Science calendar

  • Nov. 7 Arboretum Volunteer Workday Wingra Oak Savanna Volunteer for restoration activities and learn about prairies and savannas. Tools and training are provided, and groups are welcome with advance notice. Meet at the gravel parking lot along Arbor Drive just off Monroe Street. Wingra Oak Savanna. 9 a.m.-noon. Information: 265-5214, mlfarrior@uwarb.wisc.edu
  • Nov. 7 What's On Your Plate? A 'Tales From Planet Earth' Film Screening Directed by Catherine Gund (2009), in this rollicking film Catherine Gund follows two New York City pre-teens, Sadie and Safiyah, as they journey across their food system and take charge of their health against the onslaught of food choices bombarding them in a modern American city. An official selection of the 2009 Berlin Film Festival, this is a film your whole family should experience together. Catherine, Sadie and Safiyah join us for this Madison premiere screening. Madison Museum of Contemporary Art, 227 State Street. 10 a.m. Information: 265-6712, mayoung3@wisc.edu
  • Nov. 7 Tales From Planet Earth Community and Film Festival Showcasing more than 45 environmental films from around the world, this three-day festival will explore how stories told through film shape our understanding of nature and society and inspire action on behalf of environmental justice and the diversity of life. Community events, lectures, and discussions with filmmakers, activists and other guests will complement the films. Four venues: Memorial Union Theater, Frederic March Play Circle, UW Cinematheque, and Madison Museum of Contempory Art. 10 a.m.-11 p.m. Information: 265-6712, mayoung3@wisc.edu
  • Nov. 8 Tales From Planet Earth Community and Film Festival Showcasing more than 45 environmental films from around the world, this three-day festival will explore how stories told through film shape our understanding of nature and society and inspire action on behalf of environmental justice and the diversity of life. Community events, lectures, and discussions with filmmakers, activists and other guests will complement the films. Four venues: Memorial Union Theater, Frederic March Play Circle, UW Cinematheque, and Madison Museum of Contempory Art. Noon-9:15 p.m. Information: 265-6712, mayoung3@wisc.edu
  • Nov. 8 Arboretum Walk Landforms The Arboretum has many features that illustrate the glacial geology of the Madison area and how it has changed over the time. We will look at features of the landscape as well as what is going on in the natural world. Arboretum Visitor Center, 1207 Seminole Highway. 1-3 p.m. Information: 263-7888, pabrown1@wisc.edu
  • Nov. 8 Arboretum Family Walk Preparing for Winter Animals and plants that live here need to prepare for winter long before the first snow flies. This short walk introduces young people to how plants and animals prepare for winter. Arboretum Visitor Center, 1207 Seminole Highway. 1:30-2:30 p.m. Information: 263-7888, pabrown1@wisc.edu
  • Nov. 8 Tales from Planet Earth: Voyage to Next Mother Earth and Father Time examine the state of the planet Earth. Humankind has divided itself into a system of nationalistic boxes. Father Time projects twenty years of horror. Mother Earth and Father Time discuss the foolish choices humans have made in the past. The humans realize their plight and begin to imagine their preferred worlds. One of several films by John and Faith Hubley being shown as part of a retrospective celebration of their work. (Showing with Yes Men Fix the World.) Union Theater, Memorial Union. 7:30 p.m. Information: tksincla@wisc.edu
  • Nov. 9 Division of Continuing Studies: Alcohol and Other Drug Issues Substance Abuse Course 5: Skills for Working With Substance Abusers In this two-day workshop you learn how to interview abusers on their substance use, soften their defenses and use Motivational Enhancement techniques. Also learn group facilitation skills and other strategies for working more effectively with substance abusers. The workshop continues on Tuesday, Nov. 10, 9 a.m-4 p.m. Pyle Center. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Cost: $240. Information: 265-2329, kobmascher@dcs.wisc.edu
  • Nov. 9 Contemporary Biochemistry: Membrane Organization and Dynamics What Drives Membrane Protein Folding? James U. Bowie, UCLA. Ebling Symposium Center, Microbial Sciences. 3:30 p.m. Information: 890-2385, mcniel@wisc.edu
