Tweeting for art's sake

People who don't use Twitter tend to dismiss it as a waste of time. But in Alaska and around the world, Twitterers are using the connections they've made using the microblogging service to do good. Last month in Anchorage, Twitter users held a bake sale to raise money for a Juneau family whose home was destroyed by fire in June. The event raised more than $3,500.

This Tuesday, Sept. 15, Twitter users will again gather to raise money for a good cause. Tuesday's fundraiser, Anchorage Twestival, is part of a worldwide "Twitter festival" that will include local events in more than 100 cities in 35 countries.

Anchorage's Twestival will benefit the Alaska Native Arts Foundation, which provides support and opportunities for Alaska Native artists.  (Alaska Dispatch majority owner Alice Rogoff is co-founder and chair of the Alaska Native Arts Foundation.) Actor, storyteller and playwright Jack Dalton will emcee a program that will include live and silent auctions and performances by local bands H3 and the Whipsaws.

Tickets, $25, are available at http://www.amiando.com/CULLZZB.html.

Contact Maia Nolan at maia@alaskadispatch.com