news NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2015 VOLUME 20, NUMBER 6 w w w. h m n s . o r g
CONSTRUCTION STARTS NOVEMBER 20!
In
holidays at hmns
H M N S I N T H I S I S S U E • H O L I D AY S AT H M N S
2 Holidays at HMNS
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3 Block Party General Information 4 -5 Virgen De Guadalupe: Empress of the Americas 6 Out of the Amazon: Life on the River 7 Spies, Traitors, Saboteurs: Fear and Freedom in America 8-9 Burke Baker Planetarium 10 George Observatory 11 Cockrell Butterfly Center 12 - 13 Wortham Giant Screen Theatre 14 - 15 HMNS @ Sugar Land 16 Wiess Energy Hall 17 Adult Education 18 - 19 For Teachers 20 - 21 Just For Kids 22 - 23 Events Calendar HMNS Catalysts
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MAKE THE MUSEUM A PART OF YOUR FAMILY’S HOLIDAY TRADITION! GIFT MEMBERSHIPS Looking for the perfect holiday gift? Give the gift of membership! Beginning November 21, 2015, we will add another month to your current membership when you purchase a discounted HMNS gift membership. You can earn up to one year of FREE membership by introducing your family and friends to the wonder and adventure of the Houston Museum of Natural Science. Hurry, this offer expires January 3, 2016. Gift memberships may be purchased at www.hmns.org, (713) 639-4616 or with the enclosed envelope.
BURKE BAKER PLANETARIUM
Education Department, Houston Conchology Society, MD Anderson Children’s Art Project, Medical Bridges, Save A Purrfect Cat Rescue, Senior Rides and More of Volunteer Interfaith Caregivers, Texas Children’s Hospital Child Life Center, Tourette Syndrome Association of Texas, and Ukrainian American Cultural Club of Houston.
HOLIDAY SHOPPING
HMNS Museum Store and museumstore.hmns.org Give it, receive it, OWN IT! From designer jewelry to toys, geek chic t-shirts and more, the Museum Store is your stop for standout gifts this holiday season. All selections are available online at museumstore.hmns.org.
Bring the family to apply science to the season as we investigate the astronomy of the Star of Bethlehem in the Burke Baker Planetarium.
JINGLE TREE AT HMNS AT SUGAR LAND This exciting week of events, starting November 14, kicks off with “Cookies with Santa” followed by “Sip ’n See Open House & Strolling Luncheon” and “Drink and Be Merry Happy Hour and Auction Closing.” See page 14 for more information.
FESTIVE SIGHTS AND SMELLS The Museum’s Grand Entry Hall will be sparkling with giant festive trees presented by numerous local organizations, including American Diabetes Association, City ArtWorks, Family Services of Greater Houston, Girl Scouts of San Jacinto, HMNS Volunteer Guild, HMNS Youth
European designer Bibi van der Velden creates captivating jewelry using historical techniques and unusual materials. Her designs appear exclusively at the HMNS Museum Store, one of the few retailers to also sell them online. Sustainably-harvested scarab wings center these sterling silver earrings accented with 18kt gold and brown diamonds.
OPENING NOVEMBER 20! With colorful bricks you can use your imagination to create fantastical beasts, space stations and mini-mansions.
GENERAL INFORMATION MAIN CAMPUS
GEORGE OBSERVATORY SPECIAL SERVICES
HOURS OF OPERATION
Member $5, nonmember $10, all others $20
Call (713) 639-4629. Wheelchairs provided at no cost, subject to availability.
PARKING GARAGE
Holiday Hours: November 26, Thanksgiving Day: closed November 27 - 29: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. December 19 – 24: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. December 25, Christmas Day: closed December 26 - January 4: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
MEMBER TICKETS
Check our website for film schedules and special closures. Permanent Exhibit Halls FREE after 2 p.m. on Thursdays and after 3 p.m. on Thursday, December 24 and 31.
MEMBERSHIP QUESTIONS
ADVANCE PURCHASES
(713) 639-4749
Payable by credit card only. (713) 639-4629 Monday - Sunday: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Handling fee for phone orders only. Online at www.hmns.org
Membership level determines the number of discounted tickets you may purchase: Individual, Student & Senior, 1; Dual, 2; Family level & above, 2 adults & 4 children. (713) 639-4616, TTY (713) 639-4687 e-mail: membership@hmns.org
BUILDING RENTAL BIRTHDAY PARTIES
Museum Parties for Main Campus and Sugar Land (713) 639-4773; Challenger Birthday Mission at the George Observatory (281) 242-3055.
