The following are excerpt from some of the letters that we have received.
William W. Fox, Jr., Assistant Administrator, National Marine Fisheries Service [3/19/90]
"As a scientist and a conservationist, I wish you good luck in your endeavor."
John J. Dragonetti, Assistant Director, U.S. Geological Survey [3/13/90]
"The educational opportunities associated with such a facility [the museum] are so vital to the Nation's need, that we at the USGS applaud such an effort."
"We at the USGS are fully supportive of the kind of effort you are planning to create a Natural History Museum. Such a facility would certainly play a fundamental role in achieving the goals and objectives of a national science education policy."
"The effort to increase the science literacy of the public is vital to understanding some of the serous problems we face today, such as global warming, the greenhouse effect, toxic waste issues, the loss of rain forests, acid rain, and a myriad of other global problems."
"We certainly support your effort and plan to create traveling exhibits to bring knowledge to all of the sectors of your State."
Michael A. Chinnery, Director, National Geophysical Data Center [3/6/90]
"I would like to offer my strong support to you as you plan a
natural history museum for Kentucky."
"Somehow our current system of schooling is not bringing out the best in our youngsters. In particular, we need the brightest and best to enter the sciences if the United States is to maintain its competitive position in the next decades."
"Personally, I think that a natural history museum, particularly a dynamic one such as you envisage, is an ideal way to bring to youngsters the awe and wonder of the earth and universe that we all feel in one way or another."
"Also, being organized at the state level will convey a sense of ownership and pride which will stimulate all who visit the museum."
D. Allan Bromely, Assistant to the President for Science and Technology [3/30/90]
"...scientific exhibits do stimulate the interest of young people in the sciences."
"I wish you well in your endeavors to strengthen science education for our nation's youth."
Richard E. Stephens, Director, University and Industry Programs, Department of Energy [3/2/90]
"There is no question...that museums perform an extremely important education service which touches both children and adults in ways that formal classroom instruction often cannot. Nationally, over 50 million Americans annually visit the some 150 science museums/science centers in the United States. These visitors clearly go home with renewed or new understanding of scientific and technical phenomena."
Kenneth D. Hadeen, Director, National Climatic Data Center [2/28/90]
"As America's only climate data center, we certainly understand the importance of preserving our natural history whether it be in animals, plants, or climate. This history is our only hope to educate the young as to their natural heritage. So, yes we would certainly support your efforts to establish a natural history museum in Kentucky."
Bassam Z. Shakhashiri, Assistant Director, National Science Foundation [4/3/90]
"The development of new natural history and science centers around the country is a testament to the resurgence of interest in science. These centers of informal science education are very important in stimulating the interest of our students in science and scientific careers."
Joan Leitzel, Division Director, National Science Foundation [3/1/90]
"A natural history museum in Kentucky would serve not only regional interests but would be considerable national interest as well. I wish you every success in this endeavor."
"A museum of the type you envision, by providing a record of natural history and human invention, contributes significantly to the education of people of all ages. In addition, the museum enables research efforts in science and history that depend on significant collections from earlier times."
"The National Science Foundation supports both education and research in mathematics, science, and engineering. We view museums as critical environments for both education and research.
Michael H. Robinson, Director, National Zoological Park [3/8/90]
"As a tropical biologist of 20 years standing, and an active proponent of the idea that biology is the most important educational discipline for the 21st century, I am a committed supporter of all forms of biological exhibitry. We desperately need more natural history museums, aquariums, zoos and anthropology exhibits. In this context I think that Kentucky should live up to its proud traditions for leadership and plan to build a natural history museum."
"I also think that such a museum should have as many living exhibits as possible."
Robert McC. Adams, Secretary, Smithsonian Institution [3/19/90]
"I am happy to express my general support for museums and their role in the education system and society at-large."
"Planning, establishing and then maintaining a museum with a professional staff and a full program of exhibitions and public programs is a long, major and expensive undertaking."
Frank H. Talbot, Director, National Museum of Natural History, Smithsonian Institution [3/19/90]
"I am pleased to endorse your plan to build a natural history museum for Kentucky. As a relatively new director of the world's largest natural history museum (visitation of more than 7 million annually) I am striving to put a "new face" on the subject and gradually teach through our exhibits and educational program a "new natural history." From my own perspective I felt it is imperative to convey the impact of human beings on the environment and th real need to change the way we interact with nature."
"As a natural history museum, I believe it is incumbent upon us to make people think about the richness of the world around them and the need to preserve it."
"We also need to "spark off" youngsters on science, and museums do this extremely well, outside the formality of school. You would, therefore, be playing an important role in this regard."
"I applaud your efforts in starting a natural history museum system in Kentucky and wish you every success."
Carroll Hubbard, Congressman [3/19/90]
"I would like to take this opportunity to express my support for the attempt being made to build a natural history museum in Kentucky."
