NewScience June/July Issue

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newscience NEWS FOR MEMBERS AND FRIENDS OF THE SAINT LOUIS SCIENCE CENTER

JUNE JULY 2017

his tomb his treasures

the breathtaking recreation


Board Members

President's Sidebar

Saint Louis Science Center Board of Commissioners Michael F. Neidorff - Chairman Juan Ferreira - Vice Chairman Mark Trudeau - Vice Chairman Timothy J. Eberlein, M.D. - Secretary Tracy E. Hart - Treasurer Dennis A. Muilenburg - Honorary Dr. Thomas F. George Shelley Lavender Joshua Randall Kitty Ratcliffe Eugene M. Toombs Donna Wilkinson Saint Louis Science Center Board of Trustees Donna Wilkinson - President Todd A. Bastean Bryan L. Bell James G. Berges Barbara Bridgewater Lynn Britton Travis H. Brown Mark J. Bulanda Ken Cella Barry T. Cervantes Lynn A. Cornelius, M.D. Darryl W. Davis David M. Diener Arnold W. Donald Susan S. Elliott Richard C.D. Fleming Harvey A. Harris Mary Lee Hermann William F. Holekamp Debra Hollingsworth Benjamin H. Hulsey - Ex-Officio Dr. Martin H. Israel Frank D. Jacobs Dr. Ernest Jaworski Daniel G. Korte Lyda Krewson - Ex-Officio Robert J. Krieger Carol B. Loeb John F. McDonnell (Life Trustee) RADM Lee J. Metcalf, USN (Ret.) Philip Needleman, Ph.D. Traci O’Bryan Joseph F. Reagan Jerry E. Ritter (Life Trustee) Dr. Will R. Ross Donn Rubin William C. Rusnack Kent Schien Cheryl B. Schrader, Ph.D. Kathleen R. Sherby Steve V. Stenger - Ex-Officio Dr. Donald M. Suggs Dr. David J. Werner Dr. Mark S. Wrighton

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October • November

Dear Saint Louis Science Center friends, It is hard to believe that it has nearly been one year since we opened our largest permanent gallery, GROW. Since it opened on June 18, 2016, we have been able to demonstrate how agriculture changes throughout the seasons, from planting season, to harvesting, to maintaining soil quality in the colder months, back to planting. Today, as you stroll through GROW, you will see a variety of foods nearly ready to pick – strawberries, blueberries, sugar snap peas and so much more. Watching the transition of GROW through the seasons, it is easy to understand the immense pride farmers take in being a crucial part of our food supply. GROW has a few new additions for the 2017 summer season. In the GROW Pavilion, we have a new display, All American Soils, that includes 54 soil monoliths representing soils from each U.S. state, territory and the District of Columbia. It is fascinating to see how soil varies by state and region. All American Soils is part of a larger exhibit, Dig It! The Secrets of the Soil. The entire exhibit was developed by the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History, with support from the Soil Science Society of America. After traveling the country for several years, the exhibit now permanently lives at the Saint Louis Science Center. In addition to All American Soils, two dioramas, At Home in the World of Soil and Underneath It All, are located in the GROW Pavilion. Other parts of Dig It! will be placed in the Ecology and Environment gallery on the lower level and the Life Science Lab on the first floor. You may have noticed that our website has a new look. This is an interim site with the purpose of making content easier and faster for you to find. It will be in place for several months while we work to redesign the entire website. If you have any suggestions for our future website, please send them to webmaster@slsc.org. We always welcome your input. I hope you are able to join us for Science at Sunset every Thursday through August 10. From 5pm to 8pm, we will have food and drink specials at the Fermentation Station, live music, activities for all ages, discounted tickets to our special exhibition and more! Check out slsc.org/sunset for more details. Join us at the Science Center this summer — we have many exciting activities planned! Sincerely,

Bert Vescolani

To ignite and sustain lifelong science and technology learning. Mission of the Saint Louis Science Center


June & July

FEATURES

Hours Extended Summer Hours Monday-Saturday 9:30am–5:30pm Sunday 11am–5:30pm Thursday evenings open late ‘til 8pm.

Contact 314.289.4400 slsc.org Saint Louis Science Center 5050 Oakland Avenue St. Louis, Missouri 63110

Membership Service & Sales: 314.289.4491 slsc.org/membership memberships@slsc.org Member Reservations: 314.289.4424

Reservations Advanced Sales & Group Reservations: 314.289.4424 Corporate & Group Sales: 314.289.1419

Education Field trip information: slsc.org/field-trips Educator Resources: slsc.org/educator-resources Programming information: 314.289.4439 or education@slsc.org

Events Host your next private event at the Saint Louis Science Center. Services and catering provided by Starlite Events. For information: 314.533.8179

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Accessibility Complimentary wheelchairs and strollers available in the lobby. Personal Hearing Assistance Devices available at the OMNIMAX® Theater and Planetarium. Rear Window Caption Service available for all OMNIMAX films.

