SCOPE SPRING 2019
O R L A N D O
This exhibit proves the sky was never the limit! pg. 8
S C I E N C E
C E N T E R
Create a bird feeder for your feathered friends pg. 14
M A G A Z I N E
New birthday packages for preschool to pre-teens pg. 16
SOW Ad Pictures Content Forthcoming Needed Ready your mind – and palate – for a night of wining, dining, and learning. Enjoy more than 150 wines paired with bites from 30 restaurants at one of Orlando’s most unique food and wine events!
777 East Princeton Street, Orlando, Florida 32803 • 407.514.2000 • www.osc.org Orlando Science Center is a private, nonprofit educational facility.
President’s Message
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Science In Our Lives
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Get Your Otronicon On!
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Member News
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NEW! Above & Beyond Exhibit
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Monthly Calendar
10 - 11
Films & Shows
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Try This at Home!
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Mark Your Calendars
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Brand-New Birthday Parties!
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Afterschool STEM Club
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Catalyst Scholars Program
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Early Childhood Workshops
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In Memoriam
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Support
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21 - 24
Share Your Story
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Executive Editor JoAnn Newman Co-Editors Jeff Stanford, Jennine Moser Contributing Writers Natalie Alvarez, Stephanie Burk, Catherine Duffy, Tori Everroad, JJ Leissing, Zach Lynn, Michael Mendillo, Jennine Moser,
Trinette Nation, JoAnn Newman, Heather Norton, Lidia Serrano, Jeff Stanford, Nona Tyler, Lily Voss, Jesse Zito Graphic Designers Kristie Hoover, Lauren Mitchell Photographers Julie Fletcher, Drew Garraway, Roberto Gonzalez, Lauren Mitchell SCOPE Magazine is published three times a year by Orlando Science Center. SCOPE accepts no responsibility for the return of unsolicited manuscripts and/or photographs and assumes no liability for products or services advertised herein. SCOPE reserves the right to edit, rewrite or refuse material and is not responsible for products. CONTACT INFORMATION Phone Number: 407.514.2000 | Website: www.osc.org | Story ideas and suggestions: oscmembership@osc.org Orlando Science Center is supported by United Arts of Central Florida, funded in part by Orange County Government through the Arts & Cultural Affairs Program, and sponsored in part by the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs and the Florida Council on Arts and Culture. © 2018 Orlando Science Center. Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibits discrimination based on race, color, or national origin including limited English proficiency, in programs or activities receiving Federal financial assistance. To learn more, please contact our Accessibility Coordinator Debra Gordon at 407-514-2029 or dgordon@osc.org, email preferred.
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
Today’s Youth are Tomorrow’s Innovators I tell people that we’re in the inspiration business. We create exhibits and experiences to stimulate curiosity and to inspire wonder. Our activities are designed to encourage skills, critical thinking, creativity and collaboration. You never know who you’re going to inspire or where that inspiration may lead. We want to encourage the scientist that’s going to cure cancer or the astronaut that’s going to walk on Mars, which is why we need to be welcoming to all. The Science Center welcomes hundreds of thousands of children and their families every year, but we also engage an equal number of teens through our youth volunteer program, school field trips, workshops, science competitions and events. We are focused on surrounding our community’s young people with support, training and inspiration. We want to lay down a foundation for a successful future. Our “Science in Our Lives” subject this issue is Dr. Morgan Cable of NASA’s Jet Propulsion Lab. Before she was a rocket scientist, she was a child visiting the Science Center with her parents, and a teenager competing — and winning — our very first Dr.Ying Student Science Competition. We are so very proud of Morgan and her accomplishments and very humbled that we played even a small role in her success. Morgan, like all our teen volunteers, has a passion for science and community involvement that we were able to nurture and leverage to support her academic and professional goals. Our teen program is called Catalyst and during weekly sessions throughout the school year, we work with students to encourage 21st Century learning skills like creativity, collaboration and critical thinking through engaging STEM skills workshops. They are introduced to topics ranging from 3D printing and prototyping to wearable technology and coding. These opportunities offer mentoring and build career readiness to prepare them for what lies ahead. A catalyst is a spark, and is meant to increase a rate of change and that is what we aim to do. We channel their enthusiasm through workshops that help them develop employable skills then offer guidance and internships. All these efforts are focused on capitalizing on their potential and establishing a pathway to future employment. This is how we can grow tomorrow’s workforce today. And that’s why we’re in this inspiration business. Sincerely,
PRESIDENT/CEO
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SCIENCE IN OUR LIVES
FROM SCIENCE FAIRS TO SATURN DR. MORGAN CABLE’S STORY Morgan Cable, Ph.D., the first-ever grand prize winner of the Dr. Nelson Ying Science Competition in 1999, has camped atop Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, conducted research in the Atacama Desert in Chile, and has run multiple summer space camps in South Korea. Now, a Research Scientist at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in California, Morgan focuses on asking questions about possible life in space.
