2015 summer planner

SUMMERPLANNERA parents’ guide

■ OCALA COMICON, A FAMILY AFFAIR, PAGE 6

■ THINGS TO DO THIS SUMMER, PAGES 8-13

■ MASTER LIST OF SUMMER CAMPS, PAGES 14-16

SUNDAY , APRIL 12 , 2015

ARTIN THE PARK …

And so much more. Tuscawilla Park is now

a cultural hub withsculptures, pelicans

& playgrounds.Page 2

TUSCAWILLA’S RENAISSANCE

By Marian RizzoCorrespondent

Eight-year-old Mason Coates has one thing to say about Tuscawilla Park.

“It’s the best park in Marion County,” he said during the park’s recent Family Fun Day.

In addition to the Discovery Center, the 3/4-mile walking trail and the park’s scenic setting, one of the main draws for Mason’s parents, Kari and Monte Coates, is the ADA-compatible play-ground that is suited for their two sons, Mason, 8, who is autistic, and Evan, 6, who has Tourette syndrome.

“I think the Ocala Recreation Department does an outstanding job,” said Kari. “You can’t beat this park, with the pond and all the ducks that are there. And with all the trees there’s a little bit of shade and a little bit of sun.”

These days, the north-east Ocala park in the shadow of downtown is enjoying a substantial renaissance. It is an outdoor art museum marked by huge sculp-tures by Florida artists. It has become a cultural hub, hosting arts events and festivals.

Ocala’s fi rst park, Tuscawilla started in 1916 when the Ocala City Council purchased 10 acres of land in the historic district. Today, the park covers 45 acres of groomed property that includes two manmade lakes (now home to fi sh,

ducks and white pelicans).After years of being

unutilized, the park gained new life about fi ve years ago through the efforts of the Rediscover Tuscawilla Project. Soon thereafter, the Discovery Center relocated to from Brick City Park to Tus-cawilla’s northern edge.

“That was the fi rst catalyst,” said Kathy Crile, director of the Ocala Recreation & Parks Department.

“Then we built the destination playground. We renovated the athletic facilities and added premier lighting to the tennis courts and baseball fi elds. We really just spruced everything up. We’re continuing to make improvements to the Discovery Center. We’re adding an elevator this

year. That’s going to open the door for us to develop a traveling exhibit pro-gram.”

Since relocating, Discovery Center also has been increasing programs that satisfy curious young minds.

“It depends on what their desire is,” said Suzanne Shuffi tt, manager. “Children love discovering about insects and reptiles, but we also have a porta-ble mini planetarium, and, of course, kids want to do hands-on things. That physical activity pulls together all the different avenues of learning. You see the light bulbs come on. You can see it in their eyes.”

As a special challenge, the Discovery Center is

Nearly 100 years old, downtown Ocala park enjoys new life as arts and recreation hub

DAVE SCHLENKER/STAFF

A sculpture in Tuscawilla Park.

AMBER RICCINTO/CORRESPONDENT

Children play on a spinning wheel at Family Day at Tuscawilla Park on March 14.

BRUCE ACKERMAN/STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER/FILE

Que Wilson, 10, of Reddick, takes a big bite of his Kona Ice during the Live Harvestfest Feel Downtown event at Tuscawilla Park in 2014.

2 | SUNDAY , APRIL 12 , 2015 SUMMER PLANNER OCALA STAR-BANNER | www.ocala.com

providing scavenger hunt maps that focus on the metal sculptures dis-played throughout the park. A completed map can be exchanged for a free family pass at the Appleton Museum of Art, said Melissa Townsend, community cultural arts manager for the city.

Townsend’s current interest involves a three-acre art park that will have working spaces for artists and performers, botanical gardens and a formal English garden. There will be a walking path, a meandering stone wall and an area for art displays. Memorial pavers will be sold for fi nancial support, Townsend said.

“We plan to break ground this summer and have it completed in the fall,” said Townsend. “We do have some great artists here, and we want to provide a platform for young artists, so they’ll stay here and add vibrancy to our community.”

A $2.4 million fundraiser helped the Ocala Sympho-ny Orchestra begin

renovations for the Reilly Arts Center, located in the former City Auditorium. Another $200,000 is needed for additional enhancements, said Pame-la Calero, executive director of the orchestra.

“There are so many bells and whistles, we’ll continue to raise funds once the building is opened,” Calero said. “The big thing is, this isn’t just for the symphony. Yes, the symphony is going to perform at least 20 concerts a year there, but

we’re also going to book traveling acts — comedi-ans, rock concerts, political debates — we can see all that being held in this facility.”

Target date for comple-tion is October. The auditorium will have a main stage and seating for up to 750. Founders Club members can rent the facility for concerts, birthday parties, wedding receptions, and other gatherings. When it’s fi nished, the inside will have been completely updated, however, the outside of the building will maintain its historic charm, Calero said.

Tuscawilla Park will celebrate its centennial in 2016 with multiple festivals and events.

In the meantime, the park’s EAGO (Earthfest at Arbor Day in the Great Outdoors) event will take place on Saturday, April 18, and will include the Mayor’s Spring Cleanup, the Art in the Park Sidewalk Chalk Festival and the youth fi shing derby.

ABOUT TUSCAWILLA PARKTuscawilla Park, northeast of downtown

Ocala in the 800 block of Northeast Sanchez Avenue.

Open from sunrise to sunset; lighted areas ■

(such as the tennis courts) are open to 10 p.m.The park is home to the Eighth Avenue ■

Senior Center.The Discovery Center is open 9 a.m. to 5 ■

p.m., Mondays to Fridays. For Early Learning, summer camps and other programs, visit mydiscoverycenter.org.

The park has an ADA-equipped All Children’s Playground, lighted tennis courts, a ■

baseball diamond and other outdoor activities.Pavilions can be rented for parties. Go to www.ocalafl .org/recpark or call 368-5517. ■

Sculpture scavenger hunt maps are available at the Discovery Center or at www. ■

ocalafl .org/outdoorsculpture.Art Park memorial pavers can be purchased with a donation to the city’s Cultural Arts ■

Offi ce. Call 629-8447.Memorial pavers for the front walk of the Reilly Arts Center are $100 each, seat plates ■

are $1,000; there are other levels of donations, visit www.ocalasymphony.com.

artcampsummer 2015

don’t miss the fun!sign up for art camp onlineat appletonmuseum.org,

or pick up the camp brochure atthe appleton museum of art.

Summer Planner /A Parents’ GuideEDITOR:Dave Schlenker

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS:Rick Allen, David Moore, Marian Rizzo & Nancy Young

PAGE DESIGNER/COPY EDITOR:Rob Mack & Paul Runnestrand

COVER PHOTO:Art and activities in Tuscawilla Park. File photos.

COVER DESIGN:Rob Mack

ROB MACK/Staff graphic

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DOWNTOWNSQUAREDOWNTOWNSQUARE

TUSCAWILLAPARK

IF YOU GOWhat: EAGO (Earthfest

at Arbor Day in the Great Outdoors).When: Saturday, April 18, 9

a.m. to 3 p.m.Where: Tuscawilla Park, NE

Sanchez Ave.Events: Earth Day, Mayor’s

Spring Cleanup, 8 to 11 a.m.Twelfth annual Art in the ■

Park, Sidewalk Chalk Festival, registration, $12, sign up at the site. (425-6386)

Youth Fishing Derby; call Ire ■

Bethea at 368-5505.

