New Exhibition Opens and a Free Day

Sailings every Thursday through August

Bellingham, WA, July 5, 2012 — Museum phones are already ringing in anticipation of another great Sunset History Cruise season aboard the Island Caper.

What: A beautiful evening on Bellingham Bay with facts and stories about Bellingham's past and present.

Who: Brian Griffin, Bellingham native and longtime historian of Bellingham and Fairhaven is on board in his second year as narrator. A great outing for visitors and locals alike.

When: Sailings each Thursday in July and August starting July 19. Boarding Time: 5:30 PM for 6 PM departure and 8:30 PM return

Where: Board at Squalicum Harbor; 2621 South Harbor Loop Drive; Parking is available throughout the harbor.

How Much: $35; $28 per person when booking groups of 8 or more; children under 4 free. Tickets are available online at www.whatcommuseum.org or by calling 360/778-8963 or in person at the Museum Store, Tuesday-Sunday from noon-5PM.

What to Bring: The following items make for a comfortable and enjoyable cruise:

*Warm and waterproof jacket

*binoculars

*sunglasses or hat

*camera

*picnic dinner

What else: Last year, every cruise in August sold out. Don't delay! Also please note that our alcohol policy has changed. We are no longer able to allow passengers to bring their own alcohol. Wine and beer are available for purchase on board! Cheese Meat(s) Beer, off the museum lobby has picnic ideas!

Special museum admission, open hours and programs July 12-July 29

Bellingham, WA, June 28, 2012 — As just about every Whatcom County school child will tell you, the 500+ birds on display at the Whatcom Museum's Syre Education Center are awesome.

Starting Thursday July 12 through July 29, the Edson-Edson-Booth Collection, as it is officially known, will be open to the public, Thursday-Sunday, noon-5PM. As exhibitions transition in the Lightcatcher, admission to all three Museum buildings (Old City Hall, Lightcatcher and Syre) is $5; free for members.

In addition to seeing the birds, visitors can explore the museum's native peoples' display and historical pioneer, Victorian and logging exhibits. Eight programs related to the Syre exhibits, including bird-art workshops, tours, and bird identification and nature walks are scheduled. Programs have limited capacity; visitors must pre-register for classes, which are offered for a $3 suggested donation. See www.whatcommusuem.org/events for details. Pre-register at 778-8960.

Press inquiries please contact museum educator Chris Brewer, 778 – 8960.

July Events: "Melting Pot" closes; Bird Collection open to public with special programs; popular History Sunset Cruise launches