Published: May 07, 2008 12:17 pm         

B&G Club gearing up for summer camp

With summer approaching, the Oprah Winfrey Boys and Girls Club is gearing up for “Celebrating a Sizzling Summer” Camp.

The members of the club say they are ready for the summer and all the fun.

Registration is already underway at the club for children ages 4-18 with a deadline of May 16.

Chelsea Ward, 16, has been a member of the club for almost a year and participated in last year’s summer camp.

Ward, who is the club’s Keystone Club president, said she enjoys the environment and the teen center where “you feel like you are at home.”

The teen center, located upstairs in the club, features computers and separate recreational areas for boys and girls.

Ward said she feels like she is a role model for the younger club members.

“I feel like they look up to me,” peer leader said.

Last year, the teens took several group field trips and took a class on etiquette among other things during the summer.

Sylvia Bentley, 13, said she enjoyed the etiquette class last summer and especially taking their new skills to Penn’s.

Bentley said she enjoys being with her friends at the club and learning new things like step dancing and drama.

Campers will participate in supervised activities in arts/crafts, sports and fitness, technology, reading, recreation, special teen programming and fun Friday events,

Tyvarras Leavy, 12, said he enjoys using technology at the club.

Although he won’t be at the club this summer, he said its a great way to make more friends.

Shelby Maynard, 9 1/2, said being at the club is like a having a big family and she hopes to attend part of the summer activities.

During summer camp, the club will be open Monday - Friday from 6 a.m. - 6 p.m. with breakfast, lunch and an afternoon snack are provided every day.

Each week will feature a different theme. They are Hawaii, Mardi Gras, Hollywood/Disney, American Independence, Sports/Olympics, Music, Culture/Diversity and Beach/Waterworks.

Registration is $175 for the first child, $125 for the second child, $100 for the third child and $75 for the fourth and fifth child.

The 1st payment (half of the balance) is due May 16 and the remaining balance is due May 30.

Summer Enrollment Round-Up will take place May 31 at the club from 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.

To register your child, pick up an application at the club on Knox Road. For more information, call 289-4252.