ALAN YOUNGBLOOD/STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER/FILE

The Fall Fishing Derby at Tuscawilla Park in 2014.

www.ocala.com | OCALA STAR-BANNER SUMMER PLANNER SUNDAY , APRIL 12 , 2015 | 3

SPRING INTO NATURE’S

COOLEST POOLS

By David MooreCorrespondent

This region is fi lled with old-fashioned swimming holes.You’ll fi nd crystal clear springs and lakes with sandy beaches.

Here’s a rundown of some of the area’s top natural swimming spots.

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Alexander SpringsLocated in the Ocala National Forest,

it’s one of 27 fi rst-magnitude springs in Florida. Its sloped spring pool makes it almost like a natural water park and a favorite for families, while the surround-ing cabbage palm trees give it a tropical feel. As with all the springs, it’s a con-stant 72 degrees.

Alexander Springs is in northern Lake County. From Ocala, head east on State Road 40. Once in Astor, look for signs.

Juniper SpringsLocated off State Road 40 about 28

miles east of I-75, Juniper Springs is the closest of the Forest springs recreation areas to Ocala. It’s one of the oldest, having been built by the Civilian Conser-vation Corps in the 1930s.

You can still see the historic mill house there with its waterwheel. As interpretive panels there explain, the mill house and waterwheel were used to generate electricity for the recreation area. It remains a favorite spot for photogra-

phers.While there, take the Juniper Springs

Nature Trail to Fern Hammock Springs, where you’ll see the springs bubbling up. You can’t swim there, but it’s fun to watch. There is also Juniper Run for kayaking and canoeing. Some like to canoe down the run and afterward swim in the springs or vice versa.

The heart of Juniper is the spring-fed swimming area next to the mill house. Juniper is the only Forest recreation area with a diving platform. The swimming area is completely enclosed by a stone wall with steps leading down into the water and a sidewalk surrounding it.

Salt SpringsThe Forest Service calls Salt Springs

one of the “recreational jewels” of the Ocala National Forest. It’s located near the intersection of County Road 314 and State Road 19. You’ll fi nd a natural spring rising beneath the swimming area. It gets its name from the presence of magnesium, potassium and salt in the water.


Juniper Springs in the Ocala National Forest.


Blue crabs are common in the crystal clear water, and otters have been report-ed there, too. Because of the wall and deep drop-off, it may not be the best spot for toddlers.

Silver Glen SpringsBoaters love Silver Glen Springs

because you can take your boat up close to the swimming area and then enjoy the springs. As long as you don’t come on land, you don’t have to pay the park fee.

It’s very popular for boaters on the Fourth of July and Memorial Day, as well as weekends. It’s all natural with no man-made walls, and the beach leads you

gradually into the water, making it great for families. Swimmers love to lay out in the grassy areas and bask in the sun.

The Spring Boils Trail here will lead you to the Spring Boils, another great spot to see the natural springs bubbling up from beneath to create a creek. The spot is signifi cant for Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings fans; This is where young Jody played with his fl uttermill along the run in “The Yearling.”

Silver Glen Springs is off State Road 19, six miles north of State Road 40.

Admission for each of these Forest ■

recreation areas range from $5 to $5.50 per person.

All Camps are Monday thru Friday from 8:30am – 4:30pm$100.00 for members/$110.00 for non-members

Extended Day Available $5.00 per session for the week,7:30am – 8:30am and/or 4:30pm – 5:30pmOne time $25.00 registration fee per camp

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Alexander Springs in the Ocala National Forest.


Lake WeirNo story on natural swimming spots in

this area would be complete without mention of Lake Weir, with its distinctive sandy bottom and shoreline.

Marion County Parks and Recreation has two parks that offer swimming off the shores of Lake Weir: Carney Island Recreation and Conservation Area and Hampton Beach in Ocklawaha. Both offer an assortment of amenities includ-

ing picnic tables, restrooms and more. There’s also Kiwanis Beach in the town of Lake Weir, open to the public and operated by the Lake Weir Kiwanis Club.

Horsehoe LakeHead north to Orange Springs to

Horseshoe Lake Park & Retreat, another county park that offers swimming, canoeing, fi shing, hiking, a playground and, yes, even horseshoes.

Saraya Denham of Summerfi eld takes a dip in Little Lake Weir with her son, Benzino, at Carney Island Park near Ocklawaha.


By Rick AllenStaff writer

Whether it’s anime or cosplay, “Star Wars,” comic books or “Doc-tor Who,” fans of all ages are likely to fi nd their fi x this summer at the Ocala Comic Con.

The fan convention, which swamped Hilton Ocala last year in its second year, returns to the hotel on June 20 and 21. But organizers Christopher Major and Donald Gualandri vow this year’s event should be more organized, less crowded and more fun.

“We’re cutting off (admissions) each day at about 2,000,” Major said. “2,000 is still a lot of people, but they can easier shop and talk to some-

body, get around.”And if someone can’t get in

Saturday, no problem. “No one will miss anything,” he

added. “Everything we do on Saturday will be done on Sunday.” Plus, Sunday’s ticket will be $5 less than the $20 Saturday-only pass.

“Last year about 4,000 paid,” Gualandri said. They may all have showed up on Saturday, in part because it was the only day a cosplay costume contest was held.

This year, the “everything-on-Sun-day” concept extends to the popular competition, Major said. “We’re having a costume contest both days; that’s one of the biggest things.”

Added this year will be costume contests for kids.

Out in the exhibitor tent next to the pool, the Orlando-based Chalk Twins is scheduled to create a chalk mural over the two days. The sisters, Lexi and Devon Fulmer, create the wall-size artwork — as big as 8-feet-by-10-feet — by applying shades of chalk with just their hands; the works often are themed to the con the twins are attending.

“We started in high school,” one of them — she didn’t say which — told

a podcast interview at Orlando’s Mega Con last year. “They’re always having street festivals in Orlando, and our teacher suggested we do one. We fell in love with the medium and have been doing it ever since.”

“We may bring a photo-opportuni-ty chalk drawing,” Devon Fulmer noted in an email, “and/or we may set up an art wall where any convention attendee can draw whatever they want. This is all to create an interactive art area.”

In addition to the contests, the Orlando-based 501st Legion of “Star Wars” re-enactors will be back with Storm Troopers, Darth Vader, R2D2, Chewbacca and others from the movie franchise.

Also scheduled are Steve Carde-nas, the Red Power Ranger from “The Mighty Morphing Power Rangers” television series, and anime voice actors Matthew Mercer and Sonny Strait.

Other highlights are Pokemon tournaments and free video-gaming each day, Gualandri said.

“We want this to be fun, to have the actual Comic Con feeling,” Major added, “but to be affordable so you have enough money to do the things you want.”

Ocala Comic Con tochalk up another summer

PROVIDED ART

A chalk self-portrait of the Chalk Twins from Orlando.

DOUG ENGLE/STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER/FILE

Misha Nell plays a mandolorian mercenary from “Star Wars” while attending Ocala Comic Con at the Hilton Ocala in 2014.


An attendee dressed as Marvel comic character Deadpool.

