Monday, December 15, 2008

NEW YEAR’S EVE FAMILY FUN DAY







TICKETS NOW ON SALE - BUY ON-LINE NOT IN LINE
sciencenorth.ca/newyearseve

Capture the Magic!
December 31, 2008
11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Science North, Sudbury

It's a day of fun for the whole family throughout the entire Science Centre:

  • Professional Magic Show
  • Fun Family Workshops
  • Make and Take Goodies
  • Wii Gaming Tournament
  • Live Science Show
  • *New Year’s Eve IMAX® Deal
  • Countdown and Balloon Drop

New Year’s Eve Family Fun Day ticket holders will also be among the first Science North visitors to meet our new ambassador animal, the Eastern Screech Owl!

Tickets are on sale now – Buy early and save!
Until December 24: Science North Members**: $10, Public $15
After December 24: Science North Members**: $15, Public $20
(Prices are subject to GST.)

*Separate ticket price applies to IMAX only.

JOURNÉE DE PLAISIR EN FAMILLE DE LA VEILLE DU JOUR DE L’AN


BILLETS MAINTENANT DISPONIBLES

ACHETEZ-LES EN LIGNE

sciencenord.ca/jourdelan


Saisissez la magie!

Le 31 décembre, de 11 h à 17 h

Science Nord, Sudbury


C’est une journée de plaisir en famille au Centre des sciences:



  • Spectacle de magicien professionel
  • Ateliers pour familles
  • Ateliers faites et emportez
  • Tournoi de jeux Wii
  • Spectacles scientifiques en direct
  • *Profitez des économies IMAX®
  • Compte à rebours de la veille du Jour de l’An et pluie de ballons!

Les participants à cette journée seront parmi les premiers visiteurs de Science Nord à rencontrer notre nouveau animal ambassadeur,

le petit duc maculé!


Nous invitons les gens à acheter leurs billets tôt afin de profiter des tarifs spéciaux :

Jusqu’au 24 décembre :

Membres** : 10 $; grand public : 15 $

Après le 24 décembre :

Membres** : 15 $; grand public : 20 $

Les prix sont par personne, et la TPS est en sus.

*Un prix de billet distinct s’applique à IMAX® seulement




Monday, November 24, 2008

WATERWORKS EXHIBITION SET FOR NORTH AMERICAN TOUR






























A North American tour is on the horizon for Science North’s newest special exhibition
WaterWorks: Soak Up the Science. At the end of the month the exhibition is heading to The Lawrence Hall of Science in Berkeley, California.

“Current issues in freshwater quality and management are hot topics right now, making WaterWorks: Soak Up the Science a very timely exhibition,“ comments Jennifer Pink, Science North Science Director. “Since it opened in March more than 100,000 visitors have come through the WaterWorks exhibition at Science North to learn how we use water and its importance in our everyday lives.”

“Science centres and museums across the United States are showing a keen interest in WaterWorks, an exhibition that lets people work and play with water, harness its power and learn more about conservation,” said Julie Moskalyk, Science North International Sales Manager. “So far several leases have been secured, and over the next few years this exhibition will be making stops at science centres and museums in places like Michigan, Florida, Kansas, and Texas.”

In 1996, Science North created a specialized unit to sell the award-winning exhibitions and multimedia theatres that are created by Science North’s highly skilled staff scientists and in-house production teams. Profits from these initiatives are directed back into exhibit development and renewal. This helps to provide visitors with an ever-changing experience when they visit Science North and Dynamic Earth.

Dow Corning Foundation is the tour presenter for WaterWorks. The local presenter is Ontario Power Generation. The exhibition is also supported by: Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation, Ontario Cultural Attractions Fund, , City of Greater Sudbury, RBC Royal Bank, GE Canada and Fisheries and Oceans Canada. Media sponsors are CTV, The Sudbury Star and EZ Rock 105.3.

www.sciencenorth.ca/water

L’EXPOSITION EAUTRAVAIL PRÊTE POUR UNE TOURNÉE NORD-AMÉRICAINE



Une tournée nord-américaine est en vue pour la plus récente exposition spéciale de Science Nord EauTravail : abreuvez-vous de science. À la fin du mois, l’exposition sera présentée à «The Lawrence Hall of Science», à Berkeley, en Californie.

« Les enjeux actuels sur la qualité et la gestion de l’eau douce sont des sujets brûlants actuellement, ce qui fait d’EauTravail : abreuvez-vous de science une exposition très opportune, fait remarquer Jennifer Pink, directrice scientifique de Science Nord. Depuis que l’exposition a commencé, au mois de mars, plus de 100 000 personnes sont venues la voir à Science Nord pour apprendre comment nous utilisons l’eau et l’importance que celle-ci revêt dans nos vies quotidiennes ».

