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WNU Summer Institute Special Events

There are three special dinners planned as part of the Institute to which family members and guests are invited on a space available basis. There will be no cost to the WNU Fellows or mentors, but we must charge others to cover the direct costs involved.

For planning purposes please confirm that you plan to attend by completing the form provided on the database section of the website labeled Optional Activities - Social and Recreation Activities.
Prices are listed here for the convenience of self-paying guests.

Sunday evening, July 10 - Welcoming Barbecue dinner on grounds of Shilo Inn
This will be a very informal and strictly social gathering at the Shilo Inn. Weather permitting, it will be held outdoors starting at about 6 p.m. Family members (including children) accompanying Institute participants are encouraged to attend.

Cost: To be determined, but expected to be about $24 per adult. No charge for children 6 and under.

Tuesday evening, August 16 - Farewell Dinner in Idaho Falls
This gala catered dinner will feature Shane Johnson, acting Director of the Department of Energy Office of Nuclear Energy, Science and Technology, Washington, D.C. as featured speaker. During the program, still in the planning, we will recognize our Idaho hosts, the local planning committee and the many individuals who have contributed to the Institute. Expect some surprises as well.

This program is not appropriate for young children. Baby-sitting should be arranged, if needed.

Cost: To be determined but expected to be about $35 per adult.

Friday evening, August 19 - Reception, Dinner, Celebration and Graduation in Las Vegas
The final event of the Institute will be a celebration of all we have accomplished. Held in the ballroom of the New York New York Hotel and Casino (our headquarters while in Las Vegas), it will include a celebratory program featuring Hans Blix as the "commencement" speaker.

This program is not be appropriate for young children. Baby-sitting should be arranged, if needed.

Cost: To be determined but expected to be about $100 per adult.

Lectures on Nuclear Leadership Series
Most of the Lectures on Nuclear Leadership Series presentations and the receptions that follow are open to the public at no charge. Institute guests are welcome to attend. For the schedule check the WNU Summer Institute website page Lectures on Nuclear Leadership.
http://www.world-nuclear-university.org/html/summer_institute/lectures.htm

WNU Summer Institute Recreational/Social Activities

The overarching goal of the World Nuclear University Summer Institute is more than the transmission of knowledge and the provision of outstanding learning opportunities. We also hope to build a global network of future leaders who will want to maintain their relationships long after the summer is over. Having fun together as well as working hard together is an important part of that process. We hope you agree and encourage you to participate in as many of the planned activities described below as possible. Arranged by the local planning committee in Idaho Falls, they offer an opportunity to sample many of the unique cultural and recreational activities of a special region of the United States.

Soon we will ask you to provide information for our database. At that time we will request that you to indicate your interest in each of the activities below. Please look them over and be ready to decide which ones you plan to attend and whether you would like to invite one or more guests to join you. Then complete the recreation and social events portion of the Optional Activities of the database.

Please note: There is no cost to Fellows attending the WNU Summer Institute for any of the activities listed below. However, for planning purposes we require advanced registration if you wish to participate.
Prices are listed for the convenience of guests, mentors, faculty members or others who are self-funded. They are welcome to attend as long as space is available. Be advised that there may be some out-of-pocket expenses for incidentals (e.g. extra beverages, souvenirs) for everyone.

SATURDAY, JULY 16

Experimental Breeder Reactor-I: Ground-breaking Nuclear Reactor
http://www.atomicheritage.org/ebr1.htm
http://www.atomictourist.com/ebr.htm

Construction of the EBR-I began in May 1949, and the first use of nuclear fission to produce a usable quantity of electricity was demonstrated at the INL's EBR-I on
December 20, 1951. The historic story of the design, construction, and experimental life of the EBR-I illustrates the daunting problems faced by the team of scientists, engineers, machinists and administrators and how they worked together to solve them. Their success provided the foundation for the nation's atomic energy program, leading the Atomic Energy Commission to invest in an expansive reactor development program over the next two decades. In the 1950's, an attempt was made to build atomic powered bombers that could remain aloft for extended periods, before ballistic missiles were perfected. In 1955, the X-39 was run in Idaho on a ground test stand in what was called the Heat Transfer Reactor Experiment No. l (HTRE-l). Engineers tested a complete aircraft power plant consisting of a reactor, a radiation shield, two X-39 engines, ducting, control parts and instrumentation. EBR-I is now a national historic landmark open to visitors, and the two X-39 atomic aircraft engines are also on display.

