Bear Essential News April 2022, Tucson Edition

Bear 40 YEARS!

April 2022 • Tucson Edition • www.bearessentialnews.com

essential news

®

See pages 14 thru 22

Summer

Camp Guide

In This Picture: Find a paint tube, a library card, a racquet, a toothbrush, CAMPS, a baseball bat, an umbrella, EARTH DAY, a flashlight, a decorated egg and APRIL FOOLS’ DAY!

CAMP GUIDE FEATURE

S ummer Camps There’s one for you!

Pages 14 thru 22

Backyard B irding !

It’s a great time to get started.

Pages 12 & 13

FAMILIES

NEWS NEWS

Youn g R escue Heroes Meet the Alpacas!

Spotlight on Antarctica News Highlights page 5

& more news kids can use Get the Scoop! pages 7, 8 & 11

Earth Day Fun

at the Children’s Museum!

Page 9

Swim Season Is finally Here!

NEVER SWIM !

ALONE

Even though a child knows how to swim, it doesn’t make the person waterproof.

Active Adult Supervision • Always watch children when they are in or near ANY body of water, without being distracted • Never leave children unattended • Keep young children within arm’s reach of an adult • Designate an official Water Watcher – an adult tasked with supervising children in the water

Barriers

• Pool fencing around pools and spas • Self-closing, self-latching gates • Teach children to never climb over the gate or fence • Install a door alarm from the house to the pool area • Keep pool and spa covers in working order

Coast Guard-approved Life Vest & Classes • All inexperienced swimmers should wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life vest in or near all bodies of water.

• Choose a life vest that is right for your child’s weight and water activity.

• Arm floaties are toys. They are not a life-saving device and should never replace a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life vest.

• Enroll children in swimming lessons • Take CPR classes just in case of an emergency

Decode the Secret Safety Message!

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9

11

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5

1

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1=A 2=E 3=I 4=L 5=M 6=N 7=O 8=R 9=S 10=V 11=W

2 • Bear Essential News • April 2022

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April 2022 • Bear Essential News • 3

Bear Hugs:

Engaging With the Grandkids

by Mary DeStefano

Summertime Is Ideal for Some Entertainment & Education!

Image courtesy of TucsonPresidio.com

May is just around the corner when schools let out for summer holidays and parents seek quality programs for their children. Many options are available but the question is how to choose one in which children are fully engaged with hands-on activities. Whether it’s signing up for a class in drama, archaeology or learning about Arizona history, there is something that will be of interest to your children and your pocketbook.

Many programs have scholarships available for students to help with costs. I recently interviewed Jean Baxter, education director at the Presidio San Agustin del Tucson Museum. She was A storyteller relates early Tucson history to enthusiastic about the varyoung visitors. ious camps being offered this summer and stated, “History comes alive through hands on activities.”

See summer camp listings in this issue or at bearessentialnews.com under guides.

Many grandparents find themselves the primary caregivers for their grandchildren. After the usual means of entertainment are exhausted and with a view to being “school ready” for the coming year, both older and young might be saying, “What can we do now?” I chatted with several grandparents who provide care for their grandchildren and came with several ideas that are easy, educational and entertaining. These can be adapted for various age groups.

One grandparent said her youngest grandchild was keen to take his grandparents to the Sweetwater Wetlands in Tucson. Jake had been to this site on a school field trip but wanted to go back and explore it again. The child loved being the ‘guide’ for his older brother and remembered areas he wanted to see that had been unavailable when with the larger group.

Another friend said her 5 year-old grandchild had fallen in love with geography at school and wants to learn everything there is to know! Whew! It makes me tired just to think about it! The child had been having fun biting cheese into the shapes of states and countries. I saw a picture of a ‘cheesy Idaho.’ This same activity could be done with pie dough or Play-Doh. They had also put up a map in her room with plans to read books with settings from around the world. After reading they will put a mark on the country, state or city where the story takes place. What a win—reading and geography combined!

4 • Bear Essential News • April 2022

News Highlights

Scottsdale Friends Honored as Heroes!

Two Scottsdale high school students who are lifelong friends were just named Carnegie Medal winners for their heroic acts to save two other young people who were drowning in the surf.

Zachary Johnson Haugen, 18 and a senior at Chaparral High, and Jake Vageli Watson, his 17-year-old best friend who goes to Desert Mountain High, used their strong swimming skills to rescue two people who had been swept off the rocks by crashing waves on July 3, 2020.

Each year, the Carnegie Hero Fund awards its medal to citizens in the United States and Canada who courageously risk their lives to save or attempt to save the lives of others. Zachary and Jake are among 18 heroes announced on March 28.

The two were with friends on a summer vacation, checking out San Diego’s beautiful Sunset Cliffs.

“There was a high-surf advisory that day, and the swells were huge, and they were crashing into the cove,” Zachary recalls. “I’m standing on the edge of the cliff, and I look down and see the younger girl and the older one (struggling in the water). The younger girl is climbing on top of the older one. I was a lifeguard at the time, and I immediately recognized that that’s what a victim does when they’re drowning—they’re struggling to breathe, so they pull and push on everything to stay up (above the water).”

Zachary, who is a competitive swimmer and was

one of the captains on this season’s swim team, jumped from the 20- to 25-foot cliff to help. He grabbed the girl and the three headed for the edge of the cove to try to get out. But a huge wave separated Zachary from the two, and propelled him against the rocks at the back of the cove.

Jake asked him if he should go in and jumped into the rough water, carrying the younger victim on his back the rest of the way to safety.

The older girl had a head Zachary & Jake injury, and Jake helped keep her head above water until lifeguards arrived.

Zachary’s father, Brian Haugen, was very sick at the time but was incredibly proud (but really not that surprised) to hear of his son’s heroics. Sadly, he passed away a couple months later.

For Zachary, swimming has helped him deal with the great loss and always picks him up. “If I was ever having a bad day—if things just weren’t going my way or I had something on my mind—I always knew swim practice could cure that! I knew it would calm me down and bring my head back to a normal level of thought,” he shares. He will head to NAU this fall.

Escaped Flamingo Rediscovered 17 Years Later

Image: shutterstock.com

A flamingo who flew away from a Kansas zoo nearly 17 years ago has been spotted approximately 600 miles away in Texas!

The flamingo, nicknamed Pink Floyd, arrived at the Sedgwick County Zoo from Africa with several dozen other wild flamingos in 2003. After living at the zoo for two years, two of the flamingos, tagged with the numbers 492 and 347, flew the coop!

The zoo regularly clipped the flamingos’ feathers, but those two birds were overdue for their haircuts, which allowed them to take flight.

Pink Floyd, who was tagged with the number 492, flew away before zoo employees could test its blood to DETERMINE its sex. The

zoo suspects Pink Floyd is a male. Keepers also believe the bird was between 3 and 5 years old when it escaped, so Pink Floyd is probably around 20 years old now. (The lifespan of flamingos ranges from 40–60 years.)

