Sep. 8, 2014
CWU Treats Community to Free Evening Science Series
If you're interested in volcanoes, botanical diversity or stars in the night sky, then come to Central Washington University's fall Science is Central series. Presented by the College of the Sciences, all events are free and open to the public. From September 9 through 12, there will be evening presentations held throughout the CWU campus starting at 7:00 p.m. These presentations are an extension of the daytime program presented to local elementary and middle school students.
Faculty, staff, and students in the College of the Sciences are excited to kick off the start of the academic year by hosting this fun-filled series. From lectures on the DNA and the biotech industry, chemistry and viewing the night sky, this series has something for everyone. Each program gives a glimpse of some of the science being taught and researched at Central and allows the community to experience the fun side of science.
This event is sponsored by the College of the Sciences, the Center for Excellence in Science and Mathematics Education, and the Washington Space Grant Consortium.
Schedule of events:
Greenhouse Family Night
Tuesday, 7:00 p.m., Sept. 9
CWU Greenhouse, located on the west side of Dean Hall
Presented by the Biology Department. Come visit the CWU greenhouse and learn about how plants adapt to their diverse environments. Audience: All ages
Star Party
Tuesday, 8:00 p.m., Sept. 9
Science/Dean Hall east lawn
Presented by Professor Michael Braunstein, physics and astronomy. Come anytime between 8:00 and 9:00 p.m. and learn about the night sky using telescopes. Audience: All ages
Playing with the Code of Life: DNA and the Biotech Industry
Wednesday, 7:00 p.m., Sept. 10
Science 146
Presented by Eric Foss, biology. This presentation will show you how to isolate and visualize DNA from volunteers. In addition, you will learn about the uses of DNA in the biotech industry including the use of fluorescent bacteria and nematodes. Audience: All ages.
The Magical World of Chemistry
Thursday, 7:00 p.m., Sept, 11
Science 147
Presented by Tony Brown, chemistry. Learn about chemical reactions that cause color changes, flashes and explosions. You will also find out about chemistry that is an essential part of our daily lives. Audience: All ages.
Volcanoes: How Do They Work?
Friday, 7:00 p.m., Sept. 14
Lind Hall, Room 104
Presented by Wendy Bohrson, geological sciences. All you ever wanted to know about volcanoes—why they erupt, how they erupt and what we know about the sleeping volcanoes of the Cascades. We will even try a few mini-explosions of our own! Audience: All ages.
Star Party
Friday, 8:00 p.m., Sept. 12
Lind Hall Planetarium
Presented by Professor Michael Braunstein, physics and astronomy. Come anytime between 8:00 and 9:00 p.m. and learn about the night sky using telescopes. Audience: All ages
Parking at CWU is free after 4:30 p.m., except where specifically designated. Lind Hall is located at the corner of Chestnut and University Way.
For more information on this science series or for reserved seating, contact Dannica Price at 509-963-2135, price@cwu.edu.
Media Contact: Valerie Chapman-Stockwell, CWU Public Affairs, 509-963-1518, valeriec@cwu.edu
Image courtesy of NASA