"R. Hero" Dalmatian Sculpture to be Dedicated at the La Paws Dog Park

On Sat., Nov. 22, 2014 from 10 am until noon the Mission Viejo’s, Friends of the Arts and Cultural Arts Committee will host the dedication and unveiling of “R. Hero” at the La Paws Dog Park, 21500 Felipe Rd, Mission Viejo, Ca 92691.

“R. Hero” is a 6-foot, 2-inch-tall, 150-pound, shimmering, bright purple aluminum Dalmatian puppy sculpture with large black spots donated by the Hero in You Foundation. It will be placed at the entrance of La Paws Dog Park.

The Hero in You Foundation is a nonprofit organization that was founded by Bunni and Rick Benaron after the Sept. 11, 2001 tragedy. Their mission is to honor our heroes- firefighters, police officers, nurses, doctors, our military service men and women and every day people who make the world a better place for people and animals.

The Dalmatian is a visual reminder of their sacrifices, compassion, bravery and courage. Karen and Tony Barone are the artists/sculptures known world-wide who create larger-than-life art to dramatize the importance of things that seem ordinary in our every day lives.

According to Tony Barone, each hand-modeled Dalmatian takes three to four months to complete. They have made more than 20 that have been installed in the United States and one that will be at a children’s museum in El Salvador.

The ceremony will feature guest appearances from our city council members, local Fire Department, Police and members of emergency services. In the aftermath of natural disasters and tragedies, they are making a difference.

Join us for refreshments, crafts and meet local vendors at this free event for the community. Explore what makes a hero in the illustrated children’s book, R. Hero: A Dog’s Tale, Rocket. Learn how R. Hero earns spots by doing something heroic.

For more information regarding the event please call 949-470-8440. For more about the Hero Foundation go to www.r.hero.org.