June 12, 2003

For more information contact:
Roy Criss
515-239-1689
roy.criss@dot.state.ia.us

AMES, IOWA – A citywide aviation art display in Cedar Rapids is one of the events celebrating the 100th anniversary of powered flight, according to the Iowa DOT’s Office of Aviation. The display is one of many statewide events being held in accordance with the governor’s proclamation of Iowa’s year-long celebration of flight.

The display will run during the upcoming “Fly Iowa 2003” at the Eastern Iowa Airport. “Fly Iowa” is the annual premier aviation event, held in a different city each year, and draws thousands of spectators from around the state.

A different model airplane is displayed at 39 locations around the Cedar Rapids area. The planes, sponsored by various organizations, run the gamut from the serious to the whimsical. There is one that looks like an ear of corn (called Plane Corn, of course) and AirMorel is a plane fashioned in the look of a mushroom. This exhibit is educational and fun, and allows many members of the community to participate.

Displays, events and activities of this nature will be the norm throughout 2003 as Iowa recognizes the profound impact powered flight has had on human life. The Wright brothers’ first flight occurred Dec. 17, 1903, at Kitty Hawk, N.C. Visit www.iawings.com to find out about the planned celebrations of the Centennial of Flight throughout Iowa.

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