Rowan’s Summer Camps: Options for All

The others? Well, the others passed the morning returning their coffee mugs back to the microwave in intervals, the treasured caffeine carrier being easily forgotten amongst the chaos of the family’s youngest and dearest enjoying another summertime surplus in wild (and loud) abandon: free time.

In either case, the next thought of those on-looking adults is easy to predict.

“How, oh how, am I going to keep these little angels from tearing down the walls for nearly ELEVEN. WHOLE. WEEKS?”

But there’s hope for all those feeling the weight of this daunting task. Apart from claiming a host of entertaining day trip destinations, Rowan County is home to dozens, if not hundreds of summer camp options.

• Creative Arts and Trade Skills
• Outdoors and Equestrian/Farm Skills
• Performing Arts
• Sports and Fitness
• STEM and Summer Learning

Elise Tellez, Director of Horizons Unlimited and a host of one of the county’s offerings, spoke on the benefit of this wide array of choices.

“I think that having different options for students to experience different interests or get exposed to different things is really great,” she said.

Tellez’s organization will offer a weeklong EcosySTEM camp for ages 6 to 12 this year, focusing on science, technology, engineering, and math as attendees explore a different ecosystem during each camp day. Her camp’s theme offered a pointed example of the benefit of these varying interest explorations.

“Our experiences are really good for students who might not typically identify as being ‘good at science’ or enjoying science,” she said. “Getting to have a hands-on, fun experience makes them feel a little empowered when they get back to school in August. They might think ‘oh my gosh, I think I’m really into science now,’ or ‘maybe I want to take a higher-level science class!’ There’s a benefit in that. Sometimes subjects can feel a little more boring unless you make it fun.”

With so many different summer camp options, variety extends outside of subject matters and into modalities as well. Rowan County is home to Yadkin Path Montessori School, which itself has been offering summer camps for kids aged 18 months to rising sixth graders since 2016.

Montessori schools differ from a traditional school setting in that the child is given charge over their educational path. The same carries over for their camps, explained Assistant Director Katelyn Boggs.

“In Montessori, we value children as complete, capable, and whole human beings,” she said. “This is reflected in how we speak to them, what we require of them, and the way we expect them to interact with each other…Children are not forced to participate in activities they aren’t interested in, nor are they punished or shamed if they have other interests they wish to pursue independently.”

This year’s camps at Yadkin Path include toddler, pre-school, and elementary-aged camps rooted in nature immersion. The school is located on a 9-acre campus with woods and meadows, and children-driven explorations will occur at study centers on botany, zoology, ornithology, entomology, and herpetology.

By allowing camp attendees to identify their own interests and steer their own explorations of such, Boggs said, Yadkin Path helps attendees grow in a variety of capacities.

“Our methodology results in children having more independence, more self-awareness, and awareness of others, more empathy, and kindness, a better ability to communicate and interact with people of all ages, and more confidence in who they are,” she said.

Still, other camp opportunities offer attendees the chance to explore potential career paths. Rowan-Cabarrus Community College, for example, is offering nine camps dedicated to a variety of trades. From welding to engineering, to improv – there’s an opportunity for exploration for all.

“We offer students the opportunity to begin thinking about their futures through the experience of spending a week on a college campus and ‘trying on’ career opportunities,” said Sherie Neely, program director for Rowan-Cabarrus Community College. “We hope we are getting to know our future students as they attend our summer enrichment programs.”

With such a wide array of camp offerings, Tellez praised the county’s ability to meet its youngest citizens exactly where they are in terms of circumstance.

“I think because there are so many options, there are so many options of different price ranges — which is also good,” she said. “We have some really affordable camp options or day camps, and then we also have some really pricy camp options which are also fun. But, it’s good to have options that are approachable for different folks.”