Craters of the Moon National Monument and Preserve Tour
http://www.nps.gov/crmo/

Approximately 90 miles west of Idaho Falls is Craters of the Moon, which has been described as "The strangest 75 square miles on the North American Continent" by one early traveler. Others deem it "a weird lunar landscape," "an outdoor museum of volcanism," and "a desolate and awful waste." Virtually unknown until 1921, the area was made a national monument in 1924, and today it embraces 83 square miles. The Shoshone Indians never inhabited this area in large numbers, but they hunted here. Pioneers in covered wagons skirted the lava flows; later cattle ranchers avoided the place; and miner staked claims only nearby. But this odd landscape, showing our globe's awesome forces, eventually became an object of awe. Over the past 15,000 years, lava eruptions created a rugged but scenic landscape that has forced animals and plants to adapt, and people to endure, detour, or ponder. These remarkably well preserved volcanic features, covering almost half a million acres, resulted from geologic events that appear to have happened yesterday and will likely continue tomorrow. You will have an opportunity to explore this isolated landscape filled with such features as cinder cones, spatter cones, lava tubes, and several types of lava flows. Wear long pants or jeans, a wide-brimmed hat, and sturdy boots. Wear sunscreen and bring bottled water and a flashlight. Craters of the Moon also provides unique opportunities for visitors to encounter plants and animals in various lava habitats, enjoy hiking on a number of trails, or simply partake in the solitude and beauty of this incredible place.

EBR I & Tour of Craters of the Moon - Day Trip
Box Lunch - $10.


SATURDAY, JULY 23

Grand Teton National Park - Yellowstone National Park Tour
http://www.nps.gov/yell/
http://www.nps.gov/grte/

With half of the earth's geothermal features, Yellowstone holds the planet's most diverse and intact collection of geysers, hot springs, mud pots, and fumaroles. Its more than 300 geysers make up two thirds of all those found on earth. Combine this with more than 10,000 thermal features comprised of brilliantly colored hot springs, bubbling mud pots, and steaming fumaroles, and you have a place like no other. Your special tour will feature two university geologists who will narrate and answer questions about this amazing place. The morning will be spent traveling north from Idaho Falls though Island Park and we will enter Yellowstone National Park through the west entrance at West Yellowstone, Montana. You will see the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone and view one of the tallest waterfalls in the United States. You will travel to Old Faithful to see this famous geyser erupt. Your trip will include a stop at the historic Jackson Lake Lodge. Yellowstone Park is where bison, bears and wolves spend the summer foraging for food. The late afternoon will be spent traveling though the majestic Grand Teton National Park. Located in northwestern Wyoming, Grand Teton National Park protects stunning mountain scenery and a diverse array of wildlife. The central feature of the park is the Teton Range - an active, fault-block, 40-mile-long mountain front. The range includes eight peaks over 12,000 feet (3,658 m), including the Grand Teton at 13,770 feet (4,198 m). Bring your binoculars and camera because this is a once in a lifetime experience!

Charter bus transportation and box lunch - $40 per person


FRIDAY, JULY 29

Mountain River Ranch Dinner/Show
http://www.mountainriverranch.com

Your evening begins at 6:15 p.m. in Rock Bottom Springs, Mountain River Ranch's frontier town just 26 miles east of Idaho Falls. Here you will check in just in time to witness a wild-west shoot-out complete with bad guys and damsels in distress. Once the smoke clears, horse drawn wagons pull into town and take you on a scenic ride to the Meadow Muffin Dinner Theatre, where a hearty chuck wagon style meal awaits you. As soon as everyone's belly is full, the show begins! We will laugh, sing and dance until we have you doing the same. An evening at the Meadow Muffin Dinner Theatre is a rip-roaring good time that is sure to make your sides ache with laughter. After an evening of fun, we'll load you back into the wagons with a heart-felt thank you and a "Happy Trails."

BBQ Chicken: $23.00
Mountain River Steak: $26.00
Kids 4-12 (Chicken or Steak) $12.75
Prices include the wild-west shoot out, the wagon ride, dinner and the show.

Charter bus transportation from Idaho Falls is an additional $10.00 per person.


MONDAY, AUGUST 1

International Folk Dance Festival Parade and Street Festival
http://www.rexcc.com/festival/index.html

Since 1986 history has been made in Rexburg, Idaho as folk dancers from all around the world gather at the Idaho International Folk Dance and Music Festival. It is a great example of dancers sharing their culture while they absorb an understanding of the freedoms found in America. Teams in the past have come from Africa, Asia, Europe, South America, North America, and the islands of the seas. The 2005 festival is the twentieth season for the Dance and Music Festival in Rexburg, and possible visiting countries for 2005 include: China, Poland, Japan, Hungary, Mexico, Indonesia, Turkey, Russia, Egypt, Tahiti, and the United States. Monday evening boasts a colorful parade featuring the all the international dance team members, followed by a community street dance!

