Two FIRST LEGO League robotics teams from Fayette County's Crabapple Lane Elementary did well at their super-regional competition at Columbus State University, and both move on to the upcoming state championship at Georgia Tech on Jan. 28. This year's project theme is "Animal Allies," and each team had to identify a problem that occurs when people and animals interact, and conduct research to find a solution. The Cardinal Crushers were one of two tournament champions at the super-regional competition. They created a tunnel to put over a nest of sea turtle eggs. The turtle tunnel blocks out artificial light and allows the newly hatched sea turtles to follow the light of the moon, hopefully resulting in more babies making it to the ocean. Team members are Madison Lohr, Ian Gevertz, Emmett Fisher, Wynn McDonell, Will McDonell, Roshan Kolachina, Mark Redahan, Trevor Hall, and Marcus Morrow. Melissa Lohr and Errin Kelley coach the team. The Red Bird Robots were one of two teams that won the research project award. They created a fidget vest for therapy dogs to wear when working with children with autism. The vest has different tactile items attached to it for children to use while in therapy. The team members are Zachery Niederfringer, Carson Moses, Tyler Hooton, Preston Lane, Sydney Nolen, Shae Staples, David Smith, and Kaden Korn. Nicole Moses and Rebecca Niederfringer coach the team. Last year Crabapple Lane had a team that placed third at the state competition. Teacher sponsors of the teams are Michelle Redahan and Mindi Hooton.
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