Creative Arts and Trade Skills

• The Creature Feature ARTventure |Dates: June 13 – 17 • 9 a.m. – noon | Ages: 4-5 | Cost: $85 for members, $100 for non-members. Create a one-of-a-kind zoo using collage and paint, face paint, song, and dance. To register, contact Waterworks Visual Arts Center, 123 E. Liberty Street, Salisbury, 704-636-1882, waterworks.org
• A Trip over Yarn-der | Dates: June 13 – 17 • 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. | Ages: 9 – 11 | Cost: $120 for members, $135 for non-members. Inspired by the traditional folk art form of the Huichol people, learn how to create colorful yarn paintings that showcase images that are personally meaningful. Students will engage in a community-driven project. To register, contact Waterworks Visual Arts Center, 123 E. Liberty Street, Salisbury, 704-636-1882, waterworks.org
• Back to the Future of Quilting | Dates: July 11 – 15, 2022 • 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. | Ages: 10 to 14+ | Cost: $179. Learn to sew with local quilter and art educator, Ute Lentz. Whether it’s using straight stitch, measuring with fractions, or matching seams, attendees will create a historical keepsake for all time as they also learn about the unique way in which travelers on the Underground Railroad secretly communicate. Held at the Rowan-Cabarrus North Campus, Salisbury, contact Sherie Neely, sherie.neely@rccc.edu, 704-216-3545 for information.
• Claymation Creations: Animate Your Creativity | Dates: June 13 – 17 • 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. | Ages: 6-8 | Cost: $120 for members, $135 for non-members. Young filmmakers will learn about animation principles and the tools to make their own stop motion animation films. To register, contact Waterworks Visual Arts Center, 123 E. Liberty Street, Salisbury, 704-636-1882, waterworks.org
• Clay Play ARTventure | Dates: June 20 – 24 • 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. | Ages: 4 – 5 | Cost: $85 for members, $100 for non-members. Push, pull, pound, and squish clay into anything you can imagine. Learn how to make homemade playdough and other materials. Waterworks Visual Arts Center, 123 E. Liberty Street, Salisbury, 704-636-1882, waterworks.org
• Comics and Cartooning | Dates: June 20 – 24 • 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. | Ages: 6 – 8 | Cost: $120 for members, $135 for non-members. Design, illustrate and put together imaginative comics and cartoons. Study bodily features of humans, animals, and fantasy creatures and employ color and effects. To register, contact Waterworks Visual Arts Center, 123 E. Liberty Street, Salisbury, 704-636-1882, waterworks.org
• Dream It, Sculpt It | Dates: June 20 – 24 • 9 a.m. – noon | Ages: 6 – 8 | Cost: $120 for members, $135 for non-members. Create scenery and multiple characters from imaginary worlds using a variety of sculpture techniques with cardboard, foam core, wire, modeling clay, and paint. To register, contact Waterworks Visual Arts Center, 123 E. Liberty Street, Salisbury, 704-636-1882, waterworks.org
• Eric Carle’s the Very Hungry Brown Bear | Dates: June 27 – July 1 • 9 a.m. – noon | Ages: 6 – 8 | Cost: $120 for members, $135 for non-members. Introduction to basic collage techniques. Study techniques of Eric Carle and use as a basis for creating a collage piece. To register, contact Waterworks Visual Arts Center, 123 E. Liberty Street, Salisbury, 704-636-1882, waterworks.org
• Express Yourself with Yarn-Knitting & Crochet | Dates: July 18 – 22, 2022 • 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. | Ages: 12 to 14+ | Cost: $179. From scarves to hats to sweaters, express yourself with yarn. In this fun and intriguing class, you’ll discover interesting and useful similarities between knitting and crocheting. You’ll be “hooked” on making your own unique projects as you create your own designs. Held at the Rowan-Cabarrus North Campus, Salisbury, contact Sherie Neely, sherie.neely@rccc.edu, 704-216-3545 for information.
• Fashion Design & Sewing Camp | Dates: June 13 – 17, 2022 • 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. | Ages: 12 to 18 | Cost: $179. Learn to sew and tap into your creative potential this summer. You will choose a pattern, cut out the pieces, and sew the details. Then choose notions, embellishments, and finishings to create your own design for a fashion show on the final day. Held at the Rowan-Cabarrus South Campus, Concord, contact Sherie Neely, sherie.neely@rccc.edu, 704-216-3545 for information.
• Hand & Wheel | Dates: June 13 – 17 • 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. | Ages: 12 – 18 | Cost: $120 for members, $135 for non-members. Attendees will use molds, coils, slabs, and underglazes to transform clay into fun and unique pottery pieces. Potters are also taught to use the wheel to make bowls, cups, and more and develop their pottery skills. To register, contact Waterworks Visual Arts Center, 123 E. Liberty Street, Salisbury, 704-636-1882, waterworks.org
• Hand & Wheel, Jr. | Dates: June 27 – July 1 • 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. |Ages: 6 – 8 | Cost: $120 for members, $135 for non-members. Develop fine motor skills, problem-solving skills, imagination, initiative, and curiosity. Pinch, twist, roll, and coil clay into all types of creations. To register, contact Waterworks Visual Arts Center, 123 E. Liberty Street, Salisbury, 704-636-1882, waterworks.org
• Hand & Wheel: Animals and Habitats in Clay | Dates: July 11 – 15 • 9 a.m. – noon | Ages: 6 – 8 | Cost: $120 for members, $135 for non-members. Learn hand-building techniques to create a bevy of clay critters. Introduction to the potter’s wheel and age-appropriate throwing techniques. To register, contact Waterworks Visual Arts Center, 123 E. Liberty Street, Salisbury, 704-636-1882, waterworks.org
• Hand & Wheel ARTventure | Dates: June 13 – 17, June 20 – 24, June 27 – July 1 • 9 a.m. – noon. | Ages: 9-11 | Cost: $120 for members, $135 for non-members. Learn how to use clay and clay tools to make pottery pieces. Hand-building students use molds, coils, slabs, and underglazes to transform clay into fun and unique pottery pieces. Potters are also taught to use the wheel to make bowls, cups and more and develop their pottery skills. To register, contact Waterworks Visual Arts Center, 123 E. Liberty Street, Salisbury, 704-636-1882, waterworks.org
• It’s Stitchin’ Time! (5-8) | Dates: June 20-22 • 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. | Ages: 5-8 | Cost: $15 | Location: Rowan County Extension Office. We will focus on basic hand stitches and sewing with a sewing machine. Attendees will be paired with an experienced adult for more one-on-one attention as they complete a sewing project to take home. Experienced and beginner crafters are encouraged to participate. Contact Laura Allen, 4-H Agent, at 704-216-8970 or laura_allen@ncsu.edu for more information.
