SierraScape August - September 2003
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by Jill C. Miller

Stephanie Dye, a ten year old with shoulder length black hair who attends the Classical Junior Academy, loves animals and loves to play cello.

Stephanie Dye playing for a good cause in University City	Photo by Robert Dye

She'd been playing the instrument for about four years when she decided she wanted to be a street musician-sitting outside playing for dollars and quarters from appreciative passersby. Her father, Bob, supported the idea, but he added an interesting angle by asking, "Who are you going to raise money for?"

"I decided I wanted to do something to help animals," Stephanie explained. So she and her dad stopped by the Sierra Club office one day last fall to learn more about the club and what we do. Satisfied, she created a sign adorned with musical notes and pictures of animals that states "All donations go to the Sierra Club".

She began playing cello in the University City Loop on Delmar near the St. Louis Bread Company-to the delight of many who enjoyed her skillful playing during their lunch hour. Resuming this spring after the weather turned warm, by the end of May Stephanie had collected $60.00 for the Club!

Stephanie and her dad not only delivered the money she'd raised to the Sierra Club office, she put on a short "concert" for a small but hugely appreciative audience. We want to say "Thank you, Stephanie"-you're a real inspiration!