If you goWhat: Ocala Comic ConWhen: June 20-21Where: Hilton OcalaTickets: $30 for a 2-day pass, $20

Saturday, $15 Sunday

Orlando-based 501st Legion of “Star Wars” re-enactors will be back with Storm Troopers, Darth Vader, R2D2, Chewbacca and others from the movies.


Education Department

Camps for the kid who loves science and techBy Katherine RothThe Associated Press

For kids whose dream summer camp involves more coding than canoe-ing, more technology than ten-nis and more science than swim-

ming, STEM summer camps — once considered a contradiction in terms — are popular and plentiful.

The camps, ranging from private half-day camps for younger children to longer sleep-away camps for teenagers, cater to kids who are passionate about STEM subjects (science, technology, engineering and math) or who just love immersing themselves in projects involving thinking creatively and problem-solving.

“We’re defi nitely seeing a lot more summer programs that focus on science, technology, engineering and math, and also programs that combined those elements with art,” said Kathy Heraghty, program director and founder of Desti-nation Science, based in Orange, California. The group, which began in California in 2000, now runs summer camps for children ages 5 to 11 in fi ve states.

“The education system is slowly coming around to putting more emphasis on the sciences, and parents are also beginning to change some pretty old-fashioned ideas about summer camps and also about science, which is about way more than data and Bunsen burners,” she said.

STEM-oriented summer camps often include more traditional summer pursuits like swimming and crafts, but the focus is on the fun of “thinking like a scientist” in more depth than is often possible during the school year.

“We focus on things that are playful and fun and that kids can connect to, like building a really cool car with a solar cell,” Heraghty said.

“This summer we are introducing a Super Heroes camp that takes a closer looks at bats and spiders and things like warp speed. And robotics and robots are also always exciting to kids.”

The camps cost $379 per week for full day camp, with discounts available to those who register early and some scholarships available.

For older kids looking for a sleep-away experience, options include BEAM Camp, in Stafford, New Hampshire,

which offers three-and-a-half-week camps for kids ages 10 to 17.

“We’re a camp about making things and bringing ideas to life,” said co-found-er Brian Cohen, who shuns the STEM label because, he said, the emphasis should be on the human side of things and “fashioning physical reality,” not on abstract concepts.

“We give kids the experience of making a big idea happen on their own. Last summer, the kids in one session built a 30-foot kaleidoscope, and another session built a boat powered by a human-size hamster wheel,” he said.

In addition to building and problem-solving, campers swim daily and spend time with chefs, artists, architects and engineers to help broaden their ideas about creative career options. The camps, open to boys and girls, have a hefty $5,200 price tag, but Cohen said about 40 percent of campers receive partial or full scholarships.

Emagination, a much larger summer camp focusing on coding, game design and other computer skills, offers day camp and sleep-away options for kids ages 8 to 17 in fi ve major cities in the Midwest and on the East Coast. Camps range in price from $845 per week for day camp to almost $3,000 for some two-week programs. As with many science camps, some scholarships are available.

“STEM summer camps are wilderness exploration, but in the wilderness of exploration and inquiry,” said Meg Kaufer, president of the STEM Alliance of Larchmont and Mamaroneck, New York, one of a growing number of grassroots organizations helping promote STEM activities in and out of schools.

Find campswww.ScienceBuddies.org ■ lists a

wide range of summer science programs across the United States, as does www.lmstemalliance.org Destination Science: www.destina-

tionscience.org Beam Camp: www.beamcamp.com Emagination: www.computercamps.

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ONGOINGOCALA SPLASH PAD: Free water attraction, open sunrise to sunset throughout the summer, Citizens’ Circle at Ocala City Hall, downtown Ocala. (368-5503)“BEYOND REALITY: THE MANY WORLDS OF JAMES H. VRE-DEVOOGD”: Art exhibit runs through June 7, Appleton Museum

of Art, 4333 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala. Vredevoogd’s works are dreamscapes with their own unique symbolism and iconogra-phy. $4-$8 museum admission. (291-4455 or AppletonMuseum.org)

APRILMONDAY MATINEE: “Soylent Green,” 2 p.m. Monday, Marion

County Public Library headquar-ters, 2720 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala. Free. (671-8551)DUNNELLON BOOMTOWN DAYS FESTIVAL: Family and history festival, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. April 18-19, corner of Cedar Street and West Pennsylvania Avenue, Dunnellon. Free. Craft fair, antique car show, food truck competition and the Queen of the Rainbow Beauty Pageant. (489-2320)CRONES’ CRADLE CONSERVE FOUNDATION SPRING SUSTAIN-ABILITY AND NATURAL FOODS GALA: Event will offer organic fare, garden tours and country store with more than 1,500 seedlings available for purchase, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. April 18, Crones’ Cradle Con-serve, 6411 NE 217th Place, Citra. (595-3377)YOUTH FISHING DERBY: April 18, for ages 16 and younger, 8:30 a.m. registration, 9 a.m.-noon event, Lake Lillian, U.S. 441, Belleview. Free. (245-2071, ext. 2115)EDUCATIONAL ART FILM: “Charles

Hosmer Morse Museum of Art,” 2 p.m. April 19, Appleton Museum of Art, 4333 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala. $4-$8 museum admission. (291-4455 or www.appletonmu-seum.org)MONDAY MATINEE: “Who is Kill-ing the Great Chefs of Europe?,” 2 p.m. April 20, Marion County Public Library headquarters, 2720 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala. Free. (671-8551)EDUCATIONAL ART FILM: “ARTS: A Film about Possibilities, Disabili-ties and the Arts,” 2 p.m. April 26, Appleton Museum of Art, 4333 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala. $4-$8 museum admission. (291-4455 or www.appletonmuseum.org)“THE 25TH ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE”: Musi-cal by the Thespian Troupe from Forest High School, 7 p.m. April 29-May 1, FHS auditorium, 5000 SE Maricamp Road, Ocala. $5-$10. (671-4700)ANIMAL THEMED TOUR: Appleton Animals Real & Legendary,


The Ocala Splash Pad at Citizens’ Circle at Ocala City Hall downtown.


Junari Thompson, 8, grabs a tube at the City of Ocala Recreation and Park’s Flick and Float event in 2014.

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2-3 p.m. April 30, Appleton Museum of Art, 4333 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala. $4-$8. (RSVP to 291-4445, ext. 1836)

MAYFIRST FRIDAY ART WALK: Dozens of performing and visual artists perform and display work, 6-9 p.m. May 1, throughout downtown Ocala. Free. (629-8447)BELLEVIEW FOUNDERS DAY CEL-EBRATION: Arts, history and family festival 10 a.m.-3 p.m. May 2, City Hall Park, 5343 SE Abshier Blvd,, Belleview. Free. Arts, crafts, food, Kid’s Zone, pony rides, petting zoo, face painting, games, Blueberry Lane and the Belleview Beauty Pageant. (245-2178)APPLETON FIRST SATURDAY EVENT: “Monet’s Garden,” 1-3 p.m. May 2, ages 4 and older, Appleton Museum of Art, 4333 E. Silver Springs Blvd., free for children and museum members, price of admission for non-members. (291-4455)STREET EATS ON THE CIRCLE: Food truck rally to benefi t Open Arms Vil-lage, noon-6 p.m. May 16, Citizens’ Circle at Ocala City Hall, downtown Ocala. $10, free for ages 12 and younger. Entertainment, children’s activities, cooking demonstrations and more. (427-4713) SALUTE TO OUR HEROES: Memo-rial Day event with auto show, music, salute to military personnel, swap meet and food trucks, 9 a.m.-9 p.m. May 25, Don Garlits Museum of Drag Racing, 13700 SW 16th Ave., Ocala.