  • Nov. 10 Physical Chemistry Seminar Astrochemistry: From H3+ to C60 Benjamin J. McCall, University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign. 1315 Chemistry. 11 a.m. Information: 262-1969, houtsinger@chem.wisc.edu
  • Nov. 10 Chaos and Complex Systems Seminar The Stability of Oscillators George Hrabovsky, Madison Area Science and Technology, discusses the application of a graphical method of analysis to determine if an oscillation is stable or not. 5310 Chamberlin Hall. Noon-1 p.m. Information: rschapma@wisc.edu
  • Nov. 10 What To Eat: A Seven Discourse Meal The Seasonal Connection: From the Land to Your Plate Seventh in the Agroecology Fall Lecture Series to be presented by Monique Hooker, Wisconsin chef, storyteller and author of "Cooking with the Seasons." 2241 Chamberlin Hall. 4 p.m. Information: 890-1456, agroecology@cals.wisc.edu
  • Nov. 10 W. M. Keck Laboratory for Biological Imaging Lecture Series Imaging Circuit Assembly in the Vertebrate Retina Rachel Wong, University of Washington. 341 Bardeen Medical Laboratories. 4 p.m. Information: 265-5651, hansen5@wisc.edu
  • Nov. 10 UW Space Place Guest Presentation Billions of Years in Turmoil: The Life and Times of Star Clusters It is believed that the majority of stars are born in star clusters or cluster environments, and indeed star clusters are the basic building blocks of galaxies. Aaron Geller, astronomy department, will take the audience through the dynamical and evolutionary lifetimes of stars in star clusters and show the exciting lives that some of these stars lead. Space Place, 2300 S. Park St. 7-8 p.m. Information: 262-4779, kay@astro.wisc.edu
  • Nov. 11 Biofilms Presents 'The Andromeda Strain' The 1971 movie "The Andromeda Strain" was directed by Robert Wise ("The Day the Earth Stood Still" and "The Sound of Music") and based on the novel by Michael Crichton. A group of scientists investigate a deadly new alien virus before it can spread. Enjoy free popcorn and drinks throughout the show. A discussion will follow the film. 1520 Microbial Sciences. 6:30 p.m. Information: 263-0234, mjpeters3@wisc.edu
  • Nov. 11 Wednesday Nite at the Lab Why We Need to Conserve Crop Diversity and What We Need to Know Eve Emshwiller, Department of Botany, will show an example from the Peruvian Andes. No registration required. Free parking is available in the evenings in Lot 20, which can be accessed from University Avenue. 1111 Biotechnology Center (Auditorium), Genetics-Biotechnology Center Building. 7 p.m. Cost: Free. Information: 265-2420, cevrentas@wisc.edu
  • Nov. 12 Nutritional Sciences Seminar Series Milton Nichols Memorial Lecture Steven Zeisel, University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, delivers a talk titled "Individualized Nutrition: How Genes, Epigenetics, and Sex Interact to Create a Dietary Requirement for the Nutrient Choline." Auditorium, Genetics-Biotechnology Center Building. 10:30-11:30 a.m. Information: 890-1888, yen@nutrisci.wisc.edu
  • Nov. 12 Holtz Center for Science and Technology Studies Brownbag A Conversation With Tarleton Gillespie This session is devoted to a conversation with visiting speaker Tarleton Gillespie, Cornell University and Stanford University. 8108 Sewell Social Sciences. Noon-1:30 p.m. Information: 262-5956, sts@ssc.wisc.edu
  • Nov. 12 Daniel Selcer and Theresa Smith Facsimile, Indiscernibility and Images of the Copernican World Philosopher Daniel Selcer and paper conservator Theresa Smith talk about the hole that both is and is not in the manuscript page at the center of Copernicus’ emblematic diagram of the heliocentric universe. 4207 Helen C. White Hall. 3 p.m. Information: 262-1406, fchsia@wisc.edu
  • Nov. 12 Distinguished Lectures in Microbiology Series Genome Dynamics in Space and Time in S. Islandicus Rachel Whitaker, University of Urbana-Champaign, speaks as part of this weekly series on Thursdays at 3:30 p.m. Ebling Symposium Center, Microbial Sciences. 3:30 p.m. Information: 263-0234, mjpeters3@wisc.edu
  • Nov. 12 Biology Colloquium When Ecosystems Squeal: Theory and Practice for Early Warnings of Ecosystem Change Steve Carpenter, zoology. B302 Birge Hall. 3:30 p.m.
