Science on Wheels visits Black Diamond

Pacific Science Center’s program, Science on Wheels, will appear at Sawyer Wood Elementary on April 13.

Science on Wheels is an interactive science curriculum for elementary and middle schools in Washington.

It as an hour and 45 minutes of interactive learning for students. It is the most extensive school outreach program in the country. Topics covered include physics, space and geology.

All of the topics include plenty of visual exhibits and opportunities for students to engage in hands-on learning.

The program began in the 1970’s when groups of school children were not allowed to visit the Pacific Science Center for field trips.

With feedback from educators stating the need for science lessons for their students, the Science on Wheels started. Since then, the program has expanded with new programs.

14th annual trout derby starts April 22

The “Hooked on Fishing” event opening day at Lake Wilderness is April 22 at 3 p.m. The Maple Valley Lion’s Club originally sponsored the derby until 1994.

In 2003 the city of Maple Valley acquired Lake Wilderness park and a partnership was forged with the Maple Valley-Black Diamond Chamber of Commerce, Maple Valley Rotary and the city to start the traditional opening day at Lake Wilderness.

Camping, hot dogs and hamburgers, games and beach campfires all begin April 22.

All campers must register when arriving at the park and agree to rules and regulations of the event – tent camping only, no RV’s.

A tagged fish will be released in to the lake and if caught before noon on April 23, it’s worth $300.

In the history of the derby, it has only been caught twice.

On April 23 at 12:01 a.m., the fishing derby starts. At 6 a.m. fishing for children ages nine and younger begins. The Maple Valley Rotary will provide breakfast until noon, when the event is over.