Rare Lawrence flock features flights of fancy

Avid Jayhawk watchers got a sneak preview last week of a clutch of the 32 larger-than-life versions of the KU Jayhawk that will soon be on display around campus and Lawrence.

"Peace, Love, and Daisy Hill Forever", by Susan Younger and Valerie Spicher.

Identified as the rare "Jayhawks on Parade" species, the 5-foot-tall fiberglass Jayhawks are fond of roosting on street corners of Jayhawk country. The big and colorful birds, will include "Uncle Sam Hawk," "Puttin' on the Glitz," "Holy Hawk," "Bit O' Hawk," and "Lions and Tigers and Hawks, Oh My!"

Artist Winston Lata stands behind her "Uncle Sam Hawk" alongside her husband, chemistry professor Alfred Lata.

Sponsored by area businesses and individuals, the fiberglass Jayhawks have been decorated by area artists and will be on exhibit from April through October for public enjoyment as well as a celebration of the Jayhawk and the city it calls home.

Sponsors will designate nonprofit beneficiaries for each embellished bird and at the end of the exhibit, they will donate the fiberglass Jayhawks to the selected organizations.

The event is organized by the Lawrence Convention & Visitors Bureau, its advisory board and KU.

"Chip off the Old Hawk", by Pat Woelk and Kris Wyman drew the attention of more Jaywatchers at the recent Jays on Parade gathering.

Kevin Boatright, associate executive vice chancellor for university relations, addresses Jaywatchers in front of "Pride" by Karla Nathan and Shanna Wagner.

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