HMNS Museum News Spring 2014

news MARCH / APRIL 2014 VOLUME 19, NUMBER 2 w w w. h m n s . o r g

NOW PLAYING IN THE WORTHAM GIANT SCREEN THEATRE

In 2 Mixers & Elixirs

HMNS IN THIS ISSUE • MIXERS & ELIXIRS

3 HMNS Own It General Information

w w w. h m n s . o r g / i n t e r a c t

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4-5 Magna Carta 6-7 Scenes from the Stone Age: The Cave Paintings of Lascaux 8 Bulgari: 130 Years of Masterpieces 9 Fabergé: A Brillant Vision 10 George Observatory 11 HMNS at Sugar Land 12 - 13 Wortham Giant Screen Theatre 14 Cockrell Butterfly Center 15 Burke Baker Planetarium 16 Wiess Energy Programs 17 Adult Education 18 - 19 Just For Kids 20 - 21 For Teachers 22 - 23 Events Calendar World Trekkers GET CONNECTED TO HMNS WWW.HMNS.ORG FACEBOOK

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Mixers & Elixirs is back!

Enjoy live music, cash bars and food trucks. Now that’s genius!

Pi Day Friday, March 14, 7 - 10 p.m.

Band: The Crush!

Yuri’s Night Friday, April 11, 7 - 10 p.m.

Band: Bagheera May: May the 4th be with you!

Sunday, May 4, 7 - 10 p.m.

Band: Bombón

The Houston Museum of Natural Science is one of these outstanding institutions – a world-class museum that is internationally renowned for exemplary collections, engaging exhibitions and stimulating educational programs – and as a Houstonian, you OWN IT.

YOU OWN the priceless treasures that permanently fill HMNS. YOU OWN the prominent traveling exhibitions that are continually showcased. YOU OWN the dinosaurs that fill the new Morian Hall of Paleontology, the fluttering butterflies, the glittering gems, the extraordinary seashells, the world of wonders in the planetarium, and the exotic animals that populate our wildlife halls.

Every Artifact, Every Exhibit, Every Program. Everything.

YOU OWN all of the greatness that is HMNS. HMNS is your museum and you are the reason for its continued success.

Take ownership, take responsibility, take credit.

OWN IT.

GENERAL INFORMATION SUGAR LAND

MAIN CAMPUS

(281) 313-2277 www.hmns.org/sugarland 13016 University Boulevard Sugar Land, Texas 77479

Daily: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Closed: Saturday, March 1 for Museum Gala Spring Break: March 8 - 23: 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Easter Weekend: April 18 - 19: 9 a.m. - 6 pm.

April 20: 11 a.m. - 6 pm.

MEMBERSHIP QUESTIONS

HOURS OF OPERATION

Check our website for film schedules and special closures. Permanent Exhibit Halls are FREE after 2 p.m. on Thursdays (3 p.m. on March 14 & 21).

FIELD TRIPS

ADVANCE PURCHASES

(713) 639-4646, www.hmns.org/birthdays Party Smarty at Main Campusand Sugar Land; (281) 242-3055Challenger Birthday Mission at the George Observatory.

HOURS OF OPERATION

(713) 639-4629 Monday - Sunday: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Online at www.store.hmns.org Handling fee for phone orders only.

PARKING

Member $5, nonmember $10, all others $20

Number of discounted tickets by membership level: Individual, Student & Senior, 1; Dual, 2; Family level & above, 2 adults & 4 children.

(713) 639-4616, TTY (713) 639-4687 membership@hmns.org

SPECIAL SERVICES (713) 639-4629. Wheelchairs provided at no cost, subject to availability.

For all venues: (713) 639-4659, www.hmns.org/fieldtrip

BIRTHDAY PARTIES

RENTALS & SPECIAL EVENTS (713) 639-4749, www.rentthemuseum.org

Thursday - Friday: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Saturday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Sunday: noon to 5 p.m.

Monday - Wednesday: only field trips with advance booking Spring Break: March 10 - 14 & 17 - 21, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

RENTALS & SPECIAL EVENTS (281) 313-2277, extension 101

GEORGE OBSERVATORY (281) 242-3055 www.hmns.org/observatory Located in Brazos Bend State Park.

Park entrance fee: $7 per person; free for ages 12 & under. Private groups can schedule tours, Challenger missions and astronomy classes, call (281) 242-3055.

www.hmns.org/visit

MEMBER TICKETS

(713) 639-4629 www.hmns.org 5555 Hermann Park Drive Houston, Texas 77030

H M N S H M N S O W N I T • G E N E R A L I N F O R M AT I O N

HOUSTON is full of remarkable opportunities, outstanding institutions and exceptional people that have a strong sense ownership in all that the Greater Houston metroplex has to offer.

H M N S M A G N A C A R TA

Magna Carta

www.hmns.org/magnacarta

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Twenty-five barons in the forefront of the opposition to King John were entrusted by Clause 61 of Magna Carta to ensure the king’s compliance with Magna Carta’s terms. In this, King John conceded that “the barons shall choose any twenty-five barons of the realm as they wish, who with all their might are to observe, maintain and cause to be observed the peace and liberties which we have granted.”

Any infringement of the charter’s terms by the king or his officials was to be reported to any four of the committee; and, if within 40 days no remedy or redress had been offered, then the king was to empower the full committee to “distrain and distress us in every way they can,” namely by seizing castles, lands and possessions until the king made amends. In this remarkable clause, the charter obliged the king to sanction and institute armed action against himself.

Since the clause anticipated the election of the twenty-five at some time in the future, their names are not listed in the charter. These men were all lay folk— no bishop or other churchman appears.

The committee was seen in clear terms as a committee of enforcers, a group whose main responsibilities were to be of a military nature.

Today over 17,000 people in the United States, over 3,000 in Texas, and over 850 in Houston, can trace their lineage back to one or more of these 25 barons.

An original version of Magna Carta dating to 1217 is at the core of a 6,000 square-foot exhibition on medieval England and France. On display along with this historic document will be a unique 1215 AD parchment known as the King’s Writ.

The loan of the documents is a partnership arrangement between the Houston Museum of Natural Science and the Chapter of Hereford Cathedral and Hereford Cathedral Perpetual Trust.

