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Save the penguins
"Pennies
for Penguins" program underway to refurbish Silver Spring
Metro penguin mural
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PhotoS: Miguel Gallegos
On May 25, Doug Duncan kicked
off the "Pennies for Penguins" fundraising
campaign.
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Our recent harsh winters and rain-soaked spring seasons have
taken their toll on Silver Spring’s population of penguins,
and Montgomery County has begun a fundraising program to help
save them.
The four "Penguin Rush Hour" panels that adorn
the walls at the Colesville Road entrance to the Silver Spring
Metro station are severely damaged, and another panell, located
in a more protected area under the rail overpass, has fared
better but needs some general touching-up. County officials
have estimated a total price tag of $30,000 to refurbish the
mural.
On May 25, County Executive Doug Duncan kicked off the "Pennies
for Penguins" fundraising campaign. School children will
be asked to have "Pennies for Penguins" drives,
others will have the chance to support the drive by donating
cash and/or purchasing a variety of penguin goodies, such
as mugs, t-shirts, and posters for $5-$10 each.
"We’re asking commuters who come through this station
every day, residents of Silver Spring, art lovers, and school
children to step up and help restore the weather-worn penguins,"
said Duncan.
 Artist
Sally Callmer was commissioned to create the murals 15 years
ago through a MetroArt program. She chose penguins for their
visual appeal and the idea of the animals placed in an anomalous
setting.
"I also wanted the design connected to public transportation,"
Callmer said. "And penguins fit the bill, with the image
they presented of masses hustling along."
To donate or to purchase penguin merchandise, call the Arts
and Humanities Council of Montgomery County at 301-565-7300.
Contributions can be made in the name of "Pennies for
Penguins–AHCMC" and mailed to Pennies for Penguins,
Silver Spring Regional Center, 8435 Georgia Avenue, Silver
Spring, MD 20910.
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