John Walter of Highland, a computer consultant who created the True Mirror — a mirror which reflects without reversing left and right — showcased examples of how it works. He asserts that since there is no right/left reversal confusion from the mirror to the brain’s image process, that it is a more “true” image; we are then able to see ourselves as we actually look to others. Children walked by the mirrors and would make faces or dance in their reflection, illustrating his point.
Bard science major Emily Carson was showing kids how to spin like a champ while explaining principles of centrifugal force. She said middle-school kids seemed to be the most receptive, and were able to grasp the math component. “If the kids are younger, then we encourage them with scientific predictions of what will happen.” The kids’ expressions ranged from interest and wonder to boredom and laughter.
Zena Elementary student Jack Averle, 7, showed off his Lego space craft manned by a pirate at the helm. Tamim Somo, 7, of Woodstock said his favorite was making a stop-motion film, and described how he used his hand to star as “Battle Squid.” Ely Carroll, 10, of Staatsburg cruised the stations, but in the end resorted to his own entertainment, his Pokemon game cards, citing the social aspects of the game’s circuit scene.
For more information on the Maker Meet Up or CCE in general, visit cce-kingston.org.
