[Congressional Record Volume 162, Number 144 (Thursday, September 22, 2016)]
[Senate]
[Pages S5987-S5988]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




        25TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE LAS VEGAS NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM

  Mr. REID. Mr. President, today I wish to recognize the 25th 
anniversary of the Las Vegas Natural History Museum. For a quarter 
century, the museum has inspired curiosity, appreciation, and 
responsibility for the natural world and its resources. It is my great 
pleasure to recognize the institution, its employees, and its board 
members before the U.S. Senate today.
  The Las Vegas Natural History Museum began as a culmination of 
efforts by dedicated Nevadans, including executive director and founder 
Marilyn Gillespie, to protect the State's collection of wildlife and 
prehistoric exhibits. Through cooperation with the Las Vegas City 
Council and partnerships within the Las Vegas area, the museum was soon 
able to officially open its doors to visitors in 1991. Since then, the 
museum has expanded to include a multibillion dollar collection of 
regional and global artifacts, as well as a variety of interactive 
scientific exhibits and educational resources. In 2002, the Smithsonian 
Institution granted affiliate membership to the Las Vegas Natural 
History Museum, further enhancing its exhibits and impact on visitors.
  Early collaborations within the Las Vegas area provided the framework 
for a history of community engagement that continues to define the 
institution to this day. Last year, more than 23,000 educational tours 
were provided to students from Clark County, each of which were 
designed to meet State educational requirements. The museum

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also continued its Open Doors Program, allowing more students from at-
risk or economically disadvantaged schools to visit the museum.
  At a time when environmental stewardship is more important than ever, 
I am proud to join my fellow Nevadans in celebrating this important 
milestone. As we look back on 25 years of scientific exploration and 
discovery, we look forward to many more in the future.

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