• It’s Stitchin’ Time! (9-18) | Dates: June 23 & 24 • 12:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. | Ages: 9-18 | Cost: $15 | Location: Rowan County Extension Office. We will focus on basic hand stitches and sewing with a sewing machine. Attendees will be paired with an experienced adult for more one-on-one attention as they complete a sewing project to take home. Experienced and beginner crafters are encouraged to participate. Contact Laura Allen, 4-H Agent, at 704-216-8970 or laura_allen@ncsu.edu for more information.
• Make It Pop | Dates: June 20 – 24 • 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. | Ages: 9-11 | Cost: $120 for members, $135 for non-members. Learn about elements of pop-up paper engineering such as flaps, pull-tabs, and multilevel platforms used to make books. Use story ideas and imagination to build and create pop-up designs for students’ own pop-up books. To register, contact Waterworks Visual Arts Center, 123 E. Liberty Street, Salisbury, 704-636-1882, waterworks.org
• Metal Mania: Jewelry | July 11 – 15 • 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. | Ages: 12 – 18 | Cost: $120 for members, $135 for non-members. | Learn to make metal earrings, necklaces, and bracelets. Cut, texture, and shape metal using traditional metalworking tools. Explore wire and beading techniques to join pieces together. To register, contact Waterworks Visual Arts Center, 123 E. Liberty Street, Salisbury, 704-636-1882, waterworks.org
• Modern Masters: Personality Portraits. June 27 – July 1 • 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. | Ages: 12 – 18 | Cost: $120 for members, $135 for non-members. Convey your personality into portraits using a variety of painting techniques inspired by contemporary artists such as Kehinde Wilde, Chuck Close, Andy Warhol, Vladimir Tretchikoff, Debra Hurd, and more. Learn how to paint color studies and stories, underpaintings, and large-scale portraits. To register, contact Waterworks Visual Arts Center, 123 E. Liberty Street, Salisbury, 704-636-1882, waterworks.org
• Oaxaca Papier Mache Animals | July 11 – 15 • 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. |Ages 6 – 8 | Cost: $120 for members, $135 for non-members. Learn to draw animals step-by-step in a very easy and understandable way. Create sculptures and finish by painting with colorful patterns inspired by the Oaxaca animal sculptures of Mexico. To register, contact Waterworks Visual Arts Center, 123 E. Liberty Street, Salisbury, 704-636-1882, waterworks.org
• Painterly Pastels | June 27 – July 1 • 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. | Ages: 9 – 11 | Cost: $120 for members, $135 for non-members. Learn different drawing techniques in addition to understanding and applying color theory with chalk and oil pastels. To register, contact Waterworks Visual Arts Center, 123 E. Liberty Street, Salisbury, 704-636-1882, waterworks.org
• Painting, Drawing and Self-Expression | July 11 – 15 • 9 a.m. – noon | Ages: 9 – 11 | Cost: $120 for members, $135 for non-members. Learn basics of drawing and color theory in addition to painting, pulling it all together into a finished masterpiece to express each person’s individuality as an artist. To register, contact Waterworks Visual Arts Center, 123 E. Liberty Street, Salisbury, 704-636-1882, waterworks.org
• Plein Air Painting | June 13 – 17 • 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. | Ages: 12 – 18 | Cost: $120 for members, $135 for non-members. Experimental ways of making art result in paintings that reflect intense observation through the senses. To register, contact Waterworks Visual Arts Center, 123 E. Liberty Street, Salisbury, 704-636-1882, waterworks.org
• Pop Art in Clay | June 20 – 24 • 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. | Ages: 12 – 18 | Cost: $120 for members, $135 for non-members. Explore the fun and colorful Pop Art Movement. Create colorful sculptures, wheel-thrown vessels, and self-portrait tiles inspired by Claes Oldenber, Romero Britto, Andy Warhol, and Roy Lichtenstein. To register, contact Waterworks Visual Arts Center, 123 E. Liberty Street, Salisbury, 704-636-1882, waterworks.org
• Q is for Quilt ARTventure | June 13 – 17 • 9 a.m. – noon | Ages: 6-8 | Cost: $120 for members, $135 for non-members. Individual and collaborative projects inspired by traditional cloth quilts. Students will learn basic techniques of quilt designs turning geometric shapes into colorful painted patterns. Techniques will be implemented in a community-driven project. To register, contact Waterworks Visual Arts Center, 123 E. Liberty Street, Salisbury, 704-636-1882, waterworks.org
• RCCC Welding Warriors: Where Welding is so Hot, It’s Cool! | Dates: June 20 – 24, 2022 • 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. | Ages: Rising 8th, 9th, and 10th grade students | Cost: $179. Attendees experience a completely hands-on summer enrichment program that teaches the basics skills necessary for welding metals in a fully functioning welding lab. Throughout five days, campers will use SMAW (STICK) welding, GMAW (MIG) welding, oxy-acetylene torches and CNC Plasma machines to create a take-home project they will want to keep forever. Held at the A.L. Brown High School, Kannapolis, contact Sherie Neely, sherie.neely@rccc.edu, 704-216-3545 for information.
• Robots, Aliens and Monsters, Oh My! ARTventure | July 11 – 15 • 9 a.m. – noon | Ages: 4 – 5 | Cost: $85 for members, $100 for non-members. Brainstorm and use imagination to create friendly monsters, robots, and aliens from found objects, recycled materials, paint, paper, and slime. To register, contact Waterworks Visual Arts Center, 123 E. Liberty Street, Salisbury, 704-636-1882, waterworks.org
• Sculpt and Spin Across the Ages | July 11 – 15 • 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. | Ages: 9 – 11 | Cost: $120 for members, $135 for non-members. Learn a variety of hand-building and potter’s wheel techniques. Sculpt and spin bowls, plates, cups, and more to learn about ancient and modern ceramic artists. To register, contact Waterworks Visual Arts Center, 123 E. Liberty Street, Salisbury, 704-636-1882, waterworks.org
• Want to Build a Snowman…in July? ARTventure | June 27 – July 1 • 9 a.m. – noon | Ages: 4 – 5 | Cost: $85 for members, $100 for non-members. | Ice paint, snow dough, and watercolor northern lights. Stories and fun movements are integrated into each class. To register, contact Waterworks Visual Arts Center, 123 E. Liberty Street, Salisbury, 704-636-1882, waterworks.org

