Jan. 18 - Jan. 31, 2002 OTHER ISSUES GUESTBOOK

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'Journey into Amazing Caves'
.	IMAX film or war footage?       "Journey into Amazing Caves" is one of the latest installments at the Pacific Science Center's IMAX Theater, and it is a must-see for those who enjoy sensational adventure without the danger.       The film follows Nancy Aulenbach and Dr. Hazel Barton as they search for previously unexplored caves. Rather than stroll in the side door, this extraordinary duo and their worldwide team of scientists prefer to crawl into the middle of a 400-foot cliff in an American desert, rappel 500 feet along frozen waterfalls in Greenland, and strap on scuba gear to explore underwater caves along the Yucatan Peninsula.       The IMAX film experience gives viewers a feeling of being in the action. Take an exhilarating kayak ride through white-water rapids. Slide down a rope into an ice cave, watching chunks of ice float down into the abyss. Squeeze through a tiny opening in an underwater cave, if you dare, to see what's on the other side.       "Amazing Caves" is an intelligent blend of high adventure and educational documentary. Narrator Liam Neeson tells viewers about the geology and microbiology of gorgeous natural settings. The information is given in layman's terms, connecting Earth's history and geological processes with modern-day science. The film is breathtakingly beautiful and intellectually fascinating.       Aulenbach and Barton enjoy what they do, but they are on a mission to locate extremophiles, organisms that thrive in harsh environments. Their goal is to find as many of these micro-sized creatures as they can, hoping that these discoveries will help in the development of new medical treatments. Many of these potentially life-saving critters are new to modern science and provide hope to millions of people suffering from as-yet incurable diseases.       This is an excellent film for the entire family. Unless a child is precocious, however, it is better suited to those approximately six years and older. It may even spark interest in a career of scientific study.       "Amazing Caves" will continue through March 31. Prices range from $6.75 for adults (16-64) to $5.75 for juniors (3-13) and seniors (65+). Alas, no student discounts are offered, but group discounts are available. For more information, visit www.pacsci.org or call (206) 443-4629.	.
by Cindy Valleley

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