Congratulations to Karrie Aaron and [Xavier] Dutchman on winning the first prize for team science fair projects! Their experiment, “The Effect of Dirt Composition on Cast Fossil Formation and Clarity”, tested to see how different soil types affected the formation of cast fossils.

"[Xavier] and I made a really good team", says Karrie. "They were really good at making sure everything went to plan...even when I got their clothes covered in plaster..."

[Xavier] laughed as they recounted their experience. "Honestly, no one else here ever stood a chance--when it comes to smarts, we pretty much outrank our entire grade! Easiest project in the world. But I'm glad I did it with her."

Their victory earned them each a season pass for the Gourd Pond Museum. "I think as soon as this interview's over we're gonna head right on down," says [Xavier].

"Yeah! I heard they recently added new exhibits..." adds Karrie.