What may seem to be serious science to some is fun to others and both fun and science will be on display later this month at the fifth-annual OTC Community Day on April 26.



Jared Durden, an adjunct physics instructor at OTC, and other science students will be demonstrating their homemade hovercraft and a second hovering device at the event, in an effort, Duren said, to bring science to the community.



The hovercraft, in the shape of a disc and equipped with a seat and unicorn head, operates with a two-horsepower shop vac motor that can lift more than 200 pounds.



The second device that will be demonstrated uses leaf blower motors to lift someone off the ground.



“We are creating interactive science displays and fun toys to be displayed in public forums to promote a science-based discourse out in the community,” said Durden, who started his post-secondary education at OTC.



“Not everyone is a scientist and this gives the community a chance to see science in action instead of just in theory. Its a way to get people interested in science and draw in non-science people.”



The demonstrations will be among many other programs that will be on display during the event, which will be held at the OTC Springfield Campus from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.



A 5K run/walk will kickoff this years event at 8 a.m. at the Springfield campus. There will also be a non-timed, 1-mile fun walk in addition to the 5K.



The cost of the run is $25 for adults and $20 for students. Late registration will be from 7-7:30 a.m. on race day. To register for the race, go to http://www.otc.edu/communityday/5krun.php



The annual car show and welding repair day will also be part of the day.



Anyone in need of welding repairs can bring it to the College, 1001 E. Chestnut Expressway, and for a $10 donation, have the work done. The Breast Cancer Foundation of the Ozarks will receive the collected donations.



The annual plant sale and car show will take place as well.



For more information about this year’s Community Day event, or to register for the car show, visit www.otc.com/communityday.




 





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Mark Miller

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Steve Koehler

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