As an 8th grade student, she entered the first Dr. Nelson Ying Science Competition with the goal of helping humanity through scientific research. Young Morgan conducted a science project about whether or not she could grow a certain type of bacteria in a Martian environment. She was awarded the grand prize for her efforts. Morgan heavily credits science competitions and organizations like Orlando Science Center for furthering her interest and passion in STEM learning. She recalls her ‘a-ha’ moment when realizing “wow, there are still so many questions to be answered, and I could do this for a living!” According to Morgan, exposing children to science at a young age is the most important thing parents, schools, and institutions can be doing.
From left to right: Fred Curtis, Dr. Morgan Cable, and Dr. Nelson Ying Sr. at the Galaxy Gala
She has worked on multiple projects like the Cassini Mission, which explored the Saturn system for more than 10 years, and as a collaborator on an instrument that will go on NASA’s next mission to Jupiter’s icy moon Europa. Her life story’s full of scientific discovery and adventure, which is why she was one of the speakers at Orlando Science Center’s 2018 Galaxy Gala. Morgan was exposed to science at the earliest of ages. Growing up on the Space Coast in Titusville, she recalls “that undoubtedly had an effect on my upbringing, I was able to see numerous rocket launches just from my window!” Her father, a chemist at Kennedy Space Center — and Morgan’s biggest inspiration — always encouraged her to ask questions, and in doing so opened her to a world of exploration. She also credits frequent visits to Orlando Science Center to sparking an interest in science. “I liked that I could play and have fun, but I was also learning something.”
“Science can be intimidating if you experience it later in life. If you’re shown it over and over again in a comfortable and fun setting, it becomes so much more approachable for all children. There is a really big mental hurdle in this field of thinking that you’re not smart enough or not capable, but I’m here to tell you YES you are!” - Dr. Morgan Cable
Her message for anyone beginning to pursue a career in STEM is this: “No one knows your true potential except you. I have met scientists and engineers for NASA that used to be musicians and then one day decided they wanted to be a scientist and went for it. There is no right way to go about it. As long as you’re passionate about it – do it.” WWW.OSC.ORG
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January 18-21, 2019 Otronicon is back and better than ever! Bring your friends and family and join OSC for this thrilling fourday event demonstrating the latest innovations in technology. Experience virtual and augmented reality, a variety of simulators, modern works of digital art, and more! This STEAM expo offers interactive activities for all ages and audiences to explore. Come one, come all because Otronicon 2019 is a can’t-miss event!
feel the thrill of flight with aerospace simulators as you navigate through pilot training courses. Get Your Head In The Game! Are you a gaming fiend? If you’re interested in learning more about video game development, meet the local game developers who will be showcasing their games for you to play! If you’re feeling competitive, compete one-on-one for cash prizes in the Powder Keg Games competitions! For nostalgic gamers, take a trip down memory lane with a selection of retro vintage games for you to geek out over. Immerse Yourself in a New Era In today’s digital age, art and technology have melded together and the results are amazing! Come see how tech has influenced art and the digital works that are defining this new era. For comic book fans, you’ll definitely want to see the collection of fan art and graphic artworks from local creators and artists.
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Fly a Jet or Perform Surgery At Otronicon, you have the opportunity to learn like the pros with military and medical simulators. Undergo the same training doctors and surgeons use to improve their abilities like practicing with surgical robots that are used in operating rooms! Or, if you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to be in the pilot’s seat, SPRING 2019
Workshops and Presentations Galore Take a break from the exhibit floor and stimulate your mind by participating in a variety of STEM workshops and speaker presentations. These hands-on and thought-provoking workshops and presentations are led by industry professionals. Be on the lookout for unique demonstrations such as hover crafts and more! Don’t forget, you have free access to this event as a benefit of your OSC membership and Member Guest Passes are accepted. Don’t miss out!
