WNC News & Notes: First Independent Bank helps Observatory

A $1,000 donation by First Independent Bank of Nevada will benefit the Jack C. Davis Observatory at Western Nevada College. Greg Nixon, vice president of First Independent, presented the donation to observatory Director Robert Collier, Vice President of External Affairs Helaine Morres, and Western Nevada Astronomical Society President Mike Thomas at the observatory.

"First Independent Bank has always been a benefactor of higher education, and Jack C. Davis was one of the first business associates I met when I came to Nevada," Nixon said. "He was also a friend and mentor to me. Furthermore, the dedication of the observatory staff and volunteers is exemplary, so the decision to support this arm of Western Nevada College was easy to make."

The funds will help support enhancements at the observatory, including a project to expand the viewing platform to accommodate more people at the Saturday night lecture and sky-viewing star parties. The free events are widely attended. Doors open at 7:30 p.m., with a lecture at 8 p.m., following by telescope viewing and tours of the observatory.

Upcoming topics: Saturday, July 9: "Houston, We Have a Problem - The Story of Apollo 13;" Saturday, July 16: "Dinosaurs - Images and the latest theories relating to their extinction."

Fall class registration continues

Registration for the fall semester is in full swing online at my.wnc.edu. Western is offering about 800 classes to prepare students for careers or for transfer to a four-year college or university. Evening, online and short-term classes make taking classes possible for those with a busy schedule. Fall classes begin Monday, Aug. 29. To enroll/register, www.wnc.edu.

WNC closed for Fourth of July

Western Nevada College will be closed Monday in observance of the Independence Day holiday. The college will reopen on Tuesday.

'Want to keep kids entertained and educated this summer?

Western Nevada College Community Education division is offering noncredit classes this summer for school age children. The weeklong classes will help kids to stay engaged in math and writing or explore other fun activities. Cost: $85 per session.

Classes meet Monday-Friday, July 25-29, including:

• Anime Cartooning (CFK 1069): Students will learn the Japanese art of cartooning and create characters, storylines and comic strips. For students, grades 5-8. Meets 8 a.m.-noon.

• Solar Cooking and More (CFK 1350): Solar cooking is the simplest, safest, most convenient way to cook food without consuming fuels or heating up the kitchen. Learn about solar cookers and how to cook creative and nutritious food using the sun's energy. For students, grades 4-8. Meets 8 a.m.-noon.

• Spirit of 1776 (CFK 1845): This summer marks America's 235th birthday. Participants learn about our founding fathers and historical facts. And create patriotic arts and crafts. A morning and afternoon session is offered; 8 a.m.- noon or 1-5 p.m. For students, grades 3-6.

• Math Games (CFK 2307): The class is ideal for kids who like games or want practice with math. Participants learn to play fun math games using cards, dice, online resources and more. Meets 1-5 p.m. For students, grades 3-5.

• Land Sailing (CFK 2856): Provides an introduction to Blokard Land Sailing, a safe and quiet sport that can be done anywhere. This will be a small class of no more than 10 students. Meets 1-5 p.m. For students, ages 8-12.

• PADI Seal Team (CFK 2857): The Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) Seal Team offers an introduction to the world of diving and swimming. Class meets 8 a.m.-noon. For students, ages 8-12.

• Creative Writing (CFK 3200): Includes group interaction, creative exploration, fun projects and independent thinking. Students will build a writing portfolio with samples of their creative writing. Class meets 8 a.m.-noon. For students, grade 3-8.

• Guilty or Not-Guilty? (CFK 1927): meeting Monday-Friday, Aug. 1-5. The class will explore the order of the courts in a unique way. Students will examine actions and evidence from fairy tales to determine if the characters were accurately portrayed. Meets 8 a.m.-noon. For students, ages 8-12.

For information/registration, call 445-4268.