After its unplanned flight from the zoo, Pink Floyd wasn’t seen again for another three years—when it was spotted near Corpus Christi, Tex. Since then, Pink Floyd has been spotted in Texas and Louisiana, apparently living its best life with other wild flamingos.

One of those flamingos was identified as a Caribbean flamingo who’s part of a flock from Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula. It is unclear whether the birds are friends or perhaps something more. Either way, Pink Floyd has found a group of friends!

The zoo has accepted that Pink Floyd is destined to live out its days in the wild and has no plans to attempt to recapture the bright pink bird.

“It would only disturb wildlife where it’s been found and possibly could do more damage to the bird than just leaving him alone,” Christan Baumer, then a spokeswoman for the Sedgwick County Zoo, told the Associated Press in 2007.

Antarctica Heats Up Antarctica is the Earth’s southern most continent and has no indigenous inhabitants. While many explorers speculated over the existence of a “southern land,” the continent’s presence was not confirmed until the 1820s. Following World War II, the continent saw an increase in scientific interest and research. In more recent years, a number of countries have established seasonal and year-round research stations and camps.

Antarctica is the coldest, windiest, and driest continent on Earth, and its topography is 98 percent thick ice. It is the fifth largest continent, slightly smaller than 1.5 times the size of the United States. There are more than 30 species of flying birds that live in Antarctica. The white continent is Antarctica Facts: • Most common penguin: Adélie • Highest elevation: Mount Vinson,16,050 ft • Coldest temperature ever: -129.28° F • Strongest wind: 199 mph

Image: commons.wikimedia.org

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also home to five species of penguins. Plus another four species of these amazing flightless birds live on sub-Antarctic islands.

Antarctica has made headlines recently because scientists keep a close eye on the continent due to its impact on climate and the oceans.

On March 18, scientists recorded the temperature at Concordia Research Station as 11.3 degrees Fahrenheit. The normal high temperature for the day is around -56 degrees Fahrenheit, meaning last month’s recording was close to 70 degrees warmer than normal. Vostok, a Russian research base, also logged a record high temperature that day—zero degrees Fahrenheit, which is 63 degrees warmer than the average for the day.

A few days before these high temperatures were recorded, an ice shelf in Antarctica nearly the size of Los Angeles DISINTEGRATED as well. The Conger Ice Shelf, which was approximately 460 square miles, collapsed around March 15.

Antarctica may be remote and far from warm and sunny Arizona, but what happens there impacts the rest of the world. One estimate is that if all of the continent’s ice melted to water, it would be enough to raise the world’s oceans by 190 feet.

April 2022 • Bear Essential News • 5

Volume 43 • Issue 7

Editor & Publisher

Sales Director & Publisher

Stephen B Gin

Nancy Holmes

City Editor

YR Coordinator

Copy Editor

Art Director

Mike Loghry

Gary Shepard

Renee Griffith

Julie Madden

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6 • Bear Essential News • April 2022

Get the Scoop!

A Day with the Alpacas

by Reporter Ellie Divijak Dove Mountain CSTEM K–8 Recently my family visited the Plum Creek Alpaca Farm in Prescott Valley. When we entered the farm, the farm dogs walked along with us as we visited the different pens. They housed a variety of groups of alpacas. Some areas were for the females or males and there was even an area for the nursery.

During the tour one of the owners showed us around the farm. There were all kinds of animals, chickens, ducks and more! At the beginning of the tour you receive a bag of food to feed the alpacas. Sadly you only get one bag because I could have fed the animals all day—that was my favorite part of the tour.

We were told that when you feed the alpacas, you take the food from your bag, place it on your hand and the alpacas would stick their tongue out and eat from your hand. Some of the alpacas were shy and did not come to people in our tour group. We were also told that alpacas can spit, so we had to keep our backs against the fence when we entered the pen.

At the end of the tour we were able to go shopping and look at many items made from alpaca fur and much more.

Go to www.plumcreekalpacas.com if you want to learn more.

News Stories Written by Kids— for Kids Parade Will Shine Light on Shelter Pets

by Reporter Natalie Mihalka Tucson Country Day School Do you have a pet? Or favorite animal?

Then you should go to the Tucson Subaru Pets of Pima Parade, or POPP! This parade is a way for humans to show their love for their pets, of all shapes, sizes and species.

This is the inaugural parade, and will also have music, classic cars, entertainment and more!

POPP starts at 8:30 a.m. on Historic 4th Avenue in Tucson on Saturday, April 23.

Attendance is free but the parade will serve as a fundraiser, with donations and proceeds supporting the Pima Animal Care Center, also called PACC, which shelters animals.

Visit www.petsofpimaparade.com to register your pet for the parade or to donate to PACC! Enjoy the parade!

Wildland Firefighters to the Rescue

by Reporter Aleena Rafiyath, BASIS Oro Valley Young Reporters had the chance to interview wildland firefighter Andrea McKenna. She is in her sixth season as a wildland firefighter and engine boss, and has been an EMT since 2014. McKenna shared many of the tools and techniques that firefighters use.

As an engine boss, she runs the engine, which

provides structure protection and pumps water to the hoselays for the firefighters to put water on the hot spots. Other roles include the lookout, an important role responsible for taking the weather, keeping the others informed on where the fire is going and what it is doing, and warning of any danger.

Wildland firefighters use many techniques such as mopping, wearing special gear, and “fighting fire with fire,” as McKenna calls it. Mopping is where the firefighters put their hands in the dirt and feel for any heat, and then put water on the hot spots. These hot spots have the potential to bring the fire out again if there is wind or more heat. Some trees weakened by the fire, called hazard trees, are very dangerous and can come down on people and injure someone.

Another example of fighting fire with fire is burning any fuel and turning it to the “black”, or the burned part of ashes, in between the head of the fires. This reduces the amount of fuel the wildfire has to burn when it gets to the area. All firefighters have to wear certain personal protective equipment, carry their water, extra gear, and shielding tools in case of getting trapped in a fire.

Various types of engines or vehicles hold different gallons of water. McKenna showed reporters a picture of one engine’s pump panel, which controls the water flow to get it into the hose lays. Water tenders hold up to 5,000 gallons of water, and the engines use their pumps to suck up the water, refilling or drafting.

Firefighters use portable pumps , too.

In the skies, a Chinook helicopter holds up to 500 gallons of water and can drop the water from above.

MORE FIREFIGHTER, page 11 ➧

MORE SCOOPS, page 8 ➧

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April 2022 • Bear Essential News • 7

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Get the Scoop!

Continued from page 7

Rats & Cats Star in a Class Act

by Reporter Anastasia Bradley BASIS Tucson North The Renaissance Festival has a long history of hosting weird and wacky shows.

The first fair started in California in 1962, and was originally planned as a fundraiser for a local radio station. The fair ended up being more successful than the team that founded it intended, which is why the Renaissance Festival is still around today, staging events around the world. Each fair now boasts over a quarter of a million visitors every year and generates around $2 million.

