NEW BEDFORD, Mass. -- New Bedford is celebrating more than just Independence Day as the city welcomes the full-time opening of the Ocean Explorium.
More than a decade in the making, the aquarium and ocean science center overcame major financial hurdles and finally opened to the public last year -- but on Saturdays only. As of July 4, it will be open seven days a week.
The Explorium features a computerized image of Earth in 3-D and a living coral reef exhibit that highlights issues of coral bleaching and global warming.
It also includes an activity center for children.
New Bedford was once among the world's foremost whaling ports and remains a major fishing center.
(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
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