news NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2014 VOLUME 19, NUMBER 6 w w w. h m n s . o r g
EXHBITION OPENS NOVEMBER 21
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holidays at hmns
2 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
3 Expedition Center General Information
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4 -5 Samurai: The Way of the Warrior 6 Farish Hall of Texas Wildlife 7 Shark! 8 Battleship Texas 9 Fabergé: From a Snowflake to an Iceberg 10 Burke Baker Planetarium 11 George Observatory 12 - 13 Wortham Giant Screen Theatre 14 HMNS @ Sugar Land 15 Just For Kids 16 - 17 For Teachers 18 Wiess Energy Hall 19 Adult Education 20 Cockrell Butterfly Center 21 HMNS Catalysts World Trekkers 22 - 23 Events Calendar GET CONNECTED TO HMNS WWW.HMNS.ORG FACEBOOK
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Cover Photo: ©Chris Fallows/apexpredators.com
GIFT MEMBERSHIPS HMNS Gift Memberships make great holiday gifts and can be purchased at www.hmns.org, (713) 639-4629 or with the enclosed envelope. Beginning November 22, 2014, we will add another month to your current membership each time 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 4, 2015.
HOLIDAY SHOPPING
HMNS Museum Store and museumstore.hmns.org Mark your calendars for our Trunk Shows, November 29 and December 6, 13 and 20, when we’re bringing you the best in gift deals from fabulous designers like Alexis Bittar and Rebecca Lankford! Smart shoppers, make sure you sign up for our email list for exclusive deals and sales this holiday season with the Museum Store online: museumstore.hmns.org. Don’t forget the coupon below to receive 15% off your online order. Cannot be combined with any other discounts or promotions.
WORTHAM GIANT SCREEN THEATRE See the holiday movie of the year Night at the Museum 3: Secret of the Tomb, and sing along to the latest Disney holiday classic, Frozen. More details on page 12.
BURKE BAKER PLANETARIUM Bring the family to apply science to the season as we investigate the astronomy of the Star of Bethlehem.
JINGLE TREE! AT HMNS AT SUGAR LAND This exciting week of events starting November 18 includes our “Jingle, Jingle…Mix and Mingle” Open House & Strolling Luncheon, the “Jingle Jangle” Happy Hour, and, of course, “Cookies with Santa.” 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.
EXPEDITION CENTER 3 – 2 – 1 – LIFT OFF!
The Expedition Center is the Museum’s next generation of space flight simulator, building upon our 25 years of simulated space flight experiences. Missions to the Moon and Mars for groups of 12 to 40 are available for groups 4th grade through high school—and even for adults as corporate team building exercises. Expeditions emphasize the skills that will make good students and valuable employees: responsibility, teamwork, decision-making and communication. The BP America Expedition Center Program is the most engaging STEM-based activity exercise available for students and adults alike, making it a great experience for would-be astronauts of all ages. For more information about a flight that is right for your astronaut crew, visit www.hmns.org/space or call (713) 639-4736. Available at the Main Campus and the George Observatory.
GENERAL INFORMATION
MAIN CAMPUS
PARKING
Member $5, nonmember $10, all others $20
SUGAR LAND
HOURS OF OPERATION
FIELD TRIPS
HOURS OF OPERATION
Thanksgiving Weekend: November 28 -30: 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. Closed on Thanksgiving Day.
BIRTHDAY PARTIES
Monday through Sunday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Christmas Break: December 20 - January 4: 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. Closed on Christmas Day.
ADVANCE PURCHASES
(713) 639-4629 Monday - Sunday: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Online at www.store.hmns.org Handling fee for phone orders only.
MEMBER TICKETS
Number of discounted tickets by membership level: Individual, Student & Senior, 1; Dual, 2; Family level & above, 2 adults & 4 children.
MEMBERSHIP QUESTIONS
For all venues: (713) 639-4659, www.hmns.org/fieldtrip (713) 639-4646, www.hmns.org/birthdays Party Smarty at Main Campus and Sugar Land: (281) 242-3055 Challenger Birthday Mission at the George Observatory.
BUILDING RENTAL SPECIAL EVENTS
(713) 639-4749, www.rentthemuseum.org
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.
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. Thanksgiving Week: November 24 - 28: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Closed on Thanksgiving Day. Regular weekend hours on Saturday and Sunday Christmas Break: December 22 – January 6: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Closed on Christmas Day. Sundays and New Year’s Day, January 1: noon to 5 p.m.
www.hmns.org/visit
(713) 639-4616, TTY (713) 639-4687 membership@hmns.org
(281) 313-2277 www.hmns.org/sugarland 13016 University Boulevard Sugar Land, Texas 77479
(713) 639-4629 www.hmns.org 5555 Hermann Park Drive Houston, Texas 77030
H M N S E X P E D I T I O N C E N T E R • G E N E R A L I N F O R M AT I O N
Book Your Flight to the Moon or Mars.
