Spooky science takes center stage this Halloween at ESU’s Prophet Aquatic Research and Outreach Center, where a special edition of Science Saturday will cap a month of fishing, reading and hands-on activities. Other October programs will teach attendees how to fly fish and help children explore the world of fish through stories, activities and book club discussions.
Kicking off the month Saturday, Oct. 3, from 1 to 3 p.m. is Fly Fishing for Beginners. This fun and educational training event welcomes all skill levels but is geared specifically toward newcomers. Instructor Kyle Hull will cover basic equipment, teach participants how to cast and explain which flies to use when targeting fish found locally. The event is free and open to the public. Register by emailing paroc@emporia.edu.
October’s Science Storytime is Tuesday, Oct. 13, from 6 to 6:45 p.m. This free event begins with an engaging story followed by a fun, hands-on activity and is designed for children ages 7 and younger. Caregivers must attend, and everyone should dress for potentially messy activities. To sign up, email . The October theme is fish.
Continuing the fish theme is the PAROC Book Club. This monthly program combines reading, creativity and science for students in third through fifth grades. The book club meets once a month on Mondays from 4 to 5 p.m. Seating is limited. To learn more and sign up, visit the PAROC Book Club website.
PAROC’s Science Saturday event lands on Saturday, Oct. 31, from 10 a.m. to noon. This Halloween-themed special may cause attendees to say “Ew!” or “Yuck!” or scream in fright when they see spiders, snakes, sharks, vultures, bats, opossums and other creepy, crawly creatures of the night. But these commonly feared and underappreciated creatures are often misunderstood and are much more than their reputations might suggest.
The event features interactive booths showcasing Misunderstood Monsters, including massive tarantulas and spooky shark specimens. Guests also can enjoy educational activities, crafts, free Halloween candy and a children’s costume contest. Everyone is invited to dress in costume and experience the spooky fun at PAROC this Halloween. Science Saturday is open to everyone, and no registration is required.