Charter bus transportation from Idaho Falls - $10.00.


SATURDAY, AUGUST 6

Combo Scenic Float & Whitewater Trip
Jackson Hole, Wyoming

http://www.jacksonholewhitewater.com/trips.html#combo

With the magnificent snowcapped Teton mountain range as your backdrop, your professional guide will take you down 13 miles of some of the most beautiful scenery in Jackson Hole - an experience that you will remember for a lifetime. If you have a sense of adventure, there are 8-miles of some of the wildest whitewater in Wyoming ahead you as you take on Category III rapids like "Big Kahuna", "Lunch Counter", and "Champagne." You may do one - or a combination of both- of these adventures. You will be treated to lunch on the river. You will not get wet on the scenic float; however, we suggest you wear lightweight clothing that you don't mind getting wet on the whitewater trip. You may wish to bring change of clothing, including a sweater or windbreaker. Sneakers are appropriate footwear, and don't forget your sunscreen and a waterproof camera! Please note: only children over 6 years old are allowed to participate on the white water tour.

(If spending time floating on the river does not appeal to you, you may spend the day on your own exploring the western town of Jackson Hole, Wyoming.)

Scenic Float Trip Only (includes bus and lunch) $88.00
White Water Float Only (includes bus and lunch) $90.00
Combo Trip (includes both, bus, and lunch) $102.00
Bus transportation only to Jackson, Wyoming (On own all day) $16.00


SATURDAY, AUGUST 13

West Yellowstone Day Trip
http://www.campingmontana.com/West_Yellowstone.asp

Spend the whole day as you wish - sightseeing, shopping and eating! A 2-1/2 hour bus trip will take you north of Idaho Falls with stops at Mesa Falls and Big Springs. Then we'll travel on to the rustic town of West Yellowstone, Montana, nestled within a valley of the Rocky Mountains and on the border of Yellowstone National Park. As a neighbor to Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks, it shares much of the same spectacular beauty and awesome adventure...but without the crowds. Visit Montana's first IMAX Theatre, presenting a six-story high screen with stereo surround sound. The film "Yellowstone" interprets the history, wildlife, geothermal activity and grandeur of our first national park. The Grizzly Discovery Center offers an educational experience and viewing area for visitors to watch live grizzles and wolves in their own natural habitat. Visit the Museum of the Yellowstone located at the historic Union Pacific Depot, built between 1907 and 1909. Collections in the museum include rare, vintage portrait photographs of great Indian chiefs; rare artifacts, such as clothing and weapons; authentic sabers, handguns and rifles used by the U. S. Cavalry; mountain men essentials like beaver traps and the Hawkin rifle; wildlife dioramas and special exhibits on 'Trains and Yellowstone,' 'Bears of Yellowstone' and 'Yellowstone Fires.' Adventure documentary films of the Old West, Yellowstone Park (including the fires of 1988), and wildlife and Native American history are shown in the theater. The museum bookstore contains over 5,000 books and a large selection of videos on natural history, Western Americana, and Native American history.

Listed below are some of the "don't miss" things to do while you are in town!

Grizzly & Wolf Discovery Center
201 South Canyon
West Yellowstone, MT 59758
http://www.grizzlydiscoveryctr.org/
View live grizzly bears and gray wolves in a naturalistic environment. Fun and educational for the whole family. Interact with naturalists, attend wildlife presentations and films, visit the gift shop or simply relax and watch these fascinating animals with your all-day admission. Open all year, 8:00 am - dusk.
REGULAR ADMISSION
Adults (13 and older) - $9.75
Children (5 to 12) - $5.00
Children under 5 - FREE!
Seniors (62 and older) - $9.00

Museum of the Yellowstone
104 Yellowstone
West Yellowstone, MT
Phone: (406) 646-1100
Walk through the historic Union Pacific Depot building and discover the wonders of the world's first national park. View historical displays, wildlife exhibits, vintage Park transportation. See the raging fires of 1988 and the terrifying earthquake of 1959. Interactive activities for all ages. Walking tours of the Historic District and other programs.