Magna Carta is generously underwritten, in part, by The Hamill Foundation; The Harriet and Truett Latimer Endowment Fund; Dianne and George Lindahl; Kathrine G. McGovern; Kelly and Bill Montgomery; Elizabeth and Gary Petersen; HMW Entertainment; George and Mary Josephine Hamman Foundation; Tudor, Pickering, Holt & Co.; Vinson & Elkins LLP; Laurie and Reed Morian; and Matt Assiff and Lisa Young.

THESE PROGRAMS ARE GENEROUSLY SUPPORTED BY THE BRITISH COUNCIL.

Distinguished Lectures Tickets $18, Members $12

To understand Magna Carta, one has to understand England’s past. Much has to do with the obligations of kings and their subjects, which was a point of negotiation. This process is writ large in pre-conquest Anglo-Saxon laws, in the monuments of the Norman kings such as Domesday Book and the coronation charter of Henry I, and in the legal reforms instituted by Henry II, which formed the basis for what came to be known as the Common Law. “Medieval Genealogy” Wednesday, April 16, 6:30 p.m.

Lynna Kay Shuffield, Genealogist Do you have royal lineage? Are you a descendant of a rebellious baron?

Genealogy researcher Lynna Kay Shuffield will share tips to help you

Hands-On Adult Classes “Calligraphy, From Quill to Pen” Thursday, May 15 9:30 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Saturday, June 21 9:30 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Tickets $79, Members $69 Calligraphy — from ancient Greek κάλλος (kallos) for “beauty” and γραφή (graphẽ) for “writing”— is a visual art dating back to at least 5,000 BC, although our western letter forms were standardized during in the 8th century. In this beginner-level class, Cindy Haller, Houston Calligraphy Guild instructor, will teach you to use a dip pen (our modern answer to the quill) and ink to create the Italic script, and introduce you to the history of English script writing. All supplies are provided and are yours to keep. Participants must be 15 years of age or older.

Behind-the-Scenes Tours Magna Carta Monday, April 14, 6 p.m.

Tickets $30, Members $20

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Cultural Feast “A Medieval Culinaria” Tuesday, April 29, 7 p.m.

Hosted at Tony’s Aristocratic dining at the time of Magna Carta fused Anglo-Saxon and Norman traditions with exotic flavors and ingredients introduced by Crusaders returning from the Holy Land via Mediterranean islands such as Sicily and Cyprus. In addition, family ties, including the marriage of King John’s sister to William II of Sicily, played an important role in this culinary fusion.

Feasting, revelry and courtly manners were important markers of prestige and power. Explore the culinary world of the barons and King John. Tony Vallone and culinary historian Merrianne Timko have created a menu inspired by these historical complexities to delight our modern palates.

www.hmns.org/magnacarta

“Conquest, Wars and Liberties of the Realm: the Long Run-Up to Magna Carta” Bruce O’Brien, Ph.D. University of Mary Washington Wednesday, March 12, 6:30 p.m.

Cosponsored by Rice University’s Glasscock School of Continuing Studies

trace your family to medieval Europe.

For those with English roots there is a fair chance you may find a Magna Carta link. Over 3,000 Texans are currently registered as descendants of the Magna Carta Dames and Barons from Runnymede. You do not need to be an avid genealogy researcher to enjoy this program.

H M N S M A G N A C A R TA

Magna Carta Events

www.hmns.org/lascaux 6

H M N S S C E N E S F R O M T H E S T O N E A G E : T H E C AV E PA I N T I N G S O F L A S C A U X

SCENES FROM THE STONE AGE: THE CAVE PAINTINGS OF LASCAUX

While the art of Lascaux has proven to be timeless, the opportunity to come see it up close is sadly more limited.

Scenes from the Stone Age: The Cave Paintings of Lascaux is at HMNS only until March 23, 2014.

Prehistoric lamp, some 17,000 years old, found at Lascaux Cave.

ARTIST OF THE LASCAUX CAVES

Once you step away from a cave entrance, things get dark very quickly.

What type of light source did these ancient artists use while working deep inside Lascaux? We see images high off the ground, making us all wonder “how did they get up there?” You will find answers to questions like these in the current exhibition Scenes from the Stone Age: The Cave Paintings of Lascaux.

In the far recesses of the cave, archaeologists encountered a stylishly crafted oil lamp. This artifact, made from red sandstone, takes the shape of a large spoon; its oval cup served as a receptacle for fuel. The handle is decorated with abstract lines. Upon

The exhibit reveals how this lamp was made and subsequently used. A display consisting of a video screen, mounted artifacts and a replica of the oil lamp offers the explanation. Touching the replica lamp starts the video. One sees the stages of manufacture, as well as the various stone tools used to make this lamp. Each time a different stone is used in the video, a light illuminates that tool in the adjacent display.

The addition of animal fat and a wick completes the lamp. There must have been more than one lamp in use—as multiple paintings were going up, each artist must have had his or her own team provisioning him or her with a supply of oil lamps ready to be lit. This would have taken planning and lots of preparatory work.

As to how the artists reached the high ceiling, or the walls several meters above the floor, the exhibit offers possible scenarios. In some cases, they stood on ledges; in others perhaps they placed a ladder against the walls.

DISTINGUISHED LECTURE “The Lascaux Cave” Muriel Mauriac, Ph.D., Lascaux Cave Tuesday, March 4, 6:30 p.m.

Tickets $18, Members $12 Sponsored by The Leakey Foundation and Rice University’s Glasscock School of Continuing Studies.

Dr. Muriel Mauriac, curator of the Lascaux Cave in Dordogne, France— a world icon of art from the dawn of man—will tell the fascinating story of the cave’s discovery, its importance as a window to the world of our human ancestors, and current conservation efforts at Lascaux.

HANDS-ON CLASS FOR ADULTS “Reinventing Stone Age Tools” Saturday, March 29, 9 a.m. - noon Tickets $80, Members $65 Discover how antler, stone and bone can be used to fashion a Paleolithic survival knife and learn the prehistoric skills of stone tool making with archaeologist Dr. Gus Costa. All materials, tools and safety equipment will be provided. Participants must be at least 15 years of age.

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www.hmns.org/lascaux

The artists who painted and engraved the nearly 2,000 animal representations in the Lascaux Cave were talented individuals—and they also must also have known a thing or two about planning. The paintings are found throughout the cave, not only close to the entrance.

discovery of the lamp, analysis of substances found in the lamp’s cup revealed the remains of a juniper wick.

This exhibition was created by the General Council of Dordogne, with support provided by the Regional Council of Aquitaine, the French Ministry of Culture and Communication, and the European Union. The worldwide tour is organized by the SPL Lascaux, international exhibition. Official sponsors are Delpeyrat and Maïsadour.