(245-8661)

JUNEAPPLETON FIRST SATURDAY EVENT: “Ready for the Beach?,” 1-3 p.m. June 6, ages 4 and older, Appleton Museum of Art, 4333 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala. Free for children and museum members; price of admission for non-members. (291-4455)“DISNEY’S ALADDIN, JR.”: Perform-ing Arts Conservatory student produc-tion, 1 and 6 p.m. June 13, West Port High School’s Performing Arts Center, 3733 SW 80th Ave, Ocala. $5-$15 in advance. (237-5678)

JULYFLICK & FLOAT: Pool party with movie, “Paddington,” 8 p.m. July 10, Hampton Aquatic Fun Center, 255 NW Martin Luther King, Jr. Ave., Ocala. Free. (622-6803)DOWNTOWN SUMMER JAMS AND FOOD TRUCK FRIDAYS: Local bands and solo acts, 5:30 p.m. July 17, Aug. 21 and Sept. 18, Citizens’ Circle at Ocala City Hall, downtown Ocala. (368-5517)

AUGUSTFLICK & FLOAT: Pool party with movie, “Mr. Peabody & Sherman,” 8 p.m. Aug. 7, Jervey Gantt Aquatic Fun Center, 2390 SE 36th Ave., Ocala. Free. (624-2410)BACK TO SCHOOL BASH: Food, enter-tainment, backpacks and school sup-plies, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Aug. 8, Martin Luther King, Jr. Recreation Complex, 1510 NW 4th St., Ocala. (368-5517)


Dunnellon High School students dance to the song “Footloose” at Boomtown Days celebration in Dunnellon in 2014.

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Kids going to camp for the fi rst time? Don’t overtalk itBy Leanne ItalieThe Associated Press

NEW YORK — Audra Friis has already decided on a Long Island day camp for her 7-year-old daughter and 5-year-old son. She’s confi dent her oldest will do just fi ne after attending other day camps, but she’s worried her fi rst-timer will have trouble settling in.

“He doesn’t transition as easily as his older sister,” Friis said. “It’s defi nitely a high-energy camp. My whole issue is really the high energy and the overstimu-lation. Kids respond to that or they don’t.”

While some kids prefer to know all the details of a new experience, she thinks a less-is-more approach to preparing her kindergartner is the way to go. With

sign-ups for day and sleepaway programs underway, she’s not the only parent looking ahead to easing that transition.

“Instead of fi lling his head with all of the things that he’s going to be doing that would ordinarily get somebody excited, he might back away and decide it doesn’t

sound like fun,” said Friis, who lives in Commack, New York. “It took him a few weeks to get used to the idea of a fi re drill at school, with the loud noises and everything, and now he’s OK because he knows what it is.”

Camp directors and consultants think there’s no one way to prep new campers since a child’s personality and the care taken in choosing a camp play key roles, but there are things parents should avoid doing and saying.

Never, for example, promise a child heading off to sleepaway camp for the fi rst time that they’ll be picked up early if they get homesick.

“Kids shouldn’t go into it with the feeling that they have an out. Start with

an attitude of excitement and enthusiasm and confi dence,” said Laurie Kaiden, who calls herself a “campcierge” for her work connecting parents with the Maine Camp Experience, a group of 32 camps there.

She’s also a mom. Her 9-year-old daughter went to sleepaway for the fi rst time last summer without a hitch and her 6-year-old daughter attends a day camp that requires a 45-minute bus ride each way. For the long bus ride, she recalls packing an extra snack for the return trip home, assuring her daughter that she was going to have a great time, and that’s about it.

“My kids didn’t have a transition problem and I think the reason is because

“Kids shouldn’t go into it with the feeling that they have an out. Start with an attitude of excitement and enthusiasm and confi dence.”

LAURIE KAIDEN, campcierge

FIRST on Page 19


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•FUN IN THESUN

By Nancy YoungSpecial to the Star-Banner

School’s out. It’s hot outside, and for school-aged children, sum-mer can be a dangerous brain slide into forgetting important skills learned over the school year. So don’t ride that slide. Prevention is easy — read.

Research has shown that reading just 15 minutes a day prevents summer slide.

Parents, you are your child’s fi rst and most important teacher. Seize the summer and grow your child’s brain by making reading and reading aloud with your children a part of your daily routine.

First, create a “reading space” in your home.

Have a box or shelf that contains books, pamphlets, magazines, newspapers, summer program schedules from the Ocala Star-Banner and the Marion County Public Library System, paper-backs, hardcovers, books, books, books.

Have a book basket in the bathroom. Have a stack of books near the kitchen table so nobody eats alone. Have a book container in the car. Be at the ready for reading.

Public library cards are free. Every student in Marion County Public Schools may check out 10 books at the end of school, keep them all summer and return them to any Marion County school in August.

Second, make reading a special time when televisions and other electronics are OFF.

Talk about your day. Talk about what you are reading. Show interest and enthusiasm in what each family member is reading. A hilarious picture book your preschooler loves will bring giggles to everyone in the family. Try “Interrupting Chicken” by David Ezra Stein.

Characters and stories in chapter books are good springboards for conversation. You might fi nd recipes for new picnic ideas or plans for the backyard bird-house. The possibilities for reading are endless.

Third, bedtime is a great time for reading.

Don’t forget that all-important reading lamp beside the bed. Jim Trelease, author of the “Read Aloud Handbook,” said, “If you want to raise a reader, the fi rst order of business is to go out and buy a bed lamp. Parents can encourage staying up 15 minutes later by reading in bed. Most kids will do anything to stay up later — even read.”

Fourth, embrace teachable moments by demonstrating how learning and reading are priorities to you and your family.

Explore Marion County and city parks. Attend programs for children at your public library. Sit in your yard, take walks and listen to birds and look for butterfl ies, read about butterfl ies, catch a few butterfl ies. Summertime is fi lled with opportunities for adults and children to interact in conversation about the world around them.

Success in school is all about the number of words your child understands. Exploring your community during those long, lazy summer days is a great way to increase that vocabulary. Spend some time with your child this summer and share the joys of exploring and reading.

Nancy Young serves on the Success By 6 Leadership Council and is a retired manager for the Marion County Public Library System’s Children’s Division.

Don’t ride the ‘summer slide.’ Keep kids reading

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A hilarious picture book your preschooler loves will bring giggles to everyone in the family. Try “Interrupting Chicken” by David Ezra Stein.

