Summer Sun 2015

24
summer sun 2015 A guide to free and low-cost activities and programs to keep your children engaged and active during the summer Inside: NCSD Summer School, NCSD Food Services, NCSD Stuff the Bus, ncsd summer Reading tips, big brothers big sisters, Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Wyoming, casper college sport camps, casper museum consortium, Casper Planetarium, Casper Recreation & Aquatics Center, fort caspar, lemonade day, mercer family resource center, natrona county public library, nicolaysen art museum, National Historic Trails Interpretive Center, platte river trails, The Science Zone, vibes fine & performing arts, werner wildlife museum, Casper Family Y.M.C.A.

description

A guide to free and low-cost activities and programs to keep your children engaged and active during the summer.

Transcript of Summer Sun 2015

Page 1: Summer Sun 2015

summersun

2015A guide to freeand low-cost activities and

programs to keep your children

engaged and active during the summer

Inside: NCSD Summer School, NCSD Food Services, NCSD Stuff the Bus, ncsd summer Reading tips, big brothers big sisters,

Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Wyoming, casper college sport camps, casper museum consortium, Casper Planetarium,

Casper Recreation & Aquatics Center, fort caspar, lemonade day, mercer family resource center, natrona county public library,

nicolaysen art museum, National Historic Trails Interpretive Center, platte river trails, The Science Zone, vibes fine & performing arts,

werner wildlife museum, Casper Family Y.M.C.A.

Page 2: Summer Sun 2015

contents

1

NCSD Summer School 2

NCSD Food Services 3

Stuff the Bus 3

ncsd summer reading tips 4

Big Brothers Big Sisters 5

Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Wyoming 6

Casper College Sport Camps 7

Casper Museum Consortium 8

Casper Planetarium 8

Casper Recreation & Aquatics Center 9-10

Fort Caspar 11

Lemonade Day 12

Mercer Family Resource Center 13

Natrona County Public Library 14

Nicolaysen Art Museum 15-16

National Historic Trails Interpretive Ctr. 17

Platte River Trails 18

The Science Zone 19

Vibes Fine & Performing Arts 20

Werner Wildlife Museum 21

Casper Family YMCA 22 Summer Sun is compiled and printed

by the Natrona County School District.

Page 3: Summer Sun 2015

2

summer school

Morning Classes(7:00 a.m. - 11:20 a.m.)

Monday-Friday Pre-Algebra/ConstructionAlgebra IAlgebra IIGeometryBiologyPhysical ScienceEnglish Lang. Arts IEnglish Lang. Arts IIEnglish Lang. Arts IIIModern US HistoryUS History ComprehensiveFitness/Conditioning Activities

Afternoon Classes(11:50 a.m. - 4:10 p.m.)

Monday-FridayPre-Algebra/ConstructionAlgebra IAlgebra IIGeometryPhysical ScienceBiologyEnglish Lang. Arts IEnglish Lang. Art IVWorld History - OverviewUS History ComprehensiveRecreation SportsPro-Start Culinary Arts

High School at CY Middle SchoolBreakfast and lunch provided at no cost to students.

Busing available.

Morning Classes(7:00 a.m. - 11:20 a.m.)

Monday-FridayAlgebra IAlgebra IIGeometryBiologyPhysical ScienceEnglish Lang. Arts IEnglish Lang. Arts IIEnglish Lang. Arts IIIModern US HistoryUS History ComprehensiveRecreation SportsPro-Start Culinary Arts

Afternoon Classes(11:50 a.m. - 4:10 p.m.)

Monday-FridayAlgebra IAlgebra IIGeometryPhysical ScienceBiologyEnglish Lang. Arts IEnglish Lang. Art IVWorld History - OverviewUS History ComprehensiveFitness/Conditioning Activities

Semester 1 - June 11 - July 1

Semester 2 - July 9 - July 29

How to RegisterMonday-Friday | May 11 - May 29 | 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Fairgrounds Center | 2000 Casper St. | 253-4307Tuition: $20.00 per class per semester. Payment due at registration.Reimbursements will not be authorized after the first day of class.

Registration priority will be given to students who are taking a class for credit recovery. Daily attendance is mandatory.

Each class earns 0.5 Carnegie Units (65 hours)*All classes are pending available teachers and student enrollment.*

Jumpstart Program forAcademically At-Risk Students

Grades K – 8Dates: July 9 – July 29

Times: Monday – Friday8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

*Breakfast and lunch provided at no cost to students.

*Busing available.Contact your child’s school for more

information.

Drivers EducationLocation: NCHS - MAC P.E. Classroom

Registration: May 11-May 29 until all classes are filled

8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Fairgrounds Center (Old Ft. Casper Academy)

2000 Casper St.307-253-4307

Tuition is $175 per student, due at registration

All sessions include SaturdaysSession 1 June 8-19

Session 2 June 22-July 3Session 3 July 13-24

Page 4: Summer Sun 2015

3

NCSD Food services

NCSD Stuff the bus

Summer is coming, and it’s time to make sure kids eat healthy while out of school. Natrona County School District announces the sponsorship of the Summer Food Service Program at the following sites. Free meals will be made available to children attending summer school as well as all other children who want to participate in the snacks and lunch program.

Boys and Girls Club (Main Branch, Verda James, Mills, and Paradise Valley Elementary

Schools) June 8 - Aug. 26 (Monday–Friday)

Lunch: 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.Snacks: 3:30 p.m.

