MEDIA ADVISORY

University of Alaska Museum

"Just Dig It," a fund-raiser for the University of Alaska Museum Expansion Campaign, will be held Thursday night, July 23 at the UA Museum of the North. Due to the rain, the event will be held under two large tents. Guest will be cozy and dry. Northrim Bank President, Chairman and CEO Marc Langland is expected to make a major gift announcement at the event. A donation from ARCO Alaska is also expected to be announced this evening along with an update of the total raised to date for the $20 million museum expansion project.

The fund-raiser will feature split rail fencing, old fashioned saloon booths, Texas swing music provided by a live band, red and white checked tablecloths, flowers, lots of dancing, and an opportunity to participate in the on-going archeological dig on the museum grounds. Bring your cowboy boots and hat!

Before the UA Museum of the North can be expanded, federal and state mandates require the site be surveyed for ancient artifacts. Hunters and gatherers throughout prehistory used the ridge where the UAF campus and museum are located. In 1977, archaeological materials were found in the precise location of the proposed museum expansion. The current survey has unearthed several stone tool fragments and a farming implement.

Admission to the event is $50 advance or $60 at the door. You must be 21 years or older to attend and participants are eligible to participate in a drawing for a 7-day cruise for two courtesy of Holland America Line Westours.

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DPD/7-23-98/98-004ma