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Two teams from New Lothrop High School, along with one team from New Lothrop Elementary School earned the right to advance to the Michigan State Finals by placing first or second at the Regional Competition.

A Division 2 team representing New Lothrop High School solved the long-term problem, "Odyssey Road Rally" and earned a first place finish. The team was required to design, build, a vehicle that performs sports related tasks while visiting checkpoints during a road rally. The team used a dream theme that included sports competitions.

The New Lothrop High School team members are Adam Ashley, Cody Loll, Katie VanHorn, Kayla Bila, Emily Mann, Jeff Huber, and Brandon Rivette. The students are in the seventh through eighth grade. Ted and Tricia Ashley coach the team.

A Division 2 team representing New Lothrop Elementary School solved the long-term problem, "Tee Structure" and earned a second place finish. The team was required to design, build, and test a structure made of balsa wood and glue that also included up to 10 golf balls, and was able to balance and support weights. The team incorporated a humorous performance that included a space trip to Mars.

The New Lothrop Elementary School team members are Maelin Wheeler, Ben Harnish, Jeremy Stuart, Brian Krupp, Gavin Bennett, and Jake Aznavorian. The students are in the sixth through seventh grade. David and Kelley Harnish coach the team.

The New Lothrop High School Division 3 team that solved the long-term problem, "Odyssey Road Rally" earned a 2nd place finish. The team's performance included the humorous misadventures of an adventurer hunting for Bigfoot.. The New Lothrop High School team members are Courtney Rivette, Gina Jones, Haley Newman, Mitch Delemeester, Troy Martincic, Chad Birchmeier and Josh Reinhart. The students are in the eighth through eleventh grade. Denny and Dianne Henige coach the team.

The Division 1 team representing New Lothrop Elementary School solved the long-term problem, "Odyssey Road Rally" and earned a sixth place finish. The team's theme featured mythological creatures.

The New Lothrop Elementary School team members are Andrew Lienau, Nick Graves, Emily Krupp, Nick Vincke, Cody Huber, Roen Wheeler, and Brooklyn Schwertner. The students are in the fifth grade. Lisa and Michael Wheeler coach the team.

A Division 1 team representing New Lothrop Elementary School solved the long-term problem, "The Wonderful Muses" and earned a seventh place finish. The team was required to create and present a performance that included a mythological Greek Muse who inspires others with her art form. The team used a theme that featured time travel and Sacagawea.

The New Lothrop Elementary School team members are Remington Bennet, Adam Hemgesberg, Emily Krupp, Jake Huber, Amber Malloy, and Sidney Richardson. The students are in the third through fourth grade. Irene Huber coaches the team.

The Primary Division team representing New Lothrop Elementary School solved the long-term problem, "Rude Awakenings." The Primary Division is a non-competitive division for young students who are new to the Odyssey of the Mind program. The team was required to create and present a performance that included a character that unexpectedly "traveled" to a different location every time he fell asleep. The team used a theme that featured a traveling astronaut with a mischievous pet monkey.

The New Lothrop Elementary School team members are Chad Andres, Sutter Bitterman, Kyle Mulcahy, and Evan Wendling. Denny and Dianne Henige coach the team.

The 28th annual Michigan Odyssey of the Mind State Finals will be held April 29 at East Kentwood High School and East Kentwood Freshman Campus in Kentwood.

To view the official Region 5 scores go to www.miodyssey.com.

To learn more about Odyssey of the Mind World, go to www.odysseyofthemind.com.

From facilities to curriculum - New Lothrop remains curriculum-focused

NEW LOTHROP -- New Lothrop Area Public Schools held its regularly scheduled Board meeting Monday night in the high school library. The district's curriculum alignment process continues to take front stage as teachers from the health and physical education departments along with teachers from the fine arts departments presented to the board on their progress in the curriculum development process.

"This is a teacher driven initiative. This is not top down, and that will be the key to our success," stated David Harnish, district curriculum director. "Certainly, there are state benchmarks that we have to adhere to, but how the teachers achieve those benchmarks will not be micromanaged. There will be accountability, yes, but not micromanagement," he continued.

Superintendent John Strycker added that he is pleased that the board of education has not only identified the curriculum process as a priority, but has backed that priority with funding.

The board heard a facility update from Strycker regarding the elementary gym sound panels, high school courtyard windows, elementary school eaves trough, and the district walking path that will be utilized for science curriculum, cross country team and the community.

The board also established a date for a special board meeting focused on facilities.

"The goal of this meeting is to bring some closure to the very successful facility bond project," said Strycker. The board plans on holding the meeting, next Tuesday, March 25 at 6 p.m. in the high school library.

Board committees that reported out for the month were the Facility, Personnel, and Finance.

In other board action, the board approved the athletic boosters to fund the installation of the drainage tiles for the athletic fields; additional Schedule C (coaching) appointments; Danielle McAllister as junior high softball coach; Cynthia Bannan as high school guidance counselor/accountability and test administrator; and an overnight fieldtrip to Indianapolis, Ind. for the Introduction to Engineering Class.

