Mascots
The city has a variety of mascot outreach programs. Many of the mascots are available to make special appearances or conduct informative programs.
Bookbreath - Bookbreath, Phoenix Public Library’s own dragon, makes personal appearances at
Phoenix libraries to promote reading. Bookbreath participates heavily in the Grade One at the Library
(GOAL) program, which aims to give every first grader a library card. He and his accompanying reader involve young students in a sketch about Bookbreath’s quest to learn to read. For more information about Bookbreath and the GOAL program, call 602-534-2021.
Buddy Bear - Buddy Bear is the city’s water safety mascot. Buddy usually makes appearances in the summer. However, presentations can take place in the off-season, as long as arrangements are made
at least one month in advance. Buddy Bear is available for “Meet ‘n Greet” appearances, where children receive stickers, balloons and water safety materials; or for “Water Safety Appearances,” which include a water safety presentation. For more information, call 602-262-4085.
McGruff - “The Crime Dog” has been working since 1979 to forge a nationwide commitment to prevent crime and build safer, more caring communities across the United States. You can schedule him to come to your next neighborhood block party, parade or other public event to teach people to “Take a Bite Out of Crime.” He makes appearances upon request. Just call your police precinct's Community Action Officer or
602-534-2606 for more information.
Reuseasaurus - Reuseasaurus educates and informs students on proper recycling and reuse habits, both at home and at school. Born from an egg, Reusasaurus teaches young people about recycling, hazardous waste, illegal dumping and composting. Presentations are free of charge to schools, and are designed for preschool through sixth grade audiences. The presentations last 20 to
30 minutes, and are geared to the grade level of the audience. Presentations without Reuseasaurus are also available for middle and high school grades. For more information, call 602-262-7251, send a e-mail to pwserve@phoenix.gov
Sneakers - Sneakers is a big, friendly dog you’ll
find visiting Phoenix Afterschool Center sites. Phoenix Afterschool Center is a school-based program offering school-year and summer activities at more than
100 sites throughout Phoenix. His performances are geared for the enjoyment of younger children. For information, call 602-262-7370.
Storm Drain Dan - The Street Transportation Department, Storm Water Management Section offers a 30-minute program designed to educate third and fourth graders on the importance of the storm drain system and pollution prevention. Presentations are tailored to each school and may be acceptable as “environmental training” as required by state law. Students also receive Storm Drain Dan activity books, which are available in English and Spanish and include word puzzles,
games and information. To arrange a presentation, call 602-256-3190. Presentations are limited to
50 children per session.
Urban Forestry - The Phoenix Urban Forestry program teaches children about the beauty and benefits of trees in the city. Animal friend puppets give a “Tree Talk” to children in schools and at Phoenix Afterschool Center sites. To learn more, contact Phoenix Urban Forestry at 602-495-3763.
Wayne Drop - Wayne Drop is the official mascot of the City of Phoenix Water Services Department. Wayne Drop promotes the “Water Use it Wisely” program, delivering the message of water
conservation and water issues to Phoenix customers at city-sponsored community events. For more information, call 602-261-8367.