Written by: Nicole Fassina
The Birch Aquarium’s Happy Hour Science Night event on July 19th was an engaging and enjoyable experience that brought together attendees for an evening of relaxation, socialization, and exploration. This event kicked off with two guest speakers from the SoCal Heat Hub, scientists Tarik Benmarhnia and Sasha Gershunov, who spoke on heatwaves and their health impacts in coastal Southern California. The event provided a unique opportunity to combine the serene ambiance of the aquarium with the lively and casual atmosphere of a happy hour, resulting in an informative and satisfying evening for all participants.
Sasha and Tarik speak with guests at the Happy Hour Science Night. Photo by Nan Renner.
The highlight of the evening was the science talk done by esteemed guest speakers Tarik Bermarhnia and Sasha Gershunov, who are both distinguished scientists from the SoCal Heat Hub. Their presentation, “Heat waves in coastal Southern California”, was part of a series of Science Nights organized by Dr. Nan Renner held during Birch Aquarium’s Happy Hours. Dr. Bermarhnia’s research seamlessly integrates epidemiological and climatological methodologies, with a distinct emphasis on informing policies to improve health and environmental justice. Dr. Gershunov’s research primarily revolves around interconnected elements of weather, climate, and their interaction with society. The throughline of his work is the mutual influence between human activities and the climate system. Their discussion about heat waves and their impacts in coastal Southern California added a layer of interest to the happy hour. But what truly set this experience apart was the fact that it was more than just a presentation; it was an opportunity for accessible science communication at its finest.
Throughout the event, there was ample time for questions and answers, transforming the atmosphere into an interactive and engaging exchange of ideas. This allowed attendees to not only absorb the knowledge but to actively participate in the discussion. Additionally, throughout the entirety of the event, different tools for measuring heat were passed around for attendees to see and interact with. This interactive part of the presentation helped maintain a level of engagement for the participants in the audience. It was a remarkable chance to have a direct conversation with experts of such caliber in an informal setting. Attendees also had the opportunity to explore the Birch Aquarium, offering an immersive encounter with the aquarium’s astonishing exhibits. The tactile touch pool provided a more personal connection with the animals, fostering deeper learning and appreciation. Birch Aquarium’s dedication to education, conservation, and inspiration continues to resonate with me. In all, this evening was an excellent opportunity for accessible science communication and it was a reminder that science isn’t exclusive; it’s something that can be made accessible, enjoyable, and enlightening for all.
Several temperature measuring instruments were available for hands-on play and learning. Photo by Nan Renner.
In conclusion, the Birch Aquarium’s Happy Hour Science event was a remarkable experience that blended relaxation, socialization, and intellectual exploration in an innovative and effective manner. The combination of the venue’s ambiance, engaging activities, and enlightening presentation left a lasting impression. It demonstrated that when knowledge meets entertainment, the result is an event that both educates and delights, leaving attendees with a sense of enrichment and satisfaction.