HOBBS HAPPENINGS

Entomologist to speak at Hobbs

Of the 1.3 million known species of insects that inhabit the earth, four of the most bothersome are local residents of northwest Arkansas; ticks, chiggers, mosquitoes, and bed bugs. Dr. Dayton Steelman, emeritus professor of Veterinary Entomology from the University of Arkansas-Fayetteville, will present his fascinating four-part program entitled, “Insects that Suck” on Sunday June 30th at the Hobbs State Park – Conservation Area visitor center.

The basic biology of ticks, chiggers, mosquitoes, and bed bugs will be presented along with the disease causing pathogens and parasites that they transmit to domestic and wild animals as well as to humans. According to Steelman, “There will be updates on mosquitos and tick species now present in the continental United States plus there are also new pathogens that cause disease in man and animals relative to the ‘invasion’ of large numbers of humans and their belongings entering the United States.

Steelman’s programs are a must to experience by anyone who has ever encountered any of these four blood-thirsty critters. The public is invited to enjoy one, two, or all four of these truly fascinating and informative programs. When: Sunday, June 30

• 1 p.m. “Ticks”

• 2 p.m. “Chiggers” and “Mosquitoes”

• 3 p.m. “Bed bugs” Cost: Free

This presentation is a continuation of the Friends of Hobbs Speaker’s Series.

Jupiter is the king of the planets

Named after the king of the Roman gods, Jupiter is aptly labelled as it is the largest planet in our solar system. The fifth planet from the sun, Jupiter is a Giant. Its mass is two and a half times larger than that of all the other planets in our solar system combined.

Join us at 8 p.m. Saturday, July 6, for a lecture on Jupiter and its moons. After the lecture, if we have clear skies, we will head outside for a Star Party where you will be able to see Jupiter and other wonders of the night sky through the powerful telescopes of members of Sugar Creek Astronomical Society.

The event is free and open to the public. What to Bring if you can:

• Folding chair

• Star chart (if you have one)

• Flashlight (covered with a red cloth or red balloon)

Where: Hobbs State Park visitor center

Time: 8 p.m. Lecture; 9 p.m. Star Party, night sky viewing

Cost: Free. The public is invited.