Yellowstone IMAX Theatre
101 South Canyon
West Yellowstone, MT
http://www.yellowstoneimax.com
Everything else is just a movie! Six-story high screen with 6-channel digital surround sound, "Yellowstone" highlights the history, wildlife and geothermal aspects of our country's first national park. An adventure that will guide you through the National Park, allowing you to view its majestic wildlife and the grandeur of its scenery.
REGULAR ADMISSION
$8.00 ADULT
$6.00 CHILD (3-12)
FREE under 3
(No Senior Rate)

The Studio
11 Madison Ave
West Yellowstone, MT
The Studio is a "working artist's gallery." A place to see and work with local artists. Art sales, instruction, fine art supplies, custom framing, and professional photography. House Specialties: painting (all media types), digital photography, weaving, fiber arts, stained glass, jewelry, and leather craft.

FOR YOUR SHOPPING PLEASURE - THESE STORES AND MANY MORE AWAIT YOU!

Gracy's Gifts
29 Gibbon
West Yellowstone, MT
Featuring a unique collection of clever gifts and souvenirs, pottery, adorable bears, shirts, glass and woods, which reflect years of buying experience, Gracy's is West Yellowstone's only complete north-side gift shop.

Madison Crossing Businesses
121 Madison
West Yellowstone, MT
Visit the great indoors at Madison Crossing, West Yellowstone's indoor retail complex featuring a pharmacy, One-Hour Photo, fresh flowers, women's apparel, art gallery, toy store, kitchen gourmet, home décor, antiques and Yellowstone memorabilia, and more! UPS shipping available.

Madison Gift Shop
139 Yellowstone
West Yellowstone, MT
Famous for selection (largest in town…possible the state!) and good prices. Don't miss it! The best shopping entertainment in town, including jewelry to pottery, hats to wall decor. Unusual finds, friendly atmosphere. Two blocks from Park entrance.

The Rare Earth Store
111 Yellowstone
West Yellowstone, MT
Neat Stuff Here! A dazzling array of rocks, fossils, and minerals, including the largest amethyst geode in Montana. Plus, mine for gems at Yellowstone Mining Company, our real working sluice. From postcards and souvenirs to fine apparel and stuffed critters, there's something for everyone.

Smith & Chandler
121 Yellowstone
West Yellowstone, MT
Since 1925, West Yellowstone's finest selection of gifts, apparel, Indian handcrafts, and souvenirs. Choose from a large assortment of fine jewelry, books, postcards, film, cameras, binoculars, and knives. Pendleton, Columbia Sportswear, Woolrich, Lee, True Grit, Baily, Montana Silversmiths, Big Sky Carvers, Mill Creek. Gifts for the discriminating shopper.

Visitors Bureau Gift Shop
107 Canyon
West Yellowstone, MT
Stop in the Visitors Bureau Gift Shop and browse…we have a fine selection of T-shirts, sweatshirts and souvenirs, handmade Indian jewelry, crafts and pottery. Stamper Black Hills Gold, Idaho Opal, Montana Sapphire, Black Hills Silver, fashion Jewelry, rocks, candles, and more. Something for almost everyone.

Yellowstone T-Shirt Co.
20 Canyon Street
West Yellowstone, MT
Offering the finest in silk screened t-shirts, sweatshirts and hats available for visitors and locals alike. New this year is a full line of gifts and curios that have been offered through our other store for the past 14 years. Custom designing and silk screening available for groups and activities, at wholesale prices.

EATING - WEST'RN STYLE!

West Yellowstone has a wide variety of appealing places to satisfy any appetite. From casual to classy - pizza to pheasant, you are sure to find a comfortable atmosphere for eating and relaxing.

Canyon Street Grill
22 Canyon
West Yellowstone, MT

Coachman Restaurant
209 Madison
West Yellowstone, MT
Family dining. Known for its consistently fine food in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Lunch and dinner specials. Cocktails available.

The Gusher Pizza and Sandwich Shoppe
40 Dunraven
West Yellowstone, MT
Welcome to the Gusher! We feature pizza, steaks, shrimp, sandwiches, soups, salads, beer, wine, and soft drinks, all served in a clean, pleasant atmosphere. Check our daily specials! Enjoy our game room with pool, video games and Montana Poker. Your pizza place and more in Yellowstone Country.

Old Town Café
128 Madison
West Yellowstone, MT
Visitors from around the world return yearly to experience the unique western atmosphere and family style dining. The Old Town Café is well known for their Montana steaks, homemade chicken-fried steaks, buffalo burgers, biscuits and gravy, and fresh hash browns, French fries and mashed potatoes. Something for everyone including alcoholic beverages.

