Rocket Launch Ignites Imagination at Murrieta Public Library

More than 24 area families attended a rocket workshop Tuesday for their chance to blast off. Children in grades third though sixth built and launched their own model rockets, complete with stickers and other decorations.

The free event was held at the and sponsored by the . On hand to teach the children about rockets and how to assemble them were members of Team Rocket, a Temecula Valley High School chapter of the Temecula Rocket Group, a nonprofit organization.

Angel Lascari brought her 8-year-old nephew, J.T Stilinovich, to the event. She and her son attended a similar event years ago and realized then the fun that can be had and the impact it can have on a child.

“This is such a unique experience because it allows a child to not only build a rocket, but launch it as well,” Lascari said. "I brought my son when he was 10. He is 22 now and still talks about it and has his rocket hanging up. “

Bryan Dierking, 17, president and co-creator of Team Rocket, gave step-by-step instructions, answered questions and stressed the importance of safety.

“When you mention rockets, people tend to get nervous,” Bryan said. “We take every precaution to make sure we launch them safely and that those launching them don’t get hurt.”

With the rockets reaching heights of 300 feet, some of the precautions included having a designated launch zone and the t on hand for added safety. The launch took place at , where children were warned not to try and catch the rockets as they floated down.

Bryan also explained that by launching their rockets electrically--rather than with a traditional fuse--they were adding a level of safety.

“With an electrically launched rocket you can go and hook it up without any power going to the unit,” he said. “This also allows everyone a chance to step back and press a button to launch.”

Murrieta Fire Chief Matt Shobert was impressed not only with the activity, but with the safety precautions Bryan and the other members of Team Rocket taught.

"Especially now, during fire season, a small rocket has the potential to be a fire hazard,” the chief said. “They have done an excellent job with the high level of safety precautions and have made an effort to really educate these kids.”

However, Shobert did advise leaving rocket launching and other combustible activities, such as fireworks, to the professionals.

While not the first event in the library’s summer series, the rocket workshop was one of the most popular. Due to the volume of inquiries, space was limited to one rocket per household and one family had to be turned away. Most events held have a big turnout and offer a variety of educational experiences for those of all ages.

“The library is not just about books; it’s about learning, coming together and exploring a wide variety of interests,” said Kathryn Miller, library assistant. “It is also free, which allows families to do so without having to worry about money.”

For several, this was the first summer event they have attended at the library. Many others said they attend events regularly and their children have gotten to know one another.

Murrieta Resident Rita Patel brought her son Romil, 7, to the event and has been to several of the workshops throughout the month.

“It’s a good way for kids to stay busy and learn something at the same time,” Patel said. 

Chris Bell brought her 8-year-old daughter, Brenna.

“We don’t really have a teen center here in Murrieta, so it’s nice to have a place where kids of all different ages can go to have fun and learn something, too,” Bell said.

Many enjoyed the hands-on experience their children gained, besides being impressed with the workshop's instruction.

“This is such a good class,” Lascari said. “Bryan is so hands-on, he has everything under control.”

Bryan said his interest in model rocketry stemmed from a Boy Scout activity when he was 11. Since then he has gone on to create the Temecula Rocket group, entered several competitions and was featured in the Science Channel series "Large Dangerous Rocket ships" last summer.

“These events give families a way to do things together," Miller said. “It allows them to learn how to follow instruction and do things on their own. More importantly, it gives them a sense of pride and accomplishment.”

Anyone watching the children's faces as the rockets launched into the sky could agree that was most certainly true.

For more information on the summer series and other events hosted by the Murrieta Library, visit the library's website at Murrieta.org.