CONGRESSMAN JOE MORELLE ANNOUNCES NEW FEDERAL FUNDING FOR THE STRONG NATIONAL MUSEUM OF PLAY

(Rochester, N.Y.)—Today, Congressman Joe Morelle announced $394,160 in federal funding from the National Endowment for the Humanities to support the creation of The Strong National Museum of Play’s new interactive exhibit tentatively titled Beyond the Buzzer: Game Shows in America. This 5,200-square-foot exhibit—slated to open in the next few years—will explore the history of game shows, how they have evolved over time, and their lasting impacts on our popular culture.

“The Strong is one of the crown jewels of our community, offering tourists and local families alike a one-of-a-kind experience,” said Congressman Joe Morelle. “This federal funding will allow The Strong to further expand their exhibits and build on their legacy of learning, creativity, and discovery through play. I’m grateful to The Strong for their ongoing commitment to our families and children of all ages, and I look forward to their continued success and growth for decades to come.”

“Beyond the Buzzer will be a one-of-a-kind exhibit exploring the cultural impact and playfulness of game shows—and a draw for fans of all ages from all over the world,” said Steve Dubnik, President and CEO of The Strong. “Thank you to the National Endowment for the Humanities for their support and to Congressman Joe Morelle for his great advocacy.”

The Margaret Woodbury Strong Museum—now known as The Strong National Museum of Play—was chartered in 1968 in Rochester, New York, and named for Margaret Woodbury Strong, whose lifetime collection of dolls and toys was the original collection at the museum. Officially opening to the public in 1982, the museum has since grown to over 375,000 square feet and includes the National Toy Hall of Game, the World Video Game Hall of Fame, and the National Archives of Game Show History.

Congressman Morelle has been a long-time advocate for The Strong, culminating most recently with legislation he authored—and helped to pass in the House of Representatives—to officially designate The Strong as the National Museum of Play. Read more about the National Museum of Play Recognition Act here.

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