During my visit, I interviewed Melissa Arleth. Her show, Cirque du Sewer, features rats and cats doing tricks. Arleth has a long history of performing. Her first performance was when she was 11 in a third-grade school play. She studied theater and performance arts throughout college and started to do acts at small locations and theme parks. Arleth started adopting rats and cats to include in her shows. She began booking “Cirque du Sewer” at Renaissance Fairs, outdoor festivals and bigger theme parks. She decided to leave her acting program early, moving on to bigger performances with her assistant, Vitaly.

MORE RATS & CATS, page 11 ➧

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April 2022 • Bear Essential News • 9

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Continued from page 7

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Kids can also email their letters to Boomer@BearEssentialNews.com

Dear Boomer, I seriously can’t concentrate because my annoying friends are saying not appropriate things that they shouldn’t be saying at school.

Thank you very much for answering my letter.

Your friend, I.J. Dear I.J., That’s a bit of a tricky situation you’re in! While school can be a great place to be with friends while you learn, it doesn’t work if your friends are misbehaving or distracting you. Maybe you can tell those classmates that you really need to get your work done. And you might even need to speak up when inappropriate things are said, especially if those things are hurtful to others. If this doesn’t work, consider asking the teacher to move you away from others. And if there are still issues, maybe visit your counselor alone or with friends.

Hope this might help!

Best of Luck, Boomer Bear Dear Boomer Bear, Happy Easter, to my friends Boomer Bear and everyone at Bear Essential News! I really enjoy being a Young Reporter for you guys. And I have lots of fun reading Bear—it’s my most favorite newspaper of all time! I hope you get lots of good treats and

have tons of fun this Easter. Have an extremely wonderful one! from B.E. Thank you, B.E.!

I am so glad to have you as one of our Young Reporters for this newspaper. It’s a great way to become a stronger writer and to keep up with what’s happening around you. Kids in grades 2 thru 8 can join any time during the year. Print out the sign-up form by going to the Young Reporters tab at BearEssentialNews.com.

Happy Easter! Boomer Hi Boomer, What’s your favorite part of Bear Essential News? My favorite is when I write a letter to you.

Sincerely, E.H. Dear E.H. With the help of Pizza Hut as our sponsor, I’m thrilled to have kids like you writing me Letters to Boomer!

Some might have questions or a problem or two; some want to share something great that just happened to them, and some might want to let me know something special about themselves or just say hi.

So my favorite part of my newspaper at the moment is this column! A close second is the front cover with its seek-’n-find.

Your buddy, Boomer Bear Dear Boomer Bear, My favorite pizza toppings are pepperoni, mushrooms and black olives!

Your friend E.E. You have such good taste, E.E.!

Seems like you enjoy the more savory toppings. Just to let you know, pepperoni is my fave pizza!

Bon Appétit, Boomer Hello, Boomer!

To celebrate Earth Day, I plan to recycle my cans and plant some seeds around my house :) See ya, P.S.

Dear P.S., I can’t wait for the free-n-fab Earth Day Festival on Saturday, April 23 from 9 to noon at the Children’s Museum.

Thanks for doing your part, Boomer Bear

Continued from page 7

A SEAT, or single engine aircraft tanker, was shown in one of McKenna’s pictures.

It was dropping Phos-Chek, a retardant, which checks the forward progress of the fire before the hand crews or engines can get in the area. The retardant cools the spots off and keeps the fire in check for the others.

A Sikorsky is another type of aircraft, which drops large amounts of water as well.

Medical helicopters have a different job, and they are used for emergencies, like when it’s not possible to carry an injured person out of the mountains or some other remote place.

Heavy equipment like excavators and bulldozers are used to create firebreaks for containment, to keep control and move dirt. One cool hand tool that serves two jobs is the Pulaski, with an axe on one end and a grubbing tool on the other.

More Rats & Cats Continued from page 8 Over the years, Arleth has appeared on “The Gong Show,” “Nickelodeon Unleashed” and “America’s Got Talent” where she got a standing ovation from all four judges! Her shows are truly amazing, entertaining displays of talent and good cheer. The feats and hijinks of her four-legged friends are cute and impressive exercises of agility and fun.

If you attend the Renaissance Festival, look for the stage that has a miniature obstacle course on it and the lady with the brightly striped tights. You will truly enjoy Arleth and her stars of the Cirque du Sewer!

April 2022 • Bear Essential News • 11

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ome flit from branch to branch or can turn on a dime in mid-air to nab a gnat. Others soar majestically high overhead. If you’ve spent any time outdoors these days, you’ve probably seen and/or heard our fine-feathered friends.

But did you know that Arizona is a top-notch place for birding?

And with spring’s arrival, there may be no better time to get your gear together to see all shapes and sizes of birds, which make up the class Aves.

gbird

Anna’s Hummin

Earth Day Happens This Month!

Places to See and Hear Birds!

When it comes to appreciating and caring for wildlife, birding is a great way to start. Many birds are attracted to green spaces. “A green space has water, shade and all the necessary elements needed for healthy and happy birds,” Rohrer explains. So if you live in the city, if you want to see a variety of birds, you might want to go with your family to a large park or some other type of desert oasis. He says that the number and variety of birds is an INDICATOR of how healthy our environment is.

Make it a family thing and don’t go any place without a parent or older brother or sister. Parks are nice, green spaces where you can find lots of birds. There are also places like the Phoenix Zoo and Liberty Wildlife (a bird rescue center) where you can see a variety of cool native birds up close. West of Tucson is the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum that has a nice aviary, and Reid Park Zoo has native birds just hanging out in its green spaces and the surrounding park.

Rohrer fixed up his backyard to attract butterflies and birds. “If you have water, like a pond or bird bath, and native plants in your yard, you’ll attract so many beautiful local birds, along with butterflies, lizards and other fun critters that live in our amazing Sonoran Desert,” he suggests.

What Makes Arizona So Special?

Getting Started

Pyrrhuloxia

Make birding a family thing. Figure out where you want to go and read up on some “Arizona is pretty magical—it’s so much more than desert!” of the birds you’re likely to find there.

Rohrer points out. People from all over the world come here to see Wearing a hat with a brim and applying sunscreen every few hours will help protect our birds and other wildlife. “We have ‘sky islands,’ mountains with you from the sun. A water bottle (insulated ones can keep water cold in the heat) is alforests on top, canyons, deserts, grasslands and riparian areas ways a good idea. Try to wear neutral-colored clothes that won’t scare that have so many different species off the birds. of birds that come from the eastern, Rohrer also says if you and your family will be hitting the trails, northern and western parts of the wear a good pair of hiking shoes. Also bring “a bird guide(book) for U.S. And Mexican birds also will their area, a pair of binoculars and, if you love photography, a camera. show up here during our summers,” There are so many wonderful bird he continues. Riparian areas are guides for our area. I use the Sibley ribbons of green along our washes, Guide for western birds but there are rivers and lakes. Arizona’s San Pedro so many more choices these days,” and Santa Cruz rivers are important Rohrer says.

You might be able to riparian CORRIDORS for migrating check out a bird fi eld guide from the libirds and provide lots of habitat for brary.

