by PegNews wire

"Our volunteer judges help pass on a tradition of scientific exploration to a new generation," commented Fred Olness, Professor of Physics at SMU and co-director of the Fair.

DALLAS — The Beal Bank Dallas Regional Science and Engineering Fair today announced the Call for Judges for the 50th annual competition. "Our volunteer judges help pass on a tradition of scientific exploration to a new generation," commented Fred Olness, Professor of Physics at SMU and co-director of the Fair. Information will be sent to former Fair judges and companies sponsoring special awards; volunteers may also sign up for consideration at the Fair's website, http://www.dallassciencefair.org/.

Since the first Dallas Regional Science and Engineering Fair in 1958, the event has grown into one of the largest regional student fairs in the United States. In 2006, approximately 800 students from eight counties entered the Fair, and close to 1,000 students are expected to participate this year. That means more judges than ever are needed. "We'll need more than 300 judges from area businesses, professional organizations and schools to review the entries for creative ability, skill of execution, and thoroughness and clarity of scientific thought," Olness stated. He emphasized that judges not only rate the projects, but also mentor the students.

The mentoring is as important as the competing; sometimes a little encouragement can help a student become very successful. "[It was] one of the best experiences of my life!" commented Dean Tuck, a former participant. Tuck continued his project for 5 years, culminating in a first place regional award and a trip to the International Science Fair. He is now pursuing a degree in geosciences at UT-Dallas.

The Science Fair experience can be enduring and life-changing. "Though some might not think so, honorable mentions are important to kids," comments Dr. Dennise Richardson, a long-time Fair judge. "When I was in junior high school, I won an honorable mention in a science fair. I remember it clearly. I went on to get a Ph.D. in cellular biology."

"For me, my love of science all began with the science fair," remarked Heather Zidow, a biology pre-med student at the University of Texas at Austin. As noted by these and other experiences highlighted on the Fair's website at http://www.dallassciencefair.org/ , the advantages of the Science Fair include the opportunity to travel, meet other young scientists, and learn presentation and public speaking skills, in addition to the educational benefits.

Beal Bank is a 10-year sponsor of the Fair, which provides an annual venue for Dallas-area middle- and high-school children to demonstrate their scientific expertise. Students in the Junior and Senior divisions (grades 7- 12) submit entries in 30 different categories, from math and chemistry to zoology and behavioral and social sciences. Student winners and their teachers are eligible for prizes and cash awards. Top winners represent their schools and the Dallas community at the International Science & Engineering Fair (ISEF). Molly Curl, Senior Vice President of Beal Service Corporation, noted that, "Beal Bank's commitment to excellence in science and mathematics is unwavering, and we are pleased to serve as the title sponsor of the Dallas Regional Science and Engineering Fair. We look forward to helping make the 50th-anniversary Fair a special event for the students, teachers and judges."

The 50th Beal Bank Dallas Regional Science and Engineering Fair will take place March 24-25, 2007, in the Automobile Building at Fair Park.

Press release

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