Don’t be deceived by the goofy costumes or pre-contest niceties.

Expect the four civics clubs to be out for – well, probably not for blood, but at least another no-holds barred trip to the winner’s circle. Especially after the 9th-10th team reclaimed the K-Bowl trophy for the high school a year ago in the competition’s final round, and by doing so putting an end to the Lions Club’s two-year reign as K-Bowl champion.

Bragging rights as the island’s top trivia team will be on the line once again as Friday Harbor’s middle schoolers and high schoolers take on Kiwanis, Soroptimists, Lions and Rotary clubs in the 19th annual Knowledge Bowl, Thursday, March 9. Hosted by San Juan Community Theatre, doors open at 6:30 p.m., with the high school jazz band kicking off the event with a pre-competition concert.

Collectibles will be raffled off during intermission and the high school PTA will offered baked goods in the theatre lobby throughout the competition.

Speaking of competition, the K-Bowl features two high school teams and one from the middle school matching wits against the civic clubs to answer tricky questions on a wide range of topics. School Board member Brent Snow will be emcee of the event once again.

Presented by the San Juan Public Schools Foundation, the annual Knowledge Bowl is foremost a fundraiser, which, along with the Phone-a-Thon and Business Partnership Program for the school directory, provides supplemental funding for the island’s public education needs. Through its various fundraisers, the Foundation has generated nearly $95,000 in donations this year.

Tickets are available at the door on the night of the event; adults, $5, children, $3. For info, visit the Foundation website at, www.sjpsf.org/