Friday, September 30, 2016

Welcome to the Curious Community

Welcome to The Curious Columnist, a blog that’s dedicated to showcasing the important connection between science and the community. I’m Bekah, a science writer, student, and your very own, Curious Columnist. I’m so glad that you’re here and I invite you to come back often to engage with the curious community. 


So what can I expect from this blog?
I’m interested in bridging the gap between science and the community. Too often people view science as a high-level activity that takes place in a cold, dark laboratory. In reality, science is all around us. That’s why I’m excited to highlight Wisconsin residents engaging in science-based projects and research. From environmental concerns and our food system to psychology and medicine, we’ll be discussing the many ways that our neighbors are using science to impact our community. In addition to highlighting these stories, I will also be sharing with you some of my favorite books and science-based programs that are helping to bridge the gap between science and the community. I encourage you to do the same and share your favorite books and ideas with me. After all, we’re all members of the curious community. 

How can I engage?
As a community member, educator, student or a citizen of the world, I hope you will find this blog engaging and enlightening. I have a number of stories planned, but if you have a topic you would like me to cover please contact me at b.e.mcbridethewriter@gmail.com. You can also share your ideas with me at twitter.com/Curious Columnist (@curiouscolumnist) or at Facebook.com/curiouscolumnist. Additionally, feel free to comment directly on the story page in the comment section. 

When will you publish your next post?
                  Posts will generally be published on Friday and Sunday. In the event of breaking news or a special event a new post may be published outside of the normal timeframe. Keep in mind that I will use social media to announce any new posts so be sure to follow me to stay up-to-date.  

So who are you?
                  I’m Bekah, a science writer by day and graduate student by night. While my education background is in science and journalism, it was my childhood in rural Wisconsin that really inspired this blog. Growing up on a family farm I spent much of my childhood in fields and gardens fascinated by the connection between humans and our environment. I was very lucky to have parents and grandparents who taught me to approach everything with a sense of curiosity. They also taught me to respect nature and live my life in a way that honors the phrase, “think globally, act locally.” 
As such I’ve been inspired to start this blog as a means of connecting our local community members with the science that can help us to better global citizens. I’m so excited to share these stories with you, whether you are a Madison, Wisconsin resident or just a citizen of the world. I hope you will be inspired to engage with your neighbors and use the science you learn here as a catalyst for change. I look forward to sharing these stories and developing our curious community. So please, read, share, engage and enjoy!

                                                     At the Dane County Farmers' Market



                                   Enjoying two of my favorite things, nature and nautical style