Big Machines Weekend

By Scanews staff

Stand in awe of modern mechanical giants. Come see a variety of "big machines" from local organizations in the construction, military and emergency management industries during "Big Machines Weekend," June 14-15, at the St. Louis Science Center, 5050 Oakland Ave. 

The St. Louis Fire Department will perform ladder raises and demonstrate proper fire hose handling on one of their fire trucks.  Also on hand are the K-9 units of the St. Louis Police Department, as well as their DUI task force vehicle.  AD Lift Truck features a small troop of forklifts and will put on an exhibition of "forklift basketball."  It's a chance to see these machines "up close" and discover how such large equipment works. All of the big machines are featured on the Science Center's main parking lot, and the event is free. 

Enjoy all kinds of commercial equipment provided by local St. Louis organizations.  Admire CAT excavators from Spirtas Wrecking Co., the Schnuck's Big Cart, Dumptrucks from John Fabick Tractor Co., even the crane that helped build the old "Pet Milk" building in downtown St. Louis. Lynch Hummer exhibits the "big machines" of a residential kind, featuring the H1 and all-new H2.  Also on display are machines from some of St. Louis' largest constructors, including JS Alberici and Tarlton Corp., as well as trucks from Mike Schieber Trucking. 

This year's "Big Machines Weekend" includes a picnic area, complete with home style bar-b-que and beverages. A special children's play area will have Tonka trucks and John Deere toy tractors for the kids to play with and enjoy.  Visitors can also enjoy Space Station in the OMNIMAXâ Theater and the special exhibit, Jelly Belly Presents CANDY UNWRAPPED in the Exploradome during the weekend. 

Beginning June 9 - Sept. 1, the Science Center is open Monday-Thurs., 9:30 am-5:30 pm, Fri. 9:30am-9:30pm, and Sunday, 11:30 am-5:30 pm. For more information on "Big Machines Weekend," call 314/289-4400, toll-free 800/456-SLSC or visit the web site at www.slsc.org.