museums&MORE Winter 2017

Editor’s Letter: Swan song for Jerry Mayer, Susan Mills

If heading to the Smoky Mountains in early November has become something of a pilgrimage — and I know it is for many of us — this year’s trip may have been a little bittersweet.

Informative & Fun

This collection of companies offers innovative, educational and fun toys and games

Manager’s Corner: Bill Lucey

Now 16 years into the business, Bill Lucey of Rainforest Adventures Discovery Zoo in Tennessee is now among the seasoned veterans of zoo retailers.

New Discovery

As Las Vegas has grown, the Discovery Children’s Museum has grown with it

Peer Perspective: Brent Walter, Vilas Zoo

Brent Walter’s father was a zookeeper, and Brent followed in his dad’s footsteps from an early age. In addition to being an integral part of the Vilas Zoo in Madison, Brent also is a longstanding member of the Zoo & Aquarium Buyer’s Group (ZAG) and its treasurer.

Peer Perspective: Mari Gruber, Bear Mountain Butterfly Sanctuary

Mari Gruber, who started the Bear Mountain Butterfly Sanctuary in 2002, believes in treating people well and promoting appreciation of nature. In her experience, doing so also leads to business success.

Souvenir Snapshot 2017

Museums & More readers share feedback, opinions in our souvenir survey

Space Observation

America's first planetarium offers products that exceed expectations