Facility items that were approved included, Acoustical & Thermal Service, Inc. to install sound panels in the elementary gym at $10,900; Beyer Roofing Company to install eaves troughs to the west wing entrance and courtyard/playground of the new elementary school; Valley Glass Company to remove and install high school courtyard windows at $22,790; and Greg Dawes to proceed with the walking trail at $12,000.

"I look forward to working with our new staff. Both Cindy and Danielle come highly recommended and will be great additions to the schools," said Strycker.

Staff recognition for the month was New Lothrop High School wrestling coach, Jeff Campbell.

"Jeff is a great coach and excellent teacher. More than that to me is the fact that he is a first-class role model for our students. He is a great person and we are fortunate to have him at New Lothrop," commented Strycker.

Student recognition for the month was the New Lothrop Elementary Wrestling club. Recently, they competed in the Michigan Youth Wrestling Association State contest. They received second place earning a trip to Wisconsin for a national competition.

"Our program is why New Lothrop wins year after year. Our coaches, parents and athletes understand that a good athletic program is pre-k to 12th grade. I'm proud of these kids and coaches," Strycker continued.

The student observer for the month was Gracie Jo Theodore.

The next regular Board meeting will be on Monday, April 21. The meeting will be held in the high school library.

Open House set for March 27

ST. CHARLES -- An Open House is scheduled for Sunshine Learning Center and Bulldog Kids Care on Thursday, March 27 from 6-7:30 p.m. Parents and children are encouraged to visit each site and register for the 2008-2009 session.

SUNSHINE LEARNING CENTER -- 2.5 - 5 years of age.

Sunshine Learning Center is celebrating 20 years of service to young children and their families! The action packed classroom offers developmentally appropriate learning activities provided by a highly qualified staff.

Tuition classes are available for children two-and-a-half to five years of age with three classroom options from which to choose. A four day per week program is available exclusively for four year olds preparing to enter kindergarten.

The readiness focused program includes activities which concentrate on phonemic awareness, letter recognition, letter sounds, rhyming and writing activities.

BULLDOG KIDS CARE -- 2.5 - 12 years of age.

Bulldog Kids Care is open from 6:30 a.m. to 6: p.m. and provides quality year-round child care for children between the ages of 2.5 and 12 years. The before and after school care and summer programs both prove to be helpful to parents when trying to manage their busy daily schedules.

Both programs are located in the St. Charles Elementary School. Any questions regarding sessions and availability can be directed to the Community Services Center at 989-865-2415.

Montrose's Nicholle Pierce to compete in Michigan's Junior Miss Scholarship program

The Michigan's Junior Miss Program is proud to be celebrating its 50th Anniversary at Washtenaw Community College on Saturday, March 29. Showtime is at 6:30 p.m. This is the first time that Michigan's Junior Miss has been held in the Ann Arbor area.

This year, 17 high school senior students from all over the state of Michigan will vie for the title of Michigan's Junior Miss 2008, along with $9,000.00 in college scholarship money. The winner of Michigan's Junior Miss will go on to compete at America's Junior Miss in Mobile, Alabama, in June. Contestants are judged on talent, physical fitness, self- expression, interview, and scholastic achievement.

Of the 17 contestants, Nicholle Pierce will be representing Montrose. She is the 17-year-old daughter of David and Allison Pierce. As a senior, she has several academic awards, and currently serves as President of National Honor Society. She also holds titles and participates in many other clubs and sports. She is excited to represent the Montrose community and expects to have a wonderful time throughout the Pageant.

America's Junior Miss Program is the oldest and largest scholarship program for high school senior students. Since America's Junior Miss first began in 1958, over $90 million dollars in college scholarships have been awarded. Each year, 200 additional college scholarships are available to contestants who participate in local, state, and national Junior Miss programs around the country. National sponsors are The City of Mobile and Mobile County, and the Mitchell Company.

Local sponsors and donations for this event include the Kiwanis Club of Ann Arbor, the Kiwanis Club of Brooklyn, Ann Arbor Convention and Visitor's Bureau, Children's Music Academy, Jan's Dance Connection, The Comfort Inn on Carpenter Rd, Affinia Group, Inc, Mr. Spots, Domino Farms, Subway, Great Harvest Bread Company, Whole Foods, Kroger, BD'S Mongolian BBQ, Smokehouse Blues, Olive Garden, Dancer's Edge, AAA, the BoBo Family, and the Schultes Family.

Tickets for the event are still available. Ticket prices are $15. Contact State Committee Chairperson Lydia Soroosh at 734-426-4744 for ticket sales information. All proceeds from this event go toward the Michigan Scholarship Program.

CAC looking to establish surplus food distribution in Chesaning area

Families who qualify for federal surplus food in Saginaw County's southwest area still must come to the City of Saginaw for their packages, but that soon could change.