Midwest SchoolsJune 15 - Aug. 19 (Monday-Friday)

Lunch 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Casper Recreation CenterJune 5 - Aug. 28 (Monday–Friday)

Lunch: 11:15 a.m. – 12:45 p.m.Snacks: 2:30 p.m.

Y.M.C.A June 8 - Aug. 28 (Monday–Friday)

Lunch: 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.Snacks: 4:00 p.m.

USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

Stuff the Bus, launched in Summer 2011, will again collect school supplies, gift cards and monetary donations so that every student starts the first day of school with the necessary supplies to succeed. The drive is a partnership between the Casper Area Education Foundation (CAEF), the Salvation Army, and the Natrona County School District.

The drive will take place during July and August, and end on August 22. Be on the lookout for donation boxes and the specially marked

school bus at local businesses and community events throughout the summer. You can also organize a smaller drive at your business or church to support our larger community drive. In 2014, we helped more than 400 students with supplies and never had to turn a child away due to lack thereof. Please help us fill every child’s backpack this fall!

For more information or to donate, please contact Lori Burns in NCSD Community Partnerships at 253-5394.

Page 5: Summer Sun 2015

4

ncsd summer reading tipsReading all summer is a great way to make sure your child is ready for school in the fall. Did you know: “A student in the ninetieth percentile on standardized reading tests reads for 21 minutes per day. This adds up to 1,823,000 words per year.” - Reading in the Wild by Donalyn Miller.

Encourage your child to take a book wherever they go. Keep track of the fun places your family reads. Use the following list for ideas and see how many you can check off this summer!

❏ Take a book and read in 3 different parks or school playgrounds.

❏ Take a book and read at your favorite museum.

❏ Take a book to the parade and read while waiting for it to start.

❏ Take a book and read near the water (pool, lake, river, falls).

❏ Take a book to a sporting event.

❏ Take a book and read on a picnic or camping trip.

❏ Take a book to the grocery store.

❏ Write down the most interesting places you read a book over the summer.

❏ Record your summer reading in fun ways: Twitter, blogs, scrapbooks, family journals, etc.

Make reading 20 minutes per day a goal for your child this summer

Page 6: Summer Sun 2015

5

Big Brothers big sisters400 E. 1st st. suite 310 | 265-2227 | www.wyobbbs.org

Summer is a fun time to be involved with Big Brothers Big Sisters. There is so much to do! Big Brothers Big Sisters is the nation’s largest donor and volunteer supported mentoring network. We work hard to make meaningful, monitored matches between adult volunteers (Bigs) and children (Littles).

Contact us today to get your child matched with a Big Brother or Big Sister in our Community-based program. Matches spend time together in the community on a regular basis doing fun activities, including:• Playing sports• Eating ice cream• Playing games• Rock climbing• Visiting museums• Swimming

• Art projects• Crafts• Listening to music• Cooking• Hiking• Much more!

This program is free to all participants and offers a variety of options for involvement, flexibility to fit your schedule, and freedom of choice in your activities.

Putt-ing Kids First Mini Golf FundraiserSaturday, June 13

Old Town Amusement, Parkway Plaza123 West E Street

Come play mini golf and support 1-to-1 mentoring in Casper.Prizes * Raffles * Lots of fun!

For more information, or to register your team, call 265-2227 or email [email protected]

Page 7: Summer Sun 2015

6

Boys & Girls Clubsof central wyoming

www.bgccw.org

Summer CampImagine a summer filled with non-stop activity for your child(ren), making new friends, bonding with adult mentors, and creating a summer they won’t soon forget. Summer Camp at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Wyoming is 12 weeks of interactive field trips, engaging physical activities, and academic enrichment that fosters leadership skills and builds self-confidence in a positive and uplifting environment.

• Educational programs and engaging field trips • Daily FREE meal and snack program• Sports League opportunities: Co-Ed T-Ball, Coach

Pitch, Basketball, and Flag Football

Camp Dates: June 8 - August 26 (Closed July 3)

Camp Times: Monday - Friday 7:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.

Cost: $60 per week, or $660 if paid in full by June 15 Free for teens with $10 membership

Visit BGCCW.org/summercamp for more details!

Branches

Greater Casper (Main)1701 E. K Street * 234-2456

Mills420 2nd St., Mills * 253-3783

Paradise Valley22 Magnolia St. * 267-1435

Verda James701 Carriage Lane * 253-1151

Glenrock412 S. 4th St., Glenrock * 436-2466

Page 8: Summer Sun 2015

7

Casper College Summer

Sport Camps125 College Dr. | 268-3000 | tbirds.cc

We are committed to giving your son and/or daughter an enjoyable time at Casper College, while teaching him the skills and team aspects of the sports of basketball and volleyball.

The camps will be led by coaches Dan Russell, Kevon Davis, Dwight Gunnare, Sarah McNamee, and Angel Sharman. Download your registration forms at tbirds.cc.