  • Nov. 12 Holtz Center Visiting Speaker Tarleton Gillespie The Politics of Platforms (Like Youtube) Visiting Speaker Tarleton Gillespie, Cornell University and Stanford University, will give a public lecture on how online content providers such as Youtube, while promising an open platform, also have to make decisions about how content is regulated (how it is organized, featured or squirreled away, and patrolled). That is, they serve as both provider and chaperone of online content. Reception beforehand at 3:30 p.m. 8417 Sewell Social Sciences. 4-5 p.m. Information: 262-5956, sts@ssc.wisc.edu
  • Nov. 13 Division of Continuing Studies: Alcohol and Other Drug Issues Human Brain: Impact of Alcohol and Other Drugs on the Human Brain Learn the latest information on the human brain, with a focus on the impact of drugs of abuse on short- and long-term brain structure and functioning. Pyle Center. 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Cost: $59. Information: 265-2329, kobmascher@dcs.wisc.edu
  • Nov. 13 Human/Animal Chimeras: Being Human, Being Animal and Everything in Between Robert Streiffer, Assistant Professor of Philosophy and Bioethics The introduction of human stem cells into developing animals is an important research tool, but it has stirred up considerable public controversy. This talk explores the ethical issues raised by creating individuals that are part animal and part human. A complimentary buffet lunch is provided and is open only to faculty, graduate students and academic staff. E-mail your affiliation and phone number to info@humanities.wisc.edu by noon on the Tuesday prior to the event to reserve a seat. Banquet Room, University Club. 12 p.m. Information: 263-3412, info@humanities.wisc.edu
  • Nov. 13 C. Richard Hutchinson Lecture Drug Discovery From the Deep Oceans William Fenical, Scripps Institution of Oceanography. 2006 Rennebohm Hall. 3:30 p.m. Information: 262-0353, jmmitchell@pharmacy.wisc.edu
  • Nov. 14 Arboretum Volunteer Workday Core Area and Curtis Prairie Volunteer for restoration activities and learn about prairies and savannas. Tools and training are provided, and groups are welcome with advance notice. Meet at the front steps of the Visitor Center. Arboretum Visitor Center, 1207 Seminole Highway. 9 a.m.-noon. Information: 265-5214, mlfarrior@uwarb.wisc.edu
  • Nov. 15 Explorando las Ciencias Explorando las Ciencias is an afternoon of bilingual Science Outreach at Space Place. We will have two shows, one in physics and one in chemistry, and 15 hands-on stations for experiential learning in biology, chemistry, physics, environmental science and engineering. Space Place: 2300 S. Park St (in the Villager Mall), Madison, WI 53713. Noon-4 p.m. Information: 262-4779, huebert@wisc.edu
  • Nov. 15 Science is Fun Waisman Center Children's Theatre Experience the wonderful world of chemistry and science with the physic department's Dr. Shakhashiri in this kid-tailored presentation that will educate and amaze audiences of all ages. Waisman Center. 1 p.m. Cost: $2 adults, $1 children. Information: 263-5837, palumbo@waisman.wisc.edu
  • Nov. 15 Arboretum Walk Thinking Like an Arboretum Aldo Leopold's essay, "Thinking Like a Mountain," is the basis for this tour about the relationship between predators and prey, and the diversity of ecosystems. Arboretum Visitor Center, 1207 Seminole Highway. 1-2:30 p.m. Information: 263-7888, pabrown1@wisc.edu
  • Nov. 15 Arboretum Special Event Wisconsin Academy Evening at the Arboretum With Jonathan Patz This free forum features Jonathan Patz, professor of environmental studies and population health sciences and director of a university-wide initiative on global environmental health. In 2007, Patz shared the 2007 Nobel Peace Prize awarded to the International Panel on Climate Change and Al Gore. Arboretum Visitor Center, 1207 Seminole Highway. 2:30-4 p.m. Information: 263-7888, pabrown1@wisc.edu
  • Nov. 16 Visual Culture Center Series 'Visualities Beyond Ocularcentrism' The Newtonian Slave Body James Delbourgo, Rutgers University. L140 Chazen Museum of Art. 6 p.m. Information: 263-2340, visualculture@education.wisc.edu
