How many museums does the East Valley need?
At least three, apparently. These are historical museums, which, the East Valley Tribune says, are undergoing some philosophical changes, though what those changes might be aren’t really spelled out:
Museums of history have suffered more than science or other kinds in recent years as technology and interactive experiences have transformed nearly every aspect of society and made history seem dull.
Museum operators say East Valley history museums will change significantly with more interactive displays and more traveling exhibits. A new museum planned in downtown Chandler signifies what most museums are trying to become. The city is planning a 25,000 square foot building downtown that is seen as the anchor of the arts and culture district. It would feature gathering places for speakers and performances amidst displays that would change frequently so visitors would have a reason to return frequently.
Turns out Mesa and Tempe already have their own local historical museums, though why they exist is a little unclear; even the Phoenix Museum of History at Heritage Square shut down last summer.
Comments
Martin Cizmar Thursday, April 01, 2010:
Since we're critiquing ledes...
You should never assume the reader has read the headline. This is something I've really struggled to impress upon my writers, but it's basic journalism. Even if people have read the headline they often process it then forget exactly what it said and have to go back and read it. Also, since you then have to go back again and say "these are historical museums" it's a double whammy.
Also, since 1.5 millionish people live in the East Valley I don't think it's ridiculous to think they might want three historical museums. Mesa is a larger city than Miami or Cleveland, for example, and has a Mormon-influenced history that's totally separate from the surrounding communities, so maybe it's not a terrible idea to have a museum. You seem to forget that all these cities weren't originally merged together by urban sprawl, and that they previously had their own character. So, viewed through that lens, saying "why do Mesa and Tempe need their own museums" is a lot like saying "why do Flagstaff and Sedona need their own museums."