Boys Basketball Camp - $75

Session I - Grades 1-4June 22-24 - Mon.-Wed., 10:00 a.m. - Noon

Session II - Grades 5-8June 22-24 - Mon.-Wed., 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Girls Basketball Camp - $75Session I - Grades K-3June 8-10 - Mon.-Wed., 9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

Session II - Grades 4-6June 8-10 - Mon.-Wed., 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Session III - Grades 7-8June 8-10 - Mon.-Wed., 3:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Volleyball Camp - $70 before June 15, $75 on June 15Session I - Grades 5-6June 15-17, Mon. - Wed., 10:00 a.m. - Noon

Session II - Grades 7-8June 15-17, Mon. - Wed., 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Session III - Grades 9-12June 15-17, Mon. - Wed., 3:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Page 9: Summer Sun 2015

8

Casper Planetarium904 N. Poplar St. | 577-0310 | www.casperplanetarium.com

Summer CampsRegister in person at the Planetarium, Monday

through Friday from 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

June 8-12: “Force and Motion”7-8 yr olds, $35

June 15-19: “Mega Lab”12 yr olds and up, $40

June 22-26: “STEM 101”9-11 yr olds, $40

July 13-17: “Sunbeams”4 yr olds, $30

July 20-24: “Moonbeams”5 yr olds, $30

July 27-Aug 1: “Earth, Moon, and Stars”6 yr olds, $30

Summer Shows

Wilbears AdventureTuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays at 11:00 a.m.

The Case of the Disappearing PlanetTuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays at 4:00 p.m.

Dream to FlyFridays at 7:00 p.m.

Dark MatterFridays at 8:00 p.m.

Entirely LiveSaturdays at 7:00 p.m.

Origins of LifeSaturdays at 8:00 p.m.

Casper museum consortium4001 ft. caspar rd. | 265-4448 | www.caspermuseums.org

The Casper Museum Consortium is proud to bring you the 13th annual Passport to Adventure Hunt going on now until August 31, 2015! Pick up your FREE Passport booklet at any of the museums in town and plan your adventure this summer. You could win some really great prizes just for going to the museums!

Visit 6 of the 13 locations listed in the Passport, answer a question, and get your Passport stamped at each site. Then turn in your Answer Sheet by August 31, 2015 to qualify for one of eight Grand Prize Packages, featuring all the best things to do in the Casper area year round! Special thanks to The Tonkin Foundation for making this promotion possible.Good luck on your Adventure Hunt!

Page 10: Summer Sun 2015

9

Casper recreation &

Aquatics center1801 E. 4th st. | 235-8383 | www.casperrecreation.com

FULL SUMMER ADVENTURE CAMPJun. 5 - Aug. 21 - $765 Full Summer or $90/week

10% discount on second and third child if registering more than one family member

(discount valid only on Full Summer registrations)

This summer program is available for ages 5-12 (must be at least 5 years old before first day of camp). Activities include games, arts & crafts, field trips, youth softball league, swimming, and more. The program runs from 7:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, with lunches and transportation provided by NCSD. Cost of the program includes all activities, field trips, lunches, and afternoon snacks. Sign up for the entire summer or by the week. Due to field trip scheduling and special programs, there will be no prorating of fees or half-day registrations. All registrations MUST be paid for in full at the time of registration. Spaces will not be held without payment. Scholarships of up to $200 are available to individuals who qualify through the Community Recreation Foundation. Early registration is advised as space is limited in each age group. Participants must be of proper age; birth certificates will be required in the 5-year old age group. Those wishing to use DFS funding must contact Jen at 235-8382 by May 1.

ADVENTURE CAMP - BONUS WEEK(not included in full summer program)

August 24-287:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. $90 per child

(sorry, no discounts)Can’t get enough camp? With the extended summer this year, the kids can have an extra week of fun! Availability is extremely limited for this week, so be sure to register early.

POOLS AND AQUATIC CENTER

DAILY ADMISSION Children 4 and under FREE at

Aquatic Center and Outdoor Pools when accompanied by an adult admission

(maximum of 2 children per adult)

Casper Aquatic Center - $6.00Paradise Valley Pool - $4.50 (includes waterslide)

All Other Outdoor Pools - $3.50Adult Fitness Swims…………$2.00

(Regular admission price includes wading pools)Group Rate - $3.00

(Available Mon-Fri - 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. only)Requires group size of 14 or more swimmers with

one adult participating for every 7 minors.

OUTDOOR POOL PASSESGood at all pools (includes PV waterslide)

Individual - ages 19 and older - $55.00 Youth - ages 13-18 years old - $50.00

Child - ages 5 through 12 - $45.00

Daily Admission Punch Pass(Casper Family Aquatic Center Only)

Minimum of 10 daily admissions for $50.00, or more admissions may be added at the rate of

$5.00 per punch. (May not be used for classes; see classes for

class punch pass rates)

Page 11: Summer Sun 2015

10

SPECIAL SWIM DAYS½ PRICE FAMILY SWIMS – Join us at the Aquatic Center on the first Saturday of each month from 11:15 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Fee is $3.00 per person. All facility rules apply; children 7 and under must be accompanied by an adult in the water. TODDLER TIME SWIMS — Every Tuesday and Thursday from 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. at the Casper Family Aquatic Center. For children age 5 and under and their parents (sorry, no older siblings allowed). Special swim price is $3.00 per adult, kids 4 and under swim free (limit of two children per paid admission). Adults are required to accompany their children in the water. TUBE POLO TUESDAYS AT WASHINGTON POOL - Every Tuesday from 4:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Water tubes will be out to have a game of water tube polo. Come out and try this fun activity with your friends. Ages 8 to 18. Regular admission applies. WATER WAR WEDNESDAYS AT MARION KREINER POOL - Every Wednesday this summer, bring your water cannons and squirt guns to the pool for a water battle. Spray your friends & the guards (when not on chair) but beware; they will have squirt guns too! Regular admission applies. ITTY BITTY BEACH PARTY – June 13 - 9:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. at the Casper Family Aquatic Center. The Itty Bitty Beach Party is for kids age 5 and under (sorry, older siblings are not allowed at this one). This FREE event sponsored by the Community Recreation Foundation will have fun games and prizes. Parents must accompany their children in the water.

