March 2009 WNCParent by Stacey

W N C PA R E N T P R E S E N T S W N C M O M . C O M , T H E P L AC E W H E R E L O C A L M O M S C O N N E C T

contents This month’s features 3

How to choose?

Camps and the economy

Battling homesickness

The downturn hasn’t left camps untouched, but its effects have been mixed. Keep your little camper from wishing he was at home instead of in the woods with these tips.

Developing leaders

Religious camps

Books for bunk time

Family Choice Awards

Tweens will enjoy these two reads based at summer camps.

42 Affordable camps

Find a camp that fits your budget in this list of less-expensive options.

Camp Guide 2009 Families have dozens of choices when it comes to a fulfilling summer (and spring break). Start your research with our listings.

Cupcakes galore

P.O. Box 2090, Asheville, NC 28802 828-232-5845 I www.wncmom.com

Sweet treats in small packages are the thing to bake these days.

In every issue Divorced Families by Trip Woodard.........................44 Kids Voices.......................................................45 Librarian’s Picks by Jennifer Prince .......................47 Kids and Sports by Tom Kuyper.............................48 Quick Dinner ....................................................49 Puzzles .......................................................52-53 Story times ......................................................54 Show and Tell ...................................................55 WNCmom.com Page ...........................................56 Parenting in Nutshell..........................................57 Calendar .....................................................58-63

Nancy Sluder, Editor

Summertime fun will have a spiritual side for many kids.

Make your favorites known — use this ballot to vote in WNC Parent’s Family Choice Awards.

When my twin daughters began to show an interest in horse riding, choosing a summer camp devoted to just that was an easy decision. They really loved the camaraderie, and that week of camp turned into riding lessons and horse shows and much more. Choosing a summer camp out of myriad options can be a daunting chore. Take a look at our story on Page 3 with some tips on making this important decision. Since my twins are now almost 16, the counselors-intraining program is an interesting option for summer camp. Training to be a camp counselor can have many lasting benefits and give a teen the opportunity to impact a multitude of campers. Find our story about this program on Page 10. Having your child participate in summer camp can be a rewarding experience that creates lifelong memories for your kids.

Know what to look for when finding a camp for your child.

Camps’ counselor-in-training programs build staff and give teens tools for success in real life.

Planning summer fun can prove a challenge

PRESIDENT AND PUBLISHER Randy Hammer WNC PARENT EDITOR Nancy Sluder nsluder@citizen-times.com

ADVERTISING Miranda Weerheim - 232-5980 mweerheim@gannett.com

On the cover

FEATURES EDITOR Bruce Steele bsteele@citizen-times.com

Lisa Field - 252-5907 lmfield@gannett.com

Photo special to WNC Parent

STAFF WRITER Barbara Blake bblake@citizen-times.com

WNC PARENT DESIGNER Katie Wadington kwadington@citizen-times.com

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Submit in writing via P.O. Box 2090, Asheville, NC 28802-2090 CALENDAR CONTENT Submit in writing via P.O. Box 2090, Asheville, NC 28802-2090 or e-mail calendar@wncparent.com SUBMISSION DEADLINES Advertising deadline for the issue is March 17 Calendar items are due by March 16

W N C PA R E N T | M A R C H 2 0 0 9

On the hunt for adventure How to find the right summer camp By Pam J. Hecht WNC Parent contributor The first summer Sarah Judson, of Asheville, decided to send her daughter, Ella, to camp, she says she “obsessed about making the right choice.” What was amazing, she says, was that most of the other moms she talked to did the same, worrying about how safe the camp would be, the ratio of campers to counselors and what the other kids would be like. It was a torturous process, she adds, since many of the highly recommended camps were either too expensive or already full. With so many camp choices out there, finding the ones that best suit your kids, and your family, can be a daunting task. Here are some steps to

take and points to consider while shopping for a camp. Starting soon is a must to avoid a mad scramble for available choices just before camp season begins.

Decide on the essentials Safety and supervision come first, says Judson, along with a “pace that isn’t too fast” for her young daughter. For Debbie Ullman, of Fletcher, it’s important that her daughters, ages 10 and 12, swim during the summer. Since both girls were interested in theater last summer, they rotated between a camp offering swimming and a local theater camp. Ullman also narrows down the choices by considering cost, hours SPECIAL TO WNC PARENT

Continues on Page 4

Elinor Schillo leads the ponies at Hickory Nut Gap Farm’s day camp in Fairview.

W N C PA R E N T P R E S E N T S W N C M O M . C O M , T H E P L AC E W H E R E L O C A L M O M S C O N N E C T

Continued from Page 3

and location.

Talk to other parents Ask around and find out where other kids in your area go to camp, but make sure the parents you talk to share your values and views about what’s important, Judson says. Keep in mind that what may be a good fit for one child may not be for yours. And while it can be nice to send your child to camp with a friend, it’s not always possible, or even necessary, Ullman adds. “My kids always want to go to camp with their friends, but it’s hard to coordinate with other parents,” she says. “They do fine going off on their own and end up making new friends.”

Get the facts Start with the national camp accreditation program, the American Camp Association, at acacamps.org, advises Christine Le Clair, director of program and camp for Girl Scouts of Western North Carolina. While other camps may be fine, if a camp is on ACA’s member list, you can be sure that it is following “best camp practices” and has a great stamp of approval, says Le Clair, who has 20 years of experience with both private and nonprofit camps and also evaluates camps as an ACA representative. Check out WNC Parent’s camp guide in this issue, then go online for more specific information. Also, remember that the most expensive camps are not necessarily the best, Judson says. Explore camps run by nonprofit agencies or municipalities, which can cost less than private options. Talk with camp directors if you have questions and if possible, visit each camp to make sure you’re comfortable enough to send your child there, she adds. Find out the types of activities children will be participating in on a daily basis, says Jennifer Svenstrup, director of child care services for YMCA of Western North Carolina. Quality programs allow kids to learn new skills, make new friends and explore activities in an outdoor environment, she adds. Other factors to consider are staff training and qualifications and whether or not the camp has an open-door policy for parents, regular parent communication and

PHOTOS SPECIAL TO WNC PARENT

Lutheridge in Arden offers half- and full-week programs for children. Determining whether your child is ready for an overnight program vs. a day camp program is one consideration in choosing a camp. dent of ACA Southeastern. Once you have a few possible choices, review their preferences and allow them to ask questions.

Choices to consider

South Mountain Christian Camp in Bostic offers residential programs for children ages 7-15. The camp keeps its prices low to attract campers who otherwise might not go to camp. Camps can be found across WNC in all price ranges. financial assistance.

Collaborate with your kids “It’s important for kids to be in-

volved in the decision-making process so that they see camp as a place to have fun — not a place they’re being sent to,” says Tony Oyenarte, presi-

W N C PA R E N T | M A R C H 2 0 0 9

◆ Specialty vs. traditional camps: Summer camps that specialize in a particular area, like tennis or art, can provide an opportunity for in-depth exploration of an interest while traditional camps offer a variety of activities to try. ◆ Coed vs. single-gender camps: In a single-sex environment, girls feel more comfortable going outside their comfort zone to try new things, says Le Clair, while boys don’t focus so much on how cool they’ll be. ◆ Day vs. residential camps: If developing independence is a priority for your child and you’ve determined that he/she is ready, consider either a residential camp or one that offers an overnight option of one or more nights away from home.

WNC camps feel pinch of a tight economy By Rick McDaniel WNC Parent contributor Each year, children from all over Western North Carolina join the estimated 6 million kids nationwide headed off to summer camp. But with the economy weighing heavy on their minds and wallets, are WNC parents having second thoughts about camp? “I don’t think there’s anyone who hasn’t been affected by the economy,” said Carolyn Crook, of Weaverville. “But camp is just such an important part of summer for most kids that I think parents are really reluctant to give it up.” Camps themselves are experiencing mixed results. “We have a very high return rate with our campers, and we’ve had a few folks who have had economic difficulty and aren’t returning,” said Dan Singletary, camp director at Camp Timberlake in Black Mountain, which serves about 1,500 kids each summer. “We’re doing pretty well — it’s not a tragedy, just a slight slow-

SPECIAL TO WNC PARENT

Boys play soccer at Camp High Rocks in Cedar Mountain. Woody Noland from the camp says staff applications have increased this year. down.” “We’re actually doing a little bit better than last year,” said Lorie Alexander of Camp Pinnacle in Hender-

sonville, which serves more than 400 campers each summer in separate sessions for boys and girls. “Hopefully we’ll stay that way.”

One area affected by the economy has been applications for camp staff positions. “The biggest change we’ve seen this year has been the number of staff applications,” said Woody Noland, assistant director at Camp High Rocks for Boys in Cedar Mountain. “Either there are more people looking for jobs or more people are aware that jobs are going to be harder to find after the college semester is over, but we’ve definitely seen an increase.” One big advantage WNC summer camps have is the mountains, which draw many campers from out of state and even across the ocean. “We have kids from as far away as Germany and Poland who come to Timberlake,” Singletary said. “We sold out in October for this year’s session,” said Dan Rogers, camp director at Camp Daniel Boone in Canton, the camp for the Daniel Boone Council of the Boy Scouts of America, which encompasses all of Western North Carolina. The camp serves about 3,500 kids each summer.

W N C PA R E N T P R E S E N T S W N C M O M . C O M , T H E P L AC E W H E R E L O C A L M O M S C O N N E C T

“Parents still want to send their kids to summer programs, but some of them are waiting a little longer to sign up.” JON BROOKS, ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR OF CAMP ROCKMONT IN BLACK MOUNTAIN “Last year we had kids from 17 states and Saudi Arabia,” Rogers said. WNC camps are particularly popular with kids from states farther south, who flock to the mountains for hiking and rock climbing. “Most of our boy campers are from Florida,” Alexander said. “Our girls mostly come from South Carolina.” Some local camps are trying new options to help ensure that kids are still able to make the camp experience part of their summer. “Parents still want to send their kids to summer programs, but some of them are waiting a little longer to sign up,” said Jon Brooks, associate director of Camp Rockmont in Black Mountain. “One thing we’re doing to anticipate the economy is we’re offering a day camp this year, which we haven’t done before. That will give regional kids another option.” Parents who find their camp budget is a little less than last year may want to check out their local scout

W N C PA R E N T | M A R C H 2 0 0 9

troop. While private camps can run more than $1,000 per week, Boy Scout and Girl Scout camps are a fraction of the cost. “For an in-council scout, camp is $220 per week, and we catch heat for being one of the most expensive (Boy Scout) camps in the Southeast,” Rogers laughs. Some camps also offer scholarships to campers whose parents are experiencing financial difficulties, so it never hurts to ask. “We offer help to local scouts who might otherwise not be able to attend camp,” Rogers said. “The main thing is we want to make sure they get the opportunity to attend camp.” “Camp is just such a powerful experience for kids,” Singletary said. “There are few things they will do during their childhood that will build memories that will last longer than the ones they have from camp.” Rick McDaniel is a freelance writer. E-mail him at southerncooking@ charter.net.

SPECIAL TO WNC PARENT

Even the youngest campers at Falling Creek Camp in Tuxedo can overcome homesickness in favor of high adventure and new friendships.

Defeating homesickness Preparation, reassurance and support will help your child survive time away at camp where we don’t know the faces, the surroundings or the routine.” Even though anxiety is normal, there are ways to help young campers Going to overnight camp for the feel more excitement than fear as they first time can be an intimidating and embark on a new adventure. At the even scary prospect for children. But top of the list: “Avoid the pickup deal,” the homesickness kids might feel in the first days of their camp experience Brooks said. “Any well-meaning promise that isn’t unlike situations older children the parent will come get their child if and even adults face every day. they start to feel uneasy not only un“The term ‘homesickness’ is really dermines the important work that a misnomer,” said Jon Brooks, associcamp counselors are trained to do, it ate director of Camp Rockmont for also sends the message to the child Boys in Black Mountain. “Anxiety that the parent really doesn’t have about camp is quite normal, even for confidence that they can work veteran campers. It’s rooted in the same anxiety that we often feel in any through their uneasy feelings,” he said. new and unfamiliar circumstance By Barbara Blake WNC Parent writer

“Parents should give reassurance that they know their child can make the adjustment to the new surroundings — and they can,” Brooks added. “Helping a camper grow through that adjustment is actually a key component of youth development at Rockmont, and it has wonderful, far-reaching effects.” Christine E. Le Clair, director of program and camp with the Pisgah Girl Scout Council, said parents are often tempted to tell their young scouts that that they will come and get them if they get really homesick. “But what they are really saying is, ‘I expect you to get homesick,’” she said. “We advise them to say instead,

‘Being at camp is going to be different, and you may even be nervous sometimes. But I know you will make it, and your counselors will be there to help you when you need them.’” Marisa Pharr, who, with her husband, Yates Pharr, owns Falling Creek Camp for Boys in Henderson County, agreed that teaching a child to work through his feelings is one of the great opportunities the camp experience offers. “They are given a chance to work on building self-esteem and confidence, and they can’t do that if the

Continues on Page 8

W N C PA R E N T P R E S E N T S W N C M O M . C O M , T H E P L AC E W H E R E L O C A L M O M S C O N N E C T

feelings that a camper may have, and lays excellent groundwork before the camp experience.” Pharr said when her own kids are at camp she sends letters with positive, fill-in-the-blank questions such as “My best meal at camp so far has been…., or “This is a picture of me at my favorite activity.” “They can respond right on the letter I sent and mail it back,” she said. “This optimistic view of camp is helpful, especially during a quieter time of the day, like rest hour, when campers’ thoughts turn to things they miss at home.”

Continued from Page 7

parent rescues them,” she said. Erica Rohrbacher, Southeastern section executive for the American Camp Association, said one way parents can reduce anxiety for first-time campers is to involve the child in the process of choosing a camp. “The more that the child owns the decision, the more comfortable the child will feel,” she said. “Parents should discuss what camp will be like, and help their child develop realistic expectations.” “As a parent, you have the final say in the camp your child attends,” Marisa Pharr said. “But let them be involved in choosing as much as possible. They’ll be excited, and won’t feel like you are ‘shipping them off.’”

Preparing for camp SPECIAL TO WNC PARENT

Letters from home

First-time campers who may feel homesick can turn to their camp counselors for reassurance.

Once kids are at camp, a big no-no for parents — who may experience their own homesickness for the camper — is writing letters saying how much they miss the child. “Parents should focus on the child’s activities and experiences rather than what they may be missing at home,”

Brooks said. “They should avoid overstating how much they miss the child or how sad the family is without them. Engaging and encouraging letters are best.” Brooks said the best tool he’s seen for coaching first-time campers and

parents is a DVD produced by Dr. Christopher Thurber. “Dr. Thurber is a board-certified clinical psychologist, author, consultant and father with years of personal camp experience,” Brooks said. “This lighthearted DVD helps normalize the

W N C PA R E N T | M A R C H 2 0 0 9

Le Clair said it is helpful for parents to put common questions on the table for discussion before camp. Among them might be: “What if I wet the bed?” “What if no one likes me?” “What if I don’t like the food?” “What if I get sick?” “What if I really miss you?” “What if I’m scared of bugs?” It’s also important to talk about what it will be like at camp, she said, including group living, taking care of oneself and belongings, noises at night, doing chores, using the buddy

HOMESICKNESS TIPS The American Camp Association gives these hints on homesickness: ◆ Encourage your child’s independence throughout the year; practice separations, such as sleepovers at a friend’s house. ◆ Involve your child in the process of choosing a camp. ◆ Discuss what camp will be like before your child leaves; consider role-playing anticipated situations. ◆ Reach an agreement ahead of time on calling each other; if your child’s camp has a no-phone-calls policy, honor it. ◆ Send a note or care package ahead of time to arrive the first day of camp. ◆ Pack a personal item from home, such as a stuffed animal. ◆ When a “rescue call” comes from the

child, offer calm reassurance and put the time frame into perspective; avoid the temptation to take the child home early. ◆ Talk candidly with the camp director to obtain his/her perspective on your child’s adjustment. ◆ Don’t feel guilty about encouraging your child to stay at camp; it is a first step toward independence and plays an important role in their growth and development. ◆ Trust your instincts. While most incidents of homesickness will pass in a day or two, it’s time for the child to go home if he is not eating or sleeping because of anxiety or depression. Don’t make your child feel like a failure if his stay at camp is cut short; focus on the positive and encourage the child to try camp again next year.

system and wearing socks and closed toe-and-heel shoes. Rare is the camper who doesn’t make the transition from anxiety to adventure in less than a couple of days, camp leaders said. “It’s not always missing the parent that makes a child homesick,” Pharr said. “They can miss playing electron-

ic games, watching TV and going to the fridge to get a soda whenever they want — the stuff of their normal day. But once they start making friends and getting involved in camp, those feelings fade,” she said. “Participating in activities that they don’t often have a chance to do at home begins to fill their days.”

W N C PA R E N T P R E S E N T S W N C M O M . C O M , T H E P L AC E W H E R E L O C A L M O M S C O N N E C T

Campground = training ground Counselor programs prepare teens for both campers and real life By Barbara Blake WNC Parent writer Bailey Reidinger learned a lot as a counselor-in-training at the Girl Scouts’ Camp Pisgah, but one of the key skills she mastered was how to be a dork. “I’d have to say that the No. 1 thing we learned in CIT was how to keep your game face on in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds, like a dozen homesick campers at once, or a thunderstorm-filled week, or any one of a number of things. This makes it sound like some sort of counselor boot camp, but that face has helped me in many a tight spot, like job interviews and project deadlines,” said Reidinger, a Brevard High graduate and now a freshman at Michigan State University. “Another thing that I remember from CIT that has also helped me quite a bit is the emphasis on creativity and freedom, especially the freedom to be a dork,” she said. “In order to help entertain about 20 kids for their free hour, or before dinner, or at campfire, you have to know how to loosen up and look absolutely ridiculous. And that necessitates being able to transgress the boundaries of embarrassment, which let me tell you, is a boon in public speaking situations. No classroom is as scary as 100-someodd campers clamoring for a song.”

Training leaders Counselor-in-training, or CIT, programs are a staple of day camps and overnight camps across the land, teaching leadership and people skills to would-be counselors and eventually supplying their camps with seasoned professionals who’ve come up the ranks and know the ropes. Yates and Marisa Pharr, who own Falling Creek Camp for Boys in Henderson County, said CIT programs teach management and leadership skills and training in first aid, lifeguarding, group leadership, time management and a variety of outdoor skills.

“CIT programs give hands-on experience that can lead to leadership opportunities at school, in extracurricular activities and at future jobs,” Marisa Pharr said. “Camps seeking staff will favor the former CIT, understanding that they have formal training in camp and leadership skills.” Most camps consider CITs as campers rather than counselors, and they are expected to pay camp tuition, sometimes at reduced rates. The goal is to become a full-fledged, paid counselor on the camp staff. But being admitted into a CIT program is not a piece of cake, camp directors said. “Staff are the most important ingredient in a successful summer,” Yates Pharr said. “Since the CITs will be part staff and part camper, simply submitting an application does not guarantee a place in the program. Applications, just like for our summer staff, will be carefully reviewed, including reference checks, essay questions and interviews, and only a limited number of applicants will be accepted.” Camp directors said many camps still have openings for CITs for the upcoming season. Jon Brooks, associate director of Camp Rockmont for Boys in Black Mountain, said Rockmont’s CITs get leadership training and assist with programs, “but a primary focus of the CIT program is service.” “Our most dedicated counselors are pouring so much into the lives of our campers that we want our CITs to be prepared for the hard work and dedication that the job of counselor requires,” Brooks said. At Camp Pisgah in Brevard, CITs receive two to three weeks of handson experiences, said Christine E. Le Clair, director of program and camp for the Pisgah Girl Scout Council. “The first year of the program covers how to work with younger girls and teaches them how to lead basic camp activities, and they ‘shadow’ all areas of camp from the kitchen to the program areas and cabin counselors,” Le Clair said. “I find that this is always

Photos sPECIAL TO WNC PARENT Camp Rockmont counselor-in-training George Sanders provides some instruction in archery. an eye-opening experience for them; most had no idea how much work was put into all the fun kids have.” In the second year, “we let the girls focus in on a few areas they think they might want to work in when they become staff,” she said. “We make a personalized plan for each girl, and they as a group get to lead some of our big all-camp activities.”

smooth transition from being a camper to an authority figure for others.” “For example, before I was a CIT, I wouldn’t sing in front of anyone,” she said. “But during camp I knew that I had to entertain the kids, so I had to get up and teach them a song or two, which really helped me with my public speaking as well as learning how to be in charge of a group.” Brooks said he’s seen at Rockmont that “some of our best summer counDeveloping life skills selors are former campers, and the Kayla Pittman, a senior at Roberson CIT program is a key transitional step High School, was a counselor at Camp in their Rockmont experience.” “CITs live together in one of our Pisgah last summer after completing nicer lodges and form great camaradethe CIT program, and credits her rie as they tackle the challenges of training with “helping me make a

W N C PA R E N T | M A R C H 2 0 0 9

Counselor-in-training Charlie Flournoy, center, and counselor Jonathan Anderson, right, show their cabin spirit at Camp Rockmont. living in community and learning how to balance all-out camp fun and the serious responsibility of caring for other people’s children,” he said. Reidinger, who has been a Girl Scout for 14 years, said the CIT program taught her skills that she’ll use for the rest of her life. “As a CIT, I learned how to work as a team, how to operate under pressure, how to take orders well, and all those things that

you need as a team corporate player. Except it was a lot more fun to learn them out at camp,” she said. Pittman agreed, pointing out another key benefit. “I would definitely recommend the CIT program for any girls who would like to gain leadership skills, or just for girls who want to make true friendships that can last a lifetime.” she said.

W N C PA R E N T P R E S E N T S W N C M O M . C O M , T H E P L AC E W H E R E L O C A L M O M S C O N N E C T

Awaken the spirit at camp By Lockie Hunter WNC Parent correspondent Choosing a summer camp in Western North Carolina can be challenging. With so many options from soccer to farm camp, the offerings are varied. But some parents seek out an experience that goes beyond learning a secular skill, hoping also to foster spiritual growth in their child. Adam Boyd, from Camps MerriMac and Timberlake, says “WNC is home to the strongest camps in the country, and there is a huge variety among them. Some are uniquely Christian, others are Jewish, competitive, noncompetitive, small, large, rustic or comfortable.”

campfire on a starry night, with counselors and campers that you didn’t know a week ago, but now seem like family, God seems very near and very real, and all the ‘church talk’ about ‘brothers and sisters in Christ’ takes on a whole new meaning.”

Secular themes

SPECIAL TO WNC PARENT

Spiritual aspects

Campers at Camp Celo develop an appreciation for work as they learn to feed a calf.

Many choose religious-themed camps for their spiritual offerings. Seth Kellam, Camp Ruach director at Asheville Jewish Community Center, said “our unique themes teach campers core Jewish values that emphasize respect for individuals and responsibility to the community as a whole.” Boyd adds, “We are made to live

life together, and to be challenged, grow and succeed. Those things happen in a great camp and when they do, children from all backgrounds have the opportunity to experience something of what it means to be made in the image of God.” Lutheridge’s Pastor Mary CaniffKuhn said, while “sitting around a

The camps often also include themes that cross over religious boundaries and into secular interests. “Self-esteem and teamwork will be emphasized as well, but it will not be taught through drills and competition. For high school youth, it may be hiking 20 miles on the Appalachian Trail or putting a new roof on a Habitat cabin,” Caniff-Kuhn said. Kellam said Camp Ruach strives to teach respect for nature through Jewish values “such as do not destroy (baltashit), to work and keep the land (l’ovdau’l’shomra), serving as guardians of the earth (shomreiadamah) and repairing the world (tikkunolam).”

Respect for all religions Most spiritual camps strive to be inclusive and respectful of all religious beliefs.

“While Celo is not a religious camp, our philosophy of simplicity, cooperation and nonviolence come directly from our roots in the Quaker faith,” said Gib Barrus, co-owner and director of Camp Celo in Burnsville. “There is a spiritual element to life at camp that focuses on the universal principles of compassion, cooperation, integrity, responsibility and service common to all major religions.” Boyd adds that, “a Christian camp is inclusive in the same way as a family. Our campers do not come because we are a Christian camp.They come to have fun, to be a part of the camp tradition, to develop skills, make friends and to grow.” “People of all backgrounds find the Christian community to be very welcoming and an inspiring place to make new friends and grow in faith,” said Mike Ward, vice president of advancement of Lutheridge. Kellam adds, “all children, regardless of religious or cultural background, are welcome at Camp Ruach. The values of community, respect, teamwork and responsibility for others are specifically Jewish, but they are also universal.”