Synthestruct’s Viscerality to premiere at Otronicon 2019! This year’s Otronicon attendees are in for an audiovisual treat! Synthestruct will be debuting a rare, immersive full-dome experience incorporating Mi.Mu Gloves that will captivate audiences. Synthestruct (a.k.a. Ginger Leigh) is an interactive and audiovisual designer who uses sensors and creative coding to connect with the world around us and generate imaginary worlds to be explored. Her work, which focuses on her interest in making the world of sound visible, has often been featured at Orlando Science Center and around the world at Sonar Festival (Barcelona), IXSyposium (Society for Art and Technology, Montreal), and Ars Electronica Festival (Austria). In September, Synthestruct was recognized as one of the “Women In The Lead” at the Music Tech Festival Stockholm where she met musician Imogen Heap who spearheaded the Mi.Mu Glove project, and Kelly Snook, one of the glove’s creators. Synthestruct started working with the gloves to explore new creative tools for live control for her audiovisual performances and has been working closely with the Science Center to present Viscerality in the Dr. Phillips CineDome, bringing the first full-dome audiovisual performance to Central Florida!
During Viscerality, Synthestruct will captivate audiences’ imagination using the Mi.Mu Gloves and cutting– edge audiovisual performance creation to create a relationship between her hand movements and how the audiovisual elements respond to her in real-time. She will act as the conductor, and only through her movements will the performance unfold, making each performance entirely unique.
A brief introduction followed by a Q&A after the show will offer Otronicon guests an incredibly rare experience to see these gloves in action firsthand! Learn more about the performance, Mi.Mu Gloves, and our incredible partner Synthestruct at osc.org/ viscerality.
THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS
College of Medicine | College of Sciences | CREATE (Center for Research and Education in Arts, Technology and Entertainment)
WWW.OSC.ORG
Florida Interactive Entertainment Academy | Institute for Simulation and Training | School of Visual Arts & Design | College of Arts and Humanities
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MEMBERS
Start Your Day
the Orlando Science Center Way! Did you know that Orlando Science Center members with children ages 0–7 get exclusive, early access to everyone’s favorite early childhood exhibit, KidsTown! Check in to the Science Center as early as 9:00 a.m. any day that we’re open. That’s an hour of extra KidsTown fun so you can enjoy the exhibits in a more quiet environment before anyone else! If you’re heading into KidsTown early, don’t forget your morning coffee! The Coffee Spot is open so you can save time on your commute and recharge while your child is exploring. Stop by The Coffee Spot on Level 2 and take advantage of your 10% member discount. Caffeine, entertainment, and educational playtime all before 10:00 a.m.? Now those are some member benefits to be excited about!
Go Green and Save! This insulated Orlando Science Center tumbler is currently available at The Coffee Spot for $18 with your member discount!
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Members always receive 10% off their coffee purchases but by going green and helping the environment, you’ll also save an additional 25 cents per refill when you bring the tumbler in with you.
MEMBERS
Treat Your Friends to a Day They’ll ReMEMBER Have friends visiting from out of town? Need a last-minute gift for your favorite neighbors? We’ve got you covered! As an Orlando Science Center member, you automatically receive not one, not two, but FOUR complimentary Member Guest Passes* so you can bring your friends for a fun-filled day. That’s an $84 value! The lucky recipients of your extraordinary gift can experience a full day of science learning and fun at OSC, including access to our hands-on exhibits, theaters, and more. Show your guests the VIP experience of
being a member. Enter KidsTown earlier than everyone else, then grab a coffee to start your day with 10% off at The Coffee Spot. Plus, get discounts at Subway and The Science Store. Enjoy sharing a day of laughter and excitement by showing them your Science Center in a whole new way with Member Guest Passes! We’re so sure they’ll be impressed that we’ll offer them 10% off their own membership should they choose to sign up so your gift is almost like two gifts really… *Member Guest Passes are not included with College Level Memberships.
WWW.OSC.ORG
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TRAVELING EXHIBIT: FEB. 2 – MAY 12
Passengers prepare for takeoff! The newest traveling exhibit at Orlando Science Center is landing this February. Above and Beyond, the ultimate flight exhibition, celebrates the greatest accomplishments in aviation. From the monumental first 12 seconds of flight, to the first steps on the Moon over 200,000 miles away, you’ll see just how far we’ve flown. Go on a journey with exhibits that propel you faster, higher, farther, and smarter. The sky is the limit with humankind’s greatest adventure! Our vision of flight began with a look to the experts, birds! Today’s aircraft are heavily inspired by the anatomy of a bird and you can see it for yourself! Be as light as a feather, lift yourself against gravity and move forward against the drag. Learn about the latest aircraft technology like flying cars and 8
SPRING 2019
hypersonic jets flying five times faster than the speed of sound.You can show off your engineering skills and strategize the design of your jet to optimize speed and maneuverability. Will your customizable jet beat the competition? Race against other pilots to be the fastest in the sky! Once you’ve mastered flight in Earth’s atmosphere, it’s time to go beyond it and take a simulated elevator to space. Gaze upon the breathtaking transition from our sky into space.Your virtual tour guide will be there along the way to describe the aircraft, spacecraft, and aerospace technology you encounter on the way. Getting to space is the hard part! Find out which material works best for aerospace vehicles. While finding light materials is key, it needs to be durable.
