Student Skaters Become Stars on Ice for a Day

Student Skaters Become Stars on Ice for a Day


WHO/
WHAT: Twenty inner-city 2nd graders from Cleveland Elementary School in
Chicago's Albany Park neighborhood will fulfill a fantasy, gliding
and spinning into the spotlight on arena ice, as hundreds of
friends, family and other well-wishers (including the entire cast
and crew of Disney On Ice presents Disney/Pixar's Finding Nemo)
cheer their efforts.

The youngsters have been preparing for this moment since last
September, when they were chosen as Disney On Ice's third Chicago
"Adopt-a-Class." For four months, they've been working with
professional instructors (including Chicago choreographer and
former Disney On Ice star Henk Greene) to develop basic skating
skills and perfect their routine.

WHEN: 12:15 - 12:45 p.m. Thursday, February 3, 2005

WHERE: The United Center - 1901 West Madison Street, Chicago
Media: Enter Gate 4, off Wood Street, on the east side of the
building.

WHY: Introduced here in 2002 as a pilot program for a nationwide
initiative, Adopt-a-Class was conceived to serve as an adjunct to
the physical education curriculums of inner-city elementary
schools. A series of skating lessons, provided free-of-charge to
the school, expose youngsters to basic skating skills, while
enhancing balance, agility and concentration, promoting goal
setting, and providing both aerobic and anaerobic exercise. Just
as importantly, the program is designed to broaden horizons, boost
self-esteem and introduce youngsters to a successful African-
American instructor who has made a life-long career out of ice
skating. In essence, the kids are taught the most vital lesson of
all -- that they can dream.

The all-new Disney On Ice presents Disney/Pixar's Finding Nemo is
appearing at Chicago's United Center through February 13.

CONTACT: Bonni Pear, Miller-Pear Public Relation
(312) 649-0466 office; (312) 520-0175 cellular


PRNewswire -- Feb. 1


Source: Disney on Ice/Pixar's Finding Nemo


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