PORT TOWNSEND – The Port Townsend Marine Science Center celebrated its 25th anniversary on Saturday at Fort Worden State Park with a “family reunion.”
The reunion was for staff, board, volunteers, and friends of the Center who have been involved over the past quarter century.
Founders Libby Palmer and Judy D’Amore were on hand to help host the festivities, along with Executive Director Anne Murphy.
More than 160 people attended the event to celebrate the organization’s birthday, bringing photos, stories, music, and food to share with friends who came from all over the state and from as far away as Iraq and China.
Representing Gov. Christine Gregoire was Kathleeen Drew, executive policy advisor.
She brought this message from the governor: “Since its inception, the PTMSC has helped educate the public about our marine habitats and the importance of recovery efforts along Puget Sound.
“I commend the PTMSC leadership and staff for their commitment to conservation, education and service. Your efforts benefit all Washingtonians, and I am confident that the past 25 years are merely the beginning of a long and fruitful legacy of environmental consciousness and activism.”
The hard work and perseverance of Palmer and D’Amore in the initial days were commended by Joe Wheeler, the initial executive director of Centrum, who praised their vision and determination.
Rachel Gaspers, past president of the center, spoke of the milestone accomplished in fundraising and bringing the Natural History Exhibit to fruition.
Celebrating 25 years of coastal education and conservation in 2007, the center is devoted to understanding, preserving and teaching about local marine and shoreline environment as guardians for a sustainable future.
Located on the beach at Fort Worden State Park, the center offers two public exhibits, the Marine Exhibit and Natural History Exhibit.
Both are open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday through Monday.
Admission is $5 for adults, $3 for youth and free to center members.
For more information, phone 360-385-5582, e-mail info@ptmsc.org or visit www.ptmsc.org.