.: Print Version :.

Here's how to keep your kids busy - not bored - this summer.

Is your camp or event missing? Let us know by e-mailing all the details to theworldnews@theworldlink.com.

Camp Kiwanis

Southern Oregon Camp Kiwanis (Camp S.O.C.K.) is accepting applications for campers and volunteer staff for this summer's session at Camp Myrtlewood near Bridge on Highway 42.

The four-day camp is for youths ages 12-20 with physical disabilities. The camp is accessible to wheelchairs. Activities are adapted so participants can safely participate in swimming, canoeing, fishing, horse and animal activities, arts and crafts, nature hikes, astronomy, campfires and other group activities. Medical staff is on site at all times.

Camp staff includes professionals prepared to deal with most medical situations. The staff ratio is at least 1.5 staff to 1 camper, with a buddy system to pair a mature, able-bodied peer of the same age with each camper. Meals are provided. The cost is $450 and scholarships are available.

Youth and young adults, age 13 through 25, also are needed to serve as peer counselors and will receive room and board. Unit counselors and medical professionals also are invited. A police background check is required.

To obtain a camper or a counselor application, those interested can go to the Web site at http://www.campsock.org or contact Wendy Millard at (541) 882-8078. An application also is available by e-mailing to sockiwanis@aol.com.

Kids ages 8-16 are invited to a social language group, which will meet for 10 weeks beginning June 11.

The gathering is geared for children with pervasive developmental disorders, high-functioning autism, Asperger's syndrome, nonverbal learning disorders, semantic pragmatic language disorders, ADHD, and social anxiety. Kids will be invited to work on building interactive communication and friendship skills in a small group setting.

The classes will offer help in developing many skills, in part, including: greetings, inviting someone to play, dealing with anger, encouraging others, cooperating and dealing with teasing.

For more information, those interested can call Carol Tucker at 297-8907 to obtain detailed information or to register.

The Salvation Army in Coos Bay will hold summer day camp on Thursdays from June 21 to Aug. 16. The camp will be from 12:30 to 5:30 p.m., at 1155 Flanagan St.

Activities will include swimming, hiking, bowling and a trip to the Game Park in Bandon.

Girl Scouts of Western Rivers Council hosts the Camp Explore Day Camp “CSI: Solve the Mystery” Monday through Thursday, June 25-28 for girls ages 5 through 17 years of age.

The camp for children entering first grade and up is from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., at a cost of $20. The camp for children entering kindergarten is from 9 a.m. to noon and costs $15. Both will be at the Millicoma Intermediate School, 60 Second St., Coos Bay.

Transportation will be provided for all girls and adult volunteers from Bandon, Coquille and Myrtle Point to and from Millicoma school. There is no additional charge for transportation.

Kids are invited to come and experience illusions, learning about seeing things in a different way. Through the magic of science, they can help solve a mystery and much more, in addition to learning fun songs and games, and making new friends.

Registration forms are available at the Girl Scout bookcase upstairs in the Pony Village Mall in North Bend.

Volunteers are needed. All adults will have a background check. Parent volunteers will be charged a reduced fee for their campers.

For more information, those interested can call the Girl Scout office at 756-4626.

The Boy Scouts of America, Chinook District, announces a summertime Cub Scout Day Camp to be held Aug. 6-10 at Tugman State Park, in Lakeside.

The theme for this year's camp is “Treasure Hunters.” Boys entering first- through fifth-grade are invited to attend. Activities include BB guns, archery, swimming, fishing, leather craft, woodworking, games and more.

The day begins at 9 a.m. and ends at 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday. Friday activities begin at noon and end at 5:30 p.m., when parents are invited to join the boys for a picnic dinner with a campfire ceremony to fill the evening with fun and entertainment. The camp costs $70, with a $10 discount for those individuals who sign up by today. Camperships are available to those who need assistance.

For information, those interested can call Jay Schaefer at 297-0207 or e-mail jschaefer@otcbsa.org.