Tips to help parents when school is out


MARION COUNTY HEADQUARTERS-OCALA LIBRARY, 2720 E. SILVER SPRINGS BLVD., OCALA

Scavenger Hunt for Children, ■

today-April 18Especially for Teens. Meet ■

Christina M. Benjamin, author of “The Geneva Project: Truth,” 5 p.m. Tuesday

Book Feast! An Event for ■

Readers and Writers of All Ages, 11 a.m.-2 p.m., Saturday

Día de los niños/Día de ■

los libros, 3:30 p.m. April 30, multicultural celebration with stories and cake

Free Comic Book Day, May 2 ■

Comic Connection, Vol. 3, 1-3 ■

p.m. May 9Manga-licious! Teen Book Club, ■

4 p.m. May 5, June 2, July 7 and Aug. 4

Innovation Station!, 2 p.m. ■

May 6Preschool Club, 2 p.m. May 16, ■

June 20, July 18 and Aug. 15Super Saturdays, Blast Off! ■

Have a blast with rocketry, 2 p.m. May 23

Mother Goose Story Time, 10:30 ■

a.m. May 2, June 6 and Aug. 1Just for Teens! Unmask, 4 p.m. ■

June 9. Become the hero of your own story in the best photo contest of the summer.

Summer Hero Preview, 2 p.m. ■

June 10, ages 6-12Cowboy Recollections with Bill ■

Roberts, 2 p.m. June 11LEGO Technic for ages 10-12, 2 ■

p.m. June 14Get Your Game On for ages 10- ■

12, 2 p.m. July 12Super Saturdays, 2 p.m. for ages ■

5-12: World Travel on June 27. Innovation Station on July 25

Lights! Camera! Action! Teen ■

Filmmakers’ Workshop, 10 a.m. July 18. Open to ages 13-18. Registration required. Call 671-8551.

Paper Play for ages 10-12, 2 ■

p.m. Aug. 9

BELLEVIEW PUBLIC LIBRARY, 13145 SE COUNTY ROAD 484, BELLEVIEW

Structure Junction Club with ■

LEGOs, 2 p.m. Saturday

Art Before Your Eyes with ■

Gallery East, 10 a.m. May 1, June 5, July 3 and Aug. 7

Unmask! @ your library for ■

tweens, 4 p.m. Wednesdays, June 10-July 22

Shakespearience, 1 p.m. ■

Wednesdays from June 10-July 15Family Games Unplugged, 4 ■

p.m. Wednesdays, June 3-Aug. 5

DUNNELLON PUBLIC LIBRARY, 20351 ROBINSON ROAD, DUNNELLON

Guitar Hero!, 2 p.m. Saturday ■

Woodland Hills Birds of Prey, 1 ■

p.m. April 22Mother’s Day Music With Ocala ■

Harmony Barbershop Chorus, 10:30 a.m. April 30, 10:30 a.m.

Gentle Carousel Miniature ■

Therapy Horses, 1 p.m. June 9Tampa Taiko Drums, 11 a.m. ■

June 21Smokey the Bear and Ranger ■

John, 10 a.m. July 8Construction Junction, 2 p.m. ■

June 24 and July 22Local Heroes, Dunnellon Firemen ■

and Police, 2 p.m. July 15

FOREST PUBLIC LIBRARY, 905 S.COUNTY ROAD 314A, OCKLAWAHA

Construction Junction, 2:30 p.m. ■

June 3Art Workshop for Teens and ■

Tweens, Unmask, 4 p.m. June 17 and July 15

Fort McCoy Public Library, 14660 ■

NE County Road 315, Fort McCoySummer Reading Program, Bats, ■

10 a.m. June 10Firefi ghters to the Rescue, 10 ■

a.m. June 17Animals are Heroes too, 10 a.m. ■

June 24Robotics with Vincent Vaughns, ■

10 a.m. July 1Quick Cartooning with Rob ■

Smith, Jr., 10 a.m. July 8Crime Solvers, 10 a.m. July 15 ■

Super Heroes and Villains, 10 ■

a.m. July 23Freedom Public Library, 5870 SW ■

95 St., OcalaEvery Hero Has a Story! Florida ■

Library Youth Programs with guest heroes, 2 p.m. June 10-July 22

Pajama Parties, 6:30 p.m. ■

Tuesdays June 9-July 21

MARION OAKS PUBLIC LIBRARY, 294 MARION OAKS LANE, OCALA

Bats in the Library, 11 a.m. June ■

13Morning Storytimes, 10:30 a.m. ■

Thursdays July 2-23Pajama Bedtime Stories, 6:30 ■

p.m. June 17, July 1, July 15, and July 29

Reddick Public Library, 5150 NW ■

Gainesville Road, ReddickSummer Reading Program, ■

Firefi ghters to the Rescue, 2 p.m. June 6

Bats, 2 p.m. June 13 ■

Animals are Heroes, Too, 2 p.m. ■

June 20Robotics with Vincent Vaughns, ■

2 p.m. June 27Quick Cartooning with Rob ■

Smith, Jr., 2 p.m. July 11Crime Solvers, 2 p.m. July 18 ■

Superheroes and Villains, 2 p.m. ■

July 25

Library program and event highlights

FILE PHOTO

Children play the drums after a live performance by Ron Collins, a member of Tampa Taiko, at the Dunnellon Public Library in 2014.

Registration Opens April 10.Camp Starts June 8.

Y SUMMER CAMP.MOVING BODIES. BOOSTING BRAINS.

Frank DeLuca YMCA Family Center3200 SE 17th Street | Ocala, FL 34471

ymcacentralflorida.com

For more information callCamp Director Jamie Craig

352.368.9622

FRANK DELUCAYMCA FAMILY CENTER

SUMMER CAMP

YSUMMER

CAMP2015


OVERNIGHT CAMPSCAMP KIWANIS: Four one-week sessions, ages 7-13, June 15 through July 10. Registration is $225 per week. (236-5401 or www.CampKiwanisOcala.com)

GENERAL CAMPSWINSHAPE CAMPS FOR COMMUNITIES: Weeklong day camp for students who have completed fi rst through sixth grades, Bible study and worship, sports, archery, arts, music, drama, games and other categories, June 8-12, First Baptist Church, 2801 SE Maricamp Road, Ocala. $199, $50 nonrefundable deposit required, 10 percent sibling discount. Register at www.fbcocala.org/kids/winshape-2015 (629-5683, ext. 142 or www.fbcocala.org/kids)DISCOVERY CENTER CAMP: Adventure Camp, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. June 8-Aug. 7, $110 per week plus $25 registration; Outdoor Camp, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. June 15-26, July 6-31, $110 per week plus $25 registration, Discovery Center, 701 NE Sanchez Ave., Ocala. (401-3900)SUMMER ENCOUNTER FUN CAMP: Weekly themes include arts, crafts, games, fi eld sports, movies, skating, swimming and more, ages 6-12, 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Mondays-Fridays, June 8-Aug. 21, Small Talk Child Care, 2125 NE Second St., Ocala, $115 per week. (622-6481)CITY KIDS CAMP: Ages 5-12, 7:30 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Fridays, June 8-Aug. 10, $55 per week, plus $25 registration, E.D. Croskey Recreation

Center, 1510 NW Fourth St., Ocala. (401-3920)LILLIAN BYRANT SIZZLING SUMMER CAMP: Activities with weekly themes, ages 5-14, 7:30 a.m.-6 p.m. Mondays-Fridays June 8-Aug. 10, $25 registration fee, $20 for Ocala city residents with proof of residency, $45 per week for nonresidents, Lillian Bryant Community Center, 2200 NW 17th Place, Ocala. (629-8389)

OWL HOLLOW FARM SUMMER RIDING CAMP: Formal lessons, equine care and safety, fun on horse back and other horse-related activities in the morning. Swimming in the afternoon, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Mondays-Thursdays, June through August, 740 SE 59th St., Ocala, $275 per week. Call about discounts for newcomers. (237-4132)UF/IFAS MARION COUNTY 4-H: Camps include

Master Gardener, Tech Wizard, Horsemanship, AgriScience and more. Camps run June 8-July 31 for ages 8-18. Prices range from $75-$230. Call for full schedule/pricing. (671-8404 or email kimberly.condurso@marioncountyfl .org)

DANCE CAMPSMARY ELLEN SCHOOL OF DANCE: Dance Camp

MARION COUNTY SUMMER CAMPS& PROGRAMS 2015


A dance competition Friday at WinShape Camp at First Baptist Church in 2013.