« Des centres de sciences et des musées d’un peu partout aux États-Unis manifestent un vif intérêt pour EauTravail, une exposition qui permet aux gens de travailler et de jouer avec l’eau, d’en exploiter la puissance et d’en apprendre davantage sur la conservation, de dire Julie Moskalyk, gérante des ventes internationales à Science Nord. Jusqu’à présent, plusieurs locations ont été garanties, et au cours des prochaines années, l’exposition s’arrêtera à des centres de sciences et des musées dans des endroits comme le Michigan, la Floride, le Kansas et le Texas ».

En 1996, Science Nord a créé un groupe spécialisé pour vendre les expositions et les théâtres d’objets primés que créent les scientifiques hautement qualifiés et les équipes de production de Science Nord. Les profits générés par ces initiatives sont investis dans la mise au point et le renouvellement des expositions. Cela permet de faire vivre aux visiteurs une expérience sans cesse changeante lorsqu’ils viennent à Science Nord et à Terre dynamique.

La tournée d’EauTravail est présentée par la Fondation Dow Corning. Ontario Power Generation agit comme présentateur à l’échelle locale. L’exposition est également soutenue par : la Société de gestion du Fonds du patrimoine du Nord de l’Ontario, le Fonds pour les manifestations culturelles de l’Ontario, la Ville du Grand Sudbury, RBC Banque Royale, GE Canada et Pêches et Océans Canada. Les commanditaires médiatiques sont CTV, The Sudbury Star et EZ Rock 105.3.

www.sciencenord.ca/eautravail

Thursday, November 20, 2008






Tune into our live on-line video feed Saturday, November 22, 2008 and watch Science North’s 4th Annual F.I.R.S.T. LEGO® League Tournament. The Competition Rounds take place from 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. as teams of children ages 9 to 14 will compete in this fun and educational robotics tournament!


A live on-line video feed will be available starting at 9:30 a.m. at sciencenorth.ca.


_____________________________________________________________________________


Regarder les parties du quatrième tournoi annuel de la F.I.R.S.T. LEGO® League sur le Web, samedi le 22 novembre 2008! Des équipes composées de jeunes de 9 à 14 ans se mesureront au cours d’activités divertissantes et éducatives présentées en français et en anglais. Les rondes de compétition auront lieu entre 10 h et 12 h 30.


Une alimentation vidéo en direct sur Internet sera offerte à compter de 9 h 30, à l’adresse sciencenord.ca.



EXPLORE SCIENCE SPEAKER SERIES AT SCIENCE NORTH










The Explore Science Speaker Series at Science North is back and includes a dynamic line-up of experts involved in ocean research and undersea exploration.


In 2008/09, the Explore Science Speaker Series will showcase deep-sea marine life through entertaining and informative image-filled presentations led by an internationally renowned speaker, research scientists, and the pilot-in-command of 48 ALVIN deep-sea submersible dives.


In 2008 the speaker series kicks off with Secrets of the Deep Sea a presentation by internationally renowned speaker, David G. Gallo.

Wednesday, November 25, 2008

7:30 p.m., Science North INCO Cavern


The deep sea remains predominantly unexplored, yet there have been incredible findings: the world's highest mountains and deepest valleys; underwater rivers, waterfalls, lakes, and thriving communities of life in dark worlds. Almost every expedition returns with new information. David Gallo is the Director of Special Projects at the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution in Massachusetts. He works closely with scientists at the forefront of ocean research. An internationally renowned speaker, Gallo will introduce you to the new era of undersea exploration with stunning visuals of recent discoveries.

Buy your tickets on-line not in line! Visit sciencenorth.ca/speakers.


The Explore Science Speaker Series is sponsored by Travelodge Hotel and supported by Imperial Oil Foundation and CBC RadioOne.

SÉRIE DE CONFÉRENCIERS EXPLORATION SCIENTIFIQUE 2008/2009


La série Exploration scientifique de Science Nord est de retour et met en vedette des experts de la recherche marine et de l’exploration marine.

La série 2008-2009 examine la vie au fond des océans au cours de présentations informatives et divertissantes faites par des conférenciers de réputation internationale, des chercheurs, et le commandant du ALVIN lors de 48 plongées de ce submersible au fond de l’océan.


La série 2008 débutera avec Secrets of the Deep Sea, par le conférencier de réputation internationale, David G. Gallo.