Artists and actors in grades 4 through 12 are invited to attend the Summer Arts Camp June 18-22 and June 24.

As part of Coos Bay United Methodist Church's 150th-year anniversary, the free camp is offered to children and young adults as a service of mission by the local congregation. Neither children nor their parents need to be Christians or members of a faith community to participate.

The weeklong camp will run from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., June 18-22; and then11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on June 24. Classes include instruction in dance, drama, felting, knitting, nature crafts, painting, rhythm, seven-strand braiding and sewing. The week will culminate with performances.

Registration is required. Those interested can call Melissa at 267-4589 for more information.

* 4-H Summer Camp: July 10-13, Camp Myrtlewood in Bridge. Children do not need to be 4-H members to attend, but campers need to have just completed grades 4-6. This year's theme for the overnight camp is “Super Hero Week.”

The program offers youngsters a variety of learning activities, including swimming and campfire activities. Mini-classes will be offered throughout the week.

The cost is $110 and includes transportation, meals, housing, crafts, a camp photo and a T-shirt. Scholarships are available. Campers leave by bus on Tuesday and return by bus Friday morning from Myrtle Point, Coquille and Coos Bay.

Children are housed in cabins with other campers of their age and sex. Each group has older 4-H members as cabin and junior counselors. Supervision of campers is provided by the counselors and adult staff.

Registration forms are available at local schools or in the Extension Service office at 631 Alder St., Myrtle Point. Registration is due June 20.

For more information, those interested can call the OSU Extension Service at 572-5263; or go to the Web site at http://extension.oregonstate.edu/coos.

* Summer Fun Series: The Free Family Fun program includes roller skating, games, crafts, snacks and movies. Participants do no need to be 4-H members. Children in grades 4-12 may attend without an adult. Youth grades K-3 should be accompanied by an adult.

The programs are held at the Coquille Community Building from 2-5 p.m. on June 25, July 30, Aug. 13 and Aug. 27. Movies will be shown at 6:30 p.m. at the Extension office (631 Alder St., Myrtle Point).

For more information, those interested can call the OSU Extension Service at 572-5263.

* “Growin' Yer Grub” - 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Thursdays, Aug. 6-9, in Coquille; and Aug. 13-16 in Coos Bay/North Bend. The camp will teach children how to grow their own food and what to do with it after they grow it. The participants will be given the opportunity to learn about plants, insects, ecology, cooking, nutrition and food safety. The camps include swimming each afternoon. To register and for more information, those interested can call 572-5263 or stop by the Extension Office, Ohlsen Baxter Building, 631 Alder St., Myrtle Point.

Applegate House Heritage Arts and Education will hold their sixth year of “Camp Two-Way Seeing” July 9-13 in Yoncalla. This unique hands-on-history children's camp is at the historic Charles Applegate home.

Children will meet special guest David Douglas, explorer and botanist who identified the Douglas-fir tree in the 1820s. There also will be programs on Indian heritage and arts, as well as songs and dances of the pioneers. There will be arts and crafts, and children can enjoy the cultivated art of a tea party.

The cost is $60 and scholarships are available. For more information, those interested can contact Shannon Applegate at (541) 849-3139, Susan Applegate at 849-3500 or Esther Stutzman at 849-2983.

"Hola, amigos" is the greeting from First Baptist Church in Coos Bay to children in the community. The church is hosting "Fiesta," a vacation Bible school for children ages 5-11, from 9 a.m. to noon, June 25-29.

Children are invited to get ready for a celebration of Jesus' love, filled with lively mariachi bands, colorful folklorico costumes, spicy chili peppers and warm friends. There will be Bible points crafts, games and snacks, too. For more information, those interested can call 267-0832 or 267-2439.

Allegany Community Church will hold a vacation Bible school from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. from July 9-13, at the church, 66163 Church Road. The theme will be “God's Heroes in Action!” Children ages 3 through 13 can attend. The focus will be on fun and friends, games and crafts, stories and snacks.

