Page 26 - South Mississippi Living - September, 2019

COASTNOTES
Save the date for October 5, Willow is turning six! To celebrate, Cure MSD and Lynn Meadows Discovery Center will host a STEM experience for children on the Gulf Coast from 9 a.m. until noon.
Sponsored by Mississippi
Gulf Coast Community College (MGCCC), this event will offer children a unique and up-close view of the growing field of genetics. “We will cover the basics, including how each of us
is made and the important roles of DNA and genes all aided by hands-on learning stations,” says Willow’s mother Amber Olsen, who is also the founder of Cure MSD.
Participants will not only enjoy the educational and interactive activities, but be given a chance to see what the field of genetics has to offer as a career choice. By showcasing the importance of medical research, clinical geneticists, genetic counselors
and the many support roles in each field, children will be given real-world examples of how their STEM interests can be utilized in this fast-paced and cutting-edge field. Discussion topics and events will be appropriate for all school aged children.
“Willow’s birthday is the basis of the celebration, but it’s about so much more than that,” Olsen said. “We want children to understand her condition as well as learn how to treat others with special needs.”
Cure MSD | 228.327.6919 | www.curemsd.org
story and photos courtesy of Mississippi Aquarium
Beat the heat and make a splash at Mississippi Aquarium’s signature fundraising event, the second annual Hancock Whitney Splash Bash for Mississippi Aquarium. The party is scheduled for Friday, September 27 from 7 to 11 p.m. at the Barksdale Pavilion in Jones Park and is guaranteed to be an underwater night to remember. Attendees can expect to mingle with friends, pose for pictures with the Aquarium’s ambassador animals and dance the night away.
“Last year was our coming out party, and we plan for the second annual event to blow it out of the water,” said President and CEO of Mississippi Aquarium David J. Kimmel. “This special event will get
better every year and is integral to ensuring Mississippi Aquarium’s ability to fulfill its mission as both a top tourist attraction and aquatic education and research facility, all while entertaining our guests.”
Hancock Whitney Splash Bash is not a typical fundraiser; it is a party designed
for adults ages 21 and over. Guest
will enjoy one-of-a-kind cocktails and delectable coastal cuisine in a casual setting while rocking out to high-energy band Chinatown. This year’s theme is “The Year of the Croc” and is meant to focus on the endangered American crocodile, which will be one of the Aquarium’s main habitats. Mississippi Aquarium
228.205.4014 | www.msaquarium.org
26 SOUTH MISSISSIPPI Living • September 2019 FOR MORE REFLECTIONS OF THE GULF COAST >> www.smliving.net
Beware all Pirates & Mermaids
WILLOW'S TURNING SIX!
story by Kelsey Sunderman-Foster photo courtesy of Amber Olsen
Save The Date OCT 5
FOR