Archive for August 29th, 2008

Friday Fly Fun or How to swat one!

August 29th, 2008 categories: Charlotte Living

On my way to grab some coffee today I heard this story on NPR radio about why its so darn hard to swat flies. (I hate flies, spiders and snakes BTW) How do they know the swatter is coming? How do they move so fast ? Do they think it through, or is it instinct? Well low and behold Michael Dickinson and Gwyneth Card have been working pretty hard to find the answers and what they found (Insect Flight, Michael Dickinson: Current Biology 8/28/08) is pretty darned interesting.

There is a good reason flies escape…they dance!  “They perform an elegant little ballet with their legs,” says Dickinson. “They move their legs around to reposition their bodies so that when they do jump, they will push themselves away from the looming threat.” Who knew? So there you have it, read Joe Palca’s NPR article here and watch the amazing stop action videos (click on the fly over there>)
…so next time you might just outwit that fly! Have a great Labor Day weekend!

Authored by Donna Johnston | Discussion: Your Comments Please »

101 Great things to do in Charlotte NC #86~84

August 29th, 2008 categories: Charlotte Living

86. The Comedy Zone - Live Comedy Venue that features local, national, and international talent every weekend.

85. Richard Childress Racing Museum – The excitement of NASCAR Winston Cup racing can be found at the Richard Childress Racing Museum.

84. Pit Crew U and 5 off 5 on – Drop in on the school that is training the best pit crew in NASCAR. The school offers a basic eight-week program, Pit Crew U, followed by an optional advanced-level course, called “5 Off 5 On: Race Team Performance.” The term “5 off 5 on” refers to a tire-changer’s duty: Five lug nuts come off, five go on.

(Charlotte things to do courtesy of NC Tourist Guide)

Authored by Donna Johnston | Discussion: Your Comments Please »