2 reads certain to capture tween campers’ attention By Jennifer Prince WNC Parent contributor Along with comfortable shoes, calamine lotion and a calling card, send your tween to camp with a great book. These two titles are quick, fun reads that are peppered with situations, conversations and people that reverberate with adolescent realities. Veteran sports writer, Mike Lupica, writes a top-seeded book in “Summer Ball.” Thirteen-year old Danny is a basketball phenom. He led his team to the national championship. It was such a big deal that he and his teammates appeared on “Live with Regis and Kelly” and David Letterman’s show, and they went to the White House to meet the president. That

was last year. Danny knows he cannot coast along on year-old glories, and he does not want to do that. However, he is the size of a 10 year old. At an age when his teammates are well along in their growth spurts, Danny’s growth is nil. With an elite NBA-sponsored basketball summer camp coming up, Danny wavers. Can he prove to himself and others that he can continue to excel? Lupica’s writing has a rapid pulse. Danny’s summer speeds along like a ball in motion. Scenes are short and full of quick energy. Challenges arise, creating compelling suspense. First, through an administrative oversight, Danny is put in a cabin with the 11- and 12-year-olds. Then Danny discovers that the militaristic coach does not like him. Some of the players resent Danny’s past success so they try to show him up on court. Danny feigns a knee injury. As if his basketball trou-

bles aren’t enough, there are girl problems, too. Lupica’s expert use of sports lingo and present-day cultural references add to the excitement and realness of the story. The other tween title not to miss is Hope Larson’s “Chiggers.” A graphic novel, “Chiggers” tells the story of middle-schooler Abby who goes every year to the same summer camp (and it happens to be in Asheville). She is looking forward to it this year. Her same friends will be there, too. Things change though, especially in the volatile middle school years. Abby’s friend have developed new interests. A new bunkmate, Shasta, does not proffer much in the way of

W N C PA R E N T | M A R C H 2 0 0 9

sane friendship. She has been struck by lightning, has an older, online boyfriend, and she is supposed to be taking prescription meds for a mysterious ailment but throws them away. As the story pans out, Larson depicts middle-school girl life perfectly. There are misunderstandings that explode out of all recognizable proportion, and talk about crushes, periods, acne and haircuts. Larson’s dialogue resonates with truth. Larson’s black-and-white illustrations are visually arresting and inventive. Interspersed with the straightforward depictions of the girls and their cabins, Larson weaves in fantastical and humorous elements. These two titles are sure hits for tweens. Even if camp is not in your tween’s future, he or she will find something to like in these books.

Vote online at WNCmom.com

2009 Family Choice Awards Do you go out of your way to frequent a business because it is more family-friendly? Is there a shop or restaurant in your neighborhood so terrific that all of Asheville should know about it? Show your favorite area businesses or destinations a little love and vote for them in WNC Parent’s Family Choice Awards. This contest will be decided entirely by readers; the magazine won’t influence results. Winners and runners-up will be announced in WNC Parent’s June issue. To have your ballot count, please vote in at least 20 categories. A business or organization can be entered in no more than three categories and can win in no more than two. For complete rules, see the back of this ballot. Rather vote online? Visit www.WNCmom.com.

food

Best bowling alley ______________________________________________________ Best place for swim lessons _______________________________________________

Most family-friendly restaurant for breakfast ___________________________________ Best place for horseback riding lessons ______________________________________ Most family-friendly restaurant for lunch ______________________________________ Best place for miniature golf ______________________________________________ Most family-friendly restaurant for dinner _____________________________________ Best bakery __________________________________________________________

destination fun

Best ice cream/custard shop ______________________________________________

Best museum _________________________________________________________

Best hot dog __________________________________________________________ Most family-friendly fair, festival or special event ________________________________ Best pizza ____________________________________________________________ Best family-friendly hiking trail _____________________________________________ Best kids’ menu _______________________________________________________

Best rainy day activity ___________________________________________________

Most family-friendly grocery store ___________________________________________

Best summer DAY camp __________________________________________________

activities

Best summer OVERNIGHT camp ____________________________________________ Most family-friendly vacation in North Carolina _________________________________

Best parent/child program ________________________________________________ Most family-friendly day-trip destination ______________________________________ Best gymnastics program for children ________________________________________ Best place to take a child for the afternoon ____________________________________ Best music program for children ____________________________________________ Best place to visit Santa _________________________________________________ Best dance program for children ___________________________________________ Best holiday event ______________________________________________________ Best paint-your-own pottery studio __________________________________________ Best place for birthday parties _____________________________________________

Continues on Page 14

Best children’s sports club/league __________________________________________

W N C PA R E N T P R E S E N T S W N C M O M . C O M , T H E P L AC E W H E R E L O C A L M O M S C O N N E C T

Continued from Page 13

Best preschool ________________________________________________________

entertainment Best after-school program ________________________________________________ Best TV station for entire family ____________________________________________

Best child care ________________________________________________________

Best radio station for the entire family _______________________________________

around town

Most family-friendly movie theater __________________________________________ Most family-friendly theater (stage) _________________________________________

Best park ____________________________________________________________ Most family-friendly church _______________________________________________

shopping Most family-friendly place to work __________________________________________ Best maternity clothing store ______________________________________________

Best place for family fun _________________________________________________

Best consignment STORE ________________________________________________

just for you

Best consignment SALE __________________________________________________ Best place for children’s furniture ___________________________________________

Best place to relax without your children ______________________________________

Best store for pet supplies ________________________________________________

Best date night restaurant ________________________________________________

Best children’s shoe store ________________________________________________

Best weekend getaway for two _____________________________________________

Best children’s clothing store ______________________________________________

Best place to get back in shape ____________________________________________

Best toy store _________________________________________________________

rules and regulations

Most family-friendly bookstore _____________________________________________ Family Choice Awards are decided by our readers — not the magazine’s editors. Winners and Best place for craft supplies _______________________________________________ The runners up will be printed in the June 2009 issue. Winners will be determined by the total number of

Best store for costumes __________________________________________________ Best shopping center/mall ________________________________________________ Best place to find organics _______________________________________________ Most family-friendly car dealer _____________________________________________

votes received, and all decisions are final. We ask that readers adhere to these guidelines: All ballots must include a name and contact information for verification purposes. BALLOTS WITHOUT THIS WILL NOT COUNT. Voters must submit entries in at least 20 categories for ballots to be valid. A business or organization can be entered in no more than three categories per ballot and can win no more than two categories. Ballots submitted by mail must be originals. Ballot deadline is April 30. Illegible ballots will be disqualified. Mail ballots to: WNC Parent Family Choice Awards, P.O. Box 2090, Asheville, NC 28802. Or vote online at www.WNCMom.com.

services

Name _______________________________________________________________

Best hospital in which to have a baby ________________________________________

Address _____________________________________________________________

Best pediatric practice ___________________________________________________ Phone ______________________________________________________________ Best family dentist _____________________________________________________

E-mail address ________________________________________________________

Best orthodontist ______________________________________________________ Best family eye doctor ___________________________________________________ Best place for children’s haircuts ___________________________________________ Best family/child specialty photographer _____________________________________

education 14

W N C PA R E N T | M A R C H 2 0 0 9

camp guide 2009

SPECIAL TO WNC PARENT

Girls enjoy summer camp at Crestridge, one of dozens of residential camps in Western North Carolina.

Let’s get camping! Compiled by Katie Wadington ◆ Staff writer Each summer, countless children head to Western North Carolina from across the nation for a dose of the outdoors. Here in our backyard there are dozens of camps that give kids an opportunity to take in some fresh air,

learn new skills, make friends and discover themselves. And the offerings are as diverse as the campers: day camps and overnight camps, horse camps and soccer camps, arts camps and science camps.

WNC Parent offers this guide to help parents plan for a summer of fun, whether you’re seeking camps to give your children enriching experiences or simply to get them out of the house for a week (or three, or all summer for

that matter). This isn’t an all-encompassing list of offerings in WNC, but it comes close. For more detailed information, visit a camp’s Web site or contact the camp directly. The Camp Guide starts on Page 17.

W N C PA R E N T P R E S E N T S W N C M O M . C O M , T H E P L AC E W H E R E L O C A L M O M S C O N N E C T

W N C PA R E N T | M A R C H 2 0 0 9

camp guide 2009

day camps

spring break camps

American Red Cross, PrepaRED, June 15-19 and July 20-24 The American Red Cross will offer two sessions of a day camp for rising sixth-, seventh- and eighthgraders with training opportunities, leadership and development, and fun. Campers will become certified in babysitting, infant and child CPR, and shelter operations. Campers will also enjoy a session at Young Chefs Academy for training on healthy snacks and kitchen safety. The Red Cross also will have an emergency shelter simulation and Guardstart training. Camp runs 9 a.m.–4 p.m. with early drop-off and late pickup available. Cost is $175, which includes books, certifications, snacks and some meals. Locations vary by day. Call 258-3888, ext. 216, 218 or 219 or visit www.redcrosswnc.org.

All camps are April 13-17 unless indicated.

ABYSA, FUNdamentals Camp Children ages 5-14 can work on their soccer skills over spring break at FUNdamentals camp. Half-day camp for 5- to 6-year-olds and full-day camp for 7- to 14-year-olds. Both camps will be at John B. Lewis Soccer Complex. Cost is $100 for half-day and $175 for full day. For information, visit www.abysa.org or call 299-7277.

Asheville Arts Center Camps for children ages 2-15. Lights, Camera, Action! Gives children ages 6-15 (divided into three age groups) a chance to write and star in their own commercial, TV show or movie. Cost is $210 and runs 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Once Upon a Time, for ages 2-6, explores the world of make believe. Cost is $125 and runs 9 a.m.-noon. For details and to register, call 253-4000. At the Asheville Arts Center, 308 Merrimon Ave.

Asheville Community Theatre, Break Into Showbiz! Kids can spend spring break at Asheville Community Theatre singing, dancing, and acting at Break into Showbiz! camp. Students learn new songs, write a script that links the songs together and learn choreography to complete their show. Camp runs 9 a.m.-2:30 p.m. For first- to eighthgraders. Cost is $150. To enroll, call Jenny Bunn at 254-2939, ext. 21, jenny@ashevilletheatre.org or visit www.ashevilletheatre.org.

Asheville JCC The Asheville Jewish Community Center, 236 Charlotte St., offers an exciting spring break program from 8 a.m.-6 p.m. for children in kindergarten through fifth grade. Activities include field trips, arts and crafts activities, science exploration and musical workshops that offer children a chance to have fun, explore their world, expand their minds and move their bodies. Each day has a theme. Cost is $38 per day. Register by March 28. For more information or to register, contact Sepi Shams at 253-0701, ext. 105, or sepi@jcc-asheville.org.

Buncombe County Parks Buncombe County Parks, Greenways and Recreation Services is offering a week of fun activities and special programs for first- through eighthgraders at Leicester Community Center. Runs 7:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Cost is $150 for week or $35 per day, and includes all programs, transportation, and morning and afternoon snacks. Parents will need to provide a lunch. Register by April 3. For more information, contact Grace Young at 250-4265 or grace.young@buncombecounty.org.

Camp Cedar Cliff at The Cove Full-day sessions (8:30 a.m.-5 p.m.) packed with arts and crafts, a zip line, field trips, Scripture Adventure, games and more. Children can develop skills on the archery and BB ranges.

Appalachian Institute for Creative Learning, Summer Enrichment Camp, July 19-Aug. 1 PHOTO BY JOHN FLETCHER

Pati Roesler, right, of Young Chefs Academy, helps Hall Fletcher Elementary students make a healthy snack. The cooking school in Arden will offer spring break and summer day camps. Open to rising kindergarten to sixth-graders. Cost is $185 (lunch and snack included). To register, visit www.campcedarcliff.org or call 450-3331.

N.C. Arboretum Discovery and adventure abound at the N.C. Arboretum. Experience a wide range of activities, from crafts and games to hikes and live animal demonstrations. Day trips will include outings to the Botanical Gardens, Cradle of Forestry and River Arts District. Two sections, second-third grade and fourth-fifth grade. Runs 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Cost is $195 members, $210 nonmembers. At N.C. 191 and the Blue Ridge Parkway. For information, visit www.ncarboretum.org or call 6652492.

Outdoor Family Fun Center, Junior Golf Camp ParXlent Golf Academy offers two-day and threeday camps for ages 7 and older (April 13-14) and 10 and older (April 15-17). Runs 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Camps are $129 and $149, respectively, or $199 for the full week for campers 10 and older. Receive a $10 per camper discount if registered by March 15.

Waynesville Recreation Center Day camp for children in kindergarten through fifth grade, 8 a.m.-5:30 p.m. The cost is $15 per day per child for center members and $20 for nonmembers. Limited to 25 campers per day. Call Waynesville Parks and Recreation Department at 456-2030 or e-mail recyouth@townofwaynesville.org.

YMCA Get a preview of the YMCA’s summer day camp programs over spring break. Children will partici-

pate in traditional camp activities such as nature hikes, arts & crafts, salamander hunts, camp songs and group activities. Gross science experiments, crazy dress-up days, fort building and water activities will all be a part of the week. Camp runs 7 a.m.-6 p.m. At YMCA Beaverdam Youth Services Center, 201 Beaverdam Road, North Asheville, and at Haw Creek Elementary School, 21 Trinity Chapel Road, East Asheville. Campers at Haw Creek will travel to Beaverdam from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Cost is $28 per day, or $5 per day plus parent fee with vouchers. Financial assistance is available. For information, call Child Care Services at 210-2273 between 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

Young Chefs Academy, April 14-16 What do you do when breakfast has been bungled, your lunch is a loser, or you have a dinner dilemma? Rescue those recipes! Young chefs will work together to problem solve recipe disasters. Students will learn four recipes a day. Along the way they will learn common substitutions, equivalent measures, and quick-fixes for recipe blunders. Cost is $99. From 9 a.m.-noon at Young Chefs Academy, 336 Rockwood Road, off Airport Road. For information, call 651-2433 for e-mail ashevilleyca@bellsouth.net.

The Appalachian Institute for Creative Learning offers day and residential camps at Warren Wilson College for rising third- to 12th-graders. The camp includes classes ranging from water rockets and Japanese language and culture to claymation and improv comedy. The cost for residential campers is $490; for day campers, it’s $250. Visit www.appalachianinstitute.org, call 800-951-7442 or e-mail info@appalachianinstitute.org.

Appalachian School of Holistic Herbalism, Earth Sprouts Herbal Day Camp, Aug. 3-7 Make friends with plants and people alike. Campers will create their own herbal first aid kit to bring home. Will learn to identify medicinal and edible herbs and more. Runs 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Cost is $175. Call 350-1221 or visit www.herbsheal.com.

Asheville Art Museum, Summer Art Camp, June 15-Aug. 7 The Asheville Art Museum offers eight weekly sessions of Summer Art Camp to rising kindergartners through 12th-graders. Classes range from drawing and painting to sculpture and cartooning. Each class will visit the museum’s galleries to inspire creativity. Classes are held in the museum’s WNC Art Resource Center. Morning, afternoon or all-day sessions available. Registration includes museum admission and all materials. Full-day students have a supervised bag lunch. Cost is $85 for members and $95 nonmembers for half-day camps; $150/$170 for full-day camps. For information, call 253-3227, ext. 122, e-mail smcrorie@ashevilleart.org, or visit www.ashevilleart.org.

Asheville Arts Center, June 15-Aug. 8 Half-day camps and full-day camps for children ages 2-18. Put on a full stage production of “Alice in Wonderland Jr.” in two weeks. Learn how to play in a band at rock band camp. Other themes include “Send in the Clowns,” “Once Upon a Time,” reality shows like “Asheville’s Got Talent” and “Asheville Idol,” ballet, Irish dance, dance sampler, and more. Costs start at $125. Call 253-4000 or visit www.ashevilleartscenter.com.

W N C PA R E N T P R E S E N T S W N C M O M . C O M , T H E P L AC E W H E R E L O C A L M O M S C O N N E C T

camp guide 2009

Monday, Wednesday and Fridays, rain or shine, from late April to the end of July. Run at the Reynolds High School track. Open to kids ages 6-18. Full membership is $125, with practice only membership also offered for $100. For more information, visit www.ashevillelightning.org, or call head coaches Bill Agrella at 242-0404 or Lee Pantas at 779-1569.

Asheville Ballet, Blue Ridge Dance Camp, Aug. 9-14 Asheville Ballet is accepting applications for its prestigious Blue Ridge Dance Camp for serious dancers ages 11-18. The resident summer intensive camp offers daily classes in ballet, pointe, repertoire, modern, jazz, choreography and dance history. Limited to 15 students. Cost is $600. For information, call director Ann Dunn at 258-1028.

Asheville Parks and Recreation

ABYSA, FUNdamentals Summer Soccer Camp, June-August ABYSA FUNdamentals Summer Soccer Camps for ages 5-14 will be offered in June, the last three weeks of July and the first two weeks of August. Eight separate camps will be offered at the John B. Lewis Soccer Complex at Azalea Park near the WNC Nature Center. FUNdamentals Soccer Camps offer a games-centered teaching approach to soccer because excited and entertained children learn better. The teaching method is designed to enrich children’s passion for soccer while teaching them the proper techniques for future success. Half-day camps (9 a.m.-noon) are available for 5- and 6-year-olds for $110 and full-day camp for 7- to 14-year-olds for $190. Early Bird drop-off and lunch available. Full-day campers will go to the pool at the end of each day. All campers will receive a participation award and a T-shirt upon completion of the camp week. Visit www.abysa.org to register or call 299-7277, ext. 304, for more information.

Asheville Community Theatre, Backstage Pass, June-August A summer theater camp in three two-week sessions (June 15-26, July 6-17, Aug. 3-14). Camp runs 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. for ages 5-7 and 9 a.m.-4 p.m. for ages 8-15. Younger students will have a chance to work with acting, music, movement and improvisation through innovation and imagination. Older students will explore courses that delve deeper into scene and monologue. Each session culminates with a performance showcase. Cost starts at $200. Contact Jenny Bunn at jenny@ashevilletheatre.org, 254-2939, ext. 21, or visit www.ashevilletheatre.org.

Asheville Christian Academy, Alive summer program, June 8-July 31 Asheville Christian Academy offers full-day and half-day camps for rising kindergartners to 12thgraders with focuses ranging from sports camps to academic enrichment. Most camps will be held at the school, 74 Riverwood Road, Swannanoa. Camps will range in price from $70-$225 per session. Visit www.acacademy.org or call 5812200 for information and to register.

Asheville Contemporary Dance Theatre, dance camp and boys camp, June 15-26 and July 6-17 Children ages 8-12 can study with members of Asheville’s professional international dance company, including dance and theater ballet, modern, jazz, hip-hop and yoga with one performance. Runs 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. At 20 Commerce

SPECIAL TO WNC PARENT

Lincoln Belford puts the finishing touch on a prop for his show in the Design Crew class at Asheville Community Theatre’s Backstage Pass Summer Camp. St., Asheville. Cost is $350 for two weeks, $200 for one. Or, for boys only, learn about the Roman Empire and the Gauls with Giles Collard. For ages 7-11. Study helmet and shield construction, stage combat, toy soldier painting, storytelling, drama, and build a Roman or Gaul camp. Cost is $380 for two weeks, $230 for one. Call 245-2621.

Asheville Jewish Community Center, Camp Ruach, June 15-Aug. 14 Camp Ruach (Spirit) at the Asheville Jewish Community Center welcomes all rising first- to eighth-graders to enjoy a traditional day camp experience with a focus on building friendships. Two-week sessions allow children ample time to develop strong connections with each other and offer unique themes that explore Jewish values of environmental stewardship, taking care of one another and repairing the world. Activities include sports, dancing, cooking, arts and crafts, music, ceramics, overnights, nature and gardening activities, swimming, field trips, and more. A one-week mini-camp session runs Aug. 10-14. Counselor In Training program available for rising ninth- and 10th-graders. Camp runs 9 a.m.-5 p.m. with early care available starting at 8 a.m. Cost is $430 for JCC members, $495 nonmembers, with discounts available through April 15. Community members welcome. The JCC is at 236 Charlotte St. Registration closes May 15. Contact Seth Kellam at 253-0701, ext. 107, e-mail seth@jcc-asheville.org, or visit www.jcc-asheville.org for more information.

◆ Summer Playground Program, June 15-Aug. 13: A supervised, drop-in recreation and cultural arts program for rising first- to fifth-graders at Asheville area community centers. Activities include games, crafts, cultural art and field trips. Runs 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Monday-Friday. For information and to register, contact your community center or Charles Lee at 251-4081 or clee@ashevillenc.gov. ◆ Summer Teen Program, June 15-Aug. 13: Looking for a cool and enriching alternative to the traditional teen summer camps? Try the TempTeen Enrichment Program, which offers creative activities, diverse and creative projects, field trips and more. A nine-week program for youth ages 12-15. For more information, contact Charles Lee at 251-4081 or clee@ashevillenc.gov. ◆ Summer Day Camp, June 15-Aug. 21: Excitement awaits in this licensed child care program for rising first- to fifth-graders. Activities include swimming, skating, cultural arts, science exploration, crafts, group games and field trips. Snacks and lunch provided daily. Runs 7:30 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Friday at Jones and Vance schools. Cost is $100 per week for city residents, $110 for nonresidents. Family discounts offered and subsidy vouchers accepted. With $25 registration fee. Contact Amy Rickman at 251-4080 or arickman@ashevillenc.gov. ◆ Therapeutic Recreation Program’s Summer Enrichment Camp, June 15 –Aug. 13: An inclusive recreation program for youths ages 6-14 with or without mild to moderate cognitive or developmental delays who meet eligibility requirements. One-on-one workers may come with participants, free of charge. Daily activities include group games, arts and crafts, nature exploration, special events and field trips. Camp size is

limited. For more information contact Randy Shaw, LRT/CTRS, or Lauren Weinstein, LRT/CTRS, at 251-4031 or at westashevillec@ashevillenc.gov. ◆ Food Lion SkatePark: Skateboard camps for kids skaters ages 6-15 who wish to sharpen skills, focus on progression and have fun skating with peers. Runs 9 a.m.-noon Monday-Friday. Cost is $75. At the corner of Flint and Cherry Streets in downtown Asheville. For June and July session dates and to register, call 225-7184.

Asheville Parks and Recreation Outdoor Adventure Programs For more information and to register, contact Christen McNamara at 251-4029, e-mail outdoorprograms@ashevillenc.gov or visit www.ashevillenc.gov. ◆ Summer Adventure Camp, June 15-July 17: Three weeklong sessions of camp for kids ages 8-12. Activities include hiking, swimming, rafting, caving, and camping. Camp runs 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Wednesday, with an overnight campout on Thursday night and pickup at noon Friday. Camp meets at Montford Recreation Center, 34 Pearson Drive. Each session limited to 12 campers. Campers must bring lunch and water daily, and provide own sleeping bag and pad. Cost is $150 for residents ($155 nonresidents). ◆ Eco-Explorers Camp: A three-day camp for ages 6-8, with an environmental education focus. Activities include hiking, climbing at the Montford Wall, stream investigation, and a field trip. June and July sessions offered. Call for dates/times. Cost is $60 residents ($65 nonresidents). ◆ Teen Adventure Camp: This camp will include climbing at the Montford Wall, tubing, hiking, canoeing, and whitewater rafting or inflatable kayaking. Call for dates/times. Cost is $120 residents ($130 nonresidents) and includes all equipment, instruction and transportation. ◆ Teen Canoe Camp Overnight, July 28-31: An overnight canoeing camp designed for teens 12 and older. Campers will canoe almost 25 miles on the New River in northern North Carolina. Participants must be able to swim 50 meters and

Continues on Page 20

Asheville Lightning Junior Olympics, April-July Junior Olympics is the premier youth track and field program in the world, is sponsored by United States Track and Field, the same organization that runs Olympic teams, and is a great way to introduce children to track and field. Practice and sign-ups start April 27, and run 6:15-8 p.m.

SPECIAL TO WNC PARENT

Kids ages 6-18 can hone their track and field skills this summer through the Asheville Lightning Junior Olympics program.

W N C PA R E N T | M A R C H 2 0 0 9

W N C PA R E N T P R E S E N T S W N C M O M . C O M , T H E P L AC E W H E R E L O C A L M O M S C O N N E C T

camp guide 2009

day camps Continued from Page 18 be comfortable in the water. Campers will help set up and break down primitive camps, cook meals and follow all safety rules. Cost is $230 residents ($235 nonresidents) and includes all equipment, meals, instruction and transportation.

Asheville Racquet and Fitness Club, tennis and sports camps, June 8-Aug. 14 Asheville Racquet and Fitness Club offers camps for children ages 4-14, and club membership is not required to participate. Camps include Little Sneakers tennis camps for kids 4-6, which runs 9 a.m.-noon Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Cost is $75 per week or $135 for a two-week session. Junior tennis camp, for children 6-9 with tennis experience, is 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Cost is $100 per week or $165 for a two-week session. All Day Sports Camp, for kids 8-14, teaches tennis and gives each child the chance to participate in other sporting activities like basketball, racquetball, soccer, badminton, aerobics, and swimming. The camp is 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday-Friday for $180 for one week or $300 for a two-week session. Camp registrations can be taken at the front desk of the Asheville Racquet and Fitness Club location on Hendersonville Road. For more information, call

Mindy Sheppard at 274-3361 or visit www.ashevilleracquetandfitness.com.