Feel the weight savings of carbon composite by lifting pieces from fuselage – both composite and aluminum. Observe how scientists and aerospace engineers are developing lighter materials to go farther and longer with less fuel. Next stop, Mars! Have you ever wondered what it is like to travel through space? This augmented reality experience invites you to take on the physical and psychological challenges of the marathon journey to Mars and lets you “try on” some potential solutions.You can even earn your own personal “Passport to Mars.” Finally, discover the smart technologies that transform aerospace such as innovations to decrease weather delays, reduce pollution and improve air traffic efficiency. Take on a virtual timed challenge to eliminate as much orbital debris as you can. In this area you will also discover how aerospace companies design and build aircraft, including virtual design and rapid prototyping, 3D printing, and manufacturing robots. View an actual 3D printed aircraft model, as well as objects manufactured by the 3D printer installed on the International Space Station. All of these exploration accomplishments couldn’t have been done without people who devote their passion to go beyond the limits. Above and Beyond aims to inspire the next generation to imagine future careers in aerospace and encourage an interest in building STEM skills. Finish your journey with videos of young aerospace employees sharing their inspirations and dreams of the future of flight. Even your own visions of flying can eventually turn into reality!
F E B RUA RY 2
MEMBER PREVIEW
9:00 A.M. – 1 2 : 0 0 P. M .
Above and Beyond is produced by Evergreen Exhibitions in association with Boeing and in collaboration with WWW.OSC.ORG NASA and the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum.
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CALENDAR
JANUARY
FEBRUARY
TECHNOLOGY MONTH
ENGINEERING MONTH
Explore new technologies through fun, interactive activities and demonstrations! Delve into robotics, design functioning circuits, and learn about computer coding. Don’t miss our 4-day Otronicon event where you can discover how technology helps us live, learn, work, and play!
Learn about a variety of engineering careers through engaging, hands-on engineering design challenges. Test your skills as you build a towering skyscraper, design with the tools of the trade in The Hive, and develop flying machines. This month, prepare to plan, create, test, and improve amazing creations!
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TUESDAY New Year’s Day We’re Open!
1–4
5–6
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2–3
4, 5, & 8
SPRING 2019
MONDAY, TUESDAY, & FRIDAY Little Explorers & Pint-Sized Science Spring Semester Begins
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THURSDAY Discover Science Tour 12:00 – 1:00 p.m.
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SUNDAY Sensory Sunday 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
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MONDAY Break Camps*
FRIDAY – MONDAY Otronicon SATURDAY Science Night Live Featuring Otronicon! 8:00 – 11:30 p.m. (Must be 21 or older)
SATURDAY & SUNDAY Bank of America Weekend
SATURDAY Preschool Open House 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
THURSDAY Discover Science Tour 12:00 – 1:00 p.m.
18 – 21
SATURDAY Above and Beyond Exhibit Opens Member–Only Preview 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
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TUESDAY Comedy Wildlife Photography Exhibit Last Day
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SATURDAY & SUNDAY Bank of America Weekend SUNDAY Dinos In Lights, Zoo In You, & Human Plus Last Day
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TUESDAY – FRIDAY Break Camps*
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23 & 24
SATURDAY & SUNDAY Engineering Weekend Presented By: FINFROCK
All events subject to change *Additional fee required
MARCH
APRIL
NATURE MONTH
SUPERHERO SCIENCE MONTH
Spring has sprung and it’s time to enjoy the great outdoors! Learn how you can spend your Spring Break becoming a citizen scientist, get face-to-face with your favorite animals, and learn how to enjoy the green spaces all around you. Stop by for Great Outdoors Weekend to participate in a ladybug release!
All April long we’ll be celebrating heroes in all shapes and sizes with a special week dedicated to the occasion in KidsTown. Families will be invited to enjoy activities and crafts that celebrate superheroes and will have opportunities to meet community heroes from the local fire and police departments.
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SATURDAY & SUNDAY Seuss Days
2–3
SATURDAY & SUNDAY Bank of America Weekend
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SATURDAY Science Night Live 8:00 – 11:30 p.m. (Must be 21 or older)
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THURSDAY Discover Science Tour 12:00 – 1:00 p.m.