(281) 242-3055 www.hmns.org/observatory Located in Brazos Bend State Park. Park entrance fee: $7 per person; free for ages 12 & under. S
SUGAR LAND (281) 313-2277 www.hmns.org/sugarland 13016 University Boulevard Sugar Land, Texas 77479
HOURS OF OPERATION
Thursday and Friday: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday: noon to 5 p.m. Holiday Hours: November 23 - 28: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. November 26, Thanksgiving Day: closed November 29: noon to 5 p.m. December 21 - 31: 9 am to 5 pm December 25, Christmas Day: closed December 27: noon to 5 pm January 1: noon to 5 p.m. January 4 - 5: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
www.hmns.org/visit
(713) 639-4629 www.hmns.org 5555 Hermann Park Drive Houston, Texas 77030 Monday through Sunday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
H M N S B L O C K PA R T Y • G E N E R A L I N F O R M AT I O N
Enter the Block Party construction zone and engineer your own creations!
www.hmns.org/exhibits 4
HMNS LA VIRGEN DE GUADALUPE: EMPRESS OF THE AMERICAS
EXHIBITION OPENS DECEMBER 12
The story begins in the 8th century AD with the struggle between Muslim and Spanish forces on the Iberian Peninsula. This struggle ended in AD 1492, with the fall of Granada, the last Muslimheld city. That same year, Columbus landed in the New World, a place where the Spanish subsequently encountered well-established cultures. Among those cultures were the Aztecs, who were also known as the Mexica. Juan Diego was born and grew up in a world ruled by the Aztecs.
In the early 1800s the Virgin took on a political role when she was adopted as a symbol by the forces that wanted independence from Spain. The colonial period ended and the era of independent Latin American nations began. As time went by, the Virgin of Guadalupe became inextricably linked with Mexico and Latin America. The exhibit follows this chronological outline. The visitor will learn about the historical climate that preceded the Virgin’s appearance, as well as the increasing role she played in society. The final portion of the exhibit is dedicated to contemporary devotion to the Virgin. Translation services generously supported by Trini and O. C. Mendenhall Foundation.
Saturday, December 19 6:30 - 10:30 p.m. Children’s crafts, cash bar and refreshments. Reserve early- this event will sell out! Please call (713) 639-4629 for reservations. Exhibit admission requires a $12 ticket purchase.
DISTINGUISHED LECTURES Sponsored by the Favrot Fund Tickets $24, Members $18
“One Symbol, Many Visions: The Stories of Our Lady of Guadalupe” David Tavárez, Ph.D., Anthropologist, Vassar College Tuesday, December 15, 6:30 p.m. Our Lady went through multiple transformations, and our current views do not reflect how the Virgin of Guadalupe was seen in earlier times. Dr. David Tavárez will introduce you to the many faces of a beloved icon that now encompasses many aspects of Latin American identity. The evening will include a festive Our Lady of Guadalupe procession featuring indigenous regional costumes and banners, music and samples of sweet tamales and atole—a traditional milky corn drink. This event is cosponsored by AIA, Houston Society with support from the Institute of Hispanic Culture. “The Virgin of Guadalupe: Symbol of Conquest or Liberation?” Jeanette Favrot Peterson Tuesday, January 12, 6:30 p.m.
BEHIND-THE-SCENES TOURS Tuesday, January 5, 6 p.m. Tickets $27, Members $17
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www.hmns.org/exhibits
Things changed dramatically in 1519, when Hernán Cortés arrived in the Aztec capital, now the location of modern-day Mexico City. A bloody struggle lasting two years marked the end of Mexica culture as an independent political entity and the beginning of three centuries of Spanish colonial rule. This is when the Virgin appeared to Juan Diego.
MEMBERS EVENT
HMNS LA VIRGEN DE GUADALUPE: EMPRESS OF THE AMERICAS
On December 12, 1531, ten years after the Spanish conquest of the Aztec capital, the Virgin of Guadalupe is said to have appeared to a humble peasant, Juan Diego. This story, and the subsequent growing importance of the Virgin in Mexico, as well as in Latin America, is the focus of a new exhibit at the Houston Museum of Natural Science.
HMNS OUT OF THE AMAZON: LIFE ON THE RIVER
CURRENTLY ON EXHIBITION Out of the Amazon: Life on the River highlights the ornate and colorful works of art created by Amazonian peoples. This special exhibition features selected works from the Museum’s Amazonia collection, celebrated as one of the best and most extensive in the world.
Amazonia tribes. Walk through a replica of a Shuar family house. See what animals are coveted as family pets. Learn how this aboriginal culture celebrates birth, coming of age, and death. Discover what they do when someone falls ill.
The great Amazon rainforest is approximately the size of the U.S. It is home to tens of thousands of indigenous people all facing serious challenges with loss of environment and an encroaching outside world.
Out of the Amazon: Life on the River was organized by Adam Mekler, associate curator of HMNS’s vast ethnographic Amazonia collection.
This immersive exhibition gives visitors a glimpse of daily life in today’s
Tuesdays, November 3 & 24, 6 p.m. Tickets $27, Members $17
BEHIND-THE-SCENES TOURS
www.hmns.org/exhibits
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Photograph by Donald H. Biery
Photograph by Donald H. Biery,
This exhibition covers nine acts of terror beginning with the burning of the White House in the War of 1812, and ending with the devastating events of September 11, 2001. We advise visitor discretion —especially for children under 12 years old—due to the graphic
nature of some of the film footage. Spies, Traitors, Saboteurs: Fear and Freedom in America is a creation of the International Spy Museum. Local support provided by HMW Entertainment. BEHIND-THE-SCENES TOURS Tuesday, November 24, 6 p.m. Tuesday, December 8, 6 p.m. Tickets $27, Members $17
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www.hmns.org/exhibits
Spies, Traitors, Saboteurs: Fear and Freedom In America reveals nine major events and periods in U.S. history when enemies within U.S. borders threatened Americans. The temporary exhibition depicts how the government and public responded, illustrates the corresponding evolution of U.S. counterintelligence and homeland
security efforts, and examines the challenge of securing the nation without compromising the civil liberties upon which it was founded.
