We were a little apprehensive when we woke up yesterday morning. On the bright side, it was no longer 90 degrees with 99% humidity like it had been on Saturday. On the down side, with the cooler temps came 100% humidity (aka, downpour) and flash flood warnings.

But rain or shine, the show had to go on, and early yesterday morning, a group of volunteers came in to set up for the Grand Opening festivities. Everyone was especially amused by the walking canopy in the downpour, as Judy Edlund, event coordinator, and her family, relocated one of the event tents.

But as luck would have it, the sun came out while the grand opening ceremony was taking place. Past presidents Betty Hemstad and Sue Kerfoot gathered with Gunflint District Ranger Dennis Neitzke for the ribbon cutting and grand opening attendees got a sunny welcome to Chik-Wauk.

Our best estimate is that we had 350-400 people attend the event. In the end, we could only call the day a “success.”

If you’re looking for photos of the “big day” check our Facebook album and don’t forget to become a Facebook fan of Chik-Wauk’s.

In case you missed it, the Duluth News Tribune did a great piece on the museum in yesterday’s Sunday paper too. Our thanks for their interest in our project.

We hope you’ll have a chance to visit the newest museum and nature center in Minnesota. From now until October 17, we’ll be open every day, from 10-5.

Don’t forget that on Thursday, July 8th, we have the third USDA Forest Service “Becoming a Boundary Waters Family” presentation. Biologist Peg Robertsen will present on the Minnesota Breeding Bird Atlas at 3 p.m. on the Chik-Wauk front porch.