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THURSDAY Pi Day
15 – 22
FRIDAY – FRIDAY Spring Break Camps*
16 & 17
SATURDAY & SUNDAY Great Outdoors Weekend
6–7
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11 – 14
SATURDAY & SUNDAY Bank of America Weekend THURSDAY Discover Science Tour 12:00 – 1:00 p.m. THURSDAY – SUNDAY Superhero Week Presented By: three.two.one
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SUNDAY $10 Admission Day
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SUNDAY OSC Closed
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SATURDAY Science of Wine Fundraiser!* 7:00 – 10:00 p.m. (Must be 21 or older)
FIRST WEDNESDAYS! Orlando Science Center is closed to the public on Wednesdays except for the first Wednesday of every month. We will be open on January 2, February 6, March 6, April 3, & May 1.
Join us Friday and Saturday evenings from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m. for Observatory viewing WWW.OSC.ORG and Hollywood Films through February 23!11
FILMS & SHOWS
GET INSPIRED TO EXPLORE THE GREAT OUTDOORS! Backyard Wilderness 3D Now Playing
Follow Katie and her technologyobsessed family as they gradually discover the intricate secrets that nature holds right at their backdoor! The film reminds viewers that Wi-Fi isn’t the only connection that matters in our fast-paced world, and inspires us all to uncover extraordinary things by just stepping outside. Prepare to be amazed at the hidden wonders and unique wildlife images all caught by cameras placed inside dens and nests for a whole year.
Great Bear Rainforest
EDUCATIONAL Amazon Adventure Backyard Wilderness 3D Earthflight 3D Oceans: Our Blue Planet Planet Power 3D SuperPower Dogs 3D
Premieres February 23, 2019
Journey to the last intact temperate rainforest in the world and discover a mystifying land of grizzlies, coastal wolves, sea otters and more. Found on Canada’s remote Pacific coast, the Great Bear Rainforest is home to a plethora of wildlife, namely the rarest bear on earth, the all-white spirit bear. Surrounded by towering mountains and the vast open ocean, you’ll discover the tremendous ecological rainforest and how different species rely on each other to survive, from the herring fish to the grizzly bears.
Film schedule varies daily and is subject to changes. For upcoming film and show schedules, please visit osc.org/theaters. 12
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HOLLYWOOD Ant-Man and the Wasp Avengers: Infinity War Christopher Robin Ralph Breaks the Internet Smallfoot Teen Titans Go! To the Movies
WHAT DOES ORLANDO SCIENCE CENTER MEAN TO YOU? Orlando Science Center is a nonprofit serving Central Florida for more than 60 years. We need you, our community, to help us continue our mission to inspire science learning for life! Give the gift of treasure! Your gift, large or small, makes a dinosaur-sized impact! We are grateful for every dollar. Please use the attached envelope insert or visit our website to make a tax-deducible, monetary contribution today.
Give the gift of time! Join Orlando Science Center’s volunteer team and give the gift of time and talent. Our volunteers are at the core of our mission — our nucleus — forming the basis for activity and growth.
Give the gift of a lasting legacy! Make the world a better place and support the Science Center for generations to come. By leaving a legacy, you will inspire the next generations of innovators, scientists, environmentalists, and the future leaders of tomorrow.
Your support truly changes lives – today, tomorrow, and for generations to come. Make a lasting impact! WWW.OSC.ORG For more information, please email development@osc.org or visit osc.org/support.
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TRY THIS AT HOME
Upcycled
Bird Feeder
Upcycle your drink cartons and help the environment this spring. The birds around your house will enjoy your DIY feeder all season long!
MAT ER I A L S
DIREC TIO N S 1. First, make sure your carton is empty and washed out. String or ribbon
2. Next, cut a large rectangle out of the front and back of the carton (like the image shown). 3. Now you can decorate your DIY feeder however you would like! Acrylic paint is recommend since it is meant to be outside. Fun stickers or any other decorations work as well. You can better protect your feeder by sealing the outside with Mod Podge at the end.
Acrylic paint Drink carton
4. Once your feeder is dry, poke two holes through the top of the carton. 5. Feed your string or ribbon through the top for hanging up and tie it in a loop. 6. Make sure the loop is nice and secure and find a good place to hang it for the birds to access.
Bird seed Scissors (with adult supervision)
Mod Podge
Mod Podge (optional)
7. Finally, add seeds and let your local flying friends enjoy your DIY feeder!
Throughout the spring season, observe your bird feeder. Ask questions like: • What color are the birds? • Do the birds have small or large wings?
