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MINUTES
Corpus Christi Museum of Science and History
Advisory Committee Meeting
February 7,2002
The Museum Advisory Committee met in the Museum at Noon on Thursday,February 7, 2002.
Members Present: Hank Brennecke,Art Howerton,Kathy Heymann,Donna Flynn, Joe
Martinez, Tony Diaz,Lynda Falconer, and Mary Longoria.
Upon motion by Donna Flynn and seconded by Joe Martinez the minutes of the January 3,2002
meeting were unanimously approved. Upon motion by Kathy Heymann and seconded by Tony
Diaz,the absences of Joe Martinez,Hank Brennecke, and Lynda Falconer were excused for good
cause.
Business:
a. Fulfilling a recommendation of the Advisory Committee,the Museum will offer special
classes over Spring Break. The Museum will offer three classes: March 19 -Nautical
Knots, Lore and Navigation Aboard the Columbus Ships,March 20- Through the
Cameras Eye,and March 21 -Selecting and Caring for a Reptile as a Pet.
b. Through the first half of the fiscal year attendance has increased over the same period
last fiscal year: student attendance-up by 46%, non student attendance- up by 25%.
80,000 rack cards have been distributed,many more than previous years due to the
increased interest in the Museum since the ships reopened. We participated in the
Winter Texan Show in McAllen attended by 14,000 people. Visitor surveys are positive
with a satisfaction rate of 96%.
c. Nationally,museum attendance and charitable contributions have been sharply reduced
since September 11th. Local impact has apparently been minimal. Attendance at the
Museum is up-largely due to opening the ships. The Committee discussed ways that the
Museum might address issues associated with September 11th in exhibits and programs.
1)Cultural Diversity -School curriculums place great emphasis on cultural diversity and
inclusion-emphasizing cultural similarity rather than differences. Museum exhibits
could identify the diverse cultures that have come together to build Corpus Christi.
2)Patriotism-This is a thread that runs to the history of Corpus Christi exemplified by
displays of the flag,parades, reciting the Pledge of Allegiance, and recognizing people in
uniformed services(police, fire,and the military). There have been many historical
points in time when patriotism has become a prominent theme in Corpus Christi.
3)Heroes-One of the TEKS for schools is identifying Texas Heroes. Local heroes
ought to be featured in exhibits. A recurring theme might be"people who have made a
difference" stressing the fact that each individual can contribute to the community
through an examination of historical figures who have shaped Corpus Christi.
4)Parents -Often great contributions have been made by immigrants to Corpus Christi.
Their children and grand children enjoy the fruits of their labors.
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Advisory Committee Meeting
February 7, 2002
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5) Institutions-Institutions often"make a difference"in the quality of life in Corpus
Christi -churches, school systems, military, and businesses. Their establishment and
success in the community are important elements in growth and development.
6) Stories- Stories can enrich our understanding of the community at various historical
times. These could be extracted and included in exhibits.
7)Artesian Park-It is clear through the controversy associated with the development of
Artesian Park that the War with Mexico is little understood. Yet, Corpus Christi is
located in the contested territory and the U.S. Army was encamped here for an extended
period. At least the local aspect of the story should be told.
8)Columbus-The relevance of people like Columbus and La Salle to Corpus Christi
should be clearly developed.
These themes will be shared with the staff so that they can be considered for inclusion in
exhibits and programs.
There being no further business the meeting adjourned at 1:15 p.m.