FLOAT NIGHT AT WASHINGTON POOL - June 16 – 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. – There’s nothing better at the end of a hot day than floating in the pool! Bring your favorite pool float for use in the pool, and enjoy a refreshing root beer float. This is a special family-oriented event! Admission fee: $2.00 per person. All regular pool rules apply. FATHER’S DAY SWIM AT PARADISE VALLEY POOL – June 21 – 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. – Dads swim FREE with their child’s paid admission during Family Swim. DOUBLE DIPPER & DIVE– July 2nd - 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. at Washington Pool. We’re doing it again! Bring your inflatables and go double-dipping & diving. Two hours of fun family swimming, two scoops of ice cream for just $2.00 per person.

SAFE KIDS NIGHT - July 15 - 5:30 p.m. —7:30 p.m. at Paradise Valley Pool. Safe Kids of Central Wyoming is sponsoring this FREE, informative, and fun evening. Kids will learn water safety tips from lifeguards and receive a goody bag from the sponsors. After the safety activities kids and their parents are invited to stay around to swim. All facility rules apply; children 7 and under must be accompanied by an adult in the water. CHRISTMAS IN JULY – July 25 – FREE admission during Family Swim, 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m., at the Paradise Valley Pool. Here is our mid-year gift to you. FAMILY POOL PARTY – August 14 - 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. at Paradise Valley Pool You’ll have a great time at the annual Community Recreation Foundation Family Pool Party! We will have games, door prizes, and refreshments. This fun-filled evening is FREE. All facility rules apply; children 7 and under must be accompanied by an adult in the water.

BASKETBALL CLINIC

Thursdays, 6:00 p.m. - 7:10 p.m.Jul. 23 - Aug. 13

$33 w/o pass - $25 with CRC pass

Girls or boys ages 9 to 12 will learn or improve on basic basketball skills including dribbling,

passing, shooting, and defense. Hoop it up and make new friends at this fun clinic! Will be held in the Rec Center gym.

VOLLEYBALL CLINICS

Thursdays, 6:00 p.m. - 7:10 p.m.Jun. 11 - Jul. 16

$47 w/o pass - $35 with CRC pass

Tuesdays, 6:00 p.m. - 7:10 p.m.Jun. 23 - Jul. 28

$47 w/o pass - $35 with CRC pass

Be ready for the volleyball season this fall. Girls and boys ages 9 to 12 will learn or improve

basic volleyball skills including passing, setting, serving, and hitting. Will be held in the Rec

Center gym.

Page 12: Summer Sun 2015

11

Fort caspar museum4001 ft. caspar rd. | 235-8462 | www.fortcasparwyoming.com

Summer EventsJune 27 - Fremont Family Funday Hands-On Workshop, 1:00 - 3:00 p.m., “Make a Pleather Beltpouch”: Come and try your hand at making a small container. These bags were used by Native Americans, pioneers, trappers, soldiers, and a lot more! Free with admission.

July 24-26 - 2015 Caspar Collins Days: The 150th Anniversary Celebration. Mark your calendars! This will be the largest historical reenactment between the Mississippi River and California in 2015.

There will be horseback cavalry drills, Native American tipis, an army encampment, a small Lakota village, sutlers, craft vendors, historic speakers, and a lot more. Free admission to these events.

August 22 - Fremont Family Funday Hands-on Workshop 1:00 - 3:00 p.m., “Primitive Fire Building”: Come out to Fort Caspar Museum and try your hand at building fires the Lakota way: with a bow drill. Free with admission.

Hours and Admission FeesJune 1 to August 31: Open Daily

Museum: 8:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Fort Buildings: 8:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.

Adults: $3.00Teens (13-18): $2Kids (0-12): FREE

Page 13: Summer Sun 2015

12

Lemonade daywww.casper.lemonadeday.org

Lemonade Day is a free, community-wide, educational program that teaches youth how to start, own and operate their own business- a lemonade stand. Youth learn with the help of a mentor/teacher how to set goals, create a budget, find an investor, choose a site location, create an advertising plan, build a stand, learn results and accounting, and banking and give back through 14 lessons in their free Entrepreneurial Workbook. Youth also learn valuable life skills, such as leadership, teamwork, social skills, and a new sense of confidence. Youth keep the money they earn. They are encouraged to spend some, save some, and share some with their favorite charity.

Lemonade Day is a national program that started in Houston, TX in 2007. It was started by Michael Holthouse, a successful entrepreneur and philanthropist. It has since expanded to over 40 cities with an estimated 250,000 youth participating this year.

Youth can sign up to participate by registering on-line at www.casper.lemonadeday.org or through a participating partner or event listed on the website. When a youth is registered for Lemonade Day, they will receive a free bright yellow backpack with an Entrepreneurial Workbook and Mentor guide inside. The Mentor guide is for the parent/ mentor to use as a guide to teach the lessons. When a youth registers on-line by a parent/caring adult, they will receive a confirmation email that they need to print and take to a backpack

pick-up location that is listed on the website.Volunteer opportunities include: mentoring a youth, supporting partner organizations, and rallying support from the community.

We need everyone to support our youth by visiting lemonade stands and purchasing lemonade from our young entrepreneurs on June 20!

