The i.d.e.a. Museum for the sixth year in a row will provide free admission to active-duty military families in the summer via the Blue Star Museums program. Blue Star Museums is a collaboration among the National Endowment for the Arts, Blue Star Families, the Department of Defense, and more than 2,000 museums nationwide.
"We're honored to again be a Blue Star museum, as military families sacrifice so much," said i.d.e.a. Museum Executive Director Sunnee O'Rork. "We're thankful for their service. This is just one way to give back and provide quality bonding experiences for their families."
What: Blue Star Museum program for military members (Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard), including those in the National Guard and Reserve
When: May 30-Sept. 3.Museum hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday; noon to 4 p.m. Sunday.
How to participate: Active-duty military personnel and up to five family members may receive free admission with the following IDs: Geneva Convention common access card (CAC), DD Form 1173 ID card (dependent ID) or DD Form 1173-1 ID card.
Museum activities:Families will enjoy the upcoming exhibitionMy Favorite Monster, opening June 16. Also, ArtVille, a socks-only space for ages 0 to 4 years old, features early learning activities and imaginative play; while the HUB Gallery features hands-on experiences that incorporate art, design and engineering principles.
The Blue Star Museums program provides families the ability to enjoy cultural experiences and learn more about their communities, especially after a military move. It also helps families connect with each other. "It means a lot to offer these families access to high-quality, budget-friendly opportunities to spend time together," said NEA Chairman Jane Chu, in a statement.
"Whether they want to blast off at a science museum, take a walk through nature, or encounter animals at the aquarium, Blue Star Museums will help service members and their families create memories this summer," said Blue Star Families Chief Executive Officer Kathy Roth-Douquet, in a statement. "We are thrilled with the continued growth of the program and the unparalleled opportunities it offers."
The complete list of participating museums is available at www.arts.gov/bluestarmuseums.
Contact: Yvette Armendariz
Museum Public Relations & Marketing
Yvette.Armendariz@MesaAZ.gov
(480) 644-4129