By Whitney Vickers
FAIRBORN — The missing “flock” of flamingo figurines found their way back to the Fairborn Music Club Wednesday morning.
The club has been hosting the “flocking” fundraiser since April, which entails individuals paying a certain amount of money to have flamingo figurines placed within a friends’ yard in good spirits. The birds migrate on their own as more individuals pay to have more yards “flocked.”
Signs and 20 of the pink birds were stolen over the weekend, which hindered the club’s ability to continue the fundraiser as swimmingly. Generated funds go toward supporting the music programs at Fairborn High School and Baker Middle School, purchasing items such as music, uniforms, transportation costs and competition fees, among others.
Karen Monaghan, who is spearheading the “flocking” fundraiser, said the flamingos were found at Fairborn High School and the Beavercreek Steak ‘n Shake restaurant. She said she is glad the birds were returned. Due to the nature of the delivery back to the owners, club officials predict the flamingos fell victim to a senior prank.
“The fundraiser will most definitely march on, and no further actions will be taken,” Monaghan said in an email interview. “However, I feel that the kids responsible for doing this seem very creative in their flocking ideas. I think it would be a great idea that they volunteer some time to their Fairborn Music Club and help flock the last remaining orders. They can always help in other areas as well. We are always looking for volunteers, and they seem to be a very creative [group] of kids.”
Fairborn Music Club Treasurer Jeanne Myers said the fundraiser would most likely end in late May or early June when the birds fly south for the season. However, the flamingos will migrate back once more in late July or early August upon the commencement of marching band season.
