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Morning Buzz: 5 things to know for February 27

Posted at 10:55 AM, Feb 27, 2020
and last updated 2020-02-27 17:35:26-05

1. Burton snowboards is giving away free lift tickets to skiers and riders. It's part of the company's "A Day For Jake" campaign meant to honor founder Jake Burton, who died in November.

Certain ski resorts across the country are participating in the March 13 pass giveaway, including Boyne Mountain right here in Michigan.

The only thing Burton asks is that anyone who gets a free ticket wear a "Jake" armband in his honor.

Register online at adayforjake.com until March 8.

2. Not everyone wears a tuxedo to their doctor's appointment, unless they're a penguin.

On Wednesday, the penguins of John Ball Zoo in Grand Rapids took part in their physical exam day.

Staff members had to drain the aquarium to round up all 26 of their penguins.

Employees checked out their eyes, heart, lungs, joints, and beaks to make sure they're staying healthy.

It's not just the penguins who had their routine physicals, all of the animals get checked out as part of the John Ball Zoo's preventative health program.

3. Motorcycle ice racing is returning to downtown Muskegon after a 30-year hiatus.

The Dan Raymond Invitational is happening March 20 at Mercy Health Arena.

Metal studs are placed in tired to provide traction while riders race on the ice.

The invitational will feature multiple competitions, including some for kids.

Tickets for adults are $15, kids 12 and under get in for free.

All proceeds from the event will go towards the Child Abuse Council of Muskegon County.

4. NASA is now accepting applications for its newest class of astronauts.

20 trainees will be selected to fill the positions. Requirements include U.S. citizenship and a master's degree in a STEM field.

Candidates will also have to pass a long-duration spaceflight physical.

Those who are selected will one day board the International Space Station or potentially ride in the New Orion Spacecraft.

Enrollment runs through March 31.

5. Science has proven that the number of polar bears is declining, which is why conservationists want them to be the focus of your day today.

It's National Polar Bear Day! They can weigh 1,400 pounds and have webbed front paws to help them swim.

Environmentalists are concerned their habitats could disappear due to warmer temperatures across the globe, threatening their numbers even more.