MEDIA ADVISORY

TO:                      News and Assignment Editors, PSA Directors

SUBJECT:            NATURAL SCIENCES FACILITY GRAND OPENING DEDICATION OF PEARL BERRY BOYD HALL

LOCATION:         New Natural Sciences Facility, Yukon Drive

DATE & TIME:     Thursday, Sept. 21, 12:30 p.m.

The University of Alaska Fairbanks will dedicate a state-of-the-art lecture hall and officially open a long-awaited and much-needed science facility at 12:30 p.m., Thursday, Sept. 21. A top university priority for more than two decades, the new natural sciences facility is the first new classroom building on the UAF main campus in almost 25 years.

The facility houses the departments of chemistry, physics and geology and serves as the headquarters for the College of Natural Sciences (CNS).

Dick Wadlow, UA Board of Regents Vice President Mike Kelly and CNS Dean Paul Reichardt will demonstrate the state-of-the-art lab facilities in the Pearl Berry Boyd Hall by performing an edible science experiment. Using liquid nitrogen and a mix, they will create instant ice cream to serve to guests following a brief ceremony. Also scheduled to attend opening ceremonies are Alaska Commerce and Economic Development Commissioner Willie Hensley, Fairbanks Sen. Steve Frank, and Fairbanks North Star Borough Mayor Jim Sampson.

Parking at the new facility is limited. Shuttle bus service to and from the facility will be provided from the Nenana Parking Lot, which is located across Tanana Loop from Patty Center. The shuttle bus will leave the Nenana lot at 12:20 and 12:30 p.m. and return at 1:30 and 1:45 p.m.

-30-

CONTACT: College of Natural Sciences Dean Paul Reichardt (907) 474-7608, or UAF Public Information Officer Debra Damron (907) 474-7581.

DPD/9-19-95/96-15med.adv