Blowing Rock Stage Company, Summer CAMPservatories, June 15-July 31 Join Blowing Rock Stage Company’s eighth year of summer camps taught by theater professionals from all over the country. Themes include improvisation, play production, green screen movie making, technical theater and more. For children ages 4-19. Students will have the opportunity to attend a show performed and produced by the company throughout our summer session at no extra charge. Cost is $100 for half-day camps for younger children and $200 for 9 a.m.-4 p.m. camps for older children. Balance due first day of camp. To register, call Kim Cozort Kay at 828295-9168, e-mail kim@BlowingRockStage.com or visit www.BlowingRockStage.com.

Bounceville USA, June-August Let your child bounce and play the morning away at a half-day camp for children age 3 and older. Runs 9 a.m.-noon Monday-Friday during weeks of June 15-19, July 13-17 and Aug. 17-21. Cost is $75/week and includes snack, bouncing in inflatables, games and crafts based on weekly theme. Space is limited to 15 campers maximum per weekly session. For information, call 6964949, e-mail bouncevilleusa@aol.com or visit www.bouncevilleusa.com.

Buncombe County Parks and Rec, Camp Julian, Aug. 10-21 A day camp for rising first- through eighth-graders

SPECIAL TO WNC PARENT

Campers at the Carolina Day School’s Summer Quest program build cars. The school offers programs for children in pre-kindergarten through high school. that fills the gap between the end of summer camps and the start of school. Runs 7:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Cost is $150 per week or $35 per day. Children can attend only a few days or the entire session. Activities include classes taught by local artists, naturalist-led events, archery, fishing cookouts, field trip and other special programs. Fees include all programs, transportation and snacks. Limited to 20 campers per day. Lunch is not provided. Fees due at time of registration. For more information or to register, contact Grace Young at 250-4265 or grace.young@ buncombecounty.org.

Camp Arrowhead for Boys, June 15-Aug. 7 Campers from around the world have been enjoying summers at Arrowhead in Zirconia since 1937. New this year, the camp launches a day camp program. Boys ages 6-10 from the surrounding counties or from families vacationing in the area can get a taste of summer camp! Camp runs 8:45 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday-Friday. Transportation provided from a central location in Hendersonville, with pickup at 8:15 a.m. and drop-off at 4:30 p.m. Cost is $275/week for the first camper, $250/week for additional campers. For information, e-mail jeremy@camparrowhead.org or call 692-1123.

Camp Broadstone, Appalachian State University, June 14-July 24 The N.C. Summer Enrichment Program for academically gifted fourth- to ninth-grade boys and girls offers six day camp sessions. The programs blend enrichment classes with adventure activities designed to encourage intellectual, social, and physical growth through interactive and individual involvement. Classes may include sciences, environmental studies, arts, music, dramatic arts, creative writing, community service and cultural studies. Adventure activities include a high ropes course, a climbing wall, an alpine tower, hiking, canoeing, and a group problem solving course. Cost is $250 per week. For information, e-mail bevanjk@appstate.edu, call 963-4640 or visit www.campbroadstone.com.

W N C PA R E N T | M A R C H 2 0 0 9

Camp Tekoa, June 15-Aug. 14 Day camps for ages 5-11 at Camp Tekoa in Hendersonville. Activities include nature hikes, devotions, challenge course, zip line, boating, arts and crafts, tree climb, swimming, field games and water games. Cost is $165-$180. Camps operate 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Monday-Friday. Call 6926516 or visit www.camptekoa.org.

Carolina Day School, June 15-July 31 Carolina Day School offers Summer Quest, Summer Explorations (for middle schoolers) and summer workshops (for high schoolers). Summer Quest campers can chose from more than 50 options including science, cooking, rocket making, hiking and creek adventures, soccer, dance, disc golf, fashion, candlemaking and more. Summer Explorations offer a unique study into a particular subject, such as photography or one based on the Girls on the Run program. And high-school workshops are intensive experiences in leadership, drama or aeronautical engineering. Costs start at $150, and early morning and afternoon options are available. Registration discount before April 10. Contact Libby Roland at lroland@cdschool.org or 274-0758, ext. 305, or visit download a brochure from www.cdschool.org.

Carwile-Dodson Studio, pottery camp, June 15-Aug. 14 The Carwile-Dodson Studio for Pottery Instruction in Brevard will offer five weeklong Play in the Clay children’s potter camps. Sessions for ages 6-10 meet 9 a.m.-noon; ages 11-16 meet 1:30-4:30 p.m. Children will learn the pinch, coil and slab methods of pottery construction, as well as basics of sculpture. Children in the age 11-16 session will have the chance to try wheel throwing. Cost is $180 per child ($165 if registered by April 30). The Carwile-Dodson Studio is next door to Mud Dabbers Pottery, four miles south of downtown Brevard on U.S. 276. Call 884-5771 or visit www.muddabbers.com/classes for a complete schedule and more information.

camp guide 2009

crafts, games and activities related to each country. Camp also includes weekly library day, swimming, other field trips and community service opportunities. Half- and full-day programs available. Discounts for multiple family members. Runs 9 a.m.-4 p.m., with early drop off at 7:30 a.m. and late pickup until 6 p.m. Prices start at $70 for members, $95 for nonmembers. Contact Raymond or Jaxi at 681-5023 or visit www.Dojoku.com. At 36 A/B Rosscragggon Road, South Asheville.

Cedar Cliff Day Camp, The Cove, Asheville, June 15-Aug. 14 Weekly full-day sessions (8:30 a.m.-5 p.m.) packed with swimming, arts and crafts, a zip line, field trips, Scripture Adventure, games, Super Splash and more. Children can develop skills on the archery and BB ranges. Day camp is open to rising kindergarten to sixth-graders. Cost is $185 per week (lunch and snack included). To register, visit www.campcedarcliff.org or call 450-3331.

East Asheville United Methodist Church, music camp, July 13-17 Free music camp with games, outdoor activities, crafts and more will be offered 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at East Asheville United Methodist Church, 48 Browndale Road. Lunch is provided. Camp includes learning a musical, music games, crafts and lots of fun. Open to children who have finished kindergarten through sixth grade. Registration forms are available by calling 298-3211 and must be returned by June 30. For information, call 298-3211 or 299-9742 or visit www.eastashevilleumc.org.

Center Stage Dance Studio, June 8-July 31 Center Stage Dance Studio offers weeklong camps for dancers ages 3-10. Camps run 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. for ages 3-6. Themes include Cinderella, Ariel, Snow White, Sleeping Beauty, Broadway Baby and more. Camps for dancers ages 7-10 run 9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Themes include hip-hop, Hannah Montana, American Girl and more. Cost is $150 for half days and $190 for full days, with a $20 discount before May 16. For information, call 654-7010, e-mail csdance@bellsouth.net or visit www.centerstage1.com.

Colburn Earth Science Museum, June 29-Aug. 7 Summer camp at the Colburn is for rising kindergartners to fifth-graders. All camps run 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday, with the exception of Science Sprouts, a camp for rising kindergartners and first-graders, which is 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Offerings include Cosmic Camp, Rockhounds Camp, Earth Science Extravaganza, and Science Sisters, a camp for rising third- to fifth-grade girls. Full-day camps are $180 members ($205 nonmembers). Science Sprouts is $95 members ($120 nonmembers). All campers except Science Sprouts spend the last day of session at an outdoor classroom at the Grove Stone Quarry in Swannanoa. Call 254-7162 or visit www.colburnmuseum.org.

Crossfire Basketball Camp, various locations in WNC, June 15-July 23 Crossfire Ministries will host half- and full-day and overnight basketball camps for boys and girls ages 6-17. Times and ages vary by location,

SPECIAL TO WNC PARENT

Center Stage Dance Studio in South Asheville offers camps for dancers ages 3-10. which include Asheville Christian Academy (June 15-19 and July 6-10), Mars Hill College (July 19-23) and First Baptist Church in Hendersonville (June 22-26). Cost is $90 for half-day camp and $225 for full-day camp. For more information, call 255-9111, e-mail jjcrossfire@charter.net or visit www.crossfireministry.com.

Dojoku martial arts camp, June 8-Aug. 21 Learn about martial arts from around the world at Dojo Kids Summer Camp for children ages 5 (and who have completed kindergarten) and older. Each week offers a different theme with a different style and country, with snacks, food, arts and

Eliada Home for Children, June 4-Aug. 16 Eliadaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Summer Day Camp offers a safe and memorable summer experience for children who have completed kindergarten through age 14. Activities include weekly field trips, daily swimming, dirt bikes for ages 10 and older, gym activities, golfing, horse experiences and teambuilding.

Continues on Page 22

Cub Scout Camps Camp Stephens, June 15-19: The SoQua Cub Scout summer camp offers an opportunity for Cub Scouts ages 7-10 to earn credit toward achievements. Camp runs 7:45 a.m.-5 p.m. at Camp Stephens, Clayton Road in Arden. Boys can enjoy archery, BB guns, arts and crafts, field sports and more. For more information, call Amy Heller at 254-6189, ext.26, or e-mail aheller@bsamail.org. Cataloochee District, June 22-26: Day camp in Sylva runs 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Campers will take part in games, sports, arts and crafts, learn about nature, shoot a bow and arrow and a BB gun, do woodworking, and more. Open to rising first- to fifth-grade boys in Haywood, Jackson and Macon counties. For boys who are not Cub Scouts, day camp is a great opportunity to find out about scouting. For information, contact Joyce Pope at 631-9496 or joyce_pope@hotmail.com.

W N C PA R E N T P R E S E N T S W N C M O M . C O M , T H E P L AC E W H E R E L O C A L M O M S C O N N E C T

camp guide 2009

day camps

ten) to 11 will enjoy swimming, games, nature education, field trips, crafts and more. Cost is $100 for residents, $130 nonresidents. Contact Cheyenne Youell at 687-0751 or visit www.fletcherparks.org.

Continued from Page 21

Girl Scout day camp

Camp runs 7 a.m.-5:30 p.m. weekly. Tuition is $128 per week. The camp accepts Buncombe County child care vouchers. To register, contact Denise or Ashley at 254-5356, ext. 368.

Emmanuel Lutheran School, Summer Rocks, June 8-Aug. 14 Emmanuel Lutheran School offers a variety of day camps that include academic enrichment, field trips, arts and crafts, tae kwon do, gymnastics, musical revues with the Asheville Arts Center, sports camps, and more. Older campers (rising sixth- to ninth-graders) can participate in the drama camp’s production of “Dear Edwina.” Auditions for this will be 6-8 p.m. May 26-27. Camp runs 9 a.m.-noon Monday-Friday, with early drop-off at 7:30 a.m. at no additional charge. Extended day program from 7:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. includes a hot lunch, arts and crafts, learning activities, and transportation to a local community pool twice a week. For information, call 2818182 or visit www.emmanuellutheranschool.org.

Fletcher Community Park, June 8-Aug. 14 Campers ages 5 (and have completed kindergar-

W N C PA R E N T | M A R C H 2 0 0 9

For information on these camps, Call 252-4442 or visit www.girlscoutswnc.org. Camp Pisgah, June 8-12: Camp Pisgah in Brevard offers day camp to Girl Scouts and nonscouts ages 5-17. Experience crafts, horseback riding, swimming and more. Older girls can take lifeguard training or learn to be a counselor. Transportation from Asheville and Brevard available for a fee. Cost starts at $125, with substantial discount available if campers register by March 16. Camp Rhoades, June 22-July 31: Camp Rhoades is a new day camp based at the Girl Scout Service Center near the campus of UNC Asheville for girls ages 5-16. Cost is $50-$185. Camp runs 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday.

Grove Park Inn Resort and Spa, June-July The Grove Park Inn will be offer Fun Camp for kids ages 7-14. Activities will include golf clinics, swimming and water games, kids aerobics, pingpong, badminton, crafts and more. Runs 8:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. June 15-19, July 20-24 and 27-31. Cost is $175 per week. Snacks will be provided. Space is limited. For information, call Tina Porter at 866-650-4142 or e-mail tporter@groveparkinn.com.

camp guide 2009 Gwynn Valley Camp, June 15-July 24 Coed day camp in Brevard for rising first-graders through fifth-graders. Activities include nature exploration, crafts, drama, music, swimming and more. Sessions run from 8:30 a.m.-5:15 p.m. Cost is $350, with sibling discounts and scholarships available. Call 885-2900 or visit www.gwynnvalley.com.

Hahn’s Gymnastics, June 8-Aug. 21 Half-day programs for 3 and older (must be toilet trained) and full-day programs for rising kindergartners and older. Theme-based activities include gymnastics, games, parachute, arts and crafts, and movies. Full-day camps go on field trips. Cost is $75 for half-day and $140 for fullday. At 18 Legend Drive in Arden. Call 684-8832, e-mail hahnsgymnastics@hotmail.com or visit www.hahnsgymnastics.com.

Hickory Nut Gap Farm, June 15-July 17 Hickory Nut Gap Farm in Fairview is offering weeklong summer camps for boys and girls ages 6-13. Campers participate in swimming, art, pottery, horseback riding and more. Camp runs 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday-Friday. Cost is $350 a week. For information, call Susie at 628-3546, or Annie at 628-2616 or 273-6236.

High Flight Gymnastics, June 8-Aug. 21 High Flight Gymnastics offers weeklong sessions for children ages 5-14. Activities include sports and games, with lots of gymnastics, trampolines, a foam pit, arts and crafts, and weekly field trips and swimming. Sessions run 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. with extended drop-off and pickup times from 8 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Cost is $135 for the week, extended hours $10 extra. Daily rates are available. For information, call 252-8746 or visit www.highflightgym.com.

Historic Johnson Farm, June 15–19 Weaving Week lets children ages 9-11 experience different types of weaving and material preparation, including Kool-Aid dyeing, tapestry weaving, slentra braiding and more. Runs 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Limited to 12 students. Cost is $75. Historic Johnson Farm is at 3346 Haywood Road, Hendersonville. For information, call Ann Mullican at Heritage Weavers at 697-7462 or the farm, at 891-6585.

Idea Factory Inc., June 15-Aug. 17 Learn a new dance style or work on your technique at the Idea Factory’s camps for children as young as 4. Cost is $105 per session. Camps run 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Monday-Thursday. For more information, call 277-4010 or visit www.ideafactoryinc.org.

Over the River Farm, horse camp Over the River Farm is a hunter/jumper facility that specializes in teaching children and juniors. Camps for groups of six-eight riders, beginners to intermediates, will be offered from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. For dates and more information, visit www.OverTheRiverFarm.com or call Julia at 2153653.

KidSenses Children’s Interactive Museum, June 11-Aug. 14

Pack Place, Pack Place Potpourri, June 29-July 3

Museum offers weeklong, half-day camps for children ages 4-10, along with a Volunteer in Training program for kids ages 13-17. Themes include “Science Shenanigans,” “Garden Gnomes,” a camp sampler and more. Camps run 9 a.m.-noon or 1-4 p.m. Cost is $40 for members, $55 for nonmembers. At 172 N. Main St., Rutherfordton. Call 286-2120 or visit www.kidsenses.com or information.

Kindermusik, May 28-June 25 and July 20-24 Toddlers ages 1-3 1/2 are invited to ride the “Zoo Train,” from 9:30-10:30 a.m. Thursdays, May 28-June 25, or Monday-Friday, July 20-24, in Mars Hill. Bring your own stuffed animals for the petting zoo. Wear long white socks on your hands for polar bear paws and learn about real animals in the zoo. Sing songs for clapping time, and use music to help toddlers regulate emotions. Contact Debra Huff at 206-3145 or dhuff@mhc.edu.

MAHEC CSI West Summer in Science camp, July The Mountain Area Health Education Center and Southwestern Community College will host the third-annual CSI West Summer in Science camp for high school students in Jackson and Swain counties who are interested in math and science. Explore the use of forensic science techniques and technology in science applications. Students will work in small teams to refine research skills and science applications. Students will experience “minds-on” and hands-on inquiry-based science activities, including field trips and interactions with area scientists. The two-week camp is free. For information, contact Jacquelyn Hallum at 257-4479 or Jacquelyn.hallum@mahec.net.

New Hope Presbyterian Church, performing arts day camp, July 13-17 Kidshine Performing arts day camp is offered for rising third- through eighth-graders. The camp will meet at the church, 3070 Sweeten Creek Road, Asheville, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday-Friday, with a final performance at 7 p.m. Friday. Activities include music, drama, dance, puppets, instruments, scenery painting and lots of fun! Cost is $120 per child; financial aid is available. Call 274-0191 or e-mail office@newhopepcusa.org.

Joyful Noise Community Music & N.C. Arboretum, May 19-Aug. 8 Arts Center, July 20-24 Weeklong camps from age 2 to rising eighthJoyful Noise will offer two summer camps. Summer String Experience is for string players of all ages and skill levels. The eclectic string camp will

Aug. 3-5 for $149. Five-day camp for ages 11-15 from June 15-19 and July 13-17 for $229. Register by May 1 for a $10 discount per camper. At Outdoor Family Fun Center, 485 Brookside Camp Road, Hendersonville. Call 698-1234 or visit www.outdoorfamilyfuncenter.com.

offer orchestra, bluegrass, chamber music, and master class instruction, as well as a variety of electives like music theory, improvisation, music history and appreciation, jazz, traditional Appalachian music and art forms and more. Dance and Musical Theater Adventure uses dance, improvisation games, storytelling, singing and hands-on art activities to help campers create their own short plays. The finished piece will be performed at the end of the week. Both camps run 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. and cost is $195, with merit and financial scholarships and sibling discounts available. For information, contact 645-0504 or lvogel@evensongdesign.com or visit joyfulnoisecenter.org.

graders. Camps are 9:30-11:30 a.m. for 2- to 4-year-olds and 9 a.m.-4 p.m. for older children.

SPECIAL TO WNC PARENT

Odyssey Center for Ceramic Arts at Highwater Clays offers kids a chance to work with clay at camp. Themes include Soggy Sneakers and Gone Buggy for the little ones to Nature Rangers, Junior Mountaineers, Boots, Paddles and Reels, and Mountain Trek for school-age children. Cost from $45-$295, depending on session and membership. At N.C. 191 and the Blue Ridge Parkway. For information, visit www.ncarboretum.org or call 665-2492.

Odyssey Center for Ceramic Arts, June 8-Aug. 14 Weeklong morning or afternoon classes for children ages 4-12. All classes are $140. Some discounts apply. Call 285-0210, e-mail odyssey@highwaterclays.com or stop in at 236 Clingman Ave.

Odyssey Community School, Summer Adventures, June 8-Aug. 14 Odyssey Community School offers 10 weeks of summer camp that combine activities with sheer fun and relaxation for children ages 5–12. Cool Fun Camp (ages 5-6), Ultimate Frisbee & Fun Camp (ages 7-9) and Refine Your Skills While Having Fun Soccer Camp (ages 9-12) run all summer. Five two-week thematic camps run during the same time period. All camps include free swim every day and play time in a large, wooded playground. Camps run 8:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m. with before-camp and after-camp care starting at 7:45 a.m. and ending at 6 p.m. Camp is $200/week with discounts available. The school is at 90 Zillicoa St., Asheville. For information, call 259-3653 or e-mail office@odysseycommunity.org. Download an application from www.odysseycommunity.org.

Outdoor Family Fun Center, golf camps, June-August The ParXlent Golf Academy offers three-day golf camp offered for ages 7-10 from July 22-24 and

Rising third- to fifth-graders can spend a week sampling the greatest hits of Pack Place. Campers will visit three museums each day. Make rockets, meet The Health Adventure’s animals, engineer robots and more in Science Sampler at The Health Adventure. Mine for gems, hunt for fossils, blast off into space, explore dinosaurs and more at the Colburn Earth Science Museum. Draw, paint, sculpt, and more at the Asheville Art Museum. Register through the Colburn Earth Science Museum. Call 253-3227.

RiverLink, River camps, June 15-July 17 Discover the French Broad River in Asheville and around the watershed at RiverLink’s camp for rising third- to eighth-graders. Play river games, complete a cleanup project, tour parks and greenways, build a rain garden, and do arts and poetry related to the river. Thursday night includes a sleep-away camping trip. Runs 9 a.m.-3 p.m. in four one-week sessions. Cost is $200/camper with $25 registration fee (waived for members). Visit www.riverlink.org/camps.asp, call 2528474, ext. 111, or e-mail education@riverlink.org.

Roots + Wings art camps, June-July Art camps for children ages 3-12. Sessions are June 15-17 and June 29-July 1 for ages 3-6 and June 22-24 and July 6-8 for ages 7-12. Camps run 9 a.m.-noon Monday-Wednesday at the Cathedral of All Souls in Biltmore Village. Cost is $125 plus a $10 supply fee, with sibling discounts available. For more information, visit www.gingerhuebner.com/roots+wings.

Sew Simply Academy, sewing camps, June-August Kids ages 8-17 can learn to sew at Sew Simply’s summer camp. Bring your own sewing machine or use the school’s Pfaff machines. Sessions run 10 a.m.-3 p.m. June 17-19, July 15-17 and Aug. 5-7. Cost is $135. Limit four students per session. For information, visit www.sewsimply.com, call 6693978 or e-mail info@sewsimply.com.

Sewing Camp, West Asheville, June 8-July 13 Summer sewing camp for preteen and teen girls and boys will have campers sew a garment to

Continues on Page 25

W N C PA R E N T P R E S E N T S W N C M O M . C O M , T H E P L AC E W H E R E L O C A L M O M S C O N N E C T

W N C PA R E N T | M A R C H 2 0 0 9

camp guide 2009

day camps Continued from Page 23 completion. Students will learn to use their own sewing machine, decide pattern style/size and learn time-saving techniques for working with textiles. Sessions are 9:30 a.m.-noon MondayFriday. Cost is $95 per session. Sessions are limited to eight students and early registration will reserve your week and time. To register, call Daniele at 254-5591.

Soccer Speed Summer Camp, July 7-23 Soccer Speed is a speed development program for soccer players created by Reynolds High School sprints coach Lee Pantas to teach the fundamentals of proper sprinting and starting techniques. The camp, endorsed and supported by ABYSA and Highland Football Club, will be at the John B. Lewis Soccer Complex at Azalea Park and will consist of six one-hour sessions on July 7, 9, 14, 16, 21 and 23. Campers will be divided into two groups: U11 to U13 boys and girls will meet from 6-7 p.m. and U14 to U18 boys and girls will meet from 7-8 p.m. Cost is $100, with advance registration required. For more information or to register, visit www.soccerspeed.org or call 779-1569.

Sole Impact Studios, Rhythm and Sole dance camp, June-July Students will explore multicultural dance styles including clogging, Irish, rhythm tap, body percussion, and South African dances. Kids will be inspired by improvisational dance, creative movement, storytelling, theatre games and craft making. Runs 9 a.m.-noon for 3- to 5-year-olds and 1-5 p.m. for 6- to 11-year-olds, June 15-19. Costs start at $125. An intensive camp for 7- to 14year-olds runs June 22-26 and one for kids 12-18 runs July 13-17, both 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Those camps include exploration of dance styles, student choreography, theater games and more. All skill levels welcome. Cost is $275. Discount offered before April 1. The studio is at 235A Weaverville Highway, Woodfin. For information, call 319-7202, e-mail soleimpactstudios@gmail.com or visit www.soleimpactstudios.com.

Southeastern Fitness and Rehabilitation, swim camps Southeastern Fitness and Rehabilitation will offer swim camps beginning in June. There will be camps for all ages of children at the indoor heated pool. For information, call 274-2188 and ask for Darren or e-mail ask4cady@charter.net.

Continues on Page 26

W N C PA R E N T P R E S E N T S W N C M O M . C O M , T H E P L AC E W H E R E L O C A L M O M S C O N N E C T

camp guide 2009

UNC Asheville Super Summer Camp, June 15-19

day camps

Open to rising third- to sixth-graders, Super Summer combines the fun of day camp with the excitement of academic learning in the arts, culture and community, technology, math and the sciences. Camp is led by experienced classroom teachers and assisted by UNC Asheville student counselors. From 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Cost is $215 for the week. Early drop-off (8-9 a.m.) and extended pick-up (4-6 p.m.) are available. Visit www.unca.edu/oaci or call 251-6558 for details.