There are also ones for kids, like other native creatures as well.

Stan Tekiela’s Birding for Beginners: You’ll find different birds at difSouthwest. ferent elevations. Looking for owls Warning—rattlesnakes and cacti one evening, Rohrer and his friends are outdoor hazards. Even if you stick started at the bottom of Mount Lemto the trails, you might come across a mon north of Tucson. “We saw seven rattler or chunk of cactus sticking out. species of owl! It was a fun night out So watch where you step. You should looking for owls and nightjars. Birding stop before looking up for a bird to is an adventure. Plus we saw a bear Great Horned Owl avoid tripping or worse. and a lot of foxes,” he shares.

12 • Bear Essential News • April 2022

What You Can Expect to See

Photo courtesy of Chr is Rohrer

Backyard Birding

One of the most fun (and trickiest) parts of birding is figuring out what you see. There are some SUBTLE differences and it can help to be able to snap a picture—otherwise you will need to have a good memory of what the bird looked like, how it behaved and/or what it sounded like.

To help, there’s eBird, an online database that also sends out alerts from other birders who have recently reported seeing rarer birds. “It’s a great way to study birds and where they are seen. Plus, you can participate in their citizen science research project by doing an ebird report on your phone.

It’s a fun way to keep track of all the birds Gila Woodpecker you’ve seen!” Rohrer explains.

Another resource and app is iNaturalist.org—an online community of naturalists that can help identify what you’ve seen.

Boomer’s Basic Birding Rules Birding is a great lifelong pursuit that’ll get you outdoors and get your mind off of what’s bothering you.

Here are a few basic rules to keep in mind: • Quietly walk/approach so you don’t startle the birds. Use slow and steady gestures to point out birds to others. If you need to talk, speak in a library voice!

• If you are part of a group and need to talk to someone, stay behind and talk quietly.

Great Egret

Birding has taken Rohrer to places near and far. And by learning about the birds he comes across, he knows a lot! “I’ve been all over the world. I’ve searched for birds in Cape Verde (an African chain of islands), Mexico, Trinidad, Wales, Peru, etc. And I’m only just getting started—there are over 10,000 bird species on this planet!” he shares.

Here in Arizona, there are more than 500 species! Starting small, you are bound to see and hear hummingbirds.

Some are busy building nests. “In the U.S., Arizona rates as THE best spot for hummingbirds,” he explains. “In this state, during the summer months and migration, you can observe as many as 15 species of hummingbirds!”

His favorite little bird here is the northern beardless tyrannulet—the smallest flycatcher in North America.

People come here from all over the world to see the elegant trogon, a multi-colored bird with long tail feathers.

For most bird species, including the elegant trogon, males tend to be the more colorful and spectacular ones.

Now is a good time to see larger birds, too! “Raptors, like hawks, kites, vultures, falcons and eagles, are migrating north along our endangered and precious riparian y pre h wit k corridors,” Rohrer points out.

Red Tailed Haw Curve-billed Thrasher

• Stick to trails or paths, and do not walk in front of someone looking at a bird—hang back and wait for them to invite you to take a look.

• Learn to effectively use your words to describe where the bird is. For example: “In the tall, dark tree, the bird is left of center, halfway down on the biggest branch.”

• Stay on public property unless you have permission to enter private property, and leave everything as you found it, but carry out trash.

Binoculars are only to be used to look at wildlife and scenery—never at people or houses.

• Always respect wildlife. Do not use recorded bird songs or calls, especially during breeding season.

Photo courtesy of Chris Rohrer

Photo courtesy of

Chris Rohrer

Chris Rohrer teaches Spanish at Ironwood Ridge High. He also has been into birds since he was a kid. “They make interesting sounds. They have beautiful feathers. And they remind me of dinosaurs—that fly!” he explains. Rohrer loves living in such a birder’s paradise and also travels all over the world to see and hear other bird species in their natural habitats. “Birding is an exciting thing! It’s like a treasure hunt outside in the great big world. Birds are beautiful and interesting.”

Identifying What You See

• Never disturb a nest or eggs. If a baby bird falls out of a nest, it is best to leave it alone.

• Walk, don’t run, in a birding area, and watch where you step!

April 2022 • Bear Essential News • 13

S

ome flit from branch to branch or can turn on a dime in mid-air to nab a gnat. Others soar majestically high overhead. If you’ve spent any time outdoors these days, you’ve probably seen and/or heard our fine-feathered friends.

But did you know that Arizona is a top-notch place for birding?

And with spring’s arrival, there may be no better time to get your gear together to see all shapes and sizes of birds, which make up the class Aves.

gbird

Anna’s Hummin

Earth Day Happens This Month!

Places to See and Hear Birds!

When it comes to appreciating and caring for wildlife, birding is a great way to start. Many birds are attracted to green spaces. “A green space has water, shade and all the necessary elements needed for healthy and happy birds,” Rohrer explains. So if you live in the city, if you want to see a variety of birds, you might want to go with your family to a large park or some other type of desert oasis. He says that the number and variety of birds is an INDICATOR of how healthy our environment is.

Make it a family thing and don’t go any place without a parent or older brother or sister. Parks are nice, green spaces where you can find lots of birds. There are also places like the Phoenix Zoo and Liberty Wildlife (a bird rescue center) where you can see a variety of cool native birds up close. West of Tucson is the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum that has a nice aviary, and Reid Park Zoo has native birds just hanging out in its green spaces and the surrounding park.

Rohrer fixed up his backyard to attract butterflies and birds. “If you have water, like a pond or bird bath, and native plants in your yard, you’ll attract so many beautiful local birds, along with butterflies, lizards and other fun critters that live in our amazing Sonoran Desert,” he suggests.

What Makes Arizona So Special?

Getting Started

Pyrrhuloxia

Make birding a family thing. Figure out where you want to go and read up on some “Arizona is pretty magical—it’s so much more than desert!” of the birds you’re likely to find there.

Rohrer points out. People from all over the world come here to see Wearing a hat with a brim and applying sunscreen every few hours will help protect our birds and other wildlife. “We have ‘sky islands,’ mountains with you from the sun. A water bottle (insulated ones can keep water cold in the heat) is alforests on top, canyons, deserts, grasslands and riparian areas ways a good idea. Try to wear neutral-colored clothes that won’t scare that have so many different species off the birds. of birds that come from the eastern, Rohrer also says if you and your family will be hitting the trails, northern and western parts of the wear a good pair of hiking shoes. Also bring “a bird guide(book) for U.S. And Mexican birds also will their area, a pair of binoculars and, if you love photography, a camera. show up here during our summers,” There are so many wonderful bird he continues. Riparian areas are guides for our area. I use the Sibley ribbons of green along our washes, Guide for western birds but there are rivers and lakes. Arizona’s San Pedro so many more choices these days,” and Santa Cruz rivers are important Rohrer says.

You might be able to riparian CORRIDORS for migrating check out a bird fi eld guide from the libirds and provide lots of habitat for brary.

