STUDENTS GET BIRDS, ART & CIVICS AT TRACY AVIARY EVENT

PRESS RELEASE FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, October 23, 2008 Contact: Chris Peterson
(801) 232-3226



STUDENTS GET BIRDS, ART & CIVICS AT TRACY AVIARY EVENT


SALT LAKE CITY – Students from Dilworth Elementary School in Salt Lake City will visit Tracy Aviary on Friday to learn about birds and the environment, hone their artistic skills, and get a civics lesson from Mayor Ralph Becker – and hopefully raise a little money for good causes in the process.
The students are members of Dilworth PTA’s after-school Art Explorer Club, which is directed by Art Specialist Chris Peterson. They will enjoy an educational bird show at the Aviary, and then use what they learn to make beautiful bird masks at the Aviary’s Chase Mill. This community arts event is made possible by generous contributions from Great West Institute, Utrecht Art Supplies, Biaggi’s Italian Restaurant and the UMFA Education program.
The masks will be placed on display at the Historic Chase Mill, where they can be purchased via silent auction between this Friday night and next weekend’s Halloween night. Proceeds from the auction will benefit Dilworth PTA Arts budget or to Tracy Aviary or – the students will ultimately decide how the funds are distributed.
As the kids are working on their masks, they can expect a visit from a local political celebrity – Salt Lake City Mayor Ralph Becker. He will participate in the mask-making activities before providing a brief civics lesson and discussion on the value of volunteerism and providing assistance to charitable organizations.
“The opportunity to make bird masks in the park with peacocks walking around is priceless. The Aviary is a perfect place to make art and learn about birds and the environment on the side…with a little bit of civics as well,” says Peterson. “We are excited about the partnership we have with the Aviary to continue to provide multi-disciplinary and fun learning experiences for our children.”
The public is invited to Tracy Aviary to view the masks during regular business hours. The public is invited to bid on the masks for charity and take a walk around the Aviary and get the details on Proposition One. Free entrance will be granted this week to anyone who knows the secret password: Scarecrow. Silent Auction runs October 25- October 31, 2008 1:00 pm. Auction winners can pick up masks in time for Halloween costume parties.
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