  • Nov. 17 Arboretum Special Event Speaking for the Land: Aldo Leopold as a Writer As part of the Gaylord Nelson Lecture Series, professor Scott Russell Sanders discusses how Aldo Leopold was a gifted writer as well as a visionary thinker. Focusing on "A Sand County Almanac" and his late essays, this lecture will examine and celebrate Leopold's use of language. Arboretum Visitor Center, 1207 Seminole Highway. 7-8:30 p.m. Information: 263-7888, pabrown1@wisc.edu
  • Nov. 18 Wednesday Nite at the Lab Bioethics Sue Lederer, Department of Medical History and Bioethics. No registration required. Free parking is available in the evenings in Lot 20, which can be accessed from University Avenue. 1111 Biotechnology Center (Auditorium), Genetics-Biotechnology Center Building. 7 p.m. Cost: Free. Information: 265-2420, cevrentas@wisc.edu
  • Nov. 19 Distinguished Lectures in Microbiology Series Adventures in the Human Microbiome George Weinstock, Washington University, speaks as part of this weekly series on Thursdays at 3:30 p.m. Ebling Symposium Center, Microbial Sciences. 3:30 p.m. Cost: FREE. Information: 263-0234, mjpeters3@wisc.edu
  • Nov. 21 Arboretum Volunteer Workday Grady Tract Volunteer for restoration activities and learn about prairies and savannas. Tools and training are provided, and groups are welcome with advance notice. Meet at the Grady Tract parking lot. Grady Tract parking lot, SE corner of Beltline and Seminole Hwy. 9 a.m.-noon. Information: 265-5214, mlfarrior@uwarb.wisc.edu
  • Nov. 22 Arboretum Walk Sampler Join our naturalist and see what is going on in the restored woodlands, wetlands and prairies near the Visitor Center. Arboretum Visitor Center, 1207 Seminole Highway. 1-2:30 p.m. Information: 263-7888, pabrown1@wisc.edu
  • Nov. 22 Arboretum Earth Partnership for Families Gobble, Gobble... Wild Turkeys! Search for wild turkeys like wildlife scientists by exploring the tracks, signs and behavior of these native birds. Find out why the Arboretum is such a fine habitat for wild turkeys. Dress for the weather; outdoor and indoor activities are planned. Arboretum Visitor Center, 1207 Seminole Highway. 1-3 p.m. Information: 263-7888, pabrown1@wisc.edu
  • Nov. 28 Arboretum Volunteer Workday Core Area and Curtis Prairie Volunteer for restoration activities and learn about prairies and savannas. Tools and training are provided, and groups are welcome with advance notice. Meet at the front steps of the Visitor Center. Arboretum Visitor Center, 1207 Seminole Highway. 9 a.m.-noon. Information: 265-5214, mlfarrior@uwarb.wisc.edu
  • Nov. 28 Arboretum Night Walk Stars and Night Sounds The waxing moon will be about 78 percent full, lighting the way for this night walk. Listen for night animal activity and look for stars if the sky is clear. Arboretum Visitor Center, 1207 Seminole Highway. 6:30-8 p.m. Information: 263-7888, pabrown1@wisc.edu
  • Nov. 29 Arboretum Walk Winter Woods Since most leaves have dropped from the deciduous trees, it's easier to see tree forms and the birds and animals that live in the trees year-round. Arboretum Visitor Center, 1207 Seminole Highway. 1-2:30 p.m. Information: 263-7888, pabrown1@wisc.edu
  • Dec. 2 Wednesday Nite at the Lab Special Stem Cell Night No registration required. Free parking is available in the evenings in Lot 20, which can be accessed from University Avenue. 1111 Biotechnology Center (Auditorium), Genetics-Biotechnology Center Building. 7 p.m. Cost: Free. Information: 265-2420, cevrentas@wisc.edu
  • Dec. 3 Holtz Center for Science and Technology Studies Brownbag The Rise of the Biological Perspective: A Story of the Travels of Ideas and Values through German Society Lynn Nyhart, Department of the History of Science, will discuss how the discipline of animal ecology emerged from social, economic, intellectual and ideological roots in late-19th and early-20th century Germany. 8411 Sewell Social Sciences. Noon-1:30 p.m. Information: 262-5956, sts@ssc.wisc.edu
  • Dec. 3 Distinguished Lecture Series Microbial Single Cell Genomics Dr. Tanja Woyke, Department of Energy, speaks as part of this weekly series on Thursdays at 3:30 p.m. Ebling Symposium Center, Microbial Sciences. 3:30 p.m. Cost: FREE. Information: 263-0234, mjpeters3@wisc.edu