HMNS SPIES, TRAITORS, AND SABOTEURS: FEAR AND FREEDOM IN AMERICA
ON EXHIBITION THROUGH JANUARY 17
H M N S B U R K E B A K E R P L A N E TA R I U M
Burke Baker
www.hmns.org/planetarium
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THE NEW BURKE BAKER PLANETARIUM THE BURKE BAKER PLANETARIUM IS:
new planetarium theater for the 21st Century: a cosmic-class Planetarium for our world-class Museum.
(a) Space City’s first “Astrodome”
Astronomy knowledge is exploding at every wavelength, taking us closer to the edge of space and the beginning of time. Now planetarium projection technology can provide the computer processing, data storage, resolution and brightness to deliver the farthest galaxy, newest exoplanet and latest amazing discovery.
(b) the training site for the Space Shuttle astronauts (c) a destination for 7.5 million visitors (d) a field trip stop for every child in the Houston Independent School District for the last 50 years (E) ALL OF THE ABOVE
These are high points of our 51-year history. Our past is great, but our future is greater. On December 21, we will close for almost 3 months to install a
It is now time to make our planetarium brighter and sharper than ever before with 44 million pixels—over 4 times as many as we have now. The projected image will also be 10 times
brighter with twice the contrast for sharp dramatic images completely surrounding you. The new system delivers 40 pixels per square inch at 60 frames per second! Our current dome screen is tilted at 6 degrees. The new nanoseamTM dome will be tilted 20 degrees, surrounding seats that climb up into the starfield. As we say good-bye to our old planetarium experience this fall, we are featuring planetarium shows that are designed for our current projectors: Star of Bethlehem, Night of the Titanic, and Passport to the Universe. New shows will come this spring with our new planetarium theater. The new Universe awaits!
Planetarium H M N S B U R K E B A K E R P L A N E TA R I U M 9
Burke Baker Planetarium and the Friedkin Theater Renovations Spring 2016 For more than half a century, the Burke Baker Planetarium has brought the wonders of the night sky to millions of visitors from school groups to the general public to Space Shuttle astronauts. We believe that the Planetarium is an educational resource to be promoted and protected, giving the next generation of students the opportunity to explore the universe— without leaving their seats. Since its last update in 1998, major advances in projection technology have taken place. The time has come to bring these advances to our Planetarium. In 2016, the Burke Baker Planetarium and
Friedkin Theater will be completely renovated, launching them into the forefront of educational programming and immersive theater experiences. Will you help us return the Burke Baker Planetarium to its intended place of prominence amongst the best and most
advanced planetariums in the world? Learn about how you can support the renovations of the Burke Baker Planetarium by contacting Cindy Geiser at (713) 639-4778 or cgeiser@hmns.org. Donate online at www.hmns.org/donate.
www.hmns.org/planetarium
MAKING SPACE FOR THE FUTURE
GEORGEOBSERVATORY BRILLIANT WINTER NIGHT SKIES Winter constellations will highlight the evening skies. Orion the great hunter and Taurus the Bull each hide amazing surprises—the Orion Nebula and the Pleiades open star cluster.
H M N S G E O R G E O B S E R VAT O R Y
The brightest star in the night sky is in Canis Major and the only other galaxy we can see with our eyes (besides our own Milky Way) is in the constellation Andromeda. Pegasus, Cygnus and Cassiopeia all hide galaxies and nebulae that can be seen with our telescopes. Come enjoy the clear winter skies at the George Observatory.
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Sunday, December 13 5 p.m. - midnight Tickets $7, Members $4 with park entrance fee
www.hmns.org/observatory
GEMINID METEOR SHOWER
Nature’s Holiday Light Show! Enjoy the showy Geminid Meteor Shower. The Moon will be favorable this year and not rise until after midnight, providing a serendipitously dark sky as a backdrop for the show— unless of course clouds get in the way. The peak of the shower is 9 p.m. until midnight. The large telescopes will also be open.
MEMBERS NIGHT
Friday, November 13, 7:30 - 10 p.m. Free with park entrance fee. Advance RSVPs required to (713) 639-4629.
SATURDAYS AT THE GEORGE
Telescope Tickets: $7, Members $4; Discovery Dome Tickets $3, Members $2.50.
Photo credit: Jimmy Westlake
Enjoy seeing the stars and planets through a variety of large research grade Observatory telescopes every
Saturday evening until 10 p.m. Gift Shop, exhibits and Discovery Dome open at 3 p.m. Telescope tickets go on sale at 5 p.m. Viewing begins at dusk.
DIRECTIONS & ADMISSION The George Observatory is located in Brazos Bend State Park (park entrance fee: $7, kids 12 and under free). Directions are posted at www.hmns.org/observatory. Current observatory weather conditions can be accessed at www.weatherbug.com, zip code 77461. Entrance to park is not permitted after 9:30 p.m.
CI T I Z E N SCIEN CE – GET I NVOLVED! WHAT IS CITIZEN SCIENCE?