Continued from Page 25

Summer Guitar Jams Camp, June 15-Aug. 14 Guitar students, ages 9 and older, from beginner to intermediate, will explore rock, blues, jazz, and folk music while playing with other students. Instruction will include lots of playing time as well as hearing the history, development, and sounds of different types of guitars. At the end of the session, students will have an opportunity to jam with other musicians. Led by Anne Coombs, founder of Asheville Music School, and guitarist William Withers. Sessions will be 9 a.m.-1 p.m. June 15-19, June 29-July 3, July 13-17 and 27-31, and Aug. 10-14. The Music Center is at 800 Fairview Road, Suite A-3. Cost is $175 per session. For details, contact Anne Coombs at annec77@yahoo.com, or call the Asheville Music School at 252-6244.

Swannanoa Valley Montessori School, June 15-July 10 Three weeks of programs offer children ages 3-9 fun in a nurturing, noncompetitive learning environment. Programs for 3- to 6-year-olds include activities revolving around exploration of other countries and customs, rainforest animals, cooking, messy art and yoga. Programs for 6- to 9-year-olds include exploration of fiber through spinning, weaving and felting; gardening; and studies of other countries and customs, especially France and Africa. All camps include free play time on our playground, equipped for the summer with lots of water games. Runs 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Monday-Friday. Cost is $120 per week. For more information, visit www.swanmont.org or call 669-8571.

Swannanoa Valley Museum, June 22-26 and July 20-24 Swannanoa Valley Museum in Black Mountain will offer two weeklong camps. For rising second- to fifth-graders, there is Pathways to Adventure, which is a field trip camp that explores the pathways that led to the settlement of Western North Carolina. Study animals, early inhabitants, pioneers, trains and more. Exploring Our Mountains camp is for rising sixth- to eighth-graders. This field trip camp will take campers to high, hidden

Vance Elementary’s Camp Invention, July 13-17

SPECIAL TO WNC PARENT

Swannanoa Valley Museum campers get an idea of a frontier fort in Old Fort. and historic places. It will incorporate photography, measuring water and air quality, hiking, minerals, and more. Cost is $135. Camp alumni get a 10 percent discount. Snacks and drinks provided; parents provide lunches. Parent volunteers are needed in exchange for free tuition for one child per parent. Call 669-9566, visit www.swannanoavalleymuseum.org or e-mail swannanoavalleym@bellsouth.net.

The Health Adventure, June 15-Aug. 7 Hands-on programs for rising first- through eighthgraders and families. Programs include a Family Robotics Workshop for rising fourth-graders to adults; Young Adventurers Science Surprise and Young Adventurers Bubble and Fizz for rising firstand second-graders; Surfin’ Safari and Alien or Not? for rising third- to sixth-graders; and GIRLS Quest: Girls Investigating Real Life Science for rising sixth- to eighth-graders. Cost is $90 for members, $100 for nonmembers. Robotics workshop is $18 or $20 per person. Call 2546373, ext. 316, or visit www.thehealthadventure.org.

The Little Gym, June 8-Aug. 21 Anytime Summertime Camps are designed

around themes like “Beach Party” and “Paws, Fins, and Feathers” and combine physical fitness, gymnastics and play with arts and crafts. Camps are for children ages 3-11 and are offered 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Monday-Thursday. Available to both The Little Gym members and nonmembers. Prices vary based on how frequently a child attends. The Little Gym is at 1000 Brevard Road, Suite 168, Asheville. For information, call 667-9588 or visit www.tlgashevillenc.com.

Transylvania Community Arts Center, June and August The Transylvania Community Arts Council is offering two camps at the Transylvania Community Arts Center, 349 S. Caldwell St., Brevard. To register, call 884-2787 or e-mail tcarts@citcom.net. For more information, visit www.tcarts.org. ◆ Summer Art Camp, June 22-26: Children ages 5-12 can explore visual arts, music, dance and pottery in either a morning session, 9 a.m.-noon, or an afternoon session, 1-4 p.m. Cost is $75 per child for the week. ◆ Film Camp for teens, Aug. 3-7: Kids ages 12-16 will create a film in one week, including writing, producing, directing and acting. There will be a movie screening a month after camp ends. Camp runs 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Cost is $250.

W N C PA R E N T | M A R C H 2 0 0 9

A program of the National Inventors Hall of Fame Foundation for rising first- to sixth-graders at Vance Elementary. Camp runs 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Campers will learn problem solving, build an eco-friendly city, create roller coasters, and try a new take on playground games. Cost is $205; register by March 31 for $20 off. Sibling discounts available. Contact Robbie Lipe at 350-6600. Register at www.campinvention.org or 800-9684332.

Veritas Christian Academy, June 15-Aug. 6 Veritas Christian Academy in Fletcher is offering several half- and full-day camps, open to the public. Camps for kindergartners to 12th-graders include Introduction to Spanish, Into the Woods (a field trip camp), Puppet Making 101, Little Hoopers basketball camp, Warrior Summer Workout, puppeteering skills, drama, fencing and more. Costs start at $60 per camper. For information or to register, call 681-0546 or visit veritasnc.org. Scholarships available. Contact Traci Carter at VCA for more information regarding financial assistance.

Waechter’s Silk Shop, Camp Sew Wow!, June 22-26 Students ages 9-15 will learn how to use the sewing machine, lay out and cut a pattern, follow pattern instructions in sewing an item like a pillowcase, pajama bottoms, gathered skirt, tote bag, and/or a zippered wallet. Bring a sewing machine or rent one. Runs 10 a.m.-3 p.m. with 30-minute lunch break. Cost is $195, plus fabric and supplies purchased at the shop, which is at 9-D Reed St, Asheville. Call 252-2131 or e-mail classes@waechters.com.

Continues on Page 28

W N C PA R E N T P R E S E N T S W N C M O M . C O M , T H E P L AC E W H E R E L O C A L M O M S C O N N E C T

camp guide 2009

cent discount if registered by March 31. Call 215-9002 or visit www.wolfememorial.com.

day camps

Xcite Cheerleading, summer camp, June-August Xcite Cheerleading will offer camps in its new facility for school teams, youth league programs and individuals. Build cheerleading skills like stunts, cheers, dance and tumbling. For more information, call 606-4358 or e-mail XCA@att.net. For updates on camps and more, visit www.xcitecheerleading.com.

Continued from Page 26

Waynesville Parks and Recreation, June 15-Aug. 14 Full-day camp offered for children ages 5-11 (completed kindergarten through fifth grade), from 7:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Activities at Waynesville Recreation Center include swimming, arts and crafts, archery, sports, hands-on science experiments, pottery, field trips and more. Cost is $90 for Recreation Center members, $100 for nonmembers. Drop-in is $20 or $25, with a three-day per week drop-in limit. Contact Abby Batten at recyouth@townofwaynesville.org or 456-2030.

Young Chefs Academy, ‘The Great Kitchen Mystery,’ June 9-Aug. 20

Warren Wilson boys basketball camp, July 13-18 A one-week all-skills camp and a one-day (July 18) shooting camp for boys (rising fourth- to 12th-graders) at DeVries Gymnasium at Warren Wilson College. Runs 9 a.m.-noon. All-skills camp is dedicated to improving offensive and defensive skills. Shooting camp will focus on improving the jump shot and shooting with proper form. Cost is $70 for all-skills camp and $30 for shooting camp. Call Kevin Walden (head men’s basketball coach) at 771-3738, e-mail kwalden@warrenwilson.edu or visit www.warrenwilsonowls.com/ d/2008-09/Mens_Basketball/Warren_ Wilson_Basketball_Camp_(2009).doc.

SPECIAL TO WNC PARENT

Sarah McCrea enjoys water day at Westminster Presbyterian’s day camp.

Western Carolina University

Western Carolina University in Cullowhee offers camps all summer for rising first- to ninth-graders. Offerings include “Let’s Go Outside” and “Mountain Mysteries” for fourth- and fifth-graders, multimedia Creativity Camp for first- to eighthWestminster Presbyterian graders, Eco-Adventures Camp for second- and Preschool, June 9-25, July 14-30 third-graders, separate outdoors adventure camps for boys and girls entering sixth and seventh Westminster Presbyterian Preschool, off Tunnel grades, an introduction to rock climbing for teens Road at 15 Overbrook Place, will offer two sessions of summer camp for children ages 1-8. Both 16 and older, and more. Prices start at $30, and sessions are 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Tuesdays, Wednes- times and dates vary. For information, call 2277397 or 800-928-4968, or visit days and Thursdays, and will include arts and http://learn.wcu.edu. Other offerings include: crafts, stories, games, picnics, and water fun days. Session 1, with the theme “Folk Tales, Fairy ◆ Tiny Tot Swim Program, May-August: Offered Tales and Fables,” runs June 9-25. Session 2, with in several sessions. Ages 6 months-5 years. $39. ◆ Youth Swim Program: Evening program runs the theme “Our Great Big World,” is July 14-30. May 11-22 and day programs run June 15-July 2 Cost per session is $150. There is a $25 regisand July 6-23. For ages 6 and older. $72. tration fee for each session or $40 for both ◆ Geocaching (My Buddy and Me), July 9: sessions. Siblings get a 10 percent discount. One-day camp is designed for an adult and child Enrollment is limited. Drop-in daily child care is to have fun together learning the art and science offered for $20 a day. Advanced registration of geocaching, a worldwide game of hiding and required. Call Jeannie Sausedo at 298-9167 or seeking treasure. Runs 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Cost is $89 visit www.westminsterpreschool.net. for an adult attending with a child younger than

12; $59 if adult attendance only. ◆ Catamount Adventure Camp, Aug. 3-7: Camp for rising eighth- and ninth-graders includes hiking, rock climbing, introduction to whitewater kayaking and rafting, self-discovery and leadership skills. Cost is $199. ◆ Catamounts soccer camps: Day camp for boys and girls, ages 4-11, offered Aug. 3-7. Shuttle from Waynesville available. Cost is $85 for half day and $165 for full day. For information, visit eteamz.com/westerncarolinaSA/, call 2272025 or e-mail tdecesare@wcu.edu.

Writing camp, starts June 15 Through fun, thought-provoking writing exercises, activities and discussion, young writers will find an encouraging community where their creative efforts will shine. Write at Thomas Wolfe Memorial, in the house that served as the basis for “Look Homeward, Angel” by Wolfe. End-of-camp public readings in the visitor center auditorium. All skill and/or experience levels welcome. Weeklong sessions (9 a.m.-1 p.m.) for rising fourth- to eighth-graders. Fees vary, but include a 10 per-

W N C PA R E N T | M A R C H 2 0 0 9

Get caught up a mystery: Can Pat and Patty foil the misdeeds of the notorious culinary crook, Chef Pierre Poulet? An heirloom recipe has been lost and must be recovered before Chef Pierre can claim it as his own. Join in the hunt through the kitchen, gather clues and prepare gastronomical delights while staying a step ahead of the sinister Chef Poulet. Camp themes include The Quest for the Baker’s Dozen, The Pantry Password and The Case of the Smoking Grill. For children 4 and older. Camp runs 9 a.m.-noon Tuesdays-Thursdays. Cost is $135 before April 30, $150 after. To register, call 651-2433. For information, visit www.youngchefsacademy.com., click on “locations” then “Asheville.” At 336 Rockwood Road, Arden.

YWCA of Asheville, June-August Applications for all are available at the YWCA, 185 S. French Broad Ave. ◆ Summer camp, June 15-Aug. 21: YWCA Summer Camp for children in kindergarten to sixth grade that emphasizes cultural awareness and enrichment. includes field trips, gardening, sports, nature hikes, swimming lessons, music, art and more. Runs 7:30 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Friday at the YWCA. Breakfast, lunch and snack are provided. Cost is $140 a week for YWCA members, $150 for nonmembers, with a $15 per week deposit and a $35 individual or $50 family registration fee. Call CiCi Weston at 254-7206, ext. 111, or e-mail cici.weston@ ywcaofasheville.org. ◆ Spirit camp, June 15-July 31: A unique summer program designed to meet the needs of teens ages 12-16. Spirit offers daily, full-day field trips, including wilderness adventure, outdoor servicelearning projects, swimming, skating, trips and more. Runs 7:30 a.m.-5:45 p.m. Monday-Friday, beginning the first full week that Asheville City Schools are out for the summer and through the

camp guide 2009 last week of July. Cost is $120 week (call to ask about flexibility). Limited to 26 campers per week. Call Kenya Webster at 254-7206, ext. 205, or e-mail sos@ywcaofasheville.org. ◆ FutureVision, June 15-July 31: FutureVision camp for rising ninth- to 11th-graders offers a three-day-a-week camp organized around a variety of themes. Runs 8 am.-6 p.m. Monday, Wednesday, Friday. Includes hands-on career exploration, wilderness adventure, swimming, service-learning projects and a variety of exciting field trips. Free. Limit of 24 campers; sign-ups are on a first-come, first-served basis Call Rachel Herrick at 254-7206, ext. 103, or e-mail futurevision@ywcaofasheville.org.

YMCA of Western North Carolina, summer day camp, June-August All camps run Monday-Friday, but times vary. Registration begins March 15 for members and child care participants, March 29 to the public. SPECIAL TO WNC PARENT (Corpening YMCA registration open to everyone Sydney and Guadeloupe spend time in the YWCA garden. The YWCA of Asheville offers severMarch 15.) Financial assistance is available. al different day camps. Costs are for members/nonmembers. Call the Asheville YMCA at 210-9622, Reuter Family YMCA at 651-9622. YMCA, Skyland. $80/$115 with 25 percent lfrommer@ymcawnc.org. ◆ Reuter Family YMCA Discovery Preschool: A ◆ YMCA Buncombe County School day camp: half-day camp for children 3-rising kindergartners discount for additional siblings per session and School-based day camps include field trips, (must be potty trained). A wide variety of activities one-time $15 registration fee. ◆ Corpening Memorial YMCA day camp: For swimming, group games, arts and crafts, eco “go tailored to this age group like nature walks, green” days, drama, music and more. For rising indoor/outdoor games and art projects. Each day rising kindergartners to ninth-graders. Activities include weekly field trips, arts and crafts, group/ first- to sixth-graders. At Emma and Sand Hillat camp starts and ends with group circle time Venable elementary schools. Runs 9 a.m.-4 p.m. where campers have the opportunity to greet their team building, music and more. Runs 9 a.m.-4 new friends in a comfortable environment. Runs 8 p.m. with early and late care available. $65/$85. Early and late care available, June 8-Aug. 14. Call 659-9622, ext. 115, or e-mail $135 per week, with one-time registration fee of a.m.-noon, June 1-Aug. 14. At Reuter Family

$35/child or $50/family. Call 210-2273. ◆ YMCA Community Camp at Beaverdam: Traditional camp on eight acres. Activities are designed around a weekly theme and include swimming, games, arts and crafts, music and more. Programs for rising first- to sixth-graders. 9 a.m.-4 p.m., with early and late care available, June 15-Aug. 21. At YMCA Camp Beaverdam, 201 Beaverdam Road, Asheville. $135 per session, with registration fee of $35/child or $50/family. Call 210- 2273. ◆ Mild Adventure Camp: This camp is for the 9to 13-year-old who likes the outdoors and physical activity. Camp activities will include daily field trips, hiking, swimming, recreational games, outdoor skills challenge and more. Runs June 8-Aug. 21 at YMCA Camp Beaverdam. $145/ $170. ◆ Wild Adventure Camp: This camp is for 10- to 14-year-old with a brave and extremely adventurous heart. Activities will include high ropes course, outdoor rock climbing, white water rafting, bouldering, mountain biking and more. At YMCA Camp Beaverdam. $175/$195. Call 210-9622. ◆ Teen Extreme Adventure Camp: For ages 12-16. Runs 9 a.m.-4 p.m. June 8-Aug. 27 at Reuter Family YMCA. Activities include rock climbing, rafting, hiking, paintball, aerobics, scavenger hunts, swimming, sports, service projects and more. Character development lessons and teambuilding. $155/$185 per week. ◆ Sports camps: Basketball camp for ages 3-12 at Reuter Family YMCA (starts at $60/$80). Flag football camp for ages 6-12 at Reuter and 8-13 through Asheville YMCA ($100/$120). Iddy Biddy Sports Camp for ages 3-rising kindergarten through Asheville YMCA ($75/$105). Various times.

W N C PA R E N T P R E S E N T S W N C M O M . C O M , T H E P L AC E W H E R E L O C A L M O M S C O N N E C T

camp guide2009

overnight coed camps Appalachian Christian Camp, Unicoi, Tenn., June 2-Aug. 6 Programs for children in kindergarten to 12th grade. Facilities include a ballfield, outdoor basketball court, sand volleyball court, swimming pool, gymnasium, indoor rock climbing wall, air-conditioned dormitories and walking trails. Appalachian Christian Camp is a nondenominational Christian camp and retreat center that operates as a ministry partner of the area Chris-

tian churches and Churches of Christ. Cost is from $50 for day camps and from $210 for residential camps, with discounts available if registered by April 1 and May 1. Call 423-743-3910 or visit www.campacc.com.

Appalachian Institute for Creative Learning, Summer Enrichment Camp, July 19-Aug. 1 The Appalachian Institute for Creative Learning offers day and residential camps at Warren Wilson College for rising third- to 12th-graders. The camp includes classes ranging from water rockets and Japanese language and culture to claymation and improv comedy. The cost for residential campers is $490; for day campers, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s $250. Visit www.appalachianinstitute.org, call 800-951-7442 or

e-mail info@appalachianinstitute.org.

Blue Star Camps, Hendersonville, June 14-Aug. 7

Asheville School, June 21-July 11

Camps for children ages 6-16 focused on the Jewish experience. Activities include riding, swimming, land and water sports, trips, dramatic arts, a ropes challenge course and rock climbing in addition to extensive arts and tennis programs. Four- to eight-week sessions. A family camp is also offered. Cost starts at $4,900. Call 6923591 or visit www.bluestarcamps.com.

The Summer Academic Adventures Program allows rising seventh- to 11th-graders to get a taste of the Asheville School experience. Students come to explore new ideas, experience adventures and challenge themselves to think at a higher level. The three-week program offers instruction in nearly a dozen subjects through hands-on and experiential learning. Students spend mornings in the classroom and afternoons in the outdoors. Cost is $3,150 and includes room and board. For information, contact Jenny Wallace at wallacej@ashevilleschool.org. To apply online, visit www.ashevilleschool.org.

W N C PA R E N T | M A R C H 2 0 0 9

Buffalo Cove Outdoor Education Center Earth Camp, Blowing Rock, July 5-18 A nonprofit organization offering a camp that teaches fun and meaningful experiences that

camp guide2009

studies, swimming and more. Open to rising fourth-graders to graduated seniors. In one- or two-week sessions. Cost is $685-$1,370 per week. To register call 450-3331, e-mail camp@campcedarcliff.org or visit www.campcedarcliff.org.

brings campers closer to themselves, their friends and the land. Activities include traditional earth skills, wilderness survival, woodworking, archery, backpacking, low-impact camping and canoeing. Family-style meals offer mostly organic and local foods. Limited to 20 participants. Cost is $1,400. Call 964-1473, e-mail charleecamp@aol.com or visit www.buffalocove.com.

Camp Celo, Burnsville, June 14-Aug. 15 Coed farm home camp for ages 7-12. Camp Celoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s program is born out of the Quaker values of nonviolence, simplicity and environmental awareness. There is no religious program but there is a spiritual element to life at camp that focuses on compassion, cooperation, integrity, responsibility and service common to all major religions. Activities include horseback riding, swimming, picnics, crafts and daily farm chores. One- to three-week sessions. Price starts at $725. Call 675-4323 or visit www.campcelo.com.

Buffalo Mountain Camp, Jonesborough, Tenn., May 31-July 24 Campers learn about Christ while experiencing outdoor adventure and fun. Camp affiliated with United Methodist Church offers coed full-week and half-week camps for children 6-18 years old. Activities include hiking, team-building games, creek walking, Frisbee golf, swimming, climbing, fishing, archery, crafts, Bible studies, stream ecology and more. Costs start at $325 for full week and $170 for half-week. For information, call 423-929-9037, e-mail buffalomountain@hotmail.com or visit www.buffalomountaincamp.org.

Camp Broadstone, Appalachian State University, June 14-July 24 The N.C. Summer Enrichment Program for academically gifted fourth- to ninth-graders offers one- and two-week residential programs. The programs feature a blend of enrichment classes with adventure activities designed to encourage intellectual, social, and physical growth. Enrichment classes may include sciences, environ-

Camp Chatuga, Mountain Rest, S.C., June 8-Aug. 1 SPECIAL TO WNC PARENT

At Asheville Schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Summer Academic Adventures, students spend their afternoons on adventures in the outdoors of Western North Carolina. mental studies, arts, music, dramatic arts, creative writing, community service, and cultural studies. Adventure activities include a high ropes course, a climbing wall, an alpine tower, hiking, canoeing, and a group problem solving course. Costs start at $1,100. For information, e-mail bevanjk@appstate.edu, call 963-4640 or visit www.campbroadstone.com.

Camp Cedar Cliff, The Cove, Asheville, June 20-July 24 Fun and adventure geared to help your child succeed and grow, and to point him or her to God. Activities include archery, BBs, zip line, high ropes course, rappelling, horseback riding, whitewater rafting, team-building activities, Bible

This is a traditional, coed, summer residential camp emphasizing Christian values for boys and girls ages 6-16 near the Chattooga River. Activities include horseback riding, waterskiing, go-carts, canoeing, crafts, drama, creative writing and sports. One- to four-week sessions, starting at $605. Call 864-638-3728 or visit www.campchatuga.com.

Continues on Page 34

W N C PA R E N T P R E S E N T S W N C M O M . C O M , T H E P L AC E W H E R E L O C A L M O M S C O N N E C T

W N C PA R E N T | M A R C H 2 0 0 9

W N C PA R E N T P R E S E N T S W N C M O M . C O M , T H E P L AC E W H E R E L O C A L M O M S C O N N E C T

camp guide2009

One and two-week sessions, starting at $725. Discount available before April 1. Call 706-3980833 or visit www.campwoodmont.com.

overnight coed camps

Cheerio Adventures, Mouth of Wilson, Va., June 14-Aug. 1 Coed camp for children ages 10-17 offers oneand two-week sessions. Activities include kayaking, zip line, canoeing, caving, backpacking, mountain biking, rock climbing, rappelling, whitewater rafting, sailing, sea kayaking and more. Also offered are three-day parent-child trips and two-week extreme camp sessions. Costs start at $899, with parent-child trips at $296 per pair. For information, e-mail info@cheerioadventures.com, call 800-226-7496 or visit www.cheerioadventures.com.

Continued from Page 31

Camp Cheerio, Glade Valley, July 12-Aug. 21 Camp in Glade Valley (160 miles northeast of Asheville in Allegheny County) with one- and two-week sessions for children ages 7-15. Activities include kayaking, canoeing, archery, riflery, climbing, high ropes, newspaper, cheerleading, horseback riding, fishing, soccer, football, basketball, arts and crafts, hiking, rocketry, swimming, drama, dance, nature study, tennis, tumbling and more. Cost starts at $799 per week. For information, e-mail Lynda@campcheerio.org or call 800-226-7496.

Camp Harrison, near Lenoir, June 14-Aug. 14 Camp Harrison, part of the YMCA of Greater Charlotte, is a coed resident camp for kids ages 7-16. Campers will put Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mid and body. Activities include swimming in the new pool, horseback riding, sailing, kayaking, high ropes, sports, crafts, mountain biking, target sports, teen leadership programs and more. One-week sessions. Cost starts at $825. Visit www.campharrison.org, call 800-514-1417 or e-mail camperinfo@campharrison.org.

Camp Henry, Lake Logan Episcopal Center, Canton, June 14-July 25 Camp Henry is a coed residential camp with weeklong sessions for rising third-graders and older. It is operated by the Episcopal Diocese of Western North Carolina and is at Lake Logan Episcopal Center near Canton. Activities include sailing, canoeing, field games, crafts, whitewater rafting, an alpine tower, hiking, and much more. Prices start at $385 for mini-camp and $495 for regular sessions, with discounts before May 1. Call 225-6656 or visit www.camphenry.net.

Camp Henry Outdoor School, July 5-11 and 19-25 Camp Henry Outdoor School offers a coed program focused on teaching lightweight backpacking and basic rock climbing skills for middle school and high school students. Cost is $520. Visit www.camphenry.net or call 225-6656.

Camp Highlander, Mills River, June 14-Aug. 14 Coed camp for ages 5-16. Activities include canoeing, kayaking, mountain biking, hiking, horseback riding, swimming, water skiing, arts and crafts, pottery, archery, riflery and more. Sessions are one week (for first-time campers only ages 5-10) to three weeks. Cost is $1,000$3,300. Family camp offered over Memorial Day weekend. Call 866-891-7721, e-mail email@camphighlander.com or visit www.camphighlander.com.

CBU Ridge Camp, Black Mountain, July 5-17

SPECIAL TO WNC PARENT

CLIMBE at Montreat College offers weeklong overnight adventure trips.