There are also ones for kids, like other native creatures as well.

Stan Tekiela’s Birding for Beginners: You’ll find different birds at difSouthwest. ferent elevations. Looking for owls Warning—rattlesnakes and cacti one evening, Rohrer and his friends are outdoor hazards. Even if you stick started at the bottom of Mount Lemto the trails, you might come across a mon north of Tucson. “We saw seven rattler or chunk of cactus sticking out. species of owl! It was a fun night out So watch where you step. You should looking for owls and nightjars. Birding stop before looking up for a bird to is an adventure. Plus we saw a bear Great Horned Owl avoid tripping or worse. and a lot of foxes,” he shares.

12 • Bear Essential News • April 2022

What You Can Expect to See

Photo courtesy of Chr is Rohrer

Backyard Birding

One of the most fun (and trickiest) parts of birding is figuring out what you see. There are some SUBTLE differences and it can help to be able to snap a picture—otherwise you will need to have a good memory of what the bird looked like, how it behaved and/or what it sounded like.

To help, there’s eBird, an online database that also sends out alerts from other birders who have recently reported seeing rarer birds. “It’s a great way to study birds and where they are seen. Plus, you can participate in their citizen science research project by doing an ebird report on your phone.

It’s a fun way to keep track of all the birds Gila Woodpecker you’ve seen!” Rohrer explains.

Another resource and app is iNaturalist.org—an online community of naturalists that can help identify what you’ve seen.

Boomer’s Basic Birding Rules Birding is a great lifelong pursuit that’ll get you outdoors and get your mind off of what’s bothering you.

Here are a few basic rules to keep in mind: • Quietly walk/approach so you don’t startle the birds. Use slow and steady gestures to point out birds to others. If you need to talk, speak in a library voice!

• If you are part of a group and need to talk to someone, stay behind and talk quietly.

Great Egret

Birding has taken Rohrer to places near and far. And by learning about the birds he comes across, he knows a lot! “I’ve been all over the world. I’ve searched for birds in Cape Verde (an African chain of islands), Mexico, Trinidad, Wales, Peru, etc. And I’m only just getting started—there are over 10,000 bird species on this planet!” he shares.

Here in Arizona, there are more than 500 species! Starting small, you are bound to see and hear hummingbirds.

Some are busy building nests. “In the U.S., Arizona rates as THE best spot for hummingbirds,” he explains. “In this state, during the summer months and migration, you can observe as many as 15 species of hummingbirds!”

His favorite little bird here is the northern beardless tyrannulet—the smallest flycatcher in North America.

People come here from all over the world to see the elegant trogon, a multi-colored bird with long tail feathers.

For most bird species, including the elegant trogon, males tend to be the more colorful and spectacular ones.

Now is a good time to see larger birds, too! “Raptors, like hawks, kites, vultures, falcons and eagles, are migrating north along our endangered and precious riparian y pre h wit k corridors,” Rohrer points out.

Red Tailed Haw Curve-billed Thrasher

• Stick to trails or paths, and do not walk in front of someone looking at a bird—hang back and wait for them to invite you to take a look.

• Learn to effectively use your words to describe where the bird is. For example: “In the tall, dark tree, the bird is left of center, halfway down on the biggest branch.”

• Stay on public property unless you have permission to enter private property, and leave everything as you found it, but carry out trash.

Binoculars are only to be used to look at wildlife and scenery—never at people or houses.

• Always respect wildlife. Do not use recorded bird songs or calls, especially during breeding season.

Photo courtesy of Chris Rohrer

Photo courtesy of

Chris Rohrer

Chris Rohrer teaches Spanish at Ironwood Ridge High. He also has been into birds since he was a kid. “They make interesting sounds. They have beautiful feathers. And they remind me of dinosaurs—that fly!” he explains. Rohrer loves living in such a birder’s paradise and also travels all over the world to see and hear other bird species in their natural habitats. “Birding is an exciting thing! It’s like a treasure hunt outside in the great big world. Birds are beautiful and interesting.”

Identifying What You See

• Never disturb a nest or eggs. If a baby bird falls out of a nest, it is best to leave it alone.

• Walk, don’t run, in a birding area, and watch where you step!

April 2022 • Bear Essential News • 13

2022

CAMP GUIDE

It’s Time to Think About Summer Camps!

Now that more and more adults and children are vaccinated and the number of COVID cases is going down, things are starting to return to near normal. Kids will be looking forward to going to camp this summer. And, with summer camps limiting spaces again this year, the camps will fill up quickly.

Sending your child to summer camp has always been an important way to let them try new things and learn new skills. A five-year study of 18–to –25–year–old former campers by the American Camp Association proved that summer camps helped these individuals have more success in high school, college and in their career by providing social skills, leadership skills and more. (This study can be found at www.acacamps.org/resource-library/ research/camp-impact-study).

Getting a child out of their comfort zone and attending a summer camp with new kids and new adult role models can help the shy child become more outgoing, learn teamwork and develop leadership skills.

At summer camps kids make new friends that might become friends for a lifetime. Kids can gain confidence

14 • Bear Essential News • April 2022

by working together to problem solve, and they might try a new skill like cooking, pottery, archery, rock climbing, canoeing or horseback riding.

Summer camps are a great way to get your child to unplug from technology. Instead of spending time watching television or being on a cell phone, tablet or the Internet, kids can experience the outdoors, nature and animals or even get bold enough to scale a rock wall or try zip lining.

Take a look through Bear’s Summer Camp Guide and see what your child can discover this summer. There are camps that teach acting, dancing, history, swimming, arts, sports, academics, STEM and STEAM, and even animal care.

Some camps are day camps where campers are dropped off in the morning and return home in the afternoon, and there are resident camps where campers spend about five days away from home in a cabin or cabana.

Most camps explain what to expect from their camps, CDC guidelines and safety and more on their websites.

Listings start on next page

ACADEMY OF BALLET TUCSON REGIONAL BALLET

how to collaborate with others through the process of rehearsing their character for a final performance. 2022 Musical Theatre Camps include: Disney’s Moana Jr., the Lion King Jr., The Jungle Book Kids and Roald Dahl’s James and the Giant Peach Jr.

Academy of Ballet’s Summer Ballet Intensive runs June 1–28, with daily classes M-F for dancers with ballet training age seven and up as of September 1st. Dancers will have the option of performing at the end of the workshop. Weekly evening classes for beginners and continuing dancers aged three and up begin June 6! For information call (520) 886-1222 or visit www.academyofballetintucson.com.

Academy of Ballet is owned and operated

by Tucson Regional Ballet, a 501.c.3 nonprofit organization, home of A Southwest Nutcracker. Dancing in the Desert since 1981!

BOOKMANS ENTERTAINMENT EXCHANGE

2100 N. Wilmot Suite 302 520-886-1222 bwilde@tucsonregionalballet.org www.academyofballetintucson.com

Bookmans.com East • 520-748-9555 • North • 520-579-0303 Midtown • 325-5767 Check out Bookmans.com for a complete list of weekly summer kids events and activities starting June 2022!

