January 15, 2008

Adam Savage and Jamie Hyneman, hosts of the Discovery Channel's "Mythbusters," will speak at Fresno State on Feb. 12 as part of the University Lecture Series.

The program is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. in the Satellite Student Union, 2485 E. San Ramon Ave.

The men are well known for their special effects work in the entertainment industry. Savage has built everything from spaceships and Buddhas to puppets rifles, sculptures and toys. He has served as an animator, graphic designer, stage and interior designer, carpenter, welder and scenic painter, and, in the past eight years, he's focused on the special-effects industry. Along with designing props and sets for Coca-Cola, Hershey's and Lexus, Savage's work has been used in more than 100 television commercials and 12 feature films, including "Star Wars," "Galaxy Quest" and "Terminator 3."

Hyneman has an equally diverse career. He earned a degree in Russian languages and literature and ran a sailing and diving charter business in the Caribbean for several years before joining the visual-effects industry.

Eight years ago, he created M5 Industries, Inc., which is sought out by top U.S. production companies in need of unusual or problematic props, including animatronic or robotic devices.

The University Lecture Series is sponsored by the Office of the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, with additional support from Coca-Cola and James Hallowell, the University Student Union, the Associated Students, Piccadilly Inn Hotels and KJWL-FM. Special programs may be planned, supported, or jointly sponsored by university and community organizations.

Advance tickets are available at the University Student Union information desk. General admission tickets are $10; $6 for Fresno State faculty, staff, Alumni Association members and seniors; and $2 for Fresno State and University High School students. Prices on the day of the event increase by
$2 for general admission, faculty, staff and Alumni Association members.

For more information or tickets, call 559.278.2431 or visit www.csufresno.edu/universitylecture.