Camp Judaea, Hendersonville, June 15-Aug. 6 Coed Jewish camp for rising third- to 10th-graders. Activities include horseback riding, basketball, softball, arts and crafts, ceramics, drama, field trips and more. Cost is $1,815-$4,175 for two-, four- or eight-week sessions. Call 800-7881567 or visit www.campjudaea.org.

Camp Living Water, Bryson City, June 28-July 31 For details on both Camp Living Water and its High Trek Adventures program, call 488-6012 or visit www.camplivingwater.com. Camp Living Water is a traditional summer camp for ages 7-17. Campers enjoy tubing, swimming, crafts, Bible study, singing, campfires, games, horseback riding, rafting and more. A big part of each day is chapel. Cost is $175-$195 per week. High Trek Adventures takes students ages 10-16 on weeklong wilderness trips in the mountains and on the lakes of Western North Carolina. Campers learn backpacking and canoeing skills, while sleeping and cooking and playing in the great outdoors. All High Trek Adventures place emphasis on spiritual growth, with time for Bible reading, prayer and group discussions. Cost is $175-$195 per week.

Camp Lutherock, Sugar Mountain, June 7-Aug. 8 On 709 acres on the south side of Sugar Mountain, Lutherock offers high-adventure camp experiences for youths in elementary school through senior high. Caving, whitewater rafting, rock climbing, rappelling, backpacking and leadership development are among the opportunities available. Prices start at $449, with discounts available if registered by May 15 or earlier. Call 6842361 or visit www.Lutherock.com.

Camp Pinnacle, Hendersonville, July 12-Aug. 8 Separate sessions for girls and boys, ages 6-15.

The camp offers one- to four-week sessions. Cost is $1,100-$3,500. Activities include archery, swimming, water skiing, crafts, horseback riding, trips and more. Adventure Trek includes backcountry hiking, whitewater boating and rock climbing for girls and boys ages 13-15. Call 692-2677 or visit www.camppinnacle.com.

Camp Pinewood, Hendersonville, June 14-Aug. 9 Coed camp in Hendersonville. Sessions are four to eight weeks. Swimming, crafts, horseback riding, archery/riflery, hiking, field trips, tennis, golf, canoeing, kayaking, gymnastics, heated pool and all land sports. Cost is from $3,950. Call 692-6239 or visit www.camppinewood.net.

Camp Tekoa, Hendersonville, June 14-Aug. 15 Camp Tekoa in Hendersonville is a coed camp that offers residential camps for ages 7-17. Activities include boating, swimming, tree climb, zip line, bouldering, arts and crafts, hiking, challenge course, campfires and talent show. Fourday, three-night camps for ages 7-9 are $200. One week residential camps for ages 9-17 start at $365. Call 692-6516 or visit www.camptekoa.org.

Camp Wayfarer, Flat Rock, June 21-July 30 Coed camp for ages 6-16 in one- to six-week sessions. Activities include canoeing, kayaking, hiking, horseback riding, riflery, swimming, drama, dance, crafts, cheerleading, fencing, sports, Bible studies and devotions. Prices start at $850. Call 696-9000 or visit www.campwayfarer.com.

Camp Woodmont, Lookout Mountain, Ga., May 31-July 24 Traditional summer camp for boys and girls 6-14, in northwest Georgia atop Lookout Mountain, two hours north of Atlanta. Activities include horseback riding, archery, aquatics, high ropes, challenge course, drama/dance and arts and crafts.

W N C PA R E N T | M A R C H 2 0 0 9

Christian Believers United offers camps for rising fourth- to eighth-graders (July 5-10) and rising ninth- to 12th-graders (July 12-17). Activities include rappelling, rock climbing, ropes course, archery, riflery, swimming, crafts, hiking, volleyball and creek exploration with a strong emphasis on worship and Bible teaching. Lodging is in log cabins in a mountaintop setting. Ratio is one counselor to three campers. Cost is $325. For information, call 686-7289.

CLIMBE at Montreat College, Montreat, June 21-July 31 CLIMBE offers weeklong, overnight trips for rising eighth- to 12th-graders. Choose from five adventures, which include backpacking, canoeing, caving and climbing. Campers will work with scientists, collect ecosystem data and learn about environmental protection. Cost ranges from $50-$450 per week, based on a sliding scale. Visit www.CLIMBE.org, e-mail climbe@montreat.edu or call 800-349-CAMP.

Cybercamps Academy, Duke University and UNC Chapel Hill, June-July Cybercamps Academy is one of the nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading youth technology summer programs for kids ages 10-17 that teaches campers subjects like 3-D game design and creation, graphic design with Photoshop, Web design and Flash animation. Camp will be held in weeklong increments from June 15-July 31 at Duke University in Durham and July 6-31 at UNC Chapel Hill. Visit www.cybercamps.com.

Eagleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Nest Camp, Pisgah Forest, June 13-Aug. 16 Coed camp for ages 6-18. Activities include rock-climbing, whitewater paddling, sports, performing and visual arts, fishing, horseback riding, teen adventures and more. Sessions are one to three weeks long. Cost is $1,300-$3,000 per session. E-mail info@enf.org or visit www.enf.org.

Enchanted Forest Intuitive Arts Camp, Helen, Ga., July 26-31 A national experiential program for all ages for unfolding innate intuitive, creative, psychic,

Continues on Page 36

W N C PA R E N T P R E S E N T S W N C M O M . C O M , T H E P L AC E W H E R E L O C A L M O M S C O N N E C T

camp guide2009

overnight coed camps Continued from Page 34 spiritual capacities. Activities include shamanic journeying, PsiSensory development classes, Chi Gong, sacred geometry, Mandala making from experts, intuitive healing and more. Lake swimming, waterfalls, canoes, river tubing, fairy walks and nature discovery, too. For information, call 689-9710 or visit http://psykids.net.

Green River Preserve, Cedar Mountain, with trips to Outer Banks, June 12-Aug. 14 The Green River Preserve is a small, noncompetitive camp for bright, curious, and creative children with a focus on science and ecology, but great depth in the arts and adventure. For rising second- to 12th-graders. Activities include natural history hikes led by professional naturalists, fly fishing, fly-tying, climbing, archery, BB skeet, pottery, theater, canoeing, dance, drumming, guitar, gardening, outdoor cooking, outdoor living skills, primitive skills, juggling, yoga, swimming and more. In five-day to three-week sessions. Price is $725-$3,150. Scholarship assistance is available. Family Camp is Sept. 4-7. Call 6988828, e-mail info@greenriverpreserve.org or visit www.greenriverpreserve.org.

Gwynn Valley Camp, Brevard, June 12-Aug. 16

public schools, low socio-economic areas, group homes, transitional housing units, after-school programs and homeless shelters. Activities campers can choose from include fishing, adventure hikes, board games, swimming, canoeing, arts and crafts and team sports. Contact P.O. Box 250, Hendersonville, NC, 28793, 692-0077, ext. 264 or visit www.kanuga.org/ camps/campbob.

Established 1935, Gwynn Valley Camp offers a farm, wilderness and traditional summer program for kids ages 5-14 that nurtures the child while fostering a connection with the land and the simple joys of childhood. Well-supervised noncompetitive program led by mature staff. Activities include horseback riding, rock climbing, a working farm (raising 70 percent of the campâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s food), mountain biking, sports, arts, natural history, kayaking, 1890s grist mill, swimming and more. Adventure skills for younger campers. One-, twoand three-week sessions. Cost is $1,275-$3,150. For information, call 885-2900 or visit www.gwynnvalley.com.

Lutheridge, Arden, June 7-Aug. 8

Holston Presbytery Camp, Banner Elk For information on both camps below, call 8986611 or visit www.holstoncamp.org. Discovery Camp, April 24-26: A weekend program designed for first-time campers and their families. Children in first through fifth grades, their siblings and parents are invited. Lodging in cabins and meals are provided. Activities included games, hiking, campfires, and more. Cost is $100 per person. Residential Camp, June-July: Adventure, Rustic and Traditional camp programs for ages 8-17. This coed camp offers six-day sessions in June and July and a Christian atmosphere. Choose lodging at the time of registration, cabin or campsite. Eat in the dining hall or prepare meals over a fire. Cost ranges from $370-$515. Sample activities like swimming, crafts, mountain sliding, climbing walls, games, evening worship and more. Older

SPECIAL TO WNC PARENT

Girls at Holston Presbytery Camp go caving. groups may select adventures like rock climbing, caving, canoeing, hiking and backpacking.

Kanuga, Hendersonville Camp Kanuga, June 9-Aug. 14: Coed Christian camp at Episcopal conference center for ages 7-15. Activities include archery, backpacking, rope course, rock climbing, canoeing, fishing, swimming, arts and crafts, sports, performing arts and sports. Sessions are nine-13 days. Cost starts at $810. Call 692-9136 or visit www.kanuga.org/ camps/campkanuga/ index.asp. Trailblazer Adventure and Paddle and Pack Trailblazer Adventure, June 20-Aug. 3: Offered by Camp Kanuga for two-week sessions, the Trailblazer Adventure is an eight-day, 45-mile backpacking trek along the Appalachian Trail, including rock climbing and whitewater rafting for ages 15-16. Paddle and Pack Trailblazer Adventure is a four-day, 25-mile backpacking trek, a fourday flat-water canoe camping trip, including whitewater rafting, rock climbing and wilderness camping, for 16-year-olds. Cost starts at $1,300. Call 692-9136 or visit www.kanuga.org/camps/ trailblazer/ index.asp. Camp Bob: Kanuga offers a positive camp experience for disadvantaged children ages 8-15 at Bob Campbell Youth Campus on the Kanuga property. The program is free for campers and their families. Campers are selected by the sponsoring organizations in their city. Campers are recruited from church outreach programs, under-resourced

W N C PA R E N T | M A R C H 2 0 0 9

Lutheridge Conference Center and Camp has offered summer camp for children, youth and families since 1951. On-site, overnight programs are offered for first-graders through senior high. Activities include canoes, crafts, Bible study, challenge tower, pottery, sports and more. Music week, Fourth of July week and Christmas in July week are special emphasis weeks. An outdoor adventure program is offered for middle and high school youths with programs including canoeing, backpacking, whitewater rafting, alpine tower and much more. Prices start at $237 for half-week and $449 for full week, with discounts available if registered by May 15 or sooner. call 684-2361 or www.Lutheridge.com.

MAHEC Health Careers, Summer Camp, Western Carolina University, June 21-27 Mountain Area Health Education Center and Western Carolina University will host a camp open to rising seventh- and eighth-graders (as well as rising ninth-graders who are camp alumni) who have an interest in health care as a future career. Limited to 20 students. Students will live on the WCU campus and will participate in activities such as tours of health care agencies and hospitals, career-oriented field trips, whitewater rafting, Cherokee outdoor drama and more. Cost is $50, which is refunded if not selected. Application and information is available at http://healthcamp.wcu.edu, or contact Jacquelyn Hallum at 257-4479 or jacquelyn.hallum@mahec.net.

Mountain Adventure Guides, Pisgah National Forest, June 14-Aug. 1 Coed camp adventures in Pisgah National Forest for ages 12-17. Activities include backpacking, rock climbing, caving and whitewater rafting, camping in tents or tarps and learning outdoors skills. Sessions are one week to 18 days. Cost starts at $950. Call 866-813-5210 or visit www.mtnadventureguides.com.

camp guide2009 North Carolina Outward Bound, June 11-Aug. 24 For more than 40 years, North Carolina Outward Bound, a nonprofit experiential education organization, has delivered wilderness expeditions for teenagers and adults that are both physically challenging and powerfully inspiring. Through challenge and adventure, participants experience a journey of discovery that provides the basis for developing life skills like decision-making, creative problem-solving, self-confidence, leadership and teamwork. One-, two- and three-week backpacking, rock climbing and whitewater canoeing expeditions for teens ages 14-18 available. Prices are $1,485-$3,295. For more information, e-mail info@ncobs.org, call 877-776-2627 or visit www.NCOutwardBound.org.

Quaker Lake Camp, Climax, June 6-Aug. 8 Residential coed summer camp southeast of Greensboro. Activities for all groups include Bible study, crafts, swimming, theater, climbing tower, hayrides, boating and organized recreation. Weeklong sessions for ages 5-17 include a family camp, a backpacking adventure and a canoe camping adventure. Prices start at $40 for oneday camp for 5- and 6-year-olds to $200 and higher for residential camps. Visit www.quakerlakecamp.org or call 336-674-2321.

Ridge Haven, Brevard, June 8-Aug. 1 Coed camp at Presbyterian Church in America’s conference center for campers entering third to 12th grades. Christian camp offers field games, hiking, swimming, crafts, whitewater rafting, mountain biking and rappelling. Weeklong camps start at $475. Register online by March 15 for discounted rates. Call 877-862-3916 or visit www.ridgehaven.org.

South Mountain Christian Camp, Bostic, June 21-July 31 This residential coed summer camp provides a safe, fun, exciting atmosphere while ministering to the spiritual needs of children ages 7-15. Activi-

skill development classes for beginners through experts. $300 registration fee, housing and meal packages to be determined. Scholarships available. Visit dulcimer.wcu.edu. Symposium for the Marching Arts, July 12-16: UNC Asheville High school students join the band directors of For information and registration forms, call the WCU Pride of the Mountains Marching Band www.unca.edu/oaci or call 251-6558. for a week of learning and fun. This camp fills WNC Summer Music Camp, June 21-26: Aspiring quickly. Cost is $355 for double occupancy. Visit middle- and high-school musicians can experiprideofthemountains.com. ence intense instruction and melodious fun. The Catamounts soccer camps: Girls elite and team overnight camp is open to middle and high school camp for ages 10-18 is July 29-Aug. 1. Commuter students. The Western North Carolina Music Camp campers are $295; residential campers are affords students the opportunity to learn under $375. Boys elite and team camp for ages 11-16 is music faculty from UNCA, regional public schools July 29-Aug. 31. Cost is $295 per player. For and from across the Southeast. Cost is $405 for information, visit eteamz.com/westerncarolinaresidential and $300 for commuter. SA/, call 227-2025 or e-mail Spring into Wellness, June 14-20: Spring into tdecesare@wcu.edu. Wellness is a residential camp on the campus of Catamounts women’s basketball camp: Team UNC Asheville, administered by Mission Hospitals, Jamboree is June 13-14. Individual camp is June UNCA and Mountain Area Health Education 21-23. For more details, contact L’Tona M. LaCenter. For rising eighth- and ninth-grade students monte, assistant women’s basketball coach, at in Asheville, Buncombe County and Western North 227-2994. Carolina, Spring into Wellness is a camp dedicat- Catamounts men’s basketball camp: Individual ed to offering a fun and engaging way to explore a camp is June 14-17. For more information, confuture health care career. tact Anquell McCollum, men’s assistant basketball coach, at amccollum@email.wcu.edu. Cost is $150 for three-day camp and starts at $395 for weeklong sessions. Visit www.swan4h.com or call 686-3196.

SPECIAL TO WNC PARENT

Participants in the N.C. Outward Bound program hike through a forest while on a wilderness expedition.

Western Carolina University ties include archery, crafts, campfires, fishing, boating, swimming, climbing, small-group Bible devotionals, nightly chapel services and more. Cost is $150 per child per week, and financial assistance is available. No child is denied the opportunity to attend camp for financial reasons. For information, e-mail smcc@blueridge.net, call 245-3322 or visit www.SouthMountainChristianCamp.org.

For information on all WCU camps but basketball and soccer, call 227-7397 or 800-928-4968, or visit http://learn.wcu.edu. Broadway Triple Arts Series, July 19-Aug. 2: This performance camp offers young artists the opportunity to experience the art and craft of musical theatre with Broadway stars Terrance Mann and Charlotte d’Amboise. Ages 16-22. Cost is $1,999, including housing and meals (double occupancy). Mountain Dulcimer Week, June 22-27: Features

YMCA Camp Greenville, Cedar Mountain, June 7-Aug. 8 YMCA Camp Greenville is a progressive camp offering traditional and adventure programs children ages 7-15. Activities can include archery, canoeing, drama, backpacking, mountain biking, rock climbing, service projects, horseback riding and more. Prices start at $755. Call 864-8363291 or visit www.campgreenville.org.

Summer College in Biotechnology and Life Sciences, N.C. State, July 5-31 Summer College in Biotechnology and Life Sciences is an opportunity for outstanding high school rising juniors and seniors interested in a career in science to participate in a college level program. Participants take coursework for college credit and work in state of the art laboratories on the campus of N.C. State University. Admission is on a first come, first served basis for qualified applicants with a 3.5 GPA and teacher/principal recommendation. Cost is $1,958 for residential students (includes program fee, tuition, room and board). Scholarship application deadline is May 1. Visit www.cifr.ncsu.edu/scibls.

SuperCamp, Wake Forest University, June 30-Aug. 2 SuperCamp is one of the leading learning and life skills summer camps in the world, offered at eight colleges across the U.S., including Wake Forest University. Programs include Junior Forum (10 days), for students entering sixth to eighth grades; Senior Forum (10 days), for students entering ninth to 12th grades; and a three-day Parent Weekend. Costs start at $2,695; parent weekend starts at $495. For information, visit www.supercamp.com.

Swannanoa 4-H Camp, June 12-Aug. 8 SPECIAL TO WNC PARENT

A camper at Swannanoa 4-H Camp gets help with archery.

Three-day camps for ages 5-12 and weeklong camps for ages 8-16 available. Traditional camp activities include swimming, archery, arts and crafts, air rifles, climbing tower, zip line, both low and high ropes and hiking. Or try some adventures like rock climbing and whitewater fun!

W N C PA R E N T P R E S E N T S W N C M O M . C O M , T H E P L AC E W H E R E L O C A L M O M S C O N N E C T

camp guide 2009

overnight camps for girls Blue Star Camps, Hendersonville, June 14-Aug. 7 Camps for girls ages 6-16 with a focus on the Jewish experience. Activities include riding, swimming, land and water sports, trips, dramatic arts, a ropes challenge course and rock climbing in addition to extensive arts and tennis programs. Four- to eight-week sessions. A family camp is also offered. Cost starts at $4,900. Call 6923591 or visit www.bluestarcamps.com.

Camp Cheerio, Glade Valley, June 7-July 11 Camp in Glade Valley (160 miles northeast of Asheville in Allegheny County) offers camping with one- and two-week sessions for children ages 7-15. Activities include kayaking, canoeing, archery, riflery, climbing, high ropes, newspaper, cheerleading, horseback riding, fishing, soccer, football, basketball, arts and crafts, hiking, rocketry, swimming, drama, dance, nature study, tennis, tumbling and more. Cost starts at $799. For information, e-mail Lynda@campcheerio.org or call 800-226-7496.

Camp Crestridge, Ridgecrest, June 7-July 31

Christian camp for girls ages 7-16 established in 1929. Activities offered include archery, mountain biking, Bible study, horseback riding, riflery, swimming, canoeing, tennis and volleyball. Sessions are two-eight weeks, and prices start at Camp Carysbrook, Riner, Va., $1,415 with sibling discounts. For information, June 14-Aug. 9 e-mail rscamps@ridgecrestcamps.com or visit Camp Carysbrook is a 200-acre summer camp for www.ridgecrestcamps.com. girls ages 6-16, nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains about 40 miles southwest of Roanoke, Va. With 18 different activities and a two-week eques- Camp Glen Arden, Tuxedo, trian camp. Opening in 1923, Camp Carysbrook June 7-July 24 is the oldest summer camp for girls in Virginia. Camp for girls ages 6-17 that for many years had Prices for one- to eight week-sessions range from its home at Christ School in Arden. The camp has $800-$4,675. Visit www.campcarysbrook.com, a â&#x20AC;&#x153;progression systemâ&#x20AC;? that allows girls to set e-mail info@campcarysbrook.com or call 540their own pace within activity schedules. Activities 382-1670. include outdoor adventures, horseback riding, canoeing, gymnastics, sailing, rock climbing,

W N C PA R E N T | M A R C H 2 0 0 9

camp guide 2009

Rockbrook Camp for Girls, Brevard, June 7-Aug. 15

pottery, photography, kayaking, performing arts and softball. Sessions are two to four weeks long and cost $2,200-$4,200. Call 692-8362 or visit www.campglenarden.com.

Rockbrook is a traditional summer camp for girls near Brevard. Established in 1921, it offers a diverse program of horseback riding, adventure activities, whitewater rafting, ceramics, crafts, gymnastics, riflery and many other activities. Girls ages 6-16 attend for two-, three- or four-week sessions. Cost is between $2,200-$4,100 per session. Call 884-6151, e-mail office@rockbrook camp.com or visit www.rockbrookcamp.com.

Camp Green Cove, Tuxedo, May 30-Aug. 16 Camp for girls ages 6-17 with an emphasis on outdoor activities, including hiking, kayaking, canoeing, sailing, mountain biking, rock climbing and horseback riding. Sessions are five days-5½ weeks. Cost starts at $875. A family camp is also offered. Its brother camp is Mondamin. Call 800-688-5789 or visit www.greencove.com.

Skyland Camp for Girls, Clyde, June 27-Aug. 1 Camp in Clyde for girls ages 6-15. Activities include horseback riding, tennis, swimming, archery, arts and crafts, dramatics and mountain trips. Sessions are 2½-5 weeks, starting at $2,350. Call 627-2470 or visit www.skylandcamp.com.

Camp Greystone, Tuxedo, June 1-Aug. 14 A Christian camp on Lake Edith for girls in kindergarten to 11th grade. Activities include horseback riding, gymnastics, rope course, water skiing, sailing, tennis, softball, archery, ceramics, knitting and painting. Sessions are five days-four weeks. Cost starts at $1,000. Call 693-3182 or visit www.campgreystone.com.

Camp Hollymont for Girls, Asheville School, June 15-Aug. 8 Christian camp for girls 6-15 using facilities of The Asheville School. Activities include horseback riding, swimming (in an indoor, Olympic-sized pool), digital photography, archery, land sports, cooking, arts and crafts, American Red Cross babysitting and more. Facilities are state-of-theart — campers live in lodges and enjoy a nonrustic environment. Sessions are six-27 days. Cost starts at $1,450. Contact 686-5343, or visit www.hollymont.com.

Camp Illahee, Brevard, June 7-Aug. 14 A Christian camp for rising second-grade to 11th-grade girls established in 1921. Activities include crafts, sports, climbing, kayaking, drama, gymnastics and lake activities. Sessions are one to four weeks. Cost is $1,150-$4,400. Call 8832181, e-mail mail@campillahee.com or visit www.campillahee.com.

Camp Kahdalea, Pisgah National Forest, June 8-Aug. 6 Christian camp for girls ages 7-17. Programs include backpacking, tennis, horseback riding, swimming, canoeing, high ropes challenge course, nature study, mountain biking, drama, sign language, arts and crafts, riflery, rock climbing, archery, fishing, dance, team sports, guitar and more. Its brother camp is Camp Chosatonga. Sessions are two-nine weeks. Cost starts at $2,160. Call 884-6834 or visit http://kahdalea.com.

Camp Merrie-Woode, Sapphire, June 5-Aug. 11 Residential summer camp for girls ages 7-17. Activities include canoeing, kayaking, sailing, climbing, hiking, riding, nature, tennis, drama, studio art, photography and pottery. Two-four week sessions. Registration packets are sent out in August for the following summer to current campers and families who have inquired in the past 18 months; new campers are considered for

Upper 90 Soccer and Adventure Camp, Warren Wilson College, June 15-19 SPECIAL TO WNC PARENT

Girls at Rockbrook Camp in Brevard learn paddling skills. enrollment starting in October. Openings are limited. Cost starts at $2,050. E-mail Phyllis@merriewoode.com or visit www.merriewoode.com.

Camp Merri-Mac for Girls, Black Mountain, June 7-Aug. 8

day. Sessions are five days-four weeks. Cost starts at $1,100. Call 884-9125 or visit www.keystonecamp.com for information.

Camp for girls ages 10-14 includes soccer, climbing, paddling, dance and other activities. Cost is $500. For information, contact Stacey Enos at 771-3737 or visit www.warren wilsonowls.com.

Christian camp offers archery, art, dramatics, canoeing, fencing, swimming, ropes course, cheerleading and much more. Its brother camp is Camp Timberlake. Sessions are six days-five weeks. Cost starts at $1,150. Call 669-8766 or visit www.merri-mac.com.

Camp Pisgah, Brevard, June 8-July 30 Camp Pisgah is open to girls — Girl Scouts and non-scouts — ages 5-17. Resident camp sessions last three-10 days and a four-day Family Camp is offered July 31-Aug. 2. Camp features swimming, boating, archery, mountain biking, high adventure, horseback riding and more. Session prices start at $250 and include a significant discount if campers register and pay 10 percent deposit by March 16. Non-scouts must pay additional $10. Visit www.girlscoutswnc.org or call 252-4442.