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• Try to identify what kinds of birds are visiting your feeder!
MARK YOUR CALENDARS
KidsTown Presents
With Support From:
FEBRUARY 23 & 24
MARCH 2 & 3
APRIL 11 – 14
Build bridges and make connections with a variety of local engineering groups and hands-on STEM activities. Don’t miss our celebration of National Engineers Week.
You’re invited to a Seussical celebration for Dr. Seuss’s birthday! Visit KidsTown for stories, crafts, and activities based on some of Dr. Seuss’ most-loved stories and characters.
We’re turning KidsTown into a superhero metropolis to celebrate all heroes, big and small! Learn what it takes to be an everyday superhero at home and in the community.
UPCOMING DATES:
JANUARY 19, 2019 FEATURING OTRONICON!
MARCH 2, 2019 WWW.OSC.ORG
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Birthday Parties
ARE A BLAST AT ORLANDO SCIENCE CENTER! NOW With New Activities! At Orlando Science Center, we have birthday parties down to a science. Enjoy unique themes, hands-on science experiments and maker activities with your party guests. Pick a theme, make a guest list, and leave the rest to us!
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• Design 3D creations with Doodle Pens • Uncover fossils • Explore a Mars landscape with robotics • Learn how to program a Makey Makey • Experience virtual reality in Flight Lab
Learn more at osc.org/birthdays or by calling 407.514.2112.
SPRING 2019
EDUCATION
Afterschool STEM Club
Adventures in Science & Technology! When it comes to engaging afterschool programs, there are a lot of options to choose from. Parents, how do you choose between topics your child will enjoy for a whole semester and the educational experiences you know they need? What if you don’t have to choose? Having been a leader in informal science learning for over 60 years with a thriving summer camp program, Orlando Science Center recognizes the importance of providing a dynamic curriculum that allows children to stay active while engaging in exciting STEM learning opportunities. Now OSC has brought this expertise to select schools with an innovative afterschool STEM club!
by OSC’s educators twice a week during the Afterschool STEM Club. Program participants were treated to a variety of topics designed to inspire them to become the innovators of tomorrow. One of the perks of OSC’s Afterschool STEM Club is that students don’t even realize they are learning because they are having too much fun! Robust, hands-on learning ranged from designing and building Milo Robot to celebrating Computer Science Week by learning coding to create a dance party with their friends, and so much more! When asked about the afterschool program, one parent said: “Everyone has been very friendly, prompt, professional, informative, enthusiastic and caring. The projects and activities are always different, organized, informative and educational. I feel very confident with the staff and that my child is in a safe environment!” Afterschool STEM Clubs are currently available at the following schools during the spring semester and registration is now open for the third and fourth quarters. If your child is in Grades K–5 at Audubon Park K-8, Baldwin Park Elementary, or Hillcrest Elementary, sign up today while space is still available! Learn more about our offerings, fees and payment plans at osc.org/afterschool or email classes@osc.org. Discounts are available for OSC members.
“Access to quality hands-on STEM learning during afterschool can positively impact children attitudes and interest in STEM. It is critical that we provide our children with STEM enrichment that not only supports their performance but also increases their self-confidence about their aptitude and ability in this field,” said Heather Norton,Vice President of Education for Orlando Science Center. This year, elementary school students from three local schools have enjoyed fun and science learning facilitated
The Afterschool STEM Club is made possible with support from Orlando Health and Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children. Without them, we would be unable to provide students with the vital tools they need to succeed. T HA NK YO U FO R YO U R SU P P O RT:
WWW.OSC.ORG
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VOLUNTEER
OUR SCHOLARS ARE THE CATALYST
FOR STEM LEARNING Orlando Science Center is committed to encouraging youth in our community to be inspired for a lifetime of learning, spark their innovation in STEM careers, and build opportunities for a successful future. The Catalyst Scholars program is a new professional youth internship which gives students an in-depth look at specific career and educational aspects of STEM fields. The goal of the Catalyst Scholars program is to encourage and motivate students to pursue STEM-related careers and higher education. During the course of the academic year-long internship, we connect students with hands-on career training, mentorship, and STEM education. This comprehensive program is structured to build pathways to assist students in navigating challenges they may face when entering the workforce and college. This year, the Catalyst Scholars program is sponsored by the Chelonian Research Institute in honor of Dr. Peter Pritchard and his lifelong work in turtle and tortoise research and conservation. The program’s first cohort, the Pritchard Youth Scholars, have been working with the NatureWorks team to learn how to facilitate learning experiences while understanding the role of conservation in our environment. Additionally, they receive supplemental off-site learning opportunities through our program partners including the Chelonian Research Institute, among others.