DAVE SCHLENKER/STAFF/FILE

Starfi sh Circus summer camp at the Ocala Civic Theatre in 2012.


(beginner/intermediate) for ages 5-13, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. July 13-16 and July 27-30, 3650 NE 25th St., Ocala, $130 per week; Princess Camp (beginner) for ages 3-5, 9 a.m.-noon or 12:30-3:30 p.m. July 6-9 or July 20-23, $65 per week; Boys Camp, arts and crafts, obstacle course and other activities, 9 a.m.-noon for ages 3-5 and 12:30-3:30 p.m. for ages 6-8, July 6-9 or July 20-23; Ballet Intensive for ages 6-21, beginner meets 4-5 p.m. $60 per week, intermediate meets 5-8 p.m. and advanced meets 5-8 p.m., July 13-16, $140 per week; Acrobatic Workshop for ages 6-21, fl oor tumbling technique, beginner 9-10 a.m, intermediate 10-11 a.m., advanced 11 a.m.-noon June 22-25, $60 per week; FOCUS Intensive for ages 6-21, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Aug. 3-7; Beginner Jazz 4-4:45 p.m. for ages 6-9, July 13-16 and July 27-30; Beginner Tiny Tots, 4:45-5:30 p.m. for ages 3-5, Tuesdays in July. $45. (732-2030 or [email protected])BALCONY GYMNASTICS: Gymnastics, karate, cheerleading and dance day camps for ages 4-12, Mondays-Fridays, June 8-Aug. 21, $40 registration, $70 per family, Balcony Gymnastics and Youth Sports Complex, 1220 SW 33rd Ave, Ocala. Call for full schedule and prices. (401-3663)

THEATER CAMPSPERFORMING ARTS CONSERVATORY: 819 SE First Terrace, Ocala. (237-5678)Dance Camp, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., $165 per week or 8 a.m.-5 p.m., $195 per week, ages 4-teen

June 22-26: Drive In ■

July 6-10: Beach Bums ■

July 20-24: Soda Shop/Sock Hop ■

Aug. 3-7: Camp Out ■

Acting Camp, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. July 13-17, $165 per week or 8 a.m.-5 p.m., $195 per week, middle and high school students“Peter Pan” Musical Theater, 4-5:30 p.m. June 23-Aug. 4, $100 for all classes, elementary agesMini Mozart, 11-11:45 a.m. June 16-Aug. 4, $10 per session, ages 2-5Academic Camp/Building Bridges and Brains, 9 a.m.-noon, July 13-16, $75, elementary agesIntensive Classes

July 7-23, American Ballet Theatre ■

July 27-30, Pro-Track Dance Intensive, $195 ■

OCALA CIVIC THEATRE: 4337 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala. Prices vary, call for information. (236-2274 or ocalacivictheatre.com)Performance camps

Missoula Children’s Theatre presents “Red ■

Riding Hood,” ages 6-18, 9 a.m.-2:30 p.m. June 15-19

“Starfi sh Circus,” ages 7-18, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. ■

June 22-26“We Are Monsters,” ages 7-14, 9 a.m.-4:30 ■

p.m. June 29-July 10Specialty camps

The Art of Performing Magic, ages 8 and ■

older, 9 a.m.-noon or 1-4 p.m. June 8-12

American Girls, ages 6-12, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. June ■

29-July 2Youth production “Into the Woods,” ages ■

10-20, auditions 6 p.m. May 17-18, evening rehearsals June 8-July 23

ART CAMPSAPPLETON MUSEUM OF ART: 4333 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala. (291-4455, ext. 1558, fi [email protected] or register online at AppletonMuseum.org)

June 15-19Animals in Art, ages 7-9, 9 a.m.-noon, $110 ■

Asian Adventure, ages 10-12, 9 a.m.-noon, ■

$110Block Party, ages 7-12, 1-4 p.m., $100 ■

June 22-26Meet the Masters, ages 4-6, 10 a.m.-noon, ■

$90Explore Your Creative Side, ages 11 and older, ■

1-4 p.m., $110Block Party, ages 7-12, 1-4 p.m., $100 ■

July 13-17Landscape Adventure, ages 7-12, 9 a.m.- ■

noon, $110Two-week Pottery for Teens, ages 13 and ■

older, 1-4 p.m., $210 for two weeks

July 20-24Pirate Week: Arrrg Matey!, ages 7-12, 9 a.m.- ■

noon, $110

Aug. 3-7

The Colorful World of Matisse, ages 7-12, 1-4 ■

p.m., $110Meet the Masters, ages 4-6, 10 a.m.-noon, ■

$90Aug. 10-14

Fabulous Fabrics, ages 7-12, 9 a.m.-noon, ■

$110


A tennis camp at Ft. King Tennis Center in 2012.


The First Tee of Greater Ocala off ers golf camps.

FILE PHOTO

Campers settle into their bunks at Camp Kiwanis in 2009.

CAMPS on Page 16


Block Party, ages 7-12, 1-4 p.m., $100 ■

MASTER THE POSSIBILITIES: Intergenerational classes for parents, grandparents, caregivers and children, 8415 SW 80th St., Ocala. Registration begins May 15. (854-3699 or www.MasterthePossibilities.com)

Kids Paint, painting workshop for kindergar- ■

ten-fi rst grade and adult, 11:30 a.m.-12:45 p.m. June 16, $25 for adult and child pair

Kids Paint, acrylic painting workshop for ■

second-fi fth grade and adult, 11 a.m.-12:45 p.m. July 7, $45 for adult and child pairARTIST HUB OF OCALA: Brick City Center for the Arts, 23 SW Broadway St., Ocala. (867-9660)July 7-10

Polymer Clay Camp, Kindergarten through ■

ninth gradeGlass Painting-Mosaic Art Camp: Reverse ■

Glass Painting and Watercolors, fourth grade and olderJuly 14-17

Art Development Camp: Exploring Watercol- ■

ors, Acrylics, Color Pencils, Drawing, One Line Design, Prints, Wire Sculpture, kindergarten through fourth grade or fi fth through ninth grade

July 28-31Skate Board Design Deck Art, fi fth grade and ■

olderImpressionist Masters: Picasso-Matisse- ■

Monet, Masters Camps, kindergarten through fourth grade or fi fth grade through ninh gradeCamp times: 11 a.m.-3:15 p.m. camp. Prices: $80 or $25 for one-day camp, includes all supplies