Le mardi 25 novembre 2008, à 19 h 30

dans la Caverne de Science Nord


Le fond des océans demeure essentiellement inexploré, et pourtant on y fait des découvertes incroyables : les montagnes les plus hautes et les vallées les plus profondes de la planète; des rivières, des chutes d’eau, des lacs sous-marins, et des êtres qui survivent dans cet univers sans lumière. La plupart des expéditions reviennent avec des découvertes étonnantes. David Gallo est directeur des projets spéciaux de la Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, au Massachusetts. Il collabore étroitement avec des scientifiques, à l’avant-scène de la recherche océanique. Conférencier reconnu à travers le monde, Gallo vous présentera la nouvelle ère de l’exploration sous-marine et vous montrera des images frappantes des plus récentes découvertes.


Achetez vos billets en ligne, en non en faisait la queue! Visitez le site sciencenorth.ca/speakers.


La série de conférencier Exploration scientifique est commanditée par l’hôtel Travelodge et bénéficie du soutien financier de la Fondation Imperial Oil et de CBC RadioOne.

Thursday, November 13, 2008

SCIENCE NORTH EARNS FODOR’S CHOICE 2008 DISTINCTION


Fodor’s Travel, the foremost name in travel publishing, has named Science North and Dynamic Earth as 2008 Fodor’s Choice selections. This distinction recognizes a remarkable achievement for Science North and Dynamic Earth.

Since 1988, Fodor’s Travel has been awarding the Fodor’s Choice distinction to only the very best hotels, restaurants and attractions around the world. Fodor’s writers experience, examine and evaluate thousands of hotels, restaurants and attractions. While every hotel, restaurant or attraction included in a Fodor’s guide is deemed worth a traveler’s time, only fifteen percent of those selections receive the Fodor’s Choice designation.

“From hidden-away restaurants to can't-miss museums, Fodor’s Choice selections recognize the top sights, properties, and experiences our editors and updaters have found in their travels,” says Fodor’s publisher Tim Jarrell. “These places are the best of the best, providing a remarkable experience in their price range or category.”

As a 2008 Fodor’s Choice recipient Science North and Dynamic Earth will receive special recognition in Fodor’s guidebooks as currently being among the best in their field. Both attractions will also be recognized with special placement on Fodors.com.

“This is an outstanding achievement for Science North, Dynamic Earth and Sudbury,” said Jim Marchbank, Science North CEO. “1.5 million unique users visit the Fodors.com website each month to access travel information. Having both attractions highlighted as 2008 Fodor’s Choice selections means both science centres and the City of Greater Sudbury will be recognized by travelers from around the world, as two of the best places to visit.”

For more information about Science North visit sciencenorth.ca. For more information about Dynamic Earth visit dynamicearth.ca

SCIENCE NORD REÇOIT LE TITRE FODORS’S CHOICE 2008


Fodor’s Travel, la publication la plus en vue dans le domaine des voyages, a accordé à Science Nord et à Terre dynamique le titre de Fodor’s Choice 2008. Cette distinction reconnaît les réalisations remarquables de Science Nord et de Terre dynamique dans le secteur du tourisme.

Le titre de Fodor’s Choice est accordé depuis 1988 aux meilleurs hôtels, restaurants et attractions dans le monde. Les rédacteurs de Fodor examinent et évaluent des milliers d’hôtels, de restaurants et d’attractions à travers le monde. Bien que chaque hôtel, restaurant ou attraction inclus dans le guide Fodor soit jugé digne d’une visite, seulement 15 % de ces organismes reçoivent la désignation Fodor’s Choice.

« Depuis les petits restaurants de grande classe jusqu’aux musées qu’il ne faut pas manquer, la désignation Fodor’s Choice signale les meilleurs sites, propriétés et expériences que nos rédacteurs et examinateurs ont découverts durant leurs déplacements » explique le rédacteur en chef du Guide Fodor, Tim Jarrell. « Ces endroits sont les meilleurs des meilleurs et offrent des expériences distinctives dans leur catégorie ou fourchette des coûts. »

À titre de récipiendaire de la distinction Fodor’s Choice, Science Nord et Terre dynamique seront signalés dans les guides Fodor comme étant parmi les meilleures attractions de leur domaine d’activités. De plus, les deux attractions jouiront d’une position privilégiée dans le site Fodors.com.

« Cette reconnaissance représente une réalisation exceptionnelle pour Science Nord et Terre dynamique et pour Sudbury » a déclaré Jim Marchbank, directeur général de Science Nord. « Quelque 1,5 million d’utilisateurs visitent le site Fodors.com chaque mois afin d’y obtenir des renseignements de voyage. La signalisation de nos deux attractions à titre de récipiendaires du Fodor’s Choice signifie que les deux centres scientifiques et la ville du Grand Sudbury seront reconnus par les voyageurs du monde entier comme deux des meilleurs endroits à visiter. »

Pour plus d’information au sujet de Science Nord et de Terre dynamique, visitez les sites sciencenord.ca et terredynamique.ca respectivement.