Connect Connect and engage with us for updates, special events and fun science.

JOIN US

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COMMUNITY

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IN THE NEWS

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OMNIMAX®

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CALENDAR

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MEMBER EVENTS 19

Sustainability NewScience Magazine is FSC (Forestry Stewardship Council) Certified. FSC is an international non-profit which ensures the world’s forests are managed in an environmentally responsible manner.

NEWScience is Forestry Stewardship Council certified.

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Now Open

A breathtaking recreation of the tomb and more than 1,000 iconic artifacts from one of the greatest archeological finds of the 20th century. Recreate the magical moment of discovery by walking in the footsteps of famed archeologist Howard Carter and experience the legendary Egyptian Pharaoh Tutankhamun’s tomb just as if you had been there yourself. Chamber by chamber, a wealth of treasures are revealed exactly as they were placed when the tomb was sealed with Pharaoh Tutankhamun more than 3,000 years ago. Each reproduction has been created with extraordinary detail by expert Egyptian craftsmen in consultation with renowned Egyptologists.

THE GOLDEN MASK A Divine Face for Eternity One of the world’s most recognized works of art, the golden mask covered the face of the mummy and is an ever-lasting representation of the king as divine and immortal.

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GOLDEN COFFINS Three Nested Coffins for the King

OMNIMAX® THEATER

Inside the tomb lay a sarcophagus with three coffins nested inside one another. Each depicts the king holding the insignia of power. The last coffin, made of solid gold, contained the mummified body of King Tut.

JEWELRY Colored Gemstones Crafted with Meaning Royalty and wealthy ancient Egyptians wore expertly-crafted jewelry with specific colors of gemstones as visible signs of status. Red jasper was important protection for the trip to the afterlife, and blue gemstones symbolized regeneration.

Mummies: Secrets of the Pharaohs THE GOLDEN THRONE A Symbol of Divine Royal Power The throne represented both the worldly and divine power of the king. As the royal names on the back struts show, the throne was commissioned when Tutankhamun became king around age nine.

Tickets Now On Sale! Special exhibition tickets include audio guides for adults and children featuring narration based on Howard Carter’s diaries. Call 314.289.4424 for reservations. $8 Members-adults. $16 non-members. $7 Members-children/seniors. $14 non-members. FREE for children 7 and under. GROUP RATES - $3 off regular-price tickets available for groups of 10 or more. Mummies: Secrets of the Pharaohs at the OMNIMAX® Theater can also be added to your group’s Egyptian experience. Visit slsc.org/group-tickets for more information.

Experience a cinematic adventure 3,000 years in the making. The film follows researchers and explorers as they piece together the archeological and genetic clues of Egyptian mummies. These relics of the past create a window into the fascinating and mysterious world of the pharaohs. See page 17 for details.

Save the Date First Friday FIRST FRIDAYS OPEN LATE FROM 6 – 10 PM ON THE FIRST FRIDAY OF EVERY MONTH

The Mummy JANUARY 1

Mission: Impossible

June FEBRUARY 52 from The Truth Is 6–10pm Out There MARCH 4 Steampunk Science Mummies, curses, APRIL 1 Keep Calm and Play Games pharaohs and more are MAY 6 The Martian JUNE 3 Bring Back Firefly! coming to JULY 1 The First Matrix Friday! AUGUST Fi Filmfest See page510 forSci details. SEPTEMBER 2 OCTOBER 7 NOVEMBER 4 DECEMBER 2

Happy 50th Star Trek! Dreams and a Nightmare on Elm St. Zombies! Doctor Who

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Celebrating the first year of our permanent gallery! Join us & see what’s new— activities, food & fun every day. Visit slsc.org/GROW for weekly event days and times.

NEW ALL AMERICAN SOILS What’s soil got to do with it? Everything! We grow our food in soil, the materials for our homes come from soil, and many of the fabrics we wear come from soil. All 50 states and U.S. territories have their very own soil monolith now on display in the GROW pavilion. It is a wonderful way to see the diverse shades, colors and textures of the amazing range of American soil that sustains us all. Check out the detailed At Home in the World of Soil and Underneath it All dioramas. The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History first developed the display, which then toured the country with a final home now in GROW.

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RESEARCH GROW-Bot & Drones Discover how technology meets agriculture. See our GROW-bot and drone in action and learn how they collect data for the Saint Louis University research team. Visit slsc.org/GROW for weekly demonstration times.

Perennial Agriculture GROW has teamed up with Saint Louis University and the Center for Sustainability to showcase research on perennial agriculture crops. The demonstration plantings show how scientists and farmers are working together to produce food.

