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Manitoga Summer Nature & Design Camp to Hold Open Day This Saturday
Manitoga/The Russel Wright Design Center's 75 acres of woodland paths and streams will once again host a season of summer fun and learning when Summer Nature & Design Camp swings into action on July 7. Children ages 5 to 12 will enjoy a variety of nature focused hiking, arts and sporting activities on the beautiful grounds of Putnam County's only National Historic Landmark.
A preview of Manitoga's eighteenth camp season will take place this Saturday, May 3, from 2 until 4pm; raindate is Sunday, May 4, same time. Camp Open Day offers a chance to explore the site, meet the staff and learn about the program. Both new and returning campers and their families are welcome to hike the trails and find out about Manitoga's other programs before or after Open Day activities.
The former home, studio and woodland garden of pioneer modern designer and environmentalist Russel Wright, Manitoga provides the setting for five one-week, full-day sessions. This year's themes include Reptiles & Amphibians, Planet Protectors, Landscape & Architecture, Seeds, Weeds & Trees, and Native American theater week.
This year, a new Pre-Camp Program from June 30 through July 3 will provide intensive orientation for teen volunteers and camp counselors. Special guest educators in ecology, landscape design, architecture and modern design will introduce youth ages 13 and up to Wright's nature philosophy, his design principles, environmental issues and the skills needed to work effectively with camp children.
Mark Wick, fourth-grade teacher and reptile enthusiast, is thrilled to be returning as Camp Director. "Get ready to lace up those hiking shoes, because we're going to continue to explore the many treasures found along the trails. Whether it's a hike up to Lost Pond or a casual stroll along a meandering stream, we'll be sure to take careful notice of all the plants and animals that have made their homes at Manitoga. I'm confident that this summer will be full of excitement."
Mark will be joined by an artist-in-residence who will link each week's theme with creative art projects using the natural environment. Along with committed and energetic counselors and various guest educators, they look forward to engaging campers in a wide variety of activities, backed by Russel Wright's philosophy of living in harmony with nature.
"There's so much going on here this summer," said Manitoga Assistant Director Lori Moss. "We'll be breaking ground to address drainage issues and restoring the green roof on the house. We are really excited about incorporating these challenges into the camp curriculum."
The Manitoga Summer Nature & Design Camp brochure can be found online at www.russelwrightcenter.org. To receive a copy or for additional information, call the Manitoga office at 424-3812. Manitoga is located at 584 Route 9D in Garrison, 2.5 miles north of the Bear Mountain Bridge.
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