CHILD & FAMILY RESOURCES GO GRRRLS FREE WORKSHOP

ARTS EXPRESS

5870 E. Broadway #214 • Park Place Mall 520-319-0400 Ages: 8–14 June 6–30, July 5–29 info@arts-express.org www.arts-express.org As a leader in Musical Theatre, Arts Express has served Southern Arizona for over 35 years. Each summer, kids take center stage at Musical Theatre Camps working with professional teaching artists to develop acting, singing, and dancing skills.

All students are assigned a role and learn

2800 E. Broadway Blvd.

520-881-8940 June 6–10 & July11–15 • Grades: 6–8 avasquez@cfraz.org bit.ly/GoGrrrlsInterestCard

Check Us Out Online!

BearEssentialNews.com

Go Grrrls is designed to give girl-identified youth in grades 6–8 the skills and knowledge they need to plan for a future of success.

Youth who participate in the Go Grrrls program will learn how to set and enforce boundries in situations. Learn to make healthy choices, set goals while playing games and earning prizes. Pre-registration is required.

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THE UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA TUCSON • JUNE 6–10, 2022

STEM

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT FOR TEACHERS Engage with science and engineering practices of NGSS through real-world applications of engineering and handson activities you can incorporate in your classroom.

WHO SHOULD ATTEND?

• K-12 teachers with an interest in science, math, engineering, and industrial/career and technical education.

WHY ATTEND?

• Engage in hands-on, low-cost activities that you can integrate into your classroom immediately.

• Help your students discover career opportunities in science and engineering, and meet practicing engineers.

• Strong connection to NGSS.

NO CHARGE, A $1,200 VALUE

(Made possible through generous donations to the ASM Materials Education Foundation)

WHAT’S INCLUDED?

• 4 CEU’s (40 hours), demonstration materials and meals.

GRADUATE CREDITS AVAILABLE!

• Two (2) graduate credits available (at participant’s expense) through the University of Missouri-Kansas City at $250.

QUESTIONS?

Jeane Deatherage, Program Coordinator • jeane.deatherage@asminternational.org • 440-671-3831

April 2022 • Bear Essential News • 15

continued from page 15

CHILDREN’S MUSEUM TUCSON

200 S. 6th Ave. • 520-792-9985 Option 5

education@childrensmuseumtucson.org www.childrensmuseumtucson.org/ tucson/education/camps-2022/

CMT Summer Camps offer fun-filled learning! Campers will enjoy hands-on art projects, experiments, demonstrations and time in the Museum. A variety of science, technology, engineering and art with Museum staff. Half-day camps, mornings only. Cost: $155 per weekly camp, member discount provided. Ages: 4–10

Includes one round of golf, one attraction and 12 arcade tokens.

All Park Pass: $26.50 per person. Includes one round of golf, four attractions and 12 arcade tokens.

Weekend Special: $30 per person. Two hours unlimited golf, Bumper Boats, Go-Karts and 12 arcade tokens.

Group and Birthday Party rates available.

Mask Required.

CONGREGATION ANSHEI ISRAEL PRESCHOOL 5550 E. 5th St. 520-745-5550 June 7–July 22

ECDirector@caiaz.org www.caiaz.org

Come join the fun at CAI Preschool summer camp. Children will enjoy water play days, amazing crafts, music, science, hands-on activities and more.

Our fun, loving staff and beautiful parklike shaded playground makes our summer camp the perfect place to be.

DAVID RUBIO VOLLEYBALL CAMPS

Camps Filling Fast.

Register TODAY!

520-818-8668 Contact: Amanda Rubio davidrubiovolleyballcamp@gmail.com www.davidrubiovolleyballcamp.com Mini Camp: May 31–June 2, 9 a.m.–3 p.m. $190 Serve and Pass Camp: May 31–June 1 4–6 p.m. $120 Mini Camp II: June 13–June 15, 8 a.m.– noon $160 Intermediate/Advance Camp: July 8–9, 9 a.m.–noon & 2–4:30 p.m. $210 Position Camp: July 10–12 Ala carte $50 per session or $350 for all sessions Elite Volleyball Camp: July 12–14 $285 Team Camp: July 15th–17 $155 per player

DRAMA KIDS INTERNATIONAL

7739 E. Broadway #113 • 520-444-9029 May–July Ages: 4–18 dramakidsaz1@cox.net www.dramakids.com/az1 Drama Kids camps are perfect for new actors wanting to discover their dramatic side, as well as for those actors wishing to continue to develop their theater, public speaking and musical theater skills while building character.

GOLF N’ STUFF

6503 E. Tanque Verde 520-296-2366 X13 • Taylor Nelson gnssales@gmail.com www.golfnstuff.com

Come and enjoy your summer at Golf N’ Stuff! Mini Park Pass: $18.50 per person.

16 • Bear Essential News • April 2022

HUMANE SOCIETY OF SOUTHERN ARIZONA Humane Amigos Summer Camp

635 W. Roger Road Summer Camps in June and July $300–($250 for Hand in Paw Kids Club members) 520-321-3704 X 171 • Amy Faulk afaulk@hssaz.org

www.hssaz.org/camp Rescue Crew (6-8 years) June 6-9, 9 a.m.–4 p.m.

June 20-23, 9 a.m.–4 p.m.

July 18-21, 9 a.m.–4 p.m.

Shelter Squad (9-12 years) June 13-16, 9 a.m.–4 p.m.

July 11-14, 9 a.m.–4 p.m.

July 25-28,9 a.m.–4 p.m.

The Humane Amigos Camps give children a new perspective on caring for animals, preventing animal cruelty, understanding animal behavior, and more. We use a variety of activities that stress an appreciation for our environment and preservation of our natural world: classroom activities, creative and artistic exercises, hands-on animal care, great games, and character-building lessons.

Kids and pets get together during Humane Amigos Camps. Campers spend a minimum of two hours daily caring for different camp foster animals. These animals may include ball pythons, rabbits, rats, guinea pigs, cats, and dogs. Humane Amigos Camps provide children with an in-depth, hands-on education about animal care and the human-animal bond.

IMAGINE PRESCHOOL (AMPHITHEATER)

Multiple Tucson Locations 520-696-6927 www.amphi.com/domain/2362

The Amphitheater School District has FREE and low-cost preschool options.

Our programs are staffed with certified teachers who use proven curriculum to prepare children for kindergarten with age-appropriate activities in a safe, caring environment. DES Certified and Scholarships also available.

LA PALOMA ACADEMY Central: 2050 N. Wilmot Lakeside: 8140 E. Golf Links Rd. South: 5660 S. 12th Ave. Ages: 3–12

breakfast, lunch, afternoon snack, and all activities. La Paloma’s summer camp is DES eligible. Enrollment deadline is May 27. Call 520-807-9668 for more information.

www.lpatucson.org/

Central: Get ready for a summer of fun! At La Paloma South’s summer camp, kids, age 3-12, can keep busy, Monday-Friday, from June 1-July 22, 7:30 a.m.- 6 p.m. We’ll provide fully supervised activities like arts and crafts, sports, swimming, academic enrichment, and more. The weekly rate of $150 includes breakfast, lunch, afternoon snack, and all activities. La Paloma’s summer camp is DES eligible. Enrollment deadline is May 27. Call 520-721-4205 for more information.