SPECIAL EVENT Dairy Day

Missouri Rice Did you know Missouri is the fourth largest producer of rice in the United States? Don’t miss the new demonstration bed featuring a rice developed just for Missouri by researchers at the Missouri Rice Research Farm, part of the Missouri Rice Council.

Saturday, June 3 from 10am – 4pm In celebration of National Dairy Month, GROW will feature visiting dairy cows and host samplings from Prairie Farms. Enjoy hands-on activities from the Saint Louis Dairy Council and learn about how robotic milking works for both the farmer and the cows.

Join us for GROW activities and fun at the Fermentation Station:

And, check out our summer selection of demonstrations and talks:

Chicken Chats: learn more about the daily life of our egg-laying flock.

The Buzz on Bees: see and hear how bumble bees live and thrive and look into the GROW bumble bee hive.

Combine Demonstration: see how this mighty machine makes easy work of threshing and cleaning grains. Tractor Run: kids can take the wheel and drive around the fun farm-inspired track. $3 Members-per child. $4 non-members. Fermentation Station: relax outdoors and enjoy a locally sourced menu that includes a selection of craft-beers and wines.

Whoa Worms!: peek into our worm bins and touch our wiggly friends. The Sweet on Sorghum: taste sorghum cane and learn about this drought-tolerant crop.

THURSDAYS THIS SUMMER June 1-August 10 from 5-8pm

Enjoy food and drink specials and live music in our outdoor gallery, GROW. Experience all our galleries after hours, and explore The Discovery of King Tut special exhibition. As always Members enjoy 50% off special exhibition tickets. Discounted evening tickets are available for non-members.

GROW Speaker Series every Thursday at 6:30pm. June 1: Medicinal Plants Author and farmer Crystal Stevens will discuss medicinal plants and how to involve kids in gardening.

Sponsored by Gateway Committee, Missouri Farm Bureau and Illinois Farm Bureau

June 29: Drought & Crops Saint Louis University’s research team will discuss the effects of drought on crops. July 6: Diversified Farming Learn how farmers benefit from crop rotation, livestock farming and cover crops.

June 8: Native Bees Learn about bee populations in urban areas and how to attract pollinators.

July 13: Perennial Agriculture Saint Louis University researchers will share findings on perennial food and oil crops.

June 15: Weeds for Fuel & Feed Learn how a local start up is exploring how to convert a common weed to biodiesel crop.

July 20: The Prairie & Agriculture Discover how farmers are incorporating prairie plantings into farming.

June 22: Backyard Chickens Raising 101 The Purina Animal Nutrition Team will share what it takes to have a healthy flock.

July 27: Pig Poo & Prairies Learn how agricultural and industrial wastes are converted into renewable energy.

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STEM SPOTLIGHT Dr. Matthew Lew, PhD Portal to the Public Scientist

Dr. Matthew Lew, assistant professor of Electrical and Systems Engineering at Washington University, recently joined the Portal to the Public professional development program at the Science Center. The Portal to the Public provides strategies and resources to build local communities of scientists and educators across the country who are dedicated to public engagement with current science. Dr. Lew and his lab are working on ways to examine what happens inside cells – things that can’t be seen even with microscopes. To do so, Dr. Lew is developing nanoscale imaging tools one thousand times stronger than a microscope! After training, his team will visit SciFest and First Friday events to share their amazing research. Being an educator is very important to Dr. Lew. While completing his postdoctoral program at Stanford University, he found mentoring students in his research group rewarding. Dr. Lew’s Portal to the Public group will include both students from his lab and from Spectra, a student-led

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imaging society at Washington University that, among other initiatives, performs outreach in local high schools by demonstrating how to build LEGO microscopes. “The Science Center is a great resource for connecting scientists to the public, and Portal to the Public will help us become more effective in achieving this goal,” says Dr. Lew. He also notes the significance of connecting the public with real-life scientists: “It is important that everyone has access to knowledge to inform their perspective.” With his lab group, Dr. Lew will show Science Center guests how interesting nanoscale imaging can be and how important it is to solving challenges in society. If you’re a science or technology professional interested in finding out more about Portal to the Public, contact STEaM Network Manager Chance Grannan at braton.c.grannan@slsc.org.


Countdown to Totality!

Supporting K-12 STEM Education

Image courtesy of NOAA/DSCOVR. On March 9, 2016, Deep Space Climate Observer (DSCOVR) took this picture of the moon’s shadow racing across New Zealand.

Learn all about the August 21 TOTAL SOLAR ECLIPSE In a few short months, parts of the St. Louis area will have a front row seat to a total solar eclipse. The moon will be between the Earth and the sun and cast a shadow over Earth. This amazing astronomical phenomenon has not been seen in the greater St. Louis area since 1442 and will not be seen again until 2505.

