FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:  Nov. 3, 2010

CONTACT: Jeff Mammenga, Media Coordinator, (605) 773-6000, Jeff.Mammenga@state.sd.us                                   

Make a Fly Tie Ornament at Cultural Heritage Center on Nov. 7

PIERRE, S.D. -- Kids and adults alike can make their own fly-tie ornaments on Sunday, Nov. 7, from 1-3 p.m. CST at the Cultural Heritage Center in Pierre.

Oversize wire hooks, feathers, fake fur, pipe cleaners and other decorating materials are provided. There is no charge for the program, and the museum has free admission that day because it’s the first Sunday of the month.

The small fly ties used to catch fish are designed to look like bugs that fish might find tasty. The ornamental ones being made on Nov. 7 are much larger and can be as embellished or simple as the maker wishes. The materials are large enough so even young children can have fun with the project.

“Here’s a chance to create a unique gift for the angler in the family,” said Helen B Louise, museum director. “Imagine Grandpa’s face on Christmas morning when he unwraps a one-of-a-kind, fly-tie ornament. Everyone is invited to come and try their hand at making an oversize fly tie. It’s a great family activity.”

Museum hours are 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Central Time on Monday-Saturday, and 1-4:30 p.m. on Sundays and most holidays. The first Sunday of every month is a free admission day. Visit www.history.sd.gov for more information, or call (605) 773-6000.

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The South Dakota State Historical Society is a division of the Department of Tourism and State Development and strives to help the state meet the goals of the 2010 Initiative by enhancing history as a tool for economic development and cultural tourism. The society is headquartered at the South Dakota Cultural Heritage Center in Pierre. The center houses the society’s world-class museum, the archives, and the historic preservation, publishing and administrative/development offices. Call (605) 773-3458 or visit www.history.sd.gov for more information. The society also has an archaeology office in Rapid City; call (605) 394-1936 for more information.