H M N S S A M U R A I : T H E WAY O F T H E WA R R I O R www.hmns.org/exhibits
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EXHBITION OPENS NOVEMBER 21 The term “samurai” is one we readily associate with Japan. Roughly translated as “those who serve,” the term refers to armed supporters of wealthy landowners going back to the late 8th century AD. Over time, the samurai gained power and became warrior-administrators during a period known as the Age of the Samurai. For almost seven centuries, from 1185 to 1868, samurai were closely involved in the government of Japan. This extensive period of history can be divided into three parts known as shogunates, a term referring to military
rule. From 1185 to 1333, the Minamoto family founded a government in Kamakura, a city south of modern Tokyo. This governing family and its network of samurai successfully resisted two Mongol invasions in 1274 and 1281. Weakened by these attacks, however, the Kamakura government was replaced by the Ashikaga shogunate, who ruled from 1336 to 1573. Local lords and their samurai became very powerful during this time. Traditional Japanese art forms, such as the tea ceremony, rock gardens, and flower arranging flourished. The third and last shogunate was that of the Tokugawa family. Their rule
extended from 1600 to 1868. For the first time, samurai learned how to rule through civil means rather than by military force alone. The arrival of Commodore Perry of the U.S. Navy in 1853, and the subsequent opening of Japan to the outside world, eventually overturned seven centuries of samurai rule. The Houston Museum of Natural Science is proud to host Samurai: The Way of the Warrior, an exhibit of exquisite objects related to these legendary warriors. Among these are full suits of armor, helmets, swords, sword-hilts, and saddles, as well as exquisite objects intended for more personal use such as lacquered writing boxes, incense trays and foldable chairs.
H M N S S A M U R A I : T H E WAY O F T H E WA R R I O R ! 5
BEHIND-THE-SCENES TOUR
CULTURAL FEAST
MEMBERS EVENT
SPECIAL PROGRAMS
Samurai Fusion Thursday, February 5, 7 p.m. Hosted at Oceanaire
Friday, November 21, 6 - 10 p.m. Children’s crafts, cash bar and refreshments. Reserve early; this event will sell out. Call (713) 639-4629 for reservations. Admission to Samurai: The Way of the Warrior requires a $12 ticket purchase.
Thursday, December 4, 6 p.m. Tickets $30, Members $20 Advance ticket purchase recommended at www.hmns.org/adults or (713) 639-4629. Japanese Tea Ceremony Presented by The Way of Tea Houston Saturday, January 17 11 a.m. & 1:30 p.m. Kimonos and Yukatas: Fashion Show and Demonstration Directed by Mochizuki SouRoku Sunday, February 1, 1 p.m.
CONTINUING STUDIES PROGRAM Rice University’s Glasscock School of Continuing Studies is offering a six-session course entitled Samurai: The Way of the Warrior featuring experts from different disciplines. Cosponsored by HMNS, this course begins March 31. Registration and complete course information is available at www.glasscock.rice.edu.
www.hmns.org/exhibits
This exhibition is organized by Contemporanea Progetti SRL with the Museo Stibbert of Florence, Italy. Local support of Samurai: The Way of the Warrior is provided by Kuraray.
HMNS FARISH HALL OF TEXAS WILDLIFE www.hmns.org/exhibits
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Photo by Sharon Ruhly
Project, a citizen-science project. You will learn how you can be a part of this scientific study that is currently investigating two large waterfowl: mute swan and Egyptian goose; two finches: orange bishop and nutmeg manikin; and two medium-sized birds: red-vented bulbul and monk parakeet.
NOW OPEN The Piney Woods, Oak Motte, Coastal Prairie and Wetland Marsh, South Texas Dry Forest, Guadelupe Mountains, and High Plains—Texas is unique in having so many remarkably diverse biomes. You can learn about these biomes through the beautiful exhibition displays which feature over 350 specimens, which represent well over 250 species—and with new interactives that let you delve deeper into topics that interest you. Touch screens for each biome highlight the flagship species of each region. Interactives specific to a threatened or endangered species like whooping crane, bison, black bear, ocelot, black-footed ferret and desert bighorn sheep show what factors put the species at risk and what ecologists, biologists, and everyday folks can do to make a difference. Invasive species are another topic covered by an interactive. Learn what
makes a species invasive, how they can be introduced into natural ecosystems, what invasive species are harmful, and how they can be controlled. In this interactive you will meet HMNS Curator of Vertebrate Zoology Dan Brooks, Ph.D., who curated the Farish Hall of Texas Wildlife and is also organizer of the Texas Invasive Bird
To learn more about how you can get involved to help research efforts on invasive species, please visit the Texas Invasive Bird Project’s website: www.hmns.org/files/InvasiveBirds.doc. Invasive species are all around us, don’t be surprised if you encounter some in or near your neighborhood! BEHIND-THE-SCENES TOUR Wednesday, December 3, 6 p.m. Tickets $25, Members $15
HMNS SHARK!
TOUCH TANK EXPERIENCE NOW OPEN
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Sharks are man-eaters.
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Sharks are drawn to human blood.
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All sharks are predators.
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All sharks are big.
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Shark cartilage can cure cancer and sharks never get cancer.
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If I’m being attacked by a shark and I punch it in the nose, it will stop attacking me.
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If a shark’s dorsal fin is cut off, it will grow back.
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All sharks have to constantly swim in order to be able to breathe.
Sharks are all cold-blooded fish.
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All sharks give live birth.
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Sharks often eat their own young.
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Sharks are more dangerous to us than we are to them.
Tackling these myths head-on, Shark! offers a unique opportunity to learn the facts about sharks around the world through this hands-on experience with Museum biologists helping visitors get extremely close to live sharks. The goal of this experience is to increase appreciation for this unique animal and build awareness for the vital role sharks play in Earth’s oceanic ecosystem. Shark! is organized by the Houston Museum of Natural Science with the Texas State Aquarium and assistance from OCEARCH and the Harte Research Institute for Gulf of Mexico Studies at Texas A&M UniversityCorpus Christi. This touch tank experience is only $5 in addition to regular admission.