Friday, October 31, 2008

IMAX® 3D COMING SOON TO SCIENCE NORTH!

In an age where technology is getting smaller, Science North is bucking the trend with an exciting conversion to its IMAX® Theatre! The ultimate movie experience is about to get BIGGER and BETTER with the introduction of IMAX® 3D at Science North.

Nothing can bring you closer to the action and adventure than IMAX 3D – the most powerful and immersive 3D movie experience in the world!

Supersize your senses with the sharpest and brightest 3D images projected on a screen that is 5-storeys high and 7-storeys wide. Combine that with 7,600 watts of crystal clear digital surround sound and unobstructed stadium-style seating and you’ll feel as though you are in the movie amidst images that leap right off the screen!

“Science North is vital to Northeastern Ontario’s tourism sector and we are ensuring it remains one of the region’s most viable attractions by supporting the introduction of the North’s first 3D IMAX theatre,” said Sudbury MPP Rick Bartolucci. “By investing in the expansion of Science North attractions, our government is growing the tourism industry for Sudbury and the North.”

“We are honoured to receive $914,000 from the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation to help launch this very exciting renewal project at Science North,” said Jim Marchbank, Science North CEO. “Starting in February 2009, the new Science North 3D IMAX Theatre will open to the public, offering a whole new way to enjoy the IMAX experience. We’ll also be renovating the entire projection booth, remodeling the CTV Atrium and installing a new IMAX screen and new seats.”

Since 1985, The IMAX Experience® in 3D has entertained and enlightened millions of people worldwide. The IMAX 3D camera has been everywhere from the bottom of the ocean, outer space, and back in time to the era of the dinosaurs.

IMAX 3D is the world’s most advanced 3D cinema technology. The Science North IMAX Theatre will be equipped with a dual image projection system – meaning two projectors will be used at one time. A strip of film will run through each projector. The projector lenses will project left-and-right-eye images onto the screen. The polarizing filters on the projector lenses match the polarizing lenses on the special IMAX 3D glasses. The size of the IMAX screen and surround sound also dramatically enhances the 3D effect. The result…you’ll see more, hear more and feel more!

“We are pleased that Science North will now be able to offer its patrons IMAX 3D content, which will allow them to explore and be truly immersed in new places,” added Larry O’Reilly, Executive Vice President of Theatre Development. “Science North is a tremendous asset to Northeastern Ontario, and IMAX is pleased to continue our partnership in this way.”

The Science North IMAX Theatre opened to the public in June 1994 with attendance of over 1.7 million to date. Construction on the new Science North IMAX 3D Theatre is set to begin in January 2009.

Visit sciencenorth.ca/imax for more information and regular updates about The IMAX 3D Experience at Science North. You can also visit the website for current film line-ups and showtimes.

IMAX® 3D BIENTÔT À SCIENCE NORD!


Alors que la technologie s’oriente vers la miniaturisation, Science Nord prend la direction contraire et effectue une transformation complète dans sa salle IMAX®. L’expérience cinématographique ultime deviendra encore PLUS GROSSE et ENCORE MEILLEURE grâce à l’introduction de la technologie IMAX 3D.

Rien ne peut vous rapprocher tant de l’action et de l’aventure que le cinéma IMAX 3D, l’expérience 3D la plus saisissante et la plus réaliste au monde!

Élargissez la capacité de vos sens en regardant des images 3D d’une clarté incomparable, projetées sur un écran de 5 étages de hauteur et 7 étages de largeur, combinées avec un système d’amplification numérique de 7 600 watts et une vue sans obstruction de l’écran. Vous aurez l’impression de vous trouver au beau milieu d’images qui jaillissent de l’écran!

« Science Nord est un élément central du secteur touristique dans le Nord de l’Ontario, et nous nous assurons que cette attraction demeure la plus viable de la région en soutenant financièrement la première salle IMAX 3D du Nord de l’Ontario » a déclaré Rick Bartolucci, député provincial de Sudbury. « En investissant dans le programme d’expansion des attractions de Science Nord, notre gouvernement nourrit la croissance de l’industrie du tourisme dans Sudbury et le Nord de la province. »

« Nous sommes honorés de recevoir un financement de 914 000 $ de la Société du fonds du patrimoine du Nord de l’Ontario. Ce soutien nous aidera à lancer un fascinant projet de renouvellement » a affirmé Jim Marchbank, directeur général de Science Nord. « La nouvelle salle IMAX 3D ouvrira ses portes en février 2009 et offrira une toute nouvelle façon de profiter de l’expérience d’un écran géant. Nous rénoverons la salle de projection et l’Atrium CTV, et nous installerons un nouvel écran et des nouveaux sièges. »

Depuis 1985, l’IMAX Experience® en 3D a diverti et émerveillé des millions de gens à travers le monde. La caméra IMAX 3D s’est rendue partout dans le monde, au fond des océans, dans l’espace et jusqu’à l’époque des dinosaures.