Outdoors and Equestrian/Farm Skills

• Bee Basics (9-18) | Date: July 19 • 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. | Age: 9-18 | Cost: $10 | Location: Rowan County Extension Office. We will start the class with indoor activities as we learn about the life cycle of a honeybee, their importance to agriculture, and how to care for honeybees. At the end of the class, we will suit up and take a look at the beehives located at our office and put our new bee knowledge to work! Visit https://rowan.ces.ncsu.edu/rowan-county-4-h-summer-fun/ for details on how to register.

• Bee Basics (5-8) | Date: August 5 • 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. | Age: 5-8 years old | Cost: $10 | Location: Rowan County Extension Office. We will start the class with indoor activities as we learn about the life cycle of a honeybee, their importance to agriculture, and how to care for honeybees. At the end of the class, we will suit up and take a look at the beehives located at our office and put our new bee knowledge to work! Visit https://rowan.ces.ncsu.edu/rowan-county-4-h-summer-fun/ for details on how to register.
• CBC KID’S CAMP | Date: June 20 – 23 8:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. | Ages: Kindergarten through 6^th | Cost: $25 | Location: Central Baptist Church, Kannapolis. his camp is an awesome opportunity for your child. The camp includes daily skills, music, games, small group and lesson time. Cost includes all activities, lunch and snacks. Visit www.cbckannapolis.com/kids-camp-2022 to register.