Esha Gill and Angela Alvarez joined the Science Center’s Catalyst Youth Volunteer Team in 2016, progressing through the program’s tiers to become the first Pritchard Youth Scholars. Both young women are driven by their passion for research and Esha hopes to pursue a career as a research scientist in microbiology while Angela wants to write about scientific research for the public. The Science Center recently caught up with both of the Catalyst Scholars and asked how they’ve felt about their experiences in the program. Angela reflected on her time giving back to the community, “The Science Center has many invaluable, unique opportunities to explore and I’m so thankful to have spent the past two and a half years as a volunteer.” Esha added in some advice she would offer someone her age who is interested in a STEM career. She suggests simply,“Go for it! Learn as much as you can, take calculated risks and remember even if you make mistakes, it is all part of the learning process.” Our Catalyst Scholars will continue their internship in NatureWorks this spring so be sure to say hello if you see either of them on your next visit!
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For more information about volunteer opportunities at the Science Center, please visit osc.org/volunteer.
For learners ages 18 months to 5 years It’s never too early to introduce your child to the wonder and curiosity that comes with science learning. Enjoy a hands-on workshop alongside your toddler, or drop off your preschooler for an exciting morning of hands-on science fun with our Educators!
Little Explorers (ages 18 to 36 months) You and your child will discover together while participating in station-based activities! Then, learn how to incorporate science learning into your daily routine at home so the learning never stops. Pint-Sized Science (ages 3 to 5 years) This three-hour drop-off workshop offered on Fridays is designed for children to learn through hands-on play, work as a team, gain independence, and become comfortable with a classroom setting! Learn more and register at osc.org/early-childhood. Member discounts available!
Workshop Themes February Dinosaur Roar Little Bits & Bots
March Story Time – Dr. Seuss Out Of This World
April Can We Build It? Yes We Can! Our Home Planet
May Amazing Animal Lives Pop, Pop, POP WWW.OSC.ORG
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IN MEMORIAM
Thank You For Your Commitment to Inspire Science Learning For Life Harriett Lake April 7, 1922 – July 10, 2018
We sadly said goodbye to our friend and supporter Harriett Lake, who passed away on July 10 at the age of 96. Widely known for her bold fashion sense and brassy personality, Harriett was a longtime champion of the arts and our entire community benefited greatly from her heartfelt generosity. Harriett’s legacy is seen throughout Central Florida and she was a devoted sponsor to our annual Neanderthal Ball, where Harriett would hold court as a judge of our “Caveman Couture” contest. Most recently, her gift to our Unlock Science campaign led to the naming of “Harriett’s KidsTown Theatre,” where children don big purple hats and other costumes for role playing, story times and dance parties. We once presented Harriett with a photo album from Neanderthal Ball for her birthday and soon after received a handwritten note. “That book is no gift – to me, it’s an invaluable TREASURE!! PRICELESS!!,” she wrote. “This is not a ‘thank you’ note – It’s an ‘eternally grateful, forever in your debt, how can I ever repay you’ note!!” We feel the same way about you, Harriett.
We recently lost one of our own with the passing of Irene Morris, longtime philanthropist, dedicated OSC volunteer, and dear friend on August 21, 2018. Irene held the honor of being the longest serving volunteer on our team, providing us with thousands of hours of dedicated service over the span of 50 years. Irene joined us in 1966 and was one of the earliest members of the OSC Guild, a group of volunteers dedicated to fundraising for the Science Center. She helped develop the annual Pet Fair, which became a signature OSC event for more than 40 years. During the later part of her tenure, she volunteered in NatureWorks where she was affectionately nicknamed “The Snake Lady” by our youngest visitors. When it came to the snakes, Irene playfully boasted that the girls were always braver than the boys. We fondly remember Irene for her smiling face and her biting wit. She had a steadfast commitment to the organization, quality customer service, and safety. Her legacy will be felt for generations in the thousands of guests she inspired. We are truly grateful for her service and miss her dearly. 20
SPRING 2019
Irene Morris June 17, 1929 – August 21, 2018
SUPPORT
HELPING US GROW Thank you to NDIA, Women In Defense and NTSA for their generous support of Teacher Professional Development for STEM educators. In the course of a year, a single educator impacts an average of 22.5 students. Through professional development opportunities, NDIA and NTSA will enable the Science Center to help our community’s educators grow and adapt to changing fields and teaching methods. Their investment in education will have a lasting impact on our future workforce in Central Florida.