BASKETBALL CAMPSST. JOHN BASKETBALL CAMP: Third grade through ninth grade, $100 until June 8, then $125; registration by May 29 is $90, St. John Lutheran School, 1915 SE Lake Weir Road, Ocala. (622-7275, ext. 2004, [email protected] or [email protected])FUTURE STARS BASKETBALL PROGRAM: Basic skills and fundamentals, sportsmanship and teamwork, 6-9 p.m. Mondays-Thursdays July 15-Aug. 3, E.D. Croskey Recreation Center, 1510 NW Fourth St., Ocala. $35. (401-3920)

SWIM CAMPSLEARN TO SWIM: Lessons taught by certifi ed swim instructors. No swimming aids allowed. For ages 3 and older, Mondays through Thursdays. Call for dates and times. Sessions will be held at Hampton Aquatic Fun Center, 255 NW Martin Luther King, Jr. Ave., Ocala; and Jervey Gantt Aquatic Fun Center, 2390 SE 36th Ave., Ocala. $55 per person. (368-5517 or 624-2410)JUNIOR LIFEGUARD CAMP: Ages 11-15, 8 a.m.-noon Mondays-Fridays, June 22-26, Jervey Gantt Aquatic Fun Center, 2390 SE 36th Ave., Ocala. $75. (624-2410)PADI SCUBA DIVER PROGRAM: Taught by a master scuba diver trainer, ages 10-15, 8 a.m.-noon July 20-24, Jervey Gantt Aquatic Fun Center, 2390 SE 36th Ave., Ocala. $125. (624-2410)OCALA AQUATICS SPLASH CAMP: Ages 6-12, 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Mondays-Fridays June 8-Aug. 7, $135 per week, $115 for additional weeks, Newton A. Perry Aquatic Center, College of Central Florida, 3001 SW College Road, Ocala. (873-5811)

TENNIS AND SWIM SESSIONSTENNIS SESSIONS: Ages 6-12, tennis from 9-11 a.m., swimming from 11 a.m.-1 p.m., June 8-July 3, Fort King Tennis Center, 3301 SE Fort King St., Ocala. Call for prices. (629-8453)

GOLFTHE FIRST TEE OF GREATER OCALA: Scholarships available to families with fi nancial needs, ages 6-15, Ocala Golf Club, 3130 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala; and Pine Oaks of Ocala, 2201 NW 21st St., Ocala. Call for dates and prices. (362-2258)


A lifeguard keeps an eye on swimmers at the Hampton Aquatic Fun Center in Ocala in 2014.

FILE PHOTO

Morgan Umbrell, 7, creates a robot during the Summer Art Camp at the Appleton Museum of Art in 2013.

Continued from 15


MARION COUNTY PARKS AND RECREATION SUMMER CAMPSFIREWISE NATURE CAMPSFirewise Nature Camp, our series of nature-related camp programs, is the place to

be for summer fun. Children ages 6-12 can explore the wonders of nature through

weekly themes with hands-on activities, arts and craft projects, hikes and games –

highlighted by special guests and field trips. Additionally, campers will learn about

wildfire safety and how to develop safe firewise practices in their daily lives. Firewise

Nature Camp is based out of Brick City Adventure Park (1211 SE 22nd Road, Ocala).

Nature camp programs will run from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Before-and-after care (7:30-8 a.m.

and 5-6 p.m.) is included in the weekly fee. Registration underway.

MONDAY-FRIDAY / JUNE 8 – AUGUST 7 / WEEKLY FEE - $95 PER CHILD / AGES 6-12

SALTWATER DRAMA June 8-12It’s a watery jungle filled with seaweed, leafy clinging camouflage, and master of disguise.Learn about what’s found under the ocean waves. Discover seaweed power, kelp forests,bladder wrack, seahorses, jellyfishes’ camouflaged body, and sea squirts to crustaceans,fossils and microscopic plankton. Jump into a colorful world under the sea.

FRESHWATER ANTICS June 15-19Muggy- buggy- murky water is what’s left behind? Learn what defines wetlands byobserving creatures wiggling, squiggling, twisting, and turning in the mud while uncoveringthat stinking smell referred to as swamp gas. Examine the hangout where snorkel breathinganimals are part of thousands of food makers and the creatures that eat them.

LOFTY, LEVEL AND LUMPY June 22-26Dig in! Soil Investigations from a shrew’s point of view. Talk trash is what it’s all about.Learn what soil is along with understanding terms like geologic formation, biologicalactivates, interaction of weather, and recycling. Discover how each interacts to help breakdown in soil.

MAGNIFIED, ELECTRIFIED AND MYSTIFIED June 29-July 2Buzz word “reaction”. Explore the unknown of how the elements come together passingenergy along. Contagious reaction? Let’s look at the invisible waves all around us. Explorethe current of electricity to sound waves learning how this energy causes a contagiousreaction. All this creates a natural chain of events. No camp July 3.

WANTED: DEAD OR ALIVE July 6-10Catch a falling clue. Discover the clues to unravel the mysteries. Learn where a detective’swork begins. Leaves crackle under your feet, twigs snap. A mystery needing to be solved.Getting all the clues together helps you understand the living woods. Detective work hasbegun! Locate many hideouts, nurseries, wood munchers, and predators on the prowl!

BIRD DETECTIVES July 13-17Elementary, My Dear Hoatzin! Learn why Hedwig does not make a good pet.Who rises fromthe ashes? What is making that large nest of sticks? Who is stealing, diving at speeds up to250 miles per hour, and eating migratory birds? Let’s examine rocking-like motion in flight, aswell the bending, dipping motion, sleeping habits, and warning calls of birds living on the edge.

FOREST CONSEQUENCES July 20-24On the hunt….life on the line. Learn the value of protective coloration to survive. Explorethe world’s diverse habitats. Discover the natural pattern of change over time in a forest orecosystem while learning how to improve communities by making positive environmentalchanges. Become advocates for endangered species. “No bones about it”.

LIVINGWITH FIRE July 27-31Learn about the history of other cultures and beliefs in songs, sayings, dances, andcustoms. Explore some traditional Native American attitudes and lifestyle with respect tothe land and its resources, while comparing those attitudes with our own in regards to theenvironment. Understand that a forest is more than a place to live, it provides for needs.Learn how fire is a natural event in forests in keeping ecosystems healthy.

WEB OF LIFE Aug. 3-7Have seeds…..will travel! Learn about living organisms and the systems that enable them togrow and reproduce. Classify and identify the various methods of seed dispersal.With everythingcomes a story. Explore your web of life story from your beginning. The forest is a living community.Discover the ways that the plants and animals are connected to each other. Understand andexplore threatened species in danger of decline and learn which will be/or are endangered.

OUTDOOR RECREATION CAMPSARCHERY CAMP Brick City Adventure Park

Monday-Friday 9 a.m.-noonAges 9-15 $45 per childSession I July 6-10Session II Aug.3-7Archery is an exciting sport for children, teaching them hand-eye coordination, developing their patienceand building confidence. This camp will touch on all of that under safe supervision. Different targetmediums will be used to make the sport fun and interesting.