Learn why the total solar eclipse is so unusual, the best viewing options and how to see the eclipse at: • Live Sky: Eclipse- James S. McDonnell Planetarium at 2:30pm daily. Explore how

the sun, Earth and moon will align to create the total solar eclipse. Learn the best viewing locations and how to safely see the eclipse. Includes hands-on workshops with educators and eclipse glasses. $1 Members, $7 non-member adults, $6 children/seniors. Group rates available.

• Solar Eclipse Expo- Greensfelder Recreation Complex at Queeny Park on Saturday,

Science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) will continue to drive the global economy for the foreseeable future. The Saint Louis Science Center is dedicated to supporting K-12 STEM education and is proud to kick off the Carnegie STEM Excellence Pathway initiative, which focuses on improving STEM education through digital tools and teacher professional development. The Carnegie STEM Excellence Pathway is an award winning initiative that has been broadly adopted nationwide with almost 400 partners, including 169 in Missouri and 4 in Illinois, with a goal of reaching a wide range of both public and private K-12 schools through a comprehensive application process. Beginning in April, invitations to apply were distributed to St. Louis area school districts in Missouri and Illinois. Ten “Pathway Partner” schools were selected at the end of May. During the 2017-2018 school year, the selected schools will receive three FREE teacher workshops focused on assessment and evaluation of their current STEM practices, along with a customized plan for improvement. Staff from the Saint Louis Science Center will serve as process facilitators, connecting regional resources and supporting shared best practices.

Planetarium. Explore the science, myths and history behind eclipses. Find eclipse start and end times for the region and learn how to practice safe solar observation. Plus, pick up a Passport to the Eclipse and participate in scientific research with its featured citizen science opportunities.

“The Saint Louis Science Center is committed to being a regional leader in STEM education,” says Pamela Braasch, Saint Louis Science Center director of Education. “We are very excited to implement the Carnegie STEM Excellence Pathway initiative and to have the unique opportunity to significantly impact the success of STEM education programs throughout the St. Louis area.”

4pm. Activities include safe solar observing with St. Louis Astronomical Society and Science Center educators outside the planetarium (weather permitting). Plus, enjoy hands-on solar activities.

For more information on the Carnegie STEM Excellence Pathway program, contact Mindy Weber, manager of Teacher Programs, at mindy.weber@slsc.org or 314.289.1426.

June 17 from 10am to 5pm. FREE tickets with advanced registration at EclipseExpo. org. Meet experts from the Saint Louis Science Center and see up to 80 exhibits. Includes presentations, hands-on activities and solar observing (weather permitting).

• Great American Eclipse Exhibit- Coming Mid-June to the James S. McDonnell

• Solar Saturday - July 15 at the James S. McDonnell Planetarium from 10am-

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FIRST FRIDAYS

First Friday

Save the Date for First Friday

The Science Center’s premier adult-centric program invites you to geek out

August 4: Mystery Science Theater 3000 September 1: DC vs. Marvel October 6: Buffy the Vampire Slayer November 3: Stargate December 1: Doctor Who

on the first Friday evening of each month. Enjoy local artists and innovators, themed pub-style trivia, hands-on science activities and demos, and FREE

screenings in the James S. McDonnell Planetarium and OMNIMAX® Theater.

The Mummy

Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice

OPEN LATE FROM 6 – 10 PM ON THE FIRST FRIDAY OF EVERY MONTH June 2 from 6-10pm Mummies, curses, pharaohs and more are coming to First Friday! Explore the world of Ancient Egypt, how mummies are portrayed in the world of pop culture and the fascinating science behind modern mummy studies with Egyptologist Carter Lupton from the Milwaukee Public Museum. Watch The Mummy (1999) come to life, FREE in the OMNIMAX® Theater at 10pm. Don’t miss The Discovery of King Tut special exhibition! As always, Members enjoy 50% off special exhibition tickets, and discounted evening tickets are available for non-members.

July 7 from 6-10pm The spotlight’s on Tim Burton for this First Friday! See local creatives celebrate Burton’s distinct style and learn about the science underpinning his works. Explore the search for extraterrestrial life, recent advances in prosthetic technology, and the special effects that helped bring Beetlejuice to (after) life. Enjoy all this alongside your First Friday favorites like Burtonesque trivia and a FREE OMNIMAX® Theater screening of Beetlejuice at 10pm.

