Leonardo da Vinci Society Family Holiday Celebration at the Museum of Discovery and Science

Fort Lauderdale, FL, November 10, 2004 — Leonardo da Vinci Society members and other distinguished guests attended the local premiere of The Polar Express: An IMAX® 3D Experience and enjoyed a family reception with fun-filled activities for all ages on Wednesday, November 10, 2004.

The Museum staff entertained 150 guests with special science demonstrations featuring Bed-O-Nails, Electrical Forces and an Experiment with Insulation. Children participated in hands-on craft activities such as edible marshmallow trains and ornaments. Santa Claus, his Elves, and a snowman spread the holiday spirit by posing for festive portraits with guests.
To top off the night, guests put on 3D glasses and took a spectacular ride to the North Pole on The Polar Express during the immersive movie, The Polar Express: An IMAX® 3D Experience. The film, which is presented locally by Angelo, Barry & Banta P.A., kept the guests on the edge of their seats with extraordinary specials effects and a heartwarming story of the power of believing.

Paige Hyatt, co-chair of the Leonardo da Vinci Society said: “I can’t imagine seeing this film in any other format than 3D. It was such an amazing, enveloping and truly magical experience for me and my children. I’m so proud of the Museum of Discovery and Science for being able to bring this exclusive 3D experience to South Florida audiences.”

Some of the guests included: Diana and Matthew Straeb, Denise and Michel Colon, Gavin and Tammy Banta, Jonathan and Katy Ferrando, Baron and Martha Skorish, Susie and Tim Petrillo, Marti Huizenga, Tom and Kari Angelo, Cecily and Chris Conklin, Betty Roschman, Lorrie Roschman, Chip Snyder and Debbie Banks Snyder and Ellen and Larry Dalton.

The Leonardo da Vinci Society is a family membership society established by the Museum in 1993. It is a prestigious group of individual donors whose involvement reflects a shared belief in the importance of science education. The members of this group play a vital role in the life of the Museum. Members serve as unofficial ambassadors with the expanded knowledge gained through behind-the-scenes tours, special lectures and events. They enjoy many unique Museum
privileges and benefits throughout the year. To find out about joining, please contact Tracy Roloff at (954) 712-1172.


ABOUT THE POLAR EXPRESS

The Academy Award®-winning team of Tom Hanks and director Robert Zemeckis (Forrest Gump, Cast Away) reunite for this inspiring holiday adventure based on the classic Caldecott Medal-winning children’s book by Chris Van Allsburg. When a doubting young boy takes an extraordinary train ride to the North Pole, he embarks on a journey of self-discovery that shows him that the wonder of life never fades for those who believe.

www.polarexpressmovie.com 

ABOUT THE BLOCKBUSTER® IMAX® THEATER

The Blockbuster® IMAX®Theater owned and operated by the Museum of Discovery and Science, opened in 1992. The 300-seat theater is a showcase of state-of-the-art motion picture technology. The Blockbuster® IMAX®Theater features a 60 ft. x 80 ft. screen and a 15,000 watt digital sound system that delivers six discrete channels of clear sound through 42 speakers. The IMAX® projector’s 15,000 watt Xenon bulb projects images of unsurpassed brilliance and clarity onto the five-story-high screen. Both 2D and 3D films are shown in the theater. 3D films are viewed using electronic headsets. The IMAX® experience is an unparalleled fusion of sight and sound. For show times, visitors should call 954-463-IMAX (4629).

The Polar Express: An IMAX® 3D Experience
Special Engagement Ticket Prices
IMAX only: $11 Adults; $10 Children 3-12
IMAX and Exhibits: $15 Adults; $13 Children 3-12

ABOUT THE MUSEUM OF DISCOVERY AND SCIENCE

The mission of the Museum of Discovery and Science is to provide experiential pathways to lifelong learning in science for children and adults through exhibits, programs, and films. Founded in 1976 as The Discovery Center, the nonprofit facility serves approximately 400,000 visitors each year. Major operational support for the Museum is provided through generous support by Leadership Guild members including: American Express, City Furniture, JM Family Enterprises, Inc., Sun-Sentinel and Wachovia.

The Museum is open seven days per week (including Thanksgiving and Christmas), Monday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and Sunday from noon to 6:00 p.m. with extended IMAX hours on Friday and Saturday evenings. General admission prices are $14.00 for adults; $13.00 for seniors; $12.00 for children 3 to 12. Children under 3 are free. A General Admission Ticket includes admission to the Museum exhibits and one IMAX® film. The Museum of Discovery and Science is located downtown at 401 SW Second Street, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33312. For more information about the Museum, visitors should call (954) 467- MODS (6637) or visit our web site at www.mods.org