Proudly presented by:

Casper Lemonade Day is June 20

Page 14: Summer Sun 2015

13

Mercer family resource

center535 W. Yellowstone hwy. | 265-7366 | www.mercercasper.com

Youth Empowerment CouncilAccepting • Non-judging • Welcoming • Substance-free • Fun • LaughterOpen to all youth 12-18 years old, the Youth Empowerment Council meets every Thursday from 7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. on the second floor of the Mercer Family Resource Center. The council is made up of a chair, secretary, parliamentarian and members at large who are committed to improve the community around them. The council provides a safe place for youth to meet and discuss important community topics, while donating their time in a positive way.

7th Annual Family Day - July 7, 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.Join us after the City Parade for a free and substance-free family event open to the public. Come for lunch, family games and prizes, face painting, bouncy castles, pool passes, live entertainment and more. Also see our special guest, Ronald McDonald, who will be present to hang out with Family Day attendees!

Please watch for the Mercer Family Resource Center float in the parade for final details on the location of Family Day. For park location, please check our website, www.mercercasper.com, or follow us on Facebook.

Suicide Prevention Awareness Team (SPAT) – A group of youth volunteers who present to various audiences spread awareness by educating their peers on the warning signs, risk factors, and protective factors associated with suicide.

ANTI-Bullying Committee – Raise awareness of the harmful outcomes of bullying by speaking to the youth in our community through peer to peer education and awareness.

Pro-Social Committee – Provides substance free events for youth and families. Youth can participate in activities such as ski day, leadership conferences, and fundraising opportunities that include: Zombie Ball, Kiwanis pancake breakfast, an annual toilet paper drive, etc. Proceeds are donated to local community organizations

Youth Empowerment Council Subcommittees

Page 15: Summer Sun 2015

14

Natrona county

public librarydowntown branch: 307 e. 2nd st. | 577-read | www.natronacountylibrary.org

Bookmobile ScheduleCan’t make it to the library? The bookmobile makes stops in many neighborhoods throughout the city and county. Kids (and parents) are welcome on board at any stop and can check out or return books, movies, magazines and more! Here are a few of the places you’ll find the bookmobile this summer:

Every Hero Has a StoryFree summer fun! Sign up at any library branch.

Activate your reading powers and start the season right by signing up for Summer Reading Programs at your library. The 2015 Summer Reading theme is “Every Hero Has a Story” for kids through grade 6. Summer Reading programs begin May 26 and continue until August 31. “Every Hero Has a Story” is a reading incentive program to keep kids excited about reading and providing free family-friendly events throughout the summer. Read 20 minutes a day, celebrate with super performers, and earn prizes for your reading power!

Summer Reading helps battle the “Summer Slide” - the loss of learning that happens during summer break if kids don’t keep their brains active by reading. So keep on reading this summer, and make it loads of fun at your Natrona County Public Library!

Participating is simple, free, and open to the entire family. Keep track of books you read or time spent reading to earn prizes, and participate in exciting hero-themed events all summer long! Reading logs and event schedules will be available starting May 26, at public library branches in Casper, Mills, Edgerton, and the Bookmobile.

Superhuman events for kids and families include:• Rocky Mountain Puppets: June 9-11• The Incredible Mr. E.: June 23-25• Andy Mason, Musician: June 29-30 & July 1-2• Dr. Noize: July 15-17• NCPL Players: July 21-22• Indiana Bones, Storyteller: July 27-29• Dragons are Too Seldom Puppets: August 4-6

In addition to these performances, our “Launching Little Learners” program will spark the imagination of preschoolers every Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday at 10:30 a.m. Tweens entering grades 4-6 can enjoy weekly hero-inspired projects and events for their age group too.

Teens have a reading incentive program of their own, designed for students entering 7th grade through graduating seniors. Test your creativity with science experiments, artistic endeavors, and lots of great books to explore throughout the summer!

Summer Reading 2015 is sponsored by McDonald’s and the Natrona County Public Library. Sign up at any library branch beginning May 26. The Natrona County Public Library is an advocate for literacy, education and a thriving community. The main library is at 307 E. Second St., downtown Casper. Branch Libraries are located in Mills at 717 Fifth St., and Edgerton at 935 Cottonwood. For more information about library events or hours call 577-READ or visit www.natronacountylibrary.org.

Alcova Bar NunnCentennial Hills (right across from the school) Evansville ElementaryParadise Valley Powder River Robertson Road Area Daycares & neighborhoods throughout the city and county

To find the stop closest to you, visit http://www.natronacountylibrary.org/bookmobile

Page 16: Summer Sun 2015

15

Nicolaysen art museum400 E. Collins Dr. | 235-5247 | www.thenic.org

HoursTuesday through Saturday:

10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.Sunday: Noon - 4:00 p.m.

Closed Mondays

AdmissionsMembers: Free

Adults 18+: $5.00Children 5 -17: $3.00

Children under 5: FreeFree admission on Sundays

Summer Art Camps 2015

It’s Not Rocket Science! 6-10 year olds: July 7 -1010:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

9-12 year olds: July 14-171:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Fees: $90 for members and $110 for non-members.

Camp Description: Journey into outer space with Casper

Planetarium and the NIC. Bring your imagination to life as you

travel the solar system and explore the universe’s wonders.

Build rockets, make ceramic tiles inspired by the solar

system, paint an imaginary planet and sculpt creatures from

another world.The NIC offers a 10% discount for

the second and third child in the

family for summer camps. Sign

up before June 6th and get an

additional 10% early bird discount.

The NIC expresses special

thanks to the staff of the Casper

Planetarium for collaboration on this

year’s summer camps.

Art Classes at the NIC

Preschool Picassos Wednesdays:

10:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m.July 15 - August 19

September 16 - October 21Age group: 2-5 year olds and

their parent/adultFee: $30 for members and $40 for non-members per child/adult duo for each six-class session.

