Topic #1: “The Beale Cipher: Finding Treasure or Wasting Decades?” by Harry Ledecky
In 1885, a Virginia printer sold a pamphlet that claimed that millions of dollars worth were hidden within a few miles of where the first readers just happened to be standing, the only difficulty being breaking three (one, really) ciphers included for a low, low (not really) price.
Topic #2: “The Voting Rights Quiz Show!” by Ruth Charles and Kassi Klinger
When did your gender/ethnicity get the right to vote? Are you prepared for November’s general election? Do you know how to register or find your polling place? (They move!) Learn these nerdy voting facts and more!
Topic #3: “CARPool Karaoke: Using Underwater Acoustics to Combat Invasive Carp” by Marybeth Brey
Bighead, silver, grass, and black carp (i.e., invasive carp) are invasive fish expanding their range throughout the Mississippi River Basin. Controlling the spread of these fish is one goal for resource managers. Because invasive carp are sensitive to underwater sound. The use of underwater acoustic deterrent systems (uADS) is one way to influence invasive carp movement while limiting effects on native species.
