Fossil finds

Don't miss an opportunity to check out the Besser Museum's new Lafarge Fossil Park exhibit that celebrates its grand opening on Saturday, June 18. The public is invited to stop by between 12:30 and 3 p.m. to dig for real fossils, engage in family-oriented activities and rub shoulders with real life paleontologist Paleo Joe.

The new exhibit is a great addition to the museum and the community. It offers a hands-on component that celebrates the ancient history and modern science of limestone, which has been so important to the region. I got to attend last weekend's Sneak Peak of the exhibit and came away totally impressed.

The park concept is one Lafarge officials had been contemplating doing at their own site for the past three years, but worried about safety issues for visitors. When museum official approached them about teaming up to put a fossil park - which features a simulated quarry and lots of fossil material - Lafarge jumped at the opportunity.

About a year's worth of planning and work, plus a big collaboration between many local entities allowed the park to become a reality. It will get lots of use from school groups on field trips to the museum. It also will be available free of charge to anyone who wants to stop by at any time and try their hands at a being an amateur paleontologist.