Local kids compete in science fair

In conjunction with the White Mesa Mill open house, Energy Fuels also hosted a first annual science fair for San Juan County kids.
Adriann Goodwine, a member of the San Juan County Clean Energy Foundation, outlined the event was well attended on its first try, with 38 entries coming from 45 students of the San Juan School District grades 5th through 12th.
The senior division was won by Eli Carling, who presented a project on teenagers and their sleep.
The junior division winner is Wake Einerson, who had a presentation related to magnets.
In the senior division, Whitehorse High student Wachaykeah Martin finished second place, and Allie Carling of Monticello finished in third place.
Earning honorable mention awards for San Juan High include Jayce Raisor and Tyus Spottedelk, Jaynie McNaughtan, and Ethan Francom.
In the junior division, Bluff Elementary student Shizuku Yamamoto earned second place, Aiker Palmer finished in third place representing Blanding Elementary. Monticello students earned honorable mentions include Joy Muhlestein and Emett Carling.
Cash prizes were awarded to winners, with $1,000 for first prize, $500 for second and $250 for third. Due to high scores, six honorable mentions were also awarded swag bags.
Participation came from students at Blanding Elementary, ARL Middle School, San Juan High, Whitehorse High and Monticello High School.
Goodwine also highlighted the San Juan County Clean Energy Foundation’s work. The foundation takes a percentage of money earned from the mill to fund nonprofits and community efforts.
Goodwine reported they are close to distributing $800,000 back to the area, with the fund continuing to grow. One recently-funded project is the ADA-compliant playground upgrade at Veterans Park in Monticello.
The foundation has also funded school projects, including activities for sports programs and clubs.
Additional information can be found online at the SanJuanCountyCleanEnergy.Org website.