"I know that there is a great interest among the citizens of the Commonwealth for such a museum and certainly the success of the Dinosaurs Alive! exhibit at the Living Arts and Sciences Center in Lexington is evidence of that."
"The plans to build a museum system that includes travelling exhibits will be especially beneficial in that all citizens around the state will benefit educationally and scientifically."
Brereton C. Jones, Lt. Governor and Governor [3/12/90]
"It is our firm belief that education is the solution to all of the major problems facing our Commonwealth. It is very important that our children have the ability to compete in the world economy
of the future. In order to do so, they must have a solid foundation of knowledge in, not only communication skills and economics, but also in mathematics, liberal arts and the sciences. For these reasons, we are pleased to endorse the idea of constructing a natural history museum for Kentucky."
Mrs. Pat Freibert, State Representative [3/8/90]
"I support your efforts toward this worthy endeavor."
"A museum of Natural History would be a wonderful educational tool for not only our citizens of the Commonwealth, but also the many tourists who are interested in this area."
"Further development of educational methods of heightening our understanding of science and our environment is most timely."
Ernesto Scorsone, Representative [5/7/90]
"I want to compliment you on your efforts to build a natural history museum in Kentucky. With the tremendous focus on our future in education, what better bridge from the past to the future than a project of this nature. Not only would a natural history museum generate the interest of both young and old, but just as importantly, I believe that it would go a long way in enhancing Kentucky's reputation in the scientific community...I know I am joined by many Kentuckians who share in the enthusiasm for this project and look forward to it becoming a reality."
Lawrence E. Forgy, Jr., Attorney [2/28/90]
"I support the efforts of the organizers of the proposed Kentucky Museum of Natural History."
"I believe that an understanding of science and our environment will be critical for the development and welfare of Kentucky."
"A Kentucky natural history museum can provide an important element in the scientific education of Kentuckians, both young and old."
Harry M. Caudill, Attorney, Author [3/11/90]
"I agree with you entirely that Kentucky is long overdue in setting up a museum for the display, and for the teaching, of Kentucky's marvelous natural heritage."
"It is to be hoped that someday Kentucky will stop giving away or ignoring and losing such an important part of the state's history as the mammoth bones from Big Bone Lick."
"It has been my understanding that the University of Nebraska refused to return them [mammoth bones from Big Bone Lick] on the ground that Kentucky had no proper place to house and display them where they would be adequately protected and secure. Many years have elapsed since they were taken away and it is time that Kentucky made an adequate effort to retrieve them and get them properly housed."
"Kentucky's land, history, forests, soil and water courses have never been appreciated by Kentuckians in the mass. I believe that most of them would transfer all our traditions and history for a few extra days of work in a tobacco patch. In the global market place that has emerged since 1945 new ideas and policies must be pursued. If the state of Kentucky does not arouse itself it will lose not only the big bones that Thomas Jefferson found so interesting, but we will see our culture, our history and our learning fade away."
"I strongly endorse the building of a Natural Science Museum for Kentucky. Please call upon me at any time."
Bill Lear, State Representative [3/2/90]
"I have long believed that we should have a museum of natural history here in Lexington and have discussed that prospect with Mayor Baessler and with Dr. David Roselle..."
"Needless to say, I am an enthusiastic supporter of your idea and would like to discuss it with you in detail."
Pam Miller, Vice Mayor, Lexington [3/12/90]
"I have been in favor of such a [natural history] museum for many years and have no doubt that it would be a fascinating resource for all Kentuckians, both children and adults. I grew up in New England with such a natural history museum close at hand, and I spent many hours and many weekends rummaging around in those exhibits."
"I want to give you encouragement and support."
Gene C. Royalty, Secretary, Cabinet for Economic Development [3/2/90]
"This is an exciting project..., I am pleased to give my endorsement as Secretary of Economic Development to this worthwhile proposal."
"Quality of life is becoming more and more a factor in the decision making process relating to new plant locations. Education and cultural enrichment opportunities are both crucial to quality of life. Because of this, I can see a state museum of natural history helping enhance quality of life in Kentucky."
Don R. McCormick, Commissioner, Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources [4/10/90]
"...I ..want to take the time to express to you my support in the efforts to build a natural history museum for Kentucky....I appreciate your efforts and very much concur in what you are doing."
Gary S. Cox, Executive Director, Council on Higher Education [3/15/90]
"I am pleased to support the efforts of your organization in establishing a Natural History Museum in Kentucky."
"A museum of this kind would afford an opportunity for Kentucky artifacts to remain in the state as well as provide educational experiences for our Kentucky students."
"The Council on Higher Education is concerned about the scientific education of our young people and believe that a museum of this kind would be an important element."
