The Grand County Quiz Bowl team comprised of 7th- through 9th-graders is getting ready to participate in the Junior National Academic Championship in Washington, D.C. June 5-7.

Coach Mike Estenson said the team will be one of nearly two dozen schools competing in the tournament, and the only one from Utah.

Various local businesses and donors have already contributed money to help the 10 students and three chaperones make the trip.

Fund-raising efforts have gotten a recent boost by the donation of a stainless steel sculpture of a bald eagle clutching a trout, created by local artist Tom Manley.

The 50-pound sculpture is currently on display in the lobby of Zions Bank in Moab, where bids will be accepted until noon on June 1. The minimum bid is $1,500, and bid increments must be at least $50. The high bid amount will be posted regularly during the auction period. Bid forms and other information are available at the bank.

For more information about the Quiz Bowl team or its fund-raising efforts, contact Estenson at 260-1189.