JANUARY 1 FEBRUARY 5 MARCH 4 APRIL 1

Mission: Impossible The Truth Is Out There Steampunk Science Keep Calm and Play Games

MAY 6 JUNE 3 JULY 1 AUGUST 5

The Martian Bring Back Firefly! Science is all around us! Meet scientists, engineers and The Matrixeven artists at our FREE SciFest events in June and July and discover two exciting sides of science! Sci Fi Filmfest Saturday & Sunday, June 17–18

SEPTEMBER 2 OCTOBER 7 NOVEMBER 4 DECEMBER 2

SciFest: Mega Machines

Happy 50th Star Trek! Dreams and a Nightmare on Elm St. Zombies! Saturday, July 15 SciFest: Bright Ideas Expo Doctor Who

Save the Date for SciFest

Towering above us, cranes, bulldozers, combines and fire trucks are able to accomplish awe-inspiring things every day. And nothing beats an opportunity to hear the roar of their engines. Head to the Science Center over Father’s Day weekend to learn more about the design and use of these mighty machines and how you could be in the driver’s seat someday.

Creativity comes to life at the Bright Ideas Expo, bringing together the artists, entrepreneurs, crafters, tinkerers, hackers and other creative experts who make St. Louis a vibrant, thriving city. See the experts in action, find a new hobby and learn about the places in St. Louis where you can foster your new hobby into a lifetime passion..

August 19-20: Eclipsed!

October 14: Music-ology

September 23: Rock, Fossil, Quake

November 4: Healthy U.


JOIN US

2 017 Enthusiastic Fans of Summer Science Blast Camp “This summer will be our boys’ fourth summer at the Science Center Blast camps. As working parents, it can be hard to find camps that our kids enjoy and that also fit our busy schedules. The Science Center’s camp schedule with before and after care options is ideal for us. Most importantly, our boys have LOVED the Science Center camps so much that they have asked to return year after year. We know they will enjoy another fun summer at the Science Center!”

-The Coletti Family Science Center Members Since 2013

The cure for the “common camp”! Our Summer Science Blast program is sure to keep kids, from preschoolers to teenagers, excited about learning all summer long! See all the great Summer Science Blast camp options and register at slsc.org/ summer-camps. Call 314.289.4439 or email daycamps@slsc.org for more information. 20% OFF Summer Science Blast Camps for Family & Friends Plus & MAX Level Members

NEW for Summer Science Blast Camp 2017 Short Circuits (Pre-K–Kindergarten) Our newest engineering and technology camp! Learn how the basics of motors, simple machines, and programming can be an electrifying experience.

Full STEAM Ahead (Grades 1-3) Connect your artistic, engineering and maker skills to problem solve and create art, gadgets and gizmos from an amazing selection of recycled materials.

Mars or Bust (Grades 4-6) Learn how to prepare for a space mission to Mars and meet experts that work on real-life space missions. Then travel to the future on a Mars mission with the Challenger Learning Center St. Louis.

Zombie Survival (Grades 7-10) Discover where real-life zombies live on Earth and learn about their creepy behaviors. Dissect a real animal brain and invent your own zombie creatures to star in a animated film that you direct.

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YES Youth Exploring Science Saint Louis Science Center’s YES Program works with underserved teens throughout their high school years to increase interest in science, technology, engineering, art and mathematics (STEaM). YES Teens also gain professional, academic and real-world skills that assist in building self-confidence and personal success.

Summer Science for YES Teens The Taylor Community Science Resource Center, home to the Saint Louis Science Center’s YES Program, is abuzz with activity all summer. Over 3,000 children from various school groups, camps and community organizations will stream through the doors all summer to learn about science from the YES teens. During these visits, the YES teens will be delivering the science of sports curriculum developed by GSK (GlaxoSmithKline) through collaboration with the Franklin Institute in Philadelphia. They will also be teaching how to incorporate technology into hands-on activities by demonstrating circuitry labs, graphic design projects and more. “While teens are teaching science to younger children, they also are learning the content more deeply themselves, gaining communication skills, practicing informed decision-making, and understanding their role in the YES Program,” said Aric Wanagat, senior educator.

Saint Louis Science Center Annual Volunteer Celebration Saint Louis Science Center volunteers were acknowledged for their time, passion and commitment on May 3 at the Third Degree Glass Factory. The fun and lively dinner reception featured a glass-blowing demonstration and a raffle of a donated glass piece in the shape of the Planetarium. The lucky winner just happens to volunteer at the Planetarium! Thank you to all the volunteers who make our guest experience so special. JOIN OUR VOLUNTEER COMMUNITY Visit slsc.org/volunteer or call 314.289.4412.

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COMMUNITY

Carol Loeb and 2017 Loeb Prize winner Joshua Gaither and Christian Greer, Science Center’s chief officer of Science, Education and Experience.

Loeb Prize winner Joshua Gaither and students from his Riverview Gardens High School classes.

All Loeb Prize honorees with Carol Loeb and Science Center representatives.

