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Credit: Science Chicago
Science Chicago, the world's largest science celebration, is being declared a huge success as the year-long program enters its final months and attendance at events continues to grow. Already, more than 45,000 people have participated in a Science Chicago activity.
"The success of the program thus far proves that Chicago is indeed a science city with incredible scientific resources," said Cheryl Hughes, Executive Director of Science Chicago. "The enthusiasm and support from our academic, municipal, corporate and cultural partners has been phenomenal, and we anticipate even more excitement for the unique and engaging events scheduled in the coming months."
Science Chicago is designed to raise awareness about the significance of science in everyday life. Supporting the concept that "life is a lab", Science Chicago offers opportunities for people of all ages to learn and have fun with science in nontraditional formats. The ambitious and unprecedented collaboration includes the participation of more than 140 public and private institutions that allow city and suburban residents of all ages to awaken their inner scientist and discover the scientific resources of the region.
"In a changing world dominated by the global economy, it is vital that we raise awareness about the importance of a science education. The future of our children depends on cities that are capable of producing graduates who can perform the jobs of a global economy," said Mayor Richard M. Daley. "Together, we have a responsibility to make a career in science an option for every child."
Among the activities and events scheduled through August:
- Science Works!, a rare opportunity for youth to discover the fascinating – and even surprising – careers that exist in the fields of science and technology. From tornado chasing, to crime scene investigation, to designing video games, Science Works! will let kids from across the Chicago region meet real scientists and learn how they transformed their science dreams into successful and exciting careers. http://www.sciencechicago.com/civicrm/event/info?reset=1&id=13766&topic=
- Science Saturdays, behind-the-scenes tours which include some of the region's most celebrated and hard-to-see laboratories. See first-hand how scientists at Argonne National Laboratory are creating the next generation of batteries for hybrid electric vehicles or go behind the scenes of a real dinosaur lab to examine never-before-seen dinosaur bones. For a complete schedule of Science Saturdays go to http://www.sciencechicago.com/content/science-saturdays
- LabFests! will take place in local parks, neighborhood libraries and fabulous locations all across the region all summer long. Get your "wow" on and get into it with hands-on science fun featuring interactive demonstrations, craft projects and environmental activities with some of the region's most popular museums, institutions and after school science organizations. http://www.sciencechicago.com/content/labfest?topic=
- Jr. Science Cafes, free, informal gatherings led by scientists and engineers who talk with teens about their work and how it affects our lives and world. Scientists discuss topics ranging from magnetism to what the fossil record says about evolution. Also, participants can take flight with an engineer and learn about the science behind airplanes and rockets. Check out all of our Jr. Science Cafes at http://www.sciencechicago.com/content/the-lab
A full roster of activities can be found on the Science Chicago Web site at www.sciencechicago.com.
"Science Chicago is about making science relevant to everyone," said David Mosena, President and CEO of the Museum of Science and Industry and Vice-Chair of the Science Chicago Board of Advisors. "We hope that millions of people in our region will come out and experience science in a whole new light." The festival launched last September and will conclude in August, 2009.
Science Chicago offers teachers and scientists an online portal to connect with one another and with resources that can enhance classroom learning. The online "Find a Scientist!" feature allows educators to identify scientists and engineers who are willing to visit classrooms, mentor students and offer unique insight for classroom lessons. The online "Teachers' Lounge" connects educators with professional development opportunities, classroom materials, field trips, traveling exhibits and other resources offered by Science Chicago partners. These features, as well as a complete calendar of events, at home experiments are available at www.sciencechicago.com. There is also an interactive blog at www.sciencechicagoblog.com.
The initiative is funded, in part, by the generous support of the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthurFoundation and The Searle Funds at The Chicago Community Trust. It is also made possible through the generous financial support of Abbott, the Boeing Company, Illinois Tool Works Inc., and Motorola. The Museum of Science and Industry is leading the initiative, and more than 140 partners are providing the content and programs that will inspire the region.
About Science Chicago
The Museum of Science and Industry is spearheading Science Chicago, a collaboration of more than 140 public and private institutions that have come together to present the world's largest science celebration. Designed to awaken the inner scientist in each and every one of us, thousands of dynamic and interactive activities will provide hands-on learning; spur thoughtful debate; enhance classroom learning; and build enthusiasm for the pursuit of cutting-edge science while establishing the critical value of science and math education.
For more information, visit www.sciencechicago.com.