The Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center has been recognized by readers of two publications, one local and the other state.   Two bronze awards in The Virginian-Pilot Reader’s Choice Award for Best of Hampton Roads were given for Best Family Entertainment and Best Children’s Entertainment in Virginia Beach.   In the inaugural year of the Virginia Living Magazine’s Best of Virginia 2012 awards the Virginia Aquarium received 1st Place, Best Annual Charity Gala for Commotion in the Ocean; 3rd Place, Best Food Fest for the Sensible Seafood Fest; and 3rd place for Best Party Venue.

WHO:   A male baby otter whose name will be determined by those who participate in the naming contest that will be conducted on the Virginia Aquarium’s new blog site: www.YouOtterKnow.com. 

(Virginia Beach, VA) – On May 10th, Cynthia Spanoulis was honored as the Virginia Beach Rotary Club 2012 Outstanding City Employee of the Year at a recognition dinner. Spanoulis worked at the City of Virginia Beach Department of Economic Development for 16 years and was recently selected as the deputy director of the Department of Museums and Historic Resources which includes the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center.

Whether it is “one guest, two guests, red guests or blue guests” the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center will make a splash with others and celebrate World Ocean's Day 2012. Although the official day is June 8, the Aquarium will offer fun activities on Saturday, June 9 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Story times and informational presentations throughout the day will help Aquarium guests learn more about the marine environment. A "fishy fun" scavenger hunt will lead guests on a tour through the Ocean Pavilion to find clues to unlock a treasure chest filled with prizes. Guests can meet divers in the Chesapeake Bay Aquarium and find out what it's like to be underwater with the fishes. Kids and adults can learn how to make their own "trash talking turtle,” play the "Raindrop Rollercoaster" and participate in other fun activities throughout the day.   On Sunday, June 10, beginning at 9 a.m., a Dr. Seuss Themed Breakfast will be offered. Dr. Seuss characters such as Cat in the Hat, Thing One and Thing Two, and a few other Suess friends will join guests for a delicious breakfast. Reservations are required and should be made by June 6 by calling Guest Services, 385-0300.

For a listing of summer events, special programs, boat trips and IMAX movies, click on the news release for full details.