H M N S S C E N E S F R O M T H E S T O N E A G E : T H E C AV E PA I N T I N G S O F L A S C A U X

In the final section of the exhibition, a movie theater shows how the artists revised and refined their paintings, using both paints and engraving tools to delineate and accentuate their images.

HMNS BULGARI: 130 YEARS OF MASTERPIECES 8

130 YE A R S O F MA S T ER P I EC ES O PE N S M AY 2, 2014 Presenting 150 show-stopping pieces inspired by Greco-Roman classicism, the Italian Renaissance, and the 19th-century Roman school of goldsmiths, along with sketches and other materials from the Bulgari archives, Bulgari: 130 Years of Masterpieces showcases Bulgari’s innovations in jewelry design and includes several striking pieces from the Elizabeth Taylor collection.

This exhibition is organized by the Houston Museum of Natural Science in collaboration with Bulgari. It will be on exhibition May 2 - October 5, 2014.

MEMBERS EVENT

Bulgari: 130 Years of Masterpieces Friday, May 2, 6 - 10 p.m.

Children’s crafts, cash bar and refreshments.

Reserve early as this event will sell out!

Admission to Bulgari requires a ticket purchase.

Please call (713) 639-4629 for reservations.

A BRILLIANT VISION C U R R E N T LY O N E X H I B I T I O N HMNS FABERGÉ: A BRILLIANT VISION 9

Easter, a Christian holiday celebrated throughout Russia, is considered a time of rebirth and renewal. In the late 1800s there was no better way to celebrate this holy time than with the gift of Easter eggs. Family members were given eggs with small chocolates or other surprises inside. To maintain this tradition in a more high-end manner, the Russian royal family enlisted the help of the House of Fabergé to begin a tradition that would last for over three decades.

The first Imperial Easter Egg, the Hen Egg, was such a success that Fabergé and his group of master artisans were given complete freedom over any future designs. Each Imperial Egg was uniquely designed to delight and surprise its owner.

The eighth Fabergé Egg, presented in 1892 on Easter morning to Empress Maria Fedorovna, was a gift from

her husband Tsar Alexander III. This stunning jadeite egg with rose-cut diamonds contained an ivory elephant surprise tucked inside. The beautiful egg, known as the Diamond Trellis Egg, was kept at the Anichkov Palace until the revolution in 1917. Visitors can now view it on display at HMNS with other Fabergé masterpieces in Fabergé: A Brilliant Vision.

This Trunk Show includes a reception and book signing of From a Snowflake to an Iceberg with Dorothy McFerrin from 5 to 6 p.m. prior to the evening lecture “The Splendor of Fabergé Eggs” at 6:30 p.m.

Fabergé: A Brilliant Vision is organized by the Houston Museum of Natural Science with the McFerrin Collection. This special exhibition is free for HMNS members.

FABERGÉ TRUNK SHOW Monday, April 7, 4 - 6 p.m.

Museum Store

The splendor of the tsars can be yours when you come to the Fabergé Trunk Show featuring enameled egg pendants and other Fabergé-inspired baubles—the perfect addition to any Easter basket.

COLLECTORS’ TALK “The Splendor of Fabergé Eggs” Presented by Dorothy McFerrin Monday, April 7, 6:30 p.m.

Tickets $18, Members $12

www.hmns.org/faberge

IMPERIAL EASTER EGGS

H M N S G E O R G E O B S E R VAT O R Y

GEORGEOBSERVATORY

www.hmns.org/observatory

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FAMILY SPACE DAY MISSIONS

Saturdays, March 1 and April 5 3, 4, 5:30 and 6:30 p.m.

Tickets $10 Astronauts of all ages—kids and adults—can fly to the Moon with NASA volunteers in the Challenger Learning Center. Astronauts are assigned jobs aboard the Space Station Observer, working together as they solve problems and having fun as they experience astronaut training.

Lunar Eclipse Monday, April 14 The George will be open all night— from 8 p.m. Monday evening until 5 a.m. on Tuesday morning—so you can see all of the phases of the eclipse from a prime viewing location.

12:57 a.m. - Partial Phase Begins 2:06 a.m. - Total Eclipse Begins 3:25 a.m.- Total eclipse Ends 4:32 a.m. - Partial Phase Ends

SATURDAYS AT THE GEORGE

Telescope Tickets $5, Members $4.50 Discovery Dome Tickets $3 Members $2.50 View the night sky through the large 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.

SPRING SKY EVENTS In March, Jupiter will continue to be a crowd favorite, as well as the great hunter Orion and his star-forming nebula. Then the Moon will be the star of the show during April’s lunar eclipse.

Member’s Night at the George Friday, March 14 7:30 - 10 p.m.

Reserve early as this event will sell out!

Call (713) 639-4629 for reservations.

Spring Break Stargazing Tuesday, March 11 7 - 11 p.m.

The George will be open for public observing this special night during spring break.

S.O.S. – SAVE OUR ‘SCOPE The stellar view from the George Observatory needs your help! “Give a George for the George” to help make needed repairs for the world-class, 10ton Gueymard Telescope—the largest telescope in the country that offers viewing to the public. Make a donation in the George Observatory Gift Shop, or log on to www.hmns.org.

GEORGE OBSERVATORY The George Observatory is located in Brazos Bend State Park (park entrance fee: adults $7, kids 12 and under free). More information about the Observatory, directions and registration for all of the programs listed can be found at www.hmns.org/observatory.

HMNS AT SUGAR LAND

interactive exhibition Masters of the Night and indulge your inner geek with fascinating number games and math activities.

“Ancient Encounters: Ancient China” Saturday, April 12 2 - 5 p.m.

Free with Admission

MASTERS OF THE NIGHT: THE TRUE STORY OF BATS On Exhibition Through May 4, 2014 Myths Proved False!

FAMILY EVENTS

Blind, blood-sucking, squeaky creatures that get tangled in your hair—is that really what bats are all about?!

“Pi Day makes us BATTY!” Friday, March 14 1 - 4 p.m.

Tickets $5 with Admission

Immerse yourself in the culture of China and discover its many contrasts.

Excavate an ancient Chinese kitchen, make your own coin as king of the land, work out sophisticated math computations with an abacus, and play a Chinese game.