Our sincerest thanks goes out to Orlando Health Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children for their support of afterschool STEM programming for K–5 students from three Orange County schools. The program includes transportation to Orlando Science Center and provides immersive STEM programs during the 2018 2019 academic year. Please join us in thanking Orlando Health Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children for their commitment to helping children throughout Central Florida and beyond.
We would like to extend our gratitude to Publix Super Markets Charities for their support of our Birthday Party Program and our Science for All accessibility program. Publix continues to provide scholarships, admission, and memberships to families that are in need of access to STEM learning. With Publix’s contributions last year, our Science for All program provided free or reduced admission to over 165,000 individuals.
Please join us in thanking SunTrust Foundation for their support of the Science Center’s STEM field trips. The program provides exhibit challenges and lab activities to hundreds of students from Title I elementary schools across six counties in Central Florida. Field trips introduce children to the possibilities that STEM can create for them and we are grateful for SunTrust Foundation’s commitment to providing engaging educational resources to students who are most in need.
WWW.OSC.ORG
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SUPPORT
“Our Granddad just made an estate gift to our favorite place, Orlando Science Center!” Yep, he’s a GENIUS! What a great way to support us—his favorite grandkids—and our favorite place! By including an estate gift to Orlando Science Center in your will or trust, you continue to support our mission to inspire science learning for life, well into the future, making a difference in the lives of Central Florida children and families. To learn more, visit osc.org/legacy or contact development@osc.org.
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SPRING 2019
thank you Orlando Science Center would like to offer our sincere gratitude to everyone who embarked on our captivating space odyssey, the 2018 Galaxy Gala, to highlight the importance of science and technology for the future of space exploration. We would like to offer our heartfelt appreciation to our Galaxy Gala Committee, especially the Galaxy Gala Chair, Sharon Hagle, our Corporate and Table partners, and our volunteers for making the event out of this world. Your generosity benefits Orlando Science Center and helps us to inspire science learning for life.
apollo Diane and Eric Holm
Earl Crittenden Sharon and Marc Hagle SpaceKids Global
mercury PNC Bank
Bryce West
pioneer Krista and Jonathan Ledden
OUC Boeing Virginia and Robert Finfrock
Leidos Disney The Ying Family
Voyager Universal Orlando Resort
Gemini Trish and Rick Walsh Rollins College Nemours Children’s Health System Orlando Magic Youth Foundation University of Central Florida
Wells Fargo Private Banking Lowndes Space Florida A. Ginsburg Family Foundation GrayRobinson, P.A. Girl Scouts of Citrus Council WWW.OSC.ORG
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SUPPORT
Corporate Partnership Program Perks ORLANDO SCIENCE CENTER OFFERS A UNIQUE PROGRAM TO REWARD EMPLOYEES AND THEIR FAMILIES WITH ACCESS TO THE SCIENCE CENTER!
Employee Benefits Include: • Tickets to the Science Center and special events • Engagement and volunteer opportunities • Invitations to exclusive receptions and VIP events • Discounts on annual memberships
Company Benefits Include: • Reach an annual audience of 670,000+ • Logo recognition and advertisements • Support of workforce development through STEM education • Plus many more!
Why partner with OSC? Corporate partners make it possible for Orlando Science Center to provide engaging experiences for our community to explore and learn.
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Get your company involved today! SPRING 2019 For more information, visit osc.org/corporate-giving.
Has Orlando Science Center made an impact in your life? Whether you or your family have visited once, participated in one of our educational programs or camps, or have watched the Science Center evolve over the years, we want to hear from you! Tell us how you’ve been inspired by science through your experience at OSC, or share what OSC means to you by emailing story@osc.org. For a chance to be featured in the next issue of SCOPE, use the hashtag #OSCmember on Instagram!
@sarabean2082 My viral children
#ZooInYou
@mommytips_fl Hay microbios
buenos y malos... There are good microbes and bad... @orlandosciencecenter We were live in The Hive Presented by the Isaacs
Family with @fox35news’ David Martin on “Good Day, Orlando!” #makerspace
@dalexrod79 Observable Universe #sciencemuseum #thecitybeautiful #floridafun #lightbright
@ohiitsmeg Valerie Felicity Frizzle
swooping in to Orlando Science Center for her next educational adventure!
@heidijsey Baby dinosaur meets big dinosaur. #learningisfun WWW.OSC.ORG
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ORLANDO SCIENCE CENTER • 777 EAST PRINCETON STREET • ORLANDO, FLORIDA 32803 • 407.514.2000 • WWW.OSC .ORG