  • Dec. 5 Arboretum Volunteer Workday Wingra Oak Savanna Volunteer for restoration activities and learn about prairies and savannas. Tools and training are provided, and groups are welcome with advance notice. Meet at the gravel parking lot along Arbor Drive just off Monroe Street. Wingra Oak Savanna. 9 a.m.-noon. Information: 265-5214, mlfarrior@uwarb.wisc.edu
  • Dec. 6 Arboretum Walk Winter Woods Explore the restored woodlands near the Visitor Center, where you will see native tree and shrub species that attract wildlife with their seeds and fruits. Arboretum Visitor Center, 1207 Seminole Highway. 1-3 p.m. Information: 263-7888, pabrown1@wisc.edu
  • Dec. 9 Wednesday Nite at the Lab A Software Tool to Help Identify Seizure-causing Web Content Gregg Vanderheiden, Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering and Biomedical Engineering. No registration required. Free parking is available in the evenings in Lot 20, which can be accessed from University Avenue. 1111 Biotechnology Center (Auditorium), Genetics-Biotechnology Center Building. 7 p.m. Cost: Free. Information: 265-2420, cevrentas@wisc.edu
  • Dec. 10 Distinguished Lectures in Microbiology Series Shedding Light on the Regulation of Cellular Morphology in Cyanobacteria Beronda Montgomery, Michigan State, speaks as part of this weekly series on Thursdays at 3:30 p.m. Ebling Symposium Center, Microbial Sciences. 3:30 p.m. Cost: FREE. Information: 263-0234, mjpeters3@wisc.edu
  • Dec. 11 Division of Continuing Studies: Alcohol and Other Drug Issues Human Brain: The Adolescent Brain In this workshop for professionals, parents and other who work with youth, a noted researcher provides the latest research-based information on adolescent brain development and discusses other factors that influence adolescent behavior. Pyle Center. 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Cost: $59. Information: 265-2329, kobmascher@dcs.wisc.edu
  • Dec. 12 Arboretum Volunteer Workday Core Area and Curtis Prairie Volunteer for restoration activities and learn about prairies and savannas. Tools and training are provided, and groups are welcome with advance notice. Meet at the front steps of the Visitor Center. Arboretum Visitor Center, 1207 Seminole Highway. 9 a.m.-noon. Information: 265-5214, mlfarrior@uwarb.wisc.edu
  • Dec. 13 Arboretum Walk Winter Birds Chickadees, nuthatches, blue jays and others spend the entire year here. Some species consider our area south and come here for the winter. Arboretum Visitor Center, 1207 Seminole Highway. 1-2:30 p.m. Information: 263-7888, pabrown1@wisc.edu
  • Dec. 13 Arboretum Family Walk Winter Birding for Kids This is a good time for youngsters to learn about birds because they are easier to spot among winter's bare branches. Join the naturalist for a short walk to find our feathered friends. Arboretum Visitor Center, 1207 Seminole Highway. 1:30-2:30 p.m. Information: 263-7888, pabrown1@wisc.edu
  • Dec. 16 Wednesday Nite at the Lab Groundwater and Lakes in Central Wisconsin William Bland, Department of Soil Science. No registration required. Free parking is available in the evenings in Lot 20, which can be accessed from University Avenue. 1111 Biotechnology Center (Auditorium), Genetics-Biotechnology Center Building. 7 p.m. Cost: Free. Information: 265-2420, cevrentas@wisc.edu
  • Dec. 19 Arboretum Volunteer Workday Grady Tract Volunteer for restoration activities and learn about prairies and savannas. Tools and training are provided, and groups are welcome with advance notice. Meet at the Grady Tract parking lot. Grady Tract parking lot, SE corner of Beltline and Seminole Hwy. 9 a.m.-noon. Information: 265-5214, mlfarrior@uwarb.wisc.edu
  • Dec. 19 Arboretum Class Winter Tree Identification Explore ways to identify woody plants in winter. While plants are leafless and dormant, examine details of buds, twigs and bark for clues about last seasonís and next seasonís growth. The class will be held indoors and outdoors (weather permitting). Registration required. Arboretum Visitor Center, 1207 Seminole Highway. 1-3:30 p.m. Cost: $18 general, $15 members of Friends of the Arboretum. Information: 263-7888, pabrown1@wisc.edu