Lakeside: Get ready for a summer of fun! At La Paloma South’s summer camp, kids, age 3-12, can keep busy, Monday-Friday, from June 1-July 22, 7:30 a.m.- 6 p.m. We’ll provide fully supervised activities like arts and crafts, sports, swimming, academic enrichment, and more. The weekly rate of $150 includes breakfast, lunch, afternoon snack, and all activities. La Paloma’s summer camp is DES eligible. Enrollment deadline is May 27. Call 520-733-7373 for more information.

South: Get ready for a summer of fun! At La Paloma South’s summer camp, kids, age 3-12, can keep busy, Monday-Friday, from June 1-July 22, 7:30 a.m.- 6 p.m. We’ll provide fully supervised activities like arts and crafts, sports, swimming, academic enrichment, and more. The weekly rate of $150 includes

THE MINI TIME MACHINE MUSEUM OF MINIATURES

4455 E. Camp Lowell Dr. 520-881-0606 Ages: 6–13 Program Dates: June 6 to July 1, 2022 mackenziem@theminiatimemachine.org www.theminitimemachine.org/summer-camp/ Our week-long summer camp sessions incorporate hands-on STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, and math) concepts in a fun environment designed for students to build, explore, and create.

Half-day camp sessions take place from 9am-noon or 1-4pm Monday through Friday from June 6 to July 1, 2022. All supplies to complete projects provided. To ensure a quality experience, each camp is limited to 15 participants. Pre-registration is required. $135.00 per child, per session ($121.50 for museum members). Limited financial aid available for qualified participants; visit website for more details.

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April 2022 • Bear Essential News • 17

AMPHITHEATER PRESCHOOLS

continued from page 17

ORO VALLEY SUMMER CAMPS

Various Locations in Oro Valley June–July Ages: 6–12 www.playOV.com .Weekly camps with a variety of activities.

Art + STEAM = STEAM Camp: This awardwinning educational program uses STEAM and the great outdoors to teach students about life of the past, science and geology of the Sonoran Desert, technology and arts and culture.

Camp Swim Play Fun (SPF): Campers will swim, hit golf and tennis balls, play games and create arts & crafts.

Camp SPLASH: This high energy program includes swim lessons, park play, crafts and music fun.

Horse Camp – Crazy for Horses: Ride both Western and English styles and learn about horse behavior, horse care and equine anatomy. Emphasis is placed on the relationship with the horse and safety.

I Can Too! Camp at the Community Center: This camp for young people with disabilities includes: games, sports, activities, and art & crafts.

Play-Well Teknologies Camp: Explore fundamental principles of engineering and physics as we dive into our LEGO® collection to build elaborate objects, structures and vehicles.

18 • Bear Essential News • April 2022

TGA Premier Sports Camp: Includes Flag Football Camp, Cheer Camp, and Sports Camp (flag football, floor hockey, lacrosse and ultimate disc.) All camps focus on skill development in a friendly, safe and positive environment.

Young Rembrandts Drawing Classes: Features a step-by-step teaching method to introduce students to the foundation of art, teaching art techniques and art history.

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April 2022 • Bear Essential News • 19

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PRESIDIO MUSEUM SUMMER CAMP 196 N. Court Ave. 520-622-0594 aprilb@tucson presidio.com

www.tucsonpresidio.com Live Tucson’s History Summer Camp June 13–17 Ages 8–12 Camp participants will experience how people in the Presidio lived through a series of hands-on activities. These activities may include blacksmithing/tinsmithing, training to be a Spanish soldier, experiencing foods that are native to the Sonoran Desert, or even candle making.

Theater/Re-enactment Summer Camp June 13–17 Ages 9-13 Learn local history through play: role play, theatrical re-enactment and fictional dramatization of historical events. The Presidio Museum is the ideal setting for young imaginations to bring Tucson’s unique history alive. With access to a wide array of period structures, backdrops, costumes and props, young participants will truly feel they are living history.

Activities include: • Play-acting and creation of short skits based on historical characters and events using period costumes and sets • Traditional games and play activities • Hands-on local agricultural practices Early People/Culture Camp June 20–24 Ages 11-14 Participants will learn about the history and culture of the Tucson area through a series of hands-on activities that may include assisting a blacksmith, making adobe bricks by hand, and making soap from native plants.

Live Tucson’s History Summer Camp June 20–24 Ages 8-12 Camp participants will experience how people in the Presidio lived through a series of hands-on activities. These activities may include blacksmithing/tinsmithing, training to be a Spanish soldier, experiencing foods that are native to the Sonoran Desert, or even candle making.

REID PARK ZOO 3400 Zoo Court 520-837-8200

Weekly Camps June 6- through July 29 education@reidparkzoo.org www.reidparkzoo.org/events/ This year’s camp includes a weeklong camp for grades 1-2 and 3-6 and a two-day camp for grades 7-8.

Price for the week-long camp for grades 1-2, 3-6 is $325 for nonmembers ($285 for Zoo members), Price for 7-8 grade 2 day camp is $155 for nonmembers ($115 for Zoo members) Advance registration required.

Scholarships are available.

Limited capacity.

ROCK SOLID CLIMBING 3949 W Costco Dr Suite 151 520-222-6228 June–July • Ages: 5–12

20 • Bear Essential News • April 2022

Cory@RockSolidClimbing.com www.rocksolidclimbing.com/summercamp

Don’t let your kids climb your walls this summer. Let them climb ours instead! Rock Solid Climbing provides an excellent and varied all-day, week-long summer camp program for children ages 5–12. Kids will run, jump, paint, draw, play games, solve puzzles and of course CLIMB!

TUCSON ARIZONA BOYS CHORUS 5770 E. Pima 520-296-6277 June 13–17 Ages: 6–14

https://boyschorus.org/adventure/ Join us June 13-17 for a fun and engaging week of Day Camp! We’re excited for you to join us on this week of adventure, including singing, rodeo roping, acting, stagecraft, and much more. Our camp is offered in two sessions based on age with three half days of camp, and two full days. Camp locations include the TABC Chorus Hall, Reid Park, and a local theatre.

Register by April 30 for Early Bird Discount.

TUCSON CLAY CO–OP SCHOOL & GALLERY 3326 N. Dodge Blvd.

917-705-3803 Ages: 6–12

tucsonclaycoop@yahoo.com www.tucsonclayco-op.com/kids1.html

Summer Clay Camp with Paul Waldron.

Five sessions available from May–July.

Campers will learn Wheel Hand Building Sculpture. All materials included in camp price.

All children must be vaccinated and masks are required.

