Friday, Sep 9, 2005
Arches National Park Superintendent Laura Joss has announced that the official dedication of the new Visitor Center will be held on Saturday, September 17th, 2005 at 2:00 p.m. The ceremony will begin with the local singing group, the Valley Voices, leading the “Star-Spangled Banner,” followed by the Moab Taiko Dan drummers performing two pieces. Dignitaries expected include National Park Service Director Fran Mainella, Utah Lieutenant Governor Gary Herbert, National Park Foundation Vice-Chairman Nancy Bechtle and representatives from the Utah Congressional delegation, Grand County, Utah and the City of Moab, Utah. The ribbon-cutting will be followed by light refreshments in the outdoor plaza, and additional performances by the Valley Voices.
Soon after the ceremony, the film “Secrets of Red Rock” will premiere in the new 140-seat theater. Filmed and produced by Discovery Communications, Inc., this film was made possible by a grant from the National Park Foundation through the generous support of Discovery Channel, a Proud Partner of America’s National Parks. Highlighting Arches and Canyonlands National Park, the film enhances visitors’ understanding and appreciation of the two parks.
The 18,000 square foot visitor center at Arches National Park was opened to the public on August 10th. According to Superintendent Laura Joss, “We are very pleased that visitor reactions to the new exhibits, film, bookstore and interactive computer kiosks have been extremely positive.” The public is invited to attend the ceremony on September 17th, and entrance fees will be waived beginning at 12:00 noon that day. The visitor center may be toured anytime, and hours of operation until October 15th are 7:30 AM to 6:30 PM. |
