[JACKSON], Michigan, August 22, 2006 – On Friday, September 22, 2006 at 6 pm, the American Red Cross will hold its live auction of decorative Birdbaths, Sculpture & Fountain at Daryl’s Downtown Restaurant, as part of the 2006 Avenue of the Arts event.

The Birdbaths, Sculpture and Fountain are part of a fundraiser for the South Central Michigan Chapter of the American Red Cross. Area companies or individuals have sponsored the Birdbaths, and local artists have donated their time and talents to decorate them.

Each Birdbath, Sculpture and Fountain has a unique and beautiful design, and can be seen inside shop windows along Michigan Avenue, S. Jackson and S. Mechanic Streets.

The Birdbaths, Sculpture and Fountain will be auctioned off to support the American Red Cross and its life saving programs and services.

The event will feature a live auctioneer, as well as a silent auction of artwork by local artists.

The Avenue of the Arts committee believes the auction of the 20 Birdbaths, Sculpture & Fountain will be the largest fundraising event yet," stated Karen Randall, Executive Director of the South Central Michigan Chapter. "Jacque Kudner, Chair of the event, and her committee have done a tremendous job."

Tickets for the event can be purchased at the South Central Michigan Red Cross Chapter. The cost is $35.00 for admission, which includes hors d'oeuvres. Pre-bids are being accepted via a MasterCard or Visa until September 18 by contacting Cathy Lopez, Administrative Assistant.

To purchase your ticket for the Avenue of the Arts auction on September 22, come to the South Central Michigan Red Cross Chapter, located at 729 W. Michigan Avenue in Jackson. For further information stop in or call us at 517-782-9486.