Fly by HMNS at Sugar Land on this special day as we bring the mysteries of math and misconceptions about bats out of the dark! Visit the museum on this unique occasion during spring break and go batty for pi—experience the world through a bat’s perspective in the

This activity-packed event is one you won’t want to miss! Offering unique experiences that enrich history, science and social studies discovery, Ancient Encounters is sponsored by American Institute of Archeology – Houston Society.

Masters of the Night: The True Story of Bats reveals that these are only myths that have endured through the years. A walk through the exhibition explains that bats are actually gentle, beneficial little animals that play an important role in our environment.

With lifelike models and interactive

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www.hmns.org/sugarland

It’s a genius idea and fun for all ages!

We’ll even have pie (with an “e”) to munch on, so come feed your brain and your belly. Tickets include bat fun, Pi Day activities, and admission to Masters of the Night.

H M N S H M N S AT S U G A R L A N D

elements—like trying on a pair of bat ears or matching the bats with their favorite foods—the ecological importance of bats is revealed. We bet all visitors will leave with a better understanding and appreciation of the wonders of the bat world.

Films and showtimes may change. Please visit www.hmns.org

WORTHAM GIANT S NOW PLAYING

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 PLAYING

www.hmns.org/giantscreen

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SEE A FILM, SUPPORT SCIENCE EDUCATION IN TEXAS By purchasing tickets to the HMNS Wortham Giant Screen Theatre, you not only enjoy the most immersive and ultimate theatergoing experience in Houston; you also support science education for children and families throughout the state of Texas!

MYSTERIES OF THE UNSEEN WORLD

Mysteries of the Unseen World provides an incredible look at things that are normally too slow, too fast, too small for the human eye to see.

The film's innovative use of high-speed and time-lapse photography, electron microscopy and nanotechnology result in larger-than-life images that are stunning to see on the 80-foot Wortham Giant Screen. From the powerful thread of a spider’s web to the slow-motion shatter and splatter of a dropped pitcher of milk, Mysteries of the Unseen World invites you to look at the world in a whole new way.

Look closely! Watch what it would be like to have X-ray vision or infrared vision. See the skin of a shark, the eye of a fruit fly, and an eggshell— magnified millions of times. View spectacular slow-motion footage of popcorn popping, a Jesus lizard running on the surface of water, and lightning rising up from the ground as well as striking from the sky.

NATURE’S WONDERLAND, GALAPAGOS 3D

In the vastness of the Pacific Ocean, there is a paradise unlike any other: the Galapagos archipelago. Amongst these fascinating and remote volcanic islands, life has played out over millions of years in relative isolation.

The result is a wonderland of nature, with a remarkable collection of plants and charismatic animals that have all adapted to this unique environment.

Meet giant half-ton tortoises and marine iguanas that spit sea-salt from their noses. Dance with tropical albatrosses and hunt fishes with the colorful blue-footed boobies. This is a story of

g for current schedule and more information about each film.

SCREEN THEATRE LAST DAY APRIL 20

COMING SOON

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

COMING SOON

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JERUSALEM 3D

Last Day is April 20, Easter Sunday Additional shows will be scheduled for Easter weekend. Booking in advance is advised.

Jerusalem 3D takes audiences on an inspiring and eye-opening tour of one of the world’s oldest and most enigmatic cities. What made this city so important

to so many different cultures in its 5,000-year history? How did it become the center of the world for three major religions? Why does it still matter to us? Narrated by Benedict Cumberbatch, Jerusalem 3D follows archaeologists, Dr. Jodi Magness and Dr. Nazmi alJubeh, as they explore some of the most extraordinary historical sites in the region in order to better understand this crossroads of civilization.

LECTURE & FILM SCREENING “Passover and Easter in Jerusalem” Wednesday, March 26, 6 p.m.

Tickets $18, Members $12 Daniel Ferguson, director and co-producer of film, will share the centuries-old traditions of Jerusalem

during its most sacred time – Passover and Easter. He will also give a behindthe-scenes account at this extraordinary production, followed by a screening of the film.

COMING SOON D-Day: Normandy 1944 3D This 3D film narrated by Tom Brokaw brings a new perspective to a monumental event in history that changed the world. Opens Memorial Day weekend.

Pandas 3D: Journey Home Witness the birth, nursery care and teaching of panda cubs—all part of an extraordinary effort to save the panda in the wild. Coming in June.

www.hmns.org/giantscreen

discovery, of survival against the odds, and of nature’s ingenuity, all brought to life in stunning digital 3D. You’re invited to explore these extraordinary and enchanted islands, whose remarkable inhabitants helped change the way we understand nature.

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

butterflies occur in our area, which plants the adult and baby butterflies (caterpillars) need to survive, and where to get plants that lure them in. Take home a plant and seeds to get started.

www.hmns.org/butterflycenter

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This class is followed by a tour of our greenhouses and butterfly-rearing operation. Soni Holladay, HMNS horticulturist and greenhouse manager, leads this class.

SPRING PLANT SALE

Saturday, April 5, 9 a.m. - noon 7th Floor, HMNS Parking Garage Our spring plant sale focuses on the plants you need to bring butterflies to your gardens throughout the coming seasons. Both tried and true varieties— as well as new selections—of food plants for caterpillars and nectar plants for butterflies will be featured. Get a start on the butterfly season! Come early, plants go quickly. Parking is free if you spend $25 or more.

TIMELESS TREASURES: HOUSTON ORCHID SOCIETY’S ANNUAL SHOW AND SALE Saturday, April 12 - Sunday, April 13, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

HMNS Grand Hall Free Admission For the fifth year running, HMNS is hosting the Houston Orchid Society’s annual Spring Show and Sale. This

fabulous two-day extravaganza of exotic blooms brings over 20 lavish exhibits featuring orchids, orchid arrangements, corsages, orchid collectibles and educational information.

“Growing Epiphytes: Orchids, Bromeliads and Other Air Plants” Saturday, March 8, 9 - 11 a.m.

Tickets $23, Members $17 Epiphytes—sometimes called “air plants”—are plants that grow perched upon other plants rather than with their roots in the ground. Such favorites as orchids and bromeliads first come to mind, but some ferns, aroids, peperomias and even cacti are also epiphytes. Because they don't take much space, and sometimes have beautiful flowers or foliage, they are ideal houseplants.

Orchids and exhibits will be officially judged before the show opens so you will be able to see what the experts are looking for in a prize-winning plant or display. A great selection will be available from vendors—both local and from as far away as Hawaii—if you are inspired to acquire these intriguing flowers for your home.