• Dairy 101 | Date: June 28 • 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. | Age: 9-13 | Cost: $10 | Location: Rowan County Extension Office. Youths will get to see and taste different types of dairy products from dairy goats, dairy cattle, and water buffalo. Youths will learn more about the dairy industry and the steps taken for those products to end up in the grocery store. Visit https://rowan.ces.ncsu.edu/rowan-county-4-h-summer-fun/ for details on how to register.
• Happy’s Farm 2022 Barnyard Adventures Summer Camp | Date: May 26 – August 9 • 7 a.m. – 6 p.m. | Cost: $25 per day. Breakfast, lunch, and snow cones included. Educational farm activities and western-themed splash pad. To register, contact Happy’s Farm, Inc., 985 Parks Road, Salisbury. 704-279-5268, happysfarm.org
• Horticulture Heroes | Date: August 2-4 1 PM – 4 PM | Ages: Kindergarten – 2^nd grade | Cost: $15 | Location: Rowan County Extension Office. Explore the superheroes of the plant world and make some cool art too! Visit https://rowan.ces.ncsu.edu/rowan-county-4-h-summer-fun/ for details on how to register.
• Ladies Horse Camp 2022 | Dates: August 29-31 • 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. | Ages: 18+ | Cost: $200. Cost includes riding, painting, crafts, and more! Great for those who haven’t ridden in a while or who have limited experience. If you are an experienced horsewoman, you are welcome to join as well, just understand some of your campmates may need to take things slow. Either way, we plan to have a fun, relaxed, horsey time! Visit savinggracefarm.com/ladies-camp-2022.html to register.

• Life On The Farm Summer Camp | Dates: June 6 – 9 ; June 27 – 30 • 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. | Cost: $200 with $50 deposit. Learn about God’s word and how it relates to our animals and our lives. Activities will include daily Bible stories that relate to the animals we are working with, making tie-dye t-shirts, how to milk a goat, making homemade ice cream and cheese, how to harness and drive a horse, and more. Children can take home fresh eggs they collect daily Contact Misfit Manor, 370 Atwell Rd, Mt Ulla, NC 28125, (704) 305-3092 for details on how to register.
• Let’s Get Gardening! (5-8) | Date: June 2 • 9 AM – 12 PM |Ages: 5-8 | Cost: $15 | Location: Rowan County Extension Office. Youths will propagate plants, plant summer garden seeds, & learn plant ID! Plants/seeds will go home with them. Visit https://rowan.ces.ncsu.edu/rowan-county-4-h-summer-fun/ for details on how to register.
• Let’s Get Gardening! (9-18) | Date: June 1 • 9 AM – 12 PM | Age: 9-18 | Cost: $15. Location: Rowan County Extension Office. Youths will propagate plants, plant summer garden seeds, & learn plant ID! Plants/seeds will go home with them. Visit https://rowan.ces.ncsu.edu/rowan-county-4-h-summer-fun/ for details on how to register.
• Patterson Farm Market & Tours Summer Fun Camp | Dates: June 20 – June 24 or July 11 – July 15 • 8:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. | Ages: 4-11 (campers) / 12-14 (Farmers-in-Training) | Cost: $199 (campers) / $115 (Farmers-in-Training). We have a bounty of activities planned which are centered around farm life. Campers are guaranteed to have fun while learning about where their food comes from and farm animal life.  They will also enjoy farm crafts and games. Call (704) 636-4005 for more details.
• WinShape Summer Camp for K-8 students | Dates: June 27 – July 1 • 7:45 a.m. – 5 p.m. | Ages: Kindergarten – 8^th | Cost: $99 (includes lunches and 2 snacks daily). Experience the ultimate day camp combining fun, faith, and friendship by cultivating God-given skills and talents. Indoor and outdoor, physical activity and creative play. Contact Milford Hills United Methodist Church, 1630 Statesville Blvd, Salisbury, 704-636-0471, milfordhillsumc.org/winshape to register.
• Yadkin Path Montessori Toddler Camps | Dates: June 13 – 17 and June 20 – 24 or July 18 – 22 and July 25 – July 29 • 8:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. | Cost: $175. Nature Immersion study centers on botany, zoology, ornithology, entomology, and herpetology on our nine-acre campus, collecting and studying specimens, and learning the correct names and parts of objects found in nature. Includes gardening, nature walks and wildlife observation, outdoor exercise, creative arts, music, and singing. Contact yadkinpath@gmail.com for information.
• Yadkin Path Montessori Children’s House Camp | Dates: June 6 – 10, June 13 – 17, June 20 – 24, June 27 – July 1, July 11 – 15, July 18 – 22 • 8:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. or 8:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. | Ages: 3 – 5 | Cost: $150 (half-day) to $220 (whole day) Nature Immersion study centers on botany, zoology, ornithology, entomology, and herpetology on our nine-acre campus, collecting and studying specimens, and learning the correct names and parts of objects found in nature. Includes gardening, nature walks, and wildlife observation, outdoor exercise, creative arts, music, and singing. Contact yadkinpath@gmail.com for information.
• Yadkin Path Montessori Elementary Camps | Dates: June 6 – 10, June 13 – 17, June 20 – 24, June 27 – July 1, July 11 – 15, July 18 – 22 | Ages: Rising 1^st to rising 6^th | Cost: $250. This camp includes all of the activities listed above, plus various specialties taught by local experts. Elementary children will also read books and discuss them, move their bodies, practice fine-motor skills, practice social skills, play games, make art and music, cook, garden, and explore their individual interests with the guidance of the teacher. Contact yadkinpath@gmail.com for information.