Session 1: May 31, June 2, 3, 7, 9, 10 Session 2: June 14, 16, 17, 21, 23, 24 Session 3: June 28, 30, July 1, 5, 7 , 8 Session 4: July 12, 14, 15, 19, 21, 22 Session 5: July 26, 28, 29

TUCSON MUSEUM OF ART SUMMER ARTS PROGRAM

166 W. Alameda 520-624-2333 ext 7121 education@TucsonMuseumofArt.org www.tucsonmuseumofart.org

Draw, paint, sculpt, collage, print and more at the Tucson Museum of Art. Each weekly session is led by local teaching artists and art educators focusing on in-depth lessons in art making. Classes are inspired by the permanent collection and special exhibitions. The museum offers classes for ages 5 – 13 to express their creativity and produce original works of art.

Dates: Monday -Friday, June 6–Aug. 5 (closed week of July 4–8) Full Day Member Price: $225, NonMember- $250 Aftercare: $40 until 5 p.m. for the week

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TUCSON PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT

900 S. Randolph Way • 520-791-4877 tucsonaz.gov/parks

Find your fun with Tucson Parks and Recreation for a safe and educational summertime experience.

Look for the Ready, Set, Rec! vans at a park near you from now through the end of May. The schedule is listed at this link: Tucsonaz.gov/parks/readysetrec

TUCSON JCC SUMMER CAMP

3800 E. River Road 520-299-3000 rkelley@tucsonjcc.org www.tucshonjcc.org/camp Every day is an adventure at Camp J! Camp J provides a safe, fun, and caring environment for youth in grades K–9. Campers enjoy a wide variety of intentionally designed, developmentally appropriate programming and activities that encourage the development of life skills including sports, swimming, archery, STEM, arts and crafts, cooking, woodworking, music, drama, tikkun olam (social responsibility and community service), field trips and more! Campers enjoy access to the J’s indoor play space, pool and splash pad, sports fields, art studio, demo kitchen, and Sculpture Garden, all while building confidence and making friends and

memories that last a lifetime. Camp J welcomes campers of all abilities. Let the ADVENTURE begin!

TUCSON RACQUET CLUB SUMMER CAMP

4001 N. Country Club Rd. 520-303-7902 • Gretchen Schantz May 31–August 5 9 a.m.–2 p.m. summercamp@tucsonracquetclub.com www.tucsonracquetclub.com

Tucson Racquet Club offers a “Sports Camp” for all ages, abilities and interest.

Soccer Camp (ages 8–14) Get ready for the “World Cup” Soccer drills and skills in the morning, a jump in the pool and lunch and more soccer in the afternoon.

Pee Wee Soccer Camp (ages 5–7) Features soccer drills in the morning, followed by swim and arts & crafts All Sports Camp (ages 7–15) Lifetime sports include tennis, basketball, volleyball, swimming, racquetball and martial arts.

PeeWee Camp (ages 5–7) Features basketball, tennis, gym time, swimming and arts & crafts Tennis Camp (ages 7–17) Tennis instruction, drill and matchplay.

Jr Eventing Tennis Camp (Ages 7–17) Tennis instruction, drill and fun in the cool evening!

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Summer Camps

at the Presidio Museum!

Live Tucson’s History — Weeks of June 13 and 20, Ages 8-12 Activities may include: • Blacksmithing/Tinsmithing

• Training to be a Spanish soldier • Sonoran Desert food tasting • Candle making

Cultures of Tucson Camp — Week of June 20, Ages 11-14

Theater/Re-enactment Camp — Week of June 13, Ages 9-15

Learn about the history and culture of the Tucson area through a series of hands-on activities that may include:

Activities include: • Play-acting and creation of skits based on historical characters • Traditional games and play activities • Hands-on local agricultural practices

• Traditional stories • Making adobe bricks by hand • Making soap from native plants

Archaeology Camp — Week of June 27, Ages 10-14

All camps run 8:30 am –3:30 pm $290 for non-members $265 for Presidio Museum Members 10% off for siblings For more information and to register, tucsonpresidio.com/summer-camps/

Activities may include: • Use of prehistoric tools • Practice archaeological dig • Artifact analysis exercises

Presidio San Augustin del Tucson Museum • 196 N. Court Ave. 520-622-0594 • www.TucsonPresidio.com April 2022 • Bear Essential News • 21

2022 ARIZONA

VOLLEYBALL McKale, UA Campus 5/31–6/8 Mini Camp I First time player or beginner 9:00am–3:00pm $190 5/31–6/2

Serve & Pass Camp 4:00pm–6:00pm $120

Sporting Chance Center 6/13–6/15 Mini Camp II First time player or beginner 9:00am–3:00pm $190 McKale, UA Campus 7/8–7/9 Intermediate & Advanced Camp 9:00am–12:00pm & 2:00pm–4:30pm $210 7/10–7/12 Position Camp Ala carte, $50 per session, or $350 for all sessions This camp is not an official function of the University of Arizona and is open to all entrants. Limited only by number, grade level and/ or gender.

7/12–7/14 Elite Volleyball Camp $285 7/15–7/17 Team Camp $155 per player

520-818-8668 • davidrubiovolleyballcamp@gmail.com

www.davidrubiovolleyballcamp.com www.facebook.com/DavidRubioVolleyballCamp

22 • Bear Essential News • April 2022

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TUSD FULL STEAM AHEAD & COMMUNITY EDUCATION PROGRAMS https://bit.ly/3jaAcjD https://bit.ly/3NSifV4

TUSD offers two types of programs for your family: FREE Full Steam Ahead Summer Experience at all TUSD schools (Grades K-7).

Uses Opening Minds through the Arts (OMA), STEM curriculum, led by highlyengaged teachers. Students also receive ELA and Math instruction in small groups.

Register for Summer Programs: https://bit. ly/3jaAcjD Community School Summer Programs engage students in various activities that include music, arts & crafts, indoor/outdoor games, field trips, and more! ( Grades PK5) Community Summer Programs: https:// bit.ly/3NSifV4 Programs are licensed by the Arizona Department of Health Services and accept DES. Our summer programs provide families with a safe, nurturing, and structured environment. All TUSD Safety protocols will be in place.

YMCA OF SOUTHERN ARIZONA

520-623-9481 60 W. Alameda June 6–July 29 Camp: 5–12yrs Overnight Camp: 7–17yrs foryouth@tucsonymca.org Day Camp: https://tucsonymca.org/program/ summercamp/ Resident (Overnight) Camp: https://tucsonymca.org/program/residentcamp/ Discover your sense of wonder this summer! The Y is offering both day camp and resident (overnight) camp options. The line-up for the Y’s Summer Camp includes: STEAM activities, NASA projects, team-building, trips to the pool and celebrating you! (Day Camp is offered at Y sites across the greater Tucson area.) Additionally, resident (overnight) campers will enjoy horseback riding, archery, stargazing, zip lining and challenge course adventures!

Have a Great Time at Camp!

April 2022 • Bear Essential News • 23

FARMERS CELEBRATE EARTH DAY, EVERY DAY!

24 • Bear Essential News • April 2022