CONTINUING STUDIES PROGRAM Rice University’s Glasscock School of Continuing Studies is offering a fivesession course on sharks, the role they play in a healthy ecosystem, and the latest research that has unlocked some of the mysteries of this apex predator. This course, co-sponsored by HMNS, begins on February 25. Registration and complete course information is available at www.glasscock.rice.edu. BEHIND-THE-SCENES TOUR Thursday, December 4, 6 p.m. Tickets $28, Members $18 WORTHAM GIANT SCREEN THEATRE Great White Shark 3D Explore this powerful animal’s strength and beauty while visiting the great white shark hotspots of Mexico, South Africa, California and New Zealand. (More info on page 13.)
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www.hmns.org/exhibits
Sharks have both fascinated and terrified people around the world for centuries causing many myths to spring up surrounding these captivating animals. Common myths surrounding these amazing animals include:
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H M N S B AT T L E S H I P T E X A S : T H E L A S T O F T H E D R E A D N O U G H T S www.hmns.org/exhibits
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BATTLESHIP TEXAS THE LAST OF THE DREADNOUGHT BATTLESHIPS
Special Exhibition, Free with Museum Admission Extended through January 11 See the large US flag that flew on USS Texas during the Normandy invasion and the two-foot German gun shell that penetrated the ship without exploding! During the D-Day invasion, USS Texas dealt some heavy blows, and took two direct hits from German coastal defense guns. Only one of the shells exploded after it struck the ship on top of its conning tower. The explosion blew the decking in the bridge upward, killing the helmsman, Christen Christensen, and injuring 13 of the crewmembers manning the bridge.
One of the injured crew, Emil Saul, spent over two years in the hospital after sustaining extensive injuries in the explosion. Because of Saul’s injuries, the ship’s crew awarded him the battle ensign that flew over the ship at D-Day. Saul donated this exemplary American flag back to the ship in 1992. The other shell that struck the ship did not explode. It penetrated the ship’s hull above the armor belt and landed in the stateroom of the ship’s clerk, Warrant Officer M.A. Clark. The ship’s crew did not know the shell struck the ship until a damage control party found the shell toward the end of the engagement. The shell was deactivated and returned to the ship as a good luck charm. Commemorating the 100th anniversary of the battleship’s commissioning, this exhibition is organized by the Houston Museum of Natural Science with Texas Parks and Wildlife Department – Battleship TEXAS State Historic Site. WARGAME EVENT Veterans Day November 11 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Experience another dimension to the Battleship Texas—wargaming. Museum visitors can interact with two simulated battles illustrating different ages of maritime warfare—including a battle that never was, between USS Texas and the German battleship Tirpitz—and see if Texas could have matched up to Tirpitz, sister to the famed Bismarck.
WORTHAM GIANT SCREEN THEATER D-Day 3D: Normandy 1944 Last Day is Veterans Day November 11 Appropriate for all audiences 8 to 88, this film gives a comprehensive overview of the events leading up to the Allied invasion of Normandy. Then imaginative film techniques take viewers through the assault itself hour-by-hour, as Allied troops fought their way off the beaches under fire from German defenders, leading to the liberation of Europe from the Axis powers. Active military and veterans receive free tickets to this film through the underwriting of Gallery Furniture. Local support is provided by IBERIABANK. Save your D-Day film ticket stub and use it to see more by going aboard the Battleship Texas at La Porte, Texas for only $6 (regularly $12).
Unspoken Language of the Fan
This third installation of the McFerrin collection at HMNS includes over 150 new objects. Particular attention is given to thirteen fans, each of which is a unique, delicate work of art, often including intricate paintings and lacework. As patrons feast their eyes on these bejeweled masterpieces, they
Paris fashion transformed the humble fan from merely functional to thought provoking, and the way in which a fan was presented could carry a number of different meanings. For example, should a genteel lady wish to encourage a suitor from across a ballroom, she would hold a fan in her left hand to signify she was “desirous of acquaintance.” On the other hand, should a lady wish to discourage a suitor, she would twirl a fan in her left hand as to say “I wish to be rid of you.” There are many more examples of this unspoken, aristocratic language, which visitors will learn about when they visit the McFerrin collection.
The thirteen fans on display are but a small part of one of the world’s finest and most diverse private collections of Fabergé. Visit Fabergé: From a Snowflake to an Iceberg at the Houston Museum of Natural Science to learn more about the craftsmanship and the culture behind these stunning pieces. Fabergé: From a Snowflake to an Iceberg is organized by the Houston Museum of Natural Science with the McFerrin Collection. This special exhibition is only $5 with general admission. BEHIND-THE-SCENES TOUR Wednesday, December 3, 6 p.m. Tickets $29, Members $19
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www.hmns.org/faberge
The world renowned McFerrin collection, Fabergé: From a Snowflake to an Iceberg, is aptly named. Currently on display at HMNS, the collection has grown into a breathtaking exhibit showcasing Russian art and history through the craftsmanship of the legendary jeweler Peter Carl Fabergé.
will learn that the fan’s purpose went far beyond the aesthetic, becoming the means of communication through the European aristocracy.