More information is available at www.houstonorchidsociety.org/show/ show.html.

HANDS-ON ADULT CLASSES “How to Bring Butterflies to your Garden” Saturday, March 29, 9 - 11 a.m.

Tickets $23, Members $17 Natural butterfly habitats are shrinking every day. You can help our native butterflies by creating new habitat right in your own yard or patio. Learn which

This class begins with a tour of the Butterfly Center to see a variety of epiphytes growing in situ and to learn about the adaptations that allow them to grow above the ground. Then we'll move to the greenhouses to show you how to pot, fertilize and care for these exotic plants. We’ll finish by dividing up some orchids or bromeliads so everyone can take home a start for their own epiphyte garden. Zac Stayton, HMNS horticulturist, leads this class.

Burke Baker Planetarium Imagine zip lining on scorched Mercury or snowmobiling when it really snows on Pluto. Bungee jumping into outer space from an asteroid is like low-g diving from the tallest cliff or rappelling into deepest canyon in the solar system.

The Gravity Factor A New Planetarium Show with OffWorld Thrills on Every Planet Premieres March 7 Earth has the strongest gravity pull of any surface in the solar system. With muscles and bones made on Earth, you’d be a superstar on the solar system’s low-gravity worlds.

The Gravity Factor makes the extreme sports of Earth seem tame. Only time will tell if we find the energy resources to travel throughout the solar

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www.hmns.org/planetarium

A L S O S H OW I NG

We know that when we leave Earth, our love of pushing our limits, setting new records, and facing incredible challenges will go with us—enhanced by our superhuman strength as we leave our high gravity world behind. Someday, somehow, this gravity factor will help us become a spacefaring species.

H M N S B U R K E B A K E R P L A N E TA R I U M

Without gravity’s strong pull, you can glide over the hydrocarbon lakes of Titan, jet-pack in a geyser’s spray on Triton, or even drive a monster truck along a steep lunar crater. In The Gravity Factor, you’ll experience all of these off-world adventures.

system. Although the timeline for our spacefaring future is unknown, we can still imagine what we will do.

HMNS WIESS ENERGY HALL

WIESS ENERGY HALL

www.hmns.org/adults

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TEAM BUILDING

CONTINUING EDUCATION CLASS

Enhance your department’s teamwork abilities while experiencing an overview of the geology, geography and politics of the oil and gas industry.

“An Overview of the Energy Industry” Thursday, May 22 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. $200 per person

Wiess Energy Team Building Activity

This unique energy-industry-specific teambuilding activity takes team members through the Wiess Energy Hall to build their general knowledge of the oil and gas industry. Small groups will be assigned different roles in the task of choosing a location to build an oil rig and will research their group’s tasks in the exhibit. Each group will contribute their unique knowledge in the decision making process. Workplace communication and decision-making skills will be practiced as each team contributes to make the best decision.

Team Building sessions are designed as half-day sessions for group of 16 - 40. $100 per person. Contact wiessenergy@ hmns.org to schedule or inquire about smaller or larger groups.

This course is led by experts in the fields of upstream, downstream and energy economics in the 21st century, including energy alternatives. Breakfast, lunch and a tour of the Wiess Energy Hall are included. To register, visit www.hmns.org or call (713) 639-4629.

seeking a comprehensive overview about how the industry works. 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.

ONLINE TRAINING

EARTH DAY HOUSTON 2014

This online course offers an extended look into the world of oil and gas, including hydrocarbon formation, geology, drilling, refining, products, transportation, distribution, and energy alternatives. The program is ideal for people new to the industry and those

Celebrate Earth Day Houston at Discovery Green with the HMNS Energy Conservation Club. Green Cities is this year’s theme. Come help the City of Houston become even greener. This is a free, family friendly event.

Energy 101

Saturday, April 12 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.

ADULT EDUCATION their dead—and examine the difference between the unchecked aggression and the predatory behavior that separates humans from animals.

“The Chinese Economic "Bloom" People, Plans and Plants for a Verdant Earth” David Creech, Ph.D. Stephen F. Austin University Thursday, April 10 6:30 p.m.

Trashed Thursday, April 23 6:30 p.m.

Tickets $18, Members $12

DISTINGUISHED LECTURES Tickets $18, Members $12

“Beasts: The Origins of Good and Evil” Jeffrey Moussaiff Masson, Ph.D. Author Thursday, March 13 6:30 p.m.

Delve deep into the unexplored territory of animal emotions in an illuminating account of the relationship between humans, animals and our perception of violence. Explore human emotions through animal behavior— the way dogs love, cats practice independence, and elephants grieve for

TAXIDERMY CLASSES Learn traditional taxidermy techniques from licensed taxidermist Mickey Alice Kwapis. You will aquire the skills necessary to do taxidermy the traditional and anatomically correct way the first time. You will transform a frozen rabbit into a beautiful taxidermy piece over the course of a few hours.

The class fees are inclusive of all supplies needed. Participants must be 15 years of age or older. Participants under 18 must be accompanied by a parent.

“Beginning Taxidermy Full-Body Bunny Mount” Saturday, March 29 9 a.m. - noon Tickets $250, Members $200 “Beginning Taxidermy Plaque Wall-Mount Bunny” Monday, March 31 6 - 9 p.m.

Tickets $250, Members $200

Israel, The Heritage and The Hope November 1 to 13, 2014

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Experience the Holy Land’s unmatched history, archaeological treasures and religious cultures with Dr. Dirk Van Tuerenhout, HMNS curator of anthropology. Visit Jerusalem’s iconic sites—Dome of the Rock, Temple Mount, Al Aqsa, Western Wall, Arab markets. The group will also tour the biblical sites of Caesarea, Mt. Carmel, Galilee, Capernaum, Bethlehem, Nazareth, Mount of Olives and Gethsemane. You will witness the strikingly majestic deserts, rolling hills and picturesque coastlines, and visit the fortress of Masada built by King Herod and Qumran, where the “Dead Sea Scrolls” were transcribed and preserved in caves. An optional extension is available to Jordan to visit the ancient metropolis of Petra.

Itinerary and registration information is now available at www.hmns.org/travel.

Learn More at Travel Night Tuesday, March 25 6 p.m.

www.hmns.org/adults

Produced by actor Jeremy Irons in 2012, and having its premiere at the Cannes Film Festival, the award-winning documentary Trashed confronts the critical global issues of waste and sustainability. Irons takes us around the world, confronting mountains of trash in China, an endless tide of plastic waste on Indonesia’s Ciliwung River, and the tons of human detritus floating in the Great Pacific Garbage Patch.