Dr. Jack D. Foster, Secretary, Education and Humanities Cabinet [3/12/90]
"I certainly want to encourage you in your efforts to make the museum a reality....I do wholeheartedly support this very worthwhile project, and I wish you success."
Carl H. Bradley, Secretary, Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Cabinet [3/2/90]
"It is my genuine pleasure to lend my personal support to the very worthwhile objective of establishing a natural history museum for the use and edification of the citizens of Kentucky."
"As the administrator of the agencies in Kentucky Government responsible for the care and protection of our environment and our natural resources, I am deeply aware of the need for a facility which would elevate the level of appreciation for the world around us."
"Our natural heritage is precious and finite and our environment is under attack in various ways which, it seems, multiply day by day."
"Kentuckians, especially our youngsters, would be vastly benefitted by a natural history museum which would ingrain an appreciation for the ways in which nature has made our Commonwealth special."
John H. Brock, Superintendent of Public Instruction [3/14/90]
"A museum with an education component and traveling exhibits would be an important educational asset to Kentucky's educational system, and I support your efforts to organize this effort."
Dr. Donald C. Haney, State Geologist and Director, Kentucky Geological Survey [4/18/90]
"An important economic base for much of Kentucky is its natural resources, whether it be forest, soil, ground and surface water, or mineral resources such as coal, oil, gas, limestone, sand, clay, and gravel. An appreciation for our natural resources and an understanding of how they are affected by the actions of man is necessary if we are to responsibly use these finite resources. In addition, geologic hazards such as slope failure, earthquakes, and ground-water pollution need to be addressed for the safety and welfare of the public and industry."
"An understanding of our natural resources and an appreciation of geologic processes can best be fostered by public educational projects such as the proposed natural history museum."
"Therefore, as Director of the Kentucky Geological Survey and as State Geologist, I enthusiastically support the efforts to develop the Kentucky Museum of Natural History."
Mary Ray Oaken, Secretary, Tourism Cabinet [2/28/90]
"Such a [natural history] museum is important, not only as a tourism attraction but also as an educational resource. The museum's exhibits and information will enhance our children's learning experience while entertaining and enlightening adults."
"I believe that a museum such as you describe is needed at this time. Recent studies indicate that more and more people are going to cultural events and attractions; therefore, the Tourism Cabinet supports your efforts."
Debra K. Pearce, President, Kentucky Academy of Science [3/13/90]
"It is with pleasure that I write, as president of the Kentucky Academy of Science, in support of the concept of a Kentucky natural history museum."
"There is a great need in Kentucky to bring science alive in a way that is readily accessible to the general population. A natural history museum that includes traveling exhibits would have the potential throughout the Commonwealth. This is especially important during this time of a critical shortage of students entering fields of science, engineering, and mathematics. We have to make science visible and tangible in order to increase involvement in these areas so vital to our biological and economic future."
Shirley Lauterbach, President, Kentucky Science Teachers Association [4/10/90]
"This letter is in support of your efforts to build a natural history museum in Kentucky. The Board of Directors of the Kentucky Science Teachers Association endorses your project and would be happy to serve as a resource in developing plans for the museum."
"Needless to say, science teachers and their students throughout the state would benefit from such a museum especially since you mentioned it would include travelling exhibits."
James L. Booth, Acting President, Murray State University [4/4/90]
"...the Commonwealth needs attractions such as [the museum] to arouse the academic interest of school children and provide cultural opportunities for the general populace. Therefore, please do add the name of Murray State University to what I presume will be a long list of supporters for this project."
"Those of us who live in western Kentucky are particularly interested in the development of traveling exhibits. Traveling exhibits would not only serve western Kentucky, which is some five hours removed from Lexington, but many other distant areas of the Commonwealth as well."
C. Nelson Grote, President, Morehead State University [3/5/90]
"The present effort by you and others to establish a Museum of Natural History to serve the needs of the Commonwealth of Kentucky is commendable. It is a project that we at Morehead State University can readily endorse."
Leon E. Boothe, President, Northern Kentucky University [4/16/90]
"I ... agree it [the museum] has the potential to be of real value to the culture and education of Kentuckians of all ages."
Donald C. Swain, President, University of Louisville [3/2/90]
"Such an enterprise [natural history museum] could be a valuable adjunct to education in Kentucky."
Charles T. Wethington, Jr., President, University of Kentucky [3/5/90]
"I agree that a museum is one of the most effective and enjoyable ways to educate the general public about science and I support the idea of a Kentucky Natural History Museum."
Leonard K. Peters, Vice Chancellor for Research and Graduate Studies, University of Kentucky [3/1/90]
"Such a facility [natural history museum] would satisfy a major educational and scientific need in our state. Not only would it provide enhanced cultural activities for the general public, a natural history museum would be a major scientific and educational facility for our elementary and secondary students in Kentucky."
"I applaud and support your efforts and personally am willing to assist and work with you in these efforts."