* North Bend United Methodist Church is hosting vacation Bible school Aug. 13-17 for children age 3 through fifth grade. The church is located at 2259 Meade St. by Hillcrest Elementary School.

This year's theme is “Hot Air Balloon Pilot.” Skylar the Sky Squirrel and his news reporter friend Scoop will lead sky scout recruits on five wild adventures as they soar to new heights with God. Fun-filled skits, music, crafts, recreation and snacks, along with “Launch Lab” science activities will support the day's Bible lesson. There also will be special guest appearances by scripture superstars Abraham, Joseph, Mary, Zacchaeus, Peter and John.

* First Baptist Church is offering a Western theme vacation Bible school from 6 to 8 p.m., from Aug. 13-17. The school is for children preschool age to those who have finished sixth-grade. It will be held at the church at 2080 Marion Ave.

The program for the “Prairie Dog” preschool children is “Bible Adventures & Missions” and the older elementary children “Wild Bible Adventures.” There will be music with a Western touch, fun crafts and activities, and snacks with a Western flair. Older children also will do some drama.

* Bible Baptist Church will host a free vacation Bible school for children ages 5 to 12. The school will be from 10 a.m. to noon, Aug. 7-10, at 1226 N. Dean St. in Coquille. The program will include Bible stories, activities and lots of fun. This year's theme is “God's Strange Preachers.”

* First Missionary Baptist Church in Coquille is offering vacation Bible school. The program is for children ages 5-12. It will be held from 10 a.m. to noon, Aug. 13-16 at the church, 1170 W. 11th St. For information, those interested can call 396-6094.

Pacific Community Church's vacation Bible school will be held June 25-29. This year's program is SonForce Kids - Special Agents on a Week-long Mission for God. Activities include lively songs and skits, crafts, exciting games, Bible stories and tasty snacks. For registration , those interested can stop by the church, 48967 U.S. Highway 101; or call 347-2256.

* Reedsport Church of God is offering the vacation Bible school SonForce Kids - Special Agents on a Week-long Mission for God on June 25-29. Children will sing, watch skits, create crafts and play games. SonForce Kids runs from 9 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. at the church, 2191 Birch Ave. For information, call 271-3928.

* United Presbyterian Church is sponsoring a vacation Bible school beginning Monday, June 18 and continuing through June 21, for children from kindergarten through sixth grade. The school will be open from 8:45 a.m. to noon. The theme is "Lift Off! - Soaring to New Heights with God." Children are invited to enjoy crafts, games, music, Bible stories, skits, lunch and snacks. For more information, those interested can call the Church office at 271-3214.

The South Coast Community Garden Association will be holding a Children's Garden Program at noon Saturdays throughout the summer at the Ladybug Landing Garden in downtown Coos Bay

Class topics will include, planting, growing and harvesting organic veggies; garden insects; and investigating food sources in the area. Classes are open to children ages 5-12. One parent must accompany each child. Classes are $2 per child and parents must register before class date to ensure availability. Class size is limited to 12 children. For more information, those interested can call Sarah Crawford at 294-2427 or Ren�¿�¿�¿�e Blom at 269-7468. Applications are available at the Ladybug Landing Garden at the corner of Eighth Street and Anderson Avenue.

Madison Elementary School families in Coos Bay are invited to use the library and the school's community garden throughout summer. The library and garden will be open each Wednesday of the Summer Lunch program from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., Monday, June 18, through Friday, Aug. 15 (July 4 excluded).

Coos County-Oregon State University Extension has developed a list of county youth who are available to haul hay and do irrigation.

The list provides names and phone numbers of available youth willing to work. People interested in obtaining a copy of the list can contact the extension office. Also, if any county youth would like to be added to this list, those interested can call Rhonda Fischer in the extension office at 572-5263. The list is updated regularly.

The Pre Track Club hosts All-Comer Track Meets for kids and adults at the Prefontaine Track from 4 to 6 p.m. on Fridays in July at Marshfield High School in Coos Bay. The cost is $3. Club athletes get in free. For more information, those interested can call Fran Worthen at 269-1024 or go to the Web site at trackclub.prefontainerun.com.