IMAX 3D est la technologie 3D la plus avancée au monde. La salle IMAX sera équipée d’un double système de projection – ce qui signifie que deux projecteurs fonctionneront simultanément. Une pellicule circulera dans chaque projecteur, et les lentilles enverront sur l’écran des images pour l’œil droit et l’œil gauche. Les filtres polarisants des lentilles des projecteurs correspondront aux lentilles polarisantes des lunettes 3D portées par les spectateurs. La taille de l’écran IMAX et le système de son ambiant augmenteront considérablement l’effet 3D. Le résultat …. Vous verrez davantage, vous entendrez davantage, et vous ressentirez davantage!

La salle IMAX de Science Nord a ouvert ses portes en juin 1994 et, depuis cette date, elle a accueilli plus de 1,7 million de spectateurs. Le début des travaux de construction de la nouvelle salle IMAX 3D est prévu pour janvier 2009.

Visitez le site sciencenord.ca/imax pour plus d’information et des mises à jour au sujet de la future attraction IMAX 3D. Vous pouvez aussi visiter le site Web pour afficher la liste des films et l’horaire des représentations.

Friday, October 24, 2008

Tunnel of Terror at Dynamic Earth

Halloween at Dynamic Earth
October 23 to 30, 2008

Risk the Tunnel of Terror* . . . if you dare!
Get your Halloween thrills at Dynamic Earth, North America’s only underground Tunnel of Terror!


Board the eerie glass-enclosed elevator and descend 7 storeys into the tunnel and risk it all to retrieve the cursed diamond! (Suggested age: 8 and over.*)


Thursday, October 16, 2008

CALLING ALL BRAVE SOULS! TUNNEL OF TERROR OPENS THURSDAY, OCTOBER 23RD AT DYNAMIC EARTH!

The Tunnel of Terror, North America’s only underground haunted house, is coming to life (so to speak!) and will be open from October 23rd to 30th at Dynamic Earth, Home of the Big Nickel!






Thrill seekers will be taken seven storeys below the earth to see the incredible transformation of the underground mining tour into the Tunnel of Terror. Are you brave enough to be among the first to venture into the tunnel to risk it all for the cursed diamond – a jewel so priceless that thousands of prospectors have lost their lives searching for it?

Please Note: Halloween at Dynamic Earth is a family-friendly event, however, the Tunnel of Terror is not recommended for children under 8.

The Tunnel of Terror is only one component of the overall Halloween experience at Dynamic Earth. Enjoy spooky stories, crafts, face painting, and children’s games for all ages!

Let Dr. Dread horrify you with his latest experiments! Gross out in the gruesome dissection lab! Meet brave witch Hilda and her assistant in the creepy crawlers chamber. Take part in a scavenger hunt, break the spell, and receive a ghastly prize!

Hours of Operation:
Weekdays: 5 to 9 p.m.
Weekends: Noon to 9 p.m.

For more details, visit dynamicearth.ca/Halloween.

Halloween at Dynamic Earth is supported by EZ Rock 105.3 FM and The Sudbury Star.



Please Note:

In order to accommodate the macabre transformation of Dynamic Earth, the centre will be closed next week until it reopens on Thursday, October 23rd.

The regular Dynamic Earth experience is not available during the Halloween event. The last day for the regular Dynamic Earth experience is Sunday, October 19th.

Thursday, October 30th will also mark the last day for the Halloween event and the final day of the 2008 season at Dynamic Earth.

Dynamic Earth reopens in March 2009 for its sixth season. Diamonds – a new Science North special exhibition — will open in the MacLean Engineering Gallery, next spring.

LOCAL AUTHOR TO HOLD BOOK SIGNING SATURDAY AT DYNAMIC EARTH, HOME OF THE BIG NICKEL

A retired Vale Inco miner will be holding a book signing event at Dynamic Earth, Home of the Big Nickel, on Saturday, October 18th from 1 pm to 4 pm. Members of the public, and representatives from the media, are invited to meet the author, Hans Brasch, in person.

Brasch joined Vale Inco in 1952 and retired from the company inn 1992. He has penned a book, Mining Then and Now in the Sudbury Basin, to recount a century of mining in Greater Sudbury through words and photographs, from the past and present.

“In my 40 years working in the mining industry many things have changed. The last 100 years of mining have been even more incredible – going from pick and shovel, to computerized and mechanized mining. This book is a collection of information that I have compiled in order for readers to appreciate these vast achievements.”
Excerpt from the book, Mining Then and Now in the Sudbury Basin, written by Hans Brasch.

