Earth Day antics

Local elementary students took part in several educational presentation, activities during Friday's Earth Day event at the Tucumcari Elementary School's Outdoor Classroom.

"This event gives the students an opportunity for hands-on learning," said Tommy Filpi, TES fifth-grade teacher.

Students learned about electrical currents and solar energy while visiting Robert Hockaday's, Energy Related Devices station.

The students were also showered by water that was pumped by a solar powered motor. The students also helped to launch a plastic rocket that was propelled by air pressure.

Mesalands Community College's Ferrier Science Instructor Paul Leonard demonstrated blacksmithing skills during the event.

"In the past, I have done a horse shoeing demonstration," Leonard said. "This year, I wanted to show the students something new."

Each year the Earth Day event brings in the students from surrounding schools to learn about different areas of study, projects and industry that use the Earth.

Tucumcari EMS member Bethany Bishop and volunteer firefighter AJ Orday educated the students about fire safety.

During the presentation the students were shown a variety of equipment used to extinguish a fire and at the end the students were sprayed with water from a firehose.

"We want to educate the children about the importance of fire safety," Bishop said. "The children have always shown interest in our display, but today's hot temperatures has made the firehouse even more popular."