You can log your observations on citizen science websites. The National Wildlife Federation website hosts a portal of several citizen science initiatives that are available at www.nwf.org. Another site, BugGuide. net, has over 800,000 photos of North American insects, sent in by some 27,000 volunteer contributors, and is one of the best sites for insect identification and information available today. MonarchWatch.org has taken simple observation a step further, offering pro-active ways to get involved
This photograph shows a “Horsefly-like Carpenter Bee,” Xylocopa parkinsoniae tabaniformis, visiting the blooms of a passionflower vine (Passiflora foetida). Photographed with an iPhone in a Houston backyard this summer, the bee turns out to be a species of carpenter bee that was formerly found only in the Rio Grande Valley and south into Mexico.
Photo credit: Theresa DiMenno
Today, according to native bee expert Dr. Jack Neff, it is common in urban habitats throughout south and central Texas. Dr. Neff is based in Austin, and relies on citizen scientists throughout the state to help him document the species and range of bees found in Texas. The staff at the Cockrell Butterfly Center also loves to identify local insects and other organisms you notice and wonder about. Just send us a photo and/or description—but remember, a picture is worth a thousand words—to bfly_questions@hmns.org. We’ll do our best to send you an identification!
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www.hmns.org/butterflycenter
It is a way for you to help collect knowledge about the natural world that can contribute to scientific investigation. And today, with smart phones and Internet, amateur contributions are more and more important. You—individuals, families, even kids—might document the birds that visit your feeders, photograph an insect or mushroom that you’ve never seen before, observe fireflies, record frog calls, or notice when the first monarch butterflies come through your area.
via their Monarch Waystation effort. This program encourages citizens to provide crucial resources (nectar and host plants) for monarchs and thus help them to produce successive generations and sustain their migration.
H M N S C O C K R E L L B U T T E R F LY C E N T E R
Photo credit: Dr. Nancy Greig
Films and showtimes may change. Please visit www.hmns.org
WORTHAM GIANT S
Sponsored by The H
JOURNEY TO SPACE 3D H M N S W O R T H A M G I A N T S C R E E N T H E AT R E
NOW SHOWING
Journey To Space 3D puts into historical context the magnificent contributions made by the Space Shuttle program and its intrepid space pioneers. This film uses the most spectacular space footage—including unique views of Earth and operations in space—such as deploying and repairing the Hubble Space Telescope. The various space programs have taught us how to live, build and conduct science in space.
www.hmns.org/giantscreen
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ROBOTS 3D NOW SHOWING
Today's robots are nothing short of astonishing. Those coming in the not-too-distant future are simply revolutionary—and they are becoming eerily like us. What does it take to make a humanoid robot—a robot that can do anything we can do without the benefit of a human brain? Robots 3D reveals how close scientists are to replicating some of the particularly challenging human characteristics. (Think fingers and toes.)
Proceeds from the sale of all Wortham Giant Screen film tickets help further the
g for current schedule and more information about each film.
SCREEN THEATRE
Hamill Foundation.
H M N S W O R T H A M G I A N T S C R E E N T H E AT R E 13
NOW SHOWING
This enchanting film shows how the smallest life is the mightiest force on which our whole planet depends. Explorer Jean-Michel Cousteau offers a breakthrough look at a secret world deep in the ocean in Secret Ocean 3D, letting you encounter some of the most unusual but little-seen creatures on Earth. See thousands of colorful fish ripple over vibrant corals, follow a camouflaged octopus hunting along a reef, and hover beside a basket star as it unfurls its tangled tendrils.
SINCE SEPTEMBER 1989, MORE THAN 14 MILLION STUDENTS, FAMILIES, SENIORS AND MUSEUM MEMBERS HAVE ENJOYED THE WORTHAM IMAX/GIANT SCREEN EXPERIENCE . THANK YOU FOR YOUR CONTINUED SUPPORT!
e Houston Museum of Natural Science’s nonprofit mission. Your support counts!
www.hmns.org/giantscreen
SECRET OCEAN 3D
H M N S H M N S AT S U G A R L A N D
HMNS AT S U
www.hmns.org/sugarland
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The holiday season is a magical time— make it warm and bright at HMNS Sugar Land with Jingle Tree. Choose your favorite dazzling holiday tree at any of our three festive showcase events, then let the bidding go wild! Our six-day online auction lets you invest in our success. Our special touch? The trees are sponsored and decorated by Fort Bend designers, museum supporters, local celebrities and artistic visionaries. The event was a great success in 2014—its first year—and we invite you to participate. Jingle Tree is a festive way to support HMNS Sugar Land’s mission of science education while helping provide science enrichment to local underserved populations. We hope this event will grow to be an integral part of your holiday season! Cookies with Santa Saturday, November 14 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Jingle Tree 2015 kicks off with family fun. It’s your first chance to view the trees and catch Santa during an early holiday visit to Sugar Land. Bring your camera to snap some candids! Sip ‘n See Open House & Luncheon Tuesday, November 17 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. This fabulous strolling lunch event will allow you, your friends and associates to see the trees up close and perhaps even “pre-buy” the one you fall in love with! Drink and Be Merry Happy Hour and Auction Closing Thursday, November 19 5:30 - 8:30 p.m. We’ll wrap up Jingle Tree! with an evening filled with cocktails, tree viewing, online bidding and a fabulous live auction. All bids close that evening at 8 p.m.
