Riverbend Gives to the Gulf

A few weeks ago, Riverbend launched a project aimed at helping with the oil spill clean-up in the Gulf Coast region.  We called it “Operation Summer Camp: Riverbend Gives to the Gulf.”   For every child that signs up for a week of summer camp from July 19 through September, Riverbend will donate 15% of the camp fees to the Gulf Coast clean up.  Also, we’re collecting sheets, towels, and Dawn dish detergent to send in a Recovery Kit for the Gulf.  

As a teaching tool, we have begun to do a weekly oil spill activity with the older campers at Riverbend.  The children see first-hand what happens during an oil spill and what it takes to clean it up.

Since July 19, Riverbend has had 18 sign ups for camp, which means that Riverbend will be giving at least $927 to the Nature Conservancy to aid in the recovery.  It’s been so encouraging to me to hear from parents and community members about how they are glad that Riverbend is doing something to help with the spill.  And it’s been great to watch the campers go through the oil spill activity…many are amazed at the process of removing oil from the water and sand.

We still have several camper spaces available for the  first two weeks of August, so if you know of a friend, neighbor, relative, or colleague with a child who would enjoy a week of nature camp while supporting the clean up in the Gulf, please have them contact me at dlowe@riverbendeec.org or call me at 610.527.5234 x106.  We’d love for them to experience all that Riverbend is about!

This is also the last week of our summer safety tips.  Remember to wear your bug repellent when you’ll be outdoors, especially around dusk.  Those pesky mosquitoes come out to feed around that time.  Also, watch your step around hollowed-out logs and rodent holes…yellow jackets like to build nests in these places, as well as sheds, attics, and porches.  The best bet for avoiding a yellow jacket sting is to avoid the places where they like to hang out!

That’s all for me this week.  I’ll be taking a break from the blog next week, but I’ll be back with more Riverbend news on August 11!  Until then, I’ll see you ‘round the ‘Bend!

–Nature Dave