  • Dec. 20 Arboretum Walk The Nature of the Winter Explore the prairies, woodlands and savannas near the Visitor Center and observe the winter survival strategies used by native plants and animals. Arboretum Visitor Center, 1207 Seminole Highway. 1-2:30 p.m. Information: 263-7888, pabrown1@wisc.edu
  • Dec. 21 Arboretum Night Walk Solstice Join us for sunset on the shortest day of the year. Arboretum Visitor Center, 1207 Seminole Highway. 4-5:30 p.m. Information: 263-7888, pabrown1@wisc.edu
  • Dec. 27 Arboretum Walk Winter Wonders Even when the ground is frozen and the air is cold, beauty and activity abound in the natural world. Arboretum Visitor Center, 1207 Seminole Highway. 1-2:30 p.m. Information: 263-7888, pabrown1@wisc.edu
  • Dec. 31 Arboretum Special Event Annual New Year's Eve Walk The Visitor Center will be open from 6-8:30 p.m.; the walk begins at 6:30. After hiking, join us for a cup of hot chocolate as we welcome the New Year in a quiet, peaceful way. Arboretum Visitor Center, 1207 Seminole Highway. 6:30-8:30 p.m. Information: 263-7888, pabrown1@wisc.edu
  • Jan. 2 Arboretum Volunteer Workday Wingra Oak Savanna Volunteer for restoration activities and learn about prairies and savannas. Tools and training are provided, and groups are welcome with advance notice. Meet at the gravel parking lot along Arbor Drive just off Monroe Street. Wingra Oak Savanna. 9 a.m.-noon. Information: 265-5214, mlfarrior@uwarb.wisc.edu
  • Jan. 3 Arboretum Special Event Arboretum Naturalists' Furlough Day Due to budget cuts, naturalists cannot work today; therefore, the weekly Sunday afternoon guided tour will not take place. The Visitor Center and Bookstore will be open. Arboretum Visitor Center, 1207 Seminole Highway. 12:30-4 p.m. Information: 263-7888, pabrown1@wisc.edu
  • Jan. 9 Arboretum Volunteer Workday Core Area and Curtis Prairie Volunteer for restoration activities and learn about prairies and savannas. Tools and training are provided, and groups are welcome with advance notice. Meet at the front steps of the Visitor Center. Arboretum Visitor Center, 1207 Seminole Highway. 9 a.m.-noon. Information: 265-5214, mlfarrior@uwarb.wisc.edu
  • Jan. 10 Arboretum Walk What's Happening? Aldo Leopold and his graduate students kept journals recording the timing of natural events (phenology). This practice is a good way to increase observational skills and learn about nature. Look for current natural events and discover what we have learned from records kept here since Leopold's time. Arboretum Visitor Center, 1207 Seminole Highway. 1-2:30 p.m. Information: 263-7888, pabrown1@wisc.edu
  • Jan. 10 Arboretum Family Walk All About Snow Snow comes in many forms, and it is said that no two snowflakes are alike. Even if there is no snow on the ground, the naturalist will help families explore the magic of snow. Arboretum Visitor Center, 1207 Seminole Highway. 1:30-2:30 p.m. Information: 263-7888, pabrown1@wisc.edu
  • Jan. 16 Arboretum Volunteer Workday Grady Tract Volunteer for restoration activities and learn about prairies and savannas. Tools and training are provided, and groups are welcome with advance notice. Meet at the Grady Tract parking lot. Arboretum Visitor Center, 1207 Seminole Highway. 9 a.m.-noon. Information: 265-5214, mlfarrior@uwarb.wisc.edu
  • Jan. 16 Arboretum Class Nature Journaling Over five consecutive Saturdays (Jan. 16, 23 and 30 and Feb. 6 and 13), learn and develop basic observational skills while creating a journal. Based on the Lewis and Clark model of observing and recording the natural world, you will record phenological events, develop writing skills and explore drawing as a tool for recording your world. Bring a notebook and pen/pencil and dress for outdoor activities. Registration required. Arboretum Visitor Center, 1207 Seminole Highway. 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Cost: $115 general, $105 members of Friends of the Arboretum. Information: 263-7888, pabrown1@wisc.edu