HOLIDAY EVENTS AT THE MUSEUM LIMITED DECEMBER DATES AVAILABLE! Impress your clients or wow your employees with a one-of-a-kind event! Full of stunning beauty and rich in history, HMNS at Sugar Land provides a unique venue for corporate meetings, executive group retreats, team building and evening receptions. Let our event specialists lead the group curriculum or customize an evening gathering your guests will never forget. Several prime December weekend dates are still available for your cocktail reception, seated holiday dinner or client appreciation event. This is also a great location for family celebrations, weddings and receptions. Check the website www.hmns/sugarland, then click on Rent the Museum or email abarker@hmns.org for more details.
U GAR L AND H M N S H M N S AT S U G A R L A N D 15
On Exhibition through February 14 Inspired not just by the beauty of the subjects, but also by their fascinating ecology and habitat, acclaimed artist, Carel Pieter Brest van Kempen, has a strong belief that chief among nature's hallmarks is its diversity. The things that make a particular species unique, such as behavioral traits, movements or appearance, are what attract the artist to his subject. His aim is to help the viewer learn about how an animal lives and interacts with its
environment and other organisms. From Mesozoic fauna to current day animals of the African plains, these paintings will increase your appreciation for species’ distinctive characteristics and habitats, as well as the vital role they play in nature. Biodiversity in the Art of Carel Pieter Brest van Kempen consists of 50 original paintings in rich jewel tones and meticulously executed preparatory sketches that explore the variety of nature.
www.hmns.org/sugarland
BIODIVERSITY IN THE ART OF CAREL PIETER BREST VAN KEMPEN
HMNS WIESS ENERGY HALL
WIESS ENERGY HALL
www.hmns.org/wiess
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Providing a comprehensive overviews about how the energy industry works, Wiess Energy programs are recommended for new-to-theindustry and non-technical adults within the industry.
CONTINUING EDUCATION CLASS “Overview of the Energy Industry” Thursday, December 10 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. $200 per person This course is led by experts in the fields of upstream, downstream and energy economics in the 21st century, including alternative energy sources. Breakfast, lunch and a tour of the Wiess Energy Hall are included. To register, visit www.hmns.org or call (713) 639-4629.
TEAM BUILDING ACTIVITY Enhance your department’s teamwork abilities while experiencing an overview of the geology, geography and politics of the oil and gas industry. This unique energy-industry-specific, half-day workshop emphasizes workplace communication and decision-making skills in a scenario-based project
activity that utilizes the Wiess Energy Hall. Sessions are designed for groups of 16 - 40. $100 per person. Contact wiessenergy@hmns.org to schedule or inquire about smaller or larger groups.
ENERGY 101 ONLINE TRAINING This online course offers an extended look into the world of oil and gas, including hydrocarbon formation, geology, drilling, refining, products, transportation, distribution and alternative energy sources. A discount to attend “An Overview of the Energy
Industry” at HMNS is included with the purchase of the online course. Available at www.energy101training.com.
EXHIBITION TOUR Tour the Wiess Energy Hall to explore the application of scientific concepts and advanced technology in the oil and gas industry. Learn the processes of energy development, from how oil and natural gas are formed to the ways in which various types of energy are used. To schedule a tour, contact wiessenergy@hmns.org or (713) 639-4737.
ADULT EDUCATION To register, visit www.hmns.org or call (713) 639-4629.
ADULT HANDS-ON CLASSES
BEHIND-THE-SCENES
“Edible Landscapes” Wednesday, November 11, 10 a.m. Saturday, November 14, 9 a.m. Instructor: Daniel Millikin Cosponsored by Urban Harvest
HMNS Offsite Collections Storage Monday, December 7, 1:30 and 6 p.m. Monday, February 8, 1:30 and 6 p.m.
www.hmns.org/adultclasses
www.hmns.org/tours
CULTURAL FEAST www.hmns.org/feasts
“Stone Tool Making” Saturday, November 14, 9 a.m. Instructor: Augusta Costa, Ph.D. “T. rex—The Shocking Truth” Robert T. Bakker, Ph.D. Wednesday, November 4, 6:30 p.m.
“Beginning Nature Photography” Thursday, November 12, 2:30 p.m. Instructor: Amy Shutt “Advanced Nature Photography” Friday, November 13, 2:30 p.m. Instructor: Professional Nature Photographer Amy Shutt
DAY EXCURSION
www.hmns.org/excursion
“The Fastest Evolving Regions of the Human Genome” Katherine Pollard, Ph.D. Wednesday, November 11, 6:30 p.m. Coponsored by The Leakey Foundation
DISTINGUISHED LECTURES Sponsored by the Favrot Fund www.hmns.org/lectures
Film Screening Making North America with Robert T. Bakker, Ph.D. Tuesday, November 3, 6 p.m. Sponsored by NOVA in conjunction with PBS Learning Media. Come early for The Rock Show, starting at 5 p.m.
Film Screening The Northern Lights: Nature’s Spectacle with Pål Brekke, Ph.D. Monday, November 16, 7 p.m.
Large-Scale Organics Facility and Nursery Tour Saturday, November 21, 10 a.m.
HMNS TRAVEL
www.hmns.org/travel Hill Country Cambrian Kayak Trip March 31 - April 3, 2016 With geologist Dr. André Droxler of Rice University and paleontologist David Temple of HMNS.