The Pacific School of Dance in Coos Bay is offering Monday through Friday classes.

�¿�¿�¿� Intro to tap, ballroom for kids and “So You Think You Can Dance” classes are offered for children age 8 and older.

Registration ends this week, those interested can call 269-7163. The School of Dance is located in the former Eastside Elementary School at 303 D St.

The Oregon Coast School of Music, 2055 Union Ave., North Bend, is offering a six-week summer term beginning June 18, for children in kindergarten through grade 12, with weekly classes offering a wide variety of music instruction.

Summer classes will include a variety of ensembles for students of all instruments, ages and levels of achievement. Choir will be offered for students grades 2-12 who enjoy singing.

* “School of Rock,” where students will learn how to be a member of a rock band. Bring your instruments and vocal talent (keyboards will be provided). No experience is necessary.

* “Musicals in Concert” - students grades 2 through adult will have a chance to work on those scenes, solos and duets from Broadway musicals. They will learn audition techniques and how to “sell” a song.

* Keyboard Ensemble - students in grades K-12 will learn keyboard skills and be a part of a keyboard orchestra.

* Summer Choir - Three groups will meet. Second- through fifth-graders are invited to come and sing. Sixth- through eighth-graders will sing everything from chants to novelty songs. The ninth- through 12th-grade class is appropriate for everyone from beginner to those involved in other choirs.

* Private instruction - Students can take weekly lessons, or register for a half-term, choosing the three weeks they would like to have lessons, or for the full term. Includes vocal and instrumental instruction.

For scheduling, registering and cost information, those interested can call 756-4171.

The Coos Bay Public Library's summer reading program runs from June 20 to Aug. 3. This year's theme is “Get a Clue @ Your Library.” with programs for super sleuths from preschool through 12th grade. The library is at 525 W. Anderson Ave.

* Storytime Tuesdays (June 26 through July 31): 10:30 a.m. Geared toward children in grades 2 through 6.

* Storytime Wednesdays (June 20 through Aug. 1): 10:30 a.m. Geared toward children preschool through first grade.

* List of Suspects in the Great Book Caper (June 20 through Aug. 3): Program focuses on independent reading and listening for prizes for children preschool through fifth grade.

* YNK (June 21 through Aug. 3): This is independent reading and listening for prizes for children in grades 6 through12.

* Follow the Footprints: Children can write their names on one footprint for each book they read and the library staff will decorate the Children's Department with the footprints.

* Celeste Rose and her marionettes: 11 a.m., Thursday, June 21, “Goldi-Dread-Locks and the Three Jamaica Bears.” The play is 45 minutes with opportunity for audience participation.

* Hart's Reptile World Zoo of Canby: 11 a.m., Thursday, June 28. Mary Esther Hart will present “Reptiles Rule!” The 45-minute program will provide information and feature live reptiles and surprise guests.

* Chris and Marian Scadden present “The Missing Pet” at 11 a.m., Thursday, July 5.

* Jason Ropp and the Dragon Theater Puppets present “The Clueless Detective” at 11 a.m., Friday, July 13.

* Joy Tally of the South Slough sanctuary presents “Mysterious Tracks & Trails” at 11 a.m., Thursday, July 19.

* Comedy magician & balloon sculptor Jay Frasier presents “The Magic of Reading” at 11 a.m., Thursday, July 26.

For a summer filled with mystery “Get a Clue - READ!” in the North Bend Public Library program June 16 through July 23. The free program is geared toward children ages 3-12.

The library also is offering “YNK (Why Never Know) @ the Library” for youth ages 13-18. Kids can earn prizes by reading or listening to library books, pick up puzzle and activity sheets, and attend free programs, including:

* Story Time features books, music and activities. The program will be offered from June 20 through July 26. Ages 6 and up can attend story time at 1 p.m. on Wednesdays; and children ages 3 to 6 can attend at 11 a.m. Thursdays.