  • Jan. 17 Arboretum Special Event Arboretum Naturalists' Furlough Day Due to budget cuts, naturalists cannot work today; therefore, the weekly Sunday afternoon guided tour will not take place. The Visitor Center and Bookstore will be open. Arboretum Visitor Center, 1207 Seminole Highway. 12:30-4 p.m. Information: 263-7888, pabrown1@wisc.edu
  • Jan. 23 Arboretum Volunteer Workday Core Area and Curtis Prairie Volunteer for restoration activities and learn about prairies and savannas. Tools and training are provided, and groups are welcome with advance notice. Meet at the front steps of the Visitor Center. Arboretum Visitor Center, 1207 Seminole Highway. 9 a.m.-noon. Information: 265-5214, mlfarrior@uwarb.wisc.edu
  • Jan. 24 Arboretum Earth Partnership for Families Animal Life in the Winter Woods, Prairies and Wetlands January Family Day at the Arboretum is a drop-in event where families can discover what animals eat, where they live and how they spend the winter. Animal furs, skulls and mounts will be on display, and families can make an animal identification booklet to take home. A naturalist-led walk takes place from 1:30-2:30 p.m. Arboretum Visitor Center, 1207 Seminole Highway. 12:30-4 p.m. Information: 263-7888, pabrown1@wisc.edu
  • Jan. 24 Arboretum Walk Winter Water In the winter, springs provide water for wildlife, while inhabitants of frozen ponds have made special adaptations to stay alive. Learn what happens in and around ponds, wetlands and springs this time of year. Arboretum Visitor Center, 1207 Seminole Highway. 1-2:30 p.m. Information: 263-7888, pabrown1@wisc.edu
  • Jan. 30 Arboretum Night Walk Moonlight and Magic Winter's moon makes magic of the night," said outdoor writer Hal Borland. While we can't guarantee clear skies, we are sure to find some enchantment on this full-moon evening. Arboretum Visitor Center, 1207 Seminole Highway. 6:30-8 p.m. Information: 263-7888, pabrown1@wisc.edu
  • Jan. 31 Arboretum Special Event Arboretum Naturalists' Furlough Day Due to budget cuts, naturalists cannot work today; therefore, the weekly Sunday afternoon guided tour will not take place. The Visitor Center and Bookstore will be open. Arboretum Visitor Center, 1207 Seminole Highway. 12:30-4 p.m. Information: 263-7888, pabrown1@wisc.edu
  • Jan. 31 Arboretum Class Raingardens Landscape your yard with wildflowers planted to help absorb storm water and recharge ground water. Topics include design, plant choice, placement, and implementation of native rain gardens. Registration required. Arboretum Visitor Center, 1207 Seminole Highway. 12:30-3 p.m. Cost: $18 general, $15 members of Friends of the Arboretum. Information: 263-7888, pabrown1@wisc.edu
  • Feb. 6 Arboretum Volunteer Workday Wingra Oak Savanna Volunteer for restoration activities and learn about prairies and savannas. Tools and training are provided, and groups are welcome with advance notice. Meet at the gravel parking lot along Arbor Drive just off Monroe Street. Wingra Oak Savanna. 9 a.m.-noon. Information: 265-5214, mlfarrior@uwarb.wisc.edu
  • Feb. 7 Arboretum Walk Halfway to Spring We are between the winter solstice and spring equinox, but it won�t seem much like spring even with the increasing light. We will visit the prairies, woodlands and marshland boardwalks near the Visitor Center. Arboretum Visitor Center, 1207 Seminole Highway. 1-2:30 p.m. Information: 263-7888, pabrown1@wisc.edu
  • Feb. 13 Arboretum Volunteer Workday Core Area and Curtis Prairie Volunteer for restoration activities and learn about prairies and savannas. Tools and training are provided, and groups are welcome with advance notice. Meet at the front steps of the Visitor Center. Arboretum Visitor Center, 1207 Seminole Highway. 9 a.m.-noon. Information: 265-5214, mlfarrior@uwarb.wisc.edu
  • Feb. 14 Arboretum Walk Winter Birds Cardinals may be singing, chickadees and nuthatches changing their tunes and woodpeckers drumming. Discover how our feathered friends have been doing this winter. Arboretum Visitor Center, 1207 Seminole Highway. 1-2:30 p.m. Information: 263-7888, pabrown1@wisc.edu