“Fire Masters: Cooking and Feasting 10,000 Years Ago” Andrew McCarthy, Ph.D. Director Tuesday, November 17, 6:30 p.m. Cosponsored by AIA, Houston Society with support from the C. Howard Pieper Foundation. Film Screening Symphony of the Soil Tuesday, December 1, 6 p.m.
Photo credit: ©Fredrik Broms/northernlightsphotography.no
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www.hmns.org/adults
Photo credit: Gladestone Institute
Photo credit: ©WGBH
Providing wines their unique flavor and aroma, especially soil and climate—will be analyzed. Bear Dalton, Spec’s veteran wine buyer, will look into the earth science and culinary history of wine. Hosted at Alliance Française de Houston. Space is limited. In celebration of UN International Year of Soils 2015.
H M N S A D U LT E D U C AT I O N
“Atlatl Workshop: Stone Age Spear Slinging” Saturday, November 21, 9 a.m. Instructor: Augusta Costa, Ph.D.
“Terrior Wine Tasting, The Earth Science of Wine” Wednesday, December 2, 7 p.m.
FOR TEACHER EDUCATOR GUIDE IS YOUR TICKET TO WIN! Each month during the 2015-2016 school year, we will give away two tickets to our permanent exhibit halls in a random drawing to a teacher who has submitted a picture of the calendar open to the current month.
EXXONMOBIL TEACHER TUESDAY WORKSHOPS $30 per educator Participants receive 3 hours of CPE credit. Dinner is provided. Adults only.
HMNS FOR TEACHERS
“Out of the Amazon” Tuesday, November 3 5 p.m. Set off on a journey to explore the many wonders of this amazing resource and what it has to offer. Includes a tour of the Out of the Amazon exhibit. “Robots 3D” Tuesday, December 8 5 p.m.
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www.hmns.org/education
by attending fun and interactive workshops! To register and find out more information on participating organizations, visit www.hmns.org/ EducatorEvent.
Pictures of your #educatorguide may be submitted by tagging @HMNS on Twitter, Instagram or Facebook, or by emailing educatorevent@hmns.org. Winners of each monthly drawing will be announced in the educator e-newsletter.
THE EDUCATOR EVENT
Saturday, January 23 8 a.m. - 1 p.m. Free for Educators
Registration now open! The Educator Event @ HMNS is a conference style event where educators can learn about the incredible educational opportunities provided by museums, nonprofits and local organizations. The event is FREE to all Houstonarea teachers, school administrators, education undergraduate and graduate students, and home school educators. Earn three hours of CPE credit
Gear up with Kathleen Havens, National Geographic curriculum writer, as you delve into the many STEM activities associated with robots and robotics. “Dissection 101” Tuesday, January 12 5 p.m. Do you know your caudal from your dorsal? No? Come learn the basics of dissections and how to implement them safely in your classroom for younger children. Includes dissections. “The Virgin of Guadalupe” Tuesday, January 26 5 p.m. Religious icon and cultural phenomenon, the Virgin of Guadalupe still inspires multitudes of people. Experience this exhibit first hand with the exhibit curator Dr. Dirk Van Tuerenhout.
SHELL EDUCATORS’ PREVIEW La Virgen de Guadalupe: Empress of the Americas Block Party Tuesday, January 12 4 - 7 p.m. RSVP starting December 1 to educatorpreview@hmns.org Exhibition info on pages 3 and 5.
EDUCATOR LATE NIGHT $60 per educator
“Brain-Based Learning” Friday, November 13 5 - 11 p.m. Everyone learns differently. Understanding these differences and learning to capitalize on them is hugely important in the 21st century classroom and workplace. Come discover engaging ideas to help you do just this. You will experience hands-on activities to use in your classroom, enjoy a catered dinner, and receive six hours of CPE credit. (Grades 1-6)
RS
FOR MORE INFORMATION AND FOR ALL EDUCATORS PROGRAMS, VISIT WWW.HMNS.ORG/EDUCATORS OR CONTACT EDUCATIONQUESTIONS@HMNS.ORG
“Depth and Quality for the Gifted Learner - GT Workshop” Friday, January 29 5 - 11 p.m. Explore hands-on techniques that encourage teachers to reach all of their students. With a special emphasis on differentiating for introversion and extroversion, our experienced presenters will guide participants through deeper thinking activities and methods that encourage quality over quantity, even in the age of standardized testing.
WEEKDAY
LABS
NOVEMBER LAB TOPICS ConocoPhillips Technoscience Lab, Grades 1-8 “Light” - Explore fluorescence, luminescence and color as we experiment with light. Dissection Lab, Grades 5-10 “Leaping Lizards” - Moths, roaches and beetles—yum! Discover a
DECEMBER LAB TOPICS
Need help with a TEKS objective? Want a lab experience for your field trip? Each lab is tailored to your grade level. $200 per presentation (maximum 25 students), plus $75 travel fee for onsite presentations. Topics Available: Chemistry, Force and Motion, Electricity, Light and Optics, Magnets, Storm Science, Ancient Egypt, Cells, Earth Science, and Dissection.
