Day one has come to a close with many wonderful things to share. We first stopped in Parsons, WV and explored the workings of a windmill. Specifically, we calculated the tip speed of the windmill using some geometry and applications. This was very cool, yet it was the shear size of the windmills that I found most impressive.
Our next stop was in Thomas. Here, webhad an opportunity to see a former booming coal town. Just as an example of the influence of coal here, the local bank still bears the name Miners and Merchants Bank. Also, it was here that we were first introduced to Dr. Little from Marshall University. He breadth knowledge about the history of coal in the areas we will be visiting is very impressive. Dr. Little said something to us which really struck home to me. He mentioned that the native americans really were able to live in harmony with the environment, and we have never been able to. This very idea reminded mebof the importance of helping my students understand theirbown relationship with the environment. Yes cellular respiration, photosynthesis, and cyclotron frequency (a plug for all of my physics family) are important. I do think, however, that teaching our students to be good stewardsbof the environment may even be more important in the large scheme of things.
Tomorrow, we will be conducting water samples and will be in some streams. I sure hope Pat can swim; if CPR is required I am taking chest compressions only. Steve has volunteered for the mouth to mouth.
Goodnight,
William Strait
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