  • Feb. 14 Arboretum Family Walk Animal Tracks Animal tracks are easy to spot in the snow and mud. If neither are present, look for trails/traces animals make through the vegetation. Arboretum Visitor Center, 1207 Seminole Highway. 1:30-2:30 p.m. Information: 263-7888, pabrown1@wisc.edu
  • Feb. 20 Arboretum Volunteer Workday Grady Tract Volunteer for restoration activities and learn about prairies and savannas. Tools and training are provided, and groups are welcome with advance notice. Meet at the Grady Tract parking lot. Grady Tract parking lot, SE corner of Beltline and Seminole Hwy. 9 a.m.-noon. Information: 265-5214, mlfarrior@uwarb.wisc.edu
  • Feb. 21 Arboretum Walk About Mammals Without coats, boots, hats and gloves to keep them warm, how do Wisconsin mammals get through winter? Our naturalist has the answers and will point out other discoveries on this walk. Arboretum Visitor Center, 1207 Seminole Highway. 1-2:30 p.m. Information: 263-7888, pabrown1@wisc.edu
  • Feb. 21 Arboretum Class A Flurry of Winter Poetry at the Arboretum Here in Wisconsin, winter is a great time to think about poetry. As the natural world slows down or naps beneath a blanket of snow, humans turn inward and wax reflective. This workshop begins with a guided hike through the Arboretum to look for nature activity, then finishes with poetry writing indoors over warm drinks. No experience with nature or poetry is necessary. Registration required. Arboretum Visitor Center, 1207 Seminole Highway. 1:30-4:30 p.m. Cost: $34 general, $30 members of Friends of the Arboretum. Information: 263-7888, pabrown1@wisc.edu
  • Feb. 27 Arboretum Volunteer Workday Core Area and Curtis Prairie Volunteer for restoration activities and learn about prairies and savannas. Tools and training are provided, and groups are welcome with advance notice. Meet at the front steps of the Visitor Center. Arboretum Visitor Center, 1207 Seminole Highway. 9 a.m.-noon. Information: 265-5214, mlfarrior@uwarb.wisc.edu
  • Feb. 27 Arboretum Class Patterns in Nature Learn about the fascinating world of patterns in nature; find out about the interplay between form and function of commonly found patterns. Practice observation skills and learn how these patterns are applied in garden designs. Indoor and outdoor activities are planned. Registration required. Arboretum Visitor Center, 1207 Seminole Highway. 1-3:30 p.m. Cost: $18 general, $15 members of Friends of the Arboretum. Information: 263-7888, pabrown1@wisc.edu
  • Feb. 27 Arboretum Night Walk Sounds and Stillness Though the great horned owls are quiet on their nests in February, barred owls may be calling. If all the owls are quiet, we can stargaze and listen for other creatures out and about on a late winter night. Arboretum Visitor Center, 1207 Seminole Highway. 6:30-8 p.m. Information: 263-7888, pabrown1@wisc.edu
  • Feb. 28 Arboretum Earth Partnership for Families Winter Trees, Spring Trees: What's Happening on the Inside? February Family Day at the Arboretum is a drop-in event where families can find the answer to the question: "What do trees do in the winter?" And with spring just around the corner "What's happening inside a tree as the days get longer and warmer?" Learn how to identify trees in winter and make bark rubbings. A naturalist-led walk takes place from 1:30-2:30 p.m. Arboretum Visitor Center, 1207 Seminole Highway. 12:30-4 p.m. Information: 263-7888, pabrown1@wisc.edu
  • Feb. 28 Arboretum Walk Transitions Late winter or early spring? It is hard to tell in advance what late February will be like, but nature is getting ready for a change in seasons. Look for clues today. Arboretum Visitor Center, 1207 Seminole Highway. 1-2:30 p.m. Information: 263-7888, pabrown1@wisc.edu
  • March 10 Humanities Without Boundaries: Catherine Malabou Is Plasticity a New Name for Freedom? In this lecture, Malabou considers how the discovery of neural plasticity challenges philosophical and political conventions, in particular the belief that philosophy and technoscience are opposed. She explores what happens to a politics of emancipation and resistance when science no longer is the name of the enemy, and she asks what is the future of philosophy in an era of plasticity and epigentics. Chazen Museum of Art. 7:30 p.m.