Community Benefits from Completion of Children's Museum of Skagit County

MT.VERNON, Wash. -- A $50,000 capital grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation will enable the Children's Museum of Skagit County to fully complete all exhibit areas. The grant funds will be used to place tri-lingual signage in the museum, house computer kiosks in various exhibit areas, place signage on the outside of the building and complete the remaining exhibits. The museum also plans to purchase a totem structure, carved by local Swinomish artist Kevin Paul, to frame the entrance to the art studio. Museum officials believe the totem will set the tone for the art studio, as well as celebrate one of the many cultures that are a vital part of the community.

"There are many program and signage elements we have envisioned in the exhibits but have not had the funds to put them in place until now," said Cate Melcher, the executive director of the museum. "There is also office space upstairs in the museum that needs complete renovation.  We are absolutely thrilled to be able to fully complete the museum." 

"The museum has received an incredible outpouring of support from the community. Without the help of hundreds of volunteers as well as some very committed businesses, the museum would not be open today," said Tracey Levine, vice president of the museum's board of directors. "The continued display of support by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation has just increased the scope of our community in an extremely positive way. The children and families of Skagit County will be the true winners because of this generous grant."

The Children's Museum has enjoyed great success since opening its doors on October 4, 2003. More than 1,200 visitors have enthusiastically explored and experienced the eight main exhibit areas. Featured exhibits include "Trucking through the Valley," featuring a full sized truck sleeper cab, "Truck Stop Diner," an authentic diner complete with stools, and "Lights!  Shadows! Action!," a science area including a shadow wall, laser beam and color mixing activities as well as an infinity of mirrors cubicle. 

Other sections include a "Farmyard Toddler Area," with a large multifaceted play structure, and a train table and "Art Studio" which is a haven for creativity and offers several options to engage children. The "Drama Area" is a place where children can perform on stage wearing a variety of costumes. "The Reading Area" is a cozy nook for quiet time reading with parents. The museum also offers a "Wilderness Zone" featuring a tree house with a bridge to a mountain and a huge sandpit underneath. The museum also has a birthday party room and is open for evening functions.