September 27, 2002

To Whom It May Concern:

Dr. Fred Bortz, children's science writer and professional physicist, recently presented the keynote address at the second annual Science and Engineering Expo sponsored by the U.S. Department of Energy's Idaho National Engineering and Environmental Laboratory (INEEL) in Idaho Falls, Idaho. The INEEL is a science-based, applied engineering national laboratory dedicated to supporting the Department of Energy's missions in environment, energy, science and national security. The purpose of the Expo is to present the wonders of science and technology to thousands of area students and teachers in an exciting and festive atmosphere. An estimated 3,500 people visited the 50 first-rate interactive science and technology exhibits, live science demonstrations, panel discussions, and similar events that were featured at the Bonneville Museum on August 8 and 9.

Dr. Fred's keynote topic was the result of a question that we posed, "How do art and science come together in technology?" and he delivered some entertaining and surprising answers. His address, entitled, "Our Next Planet: How People Will Create A New Home Beyond Earth," explored what might happen when the Earth can no longer support human life. How the arts, sciences, engineering and technology would all be necessary to find a hospitable new home planet, and how travelers on an interstellar Noah's Ark could re-establish our species on another planet by establishing a life-supporting ecology there.

In addition to his keynote speech, Dr. Fred also delivered three thirty-minute, semi-formal talks about extraterrestrial life (Martian Fossils on Earth?), the end of the dinosaurs and cosmic impacts (Collision Course!), learning from failure (Catastrophe!), and the joys of the scientific life (To the Young Scientist). Before, between, and after the talks, he eagerly met people and chatted about his favorite subjects: science, kids, and books.

Dr. Fred is very easy to work with, his approach is friendly and relaxed, and his fees are more than reasonable for the product that he delivers. He has a gift for communicating with and challenging young people, and I would heartily recommend that you consider booking Dr. Fred for your speaking engagement, school visit, or public appearance.

Sincerely,

Jan Hill-Hancock
INEEL Education Services Coordinator
P. O. Box 1625
Idaho Falls, ID 83415
(208) 526-0318


Return to A Day With Dr. Fred

Go to Dr. Fred's Home Page

Go to Arrangements for A Day With Dr. Fred