Students participate in science day
Not everything Athol Elementary kids learn comes from books.
Last Thursday marked the first science day at the school. Staged in the gym, displays were set up with various projects, by grade level. I found one of the parent volunteers, Darby Tonkin, who graciously guided me through the displays.
We had a first-grade display showing animal classifications by the use of pictures, a fossil finding sandbox (you know the kids loved that one) by second-graders. Third grade featured simple machines and how they work. The use of Legos and other materials was a great way to exhibit how things work, while having fun at the same time. Fourth-graders learned about identifying rocks and minerals, while fifth-graders learned about the heavens by the use of telescopes that held pictures for viewing. Sixth grade featured plants and cells.
All in all, it was quite an advanced way of teaching that made fun out of learning. The kids appeared to be interested in what they were doing, and wandered about, checking out one another’s efforts. Well done.
Moose still on the loose
The moose is still a Bayview resident, but bare ground is showing and it is likely that he will wander off shortly, as food sources become available in places other than residential yards. Several communities have had run-ins with moose this winter, and as they become more and more starved they will become aggressive. It is advised that people stay away from them and not feed them. Hopefully, most will survive to head back for the hills.
Dates to remember
Two dates to remember for early March. The first is the over 55 group’s Corned Beef and Cabbage dinner to be held Saturday starting at 6 p.m.
Reservations are required. The event will be held at the Bayview Community Center. For reservations call 683-4027 or 683-3625.
Our informants tell us that Zak, the chef, is extraordinary.
Next up, the Captain’s Wheel cranks up the spring season with the annual St. Patrick’s Day celebration March 15. It’s pajama night. Prizes will be awarded.
Music will be provided by the ever popular Bells. This great local family band has been fairly inactive this winter, since the twins, Emily and Nellie, both married and had babies. The Wheel will also go back to seven days a week service for the season starting March 17. The recent harsh winter had forced the restaurant to close Mondays and Tuesdays.
Help with taxes
Don’t forget the real estate tax break called “circuit breaker.” County officials will be at the Bayview Community Center from 10 a.m., March 19. Also, income tax preparation help is available from retired tax experts who volunteer for low-income seniors. Information and appointments can be obtained by calling 683-2407. The tax help sessions also will be conducted in Spirit Lake Library. For appointments call (509) 292-8628.