HMNS FABERGÉ: FROM A SNOWFLAKE TO AN ICEBERG
NEW INSTALLATION OF THE MCFERRIN COLLECTION
Burke Baker Planetarium ALL ABOARD FOR THE STARRY NIGHT EXPRESS
H M N S B U R K E B A K E R P L A N E TA R I U M
Now that daylight savings time is gone, along with the mosquitos and sweltering weather, it’s time to explore the heavens. Come to the planetarium before your trip to the beach, hill country, desert, George Observatory—or even your own backyard. We’ll give you a practice session in identifying constellations in the fall sky and finding everything from the Moon and planets to distant star clusters and galaxies.
www.hmns.org/planetarium
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Fall is famous for the Andromeda legend, with the proud queen Cassiopeia, her husband Cepheus, and their daughter Andromeda. The famous legend also includes a hero, sea monster, flying horse, the famous Andromeda Galaxy, the beautiful Pleiades star cluster, and other wonders of the heavens. The fall also brings meteor showers—the November Leonids, and the December Geminids and Ursids. Of these, the Geminids is the best meteor shower of the year. The Geminids peak on the evening of December 13-14 with the planet Jupiter nearby. (See page 11 for more info.) December also brings the winter solstice as the sun reaches its lowest point in the sky on December 21, causing the shortest day and longest night of the year. Experience simulations of all these events and a night sky tour in Starry Night Express offered every day in the Burke Baker Planetarium. Don’t explore the night sky without this sky tour.
A L S O S H OW I NG
GEORGEOBSERVATORY
Telescope Tickets $5, Members $4.50 Discovery Dome Tickets $3, Members $2.50 Continue to celebrate the Observatory’s 25th year by viewing 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.
Saturday, November 8 3 - 10 p.m. Free with Park Admission
Astronomy Day at the George Observatory in Brazos Bend State Park is packed with fun-filled stellar activities for all ages. Festivities begin in the afternoon, but the event really comes to life after dark when the stars begin to shine. Astronomy Day at the George Observatory is a hands-on way to learn all about space and astronomy. Take a simulated space mission in the Expedition Center, view sunspots in the daytime through filtered telescopes, explore the numerous indoor displays, meet local astronomy clubs, learn how to purchase and use telescopes, hear astronomy presentations, participate in children’s crafts, receive a guided tour of the constellations from the
Observatory deck, and peer through dozens of telescopes—even our large professional research telescopes. This family event is sponsored by local astronomy clubs, NASA organizations, and the HMNS George Observatory. For more information, please visit www.astronomyday.net.
GEMINID METEOR SHOWER
Saturday, December 13 3 p.m. - midnight Tickets $5, State Park entrance fees also apply. Enjoy the annual Geminid Meteor Shower. Not rising until past midnight, the Moon will be favorable this year. The peak of the shower will be 9 p.m. to midnight. Dress warmly and bring lawn chairs. Telescope viewing will be open until 10 p.m. Cloudy skies will prevent viewing of meteors.
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www.hmns.org/observatory
ASTRONOMY DAY 2014
The George Observatory is located in Brazos Bend State Park (park entrance fee: $7 adults, 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.
H M N S G E O R G E O B S E R VAT O R Y
SATURDAYS AT THE GEORGE!
Films and showtimes may change. Please visit www.hmns.org
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
WORTHAM GIANT S
www.hmns.org/giantscreen
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NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM: SECRET OF THE TOMB Premieres Friday, December 19
Get ready for the wildest and most adventure-filled Night at the Museum ever! Ben Stiller as Larry spans the globe, embarking on an epic quest to save the magic before it is gone forever, and unites favorite and
new characters—played by Rebel Wilson, Ben Kingsley, Dan Stevens, Owen Wilson, Skyler Gisondo, Steve Coogan and Ricky Gervais—with the beloved, late Robin Williams as Teddy Roosevelt, and Mickey Rooney as a security guard. Advance tickets recommended. Special ticketing prices apply.
Descriptions available at www.hmns.org. Proceeds from the sale of all Wortham Giant Screen film tic
g for current schedule and more information about each film.
SCREEN THEATRE
Delight in the fascinating habit and unique personalities of these black and white gentle giants. Meet the individuals working hard to protect these lovable, iconic and— unfortunately—highly endangered species.
Marvel at a paradise like no other, a place that changed the way we understand life on Earth. Travel deep into the heart of the Pacific Ocean, filled with spectacular biological marvels—a universe of remarkable and unique creatures that learned to survive against all odds on this volcanic archipelago in constant evolution. The cast includes marine iguanas, penguins, giant tortoises, blue-footed boobies and flightless cormorants.
JUST FOR FUN FILMS The Jungle Book Friday, December 5 7 p.m. Join us for the Disney classic as World Trekkers celebrates the country of India. (More info on page 21)
GREAT WHITE SHARK 3D Experience a breathtaking encounter with the predator we love to fear, and a look at their critical role at the top of the oceanic food chain. Focusing on four key Great White hotspots—Mexico, South Africa, California and New Zealand—the film explores the strength and beauty of these incredible animals, and why they are vulnerable to extinction. This film is a great complement to the current exhibit, Shark!
ckets help further the Houston Museum of Natural Science’s nonprofit mission. Your support counts!
Frozen Saturday, November 29 4 p.m. Saturday, December 13 10 a.m. Bring your princesses and princes to sing along this holiday season. Shows expected to sell out. Advance ticket purchase recommended.
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www.hmns.org/giantscreen
GALAPAGOS 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
PANDAS 3D
HMNS AT SUGAR LAND AT THE MUSEUM
H M N S H M N S AT S U G A R L A N D
Limited December Dates Still Available!
www.hmns.org/sugarland
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Impress your clients or wow your employees with a one-of-a-kind event! Full of captivating 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 weeknight dates are still available for your cocktail reception, seated holiday dinner or client appreciation event. This is also a great location for family celebrations, birthdays, weddings and receptions.
