Dancing to Support NWA Children’s Museum
By Terrah Baker
Imagine a place in Northwest Arkansas where children can explore a projected 45,000 square foot museum, filled with themes from the past, present and future and an outdoor exploration area inspired by the seasons. That’s an image the nonprofit organization AMAZEUM is working to make a reality.
AMAZEUM, formerly knows as The Children’s Museum of NWA, is holding its 7th annual Dancing with the Stars of NWA gala to raise enough funds to complete and open the children’s exploration center and museum in NWA by late 2015. The center will be located on J. Street near Crystal Bridges in Bentonville.
“Our mission is to engage the imagination of children and their families through interactive exhibits and programs, and resources while creating an excitement for lifelong learning and the enrichment of lives,” said AMAZEUM organizers.
The goal of the AMAZEUM team is to establish the museum focusing on the entire family, from young children to grandparents. The museum will provide a source of interaction, creativity, education and socialization while fostering parent, business and individual engagement at different levels, they said.
AMAZEUM Board President Bob Arvin announced this summer that the museum will break ground in early 2014. The gala will be held March 8 at the John Q. Hammons Center in Rogers. Last year, the fundraiser sold out with over 650 in attendance. This year, organizers said, they hope to make it even more exciting. The event will feature a sit-down meal, silent and live auctions and, of course, dancing. Five celebrity dancers will perform with their professional dance partners in front of everyone in attendance. Celebrity dancers for this year are Tina Winham, Cindy Mac Naughton, Dr. Missy Clifton, Wyley Elliott of Celebrate Magazine and Rod Bigelow of Crystal Bridges.
For more information or to purchase a ticket to this event, contact Holly Hook at 479-696-9280.