Older and younger siblings are welcome to join, and story times last about 30 minutes.

“Get a Clue @ Your Library!” is the theme of the free 2007 Summer Reading Program for the Reedsport library. Children who sign up receive a summer reading bookbag, along with special incentives.

Wildlife Safari will kick off the season with an animal program at 11 a.m., Friday, June 15.

Programs for children ages 5-12 will be presented at 11 a.m. on Tuesdays include:

Summer reading for teens ages 12-18 also is being offered. Activities will include library bingo cards, guessing jars and drawings for books and prizes. A special program will be held at 1:30 p.m., Monday, June 18, for teens to create masks to mirror what they are thinking.

The “Get a Clue @ your Library” program at Coquille Public Library is designed to keep children reading and visiting the library all summer. Presentations will be at the Coquille Community Building. Two six-week programs are being offered. Children of preschool and kindergarten ages can come at 10:30 a.m. Wednesdays, and children going into first through seventh grades will have crafts and activities at 4 p.m. Wednesdays.

* Skating party - Wednesday, June 20. This is the first day of Summer Reading and it will kick off with a free skating party.

Children are invited to join Flora M. Laird Memorial Library's free summer reading program, “Get a Clue @ Your Library.” The program begins June 27 and runs through Aug. 8 at the library, 435 Fifth St., in Myrtle Point. The program will offer a juggler, speakers, story times and reading recognition.

* Summer reading programs for preschool children will be held from 10:30 to 11 a.m. on Wednesdays.

* School-aged children can participate in the program from 1 to 2 p.m. Wednesdays.

Registration is encouraged. The library welcomes children of all abilities. For information, call 572-2591.

The Powers Public Library is hosting a special kick-off program for summer reading with storyteller Tom McCormack at 12:30 p.m., Tuesday, June 19. The show is for all ages. This summer's program theme is “Get a Clue @ Your Library,” which offers story times, prizes and reader recognition. The library also offers storytime on Tuesdays for kindergarten through second-graders at 12:30 p.m., and for third- through sixth-graders at 1:30 p.m. For information, call (541) 439-5311.

Registration for Bandon Public Library's Summer Reading Program will begin Tuesday, June 12. Registration is required and participation is limited. No fee is charged.

* Camp Read-A-Lot is for 4-, 5- and 6-year-olds. One session will be offered from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Thursdays, June 28 through Aug. 2. The next one meets from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. Wednesdays, July 18 through Aug. 22.

* The Early Readers Group is for those entering first grade and older. Kids will play detective in the “Get A Clue” program. Both sessions will be held on Thursdays, June 28, through Aug. 2. The first session is from 1 to 2:30 p.m. and the second from 3 to 4:30 p.m. Participants will track their reading progress and earn surprises.

* There also will be a drop-in toddler/preschool Story Time from 11 to 11:30 a.m. on the following Wednesdays - June 20 and 27, July 18 and 25, and Aug. 1 and 8. No registration is required for Story Time and there is no fee.

The Port Orford and Langlois libraries are offering the free reading program “Get A Clue.”

* Magician Curt Nelson and His Top Secret: 4 p.m., Thursday, Aug. 2, Langlois library. This reading adventure takes children around the world.

* Adam Miller presenting American Folksongs: 1 p.m., Thursday, Aug. 9, Port Orford City Council chambers. Stories, unsolved mysteries, discoveries, tall tales and tall tale tellers.

* Celeste Rose and her marionettes: 1 p.m., Thursday, Aug. 16, Port Orford Community Building. Rose presents “Goldi-Dread-Locks and the Three Jamaican Bears.

Curry Public Library's reading program begins on June 11 and runs through Aug. 11. The library is located at 29775 Colvin St., in Gold Beach.

The program is open to children ages 2 through kindergarten, and grades 1-12. Children can choose the books and receive prizes.

* Annual day camp at the park: July 9. This includes games, crafts, storytelling, and more. Lunch will be provided.