Performing Arts

• All Disney, All Broadway | Dates: June 6 – 10 • 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
  Ages: Second – sixth grade | Cost: $175. Attendees will explore a variety of Disney’s musicals and their Broadway adaptations through dancing, singing, and acting. Shows include AIDA, Aladdin, Beauty and The Beast, Frozen, The Little Mermaid, Newsies, Mary Poppins, Tarzan and more. For inquiries, contact Piedmont Players Theatre, 213 S. Main Street, Salisbury, 704-633-5471, piedmontplayers.com
• Broadway Bootcamp | Dates: July 25 – 29 • 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. | Ages: Second – sixth grade | Cost: $175. Theater dance of all styles set to some of the most popular Broadway hits. For inquiries, contact Piedmont Players Theatre, 213 S. Main Street, Salisbury, 704-633-5471, piedmontplayers.com
• Drums 4 Life: African Drum Class |Dates: June 13 – 17, 2022 • 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. | Ages: 11 to 18 | Cost: $179. Taught by Kojo Bey, this camp immerses attendees in djembe orchestra instruments and drumming techniques. Students will explore the many uses of West African drums, as well as dance movements, history, songs, storytelling, repertoire, choreography, costuming, and other cultural lessons. This ancient art form has been known to bring healing to audiences and participants alike. Held the Rowan-Cabarrus South Campus, Concord, contact Sherie Neely, sherie.neely@rccc.edu, 704-216-3545 for information.
• From Page to Stage | Dates: June 13 – 17 • 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. | Ages: Sixth – eighth grade | Cost: $175. Spend the week developing and becoming your favorite literary characters. Camp will not only work with existing material such as Matilda, The Wizard of Oz, Seussical and others, but offer opportunities to adapt attendees favorite books for the stage. For inquiries, contact Piedmont Players Theatre, 213 S. Main Street, Salisbury, 704-633-5471, piedmontplayers.com.
• Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Summer | Dates: July 18 – 22 • 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. | Ages: Sixth – eighth grade. Cost: $175. Bring your knowledge of snitches and spells as you prepare to be sorted for the Summer of Sorcery. Campers will use inspiration from beloved books and films to create their own entirely new and unique adventure for the stage. For inquiries, contact Piedmont Players Theatre, 213 S. Main Street, Salisbury, 704-633-5471, piedmontplayers.com.
• Improv on the Go | Dates: June 13 – 17, 2022 • 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. | Ages: 11 to 18 | Cost: $179. Campers will study the fundamentals and concepts of improvisation, working on being creative, spontaneous, shedding nerves and anxiety, connecting with peers, being part of an audience, being brave, going with the flow, teamwork, quick thinking, and so many other important and fantastic skills. Held at the Rowan-Cabarrus South Campus, Concord, contact Sherie Neely, sherie.neely@rccc.edu, 704-216-3545 for information.
• James and the Giant Peach Party | Dates: July 11 – 15 • 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. | Ages: Second – sixth grade | Cost: $175. Explore the world of James and the Giant Peach and meet Grasshoppers and Glow-worms, Sassy Spiders, and Silly Centipedes—all while staying on the run from those mean old Aunts Spiker and Sponge. This camp will offer a delicious taste of the whoopsie-fun ride that awaits with PPT’s upcoming production of James and the Giant Peach. For inquiries, contact Piedmont Players Theatre, 213 S. Main Street, Salisbury, 704-633-5471, piedmontplayers.com.
• Neverland: Pirates vs. Fairies | Dates: August 1 – 5 • 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. | Ages: Second – sixth grade | Cost: $175. Join Peter, Wendy and the Lost Boys as they try to stop a frightful battle between Captain Hook’s Pirates and Tinkerbelle’s Fairies. Choose your side and learn to fight like a fairy, swashbuckle like a pirate, or just laugh with the Lost Boys. For inquiries, contact Piedmont Players Theatre, 213 S. Main Street, Salisbury, 704-633-5471, piedmontplayers.com.
• Piedmont Players Tech Camp | Dates: June 20 – 24, June 27 – July 1 • 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. | Ages: Sixth – 12th grade | Cost: $350, $425 including Willy Wonka Jr. Performance Camp. Campers will support the performance camp production of Willy Wonka Jr., learning about stage electrics, scenic painting techniques, prop making, and running a crew position along the way. For inquiries, contact Piedmont Players Theatre, 213 S. Main Street, Salisbury, 704-633-5471, piedmontplayers.com
• Willy Wonka Jr. Performance Camp | Dates: June 20 – 24, June 27 – July 1 • 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. | Ages: Second – 12th grade | Cost: $350, $425 including Tech Camp. Campers will spend two weeks perfecting the story of Willy Wonka and his band of Oompa Loompas as they lead sweet-natured Charlie and some wickedly precocious children through a labyrinth of lemon drops, life lessons, and giggles. The session concludes with three standing-room-only performances in the Norvell Theater. For inquiries, contact Piedmont Players Theatre, 213 S. Main Street, Salisbury, 704-633-5471, piedmontplayers.com.