CAVING ADVENTURES Brick City Adventure ParkMonday-Thursday 8 a.m.-noonAges 9-15 $100 per childSession I August 17-20The Florida Speleological Society recognizes Marion County as home to some of the best known cavesin the area. Don’t miss out on our first caving camp where you have the opportunity to explore fourunique caves.You will learn about the types of caves and the importance of preserving these uniqueproperties.

KAYAK / PADDLEBOARD MINI-CAMP Brick City Adventure ParkMonday-Thursday 8 a.m.-2 p.m.Ages 10-15 $80 per childSession I June 15-18Session II July 20-23Session III Aug. 10-13Learn the basic skills of kayaking, as well as “Stand-Up Paddling” (SUP). Program will include instructionand local outings in the area. Participants meet at Brick City Adventure Park. Please understand that rainmay be a factor in the weekly plans. Friday will be used as an alternate rain-day.

FISH CAMP Brick City Adventure ParkMonday-Friday 8 a.m.-5 p.m.Ages 9-15 $135 per childSession I June 8-12Session II July 27-31Youth will learn bank/boat fishing, boating safety, types of tackle, casting tips, knot-tying, fishidentification, cleaning and preparing fish, fishing rules and etiquette. All youth will receive a rod and reel,tackle box and tackle. The final day will include a family fish fry. Fee includes gear. Participants meet atBrick City Adventure Park. Before-and-after care (7:30-8 a.m. and 5-6 p.m.) is included in the weekly fee.

EXTREME ADVENTURE CAMP Brick City Adventure ParkMonday-Friday 8 a.m.-5 p.m.Ages 9-15 $150 per childSession I June 22-26Session II July 13-17A fun-filled week of outdoor adventure that takes it to the extreme with kayaking, paddle boarding,tubing, hiking, ropes challenge, zip lining or tree climbing. Participants meet at Brick City Adventure Park.Before-and-after care (7:30-8 a.m. and 5-6 p.m.) is included in the weekly fee.

Registration for all camps are underway and require pre-registration. Search, register andpay for Marion County Parks and Recreation programs 24 hours a day, 7 days a weekfrom any device connected to the internet at www.marioncountyfl.org/parks. For moreinformation, please contact Marion County Parks and Recreation at 352-671-8560 or [email protected] or [email protected].

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Wacky events help shake up the routine at summer campsBy Beth J. HarpazThe Associated Press

Summer camp means color wars, campfi res and friendly competitions. But at many camps, daily routines get a jolt every now and then with wacky events, from pies in the face to applesauce wrestling.

In addition to the surprise element and sheer fun, there’s a psychology behind these once-a-summer happenings. Camps nowadays are attended by kids used to compelling forms of entertain-ment, from video games to interactive theme park rides, so some try to make memories beyond the silly traditions, creative themes and daily activities that have historically shaped the camp experience.

“How fun can you make camp? How out of the box can it be?” says Lori Waldman, co-owner of Camp Blue Ridge near Dillard, Georgia.

Here are a few examples of off-the-wall

events staged now and then to shake things up at summer camps. TAPED TO THE WALL: On Crazy Feats Day at Camp Blue Ridge, campers are divided into teams and given supplies, including a few rolls of duct tape, along with a series of tasks. They don’t get detailed instructions — just a clue about what’s expected. For example, they might be told to create Toby Maguire’s protege — hint “Spider-Man.” If they’re smart, they’ll choose the lightest person on their team to tape to the wall like Spider-Man. FESTIVUS: Fans of the TV show “Seinfeld” will remember Festivus, an alternative to celebrating Christmas. At Maine Teen Camp in Porter, Maine, it’s an alternative to color war.

“The idea is not for us to defi ne precise-ly what needs to happen, but instead, allow staff and campers to come up with a fun theme for a day-long carnival and

WACKY on Page 19


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it’s all been a transition. Before they went to the day camp that’s 45 minutes away they went to a local camp that was fi ve or 10 minutes away, that I drove them to.”

Kaiden’s oldest had the benefi t of a “sleep week” at her day camp before heading off to overnight

camp the following summer. The family also stepped up her sleepovers at friends’ homes.

Trial or introductory programs are a good idea for parents who aren’t sure whether their kids will do well in a day program or far from home. Many sleepaway camps offer “taster” sessions of one to two weeks.

David Seddon is a former camp counselor who trains staff and works with parents as director of the Frost Valley YMCA sleepaway camp program for younger kids, in Claryville, New York. He recommends a one-week trial session for fi rst-tim-ers. Whether it’s taking on a new activity or trying a new food, Seddon said

parents should talk with kids before the season starts about what they expect from them.

“What is it that you’re sending them to camp for? A lot of kids come to camp and they really don’t know why they’re here,” he said.

Parents also should realize that kids might end up liking things at camp that they wouldn’t try at home, Seddon said.

“Sometimes we get a camper information form that says he won’t eat anything and then he gets to camp and he eats everything. They go home with a completely different diet just because they’ve been away from their parents and tried new things,” he said. Seddon agreed that “overtalking” the details ahead of time — how many activities are crammed into a day, say, or what the showers are like — might create undue anxiety.

Logistics will work them-selves out with the help of counselors, he said. And lots of camps try to create some familiarity for newcomers through videos, home visits and group meet-ups.

Lindsay Davis, who works with sick kids and their families as a certifi ed child life specialist at the

Children’s Hospital at Montefi ore in the Bronx, suggests that parents be as detailed as possible on camp forms that ask them to describe their kids.

Perhaps most important-ly, she advises: “Remind (kids) there is no right or wrong way to experience camp. Their job is to just relax and have fun.”

FIRST: Many camps off er ‘taster’ sessionsContinued from 9

feast,” explained co-director Matthew Pines. Themes have included NASA, zombies and superheroes. A “wheel of misfortune” offers random campers and staff “such wonderful prizes” as a pie in the face, getting drenched by a waterfall (water poured off a balcony) or a surprise party, with confetti blown from a leaf-blower. You might be covered with chocolate syrup or paint — to be washed off by a dunk in the lake — before taking part in sports and game competitions, followed by an evening banquet of, what else?, lobster (this is Maine). MUD BATH: “Everyone likes playing in the mud,” says Driftwood Day Camp owner Mike Wagenberg. So once a year, the camp fi lls an outdoor infl atable skating rink with truckloads of dirt, adds water, and invites campers and staff to jump in. When it’s over, you get hosed down.

Related events at the camp, located in

Melville, New York, have included applesauce wrestling and a “Tough Mudder” course with obstacles including a mud run. PIE IN THE FACE: Jodi Turk’s twins have summer birthdays. Here’s what sold them on attending Camp Echo: On your birthday, you get to pie any counselor you want in the face while the rest of the camp chants “Pie in the face! Pie in the face!”

Oh, and there’s also a cake for your cabin, and the whole camp sings “Happy Birthday.” But the pie’s the highlight, especially since the moment is recorded with a photo that gets hung in the dining hall. “After a while, the staff began to realize there’s no bigger compliment than getting picked for a pie in the face,” said Jeff Grabow, director of the camp in Bloomingburg, New York. “It’s not a vengeance thing. We can tell who the best counselors are because their pictures are on that wall of fame.”

WACKY: Having fun is the key to great memoriesContinued from 18

ALAN YOUNGBLOOD/STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Canoeing on the lake at Camp Kiwanis in 2006.


2015 summer planner

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