For 22 years, the Loeb Prize has honored outstanding science and math educators in the Saint Louis area that demonstrate a passion to inspire learning. Joshua Gaither, biology and zoology teacher at Riverview Gardens High School, was awarded the Carol B. and Jerome T. Loeb Prize for Excellence in Teaching Science and Mathematics at an event celebrating the finalists at the James S. McDonnell Planetarium on May 16. “Students often come to me saying that they have always hated science, and yet, after a semester in one of my courses, that tune often changes,” said Gaither. “I invest deeply in laboratory experiences – often out-of-pocket – in order to give my students experiences I wish I had in high school. From growing lima beans

in different amounts of sunlight to testing factors that affect tadpole metamorphosis, students become engaged and excited to return the next day for class.” This year’s event also honored Jillian Dunn, an algebra and applied math teacher at McCluer North High School, as the second place honoree. Other finalists included Luis Actis from Nipher Middle School, Remy Bryant from University City High School and Kevin Manwaring from North Kirkwood Middle School. All finalists received cash awards. “All of our finalists demonstrate expertise in their subject areas, innovative teaching styles

including the use of technology, and personal commitment to the overall well-being of their students. I am grateful for the opportunity to recognize these teachers for the work they do to enable their students to become the STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) leaders of tomorrow,” said Carol Loeb, a math teacher for 54 years, who along with her husband, the late Jerome T. Loeb, established the Loeb Prize in 1995 at the Saint Louis Science Center. The late Mr. Loeb worked for the May Department Stores Company, retiring as chairman of the board. He was chairman of the Saint

Louis Science Center’s Board of Commissioners and a member of the Saint Louis Science Center’s Board of Trustees. Carol Loeb serves on the Saint Louis Science Center’s Board of Trustees. “We are proud of the longstanding partnership with the Loeb Family in recognizing and rewarding outstanding teachers dedicated to STEM education,” said Bert Vescolani, president and CEO of the Saint Louis Science Center. “The Loeb Prize is one of the many ways we honor educators who share the mission of the Saint Louis Science Center – to ignite and sustain a lifelong interest in science and technology.”

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IN THE NEWS Missouri Beef Industry Council Sponsors Field Trip In celebration of Missouri Beef Month, GROW hosted the very first Cattle Chat Field Trip sponsored by the Missouri Beef Industry Council on May 5. The event brought the farm to the city for 150 students from Bryan Hill and Columbia Elementary Schools in the Saint Louis Public School District. Students visited with a cattle farmer, David Althoff and his cow and calf. They also learned about cattle nutrition and biology.

The exciting day began with Missouri Beef Day proclamation presentation in GROW with Science Center’s President and CEO Bert Vescolani, Missouri Beef Queen Macey Hurst, Missouri Department of Agriculture Director Chris Chinn, Missouri Beef Industry Council Board Chairman Glen Waters and Missouri Cattlemen’s Association President Butch Meier, (featured left to right).

Monsanto Procurement Team Tours GROW The Science Center’s Institutional Advancement and Education teams led a tour of the GROW exhibit for Monsanto’s Procurement Team. The continuing partnership is focused on lending expertise to showcasing sustainable agricultural practices that enable farmers to produce more on the same footprint of land. Other Monsanto team members later planted a demonstration garden featuring rows of corn and beans that will show Science Center guests just how much can be produced in a small footprint of land.

Science Center and Boeing representatives at grant award ceremony recognizing all the organizations The Boeing Company will support in 2017.

Support for STEM Education The Boeing Company awarded the Saint Louis Science Center a grant to support the Carnegie Stem Excellence Pathway. This funding will allow the Saint Louis Science Center to provide FREE workshops to ten school districts to improve STEM education in our region.

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Prairie Farms Scavenger Hunt On March 25, Prairie Farms sponsored a spring scavenger hunt in the GROW exhibit. Everyone enjoyed sampling Prairie Farms’ Peeps Milk and had fun meeting a farmer and learning how milk gets to the table with hands-on activities. Plus, for every milk cap collected at the event, Prairie Farms generously matched the donation with the Our Caps, Your Cause program. Learn more about the ongoing program at slsc.org/caps to support the Science Center.


Weather Day at the Ballpark On April 19, more than 4,100 students from local schools attended Weather Day at Busch Stadium hosted by the Saint Louis Science Center, the St. Louis Cardinals, KSDK’s Chief Meteorologist Craig Moeller and the entire 5 On Your Side Weather Team. Kids were able to sit up close to the field to learn about St. Louis weather and safety tips, see amazing experiments presented by Science Center staff, explore KSDK’s new weather vehicle and have a whole lot of fun with Fredbird. After the presentation, students enjoyed a handson educational expo, meet and greet opportunity with the KSDK meteorology team, lunch and the ballgame!

Stormfest with FOX 2 News Hundreds of guests enjoyed Gateway Stormfest hosted by FOX 2 News at the Science Center on May 6. The event kicked off with OMNIMAX® Theater screenings of Extreme Weather and included a presentation from Fox 2/News 11 meteorologists about the extreme weather in our area. The meteorologists took weather questions and wrapped up the event with giveaways and attendance prize bags.

