FUND-RAISER SET FOR THE CREATIVE AND PERFORMING ARTS

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 18, 1996

Fairbanks, Alaska - Fairbanks entertainers Jim Bell, Julie Rafferty, Jim Holm, Marvilla Davis and other local residents will help raise money to attract aspiring artists and musicians to the University of Alaska Fairbanks. Proceeds from the black-tie optional event will support creative and performing arts talent grants in the name of William R. and Dorothy Jane Wood.

Wood is president emeritus of the University of Alaska, a community activist, noted author and a former Fairbanks mayor. His wife, Dorothy Jane, is a founding member of the Fairbanks Symphony Orchestra.

The fund-raiser is called "Crossroads" and takes its name from one of Wood's poems. Wood, a prolific writer, was named Alaskan of the Year in 1985, and Citizen of the Year by the local Boy Scouts of America in 1992.

Crossroads begins at 7:30 p.m., Oct. 26 at the Fairbanks Westmark Hotel. A fashion show by the Fashion Center and dance music by Sandcastle are also scheduled; tickets are $50 a person. Crossroads '96 is being coordinated by Sharon Allen and Judy Robertson, co-chairs; Jackie Stuhr and Rhonda Curwen.

This is the fifth year the UAF College of Fellows, a volunteer arm of the University of Alaska Foundation, has sponsored the event.

CONTACT: UAF Development Director Pamela Davis, (907) 474-6402, or UAF Public Information Officer Tiffany Dillon, (907) 474-7581.

TND/10-18-96/97-023