By By Lydia Grimes
features reporter
Ten years ago, Turtle Point Environmental Science Center opened its doors, giving students and the community an opportunity to learn more about science through unique programs and exhibits.
On Oct. 30, 1999, the newly constructed Turtle Point Science Center was turned over to the Escambia County Board of Education and opened its doors to the public. Since then, Turtle Point has seen thousands of visitors, Turtle Point administrators said.
The latest addition to Turtle Point — the Butterfly House — will be opened to the public at 9 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 31, at the science center’s 10th anniversary celebration.
Turtle Point Director Jackie Word said the Butterfly House is just one of the many community-supported additions to the science center over the years.
New outdoor classrooms, gardens, and boardwalks were planned, funded and built as the center grew. In 2004, Hurricane Ivan made drastic changes to the landscape and the boardwalk, but Turtle Point recovered. In 2006 the classroom size was doubled and two offices were added.
The Butterfly House began as an idea of former Director Shirley West, Word said.
In the early spring 2009, the Butterfly House was finished. Since returning to work for the 2009-2010 school year, the staff and volunteers of Turtle Point have worked to complete the new addition.
In addition to the Butterfly House festivities, the celebration will include various arts and crafts, face painting, and  performances by Steve Trash, “Rockin’ Eco Hero and Kid Comedian”; Tim Reno of Reno’s Reptiles; and Vicky Smith and her Amazing Bats.  A very special art activity, the Tenth Anniversary Tile Painting Project, will also take place that day. 
Call the office at Turtle Point at 296-3401 for information.