FAVORITE CHARITY: Heard Museum West builds educational role

Heard Museum West came to Surprise in 2006, offering an exhibition of 400 works from the Heard Museum's permanent collection and a changing exhibit space, all dedicated to educating visitors about American Indian art, cultures, history and current issues.

A nomination letter from the museum says, "However, the West Valley's community museum is far more than just gallery cases and awe-inspiring works of art. HMW is also growing into its role as a community resource through its partnerships with the city of Surprise Recreation Department and other community organizations."

Visitors to Cactus League games at Surprise Stadium are welcomed to the museum either before or after the games, and the stadium offers "Heard Museum West Day" during spring training.

The museum, "in partnership with the Northwest Regional Library in Surprise, holds a Native American Book Discussion series. The book discussions include a blend of both American Indian and non-Indian authors.

"Museum staff is also working with local schools, including the Dysart Unified School District, to bring more students to the museum.

"Heard Museum West is the first stop on the Western Heritage Trail, which also includes Wickenburg, Congress, Yarnell and Prescott.

"The Western Trail Association, of which Heard Museum West is a member, is working to develop the Western Heritage Trail as a tourism attraction."

Editor's note

On Saturday, the Daily News-Sun's annual book sale will raise money for worthy causes in the West Valley.

Readers have nominated several organizations as possible recipients. Today, in the third of a series, readers will learn more about these charities.

At the conclusion of the series, readers will have an opportunity to cast votes for the causes that will be the beneficiaries of the book sale proceeds. First place will receive 50 percent of the proceeds; second place, 30 percent; and third place, 20 percent.

Voting will take place at www.yourwestvalley.com and at the book sale, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. April 4 in the Daily News-Sun parking lot, 10102 Santa Fe Drive, Sun City. Paper ballots also will appear in the Daily News-Sun, where they can be dropped off prior to the book sale.

The nominated groups are: 4 Paws, Valley View Food Bank, Andrea's Closet, Relay for Life of Peoria, Arizona Project Challenge, Craniofacial Foundation of Arizona, Rescue a Golden of Arizona, Sun Health Auxiliary, Heard Museum West, Interfaith and Yoomee Adventures.