Camp Ton-A-Wandah, Flat Rock, June 7-Aug. 7 Camp for girls ages 6-16. Activities include archery, riflery, tennis, swimming, horseback riding, canoeing, arts and crafts, drama, dance, basketball, volleyball, kayaking, mountaineering, high ropes and rock climbing. Sessions are two-three weeks. Cost starts at $2,100. Call 800-322-0178 or visit www.camptonawandah.com.

Keystone Camp, Brevard, June 7-Aug. 14 Camp for girls ages 7-16. Activities include archery, riflery, arts and crafts, adventure sports, performing arts, golf, English riding, tennis, swimming and team sports. Campers ride horses every

W N C PA R E N T P R E S E N T S W N C M O M . C O M , T H E P L AC E W H E R E L O C A L M O M S C O N N E C T

camp guide 2009

overnight camps for boys Blue Star Camps, Hendersonville, June 14-Aug. 7 Camps for boys ages 6-16 focusing on the Jewish experience. Activities include riding, swimming, land and water sports, trips, dramatic arts, a ropes challenge course and rock climbing in addition to extensive arts and tennis programs. For six decades, Blue Star has been a thread consistently woven into the tapestry of the Jewish experience. Four- to eight-week sessions. A family camp is also offered. Cost starts at $4,900. Call 692-3591 or visit www.bluestarcamps.com.

Camp Arrowhead, Flat Rock, May 30-Aug. 8 Camp Arrowhead is a Christian, high-adventure summer camp for boys ages 6-16. Activities include kayaking, rock climbing, backpacking, archery, riflery, swimming, mountain biking, paintball, horseback riding and more. Sessions from one to seven weeks. Cost starts at $950. Visit www.camparrowhead.org or call 692-1123.

Camp Carolina, Brevard, June 7-Aug. 16 Camp for boys in first through 12th grades that

W N C PA R E N T | M A R C H 2 0 0 9

teaches the importance of the simplicity of life and wonders of nature. Activities include archery, arts and crafts, basketball, climbing wall, tennis, golf, zip line, kayaking, and more. Two- to sevenweek sessions. Cost is from $2,500. Call 8842414, or visit www.campcarolina.com.

Camp Chosatonga, Pisgah National Forest, June 8-Aug. 6 Camp for boys ages 8-17 emphasizing Christian ideals but respectful of Jewish roots. Programs include backpacking, tennis, horseback riding, swimming, canoeing, high ropes challenge course, nature study, mountain biking, drama, arts and crafts, rock climbing, archery, fishing, and more. Its sister camp is Camp Kahdalea. Sessions are two weeks to all summer. Cost starts at $2,160. For information, call 884-6834 or visit http://kahdalea.com.

Camp Daniel Boone Boy Scout Camp, Haywood County, June 7-July 25 Camp Daniel Boone Boy Scout Camp in Haywood County serves scouts from across America. Activities include swimming, canoeing, rowing, fishing, challenge course, rifle and shotgun shooting, archery, knot tying, leatherworking, basketry, woodworking, cinematography, horsemanship skills and more. Weeklong canoe, whitewater rafting, backpacking and rock climbing treks and Boonesboro Village experience also offered. Membership in the Boy Scouts of America is required. For information, call 254-9105 or visit www.campdanielboone.org.

camp guide 2009

SPECIAL TO WNC PARENT

Falling Creek Camp in Tuxedo offers programs for boys in first to 10th grades.

Camp High Rocks, Cedar Mountain, June 7-Aug. 8

Camp Mondamin, Tuxedo, May 30-Aug. 16

Camp for boys, ages 8-16. Two-week mini sessions are also available for 9- and 10-year-olds. Activities include horseback riding, sailing, swimming, sports, canoeing, backpacking, mountain biking, rock climbing, crafts and archery/riflery. Sessions are two-four weeks. Cost is from $2,525. Call 885-2153 or visit www.highrocks.com.

A camp for boys ages 6-17 emphasizing noncompetitive outdoor activities. Options include hiking, kayaking, canoeing, sailing, mountain biking, rock climbing, horseback riding, crafts and more. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sister camp is Green Cove. Sessions are five days-5 1/2 weeks. Cost starts at $875. Call 800-688-5789 or visit www.mondamin.com.

Continues on Page 46

W N C PA R E N T P R E S E N T S W N C M O M . C O M , T H E P L AC E W H E R E L O C A L M O M S C O N N E C T

Local options available for affordable camps By Barbara Blake WNC Parent writer

Day camps

◆ American Red Cross, PrepaRED, June 15-19 and July 20-24. Cost is $175. Family budgets may be tightening ◆ Asheville Art Museum summer art camp. during these tough economic times, Cost is $85 for members and $95 nonbut there are lots of options that are members for half-day camps; $150/$170 for affordable and will still give your child full-day camps. a memorable camping experience, ◆ Asheville Arts Center day camps. Costs whether it’s learning to paint or constart at $125. quering a mountaintop. ◆ Asheville Lightning Junior Olympics track Many camps offer early-registraprogram runs late April through July. Cost is tion discounts or reduced rates for $100 or $125. multiple family members or full-sea◆ Asheville Parks and Recreation programs son registration. And a number of camps, particularly those operated by for children of all ages. ◆ Food Lion SkatePark skateboard camps. nonprofit organizations, have finanCost is $75. cial aid available. Check out ◆ Eco-Explorers Camp sponsored by Ashewww.campparents.org for tips from ville Parks and Recreation outdoors program. the American Camp Association. Meanwhile, here’s a sampling of more Cost is $60 residents, $65 nonresidents. affordable day and overnight camps in ◆ Bounceville USA, Hendersonville, weekly the mountain region. For details on a half-day camps. Cost is $75. camp, see its listing in the Camp ◆ Buncombe County Parks and Rec’s Camp Guide, starting on Page 17.

SPECIAL TO WNC PARENT

Horseback riding is one of the activities available to campers at the Girl Scouts’ Camp Pisgah in Brevard, one of the more affordable camps in the area.

Julian, Aug. 10-21. Cost is $150 per week or $35 per day. ◆ Dojoku Martial Arts camp. Prices start at $70. ◆ East Asheville United Methodist Church summer music camp, July 13-17. Free. ◆ Eliada Home summer day camp. Tuition is $128 per week, and Buncombe County child care vouchers are accepted. ◆ Girl Scout day camps. Costs begin at $50. ◆ Hahn’s Gymnastics. Costs range from $75 to $140. ◆ High Flight Gymnastics. Cost is $135 per week, with daily rates available. ◆ Historic Johnson Farm, Hendersonville, June 15-19, Weaving Week. Cost is $75. ◆ KidSenses Children’s Interactive Museum, Rutherfordton. Half-day programs cost $40 members, $55 nonmembers. ◆ New Hope Presbyterian Church performing arts day camp, July 13-17, cost is $120; financial aid is available. ◆ Waynesville Parks and Recreation, full-day camp, $90 for rec center members, $100 for nonmembers. ◆ Warren Wilson College boys basketball camp, July 13-18. Cost is $70 for weeklong camp, $30 for one-day shooting camp. ◆ Western Carolina University in Cullowhee offers camps all summer for rising first- to ninth-graders. Prices start at $30. ◆ YWCA of Asheville: A variety of camp options for all ages. One camp is free, others start at $120 per week. ◆ YMCA of Western North Carolina: A variety of camp options starting at $65. Financial assistance is available.

W N C PA R E N T | M A R C H 2 0 0 9

Overnight coed camps

◆ Camp Henry, Lake Logan Episcopal Center, Canton. Cost starts at $385. ◆ Camp Kanuga, Hendersonville. Nine- to 13-day sessions start at $795. ◆ Camp Living Water, Bryson City. Cost is $150-$175 per week. ◆ Camp Lutherock, Sugar Mountain. Prices start at $459. ◆ Camp Tekoa, Hendersonville. Three-night camps for ages 7-9 are $200, one-week camps for ages 9-17 start at $345. ◆ Christian Believers United, Black Mountain. Cost is $325. ◆ CLIMBE at Montreat College, with weeklong overnight trips. Cost is $50 to $450 per week on a sliding scale. ◆ Holston Presbytery Camp, Banner Elk. Weekend and weeklong programs. Cost ranges from $100 for weekend to $370$515 for six-day sessions. ◆ Lutheridge, Arden. Prices start at $199 for half week and $399 for full week. ◆ Ridge Haven Conference and Retreat Center, Brevard. Weeklong camps start at $450. ◆ UNC Asheville music camp, June 22-27. Weeklong overnight camp is $395.

Overnight girls camps

◆ Camp Pisgah, Brevard, for Girl Scouts and nonscouts. Sessions begin at $205, with a significant discount for registration by March 31.

Overnight boys camps

◆ Camp Daniel Boone Boy Scout Camp, Haywood County. Scout membership is required.

Special needs camps Camp Sky Ranch, Boone Camp for developmentally and mentally disabled individuals of all ages. Children and adults with Down syndrome, Prader-Willie syndrome, ADD/ HD, Fragile X syndrome and autism attend each year. Staff-to-camper ratio of 1:4. Sessions are two weeks. Cost is $1,200. Contact jsharp1@triad.rr.com, call 264-8600 or visit www.campskyranch.com.

Camp Spring Creek, Bakersville Camp Spring Creek is an all-inclusive academic

and recreational residential camp supporting kids ages 6-14 with dyslexia. Program includes art classes, supervised woodshop instruction, swimming, hiking, water skiing, kayaking, field trips, one-on-one Orton-Gillingham tutoring, supervised study hall and independent reading, daily keyboarding and writing skills sessions and more. Camp now offers flex summer scheduling varying from four-eight weeks. Price ranges from $5,400$10,400 and includes lodging and meals. For information e-mail info@ campspringcreek.org, call 766-5032 or visit www.campspringcreek.org.

Camp Tekoa, Hendersonville For campers ages 8-12 with developmental disabilities. Activities include nature hikes, devotions, zip line, boating, arts and crafts, swimming, field games and water games. Cost is $135.

Camp operates 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. MondayFriday. Limited to eight campers per session.

Camp WeCanDo, Hendersonville A camp for children ages 8-16 with asthma and diabetes run by Mission Hospital. Children participate in a variety of outdoor activities and learn about managing their conditions. Costs start at $500. Some financial assistance is available. Register by March 20. Contact Lesley Edwards at 213-5545, e-mail Lesley.edwards@msj.org or visit www.missionhospitals.org/body_childrens. cfm?id=574.

Summer Funshine Camp, Toe River Valley Campground Summer Funshine Camp is a day camp for chil-

dren and adults who have mental or physical handicapping conditions at Toe River Valley Campground. There is no age limit for campers; participants have ranged from age 3 to older than 80. Snacks and lunch provided. There is no cost to the campers. The camp is sponsored by Friends Across North Carolina, a nonprofit group. For information, e-mail radiantgrace@yahoo.com or luwilson@maxhealth.com.

Talisman Programs, Zirconia, June 13-Aug. 6 Talisman Programs provide programming for children ages 8-22 with attention deficit and learning differences, and Aspergerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s or highfunctioning autism in an experiential adventure camp environment. Cost starts at $2,400. For information, visit www.talismancamps.com.

W N C PA R E N T P R E S E N T S W N C M O M . C O M , T H E P L AC E W H E R E L O C A L M O M S C O N N E C T

divorced families

Do plenty of research when choosing a camp By Trip Woodard WNC Parent columnist I have to start by making a serious confession. I have not always — as a divorced parent — sent my son, Weston, to the “best” summer camps possible. In retrospect, a couple of them were fairly bad (at least, by my standards). When I recently interviewed him about his camp experiences before writing this article, I found out that, luckily, he doesn’t remember most of the negative ones. So, I will now attempt to redeem my own conscience by pointing out my own remembered mistakes and successes in making choices about camp. I must also admit that I am fortunate that he rarely reads my articles. And, no, I am not going to mention either type of camp, good or bad, by name, but I will try to give you some judgment points to help you make the best choices for your own child. I am big on summer camps because there are so many wonderful camps out there that can truly add to your child’s life and growing experience. Several even provide scholarships to “economically inhibited” families. You just have to ask when inquiring about the application. Trust me that the cost of the camp does not necessarily reflect the quality of the camp. Consider these points: ◆ Now is the time to be checking out camps. I will be referencing computer searches, so if you don’t own a personal computer that has Internet capacity, you may do this through your local library computer ◆ Think about your children’s passions in life. If they are old enough, ask them directly. For example, do they like drama, horseback riding, learning music, sports, hiking, or finding out about bugs? There are camps that focus on all of these interests and more. ◆ Start your search and application NOW! I know, I said that before.

W N C PA R E N T | M A R C H 2 0 0 9

Camps and scholarships fill up rapidly. ◆ Names, trademarks concerning summer camps may mean little or nothing. Personally check out what the camp specifically offers and how long it has been in business. Make sure the camp knows how to manage children and basic issues, such as homesickness at an overnight camp. ◆ Inform the camp administrator and the counselors (as needed) of the status and reality of your divorce process. It is not appropriate for camp personnel to have all the emotional details, but they should have a copy on file of any legal custody agreements that have been established. ◆ Summer camps do not mean you are abandoning your kid. There are plenty of nondivorced families that send their kids to summer camp programs. ◆ If your divorce/separation process is collaborative in nature, then make decisions with your ex-partner, or to-be-ex-partner, as to what would be most comfortable for attending special camp events. If your child is old enough, let him or her have a voice in this decision. ◆ Overnight camps and day camps should be explored with the same degree of seriousness concerning their quality. Find out if day camp programs allow for unannounced parental visitation, though this should not be abused. ◆ Summer camp programs do exist and may take insurance for certain behavioral issues like ADHD or autism. Check this out online or through related local support organizations. Well, now I feel much better having shared some of these insights from my own personal experiences. And, son, if you do read this, I was just kidding about the past. All of your camp times were most excellent and helped lead you to be the fine person you are today… Trip Woodard is a licensed marriage and family therapist and a clinical member of the N.C. Asociation of Marriage and Family Therapists. Contact him at 606-8607.

kids voices

Remembering summer fun Every kid who’s ever been to camp has a favorite memory, from outdoor adventures to campfire songs to special people who may end up as lifelong friends. We asked students at Carolina Day School about their most memorable camp experiences. Here’s what they told staff writer Barbara Blake. “My favorite part of my summer camp experience was getting involved in the camp community. After camp, I felt like I had made a ton of new friends in different grades and at different schools. This camp made me feel like I was involved and part of a community. When I went to this camp I felt I wasn’t pressured to be anyone different than myself.” Eliza Van Wye, fifth grade

“In my pre-K day camp, they put a pool at the bottom of a slide. We got to go down the slide. We could splash into it! I got to bring sunscreen, too.” Henderson Reynolds, kindergarten

“I loved cooking at my day camp. I made all different foods that I could make at home. I learned to dive at swimming lessons, too.” Hannah Matin, second grade

“My fondest memory of Camp Fern is my tribe. The tribes at my camp are like family. It’s like having 100 sisters watching your back. Being a part of something like that has shaped my life to the way it is now.” Megan Pugh, eighth grade

“I loved the summer camp I went to. I did an art camp and our instructor made it so exciting. First we made self portraits, then we drew pictures of each other, lastly we drew pictures of objects. All week I had so much fun! Cassidy Bell, third grade

“Camp is more of a feeling, finally getting away from your parents. It gives you a feeling of self-reliance and independence.” Joseph Trufant, seventh grade

“My favorite thing about camp last summer was all of the exciting activities at Summer Quest. … In 3-D Art we made houses out of Popsicle sticks and a mix of two different animals. … In photography, we took pictures with a special kind of paper and put it in a box. Then we put the paper in some chemicals and wala! There were … pictures on the paper.” Nicole Anand, fourth grade

“My favorite thing about day camp last summer was Hikes with a Splash at Summer Quest. I liked it because I got to spend time with my friends and exploring the outdoors. I found salamanders and snakes and crawdads and fish.” McKinley Roland, third grade

“When I went to Falling Creek Camp, I chose to shoot a .22 rifle. You have to shoot at targets to move up ranks. Two weeks after I left camp I got my award to be a pro-marksman.” Carson Bock, sixth grade

“My favorite summer camp experience was the Wonderful Waterfalls week at Summer Quest. Wonderful Waterfalls was my favorite because the waterfalls were so amazing. We went to about two a day for a week! My favorite waterfall out of all of them was Linville Falls because it was so pretty and the water was so clear but cooold!” McKaylee Middlemas, fifth grade

“My favorite camp was How Things Get Moving at Summer Quest. We got to make rockets that went 10 feet high. We made bubble gum racers and they were great!” John Kelly Douglas, second grade

“My best memory from day camp was the sports camp. We played sports like World Cup, football, versions of Capture the Flag, but my favorite was bocce ball. When the week was over, we played the game that got the most votes. Football won. It was the best game of football ever.” Ben Broshar, fourth grade

W N C PA R E N T P R E S E N T S W N C M O M . C O M , T H E P L AC E W H E R E L O C A L M O M S C O N N E C T

camp guide 2009

overnight camps for boys Continued from Page 41

Camp Ridgecrest for Boys, Ridgecrest, June 7-July 31 Christian camp for boys ages 7-16 established in 1929. Activities offered include archery, mountain biking, Bible study, horseback riding, riflery, swimming, canoeing, tennis and volleyball.

Sessions are two-eight weeks, and prices start at $1,415 with sibling discounts. For information, e-mail rscamps@ridgecrestcamps.com or visit www.ridgecrestcamps.com.

Camp Rockmont, Black Mountain, June 7-Aug. 7 Christian camp for boys ages 6-16. Activities include riflery, sailing, canoeing, swimming, rock climbing, horseback riding, Bible study, sports and trap shooting. Sessions are six-27 days during June-August. Day camp is also available. Cost is from $1,050. Call 686-3885 or visit www.rockmont.com for information.

Camp Timberlake for Boys, Black Mountain, June 8-Aug. 9

692-0262 or visit www.fallingcreek.com.

Christian camp for boys ages 7-16 offers archery, canoeing, fencing, backpacking, biking, riflery, guitar and a rope course, with daily chapel. Its sister camp is Camp Merri-Mac. Sessions are six days-five weeks. Cost starts at $1,150. Call 669-8766 or visit www.camptimberlake.com.

Revolution Lacrosse Camp, Christ School, Arden, July 6-10

Falling Creek Camp for Boys, Tuxedo, June 7-Aug. 14 A traditional camp for boys in grades one to 10 that also provides many adventure experiences in mountain biking, rock climbing, backpacking, canoeing and whitewater kayaking. Sessions are one to four weeks long. Price from $1,125. Call

W N C PA R E N T | M A R C H 2 0 0 9

MLL All-Star Dan Cocchi headlines the coaching staff along with five college coaches, and several college All-Americans. The camp is designed for all skill levels. and provides a 6-1 camper to coach ratio. For ages 10-18. Day camp and overnight options. Cost is $395 for day campers, $445 for boarding campers. For information, visit revolutionlaxcamp.com or contact Jeff Miles at laxcamp@christschool.org.

librarian’s picks

‘Wolf at the Door’ gleefully recounts wolf tales By Jennifer Prince Children’s Book Review “I need food with less personality! Perhaps I’ll become a vegetarian,” the exasperated Big Bad Wolf sighs. It is little wonder. The lupine rascal schemes his way through five stories, only to be bested in each one by a goose, a sheep or a little girl. That is the premise of “There’s a Wolf at the Door,” retold by Zoë B. Alley and illustrated by R.W. Alley. The tribulations of the Three Little Pigs, Little Red Riding Hood and the Boy Who Cried Wolf are as familiar as sky, but here Alley and Alley squawk gleefully at tradition. Tossed in are two lesser well-known stories, “The Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing” and “The Wolf and Seven Little Goslings.”

This over-sized, hard-bound picture book is a merry tribute to the comic book genre. The text consists mainly of speech bubbles and the illustrations are presented in panels. There are five distinct stories, but the same sly wolf moseys from story to story, in effect creating a seamless whole. Most likely, it will be older elementary school children who are the most receptive audience for this book. In her writing, Zoë Alley achieves the perfect balance between being accessible to maturing young readers while avoiding being condescendingly babyish. Readers who are weary of fairy tale clichés will relish the new and silly characteristics given to old familiars. Little Red Riding Hood is a fashionista and something of a prima donna. Barry the Shepherd (that is correct, Barry had a little lamb) rivals the Ringling Brothers in showmanship what with his tap dancing, singing and elocution skills.

R.W. Alley’s watercolor and pencil illustrations dovetail the text perfectly. Natty in checkered pants and top hat, the Wolf is a study in feigned insouciance. His apparent indifference to whether he eats is concealed poorly by his conniving and persistent manner. Alley gives the Wolf myriad emotive traits, all to comic effect. As he huffs and puffs, the Wolf squints his eyes, stands on tip toe, puffs out his chest, and throws his arms back dramatically (he walks around upright on his hind legs). Out of breath and with the brick house sound as Gibraltar, the Wolf collapses breathlessly, befuddlement in every

line of his face. Rife with amusing details, readers could spend hours poring over the pictures. Wisecracking sheep (“If he wants a group hug, I’m leaving!”) and a karaoke-crazy gosling (“I feel pretty, oh so pretty..” and “You do the hokey pokey and you turn yourself around…”) are just a couple of the parenthetical additions to the illustrations that enrich the overall reading and viewing experience. “There’s a Wolf at the Door” is a perfect package, amusing and delightful in every way. This book is available through the Buncombe County Public Libraries. Visit www.buncombecounty.org.

W N C PA R E N T P R E S E N T S W N C M O M . C O M , T H E P L AC E W H E R E L O C A L M O M S C O N N E C T

kids and sports

Sports forge a family bond By Tom Kuyper Gannett News Service “Everyone get your gym bag. Someone find the missing knee pad. Does everyone have their uniform? Bring your homework for the ride home. Do you all have a power bar for the road? Someone grab my checkbook because fees are due today. Hey, can someone help me find my keys?” This was the typical Saturday morning at the Preach family. With four girls excelling in sports, there were many busy and hectic moments. “We were always on the run,” said Brett Preach, the girls’ father. Mom Deb Preach said, “We made lots of sacrifices. The family was the most important thing to us. Sure we had some arguments in these years, but the girls have all learned to love each other. The girls are always there for each other no matter what. Sports were important to us, but not our life.” How can you run around, get the kids to where they need to be and still make sure that the family is the priori-

W N C PA R E N T | M A R C H 2 0 0 9

ty? The Preach family found the way. The girls were all very good volleyball players. They were All-State, AllRegion, All-Conference, All-Gatorade, etc. Lindsay and Kristen graduated high school with college scholarships to play volleyball, with Lacey and Stephanie following in their footsteps. They all worked hard, and were devoted and committed to their sport, but the Preach family was still their favorite team. They had fun together. They played together. “We ate together before and after practice,” Stephanie said. “We had a net in the backyard and played together.” Brett worked hard. Often six days a week, but still found time for the girls. He signed up to coach the girls in their formative years. This is how club sports can work. The parents need to be engaged with the kids. Never adding pressure, but always providing those encouraging words with lots of hugs. E-mail Tom Kuyper at tomkuyper@kidsandsports.com.

