The excitement over crystals and geodes won’t quit in Niagara-on-the-Lake, as the Kids Rock Club is rockin’ with eager new members.
The group backed by the Niagara Peninsula Geological Society and led by Francesca (Ms. Fran) and her son Nicholas Sorrenti meets monthly to discuss a different rock each session and give kids a chance to show and share their own geological findings.
Since their first meeting at the Niagara-on-the-Lake Community Centre in October, the group has exploded in popularity.
“The kids are really excited. They’re enthusiastic,” said Francesca Sorrenti.
Kiddos aren’t the only ones inspired by the group’s unique programming.
Queenston resident Eben Holmes read about the group’s NOTL launch in The Lake Report and was inspired to help out.
Holmes contacted Sorrenti, detailing his love of geology in the Niagara region specifically and donated both a microscope and a 100-year-old book with a specimen to the group.
“He said he considers the area to be a very magical place and he loves exploring the area to this day,” said Sorrenti.
“He said that he included his book because he hopes that it will be picked up by many more young and curious minds.”
With all of the buzz and excitement around the program, the group is looking to relocate to provide additional much-needed space for learning and exploration.
Sorrenti expressed gratitude to those who donated services and funding including Holmes, Walker Aggregates, Garage Pizza in St. Davids and the Book Outlet in St. Catharines, as well as Lord Mayor Gary Zalepa for his assistance in the ongoing search for a new location.
“We will talk to anyone who has an interest in geology if they want to come and help out. We’re open to volunteers and we’re open to suggestions and anything that the community wants to bring forth.”
The Kids Rock Club is scheduled to meet next on Jan. 22 at 10:30 a.m. at the community centre where the discussion will focus on calcite.
To lend or support instructional materials, or to simply share a fun rock fact, reach out to club directors at cocoandclayforkids@gmail.com.
To enrol, visit: bookwhen.com/cocoandclay.