* Fair Parade: July 28, summer reading program participants will march in the parade.

* Coloring Fun: June 20 through July 11. Each child who participates receives a free treat from Dairy Queen.

There also will be puzzles, games and challenges throughout the program. For further information, those interested can call (541) 247-7246 or e-mail abby@cplib.net.

The North Bend Municipal Pool offers lessons, public swim sessions and other programs throughout summer. The pool is located at 2455 Pacific Ave., next to the high school. For information on registration, swim teams and scheduling, those interested can call 267-1360.

Family swims are offered Thursdays from 7 to 9 p.m. Public swims are from 1:30 to 4 p.m., Mondays through Fridays; and 1-4 p.m. Saturdays; 2-4 p.m. Sundays; and 7-9 p.m., Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays.

* Morning lessons: are $35 each and sessions run June 18-29, July 2-13, July 16-27, July 30 to Aug. 10, and Aug. 13-24. They include “Tot and Me,” preschool and levels 1-10.

* Evening lessons: sessions run June 18 to July 18 (costing $31.50), July 23 to Aug. 22 ($35).

Mingus Park Pool offers swim lessons, public swim sessions, lifeguard class and swim team.

Public swims are from 1:30 to 4 p.m., Monday through Saturday; and 7 to 9 p.m., Monday and Wednesday.

* Morning lessons are $35 for two weeks, and sessions run June 18-29, July 2-13, July 16-27, and July 30 to Aug. 10. They include “Tiny Tots” and all skill levels.

* Evening lessons are $30 for two weeks, and sessions run June 18-29, July 2-13, July 16-27, and July 30 to Aug. 10. Levels 1-3 only.

Swim camp is 9 a.m. to noon, Aug. 12-17. One day spent on each competitive stroke, with videotaping and a swim meet at the end.

Summer swim lessons will be available at Highland Pool, 2605 Longwood Drive this summer. Sessions start June 18, July 9, July 23 and Aug. 7. Four classes will be offered, with each costing $40.

* Parent/tot: 10 to 10:30 a.m., introduction to the joys of water for both parents and children, age birth to 3.

* Guppies: 10:30 to 11 a.m., beginner lessons to introduce proper breathing, floating and water safety for children ages 3-4.

* Gators: 11 to 11:30 a.m., lessons to introduce beginning strokes and movement through the water for children ages 5-7.

* Dolphins: 11:30 to noon, intermediate lessons continue stroke progression, dives and safety for children 8 and older.

Classes meet Monday through Thursday. To register, those interested can call 271-9222.

The Myrtle Point Fun Bus is taking applications for individuals wanting swimming lessons weekdays June 18-29. The Lions Club, Myrtle Point Together and the Fun Bus are joining forces to provide free lessons.

Applications are available at city hall. There is room for 13 participants. Individuals who have not had lessons will be given first opportunity. The bus will leave city hall and travel to North Bend for a 30-minute lesson. The bus will return around noon.

The Fun Bus also will be providing free transportation and swimming to the Coquille Pool on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays in July and August. The bus will depart at approximately 1:15 p.m. each day and return around 4:50 p.m.

Summer interpretive programs begin at Loon Lake Recreation Area the weekend of June 22. Family oriented programs are scheduled for each Friday and Saturday night through Labor Day. Nature-themed activities for kids ages 6-12 are scheduled Saturdays and Sundays. Loon Lake is located 13 miles east of Reedsport off of state Highway 38. There is a $5-per-vehicle day-use fee for the recreation area, which includes attending programs, beach use and boat launching.

For information, those interested can call Loon Lake Recreation Area staff at (541) 599-2254 or go to the Web site at http://www.blm.gov/or/districts/coosbay.

The South Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve's Interpretive Center is open 7 days a week from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and is filled with new interactive exhibits, a gift/book shop and information. There also are more than 3.5 miles of trails open daily.

