Cold Hard Facts

Two penguins are standing on an iceberg. Penguin No. 1 says to Penguin No. 2, "Looks like you're wearing a tuxedo." Penguin No. 2 replies, "...Maybe I am." Now that we've shared our favorite surreal penguin joke (OK, our only surreal penguin joke), it's time to get serious. Penguins must carry out the dual responsibilities of being tremendously cute and being barometers of the Antarctic's stability. Up in the Arctic, polar bears face a similar burden. A new exhibition at the Saint Louis Science Center (5050 Oakland Avenue), Ends of the Earth: From Polar Bears to Penguins, gives visitors a glimpse into these creatures' icy homes. As we are currently and unfortunately learning, the delicate poles are incredibly sensitive to pollution and global warming. What happens at the ends of the Earth eventually affects all of us, so get educated via interactive exhibits and multimedia installations. (Plus, don a penguin suit and learn how these waddling charmers walk and slide!) Admission to Ends of the Earth is $8 for adults, $6 for kids and seniors, and free for Science Center members. The exhibit opens Saturday, May 16, and runs through Monday, September 7. To find out more and to purchase tickets, call 314-289-4424 or visit www.slsc.org.
May 16-Sept. 7, 2009