FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                    January 31, 2014
Contact: Shari Kosel, Program Director 605-584-1222 or sharisoda@rushmore.com

South Dakotans for the Arts/South Dakota Alliance for Arts Education

South Dakotans for the Arts Day at the Legislature and Students’ Capitol Art Show

South Dakotans for the Arts (SoDA) Day at the Legislature will highlight arts education in the Capitol Rotunda on Tuesday, Feb. 18 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The annual SoDA Day observance focuses attention on the importance of the arts in the lives of South Dakotans and features the Students’ Capitol Art Show. More than120 pieces of art created by children from every legislative district adorn tote bags, one for every legislator, Gov. Dennis Daugaard, Lt. Gov. Matt Michels, and Secretary of State Jason Gant.

“Teachers from every South Dakota legislative district assist in this arts advocacy project, showcasing the creativity of our young people and their own teaching skills,” according to SoDA program director Shari Kosel. “The artwork will serve as a daily reminder to our legislators that the arts are an integral part of learning and living in South Dakota.”

During the noon hour, Marissa Cruse, a sophomore at Huron High School, will provide concert piano music in the Rotunda as part of the Arts Day events. Guests at the event will also have the opportunity to meet and get a photo with the South Dakota Tourism Mt. Rushmore Mascots. George, Tom, Teddy and Abe will be hanging around the Rotunda from 11:30 p.m. to 12:30 p.m.

South Dakotans for the Arts is a nonprofit statewide membership organization, advancing the arts through service, education and advocacy.

To purchase a tote bag, please visit www.cafepress.com/sdarts  or www.sdarts.org after February 18.

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Editor’s note: For information on the student artist from your district, please email sharisoda@rushmore.com for artwork and details.