TRAVEL

H M N S A D U LT E D U C AT I O N

FILM SCREENING

China is the ancestral mother to many of the traditional ornamental plants and fruits that grace our US landscapes. Despite centuries of botanical exploration, China still holds many new and exciting species that are poised to be among our next wave of garden favorites. Join David Creech for an insider’s look at this emerging horticultural giant. This lecture is cosponsored with the Mercer Society with additional support from Houston Advanced Research Center and Kava King Products.

HMNS JUST FOR KIDS

4 1 0 2 R E SUMM r kids ages 6-12

www.hmns.org/kids

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fo dventures Science A

It is time to register for Xplorations Summer Camp at HMNS in Hermann Park and HMNS at Sugar Land. With more sensational science than ever before, a summer of adventure awaits you at HMNS. Register early to secure your camp spots!

This year’s action-packed camps will include new topics Calamity Camp, Nature Unleashed, Treasure Hunters, and Leonardo’s Workshop, and favorites including Junior Paleontologist, Dino Claws and Shark Jaws, Paleontology 101, Lego Robotics, Advanced Lego Robotics, Amazing Animals, Master Spy

Camp, Test for the Best, Puzzler, Wizard Science Academy, Star Warriors Academy, and Extreme Machines.

Priority membership registration begins: February 20: President’s Circle, Benefactor, and Discoverer February 24: Voyager March 3: Family March 24: General Public If you haven’t received your Xplorations catalog, please email Xplorations@ hmns.org or call (713) 639-4625. For more information on all of our camp offerings please visit www.hmns.org.

Main Campus Camp Dates June 2 - 6, 9 - 13, and 23 - 27 June 30 - July 3 July 14 - 18 and 21 - 25 August 4 - 8, 11 - 15 HMNS at Sugar Land Camp Dates June 9 - 13 and 16 - 20 June 30 - July 3 July 7 - 11 and 21 - 25 July 28 - August 1 August 11 - 15

LEGO ROBOTICS

ATTENTION SCOUTS

Registration $225, Members $195 Registration is now open for our Summer Scout Academies for Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts.

More information is available at www.hmns.org/scouts.

New this summer is an expanded program for Girl Scouts. The Super Science classes are designed for girls to earn five Girl Scout badges in one week, with a different science theme each day. Girl Scout Brownies can earn the Bugs, Home Scientist, Household Elf, Inventor, and Senses badges. Girl Scout Juniors can earn the Product Designer, Animal Habitats, Gardener, Detective, and Flowers badges. Careers in Science: Summer Edition is designed especially for science-minded Juniors and Cadettes who want to meet Museum curators and go behind the scenes. Each career—anthropology, energy, engineering, environmental science and space exploration is introduced with hands-on experiments.

It’s real science with real scientists.

BOY SCOUTS & WEBELOS

ARAMCO TEEN SUMMER RESEARCH INSTITUTE

The Museum’s Summer Scout Academy offers 31 different merit badges— including four that are Eagle required— during the weeklong summer scout classes at HMNS and HMNS Sugar Land. In each weeklong class scouts earn two or three badges on related topics.

Two of the favorites are By Air, Sea, and Rail and Robot Inventors. Eagle-required badges can be earned in Citizenship,

Conduct research with museum curators Dr. Dan Brooks, Dr. Nancy Greig, Dr. Carolyn Sumners, Dr. David Temple and Dirk Van Tuerenhout in this hands-on, week-long lab course for teenagers in which students learn to use scientific instruments, pose research questions, control variables, and collect data at the Museum.

July 14-18 and August 2-8

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www.hmns.org/kids

Our most popular Summer Camp is now available in a 10-session course during the school year. Explore NXT Robotics Engineering as you build models with our LEGO MINDSTORMS NXTTM system and use a computer to program them to obey your every command! Limited to 16 students in grades 4 - 7. To register, visit the Weekday Classes page at store.hmns.org.

GIRL SCOUT BROWNIES, JUNIORS & CADETTES

Labs topics include animal behavior in the Butterfly Center, light pollution assessment, managing solar energylessons from Native Americans, solar energy collection, vertebrate zoology adaptations, gravity’s effect on life, interpretation of fossil finds, impact cratering and asteroid hunting.

Friday’s activities will be at the George Observatory with an optional evening stargazing with parents.

HMNS JUST FOR KIDS

HMNS in Hermann Park: Tuesdays, March 25 - May 20, 4:30 - 6 p.m.

HMNS at Sugar Land: Thursdays, March 27 - May 22, 4:30 - 6 p.m.

Registration $240, Members $190

Your Community and Heritage, and The Environment classes. Also, look for the new Game Design and Programming class. In Webelos Super Science scouts earn five Webelos Activity Badges in one week: Scientist, Engineer, Naturalist, Forester, and Geologist.

PARTY SMARTY

Birthdays with Brain Power!

Be a guest at your own child’s party this year! Let HMNS handle everything for you—the decorations, entertainment, craft project, party favors, and party coordinator. Party packages begin at $350.

Themes: Dinosaur, Ancient Egypt, Butterfly/Bugs, Astronomy. Deluxe packages also available: Partysaurus, Winged Wonderland, Galactic Gathering. Visit www.hmns.org/ birthdays for complete party planning info, including optional add-ons.

FOR TEACHERS WEEKDAY LABS

Capacity is 25 students per lab.

Cost per lab is $165 - $200.

HMNS FOR TEACHERS

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. Students examine ancient objects, investigate technology, meet live animals and conduct scientific experiments in five different, themed labs.

www.hmns.org/education

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Each lab lasts one hour and includes admission to the Museum’s permanent exhibit halls for lab participants.

Available at HMNS in Hermann Park and HMNS at Sugar Land.

MARCH Time Lab for Grades 1-8 Roman Water – From aqueducts to baths and beyond, explore how Rome tamed water and ruled the world.

Wildlife Lab for Grades 1-8 Howdy Neighbor – Introduce yourself to the neighbors as you encounter animals that can be found right here in Texas, some as close as your backyard!

Dissection Labs for Grades 5-10 Legless and Loving It – Learn all about snakes in this fascinating class on those sneaky, slithery reptiles.

Includes snake dissection.

APRIL ConocoPhillips Techno Science Lab for Grades 1-8 Bridges — Build models to determine what makes a sturdy structure.