JINGLE TREE! Jingle, Jingle…Mix and Mingle Open House & Strolling Luncheon Tuesday, November 18 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. Jingle Jangle Happy Hour Thursday, November 20 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. Cookies with Santa Saturday, November 22 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. The holiday season is a magical time as HMNS at Sugar Land introduces Jingle Tree! This exciting new annual event pays tribute to Hermann Park’s Holiday Tree tradition by “branching” out to HMNS Sugar Land. Jingle Tree! features a showcase of beautifully decorated trees that will be up for bid in a five day-long silent auction. Our special touch? The trees will be sponsored and decorated by local designers, museum supporters, celebrities and artistic visionaries. The event kicks off with an Open House and Strolling Luncheon on November 18. Join us to “Jingle,
Jingle, Mix & Mingle” with your friends and associates—it’s your chance to see the trees up close and perhaps even “pre-buy” the one you fall in love with! Next up that week, plan to join us for Happy Hour on November 20. With festive drinks and merrymaking, you’ll celebrate with friends old and new. You won’t want to miss the debut of the Jingle Jangle, our signature drink! End the week with a family-friendly outing at “Cookies with Santa” on November 22, with holiday cheer and cookies for all. Be here as Santa makes one of his first stops of the season in Sugar Land! With so many choices, you’ll want to make plans to return throughout the week to sample the fun! Jingle Tree is a festive way to benefit HMNS Sugar Land’s mission of science education and helps us provide science enrichment to local underserved populations. We hope this event will grow to be an integral part of your holiday season!
CORPORATE EVENTS
For more information, go to www.hmns/sugarland, then click on Rent the Museum or email abarker@hmns.org,
Saturday, November 8 9 - 11:30 a.m. Tickets $40, Members $30
Boy Scout, Webelos, Bear, Wolf, Tiger, Girl Scout, Juniors, Brownie and Daisy classes will be offered throughout the fall and spring on Saturdays. Look for the complete class schedule at hmns. org/scouts. In an expansion of the popular Brownie Trails series that includes Butterflies, Egypt, Space, Dinos, and Gems, look for the new Americas and Wildlife classes.
Designed for Girl Scouts and American Heritage Girls with a special interest in science, the Careers in Science program continues to grow. Now the Museum’s world-renowned Hall of Paleontology can be your classroom—covering 3.5 billion years of prehistoric life, from bacteria to early humans. Boy Scouts of all ages and ranks can earn science-based belt loops, activity pins, activity badges, and merit badges. All requirements to finish the badges are completed in class.
Let HMNS handle all of the birthday party planning 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.
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www.hmns.org/kids
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 magnificent view of the dinosaurs below, Dr. Bakker will give an entertaining presentation in the Moran Lecture Hall. Reserve your spot now! Children under one year admitted free. Adults must accompany children. For tickets, please call (713) 639-4629.
EARN SCOUT BADGES YEAR-ROUND AT HMNS!
HMNS JUST FOR KIDS
BREAKFAST WITH DR. BAKKER
FOR TEACHERS WEEKDAY
LABS
HMNS FOR TEACHERS
Coming to HMNS for a field trip? Try one of our Weekday Science Labs. These selfcontained investigations feature Museum specimens, artifacts and laboratory equipment. Each lab is one hour 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.
www.hmns.org/education
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EDUCATOR’S GUIDE The 2014 - 2015 Educator’s Guide can be digitally downloaded at www.hmns. org/education. You can also email educationquestions@hmns.org to sign up for our eblasts and mailing list.
NEW ANNUAL EVENT The Educator Event @ HMNS Saturday, January 24, 8 a.m. - 1 p.m. This conference-style event gives educators a unique chance to learn about the educational opportunities provided by museums, educational nonprofits and local organizations in and around Houston. Attendees can earn three hours of CPE credit by attending. See www.hmns.org/ theeducatorevent for more info.
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. 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.
November Lab Topics:
January Lab Topics:
ConocoPhillips Techno Science Lab, Grades 1-8 “Balancing Act” - From levers and mobiles to leaning towers, explore the center of mass and find out why it matters.
Time Lab, Grades 1-8 “The Race for Space!” - Delve into the great race and explore the extreme competition between the United States and Soviet Union for primacy in space.
Dissection Lab, Grades 5-10 “Raining Ranids” - A classic example of vertebrate anatomy, the frog still has a few surprises in store. Find out what’s weird about these bug-eating machines. Includes frog dissection.
ConocoPhillips Techno Science Lab, Grades 1-8 “Discovering Density” - Discover how hot air balloons rise, why rocks sink, and what makes submarines go up and down.
Time Lab, Grades 1-8 “Civil War Science” - Explore what made this conflict—argued by some to be the first “modern” war—different from those before. December Lab Topics: Time Lab, Grades 1-8 “Inventions of the Industrial Revolution” - From agrarian to urban and driven by steam, come discover the inventions that drove this revolution. ConocoPhillips Techno Science Lab, Grades 1-8 “Speed” - Explore circular motion and discover which shapes are speediest. Wildlife Lab, Grades 1-8 “Rodents: Gnaw-t So Bad After All” - From pests to pets, rodents are everywhere. But do they really deserve the bad rap? Interact with these toothy mammals and judge for yourself.