Brasch will have some historical mining equipment on display during the book signing. His book is for sale in the Big Nickel Boutique at Dynamic Earth.

This weekend also marks the end of the regular season at Dynamic Earth.


The annual Halloween event, which includes North America’s only underground haunted house – the Tunnel of Terror, will take place from October 23rd to 30th!

In order to accommodate the macabre transformation of Dynamic Earth, the centre will be closed next week until it reopens on Thursday, October 23rd. The regular Dynamic Earth experience is not available during the Halloween event. The last day for the regular Dynamic Earth experience is Sunday, October 19th.

Visit dynamicearth.ca/halloween.

Tuesday, October 14, 2008

CANADA-WIDE CONTEST KICKS OFF NATIONAL SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY WEEK AT SCIENCE NORTH

An urgent need to attract students to the Earth sciences is sparking a national contest for Canadian youth. Sponsored by EnCana Corporation and Teck Cominco Limited and in celebration of the International Year of Planet Earth and National Science & Technology Week, the WHERE Challenge is designed to get young people aged 10 – 14 years thinking about what on Earth is in their stuff and WHERE on Earth it comes from. The hope is that by encouraging bright young minds to think about the many ways the Earth’s resources support everyday life, the Challenge will also encourage students to consider Earth sciences as an exciting educational and career opportunity.


Members of the media are invited to the launch of the WHERE Challenge. Join us Tuesday, October 21st at 12 p.m. in the Nature Exchange on the second level of Science North. Local students will also be taking part in the event, exploring the Earth resources that are found in common household items. A scientist will also be on hand to answer questions about looming shortages across the entire Earth sciences sector.


“We’re experiencing growing shortages across our entire profession,” said Canadian Federation of Earth Sciences (CFES) President Ian Young. “The time to attract students to the Earth sciences is now, because the gap between the talent we have and the talent we need is reaching a point where it will begin to affect the Canadian economy.”


“We hope you can join us as we launch this exciting national contest and kick-off National Science and Technology Week at Science North,” said Dr. David Pearson, Science North Science Director. “Inspiring young minds to discover science, and carry it with them throughout their lives is what Science North is all about. We are very excited to promote the opportunity to students and visitors as the WHERE Challenge fits perfectly with that goal.”


For more information about the WHERE Challenge visit www.earthsciencescanada.com.


For more information about Science North visit www.sciencenorth.ca.


UN CONCOURS PANCANADIEN MARQUE LE DÉBUT DE LA SEMAINE NATIONALE DES SCIENCES ET DE LA TECHNOLOGIE À SCIENCE NORD

Le besoin urgent d’attirer des étudiants vers le domaine des sciences de la Terre est à l’origine du concours national destiné aux jeunes Canadiens. Commandité par EnCana Corporation et Teck Cominco Limited, ce concours célèbre l’Année internationale de la planète Terre et la Semaine nationale des sciences et de la technologie. Le WHERE Challenge veut amener les jeunes de 10 à 14 ans à réfléchir sur les matières qui composent les objets qu’ils possèdent, et sur la provenance de ces matières. Le défi veut aussi encourager les jeunes à penser aux nombreuses façons dont les ressources soutiennent leur vie quotidienne. Il veut aussi encourager les élèves à considérer les sciences de la Terre comme une occasion exceptionnelle pour se renseigner et, éventuellement, pour y faire carrière.

Les membres des médias sont invités au lancement du WHERE Challenge qui aura lieu le mardi 21 octobre, à 12 h, dans le secteur du Marché de la nature, au deuxième niveau du centre des sciences. Des élèves participeront également à l’événement et examineront les ressources de la Terre que l’on trouve dans les objets domestiques. Un scientifique répondra aux questions concernant les pénuries de personnel annoncées dans tous les secteurs des sciences de la Terre.


« Nous connaissons une pénurie générale de personnel dans notre profession » a déclaré le président de la Fédération canadienne des sciences de la Terre. « Le temps est donc venu d’attirer les étudiants vers le domaine des sciences de la Terre, parce que l’écart entre les talents que nous avons et les talents dont nous avons besoin est tel que l’économie canadienne commence à en subir les effets. »


« Nous espérons que vous pourrez vous joindre à nous à l’occasion du lancement de ce concours national et de la Semaine nationale des sciences et de la technologie, à Science Nord », a dit le Dr David Pearson, directeur scientifique de Science Nord. « Le premier but de Science Nord est d’inspirer les jeunes à découvrir les sciences et à maintenir un intérêt pour les sciences durant toute leur vie. Nous sommes heureux de promouvoir ce défi auprès des étudiants et des parents parce que cet événement correspond parfaitement au but recherché par Science Nord. »


Pour d’autres renseignements sur WHERE Challenge, visitez le site www.earthsciencescanada.com.