The center is 4 miles south of Charleston on Seven Devils Road and can be reached by calling 888-5558 or online at http://www.southsloughestuary.org.

The following is a list of summer activities. To register for each call 888-5558:

* Go crabbing around Charleston from 1 to 3 p.m., Friday, June 15; Saturday, July 14; and Thursday, July 19. Meet at the Charleston Visitor Center. The cost is $1 per person.

* Find out about critters that climb, swim, slither, hop, fly or burrow through Coos Bay during Creature Feature from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Interpretive Center on Saturday, June 16; Sunday, July 15; and Sunday, Aug. 12. Meet at the Interpretive Center.

* The Tide of the Toddlers program will be Wednesdays, June 20, July 18 and Aug. 15. The program runs from 10 to 11 a.m. Young ones will have the opportunity to play and discover with other children ranging from 1 to 5 years of age. Activities include dancing, singing, a story and creating little critter estuary magic. There is a $1 fee.

* Explore the Shore from 10 a.m. to noon on Friday, June 22; Saturday, July 7; and Wednesday, Aug. 15. Visitors will travel to the on the tideflats near Charleston to learn about the life between the tides, with a firsthand look at a variety of creatures and plants that thrive in the brackish waters. Meet at Charleston's Visitor Center. There's a $1 fee.

* Storytelling: Families with young children (ages 3-7) are invited to celebrate summer at the estuary, starting at 11 a.m. on Saturdays, June 23, and Aug. 25. Stories from nature books will focus on the wilds of the estuary, ocean and upland forest.

* South Slough Summer Science Institute: Designed for the older student (12-15 years old) interested in natural history and science. Students will explore South Slough and deepen their understanding of estuaries. Students will conduct their own research activities. The daily program is scheduled from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. There is a 10-student limit, and a $35 fee covers snacks, drinks and a T-shirt.

* South Slough Summer Science Camps: A week of workshops and activities with an estuary theme, culminating in a “camp out” in the South Slough Interpretive Center. The first camp is for children ages 5-7. It runs 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., July 24-27. A second camp, for children 8-11 years old, runs from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., July 31 through Aug. 3. There is a 15-student limit, and a $35 fee covers snacks, drinks and a T-shirt.

* Puppet shows: Children are invited to join Ollie the Owl and Frankie the Frog on Aug. 10 to follow along on their summertime adventures at South Slough. Puppet shows are interactive.

The New River Area of Critical Environmental Concern is hosting free events this summer. Guest speakers and naturalists will speak and lead visitors on hikes. New River is 8 miles south of Bandon on Croft Lake Lane.

* June 2, 10 a.m. to noon: “People of the Inside Water” will offer visitors an opportunity to learn about the natural and cultural history of the New River basin prior to 1850. Presented by Don Ivy, of the Coquille Indian Tribe, the presentation will be followed by a two-mile walk.

* June 16 and Aug. 11, 10 a.m. to noon: A naturalist will lead a guided nature walk at Floras Lake (by Boice-Cope County Park). The 2.5-mile walk along the beach will look at the unique survival strategies of plants and animals.

* July 7, 8 to 10 a.m. “New River Raptors:” Join a biologist for a presentation and walk to learn the biology and behavior of the many raptors here.

* July 21 and Sept. 1, 10 a.m. to noon: A naturalist will lead a guided nature walk at Croft Lake Lane (Storm Ranch). This 2.5-mile trek heads through old sand dunes, bogs, coastal lakes and a dynamic river system.

* Aug. 18: 10 a.m. to noon: “From the Headwaters to the Sea” offers visitors a chance to experience life as a drop of water with a hydrologist while traveling from the headwaters to the Pacific Ocean, passing through marshes, steams and New River.

* Sept. 29, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.: National Public Lands Day. Lend a hand to improve meadows for songbirds. Volunteers will a free T-shirt and lunch.

People who plan to attend events should reserve a space by calling 751-4225 and leaving the name of the event, your name and the number in your party or e-mail the information to or_coosbay_newriver@blm.gov.