Dissection Lab, Grades 5-10 “Tugging on Your Heartstrings” Nothing beats that “Aww” moment! Take an in-depth look at one powerful muscle, the heart. Includes sheep heart dissection.
EXXONMOBIL TEACHER TUESDAY WORKSHOPS
Participants receive 3 hours of CPE credit. Dinner is provided $30 per educator
“Test For The Best” Tuesday, November 4, 5 p.m. Show your students how to test and evaluate which products are strongest, fizziest, “funnest”' or the best value— and spot tricks advertisers use to get you to buy their products. (Grades 4-8) “Samurai” Tuesday, December 9, 5 p.m. From shogun to samurai, visit Medieval Japan and explore day to day life during this tumultuous time. (Grades 3-6)
FOR MORE INFORMATION AND FOR ALL EDUCATORS PROGRAMS, VISIT WWW.HMNS.ORG/TEACHERS OR CONTACT EDUCATIONQUESTIONS@HMNS.ORG
“Art and Arthropods” Tuesday, January 13, 5 p.m. Craft and create as you learn about arthropods, the most abundant phylum of animals on the planet. Your students will have a terrific time studying insects, spiders, crabs, trilobites and more. (Grades EC to 3)
“Texas Wildlife” Friday, January 30, 5 - 11 p.m. Examine the incredible variety of animals found in Texas, how they have adapted to the habitats they live in, and the challenges they face in our state. Discover each land region and the animals that make their home there— from the humidity of the Gulf Coast to the arid mountains of West Texas and the flat plains of Central Texas between. (All Grades)
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, weekend and evening scheduling is also available. Special Science Night activity station packages are available. For more information and scheduling: www. hmns.org/outreach, outreach@hmns. org, (713) 639-4758. Choose from these HMNS Outreach Programs:
EDUCATOR LATE NIGHTS Experience hands-on activities to use in your classroom, enjoy a catered dinner, and receive six hours of CPE credit. Each workshop is $60 per educator. “Build It Big” Friday, November 14, 5 - 11 p.m. Discover how architects and engineers make structures stronger as you experiment with tension, compression and more to solve the problems of building sky-high in this exclusive Late Night experience designed for educators. From levers to leaning towers, explore the center of mass and find out why it matters. (Grades 1 to 6)
Samurai: The Way of the Warrior Fabergé: From a Snowflake to an Iceberg Tuesday, December 9, 4 - 7 p.m. FREE for Educators Educators will receive 1 hour of CPE credit. Light refreshments will be served. RSVP at www.hmns.org/ educatorpreview or by calling (713) 639-4659 starting November 10.
ENERGY WORKSHOP “Where do I start?—Teaching Energy at All Levels” Wednesday, December 3, 5 - 8 p.m. $25 per educator Whether you have a school, church, or scout group of children grades K-12, this workshop will help you locate the resources needed to teach about energy and conservation. You will learn how to
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www.hmns.org/education
“Rockin’ Robots” Tuesday, January 27, 5 p.m. Investigate simple machines and basic circuitry and how they combine to make complex machines by experimenting with gears, motors, batteries and wheels. (Grades K to 3)
LyondellBasell Bugs On Wheels TOTAL Wildlife On Wheels Chevron Earth Science On Wheels ConocoPhillips Science On Stage Discovery Dome Docents To Go
HMNS FOR TEACHERS
SHELL EDUCATORS’ PREVIEW
inspire your children to conserve, along with fun science learning activities, contests, and more through the ECC web site. Includes snack and 3 hours of CPE credit.
HMNS WIESS ENERGY HALL
WIESS ENERGY HALL
www.hmns.org/energy
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CONTINUING EDUCATION CLASS “An Overview of the Energy Industry” Thursday, November 20 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 energy alternatives. Breakfast, lunch and tour of the Wiess Energy Hall are included. To register, visit www.hmns.org or call (713) 639-4629.
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 groups of 16 - 40. $100 per person. Contact wiessenergy@ hmns.org to schedule or inquire about smaller or larger groups.
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.
TEAM BUILDING Enhance your department’s teamwork abilities while experiencing an overview of the geology, geography and politics of the oil and gas industry in the Wiess Energy Team Building Activity. This unique energy-industry-specific teambuilding activity takes team members through the Wiess Energy Hall to expand 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
ONLINE TRAINING Energy 101
EXHIBITION TOUR
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 seeking a comprehensive overview about how the industry works.
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 Daniel Burch at dburch@hmns.org or (713) 639-4737.
ADULT EDUCATION To register, visit www.hmns.org or call (713) 639-4629.
FILM SCREENING & LECTURE Lionsgate & CNN Films Present DINOSAUR 13 With lecture by Pete Larson and Bob Bakker, Ph.D. Tuesday, December 9, 6 p.m. Tickets $18, Members $12
During a ten-year battle with the U.S. government, powerful museums, Native American communities, and competing paleontologists, Larson and his crew found themselves not only fighting to keep Sue, but fighting for their own freedom.
DISTINGUISHED LECTURES Sponsored by the Favrot Fund Tickets $18, Members $12
“Camp Logan, a WWI Emergency Training Center in Houston” Louis Aulbach and Linda Gorski, Historians Tuesday, November 4, 6:30 p.m. Camp Logan, a military training base built in 1917, housed 44,000 soldiers in what is now Houston’s Memorial Park. To commemorate the 100th anniversary of the beginning of WWI, Louis Aulbach and Linda Gorski will present the archaeological work at the site and pay tribute to the soldiers who trained at Camp Logan. Sponsored by the Houston Archeology Society.
