©Mark Moffett, courtesy National Geographic

The 2010 National Geographic Live series continues in May with a mix of lectures, authors, and food. The National Geographic Museum is offering up another two pairs of tickets for WeLoveDC readers, unless otherwise noted. Simply comment below (PLEASE use a legit email address and your first name) with what two events – in preferred order – you’d like to attend. We’ll do a random drawing on Monday, May 3 at 2 pm and get the winners set up with their first (or second, if your first choice is full) selection. Keep in mind that tickets are for single events only; both food events are unfortunately not eligible for the free tickets.

In the Empire of Ice ($18)
May 4, 7:30 pm

For a National Geographic-supported expedition, writer Gretel Ehrlich circumnavigated the Arctic Circle to document the indigenous cultures inhabiting its starkly beautiful landscapes, as advancing climate change threatens traditional ways of life. In her new book, Empire of Ice: Encounters in a Changing Landscape, and in this presentation, she tells the story of her journey to explore the “ecology of culture.”

Courtesy National Geographic

A Come to Cheeses Moment: Wine vs. Beer ($80) *not eligible*
May 5, 7 pm

The pairing of wine with cheese has long been a given. But the recent revival of craft brewing has opened the refrigerator door to a bevy of brews that can complement cheese every bit as deliciously as wine does. Join master cheese monger Steven Jenkins, grape guru Joshua Wesson, and a leading beer expert, for a tasting of artisanal cheeses paired with a specially selected wine and beer, and vote for your favorites in this contest between great beverages.

Need, Greed, and a Sustainable Future ($18)
May 12, 7:30 pm
This event was to take place Feb. 9 but was rescheduled due to the snow storm

Would the world be a better place if human societies curbed their desires for material goods? In his provocative new book, Treasures of the Earth: Need, Greed, and a Sustainable Future, scholar and environmental visionary Saleem H. Ali suggests that the answer is not so simple. He proposes a new environmental paradigm that accepts our need to consume resources, while urging conservation as well.

Lecture: Adventures Among Ants ($18)
May 13, 7:30 pm

Called “the Indiana Jones of Entomology,” photographer and naturalist Mark Moffett has made it his mission to open peoples’ eyes to the small wonders of Nature. His new book, Adventures Among Ants: A Global Safari With a Cast of Trillions, takes us into the world of ants, showing how they dominate their ecosystems through strikingly “human” behaviors. Join this explorer for an ant’s-eye view of the natural world. Moffett will share the story of ants in a children’s program on May 15 (see below).

Meet Dr. Bugs ($10/children under 12, $6)
May 15, 1 pm

Known for his wacky sense of humor, and genuine love for the small wonders of nature, photographer and naturalist Mark Moffett, nicknamed “Dr. Bugs,” is a popular presenter for kids and adults alike. In addition to two dozen articles for national geographic, Moffett is author of a children’s book, Face to Face With Frogs, and articles for young people. Bring the whole family for an informative, lavishly illustrated afternoon with this entertaining scientist and explorer!

©Ray Patrick; courtesy National Geographic

A River Runs Dry ($18)
May 17, 7:30 pm

In 2008, author Jonathan Waterman traveled the length of the Colorado River to survey the health of the legendary waterway. In his National Geographic book, he details the story of an overtaxed river that fails to reach the ocean most years due to human demands. Join him for a look at images and stories of the river, the people who use its waters, and a discussion on how the river’s demise might be averted.

New Beers of Scandinavia ($80) *not eligible*
May 18, 7 pm

The American craft brewing movement has inspired similar developments all over the world, but perhaps nowhere has the rise been as striking as in Scandinavia. Home to five countries, 23 million people and several languages, Scandinavia is producing some of the most interesting and diverse beers on the planet. A frequent visitor to Scandinavia, brew-master Garrett Oliver will take you on an exciting Nordic beer tour. (Must be 21 or older to attend.)

Many thanks to Stephanie and the folks at the National Geographic Museum who have been enthusiastic participants in these contests! Make sure you let NatGeo know you heard about their events right here on WeLoveDC.

Ben H. Rome

Having lived in the DC area for ten years, Ben still loves to wander the city with his wife, shooting lots of photos and exploring all the latest exhibits and galleries. A certified hockey fanatic, he spends some time debating the Washington Capitals club with friends – but everyone knows of his three decade love affair with the Pittsburgh Penguins.

A professional writer, gamer, photographer, and Lego enthusiast, Ben remains captivated by DC and doesn’t plan on leaving any time soon.