Oklahoma Aquarium in Jenks plans fall opening

It's been years in the making, but four months from now, the Oklahoma Aquarium in Jenks should be open for visitors. <br><br>News on Six anchor Casey Norton found out some fine finned fish are already

Thursday, May 2nd 2002, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

It's been years in the making, but four months from now, the Oklahoma Aquarium in Jenks should be open for visitors.

News on Six anchor Casey Norton found out some fine finned fish are already calling it home. This summer's biggest hit, may not be at the box office. Oklahoma Aquarium curator, Kenny Alexopoulos, "These are the largest, as far as we know, the largest bull sharks in captivity in the world.â€ They splashed into their temporary home just two weeks ago, and things are going swimmingly.

For now, they're making do in their 100-thousand gallon holding pool. But they have those black eyes set on a bigger place with all the perks. Including a clear view of potential appetizers. â€œWeâ€™ll have an all acrylic see through tunnel and dome system that will enable the viewer to be in the center of it and have the sharks pass beside them and over them.â€ If you can't wait for the big guys, you'll have to settle for the less threatening stars.

The Water on Wheels van is already taking starfish and horseshoe crabs to schools around Green Country, making kids say wow. Oklahoma Aquarium education director Robin Bungay, "And when they get to see the animals or the shark jaws that they have never seen before, it's almost like you can see a little light bulb goes off in their eyes. It really makes our jobs so much more exciting and fun to be out there bringing that experience to kids.â€ The thought of all those kids at the aquarium is enough to make even these guys smile.

This is the last month to sing-up to volunteer at the aquarium. If you're interested, call 296-FISH. Training classes start in June.