Quick dinner Sesame-cashew pork and edamame Half of a pork tenderloin (about 8 ounces) 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon pepper 1 tablespoon sesame oil 1 clove garlic, minced 1 cup (about 6 ounces) shelled frozen edamame (soybeans), thawed 2 tablespoons chopped cashews Cut pork into 4 slices and pound to about 1/2 inch thick. Season with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic; saute about 20 seconds. Add edamame and cook, stirring frequently, until crisp-tender, about 4 minutes. Push edamame to edges of skillet. Add pork to pan, and fry 2-3 minutes per side, occasionally stirring edamame. Sprinkle with cashews before serving. Prep time: 17 minutes. Total time:17 minutes. Makes two servings. Approximate values per serving: 372 calories, 20 g fat, 74 mg cholesterol, 36 g protein, 13 g carbohydrates, 4 g fiber, 604 mg sodium, 48 percent of calories from fat. Gannett News Service

W N C PA R E N T P R E S E N T S W N C M O M . C O M , T H E P L AC E W H E R E L O C A L M O M S C O N N E C T

Little bites of heaven are everywhere By Susan Selasky Gannett News Service By now, many of us have given up on New Year’s resolutions to lose weight — and we’ve endured a cold winter. So it’s time to bake up some sunshine with cupcakes. Cupcakes were featured on the February covers of Martha Stewart Living and Better Homes & Garden magazines. Even the February edition of Oprah’s O magazine has a recipe for Red Hot Velvet Cupcakes with a notso-traditional cinnamon buttercream frosting. These days, cupcake flavors have evolved. The Cupcake Station in Birmingham, Mich., for example, offers 20 flavors daily. Cupcakes are popular for wedding receptions, wedding showers and baby showers — and not just because they’re cute and easy to

handle. Here are some tips to remember when preparing cupcakes: ◆ Don’t overfill the tins. If you do, the batter could spill over. ◆ An ice cream scoop works well to ladle the batter into the tins. Or use a one-fourth-cup measuring cup so the cupcakes are the same size. Spray the scoop or measuring cup with nonstick cooking spray so the batter pours GANNETT NEWS SERVICE An ice cream scoop works well to ladle cupcake batter into muffin tins. The brown-sugar out easily. ◆ Once you remove cupcakes from pound cake, left, and chocolate with raspberry filling cupcake are new flavors to try. the oven, let them cool completely before frosting. ◆ When frosting, cover the top The cream filling in these cupcakes is a terrific addition. This frosting is simple and gets a creamy completely. The frosting keeps the boost from marshmallow creme. cupcake from drying out. 1 box (18.25 ounces) chocolate cake mix ◆ Use paper liners for easier clean1 container (8 ounces) frozen nondairy whipped topping, thawed up. You can find decorative liners at 1 package (3 ounces) cream cheese, softened 1/4 cup seedless raspberry preserves cake and candy supply stores. 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar ◆ Use a pastry bag to frost the Amaretto frosting cupcakes. No pastry bag? Use a plastic 1/2 cup butter, softened sealable bag with the corner tip cut 1 jar (7 ounces) marshmallow creme off. 2 1/4 to 2 3/4 cups confectioners’ sugar

Chocolate cupcakes with raspberry filling

2 tablespoons almond-flavored liqueur or one-half teaspoon almond extract Garnish (optional) Toasted sliced almonds Fresh raspberries Prepare the cake mix following cupcake instructions. Let cupcakes cool completely. In a medium bowl, beat together the whipped topping and cream cheese at medium speed until smooth. Add the preserves, beating until the mixture is smooth. Gradually beat in the confectioners’ sugar until the mixture is smooth. Spoon the mixture into a squeeze bottle or use a pastry bag with a narrow (about one-eighth-inch) tip. Insert tip into the top of each cupcake and squeeze a good tablespoon of filling into each center. It’s OK if some seeps out the top. Repeat with all cupcakes. To make the frosting, in a medium bowl beat the butter and marshmallow creme at medium speed with an electric mixture until smooth. Gradually beat in 2 and one-fourth cups of the confectioners’ sugar. Add more if it is not sweet enough. Add the almond liqueur and beat until smooth. Frost the cupcakes and garnish with sliced almonds and raspberries, if desired. Makes 24. Source: Cooking with Paula Deen magazine, February issue.

W N C PA R E N T | M A R C H 2 0 0 9

Brown-sugar pound cupcakes with brown-butter glaze The brown-butter glaze, different from standard cupcake frostings, adds a rich buttery taste. These are best served immediately. For the cupcakes: 3 cups sifted all-purpose flour 2 teaspoons baking powder 1/2 teaspoon salt 8 ounces (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened 2 1/4 cups packed light-brown sugar 4 large eggs, room temperature 3/4 cup low-fat buttermilk For the glaze: 4 ounces (1 stick) unsalted butter 2 cups sifted confectionersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; sugar 2 teaspoons vanilla extract 2 to 4 tablespoons whole milk Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Line standard muffin tins with paper liners. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder and salt. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Add the flour mixture in three additions alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the flour. Scrape sides of bowl. Divide the batter among muffin cups, filling each 3/4 full. Bake for 25 minutes. Meanwhile, make the glaze: In a saucepan, heat the butter over medium heat until golden brown, about 5 to 10 minutes. Carefully pour butter into a bowl, leaving sediment behind. Add the sugar, vanilla, and 2 tablespoons milk to the butter and stir until smooth. If glaze is too thick, add more milk. Set rack with cooled cupcakes over a parchment-lined baking sheet. Spoon glaze over cupcake tops, and let stand until set. If glaze gets too hard, reheat it gently so you can spoon it. Serve glazed cupcakes immediately. Makes 29. Source: Martha Stewart Living, February 2009 issue.

W N C PA R E N T P R E S E N T S W N C M O M . C O M , T H E P L AC E W H E R E L O C A L M O M S C O N N E C T

Kids page

Coloring

Maze

Connect the dots

Word search

BEARS CAGE CLOWNS ELEPHANT FIRE HOOPS HORSES JUGGLERS LION TAMER LIONS NET PEANUTS POPCORN RINGMASTER STILTS TIGERS TIGHTROPE TRAPEZE UNICYCLE

W N C PA R E N T | M A R C H 2 0 0 9

puzzles for parents ACROSS 1. A Jedi’s aura 6. Lake in France 9. A deep prolonged sound 13. Plural of obelus 14. Type of tray 15. Lowest Hindu caste 16. Relating to a node 17. Type of resort 18. One that forces or inspires 19. *Children’s reward 21. Done to understand without hearing 23. *Side vegetable or object of princess test 24. Speech defect 25. Tom of "Tom and Jerry" 28. Not yet final or absolute 30. Card carrier 35. *Submarine sandwich 37. Something owed 39. Steal goods 40. Egyptian goddess of fertility 41. Thoroughly wash 43. Seawards 44. _____ prosequi 46. *An appetizer in Spain 47. Give temporarily 48. Composure under strain 50. Reduced Instruction Set Computer 52. Infection of the eye 53. Water marker 55. Weep convulsively 57. *Used for eating in front of tube, pl. 61. *No ordinary type of food 65. Lubricate again 66. Positive or negative particle 68. Famous for "Superman" 69. The way of speaking for a specific group 70. Actress Longoria 71. Hindu woman’s dress 72. *Shake with an additive 73. Mob snitch 74. Make corrections

DOWN 1. Tender or warm, often followed by "of" 2. Double reed woodwind 3. Commies 4. Necklace fastener 5. Song "Come on ______" 6. But not least 7. Inquire about 8. *Texas is famous for it 9. Cat’s vibrating sound 10. U2 guitarist 11. Geographical region 12. Hog fat 15. *Dinner for some 20. Feared by the mob, pl. 22. A belief or philosophy

24. Book lender 25. *Formal dishes 26. "The Tortoise and the Hare" author 27. Sol-fa-sol-fa-sol-fa, e.g. 29. Dissenting clique 31. *One of three 32. Circled in baseball 33. "The main _____" 34. Done before getting set and going 36. Capital of Norway 38. Tupi people language 42. Lowest male singing voice 45. Mortician’s action 49. Purchase 51. *Appetizer or main dish, e.g.

54. Twig of a willow tree 56. *Flesh of fish 57. Limited haircut 58. Hindu sacred writing 59. Work hard 60. Popular ’80s band "Quiet ____" 61. Annoying biting fly 62. Being nothing more than specified 63. Four, e.g. 64. Started, as in golf hole 67. Spermatozoa counterpart

Solutions on Page 64

W N C PA R E N T P R E S E N T S W N C M O M . C O M , T H E P L AC E W H E R E L O C A L M O M S C O N N E C T

STORY TIMES Buncombe County Public Libraries For more information visit buncombecounty.org/ governing/depts/Library/default.asp Mother Goose Time (ages 4-18 months) 11 a.m. Mondays: West Asheville 10 a.m. Tuesdays: Pack Memorial (walkers) 10:30 a.m. Tuesdays: Fairview 11 a.m. Tuesdays: Pack Memorial (nonwalkers) 11 a.m. Wednesdays: Swannanoa, Weaverville (second and fourth Wednesdays) 11 a.m. Thursdays: Oakley/South Asheville Toddler Time (ages 18-36 months) 11 a.m. Tuesdays: Leicester 10 a.m. Wednesdays: North Asheville 10:30 a.m. Wednesdays: Fairview, Skyland/South

Buncombe 11 a.m. Wednesdays: West Asheville 10 a.m. Thursdays: Pack Memorial 10:30 a.m. Thursdays: Black Mountain, EnkaCandler 11 a.m. Thursdays: Pack Memorial, Weaverville (second and fourth Thursdays only) Story time (Ages 3-5) 11 a.m. Tuesdays: Weaverville (first and third Tuesdays of month) 10 a.m. Wednesdays: Oakley/South Asheville 10:30 a.m. Wednesdays: Black Mountain, EnkaCandler, Leicester 11 a.m. Wednesdays: East Asheville, North Asheville, Pack Memorial 10:30 a.m. Thursdays: Fairview, Skyland/South Buncombe 11 a.m. Thursdays: Swannanoa, W. Asheville 11 a.m. Saturdays: East Asheville

School-age story time (ages 5-7) 10 a.m. Wednesdays, Pack Memorial. 3:30 p.m. Thursdays: North Asheville Storyline Call 251-5437 for a story anytime. Spanish Story time Asheville-Buncombe County Library System, West Asheville Library, 942 Haywood Road, Asheville. Call 251-4990 for more information.

Henderson County Public Library Story time sessions run through April 1 at Main Library and April 9 at branch libraries. For more information, visit henderson.lib.nc.us. Family story time for all ages 10 a.m. Tuesdays: Fletcher 11 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays: Mills River 10 a.m. Thursdays: Green River 10:30 a.m. Saturdays: Main Library

W N C PA R E N T | M A R C H 2 0 0 9

Bouncing Babies (ages 0-18 months) 11 a.m. Wednesdays: Main Library 9 a.m. Tuesdays: Etowah 9 a.m. Wednesdays: Fletcher Toddler time (18 months-3 years) 9:30 a.m. Mondays: Edneyville 9:30 a.m. Tuesdays: Etowah 9:30 a.m. Wednesdays: Fletcher 10:30 a.m. Wednesdays: Main Library 11:15 a.m. Wednesdays: Fletcher Preschool story time (ages 3-5) 10:30 a.m. Mondays: Edneyville 7 p.m. Mondays: Main Library 9:30 a.m. Tuesdays: Etowah 10:30 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays: Main Library 10:30 a.m. Wednesdays: Fletcher Kindergarten-Third Grade story time (Feb. 5-March 26) 4 p.m. Thursdays: Main Library

SEND US YOUR PHOTOS We welcome photos of family, neighborhood, school, church and other social activities involving children. Send your high-resolution photos, along with a brief description of the event, and names, ages and hometowns of everyone pictured. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget your name, address and phone number. Send to: Katie Wadington by e-mail at kwadington@citizen-times.com or to WNC Parent Photos, P.O. Box 2090, Asheville, NC 28802.

Kaden McCarson, 4, of Candler, looks like sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s walking on water in Mills River. Submitted by her mother, Sharon Breedlove.

Dodge Roberts, 2, plays in the peanuts in a box that delivered some of his Christmas presents. Submitted by his great-grandparents Ralph and Jayne Schindler, of Arden.

James Dylan Shuler, 3, and his little sister Cameron Nicole Shuler, 21 months, of Asheville, show their excitement as they wait for Santa Claus. Submitted by mom Christan Pittman.

Elise Gomez, 1, of Waynesville, tries to stay warm. Submitted by mom Amanda Gomez.

W N C PA R E N T P R E S E N T S W N C M O M . C O M , T H E P L AC E W H E R E L O C A L M O M S C O N N E C T

Suzanne responded: Moe’s in Asheville (probably Arden as well) lets kids eat for 99 cents after 5 p.m. Bet there are others that offer similar meals.

A SAMPLING OF WHAT’S IN THE FORUMS Melodie asked in ‘Where do kids eat free in Asheville/Arden?’ I’m thinking there should be a place on this site where we could have a list (or maybe there already is?) of what restaurants offer free kids dining and on what days.... or maybe there is a local Web site that already has this?

Lisa added: Great idea! Only way I’ve found that kind of info is by calling the place and asking. I do know that Lonestar in Arden on Airport Road has kids night on Tuesdays and two kids eat free per adult entrée. My kids and I ate there last night for $10!! I haven’t been there in a long time, but Texas Roadhouse used to do kids night on the first Wednesday of the month. Don’t remember the details though.

Posted by Wendy.

Rebecca responded: I agree with you about there should be a site. I have asked this same question to many people. I know IHOP lets kids eat off their kids menu for free after 4 .p.m with a paying adult entree, and Fuddrucker’s lets kids under 5 (I think) eat for free Monday-Thursday after 5 p.m., but call to confirm hours. I think they changed recently to just dinner. I know Asheville Pizza and Brewing Co. does something for kids one night a week ( I think free sundaes on Tuesday).

W N C PA R E N T | M A R C H 2 0 0 9

parenting in a nutshell

How to raise a toddler and lower your stress least into the next room. Is there a relative or trustworthy neighbor you can switch off with so you each get a Just because you are the parent of a little time away from the source of your stress? A short walk or a quick toddler doesn’t mean your life has to cup of tea will help you feel renewed. be stressful or that you have to walk ◆ Talk it over with other parents or around in a constant state of frustration or anger with your mouth poised your pediatrician: How do other parents deal with their toddler’s stressto open with a chastisement at any making moods? If you feel your child moment. You can take charge of your may be acting out more than others reactions to your child’s behavior by choosing to use some of these tactics: her age, talk to your pediatrician. ◆ Get professional help if you feel ◆ Take a parent’s timeout: Yes, yourself bordering on or thinking too parents can (and should) take a timeout when needed. What is the purpose often about harming your child. It is never OK to hit or harm your children of a timeout? If you answered “pununder any circumstances; you are ishment,” you are wrong. Timeouts are just what they say they are: a time much bigger, stronger and can be scarier than they are. However, you to calm down, regroup and try again. are also much smarter and that’s why ◆ Make time for your own spirituality and or sanctuary every day. Read you’d get help. ◆ Keep in mind that your toddler is inspirational material that keeps you only doing her job — which includes in touch with what is important in testing you to see how far she can go. your life; keep these thoughts with ◆ Determine to have patience and you if you feel stressed during the day. remain calm. Unless there is a danger◆ Get out of the house — or at By Doreen Nagle Gannett News Service

ous situation in progress that requires you to act forcefully, try to be patient. Respond as necessary. ◆ Choose your battles. Let your child win one once in a while. You’ll both enjoy the journey more. ◆ Let your child know what he did that disappointed you, even if you feel he is too young to understand. Your child may understand more than he is

able to verbalize. ◆ Keep your health up. Part of the problem could be that you aren’t eating as well as you should, not getting enough sleep or exercise. Doreen Nagle is author of "But I Don’t Feel Too Old to Be a Mommy.” Write to her at parenting inanutshell@joimail.com.

W N C PA R E N T P R E S E N T S W N C M O M . C O M , T H E P L AC E W H E R E L O C A L M O M S C O N N E C T

calendar of events

March 4 and 18

Things to do

Family Knitting Circle Bring your own needles and enjoy some knitting time, 3:30-4:30 p.m. the first and third Wednesdays of the month at Growing Young Café, 611 Tunnel Road, East Asheville. Call 299-4420 or visit growingyoungcafe.com for more information.

MOPS

March 2 Food allergy group Would you like to have COCOA — Caring for Children with food Allergies — in Asheville? A free group for parents of food allergic children is meeting at Earth Fare on Hendersonville Road in South Asheville. If you are interested, come to meetings at 6:45 p.m. the first Monday of the month or e-mail Kristie at cocoa_in_asheville@yahoo.com for details.

Starts March 2 Expressive Arts series Expand creativity, build confidence, make new friends and express yourself through the arts. Series includes creative movement (March 2-3), drama games (March 9-10), Playback Improv Theater (March 16-17), sand play (March 23-24) and collage (March 30-31). At Spark Creative Wellness Studio in downtown Asheville. Visit sparkcreativewellness.com and call Jessica Chilton at 301-5172. ◆ For homeschoolers: Runs 12:30-2:30 p.m. Mondays for 6- to 9-year-olds and Tuesdays for 10- to 13-year-olds. ◆ For non-homeschoolers: Runs 4-6 p.m. Mon-

Mothers of Preschoolers meets at Biltmore Baptist Church in Arden on the first and third Wednesday mornings of each month, 9:30-11:30. For more information, call 687-1111.

days for 6- to 9-year-olds and Tuesdays for 10- to 13-year-olds at Spark Creative Wellness Studio in downtown Asheville.

Meditation techniques for parents

Starts March 4

A 12-week meditation course offering basic meditation instruction for those new to meditation or who have tried to meditate but were unsuccessful. Facilitated by parent educator and published author, 7 p.m. in Asheville. Attendance is flexible. More information at sarahwood.com/ circle.htm or call 242-0680.

Lifeguard training The YWCA of Asheville will offer American Red Cross lifeguard training. The class will meet at 6:30 p.m. at the YWCA, 185 S. French Broad Ave., through May 6. The course includes lifeguarding skills, First Aid and CPR for the Professional Rescuer, and more. Participants must be at least 15 years old and pass a pre-test. The cost is $175, and includes all materials. For more information, call Jean Coile at 254-7206, ext. 110.

March 3 Montreat MOPS Come join other moms for fun, laughter and friendship. Group meets the first Tuesday of each month, 6:30-8 p.m., fourth floor of the Henry Building at Geneva Place in Montreat. Free child care is available. Call 669-8012, ext. 4001, to reserve a spot.

March 5 PHOTO BY GANNETT NEWS SERVICE

The YWCA of Asheville offers American Red Cross lifeguard training, starting March 4.

March 3 and 10 Childbirth 101 A two-session class for expectant parents covering

the labor and delivery process, relaxation, breathing patterns, birth options, positioning and comfort measures. Bring two pillows and a blanket. Two Tuesdays, March 3 and 10, 6:30-9 p.m. Cost is $90, or free with Medicaid. Registration required. At Pardee Health Education Center in Blue Ridge Mall, Four Seasons Boulevard, Hendersonville. Call 692-4600 for information.

March 4 Breast-feeding and Calming a Fussy Baby class A fun interactive class that teaches tips and tricks to feed and calm and soothe your sweet baby. Don’t just prepare for labor — prepare for a newborn. Class runs 6-9 p.m. and is taught by Holly Mason, RN, at the Women’s Wellness and Education Center, 24 Arlington St., Asheville. Cost is $25. For information or registration call 2500226.

W N C PA R E N T | M A R C H 2 0 0 9

Moms with Multiples Group for moms with multiples meets 7 p.m. the first Thursday of each month at the Women’s Resource Center on Doctor’s Drive, behind Mission Hospitals. Meetings are an opportunity to share experiences and offer support in a social setting. For information, call 444-AMOM or visit ashevillemom.com.

Preschool Play Date The Health Adventure’s Preschool Play Date includes hands-on take-away activities led by an educator from the museum for children ages 3-6. Free for members or with museum admission. Runs 10:30-11:30 a.m. every first Thursday of the month. No registration in required. Call 254-6373 or visit thehealthadventure.org.

Evening family story time Come to the Oakley/South Asheville Library for a fun evening story time for kids of all ages at 7 p.m. For more information call 250-4754 or e-mail oakley.library@buncombecounty.org. The library is at 749 Fairview Road.

Starts March 5 Spanish for Kids Teach your toddler or preschooler Spanish through games, songs, storytelling and more. Program

calendar of events runs Thursdays, March 5-April 9, at North Asheville Library. Call Monica for details at 335-2120.

March 6 Parents night out Malvern Hills Presbyterian Church offers a parents night out, 6-8 p.m. the first Friday of the month. Open to community children, ages 2-11. Pizza dinner included. Donations accepted, but not required. For more information, call the Rev. Sean Maney at 242-8402 or visit malvernhillspca.com.

Teen Writers Circle Calling all kids ages 12-18: Grab your notebooks, pens and pencils and come practice the basics of creative writing with other teens at Weaverville

Library. From 4-5:30 p.m. Call 250-6482 for information. The library is at 41 N. Main St.

March 6 and 20 Moms night out Growing Young CafĂŠ hosts a night out from 6-9:30 p.m. on the first and third Friday of every month. Cost is $20/child ($15 for second child). Sign up by preceding Wednesday to reserve your spot. The cafĂŠ is at 611 Tunnel Road. Call 299-4420 or visit growingyoungcafe.com.

March 7 Appalachian Christian Camp open house Visit Appalachian Christian Camp and Retreat

Center, in Unicoi, Tenn., and learn more about the programs that are offered for all ages. From 10 a.m.-noon, come meet the summer program directors, tour the facilities, and enjoy some refreshments. Various games, activities, and rock climbing on the 30-foot indoor climbing wall will be available in the gym. For information, visit campacc.com.

Self-defense class for girls and women Waynesville Parks and Recreation, in partnership with WNC Martial Arts, is hosting Self-Defense Saturday, 10 a.m.-noon, at the Waynesville Recreation Center. Women and girls 7 and older are welcome. Clinic is free for Waynesville Recreation Center members and $20 for nonmembers. For information, call the Rec Center at 456-2030 or e-mail recyouth@townofwaynesville.org.

Starts March 7 Tots On Toes dance workshop Introduce your child to the art of dance in this four-week class. Mommy and Me class (ages 2-3) is 10:30-11 a.m. Pre-school ballet class (ages 3-5) is 11-11:45 a.m. Elementary grades ballet and tap combo class is 11:45 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Cost is $35 for the workshop. Classes are at the Stoney Mountain Activity Center in Henderson County. Tots on Toes is a partnership with Henderson County Parks and Recreation. For more information and to register, contact Dory Jones at 684-9201 or e-mail dory@TotsOnToes.com and visit TotsOnToes.com.

Continues on Page 60

W N C PA R E N T P R E S E N T S W N C M O M . C O M , T H E P L AC E W H E R E L O C A L M O M S C O N N E C T

calendar of events

5 de Marzo – 9 de Abril

Continued from Page 59

¡Listos para Aprender! La Sociedad del Éxito de Aprendizaje invita a niños de 2-5 años quienes no están en la escuelita, juntos con sus padres o guardianes del condado de Buncombe y la ciudad de Asheville, a participar unas series de 6 clases gratis. Ayude a su niño al desarrollo social y emocional en un contexto de alfabetismo temprano y de pre-matemáticas por medio de cuentos, canciones, poemas, y vocabulario. Las clases empiezan el jueves, 5 de marzo, 10:30 a 11:15 a.m. en el Centro de Literatura de la Familia de ACSP, 441 Haywood Road. Cada niño recibe un libro gratis al final de cada clase. Para registrarse por favor llame a Mónica Bastin al 255-5099. (This free program is offered exclusively to families who are fluent in Spanish and speak it as their primary language at home.)

March 8 Daylight Saving Time begins Set clocks ahead by one hour.

Purim Carnival Purim is one of the most joyous and fun holidays in the Jewish tradition. Enjoy loads of Purim fun at the Jewish Community Center’s annual Purim Carnival, including games, bounce house, cotton candy, cake walk, wine tasting for adults 21 and older, and more. Costumes welcome. Runs 12:30-3 p.m. Admission is free; tickets must be purchased for food and attractions. For information, contact Natalie Kramer at 253-0701, ext. 108, or natalie@jcc-asheville.org.

March 9 Chimney Rock home-school program The web of life is a tricky phenomenon. In this World Wild Web class, help your students to understand how energy is transferred and what that means for producers, consumers and decomposers in this ecosystem. Interactive games and discussions will help bring the subject to life. Cost is $12 per student, $11.50 for parents (passholders are $7 for students and free for parents). Call 800-277-9611 to register.

La Leche League Monday mornings La Leche League’s Monday group meets at 10 a.m. the second Monday of the month at First Congregational Church on Oak Street. Pregnant moms, babies and toddlers are welcome. For information, contact a leader: Susan 628-4438, Falan, 253-2098, or Tamara 505-1379.

Preschool open house Merrimon Avenue Baptist Church Preschool is accepting enrollment for its preschool classes for children ages 2-4. Learn more about the program at an open house at 6 p.m. The school operates 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Tuesdays-Thursdays. The cost is $15/day. The school also offers classes for children ages 1 and 5, with a structured prekindergarten class focusing on kindergarten readiness. For more information, call Sara Calloway at 252-2768, ext. 315, or e-mail scalloway@mabaptist.org.

March 9 and 23 ‘My Mom Is Having a Baby’ A free program to help children ages 3-8 understand, accept and anticipate the changes that will happen as the family prepares for the birth of the new baby. Each child will see and hold lifelike models that show how a baby grows and develops, make a kite mobile for the new baby’s room, receive an activity/coloring book and tour the Mother/Baby Unit at Mission Hospital to see where mom and baby will stay. Program runs 4-5 p.m. the second and fourth Mondays of each month at Mission Hospitals. To register, call 254-6373, ext. 316. For more information, visit thehealthadventure.com and click on the “Programs” tab.

PHOTO BY ERIN BRETHAUER

Museum educator Jenny Mercer, far left, leads Taylor Arrowood, 5, Will Holcombe, 5, and Liz Arrowood through a puppy origami exercise. The Health Adventure’s Origami Folding Frenzy teaches children new folds, and lets them share favorites and meet fellow enthusiasts.

March 10 Blood drive Glenn C. Marlow Elementary in Mills River is hosting a blood drive for the American Red Cross, 8 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Winter weather has taken a toll on blood donations this winter. The school is at 1985 Butler Bridge Road, about 1 mile off Airport Road. Call 654-3225 to schedule an appointment.