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OMNIMAX® Theater Now Showing Dream Big: Engineering Our World From the world’s tallest building to underwater robots and a solar-powered car race across Australia, Dream Big shows how engineers push the limits of innovation in unexpected and amazing ways. With its inspiring human stories and powerful visuals, Dream Big also reveals the heart that drives engineers to create better lives for people and a more sustainable future for us all.

Extreme Weather Extreme Weather takes us to the front lines where few have gone. More than two years in the making, this National Geographic film takes viewers from Alaska to California to witness powerful examples of our planet’s extreme and complex weather. Follow researchers and everyday heroes as they uncover surprising connections to help us understand and adapt to our ever-changing weather.

Born to be Wild Born to be Wild, the inspired story of love, dedication and the remarkable bond between humans and animals. Narrated by Morgan Freeman, the film documents orphaned orangutans and elephants and the extraordinary people who rescue and raise them. The adventure transports moviegoers into the lush rainforests of Borneo and across the rugged Kenyan savannah as teams rescue, rehabilitate and return these incredible animals back to the wild.

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Experience a cinematic adventure 3,000 years in the making. The film follows researchers and explorers as they piece together the archeological and genetic clues of Egyptian mummies. These relics of the past create a window into the fascinating and mysterious world of the pharaohs. In addition to increasing our understanding of the culture, religion, medicine and daily life of the Egyptians thousands of years ago, scientists today are reconstructing mummy DNA to gain insight into modern human genetics and to advance medical treatments.

The perfect film partner for

SPECIAL EXHIBITION

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Every Month Science Storytime Every Wednesday & Thursday 10:15am – CenterStage Presented by Ready Readers. Enjoy a FREE interactive reading of a science-themed story, followed by a related hands-on activity. A different book is featured each week.

Science at Sunset Every Thursday, 5-8pm Explore the Science Center and The Discovery of King Tut special exhibition after hours. Join us at 6:30 pm for the GROW Speaker Series, and learn about gardening and farming from the experts. Enjoy food and drink specials in the Fermentation Station. See page 7 for more details.

Preschool Science Series Perfect for your young scientist to explore a variety of STEM topics through hands-on activities. Monday, Tuesday, Saturday 10-10:45am NEW! Thursday, 6-6:45pm $8 Members – per child (ages 3+). $10 non-members. Space is limited. Reservations required by the Friday prior to class date. Call 314.289.4424. One adult per 4 children required.

JUNE

ALL MONTH Mon.–Sat. 10:30am & 1:30pm Thurs. 5:30pm & Sun 1:30pm _________________________________ Makerspace Class Scribble-Bots You will engineer your very own DIY motorized Bot using a low voltage motor, wires, batteries and more! You will be amazed by the wild lines created by a machine of your own making. $8 Members (ages 7-14). $10 non-members.

17-18 Fri.-Sat. 9:30am-4:30pm 2 Fri. 6–10pm _________________________________ _________________________________ First Friday: The Mummy

SciFest: Mega Machines

Main Building, James S. McDonnell Planetarium & GROW Explore the world of Ancient Egypt, how mummies are portrayed in the world of pop culture and the fascinating science behind modern mummy studies with Egyptologist Carter Lupton from the Milwaukee Public Museum. Watch The Mummy (1999) come to life, FREE in the OMNIMAX® Theater at 10pm.

Towering above us, cranes, bulldozers, combines and fire trucks are able to accomplish awe-inspiring things every day. Learn more about the design and use of these mighty machines and how you could be in the driver’s seat someday. See page 10 for details.

See page 10 for more details.

Insects and Spiders: June 12, 13, 15 & 17 Explore insects and spiders and learn the important roles they play in our world. Bats vs. Birds: June 19, 20, 22 Learn all differences and similarities between these flying animals and how they help with pollination. Life Underground: June 26, 27, 29 Dig in and discover plants, animals and a few surprises that can be found underground. Plant Power: July 6 Investigate plant growth from seed to flower including dissection and seed planting to observe at home. Build it: July 10, 11, 13 & 15 Inspired by the Three Little Pigs, build a house and test it with the Big Bad Wolf Fan! Bridges: July 17, 18 & 20 Construct bridges and test their strength and length using engineering techniques. Flying Machines: July 24, 25 & 27 How does wind help things fly? Find out as you test different kinds of flight. Monday, Tuesday and Thursday classes in GROW Meeting Room, First Floor. Saturday classes in GROW Pavilion Classroom. *Please notify reservationist of any food or animal allergies.

18 June October • July • November

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Sat. 10am–4pm _________________________________ Prairie Farms Dairy Day GROW In celebration of National Dairy Month, GROW will feature visiting dairy cows and host samplings from Prairie Farms. Enjoy hands-on activities from the Saint Louis Dairy Council and learn about how robotic milking works for both the farmer and the cows. See page 5 for more details.