“Ice Age Yucatan – Human Contact with a New Land” Dominique Rissolo, Ph.D., Marine Archaeologist Wednesday, November 12, 6:30 p.m. The complete, well-preserved skeleton of a young girl from over 12,000 years ago was found in an underwater cave on the Yucatan Peninsula. Nicknamed “Princess Naia,” her remains are among the oldest yet found in the Americas. Her discovery is reshaping our understanding of human migration into the Western Hemisphere. This lecture is presented by marine archaeologist Dr. Dominique Rissolo, expedition coordinator for the Waitt Institute. Co-sponsored by AIA – Houston Society.
BEHIND-THE-SCENES TOURS “HMNS Offsite Collections Storage” Monday, December 1, 1:30 p.m. & 6 p.m. Tickets $95, Members $75 Millions of artifacts and specimens are housed at the Museum’s offsite collections storage. For the first time ever, HMNS is allowing the public to tour this facility. Participants will see old favorites no longer on display, like the shrunken heads from the Amazon, and new acquisitions that have not been seen by the public yet, including
MUSEUM TRAVEL Shelling on Sanibel, Captiva and Coya Costa October 2015 New date and lower price! Learn about this coastal adventure in Florida, with Tina Petway, HMNS associate curator of malacology. The group will comb the beaches of the best shelling grounds in the continental US and experience diverse marine and wildlife of this threatened ecosystem. Spots are limited, register soon. Complete trip information available at www.hmns.org/travel. Travel Night - Sanibel Tuesday, November 18, 6 p.m.
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Interested travelers and those already registered will learn more about this trip from trip leader Tina Petway.
Jurassic Dinosaurs in Europe September 2015 Visit famous Jurassic locales of Germany and Switzerland—including active private quarries not open to the public—and have the opportunity to keep fossils that you find. These sites have yielded the famous archaeopteryx and many of the specimens collected for HMNS’ new Morian Hall of Paleontology. The group will also tour “sauriermuseums” with local paleontologists. More information and registration will be available in December at www.hmns.org/travel.
www.hmns.org/adults
Join paleontologists Peter Larson and Dr. Robert T. Bakker for a lecture on this important period in paleontology, followed by a screening of Dinosaur 13—presented by Lionsgate and CNN Films, featuring Larson and Bakker.
Journey around the world and learn of the significant successes and contributions by botanic gardens in the efforts to rescue plants from extinction through expanded research, conservation programs, and environmental education with Dr. Peter Wyse Jackson of the Missouri Botanical Garden. Cosponsored with The Mercer Society.
a giant African elephant. Participants will meet at HMNS and ride in a van to the offsite facility. Reservations are required in advance.
H M N S A D U LT E D U C AT I O N
In 1990 Paleontologist Peter Larson and his team from the Black Hills Institute made one of the world’s greatest dinosaur discoveries—the largest, most complete T. rex ever found, nicknamed “Sue.”
“Growing an Ark: The Expanding Role of Gardens in Plant Conservation” Peter Wyse Jackson, Ph.D., Missouri Botanical Garden Thursday, November 6, 6:30 p.m.
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
BUGGY BON APPETIT
www.hmns.org/butterflycenter
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A stroll through the Cockrell Butterfly Center can work up your appetite, so tasty snacks are available in a vending machine strategically placed near the exit, stocked with a variety of flavors to please every palate. Perhaps you have indulged in some of these special insect treats? Larvettes (dried and flavored meal worms) Crickettes (dried and flavored house crickets) Chocolate-Covered Ants Chocolate-Covered Insect Larvae Power Bars with Cricket Flour “Insect-Inside” Lollipops Gourmet Chocolate-Covered Scorpions Some people buy these items as “gag gifts” (pun intended!), but other customers are genuinely interested in experiencing just what it’s like to eat something with six legs.
And good for them! Reluctance to eat insects is mostly a North American prejudice as over two billion people around the world include insects in their diet. While eschewing insects, we readily consume their close relatives, including crayfish, shrimp, crab and lobster. Why should crustaceans be acceptable, but not their terrestrial relatives? In any case, all of us eat a substantial number of insects inadvertently, as you learn in the exhibit next to the vending machine. “I’m by no means an entomophagophile [lover of eating insects], but I have experienced several tasty varieties and would gladly repeat the experience,” comments Dr. Nancy Greig, director of the Cockrell Butterfly Center.“My favorites to date are bee larvae, which remind me of little kernels of creamed corn, teriyaki-flavored grasshoppers which are delicious right out of the can, and a large palm grub from Ecuador that you can pull out of a palm seed, grasp the head, and bite off the body. The head is too hard to eat, but the body is, like bee larvae, reminiscent of creamed corn—slightly sweet.
I don’t really enjoy crickets. They don’t taste too bad, but the legs get stuck in one’s teeth. I definitely do NOT like mopane worms, a large caterpillar from South Africa where it is highly relished, especially braised in butter with garlic and tomatoes. I found them bitter, despite the tasty sauce.” Greig has a few things still on her “must-try” list. “Leaf-cutter ant queens are savored in Colombia, where little bags of them are sold as a snack in theaters. Kind of a peanut equivalent, I believe. Years ago on the streets of Seoul I saw huge vats of fried beetles— alas, I did not partake. It’s tough to find insects for eating in this country – but if you’re curious, you can get a first taste right here at HMNS.” On a serious note, eating insects as a protein source is certainly more sustainable, humane, and healthy than eating most types of meat. The wave of the future? Check out this link: http:// metronews.ca/news/world/1135683/ do-insects-have-a-future-on-diningroom-tables/
WORLD TREKKERS INDIA
Friday, December 5 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. Tickets $10, Members $7
Experience the vitality of India, right in your own backyard at HMNS. Home to one of the world’s oldest, most unique and diverse civilizations, India has influenced cultures all over the world. Complete with food, fun and entertainment, this is a destination not to miss! Disney’s Jungle Book will be showing in the Wortham Giant Screen Theatre at 7 p.m. as part of this special event.
