Science Fair Held
By Krista Traffie | Observer Reporter
For the very first time, Mount Wachusett Community College will officially observe Earth Day this year.
On April 10, MWCC will host a science fair for middle school students from the surrounding towns and will feature two environmental speakers.
“I’ve always thought Earth Day was a good way to recognize our earth, where we live,” said Prof. Tom Montagno, advisor to the Green Society. “This is the perfect way to raise awareness.”
The two speakers are Congressman John Olver and Alan Nogee of the Union of Concerned Scientists.
Both of these speakers have knowledge on greenhouse gases, climate protection, and renewable energy, said Rob Rizzo, director of Facilities Administration and chairman of the committee organizing the event.
According to his web site, Olver is on the Interior, Environment and Related Agencies Appropriations Subcommittee, and one of his chief priorities is to protect the environment. Nogee’s web site reported that he has had 20 years of experience in energy analysis and is a respected authority on renewable energy.
“This is an opportunity to teach students how we use energy and the effects of that on the environment, health and economy,” said Rizzo. He said the event is focused on helping students, faculty and staff understand the importance of being environmentally friendly.
“I’d encourage students to come,” Montagno said, explaining that one day this earth is going to be the responsibility of the younger generation and that learning about preserving it now would be “advantageous.”
The event will open on April 10 with the middle school science fair at 4 p.m. Olver, retired congressman Robert Wetmore, and MWCC faculty will serve as judges of the presentations. Cash prizes will be awarded to the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners, and Barnes & Noble gift certificates will be presented to student sponsors.
After the fair, around 5:30 according to Rizzo, Olver and Nogee will speak.
Rizzo said both the commons area and the North Cafeteria have been reserved, and which will be used depends on the size of the science fair. Signs will be posted closer to the event to clarify the location.
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