Time Lab, Grades 1-8 “Indus River Valley Civilization” The Indus River Valley Civilization is one of the three earliest civilizations. Also known as the Harappan Civilization, they were exceptional at urban planning and metallurgy. ConocoPhillips Technoscience Lab, Grades 1-8 “Polymers” - From plastic and rubber to gummy bears and slime, polymers are everywhere. Wildlife Lab, Grades 1-8 “Brr! It’s Cold in Here” - How do arctic animals survive such extreme temperatures and snowy conditions that we Houstonians can barely imagine? Come to this class to find out! JANUARY LAB TOPICS ConocoPhillips Technoscience Lab, Grades 1-8 “Shape Science 1” - Discover the science and math of shapes through tessellations, construction and more. Time Lab, Grades 1-8 “Imperial Rome” - Experience the magnificence of the Roman Empire. Dissection Lab, Grades 5-10 “14-legged Fun” - It’s neither part horse nor crab, but it sure is one incredible arthropod! Investigate the horseshoe crab inside and out. Includes horseshoe crab dissection.
OUTREACH PROGRAMS Bring the Museum to Your Classroom! Aligned to grade-level TEKS objectives, pricing ranges from $100 - $625. Presentations last 30 - 45 minutes, and multiple presentations may be scheduled in a day. Extended day, weekend and evening scheduling is also available. Special Science Night activity station packages are also available. For more information and scheduling: www.hmns.org/outreach, outreach@hmns.org, (713) 639-4758. Choose from these HMNS Outreach Programs: Bugs On Wheels Wildlife On Wheels Chevron Earth Science On Wheels ConocoPhillips Science On Stage Discovery Dome Docents To Go Science Start
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www.hmns.org/education
Coming to HMNS for a field trip? Try one of our Weekday Science Labs. These self-contained investigations feature Museum specimens, artifacts and laboratory equipment. Each lab is one hour long and includes admission to the Museum’s permanent exhibit halls. Available at HMNS in Hermann Park and HMNS at Sugar Land. Capacity is 25 students per lab. Cost per lab is $165 - $200. Visit www.hmns.org/ weekdaylabs for the Weekday Lab schedule for the 2015-2016 school year.
Time Lab, Grades 1-8 “The Kingdom of Kush” - Experience the Kingdom of Kush—an ancient civilization in Africa, often referred to as Nubia. Kush was known for its skillful archers and had close ties to ancient Egypt.
LABS ON DEMAND
HMNS FOR TEACHERS
Enjoy an evening exploring the Museum while engaging in a variety of activities that help teachers differentiate naturally. Dinner is included. Receive handson techniques that are available for immediate implementation! Participants will receive six hours of TAGTapproved credit or a 6-hour update credit for those who have completed their 30 hours.
fascinating predator and local color changer, the anole. Includes lizard dissection.
HMNS JUST FOR KIDS www.hmns.org/kids
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Let HMNS handle all of the birthday party planning for you—the decorations, entertainment, craft project, party favors, and party coordinator.
Birthdays with a little Brain Power!
Party packages begin at $350. Themes: Dinosaur, Ancient Egypt, Butterfly/Bugs, Astronomy, Wildlife and Expedition. Deluxe packages also available: Partysaurus, Winged Wonderland, Galactic Gathering, Deluxe Wildlife, and Deluxe Egypt. From decorations, entertainment, crafts, party favors and more—let us plan your party for you! Visit www.hmns.org/ birthdays for complete party planning info, including optional add-ons to make your party even more special!
The Scout Program at HMNS continues to grow with the addition of classes for boys and girls. Scouts@HMNS offers a wide array of badges and classes for all ages of Boy and Girls Scouts on Saturdays through the school year. Go to www.hmns.org/scouts for the complete schedule and registration. For questions, contact scouts@hmns.org
HMNS JUST FOR KIDS
BREAKFAST WITH DR. BAKKER
Saturday, November 7, 9 - 11:30 a.m. Tickets $40, Members $30 Treat your little fossil hunters to breakfast and a lecture with worldfamous paleontologist Dr. Robert T. Bakker. After breakfast on the Morian Overlook with a stunning view of the dinosaurs below, Dr. Bakker will give an entertaining presentation in the Moran Lecture Hall. Reserve your spot now! Children under 1 year admitted free. Adults must accompany children. For tickets, please call (713) 639-4629.
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www.hmns.org/kids
to present to visiting families and students, or by visiting GEMS to see all of the student projects and booths hosted by STEM professionals.
February 20 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. Girls Exploring Math & Science (GEMS) is an open house style
event that highlights projects and careers relating to science, technology, engineering and math. Students can participate by creating a STEM-related project
Students in grades 4 to 12 interested in presenting at GEMS can apply today for the chance to earn prize money for their school, troop or club! Contact GEMS@ hmns.org for more information and to apply as a student booth.