Oregon Shortline Restaurant
315 Yellowstone
West Yellowstone, MT
Located in the Holiday Inn Sun Spree Resort, enjoy our colorful turn of the century ambiance set by our 1903 Executive Railcar. After dinner, relax in the Iron Horse Saloon and Casino. Open 6:30 am - 10:00 pm daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Pete's Rocky Mountain Pizza & Pasta
104 Canyon, Room H
West Yellowstone, MT
Local family operation offering quality food in a pleasant dining atmosphere. Montana's best pizza, great homemade spaghetti, full Italian dinners, chicken, salads, and a variety of other offerings. Now offering a selection of beer and wine.

The Picnic Basket
311 N Canyon
West Yellowstone, MT
American cuisine served at a cozy, clean café. From 6:30 am to 3:00 pm. Biscuits and gravy, omelets, on-the-fly sack lunches for day trips. Homemade pies made to order. Espresso bar and vegetarian entrees.

Running Bear Pancake House
538 Madison
West Yellowstone, MT
Family restaurant specializing in pancakes, homemade bakery items! Salads, burgers, full lunch menu, children's menu, and air conditioned. Discover, MasterCard, Visa. Open 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Rustler's Roost Restaurant
234 Firehole
West Yellowstone, MT
Known for family dinning pleasure, our menu offers something for all age groups and diets, from hamburgers and pizzas to seafood, steaks, and chicken. The Rustler's Roost will tempt your appetite with wild game entree's and just plain good cooking. Enjoy the spectacular mountain sunrises with breakfast and gorgeous sunsets with dinner.

Three Bear Restaurant
205 Yellowstone
West Yellowstone, MT
Depicting West Yellowstone's past with class. Our renowned restaurant still has the "down home" cooking we're famous for. Prime rib, steaks, our own famous chicken (carry out is available). Open Breakfast 6:30-11 am, dinner 5-10 pm.

Timberline Café
135 Yellowstone
West Yellowstone, MT
The charming Timberline Café, built in the early 1900's, still operates today specializing in homemade soups and entrees prepared by Tom, Dee, and staff. Enjoy gourmet coffee with a slice of Dee's delicious homemade pie. Friendly, smoke-free atmosphere, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Totem Restaurant & Lounge
115 Canyon
West Yellowstone, MT
The Totem specializes in Prime Rib, Alaskan King Crab, and our own Chicken Fried Steaks. We have an adjacent Liquor Store with one of the best wine selections in the area. We also offer gaming machines in our Casino Bar and plenty of off street parking.

Trapper's Restaurant
315 Madison
West Yellowstone, MT
Breakfast served daily til 1 p.m. Featuring sourdough breads, all you can eat breakfasts. Dinner menu features steaks, chicken, etc. with sourdough rolls.

Charter bus transportation only - $16.00 per person


SUNDAY, AUGUST 14

Shoshone-Bannock Annual Indian Festival
http://www.sho-ban.com/festival.asp

The Annual Shoshone-Bannock Indian Festival is one of the most popular Indian gatherings in North America. It attracts the best dancers in "Indian Country" with tribes throughout the United States participating. Colorful dancers, accompanied by singing and drumming groups from many tribes, perform nightly in the arbor. Captivating and unforgettable, this combination of sound and images evokes a feeling of centuries-old cultures and traditions. Along with the contemporary and traditional dance competition, the Festival hosts a "wild and wooly" All-Indian Rodeo and Indian Pony Relay Races. While you're there, take in over 50 arts & crafts and food concessions, parades, a juried art show, the Miss Shoshone-Bannock Pageant, a Little Princess contest, Indian "Stick Games," and an All-Indian Men's and Women's NAAA Sanctioned Softball Tournament.

Charter bus transportation & adult admission - $13.00 per person


FRIDAY, AUGUST 19

Hoover Dam 'Behind the Scenes" Tour
http://www.usbr.gov/lc/hooverdam/

Completed in 1935, the Hoover Dam remains the number one sightseeing attraction in Nevada and it is rated one of America's seven modern civil engineering wonders. Originally called Boulder Dam, it was re-named for Herbert Hoover, the 31st President of the United States. As a conservationist, he was a strong proponent of preserving natural resources and protecting the nation's lands from misuse and from destruction by disastrous floods. As an engineer, he strongly supported construction of a high concrete dam on the Colorado River to control the river, and to provide irrigation water to the rich farmlands nearby, and a dependable supply of water for Southern California communities. Our special "behind the scenes tour' will include a presentation, a trip down to the power plant to walk along the generator floor, down to the shaft gallery, out to the tailbay, and inside the tiny tunnels of the dam proper! It is simply an experience and photo opportunity that is not to be missed.

Charter bus and tour ticket - $50.00 per person

 

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