Class Description: Explore art concepts with your child in these age-appropriate,

curriculum-related, and themed-structured six-week art classes. These classes engage young

students in problem solving and enhance fine motor coordination through exploration of different

art materials. The NIC offers families a

40% discount for the second and third child for Preschool

Picassos classes.

WorkshopsBring a friend and save 25% off

your workshop fee.

DRAPED VESSELS with Georgia Rowswell

Saturday, July 2512:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Fees: $40.00 for members, $30.00 for students with valid

student ID, and $55.00 for non-members. Supplies fee is $10.00 due at the beginning of

the workshop.Explore the creative potential of paper and enjoy the tactile aspects of working with this

versatile medium. Using sheets of handmade paper,

we will explore methods of creating dramatic fluted

pieces by draping them over various forms. This class is

recommended for high school and older.

PAINTING IN TRANSPARENT WATERCOLOR

with Joel R. JohnsonSaturday, October 10

12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. For info visit www.thenic.org

Class size is limited. For class descriptions, pricing and

registration forms, visit www.thenic.org or contact

Zhanna Gallegos, Coordinator of Education, at [email protected]

Page 17: Summer Sun 2015

16

Things to do at the NIC

The Discovery CenterDraw, paint, build and explore at the Discovery Center at the NIC. The Discovery Center is a hands-on, interactive art area

for visitors of all ages. SUNDAY is FREE ADMISSION DAY.

Homeschool Art Days/ Preschool Art Days

The NIC offers Homeschool/Preschool Art Days for

Homeschoolers/Preschoolers. Schedule an Art Day once a week, once a month or

quarterly to bring your little artists to explore art at the

NIC’s Discovery Center and galleries. For your day of fun, pick one activity or mix and

match: Gallery Tour, Discovery Center Art Stations or Special

Art Projects.

Birthday pARTy at the NICHave an amazing art-filled

birthday party at the NIC! Visit our website to choose from a variety of age appropriate art

projects. To reserve a party date or for more information, please

call 307-235-5247 or email [email protected]

NIC Fest: June 26-28Join the NIC for an exciting

three-day annual community art event. Come and see art

from more than 80 artists, listen to live music, and witness the Silly Dog Show. Experience

England’s art and culture and enjoy various theatre

productions by local thespians. In the Discovery Center, learn

about celebrated English landscape artists and paint your very own nature scenes. Create

your own unique design of a music album cover inspired by iconic British rock album covers showcased in one of the NIC’s

galleries. Don’t miss out on admission FREE fun!

Wednesday Night LiveWednesdays from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. July 1— August 26. Join the NIC Wednesday Night for FREE Live concerts. Bring a lawn chair or a blanket and relax while experiencing a variety of music. Enjoy food and drinks from local vendors or bring your own picnic food.

Performers for Wednesday Night Live include: Flagship

Romance, Incendio Band, Jared Rogerson, Inda Eaton, TIZER

and more.

Summer Exhibitions

Zachary Pullen: Among GiantsMay 29—August 10

Dan Cepeda: Peruvian Sheepherders in WyomingMay 29—Sept. 27, 2015

European Masters from the Permanent Collection

June 19, 2015—Jan. 17, 2016

Michael Olson: Kindergarten to College

June 19, 2015—Jan. 17, 2016

Western Masters: Russell, Remington, Moran and More

June 19, 2015—Jan. 17, 2016

The Nicolaysen Art Museum and Discovery Center would like to thank our sponsors: City of Casper, Goodstein Foundation, Groathouse Construction, Hilltop National Bank,

McMurry Foundation, National Endowment for the Arts, Natrona County Prevention

Coalition, Natrona County Recreation Joint Powers Board, Natrona County School District,

Pacificorp, Ruth R. Ellbogen Foundation, Tonkin Foundation, True Foundation, Wold Foundation, Wyoming Arts Council, Wyoming Community Foundation, Wyoming Cultural

Trust, Zimmerman Family Foundation.

Page 18: Summer Sun 2015

17

national Historic trails

interpretive center1501 N. Poplar St. | 261-7700 | www.blm.gov/wy/st/en/nhtic.html

HoursMemorial Day thru Labor Day

8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.Closed Mondays

Free Summer Events(check website for details)

History Club: For 2nd -5th graders, meets every third Saturday of the month from 9:00-11:00 a.m. Call the NHTIC for details and meeting places.Pony Express Re-Ride (June 19): Watch the Pony Express exchange horses at the Trails Center, June 19. Call for details about the anticipated time of exchange.Wyoming Heritage Days (June 13 & 14): Bring your family and walk through time.

ExhibitsWyoming Indian High School student art projects will remain on display throughout the summer. A community powwow will close the exhibit. Check with the NHTIC for the powwow date.

Other EventsCasper Future Historians Camp (June 15-19): A camp for teens will explore the history of medicine in Casper from frontier times through WWII. Teens will learn history with hands-on exploration and projects in collaboration with the staff from Fort Casper, the NHTIC, Wyoming Veterans’ Museum and the Western Heritage Center. Cost is $50 which includes snacks, transportation, and CPR certification. Register at http://nhtcf.org

Page 19: Summer Sun 2015

Platte river trails1775 W. 1st st. | 577-1206 | www.platterivertrails.com

18

Page 20: Summer Sun 2015

19

The science zone111 W. Midwest ave. | 473-9663 | www.thesciencezone.org

Summer CampsCamps will run from 8:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. Most of the camps will be Monday through Friday and the ones that are only 3 days will be partnered with 2 day camps to help fill out the week. We will provide a morning and afternoon snack. Campers should pack a lunch or we will provide lunch for an additional fee ($5).

