ANCIENT MUMMIES NEED MONEY

ANCIENT MUMMIES NEED MONEY

CAIRO, Egypt (Wireless Flash) – Here’s the real reason why the mummy is returning in the new Brendan Fraser flick: He needs some cash. At least that’s the case for more than 200 animal mummies at the Cairo Museum, which are in danger of disintegrating unless they receive donations to begin restoration soon. Dr. Salima Ikram estimates it will cost about $200,000 to complete the restoration of the animal mummies, which include 3000-year-old dogs, cats, crocodiles and birds. Ikram tried to raise money by letting people “adopt” the mummified critters for anywhere from $75 to $150 a piece but couldn’t wrap up enough cash. Now she hopes to get a few donations from the producers and stars of The Mummy Returns, but she admits that’s a long shot, too. You can check out Dr. Ikram’s animal mummies at www.animalmummies.com

Thu 05-17-01