Museum activities, exhibits guarantee summer entertainment
07/10/13 mcw
HAYS, Kan. - With summer halfway over, with the goings-on that seemed exciting back in May maybe having lost some of their allure now, the Sternberg Museum of Natural History is presenting multiple activities and exhibits to rekindle the excitement while entertaining and educating.A newer semi-permanent exhibit is "Rattlerssss," which includes many different species of rattlesnakes. Children and adults alike can learn an enormous amount about these species. With the tagline "From Fear to Fascination," one might think this exhibit would be limited to children. Actually, the contrary applies.
"The 'fear to fascination' is more geared toward adults," said Marcella McCluskey, summer marketing and public relations intern. "Most kids are not afraid of this exhibit and have a built-in fascination."
The cost of viewing this exhibit, as with all the exhibits, is covered by museum admission: $8 for adults, $6 for senior citizens, $5 for children, and $4 for Fort Hays State University students with valid student ID.
Another exhibit is "Mammal Invasion," a display of creatures from the Ice Age in realistic settings. People can learn about some of the large mammals that existed after the dinosaurs' extinction. A giant bird from the same era is also on display.
This display features interactive aspects, too. Patrons can smell the scent emitted by mammoths and feel how much one of their teeth weighed. This experience is further enhanced by the sounds these animals made.
"Mammal Invasion" closes Sept. 8.
The "ABCs of the Sternberg Museum" scavenger hunt will be at 2:30 p.m. Friday, July 26. This event is for ages 9-12. First-, second- and third-place prizes will be awarded, and admission to the museum covers participation costs.
Sternberg Museum also has additional one-day activities available. "Family Slithery Evening," 6:30-10 p.m. Saturday, July 27, will provide an in-depth look at the "Rattlerssss" display along with snacks, crafts, lore and snake tricks. This event is designed for patrons ages 5 and up with a one-parent minimum per family. The cost is $15 per participant with a $75 maximum for families or $12 per participant with a $60 maximum for museum members. The deadline for registration is July 19. For more information or to register, contact the museum at 785-628-4286.
07/10/13 mcw