The Saginaw County Community Action Committee, CAC, is attempting to establish a food site in Chesaning. However, volunteers drivers are needed to transport the food. There is no pay, but gas mileage is federally tax deductible.

At the present time, Chesaning Area Emergency Relief helps distribute monthly packages to families with seniors ages 60 and older, but all others must make the drive to Saginaw.

This will remain true during the final full week of March. Distribution for all age groups is from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Monday, March 24, and Tuesday, March 25 at CAC Headquarters, 2824 Perkins. Car pooling is recommended to save on costs, and if CAC can find volunteer drivers, a Chesaning site can open promptly.

CAC has boosted the count to 1,803 clients, up from 1,163 last summer. This means the group is approaching its allotment of 2,200 established in Lansing, which oversees distribution of the federal surplus. A key point with CAC is that this is federal surplus food, rather than donated food. If CAC has more clients, CAC receives more food. This relieves some of the strain in local food banks that rely on private donations.

Please keep in mind, a main point is that a "working poor" or low-middle income family of four, for example, can have a weekly income of more than $500 and still can qualify. Families with seniors can have even higher incomes. Many families think their incomes are too high and fail to realize that they qualify. Awareness would help them make ends meet.

A food package includes canned meats and vegetables and fruits, rice, pasta, beans, juices, soups, sauces and peanut butter, usually a value of more than $50.

For information on volunteering as a driver or receiving surplus food packages, call Saginaw County CAC headquarters to reach Sue Soriteau, (989) 753-7741, extension 209, soriteau@saginawcac.org, or Carlos Torres, extension 223, ctorres@saginawcac.org.

HARDSHIP NEVER ENDS: The home mortgage foreclosure crisis no longer is new news, but it will stay around for awhile. The Saginaw CAC's expert housing counselor is Mary McMath, (989) 753-7741, mmcmath@saginawcac.org.

INFO ON TAX REBATE CHECKS: Some senior citizens have not filed federal tax papers for many years, because their incomes are too low for them to owe any money, However, they must file paperwork by April 15 to qualify for the "economic stimulus rebates" of up to $600. Questions? Call Shelly Hardt or Lily Dixon with the Saginaw County CAC's Tax Preparation Program, (989) 753-7741, extension 210, shardt@saginawcac.org.

WEATHERIZATION SUPPORT: Winter's coldest weather is past, but the Saginaw County CAC's Weatherization Assistance Program continues. Some people prefer doing weatherization work when temperatures are warmer. Also, good weatherization can keep a home cooler in summer.

Workshop participants receive kits that include caulk, stripping, a low-flow showerhead, low-watt bulbs, plastic window covers AND a $50 debit from Consumers Energy.

Upcoming workshops at CAC Headquarters, 2824 Perkins in Saginaw, begin at 10 a.m. on the following dates: Friday, April 18; Wednesday, May 21; Wednesday, June 25; Wednesday, July 23; Friday, August 22.

Some families also may qualify for weatherization work by professional contractors. Income limits to qualify are higher than most families realize. Start with $20,420 for an individual, then add $6,960 for each additional person. A family of four, for example, may have an income up to $41,300. Call Omowale Art Smith, 753-7741, extension 207, oasmith@saginawcac.org, or Rosetta Scott,, 753-7741, extension 212, rscott@saginawcac.org.

Tri-County Horse Association to sponsor veterinary seminar

The Tri-County Horse Association will host a veterinary seminar on "Maintaining Weight and Digestion in the Equine Athlete" on Satuday, April 5, from 9 to 4 p.m. at the Freeland Community Hall, 200 Church St., Freeland.

For those who register by March 28, the cost is $20. At the door, the cost is $25. Doors will open at 8:30 a.m. Lunch will be provided by Fort Dodge.

Reservations should be sent to Lori Anders, 990 S. Chapin, Merrill, MI 48637. Checks should be made payable to TCHA.

The seminar will feature Dr. Brad Cumper, DVM, of Saginaw Valley Equine Clinic. Proceeds will go to support the Saginaw County Fair Horse Department.

The seminar will include:

Feeding the Equine Athlete (Advanced Nutrition, In a Nut Shell) ï Feeding the athlete to maximize performance, and managing the reluctant eater at performance time; ï Lecture presentation and in-depth discussion of performance-associated nutrition; ï Case examples and panel discussion.

The Glass Horse and Colic (Understanding a Mystery) ï Understanding the No. 1 killer of the equine athlete and ways to combat the evil demons within; ï Lecture and animated 3-D tour of the normal and abnormal equine digestive tract; ï Case examples and panel discussion.

Performance Limiting Parasites (Do Not Eat Prior To Attending) ï What you know and more importantly do not know about internal parasites; ï Lecture and riveting pictures/examples of parasitc conditions in the athlete; ï Case examples and panel discussion.

Fort Dodge will also present a short program about their brands of dewormer. They will also have a booth at this seminar to sell their dewormer.