Clients in the News – June 2016
When summer kicks off, Avalon clients always have lots of fun events in store:
Thirty years ago, Gene Baur founded Farm Sanctuary to protect farm animals from cruelty, inspire change in the way society views and treats farm animals, and promote compassionate vegan living. To celebrate and spread the word about this wonderful organization, Gene (pictured right) is taking a cross-country Anniversary Tour from Philadelphia to Portland, OR. Events include cocktail parties, dinners, and discussions. Avalon staff (pictured above) had a great time recently at a five-course gourmet vegan meal in Maryland, followed by Gene’s presentation encouraging people to live more compassionately, according to Farm Sanctuary’s mission. Visit Farm Sanctuary’s website to learn when Gene will be in your community.
The next time you visit the National Zoo, don’t be surprised if you see a shark or an octopus along the walkway…it’s the Zoo’s new outdoor exhibit, Washed Ashore: Art to Save the Sea. Talented artists have created beautiful sculptures from trash found along beaches to highlight the billions of pounds of plastic clogging the oceans. Visit the Zoo’s website to view photos, then go see this incredible art in person. To celebrate World Oceans Day June 11, the Zoo is offering a free event from 10 a.m.–2 p.m., featuring activities, crafts, games, and demonstrations celebrating ocean health and conservation. Learn what Zoo scientists are doing and how you can help.
The National Museum of the American Indian holds its third annual Cherokee Days June 10-12 on the National Mall to celebrate the union and common heritage of the three federally recognized Cherokee tribes. The event will showcase artists, storytellers, musicians, and dancers, and feature language and genealogy presentations and activities for kids. Visit NMAI’s website for details.
Atlanta’s High Museum of Art has something to engage everyone, and The Rise of Sneaker Culture is a great example. Opening June 11, this new exhibition of 155 sneakers represents the evolution of the sneaker from its origins in the mid-nineteenth century to its role in the present day as a status symbol of urban culture and marker of masculine identity. You’ll recognize styles from Nike, Reebok, Adidas, Converse, and Puma, as well as many you’ve never seen before. Visit the High’s website for more information.
Have you taken a breathtaking photo of a blue-footed booby or other unique creature during a trip to the Galapagos Islands? The Galapagos Conservancy—whose annual Photo Contest is open for submissions until July 25—wants to see it! Winning photos will be featured in the Conservancy’s stunning annual calendar, which showcases the biodiversity of the Galapagos. For contest rules and information, or to see last year’s winning photos, visit the Conservancy’s website.
Here’s your chance to actually spend a night at the museum! The National Air and Space Museum in Washington is celebrating its 40th anniversary by staying open all night on Friday, July 1. This free event kicks off with an evening ceremony to commemorate the anniversary and open the newly renovated Boeing Milestones of Flight Hall. Special guests will drop by and ongoing activities include a film festival, music, tours, a scavenger hunt, and more. Visit NASM’s website for more details.
Insider tip: One of the best views of Baltimore’s July 4th fireworks display is at the National Aquarium! So get your tickets now for a private harborside party on the Aquarium’s Pier 3 viewing area from 6:30 p.m.–10 p.m. Enjoy music, entertainment, and a front-row seat to the grand finale in the sky. Snacks and drinks will be available for purchase, or upgrade your ticket to partake in a full backyard barbecue. Tickets are sure to sell out, so visit the Aquarium’s website soon!
National Geographic’s spectacular new exhibit, The Greeks: Agamemnon to Alexander the Great, is open through October 10. This exhibit—free with Museum admission—explores 5,000 years of Greek culture through more than 500 priceless treasures, many of which have never been displayed outside of Greece. Learn how Greek culture influenced Western democracy, philosophy, and theater, and continues to shape modern art, science, medicine, and sports. For more information, visit NatGeo’s website.