This Sunday afternoon, to my surprise, a group of 14 participants gathered in the Arizona Science Center lobby. Our group included Trailblazers and their families and friends. We had plenty of time to get to know often heard of, but seldom seen, family members.

After signing in and getting our tickets, we picked up our fashionable 3D glasses and made our way to the top two rows of the otherwise mostly empty IMAX theater.

First up is the story of Polar Bears living on the disappearing ice around the Arctic Circle. Ahhh, too cute, my favorite white teddy bear. Also some supporting actors, walruses, a herd of caribou; and a seal in the character role of well, dinner. Credits came too soon.

And then the 15th member of our group showed up, just in time for the second movie of the afternoon.

Tornado Alley. Aren’t you glad you live in Arizona? I am. I don’t want to find my roof missing. Ever. Still it is interesting to see all those people trying to find out what makes a tornado tick or come to life. Did you know TIV2 has a top speed about 100 mph and an estimated fuel-efficiency rating of almost 8 mpg, but it has no cup holder?

It seems some of us worked up an appetite and so we took a stroll over to the Arizona Center and enjoyed excellent company, lively conversation and pretty good Mexican food at Mi Amigo’s.

Don’t forget, You too can do something for those cuddly teddy bears. Reduce-Reuse-Recycle. Every little bit will help!