Additional camp descriptions located at: http://www.thesciencezone.org/summer-camps

SIT (Scientists In Training) Did you ever wonder why we know what we know? This camp is for you! We will study the lives and contributions of scientists from Archimedes and Galileo to Einstein, Edison, and Franklin to name a few. While learning about their fascinating lives, we will make many of their inventions and discoveries from chemistry experiments, rockets, herb gardens, bridges, catapults, printing presses and the list goes on…

Geology CampRock on with the geology camp. Learn how rocks are formed, classified and how to identify different rocks and minerals. Get out and about to find different specimens. Start your very own collection. Who knows, maybe you will strike it rich while you are at it. Sunscreen, water bottles, and good walking shoes a must.

CSI CampCSI Las Vegas has nothing on us! Campers will learn the ins and outs of crime scenes. The older campers will get into some of the more realistic aspects of crime scenes such as blood splatter patterns, bullet hole identification and projection, and many of the things “as seen on TV”. The younger campers will have lessons that will cover basic ideas and still allow them to sleep at night. Turn loose your inner sleuth.

Energy of WyomingWe live in the wild west and energy exploration and usage is a way of life for many of us. Learn about forms of energy and how best we can utilize the resources we have. Campers will learn about conservation and utilization of our present energy materials and how best we can ensure resources for future generations.

Camp Dates Cost AgesForce and Motion June 8-12 $125 5-8 & 9+Scientists in Training June 15-19 $125 5-8 & 9+Nature Camp June 22-26 $125 5-7, 8-9, 10+Lego Camp June 29-July 1 $75 K+Geocaching July 2-3 $50 5-7, 8-9, 10+Platte Rive Camp July 13-15 $75 5-7, 8-9, 10+Zoology July 16-17 $50 5-7, 8-9, 10+Geology Camp July 20-22 $75 5-8 & 9+Cuisine Camp July 23-24 $50 5-8 & 9+CSI Camp Aug. 3-7 $125 5-7, 8-9, 10+Chemistry Camp Aug. 10-12 $75 5-8 & 9+Nano Camp Aug. 13-14 $50 5-8 & 9+Energy of Wyoming Aug. 17-21 $125 5-8 & 9+Last Blast Camp Aug. 24-28 $125 5-8 & 9+

Summer Programs

SciGirls Summer ProgramIn an effort to offer a continual impact throughout the summer, we’re hosting our SciGirls program on Wednesdays through-out the summer. Ages 9-15 Wednesdays from 2:30 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. starting week of June 8th

Wee ScienceDesigned specifically for young children (ages 3-5), we’ll be giving them the tools they need to explore and learn about science on Tuesdays and Fridays from 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. throughout the summer, starting the week of June 8th. Snacks will be provided. Due to the age of the campers, an adult must accompany the children during the class.

The prices listed above are member prices.

Non-member pricing is available upon request.

Annual family memberships are $75.

Page 21: Summer Sun 2015

20

vibes4070 Plaza drive | 333-6227 | www.vibescasper.com

Summer Classes & Camps

Applied Music Theory: $75Fridays 10:00 a.m. - 10:45 a.m. from 6/5-6/26The class will teach principles such as scales, chord progressions, transposition and intervals. Students will bring their respective instruments to the class in order to learn how music theory can aid in performance.

Song Writing Camp: $75Wed, Thu, & Fri 10:00 a.m. - 10:45 a.m. from 7/8-7/16Students will learn about common musical progression of pop songs and how to create their own catchy melodies. Students will also explore lyric and poetry as a piece of work to combine the written words with their melodic inventions.

Sing-A-Long Vocal Camp: $85Mon & Tue 5:00 p.m. - 5:45 p.m. from 7/6-7/28Students will receive group instruction in vocal technique for healthy singing and will have the opportunity to perform music as a soloist and in an ensemble!

Didgeridoo & Pan Flute Camp: $95Tue, Wed, & Thu 11:00 a.m. - 11:45 a.m. from 6/9-6/18Students will make and learn to perform each instrument, learning basic music reading.

Symphony Camp: $45Tue, Wed, & Thu 3:00 p.m. - 3:45 p.m. from 6/23-6/25Get an inside look at the composers, musicians, and instruments that create a symphony with hands-on experience with guest artists!

Music & Math Camp: $75 Tue, Wed, & Thu 2:00 p.m. - 2:45 p.m. from 6/16-6/25Students will work with music, measurements and other fun math strategies to keep minds sharp over break!

Sing & Strum: $75Tuesdays 12:00 p.m. - 12:45 p.m. from 6/9-7/28Thursdays 12:00 p.m. - 12:45 p.m. from 6/11-7/30Perfect for beginner guitar students, this camp combines both guitar and singing. Guitars are included for use during the class. Other guitar classes for more advanced levels are also available.

Cajon Making Camp: $125Tue, Wed, & Thu 3:00 p.m. - 3:45 p.m. from 6/9-6/18Students receive a cajon kit (a $50 value)! They will make their own professional Cajon and learn how read rhythms and play in an ensemble.

