News item published on: 2025-08-12 11:20:00
Science Café at Cook Library returns this fall with two engaging presentations. On September 8, attendees can explore the world of amateur radio and its vital role in disaster preparedness. Then, on October 6, the focus shifts to the restorative power of nature and its healing connection.
Amateur Radio for Personal Growth and Emergency Preparedness Monday, September 8 | 6 p.m. Cook Library Room 209A Presented by Dr. John Eye, Dean of University Libraries
September is National Preparedness Month, and amateur (ham) radio operators play a vital role in disaster preparedness. During disasters such as hurricanes, earthquakes, and floods, traditional communication systems like cell towers, internet, and landlines can fail. Ham radio provides a reliable communication system, and it's a valuable tool for emergency communication during and after disasters. Dr. John Eye will share his experiences and knowledge of ham radio, explain what ham radio operators do, and discuss different aspects of the hobby, including emergency communications. He will also provide information on obtaining a ham radio license and available training courses.
The Power of Nature’s Healing Connection Monday, October 6 | 6 p.m. Cook Library 209A Presented by Nadine Phillips, Interlibrary Loan Librarian and Certified Nature and Forest Therapy Guide
Join us to learn more about connecting to the natural world through Nature and Forest Therapy practices. Deeply rooted in the Japanese concept of Shinrin-yoku, or “forest-air bathing”, Forest Therapy is an evidence-based public health practice considered to be a natural remedy to reduce stress and a pathway to a happier, healthier, and more rewarding life. Guided Forest Therapy experiences combine a specific blend of complementary sensory, physical, and mental exercises in suitable forest surroundings. This gentle practice is backed by significant medical and scientific research, and the abundance of health benefits is wide-ranging. Nadine Phillips will share more about the background and beneficial results of this beneficial practice and how to invite more nature connection into your everyday life.
You Too Can Love Mosquitoes! Monday, November 3 | 6 p.m. Cook Library 209A Presented by Dr. Don Yee, Professor and Board Certified Entomologist in Medical Entomology
In this presentation, Dr. Yee will explore the amazing diversity of mosquito phenotypes and their ecology to show the incredible diversity of mosquito body shapes and forms and discuss what this may mean for our understanding of their ecology and evolution.
Among the 3,700 species of mosquitoes, less than 10% are actually involved in pathogen transmission, with the other 90% having little contact with humans. From this emerges a staggering fact, most of our knowledge of mosquitoes comes from those few hundred species, and in reality, we base most of our ecological, physiological, genetic, and biological knowledge about them on just a small group of medically important species. Phenotype is the manifestation of the genotype, and we see this in mosquitoes in physical traits like size, color, and shape. We often view all mosquitoes as the same: small and dark in color. However, mosquitoes vary in size and come in all different colors and patterns. Although their role as vectors of pathogens that cause disease is emphasized, they also play critical roles in nature, acting as food sources of many animals, pollinators, and nutrient recyclers.
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