• Lake Champlain Basin Science Center Expands

• Brian Hughes 1960...1997

Lake Champlain Basin Science Center Expands

New Lake Champlain Basin Science Center—$10 million

n March 10, 1997 the Lake Champlain Basin Science Center unveiled its expansion plans for a new $10 million, 46,000 square foot facility located on the Burlington waterfront. Mayor Peter Clavelle opened a press conference at the Burlington Community Boathouse by welcoming state legislators, Burlington city councilors, waterfront landowners and the general public. Board members George E. Little, Jr. and Rayburn V. Lavigne, Vice President for Administration at the University of Vermont, hosted the event. Architect John Anderson presented the architectural plans and conceptual drawings for the multi-phased development. The groundbreaking for the new building is scheduled for the fall of 1997 with completion of the new Science Center by 2001.

Dr. Mary Watzin, Associate Professor of Natural Resources at UVM, presented the educational and research program for Phase 1 of the long-range plan, the Beverly and Stephen Rubenstein Ecosystem Science Laboratory. "It's a bold concept," she commented. "A waterfront laboratory that conducts world-class lake studies in state -of-the-art facilities with the unique opportunity for the public to watch and participate." The new lab will provide researchers with the tools to determine the ecological health of Lake Champlain and improve the quality of life for the people of the basin.

Phase II of the design includes 15,000 square feet of exciting indoor exhibits, a garden atrium for children's water play, increased numbers of live animals, expanded classroom space, and an enlarged resource library. Water is the central theme and the building of glass, brick and timber will maximize views of the lake. Rooftop viewing will be available. Other lake related organizations, already a major part of the Science Center, will be on site as the Center serves as a gateway to other attractions in the area.

Immediately after the press conference, John Anderson led a tour of the Science Center site, including the City's new information/ticketbooth gateway to the waterfront. This steel archway will be festooned by banners when the ticket booth opens for the summer on Memorial Day.

The Science Center first opened on July 29, 1995 in its temporary home in the former Naval Reserve building. Its mission is to educate visitors about Lake Champlain basin ecology, history and culture in a dynamic hands-on environment. More that 45,000 people have already visited the Science Center. Based on a recent survey, 75% of the visitors came from within the Lake Champlain basin.

Board Chair George Little said, "The response has been overwhelming. Our attendance si much higher that projected. Our fundraising efforts for Phase II are just beginning and we are very excited to announce a $100,000 gift from the Blue Ridge Foundation." After more that a decade of public debate about uses of the Naval building, Senator Patrick Leahy of Vermont helped launch the Science Center with a $1.5 million grant from the federal Housing and Urban Development Agency. A combination of private and public funding will make the grand $10-million vision a reality.

The Science Center is open to the public every weekend of the year from 12:30 to 4:30. Extended hours for the summer season from 11:00 to 5:00 daily begin June 14. It is also open to throughout the year on school vacations based on the Burlington school schedule. In addition, on a scheduled basis, field trips can be arranged during the school year Tuesdays through Fridays form 9:00 to 3:00. For more information call 802-864-1848.

Brian Hughes
1960—1997

Brian Hughes

rian Hughes passed away on Wednesday February 19, 1997 following a courageous fight with lymph cancer.

Brian will be remembered not only as a great sailor but as a friend to all. His enthusiasm on and off the water was contagious. Whether sailing as a member of a world class crew or with his family in their Lightning, Brian enjoyed life to its fullest.

Those of us who knew Brian understand that he would not want us to morn his passing. Brian enjoyed life and he would want us to do the same. Let's do our best to keep the party goin'.......

We miss you Brian.