Pour de l’information supplémentaire sur Science Nord, visitez le site www.sciencenorth.ca.

Tuesday, October 7, 2008

THIS THANKSGIVING GIVE BACK WHILE GIVING THANKS

A new national campaign has been launched with the aim of reminding all of us to consider donating our time, talent or treasure to a charitable cause.

The Thanks & Giving Campaign, launched by Imagine Canada in partnership with CanadaHelps.org, Maclean’s magazine and Investors Group, encourages families to start a new Thanksgiving tradition and reflect on which charities matter to them.

Volunteers are the life-blood of any organization, and this also holds true for Science North. Science Centre volunteers dedicate their time in order to ensure that every person who enters our door enjoys a wonderful visitor experience.

Private and public sector donors also play a key role in the enhancement and renewal of experiences within our Science Centre. Science North is a non-profit, registered charitable organization, and relies heavily on the financial support of the community to maintain vibrant and changing exhibits and programming on an ongoing basis.

There are many ways to give that not only help create ongoing learning experiences, but also contribute to your own personal and financial goals.

A small monthly gift can help feed the animals at Science North or bring in butterfly pupae from around the world. A Named Giving contribution is a beautiful way to honour the memory of a loved one, or to have your own family name endure in perpetuity.

Science North and its educational programs significantly benefit the community and all of Northern Ontario, and will serve generations to come.

“It’s my favourite place! My grandchildren were educated at Science North, so whenever special events come up, I like to give back. Five of my grandchildren have their picture on a butterfly in support of the F. Jean MacLeod Butterfly Gallery, and my son’s name is on a brick at Dynamic Earth. I’m also hoping to make a donation in honour of Science North’s upcoming 25th anniversary.”
Emmy Frank, Science North volunteer for nearly 12 years

If you would like to join the Thanks & Giving tradition visit thanksandgiving.ca and donate to Science North, or any other chosen cause, through Canada’s online giving portal CanadaHelps.org.

For more information about Science North visit sciencenorth.ca.

Monday, October 6, 2008

Animals of the Great Lakes Coming to Science North Thanksgiving Weekend!




This Thanksgiving weekend families will have the chance to get up-close to wildlife! Zooz, a nature park located in the Niagara region, is bringing an exciting, hands-on outreach event to Science North on October 11th and 12th. Visitors will be able to view, interact with, and touch a caribou, a Golden Eagle, a skunk and a Turkey vulture! All of these species are native to the Great Lakes region.






Public presentations featuring Animals of the Great Lakes will be held in the Inco Cavern. Presentations are free for Science North Members and included with Science Centre admission! Showtimes are as follows:

Saturday, October 11th – 11 a.m & 12:30 p.m.

Sunday, October 12th – 11 a.m., 1 p.m. & 2:30 p.m.






The Animals of the Great Lakes show features an informal lecture about the animals, their ecology and conservation issues, followed by a question and answer session and the opportunity to touch the animals! Interactive programs like these have proven effective in increasing knowledge and positive attitudes about these birds and animals, and their conservation.

Visitors can complement their Animals of the Great Lakes experience with a screening of the Science North produced IMAX® film Mysteries of the Great Lakes, which showcases the story of the lake sturgeon, the Bald Eagle and the woodland caribou.

The Animals of the Great Lakes presentation is supported by the provincial government through the Ministry of Tourism Celebrate Ontario program.

Visit sciencenorth.ca/animals.

North America's Only Underground Haunted House!

Get your Halloween thrills at Dynamic Earth, North America’s only underground Tunnel of Terror!

Board the eerie glass-enclosed elevator and descend 7 storeys into the tunnel and risk it all to retrieve the cursed diamond! (Suggested age: 8 and over)


Let Dr. Dread horrify you with his latest experiments! Gross out in the gruesome dissection lab! Meet brave witch Hilda and her assistant in the creepy crawlers chamber. Take part in a scavenger hunt, break the spell, and receive a ghastly prize!

Enjoy spooky stories, crafts for all ages, face painting, and children’s games!

Visit dynamicearth.ca/halloween.

Dynamic Earth, Home of the Big Nickel is a Science North attraction!

Tuesday, August 19, 2008

Share Your Best Staycation Story For A Chance To Win Great Prizes!



2008 is the year of the Staycation! It’s the hottest new trend in tourism -- a low-stress, relaxing and cost-friendly vacation that lets you take time off to enjoy life close to home!

