FOR RELEASE
December 3, 1999

          More than 300 Lowcountry sixth and seventh graders will display their model bridges in The Citadel Civil and Environmental Engineering Department’s model bridge competition on Monday, December 6, from 11:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. in Mark Clark and LeTellier Halls on the college campus.

          Craft stick bridges, built and designed by area middle school students using only craft sticks and carpenters’ wood glue, will be tested for strength to weight ratio. Bridges will be loaded at mid-span until collapse. The maximum load divided by the bridge weight will determine students’ scores. Cadets, conducting the competition, will be assisting the models, testing the bridges, and providing feedback to students.

          Additional awards will be presented for lightest bridge, most original design, most constructible, and best craftsmanship. Five area engineers will judge the competition.

          Participating schools are middle schools from Dorchester District 2—Oakbrook, Gregg, Dubose, and Alston.

Schedule of Events

11:00 to 11:45 a.m.
Students register and display bridges

11:45 to 12:45
Lunch in Mark Clark Hall

1:00 to 3:30
Concurrent activities: tour of electrical and civil engineering departments; cadet discussions with student groups; completion of bridge testing and judging

3:30 to 4:00
Awards presentations