Biology Lab for Grades 5-10 What’s in your Water? — pH got you down? Are your microbes multiplying?

Learn about the nitrogen cycle and how your water quality affects your quality of life.

Wildlife Labs for Grades 1-8 Carnivorous Plants — Bees, flies, and beetles beware! The next plant you pollinate could be your last! Come learn about the plants that bite back.

EXXONMOBIL TEACHER TUESDAY WORKSHOPS

MAY

Discover a new world of science as you go behind the scenes with HMNS curators and staff in these exciting interactive workshops. With new topics each month we can provide you with ideas and activities to bring your classroom to life! Dinner is provided.

Time Lab for Grades 1-8 Cleopatra — Last pharaoh of Ancient Egypt and shrewd politician, meet this mysterious woman of the past.

ConocoPhillips Techno Science Lab for Grades 1-8 Motion and Machines — Make work easier as you explore gears, levers and other simple and compound machines.

Wildlife Lab for Grades 1-8 MARVEL-ous Creatures — Bam! Pow! Wham! Feats of super strength, ultra vision, and tremendous speed happen every day! Don’t miss your chance to encounter real-life superheroes of the animal kingdom.

LABS ON DEMAND Need help with a TEKS objective?

Want a lab experience for your field trip? Each lab is tailored to your grade level. For example, a 3rd grade Earth Science Lab might investigate volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, and landslides, while an eighth grade lab would look at tectonic plates and topographic maps.

Topics Available: Chemistry, Force and Motion, Electricity, Light and Optics, Magnets, Storm Science, Ancient Egypt, Cells, Earth Science, and Dissection. $200 per presentation (maximum 25 students), plus $75 travel fee for onsite presentations.

For more information on booking a Lab on Demand for your group, please email educationquestions@hmns.org.

Each workshop is $25 per educator and participants receive 3 hours of CPE credit.

“Earth Day Arts and Crafts” Tuesday, March 25 5 - 8 p.m.

(Grades 3-8) Learn about the impact you have on Earth every day and then engage in activities that turn trash into treasure!

“The Dark Ages” Tuesday, April 22 5 - 8 p.m.

(Grades 3-10) Let us illuminate the so-called Dark Ages for you! From Constantine to the Crusades and the Magna Carta to Manoralism, the medieval period shaped our modern history.

“Dino-Mite!”

Tuesday, May 6 5 - 8 p.m.

(Grades EC-3) Learn the exciting ways to bring the prehistoric world to life in your classroom. Make-and-take activities, group participation and specimen-based learning are a must for busy little hands.

EDUCATOR LATE NIGHTS “Crime Scene Science” Friday, March 7 5 - 11 p.m. $60 per educator (Grades 4-12) Engage your students in real-life science as they practice teamwork and use

FOR MORE INFORMATION AND FOR ALL EDUCATORS PROGRAMS, VISIT WWW.HMNS.ORG/TEACHERS OR CONTACT EDUCATIONQUESTIONS@HMNS.ORG

EXCELLENCE IN SCIENCE OR MATHEMATICS AWARDS AND SCHOLARSHIPS

2014 Application Deadline is April 25 Applications for the 2014 Excellence in Science or Mathematics Teaching Awards and Student Scholarships are now available at www.hmns.org under Education.

OUTREACH PROGRAMS Bring the Museum to Your Classroom!

For more information and scheduling: www.hmns.org/outreach, outreach@ hmns.org, (713) 639-4758.

ConocoPhillips Science on Stage Docents to Go TOTAL Wildlife on Wheels Discovery Dome Bugs on Wheels

SUMMER PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT F.O.C.U.S! Differentiating Curriculum through Chunking, Brain Breaks and Foldables $60 per educator Earn 6 hours of CPE credit is a new TAGT-approved Gifted and Talented workshop. This class is offered numerous dates this summer.

Call (713) 639-4708 or e-mail giftedandtalented@hmns.org for more information. Discounts for registrants prior to May 1.

ARAMCO TEACHER RESEARCH INSTITUTE Wednesday, June 25 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. $60 per educator

Earn 6 hours of CPE credit developing research activities you can share with students in the classroom or in the Museum. Labs include environmental science in the Cockrell Butterfly Center and vertebrate zoology in the Morian Hall of Paleontology.

Educators follow this six-step lab procedure (based on research with gifted and talented students): (1) Explore the environment, (2) Identify themes and problems, (3) Develop research activities, (4) Collect data and think critically, (5) Apply results to real life experiences, and (6) Share results with parents and friends.

ENERGY CONSERVATION CLUB WORKSHOPS Generously supported by Marathon Oil Corporation Get Trashed!

Wednesday, April 23 5 - 8 p.m. $25 per educator (all grades) The movie Trashed will help you encourage your students to become the scientists or politicians—or simply the humans—who can take the health of our planet from horror to hope. The film illustrates the beauty of our planet along with the damage that we have allowed by using it as a trash can.

In addition to seeing the movie in the Wortham Giant Screen Theatre, teachers will receive information and lessons about conservation and how to decrease our trashing of the planet. Teachers will receive 3 hours of professional development credit. Bring your own snack.

Summer Energy Field Trips June 16 - 18, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

July 7 - 9, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

July 28 - 30, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Tickets $45 per session Get an inside look at the relationship between science and energy careers in these 3-day workshops touring diverse sites that play different roles in the energy industry. Learn how you can help students connect their abilities and personal interests to promising careers that are in demand—and see TEKS concepts in action.

You may register for one or all three sessions. For science teachers at all levels, as well as career awareness program staff. Lunch and transportation to/from HMNS and the sites is provided. 24 hours of SBEC credit awarded. For more information contact (713) 639-4737 or ecc@hmns.org.

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www.hmns.org/education

Last year’s Excellence in Science or Mathematics Awards and Scholarships were presented on December 12, 2013 at a special luncheon held at the Museum. The recipients and guests at the luncheon were treated to an address by keynote speaker Canon Chris Pullin, Chancellor of Hereford Cathedral.

The winners of the 2013 Evelyn Frensley Scholarships for Outstanding Achievement in Science or Mathematics are Joey Gu of Cinco Ranch High School and Han Bui, of Robert E. Lee High School. The winners of the 2013 Wilhelmina C. Robertson Excellence in Science or Mathematics Teaching Awards are Anna Loonam of Bellaire High School and Guillermina Guerrero of Woodland Acres Elementary.

