Downtown children's museum to stay open

Derry

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August 31, 2007

Julie Huss

DERRY | The Met is saved.

After a month-long "Save the Met" drive to raise money and support for the financially-strapped downtown Children's Metamorphosis Museum, the museum's board of directors is scheduled to announce it is officially remaining open in Derry for the foreseeable future.

"Just a month ago it felt like the 16-year-old vision for a fun, educational, affordable local children's museum had come crashing down upon us," said Met Executive Director Tracy LaPlante. "Now we're grateful and excited about creating a whole new future going forward."

The Met announced last month it would close effective Aug. 31 after growing debt and back rent payments made it tough to continue. The museum's landlord, Derry Depot Square Holdings, LLC, served the space a "Demand for Rent" notice and forced the Met board to announce the museum would close.

A "Save the Met" campaign began on Aug. 1 with supporters and funding stepping up to help the museum succeed and stay open. Dozens of new volunteers came forward to fuel the financial fire and help raise $50,000 to off debts and handle immediate expenses.

In addition, the Met board of directors will expand with 17 new people expressing an interest in getting involved.

Another goal of the campaign brought on new corporate sponsorship including a $10,000 per year, three-year commitment from Stonyfield Yogurt, and more sponsorships through local families, businesses, and organizations. More sponsors are still needed, LaPlante said.

Met board of directors member Paul Lindemann said it through the help of many that the Met can continue and he thanked all who helped in whatever way, especially the families, individuals, and local community support.

"Their exciting commitment to the museum helps us appreciate that a team of sole proprietorships, small businesses, and even generous families can be just as effective at helping the Met as larger corporations," Lindemann said.

With the Met remaining open, LaPlante said families are encouraged to submit the annual membership renewals that have been on hold since mid-July. Work is also beginning on a new calendar of museum workshops, programs, and activities for fall.

The "Save the Met" campaign continues with a schedule of fundraising events scheduled in the weeks ahead. A new membership drive is planned for October, with a kick-off "Met Day" set for Oct. 6 | a celebration planned to thank the community for its support.

For information about the Met, its operating hours and schedule, or for information about the "Save the Met" fundraising activities, visit the museum online at www.savethemet.org or call 425-2560.