How Will You Honour Earth Day?

James Bay Community School

By Darcy Topinka

On April 22^nd how will you honour our planet on Earth Day?  How important is this day to you and your family?  The school and centre would like to hear from you on this subject.  I invite you to share your ideas on our face book page.  Your comments and stories will assist us in developing ways we can engage with the community to further promote environmental awareness in our community. We would like to hear about the special ways in which you are choosing to give mama earth a helping hand.  On April 21^st our school children will be out in the community cleaning up boulevards, play grounds and local beaches all in an effort to raise environmental awareness.

With spring on the horizon our students are preparing to participate in another spring session of cross country running.  Grades 3, 4, 5 will participate in four separate races during the month.  Teacher Scott Clazzie is looking for interested individuals to assist in the transportation of students to and from the race locations.  He is looking for adults with roomy vehicles; contact the school office to find out what is involved in becoming a volunteer driver.

Artists In The School is a fantastic spring community and school program that harnesses the talent of local artists. The program is committed to sharing and developing an interest in experimenting with different art forms.  The school owes a great deal of thanks to the multitude of people who donate funds through the South Harbour Partners group who contribute annually to the community school.  Artists In The School is just one of many programs their group supports. The children's art will be on display at our annual gallery gala event held on May 5^th at 6:30 pm in the community centre.  Heather Thoresen would welcome your help in decorating and converting our activity room into a gallery space, Heather can be contacted through the school office. Community members are invited to join us for this special evening.  Guests will be asked to contribute to the creation of a piece art that will go on display in the school.

Seniors, don't forget to get your tickets for our annual Easters 55+ dinner held on April 19^th at 5:00 pm.  This year's menu will feature ham and scalloped potatoes with hollandaise sauce and brownie and raspberry sauce, all for $7.50. Tickets are limited; we sell out quickly so don't delay your purchase.

On Friday April 8^th James Bay Community School hosts Marimba Muzuva, a well-known Marimba band from Vancouver which performs traditional Shona music, involving students in rhyme, song and movement. The music is highly infectious, happily upbeat and wonderful to both move and dance to. If you own a pair of gum boots you might want to throw yours on and head over to the school and learn a few South African gum-boot steps. Spring gardening classes will commence in early April. Consider growing your own fruits and veggies to ease the pressure of your soaring grocery bill. Classes will address food security issues and organic gardening fundamentals.

Hockey enthusiasts get ready. Battle In The Bay returns for its 3rd year.  Organize your team, bring your team spirit and your favorite team jersey and register by Mid April.  The centre will be closed good Friday April 22^nd and Monday April 25^th. Enjoy your long weekend.