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Sat. 1pm–2pm _________________________________ Dino Mysteries Dana Brown Fossil Prep Lab – Lower Level Explore the mysterious lives of dinosaurs. Discover how dinosaurs ate, learn about dinosaur anatomy and examine real fossils. Plus, make your own cast of a real dinosaur tooth! One adult per four children (ages 7+) required. $5 Members-per person. $7 non-members. Call 314.289.4424 for reservations.

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Sat. 10am–5pm _________________________________ Solar Eclipse Expo Greensfelder Recreation Complex at Queeny Park Meet experts from the Saint Louis Science Center and see up to 80 exhibits. Includes presentations, hands-on activities and solar viewing outside (weather permitting). FREE tickets with advanced registration at EclipseExpo.org. See page 9 for more information.

JULY ALL MONTH Mon.–Sat. 10:30am & 1:30pm Thurs. 5:30pm & Sun 1:30pm _________________________________ Makerspace Class Salvage-Bots Learn how to tinker and build your own recycled bot using repurposed and found objects. Join us at Makerspace as we make today’s junk tomorrow’s treasure! $8 Members (ages 7-14). $10 non-members.


1 Sat. 1pm–2pm _________________________________

Members Only

Dino Mysteries Dana Brown Fossil Prep Lab – Lower Level Explore the mysterious lives of dinosaurs. Discover how dinosaurs ate, learn about dinosaur anatomy and examine real fossils. Plus, make your own cast of a real dinosaur tooth! One adult per four children (ages 7+) required. $5 Members-per person. $7 non-members. Call 314.289.4424 for reservations.

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Sat. 9:30am–4:30pm _________________________________ SciFest: Bright Ideas Expo Creativity comes to life with artists, entrepreneurs, crafters, tinkerers, hackers and other creative experts. See the experts in action, find a new hobby, and learn about the places in St. Louis where you can foster your new hobby into a lifetime passion. See page 10 for more details.

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Fri. 6pm–10pm _________________________________ First Friday: Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice Main Building, James S. McDonnell Planetarium & GROW Celebrate Tim Burton’s distinct style and the science behind his works. Explore prosthetic technology and the special effects that helped bring Beetlejuice to (after)life. Includes Burtonesque trivia and a FREE OMNIMAX Theater screening of Beetlejuice at 10pm. See page 10 for more details.

15 Sat. 10am–4pm _________________________________ Solar Saturday James S. McDonnell Planetarium Learn how to safely observe the Sun (weather permitting) with the experts from the Science Center and the St. Louis Astronomical Society. Plus, learn about the August 2017 total solar eclipse. See page 9 for more details. Calendar events subject to change. Please confirm all dates and times: slsc.org or 314.289.4424.

SAVE THE DATE: SATURDAY AUGUST 19, 6:30PM Date Night Under the Stars

Saturday, June 10, 11am & 1pm A unique behind-the-scenes tour just for Members! Learn why the Science Center has over 100,000 artifacts, how they are used in collections and how they are cared for and preserved.

James S. McDonnell Planetarium Grab your sweetheart and friends, and enjoy a date night under the stars and learn all about the upcoming Total Solar Eclipse happening just two days later! Your evening will include a live and interactive Total Solar Eclipse planetarium show, a special screening under the stars of Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, snacks and cash bar.

Collections Tour

$10-per person in advance. $15 at the door. Call 314.289.4424 for ticket reservations. Doors open at 6:30pm. Event begins at 7pm. 21 and older event. Seating is limited.

$10 per member. For ages 14+. Call 314.289.4424 for reservations. Space is limited. Tours held at the Taylor Community Science Resource Center, 4900 Manchester Road, St. Louis 63110

slsc.org slsc.org 19


Saint Louis Science Center 5050 Oakland Ave. St. Louis, MO 63110

NONPROFIT ORG U.S. POSTAGE PAID ST. LOUIS, MO PERMIT NO. 1491

NEWScience Is Now GREEN The Saint Louis Science Center is a committed steward of the environment. We are proud to offer the sustainable choice of receiving the interactive online version of NewScience, as well as a downloadable PDF. Sign up by sending an email to memberships@slsc.org if you would like to no longer receive a paper subscription. You can also send us an email if : • Your name is misspelled • Your address is incorrect

THURSDAYS THIS SUMMER

June 1-August 10 from 5-8pm Enjoy food and drink specials and live music in our outdoor gallery, GROW. Plus don’t miss the GROW speaker series. Experience all our galleries after hours, and explore The Discovery of King Tut special exhibition. As always Members enjoy 50% off special exhibition tickets plus discounted evening tickets are available for non-members. See page 7 for more information.

The Saint Louis Science Center gratefully acknowledges the support of our Official Partners

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