"One great thing, for us, about visiting attractions nearby is the minimal planning involved,” said Jessica Guenard-Valiquette, a Sudbury mother of two boys.

“Science North is a great place to bring the kids so I decided to buy a family pass this year,” said Trina Lewis a mother of two, living in Valley East. “With me staying at home all summer with the kids, I thought this would a great thing to do to keep them busy.”

With fuel prices, air fare and food costs on the rise, many people feel that saving money and reducing stress with a staycation is a great option this summer. But sitting at home – where regular chores will continue to nag at you – doesn’t cut it.

To really relax you have to get away from the house.

When was the last time you were a tourist in your region? Greater Sudbury is quickly emerging as the staycation destination of the north. Offering everything from fine dining, arts and entertainment, outdoor exploration and two of the top ten tourist attractions in Canada, the nickel city is a short day trip from many northern and southern Ontario communities including; North Bay, Mattawa, Temiskaming Shores, Parry Sound, Barrie and the Muskokas. You can leave after breakfast and be in Sudbury by lunchtime!

Summer festivals, rock concerts, eco-travel adventure tours such as rock-climbing, a game of mini-putt or paintball, or even a day at the beach your vacation is what you make of it, whether you travel 10 km or 10,000 km!

If your wallet is feeling lighter than that smart car you’ve had your eye on, remember that a staycation is a great way to minimize costs without skimping on fun.

“Take Sudbury as a prime example,” says Rob Skelly, Manager of Tourism, Culture and Marketing for the City of Greater Sudbury. “You can enjoy a great day in Bell Park, dine out and experience a meal to suit any taste, or instead of heading to St. Thomas to see the Thomas train, you can take your kids to Capreol and see the real locomotives and explore the Capreol Railway Museum. If you’re looking for an activity that can take a few days, we have Science North and Dynamic Earth -- two of the top ten Science Centres in Canada!”

Many families have discovered the quality family getaways they can have by simply capitalizing on local tourist venues.

“Science North was beautiful. That place blows the Science Centre in Toronto away,” said Kelly Waterhouse, a recent visitor to Science North and Dynamic Earth.

“I’m an avid photographer who actively explores the world around me,” says Peter Noble, a Sudbury father of two young girls. “My girls and I really enjoy hiking at Onaping Falls. We also have lots of fun taking part in local festivals, and often take walks along the boardwalk on Ramsey Lake.”

Need a bit more time away from home to really unwind? Greater Sudbury hotel rates remain lower than the Ontario average, so why not book your family into a hotel with a pool, explore local tourist attractions and experience a great local restaurant that your family hasn’t tried before!

Remember, your vacation is all about the memories.

Have you been part of the staycation trend? Share your staycation ideas or stories and you could win one of four (4) Grand Prize Sudbury Family Getaway packages! Each package includes two (2) nights accommodation in one room at a participating Sudbury hotel for a family of four from City of Greater Sudbury Tourism; four (4) Dynamic Duo Passports from Science North, a $75 Dining Passport from Respect is Burning Supperclub and a $50 gas card from the Canadian Tire Gas Bar in Hanmer.

Enter on-line at sciencenorth.ca/staycation. Contest ends Friday, September 10, 2008. Prize packages valued at $500 each.

Thursday, August 7, 2008

THREE SCIENCE NORTH STAR PARTIES BEING HELD NEXT WEEK

If you’ve been holding onto a wish, waiting for a shooting star, the week of August 8th to 14th is probably a sure bet! Intense streaks of light caused by small bits of interplanetary rocks and debris will be burning across the early morning sky.

This stellar light show is courtesy of the 2008 Perseid meteor shower, and fortunately for those of us living in the northern hemisphere we’ve got the best seat in the house. Stargazers looking up to the sky may see dozens of meteors per hour. The ideal time to view the Perseids will be from 2:00 a.m. (after the moon sets) until dawn, on August 12th.

The Perseid meteor shower is among one of the most reliable astronomy events in history, and has been observed for about 2,000 years. Every year the Earth passes through the Perseid cloud which stretches along the orbit of the Comet Swift –Tuttle. The Perseid cloud includes dust, ice and rock that was ejected from the comet, and that debris enters Earth’s atmosphere at extremely high rates of speed; sometimes travelling as fast as 216,000 km per hour.

The meteors burn up and are usually completely vaporized about 100 km above Earth’s atmosphere.

Science North will be hosting three free star parties on August 11th, 12th and 13th, for anyone who would like to learn more about the Perseid meteor shower or about other interesting things to observe in our night sky. These star parties will take place on the Marketplace at Science North from 10 p.m. to midnight, weather permitting.

Interested individuals should call the Science North Star Party Hotline at

522-3701 ext. 243, after 6 p.m. on the night of the event, to get more details.