Band Camp with the Denver Broncos!Come and refine your skills on a band instrument or learn an instrument for the first time! We will be taking two trips to Denver: one for Drum Along the Rockies and the other to perform and tailgate with the Denver Broncos Stampede Band and watch a Broncos Football Game! Camp includes an instrument, T-shirt, three rehearsals a week, and optional social activities! Camp begins on July 6th and runs through mid/late August. VIBES also offers private lessons for piano, guitar, percussion, flute, clarinet, saxophone and voice! Lessons range from $75-120/month for an individual session with an instructor 30 minutes each week.

VIBES also offers an award-winning Kindermusik program for ages 0-7 years old! These classes are: Adventures for Babies, Adventures for Families & Adventures for Preschoolers. These classes run in June and cost $80 for four 45-minute classes, Digital @Home Materials, Crafts, and Snacks! Check out the times and days on our website! We also offer two Adventures for Big Kids:

Big Kids Music & Electricity: $130Tuesdays 4:15 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. from 6/9-6/30Wednesdays 5:15 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. from 6/10-7/1This camp includes a Makey Makey Electricity Kit (a $50 value), science experiments, composing using vibrations and music technology.

Big Kids Guitar Exploration: $80Thursdays 4:15 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. from 7/9-7/30Thursdays 5:15 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. from 7/9-7/30Students will establish a solid foundation for guitar playing, through ensemble work, dancing, singing and games. Guitars included for use during class.

Register multiple children and/or enroll in multiple classes to receive

a 15% discount.

Page 22: Summer Sun 2015

werner wildlife museum405 e. 15th st. | 235-2108 | www.caspercollege.edu/werner

21

Summer Events(open Monday - Friday, 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.)

June 1 through August 15: Eileen’s Wyoming Scavenger Hunt: Keeping a List of Summertime Animal Sightings. Participants will meet the end of August to share stories of animals they’ve seen and to receive a small reward for participation. Forms will be available at WWM by June 1.

June 11: Animal House Program: “Mountain Sheep Don’t Live on a Farm”

June 18: Raptor Rap Program “Kestrels, Osprey, and Other Less Familiar Raptors”

July 9: Animal House Program: “Wolverine: Not Necessarily an X-Man”

July 16: Raptor Rap Program: “Bird Watching on the Platte” (field trip w/ ornithologist Zack Hutchinson)

August 13: Animal House Program: “Wapiti and Red Stags”

August 20: Raptor Rap Program: field trip with ornithologist Zack Hutchinson to be arranged

Page 23: Summer Sun 2015

Casper Family YMCA315 E. 15th st. | 234-9187 | www.casperfamilyymca.org

22

Casper Family YMCA Youth Outdoor Adventure ProgramJune 8 - August 28

7:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m., Monday through Friday

For generations, YMCA Camps have provided children with rewarding experiences and a lifetime of memories. Y Camps are more than just something to do. At camp, we are committed to providing children with a healthy spirit, mind and body! We create opportunities for kids to build relationships that last a lifetime! It begins with quality leadership that is committed first to the physical and emotional safety of your child, and then to developing the positive values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility in every child. This year, the YMCA has chosen to make a few changes to our summer camp programming. Our summer program has taken the name Youth Outdoor Adventure Program and will have a strong emphasis on enrichment activities for youth ages 5 to 14.

FeesPer week: $100 per child (includes all meals, snacks, and entry fees)One-time registrations fee: $25 per child (includes YMCA summer program T-shirt)

ParticipantsSchool-aged youth, ages 5 to 13 (All income levels; DFS assistance and scholarships available based on household income.)

Weekly CapacityAges 5 to 6: 16 studentsAges 7 to 8: 20 studentsAges 9 to 11: 24 studentsAges 12-13: 12 students

Program ObjectivesObjective #1: Provide opportunities for youth to safely access the outdoors through a wide range of activities that promote development in motor skills and movement forms and participate regularly in physical activity.

Objective #2: Provide opportunities for youth to achieve and maintain a healthy lifestyle through activities that promote health-related fitness, nutrition, and healthy eating habits, disease prevention and personal hygiene, emotional and social health, and spiritual health.

Objective #3: Provide opportunities for youth to become actively engaged in the community through activities that promote responsible personal and social behavior, leadership and family engagement.

ScheduleAll morning activities will begin at 8:00 a.m., and several are off site. We request that students be dropped off by 7:45 a.m. to allow for transportation to activities. Students will not be allowed to be signed-in off-site.Weekly activities include:• Two swim lessons• Two Science Zone lessons• Two Nicolaysen Art Museum lessons• Two library trips• Two youth sports sessions• Health education lessons• Gardening (groups will plant and

maintain their own raised planters for the summer)

• Morning snack (provided)• Lunch (provided)• Afternoon snack (provided)• Movie and snacks at Studio City

movie theater• Summer fishing license• Fitness and health monitoring (daily

activity logs and weekly progress assessments)

• Daily self-discovery/free time

Page 24: Summer Sun 2015

Natrona County School District #1970 N. Glenn Rd. Casper, WY 82601 | Phone 253-5200 | www.natronaschools.org

Information for Summer Sun was contributed by the various organizations represented in the publication.

The NCSD Community Partnerships Division designs, edits, and prints Summer Sun.

NON-PROFIT ORG.

U.S. POSTAGE PAID

PERMIT NO. 42

CASPER, WY 82601

read outside the book!Kindergarteners:

Find letters you know in the world around you! For example, find “K” in K-Mart.

First and second

graders: Build a

fort and read the

afternoon away!

Third graders: Learn to do

something new. Read a cookie

recipe and make cookies. Create

a cooking show and explain the

steps to your audience.

THIS SUMMER

Parents: use these ideas to encourage your child to read this summer.

For more information, visit WeReadNatrona.com