October Nerd Nite on the Rocks
Carl Ferkinhoff
Modern cutting-edge astronomy takes more than setting up a small telescope in the back yard. Some observations require traveling to the most extreme locations on earth that have significant effects on the human body. In this talk Carl will summarize his research into these extreme galaxies, performed while being “drunk”!
August Nerd Nite on the Rocks
Angela Djoumbaye
A talk on privileges and social power that we hold and how to use them for good. Privilege is something that we all can relate to, this discussion will identify the different kinds of privileges from skin tone to religious practices and multiple others that you may not have considered. If you are open to hearing about the ways that you could have privilege, this talk is for you!
August Nerd Nite on the Rocks
Aria Harveland
As anti-LGBTQ sentiment continues to sweep the nation, it is more important than ever to be a good ally. In this short talk, Aria, a queer psychology student, will tell you how you can make a difference. Learn all about the science and history of the Alphabet Mafia, debunk harmful myths, and decipher ever changing terminology.
June Nerd Nite on the Rocks
Joan Hemker & Jacqueline Poepping
Get ready for a wild ride through the animal kingdom, where fur, feathers, and everything in-between come together in a fantastic fusion of fluff and finesse! From the sleek fur of prowling predators to the soft feathers of soaring birds, we’re exploring the diverse coverings that make each creature unique.
More on Hemker Zoo: What started as a modest dream in 1977 has expanded to offer families intimate encounters with over 75 different species from across the world. Hemker Park & Zoo’s mission is to showcase and promote animal species while fostering environmental conservation through collaborative partnerships and effective wildlife management strategies. The zoo is dedicated to conveying the marvel and significance of conservation, as well as the vital role animals play in our ecosystem. Visitors can anticipate gaining insights about our planet and enjoying the company of over 200 animals that reside at Hemker Park & Zoo.
May Nerd Nite on the Rocks
Kevin Peine
Bleeding is the number one killer of trauma patients. A person can die in 3-5 minutes, and it takes First Responders an average of 7 minutes to arrive in urban settings and even longer in rural and remote areas. Stop the Bleed is a training program that teaches civilians with little to no medical training to be immediate responders when tragedy strikes and someone needs bleeding control interventions. The skills taught in Stop the Bleed are the same skills that are utilized by combat troops to keep their buddies alive until help arrives.
April Nerd Nite on the Rocks
Steven Wilson
Flyfishing is often associated with wealth, a bit of magic, and trips to western trout streams. However, fly fishing works for more than just trout. In fact, most fish species found in Minnesota can be caught using fly fishing equipment. In his presentation, Steven will outline the basics for wading into the sport.
February Nerd Nite on the Rocks
Evan Pederson
Given the inevitable AI apocalypse how does one stay ahead against a malevolent omnipotent machine? Let’s discuss some conceptual tools that can be used to fight against a rogue AI, or cause one. The topics covered shall be a light introduction to AI, light introduction to cybersecurity, hardware and software injection attacks against AI, and some other attack type vectors that can be used against AI. If there is a time a demo shall be given.
February Nerd Nite on the Rocks
Melissa Gohman
Delve into the fascinating world of clay with Melissa Gohman as she shares her enriching experience in building and firing a wood-fired soda kiln. Melissa, an art teacher with over 20 years experience, has specialized in ceramic sculpture and pottery since earning her BFA and Master’s degrees in ceramics from SCSU. She’ll discuss the intricate processes that artists employ to craft stunning pottery and sculptures from raw clay to finished masterpieces. Gain insights into the unique challenges and joys of working with this traditional firing technique and explore the artistry and craftsmanship behind the magic of ceramic sculpture and pottery.
February Nerd Nite on the Rocks
Bri Cornell
Our society paints pornography as being an empowering tool for people to explore and embrace their sexuality. There are so many categories, options, and things to make you feel good. Right? Not exactly. In this presentation, Bri will unpack the problematic ideas that porn is empowering for performers and that they make so much money they don’t know what to do with it. We will also talk about the realities performers face in the sex industry and how those are linked with human trafficking, which is one of the world’s largest human rights issues.
*Content warning, as some of the topics presented can be triggering and are not suitable for kiddos.
January Nerd Nite on the Rocks
Ryan Swanson, Paige Erickson, & Adam Bertsch
FIRST Robotics is the competitive high school sport that you wish you had when you were in school. Coaches and student members from the Sartell Robotics team will describe the FIRST Robotics competition program, dive deep into what makes their robots tick, and give you a glimpse into the exciting program that you missed out on in high school. Hear about the program from one of the best robotics teams in the state, and if you’re lucky, get a chance to drive the robot!