NOVEMBER
HMNS EVENTS CALENDAR
DISTINGUISHED LECTURE “The Fastest Evolving Regions of the Human Genome” Wednesday, November 11 6:30 p.m. (page 17)
www.hmns.org/museumcalendar
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HANDS-ON CLASS FOR ADULTS “Beginning Nature Photography” Thursday, November 12 2:30 p.m. (page 17) Photograph by Michael Stuart
EXXONMOBIL TEACHER TUESDAY “Out of the Amazon” Tuesday, November 3 5 p.m. (page 18) BEHIND-THE-SCENES TOUR Out of the Amazon Tuesday, November 3 6 p.m. (page 6) FILM SCREENING Making North America Tuesday, November 3 6 p.m. (page 17) DISTINGUISHED LECTURE “T. rex—The Shocking Truth” Wednesday, November 4 6:30 p.m. (page 17)
HANDS-ON CLASS FOR ADULTS “Advanced Nature Photography” Friday, November 13 2:30 p.m. (page 17) EDUCATOR LATE NIGHT “Brain-Based Learning” Friday, November 13 5 - 11 p.m. (page 18) GEORGE OBSERVATORY Members Night at the George Friday, November 13 7:30 - 10 p.m. (page 10) HANDS-ON CLASSES FOR ADULTS “Edible Landscapes” “Stone Tool Making” Saturday, November 14 9 a.m. (page 17)
HMNS CATALYSTS YOUNG PROFESSIONALS Morian Hall of Paleontology Thursday, November 5 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. (page 23)
FILM SCREENING The Northern Lights: Nature’s Spectacle Monday, November 16 7 p.m. (page 17) HMNS AT SUGAR LAND Jingle Tree Open House & Luncheon Tuesday, November 17 11:30 a.m. (page 14) DISTINGUISHED LECTURE “Fire Masters: Cooking and Feasting 10,000 Years Ago” Tuesday, November 17 6:30 p.m. (page 17) HMNS AT SUGAR LAND Jingle Tree Happy Hour and Auction Closing Thursday, November 19 5:30 - 8:30 p.m. (page 14) EXHIBITION OPENS Block Party Friday, November 20 (page 3) HANDS-ON CLASS FOR ADULTS “Atlatl Workshop: Stone Age Spear Slinging” Saturday, November 21 9 a.m. (page 17) DAY EXCURSION Large-Scale Organics – Facility and Nursery Tour Saturday, November 21 10 a.m. (page 17)
BREAKFAST WITH DR. BAKKER Saturday, November 7 9 - 11:30 a.m. (page 21) HANDS-ON CLASS FOR ADULTS “Edible Landscapes” Wednesday, November 11, 10 a.m. (page 17)
FAMILY FESTIVAL Evolution Day Sunday, November 15 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.
HMNS AT SUGAR LAND Cookies with Santa Saturday, November 14 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. (page 14)
BEHIND-THE-SCENES TOURS Out of the Amazon Spies, Traitors, Saboteurs: Fear and Freedom In America Tuesday, November 24 6 p.m. (page 6, 7)
For tickets to all events, visit www
DECEMBER BEHIND-THE-SCENES TOUR Spies, Traitors, Saboteurs: Fear and Freedom In America Tuesday, December 8 6 p.m. (page 7)
CONTINUING EDUCATION CLASS “Overview of the Energy Industry” Thursday, December 10 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. (page 16)
EXXONMOBIL TEACHER TUESDAY “Robots 3D” Tuesday, December 8 5 p.m. (page 18)
EXHIBITION OPENS La Virgen de Guadalupe: Empress of the Americas Friday, December 11 (page 4)
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MEMBERS EVENT La Virgen de Guadalupe: Empress of the Americas Saturday, December 19 6:30 - 10:30 p.m. (page 5)
HMNS Catalysts Young Professionals Morian Hall of Paleontology Thursday, November 5 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. Please call (713) 639-4629 to join the HMNS Catalysts and to reserve your tickets. This event is free for HMNS Catalysts Members. Non-Catalysts museum members and HMNS Catalysts guests: $15, general public: $20.
YOUNG PROFESSIONALS GROUP
w.hmns.org or call (713) 639-4629.
Many thanks to the 2015 Young Professionals Partner, Occidental Petroleum Corporation.
www.hmns.org/museumcalendar
BEHIND-THE-SCENES TOUR HMNS Offsite Collections Storage Monday, December 7 1:30 and 6 p.m. (page 17)
HMNS EVENTS CALENDAR
DISTINGUISHED LECTURE “One Symbol, Many Visions: The Stories of Our Lady of Guadalupe” Tuesday, December 15 6:30 p.m. (page 5)
FILM SCREENING Symphony of the Soil Tuesday, December 1 6 p.m. (page 17) CULTURAL FEAST “Terroir Wine Tasting, The Earth Science of Wine” Wednesday, December 2 7 p.m. (page 17)
GEORGE OBSERVATORY Geminid Meteor Shower – Nature’s Holiday Light Show Sunday, December 13 5 p.m. - midnight (page 10)
POSTMASTER: Dated material enclosed. Please deliver IMMEDIATELY!
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HMNS NEWS IS AVAILABLE ONLINE AT WWW.HMNS.ORG/MAGAZINE HMNS activities are supported in part by funds provided by the City of Houston.
HMNS News (ISSN 1556-7478) is published bimonthly by the Houston Museum of Natural Science, 5555 Hermann Park Drive, Houston, Texas 77030. Issues are sent every other month as a benefit to all Museum members. HMNS is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization whose mission is to preserve and advance the general knowledge of natural science, to enhance in individuals the knowledge of and delight in natural science and related subjects, and to maintain and promote a museum of the first class.
www.hmns.org/magazine
HMNS NEWS • NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2015 • VOLUME 20, NUMBER 6
5555 Hermann Park Drive Houston, Texas 77030
O U T O F T H E A M A ZON: L IFE ON THE RIVER
ON EXHIBITION THROUGH JANUARY 17 PAGE 7
CURRENTLY ON EXHIBITION PAGE 6