After 24 years, you’d think it would get old, and not be too exciting. But, for students who are part of the Thomas Jefferson Middle School Science Olympiad team it is every bit as exciting as it was for the first team.
Although he gives the credit to his outstanding team, teacher and coach Rich Bender somehow brings out the best in his middle schoolers each year, and they are once again the Indiana State Science Olympiad champs and will be heading for National competition at the end of May. The team members spend hours perfecting their projects, and both students and parents are committed to practice, practice, practice. Congratulations and good luck to a super group of tomorrow’s scientists. And congratulations also to Ben Franklin Middle School team, and Valparaiso High School team both of whom placed in the top 10 Indiana schools. A big thank you to teachers and parents who volunteer their time and talents so that these students succeed.
It sure is a neat surprise to walk into a restaurant, and instead of spending money, be handed an envelope filled with dollars. Nope, I didn’t pocket their bank deposit envelope, but the white envelope Debbie A. handed me contained $300 for our Special Olympics program. What a wonderful kindness as both the Viking Chili Bowl, and their next door neighbor, Wholesome Food, created three Easter baskets — two for kids and one for adults. As customers left the restaurant, the lovely baskets were on display and they could purchase raffle tickets for a chance to win the filled baskets. Tickets were only two for $1, it is amazing that, in two weeks, our Porter County treasury is $300 richer. Debbie, the Viking Chili Bowl owners and staff, and Wholesome Food owner, thank you so much for your baskets of love. You are my pet persons of the week, and may you receive the blessings you give to others.
Wow! What a nice change in the weather for this weekend, especially since it is the holiday where the Easter bunny hops around all over the place, hiding eggs filled with goodies outside, and it sure is a lot easier when the weather cooperates. With their baskets or bags, kids will be running here and there to fill their containers with the colored eggs. It is also an important religious holiday both for the Jewish and Christian faithful. For the Jews, Passover is a reminder of God’s goodness and mercy, and for the Christians, it is the most joyous celebration to praise God for the joy of the risen Christ whose death on the cross for all people culminates with His resurrection. We are all so blessed to live in a country where we are allowed to worship freely with no fear of condemnation. That in itself is reason to rejoice. I wish all my Jewish friends a blessed Passover, and my fellow Christians a joy-filled Easter, and I hope you all have a great day because you deserve it.
Thanks for reading. Fly your flag.
Lorrie Woycik is a freelance columnist for the Post-Tribune.