Sports and Fitness

• Elementary Beginner Bike Camp | Dates: June 6 – 10. | Ages: Recommended for younger/newer riders on bikes with 20″ wheels or smaller | Cost: $185. Daily rides will total 5 miles or less. Focus is on confidence building, skills, safety, and FUN! Visit https://www.thepedalfactory.org/collections/summer-camp-2022 to register.
• Elementary Advanced Bike Camp | Dates: June 20 – 24 | Ages: Recommended for more confident young riders. Most on 20″ – 24″ wheels and grades 2-5. | Cost: $185. Daily rides average 8-10 miles, emphasis on skill building through games and drills, safety and FUN! Visit https://www.thepedalfactory.org/collections/summer-camp-2022 to register.
• Middle School Grades Bike Camp | Dates: July 11 – 15 | Ages: Grades 5 – 8 | Cost: $185. Daily rides up to 15 miles with a focus on increasing skills and safety, endurance and exploration by bike. Some off-road activities and trail time as well as commuting by bike. Encourages skill development, community connection, friendships and two wheeled FUN! Visit https://www.thepedalfactory.org/collections/summer-camp-2022 to register.
• Teen Tour Bike Camp | Dates: July 25 – 29 | Ages: Recommended for ages 12 and up riding 24″ wheels or greater. | Cost: $325. Five days of adventure including 3 overnights camping. Fully supported with SAG Vehicle and includes all meals. Focus is on learning more about travel by bike, exploring nature, lots of summertime fun and building friendships and confidence. Campers will need a bicycle in good working order, helmet, and safety lights. Assistance available for those of need. Visit https://www.thepedalfactory.org/collections/summer-camp-2022 to register.
• Cheer and Tumble Camp | Dates: June 21 – 24 • 9 a.m. – noon | Ages: Grades K – 8 | Cost: $125 | Location: 603 E Main St, Cleveland, NC 27013. Sideline and Competition cheer camp for beginners or even kiddos that want to keep their skills growing! It will be hosted at Fifteen Sports Athletic Center and have several high school Blue Devil cheerleaders to help your child learn cheer. https://www.nantzathletics.com/book-online
• Fast-Pitch Softball Camp | Dates: June 20 – 23 • 9 a.m. – noon | Ages: 7 – 15, girls only | Cost: $99. Softball camp includes pitching, hitting, fielding and base running. Campers will participate in skill development sessions and live game situations. Participants will need to bring their softball gear and water. Salisbury Community Park, 935 Hurley School Road, Salisbury. 704-638-5289, salisburync.gov
• Martial Arts Camp with Discipline & Fun | Dates: June 6 – 10 & 3 – 17; July 11 – 15, 18 – 22, 25 – 29 ) • 7 a.m. – 5:15/6:15 p.m.| Ages: 5-13+ | Cost: $195 + $40 registration fee (includes karate uniform). Kick in the SUMMER at SideKick Karate of Salisbury with our Summer Camp. The camp offers structured activities such as swimming, skating, hiking, field trips, skill drills, games, community service, civic education, kickbox fitness, karate, weapons, etc. Visit https://sidekickdojo.com/summer-camp-1 for info.
• Timeout Future Stars Basketball Camp | Dates: June 20 – June 23, July 18 – 21 • 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. | Ages: 7 – 14 | Cost: $99. Timeout Basketball Camps are conducted by Coach Jim Baker. Campers will learn strategies, techniques, offense and defense tactics. Full Day camp for boys and girls. | Hall Gym, 1400B. W. Bank St, Salisbury. 704-638-5294, salisburync.gov
• Timeout Little Shooters Basketball Camp | Dates: June 20 – 23, July 18 – 21 • 9 a.m. – noon | Ages: 5 – 8 | Cost: $59. Timeout Basketball Camps are conducted by Coach Jim Baker. Campers will learn basic basketball fundamentals. Hall Gym, 1400B. W. Bank St, Salisbury. 704-638-5259, salisburync.gov
• Youth Baseball Camp | Dates: June 6 – June 9 • 9 a.m. – noon | Ages: 8 – 14 (males only) | Cost: $40. Do you love Baseball? Are you ready to bring your skills to the next level? This baseball camp (4 days) will give instruction on pitching, hitting, fielding and base running. Campers will participate in skill development sessions and live game instruction. Camp staff will include local high school coaches and players Participants need to bring their own baseball gear and water. Camp is instructed by Salisbury High Baseball Coach Carson Herndon, SHS Coaches and Players. Hall Gym, 1400B. W. Bank St, Salisbury. 704-638-5259, salisburync.gov
• Youth Volleyball Camp | Dates: June 13 – June 16 or July 11-21 • 9 a.m. – noon | Ages: 8 – 12 | Cost: $40. This camp, intended for all player levels, is designed to teach and enhance ones volleyball skills and overall performance on the court. Participants will be grouped according to age if numbers allow. Camp instruction will be given by local coaches, players and former players. Lunch will be provided each day at end of the camp for those who would like to stay and eat. Hall Gym, 1400B. W. Bank St, Salisbury. 704-638-5259, salisburync.gov
• Summer Cooking & Yoga Camp | Dates: June 13 – 17 • 9 a.m. – 1:15 | Ages: Rising 1^st to rising 5^th graders | Cost: $200. Activities include mindfulness, yoga, crafts, cooking, and urban gardening. Healthy snack and lunch provided each day. REGISTER: HeartofSalisbury.com under the EVENTS tab.

