PLEASANTON, Calif. — The former chairman and CEO of Dreyer's Grand Ice Cream has joined Safeway's board of directors.

The appointment of T. Gary Rogers will expand the retailer's board of directors from nine to 10 members.

"Gary's vast experience as a supplier to the grocery industry, his business acumen and experience as a director will be great assets to the board," said Steve Burd, Safeway chairman, president and CEO. "We are pleased he is joining our board."

DEERFIELD, Ill. — One of the nation's largest drug store chains announced its sponsorship of nationwide life-saving trainings hosted by the American Red Cross.

The “Gabrielle Giffords Honorary Save-a-Life Saturday” event, which will be held March 19, will offer free training and instruction on hands-only CPR, controlling external bleeding, and recognizing and managing shock. The event is named after Rep. Gabrielle Giffords, who was critically injured, along with several other citizens, during the recent Tucson, Ariz., shooting. Six people were killed.

DEERFIELD, Ill. — Walgreens on Wednesday donated $150,000 to the American Red Cross in response to the earthquake that struck Japan last week. The company also will match employee donations up to $100,000.

CAMP HILL, Pa. — Rite Aid’s philanthropic arm is donating to relief efforts in Japan.

The Rite Aid Foundation announced Wednesday that it was donating $50,000 to the American Red Cross' Japan earthquake fund.

“Our hearts go out to the victims, families and communities affected by this devastating tragedy,” Rite Aid Foundation president Mary Sammons said. “We are proud to partner with the American Red Cross and assist them in their mission of helping the people of Japan in their time of need.”

CHICAGO — Walmart has succeeded in bringing its smaller-format store concept to Chicago, helping to make the case that the retailer can find success in more urban markets, including New York, which thus far has eluded the retailer.

The company announced that it has secured locations in West Englewood for Walmart Market and Walmart Express stores. According to the company, West Englewood is in the heart of a food desert and is one of Chicago’s most underserved communities.

POMPANO BEACH, Fla. — Walmart is expanding the number of locations that carry Naturally Fresh Deodorant Crystal, the manufacturer has announced.

Naturally Fresh Deodorant Crystal products have been available in select Walmart stores for nearly two decades, but beginning this month, the all-natural, fragrance-free roll-on will be available in all 3,747 Walmart locations.