Natural Hot Springs in the United States

Hot springs, geothermally formed bodies of water found along fault lines and in places with volcanic activity, have been recognized for their health benefits since ancient times. Today, tourists flock to resorts built around hot springs in hopes of finding relief from stress, aching joints, and skin problems.

While some hot springs have spurred development, others have been left in their natural state. Yellowstone National Park is home to more than 60 percent of the world’s geysers and hot springs.

Tourists love to see the park’s geothermic activities, but the constant crowds have damaged the natural wonders in Yellowstone and in other lesser-known locations. In Yellowstone, trash and items such as coins, rocks, and logs have contaminated the popular hot springs. To preserve these natural wonders for future generations, visitors need to treat them with respect and care.

About the Author:

While earning his PhD in chemistry at the University of Minnesota, Evan A. Weitz worked as a research assistant. Today, Mr. Weitz is the senior lab technician at an audio-visual equipment company, where he coordinates the repair and restoration of vintage hi-fidelity audio equipment. Away from his professional responsibilities, Evan A. Weitz is committed to the protection and maintenance of the natural, undeveloped hot springs in Montana, Wyoming, and Idaho.

Lone Peak Tram Opened the Big Couloir to Extreme Skiers

At the top of Lone Mountain in Montana, at 11,166 feet above sea level, extreme skiers can find a run that stretches their skills to the breaking point. The Big Couloir is recognized by ski enthusiasts as one of North America’s toughest inbound runs.

Every skier on the Big Couloir is required to check in with the ski patrol, ski with a partner, and carry avalanche gear that includes beacons, probes, and shovels. Before 1995, the Big Couloir was accessible only to skiers willing to hike up Lone Mountain. Today, the Lone Peak Tram ferries extreme athletes up the mountain in groups of 15.

As the tram snakes up the mountain, riders witness magnificent views of the surrounding area. At the top of Lone Peak, skiers and snowboarders can choose one of 25 different runs, most with 30- to 40-degree pitches.

About the Author:

Minnesota resident Evan A. Weitz serves as the senior lab technician at an audio-visual equipment company, where he repairs and restores vintage audio equipment. Mr. Weitz is also a tutor of math and science for Achieve Academies, where he helps high school students prepare for tests such as the ACT and SAT. A lifelong skier, Evan A. Weitz enjoys extreme skiing expeditions and has served as a group leader at the Big Couloir in Big Sky, Montana.

Mensa Offers Gifted Education Fellowship

A senior lab technician in Savage, Minnesota, Evan A. Weitz completed his PhD in chemistry at the University of Minnesota. Outside of his professional life, Evan A. Weitz is a member of Mensa International.

Founded in England in 1946, Mensa International is the world’s largest organization dedicated to human intelligence. In addition to supporting research into the nature of intelligence and promoting programs that stimulate individuals with high intelligence, Mensa International operates a nonprofit foundation that awards scholarships and grants to individuals and groups that pursue initiatives related to human intelligence.

Recently, the Mensa Foundation announced the creation of a Gifted Education Fellowship. Valued at $5,000 and renewable for one year, the fellowship is awarded to a qualified educator who is pursuing a graduate degree in gifted education at an accredited college or university.

In addition to the cash award, Gifted Education Fellows receive research support, complimentary registration at the Mensa Annual Gathering, and the opportunity to teach classes or develop online lessons for the Mensa Gifted Youth program. To learn more about the Mensa Foundation or the Gifted Education Fellowship, visit http://www.mensafoundation.org.

ACS Supports Freedom of International Scientific Exchange

Evan A Weitz, Minnesota

The recipient of a PhD in chemistry from the University of Minnesota, Evan A. Weitz draws upon a research background in his work as a senior lab technician and a math and science tutor in Minnesota. Evan A. Weitz belongs to professional organizations that include the American Chemistry Society (ACS).

The world’s largest scientific society, ACS has advanced the sciences and driven scientific exchange since it was founded in 1876. Today, ACS serves its thousands of members through a wide range of educational initiatives, research programs, professional development opportunities, and international scientific conferences. ACS also advocates for scientists and the sciences at legislative levels and maintains official positions on numerous issues affecting science.

As a leading voice for international scientific collaboration, ACS believes that global society benefits when scientists share ideas and research, regardless of country of origin. In 2017, the organization released a statement urging the United States government to rescind announced immigration policies that severely curtail freedom of movement from specific foreign countries.

ACS and approximately 150 other scientific organizations signed the statement, which argued that the executive order restricting immigration and limiting visas would hamper the ability of scientists to enter and exit the United States for the purpose of collaboration.