Science Pub

Tuesday, July 29, 2008. OK, so "Science" and "Pub" don't go together quite as naturally as say, "Brew Pub." But they did last night at the Mission Theatre and Pub. On the last Monday of each month, OMSI (Oregon Museum of Science and Industry) sponsors The Science Pub. 

The theatre/pub is part of the McMenamin's chain of pubs and it doubles as a theatre. Instead of rows of seats, tables and chairs are scattered across the main floor. There's also a balcony, which looks like the prime viewing zone. 

Last night's forum was on the Port of Portland. As a newcomer to the city, I thought, Why not learn some stuff about the Port? And sure enough, I was treated to an informative slide show by the Port's Director. And I had a couple of beers along the way. 

Of course I had the camera, but it was quite dark. Cranked up the "film speed" to 1600, which is why you see "noise" (formerly known as grain) in the photos. Yes, I should get Noise Ninja as a noise removal tool. 

Anyway, here are some factoids that I noted:

- Waste paper is the largest export from the US

- The average distance that your evening dinner travels to get to you: 1,500 miles

- Fred Meyer / Kroger is the largest importer in Portland

- Those big cranes that load and unload containers cost about $11m each.

- About 40% of all truck and train traffic goes through Chicago.

The picture below give additional stats.  It was an appreciative and well-informed audience. In sum, a good time was had by all. Cheers, 

Comments

[Amanda Thomas]

Greetings, and welcome to Portland! This is Amanda, host and organizer of the OMSI Science Pub, and I just wanted to say thanks for coming last week. I'm glad you had a good time and I hope you'll come back.

Cheers!