Chevron Earth Science on Wheels

HMNS FOR TEACHERS

empirical evidence, logical reasoning, and experimental and observational testing to catch a crook. Learn how to take fingerprints, compare evidence and examine a scene for clues. This workshop contains depictions of realistic violence. All educators will leave with hands-on activities available for immediate implementation.

Complimentary catered dinner and parking in the HMNS garage is included. 6 hours of CPE credit will be awarded to participants at the end of the event. Registration is restricted to educators only.

For tickets to all events, visit www

MARCH

HMNS EVENTS CALENDAR

SATURDAYS AT THE GEORGE Family Space Day Missions Saturday, March 1 (page 10)

www.hmns.org/museumcalendar

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XPLORATIONS SUMMER CAMP 2014 Family Level Registration Begins Monday, March 3 (page 18)

FAMILY EVENT HMNS at Sugar Land “Pi Day makes us BATTY!” Friday March 14, 1 - 4 p.m. (page 11)

MEMBER’S NIGHT AT THE GEORGE Friday, March 14, 7:30 - 10 p.m. (page 10)

DISTINGUISHED LECTURE “The Lascaux Cave” Tuesday, March 4, 6:30 p.m. (page 7)

MIXERS AND ELIXIRS Pi Day Friday, March 14, 7 - 10 p.m. (page 2)

EDUCATOR LATE NIGHTS “Crime Scene Science” Friday, March 7, 5 p.m. (page 21)

WORLD TREKKERS England Friday, March 21, 6 - 9 p.m. (page 23)

PLANETARIUM PREMIERE The Gravity Factor Friday, March 7 (page 15)

SPECIAL SCREENING The Princess Bride

HANDS-ON CLASS FOR ADULTS “Growing Epiphytes: Orchids, Bromeliads and Other Air Plants” Saturday, March 8, 9 a.m. (page 14)

EXHIBITION LAST DAY Scenes from the Stone Age: The Cave Paintings of Lascaux Sunday, March 23 (page 6)

SPRING BREAK STARGAZING AT THE GEORGE Tuesday, March 11, 7 - 11 p.m. (page 10)

XPLORATIONS SUMMER CAMP 2014 General Public Registration Begins Monday, March 24 (page 18)

DISTINGUISHED LECTURE “Conquest, Wars and Liberties of the Realm: the Long Run-Up to Magna Carta” Wednesday, March 12, 6:30 p.m. (page 5) DISTINGUISHED LECTURE “Beasts: The Origins of Good and Evil” Thursday, March 13, 6:30 p.m. (page 17)

Friday, March 21, 7 p.m. (page 23)

LEGO ROBOTICS BEGINS HMNS in Hermann Park Tuesday, March 25, 4:30 p.m. (page 19) EXXONMOBIL TEACHER TUESDAY Earth Day Arts and Crafts Tuesday, March 25, 5 p.m. (page 20)

TRAVEL NIGHT Israel – November 2014 Tuesday, March 25, 6 p.m. (page 17) LEGO ROBOTICS BEGINS HMNS at Sugar Land Thursday, March 27, 4:30 p.m. (page 19) HANDS-ON CLASSES FOR ADULTS “Beginning Taxidermy Full-Body Bunny Mount” Saturday, March 29, 9 a.m. (page 17) “How to Bring Butterflies to your Garden” Saturday, March 29, 9 a.m. (page 14) “Reinventing Stone Age Tools” Saturday, March 29, 9 a.m. (page 7) HANDS-ON CLASS FOR ADULTS “Beginning Taxidermy Plaque Wall-Mount Bunny” Monday, March 31, 6 p.m. (page 17)

w.hmns.org or call (713) 639-4629.

EXXONMOBIL TEACHER TUESDAY “The Dark Ages” Tuesday, April 22, 5 p.m. (page 20)

SATURDAYS AT THE GEORGE Family Space Day Missions Saturday, April 5 (page 10) FABERGÉ TRUNK SHOW Monday, April 7, 4 - 6 p.m. (page 9) DISTINGUISHED LECTURE “The Splendor of Fabergé Eggs” Monday, April 7, 6:30 p.m. (page 9)

MIXERS AND ELIXIRS Yuri’s Night Friday, April 11, 7 - 10 p.m. (page 2)

HOUSTON ORCHID SOCIETY’S ANNUAL SHOW AND SALE Saturday, April 12 - Sunday, April 13 (page 14) FAMILY EVENT HMNS at Sugar Land “Ancient Encounters: Ancient China” Saturday, April 12, 2 - 5 p.m. (page 11) LUNAR ECLIPSE AT THE GEORGE Monday, April 14 (page 10)

ECC WORKSHOP “Get Trashed!”

Thursday, April 24, 5:30 p.m. (page 20)

BEHIND-THE-SCENES TOUR Magna Carta Tuesday, April 14, 6 p.m. (page 5)

CULTURAL FEAST “Medieval Culinaria” Tuesday, April 29, 7 p.m. (page 5)

WORLD TREKKERS – ENGLAND

and India in 2014. See the world, skip the jet lag.

Friday, March 21 6 - 9 p.m.

Tickets $ 10, Members $7

Travel to England and feast like a king amongst court entertainers, swordsmen and artisans as HMNS takes you back to the Middle Ages.

Bring the whole family and get your passports stamped at each event as we continue on to Brazil, Mexico

The Princess Bride Friday, March 21, 7 p.m.

Tickets $6 The Princess Bride is an enchanting fairytale—with swordplay, giants, an evil prince, a beautiful princess, and yes, some kissing. Enjoy this special engagement showing in the Wortham Giant Screen Theatre.

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www.hmns.org/museumcalendar

DISTINGUISHED LECTURE “The Chinese Economic ‘Bloom’ – People, Plans and Plants for a Verdant Earth” Thursday, April 10, 6:30 p.m. (page 17)

DISTINGUISHED LECTURE “Medieval Genealogy” Wednesday, April 16, 6 p.m. (page 5)

HMNS EVENTS CALENDAR • WORLD TREKKERS

COCKRELL BUTTERFLY CENTER SPRING PLANT SALE Saturday, April 5, 9 a.m. - noon (page 14)

APRIL

POSTMASTER: Dated material enclosed.

Please deliver IMMEDIATELY!

www.hmns.org/magazine

HMNS NEWS • MARCH / APRIL 2014 • VOLUME 19, NUMBER 2

5555 Hermann Park Drive Houston, Texas 77030

Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Houston, Texas Permit No. 6371

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.

NOW ON EXHIBITION

Magna Carta