HMNS’ new young professionals group, HMNS Catalysts is a diverse, vivacious group of HMNS members in their 20s and 30s committed to the idea that science is an action that causes a reaction! Upgrade your HMNS membership to a Catalysts Membership by calling (713) 639-4629.
HMNS CATALYSTS EVENT Samurai: The Way of the Warrior Thursday, November 20 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.
NEW YOUNG PROFESSIONALS GROUP
MANY THANKS TO THE 2014-2015 YOUNG PROFESSIONALS PARTNER, THE DOW CHEMICAL COMPANY.
Complimentary drinks, light bites, entertainment and admission to Samurai: The Way of the Warrior. FREE for HMNS Catalysts Members. Non-Catalysts Museum members and HMNS Catalysts Guests: $15. General public: $20. This event is only for adults ages 21 and up. Please call (713) 6394629 to reserve your tickets.
H M N S H M N S C ATA LY S T S • W O R L D T R E K K E R S
See the world, skip the jet lag!
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NOVEMBER
HMNS EVENTS CALENDAR
EXXON MOBIL TEACHER TUESDAY “Test For The Best” Tuesday, November 4 5 p.m. (page 16)
www.hmns.org/museumcalendar
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DISTINGUISHED LECTURE “Camp Logan, a WWI Emergency Training Center in Houston” Tuesday, November 4 6:30 p.m. (page 19) DISTINGUISHED LECTURE “Growing an Ark: The Expanding Role of Gardens in Plant Conservation” Thursday, November 6 6:30 p.m. (page 19) BREAKFAST WITH DR. BAKKER Saturday, November 8 9 a.m. (page 15) GEORGE OBSERVATORY Astronomy Day 2014 Saturday, November 8 3 - 10 p.m. (page 11)
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WARGAME EVENT Veterans Day, November 11 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. (page 8)
DISTINGUISHED LECTURE “Ice Age Yucatan – Human Contact with a New Land” Wednesday, November 12 6:30 p.m. (page 19) EDUCATOR LATE NIGHT “Build It Big” Friday, November 14 5 p.m. (page 17) JINGLE, JINGLE…MIX AND MINGLE OPEN HOUSE & STROLLING LUNCHEON Houston Museum of Natural Science at Sugar Land Tuesday, November 18 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. (page 14) CONTINUING EDUCATION CLASS “An Overview of the Energy Industry” Thursday, November 20 8 a.m. (page 18)
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JINGLE JANGLE HAPPY HOUR Houston Museum of Natural Science at Sugar Land Thursday, November 20 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. (page 14) HMNS CATALYSTS EVENT Samurai: The Way of the Warrior Thursday, November 20 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. (page 21) MEMBERS EVENT Samurai: The Way of the Warrior Friday, November 21 6 - 10 p.m. (page 5) COOKIES WITH SANTA Houston Museum of Natural Science at Sugar Land Saturday, November 22 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. (page 14) WORTHAM GIANT SCREEN THEATRE Frozen Saturday, November 29 4 p.m. (page 13)
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For tickets to all events, visit www
DECEMBER
BEHIND-THE-SCENES TOURS “HMNS Offsite Collections Storage” Monday, December 1 1:30 p.m. & 6 p.m. (page 19)
BEHIND-THE-SCENES TOURS Fabergé: From a Snowflake to an Iceberg (page 9) Farish Hall of Texas Wildlife (page 6) Wednesday, December 3 6 p.m.
WORLD TREKKERS - INDIA Friday, December 5 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. (page 21) EXXON MOBIL TEACHER TUESDAY “Samurai” Tuesday, December 9 5 p.m. (page 16)
SHELL EDUCATORS’ PREVIEW Samurai: The Way of the Warrior Fabergé: From a Snowflake to an Iceberg Tuesday, December 9 4 - 7 p.m. (page 17) FILM SCREENING & LECTURE Dinosaur 13 Tuesday, December 9 6 p.m. (page 19) GEORGE OBSERVATORY Geminid Meteor Shower Saturday, December 13 3 p.m. - midnight (page 11) WORTHAM GIANT SCREEN THEATRE Frozen Saturday, December 13 10 a.m. (page 13)
HMNS EVENTS CALENDAR
TEACHER WORKSHOP “Where do I start?—Teaching Energy at all Levels” Wednesday, December 3 5 p.m. (page 17)
BEHIND-THE-SCENES TOURS Samurai: The Way of the Warrior (page 5) Shark! (page 7) Thursday, December 4 6 p.m.
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www.hmns.org/museumcalendar
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w.hmns.org or call (713) 639-4629.
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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.
PREMIERES IN WORTHAM GIANT SCREEN THEATRE DECEMBER 19
www.hmns.org/magazine
HMNS NEWS • NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2014 • VOLUME 19, NUMBER 6
5555 Hermann Park Drive Houston, Texas 77030
EXHIBITION NOW OPEN
EXHIBITION NOW OPEN