Local kids were mesmerized last Thursday as Mr. Bond's Science Guys' Professor Graybeard (John Wicks) came to town as part of the DeKalb County Libraries’ 2025 Children’s Summer Reading Program “Color Our World.” The event was held at the County Complex in Smithville.

Professor Graybeard demonstrated the color pallet through prisms and refraction, and also showed off some plasma experiments. Kids in attendance got to participate in some of the science fun.

Professor Graybeard (John Wicks) has been a Science Guy since 2005. The “Professor” was born in Minnesota before moving to East Tennessee at age 11.

Mr. Bond's Science Guys of Nashville, show that science is fun, exciting, and accessible to all children. As a nonprofit organization, they bring hands-on STEM experiences to kids through interactive camps, school programs, and community events. Their mission is to spark curiosity and inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers, and innovators by making learning both educational and engaging.

The Summer Reading Program continues this week with Barry Mitchell’s “Show of Many Colors,” on Thursday, June 12, then June 19 with the Edgar Evins State Park Rangers and Animal Friends. The final party will be June 26 with the Nashville Zoo.

For more information, contact Justin Potter Library at 615-597-4359 or visit them on Facebook.