Moms group A Christian moms group meets at 6:30 p.m. the second Tuesday of the month at St. Paul’s Church, 1095 Hendersonville Road in South Asheville. Moms with any age children are welcome. Refreshments and child care provided. For information, contact 388-3598.

March 11 Breast-feeding Basics class Park Ridge Hospital in Hendersonville offers a course on the basics of breast-feeding, 7-9 p.m. Held in the hospital’s Duke Room. Call Sheri Gregg at 681-2229 for information or to register.

Holistic Parenting Forum The Holistic Parenting Forum is a free group that meets monthly to provide an opportunity for a diverse community of parents committed to natural living to gather. The topic for March is “Earth-Friendly Biologic General Dentistry” presented by Dr. Matthew Young. The group provides support, education and resources to parents who desire to create a healthy environment for their children. All meetings take place on the second Wednesday of every month at Earth Fare in West Asheville from 6-8 p.m. Children are welcome. For information, call 230-4850 or e-mail shantisunshine@gmail.com.

Origami Folding Frenzy Learn new folds, share favorites, and meet fellow origami enthusiasts. All levels welcome. Paper is available at the museum store or bring your own.

No club dues, just the cost of museum admission. From 4-5 p.m. the second Wednesday of the month at The Health Adventure in Pack Place. For information, call 254-6373 or visit thehealthadventure.org.

Preschool Outreach Program training Buncombe County Library’s Preschool Outreach Program is looking for people to share the joy of books by reading stories to children. Each volunteer visits a child care center to deliver brief story time programs. No formal experience is needed, just a commitment to the value of books and reading to little children. The library provides all materials and training free of charge. After a five-hour training session, the job requires about four-five hours a month and a one-year commitment. Training is 9 a.m.-2 p.m. To request an application by mail, or for questions, call 2504729 or e-mail pop@buncombecounty.org or visit buncombecounty.org/library.

Starts March 11 Empowered Birthing Childbirth Education Classes Four interactive classes on Wednesday evenings focus on natural childbirth, positions for comfort, and hands-on massage techniques for labor. VBACs welcome. Class are at the Women’s Wellness and Education Center, 24 Arlington St., Asheville. Cost is $175 for the series taught by Trish Beckman, CNM, and Laura Beagle, LMBT and CD. For information or registration call 2319227.

March 12 Knitty Gritty knitting night A casual knitting group for knitters of all skill levels that meets at 6:30 p.m. the second Thursday of the month at the East Asheville Library,

W N C PA R E N T | M A R C H 2 0 0 9

902 Tunnel Road. For more information, call 250-4738 or e-mail eastasheville.library@buncombecounty.org.

March 12-18 Munchkin Market Munchkin Market is an upscale children’s consignment sale offering clothing and accessories for spring and summer. Toys, furniture, strollers, baby/child gear and maternity items are also available. Consignors get 60 percent and shop early. Consignor drop-off is March 7-10. Sale is open to consignors and volunteers March 12-13 and to the public March 14-18, with half off March 18. At Biltmore Square Mall. For more information, visit munchkinmarket.com.

March 13 Parents night out Fired Up! Creative Lounge hosts a parents night out with pizza, drinks and items to paint for kids, 6-9:30 p.m. Cost is $25 per child. At 26 Wall St., downtown. Call 253-8181 for reservations.

March 13-28 Henderson County children’s art exhibitions The Arts Council of Henderson County presents The Art of Our Children, showcasing the artistic creations of Henderson County children, in the D. Samuel Neill Gallery. The Art of Our Children is two exhibitions. The first, Artists of Tomorrow, features the work of secondary students. The second, Elementary Art, showcases art created by students from grades one through five, and runs April 3–18. The gallery is at 538 N. Main St., second floor, downtown Hendersonville. Both exhibitions are free and open to the public. For more information call 693-8504, e-mail acofhc@bellsouth.net or visit acofhc.org.

calendar of events

Room at Park Ridge, 100 Hospital Drive, Hendersonville. For information or to register, call 681-2229.

March 13-29

La Leche League Monday evenings

‘Narnia’ Asheville Community Theatre presents a musical based on C.S. Lewis’ “The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe.” Performances at 8 p.m. Fridays and 2:30 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. Tickets start at $12. For information and tickets, visit ashevilletheatre.org.

La Leche League meets at 7 p.m. the third Monday of the month at Awakening Heart on Merrimon Avenue. Pregnant moms, babies and toddlers welcome. For information, contact a leader: Jen at 713-3707 or Yvette at 254-5591.

Mommy and Me luncheon The Baby Place at Park Ridge Hospital in Hendersonville welcomes new moms to its Mommy and Me luncheon, noon-1 p.m. the third Monday of each month. Bring your new baby, visit with other new moms and enjoy a short speaker. This luncheon is in the hospital’s Private Dining Room, ground floor by the café, and will take place on the third Monday of each month. Please call 681-2229 to RSVP.

March 14 Asheville Mothers of Multiples Rummage Sale Sale offers baby and children’s clothing, toys and equipment, maternity clothes and more. Cash and credit cards only. From 7:30 a.m.-2 p.m. with half-price sale from 2:15-3 p.m. at the National Guard Armory near Brevard Road in West Asheville.

March 17

Café Shalom fundraiser Head to the “Eco-Chic Lounge” for Café Shalom, Shalom Children Center’s annual fundraiser, at 5:30 p.m. at the Jewish Community Center of Asheville. The theme “Green is the New Black” plays off the center’s efforts to be more environmentally friendly. Money received will be used to make various improvements to the Hildes House and Shalom playgrounds. The event at the Jewish Community Center of Asheville, 236 Charlotte St., features a reception, drinks and silent auction. Contact Rochelle Reich at 253-0701 or Rochelle@jcc-asheville.org for more information.

Children’s Super Sale Shop for gently used children’s clothing, toys, books, furniture, equipment and accessories, from 8 a.m.-1 p.m. at Hendersonville First Baptist Church gym, on Fourth Avenue. Consignors still needed. For more information, call 693-8312.

‘Planet Earth Inc.’ The Asheville Puppetry Alliance welcomes Lee Bryan and his “Planet Earth Inc.” for a performance at 11 a.m. at Diana Wortham Theatre. For reservations call 828 257-4530 or visit dwtheatre.org. Tickets are $8 for adults and $5 for students and seniors.

Shamrock Run Asheville Catholic School hosts the third-annual St. Patrick’s Day Shamrock Run, with a 1K fun run, and 5K and 10K races through North Asheville. The 5K and 10K begin at 9 a.m.; the 1K starts at 10:15. Dress in green, with a prize for the best Irish-themed costume. Register online at setupevents.com. Brochures are available at the school office. For more information, call Angie Dorsey at 2734853.

St. Patrick’s Day parade Watch the March of the Leprechauns in downtown Hendersonville. Starts at 10 a.m. down Main Street.

YWCA Healthy Family Day The YWCA of Asheville is hosting Healthy Family Day: Preventing Diabetes from 8 a.m.-noon. This bi-lingual event will include free diabetes checks, free meters, healthy snacks and more. Mission Hospital staff will provide educational presentations on topics such as exercise, eating healthy, and living with diabetes. Free child care will be provided with crafts, games and healthy snacks. Healthy Family Day is for anyone whose life has

SPECIAL TO WNC PARENT

Asheville Puppetry Alliance brings Lee Bryan and his “Planet Earth Inc.” show to town March 14. been touched by diabetes. The YWCA is at 185 S. French Broad Ave. For more information, contact Beverly Medcalf, 213-5537 or Beverly.medcalf@msj.org.

March 14 and 28 Creativity day camps A full-day camp designed to inspire children’s unique creative expression at The Rainbow Well. Includes rotating musicians and artists, art direction, child expertise, Creativity Camper Assessment (for parents) and more. For information, visit therainbowwell.com or call 505-0383.

March 15 Joyful Noise traditional music benefit Support Joyful Noise Community Music & Arts Center at a show featuring renowned musicians, Joyful Noise faculty and students. Show begins at 4 p.m. at the Grey Eagle Music Hall. Suggested donation of $10 for adults, $5 for children, or $20 per family. All proceeds to benefit the student scholarship program. For information, visit brioconcertseries.org/joyfulnoise.html or e-mail joyfulnoiseartscenter@gmail.com.

Sparkle Sisters An expressive arts party for tween girls. If you are a 9-13 year old girl, you are invited for some positive, fun girl-time away from the cliques and drama of school. Come celebrate girls through expressive arts activities that bring laughter, new friendships and a great feeling about being you. Runs 2-5 pm. At Spark Creative Wellness Studio in downtown Asheville. Visit sparkcreativewellness.com and call Jessica Chilton at 301-5172.

March 16 Grandparent class This free course covers how grandparents can help, how childbirth has changed, gift ideas, safety and a tour of the Park Ridge Hospital obstetrics unit. Class is at 7 p.m. in the Duke

Breast-feeding class Learn the art of breast-feeding. Class covers breast-feeding basics to help give moms a good start. From 6:30-7:30 p.m. at Pardee Health Education Center in Blue Ridge Mall, Four Seasons Boulevard, Hendersonville. Call 692-4600. Class is free; registration is not required.

Family Fun Night Come down to the Weaverville Library for a bedtime story time at 6:30 p.m. Enjoy bedtime stories and lullabies. Pajamas welcome. Don’t forget your favorite snuggly. Call 250-6482 for information. The library is at 41 N. Main St.

March 19 Colburn Museum homeschool program The Colburn Earth Science Museum at Pack Place is offering a course called “Weather Watchers” for students in first to third grades. Class runs 2:303:30 p.m. Minimum class size is six students. Cost is $5.50 per child per class, and prepayment is required. To register or for information, call 254-7162.

Speaking of Children lecture series Children First of Buncombe County presents the lecture “Putting the Juvenile back in Juvenile Justice,” 9-11 a.m. at the N.C. Arboretum in Bent Creek. Did you know North Carolina is only one of two states that automatically place 16- and 17-year-olds in the adult corrections system regardless of offense? Shay Bilchik (director, Center for Juvenile Justice Reform, Georgetown Public Policy Institute) and Dr. Olson Huff (senior fellow in health, Action for Children North Carolina) will present on best practices for steering youth away from crime, consequences of sending youth to the adult criminal system, engaging communities in the public policy debate, funding for local juvenile justice service programs. For more information, visit childrenfirstbc.org.

‘Your Money or Your Life’ program Join Carol Pimental, local counselor, organizing consultant, and community advocate, as she leads participants through a journey to rediscover the difference between money and true fulfillment. At 6 p.m. at the Swannanoa Library, 101 W. Charleston St. For information, call 250-6486.

Wake Up From Winter story time Put on pajamas and come to the East Asheville Library for an evening of bedtime stories, songs and fun. Ideal for ages 3-6, but all ages welcome. Free, with snacks provided. Call 250-4738 for information. The library is at 902 Tunnel Road.

March 20 Luna Negra Dance Theater school performance Luna Negra’s student matinee program offers students a memorable and meaningful introduction to dance and Latino culture, giving students of all backgrounds an awareness and appreciation of the richness and diversity of Latino culture and of the arts through dance. Showtime is 10 a.m. at Diana Wortham Theatre. Recommended for all ages and grades. Cost is $6. Teachers and bus drivers are free with groups of 10 or more. The Y.E.S. (Youth Education Scholarship) Fund provides need-based scholarships to cover the cost of admission for students and schools; limited scholarships available by application for students on free or reduced lunch programs. More information and reservations are available by contacting Rae Geoffrey, director of outreach and education, at 257-4544, ext. 307. For information, visit dwtheatre.org.

Moms night out Enjoy a free night out with area moms, “Mama Mia” and popcorn. Gather at 6:30 p.m., with the movie starting at 7. At the Women’s Wellness and Education Center, 24 Arlington St., Asheville. For information, call 505-7505 or visit AshevilleWomensWellness.com.

Weaverville Library’s Teen Advisory Group Kids ages 12-18 are invited to share their ideas about the library in this group focused on teen involvement in developing the collection, creating programs and positively impacting the community. At 4 p.m. The library is at 41 N. Main St. For information, call 250-6482.

March 21 Birdhouse class Learn to make a bluebird house and/or bird feeder at Historic Johnson Farm. For kids ages 8-12. Runs 10 a.m.-noon. Led by WNC Woodworkers Association. Limited to 24 students. Call 891-6585 for information or to sign up. The farm is at 3346 Haywood Road, Hendersonville.

Stories That Pop story time Pop by the Swannanoa Library for a special 11 a.m. Saturday story time. We’ll read our favorite pop-up books and create a fun pop-up craft! The library is at 101 W. Charleston St. Call 250-6486.

Teen Writing Circle Strengthen your writing muscles with games, writing exercises, and feedback on your stories and poems from other kids ages 11-18, from 3-4:30 p.m. at East Asheville Library. Bring a poem, story, or other piece of writing to share with

Continues on Page 62

W N C PA R E N T P R E S E N T S W N C M O M . C O M , T H E P L AC E W H E R E L O C A L M O M S C O N N E C T

calendar of events

March 24

Continued from Page 61

BirthNetwork of WNC

our group of teen writers. Free with snacks provided. Call 250-4738. The library is at 902 Tunnel Road.

YOU-nique Creative Lounge for teens Calling all teens seeking cool new ways to express who you are in the world: Grab your favorite music, magazines, and photos and discover a creative process that is fun, supportive, empowering and led by your imagination. Runs 3-6 p.m. At Spark Creative Wellness Studio in downtown Asheville. Visit sparkcreativewellness.com or call Jessica Chilton at 301-5172.

March 22 Spare Me Bowling Tournament Support Special Olympics Buncombe County athletes and have a great time at the first Spare Me Bowling Tournament, noon-4 p.m. at AMF Star Lanes in Asheville. Entry fee includes three games, shoe rental and a T-shirt. Prizes will be awarded for the Most Outgoing Team, top teams and last place team. Bowlers’ names will be drawn for door prizes. Entry fee is $20 per person or $100 for a five-person team. Sign up your own team of five bowlers or get placed on a team. All profits will benefit the athletes of Special Olympics Buncombe County. For more information or to sign up, contact Stayce Pressley at 545-7420 or visit buncombecounty.org.

W N C PA R E N T | M A R C H 2 0 0 9

BirthNetwork of WNC is a nonprofit, grass-roots movement based on the belief that birth can profoundly affect our physical, mental and spiritual well-being. The group meets 7-8 p.m. the fourth Tuesday of each month at the Pardee Health Education Center in Blue Ridge Mall, 1800 Four Seasons Blvd, Hendersonville. This month’s topic is “The Wonderful Evidence for Skin to Skin Contact after Birth” with Barbara Davenport, certified nurse-midwife. For information, e-mail birthnetworkofwnc@gmail.com or visit www.birthnetwork.org.

Kids fly-fishing class The Waynesville Parks and Recreation Department has partnered with the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission at the Pisgah Center for Wildlife Education in the Pisgah National Forest to provide a six-hour introduction to the basics of fly fishing. This program is for children ages 10-15. The one-day course will include equipment, knots, casting techniques, aquatic entomology and will culminate with a fly-fishing excursion in the Davidson River. Transportation, equipment and materials, including waders, will be provided. All participants will need to bring a lunch and nonslip shoes. Class leaves Waynesville Recreation Center at 9 a.m. and returns at 4:30 p.m. Cost is $8. For information, call Mike at 456-2030.

Pardee parenting classes Classes at Pardee Health Education Center in Blue Ridge Mall, Four Seasons Boulevard, Hendersonville. Call 692-4600 for information. Classes are free. Registration is not required. ◆ Infant care class: Learn the basics of infant

calendar of events

March 28-29 Children’s Clothing Exchange

care, 6:30-8 p.m. ◆ Prime-time with a pediatrician: Learn from a local pediatrician what to expect with a newborn in your home, 8-9 p.m.

The Children’s Clothing Exchange sale has been in the Asheville area for more than 30 years. The sale offers gently used clothing (newborn through size 16); shoes, toys, books, games and baby equipment at low prices. Runs 8 a.m.-4 p.m. March 28 and 12:30-3 p.m. March 29 at the National Guard Armory on Shelburne Road (just off Brevard Road). For information, contact Kristie at 667-0703 or roswechs@charter.net or visit TheChildrensClothingExchange.com.

Science Quest Science Quest, a combination of demonstrations and hands-on experiences, will show how science can be fun. There will be some physics, some chemistry, a hot air balloon and more. To participate fully, please bring a small plastic drink bottle and a cap from an ink pen to make a Cartesian diver. Free. Suggested for third- through eighthgraders. At 4:30 p.m. at Spellbound Children’s Bookshop, 19 Wall St., downtown. For information, call 232-2228.

March 29 and April 5 Parents retreat

March 25 Breast-feeding and Calming a Fussy Baby class A fun interactive class that teaches tips and tricks to feed and calm and soothe your sweet baby. Don’t just prepare for labor — prepare for a newborn. Class runs 6-9 p.m. and is taught by Holly Mason, RN, at the Women’s Wellness and Education Center, 24 Arlington St., Asheville. Cost is $25. For information or registration call 2500226.

Parent Wellness workshop A monthly group facilitated by Maureen Healy, parenting author with child development expertise, at 7 p.m. at The Rainbow Well. A very informal (and free) group facilitated to create open communication, sharing and inspiration among parents. All welcome. RSVP for directions to maureen@therainbowwell.com or 505-0383.

School-age reading club The Weaverville Library has added a book club for school age kids that will meet at 4 p.m. the fourth Wednesday of every month. This month, celebrate the beginning of spring with some fun activities and a craft. The library is at 41 N. Main St. Call 250-6482 for information.

Starts March 25 Tiny Tykes music class Learn while singing, playing, keeping a beat and playing simple instruments. Classes at East Asheville Community Center run 10-10:45 a.m. Wednesdays through April 15 and are taught by Cathy Riley, professional instructor who specializes in work with preschool-age children. Cost is $36 per session.

March 26 Game Night Bring your favorite board and card games to share, and get together for a night in at the East Asheville Branch Library. All ages welcome. Snacks provided. From 6-7:30 p.m. The library is at 902 Tunnel Road. Call 250-4738 for information.

Ends March 27 Owen youth baseball and softball registration Register your child for Owen’s Babe Ruth baseball and softball league online. Cost is $45 per child for kids ages 3-18. Games at Charles D. Owen park. For more information, call Trisha at 242-

SPECIAL TO WNC PARENT

Asheville Bravo Concerts presents the National Acrobats of China on April 3. 3846 or Tim at 686-4094. Register at eteamz.com/httpowenllcom.

March 27-29 Postpartum doula training Have you always wanted to work with new families? Maybe your dreams can be fulfilled by becoming a postpartum doula. A DONA-approved Postpartum Doula Workshop runs 8:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m. for three days at the Women’s Resource Center behind Mission Hospital. A free Breastfeeding Training (a required pre-requisite) will be offered 5:30-9 p.m. March 26. Cost is $450 if space is still available. For more information and/or to register, visit peacefulbeginning.org or call Cheryl Orengo at 258-3327.

Registration starts March 28 Ted. E. Tourists adapted baseball program Asheville Parks, Recreation and Cultural Arts presents the Ted E. Tourists adapted baseball program for boys and girls ages 6-18, in partnership with the Asheville Tourists. The program is for youth with or without a disability that limits their ability to play at the Little League level. This is a noncompetitive baseball program that modifies the rules to make the game accessible and fun for all players while teaching basic baseball skills. Meet at Martin Luther King Jr. Park, on Martin Luther King Drive, from 10 a.m.-noon Saturdays, April 18-June 6. Cost is $25 for Asheville residents or $30 for nonresidents and includes instruction, uniform, and trophy. Parents and guardians are welcome to participate. Registration will be at the West Asheville Recreation Center, 970 Haywood Road, 1-4 p.m. March 28 and April 4 and 6-8 p.m. April 3. The program is also seeking coaches, volunteers, and sponsors to assist in creating an accessible opportunity for youth to enjoy the game of baseball. For more information, registration and eligibility requirements, contact Randy Shaw at 251-4031 or westashevillec@ashevillenc.gov.

Give yourself a revitalizing retreat from your responsibilities as a parent and ignite sparks of insight, creativity, playfulness and transformation in your life. Without any prerequisite of artistic ability, enjoy a supportive environment where a guided expressive arts process leads to refreshing clarity and a renewed sense of self. Runs 2-5 pm. at Spark Creative Wellness Studio in downtown Asheville. Visit sparkcreativewellness.com or call Jessica Chilton at 301-5172 for more information.

March 31 Hendersonville Christian School open house Hendersonville Christian School will host an open house information session at 6:30 pm. All interested families are invited to tour the newly renovated campus, meet teachers and hear from Headmaster Greg Mosely. The school is at 708 Old Spartanburg Road, Hendersonville. For more information, call the school office at 692-0556.

Storytelling Quilt Workshop for kids Storyteller, author, Lynn Salsi, tells stories about the rich culture and traditions of North Carolina. Students in first to eighth grades are invited to bring their best family or pet story idea, and Salsi will give tips on how to create a storytelling experience to share with others. Salsi will bring her famous story quilt, and students will learn how pictures can come to life through stories. Young writers will especially benefit from this experience which explores the power of ideas and creativity. At Pack Memorial Library, 67 Haywood St., Asheville. Call 250-4700 for information.

April 3 National Acrobats of China Asheville Bravo Concerts presents the National Acrobats of China at 7:30 p.m. at Thomas Wolfe Auditorium. Highly skilled, rigorously trained and superbly talented, the National Acrobats of China are part of a classical Chinese tradition that has been practiced for 3,000 years. Tickets are $20$50 at Ticketmaster.com or by phone at 2515505. Students receive half-price seating.

April 4 Easter egg hunt Find Easter eggs on the grounds of Smith-McDowell House Museum. Runs 10 a.m.-noon. Admission is $5 per child, adults free. Reservations are recommended. Participants are encouraged to bring their own basket. To register, call 253-9231. The museum is at 283 Victoria Road, on the campus of Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College.

Gluten-free information fair Learn about gluten-free options, hosted by Ingles’ dietitian Leah McGrath, from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. at the Lower School Gym at Carolina Day School, 1346 Hendersonville Road.

April 11 and 12 Train ride with Snoopy, the Easter Beagle Ride the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad with Snoopy, the Easter Beagle. Train departs on a Nantahala Gorge excursion at 10:30 a.m. from Bryson City to the Nantahala Outdoor Center, where refreshments are served. During the layover, children seek out bunnies carrying brightly colored eggs. Photo opportunities with Snoopy. Call 800-872-4681 or visit www.gsmr.com for reservations.

Ongoing Women’s Wellness and Education Center classes Prenatal, slow flow, fertility and serenity yoga classes, as well as postpartum Pilates classes are available for $12 per class or five classes for $50. Times, dates and instructors vary. Bring your baby and breast-feeding questions and difficulties to the free drop-in Baby N Me Breast-feeding Circle 10:30 a.m.-noon Tuesdays with Holly Mason. Or join MAMA Time Mother Baby groups, which meet for 12 weeks with a trained facilitator and 10 new moms. Talk about the joys and challenges of new parenthood and get great ideas from other moms. Cost is $100 for 12 weeks. For information on this group, call Shelley Tom at 582-4653. All classes are at the Women’s Wellness and Education Center, 24 Arlington St., Asheville. Call 505-7505 or visit ashevillewomenswellness.com.

Kids night out The Grove Park Inn Resort & Spa offers a kids night out each Friday and Saturday, 6-10 p.m. Advance registration required two days prior. Drop-off is at hotel’s Sport Complex. Activities offered are swimming, pingpong, games, tennis, movies and more. Cost is $35 per child, and siblings receive $10 discount. For reservations, call 252-2711, ext 1046.

Flat Rock Playhouse YouTheatre’s preschool classes Flat Rock Playhouse offers classes for kids. A full schedule and descriptions are at flatrockplayhouse.org/education/classes.php. For more information, call 693-3517, ext. 0 or ext. 2. ◆ Shake, Rattle and Play: Kids will dress up and play, sing, make music, explore movement and enjoy simple theatre games and projects. Runs 1-1:45 p.m. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Young at ART: Involves movement, song and creative time using nursery rhymes, fairy tales and children’s books. Class is art playtime with parent or guardian, creating new opportunities for bonding. Runs 1-1:45 p.m. Tuesdays.

Come Play with Us playgroup Visit East Asheville Community Center from 10 a.m.-noon each Friday for free playgroup. Meet new moms and babies, make new friends and have fun. The center is at 906 Tunnel Road. For more information, contact Jessica Johnston at 251-4041. Adult participation required.

Creative arts preschool Asheville Arts Center offers a new creative arts preschool. At 308 Merrimon Ave. Call 253-4000 or visit ashevilleartscenter.com

W N C PA R E N T P R E S E N T S W N C M O M . C O M , T H E P L AC E W H E R E L O C A L M O M S C O N N E C T

Solutions for puzzles on Page 53

W N C PA R E N T | M A R C H 2 0 0 9