STEM and Summer Learning

• Advanced Robotics | Date: June 10 • 8:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. | Ages: 4^th grade to 7^th grade | Cost: $15 | Location: Rowan County Extension Office. Youths will add sensors to the EV-3 robots and program the robots for more advanced courses. Must have attended “Robotics” this year or in a year prior to attend. Visit https://rowan.ces.ncsu.edu/rowan-county-4-h-summer-fun/ for details on how to register.
• Build-a-Bot Engineering & Design | Dates: July 18 – 22 • 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. | Ages: 11 – 14 | Cost: $179.  Have you ever dreamed of building your own robot? Let’s do it together in this fun, creative, hands-on camp! Experience the World of Design and Engineering as you learn about mechanics, hydraulics, and building techniques to construct your very own fully working hydraulic desktop robot using common, easy to obtain materials! And the best part? At the end of the camp, the robot will be yours to take home! Come join us for a fun, totally hands-on challenge. Held at the Rowan-Cabarrus North Campus, Salisbury, contact Sherie Neely, sherie.neely@rccc.edu, 704-216-3545 for information.
• Dash & Dot Robotics (2 sessions available) Dates: June 6 or June 7 • 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. | Ages: Kindergarten through 3^rd grade | Cost: $10 | Location: Rowan County Extension Office. Youths will learn to program Dash and Dot robots and learn problem solving while building their imagination. Visit https://rowan.ces.ncsu.edu/rowan-county-4-h-summer-fun/ for details on how to register.
• It’s Electric! |Date: June 17 • 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. | Ages: 11-18 years old | Cost: $15 | Location: Rowan County Extension Office. Youths will learn the basics of electricity, house wiring, soldering, and will be able to put together an electric kit. Youths will be using hot soldering irons. Visit https://rowan.ces.ncsu.edu/rowan-county-4-h-summer-fun/ for details on how to register.
• Optical Illuminations | Dates: June 13 – 17 • 1 – 4 p.m. | Ages: 8 – 12 | Cost: $179. Illuminate your mind with light, lasers and optics! Bring abstract concepts into focus with amazing science, technology, engineering and math as you learn the basics of reflection, refraction and diffraction. Explore applications like spectroscopy, holography and energy, and use your imagination creating some fun optical illusions. Held at the Rowan-Cabarrus South Campus, Concord, contact Sherie Neely, sherie.neely@rccc.edu, 704-216-3545 for information.
• Robotics (2 sessions available) | Dates: June 8 or June 9 • 8:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. | Ages 4^th to 7^th grades | Cost: $15 | Location: Rowan County Extension Office. Youths will build an EV-3 robot and learn some basic concepts of programming robots. Visit https://rowan.ces.ncsu.edu/rowan-county-4-h-summer-fun/ for details on how to register.

• Robotics Engineering & Design | Dates: July 11 – 15, 2022 • 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. | Ages: 8 – 12 | Cost: $179. Calling all gadget lovers and robot enthusiasts! Explore robotics by taking on design challenges in mechanical, aerospace, and civil engineering. Learn the fundamentals of design, sound, and motorized mechanisms as you write code to program robots to perform specific tasks! The possibilities are only limited to your imagination. Held at the Rowan-Cabarrus North Campus, Salisbury, contact Sherie Neely, sherie.neely@rccc.edu, 704-216-3545 for information.
• Teen Cuisine | Date: July 13 • 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. | Ages: 9 – 13 | Cost: $10. Come and learn about kitchen safety, practice your knife skills (while cutting up some nutritious fruits and veggies), and learn to cook some fun recipes! We’ll also spend some time outside playing games. Visit https://rowan.ces.ncsu.edu/rowan-county-4-h-summer-fun/ for details on how to register.

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