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The Junior League of Greater Covington and St. Tammany Parish are pairing up to create a new Children’s Museum.
On Sunday, March 7, “A Celebration of Exploration: A Night for the Museum” gathered together those who wish to make the fun and educational dream a reality.
Margaret Orr was the honorary chair and emcee, while Jim Henderson and Rich Mauti served as auctioneers. There were several exhibits, loaned by the New Orleans Geological Society and the University of New Orleans’ Department of Geology, set up throughout the Castine Center in Mandeville. Ben Stiller’s blockbuster A Night at the Museum provided inspiration with live actors portraying Sacagawea, cavemen and Lewis and Clark mingled with guests.
Forty-five restaurants served up their best dishes that were washed down with Pat O’Brien’s special cocktail, the “Sky-Lab.” Entertainment by Four Unplugged kept things lively for the young at heart along with the Northshore Philharmonic. A Diamond Dig allowed partygoers to be budding archeologists with a chance of taking home half-carat diamonds or gemstones. Raffles and auctions provided travel to Napa, Calif.; New York City; or Orlando, Fla.; a sports getaway; NOCCA artwork; an astronaut training trip and a whole lot more.
Over $100,000 was raised; at present, the Children’s Museum progress is at a design phase. Funds from the event will go toward the services of a national exhibit designer and architectural plans.
